Things to Consider When Hiring a Duct Cleaning Service

Hiring a duct cleaning service can save you time and money. Whether it’s the first time you’ve used a service or you’ve had a duct cleaning in your home before, there are several things to consider. Read on to learn the methods and costs involved. You can also find recommendations on how to find a trustworthy duct cleaning company. Getting the right service for your home can make a huge difference.

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Air duct cleaning

If you have allergies or you want to improve the performance of your air conditioning system, you should consider getting your air ducts cleaned by a professional. Not only will this improve the air quality in your home, it will also reduce your energy costs. An air duct cleaning Hamilton service will clean your interior ductwork, coils, fans, and drain pans.

The cost of an air duct cleaning service will depend on the size of your home and the amount of duct work. A larger home may need multiple compressors and longer ductwork. The average cost for a service will range between $300 and $400. Some companies charge per vent, while others charge by the square footage of your ductwork.

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Methods of duct cleaning

There are a number of methods of duct cleaning. Some methods are more effective than others. It depends on the type of buildup you have inside the ductwork and the type of equipment used to clean it. Professional duct cleaners will use source removal techniques and utilize tools such as compressed air. After cleaning, technicians will professionally seal the access holes.

A common duct cleaning technique uses a vacuum with a spinning brush attached. This allows for better suction than a shop vac. The downside is that the vacuum’s hose may not reach all the ductwork.

Cost

The cost of a duct cleaning service can vary greatly. It depends on the square footage of your home, the type of ductwork, and the number of furnaces and vents. The more complex your ductwork is, the higher the price may be. Commercial ductwork is more expensive than residential ductwork, because the air conditioning systems run at higher speeds and contain heavier particles than residential ductwork. Commercial duct cleaning services also vary in their pricing based on the number of forced air components, square footage, and sanitization requirements.

Depending on the size of your home, air duct cleaning Windsor service can cost anywhere from $200 to $800. The time frame for a cleaning service will also depend on the square footage and length of ductwork in your home. For a small home, a duct cleaning service can take about 1.5 to three hours, while for larger homes, the cleaning process could last anywhere from four to six hours. Some homeowners have attempted to clean their own ducts by purchasing a kit to clean their dryer vent. However, such a kit does not include the specialized equipment necessary to clean ductwork. The specialized equipment used by duct cleaning companies can cost as much as $1500 and more. If your ducts are clogged with heavy debris or contain a lot of rodents, hiring a professional air duct cleaning service is highly recommended.

Recommendations for hiring a reputable duct cleaning company

The most important thing to consider when hiring a duct cleaning company is their experience. An experienced company will have better services. It’s also important to check the qualifications of the technicians. Make sure they have certifications and insurance. Also, check reviews to make sure the company is reliable.

Another important consideration is the price. Professional air duct cleaning Newmarket companies should not advertise prices under $200. While these specials can be tempting, you need to be careful. You may end up with a company that doesn’t do a thorough job. Some companies advertise a low price and then tack on extra charges. In this case, you may want to look for another company.

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Common problems associated with duct cleaning

The ducts in your home can be full of potentially harmful debris. When ductwork is not cleaned, the debris can cause ongoing health issues. These contaminants can range from mold to pest debris. Additionally, they can make your HVAC unit more expensive to repair. A duct cleaning service can help to remove the buildup.

Another common problem associated with ducts is the presence of rodents and insects. These critters will chew their way into your ductwork and can cause extensive damage and contamination. The warm air in your ducts can attract these pests, and some will even build nests inside. This can make your HVAC system inefficient and cause your energy bills to increase.

 

HIPAA Compliant Mailings Service

If you are in the business of sending medical records to patients, you should be familiar with HIPAA regulations. The best way to send medical records is through certified first-class mail. When using this type of mail, the individual receiving the record must sign the privacy statement and receive it in a secure manner. You can also use delivery companies to send medical records to your patients. Here are some tips to make sure that your mailings are HIPAA-compliant.

