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transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) machine in an office

What Does TMS Stand For and How Does It Work?

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Depression, Step-By-Step Guides.

TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and is a form of brain stimulation used to treat major depression, OCD, PTSD, and other mental health conditions.

It works by wrapping a magnetic coil around the patient’s head that will send currents through the brain to help with mood regulation.

Keep reading to learn more about how TMS works so you can decide whether this treatment option is right for you.

How TMS Therapy Works

During TMS therapy, a coil is placed over the scalp, and a magnetic pulse is delivered to a specific region of the brain.

This pulse causes a small electric current to flow through nerve cells in certain regions of the brain. Researchers believe that this stimulates activity in parts of the brain associated with mood control.

TMS is an FDA approved treatment that can change the brain’s neural circuits in a way that lasts for a long time. This makes it a possible treatment for a wide range of neurological and psychiatric disorders.

TMS Therapy Benefits

TMS therapy is non-invasive and can be performed on an outpatient basis. Each treatment typically lasts around 20 minutes and is usually done five days a week for 6-8 weeks. Patients can drive themselves home and resume normal activities after the procedure.

Clinical trials have shown TMS to be effective for treating depression, with up to 75% of patients experiencing significant improvement. TMS has been found to be twice as effective as antidepressants alone.

TMS therapy for depression

TMS is targeted at specific areas of the brain to provide relief from depression. It helps break the cycle of depression by making these areas more active, therefore allowing them to work better.

TMS is a good way to treat depression for many people, giving hope to those who haven’t found relief with other treatment methods.

TMS therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

TMS has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration as a safe and effective treatment for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Magnetic stimulation can help relieve OCD symptoms by slowing down activity in parts of the brain that are too busy.

Slowing down the activity of nerve cells in the prefrontal cortex can help reduce anxiety caused by OCD.

TMS therapy for other anxiety disorders

TMS is also used to treat mental health conditions like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), in addition to OCD. A 2019 study suggests that TMS could be effective in treating GAD.

Even though more research is needed, it seems that TMS therapy may help people with anxiety disorders because it can slow down the activity of nerve cells in the prefrontal cortex.

Risks

Like any medical treatment, TMS can have potential side effects. Most of the time, the side effects of TMS therapy are mild and temporary. They can include mild scalp pain, headaches, and dizziness.

These side effects typically resolve within a few hours after the session.

Seizures and other more serious side effects are extremely rare. TMS is not recommended for people with metal implants in the head, as the magnetic field can cause these implants to heat up and potentially cause injury.

Overall, TMS is a safe and effective FDA approved therapy with a low risk of side effects.

What if TMS doesn’t work?

Like all medical treatments for mental illnesses such as depression or OCD, TMS is not always effective. In these cases, patients can consult their doctors to come up with new treatment options.

However, when compared to other treatments, like medication, TMS is often more effective.

How NeuroSpa Can Help

If you’re living with depression, anxiety, or any other mental health condition, our healthcare professionals at NeuroSpa are here to help.

As the best mental health clinic in Tampa, we offer a wide range of treatments, like TMS and psychotherapy.

At our clinic, each patient receives a treatment plan that is tailored for them and their needs.

Check out NeuroSpa to learn more about TMS and book your free consultation today.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

employee having a conversation with his boss

How to Talk to Your Boss About Mental Health

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Depression, Work Life Balance.

Talking about mental health can be difficult, even with your friends and family. Approaching this sensitive topic can feel even more overwhelming when speaking with your employer.

Even so, it can be important to talk about mental health at work in an honest and open way, no matter how hard it may feel at times.

With the right approach, you can talk to your boss about your mental health and find solutions that work for both of you.

Below are a few tips on how to talk to your boss about mental health.

Prepare for the Conversation

Being prepared will make an open and honest conversation about mental health with your employer less stressful. Before you meet with your boss, make sure you identify your needs and decide when and where to have the conversation.

Many people find it helpful to practice the conversation with family members, therapists, or friends. This can give you the confidence to discuss your needs with your employer.

Identify your needs

Having a specific understanding of your needs will make the conversation more productive. Consider what changes or reasonable accommodations you need to manage your mental health and how they could help you perform better at work.

Choose a time and place

When deciding where to have the conversation, consider choosing a private and comfortable location.

Avoid having the conversation in a public or busy area where you may be interrupted or feel uncomfortable.

Also, choose a space where you feel safe so you can speak freely about what you need and how you’re feeling.

Collect information

Gathering information and resources can also help prepare you for the conversation.

This can include medical documentation, information about mental health laws and employee rights, and tips for having productive and positive conversations about mental health.

