There are three types of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD (and medication is available):
Firstly, type 1 of ADHD (inattention without hyperactivity): Symptoms include
Firstly, trouble to pay attention
Secondly, trouble following directions
Thirdly, trouble following through with tasks
Shy or withdrawn behavior
Easily distracted
He seems disorganized or careless
Slow to process information
Secondly, types 2 of ADHD (hyperactivity without inattention):
Again firstly, trouble to pay attention
Restlessness or Fidgety
Impulsive speech and actions
Excessive Talking
Loud Interactions with Others
Difficulty waiting for turns
Frequent Interruptions
Overactive
May have a quick temper
Finally, above are the 2 main types. In conclusion, then there is a 3rd type, a manifestation of Type 1 and Type 2 combined. All types of ADHD are treatable with medication. Therefore, kindly read our other blogs regarding ADHD for more information. For information in Kannada, kindly click here.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and its types is a neurodevelopmental disorder with no clear etiopathogenesis. However, owing to the unique socio-cultural milieu of INDIA, it is worthwhile reviewing research on ADHD from India and comparing findings with global research. Moreover, many publications give a lot of information about ADHD in INDIA. Click here to read more.
We hope you are keeping well and staying safe. Have a wonderful day.
CONVERSATION: Encourage your child to engage in conversation
ENVIRONMENT: Provide a positive environment for your child so that they can thrive
How to support your Child’s Mental Health
Nevertheless, there are plenty of resources. However, an institute of National Significance – the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences – has a division on child and adolescent mental health, which you could consult. Their website link is here. Finally, consult a neuropsychiatrist if you feel you need to learn more or get help for your kid’s emotional health.
Child sexual abuse is a pressing issue in society today. Moreover, statistically, there is a considerable increase in the number of cases related to juvenile sex abuse over the past decade. Most cases report the abuser as a close family member or a family friend rather than a stranger.
Future Consequences of Child Sexual Abuse-
A sexually abused child is likely to develop severe mental health conditions and has major difficulties coping with as an adult. Therefore, one of the most common disorders affecting survivors of child sexual abuse is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Significantly, this involves the individual reliving the trauma all his/her life – thus leading to panic, stress, and difficulties living a healthy life in the longer run.
Consequently, it is normal for the individuals abused as a child to suffer from very low self-esteem. They continue to blame themselves for the events that occurred and hence have a rather demeaning view of themselves. Thus, this leads to adjustment issues in the future.
They also have a diagnosis of clinical depression owing to the previous trauma. Accordingly, this hampers the everyday functioning of the individual. The individual continues to relive the past traumatic events that further fuel their depression and eventually contribute to the vicious cycle.
Other consequences:
Most often, survivors of child sexual abuse have a rather impulsive nature due to impulse control’s hampered functioning. Subsequently, they have lesser control over their emotions, especially anger, and rather quick to act.
Because of all the complications, there is a good chance that they become socially competent. Thus, they fail to build firm peer relationships. Therefore they grow up to be adults with severe trust issues. Hence, often sidelined because of their cynicism which leads to further depressive symptoms.
By definition, Genophobia or Coitophobia is the abnormal fear of sex. It is another complication that sexually abused kids go on to experience as adults. They usually avoid sexual intercourse altogether. Otherwise, they sometimes engage in sexual activities that come across as rather violent in nature. Some survivors also develop certain sexual fetishes that can be rather dangerous; the most common is ‘pedophilia’ or the sexual arousal involving prepubescent children.
How to cope when you are Feeling Suicidal and have Thoughts
If you are having feeling suicidal thoughts, you’re not alone; many of us have had suicidal thoughts at some point in our lives. Feeling suicide thoughts are not a character defect, and it doesn’t mean that you are crazy, weak, or flawed. It only means that you have more pain than you can cope with right now. This pain seems overwhelming and permanent at the moment. But with time and support, you can overcome your problems, and the pain and suicidal feelings will pass. Suicidal thoughts, feelings, and ideations can be recognized and treated. Seek Help. Reach Out.
