Tag Archive

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? PTSD is classified as a trauma- and stressor-related disorder in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which provides the criteria used by medical professionals to guide a diagnosis.2 PTSD can develop as a result of being exposed to or experiencing one or more traumatic […]

It is not uncommon for individuals struggling with mental health challenges like anxiety or depression turning to drugs or alcohol for relief. This is known as self-medicating, and while it might offer temporary escape, it can quickly spiral into a cycle of dependence and addiction. Early intervention is key. Recognizing the signs of self-medication is […]

Impulse control disorders may be overlooked or misdiagnosed, meaning that many individuals suffering from these disorders may not get the help they need. A better understanding of the disorder can help close the treatment gap and get individuals proper care to improve symptoms. Treatment for impulse control disorders often involves behavioral therapies, and medications may […]

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, psychosis refers to an episode in which an individual has a break from reality. This often includes but doesn’t require delusions, or false beliefs that are firmly held despite clear evidence to the contrary, and hallucinations. Drug-induced psychosis, also known as substance-induced psychotic disorder, is simply any […]

Schizophrenia is a serious mental health disorder that affects less than 1% of the population.1,2 However, it is estimated that 47% of people living with schizophrenia struggle with substance use disorders.2 This article will explain what schizophrenia is and its risk factors, signs and symptoms of schizophrenia, and treatment options for you or someone you […]

What Is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)? OCD is a mental health condition that involves obsessions—repetitive unwanted thoughts—and compulsions, which are irrational, uncontrollable urges to fulfill these unwanted obsessions.1  Examples of obsessions may include upsetting thoughts or images like imagining committing violent acts, having unwanted sexual thoughts, or constantly doubting whether they’ve done something right (e.g., wondering […]

Health Issues Linked to Drug and Alcohol Misuse According to data from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, roughly 46.3 million people aged 12 and older had some type of substance use disorder within the last year.1 Additional studies reveal that drug use disorders accounted for 8 in every 100,000 deaths in […]

Understanding Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic depression, is a mental health disorder that involves shifts in a person’s mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration. These shifts can make it difficult for an individual with bipolar disorder to carry out day-to-day tasks.2 Only a doctor or qualified mental health professional can diagnose someone […]

What Are Anxiety Disorders? Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by excessive and persistent worry, fear, and anxiety, which can interfere with a person’s day-to-day life, relationships, work, and responsibilities.1 These feelings can persist beyond a trigger event and are generally more severe than the anxiety people experience as part of […]

What Are Co-Occurring Disorders? When a person meets the criteria for a substance use disorder (SUD), a medical condition defined by uncontrollable use of substances despite the negative consequences, and they are also diagnosed with one or more additional mental disorders, this is called having co-occurring disorders or a dual diagnosis.1-3 SUDs often co-occur with […]