Introduction

Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that is largely genetic in origin. The brains of people with ADHD do not work the same way as those without the disorder. Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that make it possible for nerve cells to communicate with one another. In ADHD sufferers, there are insufficient neurotransmitters present in the area of the brain that is responsible for regulating attention and behavior. Dopamine and norepinephrine, the faulty neurotransmitter systems, are responsible for governing the executive functions of the brain, hence those with ADHD have trouble planning and organizing their lives and controlling their emotions.  Samoon Ahmad, M.D. adds, “Beyond genetics, some other factors the team cited include childhood exposure to high levels of lead, infant hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (when newborns do not receive enough oxygen to their brains), and prenatal exposure to nicotine.”

 

Management of ADHD includes a combination of medication, counseling, and lifestyle changes. Research has proven that medication itself will not cure the symptoms of the disorder, and psychotherapy is necessary to help the individual learn to live with the condition.

Continue reading “ADHD – Treatment”

 

It’s not unusual for individuals with ADHD to experience feelings of extreme loneliness and isolation.  When the word loneliness is used to describe a feeling of being completely disconnected from other individuals, this is the feeling most ADHD individuals battle, even when surrounded by a room full of people.  “Loneliness is an epidemic. We’re the most socially connected society, yet so many people experience extreme loneliness,” says Amy Sullivan, PsyD. When you experience feelings of loneliness, you are likely to experience feelings of isolation and depression.  The questions many individuals with ADHD have are: Why do I feel so alone?

Continue reading “Why Do I Feel So Alone?”

The connection between thoughts and behaviors has always fascinated me; that’s why I have wanted to become a psychologist for a long time. I wanted to study and know more about human behavior and understand their thoughts and actions. I want to go deeper into treating misbehaviors and know what triggers them. I knew early on that the best profession for me to explore that connection, so I worked hard to make sure that I could enter an exemplary psychology program in college.

When it happened, I felt like I had won the lottery. I was eager to prove to everyone that I was cut out to become a psychologist and be the best one in the field. However, I just realized that I would have to go through many practical activities before that. I was not aware of the challenges that I had to face because I was only focusing on the good sides of that dream. I never knew that it was going to be hard and exhausting at some point.

Dipping My Toes In The Psychology Pool

My first practical experience involved offering free counseling at the university hospital in my second year. It was a tradition for the students in our department to visit the hospital on campus and talk to patients and their loved ones. After all, many people with physical illnesses are prone to mental health issues, especially if they get diagnosed with a grave condition.

I honestly thought that this whole ordeal was easy, and soon, I could get a hold of it. I thought that since my desire to become the best psychiatrist, I would only focus more of my attention, time, and energy on learning all about mental health. But apparently, I was wrong. There is so much about mental health conditions that I didn’t prepare myself for. I never thought that studying it would open new mental and emotional strains on me as well.

One of the first individuals I counseled was Jaimee, a 16-year-old girl with cystic fibrosis and ADHD. When I saw her, I initially thought she was much younger than that. Her body was so small, and she often needed a blood transfusion, but the way she snapped at her parents and some nurses in the ward made me realize that we were closer in age than I assumed.

The attending physician introduced me to Jaimee and her parents that day. I shook hands with the adults, but Jaimee did not even look at my extended hand. Despite that, I smiled at her. I might not have years of counseling experience, but I have enough knowledge about dealing with stubborn kids. I visited Jaimee in the ward twice a week and observed her behavior.

I quickly understood that Jaimee had to be pulled out of regular school because her illness required her to stay at home or in the hospital most of the time. Her snappy attitude was most likely not because she was evil but because she could not find a way out of her situation. She’s dealing with emotional turmoil that not even her parents can explain. Of course, they tried to connect with her in all ways possible but unfortunately failed to do that.

I talked to her parents about it in private. I told them that perhaps Jaimee needs an expert to check up on her so they can know what she might be dealing with mentally. They agreed and decided to bring a psychologist to the ward to figure out Jaimee’s mental condition.

