Light Box Therapy for Seasonal Depression
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, an estimated 5 percent of Americans suffer from Seasonal Depression. It makes people feel more tired, unmotivated and foggy headed. SAD starts between ages 15 and 30. About 5% of people in the U.S have SAD and up to 2% have mild condition. Northern climates have higher […]
When Depression Slows the Mind: Understanding Cognitive Dysfunction
Most people know depression as a condition of low mood, sadness, or loss of interest. But for many, depression also brings something less talked about but just as disabling: a mental “slowing” or brain fog. Research led by Dr. Susannah Murphy and others shows that these thinking problems called Cognitive Dysfunction are a core feature […]
September is Suicide Prevention Month: How You can Help
Suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. It is the second leading cause of death for people aged 10 to 34. The highest rate of suicide occurs in people 75 years of age or older, Non-Hispanic American Indian/Alaska Native people, LGBTQIA plus individuals, veterans and people with disabilities. Black youth […]
Back to School Mental Health: How to Support Children, Teens, and College Students
The new school year brings fresh notebooks, new teachers and sometimes unexpected anxiety. If you child or teen seems moody, worried, or disconnected as summer winds down, you’re not alone. August is one of the most emotionally challenging months for students. But there’s a lot parents can do to help. 1. Back to School Anxiety […]
ECT vs Ketamine for Treatment Resistant Depression: Which is Right for You?
ECT vs Ketamine for Treatment Resistant Depression: Which is Right for You? For individuals who have not found relief with traditional antidepressants, treatment resistant depression (TRD) can feel overwhelming. Fortunately, two evidence based options-Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and Ketamine treatment offer hope when other treatments fall short. This article explains how each treatment works, their benefits […]
You Are Not Alone: Suicidal Prevention Resources in the LGBTQ+ Community
Every Life holds value. Every voice deserves to be heard. But for many in the LGBTQ+ community, the weight of discrimination, isolation, and stigma can feel overwhelming. Suicide is a painful and preventable reality, and it disproportionately affects LGBTW+ individuals-especially youth. This post is not just about statistics. It’s a message of hope, solidarity, and […]
Complex PTSD: A Necessary DSM-5 Update
Introduction: Trauma has many faces. And yet, our diagnostic language often falls short in describing it. For years, PTSD has been the go-to diagnosis for trauma related conditions. But what happens when trauma isn’t a one-time event, but something prolonged, repeated and deeply personal? In his article Complex PTSD: A Necessary DSM-5 Edition, Dr.John J.Miller, […]
Autism and Anxiety: Challenges and the Importance of Tailored Interventions
What is autism disorder? Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. While these traits define the core features of autism, co-occurring mental health conditions, such as anxiety, are highly prevalent and often underrecognized. Research shows that up to 40-50% of autistic individuals experience significant anxiety, […]
New Hope for Teen Depression and Early Intervention with TMS
FDA clears Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy for Adolescents. In a major breakthrough for mental health treatment, the FDA has expanded its clearance of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy to include adolescents aged 15 and up for treating Major Depression Disorder. This development, announced in April 2024, marks a significant milestone in providing safe, non-drug treatment […]
Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Exploring a New Frontier in Mental Health Treatment
The landscape of mental health treatment is constantly evolving, and psychedelic-assisted therapy is emerging as a promising frontier. This innovative approach involves the carefully controlled use of substances like psilocybin (found in “magic mushrooms”) and MDMA (“ecstasy”), alongside therapy, to treat conditions such as depression and PTSD. At Advanced Psychiatry of Elgin, we are committed […]