Depression and Anxiety Treatment: Dialectical Behavior Therapy

August 28, 2023

Depression and Anxiety treatment- DBT

Depression and Anxiety Treatment: Dialectical Behavior Therapy

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral treatment developed by Marsha M. Linehan, initially aimed at treating individuals with borderline personality disorder. It has, however, proven effective for treating a range of other conditions, notably depression and anxiety.

DBT incorporates the standard cognitive-behavioral techniques for emotion regulation and reality testing while integrating new strategies like mindfulness, acceptance, and focusing on dialectics – the process of finding balance, avoiding extremes, and synthesizing opposite concepts. These components collectively make DBT an innovative and comprehensive approach towards managing depression and anxiety.

Acceptance:

In terms of depression, DBT focuses on the acceptance and change dialectic. The goal is to help patients accept their experiences and feelings while working to change their negative thought patterns and behaviors. By doing so, they can break free from the cycle of depression. DBT provides tools to manage painful emotions and decrease conflict in relationships, elements often associated with depressive disorders.

Emotional Regulation:

DBT’s emphasis on emotional regulation is particularly useful in dealing with anxiety. Techniques such as mindfulness help patients focus on the present, alleviating worries about the future. Anxiety often stems from an overactive fight-or-flight response, and DBT aids in calming this response, allowing individuals to better manage their reactions to stressors.

Treatment:

A typical DBT treatment for depression and anxiety involves individual therapy, group skills training, phone coaching, and therapist consultation. The group skills training is essential as it teaches behavioral skills in four modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Mindfulness:

Mindfulness, the core skill, teaches individuals to be fully present in the moment, thereby helping to manage depressive rumination and anxious preoccupation. Distress tolerance equips individuals with crisis survival strategies and the ability to accept and tolerate distress. Emotion regulation focuses on identifying and managing emotional reactions – an essential skill for anyone battling depression or anxiety. Interpersonal effectiveness helps patients navigate relationships and social situations, which can often be a source of stress and trigger for depressive or anxious episodes.

DBT’s effectiveness for treating depression and anxiety is backed by multiple scientific studies. In these studies, DBT has consistently shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve emotional regulation, and enhance overall quality of life.

While the journey to recovery can be challenging, DBT equips individuals with the tools and strategies to navigate their path. It’s a comprehensive, evidence-based therapy that brings hope to those struggling with depression and anxiety. This therapeutic approach helps individuals find balance, improve emotional resilience, and ultimately lead a life worth living.

Sincerely,
Claudia Coxx, MSW, LMSW
248-860-2024 Ext. 505
Office Hours: Tu 3p-6p, W-Th 11a-7p; Fri 11a-5p; Sat 10a-1p

Filed Under: Uncategorized

EMDR Steps 5-8

July 19, 2023

EMDR Phases 5-8 Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, commonly known as EMDR, is a mental health therapy approach that works to reduce distressing emotions which are linked to traumatic memories. EMDR treats mental health conditions, often anxiety, depression or other symptoms, which occur because of those memories we have stored from traumaticevents. In my […]

EMDR Steps 5-8

EMDR Phases 5-8

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, commonly known as EMDR, is a mental health therapy approach that works to reduce distressing emotions which are linked to traumatic memories. EMDR treats mental health conditions, often anxiety, depression or other symptoms, which occur because of those memories we have stored from traumaticevents.

In my first and second articles on the phases of EMDR we looked at Phases 1&2-Client History/Treatment Planning and Preparation and then we explored phases 3&4-Assessment and Desensitization.

If you would like to read the articles on phases 1&2 and 3&4, please find them on the Marsh Psychology Group website, https://marshpsychologygroup.com/blog/

We will now look at Phases 5-8.

Phase 5: Installation. Once the desensitization therapy sessions are complete, the client will likely feel more positive about the memory. Clients often report they feel the memory is farther away or it just isn’t upsetting anymore. In theinstallation phase these positive emotions and thoughts are “installed.”

