Mt Gravatt Psychologists

Winter have you feeling the blues?

No it’s not just the end of beach trips, ice-cream, pool parties, and sundresses that has people feeling sad in winter.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, otherwise known as SAD, is a mood disorder in which individuals experience depressive episodes as a reaction to changes in the seasons.

This disorder is thought to be associated with fewer hours of sunlight, and, unsurprisingly then, occurs most commonly in winter. The episodes are usually characterised by somatic symptoms, such as overeating, carbohydrate craving, fatigue, and sleeping more than usual.

Emotionally, SAD is associated with low levels of positivity and depressive feelings. If you believe that you or someone you know may be afflicted with SAD, help is available here. Call 3067 9129 now or book an Emotional Health Checkup online.

Anxious thoughts happen to everyone from time to time, however if these thoughts are becoming constant and intrusive, unhealthy patterns of behaviour can arise and cause difficulty in everyday life. For example, constant concern that you have left the iron on, can lead to repeated checking of the switch to ensure it is off. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder can occur at any time during an individual’s life.

Issues that frequently distress people with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and result in Obsessive Compulsive Behaviour include; cleanliness (obsessive handwashing), having to have everything in a particular pattern or order, counting, hoarding and concerns over safety.

People with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder may feel ashamed or anxious about their need to carry out the compulsions. It can cause children to avoid school and adults to avoid social situations, and delay treatment due to feelings of embarrassment. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is not easy to live with or overcome by yourself. Luckily, professional help is available here. M1 Psychology has a number of  experienced psychologists who can help you, or your child, overcome Panic Attacks. Call M1 Psychology now to make an appointment for a free Emotional Health Check-Up so that we can give you the extra support that you or your child needs.

What is Separation Anxiety Disorder?

Separation anxiety occurs when a child experiences distress following separation from their parents or caregivers. Separation anxiety is a natural and common fear that children develop around 8 months and can continue to 4 years of age. However, if the anxiety begins to interfere with school, peer relationships and other activities, your child may have separation anxiety disorder.

What are some of the symptoms of Separation Anxiety Disorder?

• Fear concerning separation from a parent
• Excessive worry about losing parents or attachment figures to illness, injury, or disasters
• Persistent reluctance to go out, away from home, to school, or where separation can occur
• Repeated nightmares involving separation
• Repeated complaints of physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach-aches and nausea

How can a psychologist help?

If you feel that your child may be experiencing anxiety, separation or otherwise, know that help is available. A trained psychologist is able to work with you and your child in establishing new strategies and techniques to help better manage these feelings and behaviours. To start working towards both you and your child being able to enjoying life to the fullest, book an Emotional Health Check Up today.