Is neurosis dangerous? Exercises for neurosis

The medical definition of neurosis is a disorder and dysfunction of the central nervous system. This concept means that there are no irreversible changes in the body; therefore, it is possible that they successful treatment. As a rule, such disorders arise after suffering stress, psychological trauma (conflict in the family and at work, loss loved one, illness of relatives, financial problems, etc.). Neurosis can also be caused by discord within oneself: the impossibility of self-realization, dissatisfaction with one’s social position.

Characteristic symptoms for all neurotic disorders - this is increased fatigue, chronic feeling of tiredness, mood swings, lethargy, jumps blood pressure, loss of appetite, drowsiness and insomnia, loss of interest in one’s work, apathy. Of the listed symptoms, most are known to many people, so they rarely seek the help of a doctor, especially a psychiatrist, attributing all these symptoms simply to stress and ailments. There are very important rule: if after suffered stress the signs do not disappear within a month, you need to seriously think about your health.

Neurosis - signs and symptoms of the disease.

Experts count more than four hundred phobias (disorders associated with any fear). The most common is agoraphobia, which is the fear of being left behind. large cluster people or open space alone. Patients suffering from agoraphobia make up almost half of patients with neurotic disorders. This neurosis is characterized by anxiety, a feeling of increasing danger. A large number of unpleasant symptoms appear: muscle tension, tremors in the knees, increased blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, tightness in the chest, dizziness, pain in the head, muscles and abdomen. With the worst development, neurosis goes into a state where acute occurs. This condition is very harmful to the body, although it does not cause real threat for life and health. During an attack there is a release huge amount adrenaline in the blood (as under extreme stress), the person is seized with horror, he believes that he will go crazy, that he will have a stroke or heart attack. The patient calls an ambulance, but doctors cannot always navigate and determine treatment, and the patient ends up with neurologists and cardiologists instead of psychotherapists and psychiatrists. Naturally, treatment does not help and people no longer turn to medicine for help, but go to charlatan healers. There are also neuroses of the heart, stomach, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary system.

Neurosis - consequences.

If neurosis is not treated, then its most serious consequence is the neurotic development of the personality. People who suffer from it have a number of similar psychological traits. First of all, this is increased vulnerability and sensitivity, self-centeredness, and excessive attention to one’s health. A person becomes completely immersed in illness, his quality of life suffers, and he feels unhappy. However, when correct diagnosis neuroses are successfully treated. In mild forms, it may be enough to follow a daily routine, correctly alternate rest and exercise, ensure good nutrition and take anti-anxiety medications and herbs under the supervision of a physician. In severe forms it is required compulsory treatment patient in hospital. Special attention it is necessary to address this disease in children. The child’s personality is still completely immature, so advanced neuroses in children can lead to much more serious consequences. The younger the child, the more harm neuroses can cause to his physical health.

Neurasthenia(from Latin and Greek words, literally “nervous impotence”) is a mental disorder from the neurotic group. Characterized by severe fatigue, irritability, inability to engage in long-term mental and physical stress. Accompanied by dizziness, pressing (tension) headaches, anxiety own fortune, loss of feelings of joy and pleasure, sleep disturbances.

Two types of neurasthenia have been described. In the first type, mental fatigue predominates. A person cannot concentrate on work; he is constantly distracted by thoughts and memories. In the second type, physical fatigue predominates. Weakness and exhaustion appear even after minimal effort. Muscle pain is evident.

Risk factors for neurasthenia
Risk factors for neurasthenia include:

general weakness of the body;
recent debilitating diseases;
intoxication (tobacco, alcohol, drugs);
metabolic disorders (nutrition, hormonal metabolism).

Causes of neurasthenia
Usually, the immediate development of neurasthenia is preceded by psychotrauma against the background of overexertion at work, lack of sleep, disrupted diet and rest.

Symptoms of neurasthenia
Neurasthenia is characterized by the presence of at least one of the following two complaints:

severe fatigue even after a slight mental load;
severe fatigue even after small physical activity.

At least one of the following symptoms must also be present:

muscle pain;
dizziness;
pressing (tension) headaches;
sleep disorders;
inability to relax;
irritability.

However, the described symptoms do not go away after rest, relaxation or entertainment. They are observed continuously for at least three months in a row and are not associated with other diseases.

Diagnosis of neurasthenia
The symptoms of the disease are easily confused with other disorders. In its development, neurasthenia goes through a number of stages.

At the first (hypersthenic) stage, symptoms of irritability predominate. A person is irritated by literally every trifle, he is absent-minded, gets tired quickly, experiences discomfort throughout the body.
At the second (intermediate) stage, a state of “irritable weakness” occurs. On the one hand, a person feels extremely tired, tired, and depressed. On the other hand, any little thing can lead to a state of rage and rage. Physical well-being deteriorates significantly.
At the third (hyposthenic) stage lethargy, apathy, drowsiness, and depression prevail. A person almost completely loses the ability to be active social life.

Only a psychiatrist can diagnose the presence of neurasthenia!

Why is neurasthenia dangerous?
The main danger of neurasthenia is loss from the social process of life. A person loses the ability to work and interact adaptively with others (family, friends, colleagues).

Another danger of neurasthenia is attempts to cure or suppress it on your own (for example, by drinking alcohol). This can provoke a deterioration in a person’s condition or the development of other mental disorders.

