Mental health

17 questions

How to cope with stress?

Identify sources.
Physical exercises.
Breathing practices.
Sufficient sleep.
Work/rest boundaries.
Professional help if necessary.

Signs of depression?

Depressed mood >2 weeks.
Loss of interest.
Changes in sleep and appetite.
Fatigue.
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness.
Consult a doctor.

How does anxiety differ from panic?

Anxiety — prolonged worry.
Panic attack — acute episode.
PAs symptoms: heart palpitations, fear of death, 10-30 min.
PAs are not dangerous but frightening.
Therapy is effective for both.

How to help a loved one with depression?

Listen without judgment.
Do not give advice like 'cheer up'.
Offer help with household tasks.
Encourage seeking a specialist.
Watch for signs of suicide.

When is a psychologist needed, and when a psychiatrist?

Psychologist — psychotherapy, no medications.
Psychiatrist — doctor, prescribes medications.
They often work together.
For severe conditions — see a psychiatrist.
For talk therapy — see a psychologist.

How does meditation work?

Attention training.
Reduces stress, anxiety.
Start with 5 min a day.
Apps: Headspace, Calm, Insight Timer.
Regularity is more important than duration.

What is burnout?

Emotional exhaustion from work.
Cynicism, detachment.
Decreased productivity.
Causes: overload, lack of control.
Solution: boundaries, rest, possibly changing jobs.

Do social networks affect mental health?

Yes, especially in teenagers.
Comparing with others, FOMO.
Sleep disturbances from screens.
Limit time: 30-60 min/day.
Unsubscribe from toxic content.

How to improve self-esteem?

Track negative thoughts.
Record achievements.
Environment influences — choose supportive people.
Compare yourself with your past.
Therapy for serious problems.

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder.
After a traumatic event.
Symptoms: flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance.
Effective treatments: EMDR, CBT.
Consult a specialist.

How to deal with panic attacks?

Remember: it’s not dangerous.
Breathing: slow exhale.
Grounding: see 5 things, hear 4...
Do not avoid situations.
Therapy helps prevent them.

How to help yourself with anxiety?

Breathing exercises: 4-7-

8.

Physical activity.
Limit caffeine.
Regular routine.
Write down anxious thoughts and challenge them.

What is seasonal depression?

Depression in autumn-winter period.
Related to lack of light.
Light therapy 10000 lux.
20-30 minutes in the morning.
Walks outdoors.

Mental health: how to build basic self-help for anxiety?

For the topic 'Mental health', focus on symptoms and red flags. If condition worsens, severe pain/fever/difficulty breathing — it’s better to see a doctor.

Mental health: how to recognize signs of burnout and what to do?

Practice for 'Mental health': prepare for the appointment — list of symptoms, duration, medications, tests, and questions. This makes the consultation more effective.

Mental health: how to find a specialist and assess therapy progress?

Answer on "Mental health": do not self-medicate with prescription drugs. Check drug compatibility and follow instructions.

Mental health: how to support your mental well-being through sleep and routines?

For "Mental health", it is helpful to track dynamics: when it started, what increases/decreases it, and any accompanying factors. This aids in diagnosis.