Resources Depression Most people struggle with depression at some point in their lives. Symptoms include depressed and/or irritable mood, sleep disturbance, low energy and poor concentration. Depression also affects medical issues and can cause physical symptoms such as body aches and pain. For more information please visit the website for the National Institute of Mental Health: www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression/complete-index.shtml
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder/PTSD Exposure to trauma (i.e. abuse, rape, violent crime, motor vehicle accident) can result in symptoms of anxiety that include hypervigilence, flashbacks and nightmares. Depression and substance abuse can also become a problem. Some people who are exposed to trauma do not develop PTSD, but continue to suffer from psychological stress as a result of their trauma exposure. Both PTSD and trauma exposure are serious problems and can affect all aspects of a person's life. For more information please visit: https://www.ptsd.va.gov/
Anxiety Symptoms can be pervasive or specific and include worry, muscle tension, nervousness, fear and sleep disturbance. However and whenever they occur, anxiety is often described as "consuming". It can impair functioning at work, home and in relationships. Depression and substance abuse can also develop as a result of anxiety disorders. For more information please visit: www.apa.org/helpcenter/anxiety-treatment.aspx
Chronic Pain Physical health and well-being is a crucial part of psychological wellness. Chronic pain can develop as a result of an injury or medical condition and it affects a person's mood and outlook on life. Chronic headaches and migraines are also considered chronic pain. Specialized treatments such as CBT and biofeedback are essential for learning how to manage pain. For more information please visit: www.theacpa.org
Interpersonal Relationships The most challenging and emotional part of people's lives are their interpersonal relationships. These include relationships with family, friends, children, caretakers, co-workers and even one's community. Relationships require an understanding of emotions, communication skills and most importantly, an understanding of one's self. To learn more about what it may take to make your marriage work you can visit: www.apa.org/helpcenter/marriage.aspx For more information on building a positive parent and child relationship, please visit: www.apa.org/topics/parenting/index.aspx
Eating Disorders Eating disorders are a lot more common than people think. National surveys estimate that 20 million women and 10 million men in America will have an eating disorder at some point in their lives (NEDA) The most common types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.
Contrary to popular belief, people who have eating disorders are actually preoccupied and obsessed with eating. Common eating disorders symptoms include restrictive eating, abnormal calorie intake, food rituals, sleep problems, and weight fluctuations.