Category: Blog

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By Stacey Spencer, EdD
Lindner Center of Hope, Staff Psychologist

 

 

 

Executive functioning and self-regulation are crucial skills for children and teens to learn to best manage their academic, social and personal lives. These skills are not just abstract concepts but are foundational to a child’s ability to succeed in various aspects of life. But what exactly are these skills, and why are they so important?

 Executive Functioning

Executive functioning refers to a set of cognitive processes that are necessary for planning, organizing, sequencing, and managing tasks. If your brain were an orchestra with multiple sections, our executive functioning system is the conductor. Having strong executive functioning skills allows a child or teen to set goals, monitor their own progress towards their goals and to make changes along the way as necessary. Without strong executive functioning skills, children and teens are disorganized, distractible, unprepared and will have difficulties completing goals and tasks in a timely manner. 

Key components of executive functioning include:

Working Memory: The ability to hold and manipulate information over short periods. For instance, remembering a set of instructions or following a multi-step process in a classroom setting.

Inhibitory Control: The skill to control impulses and resist distractions. This includes the capacity to stay focused on a task despite potential interruptions.

Cognitive Flexibility: The ability to switch between tasks or adjust strategies when faced with new information or changing circumstances.

Planning and Organization: The capability to create and follow through with a plan, manage time efficiently, and keep track of various tasks and deadlines.

If your child or teen has ever been diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), then you have likely noticed that your child struggles with executive functioning skills. Deficits in these areas are often a component of ADHD.

 Self-Regulation

Self-regulation, which is often linked with executive functioning, refers to the ability to manage one’s emotions and behaviors in different situations. It involves:

Emotional Regulation: The ability to handle emotional responses in a healthy way. For example, calming oneself down when frustrated or managing anxiety before a big test.

Behavioral Control: The capacity to control impulses and act in a manner that aligns with long-term goals rather than immediate gratification.

Stress Management: Techniques and strategies used to cope with stress and remain focused and productive despite challenges.

For children and teens, self-regulation skills are essential for academic success, social interactions, and overall well-being. These skills help students work and play well with others, and to respond appropriately to situations at work and at home. They also play a critical role in emotional resilience and behavioral control, which are necessary for maintaining positive relationships and managing the ups and downs of adolescence.

How Do We Teach These Skills

Parents, educators, and caregivers can play a pivotal role in nurturing executive functioning and self-regulation skills in children and teens. Here are some strategies:

Establish Routines: Consistent routines help children develop organizational skills and manage their time effectively. Routines create a predictable structure that can reduce anxiety and improve focus.

Encourage Planning: Help children break tasks into manageable steps and use tools like planners or digital reminders. Teaching them to set specific goals and track their progress fosters planning and organization.

Model Self-Regulation: Demonstrate self-regulation techniques such as deep breathing, taking breaks, and using positive self-talk. Children often mimic the behavior of adults, so showing them effective strategies can be impactful.

Provide Opportunities for Problem-Solving: Allow children to experience challenges and work through solutions on their own. This enhances cognitive flexibility and problem-solving skills.

Positive Reinforcement: Acknowledge and reward progress in managing tasks and emotions. Positive reinforcement can motivate children to continue developing these skills.

 Conclusion

Executive functioning and self-regulation are integral to a child’s development and success. By understanding and supporting these skills, parents and educators can help children and teens navigate their world with greater confidence and competence. Investing in the development of these abilities sets the foundation for lifelong success and resilience.

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Almost everyone has felt “down in the dumps” at times or had a case of “the blues.” In this state, you may have referred to yourself as feeling depressed.  But is this really clinical depression?

An estimated 25 percent of Americans suffer from major depression. So what distinguishes the common “down” feelings felt by most of us with true depression?  Actual depression is different from “the blues” in several key ways.

Symptoms of Feeling Blue vs. Being Depressed

Feeling “blue” or being down in the dumps” are ways we describe feelings of sadness or melancholy.  True depression has a host of other symptoms in addition to sadness.  They may include: significant weight loss or gain, insomnia, loss of interest in daily activities, feelings of guilt, helplessness or hopelessness, fatigue/loss of energy, and poor concentration.

