Emily Rebecca Pecaitis, PMHNP, APN

Collectively, anxiety disorders are the most common mental health issues diagnosed in the United States -- even more common than depression. Women are more likely than men to be diagnosed with anxiety, and it is extremely common for a person with anxiety to have another illness at the same time, such as depression, a physical illness, or substance abuse.

Treatment for anxiety usually involves medication and psychotherapy together. Medications used may include antidepressants (which also work for anxiety), anti-anxiety medications, or beta blockers (which can be used to control the physical symptoms of anxiety). Psychotherapy can be useful to teach patients new ways of thinking and reacting so that they can manage their feelings of worry and fear. Support groups can also be very effective for anxiety, and they can be a form of treatment themselves for social phobias. Stress management, relaxation techniques, and meditation all help reduce feelings of anxiety or of being out of control. Finally, having a strong support network of family and friends is an excellent way to help manage the difficulties of life with anxiety.

When diagnosing ADHD, it is important to rule out other issues that may be causing the symptoms. Seizure disorders, hearing loss, anxiety, and domestic problems are some examples of problems that can cause behaviors similar to those seen with ADHD.

Treatment can include stimulant medications, behavioral therapy to teach patients ways to navigate their world and control symptoms better, and accommodations at school or work. A structured environment (with lots of organization and well-defined rules) seems to help most kids with ADHD function at their best.

ADHD is mainly thought of as a disorder that affects children, but symptoms can last into adulthood for a third to half of those diagnosed. In adults, ADHD has similar symptoms as when it is seen in children: impulsive behavior, difficulty maintaining focus, being easily distracted, or a tendency to fidget. These symptoms can cause problems in a patient's careers and relationships. Additionally, adults with ADHD are at increased risk for substance abuse. Medications can be an important part of treatment for adults, as well as stress reduction techniques and organization skills training. Specialized ADHD coaches can help adults with ADHD manage their symptoms and succeed in all areas of their life.

Borderline personality disorder is diagnosed by a psychologist, psychiatrist, clinical social worker, or other mental health professional. The disorder is a type of "Cluster B" personality disorder, which are chronic conditions characterized by unstable and dysfunctional behaviors that affect one's relationships with others. People with BPD often have co-existing mental conditions, such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, or substance abuse.

Borderline personality disorder is known to develop and become present during adolescence, however, mental health providers rarely diagnose anyone under the age of 18 with BPD. Mental health providers analyze behaviors, family history, and discuss symptoms with their patients, which may lead to a diagnosis using the DSM-5 criteria for BPD.

Borderline personality disorder is treated with psychotherapy and oral medications. Forms of therapy like dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help people with BPD identify self-destructive attitudes and harmful behaviors, which they may then be able to manage or change. Group therapy is another treatment option which may improve people with BPD's ability to share their emotions and to promote positivity. Psychiatrists may prescribe patients antidepressants and/or anxiety medications such as Prozac (fluoxetine), Wellbutrin (bupropion), and Zoloft (sertraline). Some patients may receive antipsychotic drugs which can help stabilize mood and reduce impulsivity.

With consistent treatment, people with BPD are able to recognize and prevent destructive behaviors and mood swings, typically by changing their patterns of thought. Many people with borderline personality disorder are able to live successful and healthy lives.