Mental Health – Mind Body Optimization https://mindbodyo.com Your Single Source for Whole-Person Healing Tue, 12 Nov 2024 09:32:49 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.6.2 https://mindbodyo.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MBO-22.png Mental Health – Mind Body Optimization https://mindbodyo.com 32 32 Beyond the Bottle: Unraveling the Underlying Factors of Problem Drinking and Mental Health https://mindbodyo.com/beyond-the-bottle-unraveling-the-underlying-factors-of-problem-drinking-and-mental-health/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 20:32:41 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3595

Beyond the Bottle:
Unraveling the Underlying Factors of Problem Drinking and Mental Health

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors
Many people don’t realize that problem drinking and alcoholism are not the same. However, there are similarities between the two groups. For one thing, problem drinkers and alcoholics tend to have underlying mental health disorders concurrently with problem drinking and alcoholism. Some problem drinkers have an alcohol use disorder (AUD), but most do not.

Problem Drinking vs. Alcoholism: What’s the Difference?

Alcoholics are physically dependent on alcohol. They have developed a tolerance, which means they need more and more alcohol to achieve the same result. They can experience debilitating mental, emotional, and physical withdrawal symptoms if their liquor supply is cut off. Without a supervised medical detox, death could result.
A person drinking to ward off or reduce withdrawal symptoms fulfills one of two criteria required for an AUD diagnosis. On the other hand, problem drinkers are not physically dependent on alcohol. They might drink plenty of it but won’t die without it.
Both problem drinkers and alcoholics get into trouble because of their intoxicated behavior. The consequences of these actions can be severe.
However, a person with problem drinking is more likely to change their behavior or even quit drinking to avoid unpleasant consequences in the future. An alcoholic, on the other hand, will continue to drink regardless of the consequences of their actions.

What Are the Symptoms of Problem Drinking?

  • You drink to get through the day.
  • You spend a lot of time drinking.
  • Loved ones are worried about you.
  • You’re a binge drinker.
  • You drive when you’ve been drinking.
  • You drink excessively on a regular basis.
  • You try to control your drinking.
  • You feel bad about your behavior while drinking.

Do Drinking Problems Cause Alcohol Addiction?

In time, problem drinking can morph into full-fledged alcoholism, but it doesn’t happen overnight. Alcohol addiction typically develops gradually over time. Nevertheless, researchers have found that binge drinking, which involves consuming large amounts of alcohol at one time, increases the risk of developing an addiction and a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the future.

What Are the Symptoms of Alcoholism?

Recognizing alcoholism in a loved one can be tricky when denial comes into play. Here are some symptoms to look out for:
  • You can’t stop drinking.
  • You spend most of your time getting and ingesting alcohol.
  • You always drink more than you plan to.
  • You can’t stop drinking regardless of the consequences.
  • You are always craving a drink.
  • You can’t fulfill your commitments.
  • You abandon activities you used to enjoy.
  • You put yourself and others in danger while under the influence.
  • You keep drinking, even though alcohol is making your life miserable.

How Many Drinks Are Too Many?

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans define moderate alcohol use as two drinks per day for men and one for women. Exceeding these amounts can cause serious health problems over time. Even lower levels of alcohol ingested every day can cause mental and physical health problems.

Are Mental Health Disorders Causes of Alcoholism?

Researchers haven’t yet identified all potential alcoholism causes. However, they’ve learned that numerous factors of alcoholism may predispose a person to drinking problems or alcoholism. Biology, psychology, environment, social milieu, and family history can all be factors of alcoholism.

What Are Co-occurring Disorders?

Co-occurring disorders are mental health conditions that coexist with drinking problems or alcoholism. Co-occurring disorders can include anxiety, depression, burnout, and stress. Those conditions can cause a moderate drinker to become a heavy drinker and drive a heavy drinker into alcoholism.
Most people diagnosed with AUD have concurrent mental health disorders. In some cases, AUDs and mental health disorders are active simultaneously. In other cases, the co-occurring condition precedes the problem drinking or appears after an AUD is diagnosed.
Researchers don’t know if co-occurring disorders cause heavy drinking or if heavy drinking causes co-occurring disorders. Nevertheless, substance use disorders and mental health disorders must be treated separately.
Scientists know that certain psychological factors can make you more susceptible to alcoholism and more likely to increase your intake. For example, people with mental health conditions are more likely to develop alcoholism than the general population. They use alcohol to ease the psychic pain of a psychological disorder.

How to Treat a Drinking Problem

Untreated problem drinking generally escalate. For people who also have untreated mental health problems, it’s almost impossible to recover unless you seek help and start treatment.

For the mental health support you or your loved one need to quit drinking, contact MBO today. We’re here to help you heal.

