Mental Health Medical Reference

When you hear something that’s not actually there, it can really throw you, but there’s usually a reason for it. Learn what can cause these auditory hallucinations, how your doctor will test for them, and what kind of treatment you might need.

When you see something that’s not really there, it can be scary, but there’s usually a clear reason for it. Learn what can cause these visual hallucinations, how your doctor will test for them, and what kind of treatment you might need.

When you have borderline personality disorder, everything from your thoughts to actions are extreme. Do you see yourself in these symptoms?

Nature and nurture: There's more to Borderline Personality Disorder than meets the eye.

Use these two methods to get borderline personality disorder under control and your life back on track.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can control your life, even if the shocking or frightening experience didn’t happen to you. Here’s how a doctor will decide if you have PTSD.

When you have posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), certain things can set off your symptoms. Learn about possible triggers and why you develop them.

Four little letters can spell big changes in your mind and body. Learn the symptoms of PTSD so you can spot it when it pops up.

If you have PTSD, you might feel that memories of a past trauma are running your life. But there are many therapies and medications that can help you live a normal life again. WebMD explains.

After a terrifying or dangerous event, some people develop PTSD. Learn more about this serious mental disorder.

WebMD explains what the Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) scale is and when and how it's used.

Conversion disorder is a rare condition in which your brain converts mental stress into physical symptoms. What causes it and how is it treated?

The mind - body connectionMedical science is making remarkable discoveries about the relationship between your state of mind and your mental and physical health. Researchers have found that one function of the brain is to produce substances that can improve your health. Your brain can create endorphins, which are natural painkillers; gamma globulin for fortifying your immune system; and interferon

A list of contributors to the topic on Support Groups and Social Support.

What is humor therapy?Humor therapy (sometimes called therapeutic humor) uses the power of smiles and laughter to aid healing. Humor therapy helps you find ways to make yourself (or others) smile and laugh more. When you think of humor therapy, picture clowns in the children's ward of a hospital cheering up sick children. Some hospitals now have humor carts that provide funny materials for people of any age. Many nurses have learned the value of providing a good laugh to those they care for.Scientists have been researching the relation between the mind and the body, especially in connection with the body's ability to heal (a field called psychoneuroimmunology). Laughter appears to change brain chemistry and may boost the immune system. Humor may allow a person to feel in control of a situation and make it seem more manageable. It allows people to release fears, anger, and stress, all of which can harm the body over time. Humor improves the quality of life. What is humor therapy used

Sexual Abuse or Assault (Rape)

If you have a parent or sibling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), your chance of developing OCD is slightly increased. Your risk for developing OCD is greatest from childhood to middle adulthood.

Suicide rates increase with age and are highest among white men age 65 and older. Divorced and widowed men in this age group have the highest suicide rates,and their most common method of suicide is firearms. The following warning signs may be present in older adults who have a high risk for suicide: Depression. Older adults have higher rates of depression than the general population. Other ...

A list of resources for information on Counseling for PTSD.

Health Tools help you make wise health decisions or take action to improve your health.Actionsets are designed to help people take an active role in managing a health condition. Grief: Coping With Grief

Information on conditions related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

A list of sources for information on obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be a challenge for you and your family. Your family may find it hard to accept some of the changes PTSD can bring to your life. By talking and supporting one another,you and your family will be better prepared for these changes. Family support Your family is an important part of your recovery. They can be there to listen and to help you through rough .

A list of topics related to Support Groups and Social Support.