Panic attacks can feel like one of the most terrifying experiences you can go through. Your heart races, your breathing quickens, and dizziness sets in — it can feel like you’re losing control or even about to pass out. One of the most common fears people have during a panic attack is that they will… Continue reading
The Fight-or-Flight Response: A Chemical Chain Reaction At the heart of anxiety is the autonomic nervous system, particularly the sympathetic nervous system, which controls involuntary reactions to stress. When the brain perceives a threat, the amygdala—the part of the brain responsible for processing emotions—sends a distress signal to the hypothalamus. This, in turn, activates the… Continue reading
Specific phobias are strong, overwhelming fears of certain objects or situations. These fears can disrupt everyday life, but with proper treatment, it is possible to overcome them—even to the point where the fear response is completely extinguished. In this article, we explain what specific phobias are, detail the DSM-5 subtypes, and discuss treatment options that… Continue reading
Overthinking is something many of us experience from time to time. It’s that cycle of worrying about a decision or replaying past events in our minds. While some reflection is healthy, overthinking can become a habit that affects our mental health, making us feel anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. What Is Overthinking? Overthinking is when we… Continue reading
Hoarding disorder is characterized by persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their value. Individuals with this disorder experience significant distress due to the accumulation of clutter. Which often leads to compromised living spaces, impaired functioning, and strained relationships. Recognized as a distinct mental health condition, hoarding disorder has specific diagnostic criteria outlined… Continue reading
Somatization Disorder, also known as Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) in the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), is a psychiatric condition characterized by persistent physical symptoms that a medical condition, substance abuse or other mental health disorders cannot fully explain. Individuals with somatization disorder often experience significant distress and… Continue reading
Health anxiety disorder, also known as illness anxiety disorder or hypochondriasis, is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry and fear about having a serious medical illness. Individuals with health anxiety often misinterpret bodily sensations or minor symptoms as signs of a severe illness, leading to persistent anxiety and distress. Understanding the diagnostic criteria… Continue reading
Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder that can significantly impact an individual’s life. People with agoraphobia often experience intense fear and anxiety in situations where escape might be difficult or help might not be readily available. This article delves into the diagnostic criteria, challenges faced by individuals with agoraphobia, and explores treatment options, with a focus… Continue reading
Familiarity is deeply ingrained in the human psyche. While it offers a sense of security and predictability, it can also stifle personal and professional growth. Stepping outside this comfort zone is often essential for self-discovery and advancement. In this article, we will explore the comfort zone. More over, we will delve into how therapy can… Continue reading
While technological advancements have brought people closer together, the prevalence of social isolation and its profound impact on mental health cannot be ignored. This article delves into the intricate relationship between isolation and mental well-being, exploring the challenges individuals face and suggesting strategies to navigate these difficulties. The Loneliness Epidemic Loneliness, often synonymous with isolation,… Continue reading