Providing Support to LGBTQA Plus Individuals

It is important for us to learn how to better support our Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Asexual/ Ally, plus, peers, family, friends, and colleagues. This is an all too often oppressed group. Check out the link below to learn more about what you can do to help! http://www.glsen.org/ If you identify as LGBTQA Plus and are experiencing social and/or mental health challenges, call Psychological Health Roanoke at 540-772-5140 to schedule an appointment with a skilled and compassionate licensed clinician.

Relationships Based on Fear and Insecurity

Check out the article located at the link below to learn more about the dangers of fear and insecurity being present in relationships. This article may help give you some insight so you can make necessary changes to better your relationships with others. If you or someone you know is having difficulty with relationships, please call our office at 540-772-5140 to schedule an appointment with a licensed clinician. We are here to help you better yourself and your interactions with others. We send well wishes! Psychological Health Roanoke Team http://tinybuddha.com/blog/prevent-fear-insecurity-ruining-relationship/

Relationships Based on Fear and Insecurity

Check out the article located at the link below to learn more about the dangers of fear and insecurity being present in relationships. This article may help give you some insight so you can make necessary changes to better your relationships with others. If you or someone you know is having difficulty with relationships, please call our office at 540-772-5140 to schedule an appointment with a licensed clinician. We are here to help you better yourself and your interactions with others. We send well wishes! Psychological Health Roanoke Team http://tinybuddha.com/blog/prevent-fear-insecurity-ruining-relationship/

Resource for Children, Teens, and Families

http://kidshealth.org/ Check out the above link for health related information for your child and family. This include physical and mental health information. If your child or teen is in need of psychological health services, give us a call at 540-772-5140 to set up an appointment. We are ready to help your child and your family!

Anxiety and Depression

If you or someone you know is experiencing anxiety and/ or depression, check out the below link for facts, personal stories, and resources. http://www.adaa.org/ If you or someone you know needs assistance with anxiety and/or depression, call Psychological Health Roanoke at 540-772-5140 to schedule an appointment with a skilled, compassionate licensed provider. Competent clinicians are available to help you reclaim your happiness.

April is Child Abuse Prevention Month

Child abuse and neglect is a widespread issue that affects children and families for life. At times, the abuse and neglect lead to children losing their lives. We often turn a blind eye to child abuse, because we are afraid to cause a problem. Know it's better to cause a problem than to allow a child to be hurt. Go to the link below to educate yourself about child abuse and neglect. You may also find resources and ways to become actively involved. Together we can make a difference! 

http://pcav.org/child-abuse-prevention-month-2/

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a condition that affects many. Some of the individuals affected are individuals working in emergency services. These folks often have to compartmentalize their thoughts and feelings of traumatic events so that they can keep doing their jobs; however, this can cause significant psychological distress. Please go to the link below to see information on PTSD from the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). If you or someone you know is living with symptoms of PTSD, please call Psychological Health Roanoke at 540-772-5140 for help.

http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/index.shtml

National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) -- Virginia

Finding resources can often prove to be difficult for individuals and families living with mental illness. Go to the link below to find more information out about programs offered by NAMI.

http://namivirginia.org/programs/

American Heart Month

February is American Heart Month sponsored by The American Heart Association. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports 1 in 4 deaths occurs due to heart disease each year. Health conditions do not only affect us physically, but also mentally and emotionally. For more information and resources, please see the information located at the links below.

http://healthfinder.gov/nho/februarytoolkit.aspx

http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/

If you are experiencing difficulty coping with a health condition, please call our office at 540-772-5140 to schedule an appointment with a licensed professional who has the training and education to help you better manage your condition. 

Understanding Depression

Depression is a condition that no one is immune to. It can affect anyone of any age, from any socioeconomic status, gender, race, ethnicity, or culture. Depression can be mild to major and can negatively impact all parts of a person’s life. Relationships can feel more difficult and not feel as joyful, job tasks can feel extremely challenging and more difficult to complete than usual, and a person experiencing depression may isolate themselves from others when they wouldn’t typically do so. In this newsletter you will find signs of depression, causes, risk factors, and treatment options. A person does not have to have all of the symptoms listed to be experiencing depression.

