Tag: #health

Identifiable Mental Health Conditions on MRI

Certain mental health and brain issues can be detected through an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan, but it’s important to understand the limitations and capabilities of this technology in the context of mental health. MRI scans are highly effective in detecting structural abnormalities in the brain, but they are less direct when it comes to diagnosing specific mental health conditions, which are often more functional and biochemical in nature.… Read More Identifiable Mental Health Conditions on MRI

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Reinforcement of Negative Behaviors

Surrounding yourself with friends who share depressive moods and substance abuse tendencies can create a toxic environment that worsens both your addiction and your mental health. The collective reinforcement of negative behaviors, emotional contagion, and shared avoidance of problems makes it harder to break free from harmful patterns. To truly recover, finding support outside of that social circle—whether through therapy, healthier relationships, or support groups—can be crucial in escaping the grip of addiction and depression.… Read More Reinforcement of Negative Behaviors

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

When Involuntary Commitment Is Necessary

Involuntary commitment, sometimes referred to as civil commitment, is a legal process used when a person’s mental health condition, substance use disorder, or psychosis reaches a point where they can no longer make rational decisions about their own care or safety. This can be a critical step when someone poses a danger to themselves or others and is either unable or unwilling to seek help voluntarily. While it is an extreme measure, it can be a life-saving intervention when used appropriately.… Read More When Involuntary Commitment Is Necessary

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment

Understanding Anosognosia

Anosognosia is a form of cognitive blindness to one’s own condition. In the context of drug-induced psychosis or alcoholism, this manifests as the person genuinely believing they do not have a problem, despite clear signs of addiction, mental illness, or physical deterioration. It’s different from denial, which is a psychological defense mechanism where the person may unconsciously avoid confronting a problem. Anosognosia is a deeper level of unawareness, often rooted in brain dysfunction caused by substances or an underlying mental health condition like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression.… Read More Understanding Anosognosia

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Truth or Fantasy?

In social settings, this might manifest as “talking bollocks” – a casual, often lighthearted way to describe someone saying ridiculous or far-fetched things, especially when intoxicated. The brain’s usual filters and controls become more lax, so people might say things they wouldn’t usually dare, or weave elaborate stories that make no sense but feel entertaining at the moment.… Read More Truth or Fantasy?

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Drug abuse and accountability

Drug abuse is often misunderstood as simply a moral failing or a lack of self-control, but modern neuroscience has demonstrated that addiction is a chronic brain disease. Substance use alters brain chemistry, particularly in areas that govern reward, motivation, and impulse control. This makes it difficult for individuals to stop using drugs even when they understand the negative consequences.

However, while addiction is a disease, it doesn’t negate the importance of personal accountability. Individuals still have the capacity, and indeed the need, to take ownership of their actions as part of their recovery process.… Read More Drug abuse and accountability

Linda C J TurnerLeave a comment