Sustainable Healing Starts Here
]]> Depression in Men:Recognizing the Signs, Overcoming Stigma, and Seeking Effective Treatment https://mindbodyo.com/depression-in-men-recognizing-the-signs-overcoming-stigma-and-seeking-effective-treatment/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 19:59:10 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3587

Depression in Men:
Recognizing the Signs, Overcoming Stigma, and Seeking Effective Treatment

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors
Depression can be a life-altering and even life-threatening mental health condition. But men can be especially susceptible to the dangers of depression. All too often, men suffering from depression will turn to drugs or alcohol and attempt to cover their symptoms. Naturally, this often leads to great personal harm. Here, we will discuss why this is the case and evidence-based treatment options for Depression in men.

Signs of Depression in Men

Depression in men can be challenging to recognize due to the nature of the coping mechanisms men tend to employ. Often, these coping mechanisms, however maladaptive they may be, can cover up the signs of depression in men and their symptoms. This leaves men’s depression untreated and hidden, making it especially dangerous for the sufferer.

Depression in Men Symptoms

  • Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
  • Extreme tiredness, difficulty sleeping , and oversleeping
  • An inability to enjoy hobbies and activities typically enjoyed
  • Chronic headaches, abdominal pain, and digestive difficulties

Unhealthy Coping Strategies Common to Men

  • Escapism; sports, video games, workaholism
  • Problematic drug or alcohol abuse
  • Violent, abusive, or controlling behavior
  • Inappropriate anger or irritability
  • Excessive risk taking
These coping mechanisms can cover the condition and make sufferers of men’s depression feel that they are simply exhibiting masculine traits. Suppose the condition and unhealthy coping mechanisms persist long enough. In that case, the sufferer may become dependent on their coping mechanisms and grow to believe that they are just part of his personality.
This is when depression in men can become exceptionally dangerous.

Societal Norms Affecting Depression in Men

Instincts typical to men and the societal norms that have arisen around men’s depression symptoms make it more likely that depression will be disguised in some of the ways mentioned above. This does not mean that men are inherently weak or foolish. It simply means male instincts have specific vulnerabilities regarding depression and its symptoms. These vulnerabilities frequently lead to the following exacerbating risk factors.

Unrecognized Depression in Men

For many men, feelings of sadness or a lack of motivation are not easily recognized. Over time, failure to recognize the basic symptoms of depression leads to the repression of those basic depression symptoms, which in turn leads to other more severe symptoms. For many men, the first recognizable signs of depression are digestive problems, headaches, tiredness, long-term pain, or irritability.

Disregarding Male Depression Symptoms

Often, the drive to appear strong or to be productive despite all obstacles causes men to disregard the early symptoms of depression out of hand. Where they might otherwise address feelings of sadness or a lack of motivation, men who are susceptible to repressed depression are likely to “suck it up” or otherwise stuff their feelings down and self-medicate in one way or another.

Resistance to Help

Any man caught up in this cycle of repressed depression and self-medication will unlikely recognize the need for help. Sadly, this is why so many addiction sufferers must “hit bottom” before realizing the need for help and the necessity of professional addiction treatment.
When gone too far, this cycle of emotional repression and maladaptive coping can lead to suicidal thoughts, extreme substance abuse, and/or pronounced violence or risk-taking behavior.

Challenging Cultural Resistance to Depression in Men

The first step to recovering from any substance abuse condition is the realization that help is needed. This is equally true for the underlying mental health conditions that can lead to substance abuse and addiction. The longer a man has been engaged with his maladaptive coping strategies, the more difficult it will tend to be for him to realize that he needs help.

The Dangers of Untreated Depression

In today’s culture, it is exceedingly common for men to self-medicate with a combination of video games or sports viewing and alcohol. In cases like these, the depression-suffering man may even realize that his life is unsatisfying and that he needs to resort to these strategies. But over time, the damage to relationships and his health that these coping strategies cause can spiral out of control.
In these, and any case of depression, the sufferer needs to learn to make choices that will remedy the underlying causes of depression and to stop resorting to dangerous and unhealthy methods of masking them. This means seeking help with underlying mental conditions and/or addiction.

Effective Treatment Options for Depression

While a wide range of medications are designed to treat depression, it is usually best to seek a non-invasive treatment alternative first.
These include:
  • Cognitive therapy
  • Group therapy
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Art & activity therapy
  • Addiction treatment & counseling
  • Alternative/Holistic/Spiritual treatment
  • and more
If you or someone you care for suffers from men’s depression. Help is available. Don’t let the stigma of male depression stop you from seeking the necessary treatment. We offer a wide range of evidence-based treatments for mental health issues. Help is just a phone call away.

Get in touch with the addiction and mental health specialists in Franklin, TN at Mind Body Optimization today.

Sustainable Healing Starts Here
]]> Can Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Localize Brain Function? https://mindbodyo.com/can-transcranial-electrical-stimulation-localize-brain-function/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 19:20:20 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3581

Can Transcranial Electrical Stimulation
Localize Brain Function?