Treatment of neurasthenia and rehabilitation of patients
The leading link in the treatment of neurasthenia is the normalization of work and rest, nutrition, and sleep. It is very important to reduce the influence of emotional stress factors and strengthen the body. Psychotherapy and/or psychological counseling are also indicated.

Prevention of neurasthenia
The main way to prevent neurasthenia is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It is important to remember that it is absolutely necessary for any person:

getting enough sleep to feel well-rested;
regular rest after work;
reduction or complete cessation of smoking, alcohol and drug use.

If there are first symptoms of neurasthenia, it is important not to hesitate to contact a psychiatrist, psychotherapist or clinical psychologist in order to prevent a possible worsening of the condition.

Interesting Facts
First described neurasthenia American doctor Georg Miller Beard in 1869.

Nota Bene!
Symptoms of neurasthenia can be observed in other diseases and conditions. It should be remembered that after severe flu, viral hepatitis or infectious mononucleosis mental condition person coincides with neurasthenia - although we may be talking about “post-viral fatigue syndrome.” Also, the symptoms of neurasthenia can be very similar to asthenic manifestations of depression or schizophrenia.

Expert: Kolpakov Ya. V., candidate of psychological sciences, clinical psychologist

Prepared based on materials:

Comer R. J. Fundamentals of pathopsychology. 4th ed. Per. from English - M.: Mir, 2004.
ICD-10. International statistical classification of diseases. - M.: Medicine, 2003.
Psychiatry. National leadership. Ed. Dmitrieva T. B., Krasnova V. N., Neznanova N. G., Semke V. Ya., Tiganova A. S. and Aleksandrovsky Yu. A. - M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2009.

Daily modern man Faces stressful situations at home and at work. Frequent nervous breakdowns, phobias, anxiety provoke the development of neurosis, the consequences of which are very dangerous.

Definition of neurosis

Neurosis is based on the mechanical processes of a disorder of the nervous system, which is responsible for the body’s adaptation in stressful situations. Psychological and physical pathologies are formed when neurotransmitter connections are broken. Neurosis provokes disruption of the functionality of the central nervous system, but does not destroy brain cells, so the disease process is reversible.

Often nervous state has a protracted nature. This is determined by a person’s personal qualities and the degree of his suggestibility. With a weak level of adaptation to stress, a chronic form of the disease may occur.

There are 3 stages of neurosis.

Initial. It implies a slight increase in the effect of stress on the central nervous system, accompanied by irritation and a feeling of fatigue.
Hypersthenic stage. The supply of impulses to neurons increases.
Hypostenia is a stage characterized by symptoms of inhibition of brain processes.

There are 4 forms of neurosis.

Neurasthenia is the most common form of neurosis that occurs against the background of prolonged exposure to stressful situation, leading to moral and physical exhaustion. Characterized by symptoms: fatigue, lack of attention.
The hysterical form is accompanied by tearfulness, aggression, irritability, and convulsions and trembling in the hands may occur.
Neurosis obsessive thoughts- the occurrence of this form is due to deep psychological trauma, due to which obsessive disorders develop.
Depressive neurosis is accompanied by an apathetic state, thoughts of suicide, and low food intake.

The danger of neuroses

The danger lies in the irreversible effects of stress on the central nervous system. An increasing number of people over 20 years of age are experiencing nervous disorders. Neurasthenia leads to deterioration of health and also affects the quality of a person’s social life. If you do not pay attention to the problem in time, neurosis can lead to negative consequences.

Sharp exacerbation chronic diseases. Deterioration in performance of cardio-vascular system, the occurrence of gastrointestinal tract disorders: VSD, gastritis, ulcer.
Memory loss and physical performance. There is a feeling of apathy, uselessness, fatigue even during simple activities, anxiety and insomnia.
Manifestations of neurosis are dangerous, such as causeless tears, aggression, irritability, which prevent a person from leading a normal way of life. Relationships with loved ones and colleagues suffer.
Against the background of neurosis, an impulsive-compulsive disorder may develop, in which the patient repeats meaningless rituals.
Dangerous appearance obsessive states, in which a person mentally injures himself or others.

Symptoms

In order to recognize a nervous disorder in time and seek qualified help from medical institution, you need to see the symptoms of the disease. The disease can manifest itself in mental and physical health. If a person feels for a long time following symptoms, you need to see a doctor.

From the emotional state:

causeless anxiety;
feelings of irritation, aggressive behavior;
panic attacks;
long-term depression;
unwillingness to live;
slowness;
tearfulness;
poor sleep, nightmares;
low self-esteem.

Physical signs of neurosis:

trembling hands, rapid heartbeat;
pain in the diaphragm, feeling of tightness;
exacerbation of chronic gastrointestinal diseases, frequent urination;
disruption of the menstrual cycle in women;
shortness of breath, chronic fatigue, intolerance to loud sound and bright light;
excessive sweating;
eating disorders - gluttony or starvation;
fainting, pressure surges.

Causes of the disease

Neurosis is dangerous due to a drop in the social standard of living and a loss of authority in society. To overcome the disease, you should know the cause that led to stress and exhaustion of the central nervous system. Perhaps a person has an insoluble problem that prevents him from relaxing every day and keeps him in constant voltage. One of the main causes of the disease is character and genetic predisposition.

