Depression Archives - Freedom Psychiatry

Strong. Resilient. Brave

Three words many people would use to describe those who serve. They put themselves before others and risk their lives in honor of freedom. Service men and women are selfless and admirable but they are not immune to emotional and physical difficulties.

Often times, these difficulties can arise during the transition to civilian life. There are many roadblocks- some mental and some physical- that can stand in the way of a veteran’s health and happiness. Here are some tips that can help create a smooth transition for a veteran you love.

Don’t Make Assumptions

This is important! Every Veteran will transition differently so be sure not to overwhelm. However, if notice signs of depression, anxiety, or PTSD, it’s important to get them help. Never assume that someone is OK and transitioning well just because they smile. Veterans have been through a lot and may go through a period of separation anxiety as they work to adjust to their new ‘normal’.

Encourage A Healthy Routine

During the period of transition, many veterans will benefit from a routine. This can help bridge the gap between the strict military regime and new life as a civilian. A healthy routine is also a great opportunity for some self-care though working out and eating right.

Provide Support

This might sound obvious but it’s essential. You can provide support in many ways. Make a coffee date, send a BBQ invite, or simply pick up the phone and talk.. Give veterans space but focus on being there. Pick up the phone and start the conversation.

Most importantly, you can help a veteran by connecting them with a mental health professional. Dr. Madaram to help them create a plan for the transition back to civilian life. As a member of the military himself, he has special interest in military personnel and veterans who suffer with depression, anxiety, PTSD and other disorders that interfere with their lives.

Your morning alarm blares from the night stand next to as you scramble to turn it off. It’s the beginning of a new day and immediately your mind races with thoughts of meetings, deadlines, and “to-dos”. Notifications from Twitter, Facebook, and your E-mail come flooding in only to add to your tension.

It’s only 6am and you’re overwhelmed…sound familiar?

For many people, this routine is normal.

Thanks to technology and our inability to disconnect, it feels like there’s no break from stress. We’ve come to accept stress as
part of our culture. In fact, some people wear it like a badge of pride because stressed out people are successful, hard-working people-right?

Maybe. But, you don’t have to let stress lead you down the path to exhaustion and mental burnout in order to be successful. Even though stress might seem harmless, it can have a big impact on your health and wellness.

Some stress is good stress.

Stress has been a part of life since the dawn of time-literally! Our human ancestors developed the fight-or-flight response for safety. They used it to escape danger or fight off predators. It was, as the name suggested, associated with survival situations where you could fight or flight.

We all still have the fight or flight response. It’s part of what keeps us safe from dangers even today. It’s through the release of stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, the ‘fight or flight’ response has rapid effects on multiple bodily systems. Increased heart rate, blood pressure, muscle tension, sweat, and loss of focus are just a few physical symptoms.

These symptoms are usually temporary and sometimes essential for our wellbeing. What if you accidentally walked into a cross walk and a car zoomed by? You might experience all of the physical symptoms because of the hormone release, but you jumped back (without thinking) because of your flight-or-fight response. This type of temporary stress is normal and is not considered an illness.

How much stress is too much?

When your stress response becomes prolonged (or chronic), it has a much different effect on your body. Consequently, long-term stress can negatively impact your physical and mental health. Chronic stress has been linked to increased heart rate, high blood pressure,forgetfulness, weight gain, and a variety of other negative conditions. Unfortunately, people who experience long-term stress are more likely to experience increased anxiety and depression. Stress can impact the way you deal with emotions and behaviors.

PTSD and Stress

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can occur in people who’ve experience a traumatic event. PTSD can cause stress, anxiety, and the build up of many other physical and mental health conditions.

One small exposure to trauma can lead to PTSD.

Something that might seem like a “small trauma” to one person could lead to PTSD in another. This is why it’s essential to receive a personal evaluation so you can get on the road to wellness.

Dr. Madaram is here to help you navigate life’s challenges. He takes a holistic approach to healing that will help you manage stress in your life. Call today!

Is trauma really about personal resilience?

How much vs. how little exposure?

Are some people just stronger than others in the wake of trauma?

Understanding Small Ts and Large Ts

The truth is, someone doesn’t have to experience an overly distressing event in order for it to affect them deeply. In fact, the build up of smaller, everyday experiences can really take a toll. Trauma, whether big or small, can linger and affect your everyday life.

