Category: Disorder

Sep 05

14 Signs You Could Be Having a Panic Attack

A panic attack is not a typical occurrence of fleeting worry that we all experience from time to time. It can be best described as an explosive manifestation of anxiety, striking suddenly and forcefully. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), a panic attack is characterized by a sudden surge of intense fear or discomfort, accompanied by a chaotic mix of unpleasant sensations.¹ These episodes can be highly distressing, leading some individuals to keep their experiences hidden. Concerns about the social stigma associated with psychiatric diagnoses often cause people to delay seeking treatment, as highlighted in a 2020 review published in Neuroendocrinology Letters.² Furthermore, even after receiving a diagnosis, some individuals continue to visit the emergency room repeatedly, mistakenly attributing their symptoms to heart disease, as noted in a 2022 review in the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care.³ It’s important to understand that during a panic attack, you are not in any immediate physical danger. As Russell Hunter, PsyD, a clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders and the author of Attacking Panic: The Power To Be Calm, explains, a panic attack is essentially a “false alarm.” To help you identify when you might be experiencing a panic attack, consider the following indicators: A Panic Attack Comes on Quickly The transition from feeling perfectly fine to being engulfed in a state of intense panic can be startling. This sudden shift is attributed to the activation of your body’s fight-or-flight response, as explained by the American Psychological Association. This response triggers the release of hormones, accelerates your breathing, and causes a spike in blood sugar levels, as stated by Russell Hunter in an interview with Health. Interestingly, certain individuals may even experience what are known as nocturnal panic attacks, which abruptly awaken them from sleep, as documented in a 2013 study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. There May Be No Obvious Trigger A panic attack occurs as a response to a perceived threat, although the specific trigger may not be immediately evident. The National Institute of Mental Health suggests that in some cases, an individual’s survival instincts are overly sensitive, leading to excessive panic responses. According to the DSM-5, panic attacks are a symptom associated with panic disorder. While the exact reasons why certain individuals experience panic attacks remain unclear, it is believed that a combination of factors, such as a family history of panic attacks, stressful life events, and environmental influences, may contribute to their occurrence. Typically, panic attacks tend to emerge during a person’s teenage years or before the age of 25. However, it’s important to note that panic attacks can also affect children and adults in their 30s. It’s Short-Lived The duration of a panic attack can vary from person to person, but on average, the peak intensity of symptoms tends to last for a few minutes. As the minutes pass, you may start to recognize that the perceived threat or danger is not real, as Russell Hunter pointed out. This realization often occurs as the body’s stress response begins to diminish. It is important to remember that although the peak intensity subsides relatively quickly, some residual symptoms or feelings of unease may linger for a bit longer. However, with time and a deeper understanding of panic attacks, individuals can gain the confidence to navigate through these episodes more effectively. You May Think You’re Having a Heart Attack A rapid or pounding heartbeat is a frequently observed symptom during a panic attack, often accompanied by chest pain or discomfort. This similarity to heart attack symptoms is what causes many individuals experiencing a panic attack to believe they are having a heart attack. However, once they arrive at the hospital, they often begin to feel better because they start to realize that the perceived danger is subsiding, as described by Russell Hunter. It Can Be Hard to Catch Your Breath Shortness of breath and hyperventilation are common indications that you may be experiencing a panic attack. According to Lily Brown, PhD, an assistant professor of psychology and director at the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perelman School of Medicine, breathing difficulties are among the most prevalent symptoms associated with panic attacks. You Think You Might Faint Many individuals experiencing a panic attack frequently report feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness, which can lead to a fear of fainting. As a response, people often adopt a seated position with their head between their legs. According to Lily Brown, PhD, it is important to note that the sensation of fainting during a panic attack is rare. However, individuals often don’t have the chance to discover that if they allow themselves to endure that feeling, it will eventually diminish. There’s a Feeling of Doom During a panic attack, it is common to experience a sense of losing control or even a fear of death. These distressing sensations can be prevalent during such episodes. In specific social situations, individuals with social anxiety disorder may also encounter similar feelings, such as fear and trembling. However, a small study conducted by Lily Brown and her colleagues in 2016, published in Psychiatry Research, revealed notable differences in the occurrence of panic attacks between panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. The study indicated that the intense and distressing sensations associated with panic attacks are more frequently observed in individuals with panic disorder compared to those with social anxiety disorder. Your Hands Get Tingly According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, panic attacks can manifest as a sensation of pins and needles or numbness in the extremities.¹¹ In rare cases, more severe symptoms such as pseudoseizures can occur, as noted by Russell Hunter. Hunter explains that during pseudoseizures, individuals may collapse to the ground and experience convulsions. However, it’s important to understand that these symptoms are not a result of abnormal brain functioning but rather induced by severe psychological distress, which can occur during a panic attack. It’s Like