Causes of Feeling Blue vs. Being Depressed

Brief periods of feeling “blue” are usually caused by life events that leave us feeling discouraged.  From a broken date to the loss of a loved one, the causes can range from minor to major events.  Depression can be triggered by a stressful life event, but research indicates that depression is also associated with a variety of genetic and biochemical factors.  Some individuals appear to be more “hard-wired” to get depression.  The “blues,” on the other hand, are feelings with which almost everyone can relate.

Duration of Feeling Blue vs. Depression

To be considered depressed, an individual must be experiencing significant symptoms for at least two weeks on an ongoing basis.  Individuals who are feeling a bit “down” usually shake off these feelings in a few days, if not hours.  The “down in the dumps” sensation we’ve all had is noteworthy for being temporary.  Without treatment, true depression, on the other hand, can last for months or years, or it can re-occur frequently.

Intensity of Depression Symptoms 

In addition to being longer lasting, true clinical depression is also more intense than a case of the “blues.”  Usually, individuals who are feeling “blue” or “down” manage to perform their regular daily activities.  Individuals experiencing an episode of depression often are unable to function normally. The depression interferes with work, relationship, and daily activities.  In extreme cases, depression can lead to feelings of complete hopelessness and suicidal thoughts or acts.

If you or a loved one frequently feels “down in the dumps” or “blue,” consider whether the condition may actually be depression.  A physician or mental health professional can conduct an assessment to determine if depression is present and recommend appropriate treatment.

Understanding the difference between feeling “blue” and being depressed can make a difference in the quality of life for an affected individual.  With proper treatment, depression can be managed, and individuals can live more enjoyable and productive lives.

Depression Treatment at Lindner Center of HOPE

Lindner Center of HOPE offers a top depression treatment program steeped in compelling research for the successful treatment of depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders. Don’t let the blues take over. If you or someone you care about is experiencing persistent feelings of sadness, it might be more than just a temporary low. Understanding the difference between feeling “blue” and clinical depression can be the first step towards better mental health. Consult with a physician or mental health professional to get the right diagnosis and treatment. Take action today for a brighter tomorrow.

Discover more about managing depression and improving mental well-being by visiting our depression and mood disorders resource page. Contact us from this page or call 513-536-4673.

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Cultivating hope to improve wellbeing

By Elisha Eveleigh Clipson, Ph.D.
Child and Adolescent Psychologist
Assistant Professor, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience

 

 

Why hope?

Daring to hope improves our overall well-being. People with more hope report less anxiety, depression and stress.  Hopeful employees are more productive than their counterparts. Hopeful students have higher tests scores and better academic achievement. They are less likely to drop out of college. Hope is associated with better self-esteem, a stronger sense of purpose in life, and better coping with physical injury or disease. Hope promotes the belief that our challenges are temporary.

What is hope?

Hope is something good we want to happen in the future, but the good thing might be hard to obtain. For instance, we do not hope for the air we are breathing right now. We already have it. It’s reasonable to believe we will still have it in an hour. In contrast, a person might hope to grow closer in a relationship or finish a marathon. Hope is different than optimism in that someone can have hope without being optimistic. I can hope my sports team will win without being optimistic. In personal matters, some people say that hope, unlike optimism, is a verb. That we take action to hope.

How do we hope?

Sometimes we have hope without much ability to change the outcome. For instance, I hope my friend’s adoption goes smoothly. But researchers have identified ways to actively cultivate hope in general. Hope can be learned and practiced. It’s not something we have or don’t have.

The first step involves identifying a goal. Philosophers and researchers tend to agree that people must believe what they hope for is possible, if difficult to attain. To practice, choose something that is helpful to you, others or society. Keep values in mind to provide direction. Questions to guide the process might include, “What are you aiming toward in your development as a person? Who’s helping you along this path? How do you want to develop in a way that promotes good for others in your community, or in society in general?

