An estimated 19 million Americans have a phobia that causes difficulty in some area of their lives. For me, it’s arachnophobia (fear of spiders) whether they’re itsy bitsy or full grown tarantulas. I know I’m bigger than a spider but when it comes to phobias, logic doesn’t make any difference. A phobia is an overwhelming…
Category: Mental Illness
Suicide Risks, Signs and Prevention Tips
No one wants to talk about suicide, yet it is the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34. Despite society’s progress in talking more about mental illness, suicide still remains highly stigmatized. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), an estimated 1.4 million adults attempt suicide each…
The Importance of Social Connection
Socialization is particularly important for the emotional well-being of people with serious mental illness (SMI). This is true for several reasons. When people maintain their connections with others, they are more likely to be tuned in to the world around them, given that social expectations require attention, commitment and concentration. For people with SMI, social…
Causes and Characteristics of Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. According to the National Association of Mental Illness (NAMI), “people with schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality, which can be distressing for them and for their family and friends.” The term ‘schizophrenia’ meaning “a splitting of…
The Complex Brain and Diagnosis
I’m 62 years old and a former journalist, TV producer, marketing director, publisher and small business owner living with ADHD. Six years ago, I started having symptoms of confusion, memory loss, and dysphasia. I could no longer remember simple things like my office passcode, my own cell phone number, how to turn on the dryer,…
Managing Bipolar Beyond Medication
Beyond medication, lifestyle choices can make a profound impact in managing bipolar. Intentional decisions around exercise, diet, and sleep are proven factors…