Sep 05

What is Cerebellar Agenesis?

Causes and symptomsEpidemiologyCase reportDiagnosis and treatmentReferencesFurther reading Cerebellar agenesis is a condition in which the normal formation of the hindbrain is disrupted. Patients with this disorder have very few pieces of cerebellar tissue – frequently the remains of lower cerebellar peduncles, anterior vermal lobules, and flocculi. Cerebellar agenesis is a condition in which the normal formation of the hindbrain is disrupted. Image Credit: Peter Porrini/Shutterstock.com Both genetically mediated and disruptive causes can cause cerebellar agenesis (CA). Cerebellar agenesis can manifest itself in various ways, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Cerebellar agenesis affects not only physical abilities but also cognitive abilities, linguistic impairments, and affective issues. Causes and symptoms Cerebellar agenesis is caused by a variety of factors (heterogeneous). Cerebellar damage caused by bleeding, lack of or decreased blood flow (ischemia), or other conditions are acquired (prenatal/perinatal) causes. Cerebellar agenesis (CA) can be caused by both genetically mediated and disruptive causes. CA can be caused by a genetically mediated pathomechanism (e.g., mutations in the pancreatic transcription factor 1 gene, PTF1) or a disruption (e.g., intrauterine/neonatal damage with the disappearance of the developing cerebellum). Sener used the phrase “vanishing cerebellum” to describe cerebellar disruptive lesions in children with Chiari II malformation. Prenatal hindbrain herniation through the foramen magnum can induce parenchymal injury, resulting in the resolution of a portion of the cerebellum (usually asymmetric). The cerebellum vanishes totally in disruptive CA due to direct or indirect damage. Cerebellar agenesis can manifest itself in various ways, depending on the person. According to the medical literature, some people with cerebellar agenesis have only modest symptoms. It has been suggested that motor performance may be nearly normal in some cases, possibly due to partial compensation from other brain areas. Individuals with cerebellar agenesis whose mental capacities were undamaged and who did not exhibit any symptoms of cerebellar agenesis have also been reported (asymptomatic cases). Cerebellar agenesis most likely represents a spectrum of diseases ranging from severe disability to milder manifestations of the disorder. Earliness, localization, and degree of cerebellar agenesis appear to be linked to the severity and range of motor, cognitive, and psychiatric deficits. Patients with congenital anomalies have more severe and less specific impairments than those who develop cerebellar lesions later in life. Patients with phylogenetically more ancient structures involved (complete or partial cerebellar vermis agenesis) have a more severe clinical picture. This includes severe, pervasive impairments in social and communication skills (autism or autism-like behavior), behavior modulation (self-injury and aggressiveness), and a marked delay in language acquisition, especially in language comprehension. Related Stories When lesions are limited to phylogenetically more recent structures, such as the cerebellar hemispheres, the clinical picture is marked by minor cognitive impairment or borderline IQ, adequate social functioning, context adjustment abilities, and a better prognosis. Epidemiology Cerebellar agenesis is extremely uncommon, with only a few documented cases. CA appears to afflict both men and women in about equal percentages. The disorder’s exact frequency and prevalence in the general population