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What Is PTSD and How Can Mental Health Therapy Help?

March 25, 2024

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric disorder that can develop in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. These events can include natural disasters, accidents, physical or sexual assault, combat, and emotional abuse. Bonmente offers technology-forward psychiatric care that focuses on treating patients with PTSD and improving their quality of life. Here are some of the ways mental health therapy can help those who are struggling with PTSD:

Identifying Triggers

People who struggle with PTSD may experience triggers or events that remind them of the traumatic event they experienced. These triggers may cause intense emotional distress, leading to flashbacks and other symptoms of PTSD. A therapist uses evidence-based methods to identify and develop coping strategies for these triggers. Bonmente’s practitioners use psychotherapy techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help patients identify and manage their triggers.

Learning Coping Mechanisms

A therapist teaches you coping skills to manage stress and anxiety associated with PTSD. These skills might include relaxation techniques, mindfulness exercises, and emotional regulation strategies. Addressing PTSD requires professional intervention, and therapists develop a toolkit to equip individuals with the skills to overcome symptoms. Based on your unique experiences and symptoms, Bonmente therapists will tailor techniques to find a method that will work best for you.

Restoring Self-esteem

Mental health therapy helps individuals reclaim their sense of self-worth and self-esteem that the traumatic event may have damaged. Therapists also work towards helping individuals recognize their strengths and achievements. Acceptance and compassion are components of rebuilding a positive self-image. At Bonmente, we prioritize helping clients rebuild their self-esteem and empowering them to see their worth beyond their trauma.

Processing Traumatic Events

Therapy sessions provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to process their traumatic experiences. With the help of therapists, patients explore their thoughts and feelings surrounding the event and work towards understanding how it has impacted their lives. It focuses on self-reflection and helps individuals gain a new perspective on their trauma. This can lead to healing and growth, allowing individuals to move forward in a healthy way. A psychiatrist works with individuals to process their trauma in a compassionate and non-judgmental manner.

Building a Support Network

A mental health clinic connects individuals with a strong support network. Building relationships with others who have experienced similar trauma is helpful in the recovery process. These connections allow individuals to feel understood and supported, reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness. Accepting support from loved ones and trained professionals can help individuals feel less alone in their journey toward healing. At Bonmente, we encourage our clients to build a strong support network to aid in their recovery process.

Embrace Mental Health Therapy

Mental health therapy can be a powerful tool for healing and addressing post-traumatic stress disorder. The benefits of seeking therapy include improved coping skills, increased self-awareness and insight, and stronger control over thoughts and emotions. Meeting with a trained mental health professional can also provide individuals with techniques and strategies to manage symptoms and improve well-being. At Bonmente, we are dedicated to providing our clients with personalized therapy sessions tailored to their specific needs and goals. Reach out to our team today to get started.

Understanding Mental Health Services for Anxiety and Depression

March 14, 2024

Anxiety and depression are mental health disorders that can affect an individual’s health and overall well-being. There are several ways to address them, such as therapy and medication management. At Bonmente, our providers diagnose, treat, and monitor these conditions to help patients improve their quality of life. Here is more information about mental health services for anxiety and depression:

Understanding Anxiety and Depression

Understanding anxiety and depression is beneficial for promoting mental health awareness, enabling individuals to seek support for these conditions. Both anxiety and depression are treatable conditions. Beginning treatment involves recognizing the symptoms, acknowledging their impact, and finding effective mental health support and resources.

Anxiety

Anxiety is a natural human reaction to perceived threats or stress. It’s a feeling of worry, unease, or fear about what’s to come or a situation with an uncertain outcome. While it’s normal to experience occasional anxiety in response to stressful events or challenges, such as a job interview or public speaking, anxiety becomes a concern when it is overwhelming and persistent or interferes with daily life. Common symptoms of anxiety include:

Excessive worry and apprehension
Hyperventilating
Sweating and shaking
Increased heart rate
Feeling agitated, weak, or unsteady
Sleep disturbances
Difficulty concentrating and making decisions

Anxiety disorders can take various forms, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. These disorders may significantly impact daily functioning and relationships. Receiving mental health services from an experienced Bonmente provider can help individuals take control of their anxiety, improving their overall well-being.