Important Aspects of HIPAA

One of the most important aspects of HIPAA compliant direct mail is the design of the mailpiece. It should be clean and uncluttered, yet not too impersonal. Using a graphic designer for your mailings will ensure that your messages are not viewed by the wrong people. A company that uses a professional-looking, elegant, and appealing mail piece will ensure the privacy of its patients. The recipient will appreciate the message that the health insurance company is trying to get across.

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A healthcare direct mailing service can help you develop a mail campaign that is HIPAA-compliant, which reduces your risk of violating the law. They can also help you design your mailpieces to ensure that their delivery is accurate and that your private health information remains confidential. A good mailing company should be able to help you determine the best design for your healthcare-related mail campaign. Further, you can work with a healthcare direct mail service to ensure the quality of the mailpieces.

Another tip for sending medical-related mails is to hire a HIPAA-compliant direct mail service provider. This will help you develop an effective mail campaign and ensure that your private health information is secure. If you do not want to hire a HIPAA-complying direct mailing service, you can hire third-party providers to create your mails. They will help you choose the best product for your needs and will work with you to ensure that your information is kept confidential.

When you need direct mail, make sure it is HIPAA-compliant. HIPAA-compliant direct mail services can ensure that the privacy of PHI is protected. Furthermore, they will also help you develop an effective mail campaign. The design of a mailing piece is important, and it is vital to be mindful of the positioning of private health information in order to avoid any breaches of confidentiality. There are several factors to consider before selecting a service provider.

If you are a medical practice, you should choose a provider that is HIPAA-compliant. Some email services are not HIPAA-compliant, but you should still check if the mail service provider you use is HIPAA-compliant. Many direct mail providers offer HIPAA-compliant mail services and can also eliminate the need for hiring employees. They will also save you time by handling all of the HIPAA-compliant mailings.

You can use a direct mail service that is HIPAA-compliant. Unlike other companies, healthcare direct mail services will work with you to choose the right design and send your letters. They will take care of all the paperwork and ensure that your mailings are HIPAA-compliant. By outsourcing your healthcare mailings, you’ll be able to increase your revenue cycle and avoid potential fines. With these advantages, HIPAA compliant mailing or direct mail services are also highly cost-effective.

Choosing a HIPAA-compliant mail service is crucial to maintaining compliance. These companies have full-time security officers and are fully aware of the HIPAA requirements. They’ll also provide you with a HIPAA-compliant email service. AWS is an excellent choice for medical practices because it offers HIPAA-compliant direct mail. Besides providing the best service, they also offer other benefits. AWS has a full-time security officer.

Final words

Choosing a HIPAA-compliant email service is an important decision for your business. Not only will your customers be happy to receive emails from your company, but you’ll also protect the privacy of your patients. While some organizations may have to change their email providers for HIPAA compliance, a HIPAA-compliant mail service can help your healthcare business. If you’re in the healthcare business, you must make sure that your mail service is HIPAA-compliant and offers you the best security measures.

If you’re a healthcare practitioner, it’s essential to follow the HIPAA rules. A compliant email service must be able to secure the PHI of your patients. In addition to the compliance of your email service, you should also ensure that it’s compatible with HIPAA. You should check if it’s HIPAA-compliant when sending an email to a patient. This is particularly important if you’re using Gmail to send out medical records.

An Overview of Co-Occurring Mental Health Conditions

Most individuals who come down with a mental health disease develop one over time. However, some people are more prone to get a mental health disease than others. If an individual develops a mental health disease, they are diagnosed with a mental health disease when they display at least two of the following symptoms at least two out of each year for at least six months out of a year. The symptoms of a mental health disease can also include any or all of the following: intense distress, persistent irrational thinking, agitation, poor concentration, negative mood shifts, interference with work and social activities, disturbed sleep, feelings of unreality, and changes in personality. In order to be sure that you are developing a mental health disease, you need to make note of all of these symptoms so that you will be able to identify a mental health disease when it develops.