The “Large Ts” are usually the experiences most people think about when it comes to trauma. Military combat, sexual abuse, and natural disasters are commonly fall under the category of “Large Ts”. These types of trauma are the ones often associated with PTSD and leave people feeling powerless.

On the other hand, “Small Ts” can also interfere with your mental wellness. They too can disrupt emotional functioning and cause people to feel depressed and hopeless. Small traumas include situations such as family conflicts to financial stress, or divorce/ infidelity. Small traumas can accumulate and take an even bigger toll over time.

Who Gets PTSD & Who Doesn’t?

PTSD is a complex diagnosis. Trauma affects people differently. Factors like your past, perception of the event, and personal tolerance all matter. Also, not all combat service members are diagnosed with PTSD. The difference between developing trauma-related symptoms (or not) also has to do with how individuals process the trauma. Avoidance can lead to PTSD which is why it’s so important to heal.

Whether large or small, the way you perceive trauma is not a sign of weakness. Your journey to healing starts with self-love and acceptance. Dr. Madaram has a special interest in military personnel and veterans who suffer with depression, anxiety, PTSD and other disorders that interfere with their lives. He’s here to help you heal from all types of trauma in order to live your best life. Call today 919-802-1417

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that develops in those who’ve experienced trauma, a dramatic situation, or dangerous event. It’s natural to feel scared, shocked, and anxious after a traumatic event. In fact, the body’s ‘flight-or-flight’ response is meant to protect a person from harm.

There’s a wide range of reaction to trauma.

A lot of people recover from trauma naturally but, for those who don’t, PTSD might develop. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misconceptions surrounding PTSD and those who suffer. Here’s what you need to know.

Time Heals All

Trauma Trauma can linger for decades beyond the initial experience. It can interfere with your daily life and growth. For some, untreated trauma can become part of their identity over the years. Someone with symptoms of PTSD should not rely on time as a healing mechanism.

Only The Weak Develop PTSD

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Though it’s unknown why some people develop PTSD and other don’t, inner strength has nothing to do with it. PTSD is a disorder that should be treated by a qualified professional.

I Should Be Able To Control This Alone

Wrong! This type of thinking adds to the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. You wouldn’t hesitate to see a doctor for a broken ankle, and you shouldn’t hesitate to get help for PTSD either.

Certain groups are more reluctant to reach out than others-especially men. No one should suffer alone. Dr. Madaram is a member of the military himself. He has a special interest in military personnel and veterans who suffer with depression, anxiety, PTSD and other disorders that interfere with their lives.

Experiencing any sort of trauma can be a life-changing event. If you’ve lost something crucial to your well-being, you can’t often tell what the outcome will be. Sometimes losses can be caused by a disorder that drives you to do things you wouldn’t normally do.

And when that happens, you can feel pretty helpless and powerless.

Trauma recovery can be a challenge, but with the right support, there are ways to recover, rebuild, and move forward with your life.

Start By Labeling Your Feelings

When you feel powerless, you feel afraid to express your needs because you fear that even more will be taken from you. When you start the path to recovery, small steps can have a BIG impact. Put one foot in front of the other each day. Start by talking about how you feel and why. When you identify and engage in your emotions, you can slowly start to take positive action.

Develop The Right Mindset

As you try to move away from trauma, having the right mindset is essential to recovery. Find ways to help you stay present. Try to live in the moment. Develop an attitude of gratitude to help you find the good in each day. This can help slowly build up your self-esteem and confidence.

Healing after trauma starts with believing in yourself and the potential you have. Let Dr. Madarm take of of the “hows” of recovery at Freedom Psychiatry.

Dr. Madaram offers adult and pediatric trauma treatment to help you find ways to recover. Through talking therapy modalities like CBT and EMDR, and medicine if needed, he can help you find your footing and overcome PTSD. Everyone has the strength to overcome challenges. Sometimes, you just need a little help to find it.

Let Dr. Madaram get you on the path to healing through finding yourself. Call Today (919) 802-1417

The holidays can be a time of grief and sadness for those suffering from loss. Grief can be encompassing. It can come in overwhelming waves that make it difficult to cope. With the sights and sounds of holiday cheer all around, how can someone suffering from grief find relief?

Understanding Grief

Grief is a natural, emotional reaction to loss or change. It can cause you to feel overwhelmed, frustrated, depressed or angry. Grief can leave you stunned and left wondering if you’ll ever recognize your life again. The truth is, healing is a journey that doesn’t happen overnight.

