Supporting Children’s Mental Health

children

By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   Mental Health Concerns in Children   Though many people reflect on childhood as being a care-free time, children are not immune to mental health concerns that plague adults. Some of the most common mental health concerns in children include:   Anxiety: The CDC reports that about 9% of children aged 3 to 17 have been diagnosed with anxiety; still, this doesn’t even reflect all children who struggle with anxiety, just merely those who have been evaluated and diagnosed (CDC, 2023). Signs of childhood anxiety may include ruminating thoughts, situational avoidance that may impact social engagement or school attendance, and panic attacks. Behavior Problems: Roughly 9% of 3-17-year-olds struggle with behavioral concerns that warrant a formal diagnosis (CDC, 2023). Those who have Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Conduct Disorder may disrespect property, engage in harmful acts, or break serious rules. This behavior can be exacerbated by observance …

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Geriatric Mental Health and Home Visits

children

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. Geriatric Healthcare Geriatric healthcare is the attentive medical care given to those over the age of 65 who are also referred to as seniors. Many individuals don’t seek geriatric healthcare until well into their 70s, 80s, or even 90s. A subspecialty in geriatric healthcare is geriatric psychiatry, as geriatric mental healthcare is a crucial aspect of geriatric healthcare in general. The American Psychiatric Association (APA) describes geriatric psychiatry as addressing the “biological and psychological aspects of normal aging, the psychiatric effect of acute and chronic physical illness, and the biological and psychosocial aspects of the pathology of primary psychiatric disturbances of older age” (APA, 2021).  Main focal points in geriatric psychiatry pertain to the “prevention, evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of mental and emotional disorders in the elderly and improvement of psychiatric care for healthy and ill elderly patients” (APA, 2021). Some of the most common psychiatric …

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How to Overcome Postpartum Disorder

Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
How to Overcome Postpartum Disorder

Women, men, and adoptive parents can experience some postpartum depression (PPD). According to research, one in seven women who give birth will experience PPD. Symptoms vary depending on the specific type of PPD. All types can be overwhelming and take away from the joy of new parenthood. Postpartum disorders have been well-researched, and there are many treatments available. With help, you can make a full recovery. Keep reading to learn how your symptoms compare to the various types of postpartum disorders, why you are experiencing symptoms when others are not, and how to overcome postpartum disorders. Understanding How to Overcome Postpartum Disorder The more knowledge you have about PPD, the more power you can have over it. Learning about the various types of postpartum disorders is a significant first step in overcoming your symptoms. Below is a brief overview of the types: Postpartum Depression Postpartum depression can range from baby …

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Types of Therapy for Mental Health

Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
types of therapy for mental health

Mental health therapy is more accessible today than ever, and the stigma of going to treatment is fading. Over 26 million people struggling with mental health issues are receiving treatment and experiencing success. Reports state that 75% of people in therapy receive benefits. Most therapists use a combination of the types of therapy for mental health. The more you know about each type, the easier it will be for you and your therapist to choose the best one to deal with your specific issues. Keep reading to learn the clinical definitions of different therapy categories and the techniques under each that may provide successful outcomes for you. Psychodynamic Therapy for Mental Health Psychodynamic therapy aims to find the source of your problems by delving into your past. It is believed that unresolved issues from your past are stored in your unconscious mind and reveal themselves in current thoughts, feelings, and …

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What Are the 8 Dimensions of Wellness?

woman enjoying sunlight in room with plants while wondering ... what are the 8 dimensions of wellness?

Medically reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, MD What are the 8 dimensions of wellness? Wellness is often mistaken for not being physically sick. Some think being unwell means having the flu, headaches, diabetes, cancer, or other conditions. However, the physical aspects are just one element of overall wellness. The Global Wellness Institute defines wellness as the “active pursuit of activities, choices, and lifestyles that lead to holistic health.  In total, there are eight dimensions of wellness, sometimes referred to as the circle of wellness. Below are details of each dimension and how to improve them. You don’t need to try for complete balance in each area. Life doesn’t work that way. Focus on the areas needing the most attention. 1. Physical Wellness Since this is the first area that most think of when it comes to wellness, starting with physical wellness makes sense. It refers to how you care for your …

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