When some think of dementia, they may think of it as a mental illness. Confusing the two occurs frequently as certain mental illnesses and dementia share many of the same symptoms, including difficulty concentrating, confusion, and personality and emotional changes. It’s important to note that while dementia does affect mental health, it is not a […]
Naomi Judd Left Daughters Out of Her Will — Validity of Document Is Now Being Questioned
Naomi Judd, who struggled with severe depression for years, died by suicide at age 76 on April 30, 2022. She is survived by her husband of 32 years, musician Larry Strickland, and her two daughters, duo partner/country singer Wynonna Judd, 58, and actress/activist Ashley Judd, 54. Naomi died a day before she and her daughter […]
Help for Depression in Seniors During Mental Health Awareness Month
Dear Angel, I have been home since the Coronavirus pandemic began and still haven’t ventured out. Recently, I’ve been feeling sad and withdrawn. Things that used to interest me don’t anymore and I can’t sleep at night. Is this a normal part of getting older? Does Medicare cover treatment of depression? Thanks for your help! […]
Is There Such a Thing as an Advance Directive for Psychiatric Patients in Virginia, DC, or Maryland?
In his first year of his residency, Dr. David Nissan, a resident in psychiatry at New York Presbyterian Hospital, worked under compassionate physicians who emphasized the importance of carefully explaining the risks and benefits of treatments to patients. On several occasions he helped patients with life threatening conditions plan for what type of treatment they […]
But I’m NOT Sick!
Q. Sometimes when I walk my dogs, I see my neighbor Adam swinging on the swing his parents installed on their front porch. I am a pretty friendly person and usually greet all of my neighbors when I see them outside, and make small talk. Adam is a little different, however. He is in his […]
Bipartisan Efforts to Help Those with Mental Illness
Dear Angel, My son has bipolar disorder, and he was taking advantage of mental health treatment services under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Since the new administration took office, I know some changes will be made to mental health service offerings with the introduction of the ‘repeal and replace’ proposal. Do you know about any major changes that are being proposed? What can we do to plan for our son’s future well-being, should something happen […]
On Pins and Needles: Caring for Those with Mental Illness
As many as 8.4 million Americans are providing care to an adult with an emotional or mental health issue. Often, these family caregivers feel the impact of the disease as they struggle to care for their loved ones and to bridge health care systems, mental health providers, and community supports. The National Alliance for Caregiving […]