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors

While it is hard to hear and even harder to accept, a large proportion of the U.S. population is struggling with mental illness. And this is not a baseless conjectural statement; it is a reality substantiated by several credible studies, one of which comes from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In that study, researchers revealed that more than 31% of U.S. adults struggle with anxiety.

A separate study from the same organization revealed 8.4% struggle with “major” depressive episodes. And it does not end there; many people simultaneously struggle with anxiety and depression, which is not an uncommon phenomenon, according to a study published by the Mayo Clinic, a nonprofit academic medical center in Rochester, Minnesota.

To cope with anxiety, depression, or both, many people turn to an array of pharmaceutical drugs, the vast majority of which can cause side effects that are arguably worse than the mental illness they’re supposed to treat. But there are other options, one being transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

What Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?

Initially developed in 1985, transcranial magnetic stimulation is a noninvasive treatment that uses a magnetic field to influence brain activity. And it is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat treatment-resistant depression, including major depressive episodes, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and migraines. It is also an FDA-approved smoking cessation treatment. Some studies suggest it may even be effective in treating social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, and other anxiety disorders. When someone receives a TMS treatment, magnetic fields stimulate nerve cells in the brain, which, in turn, combats feelings of depression, anxiety, and other brain-related conditions.

How Does TMS Work?

Now that we have a general understanding of TMS and how it is, for some people, a viable treatment for depression, anxiety, and other brain-related conditions, let’s delve deeper into how these treatments work. There are five steps involved in TMS treatments, and they include
  1. Removing jewelry and other metals – Because TMS uses magnetic energy, individuals must remove jewelry, eyeglasses, and anything else that contains metal.
  2. Inserting earplugs – Once individuals have taken off their jewelry and other metals, a TMS practitioner will provide them with earplugs or over-the-ear, noise-canceling headphones to wear. And this is important since the magnetic coil used to carry out TMS treatments can get loud enough to trigger hearing loss.
  3. Putting on a magnet-containing helmet – Once an individual has removed their jewelry and has hearing protection in or over their ears, a TMS practitioner will place a magnet-containing helmet or another magnet-containing device on top of their head.
  4. Single-pulse stimulations – Most TMS practitioners will administer single-pulse stimulations on an individual’s head, which helps them determine the ideal location and settings for their treatment. During single-pulse stimulations, most individuals report experiencing tapping sensations from the TMS magnet as the practitioner gradually increases the strength of the magnetic pulses.
  5. Pulse stimulation with specific timing or pattern – At this point, the TMS practitioner has already identified an ideal pulse strength and has moved on to having the TMS magnet deliver pulses using a specific timing or pattern. These pulses, which are more deliberate, activate cells in the brain. That activation of cells helps ramp up the production of serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters in the brain that help combat depression and other brain-related conditions. All told, TMS treatment sessions with a licensed practitioner can last anywhere from a few minutes to about half an hour.

Can Transcranial Electrical Stimulation Localize Brain Function?

Something to note when it comes to transcranial magnetic stimulation is that it is often confused with transcranial electrical stimulation (TES). And that confusion further extends to which of the two can localize brain function. Before detailing which one can, let’s take a moment to discuss what it means to localize brain function. In short, the localization of brain function means certain parts of the brain are associated with certain behaviors and mental processes.

For example, the amygdala is responsible for emotion and emotional response, and the hippocampus is responsible for memory. That said, some people wonder whether it is TMS or TES that can be applied to specific brain areas to alter behaviors, mental processes, or both. According to a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), TES treatments are the ones that can help in this regard.

TES and TMS can help combat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other brain-related conditions. However, TES is the treatment protocol that allows practitioners to target specific areas of an individual’s brain to alter behavior or mental processes. In short, TES uses constant or alternating currents to modulate brain activity.
And it entails applying low-intensity currents through scalp electrodes, which produce electrical fields that target specific parts of the brain.In summary, TMS and, to some extent, TES can be viable options for treating mental illnesses and many other conditions if traditional treatments prove ineffective. To learn more about TES and TMS for brain function, consider contacting Mind Body Optimization, a premier addiction and mental health treatment facility in Franklin, Tennessee.
Sustainable Healing Starts Here
]]> Coping with Mental Health Issues During Parenthood https://mindbodyo.com/coping-with-mental-health-issues-during-parenthood/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 18:06:54 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3559

Coping with Mental Health
Issues During Parenthood

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors

Having a mental health disorder can be a difficult and isolating experience, but when you are also a parent, the challenge of managing your mental health can be even more daunting. Parenting and mental illness can be a delicate balancing act, as parents must care for their children while managing their own mental health needs. In this article, we will discuss the unique challenges of coping with a mental health disorder while also being a parent and share helpful strategies for navigating this difficult situation.

How Parental Mental Illness Impacts Children

Like many diseases, mental health disorders tend to run in the family, passing down to the child from the parent. This risk is more likely if there are two mentally ill parents.

