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Search Results for: self care

GLP-1 Medications: Beyond Weight Loss—Exploring Their Potential to Curb Addictive Cravings

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro, Zepbound) have become widely recognized for their ability to promote weight loss and improve metabolic health. However, emerging research suggests that their benefits may extend far beyond managing obesity and diabetes. In recent studies and clinical observations, GLP-1 medications appear to reduce cravings and reward-driven behaviors linked to nicotine, alcohol, and opioid use. As a result, some physicians are prescribing these drugs not only for weight management but also as part of broader strategies to support addiction recovery and impulse control. A New Frontier in Addiction and Craving Reduction GLP-1 receptor agonists were originally developed to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Their mechanism involves mimicking the hormone GLP-1, which slows gastric emptying, suppresses …

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Understanding Dual Diagnosis: Mark Hrymoc, MD on Addiction Medicine Made Easy

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When mental health challenges and addiction overlap, recovery can become especially complex. In the podcast Addiction Medicine Made Easy, hosted by Casey Grover, MD, Mental Health Center’s co-founder and addiction psychiatrist Mark Hrymoc, MD joined the episode “Dual Diagnosis: Why Treating One Without the Other Never Works” to discuss why integrated care is essential for lasting healing. The Connection Between Mental Health and Addiction As Dr. Hrymoc explains, many individuals struggling with addiction are also managing underlying mental health conditions—often without realizing it. This overlap, known as dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorders, affects a large portion of people in treatment. In fact, an estimated 50–80% of patients with addiction also have PTSD or significant trauma histories, Dr. Hrymoc explained on the podcast episode. Many turn to substances not to seek euphoria, but as a form of self-medication to ease emotional pain, anxiety, or intrusive memories. Treating Both Conditions—Together Dr. Hrymoc …

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How to Build Emotional Resilience for Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Emotional resilience is the ability to adapt, recover, and even grow in the face of adversity. It does not mean avoiding stress or never feeling overwhelmed, but rather cultivating the capacity to navigate challenges in a healthier and more balanced way. Building resilience is essential for mental health, as it reduces vulnerability to depression, anxiety, and burnout while improving overall well-being. Fortunately, resilience is not a fixed trait—it can be developed through intentional practices and supportive environments. Understanding Emotional Resilience Resilience involves the interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors. People with higher resilience are better able to regulate emotions, maintain perspective, and access coping skills during difficult times. According to research in the Annual Review of Clinical Psychology, resilience is shaped by both genetic predispositions and learned behaviors. This means that even if …

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Understanding Anxiety Triggers and How to Manage Them

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Anxiety is a normal response to stress, but when it becomes overwhelming or persistent, it can interfere with daily life and well-being. Identifying and understanding the triggers that set off anxiety is an important step in managing symptoms. Triggers can be external, such as stressful environments or social pressures, or internal, such as intrusive thoughts or physical sensations. By recognizing these triggers and learning strategies to manage them, individuals can reduce the intensity of their anxiety and regain a greater sense of control. Common Anxiety Triggers Anxiety triggers vary from person to person, but several are frequently reported across clinical studies. Work-related stress, financial difficulties, health concerns, and interpersonal conflict are among the most common external triggers. Social situations, including public speaking or meeting new people, can provoke significant anxiety for individuals with social …

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The Role of Therapy in Treating Depression

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Depression is one of the most common and debilitating mental health conditions worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. While medication can play an important role in treatment, therapy is a cornerstone of effective depression care. Talk therapy provides a safe, structured environment for individuals to explore thoughts and emotions, develop coping strategies, and create long-term change. Research consistently shows that therapy not only alleviates symptoms but also reduces the risk of relapse, making it a vital tool in recovery. Understanding Depression and Its Impact Depression is more than just persistent sadness. It involves a range of symptoms such as fatigue, loss of interest in activities, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness. Left untreated, it can interfere with work, relationships, and overall quality of life. According to the …

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