Two other types of mental illnesses exist. One is the Bipolar Disorder and the other is the Autism Spectrum Disorder. People with Bipolar Disorder are extremely happy one moment and extremely sad the next. Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder are highly creative and are often very talkative. If left untreated, these individuals may become homicidal or suicidal.

Individuals with Bipolar Disorder may suffer from mania or depression depending on the severity of their disorder. The most common symptoms of bipolar disorder are, excessive energy and enthusiasm, irritability, decreased capacity for reason, and sudden change in mood without warning. On the other hand, individuals with the Autism Spectrum Disorder are often not diagnosed with either Bipolar or Autism Spectrum Disorder until they are at least eighteen years old. Symptoms of the Autism Spectrum Disorder include, but are not limited to, marked impairment in communication, consistent faulty repetitive behavior, the tendency to make repeated errors in developmental level endeavors, and the inability to follow and adhere to schedules.

Another mental health disease that impacts millions of people every year is Anxiety. There are various forms of anxiety, ranging from feeling overly conscious to feeling entirely depressed. For those with mild forms of anxiety, treatment can help them feel better about themselves and have a more fulfilling day. Unfortunately, for those with moderate to severe levels of anxiety, treatment can help them lead normal lives. Treatment for Anxiety can range from anti-anxiety medications to therapy and support groups.

A major problem in this country is the lack of early detection in regards to Mental Health. Because of the privacy of the internet, it is difficult to know if your partner is having an affair, or if you have an annoying co-worker. In addition, many employers are unaware of any legal problems their employees may be dealing with. In addition to not knowing about Mental Health, many employers are not proactive in maintaining proper mental health care.

If you suspect that you or a family member may be suffering from any of these mental illnesses, you should immediately seek medical attention. If left untreated, these illnesses can quickly deteriorate into full blown depression, or even schizophrenia. Left unchecked, these mental illnesses can also result in a combination of emotional trauma, and even eventual suicide.

By taking a close look at your own health, you can begin to develop an understanding of the changes in your health and behaviors over the course of your life. This will give you a better understanding of what could be contributing to your unhappiness. By understanding the various disorders, you can begin to take steps towards preventing them. Early detection is a major factor in treating these disorders effectively. By using cutting-edge evidence-based practices, you can help your loved ones, and yourself, get the mental health treatment they need.

If you suspect that you or a loved one may be suffering from any of the mental disorders mentioned in this article, you should immediately schedule an appointment with a psychiatrist at a local brain recovery facility. At our facilities, you will meet with a highly trained psychiatrist, and receive immediate treatment for any co-occurring disorders. By seeking immediate treatment, you can prevent the serious damage that these conditions can have on your mental and physical health.

Understanding the Workplace As a Mental Health Disease

People who suffer from mental health disorders usually have a difficult time dealing with the changes that happen in their lives. There are no two people who experience life in the same way. It is normal to feel overwhelmed when it’s a big change in your life. Be in touch with family members and friends and share how you feel. You’re not alone. Like any other illness, mental health disorders should be cured, not neglected.

Financial issues can also cause stress and even depression. If you don’t have the money to pay for your needs, you may look for ways to stay afloat. One of the problems that can arise is workplace bullying. Workplace bullying has become a serious problem that affects everyone, especially those who have mental health disorders.

The effects of workplace bullying can range from inappropriate sexual advances to actual rape or murder. There is absolutely no excuse for anyone to treat you badly at work, so take action to protect your health and your safety. Workplace bullying is only as bad as the person doing it, so be sure to report anything and everything that happens to you. Don’t put up with it; report it right away. It is better to make someone who is causing you mental health issues uncomfortable, than to allow the problems to worsen.

Another way that workplace stress disorder can affect you is by affecting the quality of your relationships with your other co-workers. It’s important that you manage your financial situation and stay organized. It’s not good enough to get by on minimum wages. Minimum wage earners usually live from paycheck to paycheck, which means they are often juggling a variety of money concerns. The last thing you need is to end up worse off financially than you were when you started.