A study in the American Journal of Psychiatry followed the children of depressed parents to see how well they performed in adulthood over 20 years. Compared to children whose parents weren’t depressed, kids involved in the study were three times more at risk for substance abuse and mental health disorders.

Of course, you should know just because one parent has a mental health condition doesn’t automatically mean it will affect their children. Instead, it’s about how the condition impacts the parent’s behavior. Many people with depression, anxiety, and other disorders go on to live happy and successful lives with treatment.
However, dealing with depression can inadvertently create issues in parenting. For example, you may not be as expressive with your emotions, which could impact bonding with your child. In addition, these situations are usually stressful for both the parent and child, leading to difficulties with trust.
It helps to be upfront and communicate with your children about mental health, but choose your words carefully. For example, although they may not fully describe what you experience, the terms “sad” and “scared” are easier to hear and more digestible than “depressed” and “anxiety.”

Overcoming Mental Health Issues During Parenthood

Juggling the stress of a mental illness and parenting is challenging, with no one-size-fits-all solution. However, that means there are several angles to approach parental mental illness.

Have a Support Network in Place

  • Identify one or two people you can ask for support.
  • Let people know as soon as possible if you’re struggling to cope and need support.
  • Ask for help with practical tasks, such as cooking meals and transport.
  • Ask the nursery or school to monitor your children for behavior changes.
  • See if your employer offers any support programs that could alleviate stress.

Stay Organized

  • Keep routines like bedtime and mealtimes to regular times.
  • Plan in the evening for busy mornings by preparing bags and lunches ahead of time.
  • Make advance plans to delegate responsibilities when you feel unwell.
  • Write down family routines for consistency.
  • Have a designated quiet area for homework.

Seek Help as Needed

  • Ask a trusted friend to help research or accompany you to a new support service.
  • Write down a list of questions to ask the support service.
Reaching out for help can feel daunting and create fears about your ability to care for your children. But remember that support services have supported many other parents in similar situations, and their experienced staff can help advise you.

Parenthood and Mental Illness: Will My Child Have It?

Mental illness isn’t contagious, but research indicates a genetic link in some conditions. For example, doctors have long known that bipolar disorder runs in families. Others may pass on hereditary traits that make someone more likely to develop a disorder without passing on that specific condition.
Having a mental health condition does not guarantee your child will have one, too. However, because of your lived experience, you may be more adaptable to the unique challenges of parenthood and mental illness.

Risk Factors

Children of parents with a mental illness are at greater risk for developing behavioral, emotional, or social problems. Parents struggling with a mental health disorder can inadvertently create an unpredictable and inconsistent family environment, which raises the child’s risk. Other factors that can have an impact on any child include:
  • Poverty
  • Poor communication between parent and child
  • Openly aggressive behavior by parents
  • Marital or occupational difficulties
  • Single-parent families
Children at the most significant risk have their own difficulties, at least one mentally ill parent, and a chronically stressful family environment. Fortunately, preventative interventions can alleviate many of these aspects, such as through communication training.

The Takeaway

It’s no secret that parenting with a mental health condition can leave you feeling overwhelmed and frustrated. But it’s important to realize that caring for kids often starts with caring for yourself. You can take many steps to tackle your mental health and improve your parenting skills.
Mind Body Optimization provides a range of services to help you take care of your mental health. From individual counseling and group therapy to online resources and support groups, we offer various options to help you maintain your mental well-being while being a parent.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can help.

Sustainable Healing Starts Here
]]> The Effects of Depression On the Body https://mindbodyo.com/the-effects-of-depression-on-the-body/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 17:47:24 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3556

The Effects of Depression On the Body

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions that affects people all over the world, and most people are quite familiar with the usual symptoms of prolonged sadness and a general sense of malaise. While mental health advocates are doing a great job of helping to educate people about how to spot these common symptoms, there is still much more that the average person can learn about depression and the body. Once you realize just how many aspects of your life depression can affect, making the decision to seek treatment takes on greater importance.

What Exactly Is Depression?

Depression is generally recognized as a mental health condition that causes feelings of sadness, a low mood and energy levels for two weeks or longer. Most people will occasionally feel sad for a brief time after they experience disappointment or hardship, but depression becomes a more likely possibility if those negative feelings continue for a long period of time.
Depression can also occur in the absence of a clearly defined negative life event. Some people develop the condition for reasons that usually involve chemical changes in the brain. There are also different types of depression, and each type can have a profound effect on your body.

What Body Parts Are Affected by Depression?

The effects of depression typically begin in your brain, but you can also notice them in other parts of your body. As depression impacts your central nervous system, you might notice changes in how your muscles feel and move. Many people with depression find that simply walking around feels like it takes more energy than normal.
People also tend to experience issues with their digestive system, and you might experience changes in your cardiovascular system as well. Virtually, every part of your body is capable of experiencing the physical effects of depression.

What Are the Physical Effects of Depression On the Body?

