Latest news with #NIMH
NDTV
4 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Human Extinction Could Be Imminent, Mouse Experiment Suggests
In 1968, Dr John B Calhoun, a behavioural researcher at the US National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), began a groundbreaking study that may hold chilling warnings for humanity's future. Nicknamed Universe 25, officially titled the "Mortality-Inhibiting Environment for Mice", the experiment placed mice in a sealed, predator-free habitat measuring 4.6 feet (1.37 m) per side, stocked with unlimited food, water, nesting material, and climate control. The enclosure featured 256 nest boxes linked by mesh tunnels, creating a supposed rodent paradise, but what unfolded hinted at the potential path to human extinction. Universe 25 began with just eight healthy albino mice, four male and four female. After about 3 and half months, the first offspring were born. Thereafter, the mice population doubled every 55 days. By around month 19, the population peaked at approximately 2,200 mice. Despite the environment being capable of supporting up to 3,800-4,000 mice, reproduction began to slow as density increased. Watch the video here: With overcrowding came social breakdown. Young male "dropouts" unable to attain dominance amassed in the pen's centre, often engaging in violent brawls. Dominant males could no longer protect females, who in turn neglected or attacked their young. Females abandoned litters before weaning; some even turned aggressive towards their pups. Abnormal behaviours intensified: females isolated themselves, while certain males, termed "the beautiful ones", spent their days grooming, eating, and sleeping but avoided mating or social interaction. This phenomenon was described by Calhoun as the "behavioural sink", a collapse of social behaviour under extreme overcrowding. As social pathology increased, births ceased within about 600 days of the experiment's start, and the population rapidly declined toward extinction. By the early 1970s, all the mice in Universe 25 had died.
Yahoo
10-08-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
3 key therapies that treat borderline personality disorder
Mental health disorders come in many forms and affect thoughts, emotions and behaviors in complex ways. Conditions like anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder are among the most frequently diagnosed in the United States, but borderline personality disorder, or BPD, is a less common mental health condition that still impacts millions of people. In fact, some 1.4% of U.S. adults have BPD, according to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). However, some research suggests the true prevalence may be much higher due to underdiagnosis and the stigma surrounding personality disorders. Here's what BPD is, what causes it, how it is treated and why there is hope. What is borderline personality disorder? Symptoms of BPD? Borderline personality disorder is a complex mental health condition "characterized by a persistent instability in mood, behavior and self-image," explains Amanda Darnley, a clinical psychologist based in Philadelphia. People with BPD 'feel things deeply and intensely,' she explains, which makes emotional regulation a significant challenge. It can lead to a range of symptoms and unwanted outcomes, including unstable relationships, intense anger, chronic feelings of emptiness, stress-related paranoia or dissociation and self-destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, reckless driving or self-harm. 'Sudden mood swings, fear of abandonment and impulsive behaviors are also common,' adds Jimmy Noorlander, LCSW, a clinical social worker at Deseret Counseling in Utah. 'It's also important to note that symptoms can vary in severity and may look different from person to person.' BPD can severely impact day-to-day functioning and often places intense strain on personal relationships. For instance, someone with BPD might have an overwhelming reaction to something like a canceled plan and feel devastated, rejected and question the entire relationship. Diagnosing BPD involves a comprehensive psychological evaluation by a licensed mental health professional. While such evaluations can happen at most any age, diagnosis typically occurs in individuals over the age of 18, since many symptoms can overlap with normal adolescent development. What is dissociative identity disorder? What to know about 'DID' What is the cause of borderline personality disorder? While "the exact causes of BPD are multifactorial and not fully understood," explains Amber McGregor, a doctor of education and the clinical director of 1st Priority Institute for Better Living in Colorado, "BPD is often linked to a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors and neurological differences in emotional regulation." For example, a highly sensitive child with a naturally reactive temperament may do well in a nurturing environment but could be at higher risk for BPD if raised in 'invalidating environments, where emotions are criticized, ignored, ridiculed or even punished,' says Darnley. These kinds of environments can impair the development of healthy coping strategies. Childhood trauma or abuse is also commonly reported among people diagnosed with BPD. Genetics play a significant role as well, as research shows that heritable factors account for about 40% to 60% of a person's risk for developing BPD. Indeed, the NIMH notes that those with a close family member who has BPD may be at increased risk themselves. Neurological differences may also contribute. 'People with BPD may have functional changes in brain areas that control impulses and regulate emotions,' McGregor explains. However, she says that much is still unknown about how – or if – these differences directly influence symptoms. In case you missed: He developed 'dissociative amnesia' after a rape. What is that? How is borderline personality disorder treated? There are proven, effective treatment options available to people with BPD. The cornerstone of BPD treatment is psychotherapy, particularly dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) as it's a method specifically developed for BPD. 