Depression

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by frequent feelings of sadness and hopelessness. It can influence how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. Depression may also result in a loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities. Some symptoms of depression include:

Fatigue or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness
Irritability
Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
Sleep disturbances like insomnia or oversleeping
Changes in appetite or weight

There are several forms of depression, including seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and postpartum depression (PPD). Each condition can vary in severity and duration. They may also present differently and be triggered by varying factors, such as life events, chemical imbalances, or underlying medical conditions. Recognizing this enables our mental health providers to tailor treatment to address specific symptoms and needs.

Types of Mental Health Services Available

Anxiety and depression can coexist, causing individuals to experience symptoms of both simultaneously. Individuals experiencing these conditions may benefit from professional treatment, such as therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Here are some types of mental health services we offer to address anxiety and depression:

Psychiatric Evaluations

Our Bonmente mental health providers use psychiatric evaluations to diagnose conditions like anxiety and depression. These comprehensive assessments allow providers to evaluate and develop treatment plans for each individual. They involve gathering information about the individual’s medical history, symptoms, and psychosocial functioning to make an accurate diagnosis.

Therapy and Counseling

Therapy and counseling are key components of treatment for anxiety and depression. They allow individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a supportive and nonjudgmental environment. There are several different approaches to therapy and counseling, including talk therapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

CBT is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression, helping to identify and change negative thinking patterns. Therapy may be used alone or in combination with other treatment options, such as medication, lifestyle changes, and self-care strategies. Our qualified mental health professionals can conduct a thorough assessment and recommend the most appropriate therapeutic approach for each individual.

Medication Management

Medications are an effective tool prescribed to help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Providers use various anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications to manage symptoms. Many medications take several weeks to go into effect, requiring consistent monitoring to assess how the patient responds. Our providers work closely with each patient to find the most suitable treatment regimen based on their needs, preferences, and treatment goals.

Telepsychiatry

Telepsychiatry services offer convenient and accessible access to mental health care from the comfort of their own homes. This service utilizes telecommunications technology, such as videoconferencing and secure messaging platforms, to connect individuals remotely with our psychiatrists and mental health professionals. At Bonmente, our telepsychiatry interface is encrypted and confidential. It allows us to provide timely, convenient, and effective support for our patients experiencing depression and anxiety.

Access Mental Health Services With Bonmente

Depression and anxiety are two distinct but often interconnected mental health conditions that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life. With proper support and resources, individuals can learn to manage their symptoms. Whether through therapy, medication, telepsychiatry, or a combination of approaches, our Bonmente providers are equipped to treat anxiety and depression. Contact us today to learn more about our mental health services and their benefits.

EmpowHER: Spotlight on women’s wellness

November 30, 2023

The holidays are a time of togetherness, of merry making and joy and magic. A time when many women find themselves caught in an impossible tangle of work demands, family responsibilities, and personal fulfillment.

Unfortunately, for many women, wellness takes a backseat to all life’s other responsibilities and demands, especially at this time of year. Sure, they want to luxuriate in the bathtub or hide under the covers with a book, but they also want to make sure everyone they love has their favorite food on the table when they gather and that nobody feels bummed by what didn’t make it under the tree.

Women’s wellness is not a one-size-fits-all concept. Just like one pair of jeans won’t suit every body, women’s wellness is a personalized journey meant to identify needs and desires and prioritize time for self. Some days wellness is about blocking off time for a facial with friends. Other days it’s just remembering to take your multivitamin!

Hormonal fluctuations, societal expectations, and constantly shifting roles makes the female experience one marked by never-ending triumphs and tribulations. Let’s explore a few unique challenges women face that can make prioritizing wellness a real challenge.

JUGGLING ROLES & EXPECTATIONS

Women, the eternal multitaskers, often perform a daily balancing act. From career development to family responsibilities, societal expectations to personal ambitions, the plethora of roles women assume can be both enriching and overwhelming.

