Different Types of Therapy

When you want help managing your mental health, whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, or other issues, figuring out where to begin can become overwhelming. The world of psychotherapy is pretty big and often confusing as all different types of therapies and treatments are available.

Of course, no single treatment method is right for everyone, which is why it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the most widely-practiced forms of therapy.

Consider this your quick guide to the different types of therapies.

 

Defining Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an umbrella term for the various types of therapies out there. Having ‘psycho’ in the name can be misleading, as psychotherapy is simply defined as talk therapy. It’s also a therapy that can be used alone or with certain medications to treat mental health disorders.

Essentially, it requires you to see a licensed therapist to identify your troubling thoughts and triggers. Your therapist will evaluate your condition to give it a name and determine what the best course of treatment is.

One of the major benefits of psychotherapy is that it helps you to understand your own behaviors and emotions and which major life events or experiences led to them. In this understanding, it also helps you to learn healthy coping techniques and problem-solving skills so you can regain control over your mental health, life and its pleasures.

The following are the most common forms of psychotherapy and how they work:

 

Supportive Psychotherapy

Supportive psychotherapy works via therapeutic alliance – as in, the relationship between the individual and their therapist. The goal of supportive psychotherapy is to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, personality disorders, and other conditions by improving one’s self-esteem, restoring their relation to reality, and teaching them to regulate their impulses and negative thought patterns.

It also reinforces an individual’s ability to cope with everyday stressors and challenges so they may regain their voice and self-autonomy.

 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a short-term therapy that’s also goal-oriented. It focuses on the link between thoughts (cognition) and actions (behavior). It’s a method of helping people change the thought patterns that lead to unhealthy, unproductive, and incapacitating behavior.

CBT is often used with individuals who suffer from anxiety, depression, phobias, and varying levels of stress. This would include individuals with substance use disorders or other addictions such as gambling, smoking, and even overeating.

 

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

IPT is another short-term form of therapy, and it focuses on cultivating skills for better communication and interpersonal effectiveness concerning existing relationships. The IPT method is also geared towards those with anxiety and depression who tend to blame themselves for everything that has gone wrong in their lives.

Essentially, IPT teaches individuals skills and techniques to help them heal themselves in order to heal their existing relationships.

 

Psychodynamic Psychotherapy

Psychodynamic therapy emphasizes how certain life events, experiences, and relationships affect a person’s current life situation and choices. Its goal is to help individuals acknowledge and better understand their negative feelings and repressed emotions to resolve any internal psychological conflicts that keep them from moving forward.

This method of therapy is especially popular for people suffering from depression as it aims to improve life experience, self-esteem, and relationships.

 

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

DBT is a form of CBT, with the primary aim of giving people the skills to accept themselves and live mindfully — as in how to regulate their emotions, handle stress effectively, and improve their existing relationships.

DBT was originally developed to treat individuals with borderline personality disorder. However, it is effective for a variety of mental health conditions, especially for those with an inclination towards self-harm or uncontrollable intense emotions.

 

If you feel that therapy would help you, don’t hesitate to contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our therapists.

What Are 5 Signs Of Bipolar

Wondering whether you have bipolar disorder? Despite increased awareness about the condition and how it affects people’s lives, strong stereotypes continue to influence how we characterize and identify the condition within us and in our loved ones.

Bipolar disorder is a mental condition affecting around 10 million women, children, and men in the United States. It is characterized by strong mood swings from high to low and low to high. Lows are characterized by depression, whereas highs are moments of mania. The mood changes may even become mixed, and you might feel elated and depressed simultaneously.

Bipolar disorder may lead to life-threatening conditions due to its abrupt peaks to mania and rapid drops to depression. It also may be distressing and hazardous for those close to the patient. Below are five frequent markers of bipolar disorder that you should not overlook.

Decreased Need for Sleep

Sleep patterns change significantly compared to normal sleep patterns. People with this disorder often have difficulty sleeping. During the depressive period, the patient may sleep excessively and feel constantly exhausted. The opposite occurs during a manic episode, as they may never feel fatigued.

People who only get a few hours of sleep every night may indicate bipolar disorder, sadness, or anxiety. A situation where one can work well on four to five hours of sleep for weeks with no signs of exhaustion or cognitive impairment may indicate mania.

Racing Thoughts and Accelerated Speech

Some individuals are naturally chatty, but one of the most prevalent signs of bipolar disorder is forced speaking. If you cannot catch your thoughts because they are rolling off the teleprompter screen in your brain, resulting in a lot of incomprehensible babbling, you may have bipolar disorder. In addition to speaking rapidly and switching between thoughts, a person in a manic phase may also be easily distracted.