Tips for Having the Conversation

Here are three tips for having a successful conversation with your employer about mental health issues:

Be open and honest

Explain how your mental health conditions are affecting your work and how accommodations will make you more effective. Starting with your workplace experience can help create a more collaborative environment.

Also, remember that your boss may not be aware of your mental health condition, so you need to be completely honest to give them an opportunity to understand your situation.

Be specific

When you speak to your employer, focus on explaining exactly what they can do for you.

Be ready to share what kind of support you need from your employer and what you hope to achieve through the conversation. This can help your employer understand your needs and find solutions that work for both of you.

For instance, you may simply need a flexible schedule to make room for therapy appointments. Or you may hope to switch to remote work, which can reduce stress levels and improve work-life balance.

You could also ask your boss to make the workplace safe and supportive by encouraging open conversations about mental health and making mental health awareness a part of the company’s culture.

Work with your employer to find solutions

Be flexible and open to your employer’s ideas while you’re suggesting practical ways to meet your needs. There may be complications your employer has to consider that you have not thought about yet.

When speaking to your employer, listen to their concerns and work together to find solutions that work for both of you.

Finally, you should also agree on a follow-up plan to monitor progress and be ready to make adjustments if certain elements of the plan aren’t working out.

How NeuroSpa Can Help

NeuroSpa offers a wide range of services to help you manage your mental health condition. At NeuroSpa, our medical professionals offer talk therapy, psychiatric care, and other services, with treatment plans tailored to your unique mental health concerns.

With NeuroSpa, you can start getting the treatment you need in as little as 72 hours. We can also advise you on how to approach your boss about mental health issues in order to find a solution that works for you.

Check out NeuroSpa today and learn more about our mental health services to start your journey toward mental well-being.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

doctor and patient in a talk therapy session

The Best Treatments for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Mental Health Maintenance.

Do you or someone you know suffer from feelings of anxiety? If you’re experiencing anxiety that is excessive, ongoing, and affecting your everyday life, then it could be Generalized Anxiety Disorder.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition where anxiety becomes chronic and interferes with daily activities.

GAD is different from normal worrying in that it can persist even when there is no clear cause for these feelings. It can be difficult to manage and can negatively impact one’s quality of life when left untreated.

If you or someone you know is showing signs of GAD, it is best to talk to a mental health professional for help.

Below is an overview of the best treatment options for generalized anxiety disorder.

What causes generalized anxiety disorder?

The specific causes of GAD are unknown, but it can likely be traced to a combination of environmental and biological factors. Genetics and brain chemistry likely play a role, along with a person’s life experiences.

People who have experienced traumatic events in the past are more likely to develop symptoms of anxiety than those who have not.

A family history of anxiety disorders, chronic stress, or depression are also factors that can make you more likely to experience GAD.

The Best GAD Treatment Options

Mental health care professionals offer a variety of GAD treatment options. Your anxiety symptoms could be relieved by psychotherapy, medication, or even a combination of the two.

Before a treatment plan is carried out, a mental health professional will talk you through the options and figure out what is best for you. Different treatments may work better for different people, so your plan should be made specifically for you and your needs.

Psychotherapy

Psychological treatments are some of the most effective GAD treatment options. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which is a good way to treat generalized anxiety disorder, is recommended by most doctors.

Cognitive therapies may help you to figure out where your negative thoughts are coming from and will also give you the tools to fight the feelings that make you anxious.

This technique also teaches different methods of behavior and thinking. With CBT, you’ll also learn new ways to cope with stressful situations.

A CBT technique called exposure therapy focuses on helping patients face their anxieties in order to help them engage in things they have been avoiding.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is another type of psychological treatment approach for GAD.

This approach focuses on helping people accept their current situation while also committing to making changes in their lives that will lead them towards greater fulfillment.

Medications

Along with therapy, many healthcare professionals advocate treating GAD with medication. If therapy alone isn’t effective, your doctor may prescribe antidepressants such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), SNRIs, or other medications.

Buspirone can also be used long-term to help control symptoms, while benzodiazepines are only good for short-term relief in certain situations.

Other medications that may be considered if SSRIs don’t work or aren’t possible include pregabalin, opipramol, hydroxyzine, imipramine, and quetiapine.

Unfortunately, there haven’t been many clinical studies that compare anxiety medications, and none of them have been found to be significantly better than the others.

Different drugs may have different effects on different people, so you may have to try several before you find one that works best for you and your symptoms.

How NeuroSpa Can Help With GAD

If anxiety is affecting your quality of life, our healthcare professionals at NeuroSpa are here to help. As Tampa’s #1 mental health care services provider, we offer a wide range of GAD treatment options and will take the time to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Our staff uses a tried-and-true method to treat both the symptoms and the causes of generalized anxiety disorder. This will help you live a happier, more fulfilling life.

