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Risks Associated with Self-Medication with Benzodiazepines

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Most mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and others are treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both. When a person does not seek help from a trained medical professional, they are at increased risk of symptoms worsening. Someone may turn to using substances, such as benzodiazepines, to ease their symptoms. Self-medication is never recommended and poses significant health risks, such as developing a substance use disorder (SUD). 

What Are Benzodiazepines?

People who suffer from mental health disorders are sometimes prescribed benzodiazepines (benzos) to reduce symptoms. Benzos are a class of medication used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. They work to calm or sedate a person by raising the level of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA, in the brain. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, common benzos include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), and clonazepam (Klonopin), among others.  

Medication should always be taken exactly as prescribed. When people self-medicate, they get temporary relief rather than a long-term solution to managing mental health problems. People self-medicate as an immediate fix to cope with mental health issues but increase the risk of developing an addiction to benzos.  

Effects of Self-Medicating with Benzos

Benzos provide an immediate, calming effect. If a person self-medicates with benzos, they risk developing a dependence on them, leading to serious health complications, overdose, and death. The combination of tolerance and dependence makes it hard to quit without medical treatment.

Just like alcohol, benzos can cause blackouts. A person does not need to be addicted to benzos to experience a blackout. A blackout is anterograde amnesia and prevents the brain from forming new memories. When a person has a blackout, its risk of occurring again increases.

Benzos are very effective and work quickly but can also be addictive. When people get medication without a prescription, they often do not know how much to take or what other substances may be added to the drug. In an article for the METRO (2017), Katie Baillie and Caroline Westbrook wrote that Lil Peep, a rapper, died from taking six Xanax laced with fentanyl. CBS NEWS reported in 2016 that Prince died with extremely high levels of fentanyl in his system, which is a cheap synthetic opioid that is about 100 times more potent than morphine. Fentanyl is commonly found in fake Xanax bars.

A fake Xanax bar is a tablet that looks like Xanax but is a deadly combination of Xanax and fentanyl. To avoid the possibility of an overdose or early death, people who are addicted to benzos must get treatment for addiction and any underlying mental health disorders as a dual diagnosis.

Healthy Ways to Cope with Mental Health Disorders

Some mental health disorders can affect everyday responsibilities and activities. They can also interfere with relationships with loved ones, cause extreme fatigue, and lead to a lack of nutrition. When struggling with mental illness, it can become difficult for you to participate in activities you once enjoyed and cause social isolation. Using drugs or alcohol to self-medicate is not recommended and can have deadly consequences.

There are healthy ways to cope with symptoms of mental health challenges. Exercise is a great physical activity that releases endorphins that can relieve stress and anxiety, improve self-esteem, and enhance overall well-being. If possible, exercise outdoors when the weather is nice. Being outside and in the sunshine can improve mood and mental health.

Meditation is a deep breathing exercise that promotes mindfulness and allows more oxygen into the bloodstream, which increases brain health. Maintaining a healthy diet will also balance physical and mental health. 

Overcoming Mental Health Challenges

Mental health challenges can make you feel helpless, hopeless, and alone. Most are treatable with a combination of therapy and prescription medication. Mental health and SUDs often co-occur and must be treated simultaneously as a dual diagnosis. Do not be afraid or ashamed to ask for help.

At Achieve Concierge, we take a holistic approach to treatment that focuses on healing your mind, body, and spirit for complete wellness in a healthy lifestyle. Each person can react differently to treatment, so our expert clinicians will perform a comprehensive health assessment to develop a treatment plan that works best for you. We will help you restore mental and physical wellness by exploring healthy ways to balance your mental health symptoms.

Our professional team will monitor your progress in your individualized mental health treatment program and can adjust treatment as needed. We want to help you feel stable and improve your quality of life. We will ensure you have the tools to effectively manage mental health symptoms to enjoy a fulfilling, healthy, rejuvenated lifestyle.

 

Self-medication for a mental health disorder is not safe and is never recommended. When you use substances to cope with mental health symptoms, you run the risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD), health complications, overdose, and even death. At Achieve Concierge, we offer a comprehensive health plan for youth and adults to tailor to your needs. Our members experience a continuum of care that addresses healing for the mind, body, and spirit. We work closely with our patients to develop the best options to manage mental health symptoms. We offer mental health services that can help ease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. We do not want you to wait for help, so we offer same-day, in-person appointments. We can also provide appointments via telemedicine. Achieve Concierge wants to help you by determining the best course of action to restore your total health. To learn more about our treatment plans, contact us today at (858) 221-0344.

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How to Cope With Multiple Mental Illnesses

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Mental illness can affect every aspect of your life and make daily responsibilities very challenging. It can cause disruptive sleep patterns, low job performance, and poor eating habits. When you have a mental illness, you can feel extreme fatigue and lose interest in activities you once enjoyed. While many people struggle with mental health problems, it is possible to be diagnosed with multiple mental illnesses, making coping with symptoms very difficult.

A mental illness, also sometimes known as a mental health disorder, is a condition that affects your mood, behavior, and thinking. Some mental illnesses may occur short-term, and others can be chronic. A diagnosis of two or more mental health disorders is known as a co-morbid condition.

Different Types of Mental Illnesses

Mental illnesses are more common than most people think, affecting one in five adults in the U.S. each year. Some mental health disorders can be severe and, in some cases, life-threatening. There are different types of mental illnesses, with some being more common than others.

Anxiety disorders make you feel intense fear that can prevent you from performing daily activities. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, anxiety disorders are a common mental health condition that affects more than 40 million adults in the U.S. Many children are also affected by anxiety disorders.

There are five major types of anxiety disorders:

  1. Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
  2. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  3. Panic disorder
  4. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  5. Social anxiety disorder

Anxiety disorders can vary in severity for each individual. People who have general anxiety may experience a wide range of symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, restlessness, fast breathing, or rapid heart rate. Although anxiety disorders can be challenging, they are treatable.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic mental illness that makes a person experience recurring episodes of mania and depression that can last from one day to months. Bipolar causes dramatic shifts in mood and energy and can affect work or school productivity and performance.

