High-Functioning Depression

Posted on April 15, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Depression is a common mental health condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest, and changes how you think, sleep, eat, and act.

There are several types of depression, including:

Clinical depression (major depressive disorder)
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)
Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder (DMDD)
Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)

There are also specific forms of major depressive disorder, including:

Seasonal affective disorder (seasonal depression)
Prenatal depression and postpartum depression
Atypical depression

People with depression often can’t always keep up with the demands of day-to-day life, whether it is keeping a steady job, having significant relationships and friendships, or keeping the house tidy. Their depression can make every task feel daunting.

However, that isn’t always the case. Some people can experience depression in a way that doesn’t appear disruptive from the outside, but it still causes a major disruption inside. This is called high-functioning depression.

Although it isn’t a formal medical diagnosis, high-functioning depression is a helpful way to describe how some people who are living with the symptoms of depression manage to keep up a moderately stable life.

A person with high-functioning depression may have the same symptoms as a person with clinical or major depressive disorder. These symptoms include:

Feeling sad, helpless, or hopeless
Becoming disinterested in things that used to bring them joy
Changes in eating habits, like eating too much or too little
Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
Difficulty concentrating
Negative thoughts about themselves and others

Unfortunately, some people may feel that they need to hide these depressive symptoms from others because:

They might have come from a family or culture that teaches people not to talk about mental illness
They think they will feel better by powering through on their own
They’re trying to avoid any impact on their job and relationships, hoping the depression lifts
They are someone who isn’t comfortable showing vulnerability or perceived weakness
They think having depression is something to be ashamed of
They feel that their life will fall apart and people will abandon them if they find out about their depression

More women than men are diagnosed with depression, but this may be because women are more likely to seek treatment.

A healthcare provider may determine a diagnosis of depression based on:

A physical exam
Lab tests
A psychiatric evaluation
DSM-5

Unfortunately, high-functioning depression can be difficult to recognize. Even though a person may appear to be high functioning, they still should get treatment for their depression. Treatments for depression may include:

Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and mindfulness techniques
Medications
Support groups

To learn more about the mental health services at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or call (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

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.

Exercising Outdoors

Posted on April 3, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Spring has arrived, and the weather is starting to warm up. This means we can spend more time exercising outdoors rather than at the gym or at home.

Outdoor exercise is a great way to work out. It offers many benefits to our physical and mental health, such as:

Reducing stress and anxiety

Improving sleep

Boosting vitamin D levels

Boosting self-esteem

Improving memory

Lowering chronic disease risk

Here are tips that can keep you safe while exercising outdoors:

Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol

Wear clothes that let the air circulate and moisture evaporate

Stay sun safe by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat

Know the signs of heat-related illnesses

Wear proper footwear for the activity you are engaging in

If you experience medical problems while exercising, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

Alcohol Awareness Month

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

April is Alcohol Awareness Month. It is an opportunity to raise awareness and understanding of alcohol use and misuse, and its impact on health.

Alcohol-related problems continue to take a heavy toll on individuals, families, and communities. Researchers estimate that each year there are more than 178,000 alcohol-related deaths, making alcohol a leading preventable cause of death in the United States. In addition, more than 200 diseases and injury-related conditions are associated with alcohol misuse.

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) started the Alcohol Awareness Month program in 1987. The program targets teenagers and college-aged youth, aiming to educate them on the dangers of heavy drinking and other harmful behaviors that can be common during these years.

Binge drinking and heavy drinking are two patterns of excessive alcohol use. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines binge drinking as consuming four or more drinks for women and five or more for men on a single occasion. Heavy drinking is defined as consuming eight or more drinks per week for women and 15 or more drinks per week for men.

There are several ways to support Alcohol Awareness Month, including:

Wear a red ribbon

Participate in an alcohol-free 72 hours

Host dry parties

Talk with kids and teens about alcohol

Talk with friends and family about alcohol

Reflect on your relationship with alcohol

Alcohol Awareness Month’s primary goal is to increase public awareness and education about alcohol and alcohol use disorder (AUD), formerly known as “alcoholism”.