The main factors influencing the human nervous system and leading to neuroses:

constantly being in a stressful situation, associated, for example, with the work of a rescuer or medic, who face danger every day;
pregnancy and childbirth can cause the development of neurosis - when the mother’s still fragile body is not able to withstand stress and constant worry about the baby;
lack of funds, poor living conditions - if a person long time unable to change anything in his own life, he becomes depressed and develops neurotic disorders;
excess body weight has a strong impact on self-esteem and causes apathy and obsessive states;
heredity becomes a decisive factor, because Stress affects entire generations in a family;
childhood psychotrauma associated with humiliation in the family and school.

Every day a person faces various problems that can throw him off balance for a long time. Stress can be caused by a sudden illness or death of a loved one, job loss, or bankruptcy. The nervous system is capable of overcoming stress, but when negative emotions accumulate and affect the human psyche for a long time, a malfunction may occur. If neurosis is not treated for a long time, then psychological problems worsen and require outpatient treatment.

Treatment of neurosis

Is neurosis dangerous, how to overcome and avoid it - the doctor will tell you, who will prescribe the correct treatment, relying on the symptoms and lab tests. During therapy, the patient will be offered psychological and medication assistance.

The doctor will carry out a set of measures aimed at relaxing muscles and strengthening the body through massage, physical activity and breathing exercises.

maintaining a day and night routine, proper healthy sleep should be at least 8 hours;
early hours of rising contribute to a charge of energy for the whole day;
proper nutrition;
refusal bad habits;
moderate consumption of caffeinated drinks;
walks in the park;
playing sports.

Medicines are prescribed as aids in the fight against neurosis. It is not recommended to carry out self-therapy with drugs, due to the short duration of the effect and the return of the problem. Depending on the stage of neurosis and big picture diseases, prescribe medications different strengths and method of influence.

To obtain a slight sedative effect and relieve tension, sedatives are prescribed for plant based. You can take these medications on your own. The category of sedatives includes: motherwort tincture, Valerian, Corvalol. They have a cumulative effect that lasts for some time.
Nootropic drugs: “Glycine”, “Tenoten” are designed to replenish the loss of vitamins and help with exhaustion of the body. Prescribed for severe mental stress and alcohol withdrawal.
Drugs in the categories antidepressants and tranquilizers are only available by prescription, due to their strong psychotropic effects and frequent cases of drug withdrawal syndrome. Take medications in these categories strictly according to the prescription, first increasing the dose and then gradually reducing it. Tranquilizers relieve a person from obsessive states, panic attacks, and normalize the patient’s social life. In the category of psychotropic drugs, the most famous are: Phenazepam, Afobazol, Zopiclone.

Psychotherapy

Treatment of any form of neurosis involves corrective therapy, during which the doctor talks with the patient, examining the symptoms of the disease and explaining the reasons for their occurrence. The patient must learn to see the logical connection between a particular problem and his disorder.

Psychotherapy is carried out using auto-training attitudes, which are reinforced through repetition and relaxation. The person will be asked to relax and imagine himself in comfortable conditions, and the setting phrase will be pronounced: “Nothing bothers me, I’m calm.”

eliminate bad thoughts;
abstract from the negative;
concentrate on the positive aspects;
relax in nature;
choose a hobby for yourself;
to have a pet.

It should be understood that psychotherapy works only if the patient desires to recover.

The massage is aimed at general strengthening and relaxation of the body. Massage therapy sessions can improve blood flow to muscles pinched by spasms.

They study especially carefully cervical region, collar area to relieve spasm and eliminate nervous tic neck. Massage movements on the spinal region of the back affect active points, help break salt deposits. Massaging the chest and stomach area will help eliminate swelling. Working out your hands and feet helps avoid trembling in your hands.

Breathing exercises

Breathing exercises will relieve tension and muscle spasms. You can do the exercises every day, but you need to monitor your well-being: if you feel dizzy or have dark vision, it is better to stop the practice and consult your doctor.

The exercises consist of mastering proper breathing.

Stand up straight, hands at your sides, inhale slowly, inflating your stomach like a ball, mentally feeling how your whole body is filled with oxygen, and as you exhale, draw in your stomach.
Take a comfortable position, arms relaxed, back straight: as you inhale, fill your chest with oxygen and raise both arms up in a circular motion. Exhale, returning your arms to the starting position.

Conclusion

Neurosis is a dangerous psychosomatic disease that requires proper treatment and observation by a specialist. Don't neglect psychological health, the nervous system influences general state body. Neurosis in an advanced stage can provoke an exacerbation of chronic diseases and the appearance of associated problems with immune system. A person suffering from neurosis is not able to adequately think and evaluate the surrounding reality. Constant stress leads to conflicts and quarrels at home and at work.

Tearfulness, anxiety, vulnerability, touchiness, irritability.
Fatigue quickly; when trying to do some work, work efficiency decreases very quickly, memory, concentration, and thought processes deteriorate.
Sleep disorders: can manifest themselves in the form of problems falling asleep, shallow sleep, frequent nightmares during sleep, early awakening, while sleep in most cases does not bring relief or a feeling of rest.
The sensitivity threshold increases, which manifests itself in the form of intolerance to bright light, loud music, and temperature changes.
Decreased mood, frequent mood swings for no apparent reason.
Low self-esteem.
Being fixated on a traumatic situation, a person constantly returns in his thoughts to the situation that led to the emergence of neurosis, thereby further worsening his condition.
Any, even minor, psychotraumatic situation against the background of neurosis can contribute to the deterioration of the patient’s condition.
Sexual disorders in the form of decreased libido and potency.
Appearance obsessive fears(phobias), memories, thoughts, panic attacks, anxiety.