The Mayo Clinic describes four types of bipolar:

  1. Bipolar I: characterized by having at least one manic episode preceded or followed by hypomanic or major depressive episodes. Sometimes, mania can trigger psychosis.
  2. Bipolar II: classified by a series of depressive and hypomanic episodes
  3. Cyclothymic disorder: periods of hypomanic and depressive symptoms lasting at least two years
  4. Unspecified bipolar disorder: bipolar disorder symptoms that do not fit into the other bipolar categories

During manic episodes of bipolar, a person can feel energized and require less sleep. A manic episode can cause a person to lose their appetite, talk fast about many different things, and engage in risky behavior. Depressive episodes can cause a person to feel down and empty. They can also disrupt sleep patterns, lead to poor concentration, and cause a person to lose interest in activities. Many people who suffer from bipolar have other mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorder, substance use disorder (SUD), eating disorder, or ADHD.  

Major depressive disorder is a common and severe mental health disorder that negatively affects many parts of a person’s life. Depression causes intense and debilitating feelings of sadness with a loss of interest in daily activities. Many people who suffer from major depressive disorder also struggle with other mental health disorders. According to the American Psychiatric Association, depression is among the most treatable mental illnesses. On average, 80-90% of people with depression respond well to treatment, and almost all patients gain some relief from the symptoms. The most common co-occurring mental illness with major depressive disorder is an anxiety disorder. Approximately five to nine percent of the general adult population has an anxiety and depression diagnosis.

Healthy Ways to Cope With Mental Illness

Although some mental illnesses can disrupt many aspects of your life, there are healthy ways to cope with symptoms. Exercise is a natural way to relieve stress and anxiety, improve self-esteem, and enhance well-being through the release of endorphins. Maintaining a healthy diet will also help improve overall health. Regular exercise and healthy eating can help o regulate sleep patterns, lower cholesterol, and increase brain function.

While taking care of your physical body is essential, it is also crucial to take care of your spirit. Take time to engage in self-care activities, such as reading, journaling, gardening, and more. By taking care of yourself, you aim to replenish your soul and care for yourself on a deeper level. Taking the time to connect to yourself can also include meditation and yoga. 

It is also essential to reach out for help when you need it. Keeping in contact with a healthy support system of family and friends can help individuals share their feelings with people they trust. Sometimes, letting out our emotions gives us some relief. You should also not be afraid to seek professional help if you need it. Treating comorbid mental health disorders can be challenging, and a medical professional can help you find the best treatment plan that fits your needs.

 

Many people suffer from more than one mental illness at once. Multiple diagnoses are treatable, and Achieve Concierge offers a comprehensive health plan that we can tailor to fit your needs. We work with our patients to develop the best strategy to manage mental health symptoms. Our panel of expert clinicians is prepared to create the best treatment path just for you. Our members experience a continuum of care that addresses healing for the mind, body, and spirit. Achieve Concierge offers mental health services for children and adults to ease anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. We take your mental health very seriously, so we offer same-day, in-person appointments so you can get help quickly and effectively. We can also provide appointments via telemedicine. We want to help you by determining the best course of action to restore your overall health. Discover more about our treatment options and call Achieve Concierge today at (858) 221-0344.

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Getting Past the Stigma of Mental Illness

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Many people suffer from mental illness and hesitate to seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental health. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five people in the U.S. is affected by a mental health disorder. However, the stigma surrounding mental illness makes it difficult for some people to ask for help.

Effects of the Stigma Surrounding Mental Illness

There are harmful effects associated with the stigma of mental illness that can make symptoms worse. People who have a mental illness can feel hopeless, helpless, and alone, and stigma can have a negative impact on recovery. Common effects caused by the stigma of mental illness can include:

  • Discrimination
  • Hopelessness
  • Lowered self-esteem
  • Worsening psychiatric symptoms
  • Problems with social relationships
  • Difficulties at work or school
  • Difficulty performing daily tasks
  • Social isolation
  • Bullying or harassment

People may avoid seeking treatment because they fear being treated differently due to the stigma of mental illness. The stigma comes from a lack of understanding and misleading information about mental health disorders.

Self-Stigma of Mental Illness

Self-stigma occurs when people internalize public attitudes about mental health disorders and suffer various negative consequences as a result. A way to challenging self-stigma is to promote personal empowerment. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, NIH, “One way to do this is through disclosure, the strategic decision to let others know about one’s struggle towards recovery.”

When a person internalizes the public stigma of mental illness, they can experience adverse emotional reactions, such as low self-esteem and poor self-assurance. Internalizing a mental health disorder can make a person socially isolated, affecting relationships with others. Self-stigma in the form of self-isolation has many harmful effects on a person’s health, well-being, and quality of life. 

Stigma may cause a person to feel ashamed of something entirely out of their control. Most fear that comes from others is due to lack of knowledge despite mental health disorders being the most common health conditions in the U.S. More than 50% of the population will be diagnosed with a mental illness at some point in their lifetime.