The quality of your relationships with your co-workers is very important to your mental health, so do not let workplace mental health problems go untreated. If you are experiencing problems with your co-workers, talk to them about it. They are more than likely willing to help you overcome any problems that you are having, especially if they see that you are concerned about them and their own health. It’s always better to confront an issue head-on than to pretend that it doesn’t exist.

Stress related mental health issues are typically caused by an increased workload. If you have to do a lot more than you used to when you were working, you are going to experience a rise in your stress levels and symptoms. There is nothing that you can do to avoid the increased workload, but there are things that you can do to alleviate it. If you find that you are struggling to meet deadlines, ask for assistance. If you have to work weekends or longer hours, consider taking a few days off to allow your body and mind to rest.

Dealing with workplace stress is not something that anyone wants to have to deal with, but if you find yourself dealing with it on a regular basis, you should seek help. Dealing with mental health issues can sometimes be the easiest obstacle to surmount, as there is usually an underlying cause. For example, if ten employees complain about working too many hours, there might be a problem with overtime wages or an increase in company size. If you are the manager of a business, consider consulting a therapist to find out exactly what is causing the increased workload in your workplace.

Fortunately, there are several things that you can do to manage the stress in your workplace, including the amount of time that you spend working each day. Consider limiting your daily workload to only one or two tasks. When you limit your workload you can give some thought to how the extra tasks are keeping you from reaching your goals. If you find that the workload is keeping you from accomplishing all of your goals, consider reducing the daily workload or increasing your workload only when necessary. In order to prevent mental health problems from arising from the stress of a work environment, it is important to understand how stress affects the body and find a way to manage it properly.

Community Mental Health Centers: Providing a Supportive Environment

Historically, mental illnesses have had three primary reasons, namely, biological, supernatural and social models. For most of recorded history, mental illness was thought to be a manifestation of the struggle between good and evil and the consequences thereof. Since mental illness is a subjective condition and often difficult to prove, explanations for its causes have been numerous over time. From an evolutionary standpoint, the idea that human beings were born with psychic ability may have been one of the first explanations for the origin of mental illnesses.

Throughout history, mental illnesses have been treated with drugs and by psychotherapists. In some instances, these conditions have been cured with simple exercises and lifestyle changes. In other instances, mental illnesses have been treated with powerful chemicals such as cyanide. The history of mental health has also included treatments for more serious disorders such as schizophrenia and psychoses. Modern medicine has developed many ways to treat minor mental illnesses that can still result in discomfort or disability. Some of the most common modern medicine treatments for milder mental illnesses include psychotherapy, medication, herbal remedies, and relaxation techniques.

The first major intervention in the history of mental health concerns was the introduction of electricity into hospitals in the United Kingdom and the United States during the 1870s. Electric shock therapy was a popular treatment for physical and mental ill health problems for several years. Despite the advances made in modern medicine, electric shock therapy remains popular among some patients who would prefer a more traditional medical approach. An interesting side effect of electric shock therapy is that it can actually breed creativity in people, as some patients take on an artistic sense after being shocked.

Two other concepts that have had an impact on mental health over time are the need to motivate individuals and the need to drive change. Motivation refers to the ability to get things done when you don’t have enough energy to do so. For example, if you’re tired and don’t feel like going to work anymore, you can find other things that will energize you and make it through your day. In terms of the need to drive change, this refers to the need to take charge of one’s own mental health and well-being and make positive changes for the better.

Hysteria has a long history of affecting women in societies all over the world. It was common for women in ancient societies to suffer from hysteria, making it even more newsworthy when mental health conditions associated with hysteria began to become a matter of public discussion. In recent years, as awareness about the condition became more widespread, various theories have been put forth as to why women would develop a heightened sensitivity to common social situations where there was a great deal of danger or threat. Some of these theories, such as the notion that women were reacting to premenstrual tension, still remain popular today.

