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Month: February 2024

How to Break the Cycle of Obsessive Thoughts

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
woman looking outside, wondering how to break the cycle of obsessive thoughts

To break the cycle of obsessive thoughts, practice mindfulness techniques, focusing on the present moment rather than intrusive thoughts. Engage in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to challenge and reframe negative thinking patterns. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy sleep schedule, and seeking support from mental health professionals can also be effective strategies for managing and reducing the frequency of obsessive thoughts. Almost everyone, at some point, has had thoughts about something that they can’t seem to get out of their minds. Research shows 94% of participants had at least one intrusive thought in the three months before the study. Most of the intrusive thoughts center on doubting themselves. In this article, we define obsessive thoughts and discuss ways to break the cycle of obsessive thoughts, like working with a mental health professional, medication, therapies, and self-care. What Are Obsessive Thoughts? Obsessive thoughts are unwanted, unusual, bothersome thoughts that can feel hard to …

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Self-Harm Awareness Month 2024

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By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   What is Self-Harm Awareness Month? Self-Harm Awareness Month spans the month of March with the purpose of spreading awareness, breaking the stigma, and providing support and hope to those who have or currently self-harm. Self-Harm Awareness month is observed in the United States, Canada, and parts of Western Europe.  What is self-harm? Self-harm is also known as nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI). Self-harm describes the act of purposely harming oneself; this act is often done by burning, cutting, pulling out hair, or picking at wounds to prevent healing. Self-harm indicates emotional distress and can lead to injury as severe as broken bones (NAMI, 2021).  Self-harm urges a need for healthier coping skills for emotional distress, and though it isn’t a mental illness in and of itself, self-harm is often associated with mental illness such as depression, trauma-related disorders, and borderline personality disorder (NAMI, 2021). It is also …

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Sleep Awareness Week 2024

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self-harm

By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   What is Sleep Awareness Week? Sleep Awareness Week was launched in 1998 and is the National Sleep Foundation’s public education campaign with the aim to spread awareness about the importance of sleep as it relates to physical and mental health. This year, Sleep Awareness week will be March 10th through March 16th. Prepare your pillows and blankets! The Importance of Sleep. Many of us don’t recognize the importance of sleep until we discover the difficulties we face when we are sleep deprived. We may not acquire enough sleep due to staying up late cramming for an exam, staying up late to finish work, or struggling with sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea. Lack of sleep tampers with our mood, memory, and health in very impactful ways.  In terms of mood and mental health, studies have discovered that lack of sleep induces heightened levels …

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What is High-functioning Depression?

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
business woman wondering what is high-functioning depression

What is high-functioning depression? High-functioning depression, clinically known as dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder, is a form of depression where individuals can maintain their daily responsibilities and outward appearances of normalcy despite experiencing chronic symptoms of depression. These symptoms include low mood, fatigue, and a general lack of interest, which persist over a long period but may not severely disrupt daily functioning. Many people with high-functioning depression struggle silently, as their ability to keep up with daily tasks masks the severity of their emotional pain. This often leads to their struggles being overlooked or minimized by themselves and others, making it difficult to recognize the need for help. Understanding high-functioning depression requires acknowledging that someone can appear productive and engaged while internally battling significant emotional distress, emphasizing the importance of compassionate support and professional depression treatment. What Is High-Functioning Depression? High-functioning depression, also known as dysthymia, presents a unique challenge …

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How to Help an Alcoholic Spouse

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
couple talking after learning how to help an alcoholic spouse

Understanding how to help an alcoholic spouse requires patience, understanding, and a proactive approach. Encourage your spouse to seek professional help through therapy or support groups. Offer emotional support without enabling their behavior, and consider joining a support group to learn coping strategies. Setting boundaries is crucial for your well-being and can motivate them towards recovery. Addressing addiction within a family, especially when it involves a spouse, requires careful navigation through emotional and psychological complexities. Providing support while encouraging professional help from a doctor offering alcohol addiction treatment in Los Angeles is a delicate balance that demands understanding and patience. This article explores how to help an alcoholic spouse. Understanding Alcoholism Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder, is a medical condition characterized by an inability to manage or cease alcohol consumption despite its adverse effects on one’s health, relationships, and responsibilities. It’s a chronic disease that can affect anyone, …

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