Fatigue, headaches and sleep disruptions are just a few common depression side effects that you might experience. The same chemical changes in the brain that make you feel sad can also cause your energy levels to drop. If you add on a lack of sleep from insomnia, then you may feel severe fatigue that is similar to what you might have with the flu or other physical ailments.
A depression diagnosis might also provide some insight into why you are dealing with digestive changes. Some people experience a lack of appetite with depression, and this could alter how and when you eat. If you don’t get proper nutrition, then you might experience a lowered immune system along with the symptoms of malnutrition. On the flip side, overeating or consuming too many fatty or sugary comfort foods could cause you to experience abdominal pain, gas or diarrhea.

Could My Aches and Pains Be Depression Side Effects?

Feeling more physical discomfort in general is absolutely possible with depression. As your body systems fall out of their normal rhythms, you could notice that those aches and pains are more noticeable. If you sit or lie down for long periods of time, then your joints can also get stiff. Headaches and stomach pain are also normal responses to alterations in your normal body rhythms.

Are There Long Term Effects of Depression to Know About?

When you’re wondering what depression can cause, you might be hoping to find out if it is contributing to lifestyle habits that also affect your body. Most of the symptoms of depression will gradually subside with treatment, but there are some lingering effects that you might need to think about.
Over time, disruptions in your body’s central nervous system can cause your body to function differently than it did in the past. Using unhealthy habits to address your depression symptoms further exacerbates this process. For instance, smoking or using alcohol to feel better temporarily can have longer term effects on your cardiovascular, digestive and central nervous systems.

How Do You Ease Depression Effects On The Body?

Depression in the body doesn’t have to rob you of your ability to enjoy your favorite activities. One of the first things you can do is stop engaging in unhealthy habits that increase your physical discomfort. Getting help with over consuming alcohol or using drugs can stop dreaded hangovers that only make you feel worse. Reaching out for help with finding an appropriate depression treatment also helps you to begin to ease both your physical and emotional pain.

Can You Fully Recover From Depression Body Symptoms?

Recovering from depression often feels like slowly waking up again after a long and disruptive slumber. With proper treatment, you should find that the effects of depression on your body slowly begin to fade away. If a physical symptom lingers, then it may be necessary to explore why. However, most people find that taking medications, using talk therapy and improving their nutrition works well for stopping the devastating effects that depression has on their wellbeing.
Mental health conditions often present with physical symptoms that further demonstrate the connections that exist between your mind and body. This is why Mind Body Optimization focuses on providing integrated healthcare that sets you on the right path for improving how you feel overall. From treating depression using brain stimulation methods to giving you an emotional outlet through talk therapy, you’ll find that our multi-pronged approach helps to bring your body and mind into greater harmony.
Sustainable Healing Starts Here
]]> Identifying and Treating Postpartum Depression https://mindbodyo.com/identifying-and-treating-postpartum-depression/ Thu, 07 Nov 2024 16:47:07 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3548

Identifying and Treating Postpartum Depression

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors
Are you experiencing symptoms of postpartum depression? Postpartum or maternal depression is sometimes interchangeably used with the term baby blues. It’s important to understand that PPD is a severe condition, while the term baby blues typically refers to a milder form that lasts between 2 days to 2 weeks after a woman gives birth. In this article, we’ll explain what postpartum depression is, the signs to look for, and when to seek treatment.

What is PPD?

Postpartum depression is a serious mental illness that affects between 10 and 13 percent of women, according to the CDC. That’s between 1 in 8 and 1 in 10 women. It can affect the woman’s ability to care for herself and her baby. To ensure the health and well-being of the mother and new baby, early identification of maternal depression symptoms is essential.

What are the symptoms of PPD?

Postpartum depression is characterized by sadness, hopelessness, anxiety and even guilt. Physical symptoms may include eating more or less than usual, changes in sleeping patterns, difficulty bonding with the baby, and fluctuating energy levels. The woman may also experience physical aches and pains that do not improve with treatment.
If you’re concerned that you have postpartum depression or a woman in your family has postpartum depression, there is a postpartum depression test available at Mental Health America that can help with early identification. Of course, this test is not a definitive diagnosis, so speaking with a professional postpartum counselor, like those at Mind Body Optimization is important.

What causes postpartum depression?

It’s important to understand that postpartum depression doesn’t have a single cause. It’s also not a character flaw in the woman or due to anything the new mother did or didn’t do before, during or after the pregnancy. With that being said, risk factors can increase a woman’s chances of developing maternal depression.
  • The baby was born with health problems or special needs.
  • The woman has had multiple pregnancies.
  • The woman wasn’t excited about becoming a new mom or having the baby.
  • Having multiple births, like twins or triplets.
  • The woman has little social or family support.
  • A different stressful event happened during or shortly after the pregnancy, like a job loss, relationship breakup, or financial difficulties.

Are there any risk factors for developing PPD?

Some risk factors may make it more likely for a woman to develop postpartum depression.
  • Already having a family history or personal history of depression or other mood disorders before becoming pregnant.
  • Being a younger mother.
  • Having premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which is a severe version of PMS.
  • Having marital conflicts or strife in the marriage.

