August 14, 2014
by Cathy England, MA
Sleep disturbances are common in the United States population. Harvard Health Publications (2009), estimate that sleep problems are prevalent in at least 50% of patients receiving psychiatric treatment. This can be compared to the general population in which about 10% report sleep problems. What is not entirely clear is whether or not sleep disturbance is a symptom or a risk factor for mental health presentations.
[More]
July 31, 2014
by Cathy England, MA
For individuals with mental illness, dealing with all of the associated problems is difficult. Having to face the judgment from themselves and from others can often compound the problem. Mental illness is still something that people do not generally want to talk about in positive and productive ways. The silence is often born of the worry about the stigma attached to it.
[More]
July 23, 2014
by Cathy England, MA
It is not uncommon for people to experience worry from time to time. This can come in the form of worry over an upcoming deadline, concern about a sick loved one, or stress about a financial situation. For most people, that type of worry is time limited and is affected or brought on by a specific situation. In other words in typical instances, the person can identify the reason for their anxiety.
[More]
July 20, 2014
by Cathy England, MA
It is not uncommon that anxiety problems are caused by physical illness, and it can sometimes be difficult for the professional provider to differentiate the two. It may be that treating the medical problem can alleviate the appearance of anxiety so that when the medical condition is treated, the anxiety symptoms may disappear. This is why it is important to have troublesome anxiety symptoms evaluated by a medical professional. Hyperthyroidism is a medical condition that commonly co-occurs with anxiety.
[More]
July 14, 2014
by Cathy England, MA
Mental health emergencies can occur both in individuals who are receiving treatment, and in those who have never had a mental health issue in the past. The difference between a need for treatment and an emergency can be difficult to discern. However, there are some well documented warning signs that can help to determine what type of intervention is best suited to an individual.
[More]