Signs of depression: (References 1 and 2)

Ongoing sadness, tearfulness, anxiousness, and/or feeling of emptiness. Some people find themselves thinking, I am really “emotional” lately; Ongoing negative thoughts and thought process; Feeling hopelessness, helplessness and guilt;  Loss of interest in activities that used to be enjoyable; Feeling more tired than usual, which seems persistent; Difficulty concentrating, remembering, and making decisions; Persistent sleep problems. In severe cases, difficulty getting any sleep or trouble getting out of bed; Moving more slowly than usual; Fixation on past mistakes; Feeling responsible or accountable for things that are not within a person’s control; Changes in appetite and weight. Some people overeat and some don’t eat enough when feeling depressed; Thoughts of death or suicide; Suicide attempts; Easily irritated, agitated, and having anger outbursts; Difficulty sitting still and focusing; Unexplained pain in the body. Sometimes described as aching and/or widespread pain.

Causes of Depression: (Reference 1)

1.       Biological: This is not completely understood, but it is know people who are depressed experience physical changes in their brain.

2.       Brain Chemistry: Think of this as electric circuits in the brain not transmitting the needed amount of energy, resulting in feeling depressed.

3.       Hormones: Changes in hormones affects how a person feels. A common hormone for women is estrogen and for men is testosterone. Thyroid problems can also cause depression.

4.       Genetics: This is undergoing more research, though it is known depression can affect more than one person related by blood.

Risk Factors: (Reference 1)

Negative thought pattern, low self-esteem, self-critical and overdependence on others; Experiencing traumatic events; Blood relative history of any form of depression and/or substance abuse; Feeling isolated or frequently criticized; Serious and/or chronic health issues; Particular medicines can cause or contribute to depression. 

No matter what the cause, it is important for a person to be evaluated for medical reasons causing their depression. Often times, men have much more difficulty asking for help than women. Depression is not anything to be ashamed of. It is just like any other illness. If a person has diabetes, we would expect them to see a doctor. The same needs to be expected of someone with depression.

Treatment Options: (Reference 1)

1.       Psychotherapy. This is typically on an outpatient basis; however, for more severe cases and stabilization this may be done in an inpatient hospital setting. A person receiving this service in a hospital will most likely be referred for outpatient psychotherapy after discharge. Psychotherapy may be performed by Licensed Clinical Psychologists, Licensed Clinical Social Workers, or Licensed Professional Counselors. Psychotherapy is known for helping individuals explore the impact of their thoughts on how they feel and behave. The human brain is able to change in structure through the psychotherapy process.  

2.       Medications may also be prescribed by your doctor for treatment of depression. Some primary care physicians are comfortable treating less complicated/ severe depression. If you are experiencing a moderate to severe case of depression, you may benefit more from services from a Psychiatrist. A Psychiatrist is especially trained in working with mental and emotional challenges and medication treatment.

3.       Other treatment options may include nutritional and supplement support. Treatments focusing on the “mind-body” connection, such as “acupuncture, yoga or tai chi, meditation, guided imagery, massage therapy, music or art therapy, spirituality”/ spiritual support, and “aerobic exercise” are also known for helping support recovery from depression.     

Your healthcare professional may recommend all or part of the above treatment/ recovery support options depending on your specific needs, preferences, and available resources. “Mind-body” treatments are not typically used as the primary treatment for depression, but may be used in conjunction with psychotherapy and/or medication.

References:

1.       Mayo Clinic. Depression. Retrieved February 7, 2016 from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/basics/definition/con-20032977.

2.       National Institute of Mental Health. Depression. Retrieved February 2, 2016 from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml.

The Capacity of the Teen Brain

Check out the below link to see how a teenager's brain differs from a fully mature adult brain.

https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/the-teen-brain-still-under-construction/index.shtml

The Benefits of Physical Activity

With the New Year, a lot of us often set goals for ourselves. The “resolutions” can involve the amount of time we’ll spend at work, with our family and friends, how we would like to change how we manage stress and other difficult life situations, to making goals to be healthy and physically active. Ask any gym employee where they see the heaviest spike in membership and they’ll tell you the month of January.

Reevaluation the past and setting goals for the future is a healthy way to improve our quality of life. When focusing on the goal of increase physical activity and focusing more on our health, we must remember life is a journey and not a literal sprint. Making realistic goals and working at a steady pace will help you make long lasting changes that go beyond the month of January that you can carry with you through life.

Throughout the rest of this newsletter, you will find the benefits of incorporating regular physical activity into your lifestyle. Physical activity does not have to be something we dread. It can be something we enjoy and reap the benefits from for our entire lives.

Benefits of Physical Activity

- Live longer and prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels, stroke, type 2 diabetes, metabolic and hormone imbalances, and colon and breast cancers.