are unknown. The occurrence of congenital solitary cerebellar agenesis is extremely unusual. Case report In 2020, Dennison et al. described a case of cerebellar agenesis recently encountered and diagnosed in Orlando, Florida, United States. At 37 weeks and two days, a 25-year-old mother gave birth to a 5 lb 11 oz, somewhat preterm child via C-section. Polyhydramniosis and a positive chlamydia test during early pregnancy affected the pregnancy, which later tested negative after therapy. The fetus was breech at birth, necessitating a cesarean section. The amniotic fluid was stained with meconium, and the umbilical cord was found to be short. The infant was microcephalic, hypertonic, and spastic at birth and was in significant respiratory distress with irregular breathing. At one and five minutes after birth, the APGAR scores were 5/10 and 7/10, respectively. The infant’s breathing problems persisted, necessitating an emergency transfer to the newborn intensive care unit (NICU), where they were put on continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The infant was hypertonic and had excessive deep tendon reflexes, according to a medical assessment performed in the NICU. All primitive reflexes were missing, including Moro, rooting, and sucking. A systolic cardiac murmur of grade I to II was also present in the baby. Bilaterally, coarse breath sounds were heard. The infant had twitching and spastic motions during their time in the NICU. The infant had echocardiography on day one of life, which revealed a massive, bidirectional patent ductus arteriosus. A patent foramen ovale with left-to-right shunting was also present. Because of the aberrant neurological test, a brain computed tomography was performed, which revealed that the cerebellum was almost completely absent, with only traces of the cerebellar hemispheres and vermis remaining. There was also partial corpus callosum agenesis and extensive cerebral and brain stem atrophy. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) verified these results, prompting additional neurological testing. During waking and sleep, continuous electroencephalography indicated significantly aberrant background activity with burst suppression and extended clusters of infantile spasms, consistent with early infantile epileptic encephalopathy (also known as Ohtahara syndrome). Topiramate was prescribed for the infant’s epileptic activity, considerably reducing symptoms. The infant had a tracheostomy and a gastrostomy tube before being discharged. The infant’s spasms persisted despite a visit to the neurology department, although they showed modest improvement following a course of high-dose steroids. To date, follow-up electroencephalography has revealed that epileptiform discharges have persisted. The infant’s spastic quadriplegia remained severe, necessitating a ventilator and g-tube. The infant experienced sudden cardiac arrest at six months of age and was brought to a hospital after multiple rounds of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and recovery of spontaneous circulation. The infant was eventually declared brain dead, and life support was turned off. Diagnosis and treatment Diagnosis is largely based on the neuroimaging findings of MRI. Regarding diagnosis, prognosis, and genetic counseling, it is also critical to distinguish cerebellar disturbances from cerebellar abnormalities. The treatment for cerebellar agenesis focuses on the specific symptoms that each person experiences. Collaboration with a group of professionals might be necessary for treatment. Pediatricians, neurologists, speech pathologists, and other

