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ADHD in Adulthood: The Signs You Need to Know

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The CARD System

The CARD TM System (Comfort, Ask, Relax, Distract) provides groups of strategies that you can play to cope with stressful situations. Originally used to help reduce fear and pain from medical procedures, CARD TM can also be used in situations that cause fear or anxiety.

Find out more and download the CARD TM Toolkit for Educators, which also includes sections for healthcare professionals and parents .

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These downloadable PDF resources for anxiety management are helpful "How To" guides for caregivers, parents and educators.

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Intersection of Childhood Trauma + Addiction- Suha Q

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Intersection of Childhood Trauma + Addiction- Suha Q

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Substance dependence leads to persistent negative consequences and the loss of human potential. These consequences often include chronic health problems, dysfunctional family environments, harmful economic impacts and premature death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 21.2 million individuals in the United States met the criteria for a substance-related disorder in 2018. Deaths from overdose have tripled in less than two decades, with over 70,000 annual drug overdose deaths in 2019, 70% of which resulted from opioids such as morphine and fentanyl.

Substance-related disorders include 10 classes of drugs: alcohol; caffeine; cannabis; hallucinogens; inhalants; opioids; hypnotics, sedatives and anxiolytics; stimulants; tobacco; and other/unknown substances. Exposure to childhood trauma increases one's risk of addiction across classifications, along with deleterious factors such as physical health and socioeconomic challenges. The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study, originally conducted by Kaiser Permanente and the CDC from 1995-1997, identified categories of trauma that can occur prior to age 18. These include physical abuse and neglect, emotional abuse and neglect, sexual abuse, and household dysfunction - e.g., mother treated violently, household substance misuse, parental incarceration, parental mental illness, and divorce.

These factors make up the 10 components of the ACEs score, with research supporting higher likelihood of substance-related disorders as exposure to ACEs increases. According to the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM), addiction has biological, psychological, social and spiritual manifestations. Given the deleterious nature of addictive etiology, professional counselors need to be aware of the vulnerability to addiction for those affected by childhood trauma. The intersection of ACEs and addiction holds pervasive negative impact across the life span.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) asserts that traumatic events can serve as triggers for substance misuse. NIH reported that 38% of high school seniors admitted using an illicit substance in 2019, with marijuana being the most frequent substance utilized. Startlingly, 11.8% of eighth graders reported marijuana use. In addition, 11.7% of high school seniors reported daily nicotine use, and more than half acknowledged using alcohol in the prior year.

Exposure to ACEs can lead to toxic stress and myriad negative consequences, often including lifelong deleterious effects on physical and mental health. The high rates of individuals living with the trauma of ACEs is startling - 61% of individuals have endured at least one ACE, and nearly 25% of individuals report three or more ACEs. There appears to be specific vulnerability to addiction for those who have experienced four or more ACEs. The higher the ACEs score, the greater the negative health impact. More than half of adolescents who live with mental health concerns also have diagnosable substance-related disorders, which underscores the comorbidity of the issue.

Ramifications of ACEs can include addiction, reduced access to education, and vulnerability to sexual exploitation and trafficking. Tobacco and prescription drug use is higher among those with ACEs, and illicit drug use increases more than twofold with each positive ACEs category. Other lifelong instability factors that have been shown to correlate with ACEs are high-risk sexual behaviors, early pregnancy, suicide attempts, sleep disturbance, poor dental health and multiple physical health concerns. Both children and adults with extant mental health issues misuse substances at higher rates.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, approximately 10% of children live with mental health concerns that rise to a clinical level, with major depressive disorder representing a leading cause of disability in children worldwide. Research supports the strong connection between experiencing adversity during childhood and the ensuing development of addiction. More than two-thirds of children will experience a traumatic event before the age of 16. And with the current pandemic, many children are in homes that are violent or otherwise unsafe. Alarmingly, domestic violence incidents were up 30% in 2020, exposing untold youth to at least one of the ACEs factors.

Reports regarding heightened clinical levels of anxiety and depression among the general population suggest that stress related to the COVID-19 pandemic affects everyone. Adolescence already represents a critical developmental period for initial onset of mental health and substance-related disorders, so the vulnerability for this demographic is further increased. ACEs are a clear and extant risk factor, with survivors of childhood trauma 15 times more likely to attempt suicide, four times more likely to develop an alcohol-related disorder, and 2.5 times more likely to smoke cigarettes. For survivors of childhood trauma, physical and emotional issues often manifest in adolescence and follow into adulthood.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 21.6 million people ages 12 and older needed treatment for substance use in the U.S. in 2019, whereas only approximately 2.6 million people (or slightly more than 12%) received it. These are glaring treatment needs that crosscut demographics. Fentanyl, which can be lethal, is sold in multiple forms on the "street," continuing the opioid crisis in our country. Tens of thousands of overdose deaths occur per year, with close to 11 million individuals disclosing inappropriate opioid use. Those with ACEs scores higher than 6 were over 1,000 times more likely to use injection drugs.

Chronic substance abuse, a clear risk factor for those exposed to trauma, leads to premature death in alarmingly high numbers. Adolescents with experience of major depressive episodes are more likely to use substances across categories. Coincidingly, 60% of U.S. youth with depression do not receive mental health treatment. Addressing the physical and mental health impact of substance use alone is estimated to cost Americans more than half a trillion dollars annually. The CDC has developed a resource that highlights the available research support for evidence-based prevention of ACEs at cdc.gov/violenceprevention/pdf/preventingACES.pdf. These strategies focus on systemic community-based information and training. Emphasis is also placed on physical health, positive behaviors and supportive environments.

Treatment considerations

Certain populations have increased vulnerability to substance-related disorders due to environmental and genetic factors. This stems from the neurobiological underpinnings of the addictive etiology to the effects of toxic stress. Individuals born into households in which they are exposed to ACEs are more vulnerable to addiction, including process addictions centered on gambling, internet gaming, sex, shopping, work, social media and so on. The use of trauma-informed interventions as early as possible can mitigate deleterious effects and provide protective measures against substance-related and other mental and physical health issues. The CDC offers trainings for those interested in learning more about the prevention of ACES (see vetoviolence.cdc.gov/apps/aces-training/#/#top).

All clients should be evaluated for trauma and addiction history. The concurrence of mental health concerns and substance abuse necessitates treatment that addresses these challenges. Trauma increases the already high comorbidity (upward of 50%) between mental health and substance use diagnoses. Prevention and early intervention services can examine frequency, severity and duration of both the trauma experience and the addiction. The conceptualization of substance use disorders occurring on a continuum (as detailed in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) underscores the importance of prevention and early intervention.

According to the CDC, research shows a propensity to self-medicate with substances to escape or numb negative thoughts and feelings. This suggests that escape from emotional pain triggers the onset of addiction. Women, adolescents and individuals from marginalized populations are most vulnerable to these effects, although anyone can experience childhood trauma and struggle with ensuing addiction.

Clinicians should develop individualized treatment plans and strong referral systems. Genetic and environmental factors work in combination. Thus, we need to gain understanding of these interactive effects. Long-term supports and provision of physical and dental health services can be important for individuals exposed to ACES, especially considering the likelihood of comorbidity with a physical health diagnosis. Increased rates of unemployment and job dissatisfaction represent additional treatment needs.

Relational challenges

Difficulty forming healthy relationships across the life span is a hallmark of surviving childhood adversity. Counseling professionals should thus incorporate strategies for strengthening the family and community. Holistic and family counseling services are beneficial. This includes the provision of psychoeducation and parenting education to address overall life skills, mindfulness and grounding techniques, positive coping strategies and career counseling services. Trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy (TF-CBT) and multisystemic therapy have shown both short- and long-term benefit with these clients. This can be combined with addiction treatments such as medication-assisted therapy for alcohol or opioid use disorders. The combination of psychoeducation and supportive, trauma-informed and empirically based substance misuse treatments can span the broad needs of this population. All treatment modalities and providers should integrate trauma-informed care.

Early identification and intervention remain important to minimize risks and break deleterious family patterns. Removal of barriers to treatment includes addressing stigma and increasing education for families and communities. Larger scale prevention programs, inclusive of early intervention and postvention services, are indicated. The development of individualized treatment strategies that incorporate trauma-informed interventions are also vital.

Professional counselors are charged to advocate for clients and communities. Screenings in hospitals, clinics and public health facilities can help identify those at risk for substance misuse, especially those with trauma histories, and link them with treatment services. Psychoeducation in schools and community agencies also can improve outreach and access to care. Parenting education classes and life skills trainings are other examples of additive ancillary services. Incarcerated populations are particularly affected, with some studies suggesting a trauma history for nearly the entire population of female inmates. Professional counselors working across these settings should be aware of risk factors and assessment protocols that are culturally competent and inclusive of multiple demographics.

Effective treatments for individuals affected by trauma and addiction can include eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, motivational enhancement therapy, TF-CBT, dialectical behavior therapy, assertive community treatment and family behavior therapy. Psychotropic medication and psychiatric care may be indicated to fully address these complex issues. Some medications may benefit multiple issues (e.g., bupropion for both depression and nicotine dependence). Case management and occupational assistance represent important ancillary services for many clients. Community vouchers can be given for transportation and health care access and allow for possible employment opportunities.

Although thorough and comprehensive treatment can be expensive, it pales in comparison to the economic costs associated with addiction and premature death. With annual estimates for addiction and premature death as high as $740 billion, there is a need for legislation that funds prevention and early intervention services for those affected by trauma exposure and addiction. Given appropriate access to treatment and support, many individuals living with the effects of childhood trauma and addiction can make positive and lasting improvements. The cycle of intergenerational trauma transmission can be broken, providing positive ripple effects for future generations. Individuals can thrive and build healthy families despite their adverse experiences.

Community impact and integrated care

A multitiered approach to looking at immediate issues such as addiction is imperative for individuals exposed to ACEs. Addressing the trauma and providing familial services, social support and preventive measures remains imperative. All professional counselors can emphasize trauma-informed and integrative care. Here are a few simple strategies to tackle this complex issue: Listen with empathy, garner training in trauma-informed practices, develop a strong support and referral system, and provide specialty services to treat the trauma and the addiction. Working together, mental health professionals across disciplines can help survivors of childhood trauma manage life in healthy and productive ways.

The global health pandemic has increased utilization of distance-based services such as telemental health counseling. This modality can provide easier access to services for individuals in rural communities, those with transportation challenges and those with other impediments to treatment.

It remains important to highlight the team approach in addressing the complex issues of childhood trauma, addiction, and the ensuing physical and mental health sequelae. The pervasive nature of this challenge engenders a call to action. Data collection through thorough assessment can inform community decision-making and provide program funding. The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System assesses crosscutting data that are available at the local, state and national levels. The National Survey of Children's Health and the National Crime Victimization Survey also collect data that can inform service provision.

The CDC provides information to promote safe childhood environments and mitigate ACEs exposure and subsequent addiction and disease. On a micro level, professional counselors can focus on parenting and family skills, mentoring, social emotional learning, job skills, and psychoeducation regarding healthy family and interpersonal relationships. On a macro level, professional counselors can promote community connection, mentoring relationships and positive social norms. The critical importance of trauma-informed interventions that are tailored to individual or family circumstances, along with communitywide prevention strategies, are necessary for addressing these serious and prevalent risk factors. These programs can assist children, parents and families beyond mitigation of symptoms.

Family-centered treatments for addiction can address the intergenerational impact. The deficits that come with trauma and addiction are offset by evidence-based interventions and prevention strategies. Access to programs should be available for all levels of care and can be implemented concurrently with ancillary services. Counseling settings can include the home, school or office, and often will involve multiple integrated health care professionals. Given the complexity of the challenge, comprehensive treatment services that include bridging home and school environments and the larger family system remain imperative. The widespread impact of ACEs and their intersection with addiction calls for coordinated care across disciplines. This includes effective tracking and coordination of prevention and intervention services across all aspects of service delivery.

Intergenerational patterns of trauma transmission represent a vicious cycle that professional counselors can help break. Prevention programs must address household dysfunction and adversity, especially considering that ACEs indicate earlier onset of substance consumption. The idea of numbing or comfort-seeking suggests that childhood adversity can lead to addiction through attempts to relieve distress. Quality mental health care can address and ameliorate these maladaptive coping mechanisms. ACEs are also correlated with substance use disorder in older adulthood, underscoring the lifelong ramifications of exposure to childhood trauma.

Addiction treatment facilities partnering with comprehensive and wraparound services can provide targeted interventions to address individual trauma experiences. Tackling the systemic nature of childhood adversity through family services and community advocacy provides additional resources for clients. Professional counselors are an integral part of the overall treatment team. Clients can and do learn new patterns of behavior and positive coping mechanisms that help them live longer, healthier lives. The benefits of prevention and early intervention should not be undervalued. Treatment is ameliorative for trauma and addiction and often engenders positive change in individuals and families.

Professional counselors can assist community members in locating resources and addiction treatment centers across the country via SAMHSA's national helpline: 800-662-HELP (4357). Viewing survivors of childhood trauma who struggle with addiction or other maladaptive coping mechanisms from a strength-based approach is imperative. These struggles are not born of characterological weakness but result from the impact of lived trauma experiences. Empathy and care go a long way in successful work with trauma survivors.

Abuse, neglect and household dysfunction clearly lead to physical and mental health challenges. The risk of addiction, early death and intergenerational trauma transmission increases with each adverse childhood exposure. Use of alcohol and other illicit substances damages mental and physical health in numerous ways and often intersects with the trauma experience. Vulnerable children and adolescents can and must be protected. Professional counselors play pivotal roles now more than ever.

In 2020, SAMHSA reported a 900% increase in call volume to its disaster distress helpline (800-985-5990). Nearly half of Kaiser Family Foundation respondents asserted that the COVID-19 pandemic is detrimental to their overall mental health. The global health pandemic underscores the burgeoning treatment needs for increasing numbers of vulnerable people. Experiencing trauma in childhood can hinder the individual in all aspects of life. The negative reverberations for families and communities should make this everyone's issue. Professional counselors hold the potential to help effect positive change for innumerable individuals, families and communities. Let's make an impact - now and into the future.
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Shannon Karl is a professor with the Department of Counseling at Nova Southeastern University, a licensed mental health counselor (supervisor) in Florida, an active member of the American Counseling Association, and a past president of the Association for Spiritual, Ethical and Religious Values in Counseling. Contact her at shannon.karl@nova.edu or linkedin.com/in/shannon-karl-phd.

Knowledge Share articles are developed from sessions presented at American Counseling Association conferences.
**** Opinions expressed and statements made in articles appearing on CT Online should not be assumed to represent the opinions of the editors or policies of the American Counseling Association.

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The intersection of childhood trauma and addiction - Counseling Today

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Substance dependence leads to persistent negative consequences and the loss of human potential. These consequences often include chronic health problems, dysfunctional family environments, harmful economic impacts and premature death. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 21.2 million individuals in the United States met the criteria for a substance-related disorder in 2018.

