Articles
New research could move treatment of fibromyalgia ahead
Suffering from a chronic and painful illness can be debilitating. Not only could there be physical symptoms of these conditions, but there may also be mental issues that a person is dealing with, such as depression or anxiety. This can be especially true when an illness is not well understood and treatment is inadequate or ineffective.
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Mental health issues during the holidays -- and beyond
Some experts disagree with the conventional belief that diagnoses of clinical depression and anxiety increase over the holidays. In fact, a 2012 study at a major university’s public policy center actually indicated that suicide rates were highest in the spring and summer.
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Autism study finds additional disorder in one ethnic group
Readers of this disability benefits blog know that federal assistance programs are available for both children and adults. Certain disabilities may be developmental or genetic, and prevent an individual from ever acquiring an adequate work history -- which is needed to qualify for Social Security disability insurance. For such individuals, programs like Supplemental Security Income may be the answer.
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Does marijuana use impact brain physiology?
As more American jurisdictions legalize the medicinal use of marijuana, a recent study about the possible adverse effects of the substance on brain functioning may be of particular interest to readers.
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Cerebral palsy and varying levels of functioning
A recent profile of a 12-year-old boy living with cerebral palsy provides context for current treatment and living adaptions available to people with disabilities. While doctors may not yet have found a cure, the improved functionality offered by recent medical and technological advances is notable.
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New law may increase mental health disability coverage
Treatment for a mental disability may not be as predictable as a physical disability. For one, medication options prescribed for mental health conditions may produce different -- or no -- results among otherwise similarly situated patients. Some mental health patients may need to try several different options within a class of medications before finding one that produces results.
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Key to improved psychosis treatment lies in early diagnosis
Readers may have misconceptions about the onset or progression of mental disabilities. For example, some may be surprised to learn that the onset of certain mental health conditions may be gradual, or may only partially impair an individual’s functioning.
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Researchers identify potential Alzheimer's genes
The efforts of the International Genomics Project have made a discovery that might have practical applications to Alzheimer’s patients. The breakthrough comes in time for November, which is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month.
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