Sep 05

13 Things That Can Cause Anxiety

Symptoms such as nervousness, panic, fear, sweating, and rapid heartbeat can indicate the presence of anxiety. While anxiety can be advantageous in times of genuine danger, it can become problematic when it intensifies and hinders daily life. According to Dr. Una McCann, a professor of psychiatry and director of the Anxiety Disorders Program at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, when worries and excessive caution surpass a certain threshold and become a disorder, an individual’s ability to function in their everyday life is significantly impaired. This impairment can have detrimental effects on a person’s overall well-being. Over time, anxiety can progress to a level where it interferes with a person’s job performance, completion of household responsibilities, and their capacity to care for themselves and their loved ones. Dr. McCann suggests that identifying the causes or exacerbating factors of anxiety can be instrumental in preventing it from reaching this debilitating stage. While the triggers of anxiety vary from person to person, it is useful to be aware of some commonly encountered ones. Thinking There’s Something Physically Wrong With You Experiencing chest pain does not necessarily indicate a heart attack, and having a skin rash does not automatically mean you have cancer. Anxiety often arises from concerns about one’s physical well-being. While it is normal for individuals to occasionally worry about their health, Dr. McCann emphasizes that physical symptoms can be indicative of an anxiety disorder if the excessive worrying disrupts daily life. Interestingly, the physical symptoms that initially triggered anxiety about one’s health can be quite similar to the symptoms of anxiety itself, such as an elevated heart rate, hyperventilation, sweating, and a feeling of weakness. This similarity can create a cycle of anxiety, where the physical symptoms further intensify the anxiety experienced. Worries About Your Loved Ones Some people experience anxiety not due to concerns for their own safety but due to concerns for the safety of others close to them. Dr. McCann added that worrying for the safety of one’s children, relatives, and friends is normal, but that some people may also worry about their ability to recover after a tragedy. Those providing care are hit particularly hard. When caring for another person, you also have to balance your own needs, which can be difficult. A comprehensive research published in PLoS One in March 2021 found that carers’ anxiety symptoms increased in proportion to their perceived level of responsibility. How Much Money You Have (or Don’t Have) Money is often tied to our sense of safety and security, and concerns about it can deeply impact our well-being. Chloe Carmichael, PhD, a psychologist in New York City, explains that money serves as a resource that provides people with a sense of safety. When we perceive this resource as scarce, it can trigger a primal fear of our survival being at stake. Financial stress can arise from various sources. Common stressors include worries about savings, job insecurity, income levels, lack of financial knowledge, debt, concerns about identity theft, and comparisons with others’ wealth. Not Getting Enough Sleep Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that individuals aim for 7 or more hours of sleep per night. Insufficient sleep can contribute to the worsening of anxiety symptoms. Dr. McCann, who has extensively researched the relationship between sleep and anxiety, has found that both healthy individuals and those with anxiety disorders experience increased anxiety levels when they lack adequate sleep. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America highlights the potential development of a vicious cycle between sleep and anxiety, wherein insufficient sleep can intensify anxiety, and heightened anxiety can, in turn, disrupt sleep. Additionally, Dr. McCann emphasizes that individuals who are sleep deprived are more susceptible to the effects of anxiety-inducing substances like coffee and other stimulants. To manage anxiety effectively, it is essential to prioritize and prioritize quality sleep, ensuring that you are getting the recommended amount of sleep each night. Establishing good sleep hygiene practices and seeking professional guidance if necessary can help in addressing both anxiety and sleep-related issues. Stimulants—Including Coffee Consuming coffee can potentially worsen symptoms of anxiety. Susan Bowling, PsyD, a psychologist at the Women’s Health Center at the Wooster Branch of Cleveland Clinic, suggests that individuals sensitive to caffeine should limit their intake to no more than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is roughly equivalent to two cups of coffee. Caffeine has natural effects that stimulate various sensations in the body, including an elevated heart rate, increased body temperature, and rapid breathing. Psychologically, it can be challenging for the mind to differentiate between these sensations and anxiety because they feel similar. Apart from caffeine, other stimulants can also trigger anxiety. Dr. McCann highlights that the stimulating components in cannabis, for example, may exacerbate anxiety symptoms in certain individuals. She expresses concern about people attempting to self-medicate their anxiety. It is important not to assume the safety of a product solely based on its claims of being natural or herbal. Dr. McCann advises caution when purchasing food items, including herbs, online or in stores, as the labels may claim to have soothing properties. It is crucial to exercise care and gather sufficient information before trying such products. Taking Certain Medications Certain medications can have stimulant effects, potentially leading to the development or exacerbation of anxiety symptoms. Two commonly prescribed medications, amphetamines and methylphenidate, are known stimulants used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. In addition to these stimulant medications, certain antidepressants like Wellbutrin XL (bupropion) and Effexor XR (venlafaxine), as well as some anti-asthma medications, can also have stimulating properties that affect individuals differently, potentially causing increased levels of stimulation in some people. Having a Diet That’s Heavy in Processed Carbs Diet plays a role in influencing mental health, and what we eat can affect our sensitivity to anxiety, as explained by Lily Brown, PhD, the director of the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania. The impact of anxiety can be influenced by the foods we consume

