Depression - Causes

The Dangers of Holding in Your Emotions

How bottled up stress can damage your physical and mental health, with five strategies to cope.

How Good and Bad Events Can Trigger Depression

For some, even positive life changes can bring on bouts of severe anxiety or depression. But there is good news.

Caffeine: The Good, The Bad And The Unhealthy

Many of us start our day with a cup, but when we start relying on coffee to feel awake and energized, we're addicted to the caffeine it contains.

The Long Shadow of Child Abuse

Why victims of child abuse can find themselves struggling with mental health issues decades later.

Independent Psychological Assessments: What You Need to Know

Think you may have ADD, depression, or another psychiatric disorder? Learn how this type of assessment differs from other psychological tests—and why it may give you the insight you need.

Can Drinking Wine Make You Happier?

One study has found that moderate consumption of wine may improve your mental health. But don't uncork that bottle of Chardonnay just yet!

Nervous Breakdowns: What You Need to Know

While some people are at higher risk, nervous breakdowns can happen to anyone. Here's what to look for.

Could Motherhood Cause OCD?

Find out why new moms are at increased risk and how to get help.

How Happiness Evolves

Has your idea of happiness changed over time? Find out more about this phenomenon of life.

The Surprising Link Between Sugar and Depression

Learn how changing your diet to eliminate sweet treats can help improve your mental health.

Grapefruit Juice and Meds: A Dangerous Combo

Grapefruit juice can increase the potency of certain drugs, converting them to life-threatening doses. Here's what you need to know.

Can Overthinking Lead to Depression?

Stop the replays and hit "pause". Ruminating over a problem may lead to an even bigger one: depression.

How Blood Sugar Affects Your Mood

Don't let your blood sugar swings result in mood swings. Use these preventative tips to keep an even keel.

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder: Myths and Truths

With so many stigmas surrounding Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), it's especially important to separate fiction from fact.

Can Worrying Lead to PTSD?

In small doses, worrying can keep you in check. But in excess, it can be downright debilitating.

Bipolar Disorder: What's Normal, What's Not?

Here's how to measure normal daily emotions against mania and depression.

Could Ketamine Treat Depression?

Discovering new treatments for mental health diseases is a complicated endeavor with plenty of dead ends. Sometimes, however, an impractical finding opens the door to new possibilities.

Ho'oponopono: The Hawaiian Secret to Happiness

In a time of high-tech medicine, can a simple technique involving nothing more than the power of your own mind be the key to health and happiness?

Dysthymia: The Other Depression

Dysthymia is a depressive condition that isn t quite as severe as full-blown depression, but lasts longer and can affect your life in many of the same ways.

Could You Be Bipolar?

We all have our ups and downs; however, if they're too extreme, it may be indicative of a larger issue.

Are You Neurotic?

While some symptoms of neurotic behavior are natural, displaying too many could have a negative effect on your relationships.

Phobias: Who Has Them and Why?

There are five main categories of intense, unrealistic fears about certain things and situations.

Don't Let Winter Rob Your Energy

Feel invigorated during the darker months with these four expert how-to tips.

Women, Men, and Depression

Depression affects both men and women. But there are key difference in their symptoms.

Feng Shui Your Way to a Better Mood

Making small, inexpensive changes to your personal environment can go a long way toward improving your quality of life.

Dealing With Regret and Remorse

New research reveals that how you handle such emotions can make a big difference in your well-being.

Adult ADHD: 3 Treatment Options

Combining education, medication, and psychotherapy shows promise.

Living With Invisible Pain

You look well. What are the challenges when you feel anything but on the inside?

Key Depression Risks as You Age

Depression is not a normal part of aging, but it is common. Be aware of these triggers.

How to Avoid Holiday Anxiety

Prevent feeling overcome by the season of stress with these tips.

When to Seek Help for Anxiety

Some anxiety is healthy. But these signs mean it's time to get support.

When a Loved One Threatens Suicide

Approach this sensitive situation with these steps.

Eccentric or Mental Health Issue?

Distinguish the signs of mental illness from other behaviors that may seem odd.

Is Depression Hereditary?

By looking at patterns of mental illness in families with twins and those who have experienced trauma, researchers have uncovered new answers.

Is Depression a Looming Crisis for Baby Boomers?

Statistics paint a worrisome picture when it comes to aging Americans and mental illnesses like depression.

Pain Medication Addiction: Have You Crossed the Line?

This medication can be a blessing and a curse. Here's how to tell if you, or a loved one, have crossed the line into addiction.

