I can’t get my bipolar medication because of coronavirus (COVID-19) and I want to tell you about it. Here's what I've learned about the COVID-19 outbreak and bipolar medication.

Autism (now known as autism spectrum disorder) treatments in the United States are changing and new autism treatments are available. Autism is one of the most prevalent mental conditions affecting both children and adults in the United States today. The amount of diagnoses has skyrocketed in recent years from an estimated 1 in 166 during 2006, to an estimated 1 in 68 today. As we learn more about how autism works and affects individuals, autism treatment has changed markedly in the United States. Here is a look at some of the different and most changed autism treatment methods.

The difference between psychiatry and social work is important to understand. The work that psychiatrists and social workers do is very laudable. They give of themselves and help people who are in their worst circumstance to have the best outcome in life. At times, it may seem like the work that psychiatrists do and the work that social workers do is one in the same. And while there are times where both fields cross paths, there is a difference between social work and psychiatry.

Tuesday, August 18, will stand as a pink-letter day for women’s sexual health with the Food and Drug Administration’s approval of Addyi (flibanserin), the first drug to treat low sexual desire in women. As one of the investigators who performed studies that ultimately resulted in this action, I am particularly excited about the approval of this medication. I was privileged to be available to present information to the FDA advisory committee that recently voted 18 to 6 to recommend approval to the FDA. The approval of Addyi was a long time coming.

There has been so much in the news recently about the lack of decent care in psychiatric facilities. Our system is suffering and taking the people who need it the most down with it. I had read about this and seen the news stories but I never imagined it would happen to my son, in the small psychiatric facility right in my own backyard.

It is one thing to accept that you need help—it’s another to find a substance abuse recovery center that matches with your, unique self. You want to find one that focuses on your type of addiction, gender and age, while also providing a tailored treatment plan that specifically fits your needs. Finding the right recovery center, metaphorically, is much like strolling through stores for the right pair of pants. Thousands are out there, but few are the perfect fit for you. So which recovery center holds the key to your success? Start by investigating the principles required for an effective rehabilitation program and the various models that exist within them. These can include in- and out-patient care facilities and holistic vs. medication approaches.

Have you ever felt confused by the psychiatric care of your loved one? If so, you are not alone. Most families are uninformed about the system, what to expect, and who to trust. There are 4 important factors involved in receiving psychiatric care that all families should be aware of.

Are you looking for an all-expense paid holiday in the mental health ward of your nearest hospital? If that doesn’t sound like something that appeals to you, then I wouldn't make any changes to your mental health medications without your doctor's supervision.

Since the inception of cognitive behavioral therapy, psychologists have known that your behavior is vital in treating depression successfully. And, if you've ever been depressed, you know that a hallmark symptom of depression is having no motivation or desire to do anything--even things you previously enjoyed. You just can't imagine feeling any sense of satisfaction or enjoyment, and the problem is, you're partially correct! Anhedonia (lack of ability to experience pleasure) and amotivation (lack of motivation) are two of the most debilitating symptoms of depression because they keep you from doing the things that would make you feel better.

About 7.7 million adults and 20% of children and adolescents suffer from severe mental illness. Severe mental illness is chronic and requires sustained treatment. Mental health has become the most politically charged topic of today but despite attention, one population remains unrecognized. The overwhelming neglect of parents, families, and caregivers is what led me to write my first book. I have always been aware of systemic barriers. But I wasn’t aware of the great divide between parents, families, and caregivers and mental health professionals, services, or even advocacy groups. (Parents of Mentally Ill Children Have a Long and Difficult Journey)