At one time or another the following people had issues with anxiety that interfered with their lives:
Abraham Lincoln (president - USA)
Al Kasha (songwriter)
Alanis Morisette (singer)
Alfred Lord Tennyson (poet)
Ann Wilson (singer)
Anne Tyler (author)
Anthony Hopkins (actor)
Aretha Franklin (singer)
Barbara Bush (former First Lady - U.S.)
Barbara Gordon (filmmaker)
Barbra Streisand (singer, actress)
Beverly Johnson (supermodel)
Bonnie Raitt (musician)
Burt Reynolds (actor)
Carly Simon (singer)
Charles Schultz (cartoonist)
Charlotte Bronte (author)
Cher (singer, actress)
Courtney Love (singer, actress)
Dave Stewart (singer in Eurythmics)
David Bowie (singer)
Dean Cain (actor)
Deanna Carter (singer)
Dick Clark (television personality)
Donny Osmond (actor)
Earl Campbell (Heisman Trophy winner)
Edie Falco (actress)
Edvard Munch (artist
)Emily Dickinson (poet)
Eric Clapton (musician)
Goldie Hawn (actress)
Howard Stern (king of media)
Howie Mandel (comic)
Isaac Asimov (author)
James Garner (actor)
Jim Eisenreich (baseball)
Joan Rivers (comedienne, tv personality)
John Candy (comedian,actor)
John Cougar Mellencamp (musician, actor)
John Madden (sports announcer)
John Steinbeck (author)
John Stuart Mill (philosopher)
Johnny Depp (actor)
Kim Basinger (actress)
Lani O'Grady (actress)
Leila Kenzle (actress)
Marie Osmond (singer, actress)
Marty Ingels (comedian)
Michael Crichton (author)
Michael English (Gospel artist)
Michael Jackson (singer)
Naomi Campbell (model)
Naomi Judd (singer)
Nicholas Cage (actor)
Nicole Kidman (actress)
Nikola Tesla (inventor)
Olivia Hussey (actress)
Oprah Winfrey (tv host, actress)
Pete Harnisch (baseball)
Ray Charles (musician)
Robert Burns (poet)
Robert McFarlane (former National Security Advisor - U.S.)
Robin Quivers (radio host)
Roseanne Barr (comedienne, actress)
Sally Field (actress)
Sam Shepard (playwright)
Shecky Greene (comedian)
Sheryl Crow (musician)
Sigmund Freud (psychiatrist)
Sir Isaac Newton (scientist)
Sir Laurence Olivier (actor)
Sissy Spacek (actress)
Susan Powter (tv host)
Tom Snyder (newscaster, tv host)
Tony Dow (actor director)
W.B. Yeats (poet)
Willard Scott (weatherman)
Winona Ryder (actress)
Showing posts with label anxiety. Show all posts
Showing posts with label anxiety. Show all posts
29 March 2009
04 March 2009
Agoraphobia- Definition, Causes, Treatment
Definition:
The word agoraphobia is from Greek words meaning "fear of the outdoor marketplace." Agoraphobia is the most common type of phobia/fear and it affects about 5-10% of Americans at some point within their lifetime. It is twice as common in women as in men and usually starts between the ages of 15-35.
Agoraphobia is all about the fear of being in certain types of places. Anxiety and panic attacks are the result. Fear of future anxiety or attacks can actually bring them on. Symptoms include trembling, sweating, pounding heart, jitters, fatigue, tingling in the hands and feet, nausea, a rapid pulse or breathing rate, and a sense of impending doom.
People with agoraphobia often have a hard time feeling safe in places where crowds gather such as the mall, concert and sporting event arenas, carnivals and fairs. Times Square in NYC on New Year's Eve is an extreme example of this kind of setting. Another uncomfortable situation is one where escape or exit is difficult or not practical such as being in an elevator; riding in a bus, train or airplane; or crossing a bridge. If one does have a panic attack and has to leave suddenly or receive on-site medical attention in a public place, it's viewed as "embarrassing" so people with agoraphobia tend avoid places where a quick exit is not available. A person with agoraphobia has high anxiety levels in places that are new and unfamiliar because they have no control.
Home becomes a "safe place" with some people becoming so fearful of leaving the indoors and going into their own yard.
Causes:
No one knows the exact cause of agoraphobia but there are several suspects:
Continual use of tranquilizers such as benzodiazepines can bring on agoraphobia. When benzodiazepine dependence is treated and after some time off of them, agorphobia symptoms gradually lessen.