Depression Doubters: How to Deal With Non-Believers

Your condition is real. Here's what to say and do when people say your depression is "all in your head."

Nomophobia: 2 out of 3 Adults Have it, Do You?

Do you recognize these telltale signs of the fear of being out of cell phone contact? Here's how to manage your obsession.

Back Pain Could Be a Sign of Depression

One startling example of the mind-body connection is the link between back pain and depression.

Could Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs Also Prevent Depression?

Commonly used to prevent coronary heart disease, statins may also lower the risk of major depression.

How Does Anxiety Differ for Women and Men?

When it comes to mental health disorders such as anxiety, there are big differences between the genders.

The Link Between Peripheral Artery Disease and Depression

Psychosocial factors like stress and depression can have an adverse effect on cardiac health. Here's what you can do.

Can Loneliness Be Deadly for the Elderly?

It's a real and hidden danger among the older generation. Here are ways to combat isolation.

Could a Blood Test Reveal Depression?

Typically diagnosed based on questions and answers, it's possible that the blood holds the truth about who is depressed.

Why Sleep Apnea Can Be a Road to Depression

This sleep disorder can do more than interrupt your rest.

A Depression Treatment Now Used for Pain

Typically a treatment for patients suffering from depression, transcranial direct current stimulation shows benefits for those coping with chronic pain.

Low Testosterone: Causes and Treatments

"Low T" or hypogonadism can cause undesired changes. Here's what you can do.

Why Does Time Outside Boost Your Mood?

It's now a proven fact. Being in and around nature makes people feel good.

Teen Health: Top Issues That Are Overlooked

These serious issues require medical attention. Here's how to recognize the problem and get it addressed.

How Is Mental Illness Tested and Diagnosed?

How do doctors measure and diagnose conditions from anxiety to personality disorders, especially when there is more than one condition involved?

Even a Good Job Can Cause Depression

There's no debating the stress of some jobs. But even enjoyable work can encourage mood disorders.

How an Economic Downturn Affects Your Health

When the downturn boosts death rates, it's time to identify the issues and make changes where you can.

What Causes Impotence in Men?

Thanks to TV ads erectile dysfunction is no longer under the covers. Still, misconceptions remain. Learn what causes impotence and ways to reduce your risk.

Don't Let Work Stress Cause You to Overeat

Stress can stir up an emotional appetite that can lead to overeating. The best solution is to find something other than food to take the edge off.

Help Your Teen Cope With Anxiety

As many as 25 percent of teens suffer from a form of anxiety. Use these tips to help your child cope.

How Grief Affects the Body

Not only is it emotionally painful, grief takes a toll on your physical health as well.

Why Do Headaches and Depression Go Together?

People who live with depression often also suffer from headaches. What's the link?

Psychotherapy: The Myths and the Facts

Strip away the stigma and misconceptions. Here are four common myths debunked.

Antidepressant Fears and Facts

What are common concerns about these highly-prescribed drugs?

Should Your Broken Heart Be Treated Medically?

Broken Heart Syndrome can be harmful to your mind and body, and it can be treated.

Understanding Depression

Get the real story on America's most prevalent mental illness from symptoms and diagnosis to treatment.

Wide Awake in America

Insomnia affects more than 70 million Americans. Find out more about what's keeping you awake at night.

7 Bipolar Disorder Myths—Busted

When it comes to bipolar disorder, it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction. Here, we debunk the biggest myths surrounding the disease.

8 Ways to Prevent Manic Episodes

Follow these tips to help reduce the likelihood of a manic episode.

ADHD in the Classroom

For students, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder can present a host of unique challenges and opportunities.

Are You a Perfectionist?

Get the top eight signs, and learn how to break the cycle.

Are You Too Nice For Your Own Good?

Learn how to find the middle ground between being accommodating and being stepped on.

Can You Really Learn to Forgive and Forget?

You've probably heard you should "forgive and forget." But new research shows old standard is flawed logic. Here's a better way to process your emotions.

7 Tips to Prevent Depression Relapse

Although depression is treatable, some patients, especially those with more severe cases, can suffer a relapse.

Full Spectrum: Bipolar Disorder

Not so black and white: study concludes bipolar disease is more of a spectrum disorder.

Should You Watch TV Before Bed?

Approximately two-thirds of adults watch TV in the hour before they go to bed. If you have ongoing sleep problems, ask yourself if you're one of them.

