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What Causes Mental Health Problems?

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
man reading about what causes mental health problems

There are several factors to consider when evaluating what causes mental health problems. Mental health problems can arise from genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. These elements interact in complex ways, with life experiences such as trauma, stress, and societal pressures playing significant roles. Understanding this multifaceted nature is crucial for effective prevention and treatment strategies. Understanding what causes mental health problems can help people approach the treatment needed. Mental health issues can profoundly impact individuals’ lives, yet their origins often remain misunderstood, leading to ineffective treatment approaches and persistent stigma. Without a clear understanding of the underlying causes, efforts to address these conditions may only scratch the surface, leaving root issues unresolved and individuals struggling in silence. The stigma surrounding mental health further exacerbates the situation, making it difficult for those affected to seek help. By delving into the causes of mental health problems, including genetic, environmental, and psychological …

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Proactive Counseling for Blended Families

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blended families

By Ashley Barnes, M.S. About Blended Families. A blended family, also known as a stepfamily, develops when you and your partner make a life together with the children from one or both of your previous relationships; this can simultaneously be a challenging and rewarding experience as you and your family find a new equilibrium. According to the Step Family Foundation, nearly 1,300 new stepfamilies form each day and over 50% of families in the United States are recoupled (2023).  Blended Family Challenges. When families are blended, challenges can arise as differences in parenting, lifestyle, or discipline become apparent, at times becoming a source of frustration for children in the family system. The following are difficulties that many blended families face: Parental inexperience may pose an issue, as one stepparent may have never been a parent before. Therefore, these parents may have little to no experience supporting children through the various …

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The Benefits of Ketamine Treatment for PTSD

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
man sitting in park after successful ketamine treatment for ptsd

Ketamine treatment for PTSD may help someone overcome painful mental health symptoms. Ketamine therapy has high efficacy and many benefits, including being safe, non-invasive, and promoting neuroplasticity. When combined with psychotherapy, ketamine can have even more benefit. You can receive the medicine intravenously, intramuscularly, or by nasal spray. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) presents a significant challenge in mental health, necessitating innovative treatments that can offer swift and effective relief.  Ketamine treatment for PTSD addresses this need by providing a rapid response mechanism, reducing symptoms significantly faster than traditional methods.  The benefits of this type of therapy include not only quick symptom alleviation but also the potential for facilitating more profound therapeutic work by enhancing mood and cognitive functions, making it a valuable option for those struggling with PTSD. In this article, we share several benefits of ketamine treatment for PTSD. What is PTSD? Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric …

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Clinician Spotlight 4: Hannah Bystritsky Johnson, LCSW

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Hannah Bystritsky, LCSW

Clinician Spotlight In today’s clinician spotlight we highlight Hannah Bystritsky Johnson, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker. Hannah has a passion for helping her clients reach their goals, enhance well-being, and maximize their strengths. Hannah received her Bachelor of Arts in Cognitive Science from University of California, Berkeley, and her Master of Social Work from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Hannah supports clients in facilitating personal growth, insight, and expanding their healing capacity. About Hannah Bystritsky Johnson, LCSW During graduate school, Hannah trained at the Harbor-UCLA Dual-Diagnosis Outpatient Psychiatry Clinic where she treated adults and adolescents in individual and group psychotherapy. Hannah previously worked at the Department of Mental Health, Edelman. Her clinical work has focused on treating co-occurring psychiatric, medical, and addictive disorders. Hannah is intensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). She is …

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5 Signs of Drug Addiction in Adults

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Medically reviewed by Dr. Mark Hrymoc, M.D.
woman being comforted after displaying Signs of Drug Addiction in Adults

Addiction is a brain disorder in which a person continues misusing drugs despite encountering harmful consequences. There are at least five signs of drug addiction in adults that make it clear someone has a problem with prescription or illicit drugs. The most common signs include mood or personality, behavior, appearance, relationship, and physical health changes.  If you or someone you know is displaying signs of drug addiction, it may be time to reach out for help and explore the benefits of addiction treatment. Drug addiction is a nationwide problem, with 48.7 Americans over twelve having a substance use disorder (SAMSHA). Some adults have an addiction to prescription or illicit opioids, and others are addicted to alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, methamphetamines, and numerous other products. Addiction negatively impacts someone’s personal, professional, academic, and social life. In this article, we explore five common signs of drug addiction in adults so you can know …

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