5 Lifestyle Tweaks that Help Support People’s Journey Towards Better Wellbeing

June 22, 2022/in Mental Health

Our very own Dr. Lesley Tate-Gould was interviewed by Candice Georgiadis of Medium and Authority Magazine as part of their “Women in Wellness” series. In addition to Dr. Tate-Gould’s story and how she co-founded Lido Wellness Center, the two discussed effective and practical ways to support one’s journey to wellbeing. Lido Wellness Center is a premier wellness Center in Orange County California. We work with patients all across the US.

Here is a summary of Dr. Tate-Gould’s top 5 lifestyle tweaks! You can also read the full interview on Medium.com.

Lean Into Discipline

Change doesn’t happen to a person; it’s a choice. Taking that bold step and going into therapy signals to themselves and others that they’re taking their wellness seriously.

However, negative beliefs around how we experience difficult situations can stifle any crucial early momentum before it really gets going. Promoting personal discipline removes how one “feels” from the equation, so they can focus on what they need.

Select a project or behavior that you desire to begin or stop in your daily life. Create and commit to practical, actionable steps that will move you closer to your goal every day.

It’s important to choose attainable goals. Even small habit changes can be transformative.

Meditation Practice

This topic always gets mixed responses, but it’s one Dr. Tate-Gould always comes back to. Practice doesn’t make perfect; it makes progress. Meditation is no different. Meditation is not a technique that will magically cure one of anxiety, trauma, or stress.

Meditation is simply the act of creating space your mind, body, and spirit need to discover how often you operate in one channel over another. Space mediation happens most successfully when you can focus on the space itself.

Dr. Tate-Gould says, “For example, when I have a very busy week ahead, I may notice that my thoughts during meditation are louder, more involved, walking me through my long list of items needed to see me through the week. Whereas, when I practice meditation at other times, I may notice greater access to a feeling or sensing state. These access points have delighted me when I will be greeted with a spontaneous solution to a problem that has been rolling around my mind for days, even weeks.”

The goal of meditation practice is to experience a greater sense of connection to ourselves and the divine. This is one of the most fulfilling ways to navigate life on this Earth.

Though not everyone will want to meditate, we do urge our patients to at least give meditation a try at our wellness center in Orange County. They may just find that meditation was something they were missing out on all along!

Reconnect To Play

As adults, we often lose that sense of play and wonderment we experienced as children. Many adults are surprised to learn that we require the art of play for survival, just as much as children.

“Play” isn’t something that someone can just teach someone else. It’s inherent. Adults just do not permit themselves to participate in playful activities.

We can still learn so much just from observing the antics and imaginations at work in the lives of children at play. Instead, adults often try to use the opportunity to play as a reward after another accomplishment.

Play should be viewed as the restorative nourishment it is. Something essential to life, not something optional you must earn. Quench the thirst for play and reinstate it as a normal and necessary activity.

Nature For the Win

It’s no coincidence that when people adventure and plan a vacation, they choose places that are inherently abundant in natural beauty. When we connect with the Earth, we are fulfilled and restored.

Feeling the dirt between our toes…
Watching the sunset over the horizon…
Seeing the creatures scurry about in their natural habitat…
Soaking in and feeling part of vast bodies of water…
Enjoy the natural paintings flora and fauna create…

We have been built to enjoy and take inspiration from the great outdoors. Our wellness center in Orange County takes this into consideration during mental health treatment. We aim to connect with nature as often as possible.

Prepare and Eat Meals with Your Family

Sharing a meal is a cross-cultural experience. Every tongue, nation, culture, and people can understand the connectedness that occurs when you share a meal.

This same experience is propelled even further when the preparation and work are also shared. This custom is a simple and healthy way to practice mindfulness and patience while waiting for delicious food to take shape.

Parties share in a mutual anticipation and experience a sense of accomplishment that is also enjoyed in eating the meal.

A Better Journey Towards Better Wellbeing with Lido Wellness Center

There was so much more unpacked in this wonderful interview; if you’d like to read the whole thing, you can check it out at medium.com.

At our premier mental health and trauma treatment center in Orange County, Lido Wellness Center practices a whole-body, holistic approach to wellbeing. Everyone’s mental, physical, and emotional needs are different, and so should their wellness journey be. To learn more, contact our offices today and schedule a consultation.

Talking With Loved Ones About Mental Health Treatment

May 25, 2022/in Mental Health

When you have a family member experiencing mental health concerns, it can be challenging to know how to help them. You’re not sure what to say, you’re fearful of saying the wrong thing, and you want to be supportive and help them seek mental health treatment. Orange County offices of Lido Wellness Center have some helpful tips for you and your loved one.

Ideally, you and your friends and family are circling this loved one to provide a community of comfort and safe space for them to be vulnerable. It’s important to handle each conversation with care, whether you’re dealing with a spouse, child, parent, sibling, or friend. Here are our best recommendations to help you play a positive role in your loved one’s journey.

How To Talk to Someone About Their Mental Health

Revealing and discussing a mental health struggle takes courage. Here are a few ways to ensure they feel heard and seen as whole people, not just patients.

Share Honestly.

If you have concerns about a loved one, tell them. While this is upsetting for some to hear, it is much preferred to live with their temporary frustration than lose them.

Actively Listen.

It can be overwhelming to listen to all the struggles your loved one is facing, but knowing you hear and understand is essential. They need empathy more than anything else.

Concentrate on them and their story and repeat segments periodically so they know you are listening. Open-ended questions are the most effective way to encourage them to share.[/one_half_last]
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Comparisons Aren’t Helpful.

You were most likely selected for this conversation because your loved one trusts you. You may be tempted to minimize their experience by comparing it to someone with a seemingly more challenging experience. It’s important, however, to keep the focus on them and them alone.

Don’t Pressure Them for More.

Allow them to speak uninterrupted and avoid pressuring them to share more than they’re comfortable with. Don’t give the impression that you’re rushing through the information to get to something you think is more important.[/one_half_last]

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Don’t Attempt To “Diagnose” Them.

Only a psychiatrist, medical professional, or therapist can truly give an official diagnosis. You don’t want to confuse your loved one with diagnoses or treatments that may or may not apply.

This can also feel dismissive, as if slapping on a label fixes everything. At Lido Wellness Center, our compassionate patient-centered treatment plans apply an integrative mind/body/spirit holistic model guided by experienced specialists.

Don’t Try To “Fix” or “Save” Them.

Your love and support are invaluable, but you cannot take on another person’s mental health journey. You may be able to influence them, for better or worse, but “fixing” or “saving” them isn’t something you’re capable of or responsible for doing.[/one_half_last]
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Avoid Dismissive or Judgmental Language.

While it’s tempting to try and “cheer up” our loved ones when faced with potential mental health challenges, avoiding language that feels dismissive is important. Making light of a serious situation is not what they need.