In this phase, the client connects and strengthens a positive belief with the target event until it feels completely true. This is done by having the client focus on the positive belief or thought while continuing with bilateral stimulation. The primary objective is to create positive cognitions and associations with the memory.

Phase 6: Body Scan: During the body scan, the client is asked to hold in mind the target event and the positive belief while scanning the body from head to toe. If there are any lingering negative emotions or thoughts, the therapist will ask the client to focus on those sensations while continuing with bilateral stimulation. The goal is to help the client become more aware of their body and any emotions or thoughts affecting them.

The next and last two phases ensure safety for the client both at the end of the current session and at the beginning of the next session.

Phase 7: Closure: Every session of reprocessing ends with the seventh phase, closure, in which the client is assisted to return to a state of calm in the present moment. This phase occurs whether the reprocessing is complete or not. Reprocessing of an event is complete when the client feels neutral about it andreports a disturbance level of zero, and the positive belief feels completely true. The body is also completely clear of disturbance.

Phase 8: Reevaluation: Reevaluation is how each new session begins after reprocessing. The client and therapist discuss recently processed memories to ensure that distress is still low, and that the positive cognition is still strong. If that is true, the client and therapist will move back to the assessment phase to begin working on the next memory.

If you have experienced trauma of any kind and feel you could benefit from EMDR to reduce symptoms and to improve quality of life, feel free to reach out to me at Marsh Psychology Group.

Carol Van Kampen, LMSW is an individual private practice psychotherapist who specializes in anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma treatment at Marsh Psychology Group. Carol is EMDR trained. Contact her at marshpsychologygroup.com

cvankampen@marshpsychologygroup.com

” https://marshpsychologygroup.com/carol-van-kampen-lmsw/

Resources: https://www.emdria.org/public-resources/the-eight-phases-of-emdr-therapy/

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Things to Say to Someone Going Through a Mental Health Crisis

May 10, 2023

Navigating the Delicate Terrain: Things to Say to Someone Going Through a Mental Health Crisis As a licensed social worker, I understand the importance of offering support and guidance to individuals facing a mental health crisis. When interacting with someone experiencing such a crisis, it is crucial to remain empathetic, compassionate, and patient. […]

Things to Say to Someone Going Through a Mental Health Crisis

Navigating the Delicate Terrain: Things to Say to Someone Going Through a Mental Health Crisis

As a licensed social worker, I understand the importance of offering support and guidance to individuals facing a mental health crisis. When interacting with someone experiencing such a crisis, it is crucial to remain empathetic, compassionate, and patient. Here are some key phrases and ideas to help you provide support and reassurance during these difficult moments.

1. “I’m here for you.”
Let the person know that they are not alone. Express your availability, both physically and emotionally, to provide support. This simple statement can be incredibly powerful in assuring someone that they have a shoulder to lean on and someone to listen to their concerns.

2. “I care about you.”
Sometimes people going through a mental health crisis might feel as if nobody cares or understands their pain. Letting the individual know that you genuinely care about their well-being helps create a sense of safety and trust. This statement provides reassurance that they are valued and not alone in their struggles.

3. “It’s okay to feel this way.”
Validate their emotions by acknowledging that it is normal to experience feelings of distress, anger, sadness, or fear during a crisis. Avoid attempting to dismiss or minimize their emotions. Instead, show acceptance of their feelings, emphasizing that it is a natural part of the healing.

4. “You don’t have to go through this alone.”
Encourage the person to seek professional help. As a supportive friend or family member, there is only so much you can do. A mental health professional is trained to provide appropriate coping strategies, therapy, and, if needed, medication management. Encourage them to reach out for help and let them know you will support them in finding the appropriate resources.

5. “Take your time.”
In a mental health crisis, it is essential to give the person the time and space they need to process their emotions. Avoid pressuring them to “snap out of it” or “get over it.” Instead, emphasize that healing is a journey that takes time and patience.

