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
Winter Blues People often mistakenly categorize depression into two main types – clinical depression, which is serious and requires treatment, and ‘regular’ depression, which is mild and should be soldiered through. The truth of the matter is that there are at least seven different types of depression – none of which should
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
Social media has become a major part of most of our lives and it only seems to be growing, becoming one of the preferred ways of communication. Various platforms have become very popular, considering that 3.2 billion people use social media around the world. This number will increase in years
At the start of autumn and winter, we experience shorter daylight and colder temperatures Subsequently, it can trigger decreased motivation, interest loss, fatigue, and low moods When it comes to the holidays, some individuals may feel more stressed, burnt out, and tend to sleep less and overeat, which results in
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
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,
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
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
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
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
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
Today, one of the most prolific health issues that many have to face each day, is a variety of mental health problems. Many employees have to deal with high-stress environments, long working hours, all of which could have an effect on mental health. This could ultimately lead to a decrease
In a previous article we touched on the relationship between physical health and mental illness, shedding some light on how each has the ability to influence the other. In this article we take a closer look at how regular exercise can be a positive impact on mental health problems. Studies have shown over and
In a previous article, we discussed the increasing prevalence of mental health in South Africa, along with the country’s seeming ignorance regarding the seriousness of the situation. With priority taking the front of what is considered more pressing issues, like physical health, poverty, and crime. Our government is finding itself on the back
Over the years each generation has had to deal with what is known as health shocks. For instance, some generations had to cope with wars or the devastation of epidemics. These types of events can ultimately have an effect on health. The World Health Organisation has referred to these health
Psychologists across the world define resilience as the development of adapting well in the face of adversity. This could be how well you adapt to trauma, everyday life situations and situations with a permanent and long-lasting impact, such as the death of a loved one. During this year we have
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.
Imagine being in pain or having some form of physical distress and every time you visit the doctor; they can find anything wrong. You appear healthy, but the physical symptoms or problems you are experiencing are very real to you. This is close to how a person with somatic symptom
Being diagnosed with cancer is a traumatic experience. After the initial shock, many people may be overwhelmed with anxiety, fear, and uncertainty of what to expect moving forward. Questions swirling in their minds about their condition as well as what the future holds: What type of cancer do I have? Can it be treated? Is my
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