Restlessness, Agitation, and Irritability

Imagine a person who sits at a restaurant for only two minutes before getting agitated and needing to move to the next table, is too loud to the waitress, too slow, and his chair too wobbly. Suddenly I am no longer in the mood for the food served at that restaurant.

These are all signs of agitation, restlessness, and irritability that could point to bipolar disorder. When this happens, you should seek psychiatric help. Bipolar mania is indicated by an inability to sit still and irritability.

Overconfidence and Inability to Finish Tasks

A sudden surge of confidence may suggest that one is experiencing a manic episode. For instance, unfounded claims such as a belief that your writing has the potential to become a New York Times bestseller when you have no experience in this field may signal that something is wrong.

A sudden belief that you have extraordinary abilities that will alter the course of history in a short, impracticable timeframe may also be a pointer that you need to sit down with a psychiatrist.

In all honesty, the lack of insecurities suggests overconfidence. In that case, you may confide in a psychiatrist since such hubristic
self-assessments suggest a manic episode of bipolar disorder.

Sometimes a person who has bipolar disorder might have problems with finishing tasks. Although they are overconfident, the shift in mood might cause them to postpone tasks or leave them altogether.

Impulsive And Risky Behavior

During a manic phase, people with bipolar disorder can have inflated self-esteem. Most people are aware of the mania symptom. The shopping spree, the extramarital affair, or the motorcycle trip across the country are just a few examples of impulsive behaviors.

However, what is impulsive for one person may not be for another. If they are out of character and part of a wider pattern of symptoms like spending sprees, blatant affairs, and hazardous investments, it may indicate bipolar disorder.

Suppose you suddenly want to leave your job as an IT specialist in middle America to become a gourmet chef at a New York City Cafe or to purchase three log cabins in upper Michigan to refurbish. You may want to see a psychiatrist if the behavior in question is out of character.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Bipolar Disorder in Miami

Only a qualified mental health professional can diagnose this condition. At Elevate, our team of specialists diagnose, support, and help you manage bipolar disorder, enabling you to regain control of your life. With the advent of technology, telepsychiatry has enabled you to access our services in the comfort of your home. Visit us today in Miami, FL, or schedule an appointment online and let us help you treat bipolar disorder.

Image: ibreakstock

How To Focus With ADHD

Millions of children, adolescents, and adults in the United States experience Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which makes it difficult to concentrate, pay attention, organize, and focus. Their lives are more complex as a result. That is why we have put together a list of strategies for how to focus with ADHD.

Set A Timer

Do you ever look at the computer screen for an extended period, unable to start a task? Many of us have been there. You can overcome this drag by setting a timer and accomplishing the task within that period. Beginning an activity with an end time enables you to gain momentum, making it easy to continue.

Write Down the Most Important Things to Accomplish First

Avoid creating a very lengthy list. Always keep the list in your view throughout the day. You may use your calendar, journal, or whiteboard to help you not get distracted by other things that are not as vital. Try to concentrate on one thing at a time. Ensure that any distracting objects are hidden from your view. There should be nothing other than the job you have in front of you.

Avoid Multitasking

While multitasking might be an efficient way to complete multiple tasks, people with ADHD might find it challenging. To multitask, one needs to divide their attention. If you have ADHD, dividing your attention might distract you from completing the tasks. Completing one task at a time is how to focus with ADHD.

Have a Plan and Break Down Tasks

Planning saves a great deal of time since you won’t get overwhelmed trying to choose where to begin. Once you have a thorough strategy on how to go about a particular task, all you need to do is follow the procedures you have established. As a result, you will focus your time and energy on the tasks, with minimal effort spent figuring out what to do next.

Distraction Journal

While attempting to concentrate on your current activities, jot down your ideas as they arise; you may return to them after the work has been accomplished. This strategy will lessen distractions by a considerable volume should you have trouble concentrating due to your thoughts.

Be Kind to Yourself

If perfectionism keeps you from getting started with your tasks, remember that progress is better than perfection. There will never be an ideal moment to begin anything. If you wait until you have a perfect idea, it may never arrive. While perfectionism has its merits, it may severely hinder your productivity, so do not be too harsh on yourself in your pursuit of perfection. Perfection is the enemy of success.

