Mental Health News Articles

Sociopath is a term—much like psychopath—which is often used in popular culture to describe individuals who exhibit a disregard for social norms, ethical standards, and the rights of others. In clinical terms, sociopathy is not a diagnosis. The callous disregard for others, morals and rules of society are instead hallmarks of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD).

Sociopath is a term—much like psychopath—which is often used in popular culture to describe individuals who exhibit a disregard for social norms, ethical standards, and the rights of others. In clinical terms, sociopathy is not a diagnosis. The callous disregard for others, morals and rules of society are instead hallmarks of antisocial personality disorder (ASPD).

Our surroundings, the spaces where we live, work, and relax, play a pivotal role in shaping our mental health. This relationship goes both ways: Just as our mental state can influence how we perceive and interact with our environment—perhaps leading us to seek solitude in nature or accumulate clutter in times of stress—so, too, can our surroundings reflect and significantly affect our mental state.

Unlike physical abuse, which leaves visible scars, emotional abuse inflicts harm on the psyche, making it harder to recognize and often more challenging to recover from. Here’s how emotional abuse affects you, and what you can do…

When mental wellbeing is nurtured, the capacity for concentration, creativity, and efficiency flourishes. When it is neglected, our productivity can suffer. Here are three keys to maximum productivity while maintaining good mental health.

Ghosting is the act of suddenly ceasing all communication with someone without explanation, leading the other party to deduce their own conclusions about the end of the relationship. It can occur across various interpersonal contexts, including romantic relationships, friendships, online interactions, and in workplaces. The sudden silence can leave the ghosted individual feeling confused, hurt, and often with unresolved questions.

Navigating the job interview process is as much about evaluating the potential employer as it is about presenting yourself as the ideal candidate. Recognizing red flags early can save you from stepping into a toxic work environment that could hinder your career growth and wellbeing. Here are 11 things to look out for, so that you can make informed decisions about your prospective employer.

From a practical standpoint, many therapists and counselors find the concept of love languages useful as a tool for fostering communication between partners. It simplifies the discussion around needs and expectations, which can be particularly beneficial in counseling settings. However, this utility does not equate to scientific validity. The framework serves more as a useful way to think about relationship dynamics rather than a scientifically validated theory.

Although often portrayed in the media one-dimensionally as being afraid of or unable to leave the house, agoraphobia encompasses more than this. At its core, agoraphobia is the fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of panic symptoms. The fear is out of proportion to the actual situation, lasts generally six months or more, and causes significant problems in functioning.

Vitamin D, often celebrated for its crucial role in bone health and immune function, is stepping into the spotlight for its potential impact on mental health. Dubbed the “sunshine vitamin” due to its unique ability to be synthesized through skin exposure to sunlight, vitamin D is also sourced from our diets and supplements. However, beyond its well-known functions, recent studies indicate that this essential nutrient could play a crucial role in improving our mental health.

Catastrophizing itself is not a specific mental disorder but is a cognitive distortion commonly associated with various psychological conditions. It often features prominently in anxiety disorders, depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Catastrophizing is also a typical characteristic of panic disorder, where a person might interpret physical symptoms of anxiety as a catastrophic event, such as a heart attack.

The “uncanny valley” is a concept in robotics and artificial intelligence that describes the eerie feeling or discomfort people experience when they encounter an entity that is almost, but not quite, human-like. The term was first coined by Japanese roboticist Masahiro Mori in 1970.

Imagine a household where conversations flow effortlessly, laughter fills the rooms, and every member feels valued and supported. In today’s fast-paced world, achieving a harmonious family life might seem like a distant dream. It doesn’t have to be. While perfection may not be attainable, it’s entirely possible to cultivate a nurturing and resilient family environment by embracing certain habits and principles.

Divorce is a monumental, life-altering event for the couple going through it and for their children. The emotional and psychological toll on children can be significant, affecting various aspects of their lives. Understanding these impacts and finding ways to support children through this transition is crucial for their wellbeing.

Fear of missing out is the anxiety that arises from the belief that others people are having wonderful experiences that we are missing out on. This feeling can lead to a compulsive worry that we’re missing out on social events, experiences, or interactions that others are enjoying.

Emily wakes up to the sound of her alarm at 6:00 AM. Before she can leave her bed, she engages in a series of mental checks: confirming the safety of her environment, ensuring that no harm will come to her loved ones, and repeating a specific phrase in her mind that she believes will keep her day on track. This routine takes nearly 30 minutes, significantly longer than she would like, causing her to rush through the rest of her morning activities. As Emily begins her day with these rigorous rituals, it’s clear how deeply her routines are intertwined with her struggle with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a condition that involves persistent, unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors.