Research has uncovered a connection between agoraphobia and difficulties with spatial orientation. A disproportionate percentage of agoraphobics become disoriented when visual cues are sparse (wide open spaces) or overwhelming (crowds). Sometimes they may be confused by sloping or irregular surfaces. In some virtual reality studies, agoraphobics on average show difficulty processing changing audiovisual data.
In the social sciences there is the approach that links the development of agoraphobia with modernity (industrialized society).
The Feminist Theory explains agoraphobia and other anxiety disorders as gendered issues. One such theory explains agoraphobia as a fear of being perceived by others as overly feminine and out of control. Just worrying about this brings on the anxiety.
The word agoraphobia is from Greek words meaning "fear of the outdoor marketplace." Agoraphobia is the most common type of phobia/fear and it affects about 5-10% of Americans at some point within their lifetime. It is twice as common in women as in men and usually starts between the ages of 15-35.
Agoraphobia is all about the fear of being in certain types of places. Anxiety and panic attacks are the result. Fear of future anxiety or attacks can actually bring them on. Symptoms include trembling, sweating, pounding heart, jitters, fatigue, tingling in the hands and feet, nausea, a rapid pulse or breathing rate, and a sense of impending doom.
People with agoraphobia often have a hard time feeling safe in places where crowds gather such as the mall, concert and sporting event arenas, carnivals and fairs. Times Square in NYC on New Year's Eve is an extreme example of this kind of setting. Another uncomfortable situation is one where escape or exit is difficult or not practical such as being in an elevator; riding in a bus, train or airplane; or crossing a bridge. If one does have a panic attack and has to leave suddenly or receive on-site medical attention in a public place, it's viewed as "embarrassing" so people with agoraphobia tend avoid places where a quick exit is not available. A person with agoraphobia has high anxiety levels in places that are new and unfamiliar because they have no control.
Home becomes a "safe place" with some people becoming so fearful of leaving the indoors and going into their own yard.
Causes:
No one knows the exact cause of agoraphobia but there are several suspects:
Continual use of tranquilizers such as benzodiazepines can bring on agoraphobia. When benzodiazepine dependence is treated and after some time off of them, agorphobia symptoms gradually lessen.
Research has uncovered a connection between agoraphobia and difficulties with spatial orientation. A disproportionate percentage of agoraphobics become disoriented when visual cues are sparse (wide open spaces) or overwhelming (crowds). Sometimes they may be confused by sloping or irregular surfaces. In some virtual reality studies, agoraphobics on average show difficulty processing changing audiovisual data.
In the social sciences there is the approach that links the development of agoraphobia with modernity (industrialized society).
The Feminist Theory explains agoraphobia and other anxiety disorders as gendered issues. One such theory explains agoraphobia as a fear of being perceived by others as overly feminine and out of control. Just worrying about this brings on the anxiety.
Treatment-Medication:
Fighting agoraphobia includes a combination of medication and psychotherapy. Treatment is often successful. It can be overcome and kept under control.
Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are often prescribed. Fluoxetine (Prozac, Prozac Weekly), paroxetine (Paxil, Paxil CR) and sertraline (Zoloft) are approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat panic disorder and also may help agoraphobia.
Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are sometimes used to treat agoraphobia but they tend to have more side effects and more serious side effects than do SSRIs.
Benzodiazepines can help control symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks, and are often prescribed. These include alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin) and others.
Anti-anxiety medications often work immediately to reduce symptoms, while antidepressants may take a couple of weeks before one starts feeling better. The doctor may suggest taking both to increase the effectiveness. You may have to try several different medications before you find one that works best for you. Don't give up if the first try doesn't work out. Even after one feels "cured," maintenance treatment may help prevent the unexpected return of symptoms, especially as you return to the outside world of crowds, less control and uncertainty.
Treatment-Psychotherapy:
Cognitive behavior therapy may help quite a bit for agoraphobia. This involves learning more about agoraphobia and panic attacks, what the triggers are, and how to control them. One also learns how to de-stress using breathing and relaxation techniques.
There is also "desensitization" which helps one safely confront the places and situations that cause fear and anxiety. Together, the doctor and patient go places, such as trips to the mall or driving around town. Baby steps - a little at a time is best. By repeatedly visiting feared places, people with agoraphobia become a little more comfortable with the situation once it's realized that the fears are not becoming reality.