Ways to Help Manage Mental Health

If you suffer from mental health symptoms, there are ways to help you get past the stigma of mental illness:

    • Get treatment. Admitting you might need help for a mental health condition can be difficult, but medication and treatment can be tailored to your specific needs to restore total health.
    • Never feel ashamed. Do not let the stigma of mental illness refrain you from getting help. Anyone can develop a mental health disorder at any time. Learn about your symptoms. Mental illness does not equate to personal weakness.
    • Do not use drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. Using drugs or alcohol can increase the symptoms of mental health disorders and are destructive to your mental, physical, and emotional health. Using substances to cope can increase the risk of developing substance use disorder (SUD) or other serious health complications, such as heart attack, liver failure, overdose, and death.
    • Join a support group. There are support groups and forums for mental health, and some are for specific disorders. Support groups are a great way to meet others who experience similar mental health symptoms. Listening to others’ experience may also help you create new ways to cope with symptoms. 
    • Do not isolate yourself. Surround yourself with supportive, encouraging people.
  • Practice self-care. Setting time aside to do things you enjoy can help restore spiritual well-being. You may want to consider journaling, reading, gardening, or any other activities you enjoy.
  • Practice good exercise and nutrition. Staying active with exercise regularly can help improve overall health. Exercise helps boost the production of the brain’s feel-good hormones and transmitters, known as endorphins. It also improves sleep, decreases anxiety, and increases energy. Eating nutritious food can make you feel good too. Both exercise and healthy eating can also improve your self-esteem. 

Mental Health Treatment is Available

Mental health challenges can make you feel isolated, helpless, and hopeless while interfering with many aspects of your daily life. Some symptoms of mental illnesses can make it difficult to go to work, attend school, and maintain relationships with family and friends. The feelings can be intense and debilitating. Mental illness can disrupt activities you once enjoyed participating in and cause extreme fatigue. Sadly, the stigma of mental illness prevents many people from getting the help they need.

At Achieve Concierge, we take a holistic approach to treatment for healing the mind, body, and spirit for total wellness. We offer comprehensive mental health services that can include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), psychotherapy, and mindfulness. Sometimes, a patient may need medication and life coaching. Our expert medical clinicians will explore treatment options that work best for your needs. We monitor your mental health treatment program’s progress and ensure you can safely manage your mental health symptoms.

 

Many people suffer from mental health symptoms and hesitate to get help due to the stigma and prejudice surrounding mental illness. At Achieve Concierge, we offer same-day mental health services so patients can get help in a timely and effective manner. We work with you to help you find ways to manage your mental health symptoms. Our team of dedicated and professional clinicians is prepared to develop the best treatment plan for you. Each person who suffers from mental health symptoms can respond differently to treatment. At Achieve Concierge, we offer youth and adult mental health services to help ease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders so you can have balance in your overall health. Appointments with our clinicians can be made in-person or via telemedicine. We want to help you by determining the best course of action to improve your quality of life. To discover more about our services, call Achieve Concierge at (858) 221-0344.

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Preparing for the Anniversary of a Traumatic Event

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People who have survived trauma may feel like they relive the feelings of extreme sadness, depression, and anxiety on the anniversary of the traumatic event. The anniversary of a traumatic event can invoke intense feelings and emotions associated with the trauma. Some people even struggle with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can be overwhelming and take control of physical, mental, and spiritual health.

Everyone reacts and heals differently to trauma. Sometimes, a psychological reaction to different senses can occur that reminds a person of the trauma, such as a particular sound, smell, or season. Reliving the feelings is normal and a natural reaction to the healing process, but sometimes the intensity of the emotions can make it difficult for a person to function at work, school, or home.

What Can Happen?

Anniversary dates of traumatic events can reactivate thoughts and feelings from the actual event, and survivors may experience anxiety and depression. Around the anniversary of a traumatic event, people are likely to remember events clearly, and many will feel emotions more intensely than usual. Reliving the sadness is a very natural part of the healing process. However, there is no one right way to heal. Try not to compare your reactions to those of others. Each person is different, and each individual will find their own way of coping with the memories.

Anniversary Reactions

Anniversary reactions can occur on the anniversary of the date the traumatic event happened – the date itself triggers the memory. For example, the anniversary of the September 11, 2001 attacks were labeled with the date on which they occurred (9/11), linking the date directly to the traumatic event. A traumatic memory can hold onto the information that causes one to be afraid of certain people, places, or things associated with the traumatic event.

People who have PTSD sometimes have flashbacks of the events repeatedly. They may avoid certain places or people and can be easily startled and have angry outbursts. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, NIH, people with PTSD may have an increased risk of coronary heart disease and possibly thromboembolic stroke.

A traumatic event’s anniversary can trigger a distressing memory that produces intense feelings, emotions, physiological reactions, negative thoughts about the world, and protective coping responses. Traumatic memories contain specific information about an event’s seriousness to help people seek safety and protect themselves from similar harm. The memory provides information about what the person should be afraid of, how they should perceive such situations, how to feel in that situation, and what to think.

Mental health is significant to study in the context of disasters – often in such events as 9/11, loved ones are lost suddenly, horrifically, and unexpectedly. Some of the reactions those affected may experience as the anniversary date nears include difficulty concentrating, loss of appetite, irritable outbursts, nightmares, difficulty falling or staying asleep, and feelings of detachment from others.

Coping With the Anniversary of a Traumatic Event

The anniversary of a traumatic event or loss can be a time of reflection and can be seen as an opportunity for a person to look back and recognize how far they have come. It can be a time to recognize and appreciate family, friends, and loved ones who supported them throughout the healing process. You may want to consider the following to help you cope with the anniversary of a traumatic event:

  • Prepare for the anniversary in advance. Make plans for healthy distractions.
  • Memorialize the loss of a loved one. When appropriate, make a specific plan related to your loss or traumatic event. 
  • Remind yourself the feelings are temporary. The distressing symptoms of the anniversary should disperse over time.
  • Understand symptoms can appear on other dates at any time. Mental health conditions can worsen on holidays, during winter months, and even birthdays.
  • Find support and ask for help. Do not be ashamed to ask for help and seek treatment, even many years after the traumatic event or loss.

Mental Health Treatment is Available

Everyone copes with tragedy and trauma differently. While some thoughts, emotions, and feelings can be very troubling, it helps to know these reactions are expected after a traumatic event. Sometimes, people have these strong feelings for weeks or months later. Working through trauma takes time and requires physical, emotional, and spiritual healing.