Learn more about our GAD treatment options and book a free consultation today.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

a parent and a child in a family holding hands

Does Mental Illness Run in the Family?

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Depression, Mental Health Maintenance.

Some people may wonder, “Does mental illness run in families?” The question is worthwhile to explore as certain mental illnesses may have a genetic component.

There are suggestions of some single gene mutations linked to conditions like depression and anxiety.

While this doesn’t necessarily mean that mental illness runs in the family, it does suggest that biological parents may pass on specific genetic traits, which could increase the risk of their children developing mental health conditions.

This article will explore how genetics and family history can influence the likelihood of developing a mental illness.

Does Mental Illness Run in Families?

Yes, mental illness can be hereditary, so it pays to be aware of the symptoms and look out for them.

If a close family member has been diagnosed with a mental illness, it may cause concern about whether the same affliction is present in oneself or one’s child.

Of course, not all children inherit mental illnesses, but certain conditions do connect to genetics.

Mental health and family relationships are often intertwined by more than just genetics. Some mental conditions could arise in children raised by a parent with an untreated mental illness, leaving the children with trauma-based disorders, such as anxiety or PTSD.

Is there a genetic component to mental illness?

Mental illness is a problem that affects millions of individuals worldwide and may present complications.

It can present itself in various ways, ranging from anxiety and depression to schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. There is an implication that mental health conditions may be genetic, even though the specific origin of mental illness is still unclear.

Stress, traumatic experiences, and substance misuse are all environmental variables that play a part in developing mental illnesses.

Intervention at an earlier stage can lessen the condition’s impact and enhance the quality of life for afflicted individuals.

Which Mental Disorders Are Passed Down Genetically?

Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia are just a few mental diseases shown to have a hereditary component.

Some studies suggest a correlation between having a family member diagnosed with a mental condition and an increased risk of acquiring that disorder.

But remember that not all forms of mental disease are inherited, and environmental variables and genetics can also play a part in the manifestation of these conditions.

What Biological Processes Are at Play in the Development of Mental Illness?

Mental illness are multifaceted conditions that might have roots in a wide range of bodily processes.

These factors can include genetic predisposition, brain defects or injury, prenatal damage, substance abuse, poor nutrition, and exposure to toxins.

Studies have shown that certain genes may increase the risk of developing certain mental illnesses, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.

Brain defects or injuries can also lead to mental illness. Furthermore, traumatic brain injuries or strokes can cause changes in the brain’s structure, leading to mental health issues.

Prenatal damage has been linked to anxiety and depression. Meanwhile, paranoia and substance abuse are associated with worsening symptoms of mental illness.

Poor nutrition and exposure to toxins have a role in the development of mental illnesses, as these substances can affect brain function.

Infections such as meningitis may also result in brain damage, which may cause mental illness or exacerbate its symptoms.

What Psychological Factors Are Associated with Mental Illness?

Significant psychological variables can contribute to the development of mental illness.

Severe psychological trauma experienced in childhood is one of the most common contributors to mental health issues. This trauma can include physical, emotional, sexual abuse, neglect, or abandonment.

The early loss of a parent or other significant figure may be another reason for mental illness. It may lead to grief and loneliness that can manifest into depression and/or anxiety.

Neglect and difficulty relating to others can often result in mental illnesses like social anxiety disorder or borderline personality disorder.

People who experience neglect may have difficulty forming meaningful relationships with others due to their lack of trust and insecurity.

What Environmental Elements Affect the Development of Mental Illness?

The environment can play a significant influence in the onset of mental illness. Stressful life events, such as death or divorce, dysfunctional family life, and feelings of inadequacy can all trigger mental illness in susceptible individuals.

Changing jobs or schools, as well as social or cultural expectations, can also contribute to the development of mental illness.

However, even if someone has a genetic predisposition towards developing mental illness, environmental factors still play a crucial role in whether or not they will actually develop it.

Therefore, it is essential to take into account both genetic and environmental factors when considering the causes of mental illness.

NeuroSpa Therapy Centers

At NeuroSpa Therapy Centers, we understand that mental illness is a complex issue with many contributing factors. We offer comprehensive treatments and therapies to help those struggling with mental health issues.

Our experienced team of professionals can provide the family guide to mental health care by managing your symptoms so you may live a healthier life. Contact us today to start your journey toward recovery.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

person in an army uniform with ptsd, upset and holding his head in his hands

Different Types of PTSD and How to Cope with Them

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Depression, Mental Health Maintenance.

Experiencing death, the threat of death, severe injury, or sexual assault can all lead to PTSD, a debilitating mental health condition.

It is an anxiety disorder that causes severe fear, nightmares, flashbacks, and avoidance of situations that remind one of the traumatic events.