I’m having suicidal thoughts and feeling suicide is the only way, what do I need to know?
No matter how much pain you’re experiencing right now, you’re not alone. Some of the finest, most admired, needed, and talented people have been where you are now. So many of us have thought about taking our own lives when we’ve felt overwhelmed by depression and devoid of all hope. But a shrink can treat the pain of depression, and Psychiatrists can renew hope. No matter your situation, some people need you, places where you can make a difference, and experiences that can remind you that life is worth living. It takes real courage to face death and step back from the brink. You can use that courage to face life, learn coping skills to overcome depression and find the strength to keep going.
Remember:
Your emotions are not fixed – they are constantly changing. How you feel today may not be the same as how you felt yesterday or how you’ll feel tomorrow or next week.
There are many things you can still accomplish in your life.
There are sights, sounds, and experiences in life that have the ability to delight and lift you – and that you would miss.
Your ability to experience pleasurable emotions is equal to your ability to experience distressing emotions.
Why do I have a feeling of suicide?
Many kinds of emotional pain can lead to thoughts of suicide. The reasons for this pain are unique to each of us, and the ability to cope with the pain differs from person to person. We are all different. There are, however, some common causes that may lead us to experience suicide thoughts and feeling.
Why suicide can seem like the only option
If you cannot think of solutions other than suicide, it is not that other solutions don’t exist, but rather that you are currently unable to see them. The intense emotional pain that you’re experiencing right now can distort your thinking. Hence, it becomes harder to see possible solutions to problems or connect with those who can offer support. Therapists, counselors, friends, or loved ones can help you see solutions that otherwise may not be apparent. Give them a chance to help.
A suicide feeling crisis is almost always temporary
Although it might seem as if your pain and unhappiness will never end, it is important to realize that crises are usually temporary. Solutions are often found, feelings change, unexpected positive events occur. Remember: suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Give yourself the time necessary for things to change and the pain to subside.
Even problems that seem hopeless have solutions
Mental health conditions such as depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder are treatable with lifestyle, therapy, and medication changes. Most people who seek help can improve their situation and recover. Even if you have received treatment for a disorder before, or if you’ve already made attempts to solve your problems, know that it’s often necessary to try different approaches before finding the right solution or combination of solutions. When medication is prescribed, finding the right dosage often requires an ongoing process of adjustment. Don’t give up before you’ve found the solution that works for you. Virtually all problems can be treated or resolved.
Take these immediate actions when feeling Suicide
Step #1: Promise not to do anything right now
Even though you’re in a lot of pain right now, give yourself some distance between thoughts and action. Make a promise to yourself: “I will wait 24 hours and won’t do anything drastic during that time.” Or, wait a week.
Thoughts and actions are two different things—your suicidal thoughts do not have to become a reality. There’s no deadline, and no one’s pushing you to act on these thoughts immediately. Wait. Wait and put some distance between your suicidal thoughts and suicidal action.
Step #2: Avoid habit forming substances
Suicidal thoughts can become even stronger if you have taken habit-forming substances. Therefore, it is important not to use nonprescription medications or habit-forming substances when you feel hopeless or think about suicide.
Step #3: Make your home safe
Remove things you could use to hurt yourself, such as pills, knives, razors, or firearms. If you are unable to do so, go to a place where you can feel safe. If you are thinking of taking an overdose, give your medicines to someone who can return them to you one day at a time as you need them.
Step #4: Don’t keep the suicide feeling to yourself
Many of us have found that the first step to coping with suicidal thoughts and feelings is to share them with someone we trust. It may be a family member, friend, therapist, member of the clergy, teacher, family doctor, coach, or an experienced counselor at the end of a helpline. Find someone you trust and let them know how bad things are. Don’t let fear, shame, or embarrassment prevent you from seeking help from feeling suicidal thoughts. And if the first person you reach out to doesn’t seem to understand, try someone else. Just talking about how you got to this point in your life can release a lot of the pressure building up and help you find a way to cope.
