Abnormal
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What are the symptoms of depressive disorders?
Depressive disorders, also known as mood disorders, are a group of mental health conditions that can cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities. These disorders can range from mild to severe and can interfere with a person’s ability to function in their daily life. It is important to recognize the symptoms of a depressive…
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Psychological Disorders: History of Mental Illness
In his TEDx talk “How mental illness changed human history – for the better,” David Whitley explores the often overlooked role that mental illness has played in shaping human history. He argues that mental illness, far from being a hindrance, has actually been a driving force behind some of the greatest achievements in human history. Whitley begins by debunking the…
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Borderline Personality Disorder
Wikipedia – Borderline Personality Disorder What Does Recovery Look Like for Those With Borderline Personality Disorder? This clip shows Becky, who has borderline personality disorder. The disorder is briefly described. Becky discusses her interactions with others, including her need for physical contact from trusted friends and family, and her physical manifestation of her unhappiness self-mutilation (cutting). Therapy has helped Becky…
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Lobotomy PBS documentary on Walter Freeman
[Video contains some disturbing images] PBS shows Walter Freeman and his experiments with lobotomies and how it was used in the treatment of mental disorders. Thorazine, however, was marketed as a chemical lobotomy and offered a safer solution to surgery. What were the various conditions Freeman treated with a lobotomy? How many lobotomies did Freeman perform before being stripped of…
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Rorschach Test by Adam Lore
In this brief film, Adam Lore sets 10 of Roschachs original inkblot plates to music. Visit the Fox Illinois website regarding the controversy over the availability of this reference testing on the internet. What concerns do psychologists have considering the way in which a Roschach test should be administered?
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Remembering Columbine
10 years later, CBS news reports commemorate the tragedy that occurred at Columbine High School. Patrick Ireland discusses his experiences amidst the chaos created by Dylan Klebold and Eric Harris, who murdered 12 classmates and 1 teacher and wounded 2 dozen others before committing suicide. What coping strategies are necessary to overcome such a tragedy? What is Rachels Challenge?
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Person-Centered Therapy
The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC) provides an example of person-centered therapy. The counselor in this clip attempts to build a relationship with her client in order to make him more comfortable discussing difficult issues. The client discusses his marital difficulties. What does the counselor do after the client explains the specific issues? In other words, how does she…
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Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC) provides an example of cognitive behavior therapy. Marcia explains that she feels overwhelmed with school, work, and her upcoming wedding. She keeps telling the counselor that shes there because she wants to leave school. What is included on the list that the counselor hands to Marcia? What does the counselor do to help…
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Personality Inventories
Intelecom covers personality assessment tests, its origins, test items, and purposes. Personality inventories have become an increasingly common assessment tool in determining the basic underlying dimensions of an individual’s personality. The use of these inventories may help a person understand and utilize their abilities. What place do personality inventories and assessment tests have in the workplace? In psychological assessments?
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Do I Have an Anxiety Disorder?
