What it is Autism is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects social communication, sensory processing, and patterns of behavior or interests. It exists on a spectrum: people have different support needs across settings and over time. Many autistic individuals prefer identity-first…
What it is Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition with patterns of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that affect daily functioning. Many people aren’t diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood. ADHD is manageable with skills, supports, and (for many) medication. ADHD often…
What they are Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs) are repetitive self-grooming habits that cause hair loss or skin damage. The two most common are: Trichotillomania (Hair-Pulling Disorder): recurrent pulling of hair (scalp, brows, lashes, beard, body hair). Excoriation (Skin-Picking) Disorder: recurrent…
What it is Hoarding Disorder involves persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions—regardless of their actual value—due to a perceived need to save them and distress about letting them go. This leads to clutter that congests living areas and impairs…
What it is Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a mental health condition marked by preoccupation with perceived flaws in appearance (skin, hair, nose, body shape, muscles, etc.) that others see as minor or not noticeable. The concern causes significant distress or…
What they are Acute Stress Disorder (ASD): intense stress reactions within the first month after a traumatic event (accident, assault, disaster). Symptoms can resemble PTSD but are time-limited; some people recover naturally, others benefit from early support. Adjustment Disorder: significant…
What it is OCD involves: Obsessions: unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that cause anxiety (e.g., contamination, harm, doubts, “just-right” feelings, taboo or religious themes). Compulsions: repetitive behaviors or mental rituals done to reduce anxiety or prevent something bad (washing,…
What it is PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event (violence, assault, disaster, serious accident, combat, medical trauma). It involves ongoing re-experiencing, avoidance, negative mood/cognition changes, and hyperarousal that last longer than a month and interfere with…
What it is Seasonal Affective Disorder is a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern—most often starting in late fall or winter and lifting in spring. A less common summer-onset pattern also exists. SAD is treatable, and early steps…
What it is PMDD is a severe form of premenstrual symptoms that significantly affects mood, energy, and daily life. Symptoms appear in the week or two before a period and improve within a few days after it starts. PMDD is…
