Psychological disorders
Overview
also known as mental health disorders, are conditions that affect a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, and behaviour. These disorders can affect day-to-day functioning and may require medical and therapeutic intervention. Below, you’ll find an overview of several common psychological disorders along with their symptoms and various treatment options including allopathic (conventional medicine), herbal, Chinese, and homeopathic remedies.
Common Psychological Disorders and Symptoms:
1. Depression
Symptoms: Persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of death or suicide.
2. Anxiety Disorders
Symptoms: Excessive worry, restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, sleep disturbances, and panic attacks.
3. Bipolar Disorder
Symptoms: Extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression).
4. Schizophrenia
Symptoms: Delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, abnormal motor behavior, and negative symptoms (e.g., reduced emotional expression).
5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Symptoms: Obsessions (repeated, persistent, and unwanted thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts).
6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Symptoms: Flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
Treatment Options
Allopathic (Conventional Medicine)
1. Depression
Medications: Antidepressants (SSRIs like fluoxetine, SNRIs like venlafaxine, tricyclic antidepressants).
Therapies: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for severe cases.
2. Anxiety Disorders
Medications: Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam), SSRIs (e.g., sertraline), beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol).
Therapies: CBT, exposure therapy, relaxation techniques.
3. Bipolar Disorder
Medications: Mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium), antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine), antidepressants.
Therapies: Psychotherapy, psychoeducation, lifestyle management.
4. Schizophrenia
Medications: Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, clozapine).
Therapies: CBT, social skills training, family therapy.
5. OCD
Medications: SSRIs (e.g., fluvoxamine), clomipramine.
Therapies: CBT (particularly exposure and response prevention).
6. PTSD
Medications: SSRIs (e.g., paroxetine), Prazosin (for nightmares).
Therapies: CBT, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Herbal Remedies:
1. Depression
St. John’s Wort: Effective for mild to moderate depression.
Saffron: Some studies suggest its effectiveness in reducing symptoms.
2. Anxiety Disorders
Kava: Used to reduce anxiety.
Valerian Root: Often used to promote relaxation and sleep.
3. Bipolar Disorder
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: May help stabilize mood.
4. Schizophrenia
Ginkgo Biloba: Some evidence suggests it may reduce symptoms.
5. OCD
Inositol: A type of sugar that may reduce symptoms.
6. PTSD
Ashwagandha: May reduce stress and anxiety.
Chinese Medicine
1. Depression
Acupuncture: To balance energy (Qi) and relieve symptoms.
Herbal formulas: Such as Xiao Yao San (Rambling Powder).
2. Anxiety Disorders
Acupuncture: To calm the mind and reduce anxiety.
Herbal formulas: Such as An Shen Bu Xin Wan.
3. Bipolar Disorder
Herbal formulas: Such as Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang.
4. Schizophrenia
Herbal formulas: Such as Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang (also used for bipolar).
5. OCD
Acupuncture: To balance Qi and reduce symptoms.
Herbal formulas: Such as Gan Mai Da Zao Tang.
6. PTSD
Acupuncture: To reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
Herbal formulas: Such as Gan Mai Da Zao Tang.
Homeopathic Remedies for Psychological Disorders:
Homeopathy is a holistic approach to medicine that treats the person as a whole, rather than focusing on a diseased part or a labelled sickness. Here is a list of common homeopathic remedies used for psychological disorders:
1. Aconitum napellus: Useful for acute panic, anxiety, and fear after a shock or trauma.
2. Argentum nitricum: Helps with anxiety, anticipatory fears, and performance anxiety.
3. Arsenicum album: Used for obsessive-compulsive tendencies, fear of being alone, and anxiety about health.
4. Aurum metallicum: For severe depression, suicidal thoughts, and feelings of worthlessness.
5. Calcarea carbonica: Suitable for individuals with anxiety, fear of going insane, and physical exhaustion.
6. Ignatia amara: Indicated for grief, acute emotional stress, and mood swings.
7. Lachesis mutus: Used for intense jealousy, suspicion, and talkativeness.
8. Natrum muriaticum: For chronic grief, depression, and a tendency to dwell on the past.
9. Pulsatilla: For mood swings, weepiness, and a need for consolation.
10. Sepia: Helps with indifference, irritability, and exhaustion.
11. Staphysagria: Indicated for suppressed anger, resentment, and emotional sensitivity.
12. Stramonium: Used for severe anxiety, night terrors, and fear of the dark.
13. Hyoscyamus niger: For mania, paranoia, and inappropriate behavior.
It is important to note that homeopathic remedies should be selected based on the individual’s specific symptoms and overall health. Consulting with a qualified homeopath is recommended to ensure the correct remedy and dosage are chosen.
Note:
It’s important to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any treatment, as the effectiveness and safety can vary based on individual conditions and circumstances. The information provided here is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional medical advice.