Author Archives: Lisa Jane

Lido Wellness Center Blog

Can OCD Be Cured?

April 25, 2024

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is quite often very misunderstood. If you or someone you love is dealing with OCD, you’ve likely wondered if it can ever really go away. It’s a question that tugs at the heartstrings, especially on the tough days: Can OCD be cured?

Understanding OCD: The Basics

OCD isn’t just about liking your books arranged by color or being a stickler for clean counters. It’s more like your brain gets stuck on a particular thought or urge and won’t let go, leading to behaviors that can take over your life.

Imagine feeling compelled to check that the door is locked 20 times before you can sleep or wash your hands until they’re raw. It’s exhausting and consuming.

The Hope and the Reality of Treatment

So, can OCD be cured? Well, “cure” might be too strong a word given our current understanding and technology. OCD is chronic, which means it can be managed and controlled, but it might always be a part of someone’s life to some extent. But here’s the hopeful part: treatment can really help, and life can become normalized.

The Important Work of Therapy for OCD

Therapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and its counterpart, Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is kind of astounding. This type of therapy gently helps people face their fears without giving in to their compulsions.

Imagine being afraid of germs but learning, little by little, to handle an object that scares you without rushing to wash your hands. Over time, your brain starts to learn a new narrative: maybe it’s not as dangerous as I thought.

Can OCD Be Cured With Medication?

Medications, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can play a crucial role in managing the symptoms. SSRIs, which increase the levels of serotonin in the brain—a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation—have been found to help reduce the intensity of OCD symptoms in many patients.

This reduction can make symptoms more manageable and allow folks to benefit more effectively from psychotherapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

These medications are not effective for everyone and are not considered a cure, but they can significantly “turn down” the severity of the symptoms. This decrease in symptom intensity can provide patients with the necessary relief to engage in therapy and implement strategies that address the underlying thought patterns and behaviors associated with OCD.

Why There’s No Simple “Cure”

The brain is incredibly complex, and despite all our leaps in science, we’re still unraveling how it works. When we ask, “Can OCD be cured,” we have to take into account the various factors including genetics, brain biology, and environment.

Because of this complexity, what works for one person might not work for another. That’s why the road to managing OCD is often paved with personalized treatment plans.

Common Questions and Misconceptions About OCD

Q1: Is OCD just about being overly neat and organized?

A1: No, OCD is much more than a desire for neatness. While some people with OCD might have compulsions related to orderliness, the disorder encompasses a wide range of obsessions and compulsions.

It involves unwanted, distressing thoughts and repetitive behaviors that the person feels driven to perform, which can significantly disrupt daily functioning and quality of life.

Q2: Can people with OCD just stop their behaviors if they really want to?

A2: Stopping the compulsions associated with OCD isn’t simply a matter of willpower. The behaviors are driven by intense, uncontrollable fears and anxieties. Treatment, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), is often necessary to help manage and reduce these compulsions.

These therapies work by gradually exposing individuals to their fears and teaching them healthier ways to cope with anxiety.

Q3: Does OCD go away with medication?

A3: Medications, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can be very effective in managing the symptoms of OCD. However, medication typically doesn’t cure OCD but helps to reduce the intensity of the symptoms.

Many individuals may experience significant relief, and when combined with therapy, medication can provide a strong foundation for managing the disorder.

Q4: Is OCD a rare condition?

A4: OCD is not as rare as many might think. It affects men and women equally and can start at any time from preschool age to adulthood. The disorder is quite common, affecting approximately 2-3% of the population.

Understanding that OCD is a common mental health condition can help reduce stigma and encourage individuals to seek the help they need.

Q5: Can children have OCD, and how can they be treated?

A5: Yes, children can have OCD. In fact, many adults who are diagnosed with OCD can trace their symptoms back to childhood. Treatment for children is similar to that for adults, involving therapy and sometimes medication. It’s crucial for treatment to be age-appropriate and supportive, often involving the family to help manage the disorder effectively.

Embracing the Journey

While we may not be able to say OCD can be “cured” as we might hope or imagine, the beauty of this journey is that there’s tremendous room for improvement. Many find that with the right combination of treatments, their OCD becomes a whisper instead of a shout, something manageable that doesn’t steal the joy from their days.

Getting Help Managing OCD

If OCD’s challenges resonate with you or someone close to you, Lido Wellness Center is here to help. We understand the intricacies of OCD and offer personalized treatment plans designed to manage and alleviate the symptoms. Don’t let OCD define your life. Reach out to us today and take the first step towards a better tomorrow. Call Lido Wellness Center today: 949-541-8466.