Finding the Emotional Benefits in Adversity

Persevering through trying times may have long-term benefits, new research suggests. What can you reap from life's difficulties?

How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Can Treat Pain

Mind over matter: You've heard it so many times, it may seem meaningless. But new research shows how emotional therapy helps to make pain symptoms easier to bear.

Oppositional Defiant Disorder: Could Your Child Have This?

While some disobedience is a normal part of a child's development, overly troubling behavior is not. Watch out for these signs.

How Pets Can Help Your Chronic Pain Symptoms

Bringing a pet into your home is a big commitment, but it can come with serious rewards including a potential reduction of your pain.

Emotional Benefits of Being a Working Mom

Balancing office and home life can create conflicts between demands and stress from both sides. But there may also be healthy benefits to working outside the home.

5 Tips to Combat Depression-Related Lethargy

Depression related lethargy is frustrating and can interfere in your daily activities. Here are simple steps you can take to lessen the impact.

How Genetics Affects Your Decision Making

Neuroeconomics, a relatively new branch of science, is slowly unraveling how specific gene variations influence how we make decisions. Read on to find out how your may be affected.

Could You Have Depression Without Sadness?

Sadness is the most widely recognized symptom of depression. But it is possible to be clinically depressed without being sad. Could you or someone you know be suffering and not know it?

Caffeine and Depression: Does It Help or Does It Hurt?

For many adults, there's nothing like a good, hot cup of coffee to get you going in the morning. Few people, however, know the profound effect caffeine has on their mood.

Why You Should Get Along With Coworkers

A recent study provides more evidence for what most of us know intuitively--getting along with people at work is good for you. The study reports that having a positive relationship with coworkers has long-term mental and physical health benefits.

Is Sleep Loss Leaving You Depressed?

Several studies have shown that lack of sleep has a profound effect on your mental well-being and that, for some people, chronic insomnia increases the risk of developing a psychological disorder such as depression or anxiety.

Overcoming the Depression Stigma

Despite the prevalence of mental health disorders and society's increasing awareness of them, stigmas about mental illness persist. Follow these tips to get past the misnomers.

Why Men Have Difficulty Discussing Their Problems

A new observational study uncovered why men seem to struggle when it comes to talking about their problems. Read on to get the scoop.

Do You Have Diabetes and Smoke? Read This

It's a life-threatening habit for anyone, but for individuals with diabetes, smoking is even more lethal and could be tied to another dangerous condition.

Depression Fallout: Managing Depression in Your Relationship

If you're the partner of someone who is depressed, it can take a toll on your relationship and your own mental health. Here, a guide to keeping your relationship intact in the face of mental illness.

Could You Be in a Codependent Relationship?

A healthy dependency is a two-way relationship; both parties contribute to it in positive ways. A codependent relationship, in contrast, is an unhealthy, dysfunctional, perhaps even abusive, one-sided relationship.

Suspect a Loved One Is Suicidal? 6 Essential Steps

Being confronted with a loved one who is considering suicide is frightening and distressing, and you may be at a loss as to what to do. By responding with these six steps, you might actually save someone's life.

The Link Between Your Relationship and Your Health

Research shows that people in stable, supportive marriages are generally mentally and physically healthier than couples in relationships fraught with conflict.

5 Keys to Raising Emotionally Healthy Kids

Strong parenting and emotional well-being are closely connected. Dr. Gerald Newmark, author of the book "How to Raise Emotionally Healthy Children," offers his top child-rearing strategies.

Why You Crave Sugar

If you're craving sugar, the problem may be more serious than merely trying to satisfy an occasional sweet tooth. You may be addicted to sugar.

A Difficult Childhood and How You Handle Stress Now

New research reveals possible reasons why some folks sweat the small stuff and others go with the flow.

The Link Between the State of the Economy and Suicide Rates

During the Great Depression, suicide rates hit their highest level ever, increasing almost 23 percent over the four years of the depression. Since then, suicide rates have consistently risen during times of economic downturns.

The Emotional Toll of Social Networking

Some mental health experts believe social networking can increase stress and anxiety, and they've have even coined names to describe this phenomenon, such as Social Media Anxiety, Social Networking Anxiety, and Facebook Depression.

Can Sunshine Make You Depressed?

Does summertime make you sad? While most people welcome the warm weather, long days, and opportunities for outdoor activities, a small percent of the population feels depressed instead.

Is It OCD or Something Else?

One of the challenges in diagnosing mental health disorders is that symptoms of different diseases tend to overlap. Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) and obsessive compulsive personality disorder (OCPD) are two related conditions that are easy to confuse.

