Individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder experience patterns of intrusive, unwanted thoughts and fears (obsessions) that cause them to perform certain specific behaviors over and over (compulsions). The combination of obsessions and compulsions eventually begin to disrupt daily activities and cause distress. When a person with OCD tries to focus on something besides the obsessions, their distress…

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a condition that develops after experiencing a horrific event. Those suffering from this condition find it difficult to adjust to everyday life, which generally leads to months or years of suffering. This disorder interferes with a person’s day-to-day activities, causing uncontrollable thoughts and anxiety. Fear is a normal response that people…

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that can occur at any age. People with schizophrenia interpret reality abnormally, affecting their thinking, emotions, decisions, and relationships. Early treatment may help get symptoms under control and improve a patient’s long-term prognosis.  Symptoms of Schizophrenia It’s difficult to diagnose schizophrenia, so a continuous medical evaluation can help track…

People with personality disorders often have trouble relating to other people or the environment because of rigid or unhealthy patterns of thought and behavior. A person with a personality disorder often doesn’t recognize it and blames others for problems and challenges. This causes difficulties in social situations, relationships, school, and work. Symptoms of Personality Disorders…

Depression is more than feeling sad or going through a hard time. It’s not a condition that someone can “snap out” of. This serious mental health condition needs medical care to mitigate the damaging effect it can have on the sufferer and their family.  Also referred to as major depressive disorder, depression affects an individual’s…

Bipolar disorder is a condition characterized by extreme, sometimes sudden, highs and lows in mood, energy, and activity levels. While most everyone experiences ups and downs, the mania and depression that affect individuals with bipolar disorder are more dramatic and intense. Left untreated, the symptoms of bipolar disorder usually become worse and eventually interfere with…