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Secondary Traumatic Stress vs. PTSD: What Is the Difference?

Secondary Traumatic Stress vs. PTSD: What Is the Difference?

Trauma manifests in various forms, extending beyond direct personal experience to encompass the profound effects of indirect exposure. While direct...

How Does Vicarious Trauma Affect Helpers

How Does Vicarious Trauma Affect Helpers

Vicarious trauma, also known as secondary traumatic stress, is a psychological phenomenon that affects individuals who work closely with trauma sur...

How Traumatic Experiences Can Influence Depression, Anxiety and Psychosis

How Traumatic Experiences Can Influence Depression, Anxiety and Psychosis

The trauma model of mental disorders, also known as the trauma model of psychopathology, offers a perspective that emphasizes the profound impact o...

Why Is Asking for Help More Complicated Than It Seems?

Why Is Asking for Help More Complicated Than It Seems?

Seeking help is not a singular event but rather a complex, multi-stage process that individuals navigate when facing difficulties. This journey inv...

Psychiatrist Advocates Holistic Approach to Patient Self-Medication, Emphasizing Underlying Needs

Psychiatrist Advocates Holistic Approach to Patient Self-Medication, Emphasizing Underlying Needs

A Johns Hopkins-trained psychiatrist, Alan M. Langlieb, advocates for a comprehensive and non-judgmental approach when patients self-medicate with substances like coffee, nicotine, cannabis, alcohol, or supplements. He argues that these behaviors are often clues to underlying symptoms and unmet needs, rather than merely problematic actions. Langlieb highlights the concept of a drug's 'half-life' to explain why self-medication can lead to cycles of temporary relief followed by rebound distress and repeated use. He criticizes the current healthcare system for often being rushed and fragmented, focusing primarily on prescribed medications while overlooking the patient's self-managed substance use. Instead, he proposes that clinicians inquire about all substances a patient uses, their perceived benefits, and costs, to understand the 'whole person' and build a safer, more coherent life.

Nonprofit 'Friends of Firefighters' Continues Mental Health Support for FDNY Nearly 25 Years After 9/11

Nonprofit 'Friends of Firefighters' Continues Mental Health Support for FDNY Nearly 25 Years After 9/11

The nonprofit organization 'Friends of Firefighters' is continuing its mission to provide mental health services to members of the New York City Fire Department (FDNY), nearly 25 years after the September 11th attacks. Initially established in the aftermath of 9/11 to offer immediate support such as clean socks and food, the organization evolved into a crucial hub for mental health assistance. This ongoing commitment addresses the long-term psychological impact of the 9/11 tragedy on first responders, recognizing that the need for support extends far beyond the immediate crisis. CBS News New York's Cindy Hsu reported on the nonprofit's sustained efforts.

City of Converse, TX, Enhances Employee Wellness with Comprehensive Mental Health Resources

City of Converse, TX, Enhances Employee Wellness with Comprehensive Mental Health Resources

The City of Converse, Texas, is actively expanding its employee wellness program by providing enhanced access to mental health resources. Through a partnership with Guidance Resources, offered by Chubb, city employees now have 24/7 access to mental health care. This includes up to six free face-to-face counseling sessions, access to in-house experts, and a network of care professionals. Additionally, the program offers childcare, financial, and training resources. The city also leverages TXHB, which provides various incentives and resources to promote employee health and engagement. These include an online digital tool called the Mental Health Hub, available through the BCBSTX website and app, designed to help employees find mental health providers, educational resources, and behavioral health support. Another initiative, Headway, simplifies the process of finding and scheduling appointments with mental health providers covered by BCBSTX. The city also offers a $150 incentive program through Circle Wellnes...

Social Media Warning Labels Could Discourage Youth Use, Stanford Study Suggests

Social Media Warning Labels Could Discourage Youth Use, Stanford Study Suggests

A recent study published in JAMA Health Forum indicates that warning labels on social media platforms could discourage use among teenagers and young adults. The national study exposed 13- to 17-year-olds and 18- to 29-year-olds to messages about social media's potential harms, including addiction, negative body image, sleep disruption, depression, anxiety, and overall mental health issues. Participants in both age groups reported that these warnings made them less inclined to use social media and more aware of the risks. Warnings specifically about overall mental health, depression, and anxiety were found to be most persuasive. This research follows Meta's $18 billion settlement in August over claims that its platforms were designed to addict children and harm their mental health.

Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Appoints Kristen Ward as Managing Director of Mental Health Well-Being

Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation Appoints Kristen Ward as Managing Director of Mental Health Well-Being

The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has announced the appointment of Kristen Ward as its new Managing Director of Mental Health & Well-Being. Ward brings extensive experience in mental and environmental health, women's economic development, and corporate philanthropic strategy development. She previously co-founded Mindful Philanthropy, where she served as Vice President of Programs and Knowledge for over six years. In her new role, Ward will be responsible for leading the strategy and execution of the foundation's mental health and well-being initiatives. Her focus will be on partnering with organizations nationwide to support the healthy development of young people during critical life stages: infancy, childhood, and adolescence. Fay Twersky, President of the foundation, highlighted Ward's unique combination of strategic philanthropy expertise, deep understanding of mental health, and commitment to improving outcomes for youth.

American Bar Association Study Reveals Significant Mental Health Distress and Burnout Among Lawyers

American Bar Association Study Reveals Significant Mental Health Distress and Burnout Among Lawyers

A new nationwide study conducted by the American Bar Association (ABA) through its Commission on Lawyer Assistance Programs (CoLAP) and Krill Strategies, a legal advisory firm, has found substantial levels of distress, burnout, and risky alcohol use within the legal profession. This study updates a benchmark established ten years ago, indicating persistent and significant mental health challenges among lawyers. Approximately one-fifth of the lawyers surveyed in the current study reported symptoms that meet thresholds for moderate-to-extremely severe distress across various subscales. This suggests that a considerable portion of the legal community is experiencing potentially clinically meaningful mental health issues. The findings highlight an ongoing crisis in lawyer well-being, underscoring the demanding nature of the profession and its impact on individuals.

I lost my mom to suicide. Here's why I sometimes hate Suicide Prevention Month

I lost my mom to suicide. Here's why I sometimes hate Suicide Prevention Month

My mom died by suicide and Suicide Prevention Month is complicated. Messages to to reach out can feel difficult to those left behind.

Integrated Treatment Recommended for Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders

Integrated Treatment Recommended for Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders

Mental health and substance use disorders frequently co-occur, a condition often referred to as dual diagnosis. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recommends integrated approaches that address both concerns simultaneously, rather than treating them as separate problems. This is because mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and ADHD can either contribute to substance use as a coping mechanism or be exacerbated by it, creating a complex cycle. Integrated treatment involves a multidisciplinary team and various therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma-informed care. The goal is to understand the individual as a whole, considering their emotional health, substance use patterns, physical health, relationships, and environment, to develop a comprehensive and personalized care plan.