depression

Relationships: How does mental illness affect romantic relationships?

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By: Mara Gonzalez

Romantic relationships are characterized as a form of connection through physical, emotional, sexual, mental attraction and intimacy towards one another. With strong feelings for each other, romantic relationships lead to strong commitment bonds. But romantic relationships aren’t always perfect. Over 40 million people in the United States, alone, are suffering from a mental disorder such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder (Stein). Mental disorders can affect a person’s life in many different ways, including a romantic relationship. Since intimate relationships require attention from both parties, the function and stability of the relationship can vary if one of the partners is affected by a mental disorder. As some of mental illness can affect day-to-day functions, relationships can be affected by the wellbeing of one or both of the partners.

Although every person diagnosed with a mental disorder can experience different symptoms, some common signs of a mental disorder can be loss of appetite and sleep, extreme mood swings, burnout, increase/decrease of certain emotions, unhealthy coping habits and/or unusual emotional outburst. One example of how the effect on the relationship can be seen is codependency. Due to the unstable emotions, the person affected by a mental disorder might need to rely on their partner for everyday things like needing help to:  

  • Stay balanced with a healthy eating style
  • Getting a good number of hours of sleep
  • Setting appropriate boundaries
  • Enabling healthy behaviors

A fear that is common amongst people with a mental health issue and their romantic relationship is pushing the other partner away. Dealing with a mental disorder is not easy, and can negatively consume a person’s life. The fear of pushing your partner away comes from not knowing if you would be accepted by your partner due to your mental health issue(s), if your partner is willing to help you and your needs, if your partner is okay with intimacy, and many more. Tory Miller, a Clinical Program Manager at Diversus Health, stated, “Sometimes we have our own stigma associated with disclosing our mental health struggles. We hesitate to share with our partner for fear of pushing them away”.

Disclosing a mental health disorder is important because it helps keep the trust and open communication, as well as having a stable foundation in the relationship. It can be seen as healthy to disclose mental health disorders so your partner is not confused by your symptoms and is able to provide adequate support for you and give you a safe place to be yourself. It is important to understand that all relationships have struggles and challenges, and it may be a good idea to establish reliance and healthy boundaries.

Sources: Stein, Catherine H et al. “Strengths, Struggles, and Strategies: How Adults with Serious Mental Illness Navigate Long-Term Romantic Relationships.” Community mental health journal vol. 60,7 (2024)

“How Mental Illness May Affect Relationships.” Edited by Diversus Health, How Mental Illness May Affect Relationships – Diversus Health, diversushealth.org/mental-health-blog/how-mental-illness-may-affect-relationships/.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

Schizophrenia: “The Collected Schizophrenias” – A Glimpse into the Mind of a High-Functioning Schizophrenic

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Schizophrenia: “The Collected Schizophrenias” – A Glimpse into the Mind of a High-Functioning Schizophrenic

By: Rachel Wang

From the outset of Esme Weijun Wang’s writing, she held my attention and respect as a first-time reader of her work: Asian American, graduated from Stanford with a 3.99 GPA, highly accomplished author. As she described her struggle with various mental illnesses including schizoaffective disorder, Lyme disease, and Cotard’s syndrome, I was struck by how, in spite of all of these challenges, she was still able to lead a rich, successful, and relatively happy life. Having a mental illness does not take away from you as a person; rather, it stands as a testament to what you have undergone and the strength of your character.

At the beginning of her novel, Wang points to a 2013 Slate article titled “Schizophrenic Is the New Retarded” by neuroscientist Patrick House, in which House notes that schizophrenia is closely associated with qualities of being volatile and contradictory, characterizing a range of personas from a person with split personality disorder to a serial killer. Wang uses this article to convey a main theme that recurs throughout the novel: When it comes to “socially frowned upon” disorders like schizophrenia, being diagnosed is something of a death sentence in itself. All aspects revolve around this heavy medical label that you have become; even if you recover and lose the diagnosis, those who know you will feel like they don’t because of this cryptic illness, and you will forever be considered an outcast in society.