Harmful Phrases to Avoid:

“You’re fine.”
“Suck it up.”
“I’m sure this will all pass.”
“Cheer up.”
“Snap out of it.”
“Get over yourself.”
“Pity party.”

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Know When Professional Mental Health Help Is Needed.

As hard as you try, your support may not be sufficient. If you notice their struggle drags on over a long period of time (weeks or months) or they begin showing signs of a serious condition, it’s time to consult a professional.[/one_half_last]

How To Correctly Convince Someone to Seek Mental Health Treatment in Orange County

Whether you are local to Orange County or from another region across the country, Lido Wellness can help. Many conditions are treatable with modern medicine combined with an ancient holistic, whole-person approach to mental health. It’s okay to encourage your loved one to seek help or find the most suitable mental health treatment Orange County offers for their needs.

Share honestly about your concerns for them but be sensitive to the environment and timing of your conversation. Expect some resistance but always treat loved ones with respect for their whole-person wellness.

Make sure they know how important their relationship is to you but avoid ultimatums. Help them understand that they can fully heal and grow by focusing on a holistic mind/body/spirit approach to wellness.

Consult Lido Wellness Center for A Holistic, Patient-Centered Approach

If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health challenges or if shouldering the burdens of life is overwhelming, let us help. Lido Wellness Center can help you see and achieve your next steps at our premier mental health treatment center in Orange County. Contact us today for a confidential assessment.

Gentle Movement for Stress Relief

April 20, 2022/in Mental Health

April is National Move More Month and Stress Awareness Month. Amy VanBeccelaere, is a dance/movement therapist and counselor at Lido Wellness Center. She shares her experiences of working with patients and alumni through movement in non-traditional ways.

Often when we hear, you need to move more, we immediately start to think about exercise. You might imagine yourself in the gym, sweating and forcing yourself to get active. Some people love going to the gym, and if this is you, by all means do it! Movement is meant to be joyful. Our bodies were created to move. Early people used movement to communicate, to celebrate, to grieve and to pray. Movement is innate. I believe that if you can tap into what type of movement lights you up inside, this is the movement that will not only feel good in your body but also in your soul. When you find this type of movement for stress relief, you don’t have to force anything.

Practicing Movement for Stress Relief

In my private practice, I often move with clients. I think back to last week. I have a client who is going through a particularly hard time right now. So challenging that it is often difficult for him to find words to express it. He was feeling overwhelmed going into session and I suggested that we meet at a nearby nature preserve to hike. As he began to tell me what was going on in his life, I noticed that he began to become overwhelmed and dysregulated. At times, we would just stop among the wildflowers and birds, I would ask him to look around, orient and take a deep breath. He shared with me “I don’t think I have been breathing all week.”

As we continued to hike through the preserve together, he found that the movement itself and the breath work was helping more than the talking. So instead of forcing verbal processing, we shared presence in nature, breathing, noticing and moving. Together we saw eagles, butterflies, lizards, hummingbirds and gophers. We took long moments to inhale the scent of the wildflowers, the sage and the rosemary growing wild throughout the preserve. We felt the breeze on our cheeks as the wind blew. It was mindfulness practice. It was movement. My client expressed “This is exactly what I needed.” That same patient has returned to the nature reserve for movement on his own, twice, since that session.

April: Move More Month

So, as we ease into April: Move More Month, might I suggest that you get into nature? There are so many beautiful things blooming in the Spring. You might even find yourself with a new hobby or movement practice by doing so. It doesn’t have to be complicated. You can walk on a trail. Or you can ride your bike. You can take a hike. If you aren’t sure where to go, I would recommend googling local nature preserves.

Also, there is a great app called ‘All Trails’ that shows you local hikes and how long they are. This way you can choose something that you know will be approachable. A few weeks ago, I used this very same app to find a hike to a waterfall in Alaska. The hike was only 1.5 miles, so I knew it would be doable with my knee injuries. Movement is meant to add to your life, not be something laborious that you force yourself into. I hope you find movement that fills your soul. Nature is healing and immersive. So go ahead, take a walk on the wild side, you might find that it is just what you need.

Stress Relief in Newport Beach Mental Health Center

At Lido Wellness Center, mental health treatment in Orange County, CA, we integrate movement as part of the therapeutic journey for patients. As a premier wellness center, our aim is helping adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain and stressor-related conditions. Our expert clinical team is passionate about the care they provide. For information, please contact our team for a consultation at 949-541-8466.

by Amy VanBeccelaere, LCPC, R-DMT

Alumni and Patient Care Coordinator

Building Self-Esteem in Mental Health

February 3, 2022/in Mental Health

February is International Boost your Self-Esteem Month

What Is Self-Esteem

How we view ourselves in terms of our own subjective sense of personal worth or value is typically referred to as self-esteem, self-worth, self-regard, or self-respect. It’s basically the way we perceive ourselves and our own value, regardless of the current circumstances in our lives. Our self-esteem can be defined by our own feelings of security, our sense of self-confidence, a sense of belonging or our feelings of being capable and confident. It is many times the foundation of our identity. Building self-esteem is valuable for anyone looking for mental health.

Poor self-esteem can come from a variety of places. Some of us are born with it as part of our genetic make-up. For others, they can feel “less than” due to their socioeconomic status, physical or mental disabilities; or perhaps low self-esteem is due to a mental health struggle. Sadly, children raised in a negative environment where they didn’t feel valued, or perhaps they were abused or neglected, may grow up with feelings of worthlessness, and consequently, continually struggle with self-esteem as an adult.

The Poor Self-esteem Bias

Regardless of what the source of self-worth struggles are, low self-esteem is a biased view that reflects a harsh and unfair judgment about ourselves. We then act according to those self-taught beliefs. For example, you may know somebody who is chronically indecisive, never seeming to trust their own decisions or perhaps easily swayed by the opinion of others.

For others low self-esteem manifests as negative self-talk or going to extreme lengths to please others. If you have low confidence or know of someone who lacks self-confidence they also tend to suffer from low self-esteem. All in all, it can result in feeling a lack of control in many or all aspects of life without the ability to create the change needed to feel more confident and in charge of their own destiny.

Social Media and Self-Esteem

Increasingly, the role of social media is being questioned in the role of individuals’ self-esteem, especially when it comes to young adults. While both men and women of any age can suffer from low self-esteem, social media plays a heightened role particularly in young girls questioning their own self-worth.

Social media creates a platform where it becomes easy to compare yourself to someone else. Individuals post “versions of themselves” which are typically not accurate of their day-to-day lives. This can prompt comparisons that foster body image issues and create self-esteem gaps and questions around a person’s looks, their lifestyle and their quality of life – and whether they are “good enough.” It becomes easy to see how constantly viewing the joy of others through a filter of their “perfect life” as portrayed on social media can create insecurities.