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CHADD - Improving the lives of people affected by ADHD

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Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization serving people affected by ADHD.

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Bipolar Disorder in Children | Smarter Parenting

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These depression organizations, articles, websites, and tools could help connect you with the support you need.

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If you-or a family member or friend-are having thoughts about suicide, resources are available to help. Please contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-TALK or 800-273-8255.

Anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear-and their symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, school work and relationships, according to the National Institutes on Mental Health.

There are many types of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, specific phobia, social anxiety disorder (social phobia), post-traumatic stress disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and separation anxiety disorder.

Anxiety disorders can be treated-and licensed professional counselors can help.

The American Counseling Association assembled the resources below to serve as background material in helping clients dealing with anxiety disorders.

PRACTICE BRIEFS AND OTHER RESOURCES

Practice Briefs
The ACA Center for Counseling Practice, Policy and Research offers Practice Briefs for ACA members. Practice Briefs, written by scholars in the counseling profession, are research-based summaries of best practices, evidence-based practices and research-based approaches covering a wide variety of client-presenting issues and counseling topics. Each Practice Brief is several pages in length, includes references and has been peer-reviewed by two co-editors before being accepted for publication. The Practice Briefs, which are available to ACA members only, include:
Online Courses
Global Wellness: Predicting Lower Levels of Anxiety
Author: Michael T. Kralkbrenner, PhD

DSM-5 Depressive, Anxiety, and Trauma
Author: Stephanie F. Dailey, EdD

Hoarding Disorder: Diagnosis, Assessment and Treatment
Authors: Victoria E. Kress, PhD; Nicole A. Stargell, PhD; Chelsey A. Zoldan-Calhou; and Matthew J. Paylo, PhD

BOOKS

Youth at Risk, 7th edition
Edited by David Capuzzi and Douglas R. Gross

In the latest edition of this best-selling text, distinguished counselors David Capuzzi and Douglas Gross, along with 24 experts in the field, provide a prevention-intervention paradigm to address contemporary issues facing today's youth. Written from a systemic perspective, this book offers guidance in helping teens who are struggling with the complex challenges that can be brought on by peers, family members and difficult social environments.

Part 1 presents information on at-risk population identification, causal factors of problematic behaviors and promotion of resiliency in youth. Part 2 examines the development of at-risk behaviors relating to dysfunctional family dynamics, low self-esteem, depression, mood disorders, and stress and trauma. Part 3 explores the behaviors most often identified as placing youth at risk, such as eating disorders, suicidal preoccupation, teen sexuality, gang membership, school violence, substance abuse, homelessness, school dropout, bullying and the unique strengths of, and stressors faced by, multiracial and LGBTQ youth. Case studies illustrate prevention efforts from individual, family, school and community perspectives. Text sidebars create greater reader self-awareness and enhance the understanding of the concepts, skills and applications of the chapter material.

Disaster Mental Health Counseling: A Guide to Preparing and Responding, Fourth Edition
Edited by Jane M. Webber and J. Barry Mascari

This timely book provides current research and skill-building information on Disaster Mental Health Counseling for counselors, educators, students and mental health responders in agencies, schools, universities and private practice. Recognized experts in the field detail effective clinical interventions with survivors in the immediate, intermediate and long-term aftermath of traumatic events.

This extensively revised edition, which meets 2016 CACREP Standards for disaster and trauma competencies, is divided into three sections: Disaster Mental Health Counseling Foundations, Disaster and Trauma Response in the Community, and Disasters and Mass Violence at Schools and Universities. Real-world responses to violence and tragedies among diverse populations in a variety of settings are presented. Responders share their personal stories and vital lessons learned through an "In Our Own Words" feature. Each chapter contains discussion questions. Case studies are interwoven throughout the text.

Mastering the Art of Solution-Focused Counseling, Second Edition
By Jeffrey T. Guterman

The most current trends in solution-focused counseling are explored in the latest edition of this updated and expanded text. Dr. Guterman provides a comprehensive and straightforward discussion of solution-focused theory and describes how the model can be used throughout the therapeutic process. Clinical techniques and detailed case studies illustrate counseling with clients experiencing a range of problems, including depression, substance abuse, grief, morbid jealousy and trichotillomania. New chapters and sections in this edition address anxiety, eating disorders, migraine headache, psychosis, spiritual and religious problems, self-injurious behavior and suicide. Additional features include excerpts of dialogue from actual counseling sessions, sample forms and supplementary materials and troubleshooting tips for getting unstuck in difficult cases. The final chapter, titled "The Future of Solution-Focused Counseling," considers new directions for the model and developments in research, clinical settings and technology.

WEBINARS

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If you-or a family member or friend-are having thoughts about suicide, resources are available to help. Please contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-TALK or 800-273-8255 . Anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear-and their symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, school work and relationships, according to the National Institutes on Mental Health.

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Traumatic events-such as an accident, assault, military combat or natural disaster-can have lasting effects on a person's mental health. While many people will have short term responses to life-threatening events, some will develop longer term symptoms that can lead to a diagnosis of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD symptoms often co-exist with other conditions such as substance use disorders, depression and anxiety. A comprehensive medical evaluation resulting in an individualized treatment plan is optimal.

PTSD affects 3.6% of the U.S. adult population-about 9 million individuals. About 37% of those diagnosed with PTSD are classified as having severe symptoms. Women are significantly more likely to experience PTSD than men.

Symptoms

A diagnosis of PTSD requires a discussion with a trained professional. Symptoms of PTSD generally fall into these broad categories:

Re-experiencing type symptoms, such as recurring, involuntary and intrusive distressing memories, which can include flashbacks of the trauma, bad dreams and intrusive thoughts.

Avoidance, which can include staying away from certain places or objects that are reminders of the traumatic event. A person might actively avoid a place or person that might activate overwhelming symptoms.

Cognitive and mood symptoms, which can include trouble recalling the event, negative thoughts about one's self. A person may also feel numb, guilty, worried or depressed and have difficulty remembering the traumatic event. Cognitive symptoms can in some instances extend to include out-of-body experiences or feeling that the world is "not real" (derealization).

Arousal symptoms, such as hypervigilance. Examples might include being intensely startled by stimuli that resembles the trauma, trouble sleeping or outbursts of anger.

Young children can also develop PTSD, and the symptoms are different from those of adults. (This recent recognition by the field is a major step forward and research is ongoing.) Young children lack the ability to convey some aspects of their experience. Behavior (e.g. clinging to parents) is often a better clue than words, and developmental achievements in an impacted child might slip back (e.g. reversion to not being toilet trained in a 4-year-old).

It is essential that a child be assessed by a professional who is skilled in the developmental responses to stressful events. A pediatrician or child mental health clinician can be a good start.

Causes

PTSD can occur at any age and is directly associated with exposure to trauma. Adults and children who have PTSD represent a relatively small portion of those who have been exposed to trauma. This difference is not yet well understood but we do know that there are risk factors that can increase a person's likelihood to develop PTSD. Risk factors can include prior experiences of trauma, and factors that may promote resilience, such as social support. This is also an ongoing area of research.

We do know that for some, our "fight-or-flight" biological instincts, which can be life-saving during a crisis, can leave us with ongoing symptoms. Because the body is busy increasing its heart rate, pumping blood to muscles, preparing the body to fight or flee, all our physical resources and energy are focused on getting out of harm's way. Therefore, there has been discussion that the posttraumatic stress response may not a disorder per se, but rather a variant of a human response to trauma.

Whether you think of these symptoms as a stress response variant or PTSD, consider them a consequence of our body's inability to effectively return to "normal" in the months after its extraordinary response to a traumatic event.

Diagnosis

Symptoms of PTSD usually begin within three months after experiencing or being exposed to a traumatic event. Occasionally, symptoms may emerge years afterward. For a diagnosis of PTSD, symptoms must last more than one month. Symptoms of depression, anxiety or substance use often accompany PTSD.

Treatment

Though PTSD cannot be cured, it can be treated and managed in several ways.

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive processing therapy or group therapy

Medications

Self-management strategies, such as self-soothing and mindfulness, are helpful to ground a person and bring her back to reality after a flashback

Service animals, especially dogs, can help soothe some of the symptoms of PTSD

Related Conditions

Someone with PTSD may have additional disorders, as well as thoughts of or attempts at suicide:

These other illnesses can make it challenging to treat PTSD. For example, medications used to treat OCD or depression may worsen symptoms of PTSD. Successfully treating PTSD almost always improves these related illnesses and successful treatment of depression, anxiety or substance use usually improves PTSD symptoms.
Reviewed December 2017

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Discover the symptoms, causes, diagnosis advice, treatment options and related conditions of PTSD.

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Last updated October 2021

About

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition which includes difficulties with attention, increased activity, and difficulties with impulsivity. Estimates show that 11 percent of school-aged children and about 4 percent of adults have ADHD. It is usually first identified when children are school-aged, although it also can be diagnosed in people of all age groups. In an average classroom of 30 children, research suggests that at least one will have ADHD.

No single biological cause for ADHD has been found. But most research points to genes inherited from parents as the leading contributor to ADHD. ADHD often runs in families.

The good news is that there are safe and effective treatments for children and adolescents with ADHD. Treatment is most effective when it begins early and when intervention is individualized to the needs of the child.
Choose a topic: Glossary of Symptoms: ADHD
Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is ADHD?

2. How common is ADHD?

3. What causes ADHD?

4. Common signs and symptoms of ADHD?

5. What are the types of treatment for ADHD?

6. When is it okay to stop taking ADHD medication?

7. What are the consequences of untreated ADHD?

Treatment Resources

Parents' Medication Guide

The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) created the ADHD: Parents' Medication Guide.

Included in this guide is new research on effective treatments for child and adolescent ADHD. The goal of the guide is to help parents make informed decisions about getting the best care for a child or adolescent with ADHD.

Facts for Families

AACAP's Facts for Families provide concise up-to-date information on issues that affect children, teenagers, and their families. Below are links to Facts for Families with information that may be useful to families of children with ADHD.

Video Clips

ADHD: A Guide for Families
Many children have restless behaviors that are typical of ADHD. When fidgeting, poor concentration, or impulsiveness begins disrupting performance in school, at home, or in relationships with other children, the cause might be ADHD. To be a good advocate for your child, you need to learn as much as you can about ADHD.

The following are chapters from the ADHD: A Guide for Families book:

Clinical Resources

Information about Choices in Psychotherapy Treatment

Treatment for ADHD comes in the form of medication and psychotherapy treatment. Both can be important elements of a comprehensive treatment plan. There are several psychotherapies that are helpful for children with ADHD. We have the most evidence that cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and behavioral management techniques can be helpful for children with ADHD.
Learn more about the types of psychotherapy that are available to help children and adolescents with mental illness here.
Information about Choices in Medication
Learn more about how psychiatric medication is used to treat children and adolescents here Learn more about the types of psychiatric medication that are available to treat children and adolescents with mental health disorder here. .
Vanderbilt Diagnostic Parent Rating Scale
Parents who have a child or adolescent with ADHD, or any mental health condition, are often left facing difficult decisions regarding medication.

View up-to-date information about advances in psychopharmacological treatment for mood disorders here.

ADHD Rating Scales

Two rating scales which can be used by clinicians to help identify ADHD and monitor symptoms are the SWAN rating scale and the SNAP-IV rating scale. These scales are completed separately by a parent and a teacher.

The SWAN Rating Scale has 30 items and includes ADHD symptoms and symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder. Download the SWAN Rating Scale.

The SNAP-IV Rating Scale contains 90 items and includes symptoms of ADHD and also ODD and aggression. Download the SNAP-IV Rating Scale.

Research and Training

AHRQ review of ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: Diagnosis and Treatment in Children and Adolescents

The abstract for the Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD is an NIMH sponsored research study that examined close to 600 children with ADHD and studied how they responded to different treatments. Click here to find a brief description of results from this study:
Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD

Learn more about the Multimodal Treatment Study of Children with ADHD and results from this large research study.

Books

AACAP's books: and Your Adolescent offer easy-to-understand and comprehensive information on the emotional development and behavior of children from infancy through the teen years.

A Bird's-Eye View of Life with ADD and ADHD: Advice from Young Survivors
Chris A. Zeigler Dendy and Alex Zeigler

ADHD and Me: Forty Years in a Fog
Ken Patterson

For more bibliotherapy resources, visit Living with Mental Illness: Books, Stories and Memoirs.

Getting Help

Getting help is the most important thing that parents can do for children and adolescents with a mental health concern. Parents should try to find a mental health professional with advanced training and experience evaluating and treating children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Also, it is important to find a comfortable match between your child, your family, and the mental health professional.

A child and adolescent psychiatrist is a physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders that affect children and adolescents. Child and adolescent psychiatrists have completed four years of medical school, and at least three years of residency training in medicine, neurology, or general psychiatry with adults, and two years of additional training in psychiatric work with children and adolescents.

Find a child and adolescent psychiatrist in your area.
Services In School For Children With Special Needs: What Parents Need To Know
To learn about accessing child and adolescent psychiatrists and other mental health professionals, please read Where To Find Help For Your Child.

Oftentimes, parents are unsure when to seek a referral to a child and adolescent psychiatrist. For more information on when to seek a referral, please read this article.

Learn more about understanding mental health insurance, please read this article.

Related Websites

This Resource Center was made possible through funding from the Lasdon Foundation.

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Last updated October 2021 Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition which includes difficulties with attention, increased activity, and difficulties with impulsivity. Estimates show that 11 percent of school-aged children and about 4 percent of adults have ADHD. It is usually first identified when children are school-aged, although it also can be diagnosed in people of all age groups.

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Bipolar disorder is a treatable mental health condition marked by extreme changes in mood, thought, energy, and behavior. It is not a character flaw or a sign of personal weakness. Bipolar disorder was previously known as manic depression because a person's mood can alternate between the "poles" of mania (highs) and depression (lows). These changes in mood, or "mood swings," can last for hours, days, weeks or months.

For statistics about bipolar disorder, click here.

On this page:

Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis

When people experience symptoms of both mania and depression at the same time, they're said to be experiencing a mixed state (or mixed mania). They have all of the negative feelings that come with depression, but they also feel agitated, restless and activated, or "wired." Those individuals who have had a mixed state often describe it as the very worst part of bipolar disorder.

The screeners provided below are confidential assessment tools to explore your mental health and determine whether you should contact a mental health professional.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Mania: The "Highs" of Bipolar Disorder

Symptoms of mania include

heightened mood, exaggerated optimism and self-confidence;

excessive irritability, aggressive behavior;

decreased need for sleep without experiencing fatigue;

grandiose thoughts, inflated sense of self-importance;

racing speech, racing thoughts, flight of ideas;

impulsiveness, poor judgment, easily distracted;

reckless behavior; and

in the most severe cases, delusions and hallucinations.

Depression: The "Lows" of Bipolar Disorder

Symptoms of depression include

prolonged sadness or unexplained crying spells;

significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns;

irritability, anger, worry, agitation, anxiety;

pessimism, indifference;

loss of energy, persistent lethargy;

feelings of guilt, worthlessness;

inability to concentrate, indecisiveness;

inability to take pleasure in former interests, social withdrawal;

unexplained aches and pains; and

recurring thoughts of death or suicide.

