Antipsychotics are drugs that alleviate symptoms of schizophrenia and psychotic episodes. These medications are considered highly effective interventions for mitigating “positive symptoms” such as hallucinations (e.g. hearing voices) and various types of delusions (e.g. assuming others are plotting against you). Approved uses for antipsychotics include treating individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and cases of …
Reports suggest that nearly 20% of all people in the United States are taking a psychiatric drug. This means that 1 out of every 5 people you see is on some sort of mind-altering medication. Although many of these drugs are marketed as being “safe and effective” for conditions like ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, …
Synapses are considered connections between neurons (brain cells) that foster neuronal communication. The word “synapse” is derived from the Greek term “synapsis” which roughly translates to “conjunction.” Your brain cells communicate with other cells by sending chemical messages in the form of neurotransmitters or electrical signals; these are transmitted via the synapses. If you have …
Psychiatrists are medical professionals that specialize in prescribing medications to treat mental disorders. They have attained their certification as a medical doctor, but have completed additional schooling to treat individuals with complex disorders of the brain. If you need treatment with a pharmaceutical drug for a mental illness (e.g. depression), a psychiatrist will be most …
Those with social anxiety disorder are reported to suffer from debilitating, uncontrollable anxiety in social situations. This condition, also known as “social phobia” can lead to an intense fear of public speaking, forming friendships, maintaining social bonds, and even getting a job. Individuals living with social anxiety often isolate themselves, suffer from low self-esteem, and …
Most people associate meditation with laser-like focus, expanded internal awareness, emotional stability, and cognitive enhancement. Plus there is mounting evidence to suggest that many of these claims are valid, just read all of the scientific benefits of meditation. The new wave of meditation science, coupled with development of meditation apps (e.g. Headspace), and celebrities attributing their success …
In some cases, individuals may experience a traumatic event that triggers such a potent stress response via the sympathetic nervous system, that memory of the event becomes repressed. The potency of the stress-response exceeds their innate ability to cope and other coping resources. Emotions associated with the traumatic event are often overpowering, leading to intense …