5 Warning Signs of a Depressive Episode

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Feeling down from time to time is a normal part of life, but when emotions such as hopelessness and despair take hold and just won’t go away, you may have depression. Depression is a common mental health disorder. An estimated 17.3 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode in 2017.

Whether you have not been diagnosed or have been treating your depression for years, you may still experience a depressive episode. No matter how hopeless you feel when experiencing a depressive episode, you can get help. By understanding the warning signs of a depressive episode, you can take the first steps towards seeking help and overcoming the problem.

#1. Losing Interest in Hobbies and Activities 

Have you ever suddenly, or over a short period of time, lost interest in something you enjoy doing? Maybe you skip out on practicing a sport or instrument, or you start to bail on plans with friends more often. It’s not that you have more pressing matters to attend to; it’s that you simply don’t have the mental, physical, or emotional energy to engage in a hobby or spend time with friends.

The clinical term for this loss of interest is anhedonia. There are several theories about how this symptom functions in the brain. Many believe that depression “shuts down” the brain’s pleasure circuits. They believe depression reduces the capacity to feel joy.

Others believe anhedonia comes not from a reduced capacity to experience pleasure but from an inability to sustain good feelings over time. They believe joy is experienced fully, but only briefly — not long enough to maintain interest or involvement in life’s good things.

#2. Sudden Loss of Energy and Excitement 

Constantly feeling fatigued can be a symptom of other issues. However, it is no secret that depressive episodes and chronic exhaustion often go hand in hand. Depressive episodes can affect our natural sleep patterns in a variety of ways.

You may have trouble getting to sleep at night and thus lose out on a full eight hours, or you may find that you’re sleeping more than usual but still feeling exhausted. Both a lack of sleep and excessive sleep can be byproducts of a depressive episode. These issues coincide with the loss of interest in hobbies and socializing, which can exacerbate the feelings of sadness and unfulfillment that are creeping in.

#3. Low Sex Drive and Aversion to Intimacy 

If you find that your libido has suddenly taken a dive or that you are reluctant to be intimate with another person in any way, you may be in the throes of a depressive episode.

Researchers are still studying the connection between depressive episodes and sudden libido changes. However, there is plenty of evidence to suggest that depressive episodes and chronic depression both have a negative impact on our sex drives.

Low libido can be challenging to address with your partner, as you may not want to make them feel unwanted or hurt. Thus, the issue compounds, and you feel worse and are maybe less likely to reach out to a professional for help. If you do reach out, you may find that discussing your sex life with your therapist is difficult; this is understandable. However, it is worth it to discuss this issue.

#4. Irritability and Impatience 

When you’re suffering from a depressive episode, another common symptom is irritability. If you find you are struggling with depression symptoms combined with shorter patience with others, you could be experiencing a depressive episode.

Irritability and impatience with loved ones can cause us to alienate ourselves out of guilt or frustration with our actions, which can exacerbate feelings of sadness and loneliness.

In men with depression, irritability is common. However, men are less likely to reach out and seek help from a professional, which can cause more problems. That’s why it is essential to seek help when you feel you are struggling with your mental and emotional health.

#5. Engaging in Risky and Destructive Behavior 

Self-destructive behavior is closely linked with various mental health issues. During a depressive episode, you may try to shake up the misery and mundanity by acting out in multiple ways.

Substance abuse is one of the more significant examples of self-destructive behavior that is associated with depressive episodes. Many people attempt to self-medicate through substance abuse as a means to cope with their depression. If you find that you are drinking a bit more than usual or are engaging in other risky behaviors, you may be going through a depressive episode.

Many people struggle with depression and depressive episodes. Whether you have never been diagnosed with a mental health disorder or have been treating your disorder for years, a depressive episode can occur. Looking out for common signs of a depressive episode can help you recognize when it is time to seek help. Achieve Concierge is here to help you work through depressive episodes as they come through a variety of different tactics and strategies. Our staff has years of experience working with people who struggle with their mental and emotional health. Our team is prepared to help you whenever a depressive episode comes on, from same-day mental health services to telemedicine. We tailor each treatment plan to meet the different needs of each patient. You can rest assured that you are getting the comprehensive care that you need and deserve. To learn more about how we can help you overcome depressive episodes, call Achieve Concierge today at (858) 221-0344.

Unwanted Intrusions: What are Intrusive Thoughts and What Do They Mean?

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Have you ever been out with friends? Maybe you’re reminiscing, sharing some laughs over dinner. Suddenly, for no reason whatsoever, a thought enters your head: “I could flip this table over right now. I could ruin dinner for everyone and make a huge scene.”

You don’t do it, and you never would, but the thought is suddenly there, and it weighs on your mind for a brief moment before leaving as quickly as it came. What gives? Just a moment ago, you were having a good time, and now you suddenly have the urge to lash out. While you may be worried, it’s essential to remember that these thoughts are common and do not always indicate a more significant problem.

Some Types of Intrusive Thoughts 

Intrusive thoughts can be highly distressing. They can be mild and fleeting, a self-critical insult like “You can’t wear that, you would look stupid.” Or “Why did you even come here? No one likes you anyway. Just go home.” Often, intrusive thoughts can border on sudden, violent flashes like imagining a car accident while driving. It is estimated that over six million Americans struggle with distressing, frightening intrusive thoughts that can spiral into panic attacks if left unchecked.

Understanding Intrusive Thoughts 

Intrusive thoughts may be something you rarely experience, or they may be a common occurrence. They can come at any time and be gone just as quickly, or they can linger over time, causing distress and discomfort. The causes of intrusive thoughts are not well understood, but these types of thoughts are commonly found in people with PTSD and OCD.