When Jaimee found out about it, she reacted violently. It was evident that she thought a psychological evaluation was for the “freaks” – her words, not mine. She was so against the idea of consulting a mental health professional because of the stigma. She has this ideology that mental health professionals will only take so much of her time and will not care to treat her. However, her father put his foot down and snapped back at her, causing Jaimee to shut up. She had no choice but to talk to the psychologist and answer any questions.

It turned out that Jaimee had depression. The diagnosis checked out, considering she had been dealing with cystic fibrosis for a long time. She was so anxious and concerned about her physical health that she could only express it through rage. She admitted that she was having negative thoughts and that she would die anytime soon. That fear took advantage of her and made her think that she was not going to recover from her situation. 

If I had to deal with an incurable disease, I would have been depressed, too. Nevertheless, it was no excuse for having an awful disposition in life. The psychologist eventually prescribed behavioral activation therapy to Jaimee.

What Is Behavioral Activation Therapy?

 Behavioral Activation (BA) is the end goal for most people getting cognitive-behavioral therapy. This treatment is mostly offered to depressed individuals who need help reducing their avoidant behavior.

Who Needs CBT?

 Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy is essential for people who deal with a broad range of mental disorders.

Who Created The BA Therapy?

 Christopher Martell and the company created behavioral activation in 2001.

What Are BA Strategies?

• Monitor behavioral changes on your own
• Figure out what aspect of your life you want to change
• Make sure that your loved ones will behave well around you.
• Create a schedule of daily or weekly activities
• Structure every activity you can think of
• Learn problem-solving skills
• Improve social skills
• Arrange activities from the easiest to the most challenging
• Embrace healthy actions
• Think of how you can reward yourself

How Does Behavioral Psychology Treat Depression?

 Behavioral psychologists typically treat depression with the belief that it is a learned mental disorder, that it is not innate. Thus, they help sufferers unlearn their depressive symptoms.

What Is The Common Use Of This Treatment Strategy?

Behavioral activation is commonly used for the treatment of depression. Just like cognitive therapy, behavioral activation for depression also works to help patients understand the connection between their thoughts and emotions.

What Is A Behavioral Technique?

 A behavioral technique is used by therapists when they perform cognitive-behavioral therapy cbt. One process involves gradually exposing patients to their fear but putting them in a safe environment to eventually learn to overcome this particular fear.

Is The Mental Illness A Learned Behavior?

 Yes, depression is a learned behavior, according to behavioral psychologists. However, some experts believe that depression is caused by a combination of stressors in an individual’s environment and a lack of personal coping skills.

 

What Kind Of Music Is Good For Mental Health?

Rock is the primary genre that individuals listen to when they feel good. However, for a deep, relaxed state, improved mood, and enhanced motivation, clothing and instrumental music are advisable. Also, pop music has strong and powerful lyrics and also helps with depression.

Is Mental Health Disorder In The Genes?

 According to studies, 40% of people living with depression have this mental disorder because of genetics.

Is Mental Health  Condition Learned Helplessness?

Yes, depression is learned helplessness, considering you experience stressful situations repeatedly.

What Does Behavior Therapy Treat?

 Depression.

What Happens In Exposure Therapy?

 When you do exposure therapy, you can expect the therapist to simulate your fears and make you face them. The more you get exposed to your fears, the less you worry about them.

How Successful Is CBT In The Treatment of Social Anxiety?

 CBT is so successful in treating social anxiety that every patient tends to feel less anxious when the sessions are over.

What Is Activity Scheduling?

Activity scheduling is a behavioral activation technique that encourages individuals to do more activities every day.

Final Thoughts

The psychologist happened to be a certified behavioral therapist, so she could treat Jaimee. The original plan was for the psychologist to visit her at the hospital every week for the first two months, but Jaimee said that she did not feel like the environment there would help her. In the end, it was agreed that she could go to the psychologist’s office at the university. It would be a short walk from the hospital, so it could not take a time toll on her health.

When I visited Jaimee a few months after that, I was surprised to see her smiling at me. She was so different from the teenager that I met in the beginning. Gone was the dark aura surrounding her. Although Jaimee was still not allowed to go home anytime soon, she worked hard to stop feeling depressed about it. She even picked up two new hobbies – knitting and chess – which made her feel productive.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are The 3 Basic Approaches To Treating Mental Health Disorders?

Psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle change – these three are often used in combination in crafting a treatment plan for depression. Clinicians, of course, customize the specifics of each of the three approaches according to the specific needs, personality, circumstances, and preferences of the patient.

For psychotherapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT) are often prescribed to help patients identify and change their negative thought patterns and come up with a healthier coping strategy.

For medication, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed by healthcare professionals to restore the balance of the brain’s neurotransmitters.

For lifestyle change, clinicians encourage shifting to a healthy and balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, and practicing stress management techniques such as breathing exercises, sufficient sleep, and cultivating a supportive social network.

What Factors Facilitate Mental Health Issues?

There are multiple behavioral factors that can contribute to the development and exacerbation of mental health conditions like depression. Social isolation (withdrawal from interpersonal relationships) can intensify feelings of loneliness and contribute to the onset of depressive symptoms.

Avoidance of activities and hobbies that were once enjoyed can also contribute to a lack of pleasure and trigger a negative mood.

Excessive alcohol consumption, substance abuse, and other unhealthy coping mechanisms can increase the risk and worsen this mental health condition.

Poor sleeping habits (irregular sleep patterns and insufficient sleep) can disrupt the brain’s natural mood regulation. Moreover, a sedentary lifestyle and lack of physical activity can negatively affect both physical and mental well-being.

How Does The BA System Work?

Behavioral Activation System (BAS) is a psychological concept of a motivational system in the brain; it is associated with approach behaviors and the pursuit of rewards. It plays a huge role in regulating emotions, motivation, and goal-directed behavior.

The system works by detecting environmental cues that signal potential positive outcomes or rewards, which leads to increased activity, engagement, and positive effects. The BAS is associated with feelings of anticipation, enthusiasm, and pleasure. In terms of depression, the BAS may be underactive, which results in to decrease in engagement with rewarding activities and diminished positive emotions.

Is BA Effective?

Yes, behavioral activation treatment has been shown to provide effective treatment for depression. Several research studies have shown the effectiveness of activation treatment in reducing the frequency and intensity of symptoms of depression. This form of therapy focuses on increasing the individual’s engagement in meaningful and rewarding activities, giving people a better chance to experience a sense of mastery, accomplishment, and pleasure.

Moreover, by targeting behavioral patterns and improving positive reinforcement, behavioral activation for depression can counteract the withdrawal cycle. Compared to traditional treatment, it is more straightforward, practical, and brief, making it accessible and a lot more suitable for most patients.

But as with other forms of treatment, it is important to note that the effectiveness of behavioral activation for depression varies depending on the specific person’s circumstances. For best results, clinicians will often still include a combination of treatments, such as medication and therapy.

What Are Good Activities For People With Depression?

Any activity that promotes a sense of accomplishment, connection with others, and pleasure can be beneficial for people suffering from mental health problems like depression.

Simple exercises, such as walking or yoga, can help boost mood and improve overall well-being. Creative outlets such as playing musical instruments, painting, and writing can provide a channel for self-expression and an avenue for cathartic release.

Social activities and hobbies can also help combat feelings of isolation and provide a sense of connection to others.

Self-care activities, such as relaxing baths, meditation, etc., can help nurture self-worth and a positive mindset.

Ultimately, the choice of activities must be personalized to suit the needs and preferences of the individual.

The Creative Process

Art therapy? Healing through arts in artistic therapy?

Can one’s negative emotions and mental health conditions be alleviated through art and the effectiveness of art therapy? This article discusses art therapy – healing through art. But what is art therapy, and how do art therapists work on patients’ mental health conditions through applied psychological theory principles and creative expression? Art therapy can heal. Art can help people recover. Art can be therapy.

Can it be a form of treating mental illness, aid in the improvement of self-esteem and self-expression through active art-making, or complement a particular medical treatment? How can it become effective? How is art therapy helpful for mental disorders? Can creative art therapy programs help various conditions? Can art therapy benefit children and teens? What entails art therapy sessions? Let us learn and know more information about it the psychological effects of the arts as therapy.