Next, find pathways to the goal. Use imagination to identify several different ways to reach a goal, and ways to work around barriers to the goal.

Find agency or motivation to move toward the goal. Agency can be developed through positive self-talk, getting encouragement from others, and prayer/meditation. This may involve reading stories about people who have overcome adversity. Practice hopeful mantras like, “I have what it takes” “I just need to do my best” or “I’m doing the best I can.”

Practical Tips:

Practice giving to others. Donate time or resources to an organization that provides animals, clean water, etc. to other children. Volunteer to help a grandparent neighbor.

Discuss the future with others and set small goals along the way to a larger goal.

Researchers have shown that cultivating spiritual practices can be an effective way to build hope. Even family rituals or traditions cultivate hope. This might include yearly traditions, serving the community together, or cooking family recipes.

When working with children and adolescents, cultivate the idea that they are capable of handling tough things and can rely on trusted others to help them.

Therapeutic approaches can help develop the skills of hope. For instance, Dialectical Behavior Therapy teaches acceptance (not approval) of life circumstances which can allow for more future-focused thinking. It also teaches tolerance of distress and mindfulness techniques, both of which can help when practicing hope.

Avoid too much exposure to bad news. Instead, find and share inspiring stories of courage and hope.

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By Erin Snider, APRN, PMHNP-BC

 

 

 

 

 

 

With the increased availability and potency of cannabis, the potential for “addiction” has never been more relevant. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-V (DSM-V) does not use the term “addiction” but classifies the diagnosis as “Cannabis Use Disorder” from mild to severe. The diagnostic criteria consist of problematic patterns of cannabis use leading to clinically significant impairment in an individual’s life. The presence of “Tolerance” and “Withdrawal” are not necessary for a diagnosis but are often present in the presentation of those with moderate to severe cannabis use disorder.

With the increased availability and potency of cannabis, the potential for “addiction” has never been more relevant. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual-V (DSM-V) does not use the term “addiction” but classifies the diagnosis as “Cannabis Use Disorder” from mild to severe. The diagnostic criteria consist of problematic patterns of cannabis use leading to clinically significant impairment in an individual’s life. The presence of “Tolerance” and “Withdrawal” are not necessary for a diagnosis but are often present in the presentation of those with moderate to severe cannabis use disorder.

 

THC Delta-9 ‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive component in cannabis (marijuana) and can lead to dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal. “Dependence” refers to needing the substance to function both physically and psychologically where “tolerance” is defined as needing more of the substance to get desired effect. Withdrawal is identified by the presence of physical and psychological signs and symptoms when cannabis is abruptly stopped. “Withdrawal” can occur with cessation of cannabis in moderate to heavy users, which is defined in DSM-V as almost daily for at least a few months.

The DSM-V does classify a diagnosis of “Cannabis Withdrawal” and it is estimated that up to one third of all individuals who have used cannabis “regularly” during their lifetime will experience withdrawal. “Heavy” cannabis users report 50-95% occurrence of withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal symptoms from cannabis vary based on frequency and duration of use as well as individual metabolism. These symptoms can cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning. Withdrawal symptoms do not typically require medical attention however they can make it difficult for individuals trying to quit, often contributing to “relapse”. Symptoms start 24-72 hours after last dose and peak

Cannabis Withdrawal: 

1 week after last use. They usually resolve after 2 weeks. Sleep disruption can last up to 30 days.

Signs and Symptoms:

The most common features of cannabis withdrawal are anxiety, irritability, anger or aggression, restlessness, disturbed sleep, insomnia disturbing dreams, depressed mood, and decreased appetite.

Less common physical symptoms include chills, headaches, shakiness/tremor, physical tension, sweating and stomach pain.

Management:

Supportive Counseling and Psychoeducation: These are the first-line approaches for managing cannabis withdrawal.

Medications: While no specific medications are approved for cannabis withdrawal, some have been used to manage short-term symptoms (e.g., anxiety, sleep, nausea).