To start, be kind to yourself.

Let yourself feel.

Label your emotions and don’t believe you have to “feel” a certain way. Accepting and acknowledging the pain is better than constant avoidance Give yourself permission to grieve.

Find Support on Your Healing Journey

Another essential element to healing is finding the right support system. Don’t be afraid to reach out when you feel lonely. Don’t put your emotional needs on the back burner. Sometimes, you might have to reach out because friends and family members might feel uncomfortable talking about your grief. They might think that you don’t want to talk about it. Even on the hardest days, remember that grief is a part of healing.

Be sure to set boundaries.

Caving into pressure or pretending to be “OK” can make your pain and grief even worse. Avoidance can lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as drug or alcohol use. One of the best ways to deal with grief is to seek the help of a mental health professional.

Dr. Madaram at Freedom Psychiatry believes that everyone has the strength to overcome challenges. Sometimes he needs to help you find it. In fact, sometimes he believes his role is showing you the way to find it yourself.

This holiday season, remember that the best gift you can give yourself is to be kind and true to yourself. Commit to living life as the best version of YOU possible. Be kind to yourself as you adjust to loss and deal with grief. We’re here for you! Give us as call today 919-802-1417

The holidays are known as the most wonderful time of the year!

A time meant for relaxing and spending time with the people you love. However, in reality, the holidays are filled with stress of all varieties. Many of us are out of our daily routines and overloaded with sugar and other holiday treats. Add to that the stress of gift giving, decorating, entertaining and it’s no wonder people develop holiday burnout.

Here are some ways you can stay healthy, happy and enjoy the holidays more this year…

Say “NO”

Don’t be afraid to say “no” so you don’t overcommit. There’s a lot of stress associated with holidays from attending events to buying everyone a gift. Overcommitment in these areas of your life can lead to burnout. Instead of attending the entire party, try staying for an hour. If finances are a strain, give gifts of love and gratitude that don’t cost a penny.

Maintain Routines

Long nights, poor diets, and lack of exercise can really impact your mental health and mood. Focus on staying grounded in your healthy routines. Overeating, drinking, and excess sugar this time of year can all affect your mood. Be mindful and enjoy the holidays responsibly.

Prioritize

Society puts a lot of pressure on us this time of year! There are so many things we are supposed to do this holiday season that might not be part of what you actually want to do. Forget about decorating, baking, and caroling if they don’t make you happy. Prioritize your health and happiness. Make a “to do” list and create a plan that allows you to tackle a little each day.

Most importantly, slow down and take it all in. Don’t give into the pressures of stress and perfection we see this time of year. If you need help finding mental or emotional freedom for you or a loved one, Dr. Madaram can help create a wellness plan for you.

Social Anxiety is hard to deal with anytime of year, but the holidays can add extra stress to the disorder.

Holiday parties increase the pressure to socialize….what will people think?

Overcrowded rooms, theaters, and malls can trigger panic…. what if something bad happens?

The list goes on and on. And, to those who suffer, social anxiety can build to more than just being shy or nervous. Social Anxiety Disorder affects more than 15 million adults in the US alone. Luckily, there are some ways you can get out this holiday season without letting your anxiety set in.

Find Support

Consider bringing a friend or loved one along for support. Large gatherings are a staple of the season. Ask a trusted person to join you who understands your difficulty in socializing. Their emotional support can help ease your anxiety by providing a buffer if things get difficult.

Pinpoint Your Anxiety

Think about what’s actually making you anxious. Is it a certain person? A place? A scenario? If you can pinpoint the source of your anxiety, you can create small, attainable goals. Don’t take on too much at once. Instead of committing to the entire party, make it a goal to stay for an hour.

Build Your Confidence

Often times, people with social anxiety worry a lot about what other people think. Are they judging me? …..What if I embarrass myself in front of everyone? Try erasing negative thoughts by building your self-confidence. Do something for YOU as an act of self-care. Remember to love yourself, first.

As with any disorder, there are so many levels of severity. Sometimes, social anxiety can lead to withdraw and other life-changing symptoms.

If you or a loved one struggles from social or any form of anxiety, Dr. Madaram is here to help you create a path to wellness. Don’t let another holiday season go by! Call Today

Is stress just a normal part of life? After all, doesn’t everyone experience it to some degree?