Deadlines

Have you ever had a scenario where you had the whole month to complete an assignment but waited until the final few days to begin? We place a great emphasis on meeting deadlines. Deadlines may provide daily and weekly organization. Most individuals with ADHD function better under time constraints and may need hypo focus to complete things rapidly. Consider establishing a timeframe for each work you want to complete.

Turn Off Mobile Phone Notifications

This tip may seem simple, but it may help eliminate distractions and the need to check your phone if you do so often. Consider using the silent or airplane mode.

Do Fewer Demanding Tasks First

Save chores requiring your undivided attention and concentration for times of the day when you feel the most active. Strategically selecting projects depending on your degree of concentration will provide long-term benefits. You will complete more tasks, such as returning a phone call or sending an email you’ve been putting off for days when you cannot concentrate.

Find Effective ADHD Treatment

Treatment for ADHD might vary from individual to individual, depending on what your psychiatrist suggests. Sometimes, a person may be advised to take certain supplements rich in minerals and vitamins that help the brain focus more. In other cases, a person may be advised to have further observation and treatment.

How Elevate Psychiatry can help treat ADHD in Miami

Elevate psychiatry is the right place if you’re seeking a psychiatrist who cares about your unique and individual worries. Our location and facility were designed with tranquility and healing in mind. Telepsychiatry allows you to get treatment from the comfort of your home. We ensure that anyone who comes to us gets quality services. Each of our licensed team of psychiatrists in Miami, Fl, takes a personalized approach to treatment. Patients from all walks of life are valued and treated with utmost concern. Contact us today or visit us in Miami, FL, to schedule an appointment.

Image: Andrii Kondiuk

What Are The 5 Signs Of Mental Illness

Mental illnesses are health conditions defined by a change in behavior, emotions, and thinking. It’s associated with problems or distress associated with family activities, work, and social. According to a survey conducted in 2020, about 1 in 5 adult Americans have some mental illness, accounting for about 52.9 million people with this condition.

It would be ideal to learn how to identify signs of mental illness as early as possible and ensure that you seek high-quality psychiatric services in Miami as soon as possible. Continue reading to learn the five main signs of mental illness.

Constant Fatigue

Mental illness can be exhausting. A person with a mental illness such as obsessive-compulsive disorder will most likely experience obsessive or intrusive thoughts, which can be extremely draining. Acting on these thoughts can also take a lot of energy.

If you’re in school, trying to keep up with school work and other responsibilities can also cause constant fatigue. Trying to hide what you’re going through to avoid shame, stigma, and judgment can drain your energy.

Constant fatigue may result in chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis. It wipes you out into almost not doing anything such as doing your laundry, cooking dinner, going to the supermarket, or even going to work. You may also have trouble falling asleep or staying awake. That’s why it’s crucial to seek psychiatry services in Miami to curb these effects as early as possible.

Physical Pain

People with depression may experience vague pains and aches that affect their back, limbs, and joints. There’s still ongoing research trying to link physical pain and depression and how they can influence each other.

One of the theories states that pain may stem from the dysregulation of neurotransmitters like serotonin. Some people experiencing pain due to mental illness may feel better if they take antidepressants that stimulate serotonin reuptake in the brain.

Other theories show that some people with depression feel pain differently. A study conducted in 2015 found that depressed people have a higher tolerance to lower pain than those who are not depressed.

With the varied physical pain symptoms associated with depression, how to know if your mental health is terrible can be challenging. That’s why it is recommended to seek psychiatry services in Miami to assess your cause of pain accurately and determine whether it’s related to depression.

Perfectionism

Even though perfectionism isn’t a psychological disorder, it’s linked to mental health issues like obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorder, and an eating disorder. There’s no exact relationship between anxiety and perfectionism, but they usually go hand in hand. In a meta-analysis study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology, people with anxiety show more perfectionism traits than average citizens.

Perfectionism produces anxious thoughts and feelings that your performance is falling below high standards. Many people who experience this usually connect their self-worth to their performance. You may notice this in people who feverishly avoid failure or set unreasonably high standards for themselves.

Lack of Emotion

Lack of emotion is remarkably overlooked when understanding the five signs of mental illness. Many people with mental illnesses often feel excited, depressed, anxious, and upset. Even though these experiences are common, some people feel the exact opposite.

For instance, if you’re depressed, you may be less interested in activities you used to enjoy or the people around you. The psychiatry term used to describe this feeling is anhedonia. It is also defined by the inability to experience joy for a longer time than what you would feel during your off days.

