Although anorexia nervosa—also referred to as anorexia—seems like a modern disorder, physicians published papers about a form of the disorder in the late 1800s. However, in all this time, the definition has changed considerably. A Brief History of Anorexia Some researchers claim that doctors were trying to understand “a nervous consumption caused by sadness and...Read More

Many physicians prescribe antidepressants for individuals with mood disorders such as anxiety, chronic pain, and depression. In certain circumstances, medication is only necessary for a short time, while other diagnoses might require a change in the prescription dosage or a different type as part of effective long-term treatment. If you need to stop taking antidepressants,...Read More

According to the National Council for Behavioral Health (NCBH), approximately 30 percent of U.S. reserve and active military personnel—roughly 730,000 women and men—returning from Afghanistan and Iraq have mental health conditions requiring treatment, including PTSD and depression. However, less than 50 percent receive the care they need. Why? The Hidden Culture Within American military ranks...Read More

Treatment for substance addiction, co-occurring disorders, process addictions, and mood conditions might not be effective without taking into account an individual’s full life and experiences. One aspect often overlooked in cookie-cutter approaches is the impact of trauma. Many therapeutic approaches can effectively address trauma, including a relatively new application: brainspotting. How Trauma Affects the Brain...Read More

It’s sometimes hard to understand that supposedly helpful medication can end up causing problems. Such is the case with many sleep aids, including Ambien. When receiving treatment for this habit-forming drug, there are both physical and psychological aspects to consider. Facts About Ambien When people struggle with insomnia due to addiction detox, chronic pain, grief,...Read More

Too often, someone who doesn’t understand addiction as a brain disease might say, “Well, if they really wanted to quit, they would.” This myth is all too common, and makes it even more challenging for people to consider substance abuse treatment and recovery. Willpower alone can’t help stop addiction—but it might aid aspects of recovery...Read More

Effective treatment for mental health conditions requires a deep understanding of individuals and their experiences. For Aaron Wilson, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Cottonwood Tucson, that understanding, above all else, must begin with a quest for diagnostic clarity. An inaccurate diagnosis can result in a cascade of issues to follow, such as treatment resistance that...Read More

When medical professionals talk about mind-body wellness, what does this actually mean? It’s an acknowledgment of the connection between all aspects of self: our physical well-being, our mental and emotional health, and even our spiritual center, or soulful intent. Whole-Person Wellness Without question, medical applications are necessary for progressive health. After all, if you break...Read More

When you experience anxiety, the last thing you want to hear is there’s nothing to be concerned about, or you should just snap out of it. Some people aren’t as familiar with the way anxiety about, well, everything (and nothing, sometimes) can linger just below the surface of daily life. Anxiety Disorders Are Common The...Read More

Sometimes living healthfully requires more dedicated focus. Stressful work issues, family or relationship problems, recurring trauma, financial difficulties, and even the strain of national or world events all throw obstacles onto your wellness path. If you are in recovery and feeling “off”, it’s important to examine why and reach out for support. Potential Relapse Symptoms...Read More