Beauty Filters and Mental Health

A 2021 survey of 200 teens ages 13 to 21 revealed that young people who use beauty filters regularly in their posts on platforms like Snapchat and Instagram are more likely to have a desire to want to get cosmetic surgery and/or to alter their skin color. The survey also revealed a correlation between the amount of time a teen spends on social media and their dissatisfaction with their appearance. As one would expect, the more time spent on social media, the higher their feelings of dissatisfaction with themselves. Social media is setting a disingenuous and unrealistic bar for what people feel they should look like, how they should act, and what their lives should look like.

“It makes very intuitive sense that when you don’t have a strong sense of self or don’t have strong attachments or modeling behaviors from family that it can sometimes lead to developing poor self-esteem and even poor body image, which translates to anxiety, depression, and isolation. It also contributes to developing traumatic attachment, trauma, and codependency. Poor self-esteem can be a symptom of underlying mental health issues.”

Eric Chaghouri, MD
Psychiatrist/Medical Director,
Lido Wellness Center

The Risks of Low Self Esteem

Leading a healthy, full life can be difficult when you suffer from low self-esteem. It affects your ability to connect with others and have a meaningful relationship with a significant other. There is a possibility of becoming codependent. It can contribute to loneliness and propagate isolation. Social anxiety can result, which may create stress around interactions with others – even casual conversation can be affected, wondering if you are saying the right things or worrying that you are dull or don’t have anything of value to contribute to the conversation. Individuals with low self-esteem can also have trouble setting boundaries with others and allow themselves to be taken advantage of or find themselves in uncomfortable, or even sometimes, dangerous situations.

From a total health perspective, low self-esteem contributes to high levels of stress and can lead to unhealthy coping activities if individuals turn to substances such as alcohol or drugs. Having poor self-esteem can manifest into serious mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression, and even suicidal ideation.

Several studies have been done that connect the feeling of positive self-esteem with the ability to experience more joy and optimism daily. There’s also evidence that those who enter treatment regimens for treating disease with positive feelings of high self esteem get through treatment faster and have better outcomes, and even have a stronger immune system.

Tips for Improving your Self-Esteem

One of the first things to remember for anyone struggling with their sense of self-worth is to reject that your negative self-talk is true. Believing the inaccuracies, we tell ourselves plunges us further into a hole where we risk sinking so far that we can no longer see the truth about ourselves. Instead, we believe the lies through the poor self-esteem filter that we have created. Here are a few ideas on how to consciously tackle feelings of low self-esteem:

Challenge some of the automatic thoughts that you have about yourself. Don’t just accept what comes into your head about yourself as true.
Don’t compare yourself to others.
Remember your achievements – small or large. Keep a list handy to refer to.
Talk to yourself as you would talk to a friend. You wouldn’t constantly criticize a friend or find fault with everything they do. Give yourself the same grace. Learn how to practice self-compassion.
Pay attention to good health habits – engage in regular exercise and eat healthy.
Select those around you carefully – stay away from individuals who are constantly critical and who aren’t positive.
Seek professional help and explore the source of your self-esteem issues to address it at its core.

Building Self-Esteem and the Lido Model of Care

At Lido Wellness, our mental health approach is driven by a Person-Centered Treatment Philosophy that is based on respecting and understanding each individuals’ unique life experiences. Self-esteem struggles can develop as a result of those life experiences. Low self-esteem is commonly found in people with trauma and stress related disorders, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders and eating disorders. It’s no wonder that a driving force behind development of these types of mental illnesses can be low self-esteem.

In recent outcome surveys conducted by Lido Wellness Center, individuals who completed a patient health questionnaire noted improvements to many areas of their lives, including ability to notice or regulate emotions, ability to tolerate distressing experiences/emotions, and readiness to transition back to a regular routine of their lives, including work, school, etc. Many noted feeling listened to and heard during their time at Lido Wellness Center, which is important in being open to treatment and plays a vital role in the success of individuals seeking care.

At Lido Wellness Center, our Person-Centered Treatment Philosophy goes hand in hand with helping individuals build self-esteem. This is vital to being open to receiving mental health treatment that eventually helps individuals:

Feel valued
Believe they are cared for
Increased confidence in their abilities to improve their lives and live their best life
Enhance motivation to continue to improve
Build better health and resilience for an improved quality of life

For many individuals, being heard translates to feeling respected and important – which are crucial components to self-worth. The feeling of being heard also adds to the idea that our experiences are legitimate, and our concerns are real. It can also add to the feeling of empowerment and the idea that we can accomplish what we set out to do.

References

Eric Chaghouri, MD, Psychiatrist/Medical Director Lido Wellness Center

11 Signs of Low Self-Esteem (verywellmind.com)

https://www.teenvogue.com/story/social-media-filters-how-young-people-see-themselves

https://www.manageyourlifenow.com/low-self-esteem-is-dangerous-for-your-health/

Distress Tolerance and Emotional Regulation

January 12, 2022/in Mental Health

Stress. We all feel it. We all have it. While it may have been cyclical in the past, stress has become a 24/7 problem. With our electronic devices we have access to “anything and everything” and that means 24×7 news and information, social media posts, non-stop emails at the touch of a button – all of it disrupting our here-and-now and keeping us “always on.” As the stressors in the world are increasing so are the number of individuals who are being negatively affected by them. As a result, our nervous system is more readily activated, and depending upon our distress tolerance and emotional regulation, some of us are more affected than others.

What Is Distress Tolerance?

Distress tolerance refers to the ability of an individual to manage emotional distress – whether it is an actual stressful situation or one that is perceived to be. Distress tolerance also refers to the ability of someone to navigate through an emotional incident without making it worse on themselves – such as reliance on an addictive substance, becoming severely withdrawn or even becoming violent. Individuals with low tolerance are easily overwhelmed by situations and turn to unhealthy ways of coping or reacting. A low tolerance for stress is also known as a narrow “window of tolerance.”

For some individuals, daily life provides a vast range of annoyances that are outside their window of tolerance — some may be as minor as uncontrolled impatience with computer issues in the office, to facing major events such as the serious illness of a loved one, or a job change or loss. Learning how to manage stressors first starts with understanding that stressful events will not go away. We’re always going to face stress, so understanding how to increase our stress tolerance and widen the window of tolerance to emotionally regulate our nervous system is important to decrease our stress and live a more peaceful, balanced life.

