 In an age where physical health often takes center stage, mental health is a crucial yet frequently overlooked aspect of our overall well-being. Understanding why mental health is essential involves recognizing how it impacts various facets of our lives and why it deserves more attention. This blog post delves into the importance of mental health, exploring its impact on individual and societal levels, and why prioritizing mental well-being is vital for a healthier, more balanced life. Whether you have been in counseling for years or have never sought out therapy because you felt like that is what friends are for, mental health is an important aspect for us all. We as humans develop in different milestones throughout our lifetime. Mental health employs the development, repair and improvement of psychological, emotional, and social well-being. So, what is mental health? Mental health is defined as the psychological, emotional and social well-being. In short, it is how we think, feel, and act within the world we live. It’s how we think about ourselves and others. The ways in which emotions show up as a response to events good, bad and in between. It impacts how we interact with our children, parents, colleagues, peers, friends and bosses. Contrary to some misconceptions, mental health isn’t merely the absence of mental illness; it’s about flourishing in all areas of life, regardless of the presence or absence of mental health conditions. Mental health is not something that is siloed into its own little echo chamber. It works in conjunction with the body. If you are not feeling well, you might note your mood is off, cranky or irritable. If your nutrition is off or sleep is disrupted it can impact how to feel or function with others. Vice versa, your mental well-being can interrupt how to process events, complete tasks or relate socially with others. Emotional Well-being- So emotions, we all have them. Emotions are also known as feelings, are like a thermometer. They give us a gauge of how you are doing. Emotions are neutral and are meant to be a guide, a signal of sorts to determine how someone feels about circumstances. Did you know emotions also can be an indicator of physical maladies too? It’s true. If you don’t have enough vitamin d you can feel low energy and generally malaise and depressed. But keep in mind emotions can be a response to life disruptions or achievements- from trauma, stress, death of a loved one, graduating school, passing a licensing exam, buying your first house, finding the love of your life, running a race or more. Psychological well-being- for some people they manage mental illness in addition to everyday stressors. Psychological well-being does not have to mean you have a mental illness however it is building the mental fortitude and resiliency to handle the blows from life. Finding ways to cope, problem solve and manage stress can lead to improved mental clarity and emotional stability. The benefits of mental health through mental wellness includes: 1. Emotional Stability and Resilience Mental health is foundational to emotional wellness. Life will come with hardship and challenges. People with good mental health are better equipped to handle stress, adapt to change, and overcome challenges. They experience fewer mood swings and are generally more resilient in the face of adversity. This resilience isn’t just about surviving tough times but thriving despite them, making mental health crucial for long-term emotional well-being. 2. Relationships and Social Interaction Healthy mental functioning is key to maintaining healthy relationships. Emotional intelligence, which is closely linked to mental health, helps individuals navigate complex social interactions, empathize with others, and build strong, supportive relationships. Conversely, poor mental health can lead to strained relationships, misunderstandings, and social isolation, impacting overall life satisfaction. 3. Productivity and Achievement Mental health significantly influences productivity and performance in both personal and professional spheres. A stable mental state enhances concentration, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities, leading to greater achievements and job satisfaction. On the other hand, mental health issues can impair cognitive functions, leading to decreased productivity and potentially affecting career advancement and personal goals. 4. Physical Health Connections Mental and physical health are intricately connected. Chronic stress and mental health issues can contribute to physical ailments such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, and a weakened immune system. Conversely, good mental health supports healthier lifestyle choices, including proper nutrition, exercise, and sleep, which are critical for maintaining physical health. The Societal Importance of Mental Health Mental wellness doesn’t just begin and end with the individual. Our mental health has a far reaching grasp into our society through our economy, community, family of origin, friendships and workplaces. There are 3 major areas to consider when you consider the importance of mental health. Keep these in mind as you consider how we support those around us, including your own mental health. 1. Economic Impact Mental health issues have significant economic repercussions. According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety alone cost the global economy nearly $1 trillion annually due to lost productivity. Investing in mental health services and support can reduce these economic burdens by improving workplace productivity and decreasing absenteeism. Investing in your own mental well-being can also improve your own work engagement and productivity. Ignoring the signs can put you at risk for being put on performance plans, loss of income, time away from work or ultimate losing a career you love because you neglected your own mental well-being. 