What is an Eating Disorder? An eating disorder is a severe mental health condition characterised by unhealthy and often extreme behaviours, thoughts, and attitudes towards food, eating, and body weight or shape. These disorders can have significant physical, psychological, and social consequences, affecting individuals across various demographics, including age, gender, and cultural background. Types of Eating Disorders Anorexia Nervosa Anorexia nervosa involves self-starvation and excessive weight loss. Individuals with anorexia have an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body ima ..read more

Perinatal depression is a mood disorder that can affect women during pregnancy and after childbirth. Here are the critical points about perinatal depression: It refers to depression that occurs during pregnancy (prenatal depression) or in the first year after giving birth (postpartum depression). It is estimated to affect around 1 in 7 women during the perinatal period. Risk factors include a personal or family history of depression, stressful life events, lack of social support, hormonal changes, and complications during pregnancy or childbirth. Untreated perinatal depression can have negati ..read more

What is Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)? Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition characterised by the following key features: A grandiose sense of self-importance and entitlement A preoccupation with fantasies of success, power, beauty, or perfect love A belief that they are “special” and can only be understood by other special people A need for excessive admiration A lack of empathy and unwillingness to identify with the needs of others Arrogant, haughty behaviours and attitudes Envy of others or a belief that others are envious of them NPD affects betwe ..read more

What is High-Functioning Depression? High-functioning depression, also known as persistent depressive disorder (PDD) or dysthymia, refers to a form of depression where individuals experience depressive symptoms but are still able to maintain a relatively high level of functioning in their daily lives. Unlike major depressive disorder, high-functioning depression involves persistent, chronic symptoms that may last for years. People with high-functioning depression may be able to fulfil their responsibilities at work or in their personal lives. Still, they often struggle with a constant low mood ..read more

What is a Panic Attack? A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear or discomfort that reaches its peak within minutes. These episodes can be highly distressing and may involve a variety of physical and psychological symptoms. Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly or be triggered by specific situations or thoughts. Common symptoms of a panic attack include: Rapid Heartbeat (Palpitations): A feeling of a pounding or racing heart. Sweating: Profuse sweating, even if the environment is not particularly hot. Trembling or Shaking: Uncontrollable shaking or trembling. Shortness of Breath: Dif ..read more

Depression in Australia Depression is a significant mental health concern globally, and Australia is no exception. The prevalence of depression can vary over time, and new data may have been released since then. As of 2022, it was estimated that around 1 million Australian adults experienced depression in any given year. The prevalence rates can change, and it’s essential to refer to the latest statistics from reputable sources such as the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) or mental health organisations for the most current information. Factors contributing to depression are complex and ca ..read more

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder? Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder characterised by two main components: obsessions and compulsions. It affects people of all ages and can be distressing and disruptive to daily life. Obsessions These are intrusive, unwanted, and distressing thoughts, images, or urges that repeatedly enter a person’s mind. Individuals with OCD often find these thoughts disturbing and may try to ignore or suppress them. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, harming others, making mistakes, or religious and moral concerns. Compulsion ..read more

What is Bipolar? Bipolar disorder, or manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition characterised by episodes of mania and depression. People with bipolar disorder experience intense mood swings that can affect their behaviour, thinking, and daily functioning. During manic episodes, people with bipolar disorder may feel excessively elated, energetic, or irritable and engage in impulsive or risky behaviour such as spending sprees, reckless driving, or substance abuse. They may also experience racing thoughts, increased talkativeness, and decreased need for sleep. During depressive epis ..read more

John (not his real name) came to see me yesterday.  “Doc, can I get some sleeping tablets, I am having trouble going to sleep and staying asleep.”  John is a 35yo man, married with two children, working as an accountant.  He is a regular of the practice, and this is the first time he has mentioned that sleep is an issue.  “John how long has this been an issue?” I asked, “well it has been on and off for about six months but has been really bad for the last month or so” he replied.  “I lay awake thinking about things; my mind just won’t switch off.  It can be about ..read more

After reviewing a young person with a mental health disorder, I was reflecting on what makes a good consultation for them and myself. Is it showing compassion and empathy for the experience the person is describing? Is it developing an extensive management plan, with the inherent complexity and nuances that are required to assist the individual’s unique circumstance? Or perhaps it is advising them of a diagnosis and offering a pill and moving them on to another practitioner, who may have the time and experience to assist. Often in the media, the GP is seen as the bastion of knowledge, the pers ..read more