At Achieve Concierge, we take a holistic approach to total wellness. We offer same-day access to mental health services so you can collaborate with our medical clinicians to explore treatment options for mental health disorder symptoms without delay. We monitor your progress in our mental health treatment program and ensure you can safely manage your mental health symptoms. We work with you to develop the best treatment plan based on your unique needs to deliver the best results.

 

Preparing for a traumatic event’s anniversary can help you cope with strong feelings and emotions associated with the trauma or loss. With Achieve Concierge’s same-day mental health services, individuals can get instant help to find ways to manage their mental health symptoms. We want to help you find ways to cope with your symptoms, and our team of dedicated clinicians is prepared to develop the best treatment plan for you. Each person who suffers from mental health symptoms responds differently to treatment. At Achieve Concierge, we offer youth and adult mental health services to help ease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders. Appointments with our providers can be made in-person or via telemedicine. We take a holistic approach to treatment and want to help by determining the best course of action to treat your mental health disorder. To discover more about our services and treatment plans, call Achieve Concierge today at (858) 221-0344.

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Remote Learning and Its Effects on Mental Health

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The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted many of us who now work remotely. The pandemic has also led to remote learning for our school-aged children and young adults who attend college. Some areas around the country closed schools in March 2020 and have not opened since then. While following COVID-19 protocols is necessary, the absence of being in a school surrounded by peers is taking a toll on our children’s mental health.

The Social Impact of Remote Learning on Children

The shift from in-person to remote learning has been challenging for many children and young adults. Being in school and learning in a classroom setting is more practical for academic and social development. Attending virtual classes has made many kids feel isolated, alone, and even scared. For children who already have mental health complications, remote learning can increase depression and anxiety.

Many children rely on schools for mental and behavioral health services. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), before COVID-19, an estimated one in five U.S. children experienced a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder. These included anxiety, depression, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and disruptive behavioral disorders. However, only about 20% of children receive care from a specialized mental health provider. Without access to these services, mental health conditions and behavioral disorders can worsen.

Many children and adolescents cannot participate in extracurricular activities, such as sports and clubs, with school closures. Many kids will not attend events, including prom, school fairs, or school field trips. For many others, school meals may be the only meal they receive throughout the day. Some could be home alone during the day as parents leave for work.

The social impact of remote learning on children can be devastating. Teachers who were able to identify whether a child is abused or neglected at home might have a more difficult time reaching that observation in an online classroom. Mental health can rapidly decline, putting a child at risk of self-harm, depression, and anxiety.  

Mental Health Conditions

Depression is debilitating and can make you feel alone, tired, and unmotivated. When children suffer from depression, they can become withdrawn or show physical symptoms, such as aches and pains. Some of the symptoms of depression in children include:

  • Loss of interest
  • Problems concentrating
  • Changes in sleep patterns
  • Increase or decrease in appetite
  • Aggression or angry outbursts
  • Hopelessness
  • Low self-esteem
  • Talking about death

Some symptoms of depression can mimic other psychiatric conditions, such as ADHD or anxiety disorders. Before 2020, there was already evidence that young people’s mental health problems were increasing. The 12-month prevalence of a major depressive disorder in U.S. adolescents increased from 8.7% in 2005 to 11.3% in 2014.

Staying energized and motivated in a distance-learning model can be very challenging. Younger children who need supervision can quickly get distracted and not perform well in an online environment. Teens and older children miss socializing with friends as they usually would before the pandemic. Remote learning can make kids feel disconnected and anxious about their future in an educational environment.

Anyone can develop a mental health disorder or behavioral problem. Teens and adolescents who struggle with mental health issues are at high risk of turning to drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms. Drug and alcohol use can lead to a substance use disorder (SUD). Certain drugs and alcohol can worsen mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety. Using substances to cope can cause serious health risks, including heart attack, liver failure, overdose, or death.

Ways to Improve Mental Health

Remote learning can make kids less active than they usually would be if they were attending school in-person. Inactivity and sitting still for long periods throughout the day can be difficult, especially for kids who struggle with ADHD. Parents can encourage their children to use time n between classes to stand up, walk around, and go outside for some fresh air if weather permits.

Physical activity can significantly improve a child’s mental health. Young people who exercise regularly have lower levels of depression, stress, psychological distress, higher levels of a positive self-image, life satisfaction, and psychological well-being. Regular exercise and staying active can also improve behavior, including those with behavioral disorders, such as ADHD. 

Youth Mental Health Services

The COVID-19 pandemic impacts young children and teens, and remote learning makes them susceptible to feeling isolated, putting them at risk of developing mental health complications. If left untreated, these symptoms can worsen or last well into adulthood.

Youth mental health services are available at Achieve Concierge. They can include medication, psychotherapy, or both to help a child or teen who experiences depression, anxiety, and other mental health symptoms. Also, alternative therapies like music or art therapy, meditation, deep breathing, and other relaxation techniques may be used as part of a mood disorder treatment program for a child or teen.

If social isolation and remote learning affect your child or teen, do not hesitate to ask for help. At Achieve Concierge, we want to help your child or teen find ways to cope with the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our team of dedicated professionals can help identify a treatment plan based on your child’s needs.

 

Remote learning for children and young adolescents has been necessary for some parts of the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Isolation and distance learning can significantly impact academic and social development, which can increase f anxiety and depression symptoms. We can help your child or teen find ways to cope, and our team of clinicians is dedicated to developing the best option for your child’s needs. Each child who struggles with mental health symptoms responds differently to treatment. At Achieve Concierge, we offer youth mental health services to help ease anxiety and depression. We offer same-day appointments in person, and appointments with all our providers can be made via telemedicine. We take a holistic approach to treatment and want to help by determining the best course of action to treat your child’s mental health symptoms. To find out more about our services and treatment plans, call Achieve Concierge at (858) 221-0344.

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How is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Different from Generalized Anxiety Disorder?

