What are 5 Common Myths about Taking a Psychiatric Medication?

When it comes to treating mental health conditions, psychiatric medication can be a powerful tool. However, there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding these medications that can prevent people from seeking the help they need. In this blog post, we will explore five common myths associated with taking psychiatric medication.

Myth #1: Psychiatric medication changes your personality

One of the most common myths associated with taking psychiatric medication is that it changes your personality. Many people fear that taking medication will alter who they are and make them feel like a completely different person. However, this is not the case. Psychiatric medication works by balancing the chemicals in your brain, which can improve your mood, reduce anxiety, and help you feel more like yourself. In fact, many people report feeling more like their true selves after starting medication.

Myth #2: Psychiatric medication is addictive

Another common myth is that psychiatric medication is addictive. While some medications can have addictive properties, most psychiatric medications do not. In fact, many of these medications are designed to be taken on a long-term basis to manage chronic conditions. It is important to follow your doctor's instructions and only take medication as prescribed to minimize the risk of addiction or dependence.

Myth #3: Psychiatric medication is a "quick fix"

Many people believe that psychiatric medication is a quick fix for mental health conditions. However, medication is just one tool in the treatment of mental illness. It may take several weeks or even months for the medication to take effect, and it is often used in combination with therapy, lifestyle changes, and other interventions. Additionally, medication may need to be adjusted over time to ensure that it continues to be effective.

Myth #4: Psychiatric medication is only for severe mental illness

There is a misconception that psychiatric medication is only for people with severe mental illness. However, medication can be helpful for a wide range of mental health conditions, from anxiety and depression to bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Medication can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and prevent relapse. It is important to work with a mental health professional to determine if medication is right for you.

Myth #5: Psychiatric medication is dangerous

Finally, there is a myth that psychiatric medication is dangerous and can cause serious side effects. While all medications have the potential for side effects, many people are able to take psychiatric medication safely and without major issues. Your doctor will work with you to monitor your medication and adjust your dosage as needed to minimize the risk of side effects. Additionally, the benefits of medication often outweigh the potential risks, especially when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding psychiatric medication. It is important to seek out accurate information and work with a prescriber who specializes in psychiatric medications to determine if medication is right for you. Although side effects can happen with any medication, establishing an alliance with a psychiatry provider to help support you in your journey in navigating the right treatment and support will hopefully lead ultimately to improvement in overall quality of life.

Greg Roussett NP is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for anxiety, depression, and treats clients holistically. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with complex medical problems as well as health anxiety. To book a free consultation, click here.

How do Psychiatric Medications Actually Work?

In this blog post we will explore how common psychiatric medications work. We will explore this by breaking down the common of class of medications used to treatment common psychiatric conditions. We will also explore the common myths associated with taking a psychiatric medication.

Medications for Depression

Antidepressants are a class of medication used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. They work by affecting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. These chemicals are responsible for transmitting messages between nerve cells in the brain, and imbalances or deficiencies in certain neurotransmitters have been linked to mood disorders.

The most commonly targeted neurotransmitters by antidepressants are serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. Here’s a breakdown of how antidepressants affect each of these neurotransmitters:

1. Serotonin: Many antidepressants work by increasing the availability of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression and anxiety. Antidepressants that target serotonin include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and atypical antidepressants.

SSRIs work by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, which allows more of the neurotransmitter to remain in the brain and enhance its effects. SNRIs work similarly to SSRIs, but also block the reabsorption of norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood.

1. Norepinephrine: Norepinephrine is another neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating mood, attention, and arousal. Antidepressants that target norepinephrine include SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and atypical antidepressants.

SNRIs work by blocking the reabsorption of both serotonin and norepinephrine, which allows more of these neurotransmitters to remain in the brain and enhance their effects. TCAs also work by blocking the reabsorption of norepinephrine and serotonin, but are not used as frequently as they have more side effects. Atypical antidepressants can also affect norepinephrine levels in the brain, but do not specifically target this neurotransmitter.

1. Dopamine: Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in regulating motivation, reward, and pleasure. Antidepressants that target dopamine include atypical antidepressants and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).

Atypical antidepressants can increase the availability of dopamine in the brain, which can help improve mood and motivation. MAOIs work by blocking an enzyme called monoamine oxidase, which breaks down neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine.

Antidepressants work by affecting the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. By enhancing the effects of these neurotransmitters, antidepressants can help improve mood, reduce anxiety, and manage other symptoms of mental health conditions. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the right medication and dosage for you, as well as to monitor for potential side effects.

Medications for Focus

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects both children and adults. It is characterized by symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. While behavioral therapy can be effective in managing these symptoms, medication is often prescribed as a first-line treatment for ADHD. The most commonly prescribed medications for ADHD are stimulants, which include medications like methylphenidate (Ritalin) and amphetamine (Adderall). Here’s how these medications work:

1. Stimulating the central nervous system: Stimulant medications work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, including dopamine and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are involved in regulating attention, motivation, and arousal. By increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, stimulants can help improve concentration and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity.