6. “What can I do to help?”
Offer specific forms of assistance that might alleviate some of the burden they are facing. This could include helping with daily tasks, offering to find mental health resources, or simply being there to listen. By asking how you can help, you are giving the person a sense of control and agency in their situation.

7. “You’re not a burden.”
When someone is going through a mental health crisis, they may feel guilty or believe they are causing trouble for those around them. Reassure them that their feelings and experiences are not a burden on you or anyone else. Emphasize that you are there to help and support them in their journey towards healing.

8. “You are strong and resilient.”
Remind the person of their inner strength and resilience. This can help foster a sense of hope and confidence that they can overcome their current challenges. Share examples of times when they have faced adversity and emerged stronger.

9. “You matter.”
People in crisis can often feel hopeless or like they don’t matter. Reiterate the importance of their life and existence, emphasizing their unique qualities and the positive impact they have on others.

Approaching someone going through a mental health crisis requires empathy, patience, and compassion. Keep these phrases in mind when offering support, but remember that every individual’s experience is unique. Tailor your approach to their specific needs, and most importantly, be a consistent presence in their life as they navigate the complex road to recovery.

Sincerely,
Claudia Coxx, MSW, LMSW
248-860-2024 Ext. 505
Office Hours: Tu 3p-6p, W-Th 11a-7p; Fri 11a-5p; Sat 10a-1p

Filed Under: Anxiety, counseling, mental health, mental health awareness, Uncategorized

Learning How to Detach From Negative Thoughts

May 3, 2023

Detachment When we hear the word detached, we might immediately think of the negative connotation – someone who is not engaged in their life or with the world around them, unfeeling and cold, cut off from their emotions and from others. None of that sounds particularly healthy. But learning to use detachment effectively and […]

Detachment

When we hear the word detached, we might immediately think of the negative connotation – someone who is not engaged in their life or with the world around them, unfeeling and cold, cut off from their emotions and from others. None of that sounds particularly healthy. But learning to use detachment effectively and intentionally can bring about positive change.

There are infinite possibilities when it comes to situations in which detachment could be beneficial. Here are a few areas to consider:

Detachment from unhelpful thoughts

The mind is constantly doing its job – thinking. In fact, we experience 80-90,000 thoughts each day. We usually assume each of these thoughts is useful and true, but our thoughts are not facts. Often, what we think is not worth paying attention to at all.

For example, imagine you reach out to an old friend and are waiting to hear back. Your mind might start having unhelpful thoughts:

‘They probably don’t want to hear from me’

‘No one ever wants to be my friend’

‘I shouldn’t have contacted them after so long’

None of these thoughts are facts, nor are they helpful in the moment. If you allow them to continue as usual, it becomes easy to attach to them and start to believe them.

Learning to detach from our thoughts in the moment starts with being more aware of what is happening in our mind. Begin to recognize your thoughts and decide if they are helpful and truthful. If not, try observing them without putting any value on them. Try using the phrase ‘My thoughts are telling me ___’ before the thought. Remind yourself ‘that is just a thought and thoughts are not facts.’ Another strategy involves imagery. Imagine your thoughts coming and going, drifting in and out of your mind, like watching clouds drift across the sky. Meditation is also an effective way to practice detachment from thoughts because it teaches us to stop paying attention to our thoughts in the moment.

Detachment from an outcome

When we care about something, attachment is natural. If you interview for your dream job, you will likely experience strong emotions about it and focus your thoughts on how much you want the job. The more we care about something, the more we want to control the outcome. So, it can feel counterintuitive to work on detaching in these situations. While attachment is natural, it is not always helpful, because we cannot control what happens. When we try to control, or make something happen, we will inevitably face resistance when things do not work out as we hoped. Resistance makes things more difficult. If you do not get the job offer and you were attached to the idea, you will likely have a much more difficult time accepting the outcome. Using detachment, we can acknowledge how we are feeling (how desperately we want the job), while also letting go of the desire to control the outcome. This involves an intention to trust that we can handle whatever outcome we face. Focusing on trusting ourselves to cope with the things we cannot control allows us to let go of unhelpful attachment to outcome.