Physical symptoms of neuroses

Autonomic disorders are always observed with neuroses: sweating, trembling of fingers, palpitations. Changes in blood pressure, with a tendency to decrease, “spots” before the eyes, and dizziness may also occur.
Autonomic symptoms involving the gastrointestinal tract - frequent urination, loose stool, rumbling in the stomach.
Pain in the head, heart, abdomen.
Increased fatigue.
Impaired appetite, which can manifest itself in either a decrease or overeating.

With neuroses, as with somatized depression, patients consider themselves seriously ill. The physical symptoms observed in neuroses are interpreted by patients as the main ones, so they first of all go to a cardiologist, gastroenterologist, therapist, but not to a psychiatrist.

There are 3 classic forms of neuroses:

hysterical neurosis;
neurasthenia;
obsessive-compulsive neurosis;

The main consequences of neuroses

Marked decrease in performance. Because of rapid decline concentration, deterioration of thinking abilities and memorization, a person cannot perform previously familiar work, and quickly gets tired. In addition, due to sleep disturbances that accompany neurosis, there is no proper rest, which also contributes to a decrease in performance.
The emergence of diseases internal organs, decompensation of existing diseases. Since neuroses affect not only the mental, but also the somatic sphere, leading to a deterioration in the adaptive capabilities of the body, the risk of developing neurosis increases concomitant diseases internal organs, the risk of colds and infectious diseases increases.
Family problems. Anxiety, tearfulness, and touchiness are frequent companions of neurosis. But it is precisely these qualities that contribute to the emergence of scandals, conflicts in the family, and misunderstandings.
The appearance of obsessive states (fears, thoughts, memories) disrupts normal life sick people, they are forced to avoid traumatic situations, perform the same actions several times (or even dozens) to make sure that everything was done correctly.

The prognosis for neuroses is favorable. Disability of patients is extremely rare. When a traumatic situation is eliminated and treatment is started in a timely manner, the symptoms of neurosis disappear completely and the person can return to normal. full life. In addition to medication and psychotherapeutic treatment for quick recovery patients need proper rest.

How long does neurosis last?

Neurosis is one of the most popular mental diseases in the modern world. This is due to the high pace of life. A neurotic state is understood as a mental disorder associated with depletion of the nervous system. Is it possible to completely get rid of this disease? Yes, neurosis can be completely cured, but only under the condition of complex treatment. The sooner it is started, the more effective and shorter the treatment process will be.

Causes

The main cause of neurosis is the person himself. More precisely, his reaction to the events happening around him. When a person faces a problem that is difficult for him to solve, he feels backed into a corner. This condition causes worry, anxiety and fear. After these states have appeared, reactions to them arise. A person tries to get rid of negative consequences, forgetting about the original cause of his condition. It turns out something like a vicious circle.

It is difficult to answer how long neurosis lasts. Depending on how soon the patient seeks help from a psychotherapist and begins to undergo treatment.

For a person, the initial cause can be anything, that is, any strong experience negative character. For example, for children this could be the loss of a pet or the divorce of their parents. For a teenager, the impetus for neurosis can be a problem related to communication with peers or figure flaws. For an adult, these are problems related to work, home, or severe physical fatigue.

It is also possible to distinguish categories of people who have a tendency to neurotic conditions.

People with hypertrophied responsibility. Due to the fact that they drive themselves into certain limits and are in under stress, trying to do everything. You drive yourself into a corner, and as a result, stress and neurosis.
People who have fears and complexes from early childhood and do not discuss them with anyone.
People who accumulate all experiences within themselves. Often others believe that such a person is not capable of expressing emotions at all.
The so-called “workaholics”. They believe that they do not need rest and vacation. This results in overexertion and chronic fatigue. Which leads to a neurotic state.
People with low self-esteem. They take criticism too seriously and have no opinions of their own. For them, what others say is much more important than their own thoughts.

Symptoms

The state of neurosis is often confused with psychosis. The main difference is that during neurosis the patient understands and realizes that he is sick, but during psychosis this does not happen. Also, signs of neurosis are hidden under symptoms various diseases. Often, for this reason, many neurotic conditions remain incurable.

A person goes from one doctor to another, trying to find an explanation for his health. But symptomatic picture either does not fit into the symptoms of one specific disease, or is completely absent physiological reason symptom. An example is heart pain and tachycardia. Whereas upon examination this organ is in good condition and is considered healthy. A person may say that he did not have enough good examination or the doctors are incompetent.

How long neurosis is treated depends directly on:

severity of the disease;
on how quickly a person turned to a specialist;
on the competence of the specialist;
from correctly selected complex treatment;
from following all recommendations of a psychiatrist or neurologist.

Given that improper treatment or its absence at all, neurosis can accompany a person throughout his life.

In order to consult a doctor in time, you need to know what symptoms the disease expresses. A number of symptoms of neurosis can be identified:

nervous tics;
pain in different parts of the body;
retardation of movements;
tachycardia;
lump in the throat;
nausea;
insomnia;
increased sleepiness in daytime days;
disruption of the gastrointestinal tract;
sweating;
reaction to bright lights or loud sounds;
tearfulness;
irritability;
pessimistic mood;
apathy;
panic attacks;
depressive state.

All symptoms can be divided into 10, which are identified by psychiatrists. But most often there are only 6 manifestations.