2. Social Well-being Mental health also plays a crucial role in social cohesion. Communities with a high prevalence of mental health issues often experience greater social challenges, including higher crime rates, poverty, and reduced quality of life. Promoting mental health can lead to stronger, more resilient communities with better social outcomes. Mental health in communities is absolutely vital as it teaches others how to manage their own emotions, process the challenges of life and finding new ways to overcome life’s struggles. Think about how many incidences of road rage or community violence events can be prevented just by people managing their mental health. This also means mental health needs to be more accessible. At Transform & Renew Counseling we try to do just that by offering counseling through your insurance, sliding scale and low cost options. 3. Reducing Stigma Addressing mental health helps combat the stigma associated with mental illness. Stigma often prevents individuals from seeking help, exacerbating their conditions and contributing to a cycle of suffering. By fostering open conversations and education about mental health, society can reduce stigma and encourage those in need to seek support without fear of judgment. Often, we see a significant amount of stigma in BIPOC communities as it is seen as a weakness or a betrayal to the family first mentality. If more families talked about their own anxiety, depression or other mental health struggles they actually would grow stronger together and reduce the negative impact it has on their own culture. The Benefits of Prioritizing Mental Health 1. Enhanced Quality of Life Prioritizing mental health can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. Individuals who actively work on their mental well-being often experience greater life satisfaction, a more positive outlook, and improved emotional stability. This enhanced quality of life can lead to greater happiness and overall life fulfillment. Being able to challenge, refocus and reframe our thinking can drastically change how we see the world. It helps correct the negative thinking and core beliefs that were maladaptively created in our life. 2. Prevention of Mental Illness Focusing on mental health proactively can prevent the onset or worsening of mental illnesses. Engaging in regular self-care, seeking therapy, and building supportive networks can help manage stress and address potential issues before they escalate into more severe conditions. Prevention can and should include eating healthy nutritious food, regularly eating, good sleep, healthy movement (walking, dancing, playing sports, gym time and more), having time for self, doing personal enjoyment activities or hobbies. Connecting with your spiritual needs, physical needs and mental needs provide balance. 3. Improved Relationships When mental health is prioritized, relationships often improve. Healthy individuals are better able to communicate, empathize, and maintain balanced connections, leading to more meaningful and supportive relationships. Through mental health and counseling you can establish healthy boundaries and learn and build healthy communication skills. Learning how to fight fairly and not stonewall our loved ones can go a long way. We are designed for connection. 4. Increased Resilience Investing in mental health builds resilience, enabling individuals to cope with life’s challenges more effectively. This resilience is crucial for navigating life’s ups and downs and bouncing back from setbacks with a positive attitude. Resiliency can be learned from our past experiences and learning how to cope when life throws those curveballs. Strategies for Enhancing Mental Health If you are wanting to enhance your mental health, it’s time to start a plan now. Here are some helpful pieces to get started with to increase your mental health. 1. Self-Care Engaging in regular self-care activities—such as exercise, meditation, and hobbies—can significantly boost mental health. Self-care practices help reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. Self-care isn’t all bath bombs, candles and mood music either. Sometimes it looks like scheduling doctor’s appointments, changing our eating habits, engaging in positive movement, engaging in spiritual and faith practices, and more. 2. Seeking Professional Help Professional support, such as therapy or counseling, is vital for managing mental health issues. Therapists can provide strategies and tools for coping with various mental health challenges and offer a safe space for individuals to discuss their concerns. One way to start counseling is to look for a provider who is within your insurance network. Other ways are to find low cost options by seeing students in training or associate level counselors who are gaining their license experience. If you are ready to get started, you can call Transform & Renew Counseling at (210) 201-4578. 3. Building Supportive Relationships Cultivating a network of supportive friends and family can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation. Healthy relationships are essential for mental well-being and can offer comfort during difficult times. Supportive relationships really do make a difference. If you are stuck in bad friendships, new to an area or do not know anyone yet. It’s never too late to find friends or relationships that are supportive. One way to do this is through meeting people in groups doing things you love. So whether it is a photography group taking nature pictures, hiking on local trails, a running group, a board game group or a language club, you can find friends and connections. A great resource to use is meetup.com. Other ways people find community is joining a local church or other faith group. You can also look for community events like yoga in the park or a nature walk with dogs and find awesome people to connect with. 4. Educating Yourself Understanding mental health and its various aspects can empower individuals to recognize signs of mental health issues, seek appropriate help, and support others who may be struggling. Education is key to reducing stigma and fostering a more supportive environment for mental well-being. Understanding what you are facing