Metal Animated Health

What's the difference between bipolar I and bipolar II?
Bipolar I and II are types of bipolar disorder that involve manic and depressive episodes. A person with bipolar II may experience hypomania, which is less severe than the manic episodes that occur in bipolar I. Learn more about the differences between these conditions here.

Panic attack vs. heart attack: How to tell the difference
The symptoms of a heart attack and a panic attack can feel very similar, especially if a person has not experienced either condition before. While panic attacks can be frightening, they are not life-threatening. On the other hand, heart attacks require immediate medical attention. Learn how to tell the difference here.

Can service dogs help with anxiety?
Service dogs not only provide emotional support for people with anxiety disorders, but they can also be trained to perform essential tasks. They can detect and reduce anxiety attacks, fetch medication, and get help for people in distress. We discuss how to get a service dog for anxiety, how they can help, and breeds.

Exercise for mental health: How much is too much?
We know that physical activity can improve a person's mental health and well-being, but how much exercise is best, and how much is too much?

Psychedelic drugs 'may improve depression, anxiety, and PTSD'
Psychedelic drugs have a bad reputation, but could they be used to enhance psychotherapy? Some researchers argue they may help with anxiety and depression.

Cat lovers, this is how a feline friend can boost your health
Cats are loved for their elegance, their calming purrs, and the sweetness of their cuddles, but do you know how they can actually improve your health?

What to know about phantom smells (phantosmia)
Phantosmia is when someone thinks they notice a smell that is not there. Phantosmia is also called a phantom smell or an olfactory hallucination. Sinus problems, seizures, stroke, and schizophrenia can cause phantom smells. Learn about types, symptoms, and treatment of phantosmia and related conditions here.

Agitation in dementia: Are drugs the best treatment?
Two common symptoms in people with dementia are agitation and psychosis. Now, a panel of experts explains how best to manage them, and which drugs do work.

What are some foods to ease your anxiety?
Food plays a vital role in nutrition and keeping the mind in its healthiest state. People respond in a variety of ways to different foods, but there are some foods that are known to reduce anxiety. These include eggs, brazil nuts, fatty-fish, yogurt, and dark chocolate. Learn more about anxiety-reducing foods here.

Mass hysteria: An epidemic of the mind?
Mass hysteria is a highly controversial phenomenon that has been documented since the Middle Ages. In this Spotlight, we investigate how it can manifest.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Lexapro?
Lexapro is the brand name of a drug called escitalopram, which is a safe and effective treatment for depression and anxiety. Doctors strongly recommend that people avoid alcohol while taking Lexapro. Alcohol can counteract the benefits of taking antidepressants and worsen their side effects. Learn more here.

The effects of anxiety on the body
Anxiety is a common condition that impacts a person's mental health, and it can also have short- and long-term effects on the body. Anxiety can change the function of the cardiovascular, urinary, and respiratory systems. It can also lead to digestive issues and an increased risk of infection. Learn more here.

How to cope with a depressive episode
Depressive episodes are periods of low mood and other symptoms of depression. Tackling depression as soon as it arises and making changes to thoughts and behaviors might improve a person’s mood and help them recover more quickly. Here, we cover what a depressive episode is and 12 tips for coping with one.

How emotions may impact tumor growth
Our emotions can impact our physical well-being, but to what extent? New research suggests that they may even play a role in the immune response to cancer.

What is gaming disorder?
The World Health Organization have given gaming disorder a mental health classification. People with gaming disorder prioritize gaming over other activities and experience negative effects from continuing to play video games. Here, we discuss what gaming disorder is and what its classification may mean for gamers.