Some people have an intense, irrational fear of being alone – a condition called monophobia or autophobia. This phobia can adversely affect your life by making you anxious that loved ones will someday abandon you. You can also experience monophobia when you are with other people. Instead of enjoying...
Grief is a natural response to loss and upheaval in your life. Often, other complicated emotions can accompany the pain you feel, including shock, anger and disbelief. You may associate grieving with the death of someone close to your heart, but any significant life change can disrupt your physical...
Watching a family member experience depression is hard enough, but worrying that you’ll also develop the condition can cause more anguish. Clinical depression can be debilitating, disrupting your responsibilities and relationships. It’s one of the world’s most common disabilities, and if it runs in your family, you might be more likely...
With the continuing state of crisis in the world at large, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) is taking steps to recognize those who have experienced long-term emotional responses to loss. The COVID-19 pandemic, war, natural disasters, and gun violence have all contributed to the overwhelming feeling of despair. To...
If you have a drinking or drug problem, admitting that truth to yourself and others is the first step in changing your life for the better. The next is deciding to quit. However, achieving and maintaining sustained sobriety is a challenge you shouldn’t face alone, especially in the earliest...
To many people, alcohol is just another beverage. Fewer than 15 percent of the U.S. population are complete teetotalers, and many “social drinkers” suffer no significant ill effects. However, this is just one of many alcohol abuse statistics that paint a full picture of America's drinking problem. The reality...
Do you have medications in your cabinet that were prescribed ages ago, but for some reason never used up? These are a potential tragedy waiting to happen. The Dangers of Unused Prescription Drugs Since 1979, all drugs have been labeled with expiration dates. After a medication passes that date, its chemical...
Oxycodone, a type of opioid, is a highly addictive substance available only through obtaining a prescription. Because of the addictive qualities of this medication, there are limits placed on how much of the substance a person can be prescribed, along with other safeguards to help prevent individuals from abusing...