The Truth About Cyber Support Groups

While talking to a trained mental health professional can be invaluable for many patients, nothing compares to talking to others who are going through the same experience. But can the Internet substitute quality interpersonal dialogue?

How to Adjust to Life Without Antidepressants

Antidepressants are the most commonly prescribed medication in the country, so mental health experts are trying to understand if, when, and how patients should cease taking them. Here, a guide to the transition to life without depression medication.

How Your Work Schedule Affects Your Mood

Work in the United States has become a 24-hour phenomenon. Working irregular hours may also lead to a condition characterized by insomnia, excessive sleepiness during work, difficulties concentrating, headaches, and lack of energy.

How Depression Affects Your Sleep

Although a few short nights can make us cranky and irritable, generally our mood returns to normal once we've resumed our regular sleeping routine. For individuals who struggle with depression, however, insomnia can be a chronic problem.

How Does Stress Affect Your Brain?

You're a smart person. So why, when you're under the most stress, does it seem your brain shuts down and your intelligence disappears?

How to Manage Your Chronic Illness-Related Depression

Depression is one of the most common complications in people with chronic illness, occurring in up to one-third of chronically ill patients. Learn how to manage your symptoms with these tips.

The Link between Mom's Symptoms and Her Child's Depression

Having children is an exciting, rewarding experience for most parents. For women suffering from depression, however, parenting is especially difficult and untreated depression can have long-lasting effects on their children.

Could You Be a Hoarder and Not Know It?

The topic of hoarding might make good fodder for TV program ratings and mindless entertainment for viewers. But it's a real problem that affects real people. Is it possible that you're among the 15 million who suffer from it?

Could You Be Too Sensitive?

Being sensitive can be an admirable trait. However, if you're highly affected by other people's moods and actions, you could be too sensitive.

No More Depression Symptoms? Are You in the Clear?

Just because your symptoms are gone, doesn't mean your depression is. In fact, many relapse as soon as six months after treatment. Read on for triggers and preventative measures.

Exercise Away Your Panic Attacks

You know physical activity is good for you, and that lack of exercise is associated with negative physical and mental outcomes. However, did you know exercise is also an effective way to stop a panic attack in its tracks?

Could You Have Borderline Personality Disorder?

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a severe and chronic mental health condition that disrupts a person's ability to regulate their emotions. Read on to get the comprehensive information you need to navigate the condition.

4 Avoidable Depression Complications

Mental health disorders such as depression permeate every aspect of your life, and may cause a multitude of other complications, some of which are even life threatening. Most, however, are easily avoided.

Can Looking at Magazine Pictures Damage Your Body Image?

Flipping through magazines, you see page after page of impossibly skinny and perfect people. Many magazines use photography angles, effects, and techniques to alter what you see, but could these photos be subconsciously affecting your confidence and self-image?

Could You Have Treatment-Resistant Depression?

While medication generally provides significant relief from depression, many patients find their symptoms persist. A variety of factors can contribute to treatment-resistant depression; however, with a bit of know-how, you can find a treatment regimen that works.

Building Relationships After Depression

Many things can temporarily derail a relationship, including an episode of depression. It is possible, however, to get relationships back on track after treatment.

Can Music Help Treat Emotional Pain?

Using music as a tool to heal dates back to Aristotle and Plato. But can the right tunes address modern day emotional woes? Read on to find out.

Bipolar Disorder vs. Borderline Personality Disorder

Many symptoms of mental illnesses overlap and can fluctuate from day to day, or week to week. This problem often occurs with two common mental health conditions: bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder.

5 Myths about Panic Disorders

Panic attacks are frightening and disruptive enough, and you don't need the additional stress of worrying about whether common misconceptions about panic disorders are true.

The Link between Chronic Pain and Obesity

Chronic pain and obesity are epidemics in the United States and new research is shedding some light on why. A new study that obesity and pain are also linked to each other as well as other conditions.

Could You Have Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

Do you tend to worry too much about everyday things, even when there's no real reason for worry? Do you have trouble relaxing, concentrating, or sleeping? Are you plagued with unexplained aches and pains? If you answered yes, you may be suffering from Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

What's to Blame for Your Bad Habits?

If you've struggled with giving up a bad habit, or trying to create a new one, don't be too hard on yourself; it's not a personal weakness or lack of self-control. Turns out, there's a whole science behind habit formation.