A common misconception about intrusive thoughts is that you feel them because you, on some deeper level, want to act out on them. However, this is counterintuitive thinking. What makes these types of thoughts “intrusive” is proof that we don’t want to act out on them. We understand that these thoughts are caustic and antithetical to who we are as people, so how could we want to act out on them if we are repulsed by their presence? A violent intrusive thought doesn’t make you violent, and an insecure intrusive thought doesn’t mean that you aren’t loved by the people around you.

How Intrusive Thoughts “Stick”

When you experience an intrusive thought, your intuitive response may be to dwell on it, try to understand why you feel it, isolate its origins, etc. Unfortunately, this knee jerk response can exacerbate the panic caused by intrusive thoughts.

Your thoughts are not always indicative of who you are as a person. Your thoughts and who you are at your core can be mutually exclusive, and sometimes, can be at odds with one another. In the case of intrusive thoughts, many times, the things that may pop into our heads are unimportant, irrelevant, and not worth reflecting on.

Intrusive Thoughts and Conscious Thoughts

Intrusive thoughts exist without you bringing them into existence, meaning you are not responsible for them. They are not on par with remembering your grocery list, remembering to get gas before work, or deciding to go for a run after a long day of work. These are decisions that we consciously make.

Intrusive thoughts are merely unwanted, unimportant occurrences that do not need to be dissected and mulled over every single time that you experience one. It is easy to try and “shove” the intrusive thoughts out of your mind, which can cause them to stick and linger. You may also feel that these intrusive thoughts are too disturbing or unnatural, and thus you may feel compelled to keep them as secrets. However, keeping intrusive thoughts as secrets can also exacerbate the issue and cause you more distress down the road.

Compartmentalizing Your Thoughts

When struggling with intrusive thoughts, it is essential to remind yourself that these types of thoughts are common, and your immediate rejection and dismissal of them is proof that these thoughts are not indicative of who you are as a person. Understand that, like a flat tire or catching a cold, intrusive thought are bound to happen.

Sometimes we can be our own worst enemies, and in the process, we try to hyper-fixate on these thoughts in an attempt to rid ourselves of them. Intrusive thoughts are going to happen, but they do not define you or your character. The decisions that we accept as parts of our lives are drastically different from intrusive thoughts.

By compartmentalizing your thoughts and accepting that intrusive thoughts are a part of being human, you can set yourself up for success in the future when those intrusive thoughts inevitably come back.

Many people suffer from intrusive thoughts. They are distressing, confusing, and frustrating, but they are nothing to be worried about. They can, however, sometimes be indicative of other underlying mental health disorders that may be unresolved. Chronic intrusive thoughts that may plague your day-to-day life can stem from past traumatic experiences, depression, anxiety, and other problems that sometimes require outside help. Don’t put off talking to a professional. At Achieve Concierge, our team of professionals and experts are here to assist our members in identifying the causes of intrusive thoughts and how to remedy them through cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. We specialize in a holistic, collaborative approach to treating a variety of mental health conditions. Achieve Concierge is committed to providing the highest level of mental wellness care with personalized service that is second to none. To learn more about the services we provide, call Achieve Concierge today at (858) 221-0344.

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Have Social Media Platforms Started to Negatively Affect You?

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We live in a world that thrives off being the best; having the highest paying job, the fanciest cars, or the biggest homes, not to mention looking physically flawless. For many of us looking in, as we watch (or scroll) through the story these individuals create online, we tend to start comparing our whole being to these people. How do they make everything they do look so effortless?

Creating the Illusion of Perfection

 

It’s been a problem for decades. At one time it was a flip through a magazine, but now it is literally in the palm of our hands. Some social media influencers are there in an attempt to inspire us, but unfortunately, most of the time they just leave us feeling worse about ourselves. How is she so skinny? Why doesn’t this product make my skin look like theirs? Their house is perfect! Even people in your circle tend to post pictures of how wonderful their life is, even during a pandemic. Their house may be cleaner, or they may post stories about how wonderful their time together with family has been. Meanwhile, you’re feeling like there’s a constant rain cloud hovering over everything you do. 

 

For those struggling with things such as depression, poor body image, or a lack of self-confidence, scrolling endlessly through pages of flawless lifestyles and beautiful people becomes too much. Too much time spent on social media can be downright unhealthy for our mental health. According to a recent study from the American Psychiatric Association, one-third of adults who use social media stated that it was harmful to their mental health and only five percent of users said that it was positive for their mental health. 

How to Manage Social Media

 

You’re not alone, though, and you know what else? All those pages of people and lifestyles are not perfect, but deep down, you already knew that. Here are several tips to help you keep scrolling and to love yourself and appreciate everything that you are achieving every single day. 

  • Limit your time spent on social media 

It’s hard not to scroll endlessly on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or any other platform. You can blink, and suddenly it’s been hours since you went on to “check on your feed”. Reality check—social media can interrupt in-person communications. Have you ever been so deep into your feed, and maybe a friend, parent, or spouse has to yell your name just because you’re completely zoned in your phone? By being buried in your phone, you’re missing out on so many in-person experiences. Lift your head because there’s a beautiful world in front of you. Try scheduling certain times each day when you’re on social media. Make small adjustments, such as not checking your phone during meals or when you’re hanging out with friends and family. Another great idea is to not keep your phone near your bed to avoid the temptation of scrolling on it just before you fall asleep. 

  • Schedule regular time outs 

Several studies have shown that when a person takes even a week off of social media, they have decreased stress levels resulting in higher life satisfaction. Quitting cold turkey is not necessary. Even users who cut it down to 10 minutes a day showed positive effects on their mental well-being. You may also find that a few short spurts on your favorite platforms each day can help you feel better rather than spending hours exhaustively scrolling through a site’s feed. Finding the right method that works for you may take some trial and error, and that’s okay, just make sure to give yourself some breaks from social media as often as possible. 