Anxious state. A person experiences it when he is afraid of something, but cannot say exactly what. More often this condition is accompanied by phobias. For example, a person is afraid of elevators. And upon entering it, or just thinking about it, it begins increased sweating, tachycardia, lack of air. Distinguish anxiety chronic or acute. The first occurs more mildly, since a person is already accustomed to it, and the second can be compared to panic attacks. It can provoke rash decisions, which can lead to negative consequences.
Conversion hysteria. More often observed in females. This disease can provoke a lack of appetite or temporary loss of hearing, vision, and sense of taste. May result in uncontrollable actions such as temporary paralysis, or vice versa, sudden movements, not appropriate to the situation. This disease aggravated by the fact that due to the fact that interest in everything that happens around is lost, a visit to a neurologist is postponed indefinitely.
Dissociative hysteria. It is expressed in dissociation from one’s own self. Initially, there may be memory loss. But later these moments are remembered, and the person does not pay attention to this symptom. Next, schizophrenia develops.
Phobia. It is the most common symptom of neurosis. This type of disease makes it very difficult to live a full life, since due to fear of something you have to look for other ways to solve the situation. For example, if you are afraid of closed spaces, it is problematic to ride in an elevator or work in an office. How long neurosis lasts before treatment is prescribed depends only on the person himself, how fully he wants to live.
Compulsive neurosis is when a person is haunted by a negative thought throughout the day, preventing him from concentrating on anything else. In some cases, one day may not be enough. And, for example, the thought of death close relative can haunt you for years.
Depression. It is expressed by a feeling of depression that begins in the morning. Depressive state can lead to suicide.

Treatment

It is impossible to say for sure whether neurosis can be treated over the years or whether a few months are enough. It all depends on the individual patient and some other factors. If the disease has taken chronic form, then recovery may take more than one year.

Can neurosis be cured? Definitely yes. To do this, you need to contact a specialist as early as possible, when there is the slightest suspicion of the disease. There is no need to be ashamed of this. Neurosis is considered quite serious illness and if its symptoms are ignored, it can lead to adverse consequences. According to statistics, only every fourth person suffering from neurosis turns to a psychotherapist or neurologist.

Just how long neurosis is treated depends on whether the patient is in the hospital or undergoing the course on an outpatient basis.

At correct selection course, neurosis will be cured. Often, complex therapy is used to help the patient recover. It includes:

taking medications;
psychotherapy;
adherence to diet;
adjustment of the daily routine.

More often, doctors prescribe antidepressants and a complex of vitamins. Less commonly, tranquilizers. They are sold in pharmacies only with a prescription.

neurosis can never be cured with antidepressants and don’t talk nonsense...

Of course, you can’t cure it, Dmitry. Only a complex - psychotherapy, pharmacology, work on oneself (cleansing the spiritual self, improving attitudes towards people, more positive emotions).

Getting rid of severe neurosis requires continuous work on yourself for a long time. But the bonus will be various tricks such as endurance, increasing intelligence while developing a personality, training to drive away unnecessary thoughts.

The psychiatrist prescribed Gidazepam for neurosis. Please tell me if this is a good drug for neurosis (with phobias)?

Diana! Of course, this is a strong sedative, BUT! You shouldn’t indulge in it for a long time, because after 2-3 weeks it may become addictive.

Try Atarax - it's not addictive, but it helps a lot. By the way, you don’t need a prescription for it, as far as we know.

Neurosis - symptoms in adults, causes, first signs and treatment

Neuroses - functional disorders highest nervous activity psychogenic origin. The clinical picture of neuroses is very diverse and may include somatic neurotic disorders, autonomic disorders, various phobias, dysthymia, obsessions, compulsions, and emotional and mental problems.

Neuroses belong to a group of diseases that have a protracted course. This disease affects people who are characterized by constant overwork, lack of sleep, anxiety, grief, etc.

What is neurosis?

Neurosis is a set of psychogenic, functional, reversible disorders that tend to last a long time. For clinical picture neurosis is characterized by obsessive, asthenic or hysterical manifestations, as well as temporary weakening of physical and mental performance. This disorder is also called psychoneurosis or neurotic disorder.

Neuroses in adults are characterized by a reversible and not very severe course, which distinguishes them, in particular, from psychoses. According to statistics, up to 20% of the adult population suffers from various neurotic disorders. The percentage may vary among different social groups.

The main mechanism of development is the disorder brain activity, which normally ensures human adaptation. As a result, both somatic and mental disorders arise.

The term neurosis in medical terminology introduced in 1776 by Scottish physician William Cullen

Causes

Neuroses and neurotic conditions are considered a multifactorial pathology. Their occurrence is caused by a large number of reasons that act together and trigger a large complex of pathogenetic reactions leading to pathology of the central and peripheral nervous system.

The cause of neuroses is the action of a psychotraumatic factor or a psychotraumatic situation.

In the first case we're talking about about a short-term but strong negative impact on a person, for example, the death of a loved one.
In the second case, we talk about long-term, chronic exposure to a negative factor, for example, family conflict situation. Speaking about the causes of neurosis, it is psychotraumatic situations and, above all, family conflicts that are of great importance.

Today there are:

psychological factors in the development of neuroses, which are understood as the characteristics and conditions of personality development, as well as upbringing, the level of aspirations and relationships with society;
biological factors, which are understood as functional impairment certain neurophysiological as well as neurotransmitter systems that make patients susceptible to psychogenic influences

Equally often, all categories of patients, regardless of their place of residence, experience psychoneurosis due to such tragic events as:

death or loss of a loved one;
serious illness in loved ones or in the patient himself;
divorce or separation from a loved one;
dismissal from work, bankruptcy, business collapse, and so on.