Promising Pharmacological Agents: Several medications have shown promise in controlled trials, but further research is needed.

Inpatient Admission: For patients with significant comorbid mental health disorders and polysubstance use, inpatient admission may be necessary to prevent severe complications.

Clinical Significance: Cannabis withdrawal symptoms can precipitate relapse to cannabis use.

Complicated withdrawal may occur in individuals with concurrent mental health issues and polysubstance use and precipitate a mental health crisis.

Remember that everyone’s experience with withdrawal is different. If these symptoms feel overwhelming, or you are having severe withdrawal symptoms or are worried about dependence, it’s essential to seek professional assistance. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance and support. Help is available, and you don’t have to go through this alone.

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By Laurie Little, PsyD
Lindner Center of HOPE, psychologist

 

Depression can occur at any age. It does not discriminate. However, recent research suggests that young adults are experiencing symptoms of depression at higher rates than ever. There are many theories about why this is so, including the proliferation of social media, consequences of the Pandemic, escalating costs of living and even global issues.

Major Depressive Disorder is a result of a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. One’s family history, genetics, brain chemistry, life experiences, and stressors all contribute to its onset and severity.

However, there are unique challenges that young adults face that make them potentially at higher risk for experiencing depression. Young adults are trying to make their transition from dependency on parental figures and family support systems, to relative independence. There are new pressures that they are trying to manage that can be new and often confusing. There are academic, occupational, social, and financial pressures that can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Some young adults are woefully unprepared for the new responsibilities in their lives. They are also faced with transitions in their identity and being required to ask themselves questions about their life goals, meaning and purpose. These questions and challenges can all lead to anxiety, overwhelm and hopelessness when things are not going as they had expected.

Recognizing the signs of severe depression in young adults is crucial for early intervention and support. Symptoms often manifest as sadness, however some young adults experience more irritability and an overall moodiness. There may be changes in appetite or sleep patterns, withdrawal from social activities, and even reckless or impulsive behaviors. A comprehensive assessment from a licensed health professional is required to make sure that depression is the only issue. Oftentimes, depression can co-occur with other mental health concerns such as anxiety.

Navigating conversations about depression with young adults requires empathy, patience, and understanding. Here are some helpful tips to facilitate meaningful dialogue and support:
Create a Safe Space: Establish an environment free of judgment where young adults feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and emotions. Avoid dismissing their experiences or offering unsolicited advice. Instead, listen actively and validate their feelings. (Example: “Of course you would feel upset about that, that sounds really difficult.”)

Normalize Mental Health: Foster open and non-judgmental discussions about mental health and addiction within your social circles and communities. By reducing the stigma surrounding depression, you empower young adults to seek help without fear of judgment or discrimination. Remember, everyone knows someone who struggles with a mental health issue or addiction.

Educate Yourself: Stay informed about depression and its symptoms in young adults. Empower yourself with knowledge about available resources, treatment options, and support networks.

Encourage Professional Help: While offering emotional and practical support is essential, it’s equally important to encourage young adults to seek professional assistance from mental health professionals. Provide information about treatment options such as psychotherapy and medication management, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Research is clear that the “Gold Standard” of treatment for depression is a combination of both therapy and medications.

Be Patient and Persistent: Healing from depression is a journey marked by ups and downs. Be patient with young adults as they navigate their emotions and experiences. Offer consistent support and encouragement, reminding them that they’re not alone in their struggles.

Psychotherapy for young adults is often a crucial step in recovery. Depression has been shown to be reduced by Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based interventions. Family therapy may also be useful if the young adult is still living at home. Pharmacotherapy may also be required. For some young adults with treatment resistant depression (has not responded to traditional talk therapy or antidepressant trials) they may need to explore other treatment modalities, such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine assisted therapy. These treatments offer new hope for individuals resistant to traditional treatments.

