"Am I depressed?" It's a question many people ask from time to time. While periods of stress or sadness are normal, persistent low mood could be a sign of a mental health issue. Knowing whether your symptoms indicate true depression or just a few days of unhappiness isn't always easy. Depression is common. The ... Read More
Learning Center
FHE Health is dedicated to educating the American public—especially individuals, families, and communities—about mental health and substance abuse topics. In our Learning Center, you'll find articles on alcoholism, substance abuse, behavioral and mental health, and other treatment-related issues. Our articles are written both for the person in need of treatment as well as loved ones seeking more information. We also provide information for those who have gone through treatment and are building a new life in recovery.
Featured in Learning Center
Gambling and Suicide: The Hidden Story
The Toll of Online Dating: Surprising New Survey Data
Am I Depressed? How to Distinguish Between a Case of the Blues and Signs of Clinical Depression
7 Natural, Drug-Free Ways to “Get High”
When we think of "getting high," we typically associate this state with drug use. However, it's possible to experience a similar sensation without resorting to drugs. Achieving a natural high involves participating in activities that stimulate the brain's feel-good chemicals, including dopamine. This chemical, also ... Read More
10 Revealing Signs That Your Loved One May Have a Sex Addiction
According to pop culture, addiction is largely limited to drugs and alcohol. However, this actually isn't the whole truth. Virtually any pleasurable activity can become the subject of an addiction, and that extends to sex. And, like other forms of addiction, getting help is highly recommended to tame symptoms and ... Read More
The 5th Vital Sign: How Treating Pain Contributed to the Opioid Epidemic
In medicine, there are four key vital signs: temperature, pulse, respiration and blood pressure. However, in many ways, pain is often seen as a phantom fifth vital sign. After all, a doctor's oath quite literally states "First, do no harm," and what is more harmful than pain? As such, keeping patients pain-free and ... Read More
Is Perfectionism Triggering Your Anxiety or Depression?
Many people set high goals for themselves and those around them. They expect not to just accomplish a task, but to do it perfectly. Some may say this is a personality trait; that they're a perfectionist. However, being a perfectionist can go too far. When it does, it can create an increased risk for depression and ... Read More
Drug Profile: OxyContin
"OxyContin" is a type of painkiller that may be prescribed for the treatment of acute pain as well as some forms of chronic pain. OxyContin is the brand name for the drug "oxycodone hydrochloride." It’s sometimes referred to as "oxycodone OxyContin" as a result. The drug is an opioid and a narcotic, which means it can ... Read More
The Quest for Perfect Abs: How to Know if It’s Exercise Addiction
Many men and women want to look fit, but an unhealthy obsession with fitness can be an exercise addiction. Those who exhibit this condition spend a significant amount of time focused on body image, exercise methods, and overall physical fitness. This is a type of mental health disorder much like an eating disorder or ... Read More
Drug Profile: Hallucinogens
Hallucinogens are a class of drugs that causes hallucinations due to the presence of psychoactive agents. These drugs are highly addictive and dangerous. One of the most common is LSD, though there are numerous hallucinogenic examples to consider. These drugs have played an active role in today’s culture, allowing ... Read More