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Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a type of anxiety disorder that causes a person to experience uncontrollable and recurring thoughts or behaviors, even when they know they are excessive. While some thoughts and behaviors related to OCD are anxiety-induced, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) causes a person to worry without engaging in obsessive or compulsive behaviors to cope.

The main differences between OCD and GAD depend on three criteria: the content of anxiety, the adhesiveness of thoughts, and if compulsive behavior is involved. OCD and GAD can significantly interfere with a person’s daily responsibilities, work or school performance, and relationships. 

How OCD Can Affect a Person’s Life

When a person who suffers from OCD tries to stop their obsessive behavior or compulsions, feelings of distress and anxiety can increase, heightening the urge to perform the obsession or compulsive behavior, which amplifies anxiety. The impulsive feelings keep coming back and can lead to more ritualistic behavior. According to the Mayo Clinic, “OCD, usually considered a lifelong disorder, can have mild to moderate symptoms or be so severe and time-consuming that it becomes disabling.”

Some obsessive symptoms can include:

  • Fear of germs
  • Urge to have things orderly and neat
  • Aggressive and unwanted thoughts
  • Intense stress when objects are not orderly or facing a certain way
  • Strong desire to follow a strict routine or ritual
  • Need to check and re-check, such as locking doors or turning off stove
  • Excessive hand washing or cleaning

OCD symptoms can worsen with increased stress. An individual with OCD might turn to drugs or alcohol to relieve symptoms, increasing the risk of developing a substance use disorder (SUD). 

What Causes OCD?

OCD leads to repeated, continuous, and redundant thoughts, urges, or intrusive images and causes anguish or anxiety. Symptoms vary in severity and can begin in early childhood. Routines and rituals are normal and can help stabilize a child’s expectations and worldview; however, when a child has OCD, obsessive thoughts and compulsive habits become severe and interfere with daily activities, relationships, and typical development.

The exact cause of OCD is unknown; however, OCD tends to run in families; it can be caused by genetics. In some cases, streptococcal, a type of bacteria, can lead to infections and may trigger OCD or make it worse. 

OCD is a brain problem that results from not having enough serotonin in the brain. Individuals who were emotionally, physically, or sexually abused or experienced other trauma are susceptible to OCD. Anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges and substance use disorders are also linked to OCD.

How GAD Can Affect a Person’s Life

Anxiety is normal. It helps us get out of harm’s way and prepare for important events. It warns us when we need to take action. However, if you have persistent, irrational, and overwhelming anxiety that interferes with daily activities, you may have an anxiety disorder.

People with GAD experience persistent, excessive, and unrealistic worries that go on every day, possibly all day. They feel it’s beyond their control. People with GAD also often expect the worst, even when there is no reason for any concern. Their worrying occurs on more days than not for at least six months and often concerns health, family, money, or work. The exaggerated, unrelenting worrying interferes with everyday living. Physical symptoms often accompany it and include restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping or concentrating. However, despite the anxiety, those who suffer from GAD do not engage in obsessive and compulsive behavior. 

GAD can affect all areas of life, including social, work, school, and family. According to a national survey conducted by the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, seven out of ten people with GAD agreed their chronic anxiety impacted their relations with spouses or significant others. Two-thirds also reported that GAD harmed their friendships.

What Causes GAD?

The exact cause for GAD is unknown. Scientists believe that biological factors, family background, and life experiences are all involved. Stress can also play a factor in developing GAD. Even the stress of positive events, such as buying a new house, can trigger symptoms in those predisposed to the disorder. 

Treatment for OCD and GAD

A doctor may prescribe medication, or the patient may need a combination of different types of psychotherapy, medication, or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to effectively treat OCD symptoms. OCD can co-occur with other mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and SUD. 

At Achieve Concierge, our clinicians may recommend a combination of CBT, mindfulness exercises, medications, and other therapies to treat GAD. In doing so, we help our patients discover the best ways to manage their anxiety symptoms.

 

A well-balanced, healthy lifestyle can help ease symptoms of anxiety and OCD-related compulsions and fear. OCD and GAD can interfere with work or school performance, interrupt relationships, and negatively impact home life. OCD and GAD are treatable, and most people benefit from medication, psychotherapy, and CBT. Our compassionate medical staff at Achieve Concierge is dedicated to the best option for your needs. At Achieve Concierge, we offer treatment to help you manage obsessive thoughts and compulsions. We offer same-day appointments in person and telemedicine appointments if you prefer to stay at home due to COVID-19 protocols. We take a holistic approach to treatment and believe in treating you as a whole person. Our members experience a continuum of care that addresses not only healing for the mind but the body and spirit as well. We want to help you determine the best course of action to treat your OCD or GAD symptoms. To discover more about our services, call us at (858) 221-0344.

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How Bullying Can Affect Mental Health

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Bullying can severely affect a person’s mental health. It can happen to anyone, anywhere, and anytime. Bullying often occurs among kids in school, on the bus, or in the playground. The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many schools to remain closed, and children participate in online distance learning. As a result, stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression are increased due to the absence of in-person socialization, the inability to gather with extended family and friends, and the uncertainty of future events and learning. 

According to the American Psychological Association, “Bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. Bullying can take the form of physical contact, words, or more subtle actions.” A person who is bullied often has difficulty defending themself against the aggressor. 

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is the act of using technology to send or share mean, intimidating, harmful, or embarrassing messages or pictures to or about someone. Kids and teens are targeted online through social media apps, text messages, and chat rooms. Cyber-bullying victims are often bullied, harassed, and intimidated through posts and comments on social media platforms.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in kids using multiple digital platforms for online learning and other educational purposes. Cyberbullying has been around for a long time, but now kids are more stressed and prone to boredom, so there is a greater risk of becoming victims of cyberbullying. With the increased use of smartphones and social media, students who bully others are likely to cyberbully.

