Monthly Archives: February 2023

Is my mental health declining?

Is My Mental Health Declining?

It happens all the time. A person is living their life. Nothing drastic changes. Maybe a series of difficulties have come, but that is life. But things seem harder. Some describe it as exhaustion. A loss of the zeal. A sadness that seems to stick around. Maybe it’s working long hours and prioritizing career over well-being. Often feeling stressed and anxious. Sure, these things can all be part of normal life, but what happens when they are more? How do we know if this is just a phase or if we need to ask the question: Is my mental health declining?

Mental Health: A Universal Concern

Mental health is something that everyone should be concerned about. Mental health problems can creep up slowly. Psychological issues require treatment at an early stage before they worsen.

Though you will want to see a specialist to get a true diagnosis, there are some common signs that let you know if your mental health is more than a side effect of normal life.

  1. Sleep Changes

Sleep patterns can be a sign of declining mental health. While it’s normal to experience occasional disruptions, is your sleep issue occasional or persistent? Do you have difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep? Clinical depression can cause insomnia, where an individual has difficulty falling or staying asleep, or hypersomnia, where they may sleep for extended periods. Anxiety can have similar effects. Bipolar disorder and PTSD also carry sleep issues that could be underlying signs to reach out for help.

  1. Mood changes

Do you feel sometimes up and sometimes down? Or do you feel constantly short-tempered, anxious, restless, emotional, and more sensitive than usual? The important thing to remember with mood changes is that everyone has ups and downs. We might feel happy because work went well, or sad because an argument with a loved one. The question is are the mood changes persistent, intense, and interfering with daily functioning?
If you feel one or more of these, then your mental health may be the issue.

  1. Behavioral changes

If you have stopped meeting friends or socializing, not communicating with your family and just want to be alone always, you may feel disconnected from reality. On an occasional basis, this may be just a time-out that you want. Regularly it can be a major symptom of worsening mental health.

  1. Don’t experience joy or happiness

Being sad always, and not being able to feel joy or happiness in activities or situations that earlier you used to enjoy can be signs of mental health issues. Anhedonia, the medical term for the inability to experience pleasure or interest in things that were previously enjoyable, is a common symptom of depression and other mental health conditions. You may feel emotionally flat, numb, or disconnected from the things they once enjoyed. You may also struggle to find motivation or interest in activities you once loved. This also creates a cycle. These activities can also alleviate depression, and that lack of them could lead to despair. If nothing cheers you up and makes you happy, then you may want to reach out for help.

What to Do About Declining Mental Health

If you think your mental health is declining, that you are experiencing signs that are persistent, reach out to someone for support. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional about what you’re going through. They can provide a listening ear, offer practical advice, and help you identify the next steps to take. Our team here at Lido Wellness Center is available to hear what you are going through. We work with patients every day that are working through a decline in mental health and are finding a path to wellness.

 

This entry was posted in Mental Health on by .
Effects of using marijuana for depression in Newport Beach

Marijuana for Depression: What Are the Effects?

With marijuana becoming popular and even legal in many states, its use has become widespread. Along with this is quite a bit of information and misinformation about the benefits of the drug. Some of these are creeping into the mental health world.

There seems to be a bit of an “all-or-nothing” approach to the acceptance of marijuana in the new paradigm. Either it is the answer to just about all the problems in the human body, or it is still the poison that leads to drug addiction.

But we want to go over the use of marijuana for depression.

Because, while marijuana use has been associated with various mental health benefits, there is also a risk for developing certain psychiatric disorders with regular use. Let’s explore some of the short-term and long-term effects of marijuana on depression.

Short-Term Effects: Using Marijuana for Depression

The short-term effects of marijuana use can vary depending on the individual. Some people may experience an immediate change in mood, feeling more relaxed and less stressed. There’s some evidence that people experience better sleep and temporary relief from anxiety.

One of the ways that marijuana may provide short-term relief for depression is by interacting with the brain’s endocannabinoid system. This is where we regulate our mood, appetite, and sleep. When THC, the psychoactive compound in marijuana, binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain, it can lead to an increase in dopamine and serotonin levels. Ostensibly this relieves the depressive symptoms.

Others may feel an increase in anxiety and paranoia. For some people, these effects are only temporary and will go away once the marijuana wears off. For others, the effects may last for a more extended period of time.

Long-Term Effects: Marijuana for Depression

Cannabis use disorder is a potential long-term effect of regular marijuana use. Marijuana addiction. This disorder is characterized by impaired control over marijuana use, continued use despite negative consequences, and craving for cannabis. It can

Cannabis use disorder can lead to other mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression. Chronic marijuana use may worsen symptoms of depression. Chronic marijuana use may also impact brain development and cognitive function.