In the last decade or so, researchers have begun to look at the role that diet and nutrition play in our physical well-being. Many people have become interested in the role that their diet plays in improving their mental health and in reducing the presence or severity of certain mental health problems. A good mental health awareness week can promote awareness among Americans about the link between diet and health and mental wellness. Many states are sponsoring awareness weeks, such as the “Asian Mental Health Awareness Week” in 2021 and the “North American Nutritional Awareness Month” in the latter part of the year.

The stigma attached to mental illness in the past is slowly fading away as people begin to accept the fact that most people who have a mental illness are not bad people or somehow tainted by their own mental illness. The stigma tends to be more of a family issue, as people tend to look up to parents or siblings as role models, and siblings can have a major influence on how a person feels and behaves. As more people come to terms with the fact that they have a problem, the stigma will start to lift, but there is still work to be done.

If you or someone you know needs help with their mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to your nearest community mental health centers or hospitals. Reach out for resources in the internet, such as message boards and forums where people discuss mental health topics. Be sure to check out the resources thoroughly before joining any online chat group or forum, and if it’s too online for you, try reaching out to your local churches and school district counselorships for their input and advice. Mental illness doesn’t have to be the bane of your existence; you deserve to live a full, productive life. Mental illness doesn’t have to take over your life; you have options.

Signs of Mental Health Problems – Anxiety and Depression

Mental health, also known as psychological wellness, refers to an array of mental health issues that impact your thinking, mood and behavior. Such issues include depression, bi-polar disorders, anxiety, eating disorders and other addictive behaviors. Understanding the signs of mental health is vital in assisting you in developing treatment plans and getting the help you need.

Depression is one of the most common signs of mental health issues. It is characterized by sadness, worthlessness, fatigue and changes in sleeping habits or patterns. Other symptoms of depression may be frequent headaches, inability to concentrate and trouble making decisions. To treat this disorder, it is important to identify the early symptoms and seek professional help.

Low moods are a common symptom for depression. However, prolonged low moods can signal the presence of another mental disorder, such as bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder requires professional treatment to treat the symptoms, which include mood swings, overeating and self harm. If left untreated, it can lead to mania or hyperactivity.

Anxiety disorders include such disorders as obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder. These types of mental health issues are characterized by feelings of fear, unnecessary worry and unrealistic concerns. Low levels of stress have been associated with a healthier immune system and better cardiovascular health. To treat anxiety and depression, it is important to identify and treat the underlying stressor.

 

Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa are some of the other indicators of mental health issues. Anorexia can cause severe weight loss, which leads to decreased mental health and self esteem. Bulimia sufferers experience overwhelming guilt and stress over their weight. These disorders have similar warning signs as anorexia, but can present themselves in a much later stage in life. Symptoms of both conditions include rapid loss of weight and changes in eating habits. It is important to seek medical help for either condition to obtain effective treatment.

There are other mental health problems that do not exhibit any signs or symptoms. These conditions include alcohol or drug abuse, depression, psychosis and schizophrenia. Alcohol abuse can have many signs, including depression, cravings and withdrawal symptoms. People suffering from depression may have a history of abuse and self-harm. Schizophrenia can be diagnosed through laboratory tests like brain scans.

If you have any of these mental illnesses or are concerned about someone you know having any of them, there are many resources available. The National Suicide Prevention Center offers a helpline and online help. There are also several support groups for those who experience suicidal thoughts. Many of these support groups are designed to offer support and empower those struggling to get help for their disorders. Your doctor can give you more information on how to get help for your mental illnesses.

If you suspect that you or someone you love has a mental health condition or is depressed or suffering from any of the signs of schizophrenia disorders, get help immediately. Schizophrenia disorders and other disorders can have drastic and tragic effects if left untreated. The earlier it is treated, the better. Don’t suffer silently. Seek help to make a positive change in your life.