  • Create your own space

Research has shown that individuals who exclusively browse other people’s posts are more likely to feel worse about themselves than those who post their material and who actively engage with others online. Social media platforms such as Instagram’s newest feature REEL videos and Tik Tok, allow users to create quick videos using music and pictures or videos while having some good old-fashioned silly fun. Got a favorite place you love to hike? Make a video showcasing its beauty. Great dancer? Join in on all the fun Tik Tok dances, even throw some bloopers in. The main idea is to have fun with it all and to use the space to create something that brings you joy. 

  • It’s okay to unfollow them

Next time you get a chance take a glance at your online friend’s list. Is this a group that leaves you feeling happy, inspired, and motivated? Or are you constantly triggered with envy, comparing yourself to every one of their posts? Sometimes we follow certain accounts because at first, we do love their feed. Over time, however, we may become bored, upset, or unconfident. Unfollow these accounts. Not ready to unfollow quite yet? Mute their posts. 

In the end, the thing that matters most is you and how you feel throughout your day, in real life. Do your best to remember that there are a gazillion filters that people use and that chances are, it took them hundreds of takes to get that perfect shot or video that is full of flawless transitions. Let go of the comparisons and be patient with yourself. 

 

Scrolling through photos and videos on social media, or reading Facebook and Twitter updates can be physically and mentally draining. It’s hard not to compare yourself to the millions of people who post about their seemingly perfect life. Someone is always having more fun or achieving greater success. The constant social media rabbit hole that we can spiral into leaves many people feeling awful about themselves. Studies continue to show how social media can have damaging effects on a person’s mental well-being. There are ways to help you use social media while also taking care of yourself, both mentally and physically. Social media should not make you feel bad about yourself in any way. If you or someone you know is struggling with stress or any other mental illness such as depression or anxiety, call us. Let Achieve Concierge be there to assist you. Call us today at (858) 221-0344. 

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What is Ketamine Treatment?

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For anyone battling a mental health disorder, it can be challenging to find an effective treatment plan that not only provides you long-lasting relief but doesn’t also come with unwanted side effects. Effective treatment isn’t always traditional antidepressants and therapy. Sometimes these methods don’t work well for all patients. That is why it is crucial for healthcare providers to continue seeking innovative, evidence-based treatment options that are proven to help individuals. 

Ketamine Infusion Therapy 101

 

For several decades, continued research has shown that ketamine included antidepressive properties. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of ketamine for the induction and maintenance of anesthesia as it is a noncompetitive N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, antagonist.  It induces dissociative anesthesia, providing patients with pain relief, sedation, and amnesia. 

It’s also a medication with fast-acting antidepressant properties that mental health experts have been studying with deep interest for over 20 years.

Ketamine infusion therapy has been incorporated into some treatment plans to help with psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as acute suicidal ideation. It is also being used for post-operative and chronic pain management. It can involve the administration of a single infusion or a series of infusions and is usually administered by IV, which can have effects lasting for anywhere from days to weeks. Although ketamine is not considered a first-line therapy to treat chronic pain or mental health disorders, studies have shown that it can be used off-label to treat patients with severe cases of depression, bipolar, and PTSD who have not responded to more conventional medications or therapies. Because of its fast-acting, lasting relief, ketamine has been labeled the most important breakthrough in the treatment of depression. 

Fast-Acting Relief

 

As mentioned above, ketamine infusions have the advantage of providing patients with quick relief, oftentimes within hours. For those struggling with depression, or those who have not been able to find relief using other therapy methods, ketamine infusions have been able to bring them the relief they have been desperately seeking.

How Does it Work?

 

Researchers are still trying to pinpoint the mechanisms that provide the powerful effects, but they do know that ketamine helps to stimulate a rapid increase in glutamate. Glutamate is the main neurotransmitter that helps to encourage growth in a person’s brain. It strengthens and restores vital neural connections and pathways in regions in the brain that are impaired by depression. These new connections help to promote beneficial changes in brain circuit function. 

Relief for Veterans

 

In addition to helping those with debilitating depression, ketamine has also been shown to help ease the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that many veterans experience. 

According to a recent article published in 2019, 30 US military veterans with PTSD participated in an observational study and underwent six one-hour ketamine infusions. The reason for this study was to discover whether ketamine could be treated to assist those with PTSD. Each participant was given a starting dose of 1mg of body weight that was adjusted afterward based on their experiences. Researchers aimed to create a psychotherapeutic response that would help the patient to experience the optimum transpersonal and transformative experience. Infusions continued to be administered over a two to three-week period of time.

Although not all participants benefited from the study, those who did showed a significant decrease of symptoms at a 50% reduction. Researchers concluded that because ketamine infusion therapy induced a transpersonal dissociative experience, this is a valuable tool to help treat combat-related PTSD. Patients reported that the ability to change their belief system or “reset” their thought patterns allowed them to transform their perspective regarding their traumatic experience. 

High Rate of Success

 

Although ketamine infusion therapy is still being studied, research does show that it has a high rate of success when it comes to treating patients with persistent depression. With an excellent efficacy rate, ketamine infusion therapy has shown to benefit so many people who have not been able to achieve lasting relief through traditional medical solutions. 

How Safe is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?

 

Although recent studies have shown ketamine infusion therapy to be a success for some individuals, mental health experts advise caution when using ketamine as a means of effective therapy. This is due in part because there is not enough information regarding the potentially negative consequences. 