The Link Between Depression and Parkinson's Disease

Forty to 50 percent of Parkinson s patients also suffer from depression. Not only does it cause poorer quality of life for patients, depression is associated with faster progression of physical symptoms and greater cognitive decline.

Take a Deep Breath: How Breathing Can Remedy Anxiety

Have you ever stopped to take a deep breath (or two or three) in the midst of an anxiety-provoking situation? That s a smart move. Breathing is an effective way to tame the symptoms of anxiety.

7 Ways to Ensure You're Getting the Help You Need

Appropriate treatment not only makes you feel better and improves the quality of your life, it helps prevent a relapse in the future. Read on for 7 tips to guarantee you're receiving the treatment you need.

How to Prevent Lapses in Judgment

Has your unconscious come to surface and forced you into a sticky, embarrassing situation? If so, worry not. There are ways to bounce back.

What Has the Biggest Impact on Your Happiness?

What's the key to happiness? While some believe it's a genetic trait shared by a lucky few, recent studies find that true happiness comes as a result of the choices we make.

Are Eating Disorders Genetic?

Genetics play a significant role in mental health disorders. Individuals who have one or more family members with a mental health disease are more likely to develop a brain disorder than those without a family history. This link holds true for eating disorders as well.

An Expert Overview on Personality Disorders

Personality is a combination of thoughts and behaviors that are unique to each individual. It is the way everyone views the world and yourself. In general, individuals with personality disorders have different perceptions of life and thought processes.

Why Allergies Can Increase Suicide Risk

Every once in a while, allergy symptoms can be overwhelmingly intolerable. But can it be so intolerable that thoughts of suicide emerge?

What to Do About the Body Blues

Millions of women go undiagnosed with an extremely common mood disorder called the Body Blues. Instead of showing up as sadness or depression, Body Blues are often signified by weight gain, fatigue, and a low sex drive (among other symptoms).

5 Tips for Managing Your Bipolar Triggers

You can minimize a bipolar episode and maintain some control over your life with a bit of planning and being aware of your environment. Here are a few suggestions for managing your bipolar triggers.

Could You Have Selective Eating Disorder?

The National Eating Disorders Association estimates that about 10 million people in the U.S. suffer from eating disorders.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder: Are You at Risk?

You may not realize that something as mundane as a car accident could put you at major risk for this disorder.

Polysubstance Dependence

In discussing substance dependence, most individuals focus on the use of only one substance at a time. On the other hand, some individuals do not have a drug of choice and will use any substance in order to achieve intoxication.

Does Anxiety Cause Joint Pain?

Joint pain may seem to naturally result from purely physical ailments such as arthritis, but there's significant evidence that joint pain can be caused or exacerbated by mental distress.

6 Ways to Make This New Year's Eve a Cheerful One

Although many people enjoy New Year's Eve parties and festivities, if you find them a bit depressing, you're not alone. New Year's doesn't have to be a dreary occasion, however. Here are a few ideas to tip the scales and make this New Year's Eve a cheerful one.

How Anxiety Affects Your Pain Symptoms

Many patients report pain several months or more after having surgery and scientists are developing clues as to why. Several studies have focused on understanding the interlinking roles of genetics, anxiety and pain.

Can Anger Increase Your Pain?

As if anger and sadness weren't tough enough, new studies indicate they may be even tougher on women with chronic pain, particularly fibromyalgia.

Sleep Deprivation and Teen Depression

If your teenager seems depressed, the problem could be in the bedroom.

Be a Better Spouse for a Depressed Partner

Considering how prevalent depression is, it s not surprising that many marriages have at least one spouse who suffers from depression. Over time, untreated depression can really take a toll on relationships.

Don't Let Depression Ruin Your Sex Life

People with depression typically lose interest in many activities they once enjoyed, including sex. This can significantly reduce their quality of life. Because many patients are reluctant to discuss sexual problems with their physician, the problem often goes unidentified and untreated.

Is Addiction Hereditary?

Generally, society harshly judges people who suffer from drug and alcohol addiction. We tend to assume these individuals have a character flaw or personality weakness. Addiction, however, is a very real and complex disease, just as heart disease is.

How Ragweed Allergies Can Affect Your Mood

Ragweed allergies can consist of never ending itchiness and a terrible time of coughing and sneezing. But did you know it can also depress you?

The Pros and Cons of Perfectionism

A perfectionist is someone who constantly strives to achieve extremely high standards. You would expect perfectionism to be a good personality trait, but it usually isn t.

