Tag Archives: #mentalhealth

How to Reset and Regulate Your Nervous System

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Our nervous system is our biological survival system, our first line of defense that is designed to respond to any stimuli, such as an environmental or psychological threat that we may encounter. It works to protect and keep us safe, as it continually processes information and responds to both internal and external stimuli.  

The autonomic nervous system controls all automatic or involuntary functions of the body. It is made up of two main parts, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. 

The sympathetic nervous system, or “fight-or-flight” system, is responsible for preparing the body to respond to anything that may be seen as a threat, triggering the release of the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones activate our automatic survival responses, which include fight, flight, freeze, or fawn, causing us to experience symptoms, such as rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and upset stomach, among others. 

The parasympathetic nervous system, or “rest and digest” system, plays an essential part in counteracting the fight-or-flight response and regulating the body’s stress response. It promotes relaxation and recovery, which helps the body calm down. 

It is important to note that our nervous system doesn’t know the difference between a real threat and a non-life-threatening stressor. 

Stress can be healthy, as it can motivate us into action and help us rise to any challenges. However, many people are being pushed beyond the desirable levels of stress and into a state of distress. Our sympathetic nervous system gets sent into high gear because we continue to be on high alert, constantly reacting to stressors after stressors, and not giving our parasympathetic nervous system time to do its job to calm the body. Due to this, many people are not recovering as they may need to. 

Without sufficient ways to reset and recover, we go from manageable stress to unmanageable distress. This persistent trigger can gradually lead to anxiety, irritability, fatigue, exhaustion, and eventually burnout. 

There will always be times when our fight-or-flight response gets triggered. That’s why it is important to have ways to engage the parasympathetic nervous system and regulate the body back into a state of calm and balance so that we can function properly.  

Here are a few ways to reset and regulate our nervous systems: 

  • Breathwork is a deep breathing practice that signals safety to the brain, helping to calm the body and mind. Examples of breathwork include: 
  • Long exhale breathing 
  • Physiological sighing 
  • Birthday cake breathing 
  • Physical movements, such as walking, gentle stretching, or yoga, can reduce cortisol levels and promote the release of endorphins, and get rid of the stress and tension that has accumulated in the body 
  • Spending time in nature can start to re-regulate your nervous system, as it helps lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, and improve mood 
  • Crying is a self-soothing behavior that helps to expel stress hormones from the body, providing relief.   
  • Prioritizing sleep is an important way to give the brain and body time to repair and restore themselves 
  • Social connections with people who make you feel safe, calm, and supported can help regulate the nervous system 
  • Intentionally slowing down your pace to signal to the brain that there isn’t any immediate danger 

Many of us may spend a lot of our days in an increased state of activation, as we continually react to the stressors around us, instead of responding to them. Stress is inevitable. However, having ways to reset and regulate our nervous system can help us better cope with our stress. 

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. 

 

 

 

 

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.

Men’s Health Month- Depression in Men

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June is Men’s Health Month. This time is used to raise awareness of health problems affecting men and boys.  

One health problem affecting men and boys is depression. Depression is a common mental health condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. Also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it changes how you think, sleep, eat, and act.   

Depression symptoms can differ in men and women. Men tend to use different, healthy, and unhealthy coping skills than women. It isn’t clear why depression affects men differently from women, but these differences could be due to factors such as brain chemistry, hormones, and life experiences.  

These differences may also result from the traditional male role, which discourages men from expressing their emotions and instead encourages the pursuit of power, success, and competition.  

Men with depression may exhibit similar signs and symptoms of depression that women do, such as: 

  • Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, or emptiness 
  • Feeling very tired 
  • Having a hard time sleeping or sleeping too much 
  • Not getting the same enjoyment or pleasure from their favorite hobbies and activities 

Other behaviors in men that could be symptoms of depression include: 

  • Irritability or anger that can get out of control 
  • Problems getting along with their spouse, partner, family members, friends, and others 
  • Controlling, violent, or abusive behavior 
  • Problems with alcohol or drugs 
  • Engaging in escapist behavior, such as spending excessive time at work or on sports 
  • Physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive problems, and pain 
  • Reckless behaviors, such as reckless driving 

In addition to depression affecting the mind, it can also affect the body. Typical physical symptoms are changes in appetite and sleep habits. Depression in men can also cause: 

  • Low sex drive 
  • Erectile dysfunction 
  • Trouble having an orgasm 

Not getting help for depression will only make it worse. It can cause damage to relationships, careers, and health.  

