What is Insomnia?

What is Insomnia?

Almost everyone at one time or another has some trouble falling asleep and staying asleep due to stress, too much caffeine or alcohol. But, if you find that you can't fall asleep and every so often wake up feeling groggy and tired you may be suffering from insomnia. Insomnia is condition characterized by frequent difficulties with falling asleep and staying asleep. Long periods of sleepless nights can lower your energy level and darken your mood, as well as weaken your immune system. Insomnia can also affect a person's mental alertness and concentration, which may lead to accidents on the road and at work.


How Prevalent is Insomnia?

Insomnia is a common condition that can last for a short period of time or for a long period of time. Insomnia affects as many as one out of every 10 Americans chronically, and one in every four Americans temporarily. This doesn't mean you have to put up with the sleepless nights. You can try making a few simple changes in your daily routine and habits to achieve a good night of rest. Some simple changes may include avoiding or reducing the amount of nicotine, alcohol and caffeine you consume and focusing on staying active and healthy.

Signs and Symptoms of Insomnia

Some signs and symptoms of insomnia may include:

• Problems falling asleep at night
• Frequently waking up during the night
• Waking up too early
• Feeling fatigue or sleepy during the day
• Easily irritated

Causes

Insomnia can result from a number of causes. Some of these causes include:

• Stress: Fretting about work, family, and health can keep your mind alert, even when you're trying to sleep. Insomnia can also come from the prolonged feeling of boredom that may come after retirement or while recovering from a long illness and may also cause bouts of stress and keep you from your beauty sleep.
• Anxiety: Anxiety that occurs daily or that results from severe anxiety disorder can keep you from your 8 hours of bliss every night.
• Depression: You may sleep too much or not enough if you're depressed. This is because of chemical imbalances in your brain or because of stress that's associated with depression. These may keep you from a restful night of sleep.
• Stimulants: Stimulants found in prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and in weight-loss products may make you feel groggy, and also cause you to urinate frequently during the nights, disrupting your sleep patterns.
• Change in your environment or work schedule: If you travel or start working an early morning or a late shift a work, you may experience difficulties falling asleep. This is because these changes affect your body's circadian rhythms. Our circadian rhythm acts as internal clocks, and guides our bodies through our sleeping patterns.
• Eating too much and too late in the evening: Consuming a small snack before bed is OK, but indulging on chocolate covered coffee beans after eating a late dinner, is not. This is because eating too much too late may cause you to feel uncomfortable and keep you awake. You may also experience heartburn if you lie down soon after a meal. Foods and drinks containing stimulants like caffeine and alcohol should also be avoided during the evenings.

Insomnia: Medical Treatment

Insomnia: Medical Treatment

Having problems falling asleep? Can't stay asleep? Waking up feeling tired? All three of these are signs of insomnia. Insomnia is characterized by the difficulty of sleeping and maintaining a good night of sleep.

Insomnia can temporarily rob you of a good sleep for a few days or it can chronically deprive you of a decent sleep for months or longer. Read on to find out when you should seek medical attention and the different kinds of treatments available to relief your insomnia symptoms.

When should I see a Doctor?

If you can't get enough sleep during the nights and wake up feeling tired for a month or longer you should visit your doctor to find out what is causing your sleep disorder and how it can be treated. Your doctor may recommend you some self-help measures like changing your daily routine. But if those don't work and you suspect that your insomnia is caused by another condition such as depression or anxiety, notify your doctor or health care provider. Your doctor may recommend treatments such as behavioral therapies or sleep medications to help you fall asleep with ease and wake up feeling rested.


Behavioral therapies

Behavioral treatments teach you new sleeping behaviors and show you how to make your sleeping environment more comfortable to sleep in. Some studies have even shown behavioral treatments to be more effective in treating insomnia than sleep medications. However, behavioral therapies may be used in combination with medications.

Medications


Your doctor may prescribe you with sleeping pills until the stress in your life lessens and you can get the full benefits of behavioral treatments. Some common types of sleep medications prescribed to patients include:

• zolpidem (Ambien)
• eszopiclone (Lunesta)
• zaleplon (Sonata)
• ramelteon (Rozerem)
  

Ramelteon is the newest sleep medication on the market and doesn't show the same risk of dependency and rebound of insomnia, as since with other medications. However, like the other medications it can cause possible side effects which include: severe allergic reaction, facial swelling and troublesome sleep-related behaviors such as driving while sleeping.

Due the side effects and the possibility of becoming dependent on sleeping pills, doctors often don't recommend people to use sleep medications for more than a few days. As well as, many sleeping pills may cause discomforts, like feeling of drowsiness during the day and difficult urinating because of chemical diphenhydramine.

Alternative to Sleeping Pills

Melatonin is a common over-the-counter supplement used to treat insomnia. Melatonin is naturally produced by your body and released in your bloodstream in high amounts during the evening to regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

People suffering from insomnia may find taking synthetically made melatonin useful to promote sleep during the nights. Before you take melatonin or any other sleeping supplement like Valerian, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of doing so.

Insomnia: Self Treatments

Insomnia: Self Treatments

Insomnia is characterized by a difficulty of falling asleep and staying asleep. This condition can be temporary bought on by small changes in your daily routine or it can be caused by depression or severe anxiety disorders. Read on to find out the self-help measures you can take to treat insomnia.

Self- Treatment Tips

No matter what age you are when insomnia hits, there's always a way to treat and cope with this sleeping disorder. The key to successful self-treatment lies in making a few changes in your daily routine, with emphasize placed on when you go to bed. These self-treatment tips include:

• Keep to a schedule. Make sure you sleep and wake up at the same time.
• Reduce the time spent in bed. Too much time spent idling on your bed reading, or using your laptop, or tossing and turning under your covers trying to sleep promotes sleepless nights. So, try not idling on your bed, and if you can't sleep when you get to bed try moving your bedtime an hour a head.
• Don't force yourself to sleep. The more you will yourself to stop thinking and turning and just to go to sleep, the more awake you'll become. Try reading (not on your bed) or watching TV until you feel sleepily. But get up in the morning at the same time as usual.
• Remove the clocks in your room. The less you know about the time at night, the more you'll sleep, without panicking about how much time you have left until the morning. Just set your alarm, and then hide your bedroom alarm clock so it's not visible from your bed.
• Exercise and stay active. Work off the nerves and restless energy. Try to get at least 20 to 30 minutes of vigorously exercise a day. But, at least 5 or 6 hours before you sleep.
• Reduce or avoid caffeine, alcohol and nicotine. Consuming caffeine after lunchtime, and nicotine can keep you awake during the nights. It goes for alcohol, which initially makes you sleepily, but causes you to become more awake during the night.
• Check your medications. If you're on medication, check with your doctor if the medications can be causing your insomnia. If you're using over the counter drugs, check the labels to see if they contain caffeine or other stimulants, such as pseudoephedrine.
• Do things that put you at ease. Find ways to relax yourself. It may involve soaking in a warm bath, eating a light treat, or even getting your partner to give you nice slow back massage before bed to soothe your worries.
• Avoid or limit naps. Naps can make falling a sleep more difficult. But, if you can't absolutely go without naps, limit yourself to one nap a day for an hour during the afternoon.
• Reduce sleep interruptions. Limit noise distractions. Close your bedroom door or turn on a fan to drown out noise. Make sure you're at a comfortable temperature; avoid drinking a lot before bed to reduce early morning trips to the bathroom.

Kava and Anxiety Treatment

Kava and Anxiety Treatment

Kava is an ancient plant of the western Pacific and can be found on the Pacific islands. Other names for kava include 'awa (Hawaii), 'ava (Samoa), yaqona (Fiji), and sakau (Pohnpei). The Latin name for kava-kava is Piper methysticum, with Piper meaning "pepper" in Latin and methysticum meaning "intoxicating" in Greek. The word kava can be used to refer to the plant and also the drink and powders derrived from it.

Kava is a legal intoxicant in many places, and it can cause a DUI if taken before driving. Kava extract is marketed as a stress reliever to diminish the symptoms of insomnia and anxiety.

Kava can be taken in a traditional drink form or in a modernized pill form.

Kava and Anxiety

The active ingredients in kava are kavalactones, which are psychoactive chemicals. At least 15 different kavalactones have been identified, but only 6 of them produce noticeable psychoactive effects.

The effects produced by kava include muldly talkative and social behavior, calming effects, relaxed muscles, a feeling of euphoria, and drowsiness. Kava also has anasthetic properties. These effects are common among all depressant substances like alcohol and perscription sedatives like Valium. Thus, it's easy to see why kava may be taken by some to ease the symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.

Kava Safety Concerns

Heavy use of kava can cause skin rashes.

In the year 2001 concerns were raised about the safety of commercial kava products. There have been allegations that commercially produces kava products can cause liver damage, especially kava available in pill form. This may be because of the inclusion of parts of the plant other then the root, such as the stems and leaves, which can be toxic.

It is advised that you do not use any products containing any kava because of a lack of regulation of these products.

Valerian Root

Valerian Root

Valerian is a perennial flowering plant native to Europe, South Africa, and parts of Asia. It has also been introduced to North America. It has light pink or white flowers and a strong sweet smell. The Latin translation of valerian is "to be strong or healthy" which may refer to the plant's medicinal use and also to its strong odor. Other common names for valerian root are Tobacco Root, Garden Heliotrope, and All-Heal.

