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Can I Raise My Child Successfully While in Treatment for PTSD?

Can I Raise My Child Successfully While in Treatment for PTSD?

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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a devastating condition that can impair your sense of well-being as well as interfere with your interpersonal relationships. If you are a parent with PTSD, you may have concerns about your ability to parent well while you are in treatment. First and foremost, recognize that your concerns are valid. Although you may wish you could put your parenting on hold as you establish wellness in your life, raising a child is a never-ending task. Fortunately, at Alter Behavioral Health, we can customize your treatment for PTSD to ensure that you feel confident in your ability to parent well. 

The Challenges of Parenting With a Psychological Disorder

Undoubtedly so, raising a child poses immense challenges for anyone. From learning how to balance family and professional life to ensuring that you are meeting your child’s developmental needs, there is no question that parenting is a substantial task on its own. However, attempting to raise a child with a PTSD diagnosis can feel even more concerning and intimidating. 

Fortunately, if you are reading this, you are likely either contemplating participating in treatment for PTSD or have already begun a treatment program. For many parents, beginning treatment is one of the most difficult steps in recovery as it requires you to prioritize your own needs, which can be a painful experience for a mother or father. After all, many people seem to think that proper parenting requires you to place your child’s needs before your own; yet that doesn’t have to be the case. 

Learning how to balance your needs and the needs of your children is an important part of establishing wellness for the whole family. Professional treatment can offer you the education, tools, and skills that you need to honor your mental health needs while working to parent well in recovery. 

Understanding Your Need for Treatment for PTSD

If you have not yet begun treatment for PTSD, it is necessary to understand how your condition will affect your ability to raise your child. As the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) explains, “PTSD makes it hard to do everyday things and this may lead to unmet family needs. Partners and children may feel more stress and talking to one another may be tough.”

Some of the specific ways that PTSD can affect your ability to parent include:

  • Experiencing lasting feelings of guilt, shame, fear, or grief that interfere with your willingness to pursue closeness with your child
  • Feeling hopeless or depressed, so much so that you no longer want to engage in play or other fun activities with your child
  • Appearing increasingly anxious, “on edge,” or grouchy as a result, which can cause your child to question your love for them

Moreover, the VA also explains, “The symptoms of PTSD can cause problems with trust, closeness, communication, and problem solving which, in turn, may impact the way a loved one responds to the trauma survivor.” It is crucial to keep in mind that young children are incapable of understanding that your behaviors (whether anxious, depressed, erratic, etc.) are lasting symptoms of PTSD. Thus, participating in treatment for PTSD will allow you to address any problematic parenting behaviors before they cause potentially long-lasting harm to your child. 

Treatment for PTSD at Alter Behavioral Health

Now that you recognize your need for treatment, it is vital to address available treatment programs that can assist you as you heal. At Alter Behavioral Health, we apply a modern approach to healing and recovery by utilizing individualized, whole-person approaches to care. We offer residential as well as outpatient treatment programs, ensuring that you have the flexible treatment options you need to continue parenting in recovery. 

While trauma treatment will vary from person to person, our treatment for PTSD often incorporates pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy modalities. Some types of trauma-informed therapies we may incorporate into your care include:

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps you in identifying problematic, false, or otherwise intrusive patterns of thought to effectively promote behavior change
  • Cognitive processing therapy: Helps you reduce all-or-nothing thinking that may be tied to your past trauma
  • Prolonged exposure therapy: Provides a safe environment where you will face your fears and work through your trauma triggers over time
  • Stress inoculation therapy: Exposes you to mild stress triggers, allowing you to actively practice coping skills for more intense triggers associated with PTSD
  • Group therapy: Provides a social support group that allows you to connect and heal with others who also have PTSD
  • Family therapy: Helps to resolve family distress associated with your PTSD diagnosis

Meanwhile, medication is also available to help alleviate any moderate to severe symptoms of PTSD. Some examples of prescription medications we may incorporate into your treatment plan include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and sleeping medications. 

Raising a child with a PTSD diagnosis can pose many challenges. However, as you become educated about the potential consequences that your child may experience if you leave your PTSD untreated, it will motivate your willingness to participate in treatment and recovery. Undoubtedly, you can raise your child successfully as you gather new tools and skills in treatment for PTSD. At Alter Behavioral Health, we treat a wide range of mental health disorders and psychological issues to ensure that our clients feel confident in their ability to function well in daily life. We can customize your treatment plan, incorporating new skills that will benefit your parenting. To learn more, give us a call at (866) 691-4386.

Where Can I Get Depression Treatment in Laguna Beach?

Where Can I Get Depression Treatment in Laguna Beach?

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There have been 15 million doctor visits that result in the diagnosis of depression in the last year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Depression is a serious psychological disorder that can sneak up on you. Sometimes it is hard to detect, as some people may think they are feeling down for the season and will “get over it.” Depression treatment can help equip you with coping skills when you have a depressive episode or provide you with skills and knowledge to manage consistent depression. Whatever your type of depression, you can get excellent outpatient treatment in Laguna Beach.

Different Types of Depression

In states that have consistent rain and cloud coverage, people tend to understand that depression can affect you when you lack sun exposure. However, depression can develop from trauma, biology, or due the experiences someone has. There are different types of depression, as they all affect a person for different time lengths and severity.

Major Depression

This type of depression is experienced in episodes with feelings such as sadness, listlessness, or lack of motivation. These episodes can last for a few weeks and have long-term effects. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), where a person experiences symptoms typically in the winter, is a type of major depression.

Persistent Depression

The reoccurrence of major depressive episodes can develop into persistent depression. Experiencing depressive episodes within a certain timeframe is what changes it to persistent depression. In the past, persistent depression was also called dysthymic disorder.