Detachment from a difficult situation as it is happening

What can we do when we are in the middle of a situation and our thoughts and emotions are interfering with our ability tomake sound decisions? You guessed it- detach. For example, if we are in an argument with our spouse, we will likely feel triggered in some way. Maybe our body is in fight or flight, maybe we feel anger and want to lash out, or want to shut down and give the silent treatment.

If we act on any of these impulses, we are not acting in a way that is beneficial to ourselves or the relationship. Detaching from the situation can give us time to calm our nervous system and get centered, to process our emotions, and consider how we want to respond. Communicating the need to detach and takingtime alone to reflect before continuing a discussion can lead to a much better outcome.

Detachment from codependent patterns

Many of us find ourselves in codependent patterns in our relationships. Codependency causes us to be more focused on the needs of others than on ourselves, and underneath this we believe we can control the problem (or person) – and need to in order to be safe. This is often the case in relationships with someone who has an addiction or other mental illness. When our loved one is engaging in behavior that is harmful, we want to be able to stop the behavior, and try to control it as a result. This can take on many forms, including obsessing about it, worrying, monitoring/managing the other person, changing our own behavior, and ignoring our own needs.

One of the easiest ways to step out of this pattern is through practicing detachment: shifting our beliefs to accept we cannot control another person, and it is not our job to try. The addiction recovery field has been teaching the concept of ‘detaching with love’ for decades (Beattie, 1992).

We can begin to accept the premise of detachment by learning to focus on our own needs. When you find yourself focused on the other person: – their behavior, emotions, or needs – bring focus back to yourself. Ask yourself ‘What am I feeling and why?What do I need most right now?’ Then, do something to take care of yourself based on those needs.

As with most change, this will likely feel uncomfortable at first. With practice, detaching with love and focusing on yourself will become easier.

Learning to detach with intention and purpose is a process that takes time. A trained mental health professional can provide support and guidance for adopting these concepts in a way that benefits you as an individual.

-Laura Gross, LMSW

Laura Gross is a Clinical Therapist with Marsh Psychology Group

You can contact her at:

(248)860-2024

lgross@marshpsychologygroup.com

Beattie, M. (1992). Codependent No More. Center City, Minnesota: Hazelden.

Filed Under: Anxiety, coping, relationships

EMDR Phases 3 & 4

March 8, 2023

EMDR-Phases 3&4 Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, commonly known as EMDR, is a mental health therapy approach that works to reduce distressing emotions that are linked to traumatic memories. EMDR treats the mental health conditions, often anxiety, depression or other symptoms, which occur because of the memories we have stored from these traumatic […]

EMDR-Phases 3&4

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, commonly known as EMDR, is a mental health therapy approach that works to reduce distressing emotions that are linked to traumatic memories. EMDR treats the mental health conditions, often anxiety, depression or other symptoms, which occur because of the memories we have stored from these traumatic events.

In my first article on the phases of EMDR we looked at Phases 1&2-Client History/Treatment Planning and Preparation. Now we will look at Phases 3&4-Assessment and Desensitization.

Phase 3- Assessment

In phase three the client and therapist will work together to identify

the target memory that triggers emotional distress. This includes what incident caused the trauma? (Was it sexual assault, an accident, the death of a relative etc.?),and what is the most consistent image associated with the memory?

The first step is for the client to select a specific image or mental picture from the target event that best represents the memory. Then the client chooses a statement that expresses a negative self-belief associated with the event. Common negative cognitions could be statements such as, “I am helpless,” “I am worthless,” “I am unlovable,” “I am dirty,” “I am bad,” etc.

During phase three of EMDR therapy, a positive belief is also chosen to help counteract the negative emotions caused by the trauma. The client will pick a positive self-statement that he would rather believe. This statement could be “I am worthwhile/lovable/a good person/in control” or “I can succeed.”