It is not entirely correct to talk about heredity in this situation. The development of neurosis is influenced by the environment in which a person grew up and was brought up. A child, looking at parents prone to hysteria, adopts their behavior and exposes his nervous system to injury.

According to the American Psychiatric Association, the incidence of neuroses in men ranges from 5 to 80 cases per 1000 population, while in women it ranges from 4 to 160.

A variety of neuroses

Neuroses are a group of diseases that arise in humans due to exposure to trauma. mental nature. As a rule, they are accompanied by a deterioration in a person’s well-being, mood swings and manifestations of somato-vegetative manifestations.

Neurasthenia

Neurasthenia ( nervous weakness or fatigue syndrome) is the most common form of neuroses. Occurs with prolonged nervous overstrain, chronic stress and other similar conditions that cause fatigue and “breakdown” of the protective mechanisms of the nervous system.

Neurasthenia is characterized by the following symptoms:

increased irritability;
high excitability;
rapid fatigue;
loss of the ability to self-control and self-control;
tearfulness and touchiness;
absent-mindedness, inability to concentrate;
decreased ability to endure prolonged mental stress;
loss of usual physical endurance;
severe sleep disturbances;
loss of appetite;
apathy and indifference to what is happening.

Hysterical neurosis

Vegetative manifestations of hysteria manifest themselves in the form of spasms, persistent nausea, vomiting, and fainting. Characteristic movement disorders are tremors, tremor in the limbs, blepharospasm. Sensory disorders are expressed by disturbances in sensitivity in various parts bodies, painful sensations, hysterical deafness and blindness may develop.

Patients strive to attract the attention of loved ones and doctors to their condition; they have extremely unstable emotions, their mood changes sharply, they easily move from sobbing to wild laughter.

There are a specific type of patients with a tendency to hysterical neurosis:

Impressionable and sensitive;
Self-hypnosis and suggestibility;
With mood instability;
With a tendency to attract external attention.

Hysterical neurosis must be distinguished from somatic and mental illnesses. Similar symptoms occur in schizophrenia, central nervous system tumors, endocrinopathy, and encephalopathy due to trauma.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder

A disease characterized by the occurrence of obsessive ideas and thoughts. A person is overcome by fears that he cannot get rid of. IN similar condition often the patient exhibits phobias (this form is also called phobic neurosis).

Symptoms of neurosis of this form manifest themselves as follows: a person feels fear, which manifests itself with repeated unpleasant incidents.

For example, if a patient faints on the street, then in the same place the next time he will be haunted by obsessive fear. Over time, a person develops a fear of death, incurable diseases, and dangerous infections.

Depressive form

Depressive neurosis develops against the background of prolonged psychogenic or neurotic depression. The disorder is characterized by deterioration in sleep quality, loss of the ability to rejoice, and chronic low mood. The disease is accompanied by:

heart rhythm disturbances,
dizziness,
tearfulness,
increased sensitivity,
stomach problems,
intestines,
sexual dysfunction.

Symptoms of neurosis in adults

Neurosis is characterized by instability of mood and impulsive actions. Mood swings affect all areas of the patient’s life. It affects interpersonal relationships, goal setting, and self-esteem.

Patients experience memory impairment, low concentration, and high fatigue. A person gets tired not only from work, but also from his favorite activities. Intellectual activity becomes difficult. Due to absent-mindedness, the patient can make many mistakes, which causes new problems at work and at home.

Among the main signs of neurosis are:

causeless emotional stress;
increased fatigue;
insomnia or constant desire sleep;
isolation and obsession;
lack of appetite or overeating;
weakening of memory;
headache (long lasting and sudden onset);
dizziness and fainting;
darkening of the eyes;
disorientation;
pain in the heart, abdomen, muscles and joints;
hand trembling;
frequent urination;
increased sweating (due to fear and nervousness);
decreased potency;
high or low self-esteem;
uncertainty and inconsistency;
incorrect prioritization.

People suffering from neuroses often experience:

mood instability;
a feeling of self-doubt and the correctness of the actions taken;
overly expressed emotional reaction to minor stress (aggression, despair, etc.);
increased sensitivity and vulnerability;
tearfulness and irritability;
suspiciousness and exaggerated self-criticism;
frequent manifestation unfounded anxiety and fear;
inconsistency of desires and changes in the value system;
excessive fixation on the problem;
increased mental fatigue;
decreased ability to remember and concentrate;
high degree of sensitivity to sound and light stimuli, reaction to minor temperature changes;
sleep disorders.

Signs of neurosis in women and men

Signs of neurosis in the fair sex have their own characteristics that are worth mentioning. First of all, women are characterized by asthenic neurosis (neurasthenia), which is caused by irritability, loss of mental and physical ability, and also leads to problems in sexual life.

The following types are typical for men:

Depressive - the symptoms of this type of neurosis are more common in men; the reasons for its appearance are the inability to realize oneself at work, the inability to adapt to sudden changes in life, both personal and social.
Male neurasthenia. It usually occurs against the background of overstrain, both physical and nervous, and most often it affects workaholics.

Signs climacteric neurosis, developing in both men and women, are increased emotional sensitivity and irritability, decreased stamina, sleep disturbances, and general problems with the functioning of internal organs, starting between 45 and 55 years.

Stages

Neuroses are diseases that are fundamentally reversible, functional, without organic damage to the brain. But they often take a protracted course. This is connected not so much with the traumatic situation itself, but with the characteristics of a person’s character, his attitude to this situation, the level of adaptive capabilities of the body and the psychological defense system.

