Insomnia: overview Sleep and wakefulness are regulated by many neurotransmitters including the brain’s principle inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA). Changing brain levels of GABA and other neurotransmitters are believed to be related to normal changes in sleep with healthy aging. … Continue reading
Anxiety: overview Generalized anxiety is a chronic condition characterized by both psychological or physical symptoms such as feelings of tension, excessive worrying, and heightened arousal that significantly interfere with work, going to school, being in a relationship or functioning in … Continue reading
Psychosis has many complex causes Symptoms of psychosis may be temporary or chronic and moderate or severe in their intensity. Schizophrenia and other chronic psychotic disorders are characterized by so-called ‘positive’ and ‘negative’ symptoms. Positive symptoms include auditory hallucinations, paranoia … Continue reading
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has enormous psychological and social consequences Approximately one third of the world’s population experiences chronic symptoms of inattention, distractibility, impulsivity or hyperactivity that meet requirements for a diagnosis of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD is the most … Continue reading
Overview Alcohol and nicotine are the most widely abused substances in all countries resulting in untold personal suffering and enormous economic and social costs. A significant percentage of smokers are also alcoholics and also use illegal drugs. Methamphetamine (‘speed’), cocaine … Continue reading
PTSD in overview PTSD is a severe anxiety disorder that occurs following direct or indirect exposure to trauma. In cases of direct exposure to trauma symptoms of PTSD develop after a potentially life-threatening situation such as a serious injury, physical … Continue reading
Bipolar disorder in overview Approximately 1% of the adult population experiences persisting mood swings and fulfills criteria for the diagnosis of bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is a heritable mental illness. First-degree relatives of Bipolar individuals are much more likely to … Continue reading
This blog reflects my personal and professional commitment to providing reliable information about best evidence in alternative and integrative approaches in mental health care for the treatment of common mental health problems. Goals of this blog and my website include: … Continue reading
A growing number of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, nurses and other mental health professionals around the world believe that existing conventional treatment approaches such as prescription medications and psychotherapy do not adequately address the mental health needs of people everywhere. … Continue reading
