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Awareness

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 to Deal with Negative Self-Talk

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Negative self-talk is a common yet harmful internal dialogue that can significantly impact mental health. It involves critical, self-defeating thoughts that erode self-esteem and reinforce anxiety, depression, and self-doubt. These internal messages often become automatic, repeating themselves over time and shaping how we perceive ourselves, our abilities, and our worth. Learning to recognize and reframe negative self-talk is a crucial step in building emotional resilience and supporting overall well-being. What Is Negative Self-Talk? Negative self-talk includes the internal narratives that are overly critical, pessimistic, or self-sabotaging. Examples include thoughts like “I’m not good enough,” “I always mess things up,” or “No one cares what I have to say.” These thoughts are often rooted in cognitive distortions, such as black-and-white thinking, catastrophizing, or personalizing. According to Beck’s cognitive model of depression, these patterns can create …

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6 Ways Exercise Boosts Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry While exercise has long been known for its positive effects on physical health, research has emphasized how it can significantly improve mental health as well. From reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression to enhancing cognitive function and emotional resilience, exercise is proving to be one of the most effective, accessible, and natural ways to boost mental health. Here are 6 ways that exercise can boost mental health: 1. Exercise Reduces Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression In the last few years, studies have consistently shown that exercise rivals traditional interventions for mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry (2022) found that physical activity can significantly reduce symptoms of depression, with moderate-intensity exercises like walking or cycling being particularly beneficial.  Researchers noted that exercise releases neurotransmitters such as serotonin …

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The Impact of of Social Media on Teen Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Social media has become an integral part of daily life, especially for teens, who spend a significant amount of time on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. While these platforms can offer opportunities for connection, self-expression, and entertainment, there is growing concern about the potential negative effects they have on teen mental health.  Research from the last five years highlights both the risks and benefits of social media use for teens. Findings emphasize that the impact on mental well-being is complex.  Here’s more on how social media influences teen mental health, the risks associated with excessive use, the potential benefits, and tips for setting healthy boundaries: The Risks of Social Media on Teen Mental Health Increased Risk of Anxiety and Depression One of the most significant concerns regarding social media use among teens is …

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The Connection Between Gut Health and Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry While therapy and medication are essential tools in treating mental health conditions, emerging research suggests that one of the most important (but often overlooked) factors in mental health is the health of your gut. Known as the gut-brain axis, the direct connection between the gut and the brain is a groundbreaking discovery that highlights how the state of your digestive system can profoundly affect your mental health. In this blog, we’ll explore the fascinating link between gut health and mental well-being and offer practical tips to nurture both. We also emphasize that for those experiencing mental health symptoms, it’s important to consult both a medical doctor and a nutritionist to ensure you’re taking a comprehensive approach to your health. What is the Gut-Brain Axis? The gut-brain axis refers to the communication network between your …

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