Sep 05

What Is Trypanophobia? How to Cope With a Fear of Needles So You Can Get the COVID-19 Vaccine

Overcoming the fear of needles, or trypanophobia, is crucial in order to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and contribute to ending the pandemic. Although it is estimated that around 25% of adults experience this fear, approximately 7% of adults actually avoid getting vaccinated because of it, according to data from the CDC. The significance of widespread vaccination cannot be overstated. With hundreds of thousands of new COVID-19 cases reported daily and a significant number of deaths, it is essential to increase vaccination rates to achieve herd immunity. Herd immunity occurs when a large portion of the population is immune to a disease, either through vaccination or previous infection, which helps protect those who are more vulnerable. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that a substantial portion of the population needs to be vaccinated to safely achieve herd immunity against COVID-19. In addition to the broader impact on public health, it is crucial to consider your personal risk. Contracting COVID-19 can lead to severe illness and even death. Dr. Richard Watkins, an infectious disease physician and professor, highlights the seriousness and potential fatality of the disease. While you may already be aware of the importance of vaccination, what you need is guidance and support to overcome your fear. Here is some information to help you navigate and address your concerns, ensuring the protection of yourself, your loved ones, and the general population. What is trypanophobia, exactly? Trypanophobia, or the fear of needles as they relate to medical procedures, is a specific phobia and a type of anxiety disorder. According to the DSM-5, it is characterized as an intense and irrational fear of needles or injections. Initially, this fear serves as a normal defense mechanism to protect oneself from potential harm. However, in the case of trypanophobia, this fear intensifies and becomes debilitating. The fear of needles can manifest in various medical situations, including vaccinations, blood draws, IV fluids, and anesthesia. The exact causes of trypanophobia are not well understood, but there are theories suggesting that it may be related to a survival instinct that discourages puncturing the body. Fear of pain and the unknown can also contribute to this phobia. The idea of something unfamiliar being introduced into the body can be particularly frightening as it involves a loss of control. Trypanophobia tends to be more common in children, and many individuals outgrow the fear as they grow older. However, for some individuals, the fear persists into adulthood. It is important to acknowledge and address this fear to ensure that individuals can receive necessary medical procedures without undue distress. How can you know if you have trypanophobia? Symptoms of trypanophobia, as identified in a meta-analysis published in SAGE Open Nursing, can vary among individuals. Some common signs of trypanophobia may include: So what can you do if you have trypanophobia and want to get vaccinated? Overcoming a fear of needles, such as trypanophobia, can be challenging, but it is possible with the right strategies and support. Here are some steps you can take to help you navigate the process of getting vaccinated: Before you get vaccinated Once you have booked your appointment, try to shift your focus away from the anticipation of the shot. Instead, engage in activities or hobbies that distract your mind and keep you occupied. Remember that you have likely experienced injections before and have come through them unharmed. It can be helpful to keep reminding yourself of the significant benefits of getting vaccinated. Stay focused on the purpose behind your decision—to protect your health, save lives, and restore a sense of normalcy to your life. If you have concerns about fainting, you can try applying the “applied tension” therapy technique. Tense the muscles in your arms, torso, and legs, and hold the tension until you feel warmth. Then, release the tension and wait for your body to return to normal. This technique may help prevent fainting during the vaccination process. Lastly, remember that the actual moment of receiving the vaccine is a brief and quick process that only takes a second. Keeping this perspective can help alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the needle itself. Overall, be patient and gentle with yourself throughout this process. Take it one step at a time and trust that you have the strength and resilience to face your fear of needles and receive the COVID-19 vaccine. While you’re at the vaccination site While waiting for your vaccination appointment, it’s important to find ways to distract yourself. Distraction can be highly effective in managing anxiety. If possible, bring a friend along for support or use headphones to listen to music or watch a video on your phone. The goal is to block out the current scene and keep your mind occupied. When it’s time for the injection, inform the nurse about your fear of needles. They are likely experienced in helping patients with this fear and may have helpful strategies or techniques to assist you. Notifying them can also alert them to the possibility of fainting, so they can take appropriate precautions. Before the injection, you can practice diaphragmatic breathing, which involves taking deep breaths into your diaphragm to promote relaxation. Squeezing a stress ball or engaging in any calming activity can also be beneficial. Continuing to listen to music or watch a video can help distract your attention during the procedure. During the injection, it can be helpful to avoid looking at the needle. Focus your attention elsewhere and give the needle as little space in your thoughts as possible. Remember, the procedure itself is brief, and by minimizing your focus on the needle, you can help reduce anxiety and discomfort. After your vaccine Congratulations! Overcoming a phobia is a significant achievement, and it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate your success. Dr. Gallagher suggests giving yourself a well-deserved pat on the back and treating yourself to something special as a reward. It could be purchasing an item you’ve been eyeing or indulging in a delicious meal from your favorite restaurant.

