Changes in mood or wavering between happy and sad can be a normal part of life. But for people diagnosed with one of the 4 types of bipolar disorder, extreme mood shifts can make daily life a challenge. Even more difficult is living with different types of bipolar disorder without a receiving a diagnosis to […] The post 4 Types of Bipolar Disorder, Symptoms and Treatment appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

Many of us think of serotonin as a feel-good chemical in the brain that makes us happy. While this is true, its effect on the body is actually quite complex and too much of it can cause an unhealthy condition known as serotonin syndrome. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, or chemical messenger, that helps in the […] The post Serotonin Syndrome Symptoms, Causes and Treatment appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

In treating borderline personality disorders, Dr. Marsha M. Linehan identified the need for a program that went beyond Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. She developed a subset of CBT known as Dialectical Behavior Therapy and DBT techniques to address many mental health conditions. What is Dialectical Behavior Therapy? Dialectical Behavior Therapy can be defined as a type […] The post Dialectical Behavior Therapy DBT Techniques That Work appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

Adjustment Disorder is sometimes known as “stress response syndrome” and also “situational depression” because it is related to stress and shares some of the symptoms of depression. Life is full of stressful, reality changing events. When these moments occur, it’s difficult for a person to envision their life moving forward in a healthy or positive […] The post Adjustment Disorder Symptoms, Causes and Treatment appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

Living a healthier life is a popular New Year’s resolution that millions of people strive for at the beginning of a new year. One of the biggest goals is decreasing alcohol consumption in what has become known as Dry January by some, and Sober January by others. Temporarily cutting back or giving up alcohol all […] The post Dry January Benefits and Tips for a Sober New Year appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

With the end of the year upon us, successfully managing the holidays and mental health can be overwhelming for most of us. We imagine feelings of joy, happiness, love, and gratitude, but in truth, dealing with holiday stress can trigger some kinds of depression, anxiety, or even substance use addiction for many people. If you’re […] The post Holidays and Mental Health Tips appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

Addiction, like other chronic, relapsing diseases, follows a progression. That’s not to say each person’s experience is exactly the same, because it’s not. However, in breaking down the development from beginning to disease, most experts agree there are 5 stages of addiction. This should not be confused with the transtheoretical model of change that outlines […] The post The 5 Stages of Addiction appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

Guarding our mental health is becoming more difficult in today’s high-stress world, and it’s even harder for people who cope with the 6 types of anxiety disorders. Being human means dealing with anxiety. It is impossible to avoid worry about loved ones, personal health, finances, or an endless number of other issues. However, living with […] The post 6 Types of Anxiety Disorders Causes, Symptoms, Treatments appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

Alcohol withdrawal can be extremely dangerous and uncomfortable. Anyone who has ever suffered from a hangover has experienced a mild version of it. The most extreme form of alcohol withdrawal is known as Delirium Tremens, also called the DTs, or “the shakes.” As one of the most serious negative effects of alcohol, delirium tremens can […] The post Delirium Tremens Symptoms and Treatment – What are the DTs? appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more

To raise awareness, educate, and reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues, Depression Awareness Month is observed annually in October. Suffering from depression can be incredibly challenging. For some people it can be completely debilitating. Even a mild form of functional depression can impair a person’s quality of life and make normal, day-to-day activities […] The post Depression Awareness Month in October appeared first on Summit Malibu ..read more