When the sun is out and warm weather is in the forecast, heading to the beach is a no-brainer for most. But, what makes the beach such an excellent place for mental health? Three words—water, sun, and air. All of these natural elements offer some form of mental health benefits that helps the mind relax and allow the … Read more
The sun is shining, the streets are buzzing, and you’re stuck inside. Whether you’re indoors because of work, illness, family, or some other reason, spending a beautiful sunny day inside can leave you feeling frustrated—and sometimes even a little bit guilty. This feeling is known as ‘sunshine guilt,’ aka the pangs of guilt and regret … Read more
We’ve all been in that position at work or school where time doesn’t seem to be moving forward at all. You can’t concentrate on the task at hand, you keep looking at the clock, and you’re longing for freedom. It’s totally normal, too. As Sarah Bishop, BSc PGCert DClinPsy, a clinical psychologist, says, “It is … Read more
ADHD Symptom Spotlight is a series that dives deep into a hallmark or overlooked symptom of ADHD each week. This series is written by experts who also share their tips on managing these symptoms based on firsthand experience and research-backed insights. The human body senses time in a similar way that it senses light, sound, taste, … Read more
Everyone has coping skills and self-care habits that help them get through the day. Activities that we enjoy and boost our mood help the brain release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps us feel pleasure and motivates us. Folks with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) tend to have lower levels of dopamine in our brains,1 so we have to work harder to tap into … Read more
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder. This means there are differences in the ADHD brain that affect a child’s development. ADHD does not influence intelligence. It does, however, affect a person’s ability to regulate attention and emotions, and it results in hyperactivity and impulsivity as well as organization problems.1 Differences in the ADHD Brain … Read more
Getting married or settling down with a long-term partner usually means you have someone to share the ups and downs of life with. This person becomes your partner in running the household and possibly parenthood, and you provide each other with emotional support. If your partner has ADHD, however, your relationship may sometimes feel lopsided. At … Read more
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that affects approximately 8.4% of children and 2.5% of adults.1 This condition affects the brain’s development and functioning.2 ADHD is characterized by characteristics of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, which can make it hard for the person to sit still or focus.3 Additionally, people with ADHD may also experience mood swings. This … Read more
Mood swings are fast, significant changes in mood. If you’ve ever shifted from a good mood to feeling sullen, sad, or furious, then you know exactly how fast your mood can shift. The “mood swing” phenomenon is commonly used to describe rapidly and intensely fluctuating emotions. People often describe mood swings as a “roller coaster” … Read more
Mania involves extreme, elevated changes in mood, emotions, energy, and activity levels that occur in people with bipolar disorder. Hypomania is a form of mania that involves the same symptoms but is milder and usually shorter in duration. At a Glance Mania and hypomania involve similar symptoms, but they differ in terms of severity and … Read more