There is evidence that chronic marijuana use can lead to changes in the brain similar to those seen in people with schizophrenia. These changes can include problems with memory, attention, and decision-making. Chronic marijuana use may also increase the risk of developing psychosis.

Negative Effects: Marijuana for Depression

While some people may feel like it is the answer to mental and physical health, the reality is that there is good reason to reconsider if you are trying to medicate your depression with marijuana or weed. Here are some of the potential adverse effects of weed on depression.

  1. Worsened depression symptoms: While some people may experience short-term relief from depression symptoms when using marijuana, chronic use can actually worsen depression symptoms over time. This is because regular marijuana use can lead to changes in the brain that contribute to depression, including a decrease in serotonin levels.
  2. Increased risk of developing depression: Studies have shown that individuals who use marijuana regularly are at an increased risk of developing depression, particularly if they start using marijuana during adolescence. This is likely due to the negative impact that marijuana can have on brain development during this critical period.
  3. Increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors: Some studies have found a link between marijuana use and an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. This is particularly concerning for individuals who are already struggling with depression, as suicidal thoughts and behaviors are a common symptom of the condition.
  4. Impaired cognitive function: Chronic marijuana use can lead to impairment in cognitive function, including memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. This can make it more difficult for individuals with depression to manage their symptoms and engage in daily activities.
  5. Dependence and withdrawal: Regular use of marijuana can lead to dependence, and individuals who try to quit may experience withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, anxiety, insomnia, and loss of appetite. These symptoms can exacerbate depression and make it more difficult to manage.

Evidence Based Treatment for Depression

If you are struggling with depression, many treatment options are available.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on changing maladaptive thoughts and behaviors. It combines a cognitive and behavioral approach to help people understand, identify, and change their negative thought patterns.

Antidepressant medication can also be an effective treatment for depression. Exercise, nutrition, and self-care are essential components of a well-rounded approach to treating depression.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has been shown to be effective in the treatment of depression. TMS involves the use of a magnetic coil that is placed on the scalp, which generates a magnetic field that can stimulate the brain’s nerve cells.

TMS is typically used as a treatment option for individuals with depression who have not responded to traditional treatments, such as antidepressant medication and psychotherapy. The therapy is generally well-tolerated, with few side effects, and does not require anesthesia or sedation.

Why Risk Using Marijuana for Depression?

Marijuana use is associated with a variety of short-term and long-term effects on mental health. Some people may find that marijuana relieves their symptoms of depression, while others may find that it worsens their symptoms.

But there is no need to experiment or test. There are many documented approaches to managing depression—ones that do not come with the same risks as marijuana use.

If you are considering using marijuana to treat your depression, it is important to speak with a mental health professional first. If you want to know more about treatment for depression, please call us today. Our team is ready to answer your questions and offer you options for a plan that makes sense to you.

This entry was posted in Uncategorized on by .
benefits of crying for mental health

Benefits of Crying for Mental Health

What Is Crying?

Crying is a natural response to emotions such as sadness, joy, frustration, love, loneliness, and fear. Of course this is just the beginning. In the range of human emotions, any of them could have the potential to elicit tears.

Crying is a complex process that is related to emotional expression combined with a release of stress, all connected to a physiological response to the stimulation of certain nerves in the eyes. When a person experiences strong emotions, their brain sends a signal to the glands in the upper outer part of the eye to produce tears.

These tears then drain into the tear ducts and flow down the cheeks. This is the physical aspect of crying. The emotional one is even more complicated.

When we cry, several psychological and emotional processes are taking place. Crying can be seen as a form of emotional expression, a release of feelings, and a way to communicate our needs and feelings to others.

Here are some of the psychological processes that occur when we cry:

  1. Emotional release: Crying can help to release pent-up emotions, such as sadness, anger, frustration, or joy. When we cry, we allow ourselves to fully experience and express our emotions, which can help to reduce stress and tension and improve our overall mood.
  2. Communication: Crying can also serve as a form of nonverbal communication, signaling to others that we need support or help. This is especially true when we cry in the presence of others, as the act of crying can elicit sympathy and support from others.
  3. Empathy: Crying can also facilitate empathy, as it allows us to connect with others on an emotional level. When we see someone else crying, we often feel a strong urge to comfort them and help them through their emotional experience.
  4. Reflection: Crying can also be a time for introspection and reflection, as it forces us to slow down and reflect on our emotions and experiences. This can lead to greater self-awareness and a deeper understanding of our own emotional needs and responses.

