Disorders


Understanding the difference between autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and learning disabilities

Autism, officially known autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a somewhat common neurodevelopmental disorder but isn’t well-understood by the general public. And despite increasing understanding and awareness in regards to autism, misconceptions still persist.  For example, it’s common for many people to confuse autism with learning disabilities but under closer scrutiny,…

Does autism spectrum disorder (ASD) run in families? Understanding ASD, genetic risk factors, and testing options

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it’s estimated that approximately 1 in 36 children will be born with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). ASD is one of the more common neurodevelopmental disorders—and you might be wondering, especially if you or another family member has ASD, if autism…

Borderline personality disorder medications & treatments

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a mental health condition that causes difficulty with emotional regulation, behavioral issues, and self-image struggles, which can result in mood swings, unstable relationships, and self-destructive and impulsive behavior.  BPD is one of many personality disorders, which are a consistent pattern of experiences of oneself and…

How to say no to someone with borderline personality disorder: Learn to navigate conflicts while still offering support

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a condition which can make trusting other people and establishing lasting relationships extremely difficult. This can make coping with BPD in relationships frustrating for the person carrying the diagnosis, as well as for a loved one who is often trying to understand and be supportive….

What is avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder? Common symptoms and causes of ARFID

Children are often picky with their food choices, but sometimes, those eating habits can go beyond pickiness and start affecting a child’s physical health. If a child’s eating patterns become increasingly restrictive and they begin to have symptoms like a lack of energy, failing to hit growth milestones, and refusing…

Parents and teachers: Work together to identify learning disorders in kids and help them learn and live well

Learning disorders usually present in children at a young age. However, that doesn’t always mean that a diagnosis will be made promptly. Often, parents wonder if their child’s delays or behaviors are normal (because what’s normal, anyhow?) or think they’ll “grow out of it.” Fortunately, there are other key figures…

Contamination OCD: What are the signs, symptoms, and treatment options?

When it comes to getting sick from what we eat or touch, we know to avoid certain things—especially in a post-pandemic world. From experience, science, or what we’ve been taught since childhood, avoiding contaminated products is often second nature.  But that doesn’t mean we can’t take things too far, which…

Get the latest mental wellness tips and discussions, delivered straight to your inbox.