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About issues that affect our mental wellbeing

Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder characterized by unexpected and recurrent
panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that peak within
a few minutes.


What are the symptoms of panic disorder?
Panic attacks may be accompanied by physical symptoms such as:

  1. Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
  2. Sweating
  3. Trembling or shaking
  4. Shortness of breath or feeling smothered
  5. Feeling of choking
  6. Chest pain or discomfort
  7. Nausea or abdominal distress
  8. Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint
  9. Chills or hot flashes
  10. Numbness or tingling sensations
  11. Fear of losing control or going crazy
  12. Fear of dying

In addition to these physical symptoms, individuals with panic disorder may also
experience persistent worry about having another panic attack, and may avoid certain
situations or places that they fear may trigger an attack. This avoidance behaviour can
lead to impairment in daily functioning and can negatively impact quality of life.


Types of Panic Disorder
There are two types of panic disorder: with or without agoraphobia. Agoraphobia is a
fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing in the event
of a panic attack.


What are the causes of panic disorder?
The exact causes of panic disorder are not fully understood, but it is believed to be a
combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Panic disorder is
more common in women than in men and often develops in young adulthood.


Diagnosis
Diagnosis of panic disorder involves a thorough medical and psychiatric evaluation to
rule out any underlying medical conditions that may cause symptoms similar to those
of panic attacks. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)
provides diagnostic criteria for panic disorder.


Treatment
Treatment of panic disorder involves a combination of medications and psychotherapy.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake
inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly used medications to treat panic disorder. Cognitivebehavioural
therapy (CBT) is an effective form of psychotherapy that can help
individuals with panic disorder learn to manage their symptoms and overcome
avoidance behaviours.

Pain disorder, also known as somatoform pain disorder, is a type of somatic symptom
disorder characterized by chronic pain that is not fully explained by a medical
condition or injury. People with pain disorder may experience significant distress and
impairment in their daily activities as a result of their pain.


Causes of Pain Disorder
The exact cause of pain disorder is not fully understood, but it is believed to be a
complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. Some of the factors
that may contribute to the development of pain disorder include:

  1. Genetic predisposition
  2. Childhood trauma or abuse
  3. Psychological stressors, such as anxiety and depression
  4. Poor coping skills
  5. Hypersensitivity to pain
  6. Overuse or misuse of pain medications

Types of Pain Disorder
Pain disorder can be categorized into several types based on the location of the pain,
including:

  • Localized pain disorder: pain is restricted to a specific area of the body, such asthe lower back or neck
  • Regional pain disorder: pain occurs in a broader region of the body, such as the entire leg or arm
  • Generalized pain disorder: pain is widespread throughout the body

Diagnosis of Pain Disorder
Diagnosis of pain disorder involves ruling out any underlying medical conditions that
may be causing the pain through a thorough physical examination, laboratory tests, and
imaging studies. The diagnosis is based on the presence of chronic pain that cannot be
fully explained by a medical condition or injury, along with associated distress and
impairment in daily activities.


Management and treatment of Pain Disorder
The treatment of pain disorder typically involves a combination of medications,
psychotherapy, and other complementary therapies. Some of the approaches used to
manage and treat pain disorder include:

  • Medications: pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids, may be used to manage the pain. Antidepressants and anticonvulsants may also be used to treat associated anxiety and depression. 
  • Psychotherapy: cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help individuals learn coping skills and strategies to manage their pain and associated psychological symptoms. 
  • Complementary therapies: relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, and physical therapies, such as yoga and massage, may help alleviate pain and improve overall well-being.

Paranoid Personality Disorder is a type of personality disorder characterized by a
pervasive pattern of distrust and suspiciousness of others, such that their motives are
interpreted as malevolent, even in the absence of evidence to support these beliefs.


Causes of Paranoid Personality Disorder
The exact causes of Paranoid Personality Disorder are not fully understood, but it is
believed to be a combination of genetic, environmental, and psychological factors.
Childhood experiences, such as trauma or abuse, may also play a role in the
development of Paranoid Personality Disorder.


