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How to Talk to a Loved One About Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Conversations about mental health can feel challenging, even with the people we care about most. Concerns about saying the wrong thing, overstepping, or triggering discomfort often hold people back from initiating these discussions. Yet, speaking openly about mental health can be an important step toward early intervention, reducing stigma, and providing meaningful support. With empathy, preparation, and respect, these conversations can help loved ones feel heard and understood. Recognizing When to Start the Conversation Not every moment is ideal for a discussion about mental health, but certain signs may indicate it’s time to reach out. Behavioral or emotional changes such as persistent sadness, withdrawal from social activities, irritability, loss of interest in hobbies, or noticeable changes in sleep or appetite can signal that a loved one might be struggling. According to the National Alliance …

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How Seasonal Affective Disorder Impacts Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at a specific time of year, most commonly during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. While occasional winter blues are common, SAD is a clinically recognized condition that can significantly impair daily functioning and overall mental health. Understanding its symptoms, underlying causes, and effective treatment options can help individuals manage the disorder and improve quality of life. Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder SAD is categorized as a subtype of major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder, depending on the individual’s overall diagnosis. The most prevalent form is winter-pattern SAD, where symptoms begin in late autumn or early winter and resolve in spring or early summer. Less commonly, some individuals experience summer-pattern SAD, which emerges during the warmer months. The disorder is …

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Recognizing the Early Signs of a Mental Health Crisis

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry A mental health crisis can develop suddenly, but more often it builds over time as symptoms intensify and coping resources become overwhelmed. Recognizing early warning signs can make a critical difference in getting help before the situation escalates. Awareness of these signs—both in yourself and in others—can allow for timely intervention, potentially preventing hospitalization, severe distress, or harm. Understanding What Constitutes a Mental Health Crisis A mental health crisis occurs when a person’s emotional or psychological state prevents them from functioning safely and effectively in daily life. This may involve thoughts of self-harm, severe mood swings, inability to care for oneself, or losing touch with reality. While crises can occur in the context of many mental health conditions, they are often linked to untreated or worsening depression, bipolar disorder, psychosis, substance use disorders, or …

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How Trauma Affects the Brain: A Clinical Overview

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Trauma can leave lasting emotional and psychological effects, but it also has profound impacts on the brain’s structure and function. Whether stemming from a single traumatic event or prolonged exposure to stress, trauma alters neural pathways, disrupts chemical balances, and changes how the brain processes information. Understanding these effects provides important insight into both the symptoms of trauma and the approaches that support recovery. The Brain’s Stress Response System When a person experiences trauma, the brain’s stress response system—the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis—becomes highly activated. This system triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, preparing the body to respond to danger. In acute situations, this response is protective. However, in cases of chronic or repeated trauma, prolonged activation of the HPA axis can dysregulate the body’s stress response, leading to heightened …

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Understanding the Difference Between a Psychiatrist and a Therapist

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psychologist or therapist with client

Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry When seeking help for mental health concerns, many people wonder whether they should see a psychiatrist or a therapist. While both play important roles in mental health care, they differ in training, approach, and the types of services they provide. Understanding these differences can help individuals make informed decisions about the kind of support that best meets their needs. What Is a Psychiatrist? A psychiatrist is a medical doctor (M.D. or D.O.) who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental health disorders. Psychiatrists complete medical school, followed by a residency in psychiatry, where they gain specialized training in the biological, psychological, and social components of mental illness. This medical background allows them to prescribe medication, order and interpret diagnostic tests, and evaluate the effects of medical conditions on mental health. In addition to medication …

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