Hello world! Happy Tuesday! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday! And since this is my last post for 2015, I hope you all have a wonderful New Year (please be safe and responsible if you’re going out.) As this year comes to an end, I like to take the time to reflect on the time and events that have past through the year. It gives me an overview of my strengths, weaknesses, and areas of improvement. And I encourage you all to do the same.
This year, December 16th to be exact, marks my 2nd year anniversary of my diagnosis of bi-polar. But also marks the start to my journey to recovery and a happy, healthy life. Thinking back to before my diagnosis, I wonder if there were any events that took place that may have caused it. And the simple answer to that is no. For me, it was more of a chemical imbalance than anything else.
So, how exactly can an accident cause a mental illness? So glad you asked. I’ll breakdown the different types of illnesses that can potentially be caused by an accident and how they can.
Disclaimer: I am not a professional.
PTSD – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
By definition, PTSD is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms of PTSD include: flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Pharmacologically, the treatment for PTSD is based off of symptoms; anti-depressants for depression, anti-anxiety medications for anxiety, and medications to help with insomnia. Ideally, in conjunction with pharmacological treatment, talk therapy (psychotherapy) is just as important in order to work through the symptoms/thoughts/feelings/emotions.
Situational Depression
Situational depression is a short-term form of depression that can occur in the aftermath of various traumatic changes in your normal life. Examples include: divorce, death, loss of a job, and/or retirement. Similar to PTSD, situational depression can be treated with anti-depressants and/or anti-anxiety medications. It’s also important to not only talk to a professional about what yo’re going through, but also your family. As they know you better than anyone else.
Alex Newton is a nursing student and mental health advocate. She grew up in a small town and plans on moving to London, England one day and open up her own health practice. She has a cat named Maya who she adopted whilst going through some difficulties. She’s a daughter, sister, and warrior who enjoys a nice cuppa tea.
Defying Shadows 