The Window of Tolerance

The window of tolerance is a concept that describes the range within our psychological and physiological optimal state that allows us to manage stressors. How to Help Your Clients Understand Their Window of Tolerance (nicabm.com)

First described in 1999 by psychiatrist Dr. Dan Siegel, the model’s middle zone (window of tolerance) is when individuals are neither hyper vigilant/hyper-aroused or the opposite – hypo-aroused. That middle ground is where individuals are able to emotionally self-regulate and tolerate emotions and tap into coping skills when life presents challenges. This zone is where we are alert, present and engaged without being anxious, and relaxed without being fatigued or numb. Being in that optimal range allows individuals to manage the ups and downs of emotions in a balanced and tolerable way. While experiences, pain, anxiety, or disappointment may bring us close to the edges of the window at times, having the ability to stay within the window allows us to have the capability to optimally solve problems.

The Window of Emotional Regulation

Individuals who have experienced trauma in their lives may have a narrower window of tolerance and find themselves in a place where they can’t find peace and calm, or on the other end of the spectrum, they may shut down completely and disengage to the point of being stoic, frozen, and dissociated from life. For example, when an individual is hyper-aroused and flies off the handle easily, or conversely, they are “checked out” and dissociate as a coping mechanism – both techniques are outside the window of tolerance. They are likely techniques that individuals may have relied on in the past to manage and protect themselves from whatever stressors they’ve been subjected or traumatized by in their lifetime. While trauma and stress can narrow the window, therapy can widen it.

Hypervigilance/hyper-arousal

Individuals who are hypervigilant or hyper-aroused experience their nervous system kicking into high gear. They find themselves in a state of increased alertness, making them hyper-focused on their surroundings and perhaps even on the lookout for hidden dangers that may not exist around them. When individuals are in a state of hyper-vigilance, they’re extremely sensitive to their surroundings and exhibit emotional, physical, and mental symptom such as:

Severe anxiety
Fear
Panic
Persistent worrying
Racing thoughts
Feeling on edge
Accelerated heart rate
Rapid, shallow breathing
Sweating
Tense muscles
Clenched jaw
Overly sensitive to sounds
Heightened awareness of your surroundings

Hypo-arousal

In a hypo-arousal state, individuals feel drained and out of it – feeling almost passive and numb to the world around them. They likely feel frozen in their thoughts, responses, and actions, and tend to dissociate from their surroundings. They may exhibit symptoms such as:

Emptiness
Irritability
Anger
Social withdrawal
Decreased energy
Loss of appetite
Fatigue
Poor memory
Depersonalization
Depression symptoms

When individuals experience either hypervigilance or hypo-arousal, the area of the brain responsible for more advanced cognitive function (the prefrontal cortex), slips into a passive hibernation mode which results in impaired problem-solving and decision-making.

Effects of Stress

There are innumerable factors that cause stress. Lifestyle choices – everything from where and how we live, to how demanding or stressful our careers are – all can play a part; family struggles, health issues and most recently pandemic fears, and the resulting isolation, are also factors. Everyday stressors can also build – things like traffic congestion and demands from others; in addition holidays and the expectations that accompany them along with time pressures, also challenge our ability to tolerate distress.

Stress has been with us for generations and will continue to be with us well into the future. And while the source of stress changes with the times, what is most worrisome about distress and our ability to tolerate it is that its effects aren’t just limited to mental health challenges. While the World Health Organization has called stress the health epidemic of the 21st century, it is a constant, and how we face it determines our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

What is the result of having a low distress tolerance? Negative effects on health and well-being include:

Physical	Mood	Behavior
Increased rates of heart attack and hypertension	Anxiety	Drug or alcohol misuse and abuse
Obesity	Depression/sadness	Overeating
Headaches/migraines	Lack of focus or motivation	Anger outbursts
Muscle tension	Restlessness	Use of tobacco
Pain	Feeling overwhelmed	Social withdrawal
Fatigue	Irritability	Inactivity / Lack of exercise
Change in sex drive
Stomach issues
Insomnia

Holistic Healing at Lido

When the effects of stress are negatively impacting your ability to manage and enjoy everyday life, it may be time to proactively take control to widen your window of tolerance. Doing so can bring healing to your body, your mood, and your behavior.

Lido Wellness helps individuals find and expand their window of distress tolerance. Since everyone’s window is not the same, the Holistic Healing program at Lido Wellness was created to understand where each patient is coming from. Individuals who struggle with mental health issues or who have had trauma in their lives may find that their window of tolerance is small. As life happens, they may bounce in and out of their window – from being hypervigilant to feeling depressed and hypo-aroused. Living always hypervigilant or hypo-aroused is not only an unhealthy lifestyle but an unsustainable way to live.

Lido’s Holistic Healing program teaches grounding, resourcing, and orienting techniques to help individuals be more present and in the moment, as well as helping them raise their awareness to recognize within their body when they are feeling distressed or dysregulated. Working with professionals at Lido, individuals find that their window of tolerance begins to open a little bit at a time as they become more present to their everyday life. Lido Wellness patients who complete the program notice that they begin to see life in a different light; they see things that they never noticed before, and most importantly, they find that they’re able to deal with frustrations and everyday annoyances that once used to create high levels of distress.

Other Mental Health Approaches in Orange County

Treatment plans may use other combined and complemented therapies in an integrative mind/body/spirit holistic therapeutic model guided by Lido Wellness Center’s multidisciplinary team using clinical theoretical approaches to help patients increase their distress tolerance including:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
Somatic Experiencing (SE)
Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Integrative Dance-Movement based therapy
Neuro and Biofeedback

References

Hypervigilance: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment (healthline.com)

Hyperarousal: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments (healthline.com)

What Is… the Window of Tolerance – Mental Health @ Home (mentalhealthathome.org)

Hypo- and Hyper-arousal – C-PTSD Survival Guide (wordpress.com)

Understanding and Working with the Window of Tolerance – ATTACHMENT AND TRAUMA TREATMENT CENTRE FOR HEALING (ATTCH) (attachment-and-trauma-treatment-centre-for-healing.com)

What Is Distress Tolerance? (verywellmind.com)

Stress: The Health Epidemic of the 21st Century | SciTech Connect (elsevier.com)

DeAnna Holloway, LMFT

Somatic Trauma Psychotherapist

Mental Health During The Holidays: Coping With Anxiety And Depression

December 21, 2021/in Mental Health

The holidays are always depicted as a season to be joyful, celebrate and enjoy time with the ones we love. But for some, this time of year brings stressors that trigger unhappy or uncomfortable feelings. This is because people may be spending time with family or friends, or in environments that are not good for their mental health and well-being. As a result, it adds extra stress and incites triggers brought on by the holiday season.

The holiday season can bring on unique challenges for those who are struggling with mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression. But, with a clear plan in place, the season can be more enjoyable instead of something to dread.

Depression and Anxiety Around the Holidays

Many people thrive during the hectic holiday season. However, many people struggle with mental health during the holiday season. At least 64% of people surveyed by the National Alliance on Mental Health reported that the season worsened their mental illness.