The therapist will then ask the person to estimate how true the positive belief feels using the 1-to-7 Validity of Cognition (VOC) scale. “1” equals “completely false,” and” 7″ equals “completely true.” It is important to give a score that reflects how the person “feels,” not” thinks.”

During the Assessment Phase, the person identifies the negative emotions (fear, anger) and physical sensations (tightness in the stomach, headache) he or she associates with the target. The client also rates the level of disturbance, but uses a different scale called the Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUD) scale. This scale rates the feeling from 0 (no disturbance) to 10 (worst) and is uses this score to assess the disturbance that the client feels throughout the processing.

The goal of EMDR treatment, is for SUD scores of disturbance to decrease while the VOC scores of the positive belief to increase.

Phase 4- Desensitization

Phase four is where the processing of the memory and negative beliefs takes place. The therapist will use some form of Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) to stimulate the mind/brain to process whatever trauma is currently being held in the conscious mind. This usually involves instructing the client to follow hand movements back and forth or hold tappers in each hand.

After a number of eye movements or other form of BLS occur, the therapist will stop and ask, “What are you noticing now?” The client will comment in just a few words what they are noticing. This may be part of the memory, a feeling, or a body sensation. Most of the healing happens while the client is reviewing the memory with the BLS. The therapist will ask the client to continue by stating “Go with that”. The process then continues.

Depending upon the intensity of the response to the trauma, your therapist may adjust the length, speed and type of stimulation used to create the eye movements.

The therapist may have to “circle back” to the original memory multiple times depending on how deep or complex the trauma is, but the process remains the same. The therapist will keep asking the client to hold the memory and the belief and the feelings in mind, while also completing the BLS.

Eventually the memory will feel different. It will have less energy.

The therapist will keep offering BLS until the client is able to grade the memory at a much lower level of disturbance on the 1-10 scale, ideally at a zero –now the memory no longer bothers them. This is the goal of EMDR; to get the client from a point where the memory goes from 8 or 9 out of ten for intensity and unpleasantness, down to a 0-1 out of ten.

During reprocessing, maladaptively stored events are desensitized, integrated, and adaptively stored.

In my third and final segment of the phases of EMDR we will look at phases 5-8-Installation, Body scan and Re-evaluation.

If you have experienced trauma of any kind, and feel you could benefit from EMDR to reduce symptoms and to improve quality of life, feel free to reach out to me at Marsh Psychology Group.

cvankampen@marshpsychologygroup.com

” https://marshpsychologygroup.com/carol-van-kampen-lmsw/

Resources:

https://www.emdria.org/public-resources/the-eight-phases-of-emdr-therapy/

Filed Under: Anxiety, trauma, Trauma / PTSD

How to Cope with the Stress of Inflation

February 17, 2023

Unless you’ve been living under a proverbial rock, you no doubt are aware that inflation is the highest it’s been in decades. From gas at the pumps to food and utilities, most of us are struggling to make ends meet. And without question, this is causing massive stress. If you are feeling intense stress from […]

How to Cope with the Stress of Inflation

If you are feeling intense stress from the impact of inflation, here are some things you can do:

Be Honest

One of the worst things you can do when feeling stress and anxiety is to pretend you’re not. Be honest with yourself and others about what you’re feeling. The old saying goes, “The squeaky wheel gets the oil.” Ignoring your feelings or pretending they aren’t there will only make them louder and louder.

Get Your Mind Off of Things

Equally important as being honest about your stress is not obsessing over it. You really need to unplug from the stress of the economy and distract yourself with something. Mindless activities are actually a great way to quiet those stressful thoughts. Go for a run. Clean your kitchen. Watch an old movie. Whenever the anxiety begins to creep up, stop and do an activity that will calm you.

Find Joy

It’s important to step back and recognize that no matter how crazy the world gets and no matter how stressed we are, there is still plenty of joy all around us. On our darkest days, the sun still shines. Make sure to spend time each day noticing all of those small things that bring joy and happiness into your life. The perfect latte. A sunset. Your child’s laughter. Be thankful for each and every one of these. Gratitude is the great elixir of stress and sadness.