When it comes to dealing with high-risk mental disorders, a person must be judged on whether they pose not only a danger to themself, but to society as well. As someone who was sent to a mental facility against her will, Wang believes that forcing treatment onto someone under the guise of “doing what’s best for them” is a serious violation, stripping the individual of the basic right of autonomy. She quotes Plumadore, a renowned figure in the mental health community, on this subject: “We have the ultimate decision about what we’re going to allow into our bodies, what we’re not, and the decisions that we make about our own lives.” This view reappears later in the novel when Wang describes her experience with being 5150’d (involuntary psychiatric commitment), which she concludes with the final, depressing thought: “For those of us living with severe mental illness, the world is full of cages where we can be locked in” (110).

From lifelong societal disapproval to deterioration of health, schizophrenia is undoubtedly a plague to those who bear it, causing much suffering and threatening to overtake one’s whole life. The perpetual overshadowing of this type of illness leads less to the perspective “What will this affect?” and more to simply thinking “What won’t this affect?” or “What percent of my life can I realistically expect to keep for myself?” In spite of all her doubts, Wang was able to prove that she was larger than her disorders—not only achieving her dream of becoming an accomplished writer, but going further to create a powerful work of literature based on her personal struggles, offering inspiration to those struggling with mental illnesses everywhere.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

Beautiful yet Tragic: Marilyn Monroe’s Lifelong Struggle with Mental Illness

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By: Rachel Wang

Marilyn Monroe, born Norma Jeane Baker, was a glamorous Hollywood actress who became known for her iconic “blonde bombshell” role in the 50s and 60s. Alluring, radiant, and successful, she presented a seemingly flawless image of femininity and class. What could have driven such a talented young woman to end her own life? And what are the implications for mental health awareness in a society that prioritizes the perfectly curated image over authentic emotional wellbeing?

Beneath the pop culture icon’s surface was a deeply troubled woman with a turbulent childhood. Norma Jeane’s family had a history of mental illness. Her grandmother suffered from manic-depressive illness and died in a psychiatric hospital; her great-grandfather died by suicide. Her own mother was diagnosed as manic-depressive and later as paranoid schizophrenic, being hospitalized several times and eventually institutionalized when Norma Jeane was only 8 years old. As a result, Norma Jeane lived in as many as twelve different foster homes, and was sexually abused by her foster parents in two of them. Despite later creating a character that would captivate the country, Monroe struggled with various mental illnesses and substance abuse throughout adulthood, and would later die from a barbiturate overdose at only 36.

Based on a biographical review written by psychiatrists and clinical psychologists, it is highly suspected that she suffered from Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). BPD is characterized by unstable moods, impulsivity, a distorted self-image, and trouble with interpersonal relationships. It is also highly probable that she developed Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) due to her childhood abuse. The accumulation of traumas, combined with the presence of BPD, may have led to the development of complex PTSD (cPTSD), which is associated with a high risk of suicide.

Beautiful yet tragic, Marilyn Monroe’s story highlights an important truth: Anyone can be struggling with hidden challenges, no matter how perfect or fine they might seem on the surface. It is crucial to check in on your loved ones to ensure they get the help they need, whether it be therapy, medication, or both. The growing awareness and de-stigmatization of mental health in today’s society have made resources more accessible than ever—offering support that can save lives.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

References:

Dell’Osso, L., Carpita, B., Luche, R. D., Lorenzi, P., & Amatori, G. (2023). The Illness Trajectory in Marilyn Monroe’s Psychological Autopsy: From Autism Spectrum Disorder to Borderline Personality Disorder and Bipolar Disorder with Catatonia. Clinical neuropsychiatry, 20(6), 505–510. https://doi.org/10.36131/cnfioritieditore20230605

Effects of Social Media on Mental Health

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Effects of Social Media on Mental Health

By: Jessica Radfar

Social media offers many advantages, allowing people to stay connected with friends and family regardless of location. It also provides quick and easy access to information, including news and current events. However, despite these benefits, social media can negatively impact mental health. Here are some reasons why.

