If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with autism, you might understandably have questions about this condition, as well as any accompanying challenges with mental health. What is Autism? Autism is a condition that affects the way people communicate and experience life. It is a “spectrum condition,” which means that no two people…
Chemical Dependency Vs. Addiction: What’s the Difference?
When comparing chemical dependency and addiction, many people may believe they are the same thing. While they do share some similarities in causes and symptoms, there are some contrasts between these two mental health conditions. Learn about the differences between chemical dependency and addiction so you can help yourself or a loved one overcome either…
Chemical Dependency: When to Get Help
As time goes on, more people are struggling with chemical dependency and other mental health concerns. Major impacts such as the global pandemic have affected individuals in numerous ways, which has led many of them to turn to alcohol or drugs as a coping mechanism. To ensure these problems don’t continue, it is vital that…
Connection Between Mental Health Disorders and Chemical Dependency
When someone receives a dual diagnosis, it usually means they will require treatment for a mental health condition and for substance abuse. These disorders are frequently associated with each other and increase the damaging effects on a person’s well-being. Another name for this connection is a co-occurring disorder that combines the effects of having two…
Schizophrenia vs Bipolar Disorder: How to Get the Support You Need
Schizophrenia and bipolar disorder are two chronic mental health conditions and can often be confused with each other. It is important to understand they have different diagnoses, and treatment is unique for each one, even with their similarities. There are some symptoms that may cause confusion, so it’s vital to understand the difference between the…
Self-Harm Doesn’t Always Look the Same: When to Seek Help
Self-harm is often kept secret and may be more prevalent than you think, especially in young adults or adolescents. This type of behavior is usually not suicidal but rather a way of dealing with emotional pain or anger. It provides relief for a short period of time, followed by bouts of guilt or shame. This…
Knowing and Acting on the Signs of Suicidal Ideation
Suicide or taking one’s own life occurs too often when someone is overwhelmed by intense emotional pain. It can leave a family devastated and wondering what they could have done differently. When thoughts of suicide are not part of your thought process, you may not be aware of the signs and symptoms of suicidal ideation. …
Types of Substance Abuse and Strategies to Overcome Addiction
Many of us use substances to relax, unwind, and enjoy ourselves. Though there are also those who use them for other reasons, including escaping the stresses of life, masking emotional pain, or eliminating chronic anxiety. But the comfort provided by drugs, alcohol, or other substances is often nothing more than a band-aid for deeper mental…
4 Signs You Grew Up in a Toxic Family and How to Overcome it
Psychological trauma is not always a result of growing up in a toxic family environment, although it can be a contributing factor. A child can experience a car accident resulting in a parent’s death which may cause psychological trauma. On the other hand, someone can grow up in a dysfunctional family, which can do extreme…
How Burnout Can Lead to Mental Breakdowns
The world is in upheaval with the COVID-19 pandemic as there has been a growing number of concerns about everyday life. This is creating an increase in daily stressors, life disruptions, work distractions, and major feelings of burnout. Due to this consistent and chronic state of fear, stress, and anxiety, mental health issues are becoming…