Clinical Depression

Experiencing life depressed, like a default setting in your brain is turned on, is considered clinical depression. This type of depression affects a person not in episodes but consistently from the onset. Clinical depression is what people mean when they talk about cripplingly continuous depression. Someone with this type of depression will struggle to be part of their own life.

Postpartum Depression

Only women who can give birth experience this type of depression, although not all childbirth results in postpartum depression. It typically affects women who have just given birth and can persist for months or years. Research believes postpartum depression occurs due to the hormonal shift in a woman’s body after birth.

Disorders With Depression Symptoms

Co-occurring disorders are when someone has two or more psychological disorders affecting their brain. Many co-occurring disorders or singular disorders have symptoms that mimic depression, such as feeling sad or a lack of motivation for activities. You may see these symptoms with anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but especially with bipolar disorder. Previously bipolar disorder was known as manic depression, so it used to be categorized as a type of depression. However, there is more to bipolar disorder than depressive episodes.

Depression Treatment and Therapy

Just as with other disorders, depression treatment requires psychotherapy and consistent support. It depends on the severity of a person’s depression and its symptoms, but depression is usually treated with a type of therapy called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

With the use of CBT, a therapist helps a person identify false patterns of thoughts and beliefs to help change maladaptive behaviors. For example, false beliefs can be  “I do not matter to anyone.” With CBT’s help, that thought can become something realistic and accurate, like “I matter to a few close loved ones, even when I feel I cannot talk to them.” This can help avoidant behavior, for example.

Outpatient Depression Treatment Levels

Alter Behavioral Health, located in Laguna Beach, offers different levels of depression treatment to meet your needs. For people with less severe depression, outpatient treatment is a good option, as it does not fully disrupt your life.

When someone attends outpatient depression treatment, they are only required to attend therapeutic groups for six to 30 hours a week. The time participating in the program varies, depending on your needs and the plan set with your treatment team. At Alter Behavioral Health, there are three levels of outpatient treatment:

  • Intensive outpatient program (IOP)
    • 1st Level – IOP5: Attend groups at period intervals, with 40 to 60 days being the average stay
    • 2nd Level – IOP3: Morning and afternoon group sessions, with 30 to 40 days being the average stay 
  • Partial hospitalization program (PHP)
    • This program is one level, with programming several hours a day, for three to five days a week

Tips for Finding Depression Treatment

Lacking motivation, energy, or a will for life can make it hard to research depression treatment options. When you have energy, making a list of qualities you need in your treatment can help when researching. Five qualities to consider on your list include the following:

  • Will you be assessed and rediagnosed upon starting the program?
  • Do they treat more than depression? 
  • Are flexible times offered? 
  • Will there be a variety of therapies?
  • Is holistic healing prioritized? 
  • Can they help with all your needs? (i.e., need help with insurance, aftercare services, or plans for reentry)

Alter Behavioral Health can help you with all of these needs and more. Not all depression treatment is of good quality. With a nationally recognized program, Alter Behavioral Health is a top, evidence-based treatment program.

Do you live in the Laguna Beach area and are feeling overburdened with depression symptoms? Do not be content only surviving depression or any other disorder anymore. At Alter Behavioral Health, we offer treatment for a variety of disorders, including depression, autism, borderline personality disorder, and more. Depression treatment can provide you with healing and skill-building to manage your disorder and thrive. Participating in one of our programs means you get to learn about your disorder, how it affects your brain and life, and the skills and resources to manage the symptoms. Do not let depression continue to cloud your life; call us at (866) 691-4386 to speak with our friendly staff about your program and treatment options. 

Identifying Schizophrenia and Developing a Treatment Plan

Identifying Schizophrenia and Developing a Treatment Plan

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Identifying schizophrenia can be difficult, given the diverse symptoms. Schizophrenia is an often debilitating disorder that impairs one’s ability to think and behave rationally. Individuals with schizophrenia have a difficult time differentiating fantasy from reality. These symptoms manifest in a variety of ways, and no known method can cure the disorder. This article will look at how schizophrenia impacts individuals in five different categories.

The disorder affects the cognitive, behavioral, mood, phycology, and speech of the individual. While this disorder requires lifelong care, there are effective methods of treatment that can improve the quality of life and alleviate symptoms. Alter Behavioral Health has established an intricate network of healthcare professionals dedicated to providing specialized care for individuals who have schizophrenia.

Identifying Schizophrenia: Causation

A whole host of conditions are believed to increase the risk of developing schizophrenia. Although, researchers have not identified any one specific cause for the disorder. It is widely believed that a combination of developmental, psychological, genetic, and environmental factors contribute to potential psychotic episodes. Because there are so many factors that play into the foundation of the disorder, treatment is lifelong.

Individuals with schizophrenia have exhibited traits that suggest an increased risk for the development of the disorder. Some of these risk factors are family history, complications at birth, drug use, and differences in brain development. Schizophrenia tends to be passed down genetically. Many individuals with the disorder have a family history of the condition.

Identifying schizophrenia can often start at birth. Studies have also shown that individuals that are underweight, premature, or experience a lack of oxygen during birth have the potential to develop the disorder.

Brain development has also been brought into the conversation of schizophrenia. Individuals with the disorder show subtle differences in the structure of their brains, suggesting that the disorder originates there. Drug use has also been linked to the development of schizophrenia. Certain narcotics can produce side effects that mimic symptoms of schizophrenia and can even trigger psychotic episodes in some who may be susceptible to the disorder.

Identifying Schizophrenia Symptoms

This disorder affects individuals in several different ways. Schizophrenia affects the cognitive, behavioral, mood, phycology, and speech of the individual. The nature of the impact of this condition makes treatment long-term.

Cognitive Impairment

Schizophrenia has a profound impact on cognitive functions. Many individuals will experience confusion, disorientation, slowness in processing, and even distorted beliefs about themselves. Schizophrenia tends to create feelings of superiority and uniqueness. Some individuals even exhibit beliefs that normal events or interactions have special meaning. There is sometimes a grandiose way of thinking and interpreting information.