Bipolar Depression

People with bipolar disorder experience bipolar depression (the lows) more often than mania or hypomania (the highs). Bipolar depression is also more likely to be accompanied by suicidal thinking and behavior.

It's during periods of bipolar depression that most people seek professional help and receive a diagnosis. In fact, most people with bipolar disorder in the outpatient setting are initially seen for-and diagnosed with-unipolar depression. Unfortunately, incorrect treatment for bipolar disorder can actually lead to episodes of mania and other problems, so it's important monitor your symptoms and follow up with your health care providers.

Mania Screeners

Risk Factors

While there is no one single cause of mood disorders, researchers have identified a number of risk factors that may contribute to an individual to experiencing a mood disorder.

These risk factors include:

Having a family member who lives with a mood disorder or other mental health condition

Having specific genetics or brain structure

Experiencing trauma or stressful life events

Excessive use of drugs or alcohol

Types of Bipolar Disorder

There are several types of bipolar disorder. Each kind is defined by the length, frequency, and pattern of episodes of mania and depression. Mood swings that come with bipolar disorder are usually more severe than ordinary mood swings and symptoms can last weeks or months, severely disrupting a person's life. For example, depression can make a person unable to get out of bed or go to work or mania can cause a person to go for days without sleep.

Bipolar I Disorder

Bipolar I is characterized by one or more episodes of mania or mixed episodes (which is when you experience symptoms of both mania and depression).

Bipolar II Disorder

Bipolar II disorder is diagnosed after one or more major depressive episodes and at least one episode of hypomania, with possible periods of level mood between episodes.

The highs in bipolar II, called hypomanias, are not as high as those in bipolar I (manias). Bipolar II disorder is sometimes misdiagnosed as major depression if episodes of hypomania go unrecognized or unreported. If you have recurring depressions that go away periodically and then return, ask yourself if you also have:

Had periods (lasting four or more days) when your mood was especially energetic or irritable?

Were you:

Feeling abnormally self-confident or social?

Needing less sleep or more energetic?

Unusually talkative or hyper?

Irritable or quick to anger?

Thinking faster than usual?

More easily distracted/having trouble concentrating?

More goal-directed or productive at work, school or home?

More involved in pleasurable activities, such as spending or sex?

Did you feel or did others say that you were doing or saying things that were unusual, abnormal or not like your usual self?

If so, talk to your health care provider about these energetic episodes, and find out if they might be hypomania. Getting a correct diagnosis of bipolar II disorder can help you find treatment that may also help lift your depression.

Not Otherwise Specified (NOS)

Bipolar disorder that does not follow a particular pattern (for example, recurring episodes of hypomania episodes without depressive symptoms, or very rapid swings between some symptoms of mania and some symptoms of depression) is called bipolar disorder Not Otherwise Specified (NOS).

Cyclothymia

Cyclothymia is a milder form of bipolar disorder characterized by several episodes of hypomania and less severe episodes of depression that alternate for at least two years. The severity of this illness may change over time.

Rapid Cycling

Bipolar disorder with rapid cycling is diagnosed when a person experiences four or more episodes of mania, hypomania, or depressive episodes in any 12-month period. Rapid cycling can occur with any type of bipolar disorder, and may be a temporary condition for some people.

Bipolar Disorder in Children and Adolescents

Mania in children often appears as extreme irritability or rage. Children and teens are more likely to have destructive outbursts than to be excited or euphoric. Depression in early life may have symptoms such as headaches, muscle aches, stomachaches or tiredness, frequent absences from school or poor performance in school, talk of or efforts to run away from home, irritability, complaining, unexplained crying, isolation, poor communication and extreme sensitivity to rejection or failure. Other signs of a possible mood disorder are alcohol or substance use and difficulty making or keeping friends.

Young people may also have a continuous, rapid-cycling, irritable and mixed symptom state that may co-occur with disruptive behavior disorders, particularly attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or conduct disorder (CD). Young people may have symptoms of ADHD and CD before having bipolar symptoms.

A child or adolescent who has symptoms of depression along with ADHD-like symptoms that are very severe, with excessive temper outbursts and mood changes, should be evaluated by a psychiatrist or psychologist with experience in bipolar disorder, particularly if there is a family history of the condition. This evaluation is especially important since medications prescribed for ADHD may worsen symptoms of mania.

The Balanced Mind Parent Network (BMPN), a program of the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), guides families raising children with mood disorders to the answers, support, and stability they seek.

Learn more about bipolar disorder in children Learn more about bipolar disorder in teens

Bipolar Disorder in Young Adults

The transition to adulthood is challenging. Young adults (18-29 years of age) typically experience many changes such as moving out on their own, finding their first job, and building relationships with significant others. For those living with a mood disorder, this time of life can be particularly difficult. DBSA has specialized resources to help support young adults through these challenges as well as help them connect to other young adults.

Bipolar Disorder in Older Adults

It is uncommon for bipolar disorder to appear for the first time in late life, but some people may have symptoms throughout adulthood and not be diagnosed until later in life. For older adults, it is important to have a complete medical examination, and to discuss all mental health history, family history, and current medications with health care providers. Other illnesses and the medications that treat them may trigger or mimic bipolar disorder symptoms. Older adults may tolerate or metabolize medications at different speeds than younger adults, so they may need different dosages. Talk therapy, group therapy and peer support, including DBSA support groups, can be valuable additions to older adults' treatment.

Older adults are also encouraged to start support groups for older adults that meet earlier in the day, are accessible to people with disabilities, are closer to people's homes or meet other special needs.

Find a Local Support Group Find an Online Support Group Get Wellness Resources

Bipolar Disorder Treatment Options

As with any treatment or medical procedure, different people will have different responses. DBSA does not endorse or recommend the use of any specific treatment or medication. For advice about specific treatments or medications, consult your healthcare provider.

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Bipolar Disorder - Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance

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Bipolar disorder is a treatable mental health condition marked by extreme changes in mood, thought, energy, and behavior. It is not a character flaw or a sign of personal weakness. Bipolar disorder was previously known as manic depression because a person's mood can alternate between the "poles" of mania (highs) and depression (lows).

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If you are experiencing a psychiatric emergency, please call 911.

Call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline: No matter what problems you are dealing with, we want to help you find a reason to keep living. By calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255), you'll be connected with a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area, anytime 24/7.

Looking for treatment? Please visit our Treatment Centers page with listings by state.

Looking for research participation opportunities? Please visit the links at the bottom of this page.

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Resource Links - National Network of Depression Centers

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If you are experiencing a psychiatric emergency, please call 911. Call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline: No matter what problems you are dealing with, we want to help you find a reason to keep living. By calling 1-800-273-TALK (8255), you'll be connected with a skilled, trained counselor at a crisis center in your area, anytime 24/7.

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Feeling tense, stressed, and worried at certain times when under pressure is a normal human response. Everybody feels anxious from time to time. Anxiety becomes a problem when it is intense and prolonged, and when it starts to get in the way of day-to-day functioning. Below you can find some general information sheets and worksheets for dealing with anxiety.

We have a range of other resources relevant to anxiety which you may find helpful.

If you experience intense physical sensations of anxiety or if your anxiety comes on unexpectedly you might find our panic resources helpful.

If you find it hard to switch off from worries and negative thinking you might find our worry resources helpful.

If your anxiety is mainly about your health you might find our health anxiety resources helpful.

If your anxiety is mostly related to social situations then you might find our social anxiety resources helpful.

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Feeling tense, stressed, and worried at certain times when under pressure is a normal human response. Everybody feels anxious from time to time. Anxiety becomes a problem when it is intense and prolonged, and when it starts to get in the way of day-to-day functioning.

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What is PTSD - A Definition for Police Officers and Military Veterans

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What is PTSD - A Definition for Police Officers and Military Veterans

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Bipolar Disorder - Patricia Byrne Heffern

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Bipolar Disorder - Patricia Byrne Heffern

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

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Overview

Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in a person's mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration. These shifts can make it difficult to carry out day-to-day tasks.

There are three types of bipolar disorder. All three types involve clear changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. These moods range from periods of extremely "up," elated, irritable, or energized behavior (known as manic episodes) to very "down," sad, indifferent, or hopeless periods (known as depressive episodes). Less severe manic periods are known as hypomanic episodes.

Bipolar I disorder is defined by manic episodes that last for at least 7 days (nearly every day for most of the day) or by manic symptoms that are so severe that the person needs immediate medical care. Usually, depressive episodes occur as well, typically lasting at least 2 weeks. Episodes of depression with mixed features (having depressive symptoms and manic symptoms at the same time) are also possible. Experiencing four or more episodes of mania or depression within 1 year is called "rapid cycling."

Bipolar II disorder is defined by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes. The hypomanic episodes are less severe than the manic episodes in bipolar I disorder.

Cyclothymic disorder (also called cyclothymia) is defined by recurring hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are not intense enough or do not last long enough to qualify as hypomanic or depressive episodes.

Sometimes a person might experience symptoms of bipolar disorder that do not match the three categories listed above, and this is referred to as "other specified and unspecified bipolar and related disorders."

Bipolar disorder is often diagnosed during late adolescence (teen years) or early adulthood. Sometimes, bipolar symptoms can appear in children. Although the symptoms may vary over time, bipolar disorder usually requires lifelong treatment. Following a prescribed treatment plan can help people manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Signs and symptoms

Risk factors

Treatments and therapies

Join a study

Unless otherwise specified, the information on our website and in our publications is in the public domain and may be reused or copied without permission. However, you may not reuse or copy the images. Please cite the National Institute of Mental Health as the source. Read our copyright policy to learn more about our guidelines for reusing NIMH content.

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Learn about bipolar disorder, including signs and symptoms, types, risk factors, how it is diagnosed, and potential treatments and therapies.

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Patricia Byrne Heffern

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Why You Are Addicted (Childhood Trauma) I Dr Gabor Maté

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Imagine there’s someone standing next to you all the time pointing out every! single! thing! you’re doing wrong. This is what millions of anxiety sufferers feel on a daily basis, and it’s awful. Anxiety researcher Olivia Remes lays out a roadmap to getting rid of that “someone.” It begins, she says, with being kinder to ourselves and to others.

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lift depression with these 3 prescriptions susan Heitler - Bing video

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Lift Depression With These 3 Prescriptions- Without-Pills | Susan Heitler | TEDxWilmington

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Rhoda Erebholo

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National Center for PTSD- Veterans Affairs (VA)- Amanda Martinez

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National Center for PTSD- Veterans Affairs (VA)- Amanda Martinez

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PTSD treatment in the Department of Veterans Affairs. Each medical center within VA has PTSD specialists who provide treatment for Veterans with PTSD and there are nearly 200 specialized PTSD treatment programs throughout the country.
PTSD Information Voice Mail:
(802) 296-6300
ncptsd@va.gov

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PTSD Treatment Programs

Available en Español

No matter where you live, PTSD treatment in the Department of Veterans Affairs is available. Each medical center within VA has PTSD specialists who provide treatment for Veterans with PTSD and there are nearly 200 specialized PTSD treatment programs throughout the country.

Some large Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) also offer PTSD care. When there are no nearby facilities, smaller CBOCs provide needed treatment services by telemental health (using technology to communicate) or by referral to Vet Centers or community clinicians. This page describes the specialized PTSD programs and these other options within VA for getting PTSD treatment.

You can use this VA PTSD Program Locator to see if there is a specialized program near you.

Who Is Covered for VA Care?

VA services are provided to all Veterans who:

Completed active military service in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard (or Merchant Marines during WWII)

Were discharged under other than dishonorable conditions

Were National Guard members or Reservists who have completed a federal deployment to a combat zone

At times, the VA has special agreements to provide care to Active Duty Service members and family.

What Services Are Offered?

Each PTSD program offers education, evaluation, and treatment. Program services include:

One-to-one mental health assessment and testing

Medications

One-to-one psychotherapy and family therapy

Group therapy (covers topics such as anger and stress, combat support, partners, etc.) or groups for Veterans of specific conflicts or specific traumas

The VA provides treatments shown by research to be effective in treating Veterans. To learn about these treatments, see our Treatment Basics page. Not all VA's offer the same programs, and some specialty programs require a referral. Your doctor can help you decide which program is best for you.

PTSD Specialists

Every VA Medical Center has providers that have been trained to offer PTSD treatment. Services for PTSD are delivered by mental health care workers called PTSD specialists. For more information about types of mental health care workers, see: Types of Therapists.

In addition, all regions (called VISNs in VA) have specialized residential or inpatient care programs to address the needs of Veterans with severe symptoms or trouble functioning related to PTSD. Below you will find information about options for getting PTSD treatment within VA.

Specialized Outpatient PTSD Programs (SOPPs)

Regular outpatient PTSD care can be provided by a specialist or in an outpatient PTSD program including:

PTSD Clinical Teams (PCTs)

Substance Use PTSD Teams (SUPTs)

Women's Stress Disorder Teams (WSDTTs)

Day Hospitals

At these outpatient (not live-in) clinics, you can meet with a provider on a regular basis and receive group or one-to-one treatment. SUD-PTSD Specialists are available across the country to provide or arrange for treatment for both PTSD and substance use disorder. Day Hospitals offer more intensive outpatient treatment for four to eight hours per visit daily or several times per week.

Specialized Intensive PTSD Programs (SIPPs)

SIPPs provide PTSD treatment services in an inpatient or residential setting. Length of stay varies across programs and is based on the needs of the Veteran. SIPPs include:

Evaluation and Brief PTSD Treatment Units (EBPTUs)

PTSD Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs (PTSD RRTP) and PTSD Domiciliary Programs (PTSD DOM)

Specialized Inpatient PTSD Units (SIPUs)

Women's Trauma Recovery Programs (WTRPs)

In addition to psychotherapy, SIPPs provide treatment to address other needs such as employment, housing, and recreation. Some programs offer dedicated services for groups with unique needs, including Veterans who experienced military sexual trauma (MST), Veterans with co-occurring substance use disorder (SUD), female Veterans, or Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, or Transgender (LGBT) Veterans.

Although the programs may have different names, the intensive PTSD programs include evaluation, case management in 24-hour therapeutic settings, and psychotherapy treatment that is individualized to meet the needs of the Veteran and to help Veterans return to healthy living in the community.

Other Options

Some VA medical centers are now offering walk-in clinics. By walking into the primary care clinic, a Veteran can usually be seen that day by a mental health provider.

Other VA treatment locations where a Veteran can get PTSD treatment include:

Community Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs)

Provide care in a local setting

Services include mental health care (some locations)

Primary care settings at many VAs

Vet Centers which are operated by VA's Readjustment Counseling Service. Call toll free: 877-WAR-VETS (927-8387).

Located outside medical facilities

Many workers are Veterans

Provide a mix of counseling and help with accessing other programs

No information about your treatment will be given to any person or agency (including the VA) without your consent

In Summary

The goal of the VA is to provide the best care for our Veterans.

