Fatigue (Chronic Fatigue Syndrome/CFS)
What is CFS?
CFS also known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME), is a complex and debilitating condition
that affects multiple systems of the body. CFS can affect people of any age, gender or ethnicity
and it is estimated to affect approximately (0.2 – 0.4) % of the population worldwide with
women affected at four times the rate, commoner in people in their 40s or 50s but occasionally
in children especially in their adolescence.
What are the symptoms of CFS?
The primary symptom of CFS is severe fatigue that is not relieved by rest, unrelated to exertion
or triggered by only minimal activity and lasts for at least six months. However, other
symptoms such as pain, cognitive dysfunction, headaches and sleep disturbances may also be
present.
What are the causes of CFS?
The exact cause of CFS is not fully understood but it is thought to be triggered by a combination
of factors including viral infections such as sore throat, fever; immune system dysfunction and
hormonal imbalance.
How is CFS diagnosed?
Diagnosis of CFS is often difficult as there are no tests to confirm the condition. Doctors
usually make diagnosis based on the presence of symptoms, ruling out other potential causes,
and meeting certain diagnostic criteria such as the International Consensus Criteria or the
Canadian Consensus Criteria.
What are the treatment options for CFS?
Treatments for CFS typically involves a combination of approaches, including medications to
manage symptoms, cognitive behavioural therapy to address psychological and behavioural
aspects of the condition and graded exercise therapy to gradually increase physical activity
levels. However, treatment is often challenging as the severity and duration of symptoms can
vary widely among individuals with CFS.
Living with CFS can be challenging and many more people with the condition experience
significant limitations in their daily lives. Support from family, friends and healthcare
professionals can be critical in the helping of individuals with CFS manage their symptoms
and maintain a good quality of life. It is therefore important to seek help from a health
professional.
Fainting Spells
What is fainting spells?
Fainting spells, also known as syncopal attack, is a sudden and temporary loss of
consciousness, typically caused by a lack of oxygen supply to the brain.
It can happen if you have:
What are the Symptoms of fainting spells?
The most common symptoms of fainting include feeling dizzy/drowsy/groggy, feeling
lightheaded, weakness or unsteadiness especially when standing , falling for no reason or after
exercise, headaches, nausea, changes in vision - seeing spots, tunnel vision, sweating, blurry
images.
What are the causes of fainting spells?
Fainting can be caused by a variety of factors
Why seek help form a professional?
Fainting can lead to injuries, such as falls, road traffic accidents and can also be a sign of a
more serious underlying medical condition. It is therefore important to seek urgent medical
attention if you experience this.
A medical practitioner would do a complete evaluation involving a careful review of your
medical history and a physical examination followed by investigations such as blood tests,
electrocardiogram (ECG), or tilt-table testing etc. to determine the cause of fainting.
What is the treatment for fainting spells?
Treatment for fainting depends on the underlying cause. In most cases, the person will regain
consciousness on their own within a few seconds or minutes. However, whether the the person
regains consciousness or not , emergency medical attention should be sought.
How can one prevent fainting spells?
There are several ways to prevent fainting, including staying hydrated, avoiding sudden
changes in posture, eating regular meals, and avoiding triggers that can cause fainting.
Frustration
What is frustration?
Frustration refers to the feeling of being blocked or thwarted in one's efforts to reach a goal or
accomplish a task. It is an emotional response to stress i.e. situations that we find challenging,
unfair or unsatisfying.
How can it be identified?
Frustration may manifest in a number of different ways and usually varies from person to
person. Common signs of Frustration include anger (or losing one’s temper), irritability,
sadness, avoidance, changes in eating habits, feeling anxious or on edge, getting overwhelmed
or giving up on tasks, changes in sleep patterns, irritability, disappointment and using
substances to cope such as alcohol, smoking cigarette (nicotine) etc. Others may engage in
physical actions to express feelings of frustration – sighing, frowning, tapping their feet or
engage in repetitive body movements.
What are the causes?
Frustration arises by a range of factors, including external circumstances such as a lack of
resources (financial) or support (social), daily hassles, work related problems as well as internal
factors such as self-doubt or a lack of skill or expertise.
Should one be concerned?
Frustration can have a significant impact on mental health. When individuals experience
frustration repeatedly or chronically, then one must seek help as it can lead to feelings of
helplessness, hopelessness, and low self-esteem, which can contribute to the development of
mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Chronic frustration can negatively
impact one’s physical health leading to physical health problems, including elevated levels of
stress hormones, high blood pressure, and impaired immune function. These physical health
issues can further exacerbate mental health problems.
Moreover, people with pre-existing mental health conditions may be more susceptible to
experiencing frustration, and frustration can intensify their existing symptoms.
Is there a solution?