Similarly, the American Psychology Association found that 38% of people surveyed reported increases in stress levels. For those already suffering from depression and anxiety, coping with holiday stress can lead to depression or anxiety.

The frenetic pace and high expectations of the stressful season can escalate those issues for many people. Everyone’s mental health can be affected by the joys and stresses of the season. We have some tips and suggestions to help learn how to best treat and cope with your mental health conditions during the holidays.

What Causes the Holiday Blues?

The holidays come with high expectations. Families and friends are expected to gather and celebrate, sometimes repeatedly. However, coping with the holidays is stressful for those who would rather not gather with family or friends. Loneliness can trigger stress, too.

Gift-giving can generate feelings of anxiety and stress, as well, for some during the holidays. The “holiday blues” is the feeling of sadness or anxiety brought on by the expectations and stresses of the season. But is a case of the holiday blues the same as depression?

Holiday Blues vs Depression

Anxiety around the holidays is real, but there’s a difference between someone experiencing the blues and actual depression. Symptoms of the holiday blues may be:

Situational sadness that increases with the season
Irritability
Anxiety
Fatigue
Stress
Trouble concentrating

Depression during the holidays is possible, too. Unlike the holiday blues, depression does not necessarily lessen when the holidays are over. Common symptoms include:

Sad or empty feelings
Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Fatigue
Sleeplessness or sleeping too much
Difficulty concentrating

How Mental Health Conditions Are Affected by the Holidays

All conditions of mental health during the holidays require attention. The stresses of the season can be a challenge for those who struggle with mental health. Some specific symptoms or changes in mental health that may occur during the holidays are:

Mania or Bipolar Disorder: Lack of sleep can trigger these disorders or cause depression.
Substance Abuse Disorders: Festivities without a plan for success can provide opportunities to repeat past behaviors.
Schizophrenia: Seasonal activity changes may worsen symptoms like hallucinations or delusions.
Depression Feelings of hopelessness and isolation can increase with holiday anxiety.

Risk Factors Of Depression, Anxiety, and Other Mental Health Conditions

Who is at risk of increased anxiety, stress, or depression during the holidays? Anyone can experience mental health concerns when coping with holiday stress. But some people have risk factors that make them vulnerable to anxiety, stress, or depression during the holiday season.

Having pre-existing Mental Illness: One risk factor is already having a diagnosis of depression. Those who have this diagnosis should be aware that holiday anxiety can increase symptoms of depression.
Grief and Loss: Another risk factor involves those dealing with grief or loss. The season is full of events bringing people together. Those who have recently lost a loved one may feel anxious, sad, or depressed instead of joyful.
Trauma: Those who have experienced trauma or family conflicts are at risk. Coming together with family or friends may be uncomfortable or bring back unpleasant memories. Experiencing situations that bring back these feelings or memories can put stress on mental health during the holidays.

Those under financial strain may be at risk of mental health problems. The pressure to select just the right present or spend limited funds may increase holiday anxiety for many.

Those experiencing a lack of natural sunlight may be at risk. Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, results from low sun exposure. SAD can cause or increase depression symptoms.

Know the Signs Of Mental Health: What to Watch Out For

Be on the lookout for signs or changes in others or yourself over the holidays. Changes in mental health usually send out warning flares for others to see. If you know what to look for, help can be on the way sooner.

You may see someone numbing their feelings or emotions. Look for excessive alcohol or other substance use during the holidays.
Be mindful of someone who doesn’t participate in any holiday events or activities. They may be at risk for mental health changes. They could also be simply struggling. Loneliness, loss of a loved one, or grief may all play a part in detaching from celebrations.
Be on the lookout for excessive sleeping or sleeplessness. Normal exhaustion from the holidays might be expected, but excessive changes should be noted.
When someone shows you they are overwhelmed by the season, and they’re willing to verbalize their stress, struggles, or sadness, it’s a sign they may need help to cope.

Helping A Friend Or Loved One Suffering During the Holidays

We all want to see our friends and family happy and healthy. When we see them struggling with holiday anxiety or other changes in mental health, you can help. The Mayo Clinic suggests these steps to help out friends or loved ones during this busy season.

Acknowledge their feelings: If they are grieving a loss, feeling lonely, or feeling left out of celebrations, validate how they feel.
Reach out: Check in on friends and family members during the season. Ask how they are feeling and how they are coping with holiday stress.
Celebrate by marking the season in some small way. Set up a video call, drop off a card, or share pictures to connect with them.
Accept friends or family as they are: Set aside previous differences, when it is healthy to do so, to come together. Let them know they are important to you and that they are valuable and loved.
Choose physical health: Encourage self-care and healthy habits. Holiday indulgences can increase mental health problems. Counteracting them with invitations to take a walk, have a nutritious meal or take a break from holiday busyness can help reduce seasonal stress.
Encourage mental health support: If you see suffering, suggest seeking professional advice. Know the signs of trouble and don’t be afraid to advocate for a mental health check or professional support.

Finding the Right Specialist to Help With Holiday Mental Health

When the holiday season is negatively affecting your mental health, it is time to see a professional. Finding the right specialist can be tricky unless you follow a few simple guidelines. First, touch base with your primary care doctor.

This generalist physician can rule out other illnesses that may be contributing to the holiday anxiety you are feeling. Next, seek out a professional practice to conduct a mental health check. It is important to get the opinion of a mental health professional at this stage to determine if the “holiday blues” or a more serious mental health issue is the concern.

Typical Treatment for Mental Health Around The Holidays

When mental health and the holidays collide, a professional may suggest treatment to help. All mental health concerns can heighten during the holiday season. So, holiday anxiety, stress, or depression can feel more intense than when they are experienced at other times of the year. But treatment for coping with holiday stress and anxiety can be necessary for those struggling. Professional care is necessary for some people. A few potential treatments may include:

Relaxation techniques or breathing exercises
Regular exercise to combat stress
Therapy sessions
Joining a supportive group
Guided discussions with family members or friends
Self-help materials specific to your needs

Lido Wellness Center Can Help Restore Your Mental Health

When seasonal stressors impact how you feel and act, you should ask for help. Even though it might seem scary, asking for help can be a life-changing decision. The holiday season is challenging for many people, and even though it may seem like a joyful season it may not be for everyone.

If you are feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed this holiday, you may benefit from professional support and guidance. Contact us to find out how we can help you. Our mental health professionals have the experience and training to assist you in improving your life and the lives of the people you love.

If any form of physical self-harm is suspected, contact authorities or someone who can help. If you or someone you know is considering suicide or self-harm, there are resources available to provide free and confidential support. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or the Teen Line at 1-800-TLC-TEEN.

References

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/signs-of-holiday-depression.html

https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/mcleans-guide-managing-mental-health-around-holidays

https://achieveconcierge.com/blog/hope-for-the-holidays-mental-health-and-the-holiday-season/

https://greatist.com/health/holiday-depression

What Is Ketamine Infusion Therapy?

