a man pulls a pill bottle from his medicine cabinet and thinks about signs of benzodiazepine dependence

Signs of Benzodiazepine Dependence

Benzodiazepines such as Xanax and Valium are among the most commonly prescribed drugs in the world. They are typically prescribed to treat acute anxiety, panic attacks, or insomnia related to stressful events. They work well when used for very short periods. Unfortunately, benzodiazepines are also extremely addictive. Even two weeks of regular use can lead… Continue Reading Signs of Benzodiazepine Dependence

A group of people comfort their friend as they wonder if depression is different than sadness

How is Depression Different from Sadness?

It’s common for people to say they’re depressed when they’re sad. Also, when most people think of depression, sadness is the first thing that comes to mind. We sometimes use these words interchangeably, but sadness and depression are not the same thing. Depression continues to be a misunderstood condition and it’s one that affects about… Continue Reading How is Depression Different from Sadness?

a man leans against the wall with a hood over his head and thinks about common misconceptions about schizophrenia

4 Common Misconceptions About Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a mental illness that affects about two million Americans. It’s best known symptoms are auditory and visual hallucinations, but other symptoms include delusional thinking, disordered or incoherent thinking or speech, social withdrawal, or diminished affect in speech or facial expressions. Although most people know something about schizophrenia, many people misunderstand the condition, leading… Continue Reading 4 Common Misconceptions About Schizophrenia

A woman researches whether there is a link between social media and depression on her smart phone

Is There a Link Between Social Media and Depression?

Anyone who has spent too much time on social media knows what it’s like to come away feeling anxious, irritable, despondent, or angry. Interacting with friends, acquaintances, and strangers online can provoke emotions ranging from envy to outrage. Many people often lament that social media platforms have replaced meaningful social interaction with superficial sharing, which… Continue Reading Is There a Link Between Social Media and Depression?

a teen boy sits on the beach and thinks about the connection between addiction and social anxiety disorder

Addiction and Social Anxiety Disorder

Most people who struggle with addiction have another mental health issue to go along with it. This is called a dual diagnosis. Common dual diagnoses include depression, OCD, ADHD, PTSD, schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders. One common anxiety disorder is social anxiety disorder, which is intense anxiety caused by social situations. About 15 million Americans suffer… Continue Reading Addiction and Social Anxiety Disorder

A woman talks to her friend about what to do if you don't like your therapist.

What Do You Do if You Don’t Like Your Therapist?

Entering therapy is a great opportunity to grow and overcome past challenges. Many conditions, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and even schizophrenia can be improved or even eliminated with the help of a skilled therapist. However, therapy also has its challenges. Many people are not quite sure what to expect from therapy. A good therapist… Continue Reading What Do You Do if You Don’t Like Your Therapist?

a woman reads about the dangers of mixing caffeine and alcohol

The Dangers of Mixing Caffeine and Alcohol

Mixing caffeine and alcohol is a bad idea. Although the FDA has cracked down on caffeinated alcoholic beverages such as Four Loko–both because they found these drinks were unsafe and because the makers were marketing them to teens–mixing caffeine and alcohol is still common practice, especially among binge drinkers. Adding caffeine and other stimulants to… Continue Reading The Dangers of Mixing Caffeine and Alcohol