READER QUESTIONS ABOUT MENTAL ILLNESS

Q: Are there any physical disorders that have the same symptoms as anxiety?

A: Anxiety can be produced by a wide range of physical and psychological issues. It is important to have regular physical examinations and explain your symptoms to your medical doctor. This will be helpful in detecting or ruling out physiological causes of anxiety.

Q: Are there any good self help products available to the public such as (audio or books) on anxiety?

A: There are many, many good books and audiotapes available. It is always important to remember that it is your motivation to resolve stress in your life that will ultimately help you to combat anxiety, and not a particular book or product that you acquire. If you want to become anxiety free, we recommend that you start with a basic, inexpensive book on stress management.

Q: What are the affects of marijuana on schizophrenia? Are hallucinations and delusions worse?

A: Using non-prescribed drugs can always be a risk, especially when taking anti-psychotic medications. Our experience is that marijuana tends to have a double effect - it intensifies symptoms (hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions) and also counteracts the effects of anti-psychotic medications.

Q: What kinds of counseling/therapy generally work best with individuals who are diagnosed with schizophrenia?

A: The most effective treatment for schizophrenia seems to be a combination of techniques which include effective medication management, social rehabilitation involving skill building, communications training and family therapy along with cognitive/behavioral and behavioral methods. Most important is to find professionals who are experienced, flexible, and open to utilizing a variety of options.   

If your question has not been addressed above, please send us your question.