If you or a loved one needs expert detox services, you can take the first step toward recovery by calling Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Addiction Services at 718-670-5693.

National Drugs and Alcohol Facts Week

Posted on March 18, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week takes place March 16th- 22nd.

National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week’s goal is to dispel myths about drug and alcohol use and to inform teens about the impact and risk of substance abuse as well as addiction.

According to research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), two-thirds of U.S. students have tried alcohol by the 12th grade.

The average age at which children typically experiment with alcohol and drugs is 13 years old.

There are five signs of drug abuse among teens. They include:

Psychological changes such as trouble concentrating, memory issues, and random laughter

Changes in behavior, including bad grades, lack of respect for others, and poor eye contact

Suspicious behavior such as hiding drug paraphernalia, missing cash, or valuables

Health issues, including appetite changes, shakiness, excessive headaches, or frequent illness

Poor personal appearance, such as bad hygiene or bloodshot eyes

There is a lot of misinformation around drugs and alcohol. Many myths have been created and spread through our culture, especially among young people. Here are some myths about drugs and alcohol that have been debunked:

Myth #1- Marijuana addiction isn’t real

Although it is impossible to overdose on marijuana, habitual cannabis use can change the way the body works, create a tolerance, and cause withdrawal symptoms after stopping

Myth #2- It is okay to quit drinking alcohol and start smoking marijuana instead

Switching from one addictive behavior to another is common; however, it creates other addictive cycles

Myth #3- Prescription drugs can’t be addictive if prescribed by my doctor

Even doctor-prescribed drugs can have a tolerance built against them, which eventually causes an addiction. Especially painkillers such as opiates or benzodiazepines

Here are more facts about drugs, alcohol, and addiction:

Alcohol is the most abused substance in the U.S., and the third most common cause of death
Alcohol and drugs are involved in approximately 50% of deaths by suicide and are the cause of death of more than 50% of all violent crimes
80% of all domestic violence abuse reports show a relationship to alcohol or drugs

Although National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week is geared toward young people, people of any age are encouraged to participate and educate themselves so that they can make educated choices related to drugs and alcohol.

To learn more about our mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

A.I. Therapy

Posted on February 15, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

During the COVID-19 pandemic, access to healthcare services through telehealth and telemedicine was implemented to help limit the spread of the virus. It was also used for those who were using mental health services, as that time was very lonely and isolated for many people.

A 2020 review published in BMC Public Health concluded that telehealth improved the delivery of healthcare during the pandemic, minimizing COVID-19 transmission and potentially reducing morbidity and deaths.

Telehealth is a way to receive healthcare services remotely through electronic devices such as a computer, tablet, or smartphone. These telehealth services can come in various forms, including:

Live video or audio appointments

Secured text messaging with a healthcare provider

Remote devices that allow a healthcare provider to track blood sugar

Today, many people use telehealth to get support for any mental health challenges they may be experiencing. Unfortunately, obtaining professional mental health support can be challenging as there is a shortage of mental healthcare providers. There is also the daunting task of searching for and finding the right one. This has caused many people to turn to A.I. therapy.

A.I. therapy uses artificial intelligence to support mental health through chatbots, digital therapy apps, and A.I.-driven counseling tools.

Many American adults, 22% in fact, have found some relief by using mental health chatbots as a therapeutic tool.

There are many possible reasons why people are turning to A.I. therapy as a viable option to address their mental health, including:

Accessibility

Affordability

Anonymity

There are many A.I. therapy platforms. They include:

CBT-focused chatbots that use meditation and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques that offer personalized recommendations and crisis support

Skill-building apps that teach CBT skills, provide personalized recommendations, and collect user data to improve the experience

Self-guided wellness platforms that combine A.I. chatbots with emotion tracking, journaling, and self-directed therapeutic exercises

Mood tracking apps that allow users to track their moods and symptoms, while sometimes receiving self-care recommendations

Conversational A.I. companions that provide daily support through advanced A.I. and adapt to the user’s needs. It is typically aimed at mild anxiety or overthinking, with CBT-focused conversations

A.I. can be a promising tool for enhancing mental healthcare, but it can’t replace personalized mental healthcare.