[wp_ulike][addthis tool="addthis_inline_share_toolbox_4mpn"]

Lido Wellness Center Blog

Depression and Eating Disorders

April 24, 2024

When grappling with the complexities of mental health, the interplay between depression and eating disorders stands out as particularly intricate.

Often, these conditions do not exist in isolation. They intricately weave into each other’s narratives, affecting individuals in profoundly personal ways. Understanding the connection between these two conditions and the significance of a dual diagnosis approach is important when considering treatment and fostering recovery.

Depression and Eating Disorders: The Connection

Yes, there is a deep-seated link between depression and eating disorders. These conditions share more than just co-occurrence. They interact in ways that can make each other worse and prolong each other.

Depression is characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest in enjoyable activities, and a plethora of physical symptoms like fatigue and insomnia. It often cultivates an environment where eating disorders can take root.

Whether it’s anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder, the underlying feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and intense self-criticism associated with depression can significantly contribute to disordered eating behaviors.

Conversely, eating disorders can complicate and deepen the severity of depression. The physical stress and nutritional imbalances caused by eating disorders can alter brain chemistry, potentially leading to heightened depressive symptoms.

Additionally, the social isolation, feelings of shame, and the secretive nature of eating disorders can make depression even more challenging to manage.

Depression and Eating Disorders: Dual Diagnosis

Enter the concept of dual diagnosis—a term used when someone is diagnosed with both a mental health disorder, like depression and another psychiatric condition, such as an eating disorder. But why does this dual perspective matter?

Firstly, dual diagnosis acknowledges the complexity of each individual’s situation. This means there is not a one-size-fits-all model. It offers a more holistic view of a person’s mental health landscape, allowing treatment providers to tailor a program that address both conditions simultaneously.

This is crucial because treating one issue while neglecting the other can lead to incomplete recovery and a higher likelihood of relapse.

Why Dual Diagnosis Treatment Makes a Difference

Understanding the need for a dual diagnosis approach can dramatically change the recovery journey. Here’s how:

  1. Integrated Treatment Strategies: Dual diagnosis treatments integrate strategies to manage both depression and eating disorders in a coordinated effort. This might involve a combination of medication, psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and peer support groups. By treating both conditions concurrently, the treatment team can more effectively break the cycle where depression fuels eating disorder behaviors and vice versa.
  2. Personalized Care: Every individual’s experience with depression and eating disorders is unique. A dual diagnosis approach allows for personalized care plans that are attuned to the specific needs and challenges of each patient. This bespoke approach not only addresses the symptoms but also the root causes and personal factors contributing to both disorders.
  3. Prevention of Relapse: By addressing both conditions simultaneously, dual diagnosis treatment can more effectively prevent relapse. Understanding and managing the triggers for both depression and eating disorders can equip individuals with the tools they need to maintain their recovery even under stress.
  4. Empowerment Through Education: Knowledge is power, and dual diagnosis treatment often includes educational components that help individuals understand their conditions better.

This empowerment through education helps demystify their experiences and encourages active participation in their recovery process.

IOP for Depression and Eating Disorders

One of the core benefits of an IOP option for eating disorders and depression is its intensity. These programs typically involve multiple sessions per week, often totaling nine to twelve hours, providing a concentrated dose of therapy without the residential stay.

For individuals balancing jobs, school, or family commitments, IOPs provide the necessary therapeutic support aligned with the demands of their everyday life.

Integrated Treatment Strategies

In an IOP, the integration of treatment strategies for both depression and eating disorders can be particularly effective. Therapeutic interventions might include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
  • Somatic Experiencing
  • Nutritional Counseling
  • Medication Management

Building a Supportive Community

IOPs often include group therapy, this is very helpful for people feeling isolated by their conditions. These group settings provide a space to connect with others, fostering a sense of community and shared understanding.

The peer support in IOPs can be incredibly empowering, offering both comfort and accountability as individuals progress through their treatment.

Continuity of Care

Lastly, IOPs often serve as a step-down from more intensive hospitalization or as a step-up from standard outpatient therapy, providing a critical middle ground of care intensity. They are designed to ensure continuity of care, which is essential for those recovering from depression and eating disorders, helping to prevent relapse by providing sustained, ongoing support.