Grief is a unique and solitary journey that reshapes our world in ways we cannot anticipate until we experience it ourselves. Those mourning the loss of a mother probably already understand the individual and often isolating path of grief, as the person who has traditionally been a source of comfort is no longer there to help bear the grief.

Sometimes people might label behavior as passive-aggressive when it’s actually just indirect communication or avoidance of
confrontation. Overusing the term can dilute its meaning and make it less effective in addressing genuinely passive-aggressive behavior.

Limerence is a complex emotional state involving an intense and often overwhelming desire for an emotional connection with another person, hoping deeply for those feelings to be reciprocated.

Art therapy has recently gained recognition for its unique blend of healing therapy and personal expression. Despite its growing popularity, there seems to be some misunderstanding about what art therapy entails, who it can benefit, and how it differs from other forms of therapy.

Scattered minds, fidgety bodies, and difficulty focusing. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often gets painted in shades of struggle. But what if there’s a brighter side to the story? What if, beneath the challenges of ADHD, lie unique strengths just waiting to be unlocked?

While the allure of tropical paradises might seem straightforward, the relationship between climate and happiness is far more nuanced. Grab your metaphorical mug of hot coffee (or iced, depending on your climate!), and let’s embark on a journey to understand: Are people in warmer climates truly happier, or is this just another sun-kissed illusion?

Toxic behavior is characterized by actions and attitudes that harm or manipulate others Recognizing these behaviors is not just an exercise in labeling, but a crucial step towards safeguarding one’s mental health and nurturing healthier relationships.

Like addiction, love can dominate our thoughts and behaviors, causing us to seek the presence and affection of the person we feel love for. Neurotransmitters in the brain feed this pursuit and the more we are around this person or thinking about them, the more these chemicals enhance our feelings of happiness and attachment, creating a powerful emotional bond.

The reality is, our financial lives are not isolated compartments; they deeply intertwine with our physical and psychological wellbeing. This connection is a two-way street: Our mental health often influences financial decisions and, in turn, financial struggles can impact our mental state.

Approximately 56.8% of people worldwide are introverts. Introversion is a natural and healthy personality trait, and there are many successful and well-adjusted introverts in the world.

A dark cloud hangs over the American landscape, not one formed by rain or storm, but by a surge in mental health struggles. Depression, the insidious thief of joy and hope, has reached record highs in the US, casting a long shadow over millions of lives. Recent surveys, such as the one conducted by Gallup, paint a stark picture: nearly 30% of Americans now report having been diagnosed with depression in their lifetime, with almost 18% currently experiencing its grip

Have you ever met someone and just clicked with them? If so, you’re not alone. That little spark of interest between two people happens millions of times each and every day. But what causes it? Why are we attracted to some people and not others?

Although it is not an diagnosable mental health condition, imposter syndrome is a phrase coined to describe a feeling of not being as capable as others may think, despite clear evidence of capability. Imposter syndrome is more than just occasional self-doubt. It is a constant worry of being seen as a fake, feeling like success is just luck, or that they other people are deceived about one’s capability.

Maybe you thought everything was fine. One day you are going about your routine and, seemingly out of nowhere, you hear the words “I want a divorce.” Can this really be happening? Maybe, if you search deep into your psyche, you’ve felt things shift.

Gaslighting is a sneaky and harmful way someone can mess with your head. Imagine someone constantly telling you that what you know to be true isn’t real, or that the things you remember never happened or didn’t happen the way you remember them. That’s gaslighting.

Accepting a mental illness is a journey about breaking down the barriers of denial, moving beyond shame, and stepping away from societal stigma. Acceptance is a transformative process that leads to greater self-awareness and the possibility of living a fuller, more authentic life.

Hoarding disorder transcends the stereotype of being merely a “pack rat.” As the Hoarders show taught us, when you look beyond mountains of clutter, you see a person in mental distress. That’s because hoarding disorder is more than just an accumulation of objects; it is a complex and poorly understood mental health condition that affects millions of people.

The mental wellbeing of people born in the 1990s is generally poorer than that of previous generations at the same age. This appears to be the same in different countries and involves a range of mental health issues.

Beneath the surface of these vibrant digital communities lies a complex web of psychological impacts. As much as social media serves to connect us, its usage has raised significant concerns about mental health.

Through storytelling, characters, and narratives, media can offer a window into the complex world of mental health, highlighting both the struggles and triumphs individuals face.