Although A.I. therapy can’t replace human therapists, it could be a helpful supplement for those who may need additional support, along with therapy.

There are several reasons why A.I. therapy might be helpful, including:

24/7 availability due to A.I. chatbots being able to provide additional support outside of therapy sessions and holidays

Affordability of A.I. therapy provides a low-cost way to get support outside of sessions

Discretion of A.I. therapy helping people explore mental health support in a low- pressure, judgment-free way

While A.I. therapy may have some benefits for those seeking support with their mental health, it also poses several potential risks, including:

It can cause A.I.-induced psychosis

It can give unsafe advice and misinformation

It engages in sycophantic behavior by validating a user’s emotions, which can be dangerous if they have suicidal ideation, delusions, mania, or hallucinations

There is a lack of human connection and empathy: A user might take a self-assessment without human input that can lead to false reassurance or dangerous delays in getting help. A.I. can miss nonverbal cues, and a user may take its output as definitive

A.I. therapy can offer those who are seeking support with their mental health a convenient way to do so. However, effective mental healthcare should be safe and provided by trained, human mental health professionals.

If you or a loved one needs the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment.

Blood Test for Alzheimer’s Disease

Posted on January 22, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common type of dementia. It causes a slow decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills.

In May of 2025, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Lumipulse test, the first blood test to help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease.

The Lumipulse test utilizes a blood sample to measure specific proteins, including a particular form of the tau protein. The tau protein is a protein found in neurons that stabilizes hollow rods called microtubules, which guide the transport of nutrients, signals, and other essential molecules throughout the cell. The tau protein can indicate the presence of amyloid plaques in the brain. An amyloid plaque is a buildup of protein that is considered a hallmark sign of Alzheimer’s disease.

The Lumipulse test, along with other diagnostic tools such as a PET scan, can aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

Although this blood test can detect changes before any memory issues occur, it is recommended that it be used clinically in those who are showing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

The test is approved for adults 50 years of age and older who are having early memory or thinking problems, such as repeating questions, forgetting names, or misplacing things.

The test is not recommended for those with no symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.

It is important to note that if you can take the Lumipulse test and receive a positive result, it means that there are changes in your brain that may suggest you have Alzheimer’s. However, these results by themselves do not mean that you have Alzheimer’s disease.

You should consult with your healthcare provider to help further determine if you have Alzheimer’s disease. They may:

Recommend more tests, such as imaging tests or cognitive tests

Suggest lifestyle changes that help support your brain health

Help you plan next steps, such as treatment options or clinical trials

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s, you can receive treatment from a neurologist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

Seasonal Affective Disorder

Posted on January 21, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD), also known as seasonal depression, is a type of depression that is triggered by the change of seasons. It usually starts in late fall or early winter and goes away in spring and summer. This is called winter-pattern SAD or winter depression.

Seasonal affective disorder affects about 5% of adults in the U.S. It tends to start in young adulthood (usually between the ages of 18 and 30).

The American Psychiatric Association classifies SAD as major depressive disorder with seasonal patterns and can cause a person to experience mood changes and symptoms of depression. Symptoms of depression can include:

A persistent mood of sadness, anxiousness, or emptiness most of the day, nearly every day for at least weeks

Feelings of hopelessness or negativity

Feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness

A loss of interest or pleasure in favorite hobbies and activities

Fatigue, decreased energy, or a slowed down feeling

Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions

Changes in sleep, appetite, or unplanned weigh changes

Physical aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that have an unknown cause and don’t go away with treatment

Thoughts of death, suicide, or suicide attempts

Winter-pattern seasonal affective disorder can cause additional symptoms, including:

Oversleeping

Overeating, with cravings for carbohydrates, which can lead to weight gain

Social withdrawal

Although it is rare, people can experience summer-pattern SAD, or summer depression, which starts in the late spring or early summer and ends in the fall. Symptoms for summer-pattern SAD include:

Insomnia

Anxiety

A poor appetite that leads to weight loss

Restlessness and agitation

Aggressive or violent behavior

Unfortunately, researchers are unsure of what causes seasonal affective disorder. However, studies indicate that people with SAD, especially winter-pattern SAD, have reduced levels of serotonin, the brain chemical that helps regulate mood. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, there is research that also suggests that sunlight affects levels of molecules that help maintain normal serotonin levels. Shorter daylight hours may prevent these molecules from functioning properly, which can contribute to a decrease in serotonin levels in the winter.

A vitamin D deficiency may worsen problems associated with winter-pattern SAD because vitamin D is believed to promote serotonin activity. Vitamin D can be consumed in food and can also be produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. With less daylight in the winter, people with SAD may have lower levels of vitamin D, which further reduces serotonin activity.

In addition to lower vitamin D levels, there are other studies that suggest that both forms of SAD relate to altered levels of melatonin, the hormone that is key for maintaining the normal sleep/wake cycle. People who have winter-pattern SAD can produce too much melatonin, which can increase sleepiness and lead to oversleeping.

It is important to note that you shouldn’t try to diagnose yourself if you are experiencing symptoms of SAD. See a healthcare provider to be properly evaluated as you may be suffering from depression for another reason. A healthcare provider may refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist who will assess your pattern of symptoms and determine if you have seasonal depression or another mood disorder.

Although there isn’t a blood test or scan to diagnose seasonal depression, a healthcare provider may recommend testing to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms, including testing your thyroid to make sure that it is functioning properly.

There are several treatment options for SAD, including:

Light therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Antidepressant medication

Spending time outdoors

Vitamin D supplements

If you or someone you know is struggling or having thoughts of suicide, call or text the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. In life-threatening situations, call 911.

To find out more about our mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or call (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

What is Dry January?

Posted on January 9, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

New Year’s has come and gone, and we are all trying to stick to the resolutions we made. For some, a common resolution is giving up alcohol.

Heavy social drinking can often be considered binge drinking. Binge drinking is when a man drinks five or more drinks and a woman drinks four or more drinks in one sitting.

This is why many people commit to Dry January, which is when a person gives up drinking alcohol for the entire month.

Dry January has become a very popular New Year’s resolution over the past few years. Recent research indicates that younger Americans are generally drinking less than previous generations. According to a poll released last summer, conducted by the analytics company Gallup, the percentage of Americans who said they drink fell to a record low of 54%. This is one percentage point lower than the previous record low in 1958.

There are several health benefits to participating in Dry January, including:

Increased energy levels

Lower blood pressure and heart rate

A decrease in liver inflammation

Clearer skin and decreased facial puffiness and bloating

A decrease in calorie consumption

It helps shift your perspective and understanding of your relationship with alcohol

There are many tips to help you succeed during Dry January, including:

Reduce your alcohol consumption by half before you start

Write down the goals you want to achieve and document your progress

Abstain from drinking alcohol longer if you can

Ease back into drinking alcohol if you choose to go back to drinking, and drink in moderation

Surround yourself with supportive friends and family

Be mindful of withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of withdrawal include:

- Abdominal cramping

- Anxiety

- Dizziness

- Headaches

- Nausea

- Shaking

- Sweating

- Vomiting

Avoid any situations that may tempt you to drink

Participate in hobbies and other interests that don’t involve drinking alcohol

Seek out extra help and resources if you need them

At Flushing Hospital Medical Center, our Psychiatry Department features a Division of Addiction Services where you or your loved one can receive comprehensive assessments and treatment for alcohol and chemical dependency. For more details about our unit, contact us at (718) 670-5693 or (718) 670-5540, or for additional information about our Reflections treatment program, please get in touch with us at (718) 670-5078.