 

If you lined up 10 people with the same mental health disorder, chances are each one of them will disclose to you their own unique and individualized symptoms. Mental health is not a one-size-fits-all, and therefore effective treatment can’t be either. The National Alliance on Mental Illness reported that in 2019, 51.5 million adults in the United States experienced some form of mental illness. Approximately two in three people who suffer from major depression reported achieving lasting symptom remission through traditional forms of medications and therapy; one in three reported finding no relief. It doesn’t matter how small of a stat that may appear, no one should have to live in pain, whether it be psychological or physical. The mental health field continues to seek innovative, and evidence-based treatment for anyone struggling. Reach out to Achieve Concierge to learn more about ketamine infusion therapy. Call us today at  (858) 221-0344.

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How Do I Talk About Suicide With My Child?

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Talking to your child about suicide can feel scary, but it is essential and can be life-saving. Suicide is a public health crisis and occurs throughout the lifespan. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), in 2018 suicide claimed the lives of 48,000 and was the tenth leading cause of death overall in the United States. Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals between the ages of 10 and 34. 

One way we can prevent suicide is to start talking about it. Talk about it with your friends, family, spouses, and children. Many parents are wary about broaching such a serious topic. How do we talk about something so serious with someone who is so young, and still cognitively developing? Some parents feel as though if they talk about it with their children, they are exposing them to something that maybe the child will never know about or that if we talk about suicide, it can lead our children to suicide. After all, it is our responsibility as parents to protect our children from all the darkness. The reality is suicide can affect anyone. It can consume even our children, which is why we need to talk about it with our children. When we talk about suicide we are helping those dealing with thoughts of suicide understand that there is support and that they are not alone.

When Should I Talk to My Child?

 

If your child has been exposed to crisis and is traumatized, you should discuss with your child to give them a basic understanding of what has happened. The sooner we discuss the crisis with our child, the more we can help them to process their emotions and feelings and answer questions they may have. This also helps to eliminate them from obtaining misinformation, either from another person or social media. 

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents do not address tragedies to children under the age of eight years old unless the child has been exposed to suicide. For children younger than eight years of age, try your best to stick to the basics and encourage questions and feelings, accepting their reaction. 

For children ages 8 to 11, explain to the child that the act was caused by an illness such as anxiety, depression, or trauma. Give them detail that they will understand. This is also the time to let them know that these illnesses are treatable, but in some cases, they can become fatal. Again, encourage any questions they have and always validate their feelings. 

Older children usually have been exposed to suicide in some way or form. They may have heard it from other friends, TV shows, or even have known someone that knows some who attempted suicide. The older they are, the more direct you can be. 

What Should I Say?

 

Whenever you decide to discuss suicide with your child, pick a place that is private and safe for your child. This helps them feel comfortable freely speaking about such a sensitive topic. 

Keep it simple. Avoid using words that your child doesn’t understand and avoid details that may be too graphic. 

Encourage questions. If you don’t know the answer, let them know that you don’t know, but that you can both figure it out together. When we are open and honest with our children, it strengthens their trust within us. 

Answer your child’s questions without shame, judgment, or fear. Your feelings are valid, but if you’re angry, maybe it’s not the time to discuss it with your child. The act of suicide is often an attempt to control deep, painful emotions, not because they are selfish or weak. People who attempt or die from suicide are trying to end their suffering.

When speaking with teens, ask them what they already know about suicide. This way you can gather information and dispel any myths they may have heard. 

Teach your child the best ways to help support their friends and themselves if they become suicidal. Always remind them that help is available, give them names and direct resources. Let them know that if they do not feel comfortable talking to you, they can talk to their other parent, aunt, uncle, school counselor – whoever else. Remember to validate their feelings, never telling them that they’re “overreacting.”

Always keep in mind that the best time to speak with your child about suicide is before they are in a crisis. 

 

Suicide affects all people. It is not a brand or label, but a sign that an individual is suffering deeply and needs help. Many falsehoods can prevent individuals from receiving the help they need during these challenging times. The sooner we can discuss with our children the facts of suicide, the closer we are to breaking stigmas and debunking common myths associated with suicide. When this happens, we have a better chance at helping our children process and prevent their suicide. As a society, we should not be scared to speak up about suicide, mental health, or seeking treatment. It is time to work together to normalize talking about sensitive topics such as suicide. There are suicide hotlines, mental health support groups, and online resources available. Reach out to Achieve Medical Concierge today. We want to help you help yourself and your child during this difficult time. Call (858) 221-0344. 

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Am I Grieving or Depressed?

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Losing a loved one is a jarring, tragic experience. It brings on a period of grief that can be filled with sadness, anger, and anxiety. It can make you uncertain if the sadness will ever go away. Although grief and depression share many similar symptoms, they are unique and distinct states. Being able to recognize these distinctions is important, yet it can be difficult to understand if you are just grieving or if it could be something more.

What is Grief?

Grief is a normal and natural response after you have experienced loss. Although you may associate grief with losing a loved one, many significant losses can trigger grief. These can include:

  • The end of a relationship
  • Moving to a new location or job
  • A much-anticipated opportunity, or life goal that abruptly didn’t work out as expected
  • The loss of a pet

Allowing yourself to grieve is important, as it frees up energy that connects us to the lost person, event, or experience. Grieving does not make you weak, nor should it have any negative connotations. Healthy grieving allows us to remember the person or experience and achieve a sense of peace.