The most common sign of mental health and one of the most difficult to cope with is depression. Depression is a disease that affects the way you think and act. It is often linked to major changes in life like a death or divorce, a change in schools, or a change in work. If you feel that you cannot cope with any of the normal demands of daily life or are constantly stressed, this may be an indication of depression. A good mental health plan can help to reduce the amount of stress you go through in your life and allow you to better cope with all aspects. When you eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, manage stressful situations, and get regular sleep, you allow yourself to have good physical health as well as good mental health.

Another common sign of mental health and anxiety is substance abuse. In America, there are now 1.1 million Americans suffering from depression and substance abuse. Both of these problems are linked to mental health issues including anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, and stomach problems. Substance abuse often affects the way a person think and acts making it hard to cope with everyday demands.

There are many other signs that you may need help and that should get you looking for help if your loved one is feeling down. If you suspect that a loved one you love is going through one or more of these problems, whether they are having suicidal thoughts or are planning a suicide, you need to get help immediately. In America, suicide statistics show that there has been an increase in suicides over the last 15 years. Even if a loved one only brushes off the thoughts of suicide, it could be too late by then. You want to make sure that there are no signs of mental health issues or suicidal thoughts before it becomes too late. This is especially important if your loved one is trying to run away from home or is avoiding you.

Common Misconceptions About Mental Health Conditions

Mental health is often very misunderstood. There is often a strong stigma that surrounds mental health problems. This stigma keeps many people from receiving the treatment that they require. Fortunately, the only way to break the stigma is to know as much about it as possible.

The biggest misconception about mental health is that it’s all about black and white thinking. This couldn’t be further from the truth. There are many shades of grey. Stigma tends to associate mental illnesses with violent behavior. While there is certainly some violence in our society, there is also a lot of non-violent civil rights activism, idealism, and positive thinking.

Another myth is that therapy will cure a mental health problem. This myth is perpetuated by those who benefit from the ignorance of the public. The truth is that therapy can and does help someone to survive an experience that is beyond their control. It’s also true that people who have been subjected to abusive behavior don’t always come out of these situations unscathed. Many things can scar them for life.

Another myth is that you must go to a professional mental health professional to get help. In fact, there are many great therapists available to anyone who wants them. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to your family doctor or to a psychiatrist at the health center where you are, you can sign up for therapy sessions on the Internet or through other channels. These sessions are usually inexpensive and very safe.

Another myth is that you cannot recover from a mental health problem on your own. Again, this is simply not true. In fact, it’s impossible to never recover from a mental health problem, if the problem is severe enough to be in need of professional help. Just because you think something cannot be changed doesn’t mean it can’t be.

 

One more myth is that those with mental health issues feel better when they are alone. Again, this is simply not true. Many people who feel better when they are by themselves, do so because they are alone. Just because you are comfortable by yourself, doesn’t mean you are feeling better.

One of the most common myths surrounding mental health is that those who suffer from mental illness are prone to commit suicide. It’s easy to see why this myth has become so pervasive. Research has shown that people who suffer from mental illness and commit suicide are not more likely to actually die by suicide than those who are not suffering from mental health issues. There are many different reasons why someone commits suicide. Usually it is due to some type of stress, depression, or a traumatic event that was experienced.

Although there are some serious myths about mental health problems, they are just that: myths. They are not true, and they have absolutely no bearing on the quality of life that someone can have. If you or someone you know may be suffering from any of these common myths, please seek professional help as soon as possible.

 

The biggest myth about mental health is that those who suffer from mental illness are unable to control their urges. This is one myth that needs to be debunking at all cost. There are a number of treatment methods that can be utilized to help those with either an addiction problem or a personality disorder deal with their urges and actually live healthier lives. Even if you do not currently have a personality disorder or addiction, it is never too late to get help.

