Author Archives: Alta Loma

What Are Phrases to Avoid Saying to Someone With Depression?

What Are Phrases to Avoid Saying to Someone With Depression?

The World Health Organization states that more than 264 million people are struggling with depression worldwide. With such a prevalence, that means there is a good chance you may know someone struggling with this mental health disorder. If you are trying to comfort someone with depression, it is important to know what not to say […]

How Can the “Recency Effect” Bring About Anxiety and What Can Be Done?

How Can the “Recency Effect” Bring About Anxiety and What Can Be Done?

The recency effect is the psychological tendency to change your behavior due to memory of an event that has just occurred. Whether or not the event justifies a change in behavior, you give additional merit to a recent event over one that occurred further in the past. Knowing how the recency effect works, you can […]

What Happens During the Early Stages of Schizophrenia?

What Happens During the Early Stages of Schizophrenia?

Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder that can alter your perception of sight and sound. Early diagnosis of schizophrenia leads to more favorable treatment outcomes. By knowing what to expect during the early stages of schizophrenia, you can learn the signs for when it is time to see a doctor for treatment. Early Warning Signs […]

How Do You Support Your Depressed Friend When You are Depressed Too?

How Do You Support Your Depressed Friend When You are Depressed Too?

When a friend confides in you that they are feeling down and are having trouble coping with depression, it’s natural to want to help. It can be challenging, however, if you are experiencing depression as well. If both of you are dealing with symptoms of depression, the two of you can rely on each other […]

What Can Happen When You Mix Alcohol With Medications?

What Can Happen When You Mix Alcohol With Medications?

You should never ignore warnings on medication that caution against using alcohol while taking them as prescribed. In the short term, mixing even small amounts of alcohol with medications can lead to impaired coordination and drowsiness. There are also significant physical and mental side effects from combining substances that can lead to dangerous long-term problems […]

What Are Myths About Lithium?

What Are Myths About Lithium?

Lithium is a mood stabilizer used to treat bipolar disorder and major depression. It is widely prescribed, but there are still many common misconceptions about its use. Here are three myths often perpetuated about lithium. Myth #1: The Effects of Lithium Are Instant Lithium treatment needs to be started slowly as the concentration of lithium […]

Autism Symptoms in People With Schizophrenia

Autism Symptoms in People With Schizophrenia

Recent studies have shown a link between autism and schizophrenia, but understanding how these two disorders interact is still a mystery to many. However, it is imperative for individuals struggling with schizophrenia and autism to learn what the symptoms look like and how to cope with them. That way, they can begin their healing journey […]

Why Should We Worry About Teen Marijuana Use?

Why Should We Worry About Teen Marijuana Use?

Teens may think that smoking or consuming marijuana is harmless compared to abusing “harder” drugs like cocaine or heroin. However, even casual marijuana use comes with its own risks that pose negative side effects for teens’ developing brains. The CDC states that marijuana use in teens “can have harmful and long-lasting effects on a teen’s […]