Go to the VA Facilities Locator to find a VA medical center, an outpatient clinic, or a Vet Center, or call VA Health Care Benefits: 1-877-222-8387. You can also find a specialized PTSD program using the VA PTSD Program Locator.

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Available en Español No matter where you live, PTSD treatment in the Department of Veterans Affairs is available. Each medical center within VA has PTSD specialists who provide treatment for Veterans with PTSD and there are nearly 200 specialized PTSD treatment programs throughout the country.

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Understanding PTSD and PTSD Treatment (PDF) Amanda Martinez

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Understanding PTSD and PTSD Treatment (PDF) Amanda Martinez

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PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder) is a mental health problem that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, like combat, a natural disaster, a car accident, or sexual assault. It’s normal to have upsetting memories, feel on edge, or have trouble sleeping after this type of event. Many people who have PTSD also have another mental health problems — like depression, anxiety, alcohol and drug abuse, or thinking about harming themselves or others. It’s also common to have problems at work, in relationships, or with their physical health.  Sometimes, these problems happen because of the PTSD symptoms. For example, feeling numb and avoiding places can make it hard to have good relationships with friends and family. Getting treatment for PTSD can help with these other problems, too.

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What is Bipolar Disorder?  (Video 3:12 min) Amanda Martinez

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What is Bipolar Disorder?  (Video 3:12 min) Amanda Martinez

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Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder featuring manic, hypomanic, and/or depressive symptoms that are experienced in distinct episodes. This video reviews the 3 types of bipolar disorders, bipolar I, bipolar II, and cyclothymic disorder. Learn more about the symptoms and treatment options for bipolar disorder.

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Childhood ADHD (Video 4:34 min) Amanda Martinez

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Childhood ADHD (Video 4:34 min) Amanda Martinez

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ADHD is a common mental health condition that begins during youth. It impacts both the child and the family. Learn the signs and symptoms of ADHD and ADHD treatment options.

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What is Depression? APA (Video 1:04 min) Amanda Martinez

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What is Depression? APA (Video 1:04 min) Amanda Martinez

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Overcoming Crippling Depression by Resetting My Brain (Video 3:15 min)

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Overcoming Crippling Depression by Resetting My Brain (Video 3:15 min)

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Joe had crippling depression and anxiety; he couldn't get out of bed. Through Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) at the Loma Linda University Behavioral Medicine Center, his smile returned, his marriage flourished, and he got his life back.

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Overcoming Crippling Depression by Resetting My Brain

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What is PTSD? (Whiteboard Video, 3:37 min)-Amanda Martinez

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What is PTSD? (Whiteboard Video, 3:37 min)-Amanda Martinez

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Whiteboard video covering PTSD basics, such as types of trauma and symptoms.

https://www.ptsd.va.gov/public/materials/videos/index.asp

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Youper AI Therapy APP (Video 1:06 min) Amanda Martinez

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Youper AI Therapy APP (Video 1:06 min) Amanda Martinez

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Do you want to feel more motivated, confident, and happier? Do you want to let go of stress, anxiety, and depression?

Try a quick conversation with Youper

More than 80% of users feel better after one conversation.

Youper is a new way to take care of your mental health. Created by doctors and therapists, it uses Artificial Intelligence to understand your needs and provide you with everything you need to feel your best.

FEATURED IN YAHOO, HEALTH MAGAZINE, FORBES, BLOOMBERG
BACKED BY SCIENCE

It incorporates strategies from Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and other science-backed approaches.

Youper is a self-help AI-guided application designed to support users in taking care of their emotional health, applying behavioral coping skills, and monitoring mental health symptoms.  Youper does not provide diagnosis, treatment, medical care, or other professional services.

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Joshua Walters: On being just crazy enough (Video 5:35 min) Amanda Martinez

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Joshua Walters: On being just crazy enough (Video 5:35 min) Amanda Martinez

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At TED's Full Spectrum Auditions, comedian Joshua Walters, who's bipolar, walks the line between mental illness and mental "skillness." In this funny, thought-provoking talk, he asks: What's the right balance between medicating craziness away and riding the manic edge of creativity and drive?

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Joshua Walters: On being just crazy enough

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At TED's Full Spectrum Auditions, comedian Joshua Walters, who's bipolar, walks the line between mental illness and mental "skillness." In this funny, thought-provoking talk, he asks: What's the right balance between medicating craziness away and riding the manic edge of creativity and drive?

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Headspace began in 2010 as an events company in London that educated people about mindfulness. It eventually became an app as attendees wanted more help with practicing at home.

Former Buddhist monk Andy Puddicombe cofounded Headspace with Rich Pierson, a then burned-out ad executive who needed help de-stressing from his demanding job.
With its colorful design, Headspace aims to improve the health and happiness of users worldwide.

The app features guided meditations, courses, animations, and videos for a wide range of needs and concerns, including:

stress and anxiety

personal growth

work and productivity

body image

grief

Studies by Headspace and independent researchers have found various benefits.

For example, using Headspace for 10 sessions:

improved focus by 14%

increased positivity and well-being

reduced stress and irritability by 14% and 27%, respectively

What’s more, a 2018 study with workers
Trusted Source found improvements in well-being, distress, and job strain. A 2017 study with pediatric nurses found improvements in self-compassion.

According to Headspace’s website, 27 published and 51 in-progress studies have tested or are currently testing its effectiveness.

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We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here's our process.

The Headspace app features a wide variety of guided meditations and exercises. Here are the app's pros and cons.

Whether you're new to meditation, returning after a bit of a break, or wanting some variety in your practice, a meditation app may be an option to consider.

The app may help you remain consistent with your meditation practice. Meditation has been shown to provide many benefits for your mental and physical health.

For example, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), some research shows that meditation can reduce:

anxiety

depression

high blood pressure

symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

Headspace is a commonly recommended app for meditators of all levels. But does it live up to the hype?

Headspace began in 2010 as an events company in London that educated people about mindfulness. It eventually became an app as attendees wanted more help with practicing at home.

Former Buddhist monk Andy Puddicombe cofounded Headspace with Rich Pierson, a then burned-out ad executive who needed help de-stressing from his demanding job.

With its colorful design, Headspace aims to improve the health and happiness of users worldwide.

The app features guided meditations, courses, animations, and videos for a wide range of needs and concerns, including:

Studies by Headspace and independent researchers have found various benefits.

For example, using Headspace for 10 sessions:

What's more, a 2018 study with workers found improvements in well-being, distress, and job strain. A 2017 study with pediatric nurses found improvements in self-compassion.

According to Headspace's website, 27 published and 51 in-progress studies have tested or are currently testing its effectiveness. You can find more research on Headspace here.

Until recently, Puddicombe was both the creator and voice behind all Headspace meditations. Today, most of the app's content also features a female voice. In addition, Headspace offers meditations in:

Overall, Headspace comes with a wide array of offerings, including:

Beginner's courses with three levels to help first-time meditators learn the foundations of meditation practice

10-day courses on topics such as kindness, anger, happiness, acceptance, and productivity

30-day courses on many topics, including letting go of stress, managing anxiety, and improving self-esteem

Mini meditations, which are bite-sized practices you can do on the go

Single meditation practices for starting the day, relaxing, focusing, and falling back asleep

Workout videos from fitness trainers who help you train both your mind and body and offer low- to medium-impact exercises

Sleep practices, such as sleep casts (45- to 55-minute soothing stories from voice actors) and calming music tracks to help you get a more restful slumber

Focus playlists, featuring gentle music, breathing exercises, and meditations designed to help you focus as you study, work, or simply clear your mind

Headspace also offers meditations and activities for kids, from toddlers to teens. These practices are divided into three age groups:

Exercises in the kids' section revolve around five themes:

Headspace uses a variety of meditation techniques inspired by Burmese and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. All of these techniques feature animations to add greater clarity to the process.

These include the following meditation approaches:

Visualization. This technique involves imagining positive ideas or images to calm the mind.

Resting awareness. This approach allows you to develop a deep and relaxed awareness of the moment.

Self-reflection. With this approach, you learn to recognize your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs for what they are.

Mental noting. This technique teaches you to gently direct your thoughts to stay in the present moment.

Body scan. This approach allows you to tune in to your body and notice how it feels without judgment.

Focused attention. This technique involves intensely focusing on something to quiet your mind.

Loving kindness. This approach is focused on sending love to yourself and others.

Compassion. With this technique, you silently repeat phrases with an intention to care, connect, and understand.

Headspace with limited access to features is free to download. For instance, you have access to:

the first level of the basic course

two fitness workouts

several sleep meditations

one sleep cast

Headspace offers several subscription options. The monthly membership costs $12.99 a month and offers a 7-day free trial. Annual membership is $69.99 with a 14-day free trial.

Special pricing is also available for eligible college students and families. Students pay $9.99 for an annual membership, while families can get six accounts for $99.99 a year.

Educators and healthcare professionals may be eligible for free subscriptions.

While the Headspace app may offer many benefits, there are some downsides to consider as well.

What's great about the Headspace app?

Headspace has a diverse selection of meditations that aim to fulfill both beginners' and longtime meditators' needs and preferences. For example, practices are guided, semi-guided, or unguided.

Plus, the app is designed to be easily navigable and includes user-friendly illustrations, animations, and content.

If you're new to meditation or have a hard time sitting still, Headspace offers Move Mode, which are varied workout videos from Olympian trainers that combine physical exercises with mindful techniques.

The designers of Headspace want to encourage users to be more consistent with their meditation practice.

Headspace offers practices for the entire family, with age-appropriate features for toddlers, teens, and adults.

What are the downsides of the Headspace app?

One of the Headspace app's biggest downsides is that you have access to a free trial only after signing up for a paid plan. Many Headspace users find it hard to cancel their subscriptions and receive refunds. In many cases, subscriptions renew without warning.

Users also report that the company's customer service can be very slow to respond. Hearing back may require sending several emails.

Some users may find the fun, sunny interface to be too bright, too busy, or less soothing than other apps, such as Calm.

Lastly, Headspace's library of sleep casts (bedtime stories) isn't as comprehensive as the Calm app's collection.

Because of the guided meditations, basic courses, user-friendly design, and accessible content, Headspace could be an excellent option for beginners. It effectively answers the questions "How do I meditate?" and "Where do I start?"

Meditation can be intimidating, so the app provides specific, easy-to-digest instructions and clear-cut starting points.

Headspace offers short meditations if you're busy, easily overwhelmed, or want a genuinely restorative break (versus scrolling doom-and-gloom news headlines).

At the same time, Headspace may be helpful for meditation pros, too. Headspace can help longtime meditators shake up a practice that starts to feel stale with new content regularly added.

Plus, you'll find meditations and courses for concerns that regularly arise because, well, you're a human. From stress and anxiety to trouble sleeping, Headspace can serve as a positive, supportive tool.

Still, as with any app, it requires commitment, which may naturally wax and wane, depending on what's going on in your life.

How does Headspace compare to Calm, another popular meditation app?

Both Headspace and Calm are popular, positively rated meditation apps. And both apps offer the following features:

help for beginners

brief meditations

bedtime stories

music playlists

kids' features

exercise videos

However, they each have a unique presentation and differ slightly in their approach.

Headspace may be best if you're new to meditation, as it's clearly guided and breaks down the process into easy steps.

Calm is a bit less structured and revolves around a nature theme with relaxing soundscapes.
If you'd like to learn more, you can check out our in-depth comparison of Calm and Headspace here.
Headspace seems to have something for (almost) everyone. Beginning meditators may appreciate the cheerful aesthetic, concrete practices, and approachable language. Headspace aims to demystify meditation and make it easily accessible.

Veteran meditators may appreciate sampling new meditations that come in guided, semi-guided, and unguided varieties, and taking courses on common concerns that touch all of us (hello, stress).

But Headspace isn't without drawbacks. Some users don't like the app's not-so-responsive customer service and that it can auto-renew subscriptions without warning. Plus, some people may prefer a different design and aesthetic.

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Headspace App Review: Features, Cost, and More

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We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Here's our process. The Headspace app features a wide variety of guided meditations and exercises. Here are the app's pros and cons.

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Headspace is guided meditation for everybody. Download the app from the App Store or Google Play and learn how to meditate, wherever you are, whenever you like. Relax with guided meditation sessions that will help you rest and reset after a long day, let go of worried thoughts with our Stress pack, or create the ideal conditions for healthy, restful sleep with our sleep meditations and sleep sounds. That's as well as mindfulness exercises for everyday situations like commuting or cooking, dozens of animations like the ones you see on this channel, and eight different meditation techniques, all taught by Headspace's co-founder, Andy Puddicombe, a former Buddhist monk. With hundreds of hours of content, Headspace is your personal meditation guide to just about anything.

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meditation "sleep meditation" "guided meditation" "mindfulness meditation" "how to meditate" "meditation guided" "meditation for anxiety" "meditation for beg...

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Your guide to being kind to your mind. Through science-backed meditation and mindfulness tools, Headspace helps you create life-changing habits to support your mental health and find a healthier, happier you.

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Mindfulness Meditation to help Relieve Anxiety and Stress (Video 9:22 min)- Amanda Martinez

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Mindfulness Meditation to help Relieve Anxiety and Stress (Video 9:22 min)- Amanda Martinez

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https://www.wisemindbody.com

This is a mindfulness meditation with Josh Wise. This meditation will help you connect with your breath. Relax. Let go of stress. Release anxiety. Allow yourself to relax. Simply breathe and watch your breath. Notice what it feels like. No need to change anything or do anything. Simply accept this moment just as it is. Enjoy!

Download a mindfulness meditation for free at https://www.wisemindbody.com

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Mindfulness Meditation to help Relieve Anxiety and Stress

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5 Minute Relaxation Meditation (Video 4:57)- Amanda Martinez

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5 Minute Relaxation Meditation (Video 4:57)- Amanda Martinez

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Simple 5 minute relaxation meditation

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5 Things About Grief No One Really Tells You (6:41 min)- Amanda Martinez

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5 Things About Grief No One Really Tells You (6:41 min)- Amanda Martinez

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Most people know the common five to seven stages of grief: Shock, Denial, Anger, Bargaining, Depression, Testing, and Acceptance. Everyone experiences these stages in entirely different ways. Truth is, there is more to grieving than most people realize.

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5 Things About Grief No One Really Tells You

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8 Signs You're Emotionally Numb (Video 5:18 min)- Amanda Martinez

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8 Signs You're Emotionally Numb (Video 5:18 min)- Amanda Martinez

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Are you emotionally numb? Do you feel depressed, empty, and lose interest in the things you used to enjoy? Emotional numbness is when you lose the ability to feel or express your emotions, which is also known as anhedonia. Anhedonia, is in fact,  one of the many symptoms of depression.

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How to be the Happiest Person on the Planet (Video 5:42)-Amanda Martinez

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How to be the Happiest Person on the Planet (Video 5:42)-Amanda Martinez

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The Simple Message That Every Student
and Young Person Needs to Hear- by Marc Mero.

