Latest news with #DSM-5
Calgary Herald
3 days ago
- Health
- Calgary Herald
Finding dead people 'part of the job'; WCB wrong in denying PTSD claim for officer
Article content In addition to a thorough clinical interview, there are established and accepted measures that assist in making a diagnosis of PTSD. Clinical experience is required and self-diagnosis is never going to be enough for WCB. Article content Article content But that's not the problem. The problem is that, despite what is written in the Workers' Compensation Act, WCB itself takes a different approach. Put simply, as WCB states in a publicly available Employer Fact Sheet published in May 2024, for a first responder's claim based on PTSD to be accepted by WCB, direct experience of the event is required, there must be a threat to the first responder and the event must be 'sudden/unexpected, frightening or shocking, have a specific time and place, and involve actual or threatened death or serious injury to oneself or threat to one's physical integrity.' Article content That is not at all what DSM-5 says — and is directly contrary to an example DSM-5 offers: 'police officers repeatedly exposed to details of child abuse.' Article content Article content Williams's claim to WCB was denied. One adjudicator said that finding a dead person was part of the job for police officers, so was not 'sudden or unexpected.' On appeal, another adjudicator said there was no threat to Williams. Article content When his psychiatrist tried to lobby with WCB, reminding them of the presumptive legislation, he was told, 'We don't follow that.' Article content No, they don't. Article content Based on information in the fact sheet, WCB presumptive coverage does not extend to an investigator who spends hours sorting through hundreds of images of child pornography, nor to the homicide detective who has to repeatedly watch a video of a murder trying to find some clue as to where the video was taken, nor to the 911 operator who hears the pleas of someone trapped in a burning building, nor to the paramedic who responds to a car rollover crash that killed the passenger. Article content Article content The central purpose of WCB must be to assist workers who have experienced workplace-related injuries and illnesses. That's what a 2017 government-mandated review of WCB concluded, while also noting that 'too many people feel that the system has 'lost its way' and drifted from that purpose.' Article content To get back on track, WCB needs to accept that first responders have always faced unique challenges that can tax their mental health and, recently, these folks have been more willing to recognize symptoms from traumatic exposure and to seek assistance.
Atlantic
3 days ago
- Health
- Atlantic
Climate Change Is Doing a Number on People's Summertime Blues
Living in the heat is bleak. So is beating it. Ziyu Wang / Connected Archives July 26, 2025, 7:30 AM ET Americans have a long history of enduring heat waves by going outside. In a 1998 essay for The New Yorker , the author Arthur Miller described urbanites' Depression-era coping mechanisms: People caught the breeze on open-air trolleys, climbed onto the back of ice trucks, and flocked to the beach. In the evenings, they slept in parks or dragged their mattresses onto fire escapes. But since air conditioning went mainstream, in the 1960s, the easiest way to beat the heat has been by staying indoors—at home, the office, the mall—where cool air is a constant and blinds are often drawn to prevent homes from overheating (and electric bills from skyrocketing). For this convenience, Americans sacrifice the benefits of sunshine and the opportunities for fun it creates. As climate change turns up the temperature, summers in America are coming down to a choice between enduring the heat and avoiding it—both of which might, in their own ways, be making people sick. In cities across the country, summers are, on average, 2.6 degrees hotter than they were some 50 years ago. In Phoenix, where a 95-degree day is a relief, schedules are arranged around the darkness; Jeffrey Gibson, an accountant who works from home, takes his eight-month-old daughter out for walks before 6:30 a.m.; after that, it's so hot that she flushes bright red if they venture outside. He spends the rest of his day indoors unless leaving is absolutely necessary. It's like this from April to October. Gibson recently told his wife, 'Man, I think I'm a little depressed.' Josef A. Von Isser, a therapist in Tucson, Arizona, told me that feeling low in the summer comes up a lot with his clients. Some feel that the heat affects them directly; others struggle with its indirect effects, such as fewer opportunities to socialize and be somewhere other than home or the office. All of them, he suspects, might be experiencing seasonal affective