DEPRESSION
|
|
Everyone has depressive feelings from time to time, especially at times of loss, disappointment and change. Normally, such feelings are short lived and do not interfere with everyday functioning. A little reassurance, a display of affection or a change of scene helps.
Depression on the other hand, is more pervasive and enduring experience characterized by:
. sadness of mood
. inability to derive pleasure
. crying spells
. difficulty sleeping
. decreased appetite
. decreased libido
. getting easily tired
. poor concentration
. forgetfulness
Treatment includes Antidepressant medication, Psychological Support and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy.
|
|
ADDICTION
|
|
Addiction (chemical dependency, substance abuse) is a complex but treatable brain disease. It is characterized by compulsive drug craving, seeking and use that persist even in the face of severe adverse consequences. For many people, drug addiction becomes chronic, with relapses possible even after long periods of abstinence. In fact, relapse to substance abuse occurs at rates similar to those for other well-characterized, chronic medical illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension and asthma. As a chronic, recurring illness, addiction may require repeated treatments to increase the intervals between relapses and diminish their intensity, until abstinence is achieved. Through treatment tailored to individual needs, people with drug addiction can recover and lead productive lives.
|
|
ADHD
|
|
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is charcterised by hyperactivity, attention difficulties and/or impulsivity.
|
|
BIPOLAR AFFECTIVE DISORDER
|
|
Bipolar disorder, previously known as Manic-Depression is characterised by episodes of low mood and alternating high moods. In mania the person suddenly becomes hyperactive, overtalkative, disinhibited and has decreased need for sleep.
|
|
OBSESSIVE COMPULSIVE DISORDER
|
|
OCD is a type of Anxiety Disorder in which a person has repetitive, unwanted thoughts, impulses or images that are very distressing and any attempt to resist them fails. Example includes thoughts of dirt and contamination. A compulsion is a repetitive act generally, though not always in response to obsessions. Examples include excessive washing of hands and checking. The disorder is quite common and treatment by medication and cognitive behaviour therapy is very helpful.
|
|
PANIC ATTACK
|
|
In a Panic Attack, there is sudden onset acute severe anxiety.
Among the symptoms that a person may experience during a panic attack are sweating, heightened heart rate, shivering, chest pain, nausea, dizziness and even a choking sensation. Some people describe it as similar to a heart attack because they experience a fear of dying.
Medication and Counselling or CBT is advised.
|
|
SCHIZOPHRENIA
|
|
A person suffering from this disease experiences delusions and hallucinations. He can become paranoid and can hear voices when nobody is around. The sufferer believes that his thoughts, emotions and body are not in his control and some external body is controlling him. He does not believe that he is ill and so refuses treatment. An Experienced mental health professional is of invaluable help.
|
|