Valerian root has had many uses over the centuries, including use as a condiment, a perfume, and a medication for digestive ailments, liver problems, urinary tract disorders, nausea and insomnia.

The most common use of valerian today is as a mild sedative to ease the symptoms of insomnia. Some have suggested that the herb may be useful for epilepsy, but this has no scientific support.

Valerian root is available in capsule and tea form, though when drinking valerian root as tea, the water should not be too hot because this destroys some of its volatile oils.

Valerian Root Anxiety, and Insomnia

The active ingredient in valerian is an amino acid and neurotransmitter called GABA, which can also be found in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, meaning that it prevents over excitation and instead promotes relaxation.

This means that valerian can induce sleep and calm the person taking it, which is why it has historically been used as a sedative, anti-consultant, migraine treatment, and pain reliever. It may be indicated for the relief of insomnia, stress-related anxiety, and nervous restlessness.

Valerian Root Side Effects

Valerian root is a relatively safe herb to take with a relatively wide dosage range.

Upon taking valerian root, some people may experience the opposite effect than expected - suddenly feel nervous, anxious and restless rather than calm or sleepy.

After long-term use of valerian root, withdrawal symptoms may occur.

Valerian root should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, those already taking medications or other herbs for anxiety or sedation are advised to talk to their doctor before taking valerian root.

Suicide Warning Signs

Suicide Warning Signs

Suicide, suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts often accompany mental health disorders. In fact, many women who suffer from serious mental health problems, such as major depression will contemplate or attempt suicide.

Studies have found that while more men die as result of suicide, women attempt suicide more often than men, and have overall higher rates of depression. But what are the warning signs of suicide and what should you do if you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms of suicide?

Warning Signs for Suicide

The following are possible warning signs of suicide:

• talking about dying: talk of disappearing, jumping, shooting oneself or other expressions of self-harm.
• recent loss: death, divorce, a broken relationship or loss of a job can all lead to thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts. Other losses that can be indicative of suicide include loss of religious faith and a loss of interest in one’s friends or activities the individual once enjoyed.
• change in personality: the individual may exhibit unusual signs of fatigue, indecisiveness or anxiousness.
• change in behavior: lack of concentration in work, school or everyday activities, such as household chores.
• change in sleeping patterns: oversleeping, insomnia and other types of sleep disturbances can be suicide signs and symptoms.
• change in eating habits: loss of appetite or an increased appetite; other changes can include increased or decreased weight.
• decreased sexual interest: such changes can include impotence or irregular or missed periods.
• low self-esteem: this suicide symptom can be exhibited through emotions such as shame, inferiority or self-hatred.
• fear of loss of control: the individual worries about losing her sanity and about harming either herself or others.
• lack of hope for the future: another suicide warning sign is that the individual feels that there is no hope for the future and that things will never improve.

Some other suicide warning signs include previous suicide attempts, a history of substance or alcohol abuse, excessive spending, hyperactivity, restlessness or lethargy.

What You Should Do

If you or someone you know is exhibiting any of the above suicide symptoms, you should seek help immediately.

If you are suicidal, get help right away by taking one of the following steps:

• talk to a loved one: reach out to someone you love and tell them about how you feel.
• seek professional help: speak with a counselor, psychiatrist, therapist, your family physician or visit a suicide prevention and crisis center: speaking with a professional is a crucial step towards recovery.

Above all, know that help is out there and while things may seem hopeless now, you are not alone in your struggles.

If someone you know is exhibiting the warning signs of suicide or has confided in you about their suicidal thoughts, take one or more of the following steps:

• don’t be sworn to secrecy: While your loved one may feel betrayed if you tell someone about their desire to commit suicide, not doing anything only puts her life in danger. Tell a therapist or doctor about your friend or relative’s condition immediately.
• take action: Remove any harmful substances or objects from your friend’s home, such as excessive pills, poison, knives or handguns.
• be direct: Talk openly to your friend about her behavior. Don’t judge her or lecture her. If your friend confides in you, acting shocked about her desire to commit suicide will only cause more alienation.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is a serious medical condition that can have debilitating effects on a woman’s self-esteem. In fact, common body dysmorphic disorder symptoms include depression and eating disorders; and, left untreated, it can also lead to an increased risk of suicide. Because little has been written about bdd, it is often misunderstood. This article uncovers the mystery surrounding BDD, exploring symptoms of bdd, its causes, as well as various treatment options for women suffering from body dysmorphic disorder.

What is BDD?

BDD is a medical condition in which the individual has a distorted focus on a certain aspect of her body, such as her hair, nose, weight or chest.

BDD is currently on the rise, and affects one in fifty people, most of whom are in their teens or twenties. The onset of the disease can be either abrupt or gradual.

While many women feel dissatisfied with their bodies at some point in their lives, BDD is characterized by a disproportionate fixation with either a perceived or real physical defect.

Usually chronic, bdd results in the individual constantly thinking about the area of concern and quickly consumes the person’s thoughts, affecting her overall physical and mental health.

Some physical obsessions that are common include being preoccupied with acne, breast size, facial symmetry and weight.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder Causes

Although the exact cause of bdd is unknown, experts concur that the following factors are involved in the development of the disorder, with several of these factors often working together in an individual case:

• chemical imbalance: low levels of serotonin (the hormone responsible for feelings of happiness) can lead to bdd. Such imbalances are generally genetic
• eating disorders: eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia can lead to bdd
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
• depression
• agoraphobia: an extreme fear of certain places and situations that results in the individual avoiding certain scenarios, for example, traveling by airplane
• trichotillomania: a compulsion to pull or twirl one’s own hair excessively

In addition, bdd can lead to extreme isolation, unecessary or excessive cosmetic surgery and even suicide.

Higher rates of incidence of this disorder occur in higher socio-economic levels, as often in such demographics, there is a higher sense of expectation with regard to physical appearance.

Symptoms

The following are common BDD symptoms:

* low self-esteem
* avoiding mirrors or using mirrors excessively in order to check one’s appearance
* constantly seeking reassurance about appearance
* repeated touching of perceived flaw
* skin picking
* using hands, hat, posture, etc. to hide perceived flaw
* anxiety in public
* avoiding social situations

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose whether an individual in fact has bdd, a doctor will conduct a body dysmorphic disorder examination (BDDE).

A BDDE consists of examining the individual’s medical history, including whether there is a history of mental illness, and also examines the individual’s daily behavior, including the extent of preoccupation of the individual with her appearance, as well as the level of self-consciousness she feels.

The patient’s family will also often be questioned with regard to the individual’s behavior.

Body Dysmorphic Disorder Treatment

Typical bdd treatment consists of medical and therapeutic treatment.

Anti-depressants such as Prozac, Zoloft or Paxil are often prescribed.

Cognitive behavior therapy is a crucial part of bdd therapy, as it teaches the individual how to avoid engaging in negative behavior.

How to Cope with BDD

When undergoing bdd treatment, it is important to always follow medical treatment and to attend therapy sessions.

In addition, it can be very beneficial to confide in a loved one or to join a bdd support group, as establishing a personal support network can improve your overall health and ensure that you are on the road to recovery.

For more information, read an article about body dysmorphic disorder.

Sleeping Pills Risk

Sleeping Pills: Are They Safe?

Getting a good night's rest and following a regular sleeping schedule is an important part of maintaining both your physical health as well as mental health. Recently, the FDA has sent warnings to pharmaceutical companies that manufacture common sleeping pills to change their product labels to include potential sleeping pills side effects that have posed some serious risks to consumers who suffer from insomnia.

In 2005, 43 million prescriptions for sleeping pills were filled by pharmacists, providing pharmaceutical companies with $2.7 billion for that year alone, marking a 32% increase from 2001. But are sleeping pills a safe way to treat sleep disorders? And what exactly causes insomnia? Would finding an alternative to sleeping pills for the treatment of sleep disorders provide a better solution for you?

Sleep Disorders and Sleeping Pills

According to the American Insomnia Association, approximately 20 000 Americans suffer from chronic insomnia, a sleep disorder that is defined by consistent poor sleep that is experienced for at least six months due to a variety of insomnia causes.

Generally, the causes of insomnia are due to lifestyle factors such as stress, travel, or other disruptions that can cause sleep deprivation. Treating the underlying causes of insomnia directly is always considered the best solution when it comes to sleep disorders.

Sleeping pills are often prescribed and on average are used regularly for a period of 24 months. While sleeping pills can also be used to treat the occasional sleepless night, some individuals may use these sleep drugs for years. The FDA concern over the side effects of common sleeping pills is based on the fact that many drug companies have only tested the short-term side effects of sleeping pills, as well as the fact that some of the potential risks of these sleep aids are not well addressed on drug labels.

Types of Sleeping Pills

Over The Counter Sleeping Pills
These sleeping pills contain antihistamines to induce drowsiness and are effective when used occasionally. Over-the-counter sleeping pills do not require a prescription. Examples of these sleep medications are Diphenhydramine and Doxylamine.

Nonbenzodiazepine Hypnotic Medications
These sleeping pills are available by prescription only and are best suited for short-term or occasional use. They are designed to metabolize quickly to reduce side effects. Nonbenzodiazepine medications for insomnia treatment include Zolpidem Tartrate (Ambien), Zaleplon, and Eszopiclone.