These are just a few ways you can cope with the stress of inflation. You may also want to speak to someone if your stress turns into unmanageable anxiety or depression. If you’d like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me.

SOURCES:

https://www.huffpost.com/entry/inflation-stress-anxiety-mental-health_l_62d958ade4b0aad58d18015b

https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/general/how-to-prepare-for-inflation-coping-with-financial-stress/

https://www.cnbc.com/2022/05/18/rising-inflation-has-made-people-feel-anxious-here-are-ways-to-cope.html

Filed Under: coping, finance, stress

3 Ways to Improve Communication in Relationships

February 10, 2023

The number one ingredient to any healthy and stable relationship is good communication. When communication is poor, relationships break down. Whether they are platonic, romantic or revolve around business, your relationships will thrive if you improve your communication with others. Here’s how: Be Fully Present Trust and respect must be earned by both parties. And […]

3 Ways to Improve Communication in Relationships

The number one ingredient to any healthy and stable relationship is good communication. When communication is poor, relationships break down.

Whether they are platonic, romantic or revolve around business, your relationships will thrive if you improve your communication with others. Here’s how:

Be Fully Present

Trust and respect must be earned by both parties. And this requires giving each other your full attention. Keep distractions like cell phones out of the conversation. Make eye contact and fully listen to what the other person is saying and how they are saying it.

Use “I” Statements

One of the biggest things that make a person tune out during a conversation is when they are told they are doing something wrong. YOU do this or YOU do that is not the best way to get your feelings across.

Try using more “I” statements. These statements focus on your feelings without casting blame on the other person.

So as an example, instead of saying, “You’re always late!” You can instead say, “I worry when you haven’t shown up and I haven’t heard from you.”

See the difference?

Avoid Negative Communication Patterns

Poor communication is typically the result of negative communication patterns. These include things like passive aggressiveness, ignoring the other person when they are speaking, and yelling.

While you may not be able to change your own negative communication patterns overnight, you can commit to becoming more aware of them and when they happen, stop the pattern and change it.

These are just some of the ways you can improve your communication with others. You may also want to seek the guidance of a couples’ therapist who can offer you even more strategies and a safe space to share your feelings.

If you’d like to explore counseling, please reach out to me. I’d love to help you reconnect with your partner.

SOURCES:

https://positivepsychology.com/communication-in-relationships/

https://www.verywellmind.com/communication-in-relationships-why-it-matters-and-how-to-improve-5218269

https://us.calmerry.com/blog/relationships/9-ways-to-improve-communication-in-your-relationship/

Filed Under: communication, couples

Benefits of Counseling for College Students

February 3, 2023

College students deal with a lot of stress. Sadly, not many reach out for support or help. Eventually their stress turns into anxiety and depression. To have a positive college experience, good mental health is required. Counseling offers numerous benefits to college students. Here are only a few: Counseling Helps with Problem-Solving You can learn […]

Benefits of Counseling for College Students

College students deal with a lot of stress. Sadly, not many reach out for support or help. Eventually their stress turns into anxiety and depression.

To have a positive college experience, good mental health is required. Counseling offers numerous benefits to college students. Here are only a few:

Counseling Helps with Problem-Solving

You can learn a lot in college, but you won’t necessarily learn how to problem solve. And without question, solving problems is one of the key ingredients to having a happy and purposeful adult life.

Establish Emotional Awareness

Counseling can also help you recognize the feelings you’re feeling. If we don’t fully understand what is going on inside of us, we can linger there, remaining lost instead of processing and moving forward in our life.

Strengthen Interpersonal Relationships

Whether you want to create lasting bonds with friends, get closer to that special someone, or simply understand where your parents and professors are coming from, counseling can help you foster and strengthen relationships. You’ll gain insights into who you are, who others are, and begin to shift your perspective when clarity is needed.

Get the Support You Need

There is scientific evidence that suggests social support helps to build resilience against stress. Counseling offers massive support and provide students with the guidance they need for success.