Different forms of PTSD result from various causes and may present in several ways.

Knowing about the different types of PTSD can help you better understand your own symptoms and how to cope with them.

What Are the Symptoms of PTSD?

No two people are alike, and PTSD symptoms might present differently depending on the trauma the person encounters. Different types of PTSD diagnosis may include:

  • Thoughts, flashbacks, and memories of the traumatic event that intrude on your daily life
  • Avoidance of places and situations that serve as reminders of a traumatic event
  • Difficulty concentrating, insomnia, and nightmares
  • Hypervigilance, which is the feeling of being on constant guard
  • Detachment from others or feelings of numbness

They can be incredibly disruptive to daily life, making it difficult for people to cope with their daily lives.

It is essential for those experiencing the symptoms above and other forms of PTSD to seek help from a mental health professional.

Types of PTSD

Recognize the different types of PTSD so you can get the appropriate help.

Normal stress response

Normal stress responses are natural reactions to events that can be both positive and negative. These events can range from accidents, illnesses, injuries, and surgeries to more positive experiences such as weddings or the birth of a child.

The body’s reaction to these incidents is frequently temporary, has no impact on daily living, and has no long-term consequences.

The most effective way to manage normal stress responses is through group therapy and individual psychotherapy sessions. During these sessions, individuals learn how to identify their own triggers for stress and develop coping strategies for dealing with them.

Additionally, patients can manage their normal stress responses without any lasting effects on their mental health with the support of their loved ones. This support will help them process emotions healthily.

Acute stress disorder

Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) is a condition that can develop after exposure to a life-threatening event. Feelings of helplessness, anxiety and intense fear characterize it.

Symptoms of ASD may start between three days and one month following the traumatic event and, if left untreated, can progress to PTSD.

Common symptoms of ASD include the following:

  • Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the event
  • Nightmares or recurring dreams related to the trauma
  • Avoidance of activities or places associated with the trauma
  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering details about the event
  • Irritability or outbursts of anger
  • Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response

Treatment for acute stress disorder includes medication and psychotherapy.

The former include antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, while the latter may involve Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change negative thought patterns.

Many patients also find relief from group support from peers who have experienced similar traumas.

Uncomplicated PTSD

Uncomplicated PTSD is a mental health disorder caused by a single traumatic event, such as the death of a loved one, a natural disaster, or a severe car accident.

People with uncomplicated PTSD may experience intrusive thoughts multiple times a week, and display increased irritability and moodiness.

Other symptoms of uncomplicated PTSD include avoidance behaviors, disruptive mood changes, changed cognitive processing, and slowed reaction time.

Behaviors associated with uncomplicated PTSD after a car accident could include:

  • Taking longer routes to avoid the site of the crash
  • Driving slower
  • Snapping at friends and family when stressed.

You may treat uncomplicated PTSD with medication, CBT, and exposure therapy.

Complex PTSD

Complex PTSD is a severe mental illness brought on by several traumatic events, including domestic abuse, community violence, war, or sudden bereavement.

Those with complex PTSD may experience chronic pain, fatigue, aggression, sexual impulsivity, substance abuse, depression, and intense rage and panic.

They may also be diagnosed with dissociative disorders, antisocial personality disorder, and borderline personality disorder.

Treatment of complex PTSD is more intensive and takes longer than uncomplicated PTSD. This treatment involves individual and group therapy sessions to help people process their experiences and learn new coping skills.

In addition, medication is prevalent in managing symptoms like anxiety or sadness.

Comorbid PTSD

Comorbid PTSD is when individuals experience PTSD alongside other co-occurring disorders related to trauma.

The individual is diagnosed with both PTSD and another mental health disorder, such as Substance Use Disorders, Major Depressive Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, or Specific Phobias.

Unfortunately, people with PTSD often develop comorbid conditions, and you must address the treatment for each disorder separately.

A combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes may treat the condition to help individuals with comorbid PTSD control their symptoms.

How We Can Help

With the proper care and the help of family and friends, people with PTSD can recover.

As Tampa’s leading mental health provider, NeuroSpa offers a wide range of therapies and treatments to those with any form of PTSD.

If you or someone you love has been affected by a traumatic event, our skilled healthcare providers will create customized treatment plans for your needs. Learn more about our services and book a free consultation today.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

a woman helping her friend with mental illness

How to Help Someone with Mental Illness

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Depression, Step-By-Step Guides.

Have you ever had to help someone struggling with mental illness? This task may be challenging, but there are steps you can take to provide support and understanding.

This article will discuss how to help someone with mental illness, including providing emotional support, learning about their condition, and connecting them with the right resources.

With a careful approach, you can make a positive difference in the life of someone struggling with a mental health condition.