Behavioral Symptoms

Complications centering around behavior and interpersonal interactions are some of the most apparent symptoms of schizophrenia. Isolation is common among individuals with this disorder, as they often have a difficult time connecting with others. Individuals also exhibit increased irritability, compulsive behavior, aggression, self-harm, and difficulty restraining themselves. Behavioral symptoms prove to be some of the most disruptive and destructive difficulties that individuals with schizophrenia struggle with.

Mood Dysregulation

Individuals who have schizophrenia experience severe difficulty regulating their moods. This may look like outbursts of strong emotions and a propensity to become easily dysregulated. Schizophrenia can produce strong feelings of anger, apathy, irritability, detachment, and inappropriate emotional outbursts. Difficulties regulating mood can make public interaction difficult and increase the need to isolate and detach from relationships.

Psychological Complications

The impacts of schizophrenia on an individual’s psychology are profound. These symptoms are usually what come to mind for most people when they think about the disorder. One of the primary symptoms of schizophrenia is visual and audible hallucinations. These hallucinations are often comprehensive and make it difficult to differentiate the hallucinations from reality. Other psychological symptoms include depression, paranoia, and anxiety.

Identifying Schizophrenia: Treatment

As previously mentioned, treatment for schizophrenia is a lifelong commitment and requires a dedicated team of care providers. Alter Behavioral Health offers several methods of treatment for individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Considering there is no known cure for schizophrenia, a combination of different treatments is most recommendable. To begin the treatment process, a cohesive group of healthcare providers needs to be assembled.

One of the most effective methods for treatment is the use of medications such as antipsychotics. One of the most difficult symptoms to treat is visual and audible hallucinations. Using antipsychotics to help mitigate these particular symptoms provides a good foundation for helping the individual engage with reality. Often individuals with schizophrenia have a hard time separating the hallucinations from real life. Regulating this system is incredibly valuable in the therapeutic process.

Pairing antipsychotic medications with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) adds another layer of care to the equation. CBT helps the individual engage with their thoughts and belief system. Considering the impact schizophrenia has on the mind and thought patterns, a professional must intervene and help establish boundaries for the individual. Professional counselors can also help the client engage with their trauma and develop coping skills for regulating strong emotional outbursts.

Schizophrenia is a serious and often debilitating mental illness. Although there is no way to cure this disorder, there are methods for treatment that can significantly improve the quality of life for the individual. Treatment needs to be holistic and consistent over the course of the individual’s life. Alter Behavioral Health has a dedicated plan for treatment and a broad community of professionals that are ready to provide the care needed to help individuals with schizophrenia. For inquiries, contact us at (866) 691-4386. Even though there is no cure for this illness, there is space to dramatically improve the lives of the individuals who are struggling and help equip family members and friends to provide further support.

What Is the Difference Between Healthy and Unhealthy Coping Skills in Mental Health Treatment?

What Is the Difference Between Healthy and Unhealthy Coping Skills in Mental Health Treatment?

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When you are learning to live with a mental health disorder, coping skills can help you manage your emotions and feel relief from stress. However, no one really teaches you coping skills. People typically learn them by adult example during childhood.

Without those examples, a person may use unhealthy coping skills to manage difficult situations. They may not even know they are using unhealthy coping skills. However, through therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) offered at Alter Behavioral Health’s inpatient and outpatient programs, a person can learn the difference between healthy and unhealthy coping skills.

What Is Mental Health?

Society has come to give room for mental health; however, what does the term really mean? Mental health can be defined as “emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act.”

If you are struggling with your mental health, you may experience warning signs such as:

  • Eating or sleeping too much or too little
  • Having low or no energy
  • Experiencing unexplained aches and pains
  • Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual
  • Yelling or fighting with family and friends
  • Having persistent thoughts and memories you can’t get out of your head

Why Is It Important to Develop Coping Skills?

Sometimes when you have an endless list of tasks to accomplish, work to go to, and family to take care of, it can feel like the only option is to push through. Get things done; then, you can rest. However, by doing that, you ignore your feelings and ignore your mental health.

Ignoring your mental health only increases the feelings of stress. Symptoms of mental health problems, such as those listed above, may worsen. Coping skills allow you to manage overwhelming feelings in the moment. They allow you to manage your feelings, thoughts, and actions by yourself with mental and physical exercises. By doing so, you are able to live your life and find enjoyment rather than constant stress.

How Does a Person Learn Coping Skills?

Learning to manage your emotions and thoughts takes practice and work. Here is an example: a child steals a toy from another child. The child who has the toy stolen from them gets upset and begins crying. An adult steps in to console the crying child and provide options to fix the problem, such as providing comfort, talking to the child that stole, or finding a new toy.

In this example, a child learns that there are options to manage their emotions in challenging situations. Children need to see many interactions like this example. By having an adult help provide alternative options and ways to comfort themselves, they can learn ways to cope.

However, when someone experiences adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), which are lasting traumatic events and situations, they may not have gotten the attention and help to learn coping skills.

Unhealthy Coping Skills

Living through ACEs, a person learns to survive and cope in different ways. ACEs are a wide variety of negative experiences, but examples include:

  • Experiencing violence, abuse, or neglect
  • Substance use in the home or community
  • Growing up in a home with low education

A child in an unstable household learns to survive in whatever ways are available to them. Those survival methods can work at the moment but, in the long run, be unhealthy.

One of the risk factors for developing substance use disorder (SUD) is ACEs. A person may turn to substances to cope with their memories or feelings. Mostly unknown to them, it is unhealthy since early and prolonged use of substances can develop into SUD.