'This treatment teaches strategies for regulating emotions, ways to tolerate distress and skills necessary for healthy relationships,' says Darnley. Other therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and schema therapy, can also be helpful in addressing unhelpful thought patterns and unresolved childhood experiences, adds Noorlander. While medication is not the primary treatment for BPD, a therapist may prescribe antidepressants, mood stabilizers or antipsychotics to help a patient manage symptoms like depression, anxiety or impulsivity. Also important is having "a strong support system," notes Noorlander, which includes family, friends and peer support groups helping individuals with BPD feel understood, connected and encouraged in their journey toward recovery. 'Living with borderline personality disorder can be incredibly challenging, but it's important to know that recovery is not only possible – it's common,' offers McGregor. 'With the right treatment, support and self-compassion, many individuals with BPD go on to build healthy relationships, develop emotional stability and lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.' This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: What is BPD? Experts explain borderline personality disorder
USA Today
10-08-2025
- Health
- USA Today
3 key therapies that treat borderline personality disorder
Mental health disorders come in many forms and affect thoughts, emotions and behaviors in complex ways. Conditions like anxiety, depression and bipolar disorder are among the most frequently diagnosed in the United States, but borderline personality disorder, or BPD, is a less common mental health condition that still impacts millions of people. In fact, some 1.4% of U.S. adults have BPD, according to the U.S. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). However, some research suggests the true prevalence may be much higher due to underdiagnosis and the stigma surrounding personality disorders. Here's what BPD is, what causes it, how it is treated and why there is hope. What is borderline personality disorder? Symptoms of BPD? Borderline personality disorder is a complex mental health condition "characterized by a persistent instability in mood, behavior and self-image," explains Amanda Darnley, a clinical psychologist based in Philadelphia. People with BPD 'feel things deeply and intensely,' she explains, which makes emotional regulation a significant challenge. It can lead to a range of symptoms and unwanted outcomes, including unstable relationships, intense anger, chronic feelings of emptiness, stress-related paranoia or dissociation and self-destructive behaviors such as substance abuse, reckless driving or self-harm. 'Sudden mood swings, fear of abandonment and impulsive behaviors are also common,' adds Jimmy Noorlander, LCSW, a clinical social worker at Deseret Counseling in Utah. 'It's also important to note that symptoms can vary in severity and may look different from person to person.' BPD can severely impact day-to-day functioning and often places intense strain on personal relationships. For instance, someone with BPD might have an overwhelming reaction to something like a canceled plan and feel devastated, rejected and question the entire relationship. Diagnosing BPD involves a comprehensive psychological evaluation by a licensed mental health professional. While such evaluations can happen at most any age, diagnosis typically occurs in individuals over the age of 18, since many symptoms can overlap with normal adolescent development. What is dissociative identity disorder? What to know about 'DID' What is the cause of borderline personality disorder? While "the exact causes of BPD are multifactorial and not fully understood," explains Amber McGregor, a doctor of education and the clinical director of 1st Priority Institute for Better Living in Colorado, "BPD is often linked to a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors and neurological differences in emotional regulation." For example, a highly sensitive child with a naturally reactive temperament may do well in a nurturing environment but could be at higher risk for BPD if raised in 'invalidating environments, where emotions are criticized, ignored, ridiculed or even punished,' says Darnley. These kinds of environments can impair the development of healthy coping strategies. Childhood trauma or abuse is also commonly reported among people diagnosed with BPD. Genetics play a significant role as well, as research shows that heritable factors account for about 40% to 60% of a person's risk for developing BPD. Indeed, the NIMH notes that those with a close family member who has BPD may be at increased risk themselves. Neurological differences may also contribute. 'People with BPD may have functional changes in brain areas that control impulses and regulate emotions,' McGregor explains. However, she says that much is still unknown about how – or if – these differences directly influence symptoms. In case you missed: He developed 'dissociative amnesia' after a rape. What is that? How is borderline personality disorder treated? There are proven, effective treatment options available to people with BPD. The cornerstone of BPD treatment is psychotherapy, particularly dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) as it's a method specifically developed for BPD. 'This treatment teaches strategies for regulating emotions, ways to tolerate distress and skills necessary for healthy relationships,' says Darnley. Other therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and schema therapy, can also be helpful in addressing unhelpful thought patterns and unresolved childhood experiences, adds Noorlander. While medication is not the primary treatment for BPD, a therapist may prescribe antidepressants, mood stabilizers or antipsychotics to help a patient manage symptoms like depression, anxiety or impulsivity. Also important is having "a strong support system," notes Noorlander, which includes family, friends and peer support groups helping individuals with BPD feel understood, connected and encouraged in their journey toward recovery. 'Living with borderline personality disorder can be incredibly challenging, but it's important to know that recovery is not only possible – it's common,' offers McGregor. 'With the right treatment, support and self-compassion, many individuals with BPD go on to build healthy relationships, develop emotional stability and lead fulfilling, meaningful lives.'
