"Our anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strengths"
Schizophrenia
This is a serious mental disorder hampering a person’s ability to think and judge clearly.
About 1% population suffers from Schizophrenia.
Symptoms: It can lead to hallucinations, delusions, irrelevant talks, aggressive behaviour, social withdrawal or bizarre behaviour and disorganized thinking.
The exact cause of schizophrenia isn't known, but a combination of genetics, environment and altered brain chemistry(Increased dopamine) and structure play a role.
Treatment is usually long-term. Hospitalization may be required for either stabilization or safety of the patient or others & often involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy.
Bipolar Disorder
This disorder is associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to extreme highs.
0.8-1% of people suffer from Bipolar mood disorder.
Numerous symptoms like mood swings, elated mood, grandiose ideations, big talks, over talkativeness, agitation, hopelessness, loss of interest, racing thoughts, increased sexual/money spending/high-risk activities can be experienced by patients of bipolar disorder.
A combination of genetics, environment and altered brain structure and chemistry may play a role in inducing this condition.
Treatment is usually lifelong and often involves a combination of mood stabilizer medications and psychotherapy.
Anxiety Disorder
This disorder is associated with feelings of excessive worrying, difficulty in concentration, restlessness, discomfort, inability to relax, fear , Irrational Avoidance of objects or situations and sleep disturbances that are strong enough to hamper daily activities.
Anxiety includes panic attacks, OCD and post-traumatic stress. Generally, the stress level goes out of proportion and results in altered brain chemistry (GABA, Norepinephrine & Serotonin)
Treatment includes combination of counseling, psychotherapy or medication, including antianxiety & antidepressants
Depression
This is a group of disorders, associated with persistent lowering of a person’s mood.
Clinical depression is associated with the condition of low mood, lack of interest in activities, sadness of mood, decreased confidence, easy irritability, sleeping problems, weight loss/gain and suicidal ideations which is persistent.
A person suffering from clinical depression may suffer from anxiety, apathy, guilt, restlessness etc.
Combination of genetics, environment and altered brain chemistry(Decreased serotonin, norepinephrine etc.) and structure play a role. The mainstay of treatment is usually antidepressant medication, counselling, psychotherapy or a combination of the two.
Obsessive Compulsive disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder is associated with unreasonable (obsessions) that lead to compulsive behaviours.
Obsessions: Anxiety-Provoking & Intrusive Thoughts commonly concerning Contamination, Doubt, Guilt, Aggression & Sex
Compulsions: Peculiar Behaviors that reduce Anxiety via repeated Hand-Washing, Organizing, Checking, Counting & Praying
OCD can be fear of germs on hands, leading to repetitive washing, fear of forgetting to lock the door while leaving or maybe always wanting to keep objects in a specific manner. Symptoms usually begin gradually and vary throughout life.
Treatment includes medication & Behavioral therapies.
Dementia
Dementia is a group of conditions that impairs social skills and daily functioning. It is characterized by impairment of at least two brain functions, such as memory loss and judgement. Symptoms include limited social skills, forgetfulness etc.
Medication and therapies may help manage symptoms. Some causes are reversible
Deaddiction-alcohol, cannabis, opioid, nicotine
Addiction or substance abuse disorder is a progressive disease.
Alcohol withdrawal may lead to Elevated blood pressure, Racing pulse, Sweating, Insomnia, Tremors, Anxiety, Agitation, Headache, Sweating, Nausea/vomiting, Hallucinations, Seizures
Opioid withdrawal-Nervousness or anxiety. Trouble sleeping. Frequent yawning. Nausea. Diarrhoea. Flu-like symptoms. Muscle cramps/body aches. Runny nose. Excessive sweating, hot and cold flashes, Goosebumps.
Some drugs like cocaine can be life-threatening and excessive use can lead to brain seizures, heart attack, depression, paranoia etc. On the other hand, consuming too much alcohol can even lead to brain damage, dementia, liver problems and much more.
Any addiction treatment starts with withdrawal, followed by therapies, medications, rehabilitation and managing mild to severe withdrawal symptoms.
Diagnostic Tests: Toxicological examination for types of substances & concentrations and other laboratory studies for evidence of systemic damage from substance use!
Treatment: Correction of physiologic complications resulting from substance use Emotional reassurance & providing a structured & secure environment Pharmacologic intervention to ameliorate psychological or physical symptoms