  • Fear of Missing out (FOMO): Constantly checking to see what others are doing can lead to feelings of fear and missing out. This can create anxiety and unrealistic expectations about how we “should” be living.  
  • Self-Image: Social media often promotes idealized images using filters to change appearances online. This can affect our mental health by comparing ourselves to others or seeking acceptance from our posts on social media through likes and comments.
  • Self-Esteem: Watching other people’s seemingly perfect lives can result in feelings of insufficiency and low self-worth.
  • Cyberbullying: Exposure to harassment and negative comments on social media can lead to feelings of isolation and increased stress.

To help with this, prioritize your well-being. Here are some ways to do that.

  • Limit Screen Time: Use features on your phone to set daily time limits on social media apps.
  • Schedule Yourself Screen-Free Time Daily: Set aside part of your day, whether it is during meals, time at the gym, or with friends, where you are completely offline and present.
  • Put Your Phone on Do Not Disturb: This will help eliminate distractions and checking notifications.
  • Avoid Social Media Before Bed: The blue light on our phones can disrupt our sleep, which is crucial for our mental health.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

References

Dalomba, F., About the Author: Frances Dalomba, Author:, A. the, Ead, A., Craine, R., & Paccione-Dyszlewski, M. R. (2022, March 1). Pros and cons of Social Media. Brown University Health. https://www.brownhealth.org/be-well/social-media-good-bad-and-ugly

Hospital, B. (n.d.). 7 ways social media can affect mental health. Butler Hospital. https://www.butler.org/blog/7-ways-social-media-can-affect-mental-health

Anxiety: Generalized Anxiety Disorder – Chronic Worry

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Anxiety: Generalized Anxiety Disorder – Chronic Worry

By: Michelle Cocone

Do you ever find yourself worrying about everything all the time? You find that you can’t seem to find a way to let go, the worries always get in the way. If you are experiencing the following symptoms then you may have generalized anxiety disorder.

Generalized anxiety disorder is when you have immense worry and anxiety which affects your everyday life. Not to be confused with worrying because everyone worries about things or events occurring in their life. The difference is that one knows how to let it go or even worry about it for a bit and move on. For those experiencing generalized anxiety disorders, they don’t have a way of letting it go; it’s all they are constantly thinking about.

It may sound like:

What if I can’t get my laundry done? What if I can’t find a job? Will I be able to pay the bills on time? What if I fail in school? What if I get rejected? What if people don’t like me?

Notice how many of these worrisome are “what if” questions. It could be that you are worrying about situations/problems that haven’t yet occurred. This is one of the symptoms of this anxiety disorder- you fear the unknown which makes you worry constantly. You’ll find that you won’t be able to relax. For example, many students worry about picking and starting college. People with this disorder can also find themselves to be indecisive because they are scared to make the wrong choice.

What if I pick the wrong university? What if I fail out of my classes? What if I don’t like the people there? What if it’s too hard for me to manage?

At the end of the day we are human, we all make mistakes. We can’t be perfect all the time. In order to continue growing and be healthy, we have to sometimes make the wrong choices and learn from them. Our mistakes are what help us progress. If we are constantly worrying, then we can’t go anywhere, we’re stuck. Other symptoms you might be experiencing are: constant fatigue, muscle aches, overthinking, unable to relax, and irritability.

Generalized anxiety disorders in children are expressed differently than in adults. Children worry about being accepted, having good grades, being good at sports, making friends, being included in social outings, trying to make everything perfect, and seeking approval from their parents. This affects their mental health and everyday life routine.

Generalized anxiety disorder in adults, is more severe. Adults tend to worry about being financially stable, buying a house, not having credit card debt, having good credit, finding a good job, finding a romantic partner, and starting a family. Anxiety can be overwhelming, however. We have to remember that it’s not normal to chronically worry all the time. It’s really unhealthy and leads to poor mental health. Worrying about everything won’t make the situation better. It might actually worsen your health.

If you or someone you know is struggling with generalized anxiety disorder, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

References

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024a, April 16). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/generalized-anxiety-disorder

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.-a). Generalized anxiety disorder: When worry gets out of Control. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/generalized-anxiety-disorder-gad


Anxiety about starting College: Getting over Anxiety as a Freshman in College

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Anxiety about starting College: Getting over Anxiety as a Freshman in College

By: Michelle Cocone

Every young adult pursuing a higher education will go through college. Starting college can be scary; you become a freshman all over again. Young adults tend to get anxious when thinking of the process. It’s very normal to experience this feeling. This anxiety stems from the uncertainty of college, not knowing what or who to expect. They will question whether they will be accepted, make friends, balance their workload, and hopefully not get lost. These are useful tips to help ease the adaptation of college.