Neuroses are divided into 3 stages, each of which has its own symptoms:

The initial stage is characterized by increased excitability and irritability;
The intermediate stage (hypersthenic) is characterized by increased nerve impulses from the peripheral nervous system;
The final stage (hyposthenic) is manifested by decreased mood, drowsiness, lethargy and apathy due to the strong severity of inhibition processes in the nervous system.

More long course neurotic disorder, changes in behavioral reactions and the emergence of an assessment of one’s illness indicate the development neurotic state, i.e. neurosis itself. An uncontrollable neurotic state for 6 months - 2 years leads to the formation of neurotic personality development.

Diagnostics

So what kind of doctor will help cure neurosis? This is done by either a psychologist or psychotherapist. Accordingly, the main treatment tool is psychotherapy (and hypnotherapy), most often complex.

The patient needs to learn to look objectively at the world around him, to realize his inadequacy in some matters.

Diagnosing neurosis is not an easy task, which only an experienced specialist can do. As mentioned above, the symptoms of neurosis manifest themselves differently in both women and men. It is also necessary to take into account that each person has his own character, his own personality traits, which can be confused with signs of other disorders. That is why only a doctor should make a diagnosis.

The disease is diagnosed using a color technique:

All colors take part in the technique, and a neurosis-like syndrome manifests itself when choosing and repeating purple, gray, black and brown colors.
Hysterical neurosis is characterized by the choice of only two colors: red and purple, which 99% indicates the patient’s low self-esteem.

To identify signs of a psychopathic nature, a special test is carried out - it allows you to identify the presence chronic fatigue, anxiety, indecisiveness, lack of self-confidence. People with neuroses rarely set long-term goals for themselves, do not believe in success, they often have complexes about their own appearance, and it is difficult for them to communicate with people.

Treatment of neuroses

There are many theories and methods of treating neuroses in adults. Therapy takes place in two main directions - pharmacological and psychotherapeutic. The use of pharmacological therapy is carried out only in extremely severe forms of the disease. In many cases, qualified psychotherapy is sufficient.

With absence somatic pathologies, patients are necessarily recommended to change their lifestyle, normalize their work and rest schedule, sleep at least 7-8 hours a day, eat right, give up bad habits, spend more time on fresh air and avoid nervous overload.

Medicines

Unfortunately, very few people suffering from neuroses are ready to work on themselves and change something. Therefore, medications are widely used. They do not solve problems, but are intended only to take the edge off emotional reaction to a traumatic situation. After them it just becomes easier on the soul - for a while. Maybe then it’s worth looking at the conflict (within yourself, with others or with life) from a different angle and finally resolving it.

With the help of psychotropic drugs, tension, tremors, and insomnia are eliminated. Their appointment is permissible only for a short period of time.

For neuroses, the following groups of drugs are usually used:

tranquilizers – alprazolam, phenazepam.
antidepressants – fluoxetine, sertraline.
sleeping pills – zopiclone, zolpidem.

Psychotherapy for neuroses

Currently, the main methods of treating all types of neuroses are psychotherapeutic techniques and hypnotherapy. During psychotherapy sessions, a person gets the opportunity to build a complete picture of his personality, to establish cause-and-effect relationships that gave impetus to the emergence of neurotic reactions.

Treatment methods for neuroses include color therapy. The right color for the brain is beneficial, just like vitamins are for the body.

To extinguish anger and irritation, avoid the color red.
At the moment of onset bad mood Eliminate black and dark blue tones from your wardrobe, surround yourself with light and warm tones.
To relieve tension, look at blue, greenish tones. Replace the wallpaper at home, choose the appropriate decor.

Folk remedies

Before using any folk remedies for neurosis, we recommend consulting with your doctor.

At restless sleep, general weakness, those suffering from neurasthenia should pour a teaspoon of verbena herb with a glass of boiling water, then leave for an hour, take small sips throughout the day.
Tea with lemon balm - mix 10 g of tea leaves and herbal leaves, pour 1 liter of boiling water, drink tea in the evening and before bed;
Mint. Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 tbsp. a spoonful of mint. Let it brew for 40 minutes and strain. Drink a cup of warm decoction in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening before bed.
Bath with valerian. Take 60 grams of root and boil for 15 minutes, leave to brew for 1 hour, strain and pour into a bathtub with hot water. Take 15 minutes.

Forecast

The prognosis of neurosis depends on its type, stage of development and duration of course, timeliness and adequacy of the psychological and medicinal assistance provided. In most cases, timely initiation of therapy leads, if not to cure, then to a significant improvement in the patient’s condition.

Long-term existence of neurosis is dangerous irreversible changes personality and suicide risk.

Prevention

Despite the fact that neurosis is treatable, it is still better to prevent than to treat.

Prevention methods for adults:

The best prevention in this case would be to normalize your emotional background as much as possible.
Try to exclude irritating factors or change your attitude towards them.
Avoid overload at work, normalize your work and rest schedule.
It is very important to give yourself proper rest, eat right, sleep at least 7-8 hours a day, take daily walks, and play sports.

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Why is neurosis dangerous?

Not every person benefits from a frantic rhythm modern life. Psychological stress at work, household responsibilities, traffic jams big cities, all these factors can provoke neurosis. Recognize neurotic disorder possible by certain symptoms characteristic of this disease. Many people don’t even think about how dangerous neurosis is and what consequences may arise if the disease is ignored.