Avoidance

Mental illness can cause avoidance behavior, referring to a person’s actions to escape complicated feelings and thoughts. This behavior occurs differently, but it’s common with actions that a person usually does or avoids. For instance, if you notice that you’re avoiding your usual route to work because you’re feeling anxious, then you’re likely suffering from avoidance behavior.

Unless you seek psychiatry care in Miami, you will deprive yourself of connections, adventures, and necessary experiences in your life, which can end up affecting your work and family life.

Psychological Evaluation and Mental Health Treatment in Miami

Some signs associated with mental illnesses are often confused with other conditions. That’s why it’s crucial to seek mental health services as soon you notice any of the above signs of mental illness. If you’re looking for psychiatric care that meets your unique experiences in Miami, Elevate Psychiatry is here to help you. Our patients are our top priority, and we strive to offer the best psychiatry care. All our licensed psychiatrists adopt a personal approach to help you identify your condition and help you in the best way possible. Contact us today, and let’s help you handle your condition accordingly.

 

Image: Bits And Splits

Herbal Supplements for Mental Health

The use of herbal supplements for mental health has been trending for some time now – especially among those suffering from milder forms of depression and anxiety. While there is no all-encompassing herbal remedy to fix all of your mental health woes, the best supplements out there have been proven either scientifically or anecdotally to promote calmness and overall feelings of happiness and wellness.

So, which health supplements are the best for your mental health? Keep reading to learn more.

 

The Best Herbal Supplements For Mental Health

It’s important to keep in mind that the food we eat should be our primary source of vitamins and minerals, which includes the vitamins and minerals thought of as mental health supplements. If you have a diet that’s insufficient in essential vitamins and minerals, taking herbal supplements may make a noticeable difference.

However, treatment for mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, ADHD, etc often requires more than just a pill.

With that in mind, here are some of the most well-known and revered herbal supplements for mental health:

 

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is a yellow-flowered plant that has been used medicinally since ancient Greek times. Research has shown that as a supplement, St. John’s Wort can be effective for mild to moderate depression.

However, it’s known to interfere with a number of different medications, which means you’ll want to consult with your doctor before adding the supplement to your daily regimen if you take anything else.

 

Passionflower (Passiflora Extract)

Passionflower refers to a variety of exotic vine flowers with curly purple or blue petals. Specifically, the Passiflora incarnata variety is said to help treat anxiety, insomnia, and even pain.

There have been several clinical studies showing the flower’s anxiolytic (anxiety-calming) effects while others have proven its sedative effects. Conclusively, the supplement can have positive effects on those with anxiety, however, its efficiency varies from study to study.

 

L-theanine

Green tea has always been used as a restorative in traditional Chinese medicine, and its bioactive ingredient – L-theanine – is often extracted and used to treat anxiety symptoms throughout Asia.

The anti-anxiety effect of L-theanine works through enhanced alpha brain wave activity and an increased synthesis of GABA. Studies have shown that increased GABA promotes higher brain levels of dopamine and serotonin, resulting in general feelings of wellness and calmness.

 

There are plenty of other supplements out there that, unlike the above, can be found in food as well as supplement form, such as vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc. However, it is your personal circumstances – diet, health, lifestyle, psychiatric history, and many other factors – that will determine the severity of your mood disorder. Only a doctor or therapist can evaluate these things appropriately to recommend whether a supplement or prescription medication will work best for your unique situation.

Having said that, counseling is typically needed to get to the root of the problem that’s causing your mood disorder. It’s also necessary to consult with your doctor or therapist before taking up supplements on your own, especially if you’re already taking other medications to ensure the type and dosage will help and not harm you.  If you have more questions regarding supplements for mental health, contact us to make an appointment!

Can You Have PTSD And Not Know It?

Despite being one of today’s best-known psychological disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is also one of the least understood and most controversial. We can experience symptoms of PTSD even if we do not remember the event.

The psychological suffering and agony experienced by most patients are undeniably real. Yet, the period in which people can start experiencing symptoms after a traumatic event can trigger many questions.

People can have PTSD even though they do not recall the experience that triggered the problem. As a result, such people may live with PTSD for years without realizing it.

Can you have PTSD and not know it? This article explores what you need to understand about PTSD.

Typical Symptoms of PTSD

After traumatizing events, sadness, fear, anger, and anxiety can be normal. But, the time at which these emotions manifest is often unpredictable. PTSD symptoms can start immediately, months, or years after the event.

