Mental Health

Mental health issues affect men, women, and children alike. This can cause immense, long-lasting distress. If you or a member of your family develops problems like depression or anxiety, talk to Amy Barudin, NP-C in Glen Ellyn, Illinois. She specializes in helping people overcome psychological and emotional health problems and restoring mental harmony. Call Barudin Wellness to learn more about the mental health services offered. You can also book an in-person or telehealth appointment online today.

Do I need help with my mental health?

Many people don’t think about caring for their mental health in the same way that they worry about physical health problems. Some people still believe that poor mental health is a weakness that the person brings on themselves.

Thankfully, attitudes are changing, but mental health still fails to get as much support and recognition as it deserves. If you have any symptoms of mental health problems, don’t ignore them — early treatment increases your chance of a fast and complete recovery.

The Barudin Wellness team welcomes all family members experiencing emotional difficulties, behavioral issues, or mood problems, whatever their age.

What conditions require mental health care?

Some of the more common mental health problems include:

• Depression
• Mood disorders
• Anxiety disorders
• Bipolar disorder
• Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Eating disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Substance use disorders

The links between mental and physical health mean that people often develop psychological problems when they have physical disorders. For example, depression is common in people with chronic pain and can be a symptom of hormonal conditions like hypothyroidism and other chronic diseases.

What symptoms do mental health problems cause?

The symptoms you experience when you have a mental health condition vary depending on which disorder you have, but common issues include:

• Feeling hopeless, sad, and empty for more than a few weeks
• Being constantly on edge and afraid
• Worrying continually
• Problems sleeping
• Weight loss or gain
• Irritability and angry outbursts
• Neglecting your health
• Low self-esteem
• Avoiding leaving home
• Loss of interest in favorite activities
• Panic attacks

Panic attacks are distressing experiences that cause shaking, excessive sweating, difficulty breathing, and nausea, plus an out-of-control feeling.

What treatments help with mental health problems?

Mild to moderate mental health problems often respond well to psychotherapy. This involves talking to a skilled counselor about your feelings, experiences, and concerns. Popular techniques include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). Barudin Wellness can refer you to a therapy specialist.

Medications that can help with mental health disorders include antidepressants, anti-anxiety drugs, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics. You might need these for more severe mental illness or if therapy alone isn’t helping sufficiently.

You might also benefit from learning relaxation skills like deep breathing exercises and mindfulness meditation. Lifestyle changes can improve your mental health, so talk to your provider about weight management, quitting smoking, or nutrition counseling.

Call Barudin Wellness to request a mental health consultation or book an appointment online today.