This intricate balance often leads to stress, anxiety, and a constant battle to meet perceived expectations. Understanding and addressing these unique stressors is crucial to promoting mental health and support.

RIDING HORMONAL WAVES

The ebb and flow of hormones add another layer of complexity to the experience of women. Menstrual cycles bring about hormonal fluctuations that can impact mood, energy levels, and emotional well-being. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and its more severe counterpart, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), are hormonally-triggered disturbances to mental wellness that can bring a woman’s world to a screeching halt.

As women transition through life stages, hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and menopause bring on a new set of mental health considerations. Mood swings, hot flashes, and changes in sleep patterns can all contribute to emotional challenges.

MANAGING MOTHERHOOD

Motherhood is without question an incredible life experience, one that brings unmatched richness and joy… and stress and frustration and exhaustion. There, we said it.

Just like professionals working 60-hours a week are likely to burnout, so are moms putting in 24-hour-a-day shifts, 365-days-a-year. The demands of career, family, and personal aspirations mean mothers are constantly juggling the needs of others with their own. It’s not hard to imagine how exhausting it is to keep up this act.

Postpartum depression, anxiety, and the demanding nature of motherhood can create a mental health landscape that requires sensitive and comprehensive care. Women also take on the caretaker role and bear the weight of nurturing and supporting those around them. While this innate caregiving capacity is a testament to women’s strength, it also places significant demands on their mental and physical health.

NAVIGATING SOCIETAL PRESSURES

We live in a world dominated by airbrushed images and unrealistic social expectations, and it’s hard not to compare yourself to this picture-perfect alternate unreality sometimes. The societal demand for perfection can contribute to body image issues, stress, low-self work, negative self-talk, and mental health challenges.

The constant pressure to meet external expectations requires women to build resilience and practice self-awareness. Recognizing and addressing these societal pressures is important for creating a culture that supports women in their pursuit of health and well-being, free from unrealistic expectations.

SUFFERING IN SILENCE

Although the CDC reports women are 33 percent more likely than men to visit a doctor, there is still significant stigma surrounding mental health that gets in the way of women getting the help and support they need.

“The silent battles women face, often internalized due to societal norms, emphasize the need for open conversations, empathy, and comprehensive support systems,” said Catalina Villa, a psychiatrist at bonmente.

EMPOWERING WOMEN THROUGH AWARENESS

Understanding the challenges of women is the first step to getting them the care they need, when they need it, without any apologies or judgments. Women deserve comprehensive, compassionate, and personalized mental health care that addresses the nuances of their lived experiences. Our compassionate team at bonmente allows you to prioritize your mental health from the comfort and safety of your home. and encourages you to give yourself the gift of some grace this time of year.

Caregiver Crash: Tips To Enjoy The Busy Summer

May 30, 2023

Summer brings with it a unique set of challenges for caregivers. Scheduling conflicts, transportation woes, and dealing with behavioral changes can all add to the challenges of juggling your own well-being while meeting the needs of those you care for making it essential to find ways to reduce stress in your life.

With weddings, parties, celebrations, work, and of course, the long-awaited school break, it’s like a chaotic game of Twister but without the fun colors and giggles. You might feel burnt out and overwhelmed with all these activities and youngsters vying for your attention. But you don’t have to let the summer rush leave you feeling as frazzled as your sun-damaged hair.

So grab a cool drink, and let’s dive in face-first, tackling caregiver crash with strategies to help you enjoy the summer while maintaining your sanity.

PLAN AHEAD.

Planning might not sound like the most exciting summer activity, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. Create a schedule that includes all the important events and tasks… and then DELEGATE responsibilities to family members or reliable friends who can lend a helping hand. Planning and sharing responsibility helps minimize surprises and reduces stress levels, allowing you to navigate the summer chaos more smoothly… and enjoy a bit of it yourself.

CONNECT WITH OTHERS.

As caregivers, we tend to put everyone else’s needs before our own – and for some parents, that often looks like spending time with our kids as if they were our only friends. So in case you needed this reminder, this doesn’t have to be the case.