Every College Student Was Once a freshman                                                                        

  • You aren’t alone in this experience as every freshman feels anxiety
  • Use the anxiety and fear to your advantage, this can be a topic of conversation to make friends
  • Embrace “I am a freshman who can start from zero”, a clean slate
  • It’s okay if you don’t have a best friend right away
  • Take the time to build connections, these can be important for networking after college

Have a Support System

  • Talk to friends or family about your college experience
  • They can share advice if they have gone to college

Use a Planner

  • Balancing schoolwork can be easier if you have a planner
  • When you get your course assignment schedule, jot it down in your planner to stay ahead of assignment due dates
  • Highlight exam and midterm dates to accommodate studying time

Utilize Your Resources

  • Colleges have many resources to help the transition from high school to college
  • Colleges have academic support, such as tutors and study centers
  • Colleges have well-being support and someone to talk to about your anxiety or anything else you want to share
  • Look up your campus map to find directions to your classes
  • Talk to your professors. They are there to help you succeed.

Remember college isn’t only about getting a higher education; it’s a place where you can prepare yourself for your career. Allow yourself to be independent and make your own choices. Everything you do will help you grow as a person, not just academically. It can absolutely be terrifying starting college if you feel anxious or scared; seeking counseling can be a good first step to feeling secure.

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety about starting college, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

References

University of Fear and anxiety: How to pass your freshman year of college. Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA. (2018, July 6). https://adaa.org/learn-from-us/from-the-experts/blog-posts/consumer/university-fear-and-anxiety

Social Media: The Impact on Mental Health

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Social Media: The Impact on Mental Health

By: Maria Koutsothanasis


Social media plays a significant role in shaping how we connect, communicate, and even view ourselves. While social media has its benefits, it can also have a detrimental impact on mental health. Social media can negatively affect our mental well-being through constant comparisons, unrealistic expectations, and exposure to harmful content. By being intentional about what we engage with, we can use social media as a tool to enhance our lives and protect our mental well-being.

One of the main drawbacks of social media is the tendency to compare ourselves to others. Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are often filled with images of people’s “perfect” lives, highlighting their achievements, beauty, and happiness. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, especially when we find ourselves measuring our lives against these unrealistic portrayals. Social media comparison can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and even body image issues. The more we focus on the idealized versions of others’ lives, the more likely we are to forget that what we see online isn’t always an accurate reflection of reality.

The positive aspect is that we can decide what content we engage with. By intentionally following accounts that promote positivity, self-love, and well-being, we can counteract the negative effects. Following fitness influencers who focus on health rather than body perfection, or mental health advocates who offer advice and share stories of resilience, can create a more positive environment. By engaging with content that aligns with our values, we can shift our mindset toward growth and self-empowerment.

Social media often highlights negativity, which can significantly affect our mental well-being. Platforms frequently highlight drama, conflicts, and extreme opinions, contributing to constant criticism and judgment. Posts that focus on problems, such as failed relationships, mental health struggles, or societal issues, can evoke anxiety or feelings of hopelessness. Viral content that spreads negativity, such as gossip or inflammatory comments, often gains attention, while positive messages may not receive the same recognition. This constant exposure to pessimism can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from the positive aspects of life.

While social media has its negative aspects, it’s possible to transform how we interact with it to protect our mental health. By being mindful of the content we consume and consciously seeking out positive, uplifting posts, we can create an online environment that nurtures our well-being. Social media can be a powerful tool for connection, education, and personal growth if used intentionally. Ultimately, it is important to remember that we control our social media environment and can shape it to support our mental health.

If you or someone you love is struggling with depression or anxiety, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/. 


