The Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety is a normal emotion that we all experience from time to time, but when it starts becoming overwhelming and persistent it’s easy to feel lost in the whirlwind of emotions. It can be hard to recognize if what you're feeling is typical or rather a case of Generalized Anxiety Disorder(GAD). GAD affects an estimated 5.7% of the population, usually developing during early adulthood and gradually taking hold of your daily life. Knowing the symptoms of GAD is an important first step to getting help if needed. Let’s take a deeper look at what General Anxiety Disorder is and the DSM-V criteria for diagnosing it.

What is Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health disorder that presents itself as extreme and persistent worries or concerns. It's not uncommon to feel anxious at times, but some individuals suffer from severe levels of worry on a daily basis. GAD affects not only how an individual thinks but also how they behave in any given situation. The most common symptoms of GAD include feeling restless and tense, having difficulty sleeping and concentrating, and having an increased heart rate. At its worst, it can lead to frequent panic attacks, interfering with day-to-day life. Fortunately, numerous treatments are available for those suffering from GAD, including therapy, medication, and relaxation techniques. All in all, understanding what Generalized Anxiety Disorder is can be the first step to getting the help and support you need if you’re struggling with it.

DSM-V criteria for diagnosing GAD

The DSM-V criteria for diagnosing someone with Generalized Anxiety Disorder includes six or more of the following symptoms, exhibited most days over at least six months:

• Excessive worrying about a variety of topics, including work, school, finances, health, and relationships

• Feeling overwhelmed or “on edge” for much of the day

• Difficulty concentrating due to worry

• Easily fatigued

• Irritability   

• Muscle tension and difficulty sleeping

• Restlessness and difficulty sitting still  

• Experiencing panic attacks or stressful physical reactions such as increased heart rate when faced with stressful situations.   

Tips for Managing GAD

Living with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) can certainly be challenging, but there are helpful tips to manage it and lead a happier life. Remember, it's essential to first seek professional guidance from mental health professionals who can help determine personalized strategies to effectively cope with GAD. In the meantime, practicing self-care by prioritizing a good night's sleep, nourishing your body with a healthy diet, and engaging in regular physical activities will help maintain overall well-being. Additionally, setting aside time for relaxation, such as deep breathing exercises or meditation, can work wonders to calm your thoughts and alleviate anxiety. Finally, don't hesitate to reach out to supportive friends, family members, or support groups, as having a strong and understanding network plays a crucial role in managing GAD. Stay positive and patient in your journey to a more balanced life.

It can be daunting to cope with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, but thankfully there are a plethora of resources and advice available. Remember, you are never alone – it is important to not only seek professional help if needed but also to actively practice mindfulness and take advantage of the relaxation techniques that have proven to be effective in managing anxiety symptoms. Moreover, connecting with supportive friends, family members, and joining online support groups can be beneficial for sharing your experiences and being heard. Ultimately, you should never be ashamed or embarrassed about seeking help; many people live successful and fulfilling lives despite dealing with GAD. With the right guidance, treatment and patience, managing anxiety does not have to seem like an impossible feat. Embrace your vulnerability because when we embrace our mental wellness journey with self-care, we become whole again.

Blog written by:
Lisa Anderson
Owner of A Healing Place

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: causes, symptoms, and treatments

Many people have heard of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but they may not know exactly what it is. PTSD is a mental health condition that can be triggered by exposure to a Traumatic event, such as war, natural disaster, sexual assault, or a car accident. People with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts about the event. They may also feel depressed, anxious, or angry. PTSD can lead to problems with work, relationships, and everyday activities. But there are treatments that can help.

What Causes PTSD?
PTSD can be caused by any type of Traumatic event. Some events that may cause PTSD are:
- War
- Natural disasters
- Car accidents
- Terrorist attacks
- Rape or other forms of sexual abuse/assault
- Child abuse or neglect  

These are just some examples—any event that leads to intense fear, helplessness, or horror can cause PTSD.

Not everyone who experiences a Traumatic event will develop PTSD. And it's not always clear why some people develop the disorder while others don't. But there are some risk factors that may make it more likely for someone to develop PTSD after a Traumatic event, including:
- previous exposure to Trauma
- having another mental health condition
- being female
- having little social support after the Traumatic event
- experiencing ongoing stressors after the event
- having difficulty coping with the event soon after it happened.

What Are the Symptoms of PTSD?
Symptoms of PTSD can start immediately after the Traumatic event or may not appear until months or even years later. The symptoms can also come and go over time, and they may get worse when something triggers memories of the Traumatic event. The main symptoms of PTSD fall into four categories: reliving the event (also called reexperiencing symptoms), avoiding situations that remind you of the event, negative changes in beliefs and feelings (also called negative alterations in cognitions and mood), and feeling more reactive than usual (also called hyperarousal). Let's take a closer look at each category.