Effective strategies for dealing with and managing frustration thereby promoting good mental
health include:
Don’t forget!!!!
It is important for individuals with mental health conditions to develop effective coping
strategies to manage frustration and prevent it from exacerbating their symptoms.
It is important to recognize that frustration is a normal and common experience, and that
seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Family Dynamics and Mental Health
What is Family Dynamics?
Family dynamics refers to the patterns of interactions among relatives, their roles and
relationships, and the various factors that shape their interaction. It is essential to note that
family members rely on each other for emotional, physical and economic support as such they
are one of the primary sources of relationship security or stress.
Does family dynamics have an impact on mental wellbeing?
Family dynamics can play a significant role in health outcomes as well as in the development
and maintenance of mental health problems. Family relationships, communication patterns,
and conflict resolution styles can all impact an individual's mental health, exacerbating
depression and anxiety if there is poor communication. Additionally, family dynamics can
impact an individual's response to mental health treatment. For example, a study found that
family support and involvement can improve the outcomes of treatment for individuals with
schizophrenia.
Is there help for struggling families?
Family-based interventions have been developed to help improve mental health outcomes for
individuals and their families. For example, family therapy has been shown to be effective in
treating a range of mental health conditions, including depression, bipolar disorder, and eating
disorders.Furthermore, interventions that focus on improving communication and problemsolving
skills within families, such as family-focused therapy and multi-family group therapy,
have also been found to be effective in improving mental health outcomes for individuals and
their families.
Food Obsession
What is Food Obsession?
Food obsession, also known as food addiction, refers to an unhealthy preoccupation with
food that can lead to compulsive eating behaviors, weight gain, and other negative health
consequences.
What are the causes of food obsession?
Food obsession is a complex issue that can be influenced by a variety of factors, including
genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and psychological factors. Research has shown
that food addiction shares many similarities with drug addiction, including changes in brain
chemistry and neuroadaptation.
Is food obsession harmful?
Food obsession has been linked to a range of negative health consequences, including
obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and mental health problems such as depression and
anxiety. Food addiction has also been found to be associated with a higher likelihood of binge
eating disorder.
Is this treatable?
Food obsession can be particularly challenging to address due to the complex nature of the
condition. Treatment may involve a combination of psychological therapy, medication, and
lifestyle changes. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy has been found to be effective in
treating food addiction by addressing negative thought patterns and developing healthier
coping mechanisms .
Some Medications have also shown promise in reducing food cravings and compulsive eating behaviors. Lifestyle changes can also play an important role in managing food obsession.
These may include improving dietary habits, increasing physical activity, and reducing stress levels.
In some cases, participating in support groups, such as overeaters anonymous, can also be helpful in managing food addiction.
Failure and how to cope
What is failure?
Failure is an inevitable part of life that can be a source of stress and anxiety for many
individuals. Whether it is failing a test, not getting a job offer, or experiencing a setback in a
personal relationship, failure can be a difficult experience to cope with. However, it is
important to recognize that failure is a natural and necessary part of the learning process, and
that there are ways to cope with failure in a healthy and productive manner.
Can it have an impact on mental health?
Failure can have a significant impact on mental health, particularly if an individual has a
negative mindset or beliefs about themselves in relation to failure. It can lead to feelings of
shame, anxiety, and depression, and may contribute to a lack of motivation and a decrease in
self-esteem .
How can one deal with failure?
One of the key ways to cope with failure is to shift your mindset towards failure. Instead of
viewing failure as a negative outcome, try to reframe it as an opportunity for growth and
learning.
Another important strategy for coping with failure is to practice self-compassion. It
is easy to be self-critical and harsh when we fail, but this only serves to increase our stress
levels and make it harder to bounce back. Instead, try to be kind and understanding towards
yourself. Treat yourself with the same kindness and compassion that you would show a friend
who was going through a difficult time.
Seeking support from friends and loved ones can be a powerful way to process your emotions and gain perspective on the situation. Additionally, taking time for self-care activities, such as exercise or meditation, can help to reduce stress levels and improve overall well-being.
It is also important to remember that failure is not a reflection of your worth as a person. Just
because you have failed at something does not mean that you are a failure as a person. Try to
separate your sense of self-worth from the outcome of the situation and focus on the progress
and growth that you have made along the way.
Fear of Abandonment
What is fear of abandonment?
Fear of abandonment is a common and natural human emotion that arises when individuals feel
threatened by the possibility of losing close relationships. This fear is often characterized by
feelings of anxiety, insecurity, and distress, and can be a significant source of stress for those
who experience it. While occasional feelings of abandonment are normal, persistent and intense
fear of abandonment can have serious implications for mental health.
What are the consequences of fear of abandonment?