Depression in men can have severe consequences. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), men in the U.S. are four times more likely to die by suicide than women, and 75 to 80 percent of all people who kill themselves in the U.S. are men. This may be due to men tending to use more harmful and violent ways to do so, such as using a gun instead of overdosing on pills. 

Experiencing depression is not usually a normal part of aging, but it is common for older men. Several things can lead to depression in older men, including: 

  • Health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and chronic pain 
  • Stressful life events, such as the death of friends and loved ones, being diagnosed with an illness, or taking care of a partner who is sick or disabled 
  • Social isolation, such as not spending time with work friends or neighbors moving away, can cause the loss of social connections. Feeling lonely and isolated is a top risk factor for depression 
  • Sleep issues, such as falling asleep during the day, waking up at night, and getting less overall sleep, are more likely to result in experiencing depression 

More than 80 percent of the people who suffer from depression, men and women, can successfully be treated with antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. Other treatment options include brain stimulation techniques, such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).  

It might be difficult to ask for help. However, if you have been struggling with drastic changes in your emotions or behavior for more than a few weeks, it is time to seek help from a mental health professional. Treatment with a mental health professional can help you to: 

  • Learn ways to manage stress 
  • Think about your emotions and coping strategies 
  • Seek out emotional support 
  • Try to stay on a regular schedule and make healthy life choices  
  • Learn to adjust your way of thinking 
  • Set realistic goals 
  • Decide what is important in your life 
  • Wait until you get better before making any important decisions 
  • Participate in activities you previously enjoyed 

If you are having thoughts of suicide, but aren’t thinking about immediately harming yourself, seek help by: 

  • Calling a suicide crisis center hotline 
  • Making an appointment with your healthcare provider or a mental health professional  
  • Reaching out to a loved one or close friend, even though it may be difficult to talk about your feelings 
  • Talking to a minister, spiritual leader, or someone in your faith community 
  • Joining a men’s health group that deals with depression 

If you think you may harm yourself or have thoughts of suicide, you can call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Or use the Lifeline Chat. Services are free and confidential. 

Asking for help can be difficult for men. However, without treatment, depression won’t go away, and it may get worse. You don’t have to deal with male depression on your own. 

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. 

 

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.

Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month

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June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of understanding what Alzheimer’s is and what steps you can take to care of your brain.  

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. Age is the biggest risk factor for the disease, followed by sex and family history. 

Dementia is not a specific disease, but an overall term that describes a group of symptoms like memory loss and the loss of other mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life, caused by physical changes in the brain.  

Different types of dementia include: 

  • Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease 
  • Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease 
  • Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease 
  • Frontotemporal Dementia 
  • Huntington’s Disease 
  • Korsakoff Syndrome 

There are many signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Here are 10 early signs and symptoms: 

  1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life 
  2. Challenges in planning or solving problems 
  3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks 
  4. Confusion with time and place 
  5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships 
  6. New problems with words in speaking or writing 
  7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps 
  8. Decreased or poor judgment 
  9. Withdrawal from work or social activities 
  10. Changes in mood and personality 

Even though there isn’t a cure for Alzheimer’s and many other types of dementia, there are many preventative measures you can take to care for your brain. 

Here are five ways to care for your brain: 

  1. Breaking a sweat: regular cardiovascular exercise elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to the brain and body. Several studies have found an association between physical activity and reduced risk of cognitive decline. 
  1. Fueling upright: Eat a healthy and balanced diet that is lower in fat and higher in vegetables and fruit to help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Although research on diet and cognitive function is limited, certain diets, like Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may help reduce the risk. 
  1. Catching some ZZZs: Not getting enough sleep due to conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea may result in problems with memory and thinking. 
  1. Taking care of your mental health: Some studies have linked a history of depression with an increased risk of cognitive decline. Seek medical treatment if you have experienced symptoms of depression, anxiety, or any other mental health concerns. Also, try to manage stress. 
  1. Stumping yourself: Challenge and activate your mind. Try building a piece of furniture, completing a jigsaw puzzle, doing something artistic, or playing a strategy game. Challenging your mind may have short—and long-term benefits for your brain. 

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. 

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.

Centering Pregnancy at Flushing Hospital

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Flushing Hospital Medical Center is committed to providing the best possible prenatal care to our patients. That is why we are offering Centering Pregnancy to our expectant parents. 

Centering Pregnancy is an innovative prenatal model designed to promote the overall health and well-being of the mother and baby. Unlike traditional one-on-one prenatal visits, this approach incorporates small-group sessions for medical care, education, and emotional support, fostering meaningful relationships between participants and clinicians. 