Effects of Bullying On Students

Bullying has a severe impact on a student’s ability to learn. Students who are bullied have trouble with concentration, which shows a decline in grades. A bullied student may lose self-esteem, self-confidence, and self-worth. They may even be at high risk of substance use disorders and addiction due to using drugs or alcohol to cope.

Bullying or harassment at school or work can put a person at high risk of health problems. A student who is bullied is at risk of physical issues, such as headaches, stomachaches, and sleep disruption. Bullying can be devastating and can contribute to the development of heart problems due to the high level of stress the body is continually enduring.

Bullying can also lead to behavioral changes. The victim might act out and become aggressive and unreasonable, may develop mood swings, and become hostile or withdrawn and isolated. Bullying affects appetite and can result in weight loss or weight gain.

Kids Who Bully Others

A kid who bullies others may lack attention from a parent at home. This can include neglected children, children of divorced parents, or children with parents under the regular influence of drugs or alcohol. Kids who bully might engage in violent, spontaneous, and risky behaviors into adulthood.

According to Denis Sukhodolsky, Ph.D., an associate professor in the Yale Child Study Center, bullies are “impaired in their ability to perceive another person’s distress.” These kids tend to have difficulties with anger management and aggression, and many have had life experiences that most likely contribute to their behavior.

Kids who bully are at high risk of:

  • Using drugs and alcohol in adolescence and as adults
  • Getting into fights, vandalizing property, and poor school performance
  • Engaging in early sexual activity
  • Having criminal convictions and traffic citations as adults 
  • Becoming abusive toward their partners, spouses, or children as adults

Adult Bullying

Bullying also happens to adults. Bullying manifests into behaviors like verbal abuse, sabotaging work and relationships, and misusing authority. Verbal bullying refers to words that harm others, such as name-calling, insults, sexual or discriminatory comments, teasing, intimidation, and taunting. Forms of adult bullying can include:

  • Verbal abuse
  • Threats
  • Humiliation
  • Gaslighting
  • Ostracism or isolation
  • Intimidation
  • Sabotage
  • Reputation damage due to rumors

Mental Health Services

Bullying can have a significant impact on the lives of victims and their mental health. Victims of bullying may experience PTSD, depression, anxiety, and in some cases, suicidal ideation. Children who experience a mental health disorder may have difficulty coping and engaging in daily activities. They may show signs of negative moods, disruptive sleep patterns, and frequent bouts of anger.

A mental health disorder can affect school performance and make it hard for children to find activities they can enjoy. Some youth mental health disorders may cause excessive worrying and anxiety accompanied by nightmares. They may also engage in aggressive behavior and spend extended periods in isolation.

Fortunately, child mental health services are available and can help kids cope with depression, anxiety, ADHD, or other mental health disorders. Adult mental health services are also available and can be tailored to each individual’s unique needs. If you or a loved one is suffering from a mental health disorder, get help today.

 

Bullying among children and adults can create or worsen mental health disorders. As someone is continuously taunted, they may experience depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Bullies may also have a mental illness, as the most likely cause of bullying is home life problems. Mental health disorders can make it challenging to engage in everyday activities. The COVID-19 pandemic may also be stressful for people. At Achieve Concierge, you can receive individualized support to cope with the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. If you or a loved one is a victim of bullying or cyberbullying and suffering from a mental health condition, do not wait to get help. The stigma surrounding mental health prevents some people from seeking help. We believe in treating the person as a whole with a holistic approach that encompasses the mind, body, and spirit. We offer same-day appointments, Telemedicine, and at-home appointments. For more information about our services, call (858) 221-0344.

stress

How to Cope With Depression and Anxiety During the Holidays

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“We can all help prevent suicide. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 1-800-273-8255.”

Many people struggle to cope with depression and anxiety, especially during the holidays. The holiday season is a time of year when you get together with family and friends, laugh, have fun, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Unfortunately, this time of the year can bring a lot of pain and suffering for those who struggle with depression and anxiety. The isolation enforced by the COVID-19 pandemic makes those feelings even more unbearable and intense, as we are unable to gather and celebrate with our loved ones.

What is Depression?

Depression is more than sadness – it is debilitating and makes you feel alone, tired, and unable to participate in normal daily activities. Depression is a heaviness that makes you feel like you’re suffocating, and you cannot breathe. It disrupts eating habits, sleep patterns, can increase symptoms of anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

Depression impacts about 7% of the U.S. population age 18 and older in a given year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 2 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with depression. The symptoms of depression are challenging to cope with and often interfere with a person’s ability to enjoy life to the fullest.

Treatment For Depression

There are different modalities of treatment for depression. Treatments include medications, psychotherapy, light therapy, and exercise. Medicines for treating depression involve using an antidepressant, anti-anxiety, or antipsychotic drug to manage symptoms. Psychotherapy treatment involves a mental health counselor to discuss symptoms of depression and ways to cope with them.

Light therapy helps some patients who struggle with depression to improve their mood and sometimes is used to treat Seasonal Affective Disorder, which is a form of depression related to the reduced sunlight during the colder winter months. Exercise is a natural, healthy way to increase the body’s production of endorphins, which significantly reduces symptoms of depression.

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is more than feeling anxious or scared. Anxiety is the body’s response to stress and a feeling of despair and fear beyond a person’s control. It interferes with daily activities and can impair a person’s ability to work, go to school, and form new relationships. Anxiety can produce unrealistic feelings of hopelessness, obscurity, and insecurity.

