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Impact of Mental Health Care on Medical Visits and Resources: Mental health care can significantly influence medical visits and resource allocation. Patients with mental health issues may experience increased medical visits due to psychosomatic symptoms, or difficulty managing chronic physical conditions linked to their mental health. Additionally, mental health needs may require specific resources (e.g., therapy, medication) that can strain health care systems, necessitating integrated approaches to care.
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Major Diagnostic Categories of Mental Disorders:
- Mood Disorders (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder)
- Anxiety Disorders (e.g., generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder)
- Psychotic Disorders (e.g., schizophrenia)
- Personality Disorders (e.g., borderline personality disorder)
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders (e.g., autism spectrum disorder, ADHD)
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Major Causes of Mental Health Disorders:
- Biological Causes: Genetic predisposition (e.g., family history of depression) and neurochemical imbalances (e.g., serotonin levels influencing mood).
- Environmental Causes: Traumatic experiences (e.g., abuse or neglect) and chronic stress (e.g., prolonged financial difficulties).
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Effects of Stress on the Body:
- Short-term Stress: Activates the body's "fight or flight" response, leading to increased heart rate, heightened alertness, and a surge of adrenaline. This can enhance performance in immediate challenges.
- Chronic or Prolonged Stress: Can lead to detrimental health effects, such as weakened immune function, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, digestive issues, anxiety disorders, and depression. It can contribute to chronic inflammation and various long-term health problems.
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Tips for Alleviating Job-Related Stress:
- Practice deep breathing or mindfulness exercises to help manage anxiety.
- Set boundaries to keep work from encroaching on personal time.
- Engage in regular physical activity to relieve tension and improve mood.
- Seek social support from colleagues, friends, or family to share experiences and coping strategies.
- Develop a time management plan to prioritize tasks and reduce overwhelm.
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Common Habit-Forming Substances:
| Drug Category | Examples | |---------------------|-------------------------------------| | Stimulants | Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Nicotine, Caffeine, Amphetamines | | Depressants | Alcohol, Benzodiazepines, Barbiturates, Opioids, GHB | | Hallucinogens | LSD, Psilocybin (mushrooms), PCP, MDMA (Ecstasy), DMT | | Inhalants | Glue, Paint thinners, Nitrous oxide, Gasoline, Aerosol sprays | | Prescription Medications | Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, Adderall, Xanax, Fentanyl |