Marc's book "How to be the Happiest Person on the Planet" - https://amzn.to/2SdmtPu

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https://pinnacletreatment.com/blog/depression-substance-use-disorder/

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Depression can affect just about anyone. Why does depression make someone more vulnerable to developing an alcohol or substance use disorder?

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https://www.therapistaid.com/worksheets/managing-adhd.pdf

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https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319824#2.-Regain-focus-through-physical-activity

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What are some helpful ways of coping with PTSD symptoms? In this article we take a closer look at emerging strategies and effective techniques.

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https://www.psychiatrictimes.com/view/anxiety-disorders-comorbid-substance-abuse

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Anxiety Disorders With Comorbid Substance Abuse

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Anxiety disorders occur in 18% to 28% of the US general population during any 12-month period. In anxiety disorder, there is a 33% to 45% 12-month prevalence rate for a comorbid substance use disorder (SUD).

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https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma16-4960.pdf

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Colleen Houda

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Here, the editors of ADDitude have hand-picked the web's best resources for information about ADHD and its related conditions.

About ADHD

The American Professional Society of ADHD and Related Disorder (APSARD)
Improving outcomes for individuals with ADHD and their families by promoting researching throughout the lifespan on ADHD and spreading evidence-based practices and education.

American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Making effective communication effective and accessible for all.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
The CDC increases health security by supporting communities and citizens who are fighting diseases.
ADHD World Federation: From Child to Adult Disorder
Promotes clinical and scientific study projects in the field of ADHD and exchange of information within the ADHD community.

Parenting Children with ADHD

School & Learning Disabilities

National Center for Learning Disabilities
Empowers children and adults with learning and attention issues.

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The American Professional Society of ADHD and Related Disorder (APSARD) Improving outcomes for individuals with ADHD and their families by promoting researching throughout the lifespan on ADHD and spreading evidence-based practices and education. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association Making effective communication effective and accessible for all.

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Colleen Houda

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Coping with Bipolar Disorder: This information package is designed to provide you with some information about bipolar disorder and suggested strategies for how you can manage your mood. This information package is organised into modules that are designed to be worked through in sequence. Although it is not necessary that you complete one module before going on to the next, this is recommended. Each module includes information, worksheets, and suggested exercises or activities.

This module describes the symptoms and diagnosis of bipolar disorder. It also provides information about the causes of bipolar disorder and the stress-vulnerability model.

This module describes the treatment options for Bipolar Disorder. It provides a summary of common medication treatments and of psychosocial treatments.

This module describes how to monitor symptoms, how to identify early warning signs, and how to develop a plan of action to prevent future relapses.

This module describes how to increase activity levels, particularly fun activities.

Module 5 examines how thoughts influence feelings and explores how to use a thought diary to improve feelings associated with depression.

This module explores the cognitive changes that occur in mania and how to use a balance sheet to examine unhelpful thoughts that occur during mania.

Module 7 describes behavioural strategies to incorporate into early intervention plans, such as developing a weekly activity schedule, as well as organising and prioritising ideas.

This final module describes the problem solving process and how to identify resources to cope with stressors. It also describes how to summarise the strategies learned from other modules to develop a self management plan.

Click the link above to download all modules in this workbook at once, as a zip file.

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Coping with Bipolar Disorder: This information package is designed to provide you with some information about bipolar disorder and suggested strategies for how you can manage your mood. This information package is organised into modules that are designed to be worked through in sequence.

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Colleen Houda

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Many people feel sadness or mild depression in certain situations and circumstances. For a diagnosis of major depressive disorder to be made, a qualified health professional must:

evaluate the symptoms and course of the illness over a period of at least two weeks

rule out causes by other medical conditions, other psychiatric disorders, substance use, and grief in response to a significant loss

Symptoms of depression include:

feelings of sadness, loneliness, or emptiness that last most of the day for several days on end

loss of interest or pleasure in activities that used to be enjoyable (anhedonia)

tiredness and chronic low energy

difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, making decisions or remembering

feelings of worthlessness and guilt

feelings of irritability, frustration or anger that are out of proportion with the circumstances

restlessness and agitation

sleep disturbances, including sleeping too much and sleeping too little (insomnia)

change of appetite, most often leading to loss of weight, though some people may have increased appetite and weight gain

Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, as well as suicide attempts or plans

Major depression belongs to the category of mental health conditions known as mood disorders. These disorders affect a person's mood, causing it to be consistently lower (depression and related disorders), or sometimes lower and sometimes higher (bipolar and related disorders). In children and adolescents, the mood may be irritable rather than sad.

Types of Mood Disorders

Major Depressive Disorder - what most people think of as clinical depression (see above).

Persistent Depressive Disorder (formerly "dysthymia") - continuous long-term depression that lasts for two years or longer.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) - a period of major depression that usually occurs during winter months when days are shorter. SAD is a potential feature of major depressive disorder and is not considered a separate diagnosis.

Postpartum Depression (PPD) - an episode of major depression that occurs in some women following childbirth. About half of all cases of PPD actually begin before childbirth. Like SAD, PPD is a feature of major depressive disorder.

Bipolar Disorder (formerly "manic depression") - a serious disorder involving major mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). Although people diagnosed with bipolar disorder may at times experience severe depression, the treatment for bipolar is very different from that for major depressive disorder.

"Situational" Depression - not a formal diagnosis, feature or disorder, but commonly used to describe the depressed mood or sadness many people feel when dealing with a stressful life event, such as a death in the family, divorce, or sudden unemployment.

Depression and depression-like symptoms can also be caused by or linked to substance use or withdrawal, menstruation in women, use of some medications, or the physical effects of a medical condition.

Major depression and related disorders are frequently seen with other mental health conditions, known as co-occurring disorders. The most frequent are: anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders and medical illnesses such as cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer's syndrome.

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Many people feel sadness or mild depression in certain situations and circumstances.

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Colleen Houda

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Colleen Houda

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Resources for Survivors and the Public Following Disaster and Mass Violence

Sudden traumatic events of disaster or mass violence can lead to injury, death, and psychological distress. Events in the media can also trigger reminders to past events. This page links to information to help survivors and those affected deal with stresses that can come from sudden trauma.

Key Information

What to Expect in the Wake of Disaster | en Español
Disasters can cause a range of reactions in direct victims, emergency personnel, as well as in the public at large. There are strategies you can use to cope in the short- and long-term, and effective treatments that can help.

What to Expect in the Wake of Mass Violence | en Español
Mass violence events can cause a range of reactions in direct victims, emergency personnel, as well as in the public at large. There are strategies you can use to cope in the short and long-term, and effective treatments that can help.

What to Expect in the Wake of Wildfires | en Español
Wildfires have caused millions of acres to burn, leaving death, injury, loss of homes and community destruction in their wake. Such events can also cause financial hardship and ongoing stressors as people work to put their lives back together.

Help for Survivors in the Aftermath of Disaster and Mass Violence
Disasters may cause a wide range of reactions in survivors. Most who are affected by disaster will recover on their own with some time and help. After a disaster, you are likely to do better if you feel - or are helped to feel - safe, connected to others, and calm. Survivors who are still having trouble weeks after the disaster may need further help.

Self-Care After Disasters
Disasters may cause a number of stress reactions in those who experience or respond to the event. Learn about steps you can take to manage stress after a disaster.

Tools to Help with Symptoms Following Trauma

PTSD Coach Mobile App
This mobile app designed to help with self-care for those with PTSD can also be helpful in the aftermath of a disaster. Use this app to track your level of distress and learn skills to cope with symptoms that commonly occur after trauma.
Download free App: iTunes (iOS) | Google Play (Android). | French Canadian iTunes (iOS).

PTSD Coach Online
This online resource offers 17 tools that can help you manage trauma reminders, sleep issues and other troubling symptoms following a disaster. PTSD Coach Online is available to anyone with access to the Internet.

PTSD Family Coach Mobile App
This mobile app is for family members of those living with someone who has PTSD. It offers tools that may be helpful in the aftermath of a disaster. Use this app to take care of yourself, strengthen your relationship with a loved one who experienced a disaster, and help your loved one get necessary care.
Download free App: iTunes (iOS) | Google Play (Android)

Printable Handouts for Disaster Survivors

More Disaster Related Information

Common Reactions After Trauma
After going through a trauma, survivors often say that their first feeling is relief to be alive. This may be followed by stress, fear, and anger. Trauma survivors may also find they are unable to stop thinking about what happened. Many survivors will show a high level of arousal, which causes them to react strongly to sounds and sights around them.

Effects of Disasters: Risk and Resilience Factors
A number of factors make it more likely that someone will have more severe or longer- lasting stress reactions after disasters. The amount of exposure to the disaster is highly related to risk of future mental health problems. At highest risk are those who go through the disaster themselves. Next are those in close contact with victims. At lower risk of lasting impact are those who only had indirect exposure.

Trauma Reminders: Triggers
People respond to traumatic events in a number of ways, such as feelings of concern, anger, fear, or helplessness. Research shows that people who have been through trauma, loss, or hardship in the past may be even more likely than others to be affected by new, potentially traumatic events.

Community Violence: Effects on Children and Teens
Describes how neighborhood violence affects young people, and gives resources that can help.

Media Coverage of Traumatic Events
Learn how media (news, movies, etc.) can affect your stress level or harm children, and read about how to reduce bad effects.

Links to Key Resources

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
This national network of local crisis centers provides free and confidential emotional support to those in distress. Calls are answered 24/7: 1-800-273-8255

Veterans Crisis Line
This service connects Veterans in crisis and their families and friends with qualified, caring Department of Veterans Affairs responders. Receive free, confidential support 24/7: 1-800-273-8255, press 1 or text 838255.

Give an Hour
Give an Hour works with mental health providers who volunteer their services to provide care and support to those affected by natural disasters or man-made traumas. Give an Hour also provides free mental health care to active duty, National Guard and Reserve Service members, Veterans, and their families.

National Child Traumatic Stress Network
This Center works to improve access to care, treatment, and services for children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events.

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Sudden traumatic events of disaster or mass violence can lead to injury, death, and psychological distress. Events in the media can also trigger reminders to past events. This page links to information to help survivors and those affected deal with stresses that can come from sudden trauma.

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According to the CDC, having a nutritional plan and eating healthy can help lower the risk of several chronic diseases. This can be a helpful tool for parents or adults living with ADHD to help learn about food impact on their mental health.
-Brigid Sanchez

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Having a healthy, balanced diet is important to having a happy and healthy life. A healthy diet can provide an effective complementary approach to alleviating some symptoms of ADHD. However, taking an honest look at your nutrition habits and figuring out what works best for you or your child can be…

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Long Term Effects of Childhood Trauma- Suha Q

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Long Term Effects of Childhood Trauma- Suha Q

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The Long Term Effects of Childhood Trauma

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Guided Sleep Meditation, Dealing With Uncertainty, Acceptance Meditation (Surrender to Peace) (Video 2 hr)- Amanda Martinez

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Guided Sleep Meditation, Dealing With Uncertainty, Acceptance Meditation (Surrender to Peace) (Video 2 hr)- Amanda Martinez

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A guided sleep meditation to help deal with uncertainty and acceptance of all that is. Calm your mind and improve your sleep.

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Jason Stephenson - Sleep Meditation Music

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Guided Sleep Meditation, Dealing With Uncertainty, Acceptance Meditation (Surrender to Peace)

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Progressive Muscle Relaxation- Amanda Martinez

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Progressive Muscle Relaxation- Amanda Martinez

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Progressive muscle relaxation is a method that helps relieve that tension. In progressive muscle relaxation, you tense a group of muscles as you breathe in, and you relax them as you breathe out. You work on your muscle groups in a certain order. When your body is physically relaxed, you cannot feel anxious.

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http://45.114.134.178:9000/digi/MP03/B1L3-0019.pdf

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https://www.therapistaid.com/worksheets/what-is-add.pdf

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https://www.therapistaid.com/worksheets/what-is-bipolar.pdf

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https://mydoctor.kaiserpermanente.org/ncal/Images/Emotion%20Regulation%20DBT%20Skills%20ADA%2004292020_tcm75-1598999.pdf

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SxRJjXwixwA

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Re-Thinking Borderline Personality with Janina Fisher, PhD

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https://www.mind.org.uk/media-a/4149/trauma-2020.pdf

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Bipolar Disorder in Teens and Young Adults: Know the Signs.  Rhoda Erebholo.  https://go.usa.gov/xdezM #shareNIMH

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Bipolar Disorder in Teens and Young Adults: Know the Signs.  Rhoda Erebholo.  https://go.usa.gov/xdezM #shareNIMH

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Depression: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment

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Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in things and activities you once enjoyed. It’s treatable.

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National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)

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Mental Health Minute: Anxiety Disorders in Adults

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American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

The AACAP is the leading national professional medical association dedicated to treating and improving the quality of life for children, adolescents, and families affected by mental, behavioral, or developmental disorders

The AACAP distributes information on mental illness treatment and prevention on its website to help promote understanding and remove stigma

American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress

The American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress is a network of professionals committed to the advancement of intervention for survivors of trauma

The Academy hopes to increase awareness of the effects of traumatic events and the improved quality of interventions.

American Psychiatric Association American Psychological Association

APA is the leading scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States, with more than 115,700 researchers, educators, clinicians, consultants and students as its members.

The APA hopes to educate, promote research, improve the qualifications of psychologists, and encourage the development and applications of psychology in the broadest manner.

American Red Cross

The American Red Cross is a network of donors, volunteers, and employees whose mission is to prevent and relieving suffering. They deliver vital services and relief in support of those in a crisis.

The American Red Cross provides access to important information and resources through the website.

Anxiety and Depression Association of America

The ADAA is an international non-profit organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, and cure of anxiety, depressive, obsessive-compulsive, and trauma-related disorders through education, practice, and research.

The ADAA provides professional education webinars, monthly newsletter, list of ADAA's online database, free online peer-to-peer support groups and many more resources.

Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies

ABCT is an organization committed to the enhancement of health and well-being by advancing the scientific understanding, assessment, prevention, and treatment of human problems through the global application of behavioral, cognitive, and biological evidence-based principles.

ABCT provides resources for professionals and students such as journals, videos, fact sheets, etc.

Association of Military Surgeons of the United States (AMSUS)

AMSUS, The Society of Federal Health Professionals, is a non-profit member-based educational and professional development association serving the Department of Defense, Veterans Affairs, Health and Human Services, and Homeland Security, federal health professionals and their families, our industry partners and advocates for advancing health for all- particularly through interagency collaboration.

Australasian Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ASTSS)

The ASTSS provides a forum for extending the understanding, prevention and treatment of major stress and trauma within the Australasian region, and for promoting mental health, resilience, and post-traumatic growth.

The ASTSS provides resources such as treatment guidelines, trauma-focused journals, psychometrics/ tools, and state mental health act.

