a patient asks a doctor what is the phq-9 scale

What Is the PHQ-9 Scale?

PHQ-9 Depression Questionnaire is a valuable tool used widely in the mental health field. This easy-to-use and efficient instrument helps clinicians and individuals assess the presence and severity of depression. Designed as a self-report questionnaire, the PHQ-9 scale asks about various depression symptoms experienced over the last two weeks, providing insights integral to identifying, diagnosing,…

a person meets with a doctor to receive a dissociative identity disorder diagnosis

How Dissociative Identity Disorder Is Diagnosed

Dissociative identity disorder (DID), formerly known as multiple personality disorder, is a complex mental health condition characterized by two or more recognizably distinct personality states. The exact prevalence of DID is challenging to determine because individuals with DID may not seek treatment or may be misdiagnosed if they do. While estimates predict that DID is…

a man goes through xanax withdrawal

Xanax Withdrawal Effects and Co-Occurring Disorders

Alprazolam, or Xanax, is the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepine, a prescription drug class that produces a sedative effect. Xanax is a fast-acting drug mainly used to treat insomnia, anxiety disorders, and panic disorders effectively. GABA is a neurotransmitter that suppresses the activity of nerves. Xanax works by amplifying the effects of GABA to reduce the…