Experiencing Grief

During a period of grief, you may experience some or all of the following symptoms:

  • Loss of appetite, which can result in significant weight loss
  • Overwhelming feelings of sadness, despair, and mourning
  • Anger at the person, God, those responsible, themselves, or others
  • Uncontrollable crying
  • Poor concentration
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Mood swings
  • Feelings of guilt (“if only I had…”)
  • Social withdrawal
  • Feeling of numbness
  • Loss of the meaning of life

The Emotional Ups and Downs of Grief

Some describe the experience of grief as an emotional rollercoaster. Grief sweeps over them, then seems to subside, only to come back again. Grieving the loss of a loved one can come with many different emotions. One minute you may be filled with sadness as you think about how they are gone forever, while the next you’re filled with laughter as you remember moments you shared.

All of this is normal. It is common to start feeling better in certain situations, such as when you are enjoying time spent with family or friends. Then a triggering event occurs, such as the deceased person’s birthday or another instance when feelings of sadness resurface. Again, this is normal.

Your reactions may be so intense or irrational that you feel as though they are going crazy or will never get over the loss. In other cases, you may be afraid to allow yourself to grieve in fear of being consumed by negative emotions. No matter what, these feelings eventually start to decrease in intensity, allowing you to regain your composure and get back to living your life. The length of time for grief varies greatly. Everyone grieves differently, and that’s okay.

Complicated Grief

Grief can develop into complicated grief, which does not dissipate with time and can resemble depression. In extreme cases, a person with complicated grief may engage in self-harm behaviors or even think about or attempt suicide. Other symptoms associated with complicated grief include:

  • Intense sadness and/or anger
  • Consistent irritability
  • Difficulty accepting that your loved one has passed
  • Excessive focus on what has happened
  • Thoughts of “joining” or being “reunited” with the deceased
  • Sensations of seeing or hearing things that are not present

If you or someone you love may be struggling with complicated grief, reach out. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline can provide you with professional help. You can also reach out to your healthcare provider. Complicated grief is a volatile condition, and it’s important to reach out as soon as possible to get the help you need right away.

Getting Through It

While grief might carry generalized symptoms, your personal emotional experience is unique to you. Finding healthy ways to cope and balance yourself through trying times is vital for your mental health. Here are some ways to cope with this difficult experience:

  • Reach out to loved ones
  • Express your feelings
  • Take care of your mental and physical well being
  • Enjoy life however you can
  • Be patient with yourself
  • Seek assistance from a mental health provider

Be gentle with yourself. This is a hard time for anyone, and if this is the first death you have experienced, you’re trying to navigate uncharted emotional waters. The main difference between grief and depression is that grief tends to decrease over time, whereas depression tends to be more persistent and pervasive. Either way, if you or a loved one are experiencing overwhelming feelings of grief, depression, or unidentified sadness, reach out for professional help right away.

Losing someone or something that we care about can be an indescribably difficult experience. The intensity of grief can wax and wane over time, leaving you emotionally fraught and impairing your ability to function. The symptoms of grief can overlap with signs of depression, leaving you feeling uncertain whether your heavy feelings will ever pass. While grieving any loss is a healthy and important part of your relationship with the world, depression can snowball into a dangerous burden that saps your enthusiasm for the good parts of life. If negative feelings are interfering with your ability to live, don’t let them accumulate in silence. Seeking professional help can get you back on track to emotional well-being. It can be difficult to get help during a difficult time, but it’s important to invest in yourself so that you can go on to experience life’s highs and lows to your fullest capacity. Reach out to Achieve Concierge at (858) 221-0344 to get help today.

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Smiling Depression

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Have you ever heard of smiling depression? It’s a form of depression in which a person seems happy and thriving on the outside, while inside they are severely struggling. Smiling depression, also known as walking depression or high-functioning depression,  is one of the most dangerous forms of depression because it can go entirely undetected, making it less likely for those who struggle with it to get the support or treatment they need. Because they don’t show signs like people with other forms of depression, individuals with smiling depression can also be at higher risk of suicide.

When you think of someone struggling with depression, you may think about someone who is consistently sad and acts distant. While in many cases, people who suffer from depression are sad, lethargic, and full of despair, it’s important to recognize that depression can look different for everyone. This is why it is so important to always check in on those around you.

Is Smiling Depression a Real Thing?

Although “smiling depression” is not recognized as a distinct condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (“DSM-5”), those who may show symptoms would likely be diagnosed with major depressive disorder with atypical features, forming what is known as atypical depression. It is important to seek treatment to be properly diagnosed and to receive effective treatment.

How to Identify Smiling Depression

A person who suffers from smiling depression may appear to have it all together. They can act entirely normal and have a well-arranged public life. Their social media presence may look almost perfect, showing only images of their best, happiest selves.

On the inside, however, individuals with smiling depression are experiencing the distressful symptoms of depression. While the symptoms may be essentially identical to those of major depressive disorder, what makes them atypical is the fact that the person is experiencing them internally and not visibly expressing them. People with smiling depression can also experience a lift in mood due to positive events around them, further enhancing the facade that they are emotionally healthy.

False Beliefs

False beliefs can prevent individuals with smiling depression from seeking support and treatment. Here are some examples of common false beliefs:

  • “I can’t complain because so many people have it way worse than I do.”
  • “My parents have a lot on their plate already; I don’t need to add any more stress or worry to their lives.”
  • “Asking for help is a sign of weakness.”
  • “Everybody thinks I’m doing great, and I don’t want to disappoint them.”
  • “I just need to suck it up.”
  • “It’s not really that bad.”

Smiling Depression and the Risk of Suicide

Because the person appears to be happy and content on the outside and doesn’t fit the stereotypical image of depression, family and friends often fail to notice that someone with smiling depression is struggling at all. In some cases, the person themselves may not even realize they are depressed. This can create extremely dangerous internal conditions. One of the biggest risks of smiling depression is that it goes unnoticed, untreated, and ultimately ends in tragedy.