Despite this, there is often a stigma surrounding crying and expressing emotions, particularly for men. Many cultures teach that crying is a sign of weakness and that expressing feelings is inappropriate in certain situations. This stigma can make people feel ashamed or embarrassed about crying, even when it is a healthy and normal response to their feelings.

Physical Benefits of Crying

Crying has several physical benefits, including reducing stress and releasing tension in the body. When a person cries, they release a chemical called prolactin, which is associated with a reduction in stress levels. Additionally, crying can help regulate levels of the stress hormone cortisol in the body, leading to a calming of the mind.

Crying also helps to reduce eye pressure, improve vision, and relieve sinus pressure.

Emotional Benefits of Crying

Crying can also provide emotional benefits, such as reducing sadness, anger, or frustration. By releasing these emotions through crying, a person can feel a sense of relief and a reduced burden of stress and negativity. Crying can also help to facilitate healing and closure after a traumatic event or loss. Additionally, crying can help build a deeper connection with others, providing a sense of shared empathy and understanding.

Social Benefits of Crying

Crying can even provide social benefits, such as building stronger relationships and improving communication. By sharing emotions with others, individuals can feel a sense of empathy and understanding from their friends, family, or partners. Shedding tears helps to build trust and intimacy in relationships, as it demonstrates vulnerability and allows others to support and comfort one another. It’s important to share your true feelings with others, especially those closest to you.

When Is Crying Too Much?

While there are many benefits of crying for mental health, and it is a natural part of the human experience, it can also be a sign of a more serious problem, such as clinical depression or anxiety, if it occurs frequently or excessively.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your emotions and feel that you can’t stop crying, it’s important to reach out to a trusted friend, family member, or healthcare provider for support and guidance.

At Lido Wellness, our team can help. We specialize in trauma care and anxiety and depression disorders. If you are looking for an outpatient mental health option do understand why you might be crying excessively, call our team today.

This entry was posted in Mental Health on by .
Center for Depression Near Me

Best Treatment Centers For Depression Near Me

Lido Wellness Center is one of the best treatment centers for depression near me, with evidence-based and innovative therapies. To choose the top treatment center for depression consider:

Ratings and Reviews

Look for trauma treatment facilities with the highest rating on Google and the most positive reviews. Several positive testimonials for a treatment center show the efficacy of its treatment programs and healing approach. You may learn about the reputation and popularity of a treatment center based on the number of followers they have on various social media platforms. As one of the best trauma and PTSD treatment centers, we enjoy a 4.3-star rating on Google.

Clinical Team

Check the profile of the clinical staff and therapists at a mental health treatment center. You want to join a PTSD and trauma treatment facility with experienced psychiatrists, behavioral therapists, and mental health experts to garner the best outcome in recovery. More importantly, check out their staff-to-client ratio. Treatment centers with a high staff-to-client ratio may not offer personalized support, causing you to experience poor-quality care.

Therapies and Treatments Available

You want to join a treatment center that uses an integrated healing approach encompassing science-based and holistic therapies to help you regain control over your mental health. Most rehabs try to offer the bare minimum and engage you in several hours of group therapy programs. While group therapy plays a critical role in your overall recovery regime, it may not work as a stand-alone treatment. You need to participate in psychotherapy sessions like cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic experiencing, dialectical behavioral therapy, etc., for comprehensive and holistic recovery.

Our PTSD treatment in Orange County engages patients in advanced and innovative science-based therapies such as EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, integrative Dance-Movement based therapy, Neuro, biofeedback, etc.

Customized Recovery Plans

Some mental health facilities use a cookie-cutter healing approach to treat their clients. However, no two mental health situations are the same, making a one-size-fits-all approach useless. Look for mental health facilities that create customized treatment plans for each patient in recovery. A tailored treatment approach can help you attain a safe, speedy, and sustainable recovery from your mental health issues.

Specialized Treatment Centers

Join a mental health clinic specializing in treating your specific psychiatric disorder. If you suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms, look for mental health centers with the best PTSD treatment program. Joining a specialized treatment facility can help you achieve your recovery goals within a short duration and help you lead a healthy, happy, and gratifying life in the long term.

Ongoing Care Programs

Some mental health disorders may require long-term treatment. Conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, etc., require long-term treatment, causing you to meet with a mental health professional periodically to keep your psychiatric issue under control. Make sure to join a mental health rehab with the best continuing care programs for lasting success with psychiatric wellness.

Contact us at 949-541-8466 to join one of the best treatment centers for depression near meLIDO Wellness Center specializes in depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar, and personality disorder treatment. Our evidence-based approach can help you attain comprehensive recovery and equip you with essential survival, communication, and coping skills for a healthy, happy, and gratifying life.

This entry was posted in Depression on by .