Navigating Family Breakups: How Separation and Divorce Impact Children and the Path to Resilience

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Family separations, including divorce or uncoupling, can be tumultuous and bring significant changes for every member of the family, particularly children. While the immediate effects can be challenging, there is growing evidence that children can not only cope but thrive with the right support. This blog post delves into how family breakups impact children, the benefits of various forms of professional support, and recent research that highlights hopeful outcomes and strategies for fostering resilience. The Impact of Separation and Divorce on Children Children’s experiences during family separations can vary: Emotional and Psychological Effects: Children might experience a spectrum of emotions such as sadness, anger, confusion, or even relief. Their understanding of the situation varies by age, and they might struggle with feelings of abandonment or guilt. Behavioral Adjustments: Emotional strain often leads to behavioral …

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Choosing Between a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a Psychiatrist for Medication Management in Los Angeles

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry by Janel Te’o, M.A.  When navigating mental health care in Los Angeles, patients often face the choice between consulting a psychiatrist or primary care physician, but a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) is also an option for diagnosis and medication management. Both professionals offer valuable services, but their backgrounds and approaches differ. Understanding these differences can help patients make informed decisions tailored to their needs. This blog post explores why a Nurse Practitioner with the PMHNP credential might be a better option than a psychiatrist, and vice versa, with a focus on mental health care services in the Los Angeles, California area. Understanding the Roles: PMHNP vs. Psychiatrist Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) A PMHNP is an advanced practice registered nurse with specialized training in psychiatric and mental health care. They hold …

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8 ways to support #ShadesofMentalHealth, July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month

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By  Janel Teʻo, M.A., Ashley Barnes, M.S., Dominique Hall What is Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month? Celebrating Minority Mental Health Awareness Month can ensure anti-discrimination in mental health care for all individuals. Anyone should be able to seek help without hardships and fear of judgment, regardless of their cultural and social background. By raising awareness, we can provide an inclusive mental health space that supports diverse experiences and well-being for everyone.  Everyone deserves culturally competent mental health care that acknowledges and respects the intersection of their identity and experiences. #ShadesofMentalHealth Bebe Moore Campbell Minority Mental Health Awareness Month was first recognized and nationally declared in July of 2008. This was sponsored by Rep. Albert Wynn and cosponsored by a large bipartisan group.  Bebe Moore Campbell was a Black American author, journalist, teacher, and mental health advocate. She used her voice to address the profound impact of racism, …

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Maternal Mental Health Month 2024

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By Ashley Barnes, M.S. Maternal Mental Health Month 2024 May is Maternal Mental Health Month, a national observance started by Mental Health America to bring attention to the mental health challenges that many mothers face. Mental Health America emphasizes that “new and expecting mothers face not only changes to their lifestyles, but also changes to their bodies and hormones. Each woman’s experience will be different. For some, accommodating the changes of pregnancy and having a baby may come easily – they will adopt new routines and their bodies will return to pre-pregnancy shape and chemistry with little difficulty. For others, there may be physical and mental health struggles that arise.” Maternal Mental Health Maternal mental health disorders typically occur in what is called the perinatal period, which includes the prenatal period, or time that a woman is pregnant. Additionally, mental health disorders often occur in the postpartum period, which is …

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National Mental Health Awareness Month 2024

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By Ashley Barnes, M.S. Mental Health Awareness Month 2024 May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a national observance that started all the way back in 1949 by Mental Health America to bring attention to the crucial nature of mental wellbeing. Across the United States, people and organizations raise awareness about the importance of mental health as well as mental health challenges that people face. About Mental Health According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mental health “includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood” (2024).  Mental health can be compromised by biological, genetic, or environmental factors – or a combination of all three. For example, if someone is genetically predisposed to …

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