In addition to professional interventions, lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in managing depression. Encourage young adults to prioritize self-care activities, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques. Engaging in hobbies, creative outlets, and social interactions can also foster a sense of purpose and belonging. Be a healthy role model for the young adult in your life by trying to do the same.
Lastly, peer support groups and online communities provide valuable opportunities for young adults to connect with others who share similar experiences. These platforms offer a sense of solidarity and validation, reinforcing the message that recovery from depression is possible with the right support and resources.

Severe depression in young adults is a multifaceted challenge that demands a holistic approach to understanding, intervention, and support. In order to combat these rising rates, it is essential that we all work together to reduce the stigma of seeking help for depression and all mental illnesses and addiction. We must be vigilant about mental health symptoms in ourselves and our loved ones. Lastly, it is imperative that we provide empathy, support and resources when needed.

If you or someone you love is in need of mental health assessment or treatment, call the Lindner Center of HOPE at 513-536-HOPE or visit lindnercenterofhope.org for more information.

 

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by Dawn Anderson LPCCS

Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity (SOGI) is the medical format for incorporating what we commonly refer to as LGBTQ information about those we serve in the medical community. The acronym LGBTQ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning or queer. Sexual orientation describes the attraction a person experiences to others, whereas gender identity is that person’s internal sense of who they are. Best said by a dear friend of mine, Tristan Vaught owner of Transform Cincy, “Sexuality is who you go to bed with, gender is who I go to bed as.”

In healthcare, collecting this information is an important sector of understanding a person, the same way that we ask about their early life experiences, support system, or educational history. For some people, each of those questions would give more insights into how to best support and work with them more than other questions. By collecting data on gender and sexual identity as well as relationships, we can better understand their lives and the of value those sectors of personhood.

A second reason that we collect SOGI data is to provide respectful care. Knowing the proper title and pronouns to use when addressing someone is a way to demonstrate respect and honor them as an individual. Some ways you can incorporate this into your daily life might be introducing yourself first with your name and pronouns, or by using gender neutral pronouns if you are unsure of someone’s pronouns. We use this model more than we commonly think of, such as if I find a lost phone, I would say “someone left their phone here,” and that is the same for “this guest is here for their appointment.” By demonstrating this level of knowledge with those we serve as well as colleagues, we can create a safer work community for everyone with inclusion.

Sexuality is also valuable context in the way we actively show up against heteronormativity in our world. If I ask about my patient’s relationship, I want to make sure I am respecting them by referring to the important people in the lives appropriately. If a coworker tells me they have a child, I wouldn’t likely assume it’s a son. Similarly, if a coworker refers to their spouse, I shouldn’t assume their gender either. It helps to use the same words other use to refer to their significant others. (ex. Husband, wife, partner, son, daughter, child).

When it comes to asking questions, it’s important to consider if I would ask this question to any general person, if not, am I asking for the benefit of the person I’m talking to or my curiosity? If the latter, there are ways to do research and learn more that are more respectful than asking someone I don’t know well. Some resources to learn more include https://pflag.org/ or https://www.cdc.gov/healthcommunication/Preferred_Terms.html.

 

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by Jessica Kraft, MSN, PMHNP-BC

 

 

 

 

Anxiety and mood disorders are amongst the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions in the United States. While many find successful treatment through various psychotherapies or medications targeted at managing anxiety and depression, no medication will magically take away all anxiety or life stressors and it is not uncommon to experience breakthrough anxiety or symptoms of depression even while under the care of mental health professionals.  In today’s hectic world it can be challenging to juggle daily responsibilities and find ways and time to take a step back and practice mindfulness or focus on self-care. This article explores different mindfulness activities and alternative therapies, some of the benefits they illustrate, and how to include them in our day-to-day routines.

Meditation: Meditation has been practiced for thousands of years and is considered one of the oldest spiritual practices in ancient India and China. While it can be challenging to find an agreed upon definition for meditation, in general it is agreed upon that meditation is a practice and form of mental training with the goal of calming the mind (Wang et al., 2022). Meditation can look different to different people and can be practiced in as little as a few minutes every day.

