Mental Health Archives - Page 3 of 8

Tips For A Successful Telemedicine Mental Health Appointment

Posted on March 11, 2022 by Michael Hinck

The COVID pandemic has forced us to rethink the way we approach several aspects of our lives. Many of the things we were accustomed to doing in-person are now being performed virtually, including how we receive mental health care. Even now, as we emerge from the pandemic, many mental healthcare providers and patients still prefer to use telemedicine technology for its convenience.

While the advent of telehealth technology has greatly benefitted many patients, some might still find the concept awkward or uncomfortable. If you fall into this category, Flushing Hospital has provided the following tips to help you navigate your next telehealth experience and get the most out of your visit.

Some of the things you can do to enhance your telehealth visit beforehand include:

Troubleshoot early- Find out what technology will be used and make sure you know how to use it prior to your appointment. If you are unfamiliar with an app, test it before your appointment to troubleshoot any potential issues.
Set an alert – Setting your calendar to send you an alert 5-10 minutes prior to your virtual session can give you the time needed to gather questions and to prepare yourself mentally.
Choose a quiet setting – Select a private location, preferably behind closed doors (such as a bedroom) to eliminate distractions. Try to minimize any background noises, such as the TV or a barking dog. Also consider using headphones to improve sound quality and maximize privacy.
Be prepared – Make a list of the symptoms you want to address and write down any questions you want to ask beforehand. Make sure to have your complete medical and psychiatric history available, including a list of any medications you are taking.

Once the appointment begins, there are a few keys to making sure that you get the most out of it, including:

Take notes – Sometimes your provider will record the session, but if he or she does not, it is always a good idea to take notes to help you remember important insights and recommendations.
Speak clearly – Make sure your provider can understand what you are saying. Check in periodically to make sure that what you are communicating is being understood and that you clearly understand what is being communicated to you.
Pretend your visit isn’t virtual – Treat your telehealth therapy session as if you are meeting with your doctor in person. Avoid engaging in any tasks you wouldn’t do if you were at his or her office, such as folding laundry, smoking, or cooking.

By following these helpful tips, you can maximize your next mental health visit.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Phobias

Posted on November 2, 2021 by Xavia Malcolm

A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder that is characterized by the uncontrollable and irrational fear of a specific situation, object, or activity.

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) categorizes phobias into the following three groups:

Social phobia -a long-term and overwhelming fear of participating in everyday social situations.
Agoraphobia- the APA defines this as, “The fear of being in situations where escape may be difficult or embarrassing, or help might not be available in the event of panic symptoms.”
Specific phobia- is unreasonable fear caused by the thought or presence of a specific object or situation that typically poses no real threat or danger.

There is still uncertainty of what actually causes phobias; however, they can be linked to genetics, life experiences or environmental reasons.

Examples of phobias include:

Bibliophobia- A fear of books.
Aerophobia- A fear of flying.
Hemophobia- A fear of blood.
Claustrophobia- A fear of confined or crowded spaces.
Coulrophobia-A fear of clowns.
Aulophobia- A fear of flutes.
Porphyrophobia- A fear of the color purple.
Nyctohylophobia- A fear of the woods in the night.
Octophobia- A fear of the figure 8.
Selenophobia- A fear of the moon.
Lutraphobia- A fear of otters.
Heliophobia- A fear of sunlight.
Chionophobia- A fear of snow.

Although some phobias may be unusual, they should not be taken lightly. They can be harmful to people who have them and can potentially lead to depression, social isolation, or substance abuse.

It is advised that you seek help immediately if you or someone you know is suffering from the complications of a phobia.

To schedule an appointment with a mental health expert at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call (718) 670-5316.

Adult ADHD

Posted on August 17, 2021 by Xavia Malcolm

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder.

Most people associate ADHD with children who have trouble focusing, are overly active or have difficulty controlling impulsive behaviors. While ADHD does commonly affect children, it can also occur in adults. In fact, it is estimated that 4% to 5% of adults living in the United States have the disorder.

ADHD begins in childhood and can continue into adulthood. However, many adults are unaware that they have ADHD. This is because the disorder was never recognized or diagnosed during childhood.