Step #5: Take hope – people DO get through this – Feeling Suicidal is Momentary
Even people who feel as badly as you are feeling now manage to survive these feelings. Take hope in this. There is an excellent chance that you will live through these feelings, no matter how much self-loathing, hopelessness, or isolation you are currently experiencing. Just give yourself the time needed and don’t try to go it alone.
Reaching out for help
Even if it doesn’t feel like it right now, many people want to support you during this difficult time. Reach out to someone. Would you please do it now? If you promised yourself 24 hours or a week in step #1 above, use that time to tell someone what’s going on with you. Talk to someone who won’t try to argue about how you feel, judge you, or tell you to “snap out of it.” Find someone who will listen and be there for you.
It doesn’t matter who it is, as long as it’s someone you trust and who is likely to listen with compassion and acceptance.
How to talk to someone about feeling suicidal thoughts
Even when you’ve decided who you can trust to talk to, admitting your feeling suicidal thoughts to another person can be difficult.
Tell the person exactly what you are telling yourself. If you have a suicide plan, explain it to them.
Phrases such as ‘I can’t take it anymore’ or ‘I’m done’ are vague and do not illustrate how serious things really are. Tell the person you trust that you are thinking about suicide.
If it is too difficult for you to talk about, try writing it down and handing a note to the person you trust. Or send them an email or text and sit with them while they read it.
How to cope with feeling suicidal thoughts
Remember that while it may seem as if these suicidal thoughts and feelings will never end, this is never a permanent condition. You WILL feel better again. In the meantime, there are some ways to help cope with your suicidal thoughts and feelings.
If You Have Suicidal Thoughts and Feelings
Things to do:
Talk with someone every day, preferably face to face. Though you feel like withdrawing, ask trusted friends and acquaintances to spend time with you. Or continue to call a crisis helpline and talk about your feelings.
Make a safety plan. Develop a set of steps that you can follow during a suicidal crisis. It should include contact numbers for your doctor or therapist, as well as friends and family members who will help in an emergency.
Make a written schedule for yourself every day and stick to it, no matter what. Keep a routine as much as possible, even when your feelings seem out of control.
Get out in the sun or into nature for at least 30 minutes a day.
Exercise as vigorously as is safe for you. To get the most benefit, aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day. But you can start small. Three 10-minute bursts of activity can have a positive effect on mood.
Make time for things that bring you joy. Even if very few things please you at the moment, force yourself to do the things you used to enjoy.
Remember your personal goals. You may have always wanted to travel to a particular place, read a specific book, own a pet, move to another place, learn a new hobby, volunteer, go back to school, or start a family. Write your personal goals down.
Things to avoid:
Being alone. Solitude can make feeling suicidal thoughts even worse. Visit a friend or family member, or pick up the phone and call a crisis helpline.
Habit-forming substances. These can increase depression, hamper your problem-solving ability, and can make you act impulsively.
Doing things that make you feel worse as in feeling suicide thoughts. Listening to sad music, looking at certain photographs, reading old letters, or visiting a loved one’s grave can all increase negative feelings.
Thinking about or feeling suicide and other negative thoughts. Try not to become preoccupied with suicidal thoughts, as this can make them even stronger. Don’t think and rethink negative thoughts. Find a distraction. Giving yourself a break from suicidal thoughts can help, even if it’s for a short time.
Recovering from feeling suicide thoughts
Even if your suicidal thoughts and feeling have subsided, get help for yourself. Experiencing that sort of emotional pain is itself a traumatizing experience. Finding a support group or therapist can be very helpful in decreasing the chances that you will feel suicidal again in the future.
Identify triggers or situations that lead to feelings of despair or generate feeling suicidal thoughts, such as an anniversary of a loss, habit-forming substances, or stress from relationships. Find ways to avoid these places, people, or situations that trigger suicidal thoughts feelings.
