Author Archives: JmaC

What are the symptoms of depression and how is it diagnosed? Doctors make decisions about diagnosis based on guidance. The main guidance used by NHS doctors is the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). When you see a doctor, like your … Continue reading →

What is depression? Everyone has ups and downs – sometimes you might feel a bit low, or experience grief when you lose someone you love. It is common for people to say that they are ‘depressed’ when they are feeling … Continue reading →

Agoraphobia Agoraphobia is an anxiety disorder where you have an intense fear of certain situations, including: •Leaving your home •Being in public spaces •Using public transport •Being in crowded spaces You might find that these situations make you feel very … Continue reading →

How is psychosis treated? What treatment should I be offered? The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) issues guidance on how the NHS should treat different health conditions. The NHS does not have to follow this guidance but … Continue reading →

Psychosis is a medical term. If you have psychosis, you might see or hear things, or hold unusual beliefs, that other people do not. Some people describe it as a “break from reality”. You may also hear terms such as … Continue reading →

These pages explain what psychosis is and its possible causes and treatments. You will find them useful if you are affected by psychosis or if you have a friend or family member who is affected. •Psychosis is a medical term … Continue reading →

Tell yourself: STOP ! Take a Breath Focusing on your breathing slows down the adrenaline response and the distressing thoughts. Breathe mindfully and notice the sensations of breathing in your belly. You might find it helpful to count your breaths, … Continue reading →

Will my information be kept confidential? GPs have strict guidelines on confidentiality and information sharing which means they are not allowed to give information about you to third parties without your direct consent. This means they will not give information … Continue reading →

Medication – choice and managing problems Medication can play a key role in treating mental illness. Unfortunately, sometimes people have problems with taking this medication that make them feel that it’s not right for them. This section considers ways of … Continue reading →

This section covers: •How do mood stabilisers work? •Lithium •Valproate •Carbamazepine •Lamotrigine •Antipsychotics How do mood stabilisers work? It is not yet known exactly how mood stabilisers work. They appear to have the effect of stabilising swings between mania (feeling … Continue reading →