If you are a college student that is facing major challenges, trying to reach a new goal, looking for peace of mind or your purpose, you don’t have to go it alone. Counseling can provide the tools to help you navigate your life.

If you would like someone to talk to, give me a call. I’d be more than happy to speak with you more about how I can help!

SOURCES:

Benefits of Counseling for College Students

Benefits of Counseling for College Students – Coping with College

https://www.coe.edu/student-life/student-life-resources/health-wellness/mental-health-counseling/potential-benefits-counseling

Filed Under: college, students

Postpartum Depression

February 2, 2023

Postpartum Depression Postpartum depression is a type of depression that can occur in women after giving birth. It is a serious condition that requires treatment and can interfere with a woman’s ability to care for herself and her baby. Symptoms of postpartum depression can include: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness […]

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum Depression

Postpartum depression is a type of depression that can occur in women after giving birth. It is a serious condition that requires treatment and can interfere with a woman’s ability to care for herself and her baby.

Symptoms of postpartum depression can include:

Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable
Difficulty bonding with or caring for the baby
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Fatigue or low energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Thoughts of death or suicide

It is important to note that these symptoms can also occur as a normal part of the “baby blues,” which is a temporary and milder form of depression that affects many women after giving birth. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to seek help from a healthcare provider or mental health professional to determine the best treatment plan.

There are several methods of recovery from postpartum depression, including:

Therapy: Therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy (IPT), can help individuals understand and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to their depression.
Medication: Antidepressant medication can be effective in reducing symptoms of depression. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate medication and dosage.
Support: Receiving support from family, friends, and other new mothers can be helpful in coping with the challenges of motherhood and managing postpartum depression. Joining a support group can also be beneficial.
Self-care: Taking care of oneself is important for recovery from postpartum depression. This may include getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and finding time for activities that bring joy and relaxation.

Postpartum depression is a common and treatable condition, and that with proper treatment, it is possible to fully recover and enjoy motherhood. Do not hesitate to reach out for help if you or someone you know is experiencing postpartum depression.

Claudia Coxx, MSW, LMSW

248-860-2024 ext 505

Ccoxx@marshpsychologygroup.com

Filed Under: Uncategorized

Signs you Need to Take a Mental Health Day

January 27, 2023

Do you ever get up in the morning and wonder if it would be okay for you to take a mental health day? If so, you’re definitely not alone. In fact, research from the American Psychological Association shows that today’s workforce is experiencing job burnout at alarming rates. What are Mental Health Days Exactly? The […]

Signs you Need to Take a Mental Health Day

What are Mental Health Days Exactly?

The good news is that taking a mental health day every once in a while can absolutely help you cope with work-related stress. But mental health days should not be confused with sick days.

Mental health days are simply those times when you need to take a break from anything work related. These personal days are used to reset your mind by focusing on activities that rejuvenate and reenergize you.

Signs it’s Time for a Mental Health Day

The following are some red flags that are letting you know you need to put your mental health first:

You Feel Run Down

Being stressed and overworked can take a toll on your mind and body. If you’ve been feeling run down for a period of time, take a break.

You Feel Angry More Often

When we feel stressed and burned out, we become angry far more easily and far more often. If you find you have been getting easily irritated, this is a sign it may be time for a mental health day.

You’re Having a Hard Time Focusing

When we’re stressed, our mental faculties take a hit and we can’t focus as easily. This makes it incredibly hard to get any work done. Which of course just makes us feel more stressed.

If you notice your cognitive abilities have declined a bit, may be time to call off work for a day of destressing.

If you have been experiencing any of these signs, I encourage you to put your mental health first and take a mental health day. And if you would like to speak to someone about how you’re feeling, please reach out to me. I’m a great listener and have numerous tools for coping with stress that I can share with you.

SOURCES:

https://info.totalwellnesshealth.com/blog/mental-health-day-from-work

10 Signs You Need a Mental Health Day

https://www.livestrong.com/article/13767705-how-to-take-mental-health-day/

Filed Under: mental health