The Definition of Neurodiversity
The concept of neurodiversity emphasizes brain differences over brain deficiencies. Because brains do not always work the same way does not mean they are “broken” or “wrong.” For example, people with ADHD may struggle to manage time and stay focused, but they often have high levels of creativity and great passion for new ideas. When […]
What are Psychotropic Medications?
Psychotropic medication is an umbrella term for meds used to treat mental health disorders. They work by adjusting levels of the brain’s neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. There are several types of psychotropic meds. Some of these are anti-anxiety medications, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors antidepressants(SSRIs), serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressants (SNRIs), anti-psychotics, and […]
What are the Types of Depression?
Depression is a mood disorder that affects how you think, feel, and go about daily activities. Some symptoms include intense sadness, feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness, and lack of energy. There are several types of depression. Persistent depressive disorder is depression that lasts two years or more. Atypical depression, also called depression with atypical features, […]
New Study Measures Efficacy of Internet-Based CBT for Youth with Social Anxiety
A study published May 12th evaluated the effectiveness of internet-delivered cognitive behavioral Therapy (CBT) for youth with social anxiety disorder.[1] While CBT is considered the first line of treatment for social anxiety disorder, only 10% of people with the condition have seen a mental health professional.[2] This is in part due to access issues and […]
Mental Health Awareness Month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. 1 in 5 US adults experiences a mental health disorder.[1] In 2019, 19.2% of American adults received any mental health treatment.[2] COVID-19 and Mental Health This year, Mental Health America—who started this awareness month in 1949—is going with the theme “tools 2 thrive.”[3] This builds on the same theme […]
National Counseling Awareness Month
April is Counseling Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the demanding and important work of counselors. This year’s theme is “Burn bright, not out,” which is particularly relevant more than a year into COVID-19. While many things have had to stop out of necessity during the pandemic, counselors have been in high demand. Counselors May […]
What Is World Bipolar Day?
Every year on March 30th, we celebrate World Bipolar Day, a global initiative designed to raise awareness about a mental health condition that affects 2.8 percent of the adult population in the U.S. People with bipolar disorder go through episodes of mood swings that can significantly impact their lives. If you or someone you love […]
The Importance of Self-Harm Awareness Month
March is National Self-Harm Awareness Month, which brings to the forefront a topic that people don’t always want to talk about. However, self-harm is more common than many may realize. Fifteen percent of college students and seventeen percent of adolescents in one survey stated they engaged in self-harm. Incidents of self-harm drop off in adulthood, […]
What is Borderline Personality Disorder?
Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a condition in which a person has trouble regulating their emotions. It impacts a person’s relationship to self and others. People with BPD may struggle with intense swings in mood, views, and behavior. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “People with borderline personality disorder tend to view […]
What is the Difference Between Mood and Personality Disorders?
Mood and personality disorders are both categories of mental health conditions, but they differ from one another. Mood disorders are about patterns in people’s emotions, while personality disorders are more centered on the ways people relate to others. Of course, mood disorders can affect relationships, and personality disorders can affect mood. However, each is about […]