The intersection of depression and eating disorders presents complex challenges that require a nuanced approach. Dual diagnosis is not just a method; it’s a compassionate acknowledgement of the complexity of human experience in facing mental health challenges. With this approach, treatment becomes a path not just to recovery, but to a deeper understanding of oneself and enduring resilience. By embracing the interconnectedness of these conditions, we pave the way for more effective, empathetic, and comprehensive care, supporting individuals in their journey toward healing and holistic well-being.

Get Help for Depression and Eating Disorders in Newport Beach

If you or someone you love is navigating the challenges of depression and eating disorders, you don’t have to face it alone.

Lido Wellness specializes in dual diagnosis treatment that addresses both conditions together, providing a path to healing that respects the complexity of your experiences. Call us today at 949-541-8466 to learn how our approach can make a difference in your recovery journey.

[wp_ulike][addthis tool="addthis_inline_share_toolbox_4mpn"]

Lido Wellness Center Blog

LGBTQ and Mental Health Treatment Center

April 22, 2024

Individuality in Mental Health Help

First and foremost, it’s crucial to acknowledge that being part of the LGBTQ community doesn’t inherently predispose someone to mental health challenges. Each individual’s experience with their identity is as unique as they are, and it’s important to approach mental health from a perspective that honors this diversity.

However, many in the LGBTQ community do face certain mental health challenges more frequently than their heterosexual and cisgender peers. This is not because of their identity per se, but often due to external factors such as discrimination, stigma, and lack of support.\

LGBTQ and Mental Health Realities

So, with this in mind, it is important to acknowledge, if you or someone you love idetitifies as part of the LGBTQ+ community, there might be good reason to seek help.

Here is a compilation of key statistics concerning mental health challenges within the LGBTQ community.

  • Anxiety and Depression: LGBTQ youth experience high levels of anxiety and depression. For instance, 61% of LGBTQ young adults aged 18 to 29 reported symptoms of anxiety, and 50% reported symptoms of depression​ (Census.gov)​.
  • Suicidality: Across various surveys, a significant number of LGBTQ youth have reported serious considerations of suicide. According to one survey, 42% of LGBTQ youth contemplated suicide during the COVID-19 pandemic​ (adaa)​.
  • Health Care Access: Despite the need, many LGBTQ individuals struggle to access mental health care. Approximately 56% of LGBTQ young people who wanted mental health care in the past year were unable to get it, with affordability and fear of disclosure being major barriers​ (The Trevor Project)​.
  • Stigma and Discrimination: Stigma and discrimination contribute heavily to the mental health challenges faced by the LGBTQ community. Nearly 27% of transgender individuals report being outright denied needed health care​ (Mental Health America)​.
  • Social Isolation: The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated mental health issues among LGBTQ youth due to increased isolation and limited access to supportive environments, leading to heightened rates of anxiety and depression​ (adaa)​.

Common LGBTQ and Mental Health Challenges

As you can see, this is a crisis. Members of the LGBTQ community can, and do, experience a range of mental health issues. Anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders appear more frequently among LGBTQ individuals, often exacerbated by experiences of rejection or hostility in their environments.

Additionally, the process of coming out can bring about intense emotional turmoil, leading to feelings of isolation or confusion. Moreover, the persistent social pressure to conform to traditional norms and values can significantly strain one’s mental well-being.

The Need for LGBTQ-Informed Treatment

Now, why is mental health and LGBTQ-informed treatment essential? This type of care is sensitive to the specific needs of the LGBTQ and mental health community. It acknowledges the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals and incorporates this understanding into treatment plans.

This approach not only fosters a more supportive and understanding therapeutic environment but also enhances the effectiveness of the treatment by addressing the specific contexts of an individual’s life.

How LGBTQ-Informed Treatment Differs

LGBTQ-informed treatment differs from typical mental health treatment in several ways. Firstly, it provides a safe space where individuals can explore their identities without fear of judgment or misunderstanding. Therapists trained in LGBTQ-specific issues are better equipped to offer relevant and empathetic support. They are also more likely to be aware of the specific challenges, including social and familial dynamics, that may impact an LGBTQ individual’s mental health.

The Benefits of Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

Considering the benefits of Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) for someone in the LGBTQ community seeking mental health support, IOPs offer a balanced approach that allows individuals to receive thorough, consistent care while maintaining their daily routines.

An IOP is more involved than simply choosing a counselor and treatment a couple of times a month. This process includes multiple days a week under careful guidance by the professionals running the program. This “intensive” approach offers tangible results quickly.