2.       Strengthen your heart and lung function and build muscle and strength.

3.       Increase your metabolism (Ability to burn more calories and lose weight).

4.       Reduce and help manage stress, anxiety, and depression, including improving your mood and mood regulation.

5.       Increases sexual arousal in women and help prevent erectile dysfunction in men.

6.       Improve and maintain brain function.

7.       Gives you more energy and helps you sustain it throughout the day.

8.       Helps you maintain healthy digestion and bowel movements.

9.       Increases your bone density (Stronger bones).

1-   Helps you maintain a more youthful look and keeps you more agile (Able to move and be physically active).

  -   Helps improve your sleep.

--   Helps improve your overall quality of life.

You do not have to buy an expensive gym membership to begin making some lifestyle changes. There

are many activities you can incorporate into your current daily activities that can help move you to a

healthier lifestyle. A general rule of thumb is to engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity daily. If

you are a smartphone user, there are many free apps you can download that help you improve your eating

habits and increase your physical activity level. With all changes in life, make sure you speak with your

doctor before you begin and lifestyle change. Your doctor can help you better understand benefits and

specific limitations you may need to be aware of.  

Reference Links:

http://www.secondscount.org/heart-resources/heart-resources-detail?cid=f32db674-f604-4483-a6fd-31081cf66065#.Vo5cplQrJdg

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389?pg=2

Relaxation Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xNmIIqJqHUo


Click on the above link for a short relaxation video.

Gender Dysphoria

On November 18, 2015, Alison Allsbrook,LCSW, and Wesley Brusseau, LCSW, gave a heartfelt and eye opening presentation to the Roanoke Chapter for the Virginia Society for Clinical Social Work (VSCSW). If you or someone you know is experiencing difficulty related to gender identity, please call 540-772-5140 to reach a competent, caring, and accepting clinician. We are ready to assist you on your journey to personal growth and discovery.

Bedside Manner Awards

PHR is proud to announce the following honors for our clinicians:

First place: Steve Strosnider

Third place: Jackie Wilkerson

Honorable mention: Alison Allsbrook, Emily DeFrance

PHR has talented, committed clinicians to serve you and your family! Please call 540-772-5140 to inquire about our services and to make an appointment. You can also visit us on the web at http://www.psychhealthroanoke.com/

Transgender Day of Remembrance

Today, November 20, 2015, is Transgender Day of Remembrance. The Human Rights Campaign defines this day as, "an opportunity to come together and remember transgender people gender-variant individuals, and those perceived to be transgender who have been murdered because of hate."

Hate come from misunderstanding and fear. Innocent lives are lost and families are torn apart. On this day, take a moment to challenge yourself to think about those different from you and think about how boring this world would be if we were all the same. We are all people, we all deserve to live life free of fear and hate.

Mindfulness Channel

Please take a moment to visit Dr. John Heil's Youtube channel to experience a short mindfulness exercise.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NkCg-6nXZZg

 

Finding Joy in Life

As human beings, we all too often have so much going on in our lives we miss the positive things we are experiencing. It is true we may have negative things happening in our lives, but that doesn’t mean we have to choose to completely focus on the negativity. In fact, by refocusing our attention to positive things around us, it can help the negative not seem so bad.

For example, let’s say you are dealing with a chronic mental and/or medical condition(s) that constantly reminds you of the pain you are in and what you are not able to do. If this is the case, try to think about and focus on what you CAN do. This doesn’t necessarily mean the pain will go away, but you may find you’re better able to manage it. The mind and body are connected, this we cannot deny. If our mind is in a negative state, our body will respond to this by being in a more negative state. If our mind is in a more positive state, the same will happen with our bodies.

http://tinybuddha.com/ is a great online resource that can help you better understand the influence of your thoughts and perceptions on how you feel and ultimately what you are able to do in your life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with seeing the positives in life, call Psychological Health Roanoke at 540-772-5140 to get connected with a competent, caring licensed provider to help you feel better during your life’s journey. There is nothing more rewarding for a provider than seeing clients improve their quality of life. 

October is ADHD Awareness Month

We are in the middle of ADHD awareness month. ADHD is not a disorder that discriminates. Anyone, anywhere can be affected. It's not something that only children have and it's not something to be taken lightly. Click on the link below to learn more about ADHD. If you feel like you may have ADHD, please contact our office at 540-772-5140 to ask about a testing appointment. There is no reason to suffer from this disorder, help is available.

http://www.adhdawarenessmonth.org/

Successfully Integrating Blended Families

Understanding Blended Families: ₁             

When we think about the meaning of the word “family,” the definition has changed over-time. Often previous romantic relationships are ended and new relationships are formed. These relationships also include the introduction of children from previous relationships. It can be confusing and frustrating for everyone involved in the creation of a “new” family.