UC Davis Health. (2024, November 27). Social Media’s impact on our mental health and tips to use it safely. health. https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/social-medias-impact-our-mental-health-and-tips-to-use-it-safely/2024/05

Stigma Surrounding Therapy

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Stigma Surrounding Therapy

By: Maria Koutsothanasis

Therapy is a tool that supports individuals struggling with mental health and different aspects of their lives. Despite the growing conversations about mental health, there continues to be stigma surrounding it. Due to the stigma, individuals find it difficult to seek support through therapy due to fear of judgment, shame, or cultural expectations.

Common Misconceptions about Therapy

  1. Therapy is only for “crazy” people.
    Many people still associate therapy with severe mental illness and believe it’s only for those experiencing extreme mental health conditions. Therapy can benefit any individual, regardless of the severity of their situation. Therapy is about growth, coping with life’s challenges, and improving overall mental well-being.
  2. Therapy takes too long or is not effective.
    Some fear that therapy is a lengthy process that will not have results. While the length of therapy depends on the individual’s needs, many individuals find that even a few sessions can lead to meaningful improvements. Therapy is not a quick fix, but it is an investment in long-term mental health.
  3. Only “weak” people need therapy.
    A common misconception is that seeking therapy is a sign of personal weakness. On the contrary, therapy is a sign of strength and courage. Therapy helps individuals confront their emotions and commit to bettering themselves. Many individuals believe therapy to be an invaluable tool for growth; instead, it promotes emotional resilience.

Breaking the Stigma

Breaking the stigma surrounding therapy is essential for creating a more supportive and open environment for society. The idea of seeking therapy can still feel uncomfortable for many individuals due to the misconceptions that treatment is only for those facing serious mental health issues, with therapy often viewed as something reserved for those with severe problems. These misconceptions prevent many from seeking the help they need. By normalizing therapy and highlighting its benefits, an environment can be created where mental health care is as accessible and accepted as physical health care.

If you or someone you know is seeking support, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling & Psychiatric Services. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2017, May 24). Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/in-depth/mental-health/art-20046477

Saporito, J. M., Ryan, C., & Teachman, B. A. (2011). Reducing stigma toward seeking mental health treatment among adolescents. Stigma research and action. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3839682/

Stigma, prejudice and discrimination against people with mental illness. Psychiatry.org – Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination Against People with Mental Illness. (n.d.). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination

Therapy: A Lifeline, Not a Last Resort

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Therapy: A Lifeline, Not a Last Resort

By: Angy Farhat

For many years, therapy has been misunderstood, with many individuals associating it only with severe mental health problems. According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 50% of individuals with mental health issues don’t seek help, partly due to the stigma that therapy is for “broken” people or those in crisis. This narrative discourages people from reaching out, preventing them from using therapy as a preventative measure. Therapy should be seen as a lifeline—an essential tool for maintaining mental wellness, not a last resort.

Therapy is not just for people in crisis; it’s a vital tool for anyone looking to enhance their emotional well-being. Much like going to the gym for physical fitness, therapy helps strengthen your mental resilience. Regular sessions provide a space to understand your thoughts and behaviors, improve emotional regulation, and build coping strategies for life’s challenges. By addressing concerns before they escalate, therapy can prevent issues like anxiety or depression from becoming overwhelming.

Types of Therapy

There are various types of therapy, each suited to different needs:

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Focuses on changing negative thought patterns.
  2. Psychodynamic Therapy – Explores unconscious processes influencing behavior.
  3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Aids in managing intense emotions.
  4. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment while committing to actions that align with their values.
  5. Couples or Family Therapy – Improves communication and resolves conflicts.

These diverse approaches allow individuals to choose the therapy that best fits their needs, whether they’re struggling with a specific issue or simply seeking personal growth.

The Lifelong Benefits of Therapy

Therapy offers lasting benefits beyond temporary relief. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health shows that therapy can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. People who engage in therapy often experience improved emotional resilience, healthier relationships, and better-coping mechanisms. The skills you gain in therapy can help you manage stress, navigate life transitions, and maintain mental balance in the long term.