Yoga: Yoga is an ancient spiritual practice with roots in Indian culture and is an alternative therapy often combined with meditation that focuses on breathwork and the adoption of physical postures.  There are multiple style of yoga that differ in intensity and length of time, but multiple individual studies and systematic reviews have concluded that yoga can benefit those struggling with depression with symptom reduction seen with 60-minute sessions per week (Saeed et al., 2019).

Exercise: There are numerous studies and clinical trials showing the benefits of exercise related to mental health, particularly for those who struggle with anxiety and depression. A meta-review examining the relationship between anxiety disorders and physical activity (especially aerobic and resistance exercises) with over 69,000 participants showed that on average participants reported significantly reduced anxiety over a 3-year period when engaging in physical activity on a regular basis. Analysis examining sedentary behavior showed an increased risk of depression over time compared to those who engaged in more physical lifestyle activities (Firth et al., 2020). While there can be limitations in studies related to exercise types, additional therapies, and other variables there is one thing that remains consistent: no trials have shown that physical activity worsens anxiety or depression (Saeed et al., 2019).

While mindfulness activities and alternative therapies sound great on paper, they can be challenging to practice regularly. Below are some tips for squeezing in mindfulness activities into a hectic schedule:

  • Utilizing meditation apps. Most popular meditation apps (Calm, Headspace, Healthy Minds Program) have lengthy daily meditations, but they also include quick 1-3 minute meditations/deep breathing exercises that can easily be practiced before going to bed, before starting the work day, or to take a time out when feeling overwhelmed
  • Find exercise you enjoy doing. Motivation to exercise can be challenging enough, but when it is for an activity you don’t even enjoy this can be even more challenging. Find an activity or sport that you actually enjoy or look forward to doing and this will help with consistency, especially if you are able to engage in the activity with friends or family and turn it into a social or group event
  • Make slow, incremental changes to routine. It’s not uncommon to make a self-care plan including things like exercising daily, meditating daily, and making dietary changes. When we try to make multiple changes like this overnight it is easy to get discouraged if we miss a day and sometimes, we don’t even get back to it. Focusing on one change at a time and incorporating it into your routine more slowly helps with habit changing
  • In short, set yourself up for success with the four laws of behavior change. 1) make it obvious – if you want to go to the gym after work every day pack your bag the night before, 2) make it attractive – get yourself a new pair of shoes or a new workout outfit, 3) make it easy – start with a few minutes per day, and 4) make it satisfying – set up incentives to motivate yourself and keep it going (Clear, 2022)

Sources:

Clear, J. (2022). Atomic habits: An easy & proven way to build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones: Tiny Changes, remarkable results. Cornerstone Press.

Firth, J., Solmi, M., Wootton, R.E., Vancampfort, D., Schuch, F.B., Hoare, E., Gilbody, S., Torous, J., Teasdale, S.B., Jackson, S.E., Smith, L., Eaton, M., Jacka, F.N., Veronese, N., Marx, W., Ashdown-Franks, G., Siskind, D., Sarris, J., Rosenbaum, S., Carvalho, A.F. and Stubbs, B. (2020), A meta-review of “lifestyle psychiatry”: the role of exercise, smoking, diet and sleep in the prevention and treatment of mental disorders. World Psychiatry, 19: 360-380. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20773

Saeed SA, Cunningham K, Bloch RM. Depression and Anxiety Disorders: Benefits of Exercise, Yoga, and Meditation. Am Fam Physician. 2019 May 15;99(10):620-627. PMID: 31083878.

Wang, Zanyi1,; Rawat, Vikas1; Yu, Xinli2; Panda, Ramesh Chandra3. Meditation and its practice in Vedic scriptures and early Taoism scriptures. Yoga Mimamsa 54(1):p 41-46, Jan–Jun 2022. | DOI: 10.4103/ym.ym_48_22 (https://journals.lww.com/yomi/fulltext/2022/54010/Meditation_and_its_practice_in_Vedic_scriptures.8.aspx)

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By: Elisabeth Renner LPCC-S, Lindner Center of HOPE Outpatient Therapist

 

 

 

In the journey of mental health and personal growth, two concepts stand out as essential: authenticity and vulnerability. These are not just buzzwords; they represent profound paths to healing and self-discovery. Drawing insights from the writings of physician and author Gabor Maté, let’s delve into the transformative power of authenticity and vulnerability.

