Taking Xanax, a medication commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, during pregnancy can pose potential risks to both the mother and the developing fetus. While it is not definitively known whether Xanax can cause birth defects, it is advised to exercise caution when considering this medication during pregnancy. The active ingredient in Xanax, alprazolam, can potentially
Mental Health
Neurodivergent burnout is a serious issue that can manifest in various ways, such as chronic exhaustion, increased sensory sensitivity, and loss of skills. This condition is often a result of long-term stress at work, which can lead to exhaustion, low mood, and reduced work performance. For neurodivergent individuals, additional factors such as masking and adapting
While researchers have not identified a specific gene or group of genes that lead to eating disorders, these conditions tend to run in families. Family culture can partially explain this, but biological factors may also play a role. A 2023 article reports that if one identical twin has an eating disorder, the other twin has
When it comes to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) following sexual abuse, the symptoms can be overwhelming and debilitating. From flashbacks to nightmares and feelings of fear, the effects of PTSD can linger long after the traumatic event has occurred. Research has shown that individuals who have experienced rape or sexual assault have a high likelihood
Anxiety and anger are two intense emotions that are often intertwined. While they may seem unrelated on the surface, they can actually fuel each other. When a person experiences anxiety, it can sometimes lead to feelings of anger, and vice versa. This complex relationship between anxiety and anger is crucial to understand in order to
Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental health condition that can affect children, typically starting in their teenage years and early 20s. However, pediatric anorexia nervosa can occur before the age of 18 years, with early onset anorexia nervosa presenting before a child is 14 years old. Both males and females can develop this condition, which
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and psychosis are both mental health conditions that can have a significant impact on an individual’s life. While OCD is characterized by recurring intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors, psychosis is a more general term that encompasses a range of symptoms that cause a loss of contact with reality. Individuals with OCD may
Healing from sexual abuse is a multifaceted process that goes beyond simply addressing physical wounds. The emotional and psychological scars left behind by such trauma can run deep and linger for years, impacting all aspects of an individual’s life. It is essential to recognize that this journey is deeply personal and varies for each person.
Separation anxiety disorder is not only limited to infants and young children. In fact, it can also manifest in older children and teens, leading to fear, worry, and avoidance of certain activities. The fear-based reaction to leaving a loved one or the thought of separation can be debilitating for teenagers, causing them to miss out
Recent studies have suggested that probiotics may have a positive impact on reducing depression symptoms in some individuals. While the research is promising, there is still much to learn about how the gut microbiome interacts with the brain. Probiotics contain live microbes, including different bacterial species that can influence an individual’s gut flora in various