Mental Health Matters

Depression: Let’s Talk About It

GalleryJudy Gurfein Leave a comment

By: Nicole Cutaia

Depression: Let’s Talk About It

Depression is often times stereotyped through societal misconceptions and labels that portray individuals experiencing the condition as weak or even attention-seeking. But it is important to normalize depression, Having depression does not mean one is weak, a failure, or lazy, it simply means one needs mental health assistance. The stigma against mental health is a reason to why people battling with mental disorders such as depression, do not reach out for therapy or treatment.

Normalizing depression also allows individuals to become exposed to and educated on the mental disorder. Some people are genuinely not aware of what specific mental illnesses or disorders are so having an open discussion is very important.

Common symptoms of depression are constantly experiencing sadness or feeling the need to cry, feeling remorseful; life beginning to seem meaningless, having a negative attitude, decreasing activities you used to enjoy, changes in sleep, and experiencing irritability.

Life can get very busy and overwhelming; putting your mental health first is a priority. If you or any loved ones you know are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is vital to talk to someone.

If you or someone you know is having mental health difficulties and/ or experiencing symptoms of depression, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling & Psychotherapy. Contact our offices at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

The Importance of Involvement: Special Needs

GalleryJudy Gurfein Leave a comment

By: Nicole Cutaia

The Importance of Involvement: Special Needs

No one appreciates being left out. This applies to any age but especially has damaging effects on children. Children with special needs or intellectual disabilities are often left out in social settings. These environments range anywhere from school, sports, afterschool activities, and social gatherings

Growing up, we were taught to include everyone and never leave anyone out. But unfortunately, this ideology does not have value or significance to some. Kids can especially be mean or judgemental to others who may not look and act exactly like them. This is why bullying and stigma rates towards special needs individuals are so high.

I believe there are children who could benefit from learning about special needs and intellectual disabilities at school and at home so they are aware and knowledgeable on the topic. It is also very considerate to involve individuals who may not always have the opportunity to be included.

Everyone has a right to feel like they belong in their community and amongst their peers. Because they do belong.

It can be difficult to see a loved one or caretaker struggle with mental health. If you or a family member are 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 & Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, and 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/

Seasonal Affective Disorder

GalleryJudy Gurfein Leave a comment

By: Nicole Cutaia

Seasonal Affective Disorder

As the autumn leaves fall, everyone copes with the seasons changing differently. Some embrace the changes, while others may have difficulty with the adjustments. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during specific seasons. Typically, Seasonal Affective Disorder is most common in the fall and winter months when there is reduced sunlight. The lack of sunlight affects the body’s internal clock, hormone levels, and chemical messengers, Various symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder range from feelings of sadness, low energy, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and changes in appetite.

Multiple treatments are available for managing Seasonal Affective Disorder such as light therapy, counseling or psychotherapy, medication such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Additionally, there are coping methods individuals can try at home. The methods include going outside to get natural sunlight, eating vitamin D-enriched foods, taking vitamin D supplements, avoiding stressful situations, and consuming a healthy and balanced diet. Other methods one can try are getting plenty of outdoor and indoor exercise, talking to family and friends about Seasonal Affective Disorder, making your space as light and airy as possible, and sleeping for at least 7 to 8 hours every night.

It can be difficult to see a loved one struggle with Seasonal Affective Disorder. If you or a family member are 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 & Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, and 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/