Another example of unhealthy coping is when someone engages in random sex. There is no shame in a person having a healthy sex life, but when a person does so in unsafe ways, like having unprotected sex to escape their feelings, it can become dangerous. They can get hurt or contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Learning to cope with difficult situations is a strength, especially in a child. However, when a person continues to use unhealthy coping skills, especially if the coping skill is substance use, it can be hard to unlearn that.

Healthy Coping Skills

Every person has their own way of coping with stressful or painful situations and emotions. Coping has to be learned and practiced. You can be practicing coping skills and not even realize it. Coping with stress in a healthy way can be done by:

  • Take breaks from the news or social media
  • Taking deep breathes
  • Connecting with culture, community organizations, or church
  • Talking with a trusted friend

Coping skills can be almost anything as long as it comforts, soothes, and makes you feel safe.

Learning How to Cope Through Treatment

When you begin treatment at Alter Behavioral Health, you will participate in individual and group therapy. Your therapist and group facilitator will use aspects of different therapy modalities, such as CBT. Alter Behavioral Health also offers support services. These can help provide healing, education, or support in other aspects of life, not just the immediate symptoms of addiction. The support services include:

  • Psycho-education groups
  • Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
  • Medication management
  • Treatment and discharge planning
  • Family and community services

With the support of these other services, you will immediately start learning new coping skills and life skills. Within groups, you hear how other people cope in situations to help inform you of options. Your therapist helps you work through problems and past situations to understand how you could have reacted, which helps inform your future actions. Just by being in and participating in therapy, you start to learn coping skills you may not have had before.

Has it seemed like the ways you deal with your life are not working anymore? Repressed and unprocessed emotions and memories can unconsciously affect you in your day-to-day life. Through Alter Behavioral Health’s treatment programs, you can discover how to feel your emotions appropriately and process them without engaging in unhealthy coping skills. We believe every person can heal with the right support; we aim to be that support for you. With three specialized facilities located in California, you can find the right treatment program to meet your individual healing needs. Contact us today at (866) 691-4386 to learn more about our locations and programs. Making the call is the first step in your healing journey.

What Is Stress Response Syndrome?

What Is Stress Response Syndrome?

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For many people, stress is a daily issue. However, there are times in our lives when something causes us so much stress that our response may feel overwhelming. That is when people may develop stress response syndrome.

How Does Stress Affect the Mind and Body?

Stress has a much higher impact on the mind and body than people think. It may be one of the most insidious ways the body counteracts its own best intentions. When we are upset, our bodies attempt to protect us by releasing certain chemicals into the brain. These sometimes overload our systems, causing imbalances that cause negative reactions.

We are also programmed with a fight-or-flight response. When stressed, our bodies flood with even more chemicals that make our muscles tense, our jaws clench, and our heart rate increase. It may even produce issues in the gastrointestinal system.

Should these issues not be dealt with, we will be left tired, haggard, and emotional with no real place to put it all. When this happens too often, it can have a profound effect on our daily lives and mental health.

Disorders Caused by Stress Response Syndrome

Consistent stress can develop into complex disorders for people with excessive stress response syndrome. These can include:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Mood disorders
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Insomnia

These are only a handful of the mental health issues that can arise from stress response syndrome.

For these reasons, it is important to seek treatment as early as possible. The good news is that these are all treatable disorders. For many people, seeking professional treatment for something like stress may feel excessive. However, the toll it takes on the mind and body necessitates immediate treatment to prevent the worsening of issues or even added problems down the line.

Forms of Treatment

There are a variety of treatments for stress response syndrome and the disorders that arise from it. Alter Behavioral Health is at the forefront of this care and is eager to share our knowledge and facility with those seeking assistance.

Interpersonal therapy

One of the most well-known versions of treatment is interpersonal therapy. In this scenario, clients focus on their current relationships and how recent life changes may be affecting their behaviors. These sessions will often lead to breakthroughs regarding one’s stress responses and how their current life issues are affecting and being affected by stress and stressful situations.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

A form of talk therapy that is often used to assist with mental health is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This is a technique related to interpersonal therapy. However, the difference is to concentrate on changing one’s thought process and behavior. A medical professional will address the root of the problem but will primarily concentrate on changing one’s mindset. The thought is that when a person concentrates on looking forward, they will require less focus on their past.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

For people with overarching issues that cannot be immediately or completely assisted with therapy, there may also be assistance in medication-assisted treatment (MAT). It is important to remember that MAT does not exist alone. It is most often utilized as a secondary “booster” with consistent therapeutic care.

Some individuals prefer to remain unmedicated. However, medical professionals will advise them about how medication can help them, even on a temporary basis.

Why Stress Response Syndrome Isn’t Forever

The main thing for people to remember is that when people struggle with stress response syndrome and related disorders, it does not mean they will feel this way for the rest of their lives. With the proper medication and mental health therapy, these disorders are manageable.

For many people, spending time in a recovery center such as Alter Behavioral Health can be a very helpful experience. The concept of being able to be in a completely safe space surrounded by caring staff and a calming environment can aid a person’s recovery. When they are allowed to focus on themselves and not worry about the outside world for a period of time it can accelerate the healing process. People living with stress response syndrome and related disorders are not only welcome but encouraged to find a program that fits them, their needs, and their lifestyle.

It should also be known that not every condition requires inpatient assistance. For some people, regular visits through outpatient programs can be exactly what they need. Much of the care required can be done through regular visits to medical professionals.

Regardless of how care is implemented, regular sessions are encouraged so that the person can create an ongoing, healthy state of mind. Once their new baseline is established, they will find care to be an integral part of their lives. When proper mental health becomes routine, it will become even more effective.