October 29, 2021/in Mental Health

Ketamine, also known on the street as “Special K,” has been abused in the past as a recreational drug due to its hallucinogenic and tranquilizing effects. However, today it is receiving a lot of positive attention due to it being used “off-label” to treat treatment-resistant depression. (When a drug is “off-label” it’s being used to treat a condition in a way that doesn’t have FDA approval.)

Ketamine infusion therapy involves the administration of a single infusion or a series of ketamine injections. This may help with the management of psychiatric disorders such as:

Major depressive disorder (MDD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Acute suicidality
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Bipolar disorder

How Does Ketamine Work To Fight Depression?

The way ketamine works are not completely clear yet because it exerts an antidepressant effect in a new way. It might be able to help people manage their depression successfully when other treatments haven’t worked. It is likely that ketamine targets the NMDA receptors in the brain and binds to them.

By doing this, it sets off a chain of reactions that leads to the release of molecules that help neurons (brain cells) communicate with each other along new pathways. This process is known as synaptogenesis and likely affects the individuals:

Mood
Thought patterns
Cognition (the process of thinking and understanding)

Ketamine may also influence depression in other ways. It may reduce signals involved in inflammation which has been connected to mood disorders. Similarly, it may also facilitate communication in certain areas of the brain. It is very likely that ketamine works in several ways at the same time and is still being studied.

Why Is Ketamine So Significant For Treating Depression?

The significance of ketamine as a treatment for depression is that it can:

rapidly reduce suicidality (life-threatening thoughts and behaviors),
relieve other serious symptoms of depression, and
can be effective in treating depression combined with anxiety.

Other treatments for depression and suicidal thoughts typically take weeks or even months to take effect. Also, some people need to try several different approaches and medications to find relief. This is the case for talk therapies, antidepressant medications, TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), and ECT (electroconvulsive therapy). ECT is currently the most effective treatment for major depression that doesn’t respond to other therapies.

Two Types Of Ketamine

There are two main types of ketamine. They are both used to treat major depression that hasn’t responded to two or more treatments (treatment-resistant depression). They are:

Racemic ketamine: usually given as an infusion, or IV, into the bloodstream. Approved by the FDA decades ago as an anesthetic, it is used off-label for depression.
Esketamine: approved by the FDA, it is given as a nasal spray.

The two forms interact differently with the receptors in the brain. The way the drug is given and the type will determine the drug’s effectiveness and side effects. So far, most research has been on ketamine infusions.

Ketamine Infusion Side Effects

All drugs have side effects. However, when someone is suicidal or severely depressed, possible benefits may outweigh possible side effects. Given by infusion, ketamine may cause:

High blood pressure
Nausea and vomiting
Disturbances in perception (colors, textures, and noises that seem excessively stimulating, blurry vision, time seems to speed up or slow down)
Dissociation (out-of-body experience)

Generally speaking, any changes in perception or dissociation are most evident during the first ketamine injection and end very soon afterward. The nasal spray form may cause the same side effects, but the timing and intensity of those effects are different.

Main Drawbacks

Some medical professionals are advising caution until the long-term effects are studied more thoroughly. These are some of the major drawbacks to ketamine therapy:

The beneficial effects of the drug wear off after 7 to 10 days so patients need to get infusions on a regular basis.
Some studies have shown that it can be toxic to brain cells.
It may cause bladder damage at higher doses.
It could cause psychotic-like symptoms during treatment.

Still, it should be noted, ketamine can help some people with depression and is especially beneficial for patients who require immediate improvement and have failed with conventional FDA-approved treatments. Research is ongoing on ketamine’s long-term safety and the best doses.

Help For Veterans

Ketamine may provide relief from the post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that many veterans endure. PTSD is a mental health problem that many people develop after experiencing a trauma, such as combat. According to Aimee Cabo Nikolov, BSN who runs the Ketamine Medical Clinic in Miami (a division of the Neurosciences Medical Clinic), ketamine may be the most important discovery in half a century. About 35% of their clinic are military veterans who need treatment for PTSD and ketamine is giving them hope that other kinds of treatment didn’t provide.

Pain Management

Besides being included in the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as MDD and PTSD, it is also being used for post-operative and chronic pain management. Intravenous (IV) ketamine infusion therapy has developed as a treatment for several conditions.

What Is Ketamine And Where Did It Come From?

Ketamine started being used in Belgium in the 1960s as anesthesia for animals. It was approved by the FDA as an anesthetic for people in 1970. Thereafter, it was used in treating injured soldiers in Vietnam because, unlike other anesthetics, ketamine doesn’t slow breathing or heart rate. This means that patients don’t need a ventilator to receive it.

Today ketamine is gaining ground as a treatment for major depression which is the leading cause of disability worldwide. Recent estimates in the U.S. show 16 million adults had an episode of major depression in a year. In addition, suicide rates rose significantly between 1999 and 2016 increasing by over 30% in 25 states. Due to its rapid action, ketamine could play a part in preventing suicide.

Do You Have Any Mental Health Questions?

If you are experiencing issues with or have concerns about your mental health don’t wait to get help. Located in Newport Beach, CA, the Lido Wellness Center is available to help you manage and understand your mental and emotional health problems. We offer multiple levels of care so you can receive the treatment that is truly right for you. Contact us today. If you think you have a problem, you need to talk about it.

References:

www.health.harvard.edu/blog/ketamine-for-major-

www.ivketamine.com/iv-ketamine/

www.psycom.net/ketamine-depression

www.psychiatry.uams.edu/clinical-care/in

10 Bipolar Disorder Triggers And How To Manage Them

September 23, 2021/in Bipolar Disorder, Mental Health

Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder where people experience mania (extreme highs) and depression (extreme lows). These episodes are often random or may be triggered by specific events. However, understanding your bipolar disorder triggers can help manage or prevent an episode.

What Triggers A Bipolar Episode?

Bipolar disorder generally develops due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Although the genetic aspect of bipolar disorder is not fully understood, having a parent with this disorder increases the likelihood of also struggling with bipolar disorder.

If you are struggling with bipolar disorder, it is vital to understand the personal factors that can trigger an episode. Though triggers vary from person to person, we will explore the most common triggers of bipolar disorder. This is important when learning how to live with a bipolar disorder.

1. Sleep Issues

Sleep issues are not only a symptom of bipolar disorder but also a trigger. If you work long hours or you’re a student functioning on little sleep, you risk triggering a bipolar episode. Sleep disturbances such as traveling between time zones may contribute to these sleep issues as well.

2. Positive Events

While most bipolar disorder triggers revolve around a negative event, meeting goals and positive events can also be triggers of bipolar disorder. Winning an event, getting a promotion, or starting a new relationship can all trigger a manic episode.