With most anxiety disorders, the struggle is more visible – people might avoid certain situations, or it’s clear they’re having a hard time. But with high functioning anxiety, it’s a bit like being a swan on a lake – on the surface, everything looks smooth and calm, but underneath, there’s a lot of frantic paddling going on.

Doomscrolling is continuing to scroll or click through bad news on the internet—even though it is making you feel anxious or depressed—because you can’t seem to stop. You are magnetized by the need to stay informed, even when that information is pretty gloomy. You find yourself reading one piece of worrying news after another, sucked deeper into the whirlpool of distressing headlines and stories, often late into the night.

Whether it is personal struggles with mental health or the complexities of modern life, resilience acts as a buffer, helping us navigate challenges with grace and fortitude.

Whether it is personal struggles with mental health or the complexities of modern life, resilience acts as a buffer, helping us navigate challenges with grace and fortitude.

The pursuit of happiness isn’t just a lofty ideal. It is a tangible goal with concrete benefits. Positive psychology can help us get there. Here are 5 principles of this relativity new branch of psychology.

The pursuit of happiness isn’t just a lofty ideal. It is a tangible goal with concrete benefits. Positive psychology can help us get there. Here are 5 principles of this relativity new branch of psychology.

Approximately 83 percent of U.S. workers report feeling stressed about their jobs. (We think the other 17 percent are their bosses).

Having a baby is one of life’s most fulfilling experiences. However, a significant number of new mothers find themselves grappling with postpartum depression.

Workaholism is an unhealthy obsession with work. We can all think of people who work hard or are dedicated to their jobs. Workaholics, though, are unable to switch off from work mentally, emotionally, and, sometimes, even physically. Work starts to dominate an individual’s life, to the detriment of their personal relationships, health, and overall well-being.

With situational depression, you have difficulty coping with one or more major life events, such as the loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, or problems at work. It can be severe enough that it impacts how you function in everyday life.

Good news for those who journal. The practice of regularly recording thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a written format – otherwise known as journaling – can serve as a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth.

Celebrities who are open about their mental health struggles have a lot to teach us. Here’s what we can learn from Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Prince Harry, Lady Gaga, Selena Gomez and more.

Are they excessively self-absorbed? Have an exaggerated sense of self-worth? A perpetual desire for adoration and an absence of compassion for other people? If so, you may be dealing with a narcissist.

the cost of therapy sessions can often be a deterrent for individuals seeking help. Fortunately, mental health services are now covered by many insurance plans.

Music has long been a way for artists to express their emotions, struggles, and experiences, including those related to mental health. There are numerous songs that delve into issues like depression, anxiety, isolation, suicide and other mental health topics. Some of these songs have resonated deeply with audiences and become particularly well-loved. Songs about mental health can offer several types of support and understanding for those dealing with their own mental health struggles.

Therapy and psychiatry are two essential components of mental health care. They each play a different role in helping individuals overcome a variety of challenges, from managing stress to treating severe mental disorders.

Good news for those who journal. The practice of regularly recording thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a written format – otherwise known as journaling – can serve as a powerful tool for self-reflection and personal growth.

Research has yielded some pretty impressive statistics on the success of therapy. In fact, studies show that 70 to 90 percent of people who receive treatment for mental health experience improvement. This reduction in symptoms is “significant”, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. The benefits of therapy are wide-ranging, touching every aspect of our lives.

In the mental health arena, trauma represents the emotional fallout from an event experienced as traumatic. It is unique to the individual: What is traumatic for one person may not be for another. Trauma can even be a repercussion of isolation.

Emotions can be hard to navigate, especially for youth. There is a lack of understanding when it comes to how to deal with overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiousness, anger, and fear. Individuals trying to cope with those emotions may turn to self-harm.

It’s a perfect spring day. You are picking flowers in a sunlit meadow. The only thing to worry about are bees buzzing from one bloom to the next. If you knew there were no bees, however, would you be able to relax more?

There’s a companion to addiction that is often overlooked. In fact, people rarely consider the two together, even though they go hand in hand.

Uncontrollable crying. Burning anger. Total exhaustion. Loss of interest in the world. Grief can include all of this and more. 

Both anxiety and depression are common among the general population. While depression is the most common mental condition, anxiety disorders are the most common group of mental disorders.

Among many other disastrous effects, the COVID-19 pandemic spiked anxiety and depression levels to nearly four times their pre-pandemic rates. Case in point: In January to June 2019, 11 percent of adults reported symptoms versus 42 percent in December 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (Abbott, 2021) It’s not hard to see why. Shutdowns […]