Another myth is that mental illnesses only affect certain people. Many people may not realize it, but they are affected by various types of mental illnesses each year. The stigma has prevented many people from getting the treatment they need or deserve. Instead of thinking only of stigma, think of stigma as a sign that the problem lies in other areas of your life.

One of the biggest misconceptions people have about mental health disorders is that those who suffer from such issues are simply crazy. Those who suffer from severe depression or bipolar disorder are in fact suffering from mental illnesses. As stated earlier, the stigma and misperception have created a lot of problems in terms of receiving the correct treatment.

In the end, the biggest misconception is that any type of mental health condition is something abnormal and to be treated. There are in fact a variety of mental health conditions, which range from those that only affect the ability to function normally to those that affect every aspect of life. With all of the myths that exist, there are plenty of solutions and treatment options out there for those who suffer from mental illness.

Mental Health Disorders Explained

According to the WHO there are around 39 diseases that can be categorized as mental health disorders. The mental health condition is even worse in unstable or poor countries, like Sierra Leone and Liberia, where there have been civil conflicts and natural disasters. It is also worst in Sierra Leone is the only private psychiatric hospital. There were 1.35 million people that visited a private mental health hospital in Sierra Leone in the year 2021 alone, of which 75% were men.

The second most common mental health disease in Sierra Leone is malaria. In fact, malaria has been declared a public health risk for all citizens of Sierra Leone and all persons traveling to or within Sierra Leone. Unfortunately this has been made possible by the lack of effective education on the prevention and treatment of malaria. In fact, according to the WHO there has not been a recorded case of a case of malaria ever occurring in Sierra Leone.

A mental health disease that is common in Sierra Leone and in the other parts of West Africa is schizoaffective disorder. Schizoaffective disorder is characterized by hallucinations, biphasic behaviors, and severe depression. It is believed that schizoaffective disorder is caused by the interaction between a variety of genes, environment, and hormones. It is common in men more than women and appears to run in families.

Another common mental illness that is seen in Sierra Leone and other parts of West Africa is schizophrenia. It is estimated that approximately one in every three people in Sierra Leone suffer from schizophrenia. It is a mental illness that can begin with brief episodes of psychosis-which may not have any apparent cause-and gradually develop over time. In some cases, the illness is so severe that it can result in suicide. It is believed that the prevalence of untreated schizoaffective disorder in Sierra Leone is largely due to the lack of treatment infrastructure available for the disease.

The third most common mental health ailment is bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder is characterized by major swings in the mood of the person affected. It usually begins at around the age of puberty and can last for about ten years. The condition is more prevalent in females than in men and is said to affect about ten percent of the Sierra Leonean population. A diagnosis of bipolar disorder requires the assistance of a psychiatrist and is only recommended when the patient is sleeping or when he is unresponsive to medication.

The fourth most common mental health ailment in Sierra Leone is anemia. A shortage of iron causes anemia and is often characterized by the paleness of the skin and by fatigue. Anemia is more common in rural regions of the country and affects the mentally ill more commonly. The symptoms of anemia include pale skin, low energy levels, fatigue, and poor growth. Iron tablets can be taken by patients who are affected with this disease and doctors recommend anemia tests are conducted frequently to monitor the situation.

The fifth most common mental health ailment is anorexia nervosa. The name itself is deceptive as anorexia is actually a behavioral problem not a medical condition. A person suffering from anorexia nervosa will usually exhibit an excessive desire for food and thus restricting their daily activities to only a few select foods. Anorexia can result in a variety of other problems including emotional and physical scars, self-harm, and even death. Because of the danger that anorexia represents, medical screening for anorexia should be carried out by any psychiatrist working in a psychiatric facility.

The sixth most common mental health disorders are depression. This disorder is afflicting more women than men and often has its onset during the teenage years. Depression can have many causes but in general it is believed to be caused by a disruption in the life of the sufferer, which then leads to feelings of worthlessness and despair. This disorder is the most common cause of disability and death among elderly people. Anyone suffering from depression should seek treatment immediately.