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Search Results for: self care

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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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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Addressing Intimacy Issues Through Couples Therapy

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couple fighting

Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Intimacy is a cornerstone of healthy relationships, yet it’s one of the most common areas where couples struggle. Whether due to emotional disconnection, stress, past trauma, or evolving relationship dynamics, intimacy issues can significantly impact satisfaction and closeness between partners. Fortunately, couples therapy—and in some cases, sex therapy—can provide effective pathways to healing. These therapeutic approaches help couples understand the root causes of their challenges, improve communication, and rebuild trust and connection. Understanding Intimacy: More Than Just Physical Connection Intimacy encompasses emotional closeness, physical affection, vulnerability, and shared trust. When intimacy breaks down, it can manifest as a lack of sexual connection, emotional withdrawal, or persistent conflict. Research by Johnson et al. (2021) found that emotional and physical intimacy are deeply interconnected, and difficulties in one area often influence the other. While intimacy issues …

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The Benefits of Nature for Mental Health

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man chilling in nature

Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Spending time in nature has long been considered restorative, but only recently have scientists begun to fully understand how powerful outdoor environments can be for mental health. Whether it’s a walk in the park, a hike in the mountains, or simply sitting under a tree, engaging with natural spaces can lead to measurable improvements in mood, stress reduction, and overall emotional well-being. In a time when anxiety, depression, and burnout are increasingly common, nature offers a low-cost, accessible, and evidence-based way to support psychological health. Exposure to Nature Reduces Stress and Anxiety One of the most well-documented benefits of nature is its ability to reduce stress. Time spent in green spaces is associated with lower levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. A 2010 study by Park et al. found that individuals who …

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The Role of Sleep in Managing Depression

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Sleep and depression are closely linked, with each significantly influencing the other. Poor sleep can worsen depressive symptoms, while depression can interfere with the ability to fall asleep or stay asleep. Understanding how sleep and mood interact offers powerful insights for managing depression. When sleep is optimized, it can serve as a foundational element in emotional regulation and psychological recovery. Conversely, chronic sleep disturbances can undermine even the most effective treatment plans, making sleep hygiene a critical component of mental health care. How Depression Affects Sleep Patterns Depression often disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, or circadian rhythm. People with depression may struggle with insomnia, waking frequently during the night, or experiencing early-morning awakenings that leave them feeling unrested. Others may experience hypersomnia, or excessive sleeping, without feeling refreshed. According to the National Sleep …

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