Teens with Smiling Depression

Teenagers can often seem full of energy while internally experiencing intense symptoms of depression. Teens coping with smiling depression often feel isolated and obligated to put on a happy face for the world. Internally, they are exhausted from the facade that masks their depression, and often experience deep anxiety as they try to hide their symptoms from those around them. Other symptoms teens may experience include:

  • Anxiety
  • Mood swings
  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
  • Feeling “too fast” or “too slow”
  • Self-harm
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Lack of self-confidence and self-worth
  • Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loneliness

Teens with smiling depression are often able to hide their symptoms from close friends and parents. It is vital that parents watch out for physical and behavioral signs that their teen is struggling internally. Some important signs to look out for include:

  • Changes in their sleep patterns, including sleeping too much or too little
  • Significant changes in their appetite and/or weight
  • Feelings of heaviness in their arms and legs
  • Complaints of body aches and/or headaches
  • Irritability
  • Restlessness
  • Substance abuse
  • Extreme reactions to what they feel is rejection or criticism

Seeking Help for Smiling Depression

Since the warning signs of smiling depression can be so subtle, it is extremely important to maintain open, honest communication with your loved ones. Cultivating a space that is safe and judgment-free can help those struggling with any form of depression to feel comfortable enough to reach out for your help.

Smiling depression, also known as walking depression or high-functioning depression, can affect anyone. Symptoms can look different than the common stereotypes of depression, making it a difficult condition to detect. On the outside, those struggling with smiling depression appear to be happy and thriving, while on the inside they are dealing with severe, life-consuming symptoms. Teens with smiling depression can often keep their symptoms hidden especially well from their friends and family members and may cultivate a strong image on social media that portrays someone who has a perfect life and who is extremely happy.  Because symptoms can go undetected, those with smiling depression are at higher risk of suicide. If you or someone you love are struggling with any symptoms of depression, reach out to Achieve Concierge today. We have a stellar team of clinicians who can help children, teens, or adults overcome mental illness and achieve emotional health. Call us at (858) 221-0344 to learn more.

telehealth

Telehealth Doesn’t Work for Everyone

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There is no doubt that the current pandemic has created numerous obstacles for each of us. For those who were receiving in-person therapeutic services before the pandemic, the challenges were felt almost immediately. Scheduled appointments were put on hold indefinitely while healthcare officials scrambled to figure out how to best assist the community in need.

In 2019, 19.2% of adults reported receiving some form of mental health treatment, and 9.5% had received counseling or therapy from a mental health professional. As the pandemic took 2020 in a completely unexpected direction, people who depended on consistent mental health services were faced with sudden instability in their options for care. While healthcare providers and treatment professionals worked to find solutions for their patients, many people felt the immediate whiplash of change when in-person therapy came to a halt.

Between social distancing requirements and widespread fear of coming into contact with the virus, many people who need mental health services were no longer receiving the care they depended on. Furthermore, we saw a huge spike in mental illness symptoms across every section of the population as the pandemic’s compounding stress grew to affect nearly every aspect of our lives.

What Are Telehealth Services?

Although many people were unaware of telehealth services’ availability until the 2020 pandemic, this type of care was first used as a form of healthcare delivery in the late 1960s. The purpose of telehealth services is to allow a person to receive assistance in their homes’ comfort and safety by communicating through their smartphones or other mobile devices. In light of the restrictions caused by the ongoing pandemic, including social distancing requirements and widespread reluctance to meet in person, telehealth services offer a uniquely accessible approach for patients and staff alike to connect and continue care.

The Challenges Posed By Telehealth

As convenient as it is, telehealth isn’t a perfect solution. The lack of in-person services posed difficulties and complications with intakes, comprehensive assessments, and patient engagement. Some healthcare providers reported needing solutions for patients who couldn’t communicate through phone or video conferencing due to a lack of privacy in their living situations. The lack of in-person services also made it challenging for medical personnel to monitor medication and administer direct treatment.

On top of struggling to navigate the new world of online services, medical staff also had to quickly ascertain how to implement safe, effective care for their patients. Staff grappled with technological issues, a lack of HIPAA-compliant platforms, and the fact that telehealth options made it more difficult to foster a personal connection with their patients, which served to negatively counteract their efforts towards offering a successful therapeutic process.

While staff encountered obstacles as they attempted to reach their patients, their patients reported a dramatic rise in the negative emotions reported across the country. More people than ever were experiencing trouble with anxiety and depression due to problems related to the pandemic and the way that they were compounded by lack of direct treatment options.

The Digital Divide

Since the advent of the digital age, staff and patients alike have faced the increasing challenge posed by the divide that forms when all individuals are expected to rely upon technology. To people with fewer socioeconomic resources, struggling with disabilities, or living in disadvantaged areas, being able to depend on reliable access to technology isn’t always an option. 

Pew Research reported that people with disabilities, both physical and psychiatric, were three times more likely never to utilize online services and that about 20% did not even own an electronic device that could give them access to telehealth services. 

Exercising Caution With In-Person Services

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention and numerous other healthcare officials have stressed the importance of social distancing. Many people are worried about coming into contact with someone infected with the COVID-19 virus or spreading it themselves, making the prospect of attending in-person services seem scary and irresponsible in many. For some, however, in-person services are the only way to receive the care they need. 

Many organizations, such as Achieve Medical Center, are taking every necessary precaution to provide in-person services to those in need while keeping everyone safe. At Achieve Medical Center, we leave ample space in between each appointment to allow for social distancing. Staff members wear masks at all times and thoroughly disinfect treatment areas between all sessions. The pandemic has created a lot of uncertainty and discomfort, causing many to disregard their treatment needs. Remember that your mental wellness and your safety are both important parts of a healthy life.