Medical News Today
07-07-2025
- Health
- Medical News Today
Is schizophrenia a disability, and how can you claim benefits?
Schizophrenia is a mental health disorder and one of the top 15 leading causes of disability globally. It may result in a person having disruptions in their thought processes, perception of reality, emotions, and social interactions. The symptoms of schizophrenia can vary between each person. However, the disorder can be severe and debilitating. This article will explore how a person may qualify for benefits and what to expect from the disability application process. It will also discuss steps a person can take to improve their case for schizophrenia a disability? According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), schizophrenia is one of the top 15 leading causes of disability globally. The disorder can affect all areas of a person's life, including personal, social, educational, and Social Security Administration (SSA) assists people with disabilities through the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. However, the SSA has specific requirements that a person must meet to receive SSA produces a list of impairments that it considers severe enough to be a disability in a publication known as the Blue Book. This lists schizophrenia in the mental disorders section under listing 12.03. A person is likely to meet the SSA's definition of disability if they cannot engage in substantial gainful does it affect capacity to work?People with schizophrenia normally receive a diagnosis between the ages of 16 and 30. The symptoms of schizophrenia can vary between each person. However, symptoms generally fall into three categories: psychotic, negative, and symptoms can severely impact a person's ability to work. A 2021 study notes that the employment rate is low among people with schizophrenia. It also says the employment rate of participants with schizophrenia decreased shortly after the first diagnosis. Schizophrenia symptomsPsychotic symptoms can affect how a person thinks, acts, and experiences reality. Psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia include:hallucinations, which may include seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, or feeling things that are not theredelusions, where a person has strong beliefs that are not trueways of thinking that are unusual or not logicalabnormal body movementsNegative symptoms typically relate to motivational and emotional impairments that can impact a person's daily activities and social life. Symptoms include:difficulties planning and carrying out activitiestrouble feeling pleasureavoiding social interactions and activitieshaving low energybeing socially awkwardCognitive symptoms can impact a person's attention, memory, and concentration. Symptoms include difficulty:processing informationmaking decisionswith focusing and attentionwith using information directly after learning itQualifying for disability benefitsTo qualify for disability benefits, a person must meet certain criteria outlined by the SSA in the Blue Book and provide information about their condition, medication, and work criteriaAn applicant must have worked in jobs covered by social security and have a medical condition that meets the SSA's definition of disability.A person is eligible if they:are unable to engage in a substantial gainful activity because of a medical conditionare unable to do work they did previouslyhave a medical condition that lasted or is expected to last for at least one year or will likely result in death A person will also need to have worked long enough and recently enough to qualify for disability benefits under social Book criteriaThe Blue Book outlines the criteria someone with schizophrenia must meet to be eligible for social security benefits. A person can find these criteria in the mental disorders section under listing 12.03. To qualify, they must satisfy either the criteria under A and B or A and C. A requires that a person must have medical documentation of one or more of the following:delusions or hallucinationsdisorganized thinking (speech)grossly disorganized behavior or catatoniaB requires an extreme limitation of one, or a marked limitation of two, of the following areas of mental functioning:understanding, remembering, or applying informationinteracting with othersconcentrating, persisting, or maintaining paceself-adapting or managing oneselfC requires that the mental disorder is serious and persistent and that there is a documented history from a medical professional regarding the condition over at least 2 years. Medical evidence that a person may use to support this includes:medical treatmentmental health treatmentpsychosocial supportA person will also need to show that they have minimal capacity to adapt to changes in their environment or demands that are not already part of their daily for social security benefitsIf a person believes that they meet the above criteria for schizophrenia, they may apply:online using the SSA portalat their local social security officeby calling 1-800-772-1213 between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. from Monday to FridayA person can also appoint an advocate, attorney, or third-party representative to make an application on their behalf. The SSA provides information for people representing SSA is also important to check the SSA checklist of documents that a person will need to provide when making a disability application. In addition to evidence regarding their medical condition, a person may also need to include information such as: their doctor or healthcare professionalnames and dates of medical testsnames of medication and reason for medicationjob history, including dates of when their