disorder. The DSM-5 categorizes SAD as a type of major depression with a seasonal pattern, with symptoms such as sadness, feelings of worthlessness, and low energy. Usually, it presents in the winter, though scientists don't agree on why. Some suspect that it's because a lack of sun exposure may contribute to decreased levels of serotonin, a hormone that regulates mood, as well as vitamin D, which helps stimulate serotonin activity. Another theory links low exposure to sunlight with unusually high levels of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Read: The surprising truth about seasonal depression Summer SAD is generally accepted as a variety of the disorder, but it's much rarer than the winter form; one study from earlier this year puts its prevalence at about 0.6 percent. That makes summer SAD especially hard to study. 'It's clearly a different kind of illness,' Paul Desan, a psychiatry professor at Yale, told me, but 'it's not in their imagination.' Unlike the winter form, which comes with a tendency to overeat, oversleep, and withdraw from society, summer SAD involves reduced appetite, insomnia, and restlessness—all of which can also be effects of heat. The scientific literature shows that heat is associated with mood disorders, anxiety, aggression, and reduced cognitive abilities. Uncomfortably hot nights, longer periods of daylight, and extended stretches of time spent indoors all disrupt sleep, which can in turn fuel mood disorders, Amruta Nori-Sarma, an environmental-health professor at Harvard, told me. Extreme heat can also be an obstacle to exercising, spending time in nature, and socializing, all of which can make people feel good and also double as important coping mechanisms for emotional distress. Taking comfort in air conditioning when it's too hot out is a natural human response. But air-conditioned spaces can be stifling in their own way. Staying home where it's cool also means socializing less; some offices and homes hardly let in a wink of sunlight all day. It's plausible that in the summer, people experience SAD symptoms not only from excessive heat but also because they spend all of their time avoiding the sun, Kim Meidenbauer, a psychology professor at Washington State University, told me. 'It does make sense to me that you'd have, potentially, an analogous pattern of effects' to winter SAD, she said. The link between indoor time and summer SAD hasn't been studied, but plenty of Americans, even if they don't meet the DSM-5 criteria, are noticing that summer is starting to feel a lot like winter. Reddit abounds with users who lament that being forced indoors by the heat gives them 'summer depression.' America's summer quandary—suffer inside or out?—will become only more persistent as climate change intensifies. In the United States, heat waves have grown more frequent and intense every decade since the 1960s. During a single heat wave last month, people in 29 states were warned to stay inside to avoid dangerously high temperatures. All of the experts I spoke with expressed concerns about the impacts of escalating heat on mental health. 'I am not optimistic,' Ayman Fanous, a psychiatry professor at the University of Arizona, told me, noting that heat also has a well-established link with suicide risk and can exacerbate mental-health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and substance abuse. Many Americans don't have access to air conditioning, or they work jobs that require them to be outside in the heat. Those who can stay cool inside may avoid the most severe consequences but still end up miserable for half of the year. Read: Earth's new gilded era As long as summer SAD remains poorly understood, the options for addressing it will be limited. Treatment for winter SAD usually involves exposure to light boxes that mimic sunlight, but these aren't recommended for summer SAD, because it might have a different neurobiological basis, Fanous said. For now, the first-line treatments are SSRIs such as Prozac—which can make people even more sensitive to heat. For those with the means, the best strategy for beating summer SAD might be to move somewhere cooler. After eight years in Phoenix, Gibson has had enough of hiding from the heat for six months at a time and is ready to leave behind what he believes is his own summer SAD. Later this year, he plans to move his family to Colorado, where he hopes to be able to bring his daughter out during daylight hours. Yet Colorado summers, too, are becoming uncomfortably hot—and the same goes around the country. Last month, Alaska issued its first-ever heat advisory. As summer temperatures continue to rise, perhaps Americans will start to look back with envy on the ways our forebears beat the heat. The hotter summer nights get, the more sleeping on the fire escape starts to sound like a luxury.
