Mental Health

Fear is a natural response to danger, a primal instinct that has kept humans safe for millennia. Phobias, however, are intense, irrational fears of specific objects or situations. Understanding "fear vs. phobia" is crucial for recognizing when normal caution becomes debilitating. In this blog, we'll explore what separates phobias from fears and highlight the most common types of each.   Fear vs. Phobia  First, let’s define the characteristics of fears and phobias. Fear is an emotional response to a real or perceived threat. It activates the body’s fight-or-flight response, preparing one to deal with danger. Fear can be rational and proportional [...]

There is no denying that life is challenging at times. Situations happen at work, in our families, and with our partners, which cause stress and sometimes sadness. We may be faced with increasingly difficult decisions and struggle with maintaining a positive attitude during the process.  These experiences and emotions are all normal and natural. Much happens in our daily lives that causes stress and may leave us feeling down.  But when these emotions persist and cause increased mental turmoil, it is possible that anxiety and/or depression play a role. And it is not uncommon for those experiencing the symptoms of [...]

Mood stabilizers play a crucial role in the treatment of various mental health conditions, particularly bipolar disorder. These medications are designed to help individuals manage mood swings, stabilize emotions and prevent episodes of mania or depression. In this blog post, we'll explore the mechanism of action behind mood stabilizers and shed light on how these medications work to restore emotional balance.  How Do Mood Stabilizers Work?  The term “mood stabilizers” describes a class of psychiatric medications primarily used for the treatment of mood disorders such as bipolar disorder, cyclothymia and certain types of depression. While the exact mechanisms of action [...]

To expect a constant, stable mood at all times is not only unrealistic, it isn’t human. As humans, part of who we are includes experiencing a variety of moods, from happiness to sadness, excitement to depression. General fluctuations in mood are not abnormal.    When these fluctuations become more frequent, intense or present without a cause, however, concern should be raised. Normal mood swings happen with a cause; abnormal mood swings happen randomly and can begin to significantly decrease your quality of life.  What are mood swings and what causes them? Mood changes are different from mood swings in that as [...]

Traumatic experiences can leave an indelible mark on a person's life, manifesting in various ways. Two conditions that often arise from such experiences are traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this blog, we'll explore the key differences between TBI and PTSD, shedding light on what these conditions entail and the unique challenges they present.    What is Traumatic Brain Injury?  Traumatic brain injury, or TBI, occurs when an external force injures the brain. This force can result from a blow, jolt or penetrating object, causing disruption to normal brain function. TBIs can range from mild to [...]

Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can have profound and lasting effects on a person's mental health. In this blog, we delve into the intricate relationship between sexual assault and mental health, exploring the emotional toll on victims and highlighting resources available for those seeking support.  The psychological impact of sexual assault    Sexual assault can leave deep scars on a survivor's mental well-being. The violation of personal boundaries, loss of control and the betrayal of trust can lead to a range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The aftermath of sexual assault [...]

As is the case throughout much of the United States, in Georgia, the issue of adolescent suicidal ideation is a pressing concern that demands immediate attention. The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) emphasizes the importance of suicide prevention, especially among young people. With suicide being a leading cause of death in the state, comprehensive strategies and dedicated resources are vital for addressing this public health crisis.  The Importance of Early Intervention  Early intervention is crucial for suicide prevention. Adolescents experiencing suicidal thoughts need immediate access to mental health services. The DBHDD focuses on various suicide [...]

In 2004 the term FOMO made its appearance on social media sites to describe a growing sensation – FOMO is short for the “Fear of missing out,” and was coined to describe the loneliness and sense of being left out which people may experience when seeing or hearing about the positive experiences of others. So if you find yourself anxious about not having a glamorous trip planned, are struggling with confidence as a result of someone else’s pictures online or are lacking self-esteem as a result of not being invited to an event, you may be experiencing FOMO.  What [...]

The connection between food and mental health is profound, with certain nutrients playing a pivotal role in supporting cognitive function and emotional well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore the best foods for mental health, understand how food affects mental health and emphasize the crucial link between mental health and nutrition.  Best Foods for Mental Health  Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Essential for brain health, omega-3 fatty acids — found in fatty fish like salmon as well as walnuts and flaxseeds — contribute to cognitive function and may help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Antioxidant-Rich Foods: Berries, dark chocolate and [...]