Although we need more research, the age-old practice of covering oneself in cold water has been shown to have beneficial health benefits, including helping to lift your mood. For example, studies show that cold water swimming can tamp down inflamation which is often identified as a cause of depression. And we know that dousing your…

Are there any misconceptions about bipolar disorder?Many people don’t realize that bipolar disorder can run in families. Data demonstrates that those with specific genes can have a bigger chance than others of having bipolar disorder. What are some signs of bipolar disorder that people may not realize?Many people think bipolar disorder is limited to swings…

Hoarding is a mental health disorder in which people pack their homes with so many items of limited or no use that they can create health risks to themselves and anyone they live with. This need to save items is often compounded by getting upset when they are confronted about their hoarding and the need…

This past year has been one for the history books. Emerging from the pandemic has been a challenging but fulfilling process, especially for healthcare providers and business leaders. As a psychiatrist as well as the CEO of PsychPlus, this has been doubly the case. It’s important for everyone to take a bit of time and…

When we exercise, a complex chemical reaction takes place in your brain which can help boost your mood. These chemicals include endorphins and endocannabinoids, which can actually work in tandem to fight depression. Exercise also often gets us out of the house, into the company of others and forces our mind to focus on things…

Acute social withdrawal, sometimes referred to as hikikomori, refers to an extreme version of avoiding interaction with, and spending time with, others. This includes avoiding people and activities that one might usually enjoy. Research suggests such withdrawal is caused by mental health and emotional struggles that a person might be experiencing, and it can also…