There’s nothing quite like a stunning sunrise at… 8:00AM. Or a stunning sunset… at…(checks watch)… 4:30PM. Ah, winter in the Pacific Northwest. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD – how apt) hits lots of folks this time of year, particularly in higher latitudes where the sun becomes scarce. Symptoms of SAD are similar to those of depression […]
What to Expect at Your First Visit with Dr Katherine
You’ve likely been to the doctor, and know how that goes… check in, get roomed by a medical assistant (takes your blood pressure, weight, temp), wait for the doctor, spend about 15 minutes with the doctor (who may or may not answer all of your questions or address your concerns), and off you go. Seeing […]
An Overview of Medications Used to Treat Anxiety
Anxiety is a stunningly common mental health condition, with approximately 36% of adults experiencing symptoms in the United States. Anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and nervousness. Other symptoms include: racing heart rate, muscle tension, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. Symptoms may be so severe as to interfere with daily activities or work or school […]
Benefits of Exercise
If ever a true panacea for both physical and mental health existed… it would be exercise. Moving on a regular basis is by far the best/easiest/most reliable way to improve your mood, cognitive abilities, and overall physical health. In fact, the holy trifecta of mental health treatment for many concerns is therapy, medication, and (you […]
Types of Medication Used to Treat Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by episodes of alternating depression and mania or hypomania. These episodes may occur several times per year, or, in some cases, several times over the course of a month. During episodes of depression, folks experience symptoms like low mood, low motivation, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, feelings […]
The Why and How of Depression Medication
Depression is, unfortunately, terribly common, affecting millions of folks worldwide. Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities, depression makes even the simplest of tasks potentially overwhelmingly impossible. Other common symptoms include difficulty sleeping or over-sleeping, low motivation, weight changes (due to changes in appetite), fatigue, and feelings of […]
Exploring the Wonders of Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy, aka water therapy, aka balneotherapy, is the external application of water at different temperatures and in various forms for both physical and mental health benefits. The use of hydrotherapy dates back to ancient times, with cultures around the world using water for its therapeutic properties. In the Western world, the use of water for […]
To Medicate or Not to Medicate
Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental health disorders, affecting millions of people worldwide. Symptoms and severity also vary widely, from contextually appropriate sadness (i.e. after a loss, during a transition or move) to being nervous about a new situation (starting a new job, going on a first date) to debilitating panic […]
Unexpected ways you may be gaslighting yourself (and how to break free from the negativity)
What is gaslighting? “Gaslighting is a form of psychological abuse where a person or group makes someone question their sanity, perception of reality, or memories”. Gaslighting can happen between individuals and can even be self-inflicted.
Digital Self-Harm And How It Contributes To Anxiety
Does digital media make us happier? The answer to that question seems to be a resounding no. Does that surprise you? A recent study found that one in five people feel depressed about using digital media (e.g. social platforms, internet portals,etc.)
