Welcome to Gradient Mental Health
Our Mission:
Striving to spread awareness to all of life’s gradients of mental health.
“Gradient feels like a place to learn more about who I am. Not just with information, but by sharing experiences with others going through the same thing.”
– Alex Banks
“It’s never been easier to find a qualified counselor than through Gradient. I don’t know where I’d be if I hadn’t been able to reach out.”
– Julia Walters
“I love Gradient for its simplicity and judgment-free honesty. I know I can trust the information here because I can actually understand it.”
– Ken Sorenson
“My life changed when I found others like me. The forum is safe and welcoming, and no one minds a little trauma-dumping.”
– Jen West
“My life has been a roller coaster of ups and downs, but I can find a little peace in knowing I have help right at my fingertips. There’s always someone online willing to chat.”
– Amy Crocker
Topics
Anxiety
Depression
Bipolar Disorder
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Post-Traumatic Stress (PTS)
A little bit of anxiety is normal, healthy even. It’s normal to be anxious before a big interview or before moving out. It’s a normal emotion that can help keep you from harm. It becomes a problem, however, when it starts to interfere with your life and keeps you from doing normal things. However, if you reach out, there are people to help and give you the tools to overcome your anxiety.
From screaming headaches to thought spirals to absolute exhaustion, depression takes almost too many forms to count. But the most important thing is that it’s treatable. Through education, reaching out, and safety plans, anyone with mild to severe depression can make it through. Spreading awareness and helping to destigmatize it is just the first step.
Bipolar disorder is characterized by frequent mood swings and mood episodes (a period of time lasting from a few days to a week where one’s mood is noticeably different). People with Bipolar Disorder can have difficulties in relationships and at work. There are many ups and downs with Bipolar Disorder, but with the right treatment, they can overcome these challenges and lead a full life.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is a mental disorder held by millions of people around the world. It’s characterized by a pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears, or obsessions. These obsessions then lead to someone taking action uncontrollably, or compulsions. OCD can be frustrating, but there are effective treatments for it.
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is hard to diagnose, as it’s not an exact science. The precise type of ADHD can change over time, and it is different for everyone. People with ADHD have difficulties paying attention and controlling their impulses, making it difficult for them to function in numerous settings, like school and work. While it’s common in children, many adults also experience it. To be diagnosed, the symptoms you experience have to impact your day-to-day life.
PTS is a complicated mental health condition that emerges 3 months after trauma, or can resurface years later. Symptoms of PTS are split into 4 main categories:
Intrusion (Nightmares/flashbacks)
Avoidance (avoiding stressors that remind them of the situation)
Thinking (feelings of guilt)
Reactivity (tense/anxious feelings)
If you relate to one or more of these descriptions, click the link to learn more and consider reaching out to your doctor or therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I need medication?
If your habits start to change harmfully as a result of your mental health, you might need medication. If you’re unsure, ask your psychiatrist or physician.
What if I’ve had a bad experience with a therapist?
The best thing to do is find a different therapist and talk to them about your prior experience. Set boundaries with them and be straightforward and upfront. They are here to help you and make you feel safe and comfortable.
Is the forum moderated?
Yes. The forum is moderated around the clock. If something offensive slips through the cracks, please reach out and let us know.
How soon can I expect a response from a counselor?
Counselor office hours are between 8 am to 4:30 pm. We’ll talk to you then!