The differences between worrying and anxiety

Though the concepts of worry and anxiety are often thought of as interchangeable in everyday phrasing, they are two distinct conditions when it comes to the science of psychology. In fact, while it’s fine to be anxious or worried every now and then. But when these two happen in a chronic sense, they should be taken seriously, according to neuroengineering expert Dr. Curtis Cripe.

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Stressful events may lead to anxiety and is, in this sense, the more general condition. But this also means it’s often hard to pinpoint. On the other hand, when people worry, they exactly know what’s causing it; for example, it could be borne of anticipation for an important life event like preparing for a wedding, an upcoming interview, or a difficult test. In short, worrying is exact, and anxiety is vague.

Anxiety is also more irrational than worry, as people who usually experience bouts of anxiety find something else to panic about after a situation is resolved. When asked, many would even answer that they don’t even know what’s causing it.

More importantly, while worrying is manifested verbally and mentally, being anxious takes its toll on us physically. Anxiety affects the body in more ways that one, from sweating, a racing heart, and an upset stomach to having a dry mouth and dizziness. The truth is that most people who see a physician for heart issues are often diagnosed with bouts of anxiety.

All in all, excess is always a problem when it comes to these two neurological conditions, and the best way to deal with them is to confront the problem and see your doctor, explains Dr. Curtis Cripe.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is the head of the research and development team of the NTL Group. For more on Dr. Cripe, check out this website.

PSA for everyone who has a loved one suffering from depression

Curtis Cripe has devoted his life to neuroengineering and the research and application of various scientific methods in the service of people with mental health issues. One of the most pressing issues in the world today, one that Dr. Cripe believes to be a serious problem, is depression.

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Depression has become somewhat of a plague today with the number of people who are depressed higher than ever. While Curtis Cripe has blogged about the many possible factors that could lead to depression, he has also focused his efforts on guiding people who may have a loved one suffering from the mental health problem.

Curtis Cripe realizes that people who love someone with depression will have incredible difficulty at times with communicating, especially if the friend or family member is not one to talk. However, many times, people with depression are just looking for an outlet, another individual with whom to connect and share their pain.

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The key, however, is to have patience, Curtis Cripe explains. People with depression can be erratic with their moods. This affects how they relate to others. One day they be seem open to conversation, but the next they may appear withdrawn or maybe even hostile toward anyone who they deem to be prying.

But it is always important to be there for them, Curtis Cripe adds. Because probably the worst that can happen to someone with depression is when he or she feels all alone.

NTL Group R & D head Dr. Curtis Cripe has behind him a diverse multidisciplinary professional and academic background, having worked in aerospace, engineering, software development, bioengineering, addiction recovery, psychophysiology, psychology, and child neurodevelopment. Visit this blog for related posts.

What is it like to have a panic attack?

There are a lot of medical conditions people cannot understand nor comprehend simply because they lack first-hand experience. One such condition is a panic attack. Much like choking or drowning, panic attacks are real dangers to one’s health. And, for the most part, people who don’t know what goes on in the body and the mind of a person having a panic attack may not know how to respond to the emergency. According Behavioral Medicine expert, Curtis Cripe, knowing the symptoms can help people make better decisions when handling such situations.

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Panic attacks can be terrifying, especially if it’s your first time to experience it. There are several symptoms of one, which include shortness of breath, a choking sensation in the throat, chest pains, nausea, heart palpitations, numbness or tingling in several body parts, and sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures. Apart from physical symptoms, people suffering from panic attacks may also experience neurological abnormalities such as fear of losing their mind or an overwhelming fear of dying.

There are many reasons why people experience panic attacks. It could come from external factor such as danger, stress, or even pain. Some people have panic attacks because of anxiety disorders. Another main cause of a panic attack is an imbalance within the body. A person is susceptible to it when they are not functioning at their optimum level. This is why well-being can also trigger the condition.

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There are a lot of cases of people who are under stress due to health reasons or financial reasons. The triggers vary from person to person. Sometimes hearing a particular song or remembering an ugly memory could trigger a panic attack. Curtis Cripe states that people who take care of their health and have a firm grip on their lives will have less chances of experiencing panic attacks.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is the head of research and development at the NTL Group, which specializes in the development of brain-based technology for healing and repairing neurological dysfunctions. For more information about his works, view Dr. Cripe’s profilehere.

The extreme importance of checking in on children

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One of the biggest mistakes that parents have been known to make is to stay ignorant of what their children are going through. The misconception that children will be all right if they get to do what they want, play when they can, and have friends has led to some catastrophic and tragic consequences.

Dr. Curtis Cripe wants parents to know that if their children exhibit signs and symptoms of any neurological disorder or delay, they should see medical and mental health professionals. Dr. Cripe also mentions that to know if children are struggling with a particular disorder, parents need to check upon them.

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Therein lies the extreme importance of checking in on children. Parents, especially those who are too busy with work, have to understand that there are times when children are mum about how they feel. What happens is whatever condition they have, it has worsened over time because of the lack of treatment. And as Dr. Curtis Cripe mentions, when it comes to neurological problems in children, or anyone for that matter, time of intervention is key; earlier is always better.