is helpful and good to know when you might be struggling or doing really well. However, there is no miracle drug or quick fix, mental health requires regular work and maintenance. It is all about a well-rounded and grounded life. Conclusion Mental health is a cornerstone of overall well-being, influencing every aspect of our lives—from our emotional stability and relationships to our productivity and physical health. Recognizing the importance of mental health and actively working to maintain and improve it can lead to a more balanced, fulfilling, and resilient life. By prioritizing mental health, we not only enhance our own lives but also contribute to the betterment of our communities and society as a whole. As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, let us remember that mental health is not a luxury but a fundamental aspect of living well. Are you ready to live well? Truly transform and renewed? Then let’s get you started! Let’s get you scheduled for your first appointment today! Author: Dr. Aimee Rhodes, LPC-SDoctorate in Education, Global Training and Development and LPC-S is a cofounder of Transform & Renew, PLLC. She specializes in mood disorders, relationship trauma, and grief issues.  Introduction: Embracing Hope Amidst Trauma
In the wake of trauma, the road to healing may seem daunting, obscured by the shadows of pain and despair. This can be disorienting and often leave you feeling disjointed or disconnected from yourself or those around you. Not knowing where to start can be overwhelming. We believe that you have the ability to overcome, build resilience and be stronger for the future ahead. At Transform & Renew Counselors in San Antonio, Texas, we stand ready to walk alongside you on your journey towards healing. Through compassionate support and evidence-based therapies, we offer a beacon of hope amidst the darkness, guiding you towards renewal and transformation. Understanding Trauma: Signs and Symptoms Trauma can manifest in a myriad of ways, leaving a profound impact on both the mind and body. From intrusive memories and flashbacks to feelings of numbness and disconnection, the symptoms of trauma can be overwhelming, often leaving individuals feeling trapped in a cycle of pain and distress. Yet, it's important to remember that healing is possible, and that you are not alone in your journey. Types of Trauma Therapy: Nurturing Healing from Within In the realm of trauma therapy, there exists a wealth of approaches aimed at addressing the unique needs of each individual. From Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) , Cognitive Processing Therapy, Emotional Freedom to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), therapists draw upon a diverse array of techniques to support healing and recovery. Through these evidence-based practices, individuals are empowered to process their experiences, challenge negative thought patterns, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. YOu will learn new ways to cope from building grounding tools, body centered movements, and additional behavioral strategies. Benefits of Therapy: Finding Light in the Darkness The benefits of trauma therapy extend far beyond the confines of the therapist's office, permeating every aspect of one's life. Through the therapeutic process, individuals find solace in sharing their experiences, knowing they are met with empathy and understanding. As they begin to explore their trauma in a safe and supportive environment, they discover newfound strength and resilience, paving the way towards a brighter, more hopeful future. Our counselors are trained and equipped to help you share your trauma story and better understanding what happened to you and take away any perceived shame or guilt. Because it is about what happened to you not what is wrong with you. Supporting Acute and Complex Trauma: A Compassionate Approach Whether you're grappling with acute trauma stemming from a recent event or navigating the complexities of long-standing wounds, our counselors are here to provide unwavering support every step of the way. With a deep understanding of trauma-informed care, we create a safe and nurturing space where you can begin to reclaim your sense of self and find freedom from the grip of trauma. Through gentle guidance and unconditional support, we empower you to navigate the complexities of your journey with grace and resilience. Transform & Renew Counselors: Guiding You Towards Healing At Transform & Renew Counselors, we believe in the transformative power of healing and renewal. With a compassionate heart and a steadfast commitment to your well-being, we stand ready to support you in your journey towards healing. If you're ready to take the first step towards reclaiming your life from the shadows of trauma, we invite you to schedule a therapy session with us today. Your journey towards healing starts here, and we'll be with you every step of the way.  Are you struggling with depression and seeking a happier tomorrow? Look no further, because depression therapy with Transform & Renew in San Antonio is here to help. With its powerful techniques and compassionate professionals, this therapy office offers a guiding light in the darkest of times. Depression is a complex and debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It robs individuals of their joy and leaves them feeling isolated and hopeless. However, with the right therapy and support system, a brighter future is within reach. In San Antonio, you will find a range of therapy options tailored to address your specific needs. From cognitive-behavioral therapy to medication management, these treatments are designed to provide relief and support your journey towards healing. This article will delve into the power of depression therapy in San Antonio, exploring the various techniques and resources available to those in need. By seeking professional help, you can unlock the path to a happier tomorrow and regain control of your life. Don't let depression hold you back any longer; take the first step towards a brighter future today.