Symptoms of Paranoid Personality Disorder
Some of the symptoms of Paranoid Personality Disorder may include:

  1. Suspicion and distrust of others, without sufficient evidence
  2. Belief that others are trying to harm or deceive them
  3. Refusal to confide in others or share personal information
  4. A tendency to hold grudges and not forgive
  5. Hypervigilance and readiness for counterattack
  6. Tendency to be overly sensitive to criticism or perceived insults
  7. Inability to recognize their own contribution to conflicts

Management/Treatment of Paranoid Personality Disorder
Treatment for Paranoid Personality Disorder can be challenging, as people with this
disorder often do not trust mental health professionals or other treatment providers.
However, psychotherapy, can be effective in helping individuals with Paranoid
Personality Disorder to improve their relationships with others, manage their suspicious
thoughts, and learn coping strategies for dealing with their symptoms.

Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement,
characterized by tremors, rigidity, and slow movements. It is caused by the loss of
dopamine-producing cells in the brain, particularly in the substantia nigra, which affects
the control of movements.


Causes of Parkinson's Disease
The exact cause of Parkinson's disease is still unknown, but it is believed to be caused
by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some genes have been
identified that may increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease, and exposure to
certain toxins and chemicals may also increase the risk.

Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease
The symptoms of Parkinson's disease typically develop gradually and worsen over time.
Some of the most common symptoms include tremors or shaking, rigidity or stiffness
in the limbs or trunk, bradykinesia or slowness of movements, and impaired balance
and coordination.

Diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease
Parkinson's disease is typically diagnosed based on a thorough neurological exam,
medical history, and symptoms. Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, may be used
to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. There are no specific tests
to diagnose Parkinson's disease definitively, but certain diagnostic criteria, such as the
Movement Disorder Society criteria, can be used to help diagnose the disease.

Management of Parkinson's Disease
There is currently no cure for Parkinson's disease, but there are treatments available
that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Medications that increase
dopamine levels in the brain, such as levodopa, are often used to treat the disease. Other
medications that may be prescribed include dopamine agonists, MAO-B inhibitors, and
anticholinergics. In addition to medication, physical therapy and exercise can also help
improve symptoms and maintain mobility.

Prognosis of Parkinson's Disease
The prognosis for Parkinson's disease varies from person to person and depends on
many factors, including age at diagnosis, severity of symptoms, and response to
treatment. While there is no cure for the disease, early diagnosis and treatment can help
manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Relational problems between romantic partners can stem from a variety of factors,
including communication issues, differing values or goals, lack of trust or commitment,
and unresolved past traumas. These problems can lead to feelings of frustration, anger,
sadness, and loneliness, and can ultimately lead to relationship breakdown if not
addressed.


Here are some possible strategies that may help in resolving partner relational problems:

  • Communication: Effective communication is crucial in any relationship. Both partners should be willing to listen to each other's concerns and express their feelings in a respectful manner. 
  • Identify the problem: It's important to identify the root cause of the problem before trying to solve it. This will help both partners understand the issue and come up with a plan to address it. 
  • Seek professional help: Sometimes, partner relational problems may require the help of a trained therapist or counselor who can provide guidance and support. 
  • Build trust: Trust is a critical component of any successful relationship. Both partners should be willing to work on building trust by being honest, reliable, and keeping their promises.
  • Compromise: In any relationship, there will be times when both partners have conflicting needs or desires. It's important to find a middle ground and  compromise in order to move forward.
  • Take responsibility: It's important for both partners to take responsibility for their actions and work towards resolving the problem.

Remember that every relationship is unique, and what works for one couple may not
work for another. It's important to be patient, empathetic, and willing to work together
in order to overcome partner relational problems.

Pyromania is a psychological disorder characterized by a persistent and compelling urge
to set fires. The behaviour is not motivated by financial gain, revenge, or political
ideology but rather by the excitement, tension, and relief derived from fire setting.
Pyromania is considered a rare disorder, with prevalence rates estimated at less than 1%
in the general population.

The diagnostic criteria for pyromania include multiple instances of deliberate and
purposeful fire setting, an intense fascination with fire, a sense of gratification or relief
from setting fires, and the absence of other motives for the behavior.