Sep 05

Wellness Destinations That Are Perfect for People With Anxiety

The stress of traveling is real. Many people are afraid of traveling, and dealing with large crowds and using public transit in a foreign country may be stressful. And don’t even get me started on the effects of dietary shifts on the digestive system! However, if you travel to beautiful places like Maui’s beaches, Kyoto’s woods, or the North Island of New Zealand’s rolling hills, you may return home feeling more relaxed and at peace. More and more hotels include yoga, meditation classes, and “forest bathing” as part of their “wellness” packages to help guests relax and recharge during their stay. We’ve compiled a list of our most anticipated travel locations and health and wellness initiatives for the next year. Cape Cod, Massachusetts Cape Cod is one of the top East Coast summer destinations due to its pristine beaches and delicious seafood. But this area is also stunning in the off-season, when you can take advantage of cheaper rates, fewer visitors, and less bridge traffic. From January 11 to 13, 2019, guests of the renowned Chatham Bars Inn may take advantage of a holistic Girlfriends Getaway Package that includes 15% off spa treatments, a variety of wellness activities (such as meditation, yoga, and nature walks), and cooking workshops with the resort’s culinary staff. Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore whenever you’re in the area. You will return after a peaceful stroll down the 40 miles of Outer Cape shoreline, past scenic cranberry bogs and stunning lighthouses, feeling rejuvenated. Baja California Peninsula, Mexico This peninsula in Northwestern Mexico is situated between the Pacific and the Gulf of Mexico, so there is no shortage of beautiful beaches to enjoy. And if you’re looking for a wellness-focused vacation in Baja California, go no further than the exclusive One&Only Palmilla on the Sea of Cortez in Los Cabos. Together with wellness-focused travel agency Wanderwell, the resort has planned six trips for the coming year. The New Year, New You trip is January 11-13; the Vino & Vinyasa trips are March 8-10, May 10-12, and September 27-29; the Mindful Wellness trips are June 7-9; and the Eatwell Discovery trips are November 1-3. Spa days, yoga classes, and courses on mindful healing will all be available during these getaways. Mallorca, Spain Mallorca (especially the area surrounding Palma, the island’s capital) is known for its lively nightlife and larger beach resorts, but the island also has much to offer those who are more interested in relaxation or healthy activities. For instance, the Ashram Mallorca is situated on an olive estate close to Porto Sóller. This year, the firm will host three separate health retreats in April, May, and June. Hiking 3,000-foot peaks, kayaking, doing TRX and Pilates, and winding down with a calming yoga class—these are just some of the outdoor activities that will be featured on the itineraries designed to help you declutter your mind. The retreat is set in a beautiful home with a saltwater pool and breathtaking views of olive, lemon, and orange trees, and the vegetarian food is delicious and nutritious (plenty of fresh juices and vegetables). Peace at last. Maui, Hawaii Maui is a paradise for wellness-seeking adventurers, with activities ranging from snorkeling with sea turtles to climbing through volcanic craters at Haleakala National Park to surfing at Ho’okipa Beach. If you’re looking to splurge, the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort has you covered with complimentary activities including outrigger canoe rides, guided kayak excursions, stand-up paddleboard instruction, and beachside yoga sessions. While you’re there, treat yourself to a relaxing service from the extensive menu at the Awili Spa and Salon. You may create your own special oil mixture to be used in massages and other treatments by opting for the Apothecary Blending Experience, which costs $55. Queenstown, New Zealand Aro Hā is a beautiful retreat center overlooking Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown, New Zealand that emphasizes the mind-body connection. The resort’s much-lauded retreats feature mindfulness-based components at every turn. (The literal translation of Aro H is “in the presence of divine breath.”) Yoga, functional strength training, massage, culinary workshops, and spa treatments are just some of the options available at these retreats. The vegetarian food is geared at improving digestive health, and the building was constructed with sustainability in mind. Santa Fe, New Mexico Anyone who has ever been to Santa Fe knows that there is a certain enchantment to the “City Different.” Santa Fe has always been a popular destination for those in the creative industries. Visit the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum, which has over three thousand pieces by the artist, to be inspired. Bandelier National Monument has almost 70 miles of trails where you may get some fresh air and learn about the history of the Ancestral Pueblo people while learning about their cave houses and ruins. Visit the Santa Fe Farmers Market and stock up on healthy, locally grown vegetables from more than 150 vendors. Retreat to the mind and body rejuvenating Ojo Santa Fe Spa Resort. Relax in the gardens or outdoor baths, learn to cook or meditate, or participate in a yoga or meditation session. Kyoto, Japan If you’re up for a journey to the Land of the Rising Sun, Travel & Leisure’s 2017 destination of the year, Kyoto has several options for you to unwind. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, one of the most photographed spots in Kyoto, is also one of the greatest places to practice forest bathing, an immersive kind of meditation in nature, which is thought to have originated in Kyoto. The fall foliage is stunning, especially at the many temples and shrines that are only accessible to the public during this time of year. Relieve tension with a bath in a hot spring by booking a stay at a ryokan, a Japanese-style inn. Barnard, Vermont Everyone agrees that we should avoid Vermont throughout the year. The Green Mountain State is a year-round haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers rejuvenating hiking in the summer, stunning fall foliage, and excellent skiing in the winter. Barnard, Vermont,

