Lessons in Psychiatry

Mental health care is evolving, moving away from one-size-fits-all approaches toward treatments tailored to each person’s unique needs. Personalized psychiatry focuses on understanding the whole individual—their biology, environment, and experiences—to create a care plan that truly fits. This approach can lead to better outcomes and a more meaningful recovery journey. Dr. Emily K. Cabrera, EdD, MSN, CAGS, PMHNP-BC, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at Dual Minds

Gaslighting in healthcare is a serious issue that often goes unnoticed. When patients’ experiences and symptoms are dismissed or minimized by medical or psychiatric professionals, it can cause deep psychological harm. This form of manipulation, known as gaslighting, can leave lasting scars on a person’s mental health and trust in the healthcare system. Exploring the psychological effects of gaslighting in medical and psychiatric settings helps us understand why this problem m

Emotional blunting is a condition that affects how people experience and express emotions. It can feel like a dulling or numbing of feelings, where joy, sadness, anger, or excitement seem muted or absent. This experience can be confusing and distressing, not only for those who live with it but also for their loved ones. Understanding emotional blunting is essential because it often signals underlying clinical issues that require attention. What Is Emotional Blunting? Emotiona

Depression affects millions of women worldwide, often impacting their quality of life, relationships, and overall health. While traditional treatments like therapy and medication play a crucial role, emerging research highlights the potential benefits of nutritional supplements in supporting mental health. One such supplement gaining attention is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10). This article explores how CoQ10 may help reduce depression symptoms in women, backed by scientific insights a

Every year, millions of people set New Year's resolutions with high hopes for change. Yet, by February, many find their resolutions forgotten or abandoned. The problem is not the desire to improve but the way goals are framed and pursued. Shifting from rigid resolutions to flexible intentions can create a more sustainable path to personal growth. This approach aligns with how the brain works, making change easier and more lasting. Why Resolutions Often Fail Resolutions tend t

Every year, millions set ambitious goals to change habits, improve health, or boost productivity. Yet, many find themselves overwhelmed or discouraged when progress stalls. What if the most powerful resolution you could make this year was not about pushing harder but about treating yourself with kindness? Choosing self-compassion as your New Year’s resolution invites a gentler, more sustainable path to growth. Why Self-Compassion Matters More Than Ever Self-compassion means t

Emotional dysregulation often carries a heavy stigma. People may view it as a personal failure or a sign of weak character. This misunderstanding can deepen feelings of shame and isolation for those struggling to manage their emotions. Yet, emotional dysregulation is better understood as a skill deficit—a challenge in learning and applying emotional regulation skills—rather than a moral failing. This perspective opens the door to compassion, effective support, and practical s

Eating well is often seen as a simple daily task, but it carries a deeper meaning. The way we choose to nourish our bodies reveals how much we value ourselves. Nutrition is not just about food; it is a form of self-respect. When we prioritize healthy eating, we send a clear message to ourselves: we deserve care, attention, and kindness. Understanding this connection can transform how we approach meals and snacks. This post explores how nutrition reflects self-respect and offe

Everyone carries an inner voice that comments on their actions, decisions, and worth. For many, this voice is harsh and relentless, filled with self-judgment. But what if that voice quieted down? Who would you be without constant self-judgment? This question invites us to explore the power of self-acceptance and how releasing harsh inner criticism can transform our lives. Understanding Self-Judgment and Its Impact Self-judgment is the habit of evaluating ourselves negatively,

Avoidant Personality Disorder (AvPD) often feels like a barrier between a person and the world around them. People with AvPD tend to avoid social interactions and close relationships because of deep fears of rejection and criticism. This avoidance may seem safer than risking connection, but it can lead to isolation and emotional pain. Understanding the biology behind these fears and using an integrative approach can help individuals move toward healing and meaningful connecti

Learning to speak to yourself the way you would to a loved one can transform your inner world. Many people struggle with harsh self-criticism, which can affect confidence, motivation, and overall well-being. This post explores how adopting a gentle, supportive inner voice can improve your mental health and help you navigate life’s challenges with greater resilience. Understanding Self-Talk and Its Impact Self-talk is the internal dialogue we have with ourselves every day. It

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) affects about 5% of women of reproductive age. It causes severe mood and physical symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Unlike typical premenstrual syndrome (PMS), PMDD involves intense emotional changes linked to the menstrual cycle. Understanding why normal hormone shifts trigger such strong symptoms is key to managing this condition effectively. This post explores how brain sensitivity to hormones plays a role in PMDD and highlights i

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects millions worldwide, often trapping individuals in cycles of repetitive thoughts and behaviors that feel impossible to break. Understanding OCD as a brain loop disorder sheds light on why these patterns persist and how certain interventions can help. This post explores the neurobiology behind OCD, explains why reassurance can unintentionally strengthen obsessive thoughts, and presents integrative strategies combining supplements, ant

Mental health care has come a long way, yet many people still find that traditional psychiatry does not fully address their needs. Conventional psychiatry often centers on diagnosing and treating symptoms mainly through medication and standard therapies. While this approach helps many, it may miss the complex mix of biological, psychological, social, and lifestyle factors that shape mental health. Integrative psychiatry offers a wider, more personalized approach that can impr

Anxiety affects millions worldwide, often seen as a purely psychological issue. Yet, many people overlook a crucial factor that might be contributing to their anxious feelings: mineral deficiencies. Could your anxiety be linked to a lack of essential minerals in your body? Understanding this connection can open new doors to managing anxiety more effectively. How Minerals Affect Brain Function and Mood Minerals play vital roles in brain chemistry and nervous system function. T

When a mother feels overwhelmed, exhausted, or emotionally drained, seeking mental health support can be a crucial step toward healing. Yet many moms hesitate because of a powerful feeling known as mom guilt . This guilt often stops them from prioritizing their own well-being, even when it’s necessary for their health and their family’s happiness. Understanding why this guilt happens and how to overcome it can help moms embrace self-care without shame. Why Mom Guilt Around Me

Mental health often goes unnoticed until symptoms become overwhelming. Yet, early signals like irritability, exhaustion, and emotional withdrawal can provide crucial clues to underlying mental health struggles. Recognizing these signs early can lead to timely support and better outcomes. This post explores how these symptoms manifest, why they matter, and practical steps to address them. Understanding Irritability as a Mental Health Signal Irritability is more than just feeli

Vitamin D often gets called the "sunshine vitamin" because our bodies produce it when exposed to sunlight. Beyond its well-known role in bone health, researchers have been exploring how vitamin D might influence mental wellbeing. Could this nutrient, sometimes called sunshine in a pill, help improve mood and reduce feelings of depression? This post looks at the connection between vitamin D and mental health, what the science says, and practical ways to support your mood natur

Attention and cognitive function are essential for daily life, influencing how we learn, work, and interact. Many people struggle with focus, memory, and mental clarity, often wondering how to support their brain health naturally. Understanding the role of neurotransmitters—the brain’s chemical messengers—can shed light on how certain nutrients and natural compounds support these vital functions. This article explores how specific substances like omega-3 fatty acids, phosphat

Mental health struggles can feel confusing and isolating, especially when you believe you are doing everything “right.” You follow healthy routines, maintain strong relationships, and manage your responsibilities well, yet the weight of anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues persists. This experience is more common than many realize, and understanding why it happens can help you find better ways to cope and seek support. Why Doing Everything Right Doesn’t Always P