Somatic Symptom Disorder: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction Somatic Symptom Disorder (SSD) is a common psychosomatic condition that can significantly impact both physical and mental well-being. This comprehensive patient guide aims to provide a thorough understanding of SSD, covering various aspects – symptoms, causation, diagnosis and management strategies. Understanding Somatic Symptom Disorder Somatic Symptom Disorder or Medically Unexplained Physical Symptoms (MUPS) or […]
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) & Ways To Address It
1. Symptoms This condition involves an excessive preoccupation about perceived defects in one’s appearance, even when these perceived flaws may be minor or imaginary, and others may not even notice them. Examples of it can be, being convinced that one’s nose is too large or not straight even when others find it perfectly normal. The common […]
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
1.What is Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)? How does it occur? SAD is a type of recurring major depression with a seasonal pattern occurring most commonly in autumn and winter [when it is called winter type SAD] but also occasionally during summer [when it is termed SAD – summer type]. It occurs because people with SAD […]
Unveiling the Layers of Mysophobia – Beyond Cleanliness to the Depths of Fear
1.Introduction In an era dominated by an acute awareness of cleanliness and hygiene, a complex psychological phenomenon takes centre stage – Mysophobia. Derived from the Greek words ‘mysos’ signifying contamination and ‘phobos’ denoting an intense fear, Mysophobia encapsulates an irrational dread of dirt and microorganisms. It transcends a mere desire for cleanliness; it becomes an […]
Why does Avoidance appear to be a Solution?
Arun had heaps of chapters to complete studying before the exams. Yet he found himself wasting time binge watching series for hours together! He was distracted, lost in the fictional world of series and disconnected from his own reality and duties. This made him avoid something he had difficulty facing. It could be the discomfort […]
The Shadows of Childhood trauma
Majority of adults who struggle with psychological difficulties like depression, social anxiety, difficulty trusting others, low self-confidence, worry and difficulty relaxing, procrastination, perfectionism or different kinds of addiction, invariably have history of childhood physical or emotional abuse. The trauma or impact is deeper and more complex when the abuse is by one’s own parent, whom […]
5 Ways to Achieve Balance between Career and Wellness among Couples Amidst Busy Lives
1. Introduction Dual-career couples enjoy many benefits such as sharing and supporting each other in their careers, higher income and personal satisfaction. However, they also face a number of challenges such as lack of time, difficulty co-ordinating schedules, balancing multiple responsibilities, while holding a demanding job. This can drain the couple relationship, unless both of […]
How can nutrition impact one’s mental health
Positive Nutrition Just like positive thoughts, positive habits, positive environment and positive people, positive nutrition helps us lead healthier and happier lives. From our young age we are told that eating well helps us look well and feel well. The truth is good nutrition plays a very significant role in our mental health. Healthy nutrition […]
Psychotherapy – How would it benefit you?
Harsha, now a dynamic journalist says, “I started therapy at a time nothing seemed to work for me, and I had lost hope in myself. I was thinking of quitting my degree and maybe life itself. At first therapy seemed pointless, but what kept me going was my psychologist’s unwavering belief in me and encouraging […]
Executive function deficits in ADHD that can interfere with work efficiency
Executive functions are a set of cognitive skills that allow us to plan, organise, prioritise, and complete tasks. People with ADHD often have deficits in executive function, which can interfere with their work efficiency. Executive function deficits in Adult ADHD Some of the specific executive function deficits that can affect work efficiency in people with […]