Aug 28

‘Election Stress Disorder’ Is Real—Here’s the Causes, Signs, and Coping Mechanisms You Can Use

People on both sides of the political divide are feeling tense, anxious, and overwhelmed right now. By this juncture, we find ourselves navigating a global pandemic that has persisted for over six months. While grappling with the challenges posed by the Covid-19 situation, individuals have likely developed strategies to cope with the associated anxieties. However, an additional factor is at play—an ongoing presidential election that has served to polarize families and communities, arguably generating more intense anger and frustration than previous electoral cycles. This has led individuals to express their emotions on various social media platforms, using them as outlets to convey their heightened agitation over the election and its preceding events. Various individuals have shared their sentiments, with one person noting, “The stress from the election has turned me into a culinary enthusiast,” while another lamented, “I wish my body didn’t react to stress in this manner.” Expressions like, “This current presidential election is wreaking havoc on my well-being,” further underscore the emotional toll. In recent times, the term “election stress disorder” has emerged to encapsulate the prevailing sentiment surrounding the impending election. However, it is crucial to delve into the concept’s specifics and determine whether “election stress disorder” holds a credible standing as a medical diagnosis. Presented below is essential information to illuminate this matter. Where Did the Term ‘Election Stress Disorder’ Come From? The origins of the term can be traced back to 2016 when Steven Stosny, PhD, a psychologist renowned for his work on compassion, anger, and relationships, introduced it to the public discourse. Stosny employed this term within an article published in The Washington Post. Within the article, he revealed his own experiences of being “overwhelmed” by an influx of “distress calls” from his patients during the 2016 election cycle. He pointed out that the ceaseless stream of election-related news was not only inducing stress in his patients but was also encroaching upon their personal lives. Subsequently, the term gained traction and found resonance among other individuals. Its usage has become more commonplace, particularly gaining momentum when the intensity of the 2020 election escalated as autumn set in. What Is Election Stress Disorder? It’s important to clarify that “election stress disorder” is not a formally recognized medical diagnosis. Nevertheless, individuals can certainly experience significant levels of stress surrounding elections, particularly those with high stakes. Monifa Seawell, MD, a board-certified psychiatrist based in Atlanta, emphasizes that elections are pivotal events with far-reaching consequences, impacting not only immediate communities but also states and the nation as a whole. Driven by these implications, the intensity of emotions can escalate. The current election has been marked by its notably intense nature. Thea Gallagher, PsyD, who serves as the clinic director at the Center for the Treatment and Study of Anxiety at the University of Pennsylvania’s Perlman School of Medicine, points out the prevalence of negative themes, including personal attacks and an overarching atmosphere of negativity. Tuning out such influences becomes challenging. The precedent for this heightened