Getting out to see a doctor or therapist can be a big challenge for people with agoraphobia. Therapists who treat agoraphobia know this and may offer to make house calls or meet at other "safe zones." They may also try sessions over the phone or through e-mail. Another thing that might help is to bring a trusted relative or friend to appointments who can offer companionship, comfort and help.
Here are some helpful links:
Agoraphobia Resouce Center
Anxiety & Agoraphobia Treatment Center
Anxiety Disorders Association of Ontario
Books on agoraphobia
...
25 December 2008
BIPOLAR DISORDER - DEFINITION, TREATMENT, MEDICATIONS
Everybody has their usual lives, personalities, and ways of doing things. But people with Bipolar Disorder are sometimes involuntarily thrust into an extreme amusement park and they just aren't themselves for the rides. Sometimes they are stuck way up high and sometimes they are down very low. Sometimes they even bounce upon and down as if on a bungie jump of emotions.
These times are called "episodes." During an episode, a person is "different" than they usually are or what one might call "normal" or "average" for the rest of the population. Perhaps they are too happy, too crabby, too depressed or in a funk - more than what their life circumstances should cause.
Over 5 million children and adults are affected with Bipolar Disorder, many of them being treated for a different/wrong diagnosis. About 70% of the time, doctors are only consulted for one of the problems of Bipolar Disorder such as depression or anger. The resulting treatment and/or medication is wrong. One study I read stated that about 10 years can be wasted before the correct diagnosis is made. So please tell your doctor about everything - happy, sad, angry, anxious, everything! Communication is key! Your doctor only knows what you tell him or her. Don't hold anything back! Sometimes mood disorders are in the family tree, so ask your family questions about relatives and ancestors. Tell your doctor everything.
The experts define three types of episodes- manic, depressive and mixed. The mixed episodes are a roller coaster of both depressive and manic episodes. Warning signs that an episode is coming include slight changes in mood, sleep, energy, self value, sexual interest, concentration, enthusiasm, optimism, and way of dressing and grooming.
Manic episodes can cause people to feel wonderful as if nothing could go wrong, very aggitated and short fused, uncooperative and belligerent, overly angry and aggressive. Examples of manic behavior are talking too fast or constantly, risky or impulsive actions, sexual promescuity, spending binges, going without much sleep, easily distracted and unable to stay focused, having a feeling of great self worth or invincibility, becoming too focused on a goal, and racing thoughts.
Depressive episodes can cause depression and saddness, loss of interest or wanting to do anything, and no longer enjoying the things one used to do for fun. Examples of symptoms include loss of weight without being on a diet, decrease or increase in appetite, insomnia or restlessness, feeling sluggish or excessive sleeping, constant fatigue or loss of energy, feeling worthless or inappropriately or excessively guilty, difficulty thinking, concentrating and making decisions, and thoughts of suicide, making a suicide plan, or actually making an attempt.
Experts do not know what causes Bipolar Disorder. They theorize that too few or too many neurotransmitters (brain chemicals that travel between cells) might be the cause. Scientists have experimented with various drugs to see if something can be found to have a positive effect and have come up with a long list of medications that doctors now prescribe.
For a listing of bipolar medications by brand name and their information, click here .
You will need to do more than just take your medication. You need to see your psychiatrist/psychologist on a regular basis to help you cope with stress and other issues. You will also need to take care of your body and de-stress your life. Eat healthy (stop the junk food and sweets and eat on a regular schedule), exercise (go on walks at the very least), and give up the drugs and booze (join a support group - don't do it alone).
These times are called "episodes." During an episode, a person is "different" than they usually are or what one might call "normal" or "average" for the rest of the population. Perhaps they are too happy, too crabby, too depressed or in a funk - more than what their life circumstances should cause.
Over 5 million children and adults are affected with Bipolar Disorder, many of them being treated for a different/wrong diagnosis. About 70% of the time, doctors are only consulted for one of the problems of Bipolar Disorder such as depression or anger. The resulting treatment and/or medication is wrong. One study I read stated that about 10 years can be wasted before the correct diagnosis is made. So please tell your doctor about everything - happy, sad, angry, anxious, everything! Communication is key! Your doctor only knows what you tell him or her. Don't hold anything back! Sometimes mood disorders are in the family tree, so ask your family questions about relatives and ancestors. Tell your doctor everything.