At Alter Behavioral Health, our first priority is the welfare of our clients. Regardless of their condition, our exceptional and knowledgeable staff will ensure that each individual receives the care they need. Whether staying with us or utilizing our outpatient program, each individual will learn that their condition is treatable. We understand the difficulty in accepting care and will do everything we can to assuage any fears. Each client is different, and therefore, their care is highly individualized. They will be matched with a medical professional who will create a plan of care unique to them. For more information about our program and how we can help you, call Alter Behavioral Health today at (866) 691-4386.

Different Treatment Options to Help a Loved One Overcome Trauma

Different Treatment Options to Help a Loved One Overcome Trauma

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Trauma can be very difficult to live with. When left untreated, it generally results in anxiety and fear. These responses to trauma are expected from the body. While they are typical, the effects of trauma should not be ignored. When left untreated, the associated anxiety, fear, and stress can escalate drastically, taking over a person’s life. 

Seeking help is essential to achieving a healthy recovery. Treatment addresses the numerous concerns that accompany trauma, helping to promote positive mental health habits and alleviate anxiousness and fearfulness. Evaluating the options available to your loved one facing the effects of trauma can help you to make the best choice in how to help. 

Therapy for Trauma

Psychotherapy is widely used for treating several mental health concerns. The American Psychological Association (APA) describes the psychotherapy process as “a psychologist providing a supportive environment that allows patients to talk openly with someone objective, neutral, and nonjudgmental.” Generally, this therapy is one-on-one but sometimes involves couples, families, and groups.

When treating trauma, the most common method is a subbranch of psychotherapy called trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). This therapy method is evidence-based and geared toward people dealing with trauma and trauma-related conditions. TF-CBT is highly effective in combatting the effects of trauma and ultimately achieving recovery. 

Medication Options

Treating trauma is best done with therapy. However, the side effects of trauma can be effectively treated with medication. Anxiety and fear from enduring trauma or trauma-related conditions can be difficult to handle. Prescription medications can assist in relieving these symptoms. In addition to fear and anxiety, depression and insomnia are common side effects of trauma.

Prescribed drugs may include antidepressants (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs), anti-anxiety medications, and sleep aids. SSRIs assist depressive symptoms by boosting serotonin levels, which helps regulate mood and appetite, and in some individuals, can promote sleep. In addition to antidepressants, anti-anxiety prescriptions help alleviate the effects of trauma-induced fear and anxiety, and sleep aids help to combat insomnia. 

Trauma Recovery Programs

Therapy and medication are both found in any trauma treatment plan. When helping your loved one get through such a difficult time in their life, understanding the options available is key to choosing the best fit. Programs for trauma-centered care are geared specifically to help people overcome trauma and trauma-related conditions. These come in two options, as listed below.

Inpatient Programs

Inpatient programs are also referred to as residential treatment. In residential programs, individuals receive professional treatment available at all hours of the day. These programs take place in a home-like residential setting making individuals feel comfortable and welcome. Camaraderie is another great aspect of inpatient programs due to living amongst other individuals with similar stories.

In severe trauma cases, inpatient programs are often essential for successful recovery. The ability to focus solely on healing and mental health is a critical factor in residential care. Individuals can detach from their real-life problems and concerns for optimal results. This distinguishing factor makes inpatient treatment a perfect match for severe cases of trauma.

Outpatient Programs

If you feel like residential care isn’t a good fit for your loved one, outpatient programs are also an option. These programs are just as effective for treating trauma and its related conditions, except without the home-like setting. They consist of all of the same methods (therapies and medications) and provide significantly more flexibility than inpatient programs. 

Outpatient programs are an excellent choice if your loved one has responsibilities and work that cannot be set aside for residential treatment. These programs give individuals full flexibility to maintain employment duties, care for tasks at home, and any other life responsibilities. If your loved one needs flexible options in their treatment plan, then an outpatient program can help. 

When to Step In

Watching someone, you care deeply for going through something as difficult and life-altering as trauma is hard. Knowing how to help or even when to help can be challenging. Life in the aftermath of trauma isn’t easy for anyone. You can help save a life by guiding your loved one to treatment so that they can properly manage and cope with the effects of the trauma they currently face. 

There is a beautiful life ahead of them where family functions and outings can become enjoyable again. Where they smile like they used to and can truly enjoy all that life has to offer. A person who goes through trauma doesn’t stop living afterward. They have an opportunity for metamorphosis. 

This rainy season is only the beginning of a big bright future. After treatment, your loved one will shed their cacoon, spread their wings, and fly as a new, even more, beautiful being. This transformation starts with one simple step. Help your loved one by connecting them with a facility that cares and specializes in trauma-related conditions. 

Watching someone near and dear to your heart struggle with the challenges of trauma is heartbreaking. There are things you can do to help, though. At Alter Behavioral Health, we specialize in trauma and trauma-related conditions. We help people recover from trauma and thrive in the ways they were always meant to. Connect with us, and we can help guide your loved one down the right path that leads to recovery and joy. Positive mental health is essential to achieving a fulfilled, happy life free of the effects of trauma. Call us today at (866) 691-4386 for more information and to get your loved one started on their journey to healing from trauma. 

Understanding the Difference Between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

Understanding the Difference Between Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

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The dark cloud of depression affects millions of individuals every single day. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 280 million people face a depressive disorder worldwide. There are several forms of depression, some of which appear very similar and can be challenging to differentiate from one another.

One example of this is the comparison between major depressive disorder (MDD) and persistent depressive disorder (PDD). A proper diagnosis is needed in order to obtain the correct treatment plan for recovery. MDD and PDD have very similar symptoms. However, there are a few distinct qualities that set the two apart from each other.