The Dangers of Being Cynical

Do you believe that most people will tell a lie if they think they can gain by it? If you answered yes to this question, chances are you have a bit of a cynical streak.

Does Your Outlook on Life Affect Your Eyesight?

A recent study demonstrates that depression actually alters the way people visually see the world.

Got a Problem? Sleep on It

Remember the last time you noodled over a problem but didn't arrive at a suitable solution? Chances are, you put it out of your mind and told yourself you d sleep on it, only to wake the next day with the answer.

Are You Paranoid or Just Cautious?

Do you or does someone you know feel distrustful of others, suspecting their motives and finding hidden meanings in their comments? This persistent and unfounded mistrust is the cornerstone of paranoia disorders.

Marijuana and Mental Health

While using, marijuana smokers can become irrational and behave erratically. Some users experience feelings of panic, anxiety or paranoia.

6 Steps to Manage Your Anger

Anger is a normal emotion and a natural response to real or perceived threats. Angry feelings can range from mild irritation to intense rage. When anger is felt too intensely, too frequently, or expressed inappropriately, it becomes a problem.

Keeping Your Cool in a Negative Work Environment

A study of the effect of work environment on employee mental health found that a negative environment, defined in the study as poor team climate, was significantly associated with depressive disorders and antidepressant use.

The Truth About Binge Eating

You ve probably heard of anorexia and bulimia, two widely recognized eating disorders. However, binge eating disorder is far more prevalent.

Marijuana: Its Effect on Schizophrenia

For several decades, researchers have associated pot (marijuana or cannabis) to an increased risk for developing schizophrenia, a severe and disabling brain disorder.

The Link between the Media and Substance Abuse

Research has demonstrated that substance abuse (illicit drugs, alcohol and tobacco) is one of the most serious health problems in the nation. Here, the role the media plays in our understanding of substance abuse.

The Truth about Suicide Risk in Senior Facilities

Of the 35 million Americans 65 and older, roughly seven million suffer from either major depression or a less severe form of depression.

What to Do When Anxiety Keeps You Awake

People with anxiety have a significantly higher incidence of insomnia, and insomniacs are at much greater risk of developing an anxiety disorder.

7 Common Pain Symptoms in Depressives

People who suffer from chronic pain are three times more likely to develop mood or anxiety disorders, and depressed people are three times more likely to develop chronic pain.

Understanding Mental Health and Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) may interfere with making the appropriate mental health diagnosis, thus complicating treatment.

Will Ecstasy Work for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

You know it as the club drug. However, ecstasy may also play a role in treating a prevalent anxiety disorder called Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Can Acupuncture Cure Pregnancy-Related Depression?

Pregnancy is normally a time of joy and anticipation. For women who suffer from depression, it can also create confusion and concern about how antidepressant medications might affect their baby s health. Fortunately, acupuncture may be a good alternative for treating pregnancy-related depression.

Low-Fat or Low-Carb Diet for Depression

The association between what we eat and our mental health is growing, adding to the evidence that diet can play a key role in preventing depression.

The Expert's Take: Adult vs. Child Hoarding

Popularized by cable TV, hoarding has become a well-known occurrence. Here, forensic psychologist Debra Warner examines this phenomenon in part 2 of her weekly series.

Breast Cancer and Depression: Two Habits That Help

Unfortunately, there is a link between breast cancer and depression. In fact, about 25 percent of women with breast cancer suffer from significant depression.

Is Stress Causing Your Insomnia?

We all experience the occasional night where we can t seem to fall asleep or we toss and turn all night. It s frustrating, but generally, not detrimental. However, chronic insomnia can be harmful to our health, and stress is often the behind-the-scenes culprit.

Personality Type and Work Stress

You've seen him or her at work: aggressive, racing against the clock, competitive, always multitasking. The typical type A personality type. Recently, experts have examined whether personality type plays a role in workplace stress. They found personality type did, and didn't, correlate to stress.

The Expert's Take: Hoarding Part 1

Popularized by cable TV, hoarding has become a well-known occurrence. Here, forensic psychologist Debra Warner examines this phenomenon in part 1 of her weekly series.

How to Use Weather to Boost Your Mood

Temperature, sunshine, humidity, and barometric pressure influence how we feel physically and how well we perform mentally. Despite skeptics, many scientists believe weather is an important factor in mood and mental functioning.

Coping Skills: When a Loved One Self-Medicates

It s difficult to watch someone you care about hurting. Here are a few tips to help you cope when a loved one is self-medicating.