3. Substance Abuse

Using drugs and alcohol does not cause bipolar disorder. However, they are significant triggers of a bipolar episode. Drugs and alcohol can also “awaken ” bipolar disorder that beforehand was dormant. Even though both drugs and alcohol are bipolar disorder triggers, one in five people with bipolar disorder has a co-occurring substance use disorder.

4. Life-Changing Event

One of the most significant life changes we will face is the death of a loved one. Although you may be able to manage your bipolar episodes while mourning, death can also be a trigger of bipolar disorder.

If you are going through a life-changing event while also managing bipolar disorder, eliciting the help of friends and family may provide extra support and monitoring during difficult times.

5. Stress

Stress is perhaps the number one trigger of bipolar disorder. Not only can childhood stress lead to developing bipolar disorder, but stress can also trigger an episode. Managing stress is often easier said than done. It is crucial to work with a therapist to learn ways to cope with and manage your stress levels.

6. Trauma

Childhood trauma is a leading factor in the development of bipolar disorder. This trauma may include physical or sexual abuse, neglect, or the loss of a parent. While the trauma may have happened during childhood, symptoms of the trauma may not be apparent until another traumatic event occurs in adulthood.

7. Changes In Seasons

The changes in seasons are triggers for almost 20 percent of people with bipolar disorder. Seasonal changes are often experienced as mania during the spring and summer, and depressive episodes or seasonal depression in the winter and fall.

8. Changing Or Missing Medications

The majority of those who experience bipolar disorder rely on medication for symptom management and stabilization. This is important in keeping depressive and manic episodes under control and preventing a relapse. However, finding the proper medication can be tricky.

For instance, antidepressants may actually trigger bipolar disorder. To mitigate this trigger, they must be taken with a mood stabilizer or avoided altogether. Always consult with your doctor before changing or stopping medications to avoid unwanted side effects or bipolar episodes.

9. Arguments With Friends, Family, Or Coworkers

When your bipolar disorder goes untreated, it often leads to broken relationships. The irritability you experience during manic and depressive episodes can increase arguments with friends, loved ones, and even co-workers.

These arguments increase stress which is one of the triggers of bipolar disorder. In fact, A study in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that negative social experiences often trigger suicidal thoughts in those struggling with bipolar disorder triggers.

10. Having A Baby

Bipolar disorder is strongly associated with postpartum psychosis. As a result, 67 percent of women with bipolar disorder will experience episodes weeks and months after birth. New moms commonly experience changes in their sleep, hormones, and medication each of which are common triggers of bipolar disorder.

How Can You Manage These Bipolar Disorder Triggers?

It is impossible to avoid your bipolar disorder triggers. However, learning how to manage these triggers is key to controlling this disorder. Just like with triggers of bipolar disorder, managing personal triggers may be different from others.

Minimizing your stress levels is the best way to prevent and manage bipolar episodes. Some ways to reduce stress include:

Avoid drugs and alcohol
Get more sleep
Create boundaries
Manage your time
Eat a balanced diet
Exercise
Spend time with friends and family
Yoga
Mindfulness and meditation

Regularly attending therapy is very beneficial in helping you manage your bipolar disorder triggers. Some people also use medications along with therapy. However, you should never self-medicate as this can worsen your bipolar disorder.

Why Is A Stable Routine And Environment Important For Bipolar Disorder Triggers?

If you struggle with bipolar disorder, it is vital to have a stable environment and regular routine. People suffering from Bipolar Disorder are often sensitive to disruptions in routine.

The most important way to manage bipolar disorder triggers is having a set sleep schedule. This means going to bed at the same time each night and waking up at the same time each morning. A set sleep schedule helps keep the brain regulated and minimizes your reactions to bipolar disorder triggers.

Lido Wellness Center Can Help You Manage Triggers Of Bipolar Disorder

If you or a loved one is struggling with managing bipolar disorder or other mental health issues, we can help. With our integrative and comprehensive holistic care, you can live a happy and fulfilled life. Contact us today to find out how.

References:

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25706607/

8 Ways To Break The Cycle Of Depression

September 17, 2021/in Mental Health

Every person has low moments. However, these moments typically pass quickly. If you struggle with depression, these low moments can last for days, weeks, or months. Although depression can leave you feeling hopeless and isolated, there are things you can do to break the cycle of depression.

Serotonin’s Role In The Cycle Of Addiction

Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that helps regulate your mood. When your serotonin levels are high, you feel more positive and calm. When your serotonin levels are low, you often feel sad and can feel the cycle of depression beginning.

Your serotonin levels change with every thought and emotion you experience. If you focus on the sad or negative thoughts and emotions it is difficult to pull yourself out of the depression cycle. Instead, focusing on happy memories and the positives in life can raise serotonin levels and pull you out of depression.

While there are many ways to improve your mood, keep reading for 8 simple ways to help break the cycle of depression.

1. Exercise

Exercise is a great way to get the blood flowing, boost serotonin, and break the cycle of depression. Exercise doesn’t mean going to the gym for a hard workout. While some people beat the depression cycle at the gym, a walk around the block and even cleaning your house can be enough to make you feel better.

2. Get Outside

Although you feel like staying in bed, get up, walk outside, and feel the sun hit your skin. Every chance you get, go outside. Getting at least 15 minutes a day in the sun can help stop the cycle of depression. So put on that sunscreen, find a grassy spot at the park, and let the sunshine on your face.

3. Spend Time with Friends and Family

When you feel like the cycle of depression is beginning, call your friends and family. Make plans to go to dinner, hang out, or play board games. The very nature of depression is isolation. So, whether you sit on the porch with a neighbor and talk about nothing or play a softball game with the family, not being alone will help break the depression cycle.

4. Learn A Hobby

Do you have a hobby you love, but depression stops you from doing it? Maybe you always wanted to pick up a hobby. Did you love to paint as a child? Or perhaps you like building and flying model airplanes. Hobbies are fun and relaxing and a great way to break the cycle of depression.

5. Watch A Comedy

Laughter is powerful. It lifts your spirits. Your lungs work harder. And, even your abs get a workout. So watch a funny movie or see a comedian when you feel the depression cycle beginning.

Smiling is also great for your mood. The muscles you use when you smile calm the nervous system. So smile at people when you walk by and make a habit of recalling happy moments in your life.

6. Listen to Upbeat Music

The effects of music are vast and powerful. It affects our mood, thoughts, and feelings. We all have that song we go to when we are sad. There is also a song when we want to pump ourselves up. When you feel the cycle of depression taking over, put on some upbeat music, dance around, and sing like you are putting on a concert.

7. Take A Day Trip

When you are trying to break the cycle of depression, changing your environment can help. Planning a day trip doesn’t mean you have to spend a lot of money. Packing the car going to the beach or driving across the state with the music up and the windows down can break the depression cycle.