Depressive Disorder Symptoms

The general symptoms of depressive disorders can seriously harm an individual’s mind and body. If ignored, depression of any kind can result in further health problems. Below are a few of the most common effects that depression can inflict:

  • Profound, ongoing feelings of sorrow
  • Various body aches and unexplained pains
  • Gaining or losing weight excessively
  • Fits of anger even over the smallest of inconveniences
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyed hobbies/activities
  • An increase in the risk of suicidal behaviors/attempts
  • Significant disruption/interference in sleep

MDD vs. PDD

According to the American Psychiatric Association, MDD is defined as “a medical illness that affects how you feel, think and behave causing persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities.” The symptoms involved in MDD are generally severe, lasting about two weeks. They tend to interfere with daily life and the ability to function normally. This disorder has a global prevalence of 28.2% among individuals with depression.

PDD, on the other hand, has a lifetime prevalence of 2.5% and shares many of the symptoms of MDD. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), PDD is “characterized by chronic low-level depression that is not as severe but may be longer lasting than, major depressive disorder.” While the effects of MDD generally last about two weeks, PDD symptoms typically last about two years. The time frame and severity level of symptoms are the main differentiating factors for the two disorders.

Diagnosing a Depressive Disorder

The diagnosis process for any mental health disorder begins with an initial intake. This may include an overall physical health check. The next step will be a psychiatric evaluation. Your psychologist will asses your overall mental health and see what criteria you meet using the DSM-5 as a guide. Afterward, you will meet with a therapist to go over treatment options that fit your diagnosis.

Obtaining a diagnosis doesn’t mean you are being labeled. It is merely a useful tool to help find the correct combination of treatments that will work best for you and your individual needs. Every person is unique, and what works for one individual may not necessarily work for you. The diagnosis process is essential to getting the right care and achieving a successful outcome.

What Treatment Looks Like

No matter what type of depressive disorder a person may have, depression is easily treated once a diagnosis has been established. The most effective starting point for any mental health disorder is psychotherapy (or talk therapy). A subbranch of psychotherapy called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often used in treating depression.

CBT takes place in a safe, comfortable environment with a therapist and acts as a problem-solving educational tool for its participants. The central focus of CBT is learning how to address issues in real-time. Its underlining theory, simply put, is how people mentally perceive circumstances impacts how they feel on an emotional level. By gradually learning to alter your point of view, you will be able to harness and control your own happiness.

Medication is another common form of treatment for depressive disorders like MDD and PDD. When paired with therapy, antidepressants have been shown to have a positive impact on the final outcome of depressive disorder cases. The need for medication is on a case-to-case basis, but your doctor can help you determine whether it is right for you.

Don’t Just Survive – Thrive

Navigating through the thick blanket of darkness that is depression can feel like wading through rough waters. You may end up at a point where you are merely surviving. However, you deserve much more than that. Depression isn’t who you are. It doesn’t define you. Maybe you’re sitting there right now wondering if treatment for depressive disorders really works. Well, it does.

If you or someone you know are facing depression, you have options. Therapy and medication can change the course you are currently on. Much like the bright seaside sunrise that illuminates the sky, conquering depression will bring back the light that you’re missing. Without a depressive disorder blocking your path, you will thrive in a whole new way.

Finding the light within the darker days of a depressive disorder can seem like an impossible feat. Depression can leave you feeling robbed of your joy and inner peace. This challenge you face isn’t your future. At Alter Behavioral Health, we can help guide you through the obstacles of depression. You can conquer the cloud of darkness that follows you. Let us shine the light that you’ve been missing. We know how you feel and have made it our mission to help people like you thrive in a new life of laughter and happiness. Call us today at (866) 691-4386 for more information and to get started on the bright path to the joy that you deserve.

What Can I Do About My OCD?

What Can I Do About My OCD?

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Here is a staggering statistic regarding obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): approximately 2% of the world’s general population has OCD. Considering that the current global population is roughly eight billion people, it means that roughly 160 million people currently struggle with OCD. This statistic really puts the prevalence of OCD in perspective, doesn’t it?

It also puts into perspective the high demand for proper and adequate care for all those struggling with OCD. The good news is that many evidence-based treatment options can help people mitigate and treat their OCD symptoms. Some of these treatments may include clinical practices like psychotherapy and/or medication-based treatment, while others can be done outside of a clinical setting. Tools and techniques such as yoga, breathwork, and meditation can bolster the efficacy of evidence-based help.

For those struggling with OCD, know that there is hope. By finding and reading this article, you have already taken pivotal steps in recognizing your mental health disorder and deciding to do something about it. Such brave steps should never be minimized. Now it is time to take action and advocate for your wellness.

Understanding What Exactly OCD Is

The first step in understanding OCD is getting a technical grasp on what it is. This is necessary because, like many mental health disorders, OCD and its symptoms can often be confused or mistaken for other diagnoses. 

Improper diagnosis can be dangerous as it may prevent people who truly have OCD from being taken seriously. For example, occasionally feeling like one left something on at home or simply enjoying an orderly or organized home does not necessarily equate to having OCD. These are merely personal choices or minor anxieties, not to be confused with a very real disorder. It is common for people to casually say they are OCD without really understanding what that entails.

According to the peer-reviewed journal Nature Reviews and Disease Primers, “OCD is characterized by the presence of obsessions and/or compulsions. Obsessions are repetitive and persistent thoughts, images, impulses, or urges that are intrusive and unwanted, and are commonly associated with anxiety. Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that the individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsession according to rigid rules, or to achieve a sense of ‘completeness.’” In other words, those with OCD can become fixated on certain things or thoughts that in some way “force” them to perform a certain behavior to get rid of those fixations.

Equipped with a better understanding of what clinically constitutes OCD, it’s time to discover some effective treatment options.

Some At-Home Treatment Options for OCD

For those struggling with symptoms that may amount to OCD, it is critical to get a professional assessment and diagnosis. Mental disorders are just as serious as physical ailments, so getting the proper care is critical.

