Psychological Testing for ADHD
One of the most important tools for diagnosing ADHD is psychological testing, which involves a comprehensive evaluation of a person's cognitive, behavioral, and emotional functioning.
It seems that with the rise of modern life comes the stress of it, too. We’re constantly connected through our phones, life is more complicated than it once was, and it’s all happening so fast.
While we can’t go back in time to a world without technology and a host of other luxuries – we can learn to adapt. Rising stress levels could be a contributor to mental health disorders. Learn more about stress and. how to manage it.
Severe stress can impact you physically and mentally. It can lead to symptoms like headaches, chronic health issues, and sleep problems, just to name a few. Our ability to cope with stress greatly affects the way it shows up in our lives.
A normal amount of stress is healthy and normal. Stress itself is not a mental illness, but it can develop into one. Prolonged periods of stress and a shortage of coping skills can eventually lead to mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Having 24/7 connection to the outside world is a new concept. While there are many benefits to this, we are all learning firsthand about the consequences. Mental health takes the biggest hit of all.
Social media and constantly being “on” can lead to all kinds of challenges like poor self-esteem, time management, and problems sleeping. This overuse of technology begs to be addressed.
Taking intentional time away from our screens can have a huge impact on our stress levels. There are studies that show just how effective screen detoxes are on our productivity, mood, and sleep.
Technology is relatively new in the grand scheme of things. Becoming aware of the effects of excessive technology use and being intentional about the way we use our phones is important. Reducing screen time before bed and in the morning is a great place to start.
Practice is the keyword here. Depression and anxiety alter our ability to truly relax. Depending on the pressures of daily life and our ability to cope with stress, relaxing can seem like a totally foreign concept.
Relaxation is just like any other skill. It gets easier with practice. The more you practice, the more aware you’ll become of the physical sensations of stress. Learning the art of relaxation can help you implement these techniques when you notice stress running high.
If you experience the extremes of mental health, this can be especially difficult. If you find yourself struggling to make progress, it could be a sign that you need help.
Unsure where to start? Consider using meditation and yoga apps like Mindbody, Headspace, and Calm as a guide. Below, you can find a list of relaxing activities that can aid in helping you master the skill it takes to truly relax.
The simplest habits are the ones that hold the most power. Dehydration and fatigue both add to feelings of stress. Sleep gives our body and mind the crucial time it needs to rest and recharge. We aren’t invincible without it, no matter how much we try to convince ourselves of it.
Water is important all the time, but especially when you’re stressed. Your body is stressed if it’s dehydrated. The good thing is, this is a simple and accessible way to help manage your stress levels.
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Mental health that remains untreated can have catastrophic consequences. It’s important to get the help you need if you’re struggling to make progress on your own.
Getting help from a counselor can shave years of struggle off of your life. If managing the stress of daily life has led to self-destructive behavior and the inability to cope, you deserve to get the help you need. The greatest investment you can make is in yourself.
Our team of psychologists and counselors offer mental health services to the Flower Mound and Southlake area of Texas. If you’re unable to make it to the office, we have teletherapy options as well. Please reach out by phone or request an appointment online.
Here at Dr. Messina and Associates, our compassionate team of professionals are qualified to help you at our Flower Mound, Texas, and Southlake, Texas, offices. Our Psychologists, Psychiatrists, and Counselors specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychological testing, and medication management for a variety of emotional and behavioral health needs. All services are available in-person and online (telehealth). If you or a loved one are seeking help with mental health, we are here to help.
