Understanding Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
PMDD is a hormone related mood disorder that affects some females during the luteal phase of their menstrual cycle (1-2 weeks before menstruation). While PMS is more commonly spoken about, PMDD is more intense, more disruptive and can significantly impact on one’s daily functioning, emotional well...
Intrusive Thoughts
An intrusive thought is an unwanted, often distressing thought, that emerges in the mind, almost out of nowhere. Most people experience intrusive thoughts at some time in their lives. However, there are those who experience intrusive thoughts more frequently, which can cause high levels of distress....
BEATING THE FESTIVE SEASON BLUES
While this is the most wonderful time of year for some, it’s also the most stressful time of year for many. The reality is the mental illness does not take a break during the holidays. In fact, some aspects of the festive season can exacerbate mental health struggles. The Comparison Trap Those...
Help! My Spouse has ADHD!
The diagnosis of ADHD in adults is on the rise. Sometimes, diagnoses can take place years into marriage or long-term relationships. If your spouse has recently been diagnosed with ADHD, you may be asking yourself: What does this mean for us? Perhaps you will find that the diagnosis brings clarity to...
Movember – Highlighting Men’s Mental Health
Movember is reminder to talk about men’s mental health. The reality that we hope to change is the fact that men are less likely to seek help for mental health and are more likely to die by suicide. While more men are starting to seek help, there are still many who refuse to because they feel that ...
Psychological First Aid
Most of us know instinctively what to do if someone falls and bruises their knee. However, when someone experiences mental health challenges, trauma, loss, grief or heartbreak, most people aren’t skilled on how to respond. Emotional wounds may be invisible, but they can be long lasting and pervasi...
How to Support a Family Member Diagnosed with Anxiety Disorder: 6 Practical Tips
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent type of mental disorders in South Africa with one study finding that almost 16% of the population have experienced an anxiety disorder. Another recent study shows that almost 25% of South Africans experience symptoms of probable anxiety. It’s likely that we...
Understanding Adult ADHD
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition, which presents as persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsivity that interfere with one’s daily functioning. The DSM-V classifies ADHD into three subtypes: Predominantly inattentive (diff...
How to Support a Friend Struggling with Mental Health
Learn how to be there - gently, honestly, and without pressure. We all hit low points in life, times when things feel too heavy to carry alone. If someone close to you is struggling, you may find yourself wondering how best to show up for them. What do you say? What if you say the wrong thing? How ...
