Anxiety and Memory Loss

We accept certain medical screenings as regular parts of life. For example, cancer screenings such as breast exams and colonoscopies are widely recognized recommendations for standard, high-quality medical care. There is a lesser-known important screening: For the first time, medical experts have begun recommending that all adults under 65 should be screened for anxiety. {MiniWidget:Anxiety} Articles showcased: The New York Times, NPR, and NBC News The value of screening for anxiety Unfortunately, many people who have an anxiety disorder live with it unknowingly for years before they’re diagnosed. Screening for anxiety disorders can easily change that. And that’s important because these undiagnosed cases could increase. Several changes that have changed our social fabric — social media, COVID-19, and an increasingly polarized political environment — have only worsened anxiety symptoms for many. When left untreated, anxiety disorders may lead to the development of depressive symptoms. Additionally, untreated anxiety has been linked to higher risks of cardiovascular diseases, elevated blood pressure, and other medical conditions. Luckily, there are very effective treatments for anxiety disorders that can be administered via telehealth. Both talk therapy and medications can help relieve anxiety symptoms. How to screen for anxiety Researchers have developed a brief anxiety questionnaire that’s replicated in our free screener for anxiety and only takes a few minutes to complete. Just 7 questions long, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) asks about certain symptoms of anxiety. The resulting score will be classified as either mild, moderate, or severe in terms of symptom severity. Keep in mind: This is just a screener, and a high score doesn’t necessarily mean you have an anxiety disorder, and a low score doesn’t rule out the possibility that you do. Furthermore, there are many different types of anxiety disorders, and evidence-based treatment varies depending on the specific type. We encourage you to talk to a mental health professional to help you with the next steps. Cerebral can connect you with a clinician within days. Get screened: Take our free anxiety self-assessment today. David Mou, MD David is a board-certified psychiatrist. He completed his psychiatry training at Harvard’s MGH-McLean residency program. Image by lookstudio on Freepik. *The information in this blog is provided as a general educational resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purpose. This information should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment and does not create any patient-physician relationship between you and Cerebral. Please consult your health care provider before making any health care decisions or to get guidance about a specific medical condition.

Understanding the nuances of mental health can be challenging, especially when symptoms overlap between conditions. Two types of disorders that can be hard to distinguish are obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxiety. This informational article aims to clarify the differences between these conditions, their symptoms, and treatment options. {MiniWidget:Anxiety} What is OCD? Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that a person feels driven to perform. People with OCD often recognize that their thoughts and behaviors are irrational, yet they feel unable to stop them. These obsessions and compulsions can significantly interfere with daily life, cause considerable distress, and even make simple tasks seem daunting. Common obsessions in OCD Obsessions are intrusive, unwanted thoughts, images, or urges that cause significant anxiety or distress. In OCD, these obsessions often revolve around specific themes that are persistent and difficult to control Common OCD obsessions include the following: Fear of contamination or germs Unwanted forbidden or taboo thoughts involving sex, religion, or harm Aggressive thoughts toward others or self Having things symmetrical or in perfect order These obsessions can dominate the person's thoughts, leading to significant distress and interfering with daily activities. Common compulsions in OCD Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to an obsession. These actions are meant to reduce the distress associated with obsessions or to prevent a feared event, but they often  only provide temporary relief. Common OCD compulsions include the following: Excessive cleaning or hand washing Ordering and arranging things in a particular, precise way Repeatedly checking on things, such as ensuring the door is locked, or the oven is off Compulsive counting Compulsions can take up significant time and interfere with daily functioning, often causing distress and frustration. What is anxiety? Anxiety is a natural response to stress, but when it becomes persistent and overwhelming, it can develop into an anxiety disorder. Symptoms of anxiety can range from mild worry to debilitating fear and panic. Anxiety disorders are characterized by excessive fear or worry that impacts daily activities and encompass a wide range of conditions, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. People with anxiety disorders often experience persistent, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life, such as work, relationships, and health. This constant state of alertness can even lead to physical symptoms of anxiety that can significantly impact one's quality of life. Common symptoms of anxiety Anxiety can manifest in various ways, affecting both the mind and body. Most commonly, people with anxiety-related disorders will