In adults, the symptoms of ADHD may present differently than they do in children and are unique to each person. They can include:

Anxiety
Trouble coping with stress
Poor listening skills
Getting easily distracted
Difficulty paying close attention to details
Struggling to complete tasks or multitask
Poor organizational skills
An inability to control impulses i.e., Interrupting others during conversations
Acting without consideration for others
Frequent mood swings
Forgetfulness
Often losing things i.e., keys, phones, wallets

These symptoms can interfere significantly with an individual’s relationships, career, finances and other aspects of daily life.

With an accurate diagnosis, symptoms of adult ADHD can be treated or managed appropriately to reduce the risk of developing social, emotional, or occupational problems.

To accurately diagnose ADHD in adults, the American Psychiatric Association recommends a comprehensive evaluation which typically includes a review of past and current symptoms, a medical exam and history, and use of adult rating scales or checklists.

Treatment for adult ADHD typically involves education ( learning more about ADHD), medication, therapy and other behavioral treatments, or a combination of methods.

If you are experiencing symptoms associated with adult ADHD, you should speak with a doctor. To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

What Are The Signs That Your Child Needs Therapy?

Posted on June 25, 2021 by Michael Hinck

Most children experience emotional highs and lows as they develop. Often, this is part of the natural maturation process, but for some, it can be a sign of a more serious issue that requires professional assistance. Flushing Hospital Medical Center offers the following advice to help parents determine when to seek help.

Parents should understand that children go through the same struggles emotionally as adults, but because of their lack of development, they can have a hard time processing their feelings. By helping your child get through these difficult times, you can help provide them with the coping and problem-solving skills they can put to use in the future.

One of the most important ways we can help children navigate through the tough periods in their lives is to listen to them and validate their experience. Offering them support, sensitivity, and patience can go a long way in making them feel heard and make them more receptive to discussing their emotions in the future.

Sometimes, however, despite a parent’s best attempt, a child may need professional help to address a more serious issue. You should seek help if your child:

Experiences problems in multiple areas of life, such as in school, during leisure activities, or in their relationships with family and friends
Displays repetitive self-destructive behavior such as hair pulling of skin-picking
Exhibits low self-esteem or lacks confidence
Withdraws from activities that they once enjoyed
Has a significant change in sleep habits or appetite
Engages in negative behavior
Talks about any kind of self-harm or suicide

Speak to your pediatrician if you believe your child may require professional help. They can refer you to a qualified mental health professional who can offer an appropriate treatment plan.

To make an appointment with a pediatrician at Flushing Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center, please call 718-670-5486.

The 3 Different Types of Stress and How Each Can Affect Our Health

Posted on May 18, 2021 by Xavia Malcolm

Stress is a feeling of emotional or physical tension. It is our body’s normal response to pressure, change or other stressors.

While it is normal for us to experience stress, there are times when it occurs too frequently and poses a threat to our health.

According to the American Psychological Association (APA), there are three different types of stress, and each can take a toll on our bodies. They include:

Acute stress – We experience acute stress multiple times each day. It can occur when there is a challenge, a perceived threat or when something unexpected happens- examples include: giving a speech, arguing with a spouse, getting stuck in traffic or getting a speeding ticket. The symptoms of acute stress develop quickly and do not last long. Some people may experience irritability, anxiety, sweating, headaches, stomach pains or a rapid heartbeat.
Episodic acute stress – This occurs when we frequently experience acute stress and can develop as a result of taking on too much responsibility or being overburdened. Type “A” personalities or people who worry constantly are more prone to experience this type of stress. The symptoms of episodic acute stress are similar to those of acute stress; however, they occur more often and accumulate. If not managed properly, symptoms can lead to serious health problems such as clinical depression or heart disease.
Chronic stress- The APA defines chronic stress as stress that is constant and persists over an extended period of time. It is the most harmful type of stress to our overall health. Chronic stress can be caused by poverty, abuse of any kind, a poor work environment, having a dysfunctional marriage or family, or substance abuse. Symptoms of chronic stress can become overwhelming or debilitating. Some people may experience fatigue, changes in appetite, difficulty sleeping, headaches or difficulty concentrating. Chronic stress left untreated for a long period of time can have serious consequences and lead to health problems such as insomnia, obesity, heart disease, hypertension or diabetes.

Our bodies can handle stress for a short period of time. It is not equipped to cope with long-term or chronic stress. Seeking healthy ways to manage stress can help us to avoid the risk of developing health complications. If you are experiencing long-term symptoms of stress, you should speak with a doctor or mental health provider immediately.

