Mental health
What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a condition characterized by debilitating, excessive, unfocused worrying and anxiety. While occasional feelings of anxiety are a normal part of life, people with generalized anxiety disorder tend to experience a loss of control over their…
What is Conversion Disorder?
Conversion disorder is a condition in which people experience symptoms affecting the nervous system that have no physical explanation. This may include symptoms such as:[1] Weakness Movement problems, such as tremors or twitching Sensory issues, such as loss of sense…
What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a condition in which one has unwanted, persistent, and overwhelming thoughts and urges. These thoughts often involve unrealistic concerns or fears. Many people know that their thoughts and urges are irrational and unrealistic, but they find…
What is Depression in Childhood or Adolescence?
Childhood and adolescent depression is an emotional disorder that affects people under the age of 18. Like depression in adults, it is characterized by persistent feelings of low self-esteem, sadness, and hopelessness and can last for weeks or months. It…
What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that affects the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. This occurs as a result of disorganized or overactive brain activity. Schizophrenia tends to first occur during the teenage years or in early adulthood.…
What are the Signs of Panic Attacks?
A panic attack is an abrupt episode of intense anxiety or fear accompanied by a number of physical symptoms such as a racing heartbeat and shortness of breath, normally lasting between 5 and 20 minutes. Panic attacks can be highly…
What is Cyclothymic Disorder?
Cyclothymic disorder, also known as cyclothymia, is a mental health disorder which affects mood. People with the condition experience mood swings between highs and lows that have the potential to interfere with everyday life. Cyclothymic disorder is considered to be…
What is Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)?
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common condition diagnosed in children who display symptoms of hyperactivity, inattention, and/or impulsivity. Although its causes are not fully understood, factors including genetics and antenatal problems are thought to play a role.[1] Treatment…
What is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
Post traumatic stress disorder, also known as PTSD and sometimes written as post-traumatic stress disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder, is a condition that sometimes develops after a person experiences or witnesses a life-threatening, terrifying, or otherwise deeply traumatic event.[1] Examples…
What is Burnout?
Burnout is a state of ongoing mental, emotional and physical exhaustion which occurs as a result of overwhelming demands, chronic stress, or job dissatisfaction. Although it is not an illness on its own, it is recognized as being a stepping…
What is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)?
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder, abbreviated to PMDD, is a severe type of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The majority of people who menstruate experience cyclical physical and emotional changes in the days leading up to their periods, such as tender breasts and mood…
What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder, also known as bipolar affective disorder and, less commonly, manic depression, is a mental health condition that causes dramatic changes in mood that, in turn, affect people’s ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. It is characterized by serious…