The Citizen
5 days ago
- The Citizen
Psychologist Candice Leith weighs in as flasher alarms Ballito residents
Allegations of public indecency have unsettled Ballito residents after a man reportedly exposed himself twice in two days. The Ballito Neighbourhood Watch (BNW) confirmed that both cases involved a young white male allegedly exposing himself to unsuspecting women in public places over the weekend of July 12 and 13. The first incident occurred near Salmon Bay, where a female jogger was approached by a man driving a white Toyota Aygo. After asking for directions, the driver allegedly exposed himself before speeding off. The second incident took place on the boardwalk near Clarke Bay, where two female holidaymakers were out for a morning walk. They described the flasher as a 'young, clean-cut, white male.' These events have sparked concern, prompting the BNW to issue a public alert and encourage immediate reporting of any similar behaviour. Indecent exposure is a criminal offence in South Africa. Ballito psychologist Dr Candice Rae Leith weighed in on the psychological aspect of the incidents, linking the behaviour to a mental health condition known as Exhibitionistic Disorder. 'People with this disorder feel intense sexual arousal from the act of exposure itself, particularly from the victim's surprise or shock,' said Leith. 'In many cases, this behaviour is compulsive and repeated, causing distress for victims and sometimes guilt and shame for the offender.' According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Exhibitionistic Disorder is diagnosed when an individual aged 18 or older experiences persistent sexual urges or fantasies for at least six months involving exposing themselves to non-consenting people. The person must either act on these urges or experience significant distress or disruption in their life. 'This helps professionals distinguish a diagnosable disorder from a one-off act of poor judgement,' said Leith, who notes the illness can be treated and managed. She says specialist psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, can help the person understand their triggers and develop healthier coping strategies. In some cases, medication is used to help reduce compulsive sexual urges. 'Community awareness and prompt reporting help protect everyone's safety. At the same time, people struggling with these urges deserve access to treatment so they can stop harmful behaviour before more damage is done.' No arrests have been made. Stay in the loop with The North Coast Courier on Facebook, X, Instagram & YouTube for the latest news. Mobile users can join our WhatsApp Broadcast Service here, or if you're on desktop, scan the QR code below.
New York Post
14-07-2025
- Health
- New York Post
Mental health experts reveal reason why some people can't help being late
Chronic lateness can be frustrating for those left waiting and is often attributed to laziness and carelessness. But experts say a health issue called time blindness could be to blame for perpetual tardiness. Often misunderstood as an inability to perceive time, the condition disrupts a person's ability to estimate how long it will take to complete tasks, affecting everything from daily routines to long-term productivity. In daily life, time blindness can manifest as missed deadlines, difficulty transitioning between tasks, or underestimating how long a task will take, resulting in stress and frustration, according to experts. Socially, it may be interpreted as disrespectful or careless behavior toward others, potentially damaging relationships. 'The cardinal feature of time blindness is an inability to estimate a time interval,' Dr. Mauran Sivananthan, a psychiatrist with Henry Ford Health in Detroit, Michigan, told Fox News Digital. 5 Experts say a health issue called time blindness could be to blame for perpetual tardiness. Voyagerix – This can negatively affect a person's ability to use time as a guide to plan the day. Laurie Singer, a board-certified behavior analyst at Laurie Singer Behavioral Services in California, reiterated that those with time agnosia — another name for the condition — are unable to properly process the passing of time. 'They typically struggle with knowing how much time has passed or how much time is remaining during a task,' she told Fox News Digital. 5 Time blindness disrupts a person's ability to estimate how long it will take to complete tasks, affecting everything from daily routines to long-term productivity. DragonImages – For instance, someone may miscalculate how long it takes to get ready in the morning, rushing out the door and arriving late. Others may get absorbed in an activity (a symptom known as hyperfocus), losing track of time completely, the expert noted. Causes of time blindness Time blindness is considered an 'executive function issue,' Sivananthan said. Executive function refers to skills like working memory, cognitive flexibility, and inhibition control. These skills are essential for everyday tasks like making plans, solving problems, and adapting to new situations, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Time blindness is most commonly linked to ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). 