Reliving the Event: People with PTSD often have flashbacks in which they relive the Traumatic experience as if it were happening again in the present. Flashbacks can be so real and intense that people lose touch with what's going on around them. They might feel like they're going crazy or dying. People also commonly have nightmares about the traumatic experience. These nightmares usually happen during REM sleep—the stage of sleep when we dream—and they tend to be very vivid and realistic. People with PTSD often have trouble sleeping because they're afraid of having nightmares about the trauma.      

Avoiding Situations That Remind You Of The Event: After a traumatic experience, it's common for people to try to avoid anything that reminds them of what happened—including people, places, objects, or situations. For example, someone who was in a car accident might avoid driving or getting into cars. Or someone who was raped might avoid being alone with men. It's normal for people to want to avoid reminders of a traumatic experience at first. But for people with PTSD, avoidance becomes a problem when it starts to interfere with their daily lives.

Negative Changes In Beliefs And Feelings: One of the hallmarks of PTSD is feeling detached from other people—like you're an outsider looking in on your own life. You might feel numb, disconnected, or unable to trust anyone. You might also feel like there's no hope for the future. Other common changes in beliefs and feelings after a traumatic experience include feeling guilt, shame, or self-blame; feeling permanently damaged or changed; having trouble experiencing positive emotions; and losing interest in activities you once enjoyed.

Feeling More Reactive Than Usual: People with PTSD often find themselves on edge—startled easily, always on guard for danger, or feeling “keyed up”. This increased level of arousal is known as hyperarousal. Hyperarousal symptoms can make it hard to concentrate or sleep, and you might startle more easily. You might also become irritable or have outbursts of anger. Hyperarousal symptoms usually lessen over time but can persist long-term if not treated.  

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms—especially if they're interfering with daily life—it's important to seek professional help. A therapist who specializes in trauma can diagnose PTSD and develop a treatment plan tailored specifically for you. With treatment, most people with PTSD are able to manage their symptoms and live full, productive lives.

Blog written by:
Lisa Anderson
Owner of A Healing Place

What is Narcissistic Personality Disorder?

Do you know someone who likes to be the center of attention? Or someone who brags and exaggerates their accomplishments? Chances are, you’ve heard these people referred to as “narcissists.” But is this simply a casual label or something more serious? If so, is it Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)? The DSM-V has outlined nine traits that they identify as being diagnostic of Narcissistic Personality Disorder. It's important to understand just what qualifies for a diagnosis of NPD in order to ensure accurate handling and management for those involved - both parties and those close by like family members, friends or colleagues. In this blog post we will explore what the DSM-V outlines about NPD; clarifying the distinction between everyday narcissistic behavior from an actual disorder.

Explaining the Difference Between Narcissism and Narcissistic Personality Disorder
It is not uncommon to hear people carelessly referring to someone as narcissistic, but actually diagnosing someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) according to the criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) requires more than just a few self-centered behaviors. Although people who suffer from NPD may be described as grandiose, attention-seeking, and vain, they are also likely to experience feelings of loneliness and emptiness. Symptoms related to NPD can significantly interfere with relationships, careers, and everyday life. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms like these, it may be worth consulting with a mental health professional for further evaluation.

DSM-V Criteria for Diagnosing NPD
A pervasive pattern of grandiosity (in fantasy or behaviour), need for admiration, and lack of empathy, beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by 5 (or more) of the following:

1.     Has a grandiose sense of self-importance (e.g. - exaggerates achievements and talents, expects to be recognized as superior without commensurate achievements)
2.     Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love
3.     Believes that he or she is “special” and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people (or institutions)
4.     Requires excessive admiration
5.     Has a sense of entitlement (i.e. - unreasonable expectations of especially favourable treatment or automatic compliance with his or her expectations)
6.     Is interpersonally exploitative (i.e. - takes advantage of others to achieve his or her own ends)
7.     Lacks empathy: is unwilling to recognize or identify with the feelings and needs of others
8.     Is often envious of others or believes that others are envious of him or her
9.     Shows arrogant, haughty behaviors or attitudes.

Causes of NPD, Including Genetic and Environmental Factors
While it is easy to refer to someone as a narcissist in casual conversation, true Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is complex and involves multiple factors. The exact causes of NPD are not yet known conclusively, however, research suggests that both genetic predisposition and environmental factors can contribute to the disorder. It is believed that parenting styles that put too much importance on the child’s achievements or those with an inconsistent approach to discipline may lead to NPD. A person's genetics may also play a role; people who have family members diagnosed with a personality disorder are more likely to develop one themselves. Unfortunately, diagnosing NPD can be difficult due to its overlap with other mental health disorders such as Antisocial Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder, making it essential for professionals in the field of mental health to use every resource available when they identify potential cases of NPD.