Benzodiazepine Hypnotic Medications
Benzodiazepine sleeping pills are an older form of sleep medication and include Triazolam, Estazolam, and Temazepam.

Sedative Antidepressants
Sedative antidepressants may be prescribed in small doses to treat insomnia. They offer a complete treatment, however, of depression and related insomnia and include Trazodone, Amitriptyline, and Nortriptyline.


Sleeping Pills Risks and Side Effects
Some of the risks and side effects associated with the use of sleeping pills for insomnia treatment include the following:

• Over The Counter Sleeping Pills: dry mouth, dizziness, prolonged drowsiness.
  Risk Group:These are not recommended for pregnant women, women who are breastfeeding, or individuals with a history of glaucoma, heart complications, or enlarged prostate. In addition, individuals with a history of asthma, bronchitis, or peptic ulcers should not use Doxylamine.
• Nonbenzodiazepine Hypnotic Medications: dry mouth, diarrhea, dizziness prolonged drowsiness, headaches, rash, nausea, vomiting, decreased sex drive, chest pains, lightheadedness, and abdominal pain. In addition, these drugs may cause severe allergic reactions, facial swelling and sleep behaviors such as sleep driving, sleep walking, and eating.
  Risk Group: In some cases, certain nonbenzodiazepine sleeping pills may not b recommended for individuals with a history of depression, liver or kidney disease, respiratory conditions, drug or alcohol abuse, pregnant women, or those with complications affecting metabolism.
• Benzodiazepine Hypnotic Medications: lightheadedness, dizziness, prolonged drowsiness, euphoria, episodes of amnesia, allergic reactions, facial swelling, sleep behaviours, weakness, coordination problems, low blood pressure, nausea, headache, blurred vision, and liver failure.
  Risk Group: These medications may pose risks to pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and elderly adults. In addition, they are not recommended for individuals with a history of depression, respiratory problems, and drug abuse as these sleeping pills can be habit-forming.
• Sedative Antidepressants: sweating, weight fluctuations, constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, prolonged drowsiness, blurred vision, cardiac complications or seizures.
  Risk Group: Sedative antidepressants may not be safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women and individuals with a history of heart problems, heart attacks, high blood pressure, seizures, hyperthyroidism, liver disease, glaucoma, schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
  

Sleeping Pills Alternatives

The best alternative to treating a sleep disorder can be dealing with a lifestyle factor, such as personal issues that may be a cause of stress or worry. Dietary supplements such as Melatonin may also be used to maintain a regular "biological clock" including a consistent sleeping schedule.

Exercise is one of the best ways to release built-up energy and help induce tiredness through a natural and healthy approach. It is also recommended that individuals with difficulty sleeping avoid caffeine and day naps and take the time to relax prior to going to bed.

Claustrophobia

Claustrophobia

Claustrophobia is one of the most common phobias in America. Claustrophobia is characterized by panic that is a result of being in enclosed spaces.

A phobia is a form of anxiety disorder that leads to an irrational fear of a certain situation or object. The individual may be claustrophobic or the claustrophobia may be a part of a generalized ageneralized anxiety disorder (GAD). A prolonged or intense anxiety can lead to phobia.

Claustrophobia is designated as a situational phobia, because it is triggered by a certain situation.
Causes of Claustrophobia

Claustrophobia can develop from either a traumatic childhood experience (such as being trapped in a small space during a childhood game), or from another unpleasant experience later on in life involving confined spaces (such as being stuck in an elevator).

When an individual experiences such an event, it can often trigger a panic attack; this response then becomes programmed in the brain, establishing an association between being in a tight space and feeling anxious or out-of-control. As a result, the person often develops claustrophobia.

Symptoms of Claustrophobia

When a person with claustrophobia finds herself in a restricted space, her body responds in certain ways.

Claustrophobia symptoms can include:

• sweating
• accelerated heartbeat
• nausea
• fainting
• light-headedness
• shaking
• hyperventilation
• a fear of actual imminent physical harm

Some common situations that can cause anxiety in claustrophobia sufferers include:

• Being inside a room: the individual will look for an exit, for example, at a movie theatre
• Being inside a car: the individual will avoid driving on the highway or major roads where there is heavy traffic
• Being inside a building: the individual will avoid taking elevators
• Being at a party: the individual will stand near a door
• Being on an airplane
• While undergoing an MRI or CAT scan (also referred to as MRI claustrophobia and CAT scan claustrophobia, respectively)

In extreme cases, the very sight of a closed door can lead to feelings of anxiety in the individual.

Claustrophobia can have crippling social and psychological effects since the patient will often avoid situations in which she thinks she will have an anxiety attack, leading to isolation and depression.

Claustrophobia Treatment

There is no cure for claustrophobia, however, there are several forms of treatment that can help an individual control her condition.

Treatment for claustrophobia can include behavior therapy, exposure therapy, drugs or a combination of several treatments.

Behavior therapy includes identifying trigger points and recognizing that one’s reactions to these triggers are learned instead of natural; through visualization and positive thinking, the individual learns to disassociate feelings of danger with the confined space.

Neuro-Linguistic Programming is a type of behavior therapy that deconstructs the individual’s preconceived view of reality, reducing the anxiety provoked by a specific situation or setting.

Flooding is a type of exposure treatment in which the individual is exposed to a situation until the anxiety attack passes; a less extreme form of exposure treatment is counter-conditioning. Counter-conditioning includes behavior therapy, as the individual is taught visualization and relaxation techniques before being slowly reintroduced to the trigger situation.

Medications prescribed to help treat claustrophobia include anti-depressants and beta-blockers, which help to relieve the heart pounding often associated with anxiety attacks.

Alternative claustrophobia treatments include regression hypnotherapy, in which hypnotherapy is used to remember the traumatic event that led to the individual’s claustrophobia. The patient is taught to see the event with ‘adult’ eyes, which helps to decrease the sense of panic that it has instilled into their minds.

Diet and Mood

Diet and Mood

Everybody knows you are what you eat, but for some reason, most of us don’t connect that old adage with how we feel. Your body and your mind are both parts of you, so of course what you eat doesn’t just affect your health, it also affects your mental state.

If you already eat well and you’re still feeling low, you might be deficient in certain vitamins or minerals, or perhaps you’re depriving yourself of some things. Of course, proper nutrition alone isn’t always the answer to low moods or depression but using food to improve your mood is something easy to do that you can try on your own, either before you call in the expert, or in conjunction with professional care.

How Food Influences Mood
In order for your brain to communicate with your body, it needs chemicals called neurotransmitters to conduct electrical impulses, or brain waves. You may have heard of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, endorphins, glutamine and serotonin. Your body has to manufacture these chemicals and it uses the enzymes, amino acids, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, proteins and carbohydrates in the foods that you eat to do that. If you’re not eating enough - or enough of the right foods - for your body to manufacture sufficient amounts of these chemicals, depression or anxiety can be the result.

Another diet mistake that will lead to low moods is allowing your blood sugar, or glycemic index, to rise and fall throughout the day. Skipping meals can make your blood sugar fall too low, while eating starchy, sugary foods, or simple carbohydrates, such as white bread and pastries, can make your blood sugar too high. This can do funny things to a person’s mood, making them irritable, forgetful or sad.

Craving carbohydrates may also be an attempt to self-medicate depression by raising serotonin levels. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter responsible for sleep, appetite and mood.

Eating for Mental Well-Being
Nutrition is central to your mental well-being. Here are some quick tips for keeping your diet in line with your mental health:

• In order to keep your blood sugar steady, eat small meals and healthy snacks throughout the day. Don’t skip meals, especially breakfast. Skipping breakfast will likely mean you’re still hungry at the end of the day, when you should stop eating in order to prepare for sleep.
• Don’t follow any extreme low fat diets. You need some fat to keep your brain working and your mood up. Make sure your diet plan includes healthy, monounsaturated fats, such as those found in olive oil and fatty fish, instead of saturated fats, like the kind found in butter and fast foods.
• Make fresh fruits and vegetables a central part of a healthy diet. Getting enough vitamin B6, folic acid, vitamin C and zinc is essential for your body to manufacture serotonin.
• If you’re feeling low, try eating a meal with a food containing the amino acid tryptophan, such as chicken or turkey breast, or milk. Add a carb to your meal, such as a whole grain roll, to help your body absorb the tryptophan more efficiently.
• Limit your consumption of coffee and other caffeinated beverages.
• Don’t follow any diet where you cut out an entire food group, such as the Atkins diet.
• Get at least 20 minutes of exercise daily. Exercise helps reduce the severity of anxiety disorder symptoms, such as anxiety attacks.

Comfort Foods
Have you ever noticed how certain smells can make you remember events from your past? Maybe every time you smell a roasting turkey you’re eight years old and back in your grandmother’s kitchen, or a certain perfume will remind you of an old friend. Well, your senses of taste and smell are tied together too - try eating different foods with your nose plugged sometime, it’s just not the same. Eating certain foods is comforting to us because they’re tied to happy memories.

Common comfort foods are food commonly associated with childhood; macaroni and cheese, or chocolate cake. These foods also tend to be starchy, and sometimes high in sugar. While it’s generally recommended that you try to avoid these types of foods, if you find yourself craving them, it’s better to indulge, but with moderation. Trying to ignore your craving will usually lead to binging later on.