'Various parts of the brain are affected by ADHD, including the prefrontal cortex and cerebellum,' Sivananthan said. 'There have been many studies looking at the role of the cerebellum in time processing.' The condition can also appear in individuals with autism, OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), traumatic brain injuries, depression, anxiety, and even conditions like Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis, experts say. Time blindness is not listed in The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), which is the accepted reference book for mental health and brain-related conditions, Singer noted. 5 Time blindness is considered an 'executive function issue,' psychiatrist Dr. Mauran Sivananthan said. Monkey Business – While there is no formal diagnosis for the condition, the inability to perceive and manage time is included in the DSM-5 criterion for ADHD. How to handle time blindness Treating time blindness often involves a multi-layered approach, starting with minimizing delays, according to Sivanathan. 'When something needs to be done, it is better to do it right away,' he told Fox News Digital. 5 Treating time blindness often involves a multi-layered approach, starting with minimizing delays, according to Sivanathan. auremar – It can also be helpful to use external devices to keep track of how much time is spent on an activity. Sivanathan often recommends that his patients set timers before getting in the shower or starting a project, for example. Singer added, 'When provided with some of the tools to alleviate symptoms, such as starting each day in the exact same way to create a rhythm, I've seen patients approach it with exceptional diligence.' 5 Sivanathan often recommends that his patients set timers before getting in the shower or starting a project, for example. Pix4Ads – The experts agree that habitual behavior can bring the benefits of 'structure, predictability, reduced decision fatigue, increased productivity, and improved time management.' Sivananthan recommends breaking large tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks and creating consistent routines that 'train the brain' and reduce cognitive load. While time blindness may not disappear entirely, it can be significantly reduced through the use of consistent routines, visual aids, and regular therapy, according to experts.
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First Post
12-07-2025
- Health
- First Post
Dr Explains: Why reels are short but their mental health impact isn't
Reels addiction, marked by compulsive short-form video use is increasingly affecting teens and young adults. Firstpost brings out expert's views on its psychological roots, symptoms and therapies like CBT, digital detox and mindfulness. read more In the age of endless scrolling, short-form video content like Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts and TikTok has woven itself into the daily routine of millions, especially teenagers and young adults. While these clips may seem harmless entertainment, experts warn that compulsive consumption can lead to what is now increasingly referred to as 'reels addiction.' Characterised by shrinking attention spans, disrupted sleep, emotional volatility, and a noticeable decline in academic and social functioning, this compulsive digital overconsumption is fast emerging as a pressing mental health concern. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Firstpost talked to Dr. Sameer Malhotra, Director and Head, Department of Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital (Saket) to understand the clinical definition of reels addiction, its psychological impact and red flags to watch out for and the therapeutic interventions that can help those struggling to break free from the scroll. What exactly is 'Reels addiction,' and how do you clinically define it? 'Reels addiction' refers to compulsive or excessive consumption of short-form video content, like Instagram reels, YouTube Shorts, or TikTok videos, often to the detriment of mental, social, academic, or occupational functioning. While it's not formally recognised as a standalone disorder in the DSM-5 or ICD-11, it can be considered under 'Problematic Internet Use' or 'Social Media Addiction.' How is short-form content like reels different from other screen-based activities in terms of psychological impact? Reels and similar content are: • Highly stimulating (fast-paced, flashy, unpredictable). • Extremely brief, often under 60 seconds, promoting constant novelty. • Algorithmically tailored to user behavior, maximising dopamine hits. Compared to watching a movie or reading online, reels offer instant gratification, making them more habit-forming and less cognitively engaging. What age groups are most vulnerable to reels or short video addiction and why? • Teens and young adults (13–25 years) are the most vulnerable. • Reasons include: • Developing brain reward systems. • Higher need for peer validation and social comparison. • Lack of impulse control due to an immature prefrontal cortex. • More time spent online and on social media. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What are the mental health consequences of excessive reels consumption—especially in teens and young adults? • Increased anxiety and depression (due to comparison, FOMO). • Lower self-esteem (especially in adolescents). • Reduced emotional regulation. • Sleep disturbances, fatigue, and academic decline. • Dopamine burnout, leading to a need for constant stimulation. How does Reels addiction affect attention span, memory, and sleep patterns? • Attention span shrinks, as the brain adapts to rapid changes in content. • Working memory weakens, as information is passively consumed, not deeply processed. • Blue light exposure and overstimulation delay melatonin production, disrupting sleep cycles. • May lead to insomnia or fragmented sleep. How does Reels addiction impact real-life social interaction and productivity? Is there a link between short-form content addiction and anxiety, depression, or loneliness? Yes: • Reduced face-to-face interaction; preference for virtual validation. • Lower academic/work productivity due to constant distraction. • Social anxiety, loneliness, and Depression increase as real relationships weaken. • People often feel guilt and shame, creating a negative loop of withdrawal and compulsive use. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Are there any signs that parents, teachers, or individuals themselves should look out for? Look for: • Inability to stop watching Reels despite trying. • Neglect of responsibilities, sleep, or hygiene. • Irritability when not using the app. • Social withdrawal. • Lying about screen time. • Decline in academic or job performance. • Emotional numbness or excessive emotional reactivity. Does the 'dopamine loop' play a role in making Reels so addictive? Absolutely. The dopamine loop is central: • Each swipe gives a reward (funny/novel content). • The brain releases dopamine, reinforcing the behavior. • Over time, tolerance builds, and users need more stimulation to feel the same pleasure—just like in substance addiction. Is Reels addiction officially recognised as a disorder in any diagnostic manual, or is it categorised under broader internet addiction? It is not officially classified as a standalone disorder. However: • 'Internet Gaming Disorder' is in the DSM-5 as a condition for further study. • Reels addiction is generally categorised under Social Media Addiction or Problematic Internet Use in clinical contexts. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD How should someone know it's time to seek help for short-form content addiction? When: • Usage interferes with school, work, relationships, or mental health. • The person feels out of control. • There are withdrawal-like symptoms (irritability, anxiety, restlessness). • There's no joy in offline activities. • Attempts to cut down have failed repeatedly. What kind of therapies or interventions work best—CBT, digital detox, or mindfulness, for instance? • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps restructure thought patterns and reduce compulsive use. • Digital detox: Short, structured breaks help reset dopamine responses. • Mindfulness-Based Therapy: Improves awareness and emotional regulation. • Behavioral contracts, screen-time tracking apps, and habit replacement strategies are also useful. What are some practical strategies to reduce screen time without causing withdrawal or distress? • Set app timers or use focus modes. • Gradually reduces use (not cold turkey). • Replace usage time with engaging offline activities. • Turn off notifications. • No-phone zones or hours (e.g., during meals or one hour before bed). • Accountability buddy or screen time tracking with rewards. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Can Reels be used positively—say for mental health awareness or learning—or are the risks too high? Yes, Reels can have positive uses: • Mental health education, awareness campaigns, peer support. • Bite-sized learning videos, fitness routines, or motivational content. The key is intention and moderation. When content is mindfully curated and consumed, it can be enriching not harmful. How can parents and educators balance regulation and freedom when it comes to kids using social media? • Open conversations instead of punishment. • Set collaborative screen-time rules. • Encourage critical thinking about media. • Monitor apps, but avoid surveillance that destroys trust. • Promote tech-free hobbies and offline bonding. • Model healthy screen habits themselves. Also encourage healthy activity schedules including physical sports, exercises, constructive hobbies and healthy sleep-wake schedules
