Teenage Depression and Anxiety

Posted on October 20, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Teen angst -488360124 The term “teen angst” is synonymous with the emotional changes that adolescents experience. It is commonly used to describe unpredictable mood swings and at times unexplained changes in behaviors displayed by adolescents.

Adolescent or teen angst is defined as an “acute feeling of anxiety or apprehension that is often accompanied by depression.”(www.Medscape.com). Occasional bad moods, irritability or periods of sadness are common and expected behaviors. However, if they persist for an extended period of time, it can be an indication that your child is experiencing more than the typical teen strife. They may be exhibiting symptoms of a serious mental health issue such as depression or anxiety.

It is estimated that one in eight teenagers suffer from depression or anxiety and in some cases both disorders. Many of these behaviors are dismissed or overlooked as moodiness. This is concerning because if left untreated depression or anxiety can lead to highly destructive actions such as, drug abuse, self-mutilation, or in extreme situations- suicide.

There are several signs that may present themselves that can help parents recognize if their child is suffering from a depression or anxiety disorder. Some of which are:

Frequent sadness or crying
Persistent boredom or the inability to enjoy activities
Increased hostility, anger or irritability
Frequent absences from school or extracurricular activities they once enjoyed
Extreme fear of rejection or failure
Chronic fatigue or tiredness
Frequent complaints about headaches and stomach aches, without real cause for illness
Poor concentration
Constantly speaking about death or suicide
Persistent social isolation or difficulty with relationships
Major changes in eating or sleeping patterns

If your child is displaying any of these signs, it is recommended that you have a non-judgmental conversation with them. Let them know that you have observed atypical behaviors and that you are concerned. Encourage them to open up. If they are uncomfortable speaking to you about what they are experiencing, offer support gand seek the help of a mental health professional.

For more information of adolescent depression or anxiety or to speak with a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital, please call 718-206-7135.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

National Depression Screening Observation Day

Posted on October 5, 2015 by Andrew Rubin

National Depression Screening Day which is recognized as October 8th was started in 1990 as a way to make people aware of this disease and to provide them with mental health information and access to support services. Though many mental health conditions are treatable, many people go through life not seeking help because they haven’t been properly diagnosed. Medical professionals estimate that one in five Americans has a mental health condition in any given year and less than half will receive treatment.
Depression affects one in 10 adults and is more common in women than in men. Depression can be categorized either as Major Depression which interferes with the ability to sleep, eat, work and study or as Persistent Depressive Disorder which lasts for at least two years having varying levels of severity and which does include Major Depression during this time. Depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

Signs and symptoms of depression include:
• Waking up and feeling exhausted
• Sleeplessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Short temper
• Always worrying or anxious
• Lack of energy
• Sadness
Take this quick and to see how you are doing.
(This screening tool © Copyright Mental Health America”
Depression is real and there are ways to treat it. Treatment options include therapy with a trained professional and in some situations medication may be prescribed. If you would like to make an appointment to speak to one of our mental health professionals, please call 718-206-7071

Tips for the Single Parent

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Being a single parent is not easy; it has its own set of challenges.

Couples get together with the very best of intentions, full of hopes and dreams of white picket fences, 2.5 kids.

No one enters into a committed relationship with the intention of uncoupling. Nonetheless, it’s a distressingly common occurrence.

Suddenly, you find yourself a single parent. Even if you have always been an active, involved parent, this is a completely different experience.

In the best of situations, with a support team of grandparents, aunts, uncles, siblings, friends, etc. you may have bouts of frustration and fatigue.

During these times you will have to push through and step-up. There is no substitution for a parent when dealing with a crying toddler, grumpy daughter or a son who failed to make the last out. These are hurdles you and your children will have to scale together.

Some of the most common ways a single parent can cope with and reduce stress are:

Finding a balance – Remember that parenting is about the moment. Take a deep breath and let go of your expectations.
Show your love –Praise your child. Give him or her unconditional love and support.
Create a routine – Structure, such as regularly scheduled meals and bedtimes help your child know what to expect.
Find quality child care – If you need regular child care, look for a qualified caregiver who can provide a safe environment. Do not rely on an older child as your only babysitter and be careful about asking a new friend or partner to watch your child.
Set limits – Explain house rules and expectations to your child, such as speaking respectfully and enforce them.
Don’t give in to guilt – Don’t blame yourself or spoil your child to try to make up for being a single parent.
Make time for yourself – Include physical activity in your daily routine, eat a healthy diet and get plenty of sleep. Make time to enjoy alone time or activities with close friends.
Lean on others – It’s okay to join a support group for single parents or seek social services. Call on trusted loved ones, friends and neighbors for help.
Stay positive – Be honest with your child if you’re having a difficult time, but remind him or her that things will get better. Try to keep your sense of humor when dealing with everyday challenges.

Mistakes may be made, but with love and the best of intentions, you’ll make it through.