Zoom Fatigue

Posted on April 13, 2021 by Xavia Malcolm

Statistics show that hundreds of millions of people are utilizing video conferencing applications such as Zoom to interact each day.

While this has become a new normal, it is important to note that spending a significant amount of time on these platforms can potentially lead to “Zoom Fatigue.”

The term Zoom fatigue is used to describe tiredness or burnout resulting from the excessive use of any video-conferencing application. According to experts, people are likely to feel exhausted or tense after prolonged use of these platforms, and here are the reasons why:

Video chats greatly reduce mobility (Being confined in the same space for an extended amount of time can be tiring).
Our brains need to work harder to process social cues which otherwise would be easier to interpret in person.
We are unable to break eye contact. There is an excessive amount of direct eye gaze as we focus more intently to absorb information.
Constantly seeing our own faces in real-time can be stressful-this is likened to always having a mirror in front of us. Some individuals may become increasingly aware of the way they look and worry more about presenting themselves well.

There are a few ways to alleviate Zoom fatigue, experts recommend:

Limiting video calls to those that are necessary
Turning your video off if it is not mandatory
Minimizing or having your screen off to the side instead of straight ahead
Hiding self-view
Taking breaks when you can
Building in breaks or transition periods in meetings so that participants can take a moment to refresh
Taking a digital detox from your computer, cellphones and other devices

Lastly, it is important to establish a daily routine that helps you to find a healthy balance in life. Too much stress or fatigue can prove disadvantageous to our physical, mental and social health.

Learn The Facts About Kleptomania

Posted on March 26, 2021 by Michael Hinck

Kleptomania is a rare but serious mental health disorder characterized by the recurrent inability to resist urges to steal items. If left untreated, kleptomania can result in severe emotional, family, work, legal and financial problems.

Kleptomania is a type of impulse control disorder. Those with impulse control disorders have difficulty resisting the temptation to perform an act that is excessive or harmful to themselves or others. In fact, unlike typical shoplifters, people with kleptomania don’t compulsively steal for personal gain. They steal simply because the urge is so powerful that they cannot resist it.

In addition to the inability to resist the urge to steal, those with kleptomania may also exhibit the following symptoms:

Feeling of increased tension, anxiety or arousal leading up to the theft
Feeling pleasure, relief or gratification while stealing
Feeling terrible guilt, remorse, self-loathing, shame or fear of arrest after the theft
Return of the urges and a repetition of the cycle

Episodes of kleptomania generally occur spontaneously, usually without planning and without help or collaboration from another person. Most people with kleptomania steal from public places, such as stores and supermarkets. Often, the stolen items have no value to the person with kleptomania and the person can afford to buy them. Urges to steal may come and go or may occur with greater or lesser intensity over the course of time.

While the cause of kleptomania is not known, there are several theories suggest that changes in the brain may be at the root of kleptomania, including:

Low serotonin levels.Serotonin is a naturally occurring brain chemical that helps regulate moods and emotions. Low levels of serotonin are common in people prone to impulsive behaviors.
Addictive disorders.Stealing may cause the release of dopamine (another neurotransmitter). Dopamine causes pleasurable feelings, and some people seek this rewarding feeling again and again.
The brain’s opioid system.Urges are regulated by the brain’s opioid system. An imbalance in this system could make it harder to resist urges.

Treatments are available that may help to minimize the urge kleptomaniacs have to steal and live without addiction and shame. This typically involves medications and psychotherapy, or both, sometimes along with self-help groups. However, there is no standard kleptomania treatment, and researchers are still trying to understand what may work best.

If you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms consistent with kleptomania, xx Hospital’s Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services can help. To make an appointment please call 718-670-5562.

Acute Stress Disorder

Posted on February 2, 2021 by Xavia Malcolm

Acute stress disorder (ASD) is a trauma and stress-related disorder that typically develops within three days to one month after a traumatic event. Examples of such events are physical or sexual assault, the sudden death of a loved one, a car accident, a natural disaster or receiving a life-threatening medical diagnosis. According to the American Psychiatric Association, “An estimated 13 to 21 percent of survivors of car accidents develop acute stress disorder and between 20 and 50 percent of survivors of assault, rape or mass shootings develop it.”