Dr. Curtis Cripe also explains that checking in on children establishes the bond between parents and their offspring, which flourishes over time. And over time, whenever their kids have issues, whether mentally, emotionally, or physically, parents can be confident that they’ll be the first people their children will approach.

Dr. Curtis Cripe is the head of research and development at the NTL Group, which specializes in the development of brain-based technology for healing and repairing neurological dysfunctions. For more articles on developmental delays and other neurological conditions, visit this page.

Beyond timidity: Understanding social anxiety disorder

Many people consider themselves to be the shy type. While others grow out of feeling awkward in the presence of others, some people seem to be more withdrawn through the years. Neuroengineering and neurotherapy expert Dr. Curtis Cripe explains that the difference can be a personality trait. However, extreme self-consciousness can be a symptom of social anxiety disorder. Here are some important points worth understanding about this mental health condition:

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It is accompanied by fear.

Those who suffer from social anxiety may appear timid like others. However, in public settings, they go through the fear of being judged. Sometimes this fear gets in the way of their daily routine, such as going to work, school, or interacting with others. Simple activities, such as eating or drinking, can be a challenge for people with social phobia. Speaking in public or with an unfamiliar person may cause them to manifest symptoms such as dizziness, sweating, and an increase in heart rate.

It can be overpowering.

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Dr. Curtis Cripe explains that a person’s social phobia can be overwhelming, especially when one has no choice but to interact with others. Many individuals who have this condition are aware of their symptoms but feel that they can’t do anything to conquer it. In turn, some might miss out on opportunities that could further their growth.

It can be managed.

Seeking the help of a mental health professional can help a person manage social anxiety. Therapy, treatments, and practices can significantly encourage a person to open up to the world around them. Keeping trusted people close will provide support for people who want to expose themselves to situations they used to dread.

The expertise of Dr. Curtis Cripe has been instrumental in the development of the treatment programs used by NTL Group. One of his specializations is in the field of psychophysiology. For more information about Dr. Cripe and his work, visit this website.

Every little bit helps: Recommended food for people with depression

There have been reports that in the next 10 years, depression will be the leading cause of disability, not just in the United States, but worldwide. Add to that the millions of people who are unaware of their condition, or are unwilling to see mental health professionals, and the numbers will only continue to increase.

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While depression is one of the most common illnesses, researchers still have yet to comprehend the illness, much less come up with a solid, across-the-board plan of treatment. And because Dr. Curtis Cripe believes that every little bit helps, he recommends living a healthy lifestyle alongside regular appointments to mental health professionals.

Part of living a healthy lifestyle, Dr. Curtis Cripe notes, is adopting a healthy diet.

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First off, since people with depression often feel lethargic, they should focus on fruits and vegetables that help energize the body. Caffeine may also be an option but in regulated doses. For those who are looking to take on a new hobby or sport to fully overhaul their lives, Dr. Curtis Cripe recommends a healthy portion of carbohydrates every meal to keep the one’s energy level up. Overall, a balanced diet is a great way to keep the mind fit too.

That said, Dr. Curtis Cripe explains that people with depression should stay away from alcoholic beverages as much as possible since consuming alcohol can dampen one’s mood.

NTL Group R & D head Dr. Curtis Cripe has behind him a diverse multidisciplinary professional and academic background, having worked in aerospace, engineering, software development, bioengineering, addiction recovery, psychophysiology, psychology, and child neurodevelopment. Visit this blog for related posts.

What does transition planning for children with disabilities entail?

It’s all but natural that as parents witness their child’s growth and anticipate milestones, they also wonder whether their child’s development is normal and on track. Babies should reach developmental milestones like rolling over, talking, sitting, and walking at a given time. However, if parents do notice potential problems like prolonged delays, it is crucial that they know immediately that their baby doesn’t have any actual delay, says behavioral medicine expert Curtis Cripe, Ph. D.

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While it can be stressful to worry about it, early intervention is key if a child indeed has some disability. Many kids will outgrow mild delays, but others will just fall behind if parents don’t do anything. The best recourse is for parents to talk immediately with their child’s pediatrician. They can then refer the child for an evaluation. Parents should anticipate that the doctor will expect them to be able to describe in detail their child’s behavior both at home and in school.

Parents shouldn’t just abide by a wait-and-see attitude. To be able to truly recognize the signs of developmental delays, they should monitor and communicate exactly what they notice to the doctor, who will need detailed information on various factors including parenting style and structure at home.

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Even if certain issues have already been ruled out, parents need to maintain regular dialogue with their child’s doctor. Again, the doctor will not know the child the way parents do. Parents should keep a record of all developmental milestones and, if they notice a problem, track how long it has been going on. The bottom line is to allow their child’s doctor to come up with both an assessment and recommendation that are specific to the child, adds Dr. Curtis Cripe.

Curtis Cripe, Ph.D., is the director of research and development of neuroengineering services provider NTL Group. He has published two peer-reviewed papers and wrote two book chapters on neurotherapy and neuroengineering. For related posts, visit this blog.