Social Media and Depression

With Facebook, Twitter,and chat rooms, we are connected to each other like never before, thanks to the Internet and social media sites. But is all this connectedness a good thing?

The Link Between Depression and Obesity

In yet another example of the inseparable link between mental and physical health, medical experts are noting the increase in depression among people who are obese, especially as they age.

Health, Wellness, and Depression

Forensic psychologist Debra Warner, Psy.D., examines how you perceive yourself and the world around you can affect your overall health.

Juvenile Detention, Recidivism, and Mental Health

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, 67.5 percent of individuals released from state detention facilities are arrested again within three years. The reason for the repeat behavior is that offenders often lack appropriate strategies for coping with problems in some or all of these areas: employment, substance abuse, marital or family counseling, social activity, emotional support, attitude changes, and education.

Could You Have OCD?

As its name implies, individuals with this mental health disorder alternate between obsessive thoughts and behaviors, and compulsive rituals to try to control the obsessions. This cycle is disruptive and causes stress and anxiety. In many cases, OCD interferes in an individual s ability to engage in work, school or other daily activities. Approximately 2.2 million Americans suffer from OCD.

Love, Passion, and Depression

Forensic psychologist Debra Warner explains how love and passion can give way to depression and how you can negotiate a balance between your relationship and your emotions.

Young Adults and Anxiety

If you have children, be aware of the symptoms of anxiety. According to researchers, the prevalence of anxiety disorders in young people is rising, putting youth at risk for long-term mental and physical health problems.

Anxiety and Life Changes

We all know that little saying, "the only constant in life is change?" Well for those who suffer from anxiety, change can be a big problem.

The Dangers of Self-Medicating

Sometimes you know what you need to feel better and other times you think you know. Find out when you need to rethink you treatment habits.

Is Loneliness Contagious?

Is loneliness contagious? According to recent studies, it is.

The Link between Parenting Styles and a Child's Behavior

How one's parents can have a direct effect on a child's behavior including his outlook on the world around him.

Eating Habits and Mood

Sure, how we eat affects us physically. What you may not know, however, is how your eating habits can affect your mood.

Expert Advice: Pregnancy and Depression

Postpartum depression is a common, and troublesome, occurrence. Psychologist Debra Warner explores the issue in her weekly column.

Frequent Moves in Childhood Tied to Teen Suicide Risk

The risk of suicide increases directly with the number of times a child or adolescent moves, says a recent study.

When Does Depression Peak?

Research shows that we are most likely to feel depressed when we reach middle age.

Conduct Disorder and Your Child

Almost five percent of all American children are diagnosed with this disruptive disorder.

Is It Dementia or Something Else?

Dementia and pseudo-dementia are two conditions whose symptoms closely resemble one another. The recommended treatments and probable outcomes for each condition, however, vary greatly.

The Link between Your Weight and Personality Disorders

Studies show that overweight women were at a greater risk of antisocial, paranoid, and avoidant personality disorders.

Share Your Story. Become a Health Hero.

Have you or a loved one survived a life-threatening disease? Are you currently struggling with depression, chronic pain, heart disease, or other health-related condition? Have you gone to extraordinary lengths to help someone in a health crisis? If so, we want to hear from you!

How to Combat Holiday Depression

Do the holidays take a toll on your mood year after year? Put into practice some proven tools to combat holiday depression and you could make this holiday season one of the best ones yet.

The Job Stress and Stroke Connection

Men who feel stressed at work are at a greater risk of having a stroke.

10 Natural Stressbusters

Stress affects millions of people in the US every year. If untreated, stress can cause serious health problems and speed-up the aging process. Health professionals encourage patients to integrate natural stress busters into their daily routine to reduce stress and improve their quality of life.

Can Keeping a Routine Help Control Bipolar Symptoms?

Studies show a daily routine may make a big difference for people with bipolar disorder.

Panic Attacks and Mitral Valve Prolapse

Many believe that panic attacks and mitral valve prolapse are linked. But is this the truth? Read on to get what the studies are really saying.

Seasonal Affective Disorder: Is Tanning a Good Idea?

Health professionals warn against using tanning beds or booths to relieve seasonal affective disorder symptoms.

Having a Sibling with Mental Disorder Increases Depression Risk

Family ties may boost your risk for depression.

Depression and Shopping: Does "Retail Therapy" Exist?

Shopping to cope with depression may provide temporary relief, while causing long-lasting damage to your health and finances.