Yes, according to the American Art Therapy Association, art therapy does work. It is a form of treatment that I learned about in my college years. It helped me get through those rigorous weeks and gave me something to wake up for – that is how art therapy works. Without the art therapy treatment process that I went through using creative techniques and other expressive therapies, I may have given up on my career. It helped me develop self-awareness and coping skills to tackle mental and emotional stress. Not surprisingly, the American Art Therapy Association has discovered that it’s ideal for ADHD and even post-traumatic stress disorder patients, too.

A credentialed art therapist or professional therapist is trained and qualified to provide services to clients. Art therapy can be offered in a variety of settings, including private practice and wellness centers. It works in helping individuals improve their mood, reduce stress, and process difficult emotions. However, it’s critical to ensure that your therapist has been certified by the Art Therapy Credentials Board.

Even simple tasks like putting on an outfit or listening to class can be a little bit frustrating for people experiencing ADHD. To cope, education and art therapy became a part of the treatment plan. Personal development through the help of a certified expert was shown to alleviate ADHD symptoms, which led to more positive life experiences.

Definition, Description, And Process – How Does It Work?

Art therapy uses the approach of sculpting, finger painting, drawing, and other forms of creativity to improve the well-being of those with ADHD and those with other mental health problems. It is usually used in children who are often guided by a board-certified therapist. The concept behind it is self-expression and self-awareness of artistic talent which can be a tool to provide help in solving a variety of complicated emotional problems, reduce stress, improve social skills and body image, and manage behavior properly. It is healing through an art therapy process because it forces you to form a connection between your mind and your body.

An individual does not need to be a professional artist or have a degree in art therapy to use it. Art therapy is a branch of integrative mental health, although it may be mediated better with a registered therapist.

“In art therapy, the focus is on the process of creating and, to a lesser extent, on the final product,” says Kathryn Rudlin, LCSW.  “Creating is the primary initial focus, increased self-understanding usually comes later.”

Why Choose Art Therapy?

British artist Adrian Hill created the term art therapy in 1942 while recovering from tuberculosis in a sanatorium.  He wrote that the value of art therapy or creative therapies lay in “completely engrossing the mind (as well as the fingers)…releasing the creative energy of the frequently inhibited patient”. That began his work, which was documented in 1945 in his book Art Versus Illness. Hill worked tirelessly to promote and share this healing process. He eventually became president of the British Association of Art Therapists, founded in 1964, and in 1968, Hill was elected president of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters.

However, to become an expert in this field, individuals must typically complete a graduate-level art therapy program and obtain professional credentials. Once they have gained professional credentials, creative specialists may work in a variety of settings, including independent practices. This technique practice involves the use of creative materials and techniques to help clients express and process emotions, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being.

Art Therapy Process

There is science in art therapy, and neuroscience allows experts to have a deeper understanding of the process. Each time an individual places a brush on a paper, he or she is already engaging in decision-making and problem-solving. Utilizing this type of treatment stimulates neuropathways, which activate various parts of the brain.

Other things that trigger the neuropathways are kinesthetics and sensory experiences. Actions like touch, movement, sound, and visuals fall under this category. For example, working with wet clay is considered art-making and enables an individual to use intensive motor skills. It awakens all the senses and releases tension.

Typical art therapy usually involves several combinations of structured projects created by an art therapist. This treatment program helps the child develop different skills, work through intense emotions, resolve inner conflicts, improve self-esteem, and generally improve a person’s health.

“Eighty percent of sensory stimuli enter through our eyes and goes into our brains where it is retained visually, nonverbally. Most of us think, feel, and recall memories not in words but in imagery. These images become a verbal language when we attempt to communicate what is going on in our mind to someone else,” shares Marianne Gontarz, MSW, LCSW.

Creativity For Mental Health

An art therapy session is simple. However, those who will spearhead these projects – often art therapy professionals or a therapist with art therapy credentials – should make sure that the emotions will be touched when implementing these activities.

• The Scribbles

Scribbles is a popular technique in art therapy that enables a child to release stress and pour down emotions in a balanced manner throughout the creative process. It starts by folding a piece of paper in half. Therapists then instruct the patient to scribble on one side of the paper using his dominant hand. Afterward, he or she must then scribble on the other side while using the non-dominant hand. This has been shown to yield therapeutic benefits.