medical condition began to affect their ability to workA person will also need to include identity documents such as a birth certificate and proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful alien application processOnce a person submits their application, the SSA will review it and make sure that it meets the basic requirements for disability benefits. The SSA will also check whether the claimant has worked for enough years to qualify for SSA benefits and evaluate their current work SSA then sends the application to the Disability Determination Services office in the state where the applicant lives. It will decide on the disability application and send a letter to notify the the application is approved, the claimant will receive a letter notifying them of the SSA's decision, the amount they can expect to receive in monthly benefits, and the date from when payments will is not uncommon for the SSA to deny a person's first application. If this happens, the claimant has the right to appeal the decision. A person must request an appeal in writing within 60 days of receiving the original decision letter. There are four levels of appeal to take to improve your caseAnyone applying for social security benefits needs to ensure their application is thorough and provides all the necessary evidence. This includes ensuring that all necessary paperwork is present to prevent processing delays in their application. A person should follow the checklist provided by the SSA to ensure they meet the basic a person should ensure that their doctor evidences all treatment plans and provides extensive medical evidence to help strengthen the application for you work if you have schizophrenia?While the symptoms of schizophrenia can severely affect a person's ability to work, various treatment pathways can help people manage symptoms, prevent relapses and help a person lead a fulfilling life that involves work. Potential treatment and management options include antipsychotic drugs, which can help make psychotic symptoms less intense and less treatments, such as supported employment, can help people with schizophrenia to find work as part of their recovery. Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is a supported work model for people with serious mental illnesses, including schizophrenia. The IPS employment center works with 26 states in the United States to implement supported employment programs. Finding workA person with schizophrenia can contact their state vocational rehabilitation agency, which will administer state-supported work programs. These agencies also offer training and educational opportunities to help people with mental health conditions start for Disability Employment also offers job tips and resources for people living with disabilities trying to find who have been out of work for some time may also benefit from volunteering. This can help people build confidence and social skills in a work environment. Volunteering also helps to build work experience and skills to add to a resume.A person can find opportunities by contacting local voluntary organizations or searching national programs such as and is a mental health disorder that may disrupt a person's perception of reality, emotions, social interactions with others, and thought SSA can assist a person with schizophrenia as the administration considers it a qualify for disability benefits, a person with schizophrenia will have to meet the SSA criteria and show that their condition is persistent and severe and prevents them from engaging in substantial gainful activity.A person will need to provide medical evidence. The SSA will review their application before forwarding it to a local Disability Determination Services a person's application is accepted, they will receive information regarding how much benefit they will receive. Alternatively, if the SSA denies a person's application, they can appeal the decision within 60 days.
Yahoo
29-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Exclusive: Taye Diggs Is Helping His Son See That 'Everyone's Journey Is Different' in Mental Health
Taye Diggs is on a mission: to break the stigmas surrounding schizophrenia, for both his generation and the next. For the actor, it's a cause with personal meaning. Diggs' younger sister, Christian, was diagnosed with schizophrenia in her late 20s, and today, the siblings work with Bristol Myers Squibb on the 'Live Your PosSCZible' campaign to not only raise awareness about schizophrenia but also help create possibilities for those living with it. More from SheKnows Exclusive: Leah Van Dale on Why 'Nobody Talks About' This Part of Being a Mom to a Baby & Stepmom to Teens The pair co-hosted an LA talent event featuring the schizophrenia community, and Diggs says to SheKnows that he's excited for people to see how 'well-rounded, artistic, and multi-layered folks are who are diagnosed with schizophrenia.' Per NIMH, schizophrenia is a serious mental condition that affects 2.4 million adults in the US alone. It can come with hallucinations, delusions, and disordered thinking that could heavily affect daily functioning. It can be impairing, but it doesn't have to define you — and that's what this sibling duo wants to remind everyone. 'It was a wonderful example of just how these folks are not letting the diagnosis define them. I saw these people on stage, and they were brilliant artists as opposed to people struggling and dealing with schizophrenia. I saw that side of them, that facet, and it was really eye-opening,' Diggs says. 