Understanding depression: Symptoms and prevalence It is important to remember that depression is a serious mental health condition that requires treatment and support. Seeking professional help can not only benefit the person with depression but can also help to improve the quality of life for those around them. You can also join a support group yourself to learn more about how to best support your friends or family members dealing with depression. Depression is a medical condition that negatively affects the way you feel, act, and think. Depression can have a significant impact on your daily life in many ways. Some common effects of depression can include:
The Therapeutic Compass: Nurturing Hope Amidst Darkness At the heart of depression therapy lies a profound understanding: that every individual's journey is unique, and their path to healing must be as well. Counselors serve as compassionate guides, lighting the way forward while honoring the client's needs and direction. Whether through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma-informed care, or holistic and integrative strategies, the focus remains steadfast: empowering the individual to reclaim their sense of agency and rediscover the joys in their life. Unveiling the Benefits of Therapy: A Journey of Transformation Within the safe space of therapy, individuals find solace in sharing their struggles, knowing they are met with empathy and understanding. Herein lies one of the greatest benefits of therapy: the opportunity for authentic connection, free from judgment or stigma. Through this connection, healing begins to unfold, as individuals learn to navigate their emotions, challenge negative thought patterns, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. CBT: Rewiring the Mind for Resilience Central to many therapeutic approaches is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a powerful tool for reshaping the way we perceive and respond to the world around us. By identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, individuals learn to break free from the grip of depression and cultivate a more balanced perspective. Through consistent practice and guidance from their counselor, they begin to reclaim their inner strength and forge a path towards lasting change. Trauma-informed Care: Healing the Wounds of the Past For many individuals, the roots of depression may lie in past trauma, casting a long shadow over their present-day experiences. In the realm of trauma-informed care, counselors approach therapy with a deep understanding of the impact trauma can have on both the mind and body. Through gentle exploration and validation of their experiences, individuals find healing in the midst of pain, gradually reclaiming a sense of safety and empowerment. Holistic and Integrative Strategies: Nourishing the Mind, Body, and Spirit In the pursuit of holistic healing, therapy extends beyond the confines of the therapist's office, encompassing the entirety of one's being – mind, body, and spirit. From mindfulness practices to nutritional guidance, individuals are invited to explore a myriad of strategies aimed at nourishing their overall well-being. Through this integrative approach, they discover new avenues for self-care and resilience, paving the way towards a more vibrant and fulfilling life. Empowering the Journey: Walking Alongside You Towards Healing In the realm of depression therapy, the journey towards healing is not one traveled alone, but rather in the company of compassionate counselors who walk alongside you every step of the way. Together, counselor and client forge a path towards a brighter future, where hope reigns supreme and the possibilities for growth are endless. Closing Thoughts: Embracing the Light of Hope In the midst of depression's darkness, therapy offers a glimmer of hope – a guiding light that illuminates the path towards healing and wholeness. Through the transformative power of connection, compassion, and self-discovery, individuals find the strength to navigate life's challenges with resilience and grace. So, if you find yourself lost in the shadows, remember this: the journey towards healing begins with a single step, and hope is always within reach. 4/26/2024 The Scariest Day of the Week: Sunday —Because Monday is Coming. How to Combat The Sunday Blues.
