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Maternal Mental Health Month 2024

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maternal mental health

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. Maternal Mental Health Month 2024 May is Maternal Mental Health Month, a national observance started by Mental Health America to bring attention to the mental health challenges that many mothers face. Mental Health America emphasizes that “new and expecting mothers face not only changes to their lifestyles, but also changes to their bodies and hormones. Each woman’s experience will be different. For some, accommodating the changes of pregnancy and having a baby may come easily – they will adopt new routines and their bodies will return to pre-pregnancy shape and chemistry with little difficulty. For others, there may be physical and mental health struggles that arise.” Maternal Mental Health Maternal mental health disorders typically occur in what is called the perinatal period, which includes the prenatal period, or time that a woman is pregnant. Additionally, mental health disorders often occur in the postpartum period, which is …

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National Mental Health Awareness Month 2024

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maternal mental health

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. Mental Health Awareness Month 2024 May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national observance that started all the way back in 1949 by Mental Health America to bring attention to the crucial nature of mental wellbeing. Across the United States, people and organizations raise awareness about the importance of mental health as well as mental health challenges that people face. About Mental Health According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mental health “includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood” (2024).  Mental health can be compromised by biological, genetic, or environmental factors – or a combination of all three. For example, if someone is genetically predisposed to …

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How Common is Treatment-Resistant Depression?

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
man smiling after asking how common is treatment-resistant depression

How common is treatment-resistant depression? Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a prevalent condition, affecting approximately 30% of individuals with major depressive disorder (NCBI). Despite multiple treatment attempts, including medication and therapy, these individuals do not achieve sufficient relief from their symptoms. Understanding TRD’s prevalence underscores the need for alternative treatments, such as ketamine therapy, to address this significant mental health challenge. Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a significant concern, affecting approximately 30% of individuals with major depressive disorder. Despite multiple treatment attempts, this prevalence highlights the challenge many face in finding effective relief from their symptoms. Addressing TRD’s impact is crucial for developing alternative therapies, such as ketamine, that offer hope for better outcomes. This article explores a common question we hear from patients interested in solutions for treatment-resistant depression: “How common is treatment-resistant depression?” What Is Treatment-Resistant Depression? Treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is a form of major depressive disorder that does not …

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The Importance of Mental Health Awareness

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
two pairs of hands holding mental health awareness ribbon as an expression of the importance of mental health awareness

Mental health awareness is crucial as it reduces stigma, promotes early intervention, and supports individuals seeking help. By fostering understanding and acceptance, awareness encourages a supportive community, improves access to mental health services, and enhances overall well-being. Recognizing mental health’s importance leads to better outcomes for individuals and society. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than one in five young people and adults experience a mental health condition. Many people struggle with mental health issues in silence due to stigma and lack of understanding. Raising mental health awareness helps reduce this stigma, encouraging individuals to seek the help they need. Promoting awareness creates a more supportive community, leading to early intervention and better overall well-being for everyone. This article explores the importance of mental health awareness. Mental Health Awareness Month Since 1949, every May, the United States has observed Mental Health Awareness Month, a program started …

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National Fentanyl Awareness Day 2024

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maternal mental health

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. National Fentanyl Awareness Day 2024 May 7, 2024 is the third annual National Fentanyl Awareness Day. This day unites parents, teachers,  individuals, community groups, corporations, influencers, and government entities to help put an end to this national public health crisis. People, notably young people, are taking illicitly manufactured fentanyl without even being aware and dying at frightening rates as a result. “Last year, over 70,000 Americans fatally overdosed on illegally made fentanyl. Fentanyl is now found in fake pills and many street drugs, but users are often unaware that their drugs contain the potent opioid. This is an urgent public health crisis that puts all of us, and our loved ones, at risk. We all must play a role in preventing further tragedies” (National Fentanyl Awareness Day, 2024) What is Fentanyl? Fentanyl is a Schedule II narcotic under the United States Controlled Substances Act of 1970 …

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