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Resilience: The Ability to Bounce Back

Resilience is a term that is used to describe an individual's ability to withstand and recover quickly from difficult conditions. The word "resilience" comes from the Latin word "resilire," meaning "to leap back." This concept is not only important in the field of physics, where it describes a strained body's ability to recover its size and form following deformation, but also in the field of psychology, where it is used to describe an individual's ability to adapt to adversity and maintain a positive state of psychological functioning. However, defining resilience can be a challenge as the definitions of adversity and positive adaptation may vary based on the historical and sociocultural context within which the research was conducted, the researchers' conceptual proclivities, and the population sampled. Most researchers agree that both adversity and positive adaptation must be evident for resilience to be demonstrated. But, inconsistencie...
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Have You Heard of Silent ADHD?

Introduction Most people may associate ADHD with hyperactivity, impulsiveness, and difficulty staying still. However, not all individuals with ADHD fit this stereotype. Many experience more subtle symptoms that may slip under the radar and go unrecognized. This kind of ADHD, known as ADHD without hyperactivity, can have a significant impact on one's daily life and overall well-being. In this blog post, we will delve deeper into this less known and often overlooked aspect of ADHD and share insights from our professional experiences with patients. The Hidden Face of ADHD: How It Differs from the Classic Type Traditionally, ADHD has been categorized into three distinct subtypes: predominantly inattentive (ADHD-PI), predominantly hyperactive-impulsive (ADHD-PH), and combined (ADHD-C). ADHD without hyperactivity, also known as ADHD-PI, is characterized by difficulties with sustained attention, organization, and time management, but without the telltale signs of hyperactivity or impulsiv...

Regaining Your Full Mental Health

The question of whether someone who has experienced psychosis can ever fully recover their mental health is one that I often encounter. This journey towards understanding the nuances of psychosis recovery is an issue that requires a profound exploration into its origins, available treatments, and the long-lasting effects on patients' mental health. Psychosis refers to a mental state characterized by impaired thinking, perception, and reality-testing abilities. This might manifest as hallucinations, delusions, disorganized speech, or disorganized behavior. Causes of psychosis can range from genetic predispositions, environmental factors, brain trauma, substance abuse, and even stress. Given this complexity, it's essential to recognize that the recovery process looks different for everyone. In light of ongoing advancements in psychiatric research, professionals are continuously refining their protocols for treating patients suffering from psychosis. Currently, a comprehensive rec...

When Nature Meets Nurture: Is Mental Health Hereditary?

I've encountered and navigated the complexities of mental health through numerous patient interactions. One recurring concern voiced by parents is the hereditary aspect of mental illness: Can it be passed down from one generation to another? In this post, I aim to provide an accessible and balanced explanation of the current understanding of genetics and environmental factors in mental health. The interplay between genetics and mental health is a complicated one. While there is unequivocal evidence to support the fact that mental illnesses can run in families, it doesn't present the whole picture. As we know, mental health resides on a multifaceted spectrum, influenced by genetics, environment, and personal experiences. To achieve a full understanding of the heritability of mental illness, one must recognize the interdependence of these factors. In recent years, advances in genetic research have pinpointed potential genetic markers associated with specific mental illnesses. For...

Things You Should Start to Boost Your Mental Health

Mental health is often overlooked, even though it plays an integral part in our overall well-being. As a clinical psychiatrist, I encounter numerous patients who struggle to prioritize their mental health and seek sustainable ways to improve it. Boosting mental health is not a one-size-fits-all approach; each individual's journey is unique and requires customized strategies. In this blog post, I will share my knowledge and experience to provide you with valuable insights on boosting mental health. Understanding Your Mental Health Needs The first step towards enhancing your mental health is understanding your specific needs. Like physical health, mental health comprises various components, including emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It's essential to recognize the areas where you may struggle and identify the support you require. For example, some individuals may experience intense emotions, while others might grapple with social anxiety. Make a list of areas you...

Red Flag Signs When Your Minds Are Injured

Mental injuries may manifest subtly, yet the effects can have a profound impact if left untreated. In this article, I will go beyond general symptoms and identify specific warning signs you should not ignore in yourself or your loved ones. Remember that early recognition and appropriate support are essential in fostering recovery and wellbeing. Inability to Perceive Emotional Nuances A clear indication of a mental injury is the inability to discern the emotional subtleties in oneself and others. This may manifest as a lack of empathy, difficulty interpreting social cues, or even an inability to recognize the emotions in facial expressions or tone of voice. Do not dismiss these signs as trivial, as they may reflect a complex emotional issue that warrants professional attention. Intense Irritability Over Insignificant Matters Irritability is a common reaction to everyday stressors, but when anger or annoyance becomes excessive and disproportionate to external circumstances, it may s...

Identifying Subtle Warning Signs of Burnout

We live in a demanding world that often leaves individuals feeling emotionally, mentally, and physically drained. As a clinical psychiatrist, I've observed the rise in cases of burnout, which affects people across various sectors and lifestyles. Burnout, a response to chronic stress, primarily results from an overwhelming imbalance between personal and professional responsibilities. While most of us are familiar with the well-documented signs, such as fatigue, irritability, and reduced productivity, many other lesser-known red flags suggest that one might be on the verge of burning out. Here, I share my clinical experience to discuss nuanced symptoms of burnout and help you stay on top of your mental and emotional well-being.  Diminished Cognitive Flexibility Cognitive flexibility refers to the ease with which an individual can switch between two different tasks or concepts, and adapt to new information. Interestingly, chronic stress and burnout can dampen one's cognitive fl...

It's Still Here: The Lingering Impact of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

As a clinical psychiatrist with extensive experience working with individuals suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), I have witnessed firsthand how this condition can strain a person's mental, emotional, and physical well-being long after the traumatic event. The impact of PTSD extends far beyond the immediate aftermath and can manifest itself in various ways throughout one's life. In this blog post, I will shed light on the long-term effects of PTSD, offering insights based on my professional experience. Relationship Struggles One of the most profound long-term effects of PTSD is the strain it can cause on relationships. Trust issues, emotional detachment, and difficulties in communicating can arise as a result of the intense feelings of fear, guilt, or shame associated with PTSD. Partners, family members, and friends may struggle to understand the complexity of this disorder, leading to a sense of isolation and disconnection for both parties. It is crucial that...

Testosterone and Your Minds.

Testosterone, often associated with physical strength and virility, plays a crucial role in the psychological well-being of both men and women. While it's commonly known as the "male hormone," it's essential for women's mental health as well. In recent years, research has increasingly pointed to the significance of harnessing the power of testosterone in psychological settings. In this blog post, we will explore the rationale behind this approach and the benefits it can offer. Testosterone and Mental Health Numerous studies have shown a strong correlation between testosterone and mood regulation. Low testosterone levels have been linked to increased rates of depression, anxiety, and overall psychological distress. Conversely, higher levels of testosterone can contribute to enhanced mood stability, resilience, and emotional regulation. Therefore, maintaining optimal testosterone levels may help improve mental health and overall psychological well-being. Testosteron...