Depending on the severity, a professional assessment may determine that an individual’s OCD symptoms simply warrant outside or “at home” care. Some of these more common symptoms include, but are not limited to:

  • Having an unfounded and exaggerated fear of dirt, diseases, and germs
  • Exhibiting behaviors that include excessive and repetitive checking that things are in their right place and are properly functioning
  • Having intrusive thoughts, which can sometimes be violent or sexual in nature
  • Showing slowed or delayed behaviors, actions, and reactions
  • Being unduly concerned with balance, organization, and symmetry

If these symptoms are present but not extreme, a professional may recommend at-home or outpatient counseling. They may also suggest joining a support group that specializes in OCD. In addition, they may recommend nutritional or dietary changes, techniques for stress reduction such as meditation, and interacting with others outside of the home on a more regular basis.

Some Clinical Treatment Options for OCD

The truth is that when it comes to OCD, most professionals tend to recommend and prescribe more intensive clinical solutions. These options can take place in both inpatient and outpatient environments. Often it can be a combination of both, starting with inpatient care and then transitioning to outpatient care as the client progresses.

While there are many clinical options, many of them primarily fall under two categories. These categories are psychotherapeutic and pharmacological. As with the other treatment options, many times psychotherapy and medications are used in tandem. Therapy tends to focus on the mind and its patterns. It may also include exposure to potentially triggering situations and ways to change behaviors related to those situations.

The medications that are predominantly used in OCD treatment focus on the anxiety and depression aspects of the disorder. These medications can include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and a variety of antidepressants.

Everyone experiences mental health differently and has different clinical needs, even when two people have the same diagnosis. Professionals have their clients’ best interests in mind, and their suggestions come from evidence-based information tailored to each person’s unique situation. When it comes to OCD, everyone has choices. They can either continue to struggle with it or get help and get their life back.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) can affect every aspect of an individual’s life. Yet, many people don’t understand how serious and common OCD actually is. OCD has become excessively misused and misinterpreted in the public sphere in recent years. Many people describe their relatively “normal” behaviors as “obsessive-compulsive” because they don’t understand all that this condition entails and the fact that it is a clinically recognized disorder. The good news is that OCD is treatable. If you feel that you or a loved one may be struggling with OCD, don’t wait to get help. We can help you or your family member get diagnosed and manage the effects of OCD. For more information, contact Alter Behavioral Health at (866) 691-4386.

Choosing In-Patient or Out-Patient Care for PTSD

Choosing Inpatient or Outpatient Care for PTSD

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Fearfulness, stress, and anxious feelings are common after either witnessing or experiencing a traumatic event. In many cases, these symptoms lighten and eventually disappear as time passes. However, if they worsen instead of improving, this may signify the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This serious mental health condition can disrupt an individual’s day-to-day life. It makes tasks extremely difficult to complete and takes the joy out of previously enjoyable things. 

A common myth surrounding PTSD is that only war veterans experience the condition. The reality is that it can happen to anyone. If you believe that you or a loved one may be facing PTSD, don’t wait to seek treatment.

As many as 3.6% of U.S. adults in the previous year are affected by this condition. With a lifetime prevalence of 6.8%, PTSD spans far and wide. There are many symptoms involved in PTSD, including re-experiencing, avoidance, reactivity, and issues regarding cognition and mood. 

Comparing Treatments for PTSD

When left untreated, the effects of PTSD can seriously impact a person’s daily life and overall well-being. The symptoms of the disorder can progress to higher severity levels and lead to other harmful mental health concerns. These may include but are not limited to depression, substance abuse, and suicidal thoughts or attempts. Fortunately, PTSD is treatable and studies have proven the following methods to be very successful.

Therapy

Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), a sub-branch of psychotherapy (talk therapy), is the most common form of treatment for PTSD. This branch of CBT is geared specifically toward people facing the challenging aftermath of trauma. TF-CBT is an evidence-based option and aids in the ultimate goal of overcoming PTSD.

Multiple studies support and show just how effective and successful this therapy is in combatting the effects of PTSD. It can be found in many all-encompassing treatment plans, whether outpatient or inpatient style.

Medication

In addition to therapy, medication can also be prescribed in both inpatient and outpatient programs to help relieve symptoms of PTSD. One common form of medication used is selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a kind of antidepressant medication. This helps to increase the levels of serotonin in the brain. More serotonin means more stabilized moods, appetite, and sleep.

Other medications prescribed to help combat PTSD symptoms may include antianxiety medication and sleep aids. Both of these medications assist in counteracting anxiety and helping to alleviate nightmares and trouble with sleep. 

Inpatient Treatment

Residential or inpatient treatment is widely used in the treatment of PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. These programs provide professional care day and night within a wonderfully cozy residential-style environment. Participants feel at home with full-time access to caring staff members. Additionally, inpatient programs give them the benefit of gaining camaraderie with a range of individuals who are also on similar journeys.

In advanced cases of PTSD, inpatient care can be crucial to recovery. People can put aside their worldly worries and stress and focus solely on their mental health recovery. This new environment can be the catalyst some people need to find their footing again in life. Deciding to go all-in on mental health by choosing inpatient care isn’t easy, but it can be an incredibly beneficial step for many people.

Outpatient Treatment

If inpatient care doesn’t sound like the right fit, there’s another option that can be equally effective in treating PTSD. Outpatient programs utilize all of the same successful treatment forms that inpatient care plans offer, just without the residential setting. These programs allow individuals the freedom and flexibility they need to continue their daily life and responsibilities while still receiving quality treatment.

Outpatient treatment is a great option for those who still need to work or tend to things at home. With programs such as this, participants are in control of their schedule and have the ability to work their appointments around other responsibilities in life. Depending on the individual’s unique circumstances, they may find they need the flexibility that outpatient plans can offer. If someone is still unsure what the best choice is for them, a consultation can help. 