'I'm grateful. I'm continuing to learn and my eyes continue to be open wider and wider as far as what life with these differences has in store.' Is it any surprise to fans that during his chat with SheKnows, he answered each question so thoughtfully, pondering every word he uttered to make sure people truly felt what he was saying. Whether it was talking about what he learned through his sister's experiences, his own journey with mental health, or even talking about the lessons he's teaching his teen son, Diggs spoke about everything with such care. His words are a reminder that we all need to be gentle with people, including ourselves. Diggs spoke with SheKnows about mental health, parenting his biracial son, and what he wants people to know about the schizophrenia community. When asked what he wished people knew more about the schizophrenia community, Diggs responds that he wants people to know 'that there is a community.' He says, 'Because I know when my sister was diagnosed, both my sister and I found ourselves feeling alone. It's very easy to fall back and kind of go inwards as opposed to being made aware that there are others out there who have similar struggles. I can see my sister just kind of relaxing, realizing, and being reminded that there are others out there who have similar situations. That's something that really counts.' As you can imagine, Diggs and his sister also experienced the racial disparity in the schizophrenia community, and the mental health community at large. Per RTOR, Black American adults are 20 percent more likely to experience serious mental health problems, and more than 80 percent of Black Americans are very concerned about the stigma, discouraging them from seeking treatment. When it comes to breaking the stigmas, Diggs' advice is simple: 'Just do the research!' He says, 'For me, it was just being exposed, having the courage to ignore my initial thoughts of pulling away.' But he also wants people to know that it isn't easy. But luckily, 'it takes work, and it's another thing that people need to realize,' he says. 'It's not gonna be easy. I think that's part of life and I feel proud of my sister and myself because my whole family knows that we're in it… No matter how we or other people may think it should end, we're in there [and] that's what feels really good.' Diggs himself has tough days when it comes to maintaining his mental health. 'That's an ongoing experience as well because a lot of times, I will convince myself that I am okay but then my body will just shut down. So it's something that I'm still kind of learning. Meditating helps, breathing helps. Creating boundaries and setting yourself up to succeed, whatever that is. It's kind of forcing yourself to check in, but then also being patient with yourself.' While he's teaching himself better practices every day, he's doing the same with his teen son, Walker Nathaniel, whom Diggs shares with ex Idina Menzel. Being a teen in 2025 isn't easy, but Diggs is helping his son along the way, including explaining schizophrenia and other mental health conditions. 'I'm here, just exposing him,' he says. 'I tell him what's going on and how it goes down, how everything goes down, what my sister is feeling, and how she felt. Just giving him the blow-by-blow as I experience it, just so I can dispel any images that he may have seen on television or whatnot. And also making sure that he knows that everybody's situation is different. I think it can be easy to be exposed to one kind of specific idea and then think that everything else following that is the same, and that's not the case.' The Private Practice alum added, 'He's a teen, so I can only I can only say so much to him before I get my cool card revoked. Just letting him know that everybody's different and to not make assumptions, just listen to people, and try to be as supportive as possible before passing judgment.' Along with helping him navigate mental health, Diggs is also working hard to make sure Walker feels seen, protected, and empowered. Diggs reflected that with most things in parenting, it's 'an everyday experience.' 'This is one thing that I'm sure about: the moment I think I have it figured out, I know I don't. So I do my best to kind of be in the moment and trust my experiences. I just gotta live with what happens afterwards where we're all doing the best we can. The way I was raised and the situation and the issues that that I had to deal with are completely different for him,' he explains. 'He's biracial. So already, he's coming into the game with different kind of different rules. But he's also a different person than I am, he's built differently.' What does he mean by differently? Well, Digg explains, 'He's far more confident. I went through a nerdy awkward stage, and he's just mister cool dude. I'm dealing with him as he did and doing the best to kind of long listen as opposed to teach and listen. But if there are moments when I can kind of use my experiences to help, I try and I think most importantly, it's just the support, love, and attention.' To fellow parents of teens, Diggs recommends being 'patient with themselves and to be patient with your kid.' Say it louder for the people in the back! When it comes down to it, kids need love, support, attention, and, as Diggs says, both parents and teens need another attribute for a happy home. He says to fellow parents of teens that they need to be 'patient with themselves and to be patient with your kid.' 'There are times when you try to be in the moment and every situation is different, but make sure that the child knows you're there… There are certain times when teens need to be kind of coaxed and then other times when you say, 'Okay. When you wanna say something, I'm here,'' he says. 'I think it's important that they know that you're there to support them, no matter what.' 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