Author Archives: Kristina Robb Dover

How the Weather Can Affect Mental Health

How the Weather Can Affect Mental Health

The English language is full of idioms that connect the weather to one’s mood and emotions: “rain on my parade,” “on cloud nine,” “the winter blues,” “under the weather,” “a breath of fresh air.” While everyone is affected differently by the weather—some people love dark, rainy days while others find them depressing—the impact is undeniable. […]

Can Buspar Get You High?

Can Buspar Get You High?

Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Originally intended as an antipsychotic drug, buspirone failed in clinical trials to relieve symptoms of psychosis. However, researchers noted that buspirone did reduce anxiety symptoms. Approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 1986 for the treatment of anxiety, buspirone is now […]

Do I Have an Anxiety Disorder?

Do I Have an Anxiety Disorder?

Everyone experiences anxiety on occasion. This is a normal part of life and nothing to be concerned about. However, if anxiety worsens, continues unabated, or begins to cause problems in everyday life, it may be a sign to seek help. Recognizing the Signs: Identifying Common Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders If you’re asking yourself questions like […]

Fresh vs. Recirculated Air – The Mental Health Connection

Recirculated Air Mental Health Connection

Our environments can have a massive effect on our bodies and brains, especially when it comes to our mental health. Both culturally and linguistically, we associate “fresh air” with feelings of relief. Whenever we’re having a bad mental health day, the go-to advice is to step outside and get some fresh air. In fact, many […]

How to Get Assessed for a Mental Disability

How to Get Assessed for a Mental Disability

More than 58 million people experience mental illness in the U.S., according to statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health. Some severe conditions appear on the Social Security Administration (SSA) disability illness list and may qualify for benefits. Many individuals may have anxiety or depression that doesn’t interfere with their everyday functioning or ability […]

“It’s Complicated”: ADD/ADHD and Relationships

"It's Complicated": ADD/ADHD and Relationships

All relationships have difficulties. After all, we’re all human. But, when one or more people in the relationship have a condition like attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)—also previously known as attention deficit disorder (ADD)—unique challenges can pop up. Sometimes, those problems don’t appear until the relationship is quite serious. The early days are often full of fun […]

“It’s Complicated”: Personality Disorders and Relationships

"It's Complicated": Personality Disorders and Relationships

The desire to form close, healthy relationships is universal and present in every stage of life. Being in a healthy relationship requires the ability to give and provide support, willingness to see from the other person’s perspective, and consideration for their interests when making decisions. For many people, learning to be a good partner can […]