One of the most significant consequences of fear of abandonment is the development of
attachment-related anxiety, which is a type of anxiety that arises from insecure attachment
styles. Insecure attachment styles can develop as a result of childhood experiences, such as
inconsistent or neglectful parenting, or from traumatic experiences in adulthood, such as the
loss of a loved one. When individuals with insecure attachment styles perceive a threat to their
relationships, they may experience intense anxiety and engage in behaviors that are intended
to maintain their connection with others.
The fear of abandonment can also lead to the development of other mental health conditions,
such as depression and borderline personality disorder (BPD). Fear of abandonment is a
hallmark symptom of BPD, and individuals with this disorder may engage in extreme
behaviors, such as self-harm or suicidal ideation, in an attempt to avoid abandonment.
What is the treatment of fear of abandonment?
Fortunately, there are several effective treatments available for individuals with fear of
abandonment and related mental health conditions. One commonly used treatment for BPD is
dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), which is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that
focuses on developing skills to manage emotions and improve relationships. DBT has been
shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of BPD, including fear of abandonment.
Factitious Disorder
What is factitious disorder?
Factitious disorder is a mental health condition in which individuals intentionally fabricate or
induce physical or psychological symptoms in themselves or others.
This disorder is also known as Munchausen syndrome, named after the German adventurer Baron Munchausen, who was known for telling exaggerated stories about his travels.
Individuals with factitious disorder may go to great lengths to make themselves appear sick or
injured, including faking symptoms, tampering with medical test results, and even self-injuring
to induce physical symptoms. In some cases, individuals with factitious disorder may also
falsify information about their medical history or engage in deception to receive unnecessary
medical procedures or hospitalization.
What causes factitious disorder?
Factitious disorder is considered a rare condition, and its exact prevalence is not wellestablished.
However, it is believed to be more common among individuals with a history of
childhood abuse or neglect, and those who work in the healthcare field or have a close
relationship with someone who is ill.
How is factitious disorder diagnosed?
Diagnosis of factitious disorder can be challenging, as individuals with this condition may go
to great lengths to conceal their symptoms or fabrications. However, mental health
professionals may use a combination of psychological assessments, medical evaluations, and
interviews with family members or medical professionals to make a diagnosis.
What is the treatment for factitious disorder?
There is no specific treatment for factitious disorder, but therapy can be helpful in managing
the condition. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may be used to help individuals with
factitious disorder identify and address underlying psychological issues that contribute to their
behavior. Additionally, family therapy may be beneficial in cases where the individual with
factitious disorder has a close relationship with a caregiver or family member.
What are the complications associated with this disorder?
It is essential to note that factitious disorder can have serious implications for physical and
psychological health. Individuals with this condition may subject themselves to unnecessary
medical procedures or medications, which can be harmful and potentially life-threatening.
Additionally, the behavior associated with factitious disorder can lead to strained relationships
with loved ones and medical professionals, and may result in legal consequences in cases of
fraud or deception.
It is essential to seek professional help if you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of
factitious disorder to ensure appropriate treatment and prevent harm to physical and
psychological health.
Functional Neurological Disorders
What are functional neurological disorders?
Functional neurological disorders (FND) are a group of conditions that involve neurological
symptoms such as weakness, seizures, or movement disorders that cannot be fully explained
by underlying organic neurological or medical conditions. These symptoms are thought to be
related to underlying psychological or emotional stressors, rather than a structural or
biochemical problem in the brain or nervous system.
What causes FND?
The exact causes of FNDs are not well understood, but research suggests that they may be
related to a combination of psychological, social, and biological factors. Psychological factors
such as stress, trauma, or anxiety may play a role in the development of FNDs, as may
underlying physical or medical conditions that affect the nervous system.
What are the symptoms of FND?
FNDs can be challenging to diagnose and treat, as they often present with symptoms that are
similar to those of other neurological disorders. Some common symptoms of FNDs include
weakness, tremors, involuntary movements, sensory disturbances, and speech difficulties. In
some cases, individuals with FNDs may also experience seizures or blackouts.
What is the Treatment for FND?
Treatment for FNDs typically involves a combination of physical therapy, occupational
therapy, and psychotherapy. Physical therapy and occupational therapy may be used to address
physical symptoms such as weakness or movement disorders, while psychotherapy can be
helpful in addressing underlying psychological factors that may be contributing to the
symptoms.
One type of psychotherapy that has shown promise in treating FNDs is cognitive-behavioral
therapy (CBT). CBT is a type of therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative
thought patterns and behaviors that may be contributing to symptoms. In some cases, other
forms of psychotherapy, such as hypnotherapy or mindfulness-based therapies, may also be
beneficial.