Providing Assistance to a Friend or Family Member Who Has a Mental Health Condition

Supporting a friend or family member experiencing a mental illness may be demanding and stressful.

First, it is critical to identify the warning symptoms of mental health concerns and link them to expert assistance.

Then, it’s a good idea to show concern and support while reassuring them that assistance is accessible and that their mental health condition is treatable. You may express your support by inquiring about their situation, hearing their opinions, and telling them that you care.

Offering to help with everyday tasks such as grocery shopping, cooking meals, or running errands can make a big difference in their day-to-day life.

Furthermore, continuing to invite them out without being overbearing can remind them that they are still part of the community.

How to Talk About Mental Health

Talking about mental health can be a complex topic to approach. But once you start, it gets easier. And your help will be invaluable to those who are struggling.

Speaking appropriately for the person’s age and development is also essential. For example, comparing physical illnesses and mental health issues may explain the concept of mental health problems in a way that is easier for some people to understand.

Depending on the individual’s needs, mental health treatment may include medication and therapy.

Remember that talking about mental health does not have to be uncomfortable or awkward. Instead, you may see it as an opportunity for growth and understanding.

Creating a Safe Space

Creating a safe space for someone with mental illness is vital in helping them feel supported and understood.

This safe space includes setting boundaries around conversations about their condition and respecting their privacy when discussing it with others.

Finally, creating an environment where the person feels comfortable talking openly about their feelings without fear.

Assisting People

Finding the right words to console a friend or family member struggling with their mental health may not come easily.

Even if you mean well, your concern may be misconstrued if the person you’re talking to is not ready to open up about their mental health.

So it’s essential to convey your concern and reassure them that you’re still around when they are ready. You may also tell them that help is accessible, even if it doesn’t come from you.

In the meantime, show your support by getting to know them better, listen to what they have to say, and reiterate your sympathy for their problems.

Another way to demonstrate your support is to invite them to activities without being overbearing; these social interactions will allow them to feel included and supported. Showing kindness and understanding during their difficult times will go a long way.

Again, it’s more than just emotional support. If you’re particularly concerned about someone’s condition, talk to their family members and encourage them to start discussing mental health.

Connecting Someone with Mental Health Resources

Unless you work as a healthcare professional or a mental health therapist, it’s generally inadvisable for you to handle these mental health issues alone.

Instead, connecting them with the resources they need is more important once you have identified that someone is struggling with their mental health.

These resources include finding a therapist or psychiatrist, connecting them to support groups, and providing them with information about local mental health services.

Providing information on accessing mental health services through insurance or other means is also important.

Additionally, sharing information on online resources such as mental health hotlines and websites can help connect someone with the help they need.

Finally, always remind the person that they are not alone and that there are people who care about them and want to help.

NeuroSpa Treatment Centers

NeuroSpa Treatment Centers offer a comprehensive range of services to help those struggling with a mental illness. Our talk therapy sessions allow individuals to express their feelings and concerns in a safe and supportive environment.

We offer mental healthcare, which entails medication administration and additional customized treatment programs. We will help you to combat mental health issues with these programs, among others that include:

  • TMS therapy: a non-invasive procedure that stimulates the brain using magnetic pulses
  • Nutrition counseling: to ensure our patients get the proper care for optimum mental health
  • Sleep pattern assessment: to help you find any sleep difficulties that may be causing your mental health concerns
  • Supplemental medicine: to help manage symptoms of mental illness.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, NeuroSpa Treatment Centers can help.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

black and white photo of a woman looking into the distance

Borderline Personality Disorder: What Is It and How to Treat It?

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Depression, Mental Health Maintenance.

If you suffer from borderline personality disorder, you may feel as though you are trapped inside your mind and experience extreme highs and lows. You might also struggle with relationships, work, school, and finances.

These problems can cause significant stress and anxiety. However, you can live a happy and healthy life with proper treatment.

This article will discuss treatment options for borderline personality disorder and explore the potential causes of this mental illness.

What is Borderline Personality Disorder?

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a mental health diagnosis used to describe someone whose behavior patterns fall somewhere between those of a person with antisocial personality disorder and those of a person with major depression.

Who does BPD affect?

BPD affects about 1% of adults and is marked by extreme mood swings, strong feelings, impulsive actions, self-injury, and thoughts of suicide.

While it is often associated with depression, BPD is a separate diagnosis. In fact, many people with BPD do not experience symptoms of depression.

However, some people with BPD feel depressed, anxious, or hopeless. Others experience emotional numbness or isolation. For a few, it can even lead to hallucinations or delusions.

BPD Side Effects

Mental illness, especially BPD, can be very distressing to a person’s emotional well-being. Suicide, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and eating disorders are all common BPD side effects.