But, one thing is clear; these symptoms significantly affect people’s social and professional life. Although the symptoms differ widely among people, there are four common categories of symptoms:

Intrusive Memories:

  • Flashbacks of the traumatic event
  • Recurrent, distressing memories
  • Nightmares
  • Emotional distress

Avoidance:

  • Avoiding places or experiences that can bring back memories of the traumatic event

Changing Emotional and Physical Reactions:

  • Being extra cautious of danger
  • Self-destructive behaviors
  • Insomnia
  • Concentration problems
  • Guilt or shame

Changes in Mood and Thought:

  • Hopelessness about future
  • Unable to maintain relationships
  • Negative thoughts about self

Causes of PTSD

There are no specific events or experiences that can lead to PTSD. However, the mental health issue can result from a complex mix of various factors. People of all ages, gender, and all works of life can suffer from PTSD. If our relatives or we have been through intense or life-threatening situations and start experiencing mental health issues, it could be PTSD.

PTSD was first diagnosed in military veterans and was originally associated with battlefield experiences. Multiple studies have revealed that various traumatic events can lead to PTSD.

PTSD can result from physical assault and witnessing violent situations or acts. Domestic violence and sexual assault are common causes of PTSD.

Fear and frequent avoidance of traumatic situations such as extreme weather, accidents, or fire can also cause PTSD.

Lastly, inherited vulnerabilities, including anxiety and depression, can cause PTSD.

Is it Possible to Have PTSD Without Knowing? 

Can you have PTSD and not know it? Yes, the mind has an incredible ability to forget traumatic events while still holding them unconsciously. People who suffer from other trauma can also have PTSD, often without realizing it.

Can you have PTSD without trauma? Yes, although PTSD can manifest as other mental illnesses, including anxiety and depression, sometimes it can be hidden in avoidance and numbness. It’s easy to note a brave soldier coming from war with flashbacks of the combat experiences. But, it is difficult to realize PTSD symptoms in people who have experienced domestic violence and sexual assault.

People can forget they were exposed to traumatic events because the brain does not process and store trauma memories like regular experiences. However, the trauma can remain in the subconscious mind for years without victims realizing they have PTSD.

The feeling of threat can trigger the brain to form and store memories of such situations differently. Consequently, the inability to access memories of such events can be a significant feature of PTSD.

In addition, people with negative beliefs about the world can suffer from PTSD without trauma. For instance, such people can often have the impression that the world is unsafe and that other people shouldn’t be trusted.

It is therefore important to understand changes in our mood, emotions, and psychological experiences to prevent the escalation of PTSD. In addition, destigmatizing mental illnesses in the Miami, FL, area can encourage many people to seek PTSD treatment.

PTSD Evaluation & Treatment in Miami 

Answering the question, “can you have PTSD and not know it?” can be challenging for many people. But, it is essential to understand that PTSD can result from multifaceted factors, including forgotten experiences.

If our loved ones or we suspect to have PTSD symptoms even without trauma, it is important to look for a psychiatrist who can diagnose and treat the problem.

Elevate Psychiatry provides a wide range of psychiatric interventions in the Miami, FL, area. At Elevate Psychiatry, our patients are our priority. We provide destigmatizing psychiatry services to patients suffering from different traumas. All our psychiatrists are licensed and have years of experience dealing with patients with different symptoms in the Miami, FL, area.

If you are looking for a psychiatric facility that can diagnose and treat unique and individual mental illnesses, contact us to help you and your loved ones heal from the trauma of PTSD.

Image Credit Andrey Popov

What Happens During A Psych Evaluation

A psychiatric evaluation is conducted to identify a mental disorder to facilitate effective treatment for the condition. A professional and trained psychiatrist conducts a mental evaluation. A parent or legal guardian must be present if a child is being evaluated.

During a psychiatric evaluation, a psychiatrist asks you several questions. Lab tests are sometimes necessary, depending on the patient’s symptoms. Your psychiatrist will then determine if your symptoms match any mental health concerns.

What Is a Psychiatric Evaluation?

Psychiatric evaluations analyze a patient’s mental health status. Mental health professionals such as psychiatrists, doctors, and psychologists conduct them. People experience adversity from time to time, but it is abnormal for destructive emotions to persist indefinitely.

When symptoms such as sadness, difficulty concentrating, or social anxiety interfere with a person’s daily life, it is important to seek treatment. The earlier a person begins therapy for a mental disorder, the easier it is for them to regain their healthy mental state.

Evaluation by a psychiatrist is the initial step in obtaining good mental health care. A patient should anticipate answering several questions, undergoing a physical examination, and filling out some documents. 

