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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...

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...

In times of mental struggle, people often seek out stories of others experiencing similar challenges. This phenomenon can be understood as a psychological coping mechanism, satisfying one's need for validation and empathy. However, as a clinical psychiatrist, I would like to emphasize that although this temporary comfort may provide some reprieve, it is crucial to embrace effective long-term coping strategies and seek appropriate professional help. One of the main reasons individuals grappling with mental difficulties search for similar stories is to reassure themselves that they are not alone. As social beings, humans have an innate need for connection and understanding. This is especially true when facing emotional or psychological distress. Listening to others' experiences of overcoming similar hardships can provide insight and hope, instilling a sense of solidarity in the process. Nevertheless, simply identifying with others' struggles is not a panacea for one's men...

Navigating through life's challenges is difficult, and when overwhelming feelings arise, some individuals may turn to self-harm as a coping mechanism. As a clinical psychiatrist, I have worked with many patients who struggle with self-harming thoughts. It is essential to recognize the danger of these thoughts and discover how to calm them down. This blog post will outline strategies to help manage self-harming thoughts. Understanding Self-Harm: The Basics Before we delve into methods for calming self-harming thoughts, it's crucial to understand what self-harm entails. Self-harm refers to intentionally causing physical pain or injury to one's body, usually as a way to cope with emotional pain or stress. While self-harm may temporarily alleviate emotional distress, the relief is short-lived and can lead to long-term physical harm and worsening mental health conditions. Accepting Your Thoughts: Compassion is Key One critical step in managing self-harming thoughts is acknowledg...

Childhood trauma can be effectively addressed in a mental health setting through various therapeutic approaches. Here are some common strategies: Trauma-focused therapy Evidence-based therapies such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can help individuals process traumatic experiences, manage distressing emotions, and develop healthier coping skills. Safety and stabilization Establishing a safe and supportive therapeutic environment is crucial. This involves building a trusting relationship with the therapist, creating a sense of safety, and developing strategies to manage emotional distress and regulate arousal levels. Emotional regulation skill Learning skills to regulate and manage intense emotions is essential for individuals with childhood trauma. Techniques such as mindfulness, grounding exercises, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques can help individuals feel mo...

A person's personality is determined by a complex and unique blend of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. It consists of a variety of traits and patterns that influence how individuals perceive and interact with their surroundings. Even if each person has a distinct personality, distinguishing between personality types and personality disorders is crucial. Personality Types Personality types are broad categories used to identify typical patterns of behavior, habits, and qualities. The Big Five Personality Traits or the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) are widely used to predict these personalities. These frameworks categorize people based on traits such as extraversion, introversion, openness, conscientiousness, and others. Understanding personality types can aid us in understanding how individuals interact, communicate, and make decisions. It can also help people become more self-aware and recognize their own strengths and weaknesses. Personality types, rather than being thought ...

Distinguishing between executive dysfunction and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children can be challenging as they can share overlapping symptoms. However, there are certain considerations that can help in differentiating the two conditions. Definitions Executive dysfunction refers to difficulties in executive functioning skills, which involve processes such as planning, organization, problem-solving, cognitive flexibility, and impulse control. It can be a feature of various neurodevelopmental disorders, including ADHD. However, executive dysfunction can also occur independently of ADHD, such as in conditions like autism spectrum disorder, learning disabilities, or traumatic brain injury. ADHD, on the other hand, is a specific neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that are inconsistent with developmental norms. While executive dysfunction is a common feature of ADHD, it is not exclusive to th...

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by pervasive instability in emotions, relationships, self-image, and behavior. Traditionally, BPD has been considered a disorder that primarily manifests in adulthood. However, there is growing recognition among mental health professionals that BPD can also affect children and adolescents. We will explore the question of whether a child can have BPD from a clinical psychiatrist's perspective and discuss the unique considerations and challenges involved in diagnosing and treating BPD in young individuals. Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Before delving into the topic of BPD in children, let's first gain a clear understanding of the disorder itself. BPD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of instability in interpersonal relationships, self-image, and emotions. Individuals with BPD often experience intense and rapidly shifting emotions, struggle with impulsivity, have di...

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects individuals in various ways. While some aspects of autism are widely known, there are many lesser-known facts that can provide deeper insights into this complex condition. As a clinical psychiatrist, I would like to shed light on some of these lesser-known facts about autism. 1. Autism is a Spectrum Autism is often referred to as a spectrum disorder because it encompasses a wide range of characteristics and severity levels. Individuals with autism can present with diverse strengths and challenges, making each person's experience unique. It is crucial to understand that autism is not a one-size-fits-all condition but rather a spectrum with a broad range of abilities and characteristics. 2. Early Intervention is Key Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for individuals with autism. Research has shown that early identification and targeted interventions can significantly improve outcomes an...

Treatment for OCD often involves a combination of therapy and, in some cases, medication. Here are some of the commonly used treatment approaches for OCD: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) CBT is a highly effective therapy for treating OCD. Specifically, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a form of CBT commonly used for OCD. ERP involves gradually exposing individuals to their obsessions and preventing the accompanying compulsive behaviors. Through repeated exposure, individuals learn to tolerate the anxiety triggered by their obsessions without resorting to compulsions. Over time, this leads to a decrease in the intensity and frequency of obsessions and compulsions. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) ACT is a therapeutic approach that focuses on accepting distressing thoughts and feelings rather than trying to eliminate them. With OCD, ACT helps individuals develop psychological flexibility and build resilience in the face of obsessions and compulsions. It emphasizes the ...

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that individuals feel compelled to engage in to alleviate anxiety or distress. While some people with OCD are fully aware of their symptoms and seek help, others may not realize that what they are experiencing is OCD. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of having OCD without knowing it and shed light on the importance of recognizing and seeking treatment for this often debilitating condition. Understanding OCD Before delving into the question at hand, it is crucial to have a clear understanding of what OCD entails. OCD is a complex psychiatric disorder that affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. It is characterized by the presence of obsessions, which are unwanted and intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant distress. These obsessions often revolve around themes such as contamination, symmet...

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a debilitating mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions). While the exact cause of OCD remains unknown, research suggests that various factors contribute to its development and maintenance. One intriguing aspect worth exploring is the relationship between perfectionism and OCD. In this article, we will delve into the intricate connection between perfectionism and OCD, shedding light on their interplay and potential treatment implications. Understanding Perfectionism Perfectionism can be described as a personality trait or cognitive style characterized by striving for flawlessness, setting excessively high standards, and being overly self-critical. Individuals with perfectionistic tendencies often have an intense desire to avoid making mistakes or being perceived as imperfect. While striving for excellence can be a positive trait, extreme levels of perfectionism can lead to signi...