experience the following: Excessive worrying Feeling agitated or restless Fatigue Difficulty concentrating Irritability Tense muscles Trouble sleeping These symptoms can significantly impact daily life, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks and enjoy normal activities. Key differences between OCD and anxiety While OCD and anxiety disorders share some similarities, there are key differences in behaviors, thought patterns, and the focus of thoughts that can help in telling the two types of disorders apart. Behaviors Behaviors associated with these conditions can greatly interfere with day-to-day functioning and are often key indicators of the underlying disorder. Here’s how the two differ in behaviors:  OCD: Involves repetitive or ritualistic behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce the distress caused by obsessions. Anxiety: Involves behaviors aimed at avoiding anxiety-provoking situations or events, such as avoidance of social gatherings or excessive preparation for events. Thought patterns Thought patterns are a critical component in distinguishing between OCD and anxiety disorders. These are the major differences for both: OCD: Characterized by intrusive, unwanted thoughts that the person recognizes as irrational but cannot control. Anxiety: Involves persistent worrying about future events or everyday situations, which, while often exaggerated, are more rooted in reality compared to the intrusive thoughts in OCD. Focus of thoughts Understanding where thoughts are centered can help in identifying a specific disorder. This is how the two conditions differ in this area: OCD: Thoughts are often centered around specific themes like contamination, harm, or symmetry. Anxiety: Thoughts can be generalized and involve worrying about a wide range of everyday issues, such as work, health, and relationships. Recognizing differences can aid in distinguishing between OCD and anxiety disorders, which can help lead to more personalized and targeted treatment options. Is OCD a type of anxiety? OCD was previously considered an anxiety-related disorder because it involves significant anxiety and distress caused by obsessions and compulsions. However, OCD has been reclassified as an obsessive-compulsive and related disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as of late. This reclassification reflects the distinct nature of the obsessions and compulsions in OCD, which distinguish it from other anxiety disorders. How to tell if I have OCD or anxiety Because OCD and anxiety disorders can have overlapping symptoms, it will take a mental health professional to make a clinical diagnosis. However, you can educate yourself on the main differences between the two to gain more clarity before talking with a mental health professional. Let’s take one last look at the symptoms of both to help differentiate between the two. OCD symptoms Intrusive, unwanted thoughts or images (obsessions) Repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to reduce distress Significant time spent on obsessions and compulsions, interfering with daily life Recognizing that obsessions and compulsions are excessive or unreasonable Anxiety symptoms Excessive, uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life Physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and trembling Avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations Difficulty concentrating and sleeping Persistent feelings of restlessness or being on edge How are OCD and anxiety diagnosed? Diagnosing OCD and anxiety disorders involves a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional. This typically includes: Clinical interview: To discuss your symptoms, medical history, and impact on daily life. Questionnaires: To assess the severity of symptoms using standardized clinical tools. Observation: To note behaviors and physical signs of anxiety or compulsions. Diagnostic criteria: To make a diagnosis using criteria from the DSM-5. A thorough clinical evaluation and diagnosis inform a personalized treatment plan.  Can you have both OCD and anxiety? Yes, it is possible to have both OCD and an anxiety disorder, and co-occurrence of these conditions can be relatively common. While having one can increase the risk of developing the other; the likelihood of developing both is greater for those with OCD because of the condition’s severity. When both conditions are present, treatment plans should address OCD and anxiety symptoms to ensure comprehensive care. Why that matters: The presence of one condition can exacerbate the symptoms of the other, creating a complex interplay that can be challenging to manage, especially without ongoing professional help. What other conditions could it be? Several other conditions can present with symptoms similar to OCD and anxiety disorders but also have distinct treatment options. This makes a clinical evaluation or talking with a licensed professional all that more important. Conditions that could look like OCD or anxiety include: Depressive disorders: Persistent low mood, loss of interest in activities, feelings of hopelessness, and changes in appetite and sleep patterns. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Symptoms like difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and impulsivity can resemble anxiety and OCD, especially when the individual engages in repetitive behaviors or experiences significant worry and distractibility. Phobias: Intense fear of specific objects or situations that result in avoidance behavior. Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD): Obsessive focus on perceived flaws in appearance, leading to repetitive behaviors, such as mirror checking, and significant distress. Undergo an evaluation with a licensed professional to discuss personalized treatment for your specific condition. Are the treatments different? Not always. There are similarities in treating OCD and anxiety disorders. Medication Medication is a common treatment option for both OCD and anxiety disorders, often helping to manage and alleviate symptoms. For both conditions, medications are often combined with therapy and other interventions. Therapy A therapist can provide non-medication strategies and support in managing symptoms for either condition. By learning essential tools and techniques, therapy fosters hope for long-term recovery and resilience for people with OCD as well as for those who have anxiety-related conditions. Coping strategies Techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, deep breathing, and stress management may be particularly helpful. Lifestyle changes like regular exercise, balanced eating, and sufficient sleep also may help. By incorporating healthy coping strategies into your daily life, you are on the road to improving your mental health. How Cerebral can help If you are experiencing symptoms of OCD or an anxiety-related disorder, seeking help from a mental health professional is essential to getting the care you need. Online mental health services like Cerebral offer a convenient and accessible way to receive support for OCD and anxiety disorders. Cerebral provides: Therapy: Access online sessions with licensed therapists. Medication management: Consult with credentialed prescribers virtually to see if an online prescription and managing medication is appropriate for you. Educational resources: Explore articles, in-app exercises, and free mental health resources to help understand and manage symptoms. Services like Cerebral can be particularly beneficial for those who have difficulty accessing traditional in-person care due to geographical, logistical, or personal reasons. Our team of experienced mental health professionals is here to explore personalized care and support if appropriate for you.  Do I have anxiety? Only a mental health professional can determine the answer to that question by conducting a clinical evaluation for an anxiety disorder. But, you can take a free 3-minute self-assessment to get a better sense of the level of your anxiety symptoms.  Images by freepik, freepik, and master1035 on Freepik. *The information in this blog is provided as a general educational resource only, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purpose. This information should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment and does not create any patient-physician relationship between you and Cerebral. Please consult your health care provider before making any health care decisions or to get guidance about a specific medical condition.

Am I Having A Nervous Breakdown? Stress and anxiety can become overwhelming, especially when intense symptoms disrupt your daily life. Often referred to as a nervous breakdown, sometimes one can feel 'on the edge.’ But what exactly is a nervous breakdown, and how does it differ from a panic attack? What steps can you take to manage these powerful episodes and regain balance? Here, we explore the signs, causes, and possible interventions for nervous breakdowns. While only a licensed professional can diagnose and treat mental health issues, gaining a general understanding of mental health crises can help you recognize early signs and seek help promptly. This knowledge could also equip you to provide support to others who might be experiencing a nervous breakdown. {MiniWidget:Anxiety} What is a nervous breakdown? Though not a clinical term itself, a nervous breakdown is often used to describe a severe, temporary period of intense mental distress that significantly impairs one’s ability to function in daily life. During an episode, an individual may feel so overwhelmed that they’re emotionally and psychologically drained. While the term 'nervous breakdown' has historically been used to depict severe psychological distress, today, it’s more accurately described as a 'mental health crisis.' Signs of a nervous breakdown — or mental health crisis — can include: Feelings of extreme unwellness: Often described as an intense wave of panic or despair. Inability to cope: A failure to respond effectively to stressors that one might typically handle with relative ease. Loss of function: Could involve a withdrawal from social contact or the sudden inability to cope with menial tasks. Recognizing these signs is the first step toward recovery, and help is readily available for those who need it. Nervous breakdown vs. a panic attack Distinguishing between a nervous breakdown and a panic attack is vital, as both can present intense, albeit distinct, symptoms. While they share roots in anxiety, they’re markedly different — let’s explore how to tell them apart. A mental health crisis involves a prolonged state of emotional disruption where an individual may find it difficult to cope with and complete daily activities. On the other hand, a panic attack is an intense and relatively short episode of fear or anxiety, usually brought on by a specific trigger and accompanied by alarming physical symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, sweating, and dizziness. Nervous breakdown signs often include:  Prolonged feelings of depression Extreme stress Withdrawal from social interactions Significant decline in functioning across various aspects of life A culmination of sustained and overwhelming stressors typically triggers this type