Healthy Mind

A standard stress test, from check-in to finish, usually takes about 60 minutes. The most variable part is the exercise itself, which typically lasts 6 to 15 minutes. The entire appointment includes preparation, the exercise or medication portion, and a recovery period that clinicians use to monitor your heart rate and rhythm. What Is a … Read more

Being sick often makes it harder to sleep. Your body is fighting an infection, and that fight can disrupt your natural sleep rhythm. Congestion, fever, coughing, and body aches all make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. The good news is that you can take steps to improve your rest while you are … Read more

Cerebral palsy is not a mental disorder. It is a physical condition that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. The confusion happens because cerebral palsy is caused by brain damage, and brain damage can sometimes affect thinking or emotions. But the disorder itself is not a mental illness. This article explains the difference clearly so … Read more

Defining what is abnormal in psychology is not like defining a broken bone. There is no single test or measurement. Psychologists rely on several criteria—statistical rarity, violation of social norms, personal distress, and impaired functioning—but none of these works perfectly on its own. Cultural differences, changing social values, and the fact that many mental health … Read more

GABA is a chemical messenger in the brain that calms nerve activity. It helps with sleep, eases anxiety, and affects mood. Many people look to GABA supplements for these benefits, but the science is more complex than the marketing suggests. What is GABA and how does it work in the brain? GABA stands for gamma-aminobutyric … Read more

Natural selection is the process where traits that improve survival and reproduction become more common over generations. Psychology studies the mind and behavior. The two connect directly: natural selection helped shape the human brain and the behaviors it produces. Traits like fear of danger, preference for sweet foods, and social bonding all have roots in … Read more

People often assume that self-isolation is a choice. But for many, it feels like the only option. Whether driven by overwhelming anxiety or the physical toll of a chronic illness, withdrawing from others can seem like the safest path. The core reason is that when facing a threat — real or perceived — the brain … Read more

A stress test usually takes about 60 minutes from start to finish. The exercise part on a treadmill or stationary bike typically lasts 6 to 12 minutes. The rest of the time is used for preparation, placing electrodes, taking resting measurements, and watching your heart recover afterward. What Exactly Is a Stress Test? A stress … Read more

Getting a mental health diagnosis starts with your primary care doctor. They can screen for common conditions and refer you to a specialist. The process usually involves a clinical interview, questionnaires, and a review of your symptoms. Expect an open conversation, not a quick label. Where can I get a mental health diagnosis? Your primary … Read more

You are lying in bed. The lights are off. Your eyes are closed. But your mind is wide awake. You want to sleep but your brain will not cooperate. Here is the step-by-step answer: Get out of bed. Go to another dimly lit room. Do something quiet and boring for 20 to 30 minutes. Then … Read more