Canadian Red Cross

The Canadian Red Cross is ready to act when disasters strike, support those in our communities, prevent injuries and abuse-and-we help save lives, and respond out in the world
Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health (formerly the Australian Center for Posttraumatic Mental Health)

The Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health is an independent, not-for-profit organization with an affiliation with the University of Melbourne which promotes recovery for the 15 million Australian affected by trauma

The center focuses on research, service development, education, and training in order to understand, promote, and prevent recovery from trauma.

Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress (USUHS)

The Center for the Study of Traumatic Stress (CSTS) sustained mission is to advance scientific and academic knowledge, interventions, educational resources and outreach to mitigate the impact of trauma from exposure to war, disasters, terrorism, community violence and public health threats.

DART Center

The Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma, a project of the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, is dedicated to informed, innovative and ethical news reporting on violence, conflict, and tragedy.

The Dart Center's website provides timely articles, expert interviews, journalist-to-journalist advice, tip sheets and other resources.

David Baldwin's Trauma Information Pages

David Baldwin's Trauma Information Pages focus on providing information for clinicians and researchers in the traumatic-stress field

This website includes information about trauma, trauma articles, trauma resources, trauma support, information about disaster mental health, trauma bookstore, and links to other topics

Deutschsprachige Gesellschaft fur Psychotraumatologie

The German Society for Psychotraumatology (DeGPT) is a scientific society that provides a forum for physicians, psychologists, psychotherapists and psychotherapists, as well as representatives of other professional groups involved in psychotherapeutic, medical, pedagogical and counseling with people Trauma disorders work.

European Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ESTSS)

The ESTSS promotes the sharing of knowledge and experience about all aspects of psychotraumatology.

They conduct research, foster best practices, building networks, and contribute to public policy at the European level.

Gateway to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

This website provides links to four national and international organizations, here to help you with articles, references, web-links, mini-courses, 800 phone access, and e-mail pen-pal resources.

It is provided by the Dart Foundation.

Institute on Violence, Abuse and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Trauma International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS)

The Institute on Violence, Abuse, and Trauma (IVAT) strive to be comprehensive resources, training and research center dealing with all aspects of violence, abuse, and trauma.

They focus on collaborations with various partnering organizations and hope to improve current systems of care on a local, national, and global levels.

International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies Japanese Society for Traumatic Stress Studies

The ICRC's mission is to protect the lives and dignity of victims of war and international violence and to provide them with assistance.
Mayo Clinic

The ICRC is an independent, neutral organization ensuring humanitarian protection and assistance for victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence.

It takes action in response to emergencies and at the same time promotes respect for international humanitarian law and its implementation in national law.

Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC)

The International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies shares information about the effects of trauma, disseminates knowledge about policy, program, and service initiatives
Metiv: The Isreal Psychotrauma Center

JSTSS is a professional membership organization devoted to the advancement of understanding of traumatic stress and treatment, through scientific knowledge and clinical experience.
National Alliance on Mental Illness

The Mayo Clinic is a nonprofit organization committed to clinical practice, education, and research, providing expert, whole-person care to everyone who needs healing.

This website provides resources about a variety of information.

National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN)

MIRECCs (Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Centers) and CoEs (Centers of Excellence) Mission were created to generate new knowledge about the causes and treatments of mental disorders, apply new findings to model clinical programs, and widely disseminate new findings through education to improve the quality of veterans' lives and their daily functioning in their recovering from mental illness.

National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health Center (NCCIH)

A society that gives voice to psychological trauma, and cares for those who have suffered.

The society provides clinical and other interventions to empower those with traumatic life experiences and increases the recognition and treatment implications for psychological trauma.

National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

NAMI is the nation's largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans that are affected by mental illness.
National Center for Victims of Crime

This unique network of frontline providers, family members, researchers, and national partners is committed to changing the course of children's lives by improving their care and moving scientific gains quickly into practice across the U.S.

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): PTSD

The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) is the Federal Government's lead agency for scientific research on the diverse medical and health care systems, practices, and products that are not generally considered part of conventional medicine.

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline PTSD Alliance

The mission of the National Center for PTSD is to advance the clinical care and social welfare of America's Veterans and others who have experienced trauma, or who suffer from PTSD, through research, education, and training in the science, diagnosis, and treatment of PTSD and stress-related disorders.

PTSD Association of Canada

The National Center for Victims of Crime is a non-profit organization that advocates for victims' rights, trains professionals who work with victims, and serves as a trusted source of information on victims' issues.

PTSD Foundation of America

NIMH is the lead federal agency for research on mental disorders.

NIMH's mission is to transform the understanding and treatment of mental illnesses through basic and clinical research, paving the way for prevention, recovery, and cure.

PTSD United

PTSD Alliance is an association of advocacy and professional organizations for individuals suffering from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.

Alliance members have made it their mission to increase awareness of this common and serious health condition to PTSD sufferers, their families, and the general public.

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)'s National Mental Health Information Center SIDRAN Institute: Traumatic Stress Education and Advocacy

The PTSD Association of Canada is a not for profit organization that exists to help those experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), those at risk for PTSD and those who care for traumatized individuals, as well as their families, friends and fellow workers and medical community.

The LifeLine Canada Foundation

The PTSD Foundation of America's mission is to combat post-traumatic stress disorder by bringing healing, raising awareness, and networking.
United States 211 Information and Referral Systems Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS)

PTSD United is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support and resources for sufferers of PTSD, their families and caregivers, and anyone interested in learning more about Post Traumatic Stress.

World Health Organization (WHO)

Sidran is a non-profit organization of international scope that helps people understand, recover from, and treat traumatic stress, dissociative disorder, and co-occurring issues (addictions, self-injury, and suicidality).

The LifeLine Canada Foundation (TLC) is a registered non-profit committed to positive mental health and suicide prevention in Canada and Worldwide.

The LifeLine Canada Foundation is committed to suicide reduction across Canada by raising awareness of risk factors, providing access to online resources options, and promoting local programs to build mental health resilience for all.

Will PTSD Disqualify Me From Employment?

The organization is a non-profit professional association made up of individuals and organizations, supporting numerous state and regional affiliates (chapters).

The mission of the Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences is to educate, train, and comprehensively prepare uniformed services health professionals, scientists, and leaders to support the Military and Public Health Systems, the National Security and National Defense Strategies of the United States, and the readiness of our Uniformed Services.

The WHO works with the United Nations' system to provide leadership, shape research agenda, set norms and standards, articulate ethical and evidence-based policy options, and provide technical support.

Other Resources:

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List of PTSD Organizations and Resources

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This article will provide a list of organizations and additional resources for posttraumatic stress disorder and trauma. This list can be used to find resources for health care professionals, friends, and family, as well as identify key stakeholders.For more information on wound care: A Guide to Understanding PTSD

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https://mindfullyadd.com/adhd-mindfulness-craze/

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 You can also listen to this article.

Wherever you turn for your media, the message is the same. We're in love with the idea of mindfulness. On 60 Minutes, a skeptical Anderson Cooper is transformed into a "paying attention to the moments of my day" mindfulness-practitioner. The cover of TIME boldly proclaims a " Mindful Revolution." And, Parade magazine tells us that mindfulness is the No.1 Health-Booster in 2015. Try a Google Search and you'll discover that mindfulness seems to solve everything: from losing weight, dealing with chronic pain, making better business decisions, having more satisfying relationships, to improving our sleep.

This mindfulness craze resonates for many people, but especially those with ADHD. Because a mindfulness practice can help us pay attention better, resist distractions, be less impulsive, remember what we are doing in the moment, and regulate our own emotions, it is helpful whether we have ADHD or not. But it holds special interest for those with ADHD.

Adults with ADHD are looking for answers

People with ADHD are seeking alternative ways - aka non-pharmacological ways - to treat their ADHD symptoms. They ask: Should I take fish oils? Does playing brain games actually help? What about acupuncture?

I answer these questions cautiously. Sometimes alternative treatments work for some people and sometimes they don't. Research is pretty clear on many (Yes, it might be worth a try to take high-quality Omegas 3-6-9). But nothing, not even ADHD medication, works for all of the people, all of the time.

So, when Dr. Lidia Zylowska and her team of researchers released their groundbreaking study, Mindfulness Meditation Training in Adults and Adolescents in 2008, they created quite a stir.

Why this study is important

Why did this little study create so much interest in Mindfulness as an alternative, non-pharmacological treatment for ADHD?

Because of the results:

78% of participants who practiced mindful awareness reported reduction in their ADHD symptoms.

That means that nearly 8 out of 10 of them felt less ADHD.

What did the researchers do?

Researchers took long-established mindful awareness programs and adapted them for adults with ADHD. They called it the MAPs for ADHD Program. MAPs stands for Mindful Awareness Practice. And, the fabulous part is that the research shows mindfulness does indeed benefit most people with ADHD by reducing their ADHD symptoms.

ADHD participants went through an 8-week mindful awareness training program. The training program included a weekly class on meditation and mindfulness, as well as daily at-home practices. They were given CDs with guided sitting meditations.

The people who designed the MAPs program were really smart about ADHD and knew that many people with ADHD would find it hard to develop a consistent, rigid meditation routine. So they took conventional mindfulness and meditation programs and adapted them to be useful to folks with ADHD:

They added a bit about "Psychoeducation," which means that it helps to have a working knowledge of ADHD.

They let people start with shorter formal meditation practices of 5 minutes, gradually increasing over time to 15 minutes.

They emphasized mindful awareness - informal moment-to-moment non-judgmental awareness practices.

They incorporated visual imagery (think "blue sky with clouds" for "open mind with thoughts").

They acknowledged participants with "loving-kindness" meditations to help combat ADHD negative self-talk and reward practice.

THE FINDINGS

They discovered 78% of the study participants who practiced ADHD mindfulness reported reductions in ADHD symptoms, and 30% of the participants reported "clinically" reduced symptoms, which means they had a 30% or more reduction. They also found participants who did the mindfulness training did significantly better for "measures of attentional conflict" (when two or more things compete for your attention). And, as a bonus, participants also made improvements on measures of depression and anxiety.

These are powerful results from a treatment that costs nothing, can be done anywhere by anyone, and has no negative side effects.

The ADHD Mindfulness Craze

Since the publication of the Zylowska study, other researchers, clinicians, and coaches, like me, were excited to learn more about mindfulness as a potential treatment for ADHD. Luckily for us, and for you, Dr. Zylowska published her book, The Mindfulness Prescription for Adult ADHD in 2012. In this book, you can learn more about the MAPs for ADHD Program and the Eight-Step Program of Mindfulness used in the study.

Meanwhile, other researchers started publishing all sorts of exciting studies on the benefits of meditation and mindfulness on ADHD. I will be posting research review articles on some of my favorites. If you like reading research yourself and want to find your own studies to read, try going to Google Scholar and searching for ADHD and Mindfulness.

The Zylowska study did not start the Mindful Revolution, but it did catch the attention of people with ADHD and those who work with them.

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The ADHD Mindfulness Craze: It all Started with One Little Study - MindfullyADD

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 You can also listen to this article. Wherever you turn for your media, the message is the same. We're in love with the idea of mindfulness. On 60 Minutes, a skeptical Anderson Cooper is transformed into a "paying attention to the moments of my day" mindfulness-practitioner.

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Ki9dgG3P5M

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TEDxTerryTalks - Laura Bain - Living with Bipolar Type II

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https://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/-/media/CCI/Consumer-Modules/Back-from-The-Bluez/Back-from-the-Bluez---02---Behavioural-Strategies.pdf

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https://www.intrepidmentalhealth.com/blog/3-quick-dbt-skills-to-help-regulate-anxiety-that-anyone-can-use

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3 Quick DBT Skills to Help Regulate Anxiety That Anyone Can Use!

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Though DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) is used to treat borderline personality disorder (BPD), its foundation is pretty simple. The concept of dialectics is

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Trauma and Polyvagal Theory-Christine Nolan

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Trauma and Polyvagal Theory-Christine Nolan

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https://ct.counseling.org/2016/06/polyvagal-theory-practice/

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Allison Tamayo

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Allison Tamayo

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Allison Tamayo

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Allison Tamayo

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8 Suggestions for Strengthening Self-Esteem When You Have Depression

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Allison Tamayo

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Allison Tamayo
List of books, community resources, support groups, financial assistance for medication and therapy and more.

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Reading how others deal with their disorder can be liberating. One example, Sanity Break, is a column by Therese Borchard, who has been writing about her struggle with anxiety and depression in a relatable, informed way for several years.

Organizations

These institutions, many of which study anxiety disorders, can provide valuable information on the nature of these conditions and how to cope with them.

Resources for BIPOC Communities

The National Alliance on Mental Health notes that barriers exist to mental healthcare, especially in Black American, Asian American, Pacific Islander, Hispanic or Latino, and Indigenous communities. These organizations are working to change that.

The Asian Mental Health Collective aims to normalize and destigmatize mental health within the Asian community. Their website features an Asian, Pacific Islander, and South Asian American therapist directory.

The Black Mental Health Alliance can connect you with a therapist and their site offers a directory of Black psychiatrists.

Inclusive Therapists was established to "center the needs of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and the LGBTQIA2S+ community" while respecting the neurodiversity spectrum and advocating "for mental health care accessibility for people with disabilities or disabled people." Their site can help match you with a therapist.

Financial Assistance for Therapy and Medication

Drugs and therapy can be expensive.

Some therapists take insurance, but many don't. It's possible, however, that you may be able to work with your insurance company to be reimbursed for some of your treatment.

Organizations in your community, like the YMCA, may be able to offer therapy on a sliding scale or for a lower fee. Large research universities may also offer counseling on a pro bono basis or at reduced cost. Many colleges also offer free or low-cost therapy to their students through counseling or wellness centers, so check your school's website, or its student services or advising office, to find help.

Some websites, such as the ones below, can also help you find lower-cost medications.

Coping, Advocacy, and Support

There's safety in numbers, and comfort in not feeling alone. A support group may help you or the ones you love to stay strong and optimistic as you manage your condition.

Statistics

It may be a cliché, but it's true: Knowledge is power.

Medications for Anxiety Disorders

Here is a list of medications commonly used to treat anxiety. Click on the links to find out how they work and what the side effects are. Talk with your doctor to find the right one.

Alternative Therapies

In addition to medication and psychotherapy, complementary approaches can help with anxiety. These organizations have information on other options to consider.

Treatment Facilities

Anxiety Tests

These tests cannot and should not serve as an official diagnosis. Only a doctor can help you determine what anxiety disorder you may be suffering from.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials can be a way to find new and cost-effective treatment.

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Learning how to deal with and reduce anxiety may feel overwhelming. Here are some organizations, articles, and websites for more information and support.

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Allison Tamayo
Page 1-3 are the best resources, the rest is cognitive material which is okay too.

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A first person account - Anthony Dillard

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A first person account - Anthony Dillard

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Bipolar Disorder explained in first person | PortalCLÍNIC

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Anxiety Disorder: Treatment and Support - Anthony Dillard

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Anxiety Disorder: Treatment and Support - Anthony Dillard

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Anxiety Disorder - Treatment and Support (video)

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The body keeps score - Keynote Speech: Anthony Dillard

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The body keeps score - Keynote Speech: Anthony Dillard

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ADHD and Substance Use among Teens - Ashley C.