PTSD and Me: Finding Freedom Again

It can be difficult to know when to reach out for help. It’s even harder to actually make that call. However, putting the fear and difficulty aside for a moment can help people achieve great mental health improvement.

Facing the challenges of PTSD is hard. The thing is, treatment can help take that all away. There is a beautiful world out there that’s free of the burdens of PTSD. Anyone who has suffered through a traumatizing experience is still an incredible human being who has survived despite the odds. They have a powerful story to share and a happy future to live. Why not make the move today and start the treatment path to freedom?

The burden of PTSD can be insurmountable. It is a heavy weight, but you do not have to carry it alone. Let us help shoulder this burden so you can take the time you need to heal. At Alter Behavioral Health, your happiness is important to us. We can show you the life you were meant to live outside of the challenges of PTSD. There is so much joy and laughter waiting for you to take hold of it. Call us today at (866) 691-4386. We aren’t just another health care facility. We are real people who care deeply about you and your future beyond PTSD. Whatever you need and whenever you need us, we will be there for you. 

What Is the Difference Between BPD and Bipolar Disorder?

What Is the Difference Between BPD and Bipolar Disorder?

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Bipolar disorder and borderline personality disorder (BPD) are frequently mistaken for one another. Both of these mental illnesses come with symptoms like impulsivity and mood instability. However, they are separate conditions that require different treatments.

Diagnosis sometimes takes time as the two disorders can appear very similar on the surface. The main distinction between the two is bipolar disorder is classified as a mood disorder, whereas BPD is a personality disorder. These classifications give them distinct traits and treatment needs.

Personality disorders are defined by anomalies in the ways a person thinks, feels, and acts. These are inconsistent with social norms, which can interfere with daily function and cause discomfort. On the other hand, mood disorders are characterized by clear and noticeable changes in emotions. They feature intense lows, referred to as depressive episodes, and extreme highs, referred to as hypomanic or manic episodes. 

What Are the Differences?

Because BPD and bipolar disorder are so similar at a glance, differentiating between the two can be challenging. The occurrence of mania or hypomania in bipolar cases differs considerably from that of BPD. Other characteristics that help distinguish BPD from bipolar disorder are poor and rocky relationships, unstable self-image, and, most notably, the span in which dramatic mood shifts occur. 

In BPD, these mood shifts might last only a few hours and generally no more than a few days. This results in rapid mood swings. On the contrary, bipolar disorder consists of a recurring pattern of manic or hypomanic and depressive episodes. Manic episodes typically last a minimum of seven days, and depressive episodes usually last two weeks or more. This pattern involves similarly extreme shifts in mood, though they are not nearly as frequent as those seen in BPD. 

What Are the Similarities?

While duration is the biggest differentiator, shifts in moods are a primary similarity between BPD and bipolar disorder. This mood instability is referred to as affective instability. Without treatment, the symptoms of both disorders result in difficulty managing moods and emotions consistently. 

Impulsivity is another challenging similarity. This behavior consists of acting without restraint or forethought of consequences. It is a symptom of both disorders. These behaviors are frequently ill-planned, risky, and may have unintended consequences.

Distractibility and irritability are also both found among BPD and bipolar patients. Irritability can quickly lead to anger when ignored. Additionally, distractibility makes staying focused quite difficult when either disorder is left untreated. Studies also show that both disorders feature racing thoughts.

A trusted mental health care professional is needed to provide a proper diagnosis. BPD and bipolar disorder can appear to be so similar but treatment is unique to each. Determining the correct disorder is imperative for receiving the correct care for each individual’s needs.

How Is BPD Treated?

Long-term psychotherapy is the go-to treatment for BPD. Psychotherapy can be performed in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Depending on the severity level of the disorder, inpatient or residential treatment may be needed.

Inpatient treatment is often the best option for BPD. When researching these services, individuals can find that medical specialists provide care around the clock. Such an intensive program has extensive advantages. These include a welcoming and homey setting, constant access to quality assistance, as well as camaraderie. This makes it possible for clients to connect with and socialize with other people facing BPD. 

Alternative options include outpatient programs. These programs are more accommodating to people’s schedules while still being highly regarded for their efficacy in the healing process. Whatever path an individual may choose, assistance is accessible, and a better and happier future is available.

How Is Bipolar Disorder Treated?

The most typical treatment for bipolar disorder is mood stabilizers. These manage manic/hypomanic symptoms during episodes. Along with mood stabilizers, antidepressants are frequently used to treat depressive episodes, which can become medically concerning. This combination of medications is common for treating bipolar disorder. When necessary, antipsychotic and anti-anxiety drugs have also proven beneficial.

Therapy works well in conjunction with medication to manage bipolar disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is the most popular method used. This type of therapy combines the therapeutic philosophies of cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy. The focus in CBT is on recognizing issues and determining the most effective solutions. This aids in brain training so individuals can deal with and handle problems as they come up. 

Should I Pursue Treatment?

If untreated, the severity of BPD and bipolar disorder can negatively impact a person’s everyday life and mental health. Reach out for treatment as soon as possible if you or a loved one is exhibiting any of the aforementioned symptoms. By choosing treatment, you are taking a positive and proactive step to better your mental health and your future. With proper guidance, you will be able to manage the effects of your disorder and achieve a sense of emotional balance in life. Reach out today for a proper diagnosis and to explore medication and therapy options.

Reach out for help if you believe you have BPD or bipolar disorder. If neglected, mental health issues can become destructive and affect your daily life. Call Alter Behavioral Health right away, and we’ll help you get an accurate diagnosis and begin the appropriate course of treatment. You don’t have to go through this uncertainty by yourself. We can assist you in finding balance so you can enjoy the emotional freedom you need. You truly deserve happiness and it is just waiting for you to reach out and claim it as your own. Contact us now at (866) 691-4386 for further details and to begin the journey to joy that you’ve been waiting for.