What to Expect During a Psychiatric Evaluation

Mental health assessments can include formal questionnaires, checklists, surveys, interviews, and behavioral observations. Typically, the extent of an evaluation depends on your needs and the severity of your condition.

Testing takes between 60 and 90 minutes, depending on the need for testing. It can be performed in person or online. The following as some of the most common forms of psychological assessments:

Review of Patient History

Our psychiatrist or medical staff asks you a few preliminary questions about yourself when you enter a psychiatric examination. Some of the information they enquire about includes your name, age, marital status, names of family members, and most importantly, what motivated you to make an appointment.

A patient’s medical history is crucial since it allows us to understand who you are. Other aspects of a patient’s history include their medical history, prescription medications they have used in the past or are currently taking, and information about their birth, youth, education, and career. 

Our doctor also inquires about your relationships and whether you have a history of drug and substance abuse. Finally, the physician might ask about your cultural background and formal religious views. Your medical history allows us to plan the best treatment for you to avoid drug reactions and increase your chances of overcoming your mental disorder.

Mental Status 

The mental status evaluation (MSE) is included in all medical examinations and can be seen as the psychological equal of the physical exam. Its objective is to statistically and qualitatively evaluate various mental functions and behaviors at a specific moment.

The MSE gives crucial information for diagnosing and assessing the disorder’s cause and treatment response. Observations made throughout the interview are included in the MSE, which begins when the doctor meets the patient for the first time. Information regarding the patient’s behaviors, thoughts, and disposition is collected.

At an appropriate moment in the examination, a formal MSE is conducted to collect precise information regarding the patient’s cognitive functioning. Specific test results are combined with prior informal assessments of mental conditions. For instance, an interview with you provides the psychiatrist with extensive information regarding attention span, memory, and cognitive organization. During the official examination, specific questions reveal the degree of attention or memory problems.

Physical Examination/Tests

Physical and mental health information is connected. As part of the diagnostic process for mental illness, our primary care physician does a thorough physical exam. Alterations in one’s disposition and way of thinking are two symptoms that a certain neurological condition is underway. Identifying the underlying conditions averts the worsening of your mental health.  

A thyroid imbalance can severely affect mental health as some of its symptoms are psychological issues. Therefore, if your physician needs any additional inquiries, they demand further medical tests, including blood tests.

Psychiatric Evaluation in Miami

Mental health illnesses are curable and are not a sign of weakness or emotional instability. Seeking help is vital as it allows you to address the root cause of the problem for a lasting solution.

At Elevate Psychiatry in Miami, our psychiatrists provide inpatient and outpatient care to children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly throughout South Florida. We are a globally renowned medical facility that assists families in overcoming even the most complicated and difficult-to-treat mental disorders.

Contact us to book an appointment if you or a loved one is experiencing a mental health disorder. 

5 Most Common Behavioral Disorders

Behavioral disorders have adverse short-term or long-term impacts on your life if left untreated. The best way to treat behavioral disorders is to seek knowledge about the conditions to help you recognize the disorders early for you to seek the necessary treatment to prevent the worsening of the conditions. Behavioral disorders in adults mainly have emotional and physical symptoms such as fever, headaches, and rash.

Visit Elevate Psychiatry if you notice any signs of behavioral problems. We have licensed psychiatrists who offer patients high-quality services, ensure they are comfortable, and help bring their life to order without stigmatization. We also offer various treatment methods, including telepsychiatry, that allow us to provide you with the best mental health services.

Behavioral Disorder Basics

Behavioral disorders involve patterns of disruptive behaviors that can last up to six months and might harm those around you. In most cases, children diagnosed with behavioral disorders early can be treated. However, if the condition is left untreated, it progresses to adulthood, making it difficult for you to keep regular jobs, relationships, and other adult responsibilities. 