Dementia

Dementia

Dementia is a mental health problem that usually afflicts the old, however, in rare cases certain forms of dementia may affect a young person. More usually, the young are affected by the dementia of a parent, whose care will become their responsibility. When this occurs, it is important to understand the disease; both its causes and treatments.

What is Dementia
Dementia is an umbrella term that covers Alzheimer’s disease, as well as a variety of other dementing illnesses. The dementias are differentiated by their presumed cause, which include:

• Alzheimer's Type
• Vascular Dementia
• Dementia Due to Other General Medical Conditions (e.g., HIV, head trauma, Parkinson’s, Huntington's)
• Substance-Induced Persisting Dementia
• Dementia Due to Multiple Etiologies

Dementia is a progressive and degenerative disorder of the brain characterized by multiple cognitive deficits that include impairment in memory. In the early stages, it can manifest as absentmindedness or forgetfulness. The patient may forget names, or where they left their keys. Since most people occasionally forget things, these early symptoms can go unnoticed, however, they will become more frequent and more severe, eventually developing into other symptoms of dementia.

As the disease progresses, patients will slowly become unable to care for themselves. At first they may need only occasional care and supervision, but eventually they will need to be cared for and supervised at all times.

Who’s Affected
Dementia usually only affects people over 65 years of age. Less than two per cent of people between 65 and 69 years of age suffer from dementia, five per cent between 75 and 79 years old, 20% of people between 85 and 89, and about one in three, or 33% of people over the age of 90 suffer from moderate or severe dementia.

Stages of Dementia
While the progression of dementia symptoms will vary from patient to patient, there is a general pattern that the disease follows. Not all dementia sufferers will experience all of these symptoms, but this is a good general guide to how the disease progresses:

Early Symptoms of Dementia
Early indications that someone may be suffering from the onset of dementia include:

• Difficulty with regular tasks - Everyone is absentminded from time to time, but people suffering from dementia will begin to have trouble even with tasks they’ve been doing for most of their lives with no problems, such as cooking or driving.
• Forgetfulness at work, having negative consequences, such as frequently forgetting appointments, or deadlines.
• Becoming apathetic, losing the ability, or desire, to take initiative on tasks, or take part in hobbies and activities.
• Problems remembering familiar locations, such as where the patient lives, or what year it is.
• Problems with abstract thinking, which is the ability to make and understand generalizations. Could lead to difficulty handling money.
• Trouble remembering simple words; often dementia sufferers will substitute inappropriate words without realizing, making them difficult to understand.
• Sudden mood swings with no obvious causes. Changes in personality and increased irritability are also possible.
• Dementia sufferers will experience diminished judgment, often doing or saying completely inappropriate things.
• Losing things and blaming others for "stealing" from them

Moderate Dementia
During this phase, the dementia symptoms will likely become more obvious. They may include:

• Forgetting recent events, becoming confused about times and places, remembering events from the past as though they are the present.
• Forgetting names and faces, confusing family members with each other.
• Becoming lost, wandering outdoors, often at inappropriate times or in inappropriate clothing.
• Forgetting to eat, or maintain proper hygiene/
• Auditory and visual hallucinations Getting frustrated and becoming upset or angry.

Severe Dementia
This is the final stage of dementia, patients will likely be unable to care for themselves and need round the clock care. Symptoms may include:

• Uncontrollable movements
• Incontinence
• Failure to recognize even objects that we use every day
• Restlessness, inability to sleep
• Symptoms worsen at night
• No longer recognize family or friends; may search for long-dead relatives.
• Need help using the toilet, washing or getting dressed.
• Difficulty walking and getting around
• Become aggressive and easily threatened

Prevention
Unfortunately, there is no sure way to prevent the onset of dementia, however, experts agree that staying active in a variety of activities could help to keep the mind sharp and memory loss at bay. Leisure activities such as playing a musical instrument, dancing, knitting, reading or playing board games are all thought to help ward off dementia.

Eating a balanced, healthy diet full of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains to ensure that the body gets all of the nutrients it needs on a daily basis is also thought to be helpful in the battle against memory loss. Taking Sage oil and vitamin E might also be helpful, but be sure to discuss any natural remedies with your doctor before you start using them.

Treatments
Presently, there is no cure for dementia. It is possible to treat some early memory loss with medications, as well as depression that may result from a diagnosis, however, there is nothing that can be done to halt the progression of the disease.

The key to dealing with dementia is high-quality, comprehensive care that will help the patient feel more comfortable and safe. Helping dementia sufferers maintain their sense of individuality can also be beneficial.

There is hope that a cure for dementia will be found soon. Stem cell research is offering some glimmers of light at the end of the tunnel, as well as research into new drugs and other therapies.

Mysophobia

Mysophobia

Mysophobia, more commonly known as "germaphobia" or "germ phobia", is a pathological fear of germs, dirt, and above all of contamination.

A phobia is an irrational fear of an object or situation. Most people understand that there are good germs (such as bacteria, which helps us digest food) and harmful germs (like cold and flu viruses, salmonella and E. coli). The mysophobe overestimates the risk of being harmed by germs, believing that any potential exposure to germs is dangerous and threatening.

Mysophobia is common in the United States. Some experts link the growing incidence of this disorder to Americans' general perception of the world as being a dangerous, uncontrollable place. Media coverage of the AIDS epidemic may also be a contributing factor. The increase in hygiene products such as hand sanitizers, portable subway straps and disposable toilet seat covers, is also believed to be a contributor to the rise of mysophobia.

Mysophobia is a common symptom of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), an anxiety disorder that results in unwanted thoughts and excessive or compulsive actions. Mysophobia may also be related to hypocondriasis, an intense fear of contracting an illness. In some cases, mysophobia may be regarded a type of specific phobia.

Causes

Mysophobia may develop after an individual experiences a traumatic event that links germs or dirt with a negative emotional response. This event can be a first-hand experience or a second-hand experience; mysophobia can also be triggered by a seemingly benign situation such as a scene from a film or television show. The person contracting this disorder may have a pre-existing tendency to worry, and it is likely that anxiety and depression run in the family.

Symptoms

When exposed to germs or dirt, the individual may experience breathlessness, nausea, heart palpitations, or a fear of loss of control. The individual can also feel ill and start shaking if she fears that she is being contaminated. Mysophobic will tend to avoid situations in which they may be exposed to germs.

Mysophobia results in repeated, unreasonable behavior and actions. These can include:

• excessive washing, for example, repeated hand washing (an action which paradoxically makes the individual more prone to infection)
• avoiding activities that are deemed unclean by the individual, such as using public bathrooms
• declaring the desire not to share any personal items, including utensils and toothbrushes as well as food
• avoiding social situations which include a close group of people or animals

The fear of contamination can become increasingly restrictive for the individual. She may refuse to shake hands, avoid touching doorknobs directly, or use an excessive amount of soap or hand sanitizer.

Mysophobia can have severe social repercussions. Because the individual is terrified of contamination, she will avoid many social situations for fear of coming into contact with germs or dirt. Also, other individuals may not understand the mysophobe's condition, and think of her as paranoid or hostile, leading to alienation and isolation.

Treatment

There are several treatments available for mysophobes that, if followed actively, can have long-term benefits on the individual's quality of life. The safest and most effective treatments employ the same techniques used for the treatment of OCD and other types of phobias, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). With CBT, the therapist guides sufferer through a series of gradual exposures to feared items and situations. Early sessions of therapy may involve having the individual shake someone's hand without washing it for five minutes. As the person learns to master the fear, the therapist will guide the sufferer through more intense exposures, such as touching garbage or shaking the hands of hospital patients. This type of treatment is extremely effective and, if properly administered, works after just a few months.

Medication is also an effective option, and will often involve the use of SSRI antidepressant drugs, such as Paxil, Prozac, or Zoloft. Medication is a good adjunct to CBT as it may make the therapy easier for the individual. However, medication may have unwanted side effects and is also not a permanent cure.

Unproven treatments include hypnotherapy, neuro-linguistic programming, and so-called "energy psychology." Avoid any unproven techniques until CBT and medication have been given an adequate trial.

Alcoholism

Alcoholism

Almost 18 million Americans abuse alcohol according to the American National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. Obviously, alcoholism and alcohol abuse are serious personal and societal problems. Alcoholism is not a disease that will cure itself, left untreated it will continue to advance and accelerate, destroying lives and families.

Causes of Alcoholism
Addiction occurs gradually as alcohol alters the balance of chemicals in the brain, stimulating the pleasure centers. Long-term, excessive drinking can deplete or increase the levels of some neuro-chemicals, causing your body to crave alcohol as it can no longer create good or bad feelings on its own.

Other factors that can contribute to excessive drinking and addiction include:

• Psychological factors: Having friends or a close partner who drinks regularly could promote excessive drinking. Low-self esteem or depression can make you more likely to abuse alcohol.
• Social and cultural factors: Alcohol is often portrayed as "glamorous" in advertising and other media. This could be sending the message that it's okay to drink excessively.
• Emotional state: Some people may drink alcohol to block out emotional pain, stress, or anxiety.
• Family: If other members of your family, particularly close relatives, have suffered from alcoholism, you are at greater risk for developing the disease.