BPD patients experience extreme highs and lows in emotion, and it can be hard to decipher what’s real and what isn’t. Therefore, it’s difficult for them to maintain strong relationships and get things done efficiently at work.

Symptoms and Causes

Extreme mood swings and an inability to determine one’s identity are borderline personality disorder symptoms. This type of disorder causes people to have difficulties with self-awareness and identity.

Symptoms include feeling empty, angry, anxious, depressed, guilty, fearful, ashamed, and suicidal.

What causes borderline personality disorder?

Studies indicate that people who grow up under certain conditions are more likely to suffer from BPD. Research suggests that abuse and neglect during childhood increase the risk of developing BDP as well.

Diagnosis

Borderline Personality Disorder is a serious mental illness that affects people differently. Some people can cope well, while others struggle with symptoms such as impulsivity, emotional instability, and suicidal thoughts.

Healthcare professionals will usually diagnose someone by conducting a detailed interview with the patient, administering an in-depth psychological evaluation, reviewing medical history, and discussing current signs and symptoms the patient may be experiencing.

Support

Just because someone has been labeled with borderline personality disorder doesn’t mean they have character flaws. Many people with BPD have supportive networks of loved ones.

Mental health professionals work closely with families and friends to learn how to best support them.

Management and Treatment

People with BPD are often diagnosed with other mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse, eating disorders, or posttraumatic stress disorder.

There’s new research showing that people with BPD, like those with other mental illnesses, respond better to treatment when it includes both medication and psychotherapy.

Does TMS work for borderline personality disorder?

TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is another treatment that has been shown to be effective, especially for those who suffer from both BPD and depression.

While medication for BPD and depression can be similar, pharmaceuticals are often used in conjunction with more traditional therapies, like CBT therapy, to help treat BPD patients.

NeuroSpa Therapy Centers

NeuroSpa Therapy Centers is a premier mental healthcare provider with seven locations throughout Tampa, Florida.

We offer compassionate care to all patients through tailored treatment plans and care programs to suit each patient’s specific needs.

Here are some of the effective treatments and therapies we offer to people living with borderline personality disorder:

  • Talk therapy
  • Psychiatric care
  • TMS therapy
  • Ketamine therapy
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Sleep evaluation
  • Supplemental medicine

Book a free consultation today to begin your treatment plan with NeuroSpa Therapy Centers!

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

two people holding hands in support of each other

How to Provide Support After a Psychotic Episode

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Depression, Step-By-Step Guides.

Seeing someone you care about suffering from psychosis can be difficult. However, you need to be strong during stressful situations to support your loved one struggling with a mental illness. While your family member/friend experiencing psychosis may not know exactly what they need, offering your love and support can be crucial during these difficult times.

Watching someone experience a psychotic episode can be extremely stressful. People that are unsure of how to handle a situation like this may search for “how to deal with someone having a psychotic episode” as they feel helpless and unprepared. Though, it is important to remain calm and speak to your loved one in a clear, empathetic tone.

This post will explore ways you can help a loved one after a psychotic episode.

What is Psychosis?

Psychosis is a psychological condition that affects how an individual’s brain processes information. This condition can interrupt healthy brain function, influencing your ability to perceive information correctly. Psychosis makes it difficult for individuals to determine what is real and what is not.

People with this mental health condition may see, hear, taste, smell, or even feel things that are unreal or do not exist. They may start having inexplicable beliefs and ideas. Psychosis appears as reality to the sufferer, while that may not be the case. Additionally, patients with psychosis are usually unaware of their condition, adding to the confusion and overwhelming feelings.

Psychosis is not a mental illness but a symptom triggered by a physical injury or mental illness. People dealing with trauma or stress may also go through psychotic episodes. Studies reveal, there are about 100,000 new psychosis cases in the US each year.

What is a Psychotic Episode?

People who have suffered a brain injury or have a psychotic disorder may have psychotic episodes as a symptom. Patients going through psychotic episodes tend to perceive and interpret reality differently.

Psychotic episodes are characterized by the following signs and symptoms:

Hallucinations

Hallucinations include seeing, hearing, smelling, tasting, or feeling things others do not.

  • Auditory Hallucinations: hearing voices that are not there
  • Visual Hallucinations: seeing objects or people that are not around, shapes appearing wrong
  • Tactile Hallucinations: feeling or experiencing unexplainable sensations

Delusions

Delusions include unusual beliefs that do not make sense to others. People in psychotic episodes may believe the following things:

  • Someone following or spying on you
  • People trying to murder you
  • Having special powers
  • Outside forces controlling your emotions or actions

Cognitive Impairments

Cognitive impairments include difficulties in everyday actions. The following are the common cognitive impairments associated with psychosis.