Some behavioral disorders are linked to traumatic events, substance abuse, low self-esteem, defiant behaviors, and involvement in criminal activities. Elevate Psychiatry has the best psychiatrists in Miami that diagnose, manage, and treat behavioral disorders. Some of the common behavioral disorders we help with include:

Conduct Disorders

Conduct disorders in adults begin at around sixteen when they start defying rules, displaying antisocial habits, and lacking empathy for those around them. The major causes of conduct disorders are child abuse, family conflicts, poverty, and drug and substance abuse. Some of the typical signs of conduct disorders include:

  1. Stealing
  2. Bullying and threatening others
  3. Destroying and breaking into private property
  4. Starting and frequently engaging in physical fights
  5. Truancy
  6. Aggressiveness
  7. Running away from home

Oppositional Defiant Disorders (ODD)

Children naturally throw tantrums when acting out in defiance. However, when the habit holds even in adulthood, it is called an oppositional defiant disorder. ODD major signs in children include chronic disobedience, excessive arguing, and frequent questioning of authority. When untreated in childhood, ODD presents itself later in adulthood with the following symptoms:

  1. Getting angered or irritated easily
  2. Low frustration threshold 
  3. Vindictive behaviors such as revenge
  4. Frequent arguments, tempers, and tantrums
  5. Low self-esteem
  6. Engaging in behaviors deliberately to hurt others.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders (ADHD)

ADHD is a condition that impairs adults’ ability to concentrate and regulate impulsive behaviors. ADHD is a common behavioral disorder among children, adolescents, and adults that makes them overactive. ADHD is more common among males than in females. It is mainly associated with depression, mood, conduct disorders, and drug abuse. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders signs include:

  • Mood swings 
  • Trouble coping with stress and frustrations
  • Poor time management skills
  • Inability to pay attention
  • Impulsivity 
  • Restlessness

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorders

OCD is a mental health condition where adults mainly get recurring sensations, unwanted thoughts, and repetitive behaviors that can lead to obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions in OCD are persistent and time-consuming; hence adults are compelled to behave a certain way to control their obsessive thoughts. Some of the common obsessive and compulsive signs associated with obsessive-compulsive disorders include:

  • Aggressiveness 
  • Unwanted sexual thoughts
  • Lots of doubts and uncertainties about yourself, others, and things
  • The need for things to be done or kept in an orderly way
  • Constantly seeking approval and reassurance
  • Excessive cleaning
  • Engaging in the counting ritual where you count things such as steps
  • Many ideas on losing control and harming others 

Behavioral Addiction

Behavioral addiction occurs when you engage in a habit repeatedly due to the pleasure you draw from the habit. The brain activates the rewards mechanism making you hooked to the habit. Addiction is not only associated with drug abuse but also with other things and activities such as:

  • Internet 
  • Sex
  • Gambling
  • Excessive eating
  • Shopping
  • Engaging in any risky practices

You need help when you notice behavior addiction disorders as they can make you emotionally unstable and neglect work and family responsibilities. In addition, some behavioral addictions threaten your overall health and cause financial and relationship problems if untreated.

Behavioral Health Therapy & Treatment in Miami

It is important to note that most adult behavior disorders present themselves in men than women. Luckily, all these disorders are treatable in Miami through behavioral health therapies and treatments. You must get help for any behavioral disorder you might be living with.

Our psychiatrists at Elevate psychiatry can restore normalcy in your life by managing and treating your symptoms through a comprehensive list of treatment options depending on your condition’s severity. Contact us for any inquiries or information.

Gun Ownership and Mental Health

Roughly 44% of Americans own guns or live in a gun-owning household. It’s also estimated that 26% of Americans ages 18 and older suffer from a diagnosable mental health disorder in a given year.

Interestingly enough, the US has a strong gun culture where most people believe in the constitutional right to bear arms. However, there’s still quite a stigma surrounding mental illness and getting professional treatment. But what about the current state of Americans who own a firearm and have a mental illness? Are they more likely to self harm compared to people with mental illnesses who don’t own a firearm?

Let’s discuss.

 

Mental Illness, Guns and Suicide

Here’s the thing about guns: they’re more lethal compared to other methods of suicide and self harm. They’re quick and the damage done is usually irreversible. This is an incredibly large issue for individuals suffering from a mental illness as impulsivity is a prevalent characteristic of those with diagnosed mental health and conduct disorders such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), personality disorders, psychotic disorders, bipolar disorders, substance use disorders, eating disorders, and even dementia.

What this means is that owning a firearm is directly associated with a dramatically elevated risk of suicide. According to recent research conducted by Stanford, men who owned handguns were eight times more likely and women were 35 times more likely to self harm compared to men and women who didn’t own handguns. According to the authors of this study, “suicide attempts are often impulsive acts, driven by transient life crises.”

Another study mentions that out of the 48,344 people who died by suicide in in US in 2018, 51% of them used a firearm. The study also mentioned that between 45% and 90% of those who commit suicide have mental health or substance use disorders — or co-ocurring disorders.