2. Improving brain function: ADHD is associated with lower levels of activity in certain parts of the brain that are involved in regulating attention and controlling impulses. Stimulant medications can help increase activity in these regions, which can improve cognitive function and help individuals with ADHD focus better.

3. Adjusting brain chemistry: While the exact mechanism of how stimulants work is not completely understood, it is thought that they may help adjust the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. This can help individuals with ADHD feel more alert and focused, while also reducing their impulsivity and hyperactivity.

It is important to note that while stimulant medications can be effective in managing symptoms of ADHD, they do come with potential side effects. These can include appetite suppression, difficulty sleeping, and increased heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, stimulants can be habit-forming, so it is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the right medication and dosage for you, as well as to monitor for potential side effects. Non-stimulant medications are also available for ADHD, and work by affecting different neurotransmitters in the brain. These include medications like atomoxetine (Strattera) and guanfacine (Intuniv).

Medications for Mood Stabilization

Mood stabilizers are a class of medication commonly used to treat bipolar disorder, a mental health condition characterized by episodes of mania and depression. Mood stabilizers work by regulating the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, including neurotransmitters and ions, that play a role in mood regulation. Here are some of the ways in which mood stabilizers work:

1. Modulating neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters are chemicals in the brain that transmit signals between nerve cells. Abnormalities in neurotransmitter levels have been linked to mood disorders, including bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers work by modulating the levels of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, which are involved in regulating mood, motivation, and pleasure.

2. Regulating ion channels: Mood stabilizers can also work by regulating ion channels in the brain, specifically those that control the flow of ions such as sodium, potassium, and calcium. This can help to stabilize the electrical activity in the brain, which can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of mania and depression.

3. Protecting neurons: Mood stabilizers can also help to protect neurons in the brain from damage and cell death. This is thought to be due to their ability to increase the production of certain proteins that promote neuronal growth and survival.

4. Reducing inflammation: Inflammation has been linked to mood disorders such as bipolar disorder. Mood stabilizers can help to reduce inflammation in the brain, which may contribute to their ability to improve mood and reduce symptoms of mania and depression.

Examples of mood stabilizers include lithium, valproic acid, carbamazepine, and lamotrigine. These medications are often used in combination with other medications, such as antipsychotics or antidepressants, to help manage symptoms of bipolar disorder. It is important to work with a healthcare provider to determine the right medication and dosage for you, as well as to monitor for potential side effects.

Greg Roussett NP is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is psychopharmacology. To book a free consultation, click here.

How Diet Can Boost Your Antidepressant

Depression is a common mental health disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are many potential causes of depression, research has shown that poor nutrition may contribute to the development and severity of this condition. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of nutrition on depression.

First, it is essential to understand the link between diet and depression. Studies have found that individuals who consume a diet high in processed foods, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats have an increased risk of depression. Conversely, those who eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats have a lower risk of depression.

One of the reasons for this connection is the impact of certain nutrients on brain function. For example, the brain requires a steady supply of glucose to function correctly. However, consuming high amounts of sugar and other refined carbohydrates can lead to blood sugar imbalances and fluctuations, which can affect mood and energy levels. On the other hand, consuming a diet rich in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains and vegetables, can provide a steady supply of glucose to the brain, helping to stabilize mood and energy levels.

Another nutrient that is crucial for brain health is omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are found in fatty fish, nuts, seeds, and other plant-based oils. Studies have found that individuals with depression tend to have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood. Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to improve symptoms of depression and may be an effective adjunct therapy for individuals with this condition.

Additionally, certain vitamins and minerals are essential for brain health and may play a role in the development and severity of depression. For example, low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of depression, while supplementation with vitamin D may improve symptoms. Other nutrients that may be beneficial for depression include B vitamins, magnesium, and zinc.

A Practical Guide for Antidepressant Boosting Nutrition Options

If you're looking to increase your intake of omega-3 fatty acids and plant-based foods in your diet, here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Incorporate fatty fish into your diet: Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Aim to include these fish in your diet at least twice a week.

2. Try plant-based sources of omega-3s: If you don't eat fish, you can still get omega-3s from plant-based sources such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, hemp seeds, walnuts, and algae-based supplements.

3. Include more leafy greens: Leafy greens like spinach, kale, collard greens, and arugula are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Try adding them to your meals, either as a side dish or mixed in with other foods like omelets, soups, or smoothies.

4. Swap out refined grains for whole grains: Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole-grain bread, are a great source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and B vitamins. Try replacing refined grains with whole grains in your meals to increase your nutrient intake.

5. Add legumes to your meals: Legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, and black beans, are a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and other nutrients. Try adding them to soups, salads, or as a side dish.