Stress in modern-day society seems to be just as common as the cup of morning coffee. Whether you chalk it up to a looming deadline at work or upcoming big event, stress can have an impact on your overall health in many ways.

What is Stress?

Stress is how the brain and body respond to demands. In life, there are demands we face daily. Work, physical activity, school, life events…even trauma. Stress grows and continues to build overtime.

You might notice that you are more on-edge….or sleeping less? How about your mood swings and rising anxiety levels?

It is important to pay attention to how you deal with minor (and major) stress events so that you know when to seek help. Many mental health disorders can lead to other chronic diseases. If you answer “Yes” to any of the questions below, it might be time to get help with managing your stress.

1. You develop new physical symptoms.

Different people may feel stress in different ways. For example, some people experience headaches while others can’t sleep. Digestive problems are also common for people with stress-related disorders. When you start to notice chronic, physical symptoms develop as a result of your stress…it’s time to get professional help.

2. You become obsessive and/or compulsive.

Stress can make some feel like they’ve lost control. In an effort to regain control of one’s thoughts, anxiety, and overall health, you might develop start to develop obsessions and compulsions. Obsessions are involuntary thoughts, or impulses that occur repetitively in your mind. Compulsions are behaviors or routines that make you feel driven to act out again and again. This type of behavior is commonly known as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder or OCD. It can interfere with your daily quality of life.

3. You are scarred by a traumatic event.

PTSD and trauma can leave you with psychological injury that can be shattering… and prevent you from functioning… or living a rewarding life, even if there’s no injury that you can see. Traumatic experiences so terrible, so painful, so utterly shocking and terrifying…that thoughts of it and the memories come back and make you feel like it’s happening again. Over and over. And when that happens, it can drive you to do things you wouldn’t normally do. It can severely interfere with your life.

4. Your energy levels drop.

When you are stressed, many systems in your body are affected including your nervous system. Your body might shift its energy resources to fight off perceived threats developed by anxiety. You might experience an change in hormones or a spike in blood pressure. All of these factors can leave you feeling tired, exhausted, and overwhelmed.

5. You develop unhealthy coping mechanisms.

Abusing prescription medication, drinking in access, spending too much, or sleeping too much (or too little) are just a few red flags. Stress-related disorders can have a BIG impact on your overall health and wellness. This is why it’s imperative that you seek treatment at the earliest sign of a problem.

Dr. Madaram’s perspective is that everyone has the strength to overcome challenges. Sometimes he needs to help you find it. In fact, sometimes he believes his role is showing you the way to find it yourself.

Let’s Talk Today!

Has anyone ever told you to “look at the big picture” in life?

Goodness, completion, and restoration are all part of the big picture. It’s the optimal state. Looking at the big picture is exactly what we do at Freedom Psychiatry.

Holistic Psychiatry is about looking at each person wholly. It’s about helping patients thrive by integrating their mind, body, and emotions. It’s about looking at the big picture instead of just one’s psychiatric symptoms.

How Does It Work?

When we address the whole person, we try to identify the obstacle(s) preventing them from thriving. It’s about finding the root cause of your psychiatric symptoms that might be effecting you physically and emotionally as well. We provide a warm and inviting environment for our patients. We care about finding solutions to get to the root of the problem.

It’s not just about covering it up as a short term solution. Holistic Psychiatry is much more! It’s about restoration in life. Restoring a patient’s thoughts, emotions, and body because they are all connected.

Mental vs. Emotional Health

Mental and emotional health are connected, but they are not interchangeable. Recognizing the difference between the two can help people better understand our holistic approach.

Scientifically speaking, mental health is often defined by a person’s behaviors related to the brain. Mental illnesses are actually caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. They can be hereditary or caused by other factors. Mental illnesses should be treated just as you’d treat any physical illness.

Our mental health is an essential part of our overall, holistic health.

On the other hand, emotions are an instinctive, natural state of mind. They’re a result of our circumstances, mood, and other factors that affect the way we feel. Many times negative emotions or feelings develop through trauma, difficult life situations, or unhealthy stress.

It’s hard to tell the differences between mental and emotional health issues which is why we’re here to help create mental and emotional freedom for your entire family.

Holistic Healing

If you or a loved one is suffering from unhealthy stress, trauma, anxiety, depression or any other mental or emotional health illness, we’re here for you. A more fulfilling and rewarding life awaits!