Pyromania is typically diagnosed in adolescence or early adulthood, and individuals
with the disorder may experience legal, social, and occupational consequences as a
result of their behavior.

Pyromania is often associated with other mental health conditions, such as conduct
disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and antisocial personality
disorder.

Treatment typically involves a combination of cognitive-behavioural therapy,
medication, and support from family and friends.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome
(PMS) that affects a small percentage of women during their menstrual cycle. PMDD
is characterized by a cluster of physical and psychological symptoms that occur in the
luteal phase of the menstrual cycle (the two weeks before menstruation) and typically
improve within a few days after the onset of menstruation.


Causes of Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
PMDD is thought to be caused by changes in hormone levels during the menstrual cycle,
particularly in levels of estrogen and progesterone.


Symptoms of Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
The symptoms of PMDD include:

  1. Marked changes in mood (e.g., irritability, tension, depression, or anxiety)
  2. Marked affective lability (i.e., feeling emotionally out of control)
  3. Marked anger or interpersonal conflicts
  4. Decreased interest in activities
  5. Difficulty concentrating
  6. Fatigue or low energy
  7. Changes in appetite or food cravings
  8. Sleep disturbances
  9. Physical symptoms such as breast tenderness, joint or muscle pain, bloating, or headaches.

Diagnosis of Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
To be diagnosed with PMDD, a woman must experience at least five of these symptoms,
with at least one of the first four symptoms listed, in the luteal phase of her menstrual
cycle for at least two consecutive cycles. The symptoms must cause significant distress
or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning.


Treatment of Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Treatment for PMDD may include lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise and
a healthy diet, as well as medication, such as antidepressants or hormonal therapy.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after
a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. PTSD is characterized by a set of
symptoms that can last for weeks, months, or even years after the traumatic event has
occurred.


Causes of Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can occur after any traumatic event, such as physical or sexual assault, natural
disasters, accidents, combat, or witnessing violence. While most people will experience
some level of distress after a traumatic event, not everyone who experiences trauma will
develop PTSD.


Symptoms of Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
The symptoms of PTSD can be divided into four main categories:

  1. Intrusive thoughts and memories: This can include flashbacks of the traumatic event, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts or images related to the event.
  2. Avoidance and numbing: This can involve avoiding situations, people, or places that trigger memories of the traumatic event, and feeling emotionally numb or detached from others. 
  3. Hyperarousal: This can include being easily startled or frightened, feeling tense or on edge, and having difficulty sleeping or concentrating. 
  4. Negative changes in mood and thinking: This can involve feeling hopeless or negative about the future, having difficulty remembering the details of the traumatic event, and feeling a sense of guilt or shame.

Treatment of Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Treatment for PTSD may include therapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy or eye
movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and medication, such as
antidepressants or anti-anxiety medication. With appropriate treatment, many people
with PTSD are able to recover and regain a sense of normalcy in their lives.

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a mood disorder that can affect women after giving
birth. It is characterized by a persistent and intense feeling of sadness, hopelessness,
and worthlessness that can interfere with daily life and the ability to care for oneself and
one's baby.

PPD typically occurs within the first few weeks or months after giving birth but can
develop up to a year after delivery.


Causes of Postpartum Depression (PPD)
The exact cause of PPD is not known, but it is believed to be related to hormonal
changes that occur during pregnancy and childbirth, as well as psychological, social,
and environmental factors such as traumatic childbirth, lack of social support.

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression (PPD)
The symptoms of PPD can include:

  1. Depressed mood or severe mood swings
  2. Excessive crying
  3. Difficulty bonding with the baby
  4. Withdrawing from family and friends
  5. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
  6. Changes in appetite and sleep patterns
  7. Fatigue or loss of energy
  8. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  9. Thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Management of  Postpartum Depression (PPD)
PPD is a treatable condition, and early intervention is important for the health and wellbeing
of both the mother and baby. Treatment may include psychotherapy, medication,
or a combination of both. In addition, support from family, friends, and healthcare
providers can be critical in helping women recover from PPD.