Symptoms
The majority of alcoholics will deny that they have a drinking problem. Indications of alcoholism and alcohol abuse include:

• Inability to limit the amount of alcohol consumed
• Forgetting conversations or commitments, referred to as "blacking out"
• Drinking alone or in secret
• Ritualizing drinking at a certain time or place and becoming annoyed if the ritual is disturbed or questioned
• Feeling a need or compulsion to drink
• Loss of interest in activities and hobbies that used to bring pleasure
• Hiding alcohol in unlikely places at home, at work or in the car
• Irritability when your usual drinking time nears, especially if alcohol isn't available
• Having legal problems or problems with relationships, employment or finances
• Gulping drinks, ordering doubles, becoming intoxicated intentionally, or drinking to feel "normal"
• Experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms — such as nausea, sweating and shaking — if you don't drink
• Building a tolerance to alcohol so that you need an increasing number of drinks to feel alcohol's effects

Side Effects & Health Risks
Excessive consumption of alcohol has many serious side effects, including:

• Lowering of inhibitions, affecting thought, emotions and judgment
• Impairment of speech and muscle coordination
• Heavy binge drinking can depress brain functions and bring on a life-threatening coma
• Fatigue and short-term memory loss
• Interruption of menstruation
• Birth defects: Drinking alcohol during pregnancy may cause fetal alcohol syndrome, which results in birth defects, including a small head, heart defects, a shortening of the eyelids and various other abnormalities. Developmental disabilities are also likely.
• Osteoporosis: Bone loss, interference with the production of new bone, thinning bones and an increased risk of fractures.
• Gastrointestinal problems, impairing the intestine’s ability to absorb B vitamins, particularly thiamine and folic acid, and other nutrients.
• Pancreatic damage: The pancreas produces the hormones that regulate metabolism and the enzymes that help digest fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
• Cardiovascular problems, including high blood pressure and damage to the heart muscle (cardiomyopathy). These conditions can increase the risk of heart failure or stroke.
• Liver disorders. Heavy drinking can cause alcoholic hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver. After years of drinking, hepatitis may lead to cirrhosis, the irreversible and progressive destruction and scarring of liver tissue.
• Excessive drinking can affect your nervous system, causing numbness of your hands and feet, disordered thinking and dementia.
• Increased risk of cancer of the esophagus, larynx, liver and colon.

Treatments
Treatment for alcoholism and alcohol abuse usually involves a combination of counseling and support. The patient must first acknowledge that they have a drinking problem and that they want to stop drinking. After that decision has been made, patients usually check into a treatment center, or enter an outpatient treatment program, for rehabilitation. Treatment centers help to ease patients through their initial withdrawal symptoms, and give support and counseling. These programs place an emphasis on acceptance and abstinence.

Drug Treatments
In some cases, short-term medications such as benzodiazepines (Valium or similar drugs) are used to help alleviate some of the symptoms of alcohol dependence and withdrawal. Other drugs that may be used in the treatment of alcoholism include:

• Disulfiram (Antabuse) an alcohol sensitizing drug, sometimes prescribed as a deterrent – not a cure - to drinking.
• Acamprosate (Campral) can help control cravings
• Naltrexone (ReVia), a drug known to block the narcotic high, which can also reduce a recovering alcoholic's urge to drink.

Continuing Support
Many recovering alcoholics continue to attend Alcoholics Anonymous meetings after they complete rehabilitation. Continued therapy may also be helpful.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine
There are acupuncture treatments available that are aimed at relieving cravings for alcohol and some of the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as fatigue and tremors.

Prevention
It is important to recognize a family history of alcoholism and identify patterns of behavior before problems begin to develop. Early intervention is particularly key, especially in teenagers. If you have children, talk openly with them about any family history of alcohol abuse and about their own behaviors. Set a good example with your own use of alcohol. Allow your children a certain amount of independence, but set limits. Let them know what you expect, that there will be consequences for not following the rules and exactly what those consequences will be. Make sure your children understand the legal and medical consequences of drinking.

Female Orgasmic Disorder

Female Orgasmic Disorder

Sex can often be an uncomfortable topic to discuss. You may feel nervous, anxious, or embarrassed to even talk about sex with your own sexual partner. But it is important to share your feelings about sexual activity, particularly if you think that you may be experiencing a sexual disorder. Sexual disorders are actually more common than you may think, and affect both women and men. Female orgasmic disorder is one type of sexual disorder that can really impact your enjoyment of sexual activity and can have lasting effects on your personal relationships.

What is Female Orgasmic Disorder?
Female orgasmic disorder is a fairly common sexual disorder that affects the way a woman climaxes during sexual activity. Women with female orgasmic disorder are unable to experience an orgasm despite adequate sexual arousal. Women with the disorder may also experience persistent delay of orgasm despite satisfying sexual experiences.

It is unknown how many women actually suffer from female orgasmic disorder. This is because the quality and frequency of orgasm fluctuates greatly from woman to woman. It is believed that at least 10% of women never experience an orgasm, while up to 50% of women can only experience an orgasm through direct clitoral stimulation.

Types of Female Orgasmic Disorder
Female orgasmic disorder has been classified into two categories:

• Lifelong Female Orgasmic Disorder: Lifelong female orgasmic disorder occurs when a woman has never achieved an orgasm, either through sexual intercourse, sexual play, or masturbation. It is also known as anorgasmia.
• Acquired Female Orgasmic Disorder: Acquired female orgasmic disorder occurs when a woman who has had orgasms at some point in her life is no longer able to achieve orgasm. This type of anorgasmia in women may last for a specific period of time or it may be dependent upon situation.

Symptoms of Female Orgasmic Disorder
The main symptom of female orgasmic disorder is an inability to climax during sexual activity. If you are experiencing the disorder, you may become very highly sexually aroused during masturbation or intercourse. However, despite this arousal you are unable to transition into orgasm. Women experiencing female orgasmic disorder may also experience a number of other symptoms, including:

• painful sexual intercourse
• lack of vaginal lubrication
• lack of sexual interest or sexual aversion

Causes of Female Orgasmic Disorder?
Unfortunately, the causes of female orgasmic disorder are still unknown. It is believed that the vast majority of cases is the result of psychological issues, including:

• sexual abuse or trauma, including rape, incest, or female genital mutilation
• body image issues
• anxiety or depression
• fear of rejection
• fear of loss of control
• relationship problems
• religious or cultural beliefs about sex

Sometimes, both mental health and physical factors combine to cause female orgasmic disorder. Physical problems that can lead to female orgasmic disorder include:

• damage to the pelvic blood vessels
• substance abuse problems
• certain medications, including antidepressants and antipsychotics
• spinal cord lesions

Diagnosing Female Orgasmic Disorder
Diagnosing female orgasmic disorder can be difficult, because each woman experiences a different type of orgasm. In the past, many women who did not achieve orgasm through intercourse were labeled as having female orgasmic disorder. This, in fact, is a misdiagnosis. If you can experience a clitoral orgasm, you are not suffering from female orgasmic disorder. In order to make a true diagnosis of the disorder, there must be underlying psychological reasons for the problem. This means ruling out any physical factors that may be interfering with orgasm. Additionally, the woman and her partner must be experiencing some sort of relationship stress as a result of this absence of orgasm.

Treatment for Female Orgasmic Disorder
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying issues that are causing the disorder. Sex therapy and psychotherapy are the two most common types of treatment for women suffering from female orgasmic disorder.

• Sex Therapy: Sex therapy is a type of interpersonal therapy that involves analyzing and resolving issues around sexual activity. Conducted by a certified sex therapist, sex therapy sessions involve addressing worries about sexual activity, loss of control, and partner rejection. Sex therapy often involves practicing techniques that will help to increase sexual pleasure, including relaxation therapy, meditation, and masturbation. Sex therapy can be individual or couples-based.
• Psychotherapy: Individual psychotherapy sessions can also be beneficial if you are suffering from female orgasmic disorder. Psychotherapy uses counseling techniques to help uncover underlying issues that may be inhibiting sexual pleasure. Topics may include sexual abuse, body image, or religious or cultural beliefs.

When To Get Help for Female Orgasmic Disorder
Though it can be embarrassing and a little bit frightening, it is important to seek help for your female orgasmic disorder. In particular, be sure to get help if the problem does not seem to be getting better or if you are experiencing extreme guilt, depression, or anxiety over the problem.

Medications During Pregnancy

Psychiatric Medications and Pregnancy

We often think of pregnancy as a joyful and happy time, but many pregnant women actually develop severe mood disorders and anxiety during pregnancy. Pregnancy can also be complicated by a previous psychiatric illness, such as bipolar disorder. Psychiatric medications can provide wonderful relief from symptoms and allow women to enjoy their lives again. But how safe is it to take psychiatric medication during pregnancy? Can these medications affect the development of your baby? If you are taking psychiatric medications and are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, it is important to speak with your doctor about the safety of medications during pregnancy.

Psychiatric Disorders in Pregnancy
20% of women suffer from some type of psychiatric disorder during their pregnancy. From depression and anxiety to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, pregnant women can suffer from the same illness as women who are not pregnant. Doctors used to be very hesitant to prescribe psychiatric medications to pregnant women. In fact, most pregnant women were discouraged from taking any type of medication for fear drugs and pregnancy would not mix well. Today, more information is available on the effects that various psychiatric medications have on a fetus and, as a result, more pregnant women are able to keep up with treatments for their illnesses.

