Social media is single-handedly the most used and most powerful form of media there is at the moment. It serves as a space where people can connect with other, get and give news, conduct business and so much more. Because of this, most of us find ourselves spending a significant amount of time on social media. Even though social media provides us with many good things, there are also negative effects of social media. It is important to think about the relationship between social media and mental health by understanding the pros and cons.  PROS Importance of mental health awareness by soci ..read more

Ever wonder why some people might struggle with certain conditions? Or perhaps you have seen the term “risk factors” in many of our articles on different mental health disorders. When I begin working with clients, one of the first things I try to do is to educate them on risk factors. Risk factors are situations that act like puzzle pieces that, when put together, help us see why some people may face certain mental health challenges. This article breaks down the different kinds of risk factors and why they matter in mental wellbeing. Types Biological Some of the reasons people struggle with ce ..read more

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a  brain function developmental disorder that affects a person’s ability to control attention, impulsivity, and activity levels. More people are now receiving an ADHD diagnosis. This is because previously, it was only diagnosed in children, but now, more adults are seeking help for ADHD symptoms. There is also more awareness and less stigma around this disorder. Some research suggests that, increased screen time can cause symptoms similar to those in this disorder, but more research is needed to confirm this claim. Symptoms Persistent pa ..read more

Journaling is the act of writing about your experiences, thoughts and feelings. I like to call it a more “mature” diary. It is a snapshot of you and your journey. Because of this, it is important to avoid only writing about your challenges or unpleasant experiences. Many people often associate journaling with negative experiences but it should not be that way. I always encourage my clients to use this tool in their healing and personal growth journeys. Many of them have shared the significant benefits of journaling they have experienced. Here are 5 benefits of journaling I hope will encourage ..read more

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a complex mental health condition characterized by patterns of grandiosity and a strong need for admiration and validation. The nature of the symptoms that define NPD is somewhat “antisocial” in nature. Consequently, we see NPD as character traits that a person should just change because they are not good. Unfortunately, it is not that simple. So, understanding this disorder is important if we are to help those in our community with NPD Symptoms Grandiosity (sense of self-importance, exaggerated achievements and talents, and beliefs of superiority to ..read more

Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) is a complex mental health condition. People with ASPD have a significant disregard for the wellbeing of others fueled by a lack of empathy. They also to follow rules and regulations and can be quite manipulative. They are more likely to be charged with crimes than other members of the population. Some people believe that they are more like to commit violent crimes, than others. More men are diagnosed with this disorder than women. Symptoms These symptoms can begin before but often become evident during late adolescence or early adulthood. Some common sym ..read more

As its name suggests, panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder that is characterized by sudden, unexpected panic attacks. These panic attacks can be so severe that some panic attacks can mimic the symptoms of a heart attack. They also can show up whether the person is in an anxious state or not. Note that the information shared below is meant for educational purposes only and not for diagnosing. Symptoms Panic attacks that can come with 4 or more of these symptoms Heart palpitations, fast heart rate, difficulty breathing Chest pain or tightness Sweating Trembling Feeling lightheaded, diz ..read more

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) as a mental health condition where an individual struggles significantly with emotional regulation, unstable relationships, a fragile sense of self and sometimes bouts of impulsivity. People with borderline personality disorder struggle primarily with their unstable mood which negatively impacts relationships they form. Symptoms Intense and unstable emotions, including fear of abandonment, anger, or emptiness. Behavior aimed at avoiding abandoment Impulsive behaviors (e.g. spending, sex, substance abuse, binge eating, reckless driving) self-harm, or suici ..read more

Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) as a complex mental health condition characterized by patterns of grandiosity, and a strong need for admiration and validation. The nature of the symptoms that define NPD are somewhat “antisocial” in nature. Consequently, we see NPD as character traits that a person should just change because they are not good. Unfortunately, it is not that simple. So, understanding this disorder is important if we are to help those in our community with NPD Symptoms Grandiosity (sense of self-importance, exaggerated achievements and talents, and beliefs of superiority ..read more

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a mental health condition that develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Not everyone will develop PTSD. After experiencing or witnessing the traumatic event, people often experience a stress response called acute stress disorder (ASD). The symptoms are the same as those in PTSD. However with ASD, symptoms last for one month or less. If ASD is caught early, a person may have a better chance of recovery with PTSD. Symptoms Intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares related to the traumatic event. Avoidance of any triggers associate ..read more