Is Your Child New to School?

Posted on August 5, 2015 by Joann Ariola

It is summertime but before you know it , it will be the end of August and a good time to start preparing your young child for their first experience at school. It is normal for young children, as well as their parents, to have some anxiety about starting something new.

Here are some tips on how to make the first day of school go well:

Visit the school and get familiar with the layout.
Become familiar with the school schedule.
Try to meet the teacher before school begins.
Reassure the child that everyone gets nervous and that it is okay.
Tell the child about all the new friends they are going to make.
Try to find someone who may be going to the same school in the same grade.
Parent should be calm and confident so your child will be more at ease.
If the school will permit it, see if you can bring a child’s stuffed animal to keep in their cubby
Always say good bye to your child when dropping them off or putting them on the bus. Reassure them that you will pick them up at the end of the day

It is natural for a child to have separation anxiety, especially if this is going to be their first time away from a parent. With a little bit of pre-planning, a child will adapt to the new routine and be just fine. Speak to your pediatrician to see if they have any other suggestions about getting your child off to school for the first time.

SCHIZOPHRENIA

Posted on August 5, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Schizophrenia is a serious disorder which affects how a person thinks, feels and acts. A person with schizophrenia may have difficulty distinguishing between what is real and what is imaginary. They also may be unresponsive or withdrawn and have difficulty expressing normal emotions in social situations.

People often confuse schizophrenia with dissociative identity disorder (previously known as multiple personality disorder). Unlike dissociative identity disorder, which is thought to be an effect of severe trauma during early childhood, schizophrenia is not caused by childhood experiences, negative parental relationships, or sexual/emotional abuse.

What causes schizophrenia is not completely understood; although, it has long been believed that schizophrenia runs in families. Doctors usually make a diagnosis through interviews with the patient, as well as friends and family members.

A schizophrenia diagnosis can be made when all of the following are true about a patient:

Schizophrenia symptoms have been present for at least six months
Patient is significantly impaired by the symptoms (compared to the period prior to symptoms manifesting)
Symptoms can’t be explained by another diagnosis, such as drug abuse or other mental illnesses

A diagnosis of schizophrenia is not a life-sentence of ever-worsening symptoms and hospitalizations. Despite the widespread misconception that people with schizophrenia have no chance of recovery or improvement, the reality is much more hopeful.

Studies have shown that for every five people who develop schizophrenia:

1 in 5 will get better within five years of their first episode
3 in 5 will get better, but will still have some symptoms
1 in 5 will continue to have trouble managing their symptoms

Schizophrenia isn’t very different from other chronic medical conditions, for which there isn’t a cure, it can be treated and managed with medication and supportive therapies.

As with any disease, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve the chances of recovery.

If you are concerned about the possibility you or a loved one having schizophrenia, you can make an appointment at the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry for an evaluation at 718-206-5587.

The Fight Against Obesity is a Family Affair

Posted on June 2, 2015 by Joann Ariola

The childhood obesity problem in the United States has reached epidemic proportions with many political leaders and health advocates turning their attention to bringing awareness to this issue.

Interventions have been suggested, school lunches have become healthier and more attention has been given to the benefit of outside play, recess, and cutting back on the consumption of processed foods.

One of the most effective solutions to the issue of childhood obesity may be a simple one; scheduling time for a healthy family dinner. The ritual of eating meals together, as a family, has shown to greatly improve healthy eating habits.

Studies have shown that families who dine while watching television tend to be heavier than those who make to time to sit down, together, for a meal on a regular basis. As a parent, eating with your family will give you the opportunity to encourage our children to eat mindfully, reinforce healthy eating habits and teach your children to eat slowly.

Some idea’s to make family meals regular events at your house are:

Turn off the TV
Make a date to have a meal together
Share the meal preparation process with the whole family
Select a healthy alternative to a favorite meal

In addition, eating is about so much more than the food and nutrients we receive from it. Meal time should be pleasurable, social and a time to connect with each other.

If you or someone you know is struggling with obesity, contact the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory care Center to schedule an appointment with one of our licensed Nutritionist’s at 718-206-7001.

Doctors Say You Need to Relax

Posted on April 28, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Relax178982704 (1) For many, dealing with excessive stress has become a way of life. We often hear the words “just relax,” but sometimes we find it difficult to take that advice and de-stress due to every day hassles.

When you are stressed the body releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline- which causes the fight or flight reaction. This can speed up the normal function of several organs, including the heart. The fight or flight reaction is appropriate when we face immediate threats but can be damaging if prolonged; as our bodies are only designed to deal with the effects of stress for short intervals.