There are several different forms of anxiety disorders:

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder
  • Panic Disorder
  • Phobia
  • Social Anxiety Disorder
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Separation Anxiety Disorder
  • Seasonal Anxiety Disorder

Risk Factors For Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety can be linked to genetics, brain chemistry, and environmental factors. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, each type of anxiety disorder’s risk factors can vary. Still, there are some general risk factors for all kinds of anxiety disorders, which include:

  • Temperamental traits of shyness or behavioral inhibition in childhood
  • Exposure to stressful and negative life or environmental events in early childhood or adulthood
  • A history of anxiety or other mental illnesses in biological relatives
  • Some physical health conditions, such as thyroid problems or heart arrhythmias, or caffeine or other substances/medications, can produce or aggravate anxiety symptoms; a physical health examination is helpful in the evaluation of a possible anxiety disorder

Many people experience a wide range of symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, rapid heart rate, and heavy breathing. Some anxiety disorders can induce an anxiety or panic attack, marked by an overwhelming fear or dread.

How to Cope With Anxiety Disorders

Unrealistic expectations, financial pressure, and excessive commitments can all contribute to holiday stress and anxiety. Poorly managed holiday stress can cause headaches, overeating, and insomnia. A lack of adequate social support, recent trauma, or co-occurring illness can make it hard to manage. Still, there are ways to cope with anxiety orders, especially during the holidays.

Anxiety disorders are usually treated with psychotherapy, medication, or both. Set realistic goals and expectations, reach out to family and friends for help, and find inexpensive ways to enjoy yourself. Share family responsibilities, limit commitments, and take time for self-care. Proper nutrition, daily exercise, and meditation are all healthy ways to cope with anxiety disorders.

Treatment is Available

Symptoms of depression and anxiety can worsen during the holidays. Isolation due to COVID-19 can also amplify depression and anxiety. Treatment is available, and at Achieve Concierge, we take a mind, body, spirit approach to treatment and help our patients discover the best ways to manage their depression and anxiety symptoms.

 

Depression and anxiety can increase during the holidays and can make you feel afraid and alone. Isolation due to COVID-19 can also worsen depression and anxiety symptoms as you experience feelings of boredom and isolation. This holiday season, ensure that you are taking care of yourself. Self-care is essential to the recovery process and managing the difficulties of mental health. You may want to consider setting boundaries with family, watching what you spend on gifts, and share family responsibilities with others. If your anxiety and depression seem unmanageable during this holiday season, you may want to consider seeking professional help. Sometimes, the stigma of mental health disorders prevents us from getting the help we so desperately need. At Achieve Concierge, we make you feel comfortable and offer same-day appointments with our caring and dedicated staff. We also offer telemedicine appointments if you prefer. For more information about our services and treatment modalities, call (858) 221-0344.

selfcare

What is Self-Care in Recovery?

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Self-care can get lost when you are in the throes of a mental health challenge and can make you feel more depressed, tired, and unforgiving of yourself. Physical, mental, and spiritual health can suffer when you are actively struggling with addiction. Self-care in recovery means you change unhealthy behaviors for new healthier ones. For example, a healthy diet, exercise, and spiritual wellness encompass healthy habits and self-care behavior in recovery.

Addiction and Mental Health Disorders

Addiction can affect your relationships with loved ones, your financial status, and your daily activities. It can be hard to ask for help due to the stigma surrounding addiction and mental health. Most addictions stem from underlying mental health problems. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA), a 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 7.9 million adults had co-occurring disorders in 2014. During the past year, for those adults surveyed who experienced substance use disorders and mental illness, rates were highest among adults ages 26 to 49 (42.7%).

Getting help is a massive step in your journey to success in recovery. With self-care, we learn to love and forgive ourselves while maintaining a positive attitude.

Healthy Activities

You may experience a range of emotions when drinking or using substances and may sometimes feel unworthy, guilty, depressed, hopeless, and lonely. When getting treatment, you should have healthy support from family and friends who can encourage you on your lifelong journey in recovery. Healthy activities such as exercise, a well-balanced diet, interests in hobbies, reading, yoga, or sports will occupy your mind, help you cope, and remain positive.

Healthy activities will make the transition to a lifestyle without drugs more comfortable. Old habits will be replaced with new healthy ones. The mind will be preoccupied with activities, and there will be less time to focus on drugs or alcohol. Fun activities with family and friends can also be comforting and provide psychological improvements.

Healing the Mind, Body, and Spirit

A lifestyle change is a commitment to self-care. Holistic treatment helps you understand why you became addicted to drugs or alcohol in the first place. In treatment, you will find healthy alternatives to cope without drugs or alcohol. Since addiction affects all aspects of your health, healing must encompass the mind, body, and spirit simultaneously for success in recovery. The holistic approach is successful because it focuses on healing the whole person. The body cannot heal physically without mental health and vice versa. 

Drugs and alcohol hijack our brains and fill our minds with self-doubt, negative thoughts, and the inability to reason with sound judgment. Practicing mindfulness helps us to forgive ourselves for harmful thoughts and negative emotions and be aware of our surroundings and others. Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing techniques are excellent ways to increase your mindfulness.

Healing the body means taking care of your physical health. When you maintain a well-balanced diet, your body will have a healthy response to treatment. Eating unhealthy foods can negatively affect emotions, fatigue, and stress. A lack of adequate nutrition can impair your ability to lead an enjoyable, healthy life and increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and cancers. It can also contribute to depression and eating disorders. A healthy diet significantly reduces the risk of chronic diseases and severe health complications. (Centers for Disease Control, 2020)

Spirituality is defined as an action or feeling that makes you feel at peace or grounded. We need to find what makes us feel relaxed, grounded, and ourselves. Spiritual wellness can mean trying new things or going back to a place you felt comfort and strength to build a strong foundation. 

Self-care allows a person in recovery to treat him or herself better. The journey to lifelong recovery is very challenging and can be stressful, but it is possible. When you practice self-care, stress and anxiety will lessen, and the focus can be on getting better. 

Other Ways to Practice Self-Care

Family and friends can be supportive of your self-care. Incorporating laughter, fun, games, movies, and outings with loved ones are great self-care remedies. Meeting sober people will also ensure the focus stays more on your health rather than drugs or alcohol. Maintain your commitment to getting better, live healthier, and be patient with yourself.