The experts define three types of episodes- manic, depressive and mixed. The mixed episodes are a roller coaster of both depressive and manic episodes. Warning signs that an episode is coming include slight changes in mood, sleep, energy, self value, sexual interest, concentration, enthusiasm, optimism, and way of dressing and grooming.
Manic episodes can cause people to feel wonderful as if nothing could go wrong, very aggitated and short fused, uncooperative and belligerent, overly angry and aggressive. Examples of manic behavior are talking too fast or constantly, risky or impulsive actions, sexual promescuity, spending binges, going without much sleep, easily distracted and unable to stay focused, having a feeling of great self worth or invincibility, becoming too focused on a goal, and racing thoughts.
Depressive episodes can cause depression and saddness, loss of interest or wanting to do anything, and no longer enjoying the things one used to do for fun. Examples of symptoms include loss of weight without being on a diet, decrease or increase in appetite, insomnia or restlessness, feeling sluggish or excessive sleeping, constant fatigue or loss of energy, feeling worthless or inappropriately or excessively guilty, difficulty thinking, concentrating and making decisions, and thoughts of suicide, making a suicide plan, or actually making an attempt.
Experts do not know what causes Bipolar Disorder. They theorize that too few or too many neurotransmitters (brain chemicals that travel between cells) might be the cause. Scientists have experimented with various drugs to see if something can be found to have a positive effect and have come up with a long list of medications that doctors now prescribe.
For a listing of bipolar medications by brand name and their information, click here .
You will need to do more than just take your medication. You need to see your psychiatrist/psychologist on a regular basis to help you cope with stress and other issues. You will also need to take care of your body and de-stress your life. Eat healthy (stop the junk food and sweets and eat on a regular schedule), exercise (go on walks at the very least), and give up the drugs and booze (join a support group - don't do it alone).
30 October 2008
FINDING A DOCTOR ON THE INTERNET
Years ago when someone needed a specialist, their GP recommended someone or they had to pull out the phone book and started making calls. Sometimes quite a few phone calls had to be made to find the right doctor, especially if the problem was uncommon- do they treat your sitution? do they take your insurance? what ages do they accept? Are they a tolerable driving distance? It was a lot of work.
Word of mouth or "buzz" is another way to find a doctor but people tend to keep their psychiatric, addiction and relationship problems private. The plastic surgeons and Botox doctors tend to benefit best by "buzz."
So here we are in the 21st century and we're still needing help finding the right doctor. Luckily we have the internet which allows the matching of doctors to patients to be a two-way process, instead of one-way, that is much faster and easier.
Word of mouth or "buzz" is another way to find a doctor but people tend to keep their psychiatric, addiction and relationship problems private. The plastic surgeons and Botox doctors tend to benefit best by "buzz."
So here we are in the 21st century and we're still needing help finding the right doctor. Luckily we have the internet which allows the matching of doctors to patients to be a two-way process, instead of one-way, that is much faster and easier.
From the patient's point-of-view, he or she can check out the yellowpages.com, get onto the insurance company's website, or do an internet search using the name of the malady to find specialists, partnerships and groups that treat the problem.
From the doctor's side, he or she can set up a website listing what kinds of situations they specialize in as well as their location and what insurance they accept. They can also do some blog marketing and use blog advertising.
The way psychiatrists and psychologists do this is by placing ads that will pop up on blogs with content similar to their field of practice. Chances are the person reading the blog might also be looking for a doctor for a similar problem. That's one way they can find their target audience.
Manufacturers of medicine do the same thing. For example, you might see ads pop up on my blog for anti-depressants, practices that specialize in OCD, or someone selling the latest book on anxiety and phobias.
Sometimes a new practice, medicine or proceedure needs to be introduced to the world. One thing these companies can do is contact Snapbomb who then asks its members to read and learn about the subject and then write up an article to be published on the internet. These people get paid to write the articles and post them on their blogs. The pay is determined by (1) what the customer wants to pay for their blog advertising and (2) the quality of the blog site (traffic volume, quality of past articles).
I was told by my creative writing teacher in college that writing can be good for the mind, rather therapeutic, and she was right. I enjoy writing in my blogs and for Snapbomb. I'm just a newbie right now so I'm not getting rich (yet) but it's something for my wallet. If you'd like to be paid for writing click on http://www.snapbomb.com/bloggers.html?acp=7551. Just type in your contact and blog information and get started. It's therpeutic and, who knows, you just might write about something that helps you out!
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