 

No matter what else is happening in your life, your mental well-being should always be a priority. While telehealth services provide numerous benefits to those who can access them, they may not be perfect for meeting your needs. Both staff and patients have complained about the inability to connect and not being able to gain efficient care through telehealth services. For some individuals, having reliable access to telehealth services is simply not an option. While the ongoing pandemic has tremendously decreased the availability of in-person services, there are still some forms of care available to those in need. Treatment centers like Achieve Medical Center want you to get the help that works for you while respecting your boundaries and ensuring your safety at all times. You don’t have to go it alone. To learn more about how our services can help make a difference, call Achieve Concierge today at (858) 221-0344.

depression

How Alcohol Affects Depression

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Depression is a mental health disorder that can affect anyone at any time. The symptoms vary in severity and can make life difficult for those who suffer from them. Severe symptoms can be crippling. Many people who have depression struggle with daily responsibilities that can lead to poor job performance, financial problems, and social isolation. Many people who suffer from depression may use alcohol to escape the relentless and endless mental anguish. However, alcohol is a depressant causing drinking to worsen symptoms of depression and increase the risk of developing a substance use disorder or addiction.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression is debilitating, paralyzing, and can make those who experience it feel hopeless and lonely. People with depression may decline invitations to social events and family gatherings. Depression makes people disengage from things that they once enjoyed. It also interferes with relationships and can distort a person’s reality. It causes health problems, affects nutrition, disrupts sleep patterns, and leads to decreased work productivity.

Depression increases feelings of self-doubt, lowers confidence, and tears apart spiritual wellness. Symptoms of depression can include unrelenting sadness and anxiety, appetite changes, low mood, disruptive sleep patterns, and a loss of interest in normal daily functions. Depression is usually treated with medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), atypical antidepressants, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Does Depression Drive You to Drink?

Depression’s symptoms of continually feeling sadness and hopelessness can influence how people think and act. For those struggling with depression, alcohol may be used to suppress symptoms such as irritability, loss of interest, anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia. Drinking can become a way to escape reality and relax. However, using alcohol as a way to cope can significantly impact physical and emotional well-being. 

Alcohol use increases both the severity and duration of depressive episodes. It also increases the likelihood, frequency, and severity of suicidal thoughts. Alcohol can also cause other stressors in life, such as career and family problems that worsen depression. When alcohol is used to alleviate depression symptoms, symptoms are made worse, and drinking may continue or worsen, causing a vicious cycle that can be challenging to break out of. 

Can Drinking Too Much Cause Depression?

In some circumstances, excessive drinking can cause depression. Prolonged alcohol abuse can drastically change and rewire the brain and impact many other chemical balances in the body. The systemic changes that occur when neurotransmitters are altered can cause depression. 

Heavy alcohol consumption alters the brain’s neurotransmitters. Chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine will fluctuate rapidly with alcohol consumption. Serotonin helps balance a person’s mood, while dopamine controls the brain’s reward system. Unusually high or low levels of these chemicals can trigger symptoms of depression, among other health problems.

Other Health Complications Associated With Alcohol Use

Alcohol puts you at high risk of developing a significant health complication to your brain and other major organs in your body. After prolonged use, alcohol can impair the part of your brain that forms new memories. It also interferes with the way the brain functions to keep you alive.

Too much alcohol can lead to a blackout, which is characterized as amnesia during intoxication. During a blackout, there is no recollection of what happened during that time. A blackout stops the memory storage process due to a chemical disruption in the brain’s hippocampus, which is where memories are developed. Unlike passing out, a person who experiences a blackout can talk and move, but their brain loses the ability to form new memories.

Drinking too much alcohol on a single occasion or over a long period can contribute to cardiovascular problems, liver failure, and pancreatitis. Alcohol consumption can also lead to reckless and risky behavior and can be deadly because it impairs judgment. There are also extensive reviews of research studies showing a strong scientific consensus of a link between alcohol drinking and several types of cancer. 

In its Report on Carcinogens, the National Toxicology Program of the US Department of Health and Human Services lists consumption of alcoholic beverages as a known human carcinogen. The more alcohol a person drinks regularly over time, the higher their risk of developing alcohol-associated cancer. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “Based on data from 2009, an estimated 3.5 percent of all cancer deaths in the United States (about 19,500 deaths) were alcohol-related.“

How to Cope With Depression Symptoms Without Alcohol

There are various ways to help improve mental health without alcohol, such as meditation, yoga, exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet. Good nutrition helps brain function, improves mood, and reduces the risk of diabetes. Yoga enables you to establish connections to yourself. Maintaining mindfulness contributes to the healing of the mind, body, and spirit. 

Deep breathing techniques and mediation are significant components of healing. Breathing incorporates deep sleep relaxation and internal recharging and makes changes in the central nervous system. 

Exercise improves physical health and mental health and decreases the risk of developing organ failure, obesity, heart attack, or death. Good nutrition and regular exercise help improve mindfulness and brain function by increasing blood oxygen levels in the brain and making muscles stronger.