What are the available treatments for postpartum depression?

It’s important to understand that after having a baby, there will be some postpartum adjustment as hormone levels return to normal and the body heals. However, it’s time to seek treatment for persistent and severe symptoms.

Postpartum counseling

Postpartum counseling and therapy are highly effective at treating the depression that occurs after having a baby. This treatment can help the new mother understand her feelings about having a new baby and learn new coping skills to deal with the challenges of caring for the baby.

Postpartum medications

If therapy doesn’t provide enough help, there are postpartum medications that can be prescribed. These may include antidepressants or serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Postpartum support groups

Joining a support group with other people who have just had babies can help the woman not feel alone in her symptoms. Not to mention, she can read other people’s stories.

What are some tips for coping with PPD?

Are you wondering how to help someone with postpartum depression? Coping with postpartum depression may seem difficult, but there are some tips that can help with the symptoms. Most importantly, encourage the woman to seek help and reach out for support. Finding a good counselor or therapist who performs a PPD screening and provides talk therapy and stress management techniques can be invaluable.
Remind your female family member or friend to practice good self-care. Everyone, including new mothers, needs to take time for themselves. That includes taking a shower, taking time to be with their emotions and understand why they may be feeling the way they do, and getting plenty of exercise.
Next, remind your female friend, family member, wife, or girlfriend to be patient. Postpartum adjustment is real, and it can take time to heal, recover and develop a new normal for daily life.

Lastly, recommend that they seek professional treatment that includes a PPD screening. Mind Body Optimization in Franklin, TN can help you or your female family member heal from their postpartum depression. We offer treatment for mental health issues, including baby blues and maternal depression.

Sustainable Healing Starts Here
]]> Anxiety vs Depression: What’s the Difference? https://mindbodyo.com/anxiety-vs-depression-whats-the-difference/ Wed, 06 Nov 2024 22:26:32 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3532

Anxiety vs Depression:
What’s the Difference?

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors

Anxiety vs Depression

Anxiety vs Depression: While clinical anxiety and depression are two separate conditions, they’re more closely related than you might realize. For instance, a depressed individual may frequently experience high-energy panic attacks or other anxiety symptoms. Consequently, it’s not surprising that their symptoms and treatments significantly overlap. Both conditions:
  • Manifest physically and mentally
  • Can impact everyday activities
  • Are very common
  • Have similar approaches to treatment
  • Respond well to therapy
Of course, even though the two conditions have similar approaches to treatment, it’s essential to diagnose them correctly.

The Importance of an Accurate Diagnosis

Typically, you can count on your physician to conduct specific tests to make a medical diagnosis, but the process is more challenging for mental health issues.
Because no medical tests can determine mental health, professionals must diagnose patients in other ways, such as the DSM-5. This diagnostic manual lists criteria someone must experience before receiving specific diagnoses. This process takes a level of skill and practice that only licensed mental health professionals have. After all, symptoms can manifest under several conditions, and not all require the same strategy; for instance, anxiety and depression differences can be challenging to notice.
Once you receive an accurate diagnosis, you’ll know what to expect for treatment. That will also give you a clearer picture of the future regarding long-term mental health maintenance.

Anxiety

It’s normal to occasionally experience anxiety, such as when you’re taking a test, going to an interview, or dealing with a stressful deadline at work. Sometimes, it helps us focus our attention and become alert to dangerous situations. But a disorder occurs when you experience more than the usual nervousness. It can occur when:

  • It keeps you from functioning
  • You can’t control your reaction to stressful circumstances
  • You overreact when your emotions flare up

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the specific condition (i.e., generalized, phobia, panic disorder), but they typically include:

Physical symptoms:

  • Heart palpitations
  • Muscle tension
  • Cold or sweaty hands
  • Numbness or tingling in the extremities
  • Dry mouth
  • Shortness of breath
  • Nausea

Mental symptoms:

  • Obsessive thoughts
  • Flashbacks of traumatic experiences
  • Nightmares
  • Feeling fear or panic

Behavioral symptoms:

  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Inability to be calm or stay still
  • Ritualistic behaviors

Depression

More than just “the blues,” depression isn’t something you can just “snap out” of. It’s a condition that may require long-term treatment, but most people feel better with psychotherapy, medication, or both.

Symptoms

Although the condition may only occur once in some, many experience multiple episodes. During these episodes, depression symptoms tend to occur nearly every day and last most of the day. They may include:
  • Loss of interest in their usual hobbies
  • Angry outbursts and frustration, even over minor matters
  • Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless
  • Anxiety, distress, agitation, or restlessness
  • Reduced appetite or increased cravings
  • Tiredness ; small tasks take great effort
  • Frequent or recurrent suicidal thoughts or attempts
  • Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or back pain
Symptoms are usually severe enough to cause day-to-day problems with work, school, or social activities. Some may feel unhappy without understanding why.

