Cigarette smoking is prevalent among bipolar patients, particularly those who have frequent or severe psychotic symptoms. Some experts speculate that, as in schizophrenia, nicotine use may be a form of self-medication because of its specific effects on the brain; further research is necessary. Up to 60% of patients with bipolar disorder abuse other substances (most commonly alcohol, followed by marijuana…
Patients do not work out their negative behaviors (e.g., spending sprees or even becoming verbally or physically aggressive) in a vacuum. They have a direct effect on others around them. It is very difficult for even the most loving families or caregivers to be objective and consistently sympathetic with an individual who periodically and unexpectedly creates chaos around them. Many…
Pakistan is the second-most drug-dependent nation in the world. The extremely poor population, which is very large, is to blame. Different sorts of drug addiction are severely affecting the nation. However, no particular measures have been taken by government authorities to halt drug abuse among the poor and protect everyone from this pandemic. In Pakistan, drug addiction is more prevalent…
Hospitalization for psychiatric illness has undergone revolutionary changes in the last three decades. At mid-century, there were two basic sources of care for people with mental illnesses: a psychiatrist’s private office, or a mental hospital. Those who went to the hospital often stayed for many months, even years. The hospital, frequently operated by the state, offered protection from the stresses…