This format is particularly beneficial as it supports integration rather than isolation, promoting healing within the context of everyday life.

Getting Help With LGBTQ and Mental Health Issues in Newport Beach

Ultimately, while each person’s journey through mental health is unique, the need for respectful, informed, and empathetic treatment is universal. For those in the LGBTQ community, finding an environment that understands and supports all aspects of their identity can make a significant difference in their mental health journey.

An LGBTQ-informed IOP isn’t just a treatment option—it’s a place to find understanding, support, and the tools to navigate challenges in a way that respects your full identity.

Let’s move forward with compassion, understanding, and an unwavering commitment to individuality and inclusivity in mental health.

If you or a loved one is navigating mental health challenges within the LGBTQ community, remember, you’re not alone. Lido Wellness in Newport Beach, California, specializes in LGBTQ-informed care that respects and addresses your unique experiences.

To start your journey towards healing, call us today at 949-541-8466.

[wp_ulike][addthis tool="addthis_inline_share_toolbox_4mpn"]

Lido Wellness Center Blog

PTSD and Relationships

April 17, 2024

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) isn’t just a plot twist in novels or movies. It’s a real and often harrowing mental health condition. And whether you are aware or not, it always plays role in a relationship. It’s up to you to decide how much it affects your relationships. Imagine carrying a backpack filled not with rocks, but with triggers that can unexpectedly leap out and take over your life at any moment. That’s a day in the life of someone with PTSD. So PTSD and relationships are absolutely possible, but they take some care and understanding form all sides.

So, What Exactly is PTSD?

PTSD develops after a person has experienced a traumatic event. This could be anything from a car accident to a natural disaster, or more personal traumas like assault or military combat. Essentially, if it feels life-threatening or severely destabilizing, it can lead to PTSD.

The brain gets stuck in a loop, replaying the trauma. This comes out often disrupting life in ways that are difficult for the person and likely also for someone in a relationship.

Traditionally, we link PTSD to veterans or first responders—people routinely exposed to life-threatening situations. However, it’s important to recognize that trauma isn’t exclusive to these dramatic scenarios.

Trauma can emerge from ongoing stressors such as bullying, sudden losses, or living in a high-crime neighborhood. Each person’s threshold for what’s traumatic differs enormously, which means PTSD can stem from experiences that might surprise us.

The Symptoms of PTSD and Relationships

PTSD can show up in your life or your partner’s life in various ways. It can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life. Here are some common results of PTSD:

  • Flashbacks and Recurrent Memories: Sudden, vivid recollections of the traumatic event can intrude on daily life. These may come in the form of flashbacks, where it feels like the trauma is happening all over again, or intrusive thoughts that are hard to shake.
  • Avoidance: Individuals may avoid places, people, or activities that remind them of the trauma, significantly narrowing their world and daily experiences.
  • Hyperarousal: This might manifest as being easily startled, feeling tense, or having difficulty sleeping. Hyperarousal can make ordinary situations feel threatening, leading to heightened stress in everyday environments.
  • Emotional Numbing: Some may find themselves detached from emotions, struggling to connect with joy, sadness, or affection.
  • Irritability and Anger: People with PTSD may experience increased irritability and anger, sometimes with little provocation. This can result in sudden outbursts, affecting relationships and workplace dynamics.
  • Difficulty Concentrating: PTSD can cause trouble with concentration and memory, making it hard to complete tasks at work or school and manage daily responsibilities.
  • Guilt and Shame: Feelings of guilt or shame are common, particularly if the individual believes they could have done something differently during the traumatic event. These feelings can pervade thoughts and interactions.
  • Decreased Interest in Activities: Losing interest in activities that were once enjoyable is a frequent outcome.
  • Feeling Alienated: Those with PTSD may feel disconnected or alienated from others, even close family members and friends, as if no one can understand their experience.

The Ripple Effects of PTSD and Relationships

Navigating a relationship where one partner has PTSD can be like trying to dance on a moving train. You want to move in sync, but the ground beneath you keeps shifting. For the person with PTSD, there’s often a sense of isolation.

They might feel that their partner could never understand their pain, or worse, they might worry about being a burden. Meanwhile, the other partner might feel helpless or frustrated, not knowing how to provide support or when to give space.