Symptoms of ASD generally last up to one month after the traumatic event, and may include:

Anxiety
Intrusive thoughts and memories
Nightmares
Avoidance of people, places or things that trigger memories
Dissociation
Changes in mood
Reckless or destructive behavior
Heart palpitations, difficulty breathing, abdominal pains or any other physical symptoms that can be caused by elevated stress

If symptoms persist beyond one month, they are often indicative of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Anyone can develop ASD after experiencing a traumatic event. People with ASD are at an increased risk for developing PTSD, this is why it’s important to receive treatment as soon as possible to prevent this progression.

ASD can be diagnosed after a person has experienced symptoms for at least three days. A mental health provider will perform a series of examinations or evaluations to rule out causes such as health problems, substance abuse, medication side effects or other psychiatric disorders.

Treatment for ASD can involve cognitive behavioral therapy, medication or exposure-based therapies.

To schedule an appointment with a mental health professional at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call (718) 670-5562.

What Is Antisocial Personality Disorder?

Posted on January 26, 2021 by Xavia Malcolm

Antisocial personality disorder (ASPD) is a personality disorder characterized by a long-term pattern of irresponsible, impulsive or often criminal behaviors.

A person with ASPD is typically deceitful, manipulative or reckless. They consistently show no regard for the law, what is right or wrong, or the rights or feelings of others. Someone with ASPD generally has no guilt or remorse for the harm they have caused others.

Individuals with this disorder can also be very charming or charismatic, traits they often use to manipulate people.

Additional signs and symptoms of ASPD can include having a history of:

Lying persistently
Having poor or abusive relationships
Having difficulty sustaining long-term relationships
Not caring for the safety of others or oneself
Never accepting responsibility and blaming others for one’s problems
Failing to fulfill money, work or social duties
Repeatedly breaking the law
Abusing drugs or alcohol
Being irritable or aggressive

It is not known why some people develop antisocial personality disorder and others do not. Genetic factors and traumatic childhood experiences such as child abuse are believed to play a role. Men are more likely to develop the disorder than women.

Antisocial personality disorder is diagnosed by a mental health provider who conducts a psychological evaluation that explores behavior patterns, family history, relationship patterns, medical history as well as symptoms listed in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5)

If you or someone you know is exhibiting symptoms of ASPD, do not hesitate to get help. You can schedule an appointment with a mental health professional at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, by calling (718) 670-5562.

Dealing With Holiday Stress

Posted on December 20, 2020 by Flushing Hospital

During the holiday season, many of us struggle to complete an extensive list of tasks in what often feels like very little time. We run rampant decorating our homes, attending social gatherings, shopping for loved ones, volunteering, traveling or cooking. These activities are often added to our already busy schedules, which can make us feel overwhelmed.

Contrary to what we may think, these activities which should make us feel happy can actually increase our stress levels.

Although there are various factors such as unrealistic expectations or financial strain that contribute to holiday stress, finding ways to avoid stressors or minimize their effects is very important. If stress is not managed well, it can have a significantly negative impact on our health.

Mental health professionals at Flushing Hospital Medical Center offers five tips to help you cope with holiday stress and maintain good mental health:

Set realistic goals– Unrealistic goals often equal added pressure and expectations that cannot be met. If these goals are not met, they can lead to negative feelings such as inadequacy or hopelessness.
Know when to take a moment for yourself (Take a break) – We are often pulled in multiple directions during this time of the year. Know when to take a breather to decompress and clear your mind.
Communicate- The added pressures of the holidays are clearly overwhelming and one of the ways that people sometimes deal with this is to isolate themselves. This is not recommended; instead, reach out to loved ones or a trained mental health professional to communicate how you feel.
Do not neglect healthy habits– Taking good care of your health can help combat holiday stress. Moderating your food intake, fitting in a few minutes of exercise and getting adequate amounts of sleep can be profoundly beneficial for your health. Additionally, maintaining a healthy daily routine can help take your mind off holiday demands.
Ask for help- We live in a time where multitasking has become the norm but if you begin to feel overwhelmed, ask for help. Soliciting the help of friends or family can alleviate some of the holiday pressure. The holidays can also trigger depression; if you are experiencing symptoms of depression ask for help from loved ones or seek the assistance of a mental health professional.

The holiday season can be overwhelming; however, by applying these helpful tips you can take the steps needed to minimize stress and make this time of year more enjoyable. If you find that you continue to experience elevated levels of stress or symptoms of depression, it is recommended that you seek the help of mental health professional immediately.

To schedule an appointment with the Mental Health Clinic at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5562.