It will take time to heal from addiction, substance use disorder, and mental health problems. Healthy activities will make the transition to a lifestyle without drugs or alcohol more comfortable. Replacing old habits with new healthy ones will keep your mind preoccupied with positive actions and enable useful self-care remedies.

Self-care in recovery allows you to treat yourself better. The journey to recovery is very challenging and can be stressful. When you take care of yourself, the stress and feelings of being overwhelmed will lessen, and the focus can be on you getting better.

 

Self-care is essential to the recovery process. When you take care of yourself, you allow your mind, body, and spirit to heal. Focusing on your well-being will make all the difference in your recovery journey. You may want to consider building a support system, journaling, finding hobbies you enjoy, exercising, and creating a balanced diet. Addiction is isolating, but you are not alone. The stigma of addiction and mental health disorders may prevent you from getting the help you so desperately need. At Achieve Concierge, we take a holistic approach to treatment tailored to your unique needs to heal the mind, body, and spirit. We offer same-day appointments with our caring and welcoming staff, and if you prefer, we can make at-home appointments. Take the first step to a fulfilling and healthy life in recovery. Get help and start your journey to recovery today by calling Achieve Concierge at (858) 221-0344.

ptsd

Treatment for PTSD as a First Responder

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“We can all help prevent suicide. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention, crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 1-800-273-8255.”

First responders are at high risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to their profession’s nature. They put themselves in harm’s way to protect us and provide emergency care, even in dangerous and life-threatening situations. However, treatment is available for first responders who suffer from PTSD and other mental health conditions.

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a severe mental health condition that affects a person’s wellbeing and relationships with loved ones. Many people who have PTSD will go through temporary feelings of discomfort that can get better with time and self-care. Others may experience symptoms of PTSD for months or even years.

PTSD can interfere with a person’s daily activities and cause sleep disturbances, nightmares, and flashbacks. If left untreated, PTSD can lead to substance use, addiction, or suicide. Mental health conditions and addiction can affect anyone, including first responders who are committed to helping others. The term “first responder” refers to the police, firefighters, search and rescue personnel, military, mental health workers, emergency dispatchers, and emergency and paramedical teams.

Ending the Shame Surrounding Mental Health

Shame and stigma often surround mental health within professions that symbolize bravery and toughness. A stigma is a false perception and negative attitude against someone based on a characteristic, such as mental illness, health condition, or disability. Unfortunately, many people in these professions do not seek help due to the stigma surrounding mental health.

First responders often mask their mental anguish in humor. According to the Ruderman Family Foundation, a philanthropic organization that advocates for and advances the inclusion of people with disabilities throughout our society, first responders are at higher risk of dying by suicide than in the line of duty. “In 2017, there were at least 103 firefighter suicides and 140 police officer suicides. In contrast, 93 firefighters and 129 police officers died in the line of duty.”

Everyday Stressors For First Responders

Our first responders in the police, fire, EMS, and military professions need to be ready for anything, at any time. They live with a fear that something will happen that they cannot control. The weight of the responsibility they carry can be paralyzing and debilitating. Fear sometimes needs to be buried deep within for first responders to perform their job.

The skills they have to do their job effectively need to be nurtured and continuously challenged. When a skill is learned, it needs to be re-learned at every available moment to ensure competence. There is always something new to perfect. “The training is the foundation that everything else depends upon. Having the skills to perform embedded in you through repetition helps when the real deal comes your way.” (Michael Morse, Fire Rescue 1, 2015). 

First responders mentally prepare themselves to face death, disfigurement, and disease while at work and off duty. It becomes the “norm” to them, and it eats away at their humanity and compassion. They have erratic sleep schedules and miss important events and holidays with loved ones. The feeling of impending doom and despair will always be with them, consciously or subconsciously.

Trauma-Related Substance Use

People who experience PTSD or other mental health conditions may turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate, which can result in destructive behavior, disruption with job performance, trouble with loved ones, severe health complications, and death. Individuals who experience trauma may use drugs or alcohol to:

  • Fall asleep due to disruptive sleep patterns caused by PTSD
  • Avoid traumatic memories or flashbacks
  • Forget about problems
  • Deal with mood disturbances caused by PTSD
  • Numb emotions

Substance use disorder and PTSD often co-occur and can be treated as a dual diagnosis. Those who have PTSD might have flashbacks and repeatedly relive the event. They may avoid certain places or people and can be easily startled and have angry outbursts.

Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances in individuals who develop PTSD due to its central nervous system depressant effects, availability, and acceptance across every social level. Developing PTSD is a risk factor for developing a substance use disorder or addiction. Having a pre-existing substance use problem is a risk factor for the development of PTSD.

Mental health is critical to study in the context of disasters because often in tragic events, loved ones are lost suddenly, horrifically, and unexpectedly.

Treatment For PTSD

It can be challenging to ask for help, but asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Anyone can develop symptoms of PTSD due to traumatic events. Do not let the stigma surrounding PTSD interfere with getting the help you desperately need. If you or a loved one has PTSD or other mental health conditions, make the life-saving decision to get help now.

 

Many first responders may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As they put their lives on the line and witness horrifying scenes, they can become traumatized. Suffering from the symptoms of trauma can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance use. As first responders wish to numb their emotions, forget their memories, or cure sleep disturbances caused by PTSD, they use more and more substances, creating the possibility of developing substance use disorder. First responders are more likely to die by suicide than in the line of duty to the multitude of adverse effects of PTSD. Although PTSD is a debilitating mental health disorder, it can be managed with the right medication and psychotherapy. Sometimes, the stigma of psychiatric disorders prevents people from getting the help they desperately need. At Achieve Concierge, we offer in-person appointments and even at-home services if you are more comfortable at home. Take the first step to self-care. Get help today and call (858) 221-0344.

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