Socializing and connecting with others – particularly those who can offer advice and support, such as other caregivers – can work wonders for your mental health. The point is, you’re not a bad parent or caregiver if every event you participate in revolves around making those who depend on you happy. Instead, your sanity depends on also looking out for your happiness.

PRIORITIZE SELF-CARE.

CareGIVERS, not careTAKERS, right? Well, if you don’t take time to refill your tank, it will go empty, and then no one will get anywhere. Allow yourself some downtime, and add it to the calendar if you have to. An evening walk with your fave podcast, 20 minutes of reading that trash book before bed, blasting the radio with the windows down and the AC on… whatever you love, whatever makes you feel invigorated, do it. For you and everyone around you.

“Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity,” said Claudette Banda, PMHNP. “Take time for yourself this summer, guilt-free. Do something that brings joy and relaxation. Practice mindfulness to stay in the moment and let go of stress. Engage in physical activities that get endorphins flowing.”

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF TELEPSYCHIATRY.

Let’s not overlook the incredible benefits of telepsychiatry for caregivers, especially during the busy summer months. Telepsychiatry offers convenience, accessibility, and flexibility. It’s like having a therapist in your pocket! Need support during your vacation travels? Having a meltdown that’s got nothing to do with the weather? No problem! Just hop on a video call and get the help you need. Telepsychiatry can be your secret weapon to manage any anxiety or stress that comes your way.

Bonmente is an excellent option for telepsychiaatry services, providing convenient and accessible mental health care at your fingertips.

ENJOY THAT SUMMER SELF-LOVIN!

Summer can be challenging for caregivers, but it doesn’t have to be a never-ending rollercoaster of exhaustion. By planning, connecting with others, prioritizing self-care, and utilizing telepsychiatry, you can enjoy the summer while maintaining your mental health and well-being.

So go out there, embrace the vibrant colors and long sunny days, and create beautiful memories!

Telepsychiatry: Stay Home, Feel Better!

April 28, 2023

Mental health is a topic often shrouded in stigma and shame, but the truth is that 1 in 5 Americans will experience some form of mental illness in their lifetime. That’s a whopping 20% – a staggering statistic, and it’s time we start talking more openly about mental health help. Moreover, it’s time to talk about the benefits of telepsychiatry…specifically at bonmente…and how you can move forward, feel better, and improve the quality of your life.

WHAT IS TELEPSYCHIATRY?

Telepsychiatry is a revolutionary form of mental health care that is quickly becoming the preferred way for people to receive psychiatric services. Better yet, it has been extensively studied and found to be as effective as treatment as usual for most mental health issues.

It is a form of telemedicine that involves the use of telecommunications technology to provide remote mental health services to individuals who want to skip a trip to the office. It has a number of benefits for those with mental health issues, including:

increased access to care,
improved quality of care,
more continuity in care,
better efficiencies in providing care, and
cost savings.

Telehealth is here to stay, and for those of us who spend too much time in traffic already, we are thankful!

Let’s take a closer look at who can benefit from telepsychiatry services at bonmente.

PEOPLE WITH A RANGE OF MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS

At bonmente, our providers are clinically and techonologically trained to care for all mental health problems through telemedicine platforms. If the condition can be treated in any other office setting, it can be done with telemedicine. For patients who are in crisis or need more intensive treatment, a telepsychiatry appointment can be the first step to getting a higher level of care.

Here are just some of the conditions that can benefit from telepsychiatry services at bonmente.

Anxiety disorders
Sleep disorders
Depression
OCD
PTSD
ADHD
Postpartum
Depression
Bipolar Disorder
Personality Disorders
Gender Dysphoria

These are also all conditions that, in some way, tend to make it difficult to get to appointments or feel comfortable seeking care in a public setting.

So, whether you have ADHD and time management is a challenge or depression that makes it feel impossible to get out of the house, telepsychiatry can help. Telepsychiatry makes it easier for people to receive the help they need from the comfort of their own homes.

