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PTSD Treatment for First Responders

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
PTSD Treatment for First Responders

PTSD treatment for first responders offers support for those on the front lines. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) treatment for first responders often includes trauma-focused psychotherapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These treatments aim to help individuals process and manage their trauma-related thoughts and feelings, providing them with coping strategies to deal with triggers and reduce PTSD symptoms effectively. First responders are exposed to dangerous and traumatic emergencies that can, over time, impact their mental health. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms can make it difficult for first responders to do their jobs, strain personal relationships, and lead to other mental health symptoms. PTSD treatment is available and involves multiple evidence-based trauma-focused therapies to help first responders understand and cope with their symptoms. This article explores PTSD treatment for first responders. The Prevalence of PTSD Among First Responders The prevalence of …

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How to Break the Cycle of Obsessive Thoughts

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
woman looking outside, wondering how to break the cycle of obsessive thoughts

To break the cycle of obsessive thoughts, practice mindfulness techniques, focusing on the present moment rather than intrusive thoughts. Engage in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to challenge and reframe negative thinking patterns. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, and seeking support from mental health professionals can also be effective strategies for managing and reducing the frequency of obsessive thoughts. Almost everyone, at some point, has had thoughts about something that they can’t seem to get out of their minds. Research shows 94% of participants had at least one intrusive thought in the three months before the study. Most of the intrusive thoughts center on doubting themselves. In this article, we define obsessive thoughts and discuss ways to break the cycle of obsessive thoughts, like working with a mental health professional, medication, therapies, and self-care. What Are Obsessive Thoughts? Obsessive thoughts are unwanted, unusual, bothersome thoughts that can feel hard to …

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Self-Harm Awareness Month 2024

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self-harm

By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   What is Self-Harm Awareness Month? Self-Harm Awareness Month spans the month of March with the purpose of spreading awareness, breaking the stigma, and providing support and hope to those who have or currently self-harm. Self-Harm Awareness month is observed in the United States, Canada, and parts of Western Europe.  What is self-harm? Self-harm is also known as nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). Self-harm describes the act of purposely harming oneself; this act is often done by burning, cutting, pulling out hair, or picking at wounds to prevent healing. Self-harm indicates emotional distress and can lead to injury as severe as broken bones (NAMI, 2021).  Self-harm urges a need for healthier coping skills for emotional distress, and though it isn’t a mental illness in and of itself, self-harm is often associated with mental illness such as depression, trauma-related disorders, and borderline personality disorder (NAMI, 2021). It is also …

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Sleep Awareness Week 2024

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self-harm

By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   What is Sleep Awareness Week? Sleep Awareness Week was launched in 1998 and is the National Sleep Foundation’s public education campaign with the aim to spread awareness about the importance of sleep as it relates to physical and mental health. This year, Sleep Awareness week will be March 10th through March 16th. Prepare your pillows and blankets! The Importance of Sleep. Many of us don’t recognize the importance of sleep until we discover the difficulties we face when we are sleep deprived. We may not acquire enough sleep due to staying up late cramming for an exam, staying up late to finish work, or struggling with sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea. Lack of sleep tampers with our mood, memory, and health in very impactful ways.  In terms of mood and mental health, studies have discovered that lack of sleep induces heightened levels …

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What is High-functioning Depression?

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
business woman wondering what is high-functioning depression

What is high-functioning depression? High-functioning depression, clinically known as dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder, is a form of depression where individuals can maintain their daily responsibilities and outward appearances of normalcy despite experiencing chronic symptoms of depression. These symptoms include low mood, fatigue, and a general lack of interest, which persist over a long period but may not severely disrupt daily functioning. Many people with high-functioning depression struggle silently, as their ability to keep up with daily tasks masks the severity of their emotional pain. This often leads to their struggles being overlooked or minimized by themselves and others, making it difficult to recognize the need for help. Understanding high-functioning depression requires acknowledging that someone can appear productive and engaged while internally battling significant emotional distress, emphasizing the importance of compassionate support and professional depression treatment. What Is High-Functioning Depression? High-functioning depression, also known as dysthymia, presents a unique challenge …

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