 

Depression is a mental health disorder that can cause feelings of sadness and hopelessness and various other symptoms. Many people may use alcohol as a coping method to relieve the symptoms associated with depression. However, alcohol can make depression worse. It worsens symptoms, severity, and the duration of depressive episodes. In some cases, alcohol use can even cause depression. Luckily, there are ways to cope with mental health disorders without the use of alcohol. However, if you are stuck in the vicious cycle of alcohol abuse and depression, there is help available. At Achieve Concierge, our expert medical clinicians are dedicated to patient care and support, learn about a patient, and then offer comprehensive mental health services as part of a total wellness experience. We provide individualized support to help you cope with mental health conditions and difficult life events. We have same-day appointments in person, as well as telemedicine appointments. To find out more information about our services, call us today at (858) 221-0344.

nutrition

The Difference Between Hypothyroidism and Depression

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Living with a mental health disorder can affect many aspects of a person’s life, such as maintaining a job, attending school, and can interfere with relationships with loved ones. Depression, a common mental health challenge, can cause problems with sleep, intense feelings of sadness, and other wide ranges of symptoms. Another condition known as hypothyroidism can cause symptoms of depression. Hypothyroidism can easily be mistaken for depression due to shared symptoms, but there is a difference between them. Learning how to spot their differences can help you seek the most effective treatment. 

Hypothyroidism

The thyroid gland is located in the lower area of the neck that releases hormones and affects metabolism. When the thyroid regulates metabolism, it affects every cell, tissue, and organ, including muscles, bones, skin, heart, and brain. Organs and internal systems become slower when thyroid hormone levels are too low, leading to a range of symptoms, including depression.

Hypothyroidism can manifest at any time and can be caused by an autoimmune disease, thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, or medication. Sometimes hypothyroidism can be caused by a pituitary disorder, iodine deficiency, pregnancy, or congenital condition. According to the Mayo Clinic, other symptoms associated with hypothyroidism include:

  • Increased sensitivity to cold
  • Constipation
  • Dry skin
  • Puffy face
  • Hoarseness
  • Muscle weakness
  • Elevated blood cholesterol level
  • Pain and stiffness in joints
  • Irregular menstrual periods
  • Thinning hair or hair loss
  • Slow heart rate
  • Impaired memory

Over 10 million people in America suffer from hypothyroidism. A simple blood test is completed to diagnose this condition. A clinician may also feel a patient’s neck to assess the size of the thyroid glans. They may check for physical signs of hypothyroidism, such as brittle nails and dry skin. 

Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that can interfere with a person’s ability to perform daily tasks. Depression is more than just feeling sad, and a person cannot just snap out of it. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, depression is “the leading cause of disability in the U.S. for ages 15 to 44.”

The loss of a loved one, losing a job, going through a divorce, financial struggles, and other challenging circumstances can make a person feel sad, scared, and alone. These feelings are normal reactions to many of life’s events. People occasionally feel sad, but for people with depression, the symptoms are much more severe. Depression can be debilitating and paralyzing. When you have depression, enjoying normal activities can be very difficult. In extreme cases, depression can lead to self-harm or thoughts of suicide.

Depression can disrupt standard sleep patterns and make you extremely tired. It can cause feelings of worthlessness, low self-esteem, and hopelessness. Depression can interfere with relationships, increase or decrease appetite, and make you feel anxious. People diagnosed with depression often also suffer from anxiety. 

Similarities and Differences

Hypothyroidism and depression share similar symptoms, such as depressed mood, weight gain, loss of interest in sex, concentration problems, and fatigue. Since these symptoms are identical in both conditions, they can be misdiagnosed. This means that a person who takes antidepressants for depression might need to be taking thyroid medication instead.

More typical signs in patients with depression can include insomnia, feelings of worthlessness, inappropriate guilt, and thoughts of death or suicide. If an individual is struggling with hypothyroidism, they will not exhibit these symptoms. Symptoms that point to a more likely diagnosis of hypothyroidism include being overly sensitive to cold temperatures, constipation, muscle cramps, hair loss, and slow heart rate.

The Importance of Good Nutrition

Good nutrition is critical in recovery from depression. Developing a sensible eating plan will keep an individual feeling healthy and provide the proper nutrients. Eating vegetables, whole grains, fruits and limiting fat, sugar, and caffeine can boost mood. Depression can cause fatigue, disrupt standard sleep patterns, and lower a person’s energy. A diet with good nutrition can boost energy levels, elevate mood, and benefit physical health.

A person diagnosed with hypothyroidism should avoid foods high in soy protein because significant amounts of soy can hinder the absorption of thyroid hormones. They should avoid too much iodine because it could interfere with thyroid hormone levels. Maintaining a healthy diet makes you feel good and helps the digestive system run efficiently. Good nutrition also keeps your heart strong and promotes a healthy metabolism.

Treatment for Hypothyroidism and Depression

Blood tests can measure thyroid function and determine a hypothyroidism diagnosis. Hypothyroidism is treatable, and thyroid replacement therapy can be tailored to each individual’s needs. Hypothyroidism treatment also depends on a person’s age, medical history, and other factors. At Achieve Concierge, we perform an in-depth patient assessment to develop a custom treatment plan for each patient. 

Treatment is available for depression and commonly includes medication, psychotherapy, light therapy, and exercise. If you or a loved one struggles with hypothyroidism or symptoms of depression, it is best to seek professional help.

 

Hypothyroidism shares some similarities with symptoms of depression, but both require treatment specific to each condition. If you suspect you may be struggling with depression or hypothyroidism, it is best to seek professional help. Our caring and knowledgeable staff at Achieve Concierge wants you to feel comfortable and tailor a treatment plan based on your specific needs. We work as a team to help you identify strategies to manage mental health symptoms so you can live a happy, healthy, and fulfilling life. We deliver a personalized plan so you can focus on achieving total wellness that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. Achieve Concierge provides psychiatric services and care, neuropsychology, adult and child psychology, naturopathic care, yoga instruction, and many other professionals and clinical services. We offer same-day appointments in person, as well as telemedicine appointments. For more information on the services Achieve Concierge can provide you, call us today at (858) 221-0344.