Kendra Smith, NCC, LPC AssociateKendra see's clients in person and virtual in San Antonio TX. Kendra enjoys her dogs and marvel comics. She's supervised by Elizabeth Oldham, LPC-S
Aimee Rhodes, Ed.D., LPC-SAimee is a cofounder and owner of Transform & Renew, PLLC. She enjoys working in her garden, taking hikes and enjoying playing board games with friends and family.  The world has become a much smaller place using social media. News that once took days or weeks to travel the globe now only takes minutes. This can be a benefit to some, but when it comes to protecting children from the reality of the situation overseas it can be a challenging task. Having the news at one’s fingertips can have a tremendous effect on children no matter the age. So how can parents alleviate fears? The simple answer is to be honest, keeping the age of the child in mind. Discussing Sun Tzu’s, The Art of War, will not be helpful when talking to your six-year-old. Children pick up cues by watching the adults in their lives. Your reactions can help guide and ease fears from the barrage of pictures and the recounts of those who are living through this devastation. If you remain calm, then your children too will remain calm. Remember the adage; monkey see, monkey do. The first step is to monitor how much information the child is exposed to, through tv, social media or conversations. Just because children never hear their parents say, “clean up your room” does not mean they are not listening. If you are waiting for your child to come to you with questions…good luck. Address that elephant in the room, ask them what they have seen or heard. Fears can make imaginations run wild. Validate their feelings because what is happening is scary. You can also be honest about your own fears as well. Use terms that your child can understand. What is the point in having a conversation about war if you are taking vocabulary out of the NATO handbook? Children understand words like hurt, sad, and angry. Do not forget the older children in the household as well. They too have fears about the climate of the world. Teenagers may not wake you up in the middle of the night with tales of the boogey man under their bed, but their anxiety is just as real. Addressing a teen’s fear may require a little more visualization. Take the time to sit down and watch a newscast with them and answer questions. Honesty is still the best policy, if you do not know the answer to a question, now is not the time to get creative. Your teen will respect that and you even more, and together you can do some investigating to find out the answer. Having an open dialogue with your children now can create a better relationship in the future. If they see how you react to their feelings and are honest with your own feelings it will make it easier for them to be open with you later in life. Communication is an important skill to teach your child that will benefit them for years to come. This can also be a time to help create a life lesson with your children. An act of service can help your child not feel so helpless. Children love to help other children. They can donate toys that they no longer play with, or clothes that no longer fit. There are local charities that may be able to send items over to help with humanitarian aid. Teaching empathy can be done at every stage and every age. If your child’s anxiety escalates or brings up a traumatic experience, you may need to reach out to a mental health provider. The staff at Transform and Renew can help. A licensed professional counselor can be beneficial to you or any member of your family in understanding or by providing tools that can help when the world comes knocking on your door. Staci Makela-Kerr, LPC AssociateStaci is supervised by Elizabeth Oldham, LPC-S. Staci is an Associate who is a parent, a writer, compassionate counselor who enjoys working with adults in all phases of life but has a deep passion for older adults facing life's challenges in the second half of life.  As schools are back in session and parents are clamoring to get their children's medications, they have noticed a shortage in ADHD medications. This has impacted their ability to support their children with their neurodevelopmental disorder. ADHD impacts approximate 5% of the population in children and 2.5 % in adults, so why is there a shortage? Learn about what is ADHD, symptoms, treatment options and next steps.