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ADHD and Substance Use among Teens - Ashley C.

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ADHD and ADD Drug Abuse by Teenagers | Anthony Louis Center

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If you suspect that your teenager is dealing with an addiction to Adderall or other ADHD drugs, our Minnesota-based specialists can help. Call (763) 757-2906

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Understanding the Bipolar Cycle - Ashley C. 

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Understanding the Bipolar Cycle - Ashley C. 

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In the context of bipolar disorder, a mental illness that involves extreme swings in mood, a cycle is the period of time in which an individual goes through one episode of mania and one episode of depression (or hypomania and depression). Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer to how often these cycles occur.

The frequency and duration of bipolar cycles are as varied as the individuals who have them. A change or " mood swing " can last for hours, days, weeks, or even months.

A 2010 study of people with bipolar 1 disorder found that mood episodes lasted an average of 13 weeks.﻿﻿ On average, people with bipolar will have one or two cycles yearly. In addition, there is a seasonal influence-manic episodes occur more often in the spring and fall.

Triggers in Bipolar Disease

Certain conditions are known to trigger symptoms in people with bipolar disease. Understanding these triggers-and avoiding them-can minimize symptoms and limit the number of cycles a person experiences. These include:

Insufficient sleep﻿﻿

Altercations with loved ones

Alcohol and drug misuse

Certain antidepressants and other medications

A change in seasons

Pregnancy and other hormonal conditions

Grief over the death of a friend or family member

Events such as starting a creative project, falling in love, going on vacation, listening to loud music, menstruation, and decreased physical exercise﻿﻿

Rapid Cycling in Bipolar Disease

The phrase rapid cycling refers to four or more cycles in a 12-month period. However, while having four or more cycles in a one-year period means meeting the criteria for a diagnosis of rapid-cycling bipolar illness, rapid cycling is not necessarily a permanent pattern. Rather, rapid cycling can present at any point in the course of the disease. And it can be transient.

Rapid cycling may be more likely to affect those who were young when symptoms first appeared, those who have had bipolar disorder for a longer time, and those who misuse alcohol and other substances.﻿﻿

In addition, the term "ultra-rapid cycling" may be applied to those who cycle through episodes within a month or less. If this pattern occurs within a 24-hour period, the person's diagnosis could possibly be termed "ultra-ultra-rapid cycling" or "ultradian." It is often difficult to tell ultradian cycling from a mixed episode.

Treating Bipolar Disorder

Whether a person with bipolar disease experiences a cycle once every five years or many times each day, there are treatments that can help. These include:﻿﻿

Medications, including mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants

Cognitive-behavioral therapy and other forms of psychotherapy

Electroconvulsive therapy (commonly referred to as "shock therapy")

Education and self-management techniques

Alternative and complementary health practices, such as meditation

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How Often Do People With Bipolar Disorder Cycle?

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In the context of bipolar disorder, a mental illness that involves extreme swings in mood, a cycle is the period of time in which an individual goes through one episode of mania and one episode of depression (or hypomania and depression). Unfortunately, there is no definitive answer to how often these cycles occur.

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Depression Statistics Everyone Should Know - Ashley C.

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Depression Statistics Everyone Should Know - Ashley C.

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Depression affects people from all walks of life, no matter their background. It can affect people of all ages as well. Unfortunately, there's still a stigma that surrounds mental health issues, and some people view disorders like depression as a weakness. But, similar to the way anyone can develop certain physical health issues, mental health issues aren't always preventable.

Understanding the latest depression statistics could increase awareness about mental health, and recognizing how widespread it is could also help reduce the stigma-which might encourage more people to seek treatment.

Major Depressive Episodes

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) defines a major depressive episode as at least two weeks of a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities, as well as at least five other symptoms, such as:﻿﻿

Sleep issues on an almost daily basis (either difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much)

Changes in appetite and weight (change of more than 5% body weight in a month) or a decrease or increase in appetite nearly every day

Decreased energy or fatigue almost every day

Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, and thinking clearly

Psychomotor agitation or retardation that is observable by others (slow physical movements or unintentional or purposeless motions)

Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, a suicide attempt, or a specific plan for suicide

The symptoms must cause significant distress or impairment in a person's social, occupational, or educational functioning.

There's no single cause of depression, according to research. Brain chemistry, hormones, genetics, life experiences, and physical health can all play a role.

Demographics

Depression can begin at any age and it can affect people of all races and across all socioeconomic statuses. Here are some of the statistics on the demographics of people with depression:

The median age of depression onset is 32.5 years old.

The prevalence of adults with a major depressive episode is highest among individuals between 18 and 25.

11.3% of adults who report two or more races have experienced a major depressive episode in the past year.

8.7% of women have depression.

5.3% of men have depression.

A survey conducted by the CDC found that the prevalence of depression decreases among adults as family income levels increase.

While they don't speculate as to the cause, it may be that increased income results in less money-related stress and improved access to mental health services.

The survey also revealed that prevalence rates among men and women have been fairly consistent over the last decade.

Research has shown that women experience depression at roughly twice the rate as men. While the exact causes of this gender disparity are unclear, this increased prevalence in women is often linked to factors such as hormones, life circumstances, and stress.

Prevalence

While anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., depression isn't far behind. The most recent depression statistics include:

As of 2017, 300 million people around the world have depression, according to the World Health Organization.

According to data from the 2017 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 17.3 million adults in the United States-equaling 7.1% of all adults in the country-have experienced a major depressive episode in the past year.

11 million U.S. adults experienced an episode that resulted in severe impairment in the past year.

Nearly 50% of all people diagnosed with depression are also diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.

It's estimated that 15% of the adult population will experience depression at some point in their lifetime.

Seasonal Depression

Depressive disorder with seasonal pattern (formerly known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD) is a pattern of depressive episodes that occur in line with seasonal changes. Most commonly, it is diagnosed in winter in people who live in colder climates. Summer-type seasonal pattern, while possible, is less often diagnosed.

Here are the latest statistics on depressive disorders with seasonal patterns:

Approximately 5% of the U.S. population experiences seasonal depression in any given year.

Four out of five people with seasonal depression are women.

The average age of onset is between 20 and 30 years old.

Postpartum Depression

It's common for women to experience stress, sadness, loneliness, and exhaustion after giving birth. But some women experience postpartum depression that makes it difficult for them to care for themselves or their babies after giving birth. Here are the statistics on postpartum depression:

One in seven women experiences postpartum depression.

Half of all women diagnosed with postpartum depression have never had an episode of depression before.

About half of all women who are eventually diagnosed with postpartum depression began experiencing symptoms during pregnancy.

Suicide and Self-Harm

Untreated depression increases a person's risk of suicide. Here are the latest statistics on suicide:

Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States.

It's the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-34.

Over 47,000 Americans die by suicide each year.

40% of all people who complete suicide have made at least one previous attempt.

Individuals with substance abuse disorders are six times more likely to complete suicide than people who don't have drug or alcohol problems.﻿﻿

Eight out of 10 people considering suicide give some signs of their intentions.

Women attempt suicide more than twice as often as men.

Men are four times as likely to die by suicide.

Firearms account for 51% of all suicide deaths

492,037 individuals visited hospitals in the United States due to self-harm in 2017.

Rates in Children and Adolescents

Depression can begin during childhood or during the teenage years. Similar to the prevalence rates in adults, girls are more likely to experience depression than boys. There's a sharp increase in depression in girls just after puberty.

Although there has been a rise in teenage depression, according to a 2016 American Academy of Pediatrics study, there has not been a corresponding increase in treatment for teenagers.﻿﻿

The American Academy of Pediatrics now recommends regular depression screening for all adolescents 12 and over, given that the symptoms of depression are often missed by adults such as parents, teachers, and even doctors.

Here are the most recent depression statistics in children and adolescents:

3.1 million young people between the ages of 12 and 17 have experienced at least one major depressive episode in the past year in the United States.

2% to 3% of children ages 6 to 12 may have serious depression.

20% of adolescent girls have experienced a major depressive episode.

6.8% of adolescent boys have experienced a major depressive episode.

71% of adolescents who experienced a major depressive episode in the past year experienced a severe impairment.

60% of children and adolescents with depression are not getting any type of treatment.

19% of children with depression saw a health care professional for treatment.

Economic Impact

Depression takes an economic toll on individuals, families, organizations, and society as a whole. It can lead to reduced educational attainment, lower earning potential, and higher rates of unemployment:﻿﻿

Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide.

The total economic burden of depression is estimated to be $210.5 billion per year.

48% to 50% of the economic costs are attributed to absences from work as well as decreased productivity caused by depression.

45% to 47% of the costs are due to medical expenses, such as outpatient and inpatient treatment or the costs of medication.

Treatment Effectiveness

Depression is very treatable. But, only about half of all Americans who are diagnosed with depression in a given year get treatment. Those who do seek treatment wait months or years to get help.

Many individuals with depression who seek treatment are under-treated. Studies consistently show a combination of talk therapy and medication can be most effective in treating depression.

Here are the latest statistics on depression treatment:

Only 1 in 5 people receive treatment consistent with current practice guidelines.

35% of adults with depression receive no treatment at all.

If you have symptoms of depression, there are resources available that can help:

A Word From Verywell

If you suspect you have depression, talk to your healthcare provider. A physician can assess your symptoms and can provide you with a referral to a specialist if necessary. You can also contact a mental health professional directly to discuss treatment options.

If you suspect someone you know has depression, address your concerns. They may be willing to seek treatment if you bring up the subject. And treatment could save someone's life.

Additional Reading

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How Many People Are Actually Affected by Depression Every Year?

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There's a stigma that still surrounds mental illness. Understanding the latest depression statistics could help decrease that stigma.

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The Cycle of PTSD and Substance Use - Ashley C.

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The Cycle of PTSD and Substance Use - Ashley C.

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The Dawn Wellness Centre and Rehab Thailand

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Breaking the Cycle of PTSD and Substance Abuse

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In order to break the cycle of PTSD and substance abuse, it is not enough to address the addiction alone. All related issues must be dealt with.

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Signs and Resources for Children with Anxiety - Ashley C.

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Signs and Resources for Children with Anxiety - Ashley C.

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Life has changed these past few weeks. Change often is accompanied by fear and anxiety. It is typical for all of us to feel a higher level of anxiety and worry right now. If we were already 'worriers' to begin with our anxiety may even become worse during this challenging time. This page is dedicated to all the worriers out there. I have included many tools, strategies, activities and articles that address anxiety. If you find something that really works well for you please email me so I can post for others to try. Please also refer to the mindfulness strategies that are all in the mindfulness folder under my site. I'm available via email or chat if anyone would like to talk. Sthompson@cbsd.org

#1. The many faces of worry.

The below chart shows how different anxiety can look. Worry/anxiety has many 'disguises' and can surprise even the best of us sometimes.

#2. How BIG is my worry?

Helping to understand the SIZE of a worry helps to put things in perspective. Use the worksheet below to help determine the size of your worry and how to make it more 'manageable'.

#3. Coping with anxiety

*Strategies and tools are some of the best ways to cope with anxiety. Different things may work better then others so try some and see what helps! I have attached a link for 'Worry cards' that are a fun way for kids to use many wonderful coping strategies and tools.

Click on this link to open these up! worrycards

* Click on this link: 10 steps to re ad about 10 ways to 'tame the worry monster'. Great Read for Parents.

*When kids are anxious it is common for them to seek reassurance and as parents our job is to help them feel better. What happens when we feel like it is too much? Click on this link to read an article about excessive reassurance seeking. How to deal with excessive reassurance seeking.

*Conquering fear and anxiety is a TON of work. It is important to reward the efforts our kids make. Click on this link to read about rewarding bravery. Rewarding Bravery

*Teach the skill of HAVING A PLAN. Set your child up for success and lowering anxiety coming up with a plan. We all do better when we know what to expect and how we can respond. Click here for an worksheet to you help you through this simple yet effective process. How to create a plan

#4. Advice from the experts

Dr. Dahlsgaard specializes in the evaluation and treatment of anxiety and related disorders. She is an educator, writer, lecturer, guest speaker and recipient of the Pennsylvania Psychology Association's Katherine K. Dahlsgaard, Ph.D., ABPP is Clinical Director of the Anxiety Behaviors Clinic (ABC) and Director of the Picky Eaters Clinic, Dept. of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the (CHOP). She is board certified in cognitive and behavioral psychology and is Health Advisory Panel. Find more resources from her at https://www.katherinedahlsgaard.com/ Children's Hospital of Philadelphia a licensed clinical psychologist with expertise in cognitive-behavioral therapy for children, adolescents, and young adults. She also writes for philly.com's 2017 Psychology in the Media award, the 2019 Friend of School Nurses Award, and the 2019 CHOP Psychology Internship Teaching Award.

1 . Normalize - anxiety is the most common problem in kids.

Our bodies have a fight or flight response. ( E ither fight to stay alive - from back in cave man days with d inosaurs potentially attacking; OR flight/ run away from danger). Often times, that fight or flight response is triggered when there isn't really "danger" - we call it "False Alarm" of body, brain, and behavior . You can beat the "fight or flight " false alarm by learning and practicing skills.

Teach kids to tolerate distress.

Ki d s needs the chance to learn that painful emotions are normal, temporary, & can be endured.

Rescuing the child from temporary distress. Allow them to stay home, avoid dance class, etc.

Normalize / empathize - "I get it that you are feeling scared."

Make eye contact and model how to breathe in through nose, hold for 2 secs., out through mouth.

Model being able to tolerate your child's distress - try not to bring attention to it. Ca lml y state - " Y ou're experiencing a false alarm" anxiety signal and it's making you feel sick, but you can beat this."

Provide kids instruction and practice on getting good at using their bodies as a coping tool
"It's hard to have a relaxed body AND an anxious mind at the same time."
Relaxing the body is a skill and, like all skills, must be learned and practiced to mastery.

Encourage and practice relaxation techniques (short mindfulness exercises*, yoga, deep breathing)

Encourage and practice Brave Body (what a brave body looks like as opposed to a scared one)

Encourage exercise - walk around the block, jump rope, dancing - all can lower anxiety and increase the positive mood chemicals in our brains.

Educate kids on importance of sleep

S et a bedtime , limit caffeine, have a half- hour of calm prior to bedtime - soft music, reading, yoga, journaling, l imit screen time and tv before bed .

Educate students to learn to externalize anxiety

Practice this skill:

anxiety is ALWAYS exaggerating or outright lying

anxiety is therefore best understood as a telemarketer. Or pop-up ad. Or a bully. (picture one of those three in your head - or the FEAR character from Inside Out movie)

anxiety, therefore, is best ignored or bossed bac k - Get out of my head you bully!

Giving the impression that you think worry has "something important" to tell the child - don't keep asking what is causing the anxiety - and give power to that "thing".

Model externalization. Name the anxiety character and talk back to it.

Remind the child to hang up the phone, press the delete button, or boss back.