Fundamental Anxiety and Depression Differences

Both conditions have not just overlap but distinct features, too.
Anxiety’s main psychological symptom is excessive worry. That might include worrying about getting hurt or what will happen in the future. They may also avoid situations that can trigger symptoms or cause them to stress about things that could happen. Depression manifests as hopelessness and physical struggles, such as with energy and appetite.
In both cases, symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life. Furthermore, one condition can result in the other; depressed people may experience anxious distress, while those who regularly have panic attacks may become depressed in the long term.

Mental illness is treatable, even if it can’t be cured. At Mind Body Optimization, we take a holistic approach to healing, considering the whole person while helping them find relief from their symptoms. We work with our clients to help them return to the life they miss. Contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you.

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]]> 5 Benefits of TMS Treatment for Depression https://mindbodyo.com/5-benefits-of-tms-treatment-for-depression/ Wed, 06 Nov 2024 21:58:53 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3527

5 Benefits of TMS Treatment for Depression

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors
Mental health conditions often vary widely in their symptoms and response to traditional treatments. Depression not only presents as several different types, but it can also come with symptoms that don’t always respond well enough to talk therapy or medication for you to feel a strong sense of relief. TMS treatment for depression is another tool your therapist might recommend to help you along your path to greater wellness.

What Is TMS Therapy for Depression?

TMS for depression is a non-medication treatment that uses electromagnetic currents to impact your brain waves. During a typical session, your therapist will affix a particular type of magnetic coil to the outside of your forehead. Then, they’ll use the coil to generate magnetic pulses that alter how the parts of your brain responsible for regulating your emotions communicate. Most therapy plans involve attending several sessions weekly for a month or more.

What Are the Main Benefits of TMS?

TMS therapy results in benefits that might be felt as soon as after the first session, but it usually takes a little longer to achieve the maximum impact. The primary goal of this type of treatment is to help lift the clouds of depression so that you can feel a renewed sense of purpose and happiness in life. Although TMS benefits will vary from individual to individual, you can generally look forward to seeing these results for your mental well-being.

Reduce the Risk of Side Effects With TMS for Depression

Many depression medications have side effects that interfere with your ability to conduct your normal daily activities. Feeling overly tired or experiencing changes in your appetite might be unacceptable, whether it comes from your depression or the medications you take. Certain medications can also have long-term side effects on your health that might require using other forms of treatment.

One of the most significant benefits of TMS therapy is that the side effects are mild and extremely short-lived. You might notice a slight headache or some mild tingling along your jawline after the procedure. But you should maintain your normal energy levels and alertness. The electromagnetic pulses also won’t impact your heart or other organs since it is just a specific portion of the brain that is targeted.

Use the Benefits of TMS to Overcome Treatment-Resistant Depression

In your mental health wellness journey, you might have reached a point where you’ve tried just about everything. Some people have a form of depression that doesn’t readily respond to today’s medications, or you might find that your needs have changed over the years.
TMS therapy benefits those who have treatment-resistant depression the most. After spending years trying to find relief, you’re likely pleasantly surprised to discover that the answer to your struggles is a magnetic coil. This treatment seems to work when other strategies do not because it is designed to go straight to the part of the brain most affected by depression.

Maintain Your Ability to Drive and Conduct Your Normal Daily Activities

TMS therapy provides an alternative to strong medications that could impact your ability to work, take care of your family, and manage your other responsibilities. Some depression medications have sedative effects that could even require you to hang up your keys. After your TMS session, you might need to hang around for a few minutes to ensure any mild lightheadedness or dizziness disappears. After that, you can return to enjoying the rest of your day without restrictions on your activities.

Enjoy Longer Remissions From Your Symptoms

TMS therapy benefits can provide you with long-term relief that could reduce your need for daily care. Many experience periods of remission lasting anywhere from six months to a year. If your symptoms return, you can begin a maintenance series of therapy that helps you feel better again.

Gain a Newfound Sense of Hope As You Experience the Benefits of TMS Therapy

The fear of never regaining your former sense of happiness is real, and it is frustrating to try multiple forms of treatment only to find that none offer the level of symptom relief you need. Once you begin to feel the TMS benefits, you’ll be able to feel like there is some sun shining through those clouds. Having hope again for a brighter future is a benefit that also helps you feel inspired to make other healthy lifestyle changes.

Is TMS Treatment for Depression Right for You?

This form of therapy is usually reserved for those who have tried other options and need something new. However, people with severe conditions of depression used TMS as the first line of treatment. A professional assessment is the best way to determine if this is an option you could benefit from in your treatment plan.

Depression care works best through personalized interventions directly addressing your specific symptoms. Reaching out to our team at Mind Body Optimization gives you access to a wide range of modern treatment methods that can help you overcome treatment-resistant depression and other co-occurring mental health conditions.