The real question is whether gun access and suicide risk correlates indefinitely. For example, do people who purchase firearms already have plans in place to harm themselves or does the very presence of a firearm create new risks? The only real answer here is yes, to both. The findings from Stanford’s 12-year study came to the conclusion that gun access poses a substantial risk as new handgun purchases were attributed to more than half of all firearm suicides within a year or two.

The problem is that it’s difficult to determine whether the purchasers of these new firearms already had a diagnosable mental illness since mental health reporting laws vary from state to state.

 

Mental Illness and Mass Shootings

Suicide is not the only taboo associated with guns and mental illness. America is currently witnessing a mass shooting conundrum in which most people are quick to claim that mental illness is the underlying cause. However, only 20% of these mass violence events can be attributed to individuals with mental illnesses.

Research consistently shows that the majority of those living with mental illness from mild to severe are more likely to harm themselves or become a victim of interpersonal violence than to harm others. This is because there are only certain periods of time and certain settings during which individuals with serious mental illness are at elevated risk of violence. For example, brief episodes of psychosis or periods surrounding psychiatric hospitalization.

Unfortunately, when we have widely publicized violent events where the perpetrator is deemed ‘psychotic’ or ‘mentally ill’, the harmful myth that mental illness causes violent behavior towards others is only reinforced. While we cannot rightfully rule out mental health issues as the sole reason for these violent mass events, we also cannot use them as a scapegoat for why they happen when there are so many other factors that come into play.

Please always remember that suicide attempts are often impulsive acts. The signs of an upcoming suicide attempt are not always obvious. If you or someone you love is experiencing suicidal thoughts are an emotional crisis, the National Suicide Hotline is available 24/7 to offer unbiased and confidential support.

For long-term support and professional mental health treatment, get in touch with us about our affordable and accessible services.

The Outlook on Psychedelics for Mental Health

The use of psychedelics (LSD and psilocybin) are arguably the most recent and potentially promising advancements for treating mental health disorders that health sciences have seen in some time. However, despite the large amount of public and scientific interest in the research and clinical studies, we don’t currently have a standard of care nor a consensus as to how psychotherapy and psychedelics can be combined for maximum effectiveness.

So what’s the outlook on psychedelics as the future of mental health?

Let’s take a look at what we know so far:

 

What Can Psychedelics Potentially Treat?

There is a growing body of evidence suggesting that the psychedelic compounds found in LSD, psilocybin, and MDMA have strong therapeutic potential for a variety of mental health conditions. This would include general anxiety disorder (GAD), major depressive disorder (MDD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and more.

For example, psilocybin, the psychoactive compound in “magic mushrooms,” is currently in phase II clinical trials for MDD. This compound is a known agonist of the brain’s serotonergic 5-HT2A receptors, which are directly linked to creativity, cognitive flexibility, and an enhanced imagination. So far, the compound shows positive results in studies involving individuals with MDD, rapidly reducing their symptoms in the beginning and sustaining those results over a four-week period.

When it comes to treating anxiety disorders, such as PTSD, the “party drug” MDMA has been discovered to have a unique ability to promote acceptance and empathy in one’s self and others. In addition to elevating the brain’s oxytocin levels, MDMA also stimulates the release of the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. This results in an improved mood and higher levels of sociability.

In clinical studies, brain imaging post MDMA administration shows a decreased amygdala activation which in turn reduces the “fear response.” This has enabled patients to emotionally engage in therapy without becoming overwhelmed by intense emotions or anxiety.

It should be noted that both forms of psychedelic treatments are meant to be accompanied by traditional forms of therapy as well as psychiatric medications where needed.

 

What Happens Next?

As of right now, MDMA-assisted psychotherapy is the closest psychedelic treatment to receiving FDA approval as it’s currently undergoing phase III clinical trials in patients with PTSD. With FDA approval, MDMA-assisted psychotherapy can be used as a treatment method in as little as two years’ time.

Psilocybin, on the other hand, is taking more time than expected to reach FA approval. The psychedelic compound was on track for approval by 2021, however, researchers have stated that more clinical trials are needed to ensure that its positive side effects will continue to last beyond one year. Another limitation lies in the federal government, as psilocybin is still a schedule I controlled substance, making it more difficult to obtain the FDA’s approval as a viable method of treatment.

However, with more long-term research yielding favorable results, we can expect psilocybin to be on its way to approval and use within the next three to five years.

It may be quite a while before psychedelic substances officially become mainstream methods of treatment for mental health disorders. Keep up to date with the latest in mental health news by visiting our blog.