This page is about our Shining a Light on Bipolar Disorder.
Is there something like the perfect family? Certainly not. We all experience some form of dysfunction in our family environments. So what constitutes a dysfunctional family and how does mental health play a role? Let’s start off by defining the term “dysfunctional family” What is a dysfunctional family? Dysfunctional families
Sleeping disorders are classified as the inability to fall asleep easily and includes disrupted sleeping patterns The Human Sciences Research council revealed that one in 14 South Africans struggle with some sort of sleep disorder, which is linked to their overall mental health wellbeing. *Amanda (not her real name) struggles most nights
Because the end of June marks SANCA’s Drug Awareness Week, we’ve decided to take a closer look at substance abuse in relation to mental health. In our post about dual diagnosis we explored how people suffering from a mental illness develops a substance abuse problem as a result of that mental
In observation of Health Awareness Month, we’re looking at the various ways that underscore the significant connection between body and mind. In previous posts we addressed how physical health impacts mental health and in the case of eating disorders this connection is most amplified. The first thing that needs emphasis is that an eating
A recent study done in 2018 has confirmed the worst – South African teens are in a depression crisis. Not exactly the best way to go into Youth Month, but it’s necessary to understand what we’re dealing with so that our teens can get the help they need. The stark
On the 16th of February, two of ZwavelStream Clinic’s psychiatrists featured in an interview hosted by “Die Groot Ontbyt” a show hosted by Kyknet South Africa. In this discussion on mental health, Dr Melissa Janse van Rensburg & Dr Louis Roos spoke about the role of psychiatry and how today’s environment impacts our mental health. Before we tell
We have all heard the term before, but what does it mean? Bulimia or Bulimia nervosa is a serious mental disorder that can affect anyone of any gender, age or background. People who suffer from this are trapped in a cycle of eating large amounts of food and then trying
Joy bells may be ringing, but for some, the holidays are far from cheerful and bright. Commonly referred to as ‘holiday blues’, this condition is marked by temporary feelings of anxiety or depression (or even both). There are several possible causes for this, which can stem from feelings of sadness,
In the past, a child having an imaginary friend would have been cause for concern. Many a parent has sought help to rid their child of this ‘problem’, convinced that it was a bad thing that indicated a deeper issue with their child’s mental state. However, research now suggests that
Maintaining mental health involves more than therapy and medication. In recent decades, specialists have found that consistent exercise greatly benefits mental health. With over 16 million adults experiencing at least one significant depressive episode over the course of a year, working out not only contributes as a healthy treatment for depression and
Living with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) can feel like you’re climbing Mount Everest in sandals. Symptoms including forgetfulness, restlessness, and trouble concentrating are all too real, and powerful enough to impact your work, relationships, and day- to-day life. However, all too often, the traits of ADHD are overlooked because of a commonly- held
When a friend or loved one experiences symptoms of a mental health condition, many questions and challenges start presenting. What kind of support will they need from you? How do you find the right words to say to them? One of the most important things to remember with mental health
Acknowledging a mental health problem can be intimidating and probably one of the hardest things to do in general. This is because of the stigma and discrimination surrounding issues of mental illness. With that being said, studies have found that men in particular are losing out when it comes to getting help for mental
On 9 August 1956 more than 20 000 women of different backgrounds, creeds and cultures came together to march to the union buildings in Pretoria. The women of South Africa took a stand and fought for their rights. So on this day, we celebrate all the womankind in South Africa.
Did you know that there is a link between mental health and heart disease Let’s take a look at how the two relate in this article: For long periods of time, people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, and stress or suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may experience physiological effects
Not every Valentine’s Day is all candy and romance Sometimes you may feel like you can’t breathe or wonder when you’ll ever feel okay again The day is anything but sweet for those who have lost a loved one, experienced a breakup, or are preparing to divorce or separate. It
Parents & early child development May is the month that draws our focus to parents as well as children – first with Mother’s Day, and then National Child Protection Week at the end of the month. We therefore thought it fitting to explore the role that mothers and fathers play in
As we enter the first week of January, it is back to reality and business as usual While it may be a major relief for some people, it can be stressful for the majority. This time of the year is financially, physically, and emotionally challenging, even though it brings much
These two terms although very similar have very different meanings and implications. A woman naturally undergoes emotional changes after she has given birth, which is a mild form of depression or ‘baby blues’ as it is also called. The mother will experience changes in her body as her hormones and
Having good mental health goes beyond the lack of any distinctive mental illness. In fact, in one of our previous posts, we discussed the importance of lifestyle when it comes to dealing with everyday stress in healthy ways. The main purpose of this is to protect your mental state and avoid
When viewing bipolar disorder from the outside, this mental health condition can be somewhat confusing If you struggle with manic depression or know someone close to you with this condition, you will most likely see that it is a debilitating chronic condition to live with. Living with bipolar disorder has several challenges, and if
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