A lot of confusion and frustration in blended families comes from individual expectations. A blended family cannot expect to look like each partner’s previous family, nor can they expect children to magically accept the blended family and all of its members immediately without discord.  

Successfully bringing two families together takes time, energy, respect, and commitment. It is up to the parents to plan ahead in order to assist children with adjusting to the changes in how their family looks and functions.

Building the Foundation:₂  

Though most of us are not general contractors, we do understand in order to build any type of home or office a solid foundation has to be established. If this does not occur, grave consequences occur, possibly injuring those involved. This is no different when forming a blended family. Please see the tips below on building the foundation for a new family:

1. Don’t make too many changes at once.
2. Don’t expect to form immediate loving relationships with your partner’s children.
3. Experience daily life with your partner’s children. You need to be able to spend time together when things get “real” versus only during fun events.
4. Have a discussion with your partner BEFORE you marry and/or move your family in together. You will not be able to parent how you’ve always known, so have a plan in place of what parenting will look like in your new family. Remember, parenting styles can vary differently
5. Remind all involved that you WILL NOT choose one over the other. You want to let everyone know you are committed to having a relationship with them all.
6. Set the expectation for respect. People don’t have to like each other in order to show respect. Liking each other can take a lot of time, effort and energy. Don’t give up if it doesn’t happen quickly.
7. Think of relationships in your new family as a bank account. You slowly put love, time, and energy into the relationships, which may one day yield quite a “fortune” for you and your partner.

Creating Success:₁  

1. Make sure you and your partner have created a strong relationship. You are going to need to lean on each other and work closely together to make your family a success.
2. Encourage family members to be kind to each other. This doesn’t mean family members have to be best friends; however, they do need to make an effort to respectfully interact with each other.
3. Don’t forget to show the children in your family respect. Respect should not be given based on age. Children are people, too, and deserve respect and kindness.
4. Respect where each family member is in understanding and accepting their new family. This goes for adults, children and adolescents alike. Each person may be in different stages of understanding and acceptance. This is okay! This is a natural part of blending your family together.
5. Remember, there is always time to grow! It may take a few years, but your goal as parents and caregivers is for your family to get to a place where its members want to choose to spend time together.

Creating Bonds:₁  

1. Create an environment that creates feelings of safety and protection. Going through the often traumatic situations that lead to the formation of new families is a lot for children to handle. They need to know they are safe and protected.
2. Don’t be afraid to show affection. You have to remember to allow time for this process to be fully accepted by children.
3. Make sure kids have a role within their new family and that they are respected. Everyone needs and has a job to do. This helps give children ownership over the change process.
4. Try to understand children’s perspectives and let them know you understand. Validation can go a long way with children, especially during a lot of change.
5. Don’t forget to say thank you. All of us like to know when we are doing a good job and to be encouraged by others. This can help children to better understand their role within their new family.
6. Children need limits and structure. This helps them feel that they are cared for and will help them feel safe and secure. “Step-parents” need to take caution in being the one to discipline and set limits, initially; however, they do need to work with the child’s parent to discipline and set limits. This is part of making the parenting plan mentioned earlier.

No matter what the situation is contributing to the formation of a new, blended family, let the children guide the progression of adapting to the new family situation. Make sure you give them time and space to adjust to major changes and give them the opportunity to adapt on their own. If you give them the control to pace the development of their new relationships, they will most likely not feel as distressed.

For Help:  

If you or your family is experiencing difficulty, utilize EAP benefits to seek services from highly qualified, licensed professionals.

If someone you know is experiencing difficulty let them know they are not alone and you are willing to assist them with finding the help they need.  Sometimes just knowing you’re not alone is powerful in helping others seek the help they need.

If you or someone you know needs immediate mental health assistance, you can access a local crisis program, such as Lewis Gale Respond (540-776-1100), go to the nearest emergency room, or call 911.  Remember, it’s better to get help for yourself or someone else if needed.  Getting help is better than the alternative.

Psychological Health Roanoke has qualified and experienced clinicians available to help you and your family.   

Reference

 

1. Kemp, G., Segal, J., and Robinson, L. (August 2015). Step-parenting and Blended Families. HelpGuide.org retrieved September 22, 2015 from http://www.helpguide.org/articles/family-divorce/step-parenting-blended-families.htm