If you are currently taking a psychiatric medication and are pregnant, or thinking about becoming pregnant, speak with your health care provider. Some prescription medications have few or no side effects during pregnancy and are safe to take. Others however, are associated with increased pregnancy risks including congenital birth defects, behavioral disorders, and perinatal syndromes, and are medications to avoid during pregnancy. All psychiatric medications cross the placenta during pregnancy, though in small amounts.

Measuring the Risk of Psychiatric Medicines During Pregnancy
All medicines are at some point tested for use during pregnancy. There is less data available about the effect of newer "atypical" psychiatric medicines on pregnancy because there has not been sufficient time to perform large enough trials. However, there are ample amounts of information on older, "typical" psychiatric medications for doctors to assess their effects during pregnancy.

When testing a psychiatric medication’s effects on pregnancy, doctor’s look for three things: the occurrence of birth defects (structural teratogenesis), the occurrence of behavioral problems (behavioral teratogenesis), and the occurrence of unusual symptoms directly after birth (perinatal syndromes). The rates of these three things are then compared to those rates found in pregnancies without psychiatric medication.

The following is a list of the major psychiatric medications used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, and the known effects of these drugs on pregnancy. Do not take any psychiatric medications during pregnancy without first consulting your health care provider.

Antidepressant Medications

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs are relatively new depression medications. Among others, they include Prozac, Celexa, Zoloft, and Paxil. Of the SSRIs, only Prozac has been widely tested in pregnant women. Prozac does not appear to increase the risk of any birth complications in baby. The other SSRIs also show no increased risks of major fetal malformations after preliminary studies and are assumed safe medications for pregnancy. There are some suggestions that SSRIs taken around the time of delivery may increase the possibility of prenatal syndromes including tremor, restlessness, and increased crying.
• Tricyclics: Tricyclic anti-depressant medications, like Tofranil and Pamelor, have been widely tested in pregnant women. They are among the safest to use during pregnancy, with no adverse effects on baby.
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: MAOIs, like Parnate and Nardil, are commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders. They should not be used during pregnancy as they commonly react with other medications. Some research suggests that MAOIs may increase the risk of fetal malformation in the first trimester.

Anti-Anxiety Medications

• Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to people suffering from anxiety disorders. Older studies suggest that benzodiazepines may increase the risk of cleft lip and palate in babies by 0.78%. However, this information is highly debated. Benzodiazepines are also associated with prenatal syndrome, including feeding problems, hypothermia, and deficiency in baby’s muscle tone.

Mood Stabilizers

• Lithium: Lithium is a known tetragen (tetragens interfere with the development of a baby’s major organs, which occurs during the first trimester). Taken in the first trimester, Lithium increases the risk for Ebstein’s Anomaly, a defect in the heart, by 10 times. It is also associated with perinatal syndrome when taken around the time of birth, including a bluish discoloration of the skin and decreased muscle tone.
• Valproic Acid: Valproic Acid is a known tetragen. Taken during the first trimester, it can increase the risk of fetal malformation by up to 4%.

Antipsychotic Medications

• High-Potency Antipsychotics: High-potency antipsychotics, like Haldol, are effective schizophrenia and bipolar medications. They are associated with no increased risk to fetus or baby, and are recommended for use during pregnancy in high-risk patients.
• Low-Potency Anti-Psychotics: Low-potency antipsychotics, such as Thorazine, are also used in the treatment of schizophrenia. They are not recommended for use during pregnancy, as they may increase the risk of fetal malformation.
• Atypical Antipsychotics: Atypical antipsychotics have recently been introduced to the market and include risperidone, olanzapine, ziprasidone, and quetiapine. There is not enough data to accurately identify the effects that these medications may have on baby. A switch to a high-potency antipsychotic like Haldol is usually recommended.

Things To Consider
If you are pregnant and taking a psychiatric medication, you should speak with your health care provider. Find out about the risks and benefits of continuing with the medication during pregnancy. In some instances, the risk to your baby may be too great to warrant the continuation of the medication.

However, if the medication is necessary to your well-being, it may actually be better for your baby if you continue taking the medication. Medication often prevents behavior that may put your baby at risk, including: alcohol and drug abuse, exposure to sexually transmitted diseases, and lack of prenatal care.

Stress Relief

Stress and Stress Relief

Today’s fast-paced lifestyle can leave many of us feeling pretty stressed out sometimes. Between work, managing a home, and taking care of a family, we often have little time left over to take care of our own basic needs. Sometimes we may be so busy that we fail to notice that we are actually suffering physically and mentally as a result of stress. It is important to learn to identify stress and how to deal with it.

What is Stress?
Though not always enjoyable, stress is actually a necessary part of our daily lives. Stress is defined as anything that stimulates you to act, think, or react. Sometimes this stress may be as simple as your stomach growling at you to get some lunch; other times it may be as extreme as a threat that forces you to escape from your home or office. Whatever the source of your stress, stress is something that is necessary in order to force us to accomplish certain tasks. Without stress, our bodies wouldn’t react at all, even in times of extreme danger.

Good Stress vs Bad Stress
In order to manage your stress appropriately, it is necessary to understand the difference between good stress and bad stress.

• Good Stress: Good stress helps us to go about our daily tasks and achieve those hard-to-reach goals. This type of stress, called eustress, helps us to learn new things, adapt to change, and engage in creative thinking. Everyone experiences good stress on a daily basis. Another form of stress that is also good is the stress that enables us to survive in times of distress. This stress makes us aware of danger and enables us to escape when we need to.
• Bad Stress: Bad forms of stress do not help us to achieve goals or tasks, but instead actually inhibit our ability to function on a daily basis. Bad stress occurs when too much stress begins to build up around us. Once the body feels that there is too much stress, it will begin to break down, causing symptoms like perspiration, anxiety, headaches, and rapid breathing. This kind of stress can take a huge toll on your physical and mental wellbeing.

Sources of Stress
All sorts of things can cause the stress levels in your life to rise. From little things, like your phone ringing off the hook, to major life changes, such as a death in your family, sources of stress are everywhere. Watch out for these main sources of stress:

• Internal Factors: When stress is created by negative thoughts, worries, or feelings that come from inside you, it is described as being caused by internal factors. Low self-esteem, constant and unsubstantiated worrying, and fear of change can all be sources of major stress.
• Environmental Factors: All of those things that are going on around you can be contributors to your stress level. Whether it be a messy office, a fight with your boss, or your living conditions at home, these factors are common causes of stress.
• Fatigue and Overwork: We have all been overworked and overtired at some point in our lives. When we are persistently tired, undernourished, or unhealthy, stress can really begin to add up.

Stress Reduction
If you can learn to reduce the amount of bad stress in your life, you will be able to enjoy life much more. It will increase your energy, alleviate depression, and bring back your zest for life. Here are some great stress management techniques that you can do at home to benefit your health and wellness. Though they can take some practice to perfect, once you learn how to perform these techniques, the benefits can be endless.

Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness is a form of meditation that encourages you to be aware of your surroundings. Instead of getting caught up in the one thing that is causing you stress, mindfulness teaches you how to look at the whole picture and enjoy life for all its simple pleasures. In mindfulness meditation, you take on the role of observer. Be aware of all that is around you – sights, smells, and sounds – but don’t focus on any one thing. Instead, focus on embracing the environment as it is at that very moment. Mindfulness meditation is an excellent technique that allows you to distract yourself from stressful situations, promoting relaxation and health.

Exercise
Exercise is a tried and tested technique for stress relief. Exercise, especially cardiovascular exercise, helps to moderate your emotions. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins, which are special chemicals that help to numb your pain and boost your mood. It also leaves you feeling ready for a great night’s sleep! Try exercising 3 times a week for 30 minutes a day, in order to control your stress.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Stress can take its toll on the body as well as the mind. Stress causes our muscles to tighten up and become stiff. Progressive muscle relaxation is designed to release this muscle tension and relax the entire body. It also helps to lower your pulse rate, reduce blood pressure, and minimize perspiration. Lie down on the floor, on your bed, or another comfortable place and breathe in deeply. Begin to constrict the muscles in your body one at a time, starting with your feet. Hold each muscle tight for a few seconds, and then relax. Work your way up to your head. By the time you get there your whole body (and your mind) will be relaxed.

Deep Breathing
Coping with stress can be very difficult at times. Deep breathing, formally known as diaphragmatic breathing, is a very popular stress reduction technique. It’s also really easy to do and can be done in any quiet spot. Begin by sitting comfortably in a secluded area. Take in a deep breath through your nose, counting from 1 to 4 as you breathe in. Exhale through your mouth as your count down from 4 to 1. Repeat this breathing 20 or 30 times. Deep breathing is particularly effective at reducing stress because it increases oxygen levels in the body, which has a natural, calming effect.

Visualization
We have all done visualization at some point in our lives – usually in the middle of winter when we imagine we are actually lounging on a warm, sandy beach. Visualization allows us to remove ourselves from reality for a short period of time, providing us with rest and relaxation. To practice visualization, all you need to do is sit or lie down in a quiet spot. Get comfortable and then close your eyes. Visualize a scene or place that is filled with happiness and serenity - it could be a placid lake or it might be your childhood home. Focus on this image and try to imagine that you are actually there. Keep focusing until you can actually feel, see, and hear all the elements of that scene. Visualization eliminates stress by reducing anxiety and calming the entire body.