While therapy can benefit anyone, there are certain signs that indicate it might be time to seek help:

  • Persistent Feelings of Overwhelm or Stress
    If daily tasks are becoming increasingly difficult to manage due to stress or anxiety, therapy can help you develop coping skills and regain control.
  • Significant Mood Changes
    If you notice consistent changes in your mood, such as prolonged sadness, irritability, or feelings of hopelessness, therapy can help you address underlying emotional issues.
  • Difficulty Managing Relationships
    Struggles in personal or professional relationships, marked by ongoing conflict or miscommunication, can be a sign that therapy is needed to improve interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.
  • Changes in Behavior
    If you’ve noticed significant changes in behavior—such as withdrawal from activities, social isolation, or changes in sleeping or eating habits—it’s important to address these shifts with professional support.
  • Difficulty Coping with Major Life Changes
    Life events such as a breakup, job loss, or the death of a loved one can trigger emotional

If any of these resonate, therapy could be a helpful resource to regain clarity, manage emotions, and improve your well-being.

If you or someone you love is seeking therapy, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/. 

References:

American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Why therapy works: Therapy and mental health. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/therapy

American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). Myths about therapy. American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-psychiatry

Harvard Health Publishing. (2018, May). Cognitive behavioral therapy: A whole-body approach to improving your mental health. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/cognitive-behavioral-therapy

Mayo Clinic. (2021, December 20). Mental health care: Types of psychotherapy. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/expert-answers/therapy/faq-20057886

World Health Organization. (2013, October). Mental health: Strengthening our response. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response

Depression: Impacts on College Students

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Depression: Impacts on College Students

By: Maria Koutsothanasis

College is where many students are excited about independence, opportunities, and new experiences. Some students may experience challenges with change and experience feelings of depression. Balancing academics, social life, and financial difficulties can bring anxiety onto a student. These challenges can significantly impact mental health and lead to depression. Depression not only affects a student’s emotional well-being but disrupts all other aspects of their life.

The Impacts

  1. Academic Struggles

      Depression can disrupt a student’s ability to focus, retain important information, and meet deadlines for assignments. Symptoms such as fatigue, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, and hopelessness can lead to poor attendance and a decline in grades. Without the proper environment and support, depression can consume a student’s daily life and cause academic struggles.

      2. Social Isolation

        Depression can impair a student’s social life and cause them to lose the strong support systems they previously had. The withdrawal from social interactions can worsen symptoms of depression and lead students to feel alone. Depression can consume a student, making it difficult to get out of bed and engage in social activities that other students would enjoy.

        3. Long Term Consequences

        Without the proper support, environment, and treatment, depression can cause long-term effects. Academically, depression can lead students to fail courses and drop out of school which can impact the opportunities that are presented to students in the future. Untreated depression can lead to long-term physical health issues such as heart disease, chronic stress, and unhealthy coping mechanisms.

        Coping and Support

        1. Utilize Campus Resources

          Many colleges offer a wide range of support systems to help students cope with their depression. Counseling services, support groups, clubs, and mental health and wellness workshops are resources that can support students during difficult times.

          2. Establish Healthy Habits

          A routine such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consistent sleep can improve mood and energy levels. Incorporating mindfulness is a way to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms. Students can use creative tasks and different outlets students can use to reduce stress and enhance their emotional well-being.

          3. Build support

          Building a strong support system and a positive environment is a way to decrease feelings and symptoms of depression. Reaching out to people who will provide you with the support you need is important. Staying connected with friends and family provides emotional support and stability.

          Depression among college students is an issue that needs awareness and actions to reduce stigma. By prioritizing mental health students can overcome mental health challenges that are constantly experienced. By accessing resources provided by colleges, establishing healthy habits and regular routines, and building a strong support system, students can develop resilience and improve their mental health.

          If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or other mental health issues, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling & Psychiatric Services. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

          Kristen Bowe, A. (2023, August 22). College students and Depression. Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/college-students-and-depression

          Luo, M.-M., Hao, M., Li, X.-H., Liao, J., Wu, C.-M., & Wang, Q. (2024, January 25). Prevalence of depressive tendencies among college students and the influence of attributional styles on depressive tendencies in the post-pandemic era. Frontiers in public health. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10850216/

          WebMD. (n.d.). How common is depression among college students?. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/depression/what-to-know-about-depression-in-college-students