election-related stress exists. Findings from the 2016 Stress in America survey, conducted by the American Psychological Association, revealed that 52% of Americans considered the 2016 presidential election a “very” or “somewhat significant” source of stress in their lives. Evidently, a similar level of stress has resurfaced. Dr. Gallagher notes that this sentiment is increasingly manifesting on social media, with instances of friends and family members drawing relational lines based on voting choices. This social dynamic can indeed become overwhelming. In this election, the political landscape has demonstrated an unprecedented level of polarization, according to Craig A. Smith, PhD, an associate professor of psychology and human development at Vanderbilt University. The adversarial nature between the two sides, coupled with the tendency to vilify opposing positions and leadership, contributes to the perception of an essential cultural clash. Dr. Smith contends that viewing the election as a critical battle in this cultural divide can lead to heightened stress due to its potential impacts on daily life, livelihood, and core values. As such, the election’s potential outcomes can evoke extreme stress. What Does Election Stress Disorder Look Like? Stress stemming from the election can manifest in individuals much like stress arising from any other source, as Dr. Seawell explains: “It can disrupt your regular routine and create a sense of imbalance.” This disruption may lead to sleep difficulties, triggered by concerns over debate discussions, or a sense of mental preoccupation driven by election-related news. Dr. Seawell notes that election-related stress could materialize as an apprehension of missing out on the latest updates, potentially prompting frequent checks for news alerts on your phone. Dr. Gallagher underscores that this stress could also manifest as heightened irritability and moodiness. She further highlights that individuals might experience anxiety when interacting with people holding differing political viewpoints, due to concerns about sensitive topics arising in conversation. How To Cope With Election Stress Disorder Addressing this situation can be approached in several ways. According to Dr. Smith, one approach is to take proactive steps to contribute to the desired outcome of the election. This might entail volunteering for causes aligned with your values, participating in campaigns for your preferred candidate, or engaging with organizations that promote voter engagement. While pursuing these actions, it’s crucial not to disregard the broader aspects of your life. Dr. Seawell advises finding a harmonious balance between active political involvement and maintaining a diversified lifestyle that encompasses various interests and activities. A second strategy involves consciously taking breaks when you sense that election-related news or discussions are becoming overwhelming. Dr. Smith suggests disconnecting from the news cycle and engaging in activities such as spending time with loved ones (virtually or in person), indulging in non-political reading, or watching a movie. Dr. Gallagher recommends refraining from getting involved in online arguments on platforms like Facebook or Twitter, as these exchanges can often be fraught with negativity due to the anonymity factor. She suggests actively avoiding such stress-inducing interactions to preserve your mental well-being. In the grand scheme of things,