6. Experiment with plant-based proteins: Plant-based protein sources like tofu, tempeh, and seitan can be a great way to incorporate more protein into your diet without relying on meat. Try using them in stir-fries, salads, or as a meat substitute in your favorite dishes.

7. Snack on fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Try keeping chopped vegetables or fruit on hand for a quick and healthy snack.

Incorporating more omega-3s and plant-based foods into your diet can be a great way to support overall health and well-being. By making small changes to your diet and trying new foods, you can increase your nutrient intake and enjoy a variety of delicious, healthy meals. For more practical tips, check out the book: Eat to Beat Depression and Anxiety: Nourish Your Way to Better Mental Health in Six Weeks.

Greg Roussett NP is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for anxiety, depression, and treats clients holistically. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with complex medical problems as well as health anxiety. To book a free consultation, click here.

April Is National Overeating Awareness Month: Why it Matters

Overeating is a common problem that affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It can be caused by a range of factors, from emotional triggers to societal pressure to eat more. In order to raise awareness about this issue, the month of April has been designated as Overeating Awareness Month. In this post, we'll take a closer look at what overeating is, why it's important to raise awareness about it, and what you can do to help.

Defining Overeating

Overeating is defined as consuming more food than your body needs for energy. This can lead to weight gain, which in turn can lead to a range of health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Overeating can be caused by a variety of factors, including emotional triggers such as stress or anxiety, social pressure to eat more than you need, and biological factors such as hormonal imbalances.

Why Overeating Awareness Matters

Overeating is a serious issue that affects millions of people around the world. By raising awareness about this problem, we can help people understand the risks associated with overeating and encourage them to take steps to maintain a healthy weight. Here are some of the reasons why overeating awareness matters:

1. Health Risks: Overeating can lead to a range of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. By raising awareness about the risks associated with overeating, we can help people understand the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.

2. Emotional Wellbeing: Overeating can also have a negative impact on our emotional wellbeing. Many people overeat as a way to cope with stress or anxiety, which can lead to a cycle of emotional eating. By raising awareness about overeating, we can help people understand the link between their emotions and their eating habits.

3. Social Pressure: Social pressure to eat more than we need can be a major factor in overeating. By raising awareness about this issue, we can help people understand that it's okay to say no to food when they're full.

What You Can Do for Help

If you're concerned about overeating, there are several things you can do to help raise awareness about this issue while also seeking support:

1. Share Information: I know this can feel vulnerable and personal, but talking to your partner, your closest friend, or your doctor can be a way to take initial steps in seeking support. Sometime just discussing can take pressure off of you if it has not been shared before

2. Lead by Example: For those who have been able to break the cycle of overeating, this may be the time to share with others what has worked for you.

3. Support Others: If you know someone who is struggling with overeating, offer your support and encouragement. Let them know that they're not alone and that there are resources available to help them.

Overeating Awareness Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the risks associated with overeating. By working together, we can help people understand the importance of maintaining a healthy weight and taking steps to prevent overeating.

When Overeating Is a Symptom of Something else

Overeating can also be associated with a range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders. In fact, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders has categorized binge eating as a stand alone psychiatric diagnosis. Overeating can create a vicious cycle that can be difficult to break.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, up to 50% of people with binge eating disorder also have a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety. Substance abuse disorders, particularly alcohol abuse, are also common among people with binge eating disorder, with up to 30% of people with this condition also having a substance use disorder.

In addition, research has shown that people with a history of trauma are more likely to develop binge eating disorder. Up to 30% of people with binge eating disorder have a history of trauma compared to 9% of the general population.

Treatment Options for Binge Eating

Treatment options for binge eating disorder typically involve a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common form of psychotherapy used to treat binge eating disorder. CBT helps people learn how to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to food and eating.

Medications such as antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications may also be used to treat binge eating disorder, particularly when there is an underlying mood or anxiety disorder.

Lifestyle changes, such as improving eating habits and increasing physical activity, are also an important part of treatment for binge eating disorder. Eating regular, balanced meals and avoiding restrictive diets can help reduce the urge to binge eat. Regular exercise can also help improve mood and reduce stress, both of which can trigger binge eating episodes.

If you or someone you know is struggling with binge eating or other eating disorders, it's important to seek help from a mental health professional.

Greg Roussett is a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner offering treatment for anxiety, depression, and treats clients with a history of binge eating disorder. He is a cognitive behavioral therapist, psychopharmacologist (prescribing practices similar to a psychiatrist ), and offers a combination of psychotherapy and medication management to individuals experiencing depression. His office is located in Rockridge in Oakland, CA and provides services across the bay area to those residing in cities inclusive of Piedmont, Lafayette, Walnut Creek, Berkeley, and San Francisco. One of his primary specialties is working with those looking for help with bipolar disorder, other mood disorders, insomnia, panic disorder, and depression. Book a complimentary consultation today here.