Method Description Self-Report Questionnaires Patients can fill out a survey that asks specific questions about symptoms of anxiety disorders. Clinical Interviews A mental health professional can conduct a one-on-one interview to assess the presence of anxiety disorders. Behavioral Observations A clinician can observe the patient’s behavior and responses to certain situations to determine if they have an anxiety disorder. Physiological…
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How Anxiety Affects the Body
Anxiety is a natural human response to stress, and it can affect the body in many different ways. When you feel anxious, your body goes into “fight or flight” mode, which is a physiological response to perceived danger. This response can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including: Rapid heart rate Increased blood pressure Shortness of breath Chest pain Dizziness…
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Anxiety Treatment: Drugs
There are three classes of drugs used to treat anxiety disorders: anti-depressants, benzodiazepines, and beta blockers. Anti-depressants balance hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain, affecting serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine levels. Benzodiazepines affect areas of the brain that control emotional reactions, memory, thinking, consciousness, and coordination. They are prescribed for shorter periods of time. Beta blockers are sometimes prescribed for anxiety…
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Anxiety Disorders in Children and Teens
Dr. Catchpole interviews a fellow psychologist, Dr. Jane Garland, specializing in separation anxiety phobias. When anxieties become too intense and too prolonged, they become a problem. Symptoms fall into three categories: body, mind, and behavior. Anxious children will have headaches, upset stomachs, muscle tension, and racing hearts. They are more emotionally fragile, and may be irritable, avoidant, and throw tantrums.…
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Agoraphobia Featured on Secret Lives of Women: See the CTRN Cure
Secret Lives of Women explores the hidden areas of womens lives, including their fears such as agoraphobia and panic attacks. This documentary shows therapists and phobic patients alike explaining their experiences. One mother, Melissa, was unable to leave her house for years at a time. Melissa was strongly motivated to leave her house to attend her daughters wedding, but was…
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Hypochondria: Diagnosis
Dr. Jon LaPook talks about hypochondria and when it becomes a problem. Dr. Bill Fisher explains that hypochondria is an overwhelming fear of having a serious disease. It must cause extreme distress and or dysfunction and last for at least six months. Another man explains how he thinks he has hypochondriac tendencies. How much of the U.S. population is afflicted…
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Conversion Disorder
This is a clip from an episode of The Pretender that outlines the causes and effects of Conversion disorder. Conversion disorder can’t always be cured and often takes weeks of therapy. There are no medical symptoms for the disorder, but the problems in the patient are very real. What are the symptoms of conversion disorders? What are possible causes of…
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Living with Dissociative Identity Disorder Herschell Walker
Former star NFL running back and Heisman Trophy winner Herschel Walker discusses his experiences with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), otherwise known as multiple personality disorder. In this conversation with Maxine Williams, Walker recounts going to a minister who recommended an exorcism. He then saw a doctor who explained the symptoms and Walker realized (after seeing differences in his own handwriting…
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Numb Depersonalization Disorder
This trailer for the film Numb shows one mans experience with acute depersonalization disorder. He seeks treatment from therapists but is unable to find solace. He tries using drug therapy and becomes completely numb. How common is this condition? What are some possible causes?
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Depression Theories and Treatments
This Discovery Channel clip explains theories about what may cause depression and what treatments are available. Scientists evaluate electrical impulses in the brain and how they affect emotions. Evie, a woman who was so depressed she attempted suicide, exemplifies how Prozac keeps depression at bay. What are some of the events that can spark depression? How does Prozac work?
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Choosing a Psychotherapist
When it comes to seeking help for mental health issues, choosing a psychotherapist can be a daunting task. After all, this person will be responsible for helping you work through some of the most difficult and personal aspects of your life. It is important to find someone who is qualified, experienced, and a good fit for your needs and personality.…
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Bipolar Overview
Once known as manic depression, bipolar disorder affects nearly 6 million adults. Risk factors, symptoms, and latest treatments available are discussed in this AnswersTV.com clip. One in five bipolar patients commits suicide, but many are able to live a normal life using a combination of medications and psychosocial interactions. Bipolar disorder consists of two mood states: energized mania and deep…
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Dysthymic Disorder
This short video describes Dysthymic or Persistent Depressive Disorder. What kind of disorder is dysthymic disorder? What characterizes this disorder? Does this video accurately show those behaviors and attitudes?
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Suicide Trend in Palo Alto, California?
Recently, four students committed suicide in Palo Alto, CA, within six months of each other. All of them threw themselves in front of a commuter train. Three attended the same high school. John Blackstone reports on the incidents and the communitys reaction. Some parents and students think depressed students (or those desperate for attention) see suicide as a way to…
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Teen Commits Suicide with Live Web Audience
A south Florida college student took his own life in front of a live web audience. His sister said when he was around people he seemed very happy. Abraham Biggs took pills and lay down on his bed while viewers watched him die. Biggs struggled with bipolar disorder and told others of his suicide plans. How does suicidal behavior differ…
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Nutrition and Diets: How to Build Up Your Immune System
Christine Marquette explains that there are many things that can be done to build up the immune system, including stress management, physical activity and nutrition. Marquette explains that stress can depress your immune system, and that you should get lots of fruits and vegetables (especially those with antioxidants), and lean protein. She also recommends probiotic-rich yogurt, milk, or cheese. How…
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