PEOPLE WHO WANT TO PRIORITIZE MENTAL WELLNESS

You don’t need to struggle with a diagnosed mental health condition to benefit from telepsychiatry. We can help put together a customized care plan that helps you prioritize your mental health. Maybe you’re going through a tough time and need someone to talk to, or maybe you’re interested in learning new coping strategies for stress. Whatever your reason, telepsychiatry can provide support, tools, and guidance to help you succeed.

“Just like eating right and exercising, getting mental health ‘check-ups’ can be the difference between a bad day and a bad year,” said Jaspreet Takhar, PMHNP at bonmente. “Talking with a telehealth professional can help you gain clarity and perspective, no matter where you are in your mental wellness.”

PEOPLE WHO WANT TO TAKE CONTROL OF MENTAL ILLNESS

Mental health disorders can be incredibly debilitating and prevent people from living their best lives. If you’re feeling held back by a mental health disorder, telepsychiatry can help you find joy again. With the help of a licensed mental health professional, you can learn new coping skills and strategies for managing symptoms, developing healthier habits, and rediscovering the fulfillment of living a happy, healthy life.

Through telepsychiatry, bonmente offers a range of services to meet your unique mental health needs. Our team of experienced professionals can give you with the care you need – whenever and wherever you need it.

Does It Feel Like Everyone Is Sick Right Now?

December 24, 2022

Fever, cough, colds, the flu, why does it feel like everyone is sick right now? Even though we’re on our third ‘post-covid holiday’, there’s still so much going around that can make staying home seem like the best option. This early rush of winter illnesses can make navigating the holiday season even more complicated. Here are some tips from our expert team that can help you prioritize your wellness and enjoy all the holiday season offers.

Prioritize Nutrition

Holiday party foods, cocktails, and cookies are all part of what makes December the most wonderful time of the year. Even though it’s ok to treat yourself every once in a while, it’s important to focus on proper nutrition every month of the year. “ Sugar produces the “feel good” neurotransmitters that temporarily boost our
energy levels and enhance our mood, said Amanda Zapata, PA-C. Refined sugar can cause brain inflammation, cognitive decline, and a number of other health problems.”

Find More Ways To Move

Shorter days, increased periods of darkness, and cooler temperatures can zap motivation. Instead of getting overwhelmed by starting a new workout plan, focus on quick, manageable goals that get you moving. For example, go for a walk on your lunch break—practice yoga before bed. Find ways to incorporate movement into your day to benefit your mental and physical health.

Embrace Telemedicine

Telemedicine gained popularity during covid, and now it’s here to stay! From convenience to accessibility, Telemedicine has many benefits that help people prioritize their health and wellness from the comfort and safety of their homes. Check with your medical providers to see if Telemedicine is an option for your next appointment so you can stay home and stay healthy.

Protect Your Mental Health

We know how busy this time of year can be for you and your family. But, despite the hustle and bustle of the season, it’s essential to make time for your mental health. At bonmente, we offer technology-forward psychiatric care for all mental health conditions. Our providers will develop a treatment plan uniquely customized just for you. Now you can receive care from your home with convenient appointments that work with your schedule.

Reach out to our team today to put together a plan that can enhance your mood this holiday season and beyond.

SPOTLIGHT ON MENTAL HEALTH… and ACTION!

October 21, 2022

Many celebrities have spoken up about mental health struggles in the last few years (thank you Chrissy Teigen, Demi Lovato, Michael Phelps, and Lady Gaga!!), but if you’ve been tuned in the last week, you may have seen mental health has moved from a side show to the main stage.

On Saturday, Megan thee Stallion, known as the Hot Girl Coach and the H-Town Hottie, proudly strut a new title.

Miss Anxiety.

The award-winning artist who inspired a season of self-confidence for women of all shapes, sizes, and colors went on national television and said out loud that she has body issues and anxiety. That she should get help. That she just wants to talk to somebody who gets her.

WE KNOW THAT FEELING.

If that wasn’t enough to raise awareness of the impact of mental health issues, Taylor Swift followed it up in the wee hours this morning with an album that speaks to her eating disorder and depression.