Psychotherapy
Just having someone to talk to can be a great buffer against getting too stressed out. But what if the people around you are one of your sources of stress? Consider a few sessions with a trained professional. Meeting with any type of counselor or therapist can substantially reduce feelings of stress - often after only one visit. And many therapists are trained in teaching clients relaxation techniques as well as social skills, priority setting and stress management.

Massage for Relaxation
Often assumed to just relieve physical discomfort, massage therapy is great way to relax your mind as well. Stress can induce a number of physical discomforts including tense muscles and knots in the shoulders and neck. Through different massage techniques, a therapist is able to loosen up those sore muscles thereby helping to relieve body pain. However, with this newly relaxed body, your mood also tends to improve and many people report feeling calmer after a massage. The benefits of massage on your physical and mental health are so great that many insurance programs nowadays will cover the cost of a massage performed by a registered massage therapist.

Schizophrenia Treatments

Schizophrenia Treatments

Schizophrenia is a severe brain disorder that affects more than 2 million men and women every year in the United States. Schizophrenia can have devastating effects, leaving the sufferer withdrawn, paranoid, and delusional. Though there is currently no cure for schizophrenia, a variety of treatment options are available. These treatments are highly effective at reducing symptoms of the disorder and preventing relapse. If you have schizophrenia, it is important to get diagnosed and seek treatment as soon as possible.

Diagnosing Schizophrenia
Diagnosing schizophrenia can be quite difficult and sometimes its symptoms can be confused with other medical conditions. Symptoms of schizophrenia are quite similar to those caused by brain injury or surgery, drug abuse, chronic Vitamin B12 deficiency, or tuberculosis. There is no physical test that can prove that you have schizophrenia.

Instead, a diagnosis is made based upon your symptoms, family history, and emotional history. In some cases, it may be difficult to diagnose a first episode of schizophrenia. In this case, a doctor may have to track a case over a period of time to establish a pattern of the signs of schizophrenia.

Treatments for Schizophrenia
Though there is no cure for schizophrenia, a wide variety of treatment options are available to sufferers with the disorder. Schizophrenia treatment is now quite effective in most cases, and can suppress symptoms and prevent relapse in the majority of schizophrenics. However, treatments are ongoing and usually lifelong.

• Antipsychotics: The most common medical treatment for schizophrenia is the use of antipsychotic medication. 70% of people using medications for schizophrenia improve, and medicine can also cut the relapse rate for the disorder by half, reducing it to 40%. Classic schizophrenia medication includes Thorazine, Fluanxol, and Haloperidol. These medications are effective in treating the positive symptoms of schizophrenia. Newer "atypical" medications include Risperdal, Clozaril, and Aripiprazole. These medications are recommended for first-line treatment and are excellent at reducing negative symptoms.
• Antidepressants: Antidepressants are recommended for those suffering from schizoaffective disorder. Antidepressants can successfully reduce the symptoms of depression in these patients.
• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy of some type is highly recommended for people suffering from schizophrenia. By adding behavioral treatments for schizophrenia to a medical treatment regimen, the rate of relapse is further reduced, to only 25%. A variety of types of psychotherapy are available to schizophrenics. Cognitive therapy, psychoeducation, and family therapy can all help schizophrenics deal with their symptoms and learn to operate in society. Social skills training is of great importance, in order to teach the patient specific ways to manage themselves in social situations.

Alternative Treatments
Alternative treatments for schizophrenia are available, although they are never recommended without first seeking medical treatment. They are most effective when paired with antipsychotics and administered under doctor supervision. In particular, dietary supplements have proven to have dramatic effects on the symptoms of schizophrenia.

• Glycine Supplements: Glycine, an amino acid, is shown to help alleviate negative symptoms in schizophrenics by up to 24%.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oils, Omega-3 fatty acids high in EPA can help to reduce positive and negative symptoms associated with schizophrenia.
• Antioxidants: The antioxidants Vitamin E, Vitamin C, and Alpha Lipoic Acid show a 5 to 10% improvement in symptoms of the disorder.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a severe brain disorder that can cause hallucinations and delusions, and make a person withdraw from society. Schizophrenia affects more than 2 million Americans every year but it is still a widely misunderstood disorder - only recently have the effects of schizophrenia been discussed in public. Schizophrenia is a chronic condition that affects men and women of all ages. Though the disorder is generally recurrent, with treatment the symptoms of the disorder can be controlled.

What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that affects the way the brain processes outside stimuli. If you are suffering from schizophrenia, you will not see or understand things in the same way that an unaffected person does. Instead, you may have difficulty experiencing appropriate emotions, acting in an appropriate manner, or perceiving reality as it actually is. Schizophrenia affects men and women equally. It usually develops in early adulthood in men and in the late 20s and 30s in women. Childhood schizophrenia is rare but can occur.

What Causes Schizophrenia?
The causes of schizophrenia are still unknown. The disorder it is thought to be the result of a problem with the brain’s neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters are chemicals in your brain that send messages to different nerve cells telling your body how to react. Schizophrenics may have low levels of these neurotransmitters, or have defects in the nerve cells in their brains, preventing correct messages from being sent. Schizophrenia may also be caused by a problem in the limbic system, the center of the brain that controls our emotions.

This defect in the brain is probably the result of a gene abnormality present at birth. This means that a person can be born with a "schizophrenia gene" that will be triggered at some point in their lives. Therefore, a person cannot avoid developing schizophrenia – they are born with the disorder. Schizophrenia does tend to run in families, suggesting that schizophrenia is a genetic condition. This gene may be triggered by environmental factors, including drug abuse, stress, childhood, and illness. Once triggered, schizophrenia may develop gradually or it can have a rapid onset.

What are the Symptoms of Schizophrenia?
The symptoms of schizophrenia are numerous and debilitating. Most schizophrenics will suffer from symptoms throughout their lives, though there can be periods where symptoms are absent. Schizophrenia symptoms are divided into three categories: positive symptoms, disorganized symptoms, and negative symptoms.

• Positive Symptoms: Positive symptoms of schizophrenia are those symptoms that involve an excess of normal bodily functions. For instance, if you are schizophrenic your senses may operate at a heightened and excessive state. Positive signs of schizophrenia include delusions, or beliefs that have no basis in reality. You may feel persecuted (paranoid delusions), you may feel as if the television or radio is talking directly to you (delusions of references), you may hold false beliefs about your physical state (somatic delusions) or you may feel that you have special abilities or powers (delusions of grandeur).
• Many schizophrenics also experience hallucinations due to overactive senses. You may see things that aren’t really there, you may hear people talking to you, and you may even be able to smell, touch, and taste things that other people can’t. These hallucinations may be quite scary for both the schizophrenic and for family and friends.
• Disorganized Symptoms: Disorganized symptoms are those symptoms that exhibit the confusion caused within the brain. Often, a schizophrenic will have trouble maintaining a conversation, may engage in unpredictable behaviors, or may act bizarrely in certain situations. People with schizophrenia also have difficulty achieving goals or acting with any purpose. For example, schizophrenics may hold unusual poses for extended periods of time.
• Negative Symptoms: Negative symptoms of schizophrenia are those symptoms that involve a decrease in normal bodily functions. These symptoms may involve withdrawal from society or refusal to speak. Schizophrenics often are disinterested in life and lack the ability to act in order to achieve simple goals. If you are suffering from the disorder, your voice may become monotone or you may be unable to change facial expressions or body language according to mood.

Types of Schizophrenia
There are a number of types of schizophrenia that are distinguishable according to the types of symptoms experienced. Diagnosing schizophrenia can be difficult but it is important to be diagnosed correctly in order to receive optimal treatment.

• Paranoid Schizophrenia: Paranoid schizophrenia is the most commonly occurring schizophrenia. Paranoid schizophrenia symptoms include frequent hallucinations and delusions. You may hear people giving you commands, threatening you, or laughing at you or you may feel as if you are on a special mission or are being followed. These hallucinations and delusions can be episodic or continual.
• Disorganized (Hebephrenic) Schizophrenia: Disorganized schizophrenics tend to be verbally incoherent and exhibit strange or bizarre behaviors. If you are suffering from this type of schizophrenia you may hold long conversations but say relatively little. You may express violent emotions, engage in pranks, or laugh at socially unacceptable times. You will probably have few, if any, hallucinations or delusions.
• Catatonic Schizophrenia: Catatonic schizophrenics are withdrawn and isolated from friends, family, and society. They engage in purposeless behavior, and may exhibit unusual flexibility or postures.
• Residual Schizophrenia: Residual schizophrenia occurs in chronic sufferers after the disappearance of positive symptoms. It usually lasts for one year and is characterized by negative symptoms. Residual schizophrenics have little interest in life and will not engage in eye contact or conversation.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: Schizoaffective disorder is a combination of schizophrenia and mood disorder. You may experience schizophrenic symptoms along with symptoms of bipolar disorder or major depression.
• Undifferentiated Disorder: Some schizophrenics exhibit all of the symptoms but don’t fit into one particular category. For treatment purposes, you may be labeled with undifferentiated schizophrenia.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Bipolar Disorder Treatment

Bipolar disorder is a devastating condition that causes extremes of mood. More than 12 million Americans suffer from this disorder every year, including men, women, and children. For as yet unknown reasons, women are more likely to develop the disorder than men. Once known as manic depression, there are a number of different types of bipolar disorders. It is important to get an accurate bipolar disorder diagnosis in order to begin treatment. A variety of effective treatments for bipolar disorder are available. Treatments should be continued for a long period of time, as the illness tends to continue throughout your life.