Pica is a disorder that involves craving and consuming non-food substances that have
no nutritional value over a period of at least one month. Common substances ingested
in pica include dirt, clay, chalk, paper, ice, hair, and soap. The condition is most
commonly observed in children, pregnant women, and individuals with developmental
disabilities.


Causes of Pica
The exact causes of pica are not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a
combination of biological, psychological, and cultural factors. Some research suggests
that pica may be associated with nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron and zinc,
while other studies have linked the condition to stress, anxiety, and trauma.

Consequences of Pica
Pica can have serious health consequences, including gastrointestinal problems, dental
damage, and the risk of poisoning from ingesting toxic substances.

Treatment of Pica
Treatment for pica typically involves addressing any underlying nutritional deficiencies
or medical conditions, as well as providing behavioral therapy and counselling to help
individuals overcome their cravings for non-food substances.

Physical Abuse is a form of harm that involves the intentional use of force against a
person, which can result in bodily injury or pain. The consequences of physical abuse
can extend beyond physical injury and have a profound impact on an individual's mental
health.


Consequences of Physical Abuse 
People who experience physical abuse are at a higher risk of developing mental health
conditions such as anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and
substance abuse. The severity and frequency of the abuse, as well as the age at which it
occurs, can affect the likelihood of developing mental health issues.
Physical abuse can lead to feelings of powerlessness, fear, and low self-esteem. Victims
may also experience difficulty trusting others and may struggle with intimacy in
relationships. The experience of physical abuse can result in a sense of disconnection
from one's body, leading to dissociation and other psychological symptoms.


Management of Physical Abuse 
Individuals who have experienced physical abuse may benefit from therapy to address
the mental health consequences of the abuse. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, traumafocused
therapy, and other forms of psychotherapy can help individuals process their
experiences, develop coping strategies, and address any underlying mental health
conditions. It is crucial for individuals who have experienced physical abuse to seek
support and care to promote healing and recovery.

Pathological Gambling, also known as gambling disorder, is a type of behavioral
addiction characterized by persistent and recurrent gambling behavior that leads to
significant impairment or distress. It is classified as an impulse-control disorder and
affects approximately 1-3% of adults worldwide.

Causes of Pathological Gambling
The causes of pathological gambling are complex and may involve a combination of
genetic, environmental, and psychological factors. Risk factors for developing
gambling disorder include a family history of addiction, personal history of addiction,
impulsivity, and exposure to gambling opportunities.

Symptoms of Pathological Gambling
The symptoms of gambling disorder can vary, but typically include:

  • Preoccupation with gambling
  • Need to gamble with increasing amounts of money to achieve the desired level of excitement
  • Restlessness or irritability when attempting to cut down or stop gambling
  • Repeated unsuccessful attempts to stop or control gambling
  • Gambling as a way to escape problems or relieve negative feelings
  • Lying to conceal the extent of gambling behavior
  • Jeopardizing relationships, job, or educational opportunities due to gambling
  •  Relying on others to bail out financial problems caused by gambling

Types of Pathological Gambling

Gambling disorder can take various forms, including:

  • Casino gambling (e.g., slot machines, table games)
  • Sports betting
  • Lottery and scratch-off tickets
  • Online gambling

Diagnosis of Pathological Gambling
Diagnosis of gambling disorder is typically based on a comprehensive evaluation that
includes a clinical interview, self-report measures, and collateral information from
family members or friends. The DSM-5 criteria for gambling disorder require the
presence of at least four of nine symptoms, which must persist for at least 12 months.


Management/treatment of Pathological Gambling
Treatment for gambling disorder typically involves a combination of psychotherapy and
medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most widely used psychotherapy
approach and focuses on identifying and modifying irrational beliefs and behaviors
related to gambling. Medications such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers may be
used to address co-occurring mental health conditions such as depression or bipolar
disorder.


Prognosis of Pathological Gambling
The prognosis for gambling disorder is variable, with some individuals achieving longterm
abstinence from gambling, while others continue to struggle with the disorder.
Factors associated with a better prognosis include early treatment, involvement in
support groups such as Gamblers Anonymous, and abstaining from gambling for an
extended period.

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