Take care of yourself. Eat right, don’t skip meals, and get plenty of sleep. Sleep can be key. Also, Exercise is also key: it releases endorphins, relieves stress, and promotes emotional well-being.
Build your support network. Surround yourself with positive influences and people who make you feel good about yourself. The more you’re invested in other people and your community, the more you have to lose—which will help you stay positive and on the recovery track.
Develop new activities and interests. Find new hobbies, volunteer activities, or work that gives you a sense of meaning and purpose. When you’re doing things you find fulfilling, you’ll feel better about yourself, and feelings of despair are less likely to return.
Learn to deal with stress healthily. Find healthy ways to keep your stress levels in check, including exercising, meditating, using sensory strategies to relax, practicing simple breathing exercises, and challenging self-defeating thoughts.
Depression – caused by the imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain. Therefore, in depression, medications (as much as therapy) play a key role in recovery. Thus, antidepressant medications or mood elevators, prescribed to patients with depression to alleviate their symptoms. Antidepressant medicine is not only used for the treatment of depression. Additionally, also prescribed in other psychiatric conditions. These include anxiety disorders, social anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), dysthymia (mild chronic depression), etc.,
The use of antidepressant medications, as against therapy, is on the rise for the treatment of depression. Although antidepressants do not cure depression, they relieve the symptoms. Antidepressants come in various types. The first medication to try may not benefit. However, one must consult their doctor and find the right choice of medication/s for their condition.
Antidepressant medications adherence
Non-adherence to antidepressants – one of the causes of major negative consequences on health. Nonetheless, it also majorly contributes to anxiety and depression in maximum cases in the population. Consequently, the doctor must explore a set of reasons why people do not comply with their therapy or treatment. Firstly, forgetting to take medicine. Secondly, other factors that contribute to non-adherence of antidepressants include –
Fear of addiction
High cost of medications
Fear of medication-induced sexual dysfunction
Delayed onset of action of the medication
Poor instructions and protocols by the doctor
Fear of side effects
Benefits of Adherence to Medications
Nevertheless, adherence to the medication with proper guidance from the doctor will decrease the symptoms of depression. Thus, leading them to get back to their normal life. Also, under-treatment of depression at times fatal. However, if the depression escalates, suicidal tendencies can follow despite and apart from these, suddenly stopping the medications – associated with withdrawal symptoms which can get fatal in severe cases.
Indeed, in recent times – depression – a common problem and the reason for the rise of fatalities that it causes. Thus, it is important to consult a doctor to get the condition’s diagnosis and get on the right treatment. Also, of equal importance to adhere to their therapy and abide by the guidelines.
Memory is a very intriguing part of daily living. It is vital. However, memorizing something can turn out to be difficult. On the other hand, memory can also decline with aging. This is known as Dementia. Nevertheless, there are simple tricks to improve memory as memorizing can be difficult. Using these memory-enhancing techniques can help improve your ability to learn new information and retain the information over time.
1. Repeat to Retain
One of the golden rules of learning and memory is a repeat, repeat, repeat. The brain also responds to novelty, so repeating something differently or at a different time will make the most of the novelty effect and allow you to build stronger memories and learn to retain new information. Examples of using repetition include:
Taking notes
Repeating a name after you hear it for the first time
Repeating or paraphrasing what someone says to you
2. Organize New Information
A day planner or smart phone calendar can help you keep track of appointments and activities and serve as a journal to write anything you would like to remember. Writing down and organizing information reinforces learning. Also, try jotting down conversations, thoughts, experiences. Review current and previous day’s entries at breakfast and dinner. If you use a planner and not a smartphone, keep it in the same spot at home and take it with you whenever you leave.
3. Visualize to Retain Information
Learning faces and names is a tough task for most people. In addition to repeating a person’s name, you can also associate the name with an image to learn and retain new information. Visualization strengthens the association you are making between the face and the name. For example: Link the name Sandy with the image of a beach, and imagine sandy on the beach.