Depression Dulls Brain s Pleasure Center

New treatment for depression may be possible based on study that shows how this mood disorder affects areas of brain involved in pleasure.

Fibromyalgia and Depression

Suffering from fibromyalgia? Learn more about the risks of depression and what you can do to protect yourself from this mood disorder.

Wednesday: The Deadliest Day for Suicide

New study marks Wednesday as the most likely day for people to attempt suicide.

Job Stress and Depression

Stress at work is linked to depression which can increase absenteeism and affect your income. Learn how to recognize the symptoms and how to reduce stress in your workplace.

The Connection Between Creativity and Mood Disorders

Researchers find more evidence that creativity and mood disorders are linked.

Depression During Menopause: Causes and Solutions

Here's what you can do to stay emotionally healthy during this important period of your life.

Suicide Connected to Family History

A family history may make a person more likely to commit suicide. Find out what increases and decreases the risks.

Depression May Up Your Risk for Alzheimer's Disease

Study shows that people suffering from depression who have memory problems are more likely to develop Alzheimer s.

Battling Seasonal Affective Disorder

Every fall, millions of Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, a form of major depression.

Heart Disease and Depression: What's the Link?

Learn more about this important connection.

Frequent Nightmares May Increase Your Risk of Suicide

Persistent nightmares and sleep problems when you have depression may make you more prone to thoughts of suicide.

Are Night Owls More Prone to Depression?

A new study suggests that your bedtime may be closely tied to the state of your mental health.

Can a Thyroid Disorder Cause Depression?

Did you know that depression is not always solely about life events or brain chemistry gone awry--that a malfunction of your thyroid gland can also cause depression or anxiety?

Can Chronic Pain Really Bring on Depression?

While we often assume that an emotional crisis precipitates a bout of depression, that's not always the case.

Depression and Crohn s Disease

Depression--it s not all in your head and it does matter.

Asthma and Other Health Conditions

It's bad enough that you have asthma, but to make matters worse, do you also have to suffer from a variety of other illnesses?

Low Serotonin Levels May Be Causing Your Depression

Learn about this key connection.

The Link Between Chronic Stress and Depression

Learn how these two conditions are connected and what you can do combat them.

Could a B12 Deficiency Be Causing Your Depression?

If you're not getting enough B12 in your diet, your entire well-being may be paying the price.

Depression Could Up Your Risk of Heart Disease

Find out if you're at risk of heart disease and what you can do to protect yourself.

Could Your Child Be Depressed?

Learn what steps you can take when it comes to diagnosis and treatment.

Could Low Vitamin D Levels Be Causing Your Depression?

Find out how more D in your diet can help your mental health.

Can a Pet Help You Defeat Depression?

Learn how a furry (or scaly) friend can help lift your spirits.

The Facts About Workplace Depression

More than 200 million days of work are missed each year due to employee depression. Get the whole story here.

Understanding Depression in Men

The disease can wear a very different face on men than it does on women.

Heart Disease and Depression: What s the Link?

Depression has been linked to a higher likelihood of cardiovascular disease.

Pregnancy and Depression: What You Need to Know

Here's what you need to know about this crucial topic.

4 Reasons Why Marriage Makes People Fat

Gain a spouse...and gain weight, too? Learn why tying the knot can contribute to unwanted pounds.

8 Ways to Become Less Cynical

Skepticism and pessimism can wreak havoc on your health. Here, how to make some important attitude adjustments.

Is There Really Such a Thing as a Broken Heart?

As it turns out, heartbreak may be more than just a metaphor.

The Different Types of Bipolar Disease

Bipolar disorder represents not a single disease, but a spectrum of disorders. Learn about the most common forms.

Are You an Optimist or a Pessimist?

Do you see the glass as half-empty or half-full? Your answer could have major effects on your health.

Dispelling the Top 10 Depression Myths

Nearly 7 percent of Americans suffer from depression, but the disease is often misunderstood. Here, we separate fact from fiction.

As This Year Ends

Follow these basic strategies to manage your time more efficiently in the coming year.

The 10 Most Depressing Jobs

A national survey recently examined 21 major occupational categories and found that people who change diapers, tend to the elderly, and wait tables have the highest rates of depression, while the lowest rates occur among engineers, architects, and surveyors.

Beating the Holiday Blues: Understanding SAD

An estimated 10 million Americans, or about 6 percent of the U.S. population, experience these feelings in their most extreme form--a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

What Causes Schizophrenia?

Research points to a complex combination of known factors.
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