Teach the skill of COMPARTMENTALIZATION

Worry is a waste of time so, Avoid...

Allowing the child unlimited time to talk about worries. Especially at bedtime or at nurse's office.

Instead.... Pick a guaranteed 5-minute time the student can voice worries (i.e. during an otherwise pref erred activity, such as recess). At night, make the talk positive - 3 things I'm thankful for, etc.

Never be afraid to REWARD brave behaviors

Rewards are not bribes

Rewards are there to motivate healthy behavior and the acquisition of skills

They don't have to be big , t hey just have to be motivating (to the kid) and feasible (to the caregiver)

Removal of privileges until a brave behavior is performed? Yeah, that's good caregiving.

Expecting the child to do something scary for "free" or just because you think s he should.

Have the reward established in advance, part of the plan, and preferably ready to be awarded as soon as the brave behavior is performed .

Practice Exposure - gradually expose child to that which they would rather avoid on the rationale that avoiding a safe situation causes greater fear of that situation, which in turn drives greater avoidance.

Usually practiced with therapist support , patients are encouraged and praised for every step they take toward sticking with what scares them until it doesn't scare them anymore.

Systematic Desensitization - similar to exposure, but e xposes you to your fears slowly while practicing relaxation techniques .

Example- a child with a fear of bees might start by looking at a drawing of a bee, then look at a photo of a bee, listen to bee noises, watch a tv show about bees, then go see bees in a container, then go outside near where there are bees on flowers so they are desensitized to the sound and ultimately, the fear of being exposed to bees.

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Guidance/School Psychologist / Anxiety Resources

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Life has changed these past few weeks. Change often is accompanied by fear and anxiety. It is typical for all of us to feel a higher level of anxiety and worry right now. If we were already 'worriers' to begin with our anxiety may even become worse during this challenging time.

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Looking at the way the body is effected by Bi-polar disorder - Brigid S

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Looking at the way the body is effected by Bi-polar disorder - Brigid S

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This can be a helpful way to discern how to identify how this mental health diagnosis can appear in the body

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Bipolar disorder, previously known as "manic depression," is a brain-based disorder. This condition is characterized by one or more occurrences of manic or "mixed" episodes, and in some cases, may include a major depressive episode.

While depression has commonly been associated with the disorder, we now know a bipolar diagnosis does not need to include depressive episodes, though it can.

Moreover, the disorder has the potential to affect virtually all other areas of your body, from your energy levels and appetite to your muscles and even libido.

Read on to find out how bipolar can affect different areas of your body.

The effects of bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is identified by periods of manic episodes.

During a manic phase, you have above-average energy levels, and may not sleep much. You can also experience irritability, restlessness, and an increased sex drive.

If you develop depression, this phase can have the opposite effects on the body. You may feel a sudden lack of energy and require more sleep, along with feeling depressed and hopeless.

Appetite changes can also occur if the person develops depression. As with mania, depression can also cause irritability and restlessness.

It's also possible to experience a mixed-state of mania and depression. You might notice symptoms from both phases.

Central nervous system

Bipolar disorder primarily affects the brain, which is part of your central nervous system.

Composed of both the brain and the spine, your central nervous system is made up of a series of nerves that are in control of different body activities.

Some of the effects include:

irritability

aggressiveness

hopelessness

feelings of guilt

severe sadness

loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy

being in an excessively good mood

overactivity

feelings of hyperactivity

being easily distracted

forgetfulness

being overly defensive

having a provocative attitude

Bipolar disorder can also make it difficult to concentrate.

When you're in the midst of a manic phase, you might find your mind racing and have a hard time controlling your thoughts. You may even talk faster than usual.

A depressive episode can also cause concentration difficulties, but your mind may feel a lot slower than normal. You might feel restless and have a hard time making decisions. Your memory may also be low.

Bipolar disorder can affect your ability to fall and stay asleep.

Manic phases often mean that you need very little sleep, and depressive episodes can result in sleeping more or less than normal. It's not uncommon to have insomnia in both instances.

Insomnia can become especially dangerous in bipolar disorder, as you may be more tempted to take sleeping pills. Such risks are more associated with mania than depression.

Cardiovascular system

When you have anxiety in addition to bipolar disorder, this can affect your cardiovascular system, too.

This includes:

heart palpitations

rapid heart rate

an increased pulse

Higher-than-normal blood pressure may also occur.

People with bipolar disorder are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with anxiety or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NAMI).

Endocrine system

Your endocrine system consists of hormones that rely heavily on messaging signals from the brain. When these signals are disrupted, you can experience hormone fluctuations.

Bipolar disorder can cause changes to your libido. Mania may put your sex drive on overload, while depression can significantly decrease it.

Some people experience poor judgment with this disorder, which can also increase the risk for poor decision-making in terms of sexual health.

Bipolar disorder may also affect your weight, especially during depressive phases. With depression, you might experience a decrease in your appetite, resulting in weight loss.

It's also possible to have the opposite experience - your appetite might increase, thereby making you gain weight.

Skeletal and muscular systems

Bipolar disorder doesn't directly affect the bones and muscles, but if you experience depressive episodes, these can affect your skeletal and muscular systems.

Depression can lead to unexplained aches and pains, which can make everyday activities difficult to manage. You might also find it difficult to exercise due to your discomfort.

Moreover, if you do experience depression, weakness and fatigue are common and can be accompanied with sleeping too much or an inability to sleep.

Gastrointestinal system

Anxiety associated with bipolar disorder can make your feel tired and irritable. It can also affect your gastrointestinal system.

Some of these effects include:

Such symptoms are often accompanied with feelings of panic, or a sense of impending doom. You might also sweat and breathe rapidly.

Other effects

Bipolar disorder can affect your performance at work or school. It can also make it challenging to build and maintain relationships.

Other effects may include:

heavy alcohol use

drug misuse

spending sprees

unrealistic beliefs in your own abilities

Many people with bipolar disorder are still highly functioning individuals and can maintain a healthy professional and personal life. Untreated bipolar disorder is more likely to worsen and interfere with your daily life.

Suicidal thoughts and actions can occur in both manic and depressive episodes.

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13 Effects of Bipolar Disorder on the Body

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Bipolar disorder directly impacts the brain. With this condition, you have alternating phases of mania and depression. Though bipolar disorder can have a profound effect on your mood, this disorder affects virtually all other areas of your body as well. Here's how bipolar can affect different areas of your body.

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Making ADHD Your Superpower- Michael Braun

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Making ADHD Your Superpower- Michael Braun

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Replacing Anxiety with Purpose-Michael Braun

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Replacing Anxiety with Purpose-Michael Braun

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A collection of TED Talks (and more) on the topic of PTSD. Skip playlists. Video playlists about PTSD. 7 talks. Talks for veterans. These talks honor those who have fought for their country while shedding light on what coming home from war means for many whose wounds are more than skin-deep.

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Conquering depression: how I became my own hero | Hunter Kent | TEDxYouth@CEHS - Bing video

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Conquering depression: how I became my own hero | Hunter Kent | TEDxYouth@CEHS

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The word bipolar means ‘two extremes.’ For the many millions experiencing bipolar disorder around the world, life is split between two different realities: elation and depression. So what causes this disorder? And can it be treated? Helen M. Farrell describes the root causes and treatments for bipolar disorder. [Directed by Owen Gent, Hugh Cowling, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Hugh Cowling].

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When I work with younger clients, they are more inclined to use resources if they can access them virtually. -Brigid S

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In the midst of the pandemic, we are also inundated with endless news updates about police violence and misconduct and cell phone footage of modern-day lynchings. According to the Census Bureau, 41% of Black Americans and 34% of Asian Americans, who are already enduring COVID-related racial violence, expressed having anxiety and depression a week after George Floyd's death at the hands of Minneapolis police officers. The recurring revelation of Black death is traumatizing and triggering PTSD as well.

Though similar triggers can cause PTSD in a variety of people, the path to healing can be varied. Julia Childs Heyl, a licensed social worker and trauma therapist working with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, stresses the importance of resilience when addressing trauma. "I personally define resiliency as the freedom to heal," she says. And when it comes to resiliency and the Black community, Heyl asserts, "That doesn't necessarily mean that you have to be the strong Black woman, the strong Black man, or the strong Black person. It simply means that you have the ability to heal, and as you do so, that only offers future generations the ability to do so, too."

Since the journey to finding resiliency while experiencing trauma looks different for everyone, we compiled these resources for you to use at any time when you're ready to begin healing. As we continue to weather the pandemic alongside the battle against police brutality, these varied resources can offer specialized support as situations continue and develop.

The National Center for PTSD Dissemination and Training Division created the COVID Coach mobile app in response to the increase in mental health needs during the pandemic. The in-app tools work to improve a user's overall wellbeing by helping to manage stress related to loneliness, hopelessness, anger, and irritability. COVID Coach also provides a mood and anxiety tracker so you can identify the patterns of behavior that trigger your trauma symptoms. Mood trackers are important to understanding underlying mental health conditions and, when combined with professional care, can be used to provide a more accurate diagnosis.

Heyl recommends Liberate, a meditation app designed by people of color, for people of color. The app's website states that Liberate provides "resources for common cultural experiences, like internalized racism and micro-aggressions." It's this contextualized healing that addresses a specific need in non-white communities that isn't met with other trauma resources. BIPOC teachers and therapists create Liberate's content, which means that it is curated specifically with BIPOC cultures and experiences in mind. According to Heyl, meditation is important because "being able to connect with the mind and body and [taking time to pause] can do wonders for some of those symptoms of PTSD."

Created in 2011 by the Department of Veterans Affairs, PTSD Coach is a free mobile and desktop app that provides information on PTSD, coping strategies, and effective treatments. The app provides tools to help avoid triggers and moments when you feel disconnected from reality or from others. You can personalize the app using your own photos and audio for the best experience when using the mindfulness exercises. PTSD Coach also provides tips on improving communication and relationship-building with yourself and family members.

"Our world is more focused on the external," says Sol Córdova, LPC, therapist and founder of Mind and Sol Therapy, which is why we need to turn inward and establish healthy mental habits. She suggests "sifting," a mindfulness technique created by Dr. Dan Siegel, a clinical professor of psychiatry at the UCLA School of Medicine. Siegel developed sifting as a way to help people process their emotions, but psychologists have adopted the technique to identify responses to trauma and associated triggers. SIFT stands for sensations, images, feelings, and thoughts. In the process of "sifting," a person sits down and evaluates each of these elements and how they relate to what they're experiencing in a particular moment. As Córdova explains, "[Sifting] then puts you in a much better space to assess what triggered [you]."

Artists Danielle Baskin and Max Dawkins originally created QuarantineChat in response to sheltering-in-place and social distancing anxieties. This free app calls users once or twice a day and connects users with random people around the world. It's useful for those who are experiencing general feelings of isolation and loneliness and just need someone to talk to during the pandemic. While your phone number is necessary to sign up, callers can only see your username. To ensure safety, all calls are encrypted, and no one has to share personal information over the phone. You just answer the phone call and talk about anything at any time.

One method to offset potential intrusive thoughts or distressing memories is to use Moodfit. It is a mental health app that applies cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to help redirect unwanted and distorted thoughts. Unlike other apps, Moodfit pinpoints specific behaviors that impact your mood. For instance, by running "experiments," users can determine how different variables (e.g. food, medication, sleep cycles) impact their mood. Then, using the results, the app offers tangible strategies to improve overall wellbeing. Moodfit also utilizes a "thought record," which helps determine patterns in negative thinking and distressing memories, and then couples them with behaviors to help retrain your thinking.

Wysa is an AI chat bot that helps users work out their feelings. Interfacing with an AI removes the subjective opinions that we usually experience in conversations with other people. This allows you to better determine exactly what you are experiencing and discover the specific type of help you need. Whether you need assistance coping with stress, depression, or anxiety, Wysa provides self-care exercises and connects users with therapists via text who can then provide additional support via live sessions. Wysa users have demonstrated a decline in depression symptoms, and its level of efficacy and care is why ORCHA, the world's leading advisory organization in digital health, named it the best app in Health and Care in 2020.

Heyl also recommends looking through the Open Path Psychotherapy Collective, a national directory of diverse therapists, to help you find a mental health practitioner. Cost-prohibitive measures prevent many people from seeking the treatment that they deserve; Open Path's therapists, however, provide mental health services to middle- and low-income communities. Members pay a one-time, lifetime membership fee of $59, which is used for the non-profit's operational costs, and then receive access to therapists who offer affordable sessions in person or online with sliding scale fees of $30 to $60, based on the member's financial needs.

The South Asian Mental Health Initiative & Network ( SAMHIN) is a non-profit created to meet the mental health needs of the South Asian American community. SAMHIN destigmatizes mental illness by providing educational resources on mental health, improving mental health literacy, and increasing access to associated care. It hosts a directory of South Asian providers nationwide as well as local programs and events in New Jersey, where SAMHIN was founded.

Brandie Carlos created Therapy for Latinx in 2018 in response to a beloved friend who died by suicide. While searching for grief and mental health resources for herself and her community, Carlos became inspired by Therapy for Black Girls ' mission. Therapy for Latinx provides a directory of therapists and counselors, clinics, emergency mental health services, and other support resources. The recommended mental health practitioners either identify as Latinx or POC or have experience providing contextualized care to the Latinx community. Therapy for Latinx also offers access to additional resources to assist with parenting, relationship building, and professional development.

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10 Resources to Bookmark as You Work Through PTSD-Related Trauma

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As we continue to weather the impact of the coronavirus and pandemic, while battling systemic racism and the impacts of police brutality, it is also important that we take care of ourselves. We interviewed several mental health experts about the best resources to address PTSD-related trauma right now.

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Meditation & Yoga for Anxiety: Reduce Stress & Worry | Insight Timer

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Guided yoga and Meditations for Anxiety - Brigid S

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Guided yoga and Meditations for Anxiety - Brigid S

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Something to help that has access to free meditations and yin yoga to help with anxiety

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Anxiety is our body's way of preparing for a 'fight or flight' response. It is usually triggered by perceived future events, many which do not eventuate. Regular and daily meditation for anxiety relief helps affected people to focus on staying in the present moment and seeing a situation for what it is. This free library of anxiety meditation offers guidance from various teachers.

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Meditation for Anxiety: Reduce Stress & Worry | Insight Timer

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Anxiety is our body's way of preparing for a 'fight or flight' response. It is usually triggered by perceived future events, many which do not eventuate. Regular and daily meditation for anxiety relief helps affected people to focus on staying in the present moment and seeing a situation for what it is.

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Differentiating Covid 19 blues from Depression - Brigid S

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Differentiating Covid 19 blues from Depression - Brigid S

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COVID-19 blues vs. depression: How to tell the difference

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Wondering if the feelings of sadness, hopelessness and worry you're experiencing are COVID-19 blues, or a more serious mental health issue, such as major depressive disorder or an anxiety disorder? Here's how to tell the difference and when to get help, from clinical psychologist Catherine Powers-James, Ph.D.