“Similar to dream interpretation, there is no secret formula to reading another person’s art. You have to ask the person questions about their drawing in order to be able to figure out what a picture means,” explains Drena Fagen, LCSW, LCAT, ATR-BC.

• Worries

Parents might sometimes wonder what a child’s problems are. Art therapy helps address that. At the start of this therapeutic process, the patient will be asked to write down a current problem he or she is facing. This can be done in words (through poems) or drawing (through abstract art) – either way, there is art created. After making it, he or she will then be asked to tear the paper using both hands. Parents, afterward, are required to talk about the artwork by sharing pieces of advice on how to solve their worries. This technique definitely helps improve one’s mental well-being.

• Mandalas – Colorful Art Therapy

A mandala is an artwork comprised of a circle with a pattern sitting in the middle. Some sessions start with therapists asking their patients to create and design their mandalas. This creative process helps promote focus and release calm energy. This is also considered both art and fashion.

• Coloring Sheet

Another art therapy technique to release stress is creating coloring sheets. Using a black marker, a patient is asked to draw a scribble while they close their eyes. Afterward, he/she must color every section of the scribble with different colors.

Art Therapy: Few Therapy Reminders And Takeaways To Consider

Individuals with ADHD may really have difficulty expressing themselves. Using art therapy only proves that for someone with this disability, a picture may indeed be worth more than a thousand words.

Therapeutic Arts Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Considered Art Therapy?

The American Art Therapy Association is a form of therapeutic practice that uses various creative mediums and creative processes to encourage people to express their thoughts and emotions and promote emotional healing and personal growth in the process. It involves the use of various forms of visual arts, including drawing, collage, painting, and sculpting, as well as dance, drama, and music.

By engaging with these artistic processes and working with a therapist, people can explore and communicate their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in a deeper, non-verbal, and symbolic manner. The aim of this therapy is to improve self-awareness, reduce stress, and more importantly, improve emotional well-being so they can foster personal transformation and healing better.

Is Art Therapy The Same As Psychotherapy?

Art therapy is actually a form of psychotherapy. However, it is important to note that there are many forms of psychotherapy, but only art therapy involves the use of art as its central component for the process. This allows individuals to explore their thoughts and express their feelings through artistic means.

What Are The 3 Uses Of Art Therapy?

The three main uses of art therapy are self-expression and self-discovery, emotional healing and to reduce stress, and personal growth and development. This form of therapy helps people explore their inner world, process and cope with their emotions, and more importantly, develop insight and resilience.

Does Art Therapy Actually Work?

Yes, the American Art Therapy Association has indicated that art therapy has been proven to be effective for many people. A lot of patients with mental health conditions showed positive impacts on mental health and emotional well-being, as well as anxiety, depression, trauma, and chronic illness. But as with any form of therapy, the results of this process may vary. Thus, it is important to consult with a licensed therapist for professional and personalized guidance.

Who Is Suitable For Art Therapy?

Art therapy is suitable for people of all ages and backgrounds, from children to older adults. It is particularly helpful for people who may struggle with verbal communication and those who find it difficult to express themselves to their therapist and traditional therapy approaches. However, it’s critical to ensure that the therapist you find is certified by an Art Therapy Credentials Board.

How Does Art Therapy Affect The Brain?

Art therapy engages various areas of the brain, especially those responsible for emotion regulation, cognitive processing, and, of course, creativity. The act of creating art stimulates neural pathways in the brain, which promotes relaxation, improves self-awareness, and also provides nonverbal means of self-expression.

Can An Art Therapist Diagnose?

No, art therapists are not your regular mental health specialist. They are not qualified to diagnose mental health conditions. Their role is simply to provide therapeutic support for patients of various mental health conditions by facilitating self-expression, self-exploration, and discovery and ultimately promoting well-being. For proper diagnosis, you need to consult a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist who’s part of the American Art Therapy Association or is certified by the Art Therapy Credentials Board.

What Qualifications Do You Need For Art Therapy?