It is important to note that FNDs can have a significant impact on quality of life and may be
associated with significant disability. However, with appropriate diagnosis and treatment,
many individuals with FNDs can experience significant improvement in symptoms and quality
of life.
Fantasy Prone Personality Disorder
What is FFPD?
Fantasy prone personality disorder (FPPD) is a condition characterized by a high degree of
involvement in imaginative experiences and fantasies, often to the point of confusing them
with reality. Individuals with FPPD may have vivid, detailed fantasies that they believe are
real, or they may have difficulty distinguishing between fantasy and reality. They may also
experience frequent daydreams or engage in elaborate, fanciful storytelling.
What causes FFPD?
The exact causes of FPPD are not well understood, but research suggests that it may be related
to underlying psychological or neurological factors. Individuals with FPPD may have difficulty
regulating their emotions or may use fantasy as a coping mechanism for stress or anxiety.
FPPD is not officially recognized as a diagnosable mental health disorder in the DSM-5, but it
is considered a subtype of dissociative disorder in the International Classification of Diseases
(ICD-11). Individuals with FPPD may also be at an increased risk for developing other mental
health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or personality disorders.
What is the treatment for FFPD?
Treatment for FPPD may involve a combination of psychotherapy and medication. Cognitivebehavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful in addressing underlying emotional or psychological factors that may be contributing to the condition. Antidepressant medications may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms of depression or anxiety.
It is important to note that FPPD is not the same as having an active imagination or enjoying
fantasy literature or media. It is a condition that can have a significant impact on daily
functioning and quality of life, and may be associated with distress or impairment.
Fire-setting Disorder
What is Fire-setting Disorder?
Fire-setting disorder, also known as pyromania, is a mental health condition characterized by a
persistent and deliberate fascination with fire, as well as a compulsion to set fires. Individuals
with firesetting disorder may experience intense pleasure or satisfaction from setting fires, and
may feel a sense of excitement or arousal when they are around flames or in situations where
fires may occur.Firesetting disorder is a rare condition, with prevalence estimated to be less
than 1% of the general population.
How is fire-setting disorder diagnosed?
It is typically diagnosed in adolescence or early adulthood, and is more common in males than
females. The exact causes of firesetting disorder are not well understood, but research suggests
that it may be related to underlying psychological or neurological factors, such as a history of
trauma, substance abuse, or impulse control disorders.Individuals with firesetting disorder may
also be at an increased risk for legal problems, as well as physical injury or property damage
caused by fires they set.
What is the treatment for fire-setting disorder?
Treatment for firesetting disorder typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and
medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful in addressing underlying
emotional or psychological factors that may be contributing to the condition, and may involve
strategies such as relaxation techniques or exposure therapy to help individuals manage their
impulse to set fires. Medications such as antidepressants or antipsychotics may also be
prescribed to help manage symptoms.
It is important to note that not all individuals who engage in firesetting behavior have firesetting
disorder. Some individuals may set fires due to accidental or impulsive behavior, while others
may set fires as a result of another underlying mental health condition, such as conduct disorder
or borderline personality disorder.
Female Sexual Disorders
What are Female Sexual Disorders ?
Female sexual disorders refer to a group of conditions that can affect a woman's ability to
experience sexual desire, arousal, orgasm, or satisfaction. These disorders can have a
significant impact on a woman's quality of life and relationships, and can be caused by a variety
of factors including physical, psychological, or relational issues.
What are the types of female sexual disorders?
Some common types of female sexual disorders include hypoactive sexual desire disorder
(HSDD), female sexual arousal disorder (FSAD), female orgasmic disorder (FOD), and genitopelvic
pain/penetration disorder (GPPPD). HSDD is characterized by a persistent lack of sexual
desire or interest, while FSAD refers to difficulty becoming sexually aroused despite feeling
desire. FOD involves difficulty achieving orgasm or experiencing pleasure during sexual
activity, and GPPPD refers to persistent pain during intercourse or penetration.
What are the treatment options for female sexual disorders?
Treatment for female sexual disorders typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and
medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful in addressing underlying
psychological or relational factors that may be contributing to the condition, and may involve
strategies such as mindfulness, communication training, or relaxation techniques.
Medications such as hormone therapy or antidepressants may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms. It is important to note that female sexual disorders can be complex and multifaceted, and may require a comprehensive and individualized approach to treatment. Women who are
experiencing sexual dysfunction are encouraged to speak with a healthcare professional to
receive a proper evaluation and to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Compiled by: Dr. Emelda Edem Asem - Ahiablee, Dr. Ramata Seidu, Dr. E. A. Azusong,
Dr. Akosua Dickson, Dr. Matilda Asiedu, Dr. Wendy Muonibeh Bebobru, Dr. Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Ohakpougwu