In Anti-Hero, she perfectly describes the insomnia of depression that so many people wrestle with when she says:

Midnights become my afternoons
When my depression works the graveyard shift
All of the people I’ve ghosted stand there in the room

Between the two of them, these women have released more than a dozen albums, won nearly 50 Grammy awards, and endured the brutal scrutiny of the public eye for almost 20 years.

Despite the social dissection of their entire being, they have generously offered up more vulnerability, invited us in to see who they really are, and shown us their innermost struggles. Most people can’t even do that with their own family members.

STOP THE STIGMA. GET HELP.

These public journeys of healing do so much to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental illness and end the unnecessary suffering of those who resist seeking treatment.

“Some people may not recognize their mental health struggles or may feel embarassed to acknowledge them,” said Mottsin Thomas, a psychiatrist at bonmente.

“But when a celebrity or other admired person speaks about their challenges, it helps others feel seen, to find words for their own experience, and hopefully to seek help.”

If these songs speak to you or if you want to talk to someone who gets you, give bonmente a call today.

Caregiver Burnout – Don’t Forget To Take Care Of Yourself!

September 27, 2022

So, you’re a caregiver. A mom, a dad, an aunt, a teacher- the “list” of caretakers goes on an on. Whether you are a professional caretaker or a self-promoted family manager, all caretakers have a few things in common: they are kind, compassionate, gentle, and self-sacrificing.

Caregivers give a lot…and sometimes get nothing in return (or at least it feels that way some days). Maybe you’ve been in this role for years, or it feels that way. You’re either getting paid for the support you offer, or your life feels like one big donation of your time and energy.

Regardless, you wouldn’t be a caregiver if you didn’t CARE. But there comes the point where you cannot be here – nor there, or anywhere since all over the place is where you are most days – if you don’t also care for yourself.

WHAT IS CAREGIVER BURNOUT?

No matter your unique role as a caregiver, it’s a demanding one that can quickly lead to burnout if you’re not careful.

“Caring for others is a lot of work, and often, caregivers put their own needs last,” said Roseanna Duenas, PA-C. “Caregivers don’t want the guilt of caring for themselves when there’s so much to be done for someone else which can lead to burnout.”

Caregiver burnout happens when the physical, emotional, and mental demands of caregiving become too much. This exhaustion may be accompanied by a change in attitude – from positive and caring to negative and cynical. You may feel hopeless, resentful, detached, or even depressed when burnt out, finding it hard to
concentrate or make decisions.

Burnout can happen when caregivers don’t get the help they need or if they try to do too much. It’s also common among those who have high personal standards and want to be perfect caregivers. And it’s not just physical exhaustion involved – there’s a deep emotional toll, too.

IT’S TIME TO BE MINDFUL OF CAREGIVER BURNOUT

As a caregiver, you are constantly juggling a million different things. You’re ensuring your loved one is taken care of while maintaining your own life and well-being. It’s a lot to handle, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

With back-to-school and fall schedules in full swing, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of caregiver burnout. Now is the time for the spotlight to shine on you and ensure you’re taking care of yourself!

Here are some ways to do so and avoid burnout:

Set boundaries.

It’s okay to say no if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Don’t try to do it all – focus on one priority at a time.

Take deep breaths and plenty of breaks.

When you feel like you’re reaching your limit, take some time for yourself. Step away from your caregiver duties and do something that brings you joy and peace.

Seek support.

If you’re struggling with caregiver burnout or stress, reach out to a support group or counselor who can help you through this. Remember, you’re not alone – others understand what you’re going through and can offer helpful advice and support.

DE-STRESS, DELEGATE TASKS, AND SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE.

As a caregiver, you do not have to do everything yourself, nor do you have to do everything for yourself.

Our team at bonmente will ensure that while you’re managing daily demands and medications for someone else, you are also in control of your own. You might not be able to control everything in life, especially during busy seasons, but you can control your treatment plan!

When you need someone to be there for you, delegate to us. We’ll ensure that your medications are working; if not, we’ll adjust them as needed. The best part? Our electronic refills can help you get what you need within an hour, helping ease your stress from the comfort of your home.

When your life starts to feel like giving care is literally all you do, let us help you give back to you. We’re here to shine the spotlight on you as soon as you’re ready.