Medical Treatment Options for Bipolar Disorder
Medical treatments are highly effective at controlling the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Though the disorder can’t be cured, with the proper use of medication you will likely be able to have a happy and satisfying life. However, treating bipolar disorder can be tricky.

Often a variety of medications are required in order to control the disorder. Medications for depression, mania, and psychosis are often prescribed, and it is important to continue your medication even if you are feeling better. Early discontinuation of drug treatment for bipolar disorder can make your illness worse and more difficult to treat.

• Mood Stabilizers: Mood stabilizers have long been prescribed for people suffering from bipolar disorder. They usually involve long-term use and may take a few weeks before they begin to take effect. The most common mood stabilizer prescribed is Lithium. These drugs are more effective at preventing manic episodes than they are at alleviating depression.
• Anticonvulsants: Anticonvulsants are used to treat mania in bipolar patients. Anticonvulsants seem to help level mood, preventing manic episodes from occurring. Types of anticonvulsants include valproate, carbomazepine, and topiramate.
• Antidepressants: Antidepressants are used to treat symptoms of depression in people with bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers and anticonvulsants are often taken along with antidepressants in order to provide the best relief from symptoms. Commonly prescribed antidepressants include Wellbutrin (buproprion) and Paxil (paroxetine).
• Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT): Electroconvulsive therapy is highly effective in treating severe cases of bipolar disorder. ECT is highly controversial, though, because of a history of abuse of this treatment. ECT involves sending electrical stimulations through specific parts of a patient’s brain in order to "rewire" areas that are causing psychosis and mood swings. It is a proven treatment but does involve some side effects including temporary amnesia and joint and muscle stiffness.

Psychotherapy
Psychotherapy is an important part of the process of stabilizing your mood. In particular, a therapy known as Interpersonal and Social Rhythm Therapy has proven effective. This therapy helps you learn how to put structure into your life and improve your relationships. Therapy should be ongoing and continuous for the best effect.

Alternate Treatments for Bipolar Disorder:
Natural alternatives for bipolar disorder are available. It is recommended that this alternative be used to compliment medical treatment for the illness. Do not engage in any alternative therapy without first consulting a certified professional.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega-3 fatty acids have been linked to a 25% reduction in the symptoms of bipolar disorder. Omega-3 is found primarily in fish and fish oil. Capsules with high levels of EPA should be taken in order to produce an effect.
• Vitamin B: Vitamin B deficiency is common in people suffering from major depression. Vitamin B1, B6, and B12 supplements may help boost mood during depressive episodes in people with bipolar disorder also.
• Folic Acid: Folic acid is found in fruits, such as oranges, and leafy green vegetables, like spinach. Folic acid tends to be found in low levels in people suffering from depression. A supplement may help alleviate depressive symptoms.
• Vitamin C: People who suffer from bipolar disorder often have an excess of vanadium in their blood. Vitamin C supplements will help to clear this and alleviate symptoms.
• L-Tryptophan: L-Tryptophan is an amino acid that our body uses to make serotonin, a neurotransmitter. People suffering from bipolar disorder may have a lack of serotonin, so this supplement may help ease symptoms.
• Lecithin: Lecithin is also used in creating neurotransmitters and it helps to stabilize mood.

Self Care
Though your bipolar disorder will require professional care, there are some things that you can do to help take control of your illness:

• Take all of your medication. Even if you are feeling better, you must remain on your medication in order to prevent manic or depressive episodes.
• Keep a calendar of your moods, symptoms, and sleep patterns. This will help you predict any manic or depressive episodes.
• Try to reduce the stress in your life. Extreme stress can contribute to mania and depression. 60% of first manic episodes occur just after a particularly stressful event.
• Maintain a schedule. Having a regular routine can do a lot to help stabilize your mood and prevent manic episodes.
• Get a good sleep. Loss of sleep can contribute to manic tendencies and too much sleep can facilitate depression. Aim to sleep between 6 and 8 hours every night.
• Start Exercising. Effects of exercise on bipolar disorder are numerous. Just a simple walk around the block can do wonders for your mood.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder affects more than 2 million adult men and women in the United States every year. It can cause severe mood swings, periods of depression and mania, and can seriously damage your relationships, job commitments, and health. Bipolar disorder can affect anyone – it does not discriminate. Though the disorder is generally a long-term illness, bipolar disorder treatment can effectively reduce your symptoms, offering you a greater quality of life.

What is Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is a brain disorder that causes huge shifts in your emotions, energy level, and physical ability. Until recently, the illness was called manic depression, but it now has the more accurate name, bipolar disorder. This name reflects the two extreme "poles" or states of emotion that sufferers exhibit – mania and depression. Bipolar disorder is the result of a malfunction in the brain’s ability to communicate.

If you have bipolar disorder, the neurotransmitters in your brain work improperly, causing you to have extremes of emotion. Bipolar disorder is more likely to affect women than men. It usually occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood, though bipolar disorder in children can occur.

What Causes Bipolar Disorder?
Causes of bipolar disorder are still unknown. It is strongly suggested that bipolar disorder is the result of a genetic problem that causes the brain’s neurochemicals to function improperly. Bipolar disorder definitely seems to run in families, with 60% of sufferers having a family history of the illness. Bipolar disorder causes may include environmental factors like stressful events, but those who have developed the disorder were probably already predisposed to it.

What are the Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder?
Bipolar disorder is associated with severe and extreme symptoms. However, bipolar disorder symptoms are often not recognized or are confused with other illnesses, which can unfortunately lead to unnecessary long-term suffering. Bipolar disorder distorts mood and thought patterns.

People with bipolar disorder experience dramatic mood swings, altering from extreme highs to extreme lows. These highs are called "mania" and these lows are called "depression". If you are experiencing frequent periods of mania altering with depression, with periods of normalcy in between, you may have bipolar disorder.

Mania: Mania is characterized by a period of intense activity and energy. During a manic episode, your become so euphoric that you experience racing thoughts, extreme restlessness, and are able to function on little or no sleep. Mania is not the same as feeling happy or excited. Mania is so extreme that you often become confused, disturbed, and frightened by your feelings. During a manic episode you may begin to talk very quickly and jump from one subject to another. You may wish to engage in dangerous and risky behavior, such as drug abuse, anonymous sex, and spending sprees. A person who is experiencing mania will often think they are capable of incredible things, such as controlling a country or performing magical feats. In order to be diagnosed as having a manic episode, you need to exhibit at least three of these symptoms continuously, for one week.

Hypomania is a type of mania that is much milder and will probably be quite enjoyable for the person going through it. However, it is equally as dangerous as manic episodes and can lead to a type of bipolar disorder.

Depression: Episodes of depression will involve intense sadness and feelings of hopelessness and despair. You may experience a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed, and a change in sleep habits and appetite. Depression is often accompanied by thoughts of death or suicide, or actual suicide attempts. In order to be diagnosed as having a depressive episode, you must experience at least five symptoms continuously for two weeks.

Psychosis: Bipolar disorder is often accompanied by psychosis, during which you may hallucinate or experience strange delusions. You may hear voices or see people that aren’t there. You may feel like someone is watching you or following you. If you are experiencing psychosis, it is important to seek immediate treatment.

Types of Bipolar Disorder
There are a number of specific types of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder diagnosis can be difficult, but it is important to be diagnosed with one specific type in order to get proper treatment.

Bipolar I Disorder: This is the classic form of bipolar disorder and features recurrent episodes of mania and depression. You will experience periods of normal mood and activity in between your manic and depressive episodes.

Bipolar II Disorder: This form of bipolar disorder is characterized by episodes of hypomania alternating with depression. You will probably have normal periods in between these episodes.

Cyclothymic Disorder: This form of the illness is much milder, and is usually a precursor to a more serious form. It usually lasts about two years, and episodes of mania and depression typically last two months.

Mixed Bipolar: If you have mixed bipolar disorder, you experience mania and depression mixed together. You may have feelings of extreme hopelessness but feel energized and active at the same time.

Rapid Cycling Bipolar Disorder: Rapid cycling bipolar disorder affects at least 15% of sufferers. Signs of rapid cycling bipolar disorder include very frequent episodes of mania and depression. In order to be diagnosed with this particular type of disorder, you must experience 4 or more episodes within 12 months.

Differences Between Bipolar Disorder and Other Mood Disorders
Bipolar mood disorder is often confused with other mood and personality disorders, causing bipolar disorder to frequently be misdiagnosed. In particular, bipolar disorder is often mistaken for schizophrenia because of the presence of psychotic episodes. However, schizophrenics will experience delusions and hallucinations that are separate from fluctuations in mood. Instances of psychosis in bipolar disorder are always triggered by mood fluctuations.

Bipolar disorder was once thought related to major depression. Though depression does feature heavily in bipolar disorder, people suffering from major depression will not have episodes of mania.