Authenticity is the courage to be true to oneself, to honor one’s feelings, thoughts, and experiences without pretense. Authenticity begins with self-awareness and acceptance. It requires a deep dive into our inner world, acknowledging our strengths, weaknesses, fears, and desires. Authenticity invites us to embrace our imperfections and vulnerabilities, recognizing them as integral parts of our humanity.

 

Vulnerability is often misconstrued as weakness, when in fact, it is a profound strength. It is the willingness to expose our true selves, to open up and genuinely connect with others. Gabor Maté asserts that vulnerability is the gateway to intimacy and healing. When we allow ourselves to be vulnerable, we invite empathy, understanding, and support into our lives. It is through vulnerability that we break down walls of isolation and shame, forging authentic connections with others.

In our society, authenticity and vulnerability are often suppressed by societal norms and expectations. We are conditioned to wear masks, to hide our true selves. True liberation comes from shedding these masks, from embracing our authenticity and vulnerability unabashedly.

Practicing authenticity and vulnerability requires courage and resilience. It means stepping into discomfort, confronting our inner demons, and facing the judgment of others. Maté illuminates, it is only through embracing our shadows that we can bask in the light of self-acceptance and inner peace.

How can we cultivate authenticity and vulnerability in our lives? It begins with self-reflection and introspection. Take time to explore your inner landscape, to identify your values, passions, and fears. Embrace your vulnerabilities as valuable aspects of your humanity, rather than weaknesses to be hidden. Practice self-compassion, treating yourself with kindness and understanding as you navigate the ups and downs of life. Cultivate authentic connections with others by sharing your truth openly and honestly. Engage in deep, meaningful conversations that go beyond surface-level interactions. Create spaces where vulnerability is welcomed and celebrated, where individuals can show up as their authentic selves without fear of judgment.

In conclusion, authenticity and vulnerability are not just ideals to strive for; they are essential ingredients for mental and emotional well-being. The path to healing and self-discovery begins with embracing our authenticity and vulnerability wholeheartedly. Dare to be authentic, to be vulnerable, and to embark on a journey of self-discovery and growth with courage and grace

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Drug and alcohol detoxification, commonly referred to as detox, is the process by which an individual’s body clears itself of substances such as drugs and alcohol. It involves the physiological or medicinal removal of toxic substances from the body, typically under the supervision of medical professionals. The primary goal of detoxification is to manage the acute and potentially dangerous effects of withdrawal that occur when a person stops using substances to which they have become dependent.

Detoxification can occur in various settings, including medical facilities, detox centers, or even at home under medical supervision, depending on the severity of the addiction and the individual’s overall health status. The process may involve medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms, as well as supportive care to address any medical or psychological complications that may arise during withdrawal.

It’s important to note that detoxification is just the first step in the journey to recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. While detox addresses the physical aspects of addiction by removing the substances from the body, it does not address the underlying psychological, emotional, and behavioral issues that contribute to addiction. For example, according to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration), 83% of individuals with a substance abuse issue, also have a co-occurring mental health issue (i.e., depression, anxiety, trauma). Therefore, detox is typically followed by ongoing treatment and support, such as counseling, therapy, and participation in support groups, to address these deeper issues and help individuals maintain long-term sobriety.

Certain substances are associated with more severe withdrawal symptoms and potential complications during detoxification. Here are a few examples:

Alcohol withdrawal can be particularly dangerous and even life-threatening in severe cases. Symptoms may include tremors, hallucinations, seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), and in extreme cases, cardiovascular collapse. Medically supervised detox is often necessary for individuals with alcohol dependence to manage these symptoms safely.

Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, Valium, and Ativan, are central nervous system depressants that can lead to physical dependence with prolonged use. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be severe and potentially life-threatening, with symptoms including anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and in rare cases, delirium, or psychosis. Medically supervised tapering is usually recommended to minimize the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms. Always consult your prescriber prior to making any medication changes.

Opioids, including prescription painkillers like oxycodone and illicit drugs like heroin, can cause significant physical dependence. Withdrawal symptoms from opioids can be highly uncomfortable and include flu-like symptoms, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, anxiety, and insomnia. While opioid withdrawal is typically not life-threatening, it can be challenging to manage without medical assistance, and medications such as methadone or buprenorphine may be used to ease withdrawal symptoms and support recovery.

Barbiturates, though less commonly prescribed today, are another class of central nervous system depressants that can lead to physical dependence. Withdrawal from barbiturates can be similar to benzodiazepine withdrawal and may include symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and in severe cases, delirium, or cardiovascular collapse. Medically supervised detox is necessary to manage withdrawal safely.

In addition, the advancement in technology, has resulted in the rise of behavioral or process addictions (i.e., gambling, social media, gaming, compulsive buying). These new forms of addiction can emulate drugs and alcohol withdrawal and increased tolerance symptoms as well. Individuals who become addicted to these behaviors can exhibit depression, anxiety, irritability, and agitation when discontinuing the behavior.

It’s important to emphasize that detoxification from any substance should be approached with caution and under the guidance of medical professionals, as withdrawal can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous, especially in cases of severe dependence. Seeking professional help from healthcare providers or addiction specialists is crucial for ensuring a safe and successful detoxification process.

In the journey of detoxification from alcohol and drugs, remember: the path to recovery may be challenging, but the destination of freedom and a healthier, happier life is worth every step. Embrace the support around you, stay resilient in the face of obstacles, and know that every day sober is a victory worth celebrating. Your courage to embark on this journey is the first step towards a brighter tomorrow.

By: Chris Tuell, Ed.D., LPCC-S, LICDC-CS
Clinical Director of Addiction Services

 

 

 

 

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An Untapped Resource in the Treatment Journey

 According to a February 2024 article in the Journal of American Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, the prevalence of mental health conditions in adolescents has been increasing worldwide, outpacing the availability of effective mental health care. More adolescents require acute inpatient psychiatric hospitalization, but do not have resources for sub-acute care after discharge. Step-down programs, often known as partial hospitalization or day treatment programs, are helpful in decreasing re-admissions but are often underutilized. These programs can also serve as a step-up from outpatient care if severity is escalating. Partial hospitalization is designed to offer this intermediate level of care between inpatient and outpatient services.

Given that adolescence is a dynamic stage of life full of transitions and a common time for symptoms of mental illness to first present, teens may have difficulty managing home, school, and social activities without therapeutic intervention. Adolescent partial hospitalization offers day treatment during weekdays, so evenings and weekends can be used for patients to test skills learned during treatment hours.

Though partial hospitalization programs primarily occur in group settings, programs should be designed in a way that meet the unique needs of each patient participating in the program.  Ideally, programing includes elements such as psychoeducation, individualized treatment planning and goal setting, a variety of psychotherapeutic experiences, psychiatric evaluation, educational support, and family involvement.

The most effective adolescent partial hospitalization programs are staffed by multidisciplinary treatment teams including a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist and psychiatric nurse practitioner, mental health specialist, specialized therapists, licensed social worker, psychiatric registered nurse, licensed teacher, and a dietitian.

Patients and families participating in adolescent partial hospitalization should benefit from tangible insights and skills that will foster resilience, improve communication, bolster coping skills and functioning. These tools are intended to help better navigate daily life and maximize a teen’s chances for success.

 

Lindner Center of HOPE in Mason, Ohio offers an adolescent partial hospitalization program for mental health. Learn more about the program at:  https://lindnercenterofhope.org/adolescent-partial-hospitalization-program/.