Although it is easy to use the term “narcissist” as an all-encompassing insult, it has much different meanings and implications in a professional setting versus casual usage. Narcissistic Personality Disorder is a serious mental illness that often warrants clinical intervention, where casually calling someone a narcissist does not change their behavior or provide any type of treatment. By better understanding the symptoms and causes of NPD, it is easier to recognize the signs of this disorder in those around us and get help for them before things reach a critical point. Not only can the diagnosis lead to better interventions, but it can also help explain many behaviors that were previously unaddressed or misattributed to external influences. Learning more about NPD encourages greater understanding and compassion for those who struggle with this disorder on a daily basis – something we could all benefit from in our lives.

Blog written by:
Lisa Anderson
Owner of A Healing Place

Do I have ADHD? DSM-V symptoms vs Tik Tok hype

If you've been spending more time on Tik Tok lately, you may have seen videos of people discussing ADHD symptoms, leaving you wondering, "Could I have ADHD?". But what does ADHD really look like? In this blog post, we'll take a look at the DSM-V criteria for ADHD and compare it to what's being talked about on Tik Tok. In this blog post, we'll take a look at the DSM-V criteria for ADHD and compare it to what's being talked about on Tik Tok.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-V). People with ADHD often have difficulty regulating their attention span and can be prone to distraction or inattention. They may also struggle to control impulsive behaviors and find it difficult to sit still for prolonged periods of time. This can significantly impact various aspects of their life from relationships to school performance or work productivity. Symptoms vary from person to person but generally involve difficulty focusing on tasks, remaining on task, restraining impulses and/or staying calm in situations that require it. ADHD requires treatment plans specifically tailored for each individual as it can interfere with certain life activities if left unmanaged.

Inattention Symptoms
To be diagnosed with ADHD, an individual must have at least five of the following nine symptoms of inattention for at least six months:

• Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.

• Often has trouble holding attention on tasks or play activities.

• Often does not seem to listen when spoken to directly.

• Often does not follow through on instructions and fails to finish schoolwork, chores, or duties in the workplace (e.g., loses focus, side-tracked).

• Often has trouble organizing tasks and activities.

• Often avoids, dislikes, or is reluctant to do tasks that require mental effort over a long period of time (such as schoolwork, preparing reports, completing forms, or reviewing lengthy papers).

• Often loses things necessary for tasks and activities (e.g. books, tools, wallets, keys, paperwork, eyeglasses, mobile telephones).

• Is often easily distracted

• Is often forgetful in daily activities.

Hyperactivity and Impulsivity Symptoms
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, an individual must have at least five of the following nine symptoms of hyperactivity and impulsivity for at least six months:

• Experiencing extreme restlessness, difficulty sitting still for extended periods, and/or wearing others out with one’s activity

• Fidgeting with or tapping hands or feet or squirming in seat

• Being unable to engage quietly in leisure activities

• Talking excessively

• Answering questions before they are asked completely

• Having difficulty waiting one’s turn, such as when waiting in line

• Interrupting or intruding on others

With the immense amount of TikTok videos that feature people saying they are experiencing symptoms related to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), it can be difficult to differentiate DSM-V criteria symptoms from behaviors we all have at times in our lives. However, there are many key distinctions that can be made between what is seen in the trending TikTok videos and the actual traits and signs of ADHD. While some of those speaking on their mental health status may have some verifiable battles with attention span and impulse control, many of their exaggerated behavior and frenzied decisions go beyond what is medically associated with this disorder. Further, adults and children alike who legitimately have ADHD would likely lack the ability to maintain the constant kinetic energy displayed in many of these video trends. While TikTok videos often emphasize flying off-the-handle responses and reliance on hyperactive quick decision-making, true examples of ADHD can include forgetfulness, trouble completing tasks or being seemingly 'lost' in concentration for periods of time.

While attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder is a major health concern for millions of people, the DSM-V criteria for diagnosis should not be taken lightly. If you feel like your symptoms match the criteria listed in this blog post, please reach out to a qualified healthcare professional. Remember that being unorganized, unfocused, and distracted don't always have to be symptoms of ADHD. It's also important to note that in milder cases, proper lifestyle changes such as mindfulness and stress management can often do just as much good as medication. Mental health is incredibly important, so it's essential to take any diagnosis very seriously and without prejudice.

If you are ready to take your mental health into your own hands, A Healing Place can provide unparalleled resources and support on the journey. A personal mental health journey is an incredibly personal thing, but having a qualified professional therapist to help guide you along cannot be undervalued. The professionals at A Healing Place can diagnose issues, discuss different therapies that could be beneficial, and offer insight into improving your overall mental wellness. Not only will they provide physical resources such as books and informational pamphlets, but also emotional guidance through it all. For those looking for more information or wanting to take the next step in their own well-being, A Healing Place has the resources to help. We hope this post has been informative and encourages further exploration into the nuances of mental health.

Blog written by:
Lisa Anderson
Owner of A Healing Place