  • Difficulty retaining memory
  • Concentration problems
  • Difficulty in understanding things

Can You Recover from a Psychotic Break?

Psychotic breaks/episodes can be frightening. Many sufferers believe they will never be the same or live a normal life again. However, psychosis recovery is possible, and many patients successfully get rid of the symptoms or learn to manage them.

Supporting a Loved One after a Psychotic Break

Most symptoms disappear or reduce when a patient returns from the hospital after a psychotic episode. However, offering support can create a safer environment for your loved one. Here are some things you can do to help.

Listen to Them

Listen to them with complete attention and without judgment if your loved one feels comfortable sharing and discussing their feelings. Paying attention to what they say can make them feel calmer, speeding up acute psychotic episode recovery.

Avoid Denying their Experience

Patients may feel like they are going crazy after a psychotic episode. You may be confused about how to respond or react when a loved one has hallucinations or delusions. If someone you care about is seeing or feeling things that do not make sense to you, avoid confirming or denying their experience. Instead, focus on how they are feeling rather than their psychotic experiences. You can offer consoling words, like “I understand how you feel right now, and I am here to help.”

Offer Help

Ideally, you want to ask your loved one if they need practical help. You can accompany them to their hospital visits or help them access medical care. Similarly, you can act as their advocate to validate their feelings.

Things You Should Do When Supporting Someone Experiencing Psychosis

  • Talk in a calm voice and use short, reassuring sentences
  • Be empathetic about their experiences and feelings
  • Listen attentively when they explain what they are feeling
  • Avoid confronting or arguing with them regarding their beliefs
  • Give them space if they do not want to talk
  • Treat them with respect
  • Validate their feelings

Ideally, medical professionals should be your first call for help as they can handle such situations much better. You can provide support when they return from the hospital to aid their psychosis recovery.

Treatment of Psychosis

Providing support for your loved one experiencing psychosis may seem difficult and overwhelming at times. While you may be able to offer love and support to your friend or loved one, it is important to remember that treatment from a mental health professional is the best step to recovery.

At NeuroSpa Therapy Centers, our team of dedicated professionals is equipped with the necessary tools and resources to get your mental health back on track. Whether it is medication therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, or TMS therapy, NeuroSpa will give your loved one the customized treatment they need to carry out a happier and healthier life.

If you or a loved one are struggling with your mental health, consider reaching out to NeuroSpa today.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

wooden block letters that spell out the word anxiety

The Best Anxiety Treatment That Requires No Medication

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Mental Health Maintenance.

Anxiety is a common problem that affects millions of people every year. This condition can make it difficult to cope with daily life. Fortunately, there are many effective anxiety treatments without medication that can help those living with anxiety.

So if you’re seeking out an alternative to pharmaceutical medication and other forms of treatment, consider one of these helpful options.

Beating Anxiety Without Medication

Anxiety is a very real and common problem that many people face. In fact, according to data from the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 40 million people in the U.S. currently live with anxiety. Thankfully for those struggling, there are several effective ways to get over anxiety without medication.

Although anxiety medication has beneficial effects for many people, some may simply be looking for additional treatment methods that will ease anxiety without the use of medication.

Talk Therapy

This type of therapy without medication focuses on helping individuals understand their feelings and behaviors and how these things relate to their past experiences. It can help people learn how to manage their feelings in healthier ways to better cope with stressors in the present moment.

Exercise

If you’re wondering what to do for depression and anxiety without meds, exercise has been shown to reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and even PTSD without meds because it releases endorphins that provide an “anti-anxiety” effect on your body’s chemistry. It also has been shown to improve sleep quality, which means better mental health overall!

TMS Therapy

TMS Therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to alter brain activity. This method of therapy is an FDA-approved treatment for depression and is a highly effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and other medication-resistant mental health conditions To learn more about TMS therapy, this blog has a lot of useful information on how you can use it to help treat anxiety and depression.

Nutrition Counseling

Nutrition counseling helps you understand how food affects your body and mind, which can lead to better eating habits, fewer symptoms of anxiety, and overall improved health. Your nutrition counselor will work with you to set goals for improving your diet based on what works best for your body type and lifestyle.

Together, you’ll create a plan that improves how well your body digests foods, absorbs nutrients from those foods into your bloodstream, metabolizes energy from those nutrients into usable energy for cells and organs throughout the body (including brain tissue), and excretes waste products from metabolism out of the system via urine or stool.

Sleep Evaluation

Sleep is vital to your mental health; so if you’re still wondering how to deal with anxiety without pills, you may want to consider scheduling a sleep evaluation appointment. Sleep helps your brain process information and allows it to clear out any toxins that have built up during the day. Not getting enough sleep can cause anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues to worsen. If you are having trouble sleeping, try taking some time before bed to do something relaxing.