8. Start A Gratitude Journal

Feeling gratitude is vital in combating the cycle of depression, so is keeping a gratitude journal. A gratitude journal is simply a record of things you are grateful for. It can be something small such as a hot shower or the bird outside your window.

You can also write down the big things like a loved one recovering after surgery or a special relationship. Keeping a gratitude journal allows you to remind yourself of all the positives in your life when you feel a depression cycle coming.

What Signs Of Depression Mean You Should Seek Help?

It is normal in life to feel lonely or sad sometimes. When these feelings persist and interfere with your daily life it is time to seek professional help.

While your regular doctor can evaluate you and prescribe medicine for depression, it is often better to seek a mental health professional. Of course, medications can help increase serotonin levels. However, talking through your feelings and healing underlying traumas can end the cycle of depression for good.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression is crucial since undiagnosed depression may lead to suicide. They often include:

Fatigue
Feeling guilty or worthless
Feeling empty
Trouble concentrating and making decisions
Pessimism
Sleep issues
Loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
Change in eating habits
Aches and pains
Suicidal thoughts or attempts

People struggling with depression often feel like they are alone. However, over 17 million Americans are trying to break the cycle of depression. You do not need to struggle alone.

Lido Wellness Center Helps Break The Cycle Of Depression

Are you or someone you love struggling to break the depression cycle? We offer a variety of outpatient treatments to meet your needs and help you live a happy and healthy life. Contact us today to find out more.

References:

https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/coping-with-depression.htm

Benefits Of Mental Health Counseling

August 26, 2021/in Mental Health

The benefits of therapy not only attribute to an improved state of mind but also positively impact how you live your life. Most individuals believe they don’t require mental health therapy. However, you may be surprised to learn the benefits of mental health counseling can drastically improve your productivity, focus, and overall happiness.

Those who suffer from mental health disorders are often strong individuals. Because of this, many falsely think being strong means keeping it to themselves. The fact is, it takes an even stronger person to share those struggles with another.

Mental Health Therapy Brings Self-Acceptance

This is often the first step of progress for anyone who suffers from mental health. Embracing yourself and your problems allows you to confront individual struggles. Also, understanding that therapy is very common and nothing to be ashamed of is a key step in accepting help.

Everybody has problems to varying degrees. It is not just those with co-occurring conditions that require therapy. Refusing help or therapy by way of denial, however, often leads to deeper depression and worsening mental health conditions. This is why self-acceptance is vitally important. Accepting who you are, allows you to accept help. Accepting help can then become the gateway to reaping the benefits of therapy.

You’ll Gain Peace Of Mind

The stresses of mental health disorders are exacerbated by the fact that you fall captive to the danger of your thoughts. Most patients are critical thinkers, often overthinking themselves into deeper issues within their minds. Therapy is necessary for that third party to pull us out of the prison our minds can pose. Opening the door of your thoughts to a therapist is key to freeing yourself.

Once you are able to gain insight into someone else’s perspective, you’ll start to view yourself differently. A therapist can bring you a calm sense of peace.

There Will Be Noticeable Physical Improvement

An old proverb states “As a man thinketh in his mind deviate so is he.” To simplify, thinking good means feeling good, the same way thinking bad means feeling worse. In psychology today, Ron Breazeale, a clinical psychologist states, “Our thoughts influence our bodies directly because the body interprets the messages coming from the brain to prepare us for whatever is expected.” Therefore, your brain is going to tell your body how you should feel based on how you’re thinking.

For those suffering from mental health disorders, this is crucial to overall health and wellness. Counseling can benefit your physical health by training you to eliminate negative thoughts which will translate to positive health.

Overall Support That Provides Relief from Mental Illness

One of the greatest benefits of therapy is it provides you with a mental support coach. This negates the feeling of being alone in your battle. This alone can help relieve depression and anxiety.

This is important, considering many who struggle with their mental health keep their thoughts and emotions bottled up. Contained thoughts and emotions are among the worst things for mental health. Having someone in your corner is one of the critical benefits of therapy, diminishing the loneliness many feel in their struggle.

Improved Social And Work Efficiency

An improved state of mind and refined communication skills produces a trickle-down effect on your daily life. A newfound sense of confidence will ignite a drastic development in your social and work discretion. Since our mental outlook greatly affects our daily activities, our minds can be our greatest asset or enemy. Among the numerous benefits of mental health, counseling can be your ticket to a greater all-around life.

What Available Types Of Therapy Benefit the Most?

Simply with action on your behalf, all of the mental health counseling provided can benefit tremendously. Below is an in-depth layout of the proposed therapeutic benefits by category.

Anxiety

There are a variety of beneficial therapy options specifically geared towards treating, diminishing, and even eliminating your anxiety. Anxiety counseling, much like the other therapeutic benefits listed, requires the assistance of another to alleviate that burden.

Sharing that burden with a therapy expert will aid you in lifting that weight off your shoulders. Carrying that weight on your own will only magnify your burden.

Stress Or Trauma-Related Disorders

If you feel overwhelmed by your everyday activities or an induced trauma from your past, mental health counseling is essential. Trauma-related disorders often go unnoticed because the bearer of these burdens has been harboring them for a significant amount of time. Whether because of embarrassment or disdain for rehashing specific incidents, you then are in bondage to that trauma.

This is where the true benefits of mental health counseling magnify themselves most. You can free yourself from your trauma-induced bondage by confidentially confiding with a specialist who will gladly listen and understand. Speaking openly with a therapist often reveals how much more burden it is to suppress these traumas, rather than to open up. Furthermore, many cases of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) are undiagnosed due to a refusal or denial to seek counseling.

Depression Disorders

This can come as a result of neglecting help with other disorders or standalone. Regardless of the circumstance, depression disorders cannot be handled alone.

Depression implants a false mentality of diminished or zero self-significance. A mental health counselor can help reestablish the truth of self-worth that would have otherwise been absent.

Personality Disorders

Lido Wellness Center defines personality disorders as “unhealthy patterns of thinking, functioning, and behavior that deviate from the expectations of the culture.”

These discrepancies can cause as equally a toll emotionally as they do mentally. As strong as you are, personality disorders will crumble the strongest of individuals without the aid of a mental health expert.

Get Mental Health Therapy At Lido Wellness Today!

All mental health conditions possess one common theme, they require the support of a therapeutic professional who cares. The compassionate experts at Lido Wellness Center have all the support and tools you need to manage, and in many cases, overcome your condition.

Each moment that passes without the care you need, is another battle lost to mental health. Your decision at this moment could easily be the difference between your road to recovery and slipping farther away. The greatest news for you is the help you need is simply one click away. Contact our team of mental health professionals today.

References

https://www.goodtherapy.org/benefits-of-therapy.html

https://www.mhanational.org/therapy