of mental health crisis. Signs of a panic attack can include: Sudden, intense surges of fear and discomfort that peak within minutes Heart palpitations Shortness of breath Dizziness Fear of losing control or impending doom The bottom line: The biggest differentiator between the two is that panic attacks are usually short-lived, often only lasting minutes, whereas a nervous breakdown can persist for days, weeks, or longer. If you’ve determined that you’re not having a nervous breakdown, here’s what to do if you’re experiencing a panic attack. What causes a nervous breakdown? Various factors can trigger a mental health crisis, each contributing to the buildup of stress until the individual reaches a tipping point. Some causes could include: A sudden tragedy: Experiencing unexpected loss or trauma can lead to a mental health crisis, especially without adequate emotional support or coping mechanisms. Increased stress or burnout: Chronic stress, whether from work, relationships, or financial pressures, can accumulate, leading to burnout and, eventually, a breakdown. Loss of sleep: Long periods of sleep deprivation can have many negative effects on mental health, with a breakdown being one potential outcome. Underlying depressive or anxiety disorder: Existing mental health conditions can increase one's likelihood of experiencing a nervous breakdown. Understanding the causes of nervous breakdowns can better prepare you to manage and potentially avoid them. What does a nervous breakdown look like? Recognizing the signs of a mental health crisis can help in seeking timely support and preventing further impacts to your mental health. Indicators of a nervous breakdown may include: Feeling emotional symptoms of depression or anxiety: Persistent sadness, worry, fear, or emptiness are common indicators. Difficulty concentrating: Struggling to focus or make decisions can be a telling sign of mental overload. Trouble sleeping: Insomnia or excessive sleeping could both point towards an oncoming mental health crisis. Changes in appetite: Significant weight loss or gain without an apparent reason can be a red flag. Feeling rundown: Constant fatigue or low energy often accompany a mental health crisis. Hallucinations: Hallucinations or delusions could occur in severe cases, indicating profound psychological distress. Overall, you’re looking for severe anxiety symptoms or intense depressive states that are hard to shake. If you experience the above, getting professional help as soon as possible is key.  What should you do if you’re having a nervous breakdown? If you think you’re having a nervous breakdown, the first step is to acknowledge the severity of your feelings and symptoms. It's important not to dismiss them as simply passing stress because getting help quickly is critical. Contact a mental health professional who can assess your symptoms and provide a tailored treatment plan. If you aren’t already working with one, you can initiate a conversation with a healthcare provider, who could refer you to a mental health specialist. If your symptoms escalate to thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek immediate assistance. Call 911 if you’re having a mental health emergency. Text HOME to 741-741 if you're emotionally distressed and need immediate support. Call 988 for the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. Other steps you can take to begin addressing the situation could include: Talk to someone you trust: If you need to wait for an appointment, sharing your experiences with a supportive friend, family member, or significant other could provide some relief. Consider immediate self-care measures: Eat well, get enough sleep, and engage in activities that reduce stress, like exercise or meditation. Hold off on making major decisions: While feeling overwhelmed, consider postponing significant life decisions until you feel more stable. Taking these steps can be crucial in managing a mental health crisis and paving the way for personalized treatment and recovery. Remember: Seeking help is a sign of strength and self-worth. Managing a nervous breakdown There are effective strategies to help prevent, manage, and recover from nervous breakdowns. Try therapy Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other modalities could help in managing the anxiety and stress that are often at the root of a mental health crisis. Consider medication Medications prescribed by a licensed professional can help manage symptoms of anxiety or other underlying mental health conditions. Use stress management tactics Adopting stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga, can help reduce stress levels. Consider lifestyle changes Self-care practices like regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and a structured routine can all contribute to better mental health. Seek help for anxiety symptoms When it comes to anxiety symptoms, seeking prompt assistance from a licensed mental health specialist may contribute to improved outcomes. Additionally, symptoms of anxiety can overlap with other conditions, which makes getting a professional evaluation essential. Cerebral offers convenient, affordable, and personalized online mental health services, including therapy and medication management. Anxiety symptoms are manageable with support and strategies that are tailored to your needs. Recognizing the signs early and working with qualified professionals are helpful when responding to a nervous breakdown. Ready to take the first step towards reclaiming your mental well-being? Schedule your first session today. Images by freepik, freepik and Drazen Zigic on Freepik.