Extended periods of stress can take its toll on our health in many ways. Long-term stress is known to negatively affect several systems of the body, including:

The nervous system- High levels of cortisol and adrenaline can impair the nervous system, which regulates heart rates, the excretion of waste, breathing rates and the dilation and constriction of blood vessels.
The immune system- Chronic stress can weaken the immune system, which increases the risk of infections, infectious diseases, skin problems such as eczema and can slow down wound healing rates.
The digestive system- Excessive levels of stress can stimulate the muscles of the intestines and cause diarrhea or constipation. It can also lead to indigestion or nausea and increase the risk of ulcers or irritable bowel syndrome.
The endocrine system- Stress hormones can cause the liver to increase blood sugar levels. This is particularly dangerous for diabetics.

It is important to reduce excessive and prolonged periods of stress, because it can wreak havoc on our health. We can decrease or manage stress by learning to take a moment to relax, exercising and eating healthy.

What You Need to Know About Body Dysmorphic Disorder

Posted on April 7, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

A person stands in front of the mirror and glances at their reflection; they perceive their image to be severely unattractive or obese. They become obsessed with a particular body part and deem it to be an extreme defect that alters their appearance. While this is their perception, in reality no one else sees these physical characteristics.

There is a possibility that this person may be suffering from a chronic body-image disorder known as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which is a compulsive obsession with an imagined or exaggerated physical trait that often no one else can see.

BDD is known to occur in both men and women and usually begins during teenage years or early adulthood. Factors that may contribute to the development of BDD are

Low self-esteem
Traumatic events
Genetics
The influence of others who are critical of the person’s physical appearance

Characteristics of the disorder may include an obsession with skin imperfections such as scars or wrinkles, facial features (it is very common for those afflicted with BDD to be obsessed with size of the nose), body weight and hair. There are several behaviors that are identifiable with BDD, they are:

Constantly looking in the mirror and trying to cover up the perceived defect
Asking for reassurance that the defect is not obvious
Isolation from people due to the belief that imperfections will be noticed
Becoming increasingly self-conscious
Avoiding mirrors
Excessive grooming in an effort to cover up a flaw
Frequently consulting plastic surgeons or undergoing cosmetic procedures
Developing other psychological disorders such as eating and anxiety disorders

If someone you know is exhibiting these behaviors, it is recommended that they seek help immediately as this disorder can lead to self-harm. Once diagnosed with BDD, treatment will usually include a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, group or family therapy and medication. For more information about body dysmorphic disorders or treatment please contact Jamaica Hospital’s Department of Psychiatry at 718 206 5575.

I Am So Stressed! Where Are My Cigarette’s?

Posted on March 27, 2015 by Joann Ariola

Is smoking a cigarette when you are stressed, depressed or irritable a proven way to relieve those emotions or improve your mood?

The answer is, no. The relief you get from smoking comes from the act of taking the “time out” necessary to smoke a cigarette. It does not have to do with the chemical actions of nicotine in your brain.

If you finish your cigarette and return to your stressful situation, the feeling of tension will come back. Therefore, the act of smoking is only a temporary solution for handling stress.

A proven way to control stress, tension or depression in your life is to identify what brings on those emotions and learning how to change the way you react to the events and situations in your life.

If you have been using smoking as a way to reduce stress, a great time to
“kick the habit” is to participate in The Great American Smoke out, Wednesday, November 18th, 2015.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center can help. Enroll, today, for our smoking cessation classes. For more information or to register, call: 718-206-8494.

Why Do People Eat Dirt, Chalk or Other Non -food Items?

Posted on March 17, 2015 by Xavia Malcolm

Why are some people addicted to eating substances that are not food? The answer is that they may have an eating disorder known as pica. A common characteristic of the disorder is the consistent consumption of non-nutritive substances for at least one month.

There are several reasons why a person may be demonstrating behaviors associated with pica- it could be a chemical imbalance, a nutritional deficiency such as an iron deficiency or an obsessive compulsive disorder.

Pica-related behaviors should be addressed immediately because of the risk of complications that can occur. Individuals could expose themselves to serious infections and medical conditions such as parasitic infestations, ulcers, intestinal obstructions and tooth abrasions.

Symptoms and complications that are commonly linked with pica can include:

Eating sand or soil, this potentially leads to gastric pain and bleeding.
Consuming clay, which may cause constipation.
Ingesting paint, could put a person at risk for contracting lead poisoning
Eating metal objects, this could lead to bowel perforation.

Some people are more likely than others to be subject to this eating disorder. These individuals may include:

Pregnant women (Pica is most common in women with their first pregnancy; they may crave items such as ice or chalk).
10 to 32 percent of children between the ages of one to six.
Adults with OCD or schizophrenia.
People who are malnourished.
Individuals who are mentally or developmentally disabled.

There are several approaches that can be exercised in the treatment of pica. Treatment depends on the diagnosis. A physician may run blood tests to determine if the reason for the disorder may be a result of a nutritional deficiency. If this is the case, nutrients that are lacking are supplemented. Another approach may be therapy to address mental health or environmental health issues. It is recommended that a resolution be sought immediately because if left untreated pica can persist for years and may cause irreversible damage.