How to Set Healthy Weight Loss Goals

Posted on January 8, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Embarking on a weight loss journey can be a difficult and sometimes daunting experience. There are many factors that can affect a person’s weight management, such as medical conditions, certain medicines, stress, age, genes, hormones, and environment.

However, maintaining a lifestyle that consists of a good nutritional diet, regular physical activity, stress management, and proper sleep can support a healthy weight. Additionally, people who lose weight gradually, which is about one to two pounds a week, are more likely to keep the weight off than those who lose weight more quickly.

If a person is not at a healthy weight, moderate weight loss can help improve their cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. Just a 5% to 10% reduction of their current weight may lower their risk for some chronic diseases, such as heart disease, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes. Other benefits of moderate weight loss include:

More energy

Better mobility

A boost in self-confidence

Improved fitness

Starting a weight loss journey can be challenging. However, having and following a plan can help make the journey easier. Here are five steps that can help guide you to a healthier weight:

Consider the reasons why you want to lose weight. Writing down your reasons and posting them where you can see them can help remind you why you are making this change and keep you focused on your weight loss goals

Keep track of where you are as you begin your weight loss journey. You can keep a journal of your nutrition to help you keep track of what you eat and drink in a day. Make note of your physical activity by including the time of day you exercised, what activities you did, and for how long. Maintain a chart of your sleep schedule, including what time you went to sleep and woke up, and the number of hours you slept. Monitor your stress levels and the healthy ways you are reducing your stress. You can also track how you felt during your meals, when you exercise, and any lifestyle challenges that have affected your progress

Set specific and realistic goals. Creating short-term goals with rewards can help prevent you from feeling frustrated when there is a setback. When setting short-term goals, focus on two or three goals at a time

Find a good support system. Surround yourself with family or friends who are supportive of your weight loss goals. If they have similar goals, they may share resources that have helped them on their weight loss journey

Stay up to date with your progress throughout your weight loss journey. Regularly evaluate your progress by revisiting the goals you set. Determine what has been working well and what hasn’t been, and use this information to make any changes to your goals and weight loss plan. If you are consistently meeting a particular goal, you can reward yourself for achieving your goals. It is important to recognize and be proud of your progress as you meet your goals. Rewarding yourself helps to keep you motivated and on the right path

Please note that before you start your weight loss journey, speak with your healthcare provider so you can decide whether or not it’s a good time to set a weight loss goal.

And if you do go on a weight loss journey, don’t get discouraged if you aren’t losing weight as quickly as you had hoped. Remember that sustainable weight loss takes time.

For more information about the Bariatric Surgery Services at Flushing Hospital or procedures performed by our doctors, please call 718-408-6977 or 718-670-8908.

Winter Dehydration

Posted on December 26, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Dehydration in the winter may seem less likely than in the summertime, but it is still a risk. According to the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, the recommended amount of daily fluid intake is around 15.5 cups for men and 11.5 for women. For many of us, it might be harder to reach these quantities during the winter months.

Some causes of winter dehydration include:

Indoor heat
Bundling up in too many layers
Lack of thirst
Fluid loss from respiration
More frequent urination

There are many signs of dehydration, including:

The color of your urine
Constipation
Fatigue
Dry mouth and chapped lips
Dry skin
Headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Feeling faint or dizzy
A rapid heart rate

Here are some tips for staying hydrated in the winter:

Drink warm fluids if it is too difficult to drink cold water when it’s cold outside.
Infuse plain water by adding flavorings such as a wedge of lemon or lime, other pieces of fruit, or unsweetened water enhancers.
Carry a reusable water bottle with you to encourage daily hydration.
Eat homemade soups and water-rich fruits and vegetables to help increase fluid intake.
Avoid drinking caffeine as it can contribute to dehydration.
Swap drinking an alcoholic beverage for a mocktail.
Make hydration a routine by drinking a certain amount of water daily.

If you have symptoms of dehydration, consult with a physician immediately. A severe case of dehydration can lead to complications and potentially death. For less severe cases, you can schedule an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center by calling 718-670-5486.