What is the danger of neurosis?

Every year, an increasing number of neurotics – people suffering from one form or another of neurosis – are recorded throughout the world. This is the most common disease of the nervous system, which affects absolutely all age groups of the population. Most often people from 25 to 45 years old turn to psychotherapists with this problem.

If a neurotic disorder is not treated, the following consequences may occur:

Decreased performance and quality of life

With neurosis, concentration of attention sharply decreases, memory deteriorates, mental activity slows down, fast fatiguability. A person stops performing his duties efficiently; his usual work now requires enormous effort. Also, sleep disturbance, the main symptom of neurosis, leads to a decrease in performance.

The emergence of new and exacerbation of old chronic diseases

Neurotic disorder covers not only the mental, but also the somatic sphere of the human body. Chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular and nervous systems make themselves felt. With neurosis, the risk of contracting colds and infectious diseases increases several times.

Deterioration of the family situation

The main companions of neuroses are irritability, tearfulness, short temper, and anxiety. The aggravation of these qualities leads to scandals and quarrels in the family, misunderstanding and alienation.

The emergence of various phobias and obsessive states

The life of neurotics can hardly be called normal. In their lives there are always some fears, unnecessary memories, thoughts about their uselessness to others.

The consequences of neurosis do not look very attractive, but they can and should be fought. Timely appeal seeking qualified help will allow you to completely get rid of a psychological disorder.

Symptoms of a neurotic disorder

The appearance of neurosis is difficult to go unnoticed. Usually, close people or work colleagues are the first to notice the onset of the disease. Neuroses are characterized by mental and physical symptoms.

Vulnerability, touchiness, irritability, tearfulness for no apparent reason.
Memory impairment, slowness, fatigue.
Sleep dysfunction. Patients do not feel rested after the night; the morning begins with a headache and feeling nervous exhaustion. Sleep is most often superficial, with frequent awakenings and nightmares.
The body's sensitivity threshold increases. A neurotic cannot tolerate loud music, bright light or sudden change weather conditions.
A person cannot forget the incident that caused neurosis. He constantly returns his thoughts to the traumatic situation, thereby only aggravating his mental disorder.
The occurrence of any stressful situation leads to a nervous breakdown.
Decreased self-esteem.
Reduced sexual activity of the patient.

Physical symptoms of neurosis include:

Increased blood pressure, dizziness, nausea, dark circles before the eyes;
Rapid heartbeat, increased sweating, trembling limbs;
Disturbances in the gastrointestinal tract: constipation or loose stools, increased gas formation;
Frequent urge to urinate;
Poor appetite: its complete absence or, on the contrary, excessive gluttony;
Fatigue, feeling of lethargy in the muscles.

What other dangers does a neurotic disorder pose? First of all, this is a clear decline in living standards, deterioration in relationships with others, loss of work and much more.

Causes of neurosis

The main cause of a neurotic state is exposure to psychological factor on the nervous system. One of the main causes of neurotic disorder is individual characteristics of character and the nervous system as a whole.

Also, the reasons leading to the appearance of neurosis may be:

Frequent nervous tension.
Surrounding reality: poor living conditions, material instability, unsettled conditions personal life, lack of moral support from relatives and friends, features of parental education.
Excess body weight. Excess weight reduces self-esteem, leads to depression, affects metabolic processes in organism.
Genetic predisposition. Very often, experts document neurotic disorders in an entire generation of relatives.
Personal characteristics. People who are particularly vulnerable, withdrawn, suspicious, and intolerant of criticism towards themselves are more likely to turn to psychotherapists for help.
Childhood psychological trauma. People who experienced humiliation from their peers in childhood adult life often experience psychological problems.

Most often, a neurotic disorder is caused by prolonged exposure to a stress factor or difficult situation, from which it is difficult to find a way out (illness or death of a loved one, inability to get a good job, etc.). At the beginning of the impact of a negative psychological factor, the body tries to resist it. If the intensity of this impact does not decrease over a certain period of time, the adaptive capabilities of the psyche decrease and a neurotic disorder develops. Gradually, mental balance is disturbed and it is extremely difficult to get out of this state without the help of a specialist.

Treatment of neurosis

What can neurosis lead to if left untreated? This question is most often asked by people who do not want to see a psychotherapist. Many people are embarrassed to turn to psychologists, and this is a big mistake. It is easier to overcome the disease if you start treatment when the first symptoms of a mental disorder appear.

Currently, there are several methods for getting rid of nervous disorder: physiotherapy, massage, exercise therapy, the use of medications and of course psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is the main method of treating the disease. All other methods have a beneficial effect only in combination with psychological measures. The task of a psychologist is to identify the main cause of neurosis and eliminate it. If a neurotic disorder is provoked by problems at work, long working hours or low salary, which means you need to seriously think about changing your workplace. The consequences of neurosis are much more difficult to eliminate than to prevent their occurrence. If the situation does not work out in the best possible way, and conversations with a psychologist alone are clearly not enough; the doctor prescribes medication. These may be sedatives or antidepressants.

Any psychological disorder must be treated. If left untreated, neurosis may develop dangerous form a disease in which the patient’s life turns into absolute hell. Due to constant mood swings, friends and relatives will turn away from him, a decrease in performance will entail a decline in productivity. career ladder or dismissal, exacerbation of chronic diseases. At the first signs of neurosis, you should try to cope with the problem yourself or seek help from a specialist.