4. Use Cues to Learn New
When you have difficulty recalling a particular word or fact, you can cue yourself by giving related details or ‘talking around’ the word, name, or fact. Other practical ways to cue include: Using alarms or a kitchen timer to remind you of tasks or appointments. Placing an object associated with the task you must do in a prominent place at home. For example, if you want to order tickets to a play, leave a newspaper ad for the play near your telephone or computer.
5. Group Items to Retain Information
When you’re trying to remember a long list of items, it can help to group the items in sets of three to five, just as you would remember a phone number. This strategy capitalizes on organization and building associations. In addition, it helps to extend the capacity of our short-term memory by chunking information together instead of trying to remember each piece of information independently. For example: If you have a list of 15 things on your grocery list, you can group the items by category, such as dairy, produce, canned goods, and frozen foods.
These are some simple tricks to improve memory.
Dementia can knock on the doorstep of even the middle-aged. And it can certainly be a difficult task to put something into memory at that age.
One of the best tips for better sleep. Try to exercise 20 to 30 minutes a day. Daily exercise often helps people sleep, although a workout soon before bedtime may interfere with sleep. For maximum benefit, try to get your exercise about 6 to 8 hours before going to bed. Do not exercise within two hours of bedtime.
2. Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and other habit-forming beverages
Avoid drinks that contain caffeine, which acts as a stimulant and keeps people awake. Sources of caffeine include coffee, chocolate, soft drinks, non-herbal teas, and some pain relievers. Smokers tend to sleep very lightly and often wake up in the early morning due to nicotine withdrawal.
Commonly used habit-forming beverages rob people of deep sleep and keep them in the lighter stages of sleep. Avoid all of these things at least 6 to 8 hours before sleeping if you want a good night’s sleep. Also, try to avoid eating any large meal within two hours of bedtime.
3. Darken your bedroom — completely
Recent research has shown that a dark bedroom helps us to sleep better and completely every night. Studies have found that even small things – like the brightness of your watch or the LED of any other device in your bedroom, can reduce the overall quality of sleep.
4. Decrease blue light your Smartphone at night
Sunlight is the largest source of blue light. Blue light regulates our circadian rhythms, which tell us when to sleep and boosts alertness. Blue light from sunlight can benefit sleep. One of the Tips for better sleep.
It is no secret that most of us have snuggled up with our smartphones or digital tablet, or watched television from the comfort of our beds at some point. These habits that we have so quickly developed could be heavily contributing to our inability to sleep properly. Research has indicated that blue light emitted from digital devices could increase the risk of sleep complications. Actually, it is unlikely that any of us will stop using our equipment in the evening, but there are steps we can take to reduce our risk:-
limit screen time
apply screen filters
use the night mode settings on your devices
download blue light-reducing apps
5. Sleep up to the sunlight.
If possible, get up with the sun in the morning, or use very bright lights in the morning. Sunlight helps the body’s internal biological clock reset itself every day. Sleep experts advised people to contact one hour of morning sunlight for problems sleeping.
6. Don’t be a nighttime watchman
Sticking to a clock in your bedroom, either when you are asleep or when you wake up at midnight, the tension can really increase, making it harder to fall asleep. Keep your watch face away from yourself.
And if you wake up in the middle of the night and do not sleep in about 20 minutes, then get up and listen to a quiet, comfortable activity such as reading or listening to music. And keep the lights down; Bright lighting can stimulate your inner clock. When your eyelids are fluttering and you’re ready to sleep, return to bed. One of the Tips for better sleep.
7. If you do not have sleep problems then meet doctor
If you have trouble sleeping at night after night, or if you feel tired the next day, then you may have a sleep problem and a doctor should look. Your primary care physician may be able to help you; If not, you might meet a sleep specialist in a nearby hospital nearby. Most sleep disorders can be treated effectively, so you can finally get the good night’s sleep that you need.
8. Go to Sleep when you’re tired
It is just frustrating to struggle to fall asleep. If you are not sleeping after 20 minutes, get out of bed, go to another room, and relax, like reading or listening to music until you get tired enough to sleep.