Being the Supportive Partner

When your partner is dealing with the ramifications of PTSD, your support can make a world of difference. The essence of your role is to provide a stable, understanding presence. Here’s how you can refine your approach:

  • Listen Actively: Engage with your partner when they choose to share their thoughts and feelings. Active listening involves nodding, making eye contact, and offering small verbal affirmations like “I understand” or “That sounds really tough.” The goal isn’t to provide solutions but to make them feel heard and validated.
  • Educate Yourself about PTSD and relationships: The more you know, the better you can understand the challenges your partner faces. Learning about PTSD symptoms, triggers, and coping mechanisms can help you anticipate and navigate difficulties. Resources can include books, reputable websites, or even consultations with mental health professionals.
  • Stay Non-Judgmental: Remember, many behaviors associated with PTSD and relationships—such as mood swings, irritability, or seeming aloof—are not personal choices but rather symptoms of the disorder. Keeping this in mind can help you maintain empathy and patience.
  • Maintain Emotional Availability: Sometimes, just being there can be enough. Offer a hug, a kind word, or a listening ear. Let your partner know they aren’t alone, and you’re there to support them without pressuring them to open up before they’re ready.
  • Encourage Professional Help: Supporting someone with PTSD doesn’t mean taking on the role of therapist. Encouraging your partner to seek professional help can be vital. It’s a way to show you care about their long-term well-being and recognize the limits of what can be managed alone.
  • Set Boundaries for Healthy Interaction: It’s crucial to establish boundaries that protect both your and your partner’s emotional health. Discuss and agree on what is acceptable behavior within the relationship and stick to these boundaries firmly and compassionately.
  • Practice Self-Care: Supporting a partner with PTSD can be taxing. Ensure you’re taking care of your own mental and emotional needs. Self-care isn’t selfish; it ensures you’re in a strong position to offer support.

For Those with PTSD

Navigating PTSD and relationships can seem daunting, but open communication and mutual education can lay a strong foundation for understanding and support. Here are some practical ways to foster this dynamic:

  • Communicate Your Triggers: Let your partner know what situations or actions might trigger your PTSD symptoms. You don’t have to delve into every aspect of your trauma, but explaining your triggers can help prevent misunderstandings and provide your partner with clear guidelines on how to support you.
  • Share Your Needs Clearly: Be open about what kind of support you find helpful. Whether it’s needing quiet time, avoiding certain topics of conversation, or having support at large gatherings, telling your partner explicitly can make it easier for them to provide the right kind of assistance when you need it.
  • Educate Together: Bring your partner into your healing journey by exploring educational materials about PTSD together. This could include reading books, watching documentaries, or attending workshops. It helps normalize the conversation about mental health and ensures both of you are on the same page.
  • Set Realistic Expectations: Help your partner understand that recovery from PTSD is often a nonlinear process. There will be good days and difficult days. Communicating this can alleviate some of the pressure you might feel and help your partner be more patient and supportive.
  • Encourage Questions: Allow your partner to ask questions about your experience and what they can do to help. This can foster deeper understanding and prevent them from making incorrect assumptions about your feelings and behaviors.
  • Seek Therapy Independently and as a Couple: While individual therapy is crucial for dealing with trauma directly, couples therapy can help both of you understand how PTSD affects your relationship and can improve communication and emotional connection.
  • Practice Self-Expression: Whether it’s through art, writing, or music, find a way to express your feelings and experiences outside of direct conversation. This can provide a therapeutic outlet for you and another way for your partner to understand your inner world.

The Role of Therapy for PTSD and Relationships

Therapy helps. Individual therapy can be a safe space for the person with PTSD to unpack their trauma without fear of overwhelming their partner. But here’s where it gets even better: couples therapy can be incredibly beneficial.

It’s like having a coach who helps you communicate better, understand each other’s perspectives more deeply, and learn strategies to strengthen your relationship. It’s not about fixing someone; it’s about growing together and handling the challenges as a team.

Getting Help for PTSD and Your Relationship

Managing PTSD within a relationship is neither simple nor straightforward, but it’s far from impossible. With understanding, communication, and professional guidance, couples can navigate these waters. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help—doing so is a sign of strength and commitment to each other and to the relationship’s future.

If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD in a relationship, help is available. At Lido Wellness, we understand the challenges and provide specialized support to strengthen your bond.

Don’t wait to make a positive change. Call us today at 949-541-8466 and let us help you navigate the path to better understanding and connection.

[wp_ulike][addthis tool="addthis_inline_share_toolbox_4mpn"]