Before going to bed, take a bath or read a book in a cozy space where you won’t be disturbed by either noise or light. If you wake up in the middle of the night and cannot fall back asleep, try counting sheep or slowly breathing in through your nose and out through your mouth until you feel relaxed again.

NeuroSpa Offers Anxiety Treatment Without Medication

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in the world. It affects millions of people every day and is responsible for a huge percentage of mental health-related visits to primary care doctors.

NeuroSpa, however, offers treatments that don’t require medication, such as TMS therapy, talk therapy, nutrition counseling, and sleep evaluation. We’ve found that it’s more effective than many prescription medications, so if you’re looking for anxiety treatment options that don’t require medication, consider reaching out today.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

camouflage war helmets laying on a table

Common Myths About PTSD

Written by Rachel Firster on . Posted in Anxiety, Depression.

If there is a mental health disorder that is often misunderstood, it’s PTSD. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is often mistaken for anxiety, depression, or even something completely different. Simply put, it’s a mental health condition that is triggered by a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD may include:

  • Nightmares
  • Severe anxiety
  • Depression
  • Heightened reactions
  • Flashbacks to the traumatic experience
  • Recurrent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event

PTSD tends to manifest in a variety of different ways. Unfortunately, Hollywood and pop culture tends to portray it in an unrealistic way more often than not. It’s time to talk about the most common myths and facts about PTSD.

Myth #1: It only affects military veterans.

While military members are more likely to have PTSD than others, you might be surprised at the variety of people that experience PTSD. Anyone can have PTSD, even children as young as 12. If you experienced something traumatic that still affects you, you can be diagnosed with PTSD. Experiences that may cause PTSD outside of war and combat may include:

  • Natural disaster
  • Serious injury
  • Rape
  • Sexual violence
  • Serious accident
  • Physical abuse

Despite PTSD awareness being at an all-time high, this remains a common PTSD myth.

Myth #2: People with PTSD become violent and hallucinate.

One of the most dangerous myths about PTSD is that most people affected by it are “crazy” or potentially dangerous. While this is not only untrue, it’s extremely hurtful and contributes to a stigma that is unfair to those experiencing PTSD.

Most people who have PTSD are perfectly safe to be around and have never considered engaging in violence. Moreover, hallucinations and psychosis are extremely rare among people who suffer from this mental health condition.

Myth #3: PTSD happens immediately after trauma.

As far as myths about PTSD go, this is actually one of the more innocuous. It can take people weeks, months, or even years before they actually develop symptoms of PTSD after experiencing a traumatic event. It is important to keep in mind that PTSD presents itself differently in different people.

Myth #4: PTSD only happens to people who are emotionally weak or stunted.

A common thing people with PTSD hear is that they should “get over it, already.” You may have even heard others call them weak for still grieving a loss or having intrusive thoughts. Once again, this is exceptionally damaging to people who have PTSD.

Make no mistake about it: people who have PTSD are not weak, nor can they “just get over it.” PTSD is caused by changes in the brain. This is a medical condition that causes severe symptoms and requires proper treatment.

Myth #5: You probably don’t know anyone who has PTSD.

Not true. A common PTSD myth is that it’s a rare disorder that only affects a small percentage of people who have undergone a traumatic experience. This isn’t true.

70 percent of Americans will have a moment of trauma in their lives. Of that 70 percent, 1 out of every 5 will develop PTSD in their lifetimes. That means 14 percent of all Americans will have PTSD at one point or another.

In other words, it would be strange if you didn’t know someone who has experienced PTSD.

Myth #6: There’s nothing you can do to treat PTSD.

Contrary to popular belief, PTSD is a treatable mental disorder that can have great results with the right help. There are many studies confirming that treating PTSD through professional means of medication and therapy can help people live a happier, healthier, and calmer life.

By eliminating some of the myths and misconceptions about PTSD, we can further normalize this condition. By destigmatizing PTSD, those suffering with this condition will be more likely to reach out for the professional help they need without shame. PTSD is a serious mental health condition that requires the right treatment to move forward. If you or a loved one are suffering from PTSD, don’t wait – reach out to a professional for help.

This blog post is meant to be educational in nature and does not replace the advice of a medical professional. See full disclaimer.

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NeuroSpa offers advanced, science-backed treatments like TMS and SPRAVATO that have shown success even when other treatments haven’t. These innovative therapies target areas of the brain linked to mood regulation, often providing relief for those who haven’t found success with traditional methods.
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Our treatments are designed with convenience in mind. For instance, TMS sessions typically last less than 20 minutes, and there’s no downtime afterward, so you can get back to your day quickly. We also offer flexible scheduling to fit into your routine.
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