The more information you know, the better you are prepared. Here you will find links to the most informative psychiatric websites, as well as some frequently asked questions.
Q. What is the best way to lose weight if you are overweight?
A. Increase your fitness (generally, increase your exercise) and deal with the complicated psychological problem called "procrastination" (which means the automatic and slippery idea that "it can wait till later" and the substitution of some less relevant or seemingly easier behavior in the meantime)
Of course, diets, pills, treatment of psychological and physical illness, change of weight increasing medication, genetics, sleep factors, social pressures, surgery, all of these can help reduce weight.
But unless the first 2 issues above are dealt with, most people will be unsuccessful.
Q. What do you think about "natural" or "holistic" treatments as opposed to standard medical and psychiatric approaches?
A. I believe we have to let the evidence speak for itself. I am not opposed to trials of alternative or non-standard treatment if you are aware of the risks and evaluate whatever true benefits do result. Actually, sometimes holistic methods such as herbs or medication are actually studied in a scientific way and may then be accepted as part of evidence based medicine. I usually recommend we identify specific goals to be achieved by lessening (e.g. trying an herbal tea with the 2 goals of longer sleep time and feeling rested on awakening). I like to think of using an approved sleeping pill in the same way - to see if it really works for you. I always keep in mind that just because a medicine is approved by the FDA doesn't mean it is necessarily safe for you. Similarily, just because something is "natural" (like tobacco) doesn't mean it is safe.
Q. How can I learn more abut psychiatric medications?
A. Some web sites are helpful (in addition to reading the PDR):
Be aware that the information given in chat rooms or anonymous forums is sometimes presented by individuals who have had a uniquely bad experience with a particular drug (or a uniquely good one). What you read may be very biased.
For links to websites on psychiatric medications, please click here.
Q. What is anxiety sensitivity?
A. This means the tendency to be afraid of fear (an anxiety) itself. It is the pattern of reacting very strongly or overreacting to the signs and symptoms of emotional fear such as shortness of breath, chest pressure, sweating, racing pulse, or sinking feelings inside. Persons with anxiety sensitivity may begin to believe they ar5e dying, or "having a nervous breakdown," or will be humiliated or embarrassed in public.
If you have a higher than average anxiety sensitivity (even if you are not necessarily a very anxious person to begin with), then you are more likely to develop anxiety disorders. You have a higher risk of developing panic disorder, phobias (driving, flying, heights) and social avoidance.
Of course we all have some level of fear when we experience pain or any kind of hurting, such as GI symptoms, breathing problems and headaches. People with anxiety sensitivity tend to seek out more medical help and various kinds of treatment, sometimes more than absolutely needed.
Treatment of anxiety sensitivity may require cognitive psychotherapy or medication or both.