 What is PTSD? Where did it come from? Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD was first given its full name in 1980 in the DSM-III. However, PTSD had many names throughout the centuries. It was first recognized in combat veterans well over 2000 years ago as documented by Hippocrates in 4607-377 BC. The effects of combat stress and flashbacks were very common then and now with other symptoms as outlined in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual. It was long believed that PTSD was limited to veterans, but later determined many people can experience this disorder due to a variety of factors. Trauma is defined as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. This could occur to a person physical, emotional, and psychologically. People can experience trauma in a variety of different ways through the impact of natural disasters (fire, flood, famine, earthquake, tornados, hurricane, tsunamis, and petulance). They may be the victim of interpersonal violence, be a victim to community violence, early childhood trauma, medical trauma, physical/sexual/verbal abuse, sex trafficking, leaving a war-torn country as a refugee, terrorism, or even traumatic loss. Many individuals may never experience these traumas in their lifetime, but for those that do, it can be: 1. Acute (one incident, one time) 2. Chronic (exposure over a long period of time) 3. Complex (a variety of traumatic events and exposed over a long period of time often interpersonal in nature). Each will have its effect on the mind, body, and spirit. For those of us in the helping industries (counselors, social workers, medical staff, first responders) often experience what we call secondary trauma or vicarious trauma. So what is PTSD? What are the symptoms? PTSD Symptoms are a culmination of different factors. There are 4 main areas for consideration. 1. Intrusion- Intrusions look like intrusive thoughts, repeated, involuntary dreams, memories, flashbacks of the traumatic event. It is not uncommon for people to report that he dreams or flashbacks are so vivid that they feel as if they are reliving the event. 2. Avoidance- Avoidance of reminders of the event by avoiding people, places, objects, situations that cause a distressing memory or feeling. They avoid sounds, smells, lights and the like that resemble what they experienced. So think on a small scale, if you ever were in a minor car accident you may avoid driving, driving by a certain intersection, etc. Those who have had major car accidents may avoid this long-term impacting their ability to go places due to their experiences. 3. Changes in cognition and mood including inability to remember important aspects, negative feelings and distorted belief about themselves or others, resulting in blaming ongoing strong emotions such as fear, anger, shame, guilt or even horror. Often people will experience feeling dissociation or being detached to themselves or others, or the difficulty with experiencing happiness or personal enjoyment. 4. Arousal and Reactivity. These often leave a person more irritable, increased anger, behaving more reckless or self-destructive. They may become more hypervigilant and suspect of others’ behaviors or their surroundings. Difficulty with sleep is not uncommon, concentration challenges and startles easily. Well, I have all the symptoms for PTSD, now what? Be sure to meet with a qualified mental health professional to be assessed and rule out any other issues that may also present similarly. If one does not have experiences of trauma but has difficulty with sleeping, they are going to have difficulties with cognition, being on edge and moody. Not everyone who experiences trauma will go on to develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). So it is important to meet with a professional to rule things out. We complete a long diagnostic interview and assessments and will often discuss you following up with your medical providers as well to rule out medical issues that you may or may not be aware of. Treatments can include a variety of different therapies and sometimes in conjunction with medication from a qualified psychiatrist prescribing. Different therapies may include cognitive therapies, interpersonal, supportive, psychodynamic, prolonged exposure, somatic, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing or even Accelerated Resolution Therapy. Your counselor will help you decide what is the best option for you as you work together to develop your treatment plan. Am I broken for good? The short answer is No. With the help of therapy, learning new skills and a supportive community and spiritual practices many people go on to live a full life, and not impacted by the symptoms long term. There are some who struggle and will need ongoing support through therapies for awhile, but many people are able to receive therapy and move forward in life. While I’d love to tell you it will only be 1 session or 3, often it's quite a bit more sessions. Your individual therapist will be able to guide you in what your treatment plan will look like depending on your current circumstances and point you to specialty treatments as needed. AuthorAimee Rhodes, MS, LPC-S and Doctorate of Education specializing Global Training and Development. Aimee is co-owner of Transform & Renew Counseling. She enjoys working with her clients as well as training the next level of clinicians through their educational practicum and internship processes.  Does depression ever really go away?Depression is a mental health disorder that can affect individuals of any age or gender. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and low self-worth that can interfere with your daily life. Many people who experience depression wonder whether it will go away, and if so, what steps they can take to manage their symptoms and prevent recurrence. Counseling in person or online can help you to begin understanding your symptoms as well as provide some hope. Yes, it definitely can go away. The short answer is yes, depression can go away. However, the length of time it takes for a person to recover from depression can vary depending on the severity of the condition, the underlying causes, and the treatment options available. There are many different types of depression, and each person's experience with the condition will be unique. Some people may experience mild symptoms of depression that resolve on their own, while others may struggle with severe and long-lasting symptoms that require professional treatment. It's important to understand that depression is not a weakness or a personal failure. It is a medical condition that requires appropriate treatment to manage. Seeking professional help from a mental health specialist is essential in managing the symptoms of depression. What is it caused by? Depression can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental factors, and life events. Some people may experience depression after a traumatic experience, such as the loss of a loved one or a divorce. Others may experience depression due to a chemical imbalance in the brain, which can be caused by a variety of factors including medication, substance abuse, hormonal changes and even vitamin deficiencies. How do I get help for depression? Treatment for depression typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. These medications can take several weeks to become effective, and individuals may need to try several different medications before finding one that works best for them. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals identify negative thought patterns and learn coping strategies to manage symptoms of depression. In addition to medication and therapy, many self-care strategies can help manage symptoms of depression. These can include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Support from friends and family can also help manage depression symptoms. While medication can be useful, please remember it is not required for getting better. There are holistic options and a medical consult to rule out any physical health complications. Getting your labwork done with your primary doctor is essential to rule out low vitamins such as vitamin D, B, Magnesium and Iron. All of which are essential for a healthy body and mind. If your vitamin D is low, your sleep is likely to be poor and you will likely have a depressed mood. What if it doesn't go away? While depression can go away with treatment, it's important to understand that it may never truly go away completely. Like many chronic medical conditions, depression may require ongoing management and monitoring to prevent symptoms from recurring. It's also important to note that depression can be triggered by life events or stressors, so it's important to continue practicing self-care strategies and seeking professional support as needed. Final Thoughts. It's important to remember that depression is a common and treatable condition. Seeking help from a mental health professional is the first step in managing symptoms of depression. While depression can be a challenging and long-lasting condition, it is possible to recover and live a fulfilling life with appropriate treatment and self-care strategies. It's also important to remember that recovery from depression is not a linear process. There may be setbacks and challenges along the way, but with perseverance and support, it is possible to manage symptoms and prevent recurrence. This can look different for everyone, but it can include developing a support network of friends, family, and mental health professionals can be a crucial aspect of recovery from depression. In conclusion, depression can go away with the appropriate treatment and self-care strategies. The length of time it takes for a person to recover from depression can vary depending on many factors. Seeking professional help, practicing self-care strategies, and developing a support network are all important aspects of managing symptoms of depression and preventing recurrence. Remember, you are not alone, and there is help available for those struggling with depression. Ariana HernandezAriana is a student counselor studying mental health counseling at Sul Ross State University. Ariana enjoys working with kids, teens and adults. overprotective partners: AM I one or do i have one? Photo by Rene Asmussen: https://www.pexels.com/photo/grayscale-photo-of-man-and-woman-629586/ If you constantly feel like you're never pleasing your partner and they are constantly accusing or doubting you, you may have an overprotective partner. What is an overprotective partner? An overprotective partner can be someone who tries to take control of your life and restrict you from your freedom. When a person finds themselves in love with an overprotective partner, they can feel unhappy and suffocated in their relationship. If you find yourself in this situation and feel that it's impairing your relationship, you may want to address this early on so it doesn't affect your relationship long-term. Here are a few ways to address your partner's overprotective behavior: 1. Having an honest conversation Being honest with your partner about your concerns while also encouraging them to open up about their fears without being judgmental can help you understand your partner better. 2. Setting boundaries Setting boundaries with your partner may be a good next step to prevent overprotective behavior. It's important to be assertive in your boundaries, and how you will address them should they not be respected. 3. Compromise is important Make notes on what you're willing and unwilling to compromise on in a relationship. For example, telling your partner when you're hanging out with friends to keep them in the loop. Healthy relationships can offer a sense of support, comfort, partnership, and many other benefits. That being said, they also require working collaboratively with your partner, and yourself in ways that can feel uncomfortable. Having an overprotective partner can often have the opposite effect on us, but it's important that we remind ourselves that we are in charge of our independence and are not obligated to do things we do not want to. References: Kedia, S. (2022, September 22). Do you have an overprotective boyfriend? 40+ signs to identify. ThePleasantRelationship. Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://thepleasantrelationship.com/overprotective-boyfriend/ Wright, L. (2021, February 22). Overprotective partner? here's what you can do. Marriage Advice - Expert Marriage Tips & Advice. Retrieved February 17, 2023, from https://www.marriage.com/advice/relationship/overprotective-partner/#:~:text=A%20person%20in%20love%20with,give%20up%20on%20the%20relationship. Author Ariana is a student counselor working on her masters in mental health counseling at Sul Ross State University. Ariana will be finishing in Fall of 2023 and looking forward to seeing what she does next. Ariana is supervised by Aimee Rhodes, LPC-S |
AuthorsElizabeth Oldham is an LPC-S and co-founder of Transform & Renew, PLLC. She specializes in co-dependency, anxiety and OCD, depression and mood disorders. Archives
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