Our holistic approach helps your body heal inside and out so that you can reframe your outlook on life.
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]]> TMS in Treating Psychiatric Disorders https://mindbodyo.com/tms-in-treating-psychiatric-disorders/ Wed, 06 Nov 2024 20:43:27 +0000 https://mindbodyo.com/?p=3515

TMS in Treating Psychiatric Disorders

Table of Contents
Meet The Authors

Are you looking for a new way to manage your OCD, anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia? These mental illnesses can be debilitating, robbing you of your ability to think clearly and perform your daily tasks. They can be even more frustrating when your current regime of therapy and medication isn’t working as well as you hoped. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can help you manage these conditions. The FDA approved the treatment for the treatment of major depression in 2008. It was approved to treat OCD in 2017, and it’s approved to treat anxiety. Let’s take a look at what transcranial magnetic stimulation is and how it can help you.

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation and how does TMS work?

TMS therapy includes the use of electricity and a magnetic coil. The coil is placed on the individual’s head and secured with a cap. Electricity is used to activate the magnet. During the treatment, magnetic waves are sent through the coil to specific areas of the brain. The concept behind the treatment relies on physics and your brain’s electrical activity. During the treatment, the magnet will be activated and deactivated with electricity to improve how your brain sends and receives the signals that help control your emotions and internal decision-making processes.

What are the main psychiatric disorders that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) commonly treats?

TMS therapy is approved to treat many different psychiatric disorders, including treatment-resistant depression, OCD, post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety, bipolar disorder, and Tourette Syndrome. It’s considered an alternative therapy for individuals who would otherwise consider Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

How does transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) compare to traditional treatment approaches, such as medication or psychotherapy?

When individuals are first diagnosed with a mental illness, especially depression and anxiety, they are often prescribed medication and talk therapy. Those two treatments are considered front-line approaches, and they do help many people each year. However, some mental illnesses are resistant to these approaches. If you’ve been diagnosed with a mental health disorder that’s classified as treatment-resistant, TMS for psychosis may be able you help you.
  • Talk Therapy – Talk therapy can include individual therapy with a counselor, cognitive behavioral therapy, guided self-help therapy, interpersonal therapy, Eye movement desensitization, and reprocessing therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and group therapy. These therapies tend to focus on identifying intrusive thoughts and harmful behaviors so that new patterns of thinking and behaving can be created.
  • Medications – Medication therapy for mental illness involves taking anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medication, or antipsychotics. While these medications help, they often come with unwanted side effects, like dependency, weight gain, muscle spasms, decrease in sexual interest, and dizziness.
  • TMS for Psychosis – Transcranial magnetic stimulation helps reduce the symptoms associated with major depression disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. The treatment is non-invasive and doesn’t cause any pain. You can resume your normal daily activities after each session. It can also be used in conjunction with other types of treatment, including talk therapy and medication.

What are the potential benefits of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in treating psychiatric disorders?

Undergoing transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for psychosis offers several benefits. The first benefit is that it lasts. According to a study on transcranial magnetic stimulation, roughly 58 percent of participants who complete their treatment cycle experience a reduction in symptoms. It’s also estimated that 38 percent of the recipients experience a full remission of their symptoms.
TMS treatment has fewer side effects than the medications used to treat mental illnesses. The primary TMS side effect is mild headache after the transcranial magnetic stimulation session, but many people don’t notice any side effects.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation may reduce your need for mental health medications. Many individuals with treatment-resistant depression and major depression could either reduce the amount of medication they take or stop taking their medications. It’s important to note that individuals should always consult with their doctors before reducing and eliminating medications.

Are there any potential risks or side effects associated with TMS?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation has fewer side effects than anti-psychotic medications and anti-depressions. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) side effects can include headaches, mild tapping sensation during the session, scalp pain, twitching of the facial muscles, feeling lightheaded, and altered cognition during the session. There is also a slight risk of experiencing seizures.

Are there specific criteria or patient profiles that make someone a good candidate for TMS treatment?

Good candidates for TMS treatment are at least 18 years of age and have a major depressive disorder, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, or anxiety that is not being adequately managed by other treatments and therapies.

Individuals who have metal inside their heads are not good candidates. This includes people who have electrodes inserted into their brains, deep brain stimulators, stents in their neck or head, aneurysm clips or coils, metal plates, cochlear implants, and permanent piercings that cannot be removed. Individuals with these devices are not good candidates because the treatment involves a magnet that could attract the implanted metal.

What is the typical duration and frequency of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) sessions?

Individuals who are good candidates for TMS therapy typically undergo several treatments a week for multiple weeks. A typical treatment cycle might involve going to the center between three and five times each week for six weeks.

How Mind Body Optimization Can Help You With Addiction, Co-occurring Disorders, and Mental Health

We offer a holistic recovery and whole-body healing approach at Mind Body Optimization. Our goal is to help you better manage your depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. To learn more and get started on your path to healing and wellness, contact us today.

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