To qualify as an art therapist, you need to have a master’s in art therapy or any related field. Moreover, you should have completed extensive clinical training, including internship hours and supervised practicum. Of course, this may differ depending on the country and region. Some may also require certification or licensure requirements specific to their jurisdiction. It can also help to be a part of the American Art Therapy Association or have art therapy credentials.

How Can I Do Art Therapy At Home?

Absolutely, yes. You can do art at home. Simply set aside dedicated time and create a safe and comfortable space where you can freely make your art. Do not be confined to one form of art. Use various materials and techniques, and experiment often so you can find the best art form where you can effectively express yourself, your thoughts, emotions, experiences, and personality.

How Is Art Therapy Done?

Art therapy is conducted by a trained art therapist in a therapeutic setting. The art therapist provides guidance and support to encourage their clients to create artwork that expresses their thoughts and emotions. An art therapy session involves both creating art and reflecting on the artwork made.

What Does Art Therapy Do For People?

Art therapy brings a lot of benefits. First and foremost, it provides the avenue for non-verbal self-expression, which is, for some people, the most effective way to express thoughts and emotions. Secondly, it promotes emotional healing, self-awareness, and self-esteem, as understanding your thoughts and emotions opens the doors for personal growth and insights. Moreover, it challenges the mind through problem-solving, enhancing one’s coping skills. More importantly, it’s a great stress reduction.

Is Art As Therapy Effective?

Yes, art therapy is incredibly effective for many people. Research by the American Art Therapy Association suggests that it can be helpful in improving mental health, managing stress, easing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and promoting emotional well-being, all while supporting overall psychological healing and growth.

How Is Art Therapy Healing?

Art therapy promotes healing by providing a safe and non-judgmental space for people to fully express their emotions and thoughts, re-live and process traumatic experiences, and gain insights into those experiences. The creative process and the engagement with the art medium and materials help people express and release pent-up emotions, gain new understandings, and develop a sense of control and empowerment.

Who Would Benefit From Art Therapy?

Art benefits a wide range of individuals, from children to older adults. It can be very helpful for people who have gone through some difficult times or traumatic experiences, to express themselves in a visual manner. Those dealing with grief, and health conditions, and anyone seeking self-exploration and personal growth will also benefit from this form of therapy.

Does Art Make Life Better?

Art is an essential part of life, and it has all the potential to enrich and enhance life. By providing an avenue for emotional expression, fostering self-discovery, and promoting personal growth, art can provide a sense of beauty and meaning. Art can also provide a sense of solace, inspire creativity, and, more importantly, help develop a deeper sense of understanding of self and the world around.

There has been a lot of research conducted on the treatment of childhood and Adult ADHD.  Numerous studies have been conducted on a variety of treatment options.  For one there are different types of counseling that can can be offered in person or online, depending on the experience level of the pool of therapists you plan on making your selection from. There are three that have been proven to be effective in individuals who struggle with ADHD.  These are behavioral therapy, taking medications, and doing both together.  There is no treatment that has been shown to change the outcome of whether an individual will have ADHD.  In other words, there is no cure.  Individuals with ADHD are wired in a different way.  For this reason, it is important to remember that this means they learn in a different way.  Here are some of the different treatment options for both children and adults struggling with ADHD and a little about each one.

Continue reading “ADHD Interventions”

Source: rd.com

 

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a behavioral and mental condition that generally affects young children and adults alike. It is characterized by hyperactive behavior, lack of focus and concentration, and problems with retaining memories. The most common and widely accepted treatment modalities for ADHD include cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and pharmacological management.

Continue reading “Alternative Treatments To ADHD”

 

Introduction

Two-thirds of people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) will be diagnosed with a co-existing condition. Most children diagnosed with such a condition will have a behavioral disorder, but around 18% of them will have mood disorders. Anxiety and depression are the most frequently diagnosed mood disorders in children with ADHD. These conditions can be caused by the frustrations of having to live with the symptoms of ADHD, or they could be a coexisting mood disorder. Other common mood disorders include bipolar disorder, learning disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, Tourette Syndrome, and substance abuse.

Continue reading “Co-Existing Mood Disorders In Children With ADHD”