Though our understanding of mental health disorders is continuously evolving, trauma remains one of the most complex conditions to treat. Trauma can change survivors’ brains, specifically affecting the regions governing memory, decision-making and emotions. The resulting hypervigilance and fear can take over every aspect of your life. By shifting the focus to helping you process…
Some amount of stress can have positive effects by giving you more motivation to complete work and enhancing your problem-solving abilities. But chronic, prolonged stress can be overwhelming, leading to burnout. Chronic stress can adversely affect your physical and mental health, causing issues like anxiety, insomnia, body aches, high blood pressure and a compromised immune…
While getting a divorce can be stressful and cause grief, it’s not healthy to maintain a relationship that’s no longer mutually beneficial. Realizing you cannot stay with a partner you originally made a lifetime commitment to is emotionally challenging, but it does not mean you have failed. Sometimes people grow apart and need to separate…
American culture prioritizes a strong work ethic and a can-do attitude, while devaluing leisure time and relaxation. Technology like smartphones has caused many professionals to feel increasingly pressured to be “always on.” Even on vacation, people feel they must bring their laptops and stay connected to their colleagues. As a result of this mindset, you…
Each September, we celebrate National Recovery Month. This observance serves as a reminder to spread the good word about recovery from substance use disorder—not only is it possible, but it is common. Read on for more information about addiction, treatment, and lifelong recovery. History of National Recovery Month In 1989, the National Substance Abuse and…
Everyone needs time to unwind, relieve anxiety and escape from life’s stressors. But if your primary way of doing so is with an alcoholic drink in your hand, this coping mechanism can develop into an addiction. When alcohol becomes a substitute for dealing with complex emotions, drinking can trigger a self-sustaining cycle of increased use.…
Expectant mothers who drink alcohol during their pregnancy put their babies at risk of developing fetal alcohol syndrome, an irreversible condition that can cause physical differences and intellectual or cognitive disabilities that may make it difficult to manage daily life. Signs of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome in Adults Fetal alcohol syndrome’s severity occurs on a continuum…
People often use the terms health and wellness synonymously, but these related words have different definitions. Health is when your body and mind are free of illness. Meanwhile, wellness refers to the dynamic process of living a fulfilling life. You cannot be healthy without holistic wellness, and vice versa. This National Wellness Month, you can…
Mental and behavioral health problems can affect anyone, regardless of their background or beliefs. Illnesses like bipolar and alcohol use disorder frequently co-occur – a phenomenon called a dual diagnosis. Interactions between these two conditions can significantly worsen the course of both. Though a dual diagnosis can complicate your condition and make it more challenging…
Attention deficit disorder is a widespread issue that causes hyperactivity, inattention and trouble concentrating. A prescription stimulant called Adderall can help children and adults with ADD calm down and improve their focus and executive function skills. Adderall may also make people listen attentively, regulate their behavior and prioritize their tasks more efficiently. For people who…