After an initial private visit with a provider, participants in the centering pregnancy program, all of whom are in similar stages of their pregnancy, meet in a small group setting for their prenatal appointments. Here, participants share with and learn from each other during the course of their pregnancy. Each of the ten-centering prenatal care group sessions is approximately 90 minutes long. This group dynamic gives each of the participants the advantage of having more time with their provider. 

At the beginning of the session, our facilitator will guide each patient to get weighed, have their blood pressure checked, and record their values for the provider to review. The provider will listen to the baby’s heartbeat and review the pertinent patient-specific information. After this information is collected, the 8-12 participants will form a circle and begin the fun and interactive educational session. 

Some of the topics covered in these sessions, designed to promote health and well-being during the pregnancy and postpartum period, include: 

  • The progression of their pregnancy 
  • Relaxation techniques 
  • Common discomforts and how to resolve them 
  • Nutrition during pregnancy 
  • What to expect during labor and delivery 
  • Newborn feeding, including breastfeeding 
  • Newborn care 

Games are played to help the learning process and to assist in building friendships between the participants. After the educational session, there is a question-and-answer period. 

Expectant mothers are actively involved in their care as they share similar experiences with women during the same stage of pregnancy. Moms and providers can relax and get to know each other. Many long-lasting friendships are formed from being involved in Centering Pregnancy. 

Studies show that women who participate in Centering Pregnancy programs tend to experience: 

  • Fewer preterm births (33 percent fewer, according to some research) 
  • Lower rates of emergency C-sections 
  • Higher rates of breastfeeding 
  • Better engagement in their own health 
  • Improved spacing between pregnancies 
  • Better well-child visit attendance and immunization rates 
  • Lower rates of postpartum depression 
  • Dramatically reduced racial disparities in preterm birth, especially among African American women 

“The Centering Pregnancy has proven to be overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing satisfaction with the group setting and the support they receive. Expectant women learn together, feel less isolated, and share their questions and experiences. Empowering women and allaying fears throughout pregnancy and after birth has been a benefit of Centering Pregnancy,” said Maria DeMarinis Smilios, MSN, CNS, RNC, IBCLC, Director of Nursing-Maternal & Child Services and Ambulatory Care 

These are the many benefits of Centering Pregnancy compared to traditional care. There is no extra charge for this type of prenatal care when compared to traditional prenatal care. 

For more information and to schedule for Centering Pregnancy, call 718 670-8992. 

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.

Older Americans Month- Mobility Exercises as You Age

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May is observed as Older Americans Month. It is a time when the contributions of older adults are recognized across the country.  

As we get older, our joints may feel stiffer, and our balance and reactions might be slower. According to recent studies, over 30% of adults 65 years of age and older experience some form of mobility limitation.  

Mobility for older adults usually means the ability to move freely and independently. It’s all about different aspects of activities and movement like walking, bending, reaching, and balancing.   

For older adults, balance is extremely important, and those with limited mobility are at a higher risk of experiencing a fall. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of death for older adults, with about one in four adults 65 years and older experiencing a fall every year.  

One way to reduce the risk of falling is by doing mobility exercises. Mobility exercises are low-impact movements that are designed to improve how joints move through their natural range of motion, while maintaining control and balance.  

Mobility exercises promote active movement and coordination, and usually focus on: 

  • Balance and coordination to prevent falls  
  • The ankles and feet for walking stability 
  • The hips and knees for standing, stepping, and going up and down stairs 
  • The spine for posture and reaching 
  • The shoulders for overhead and daily arm use 

Doing mobility exercises regularly may help support:  

  • Better balance and control of posture 
  • Reduced stiffness from long periods of sitting  
  • Easier walking and smoother transitions, such as going from sitting to standing and turning 
  • Improved confidence when engaging in daily tasks 
  • Long-term joint comfort and movement quality 

Here are some mobility exercises to help improve joint movement, balance, and coordination: 

  • Head rolls 
  • Shoulder rolls 
  • Arm circles 
  • Ankle circles 
  • Standing or seated hip circles 
  • Standing or seated marches  
  • Wrist flexibility exercises 
  • Standing side leg swings 
  • Heel-to-toe rocking 
  • Sit-to-stands 
  • Chair or floor cat-cows 
  • Seated leg raises 
  • Seated torse twists 
  • Supported single-leg stands 
  • Wall shoulder slides 

It is important to note that you should stretch before engaging in any physical activity, so you don’t injure yourself. It is also important that you keep mobility training safe and effective by: 

  • Moving slowly and with control 
  • Using a chair, wall, or rail for support 
  • Staying within a comfortable, pain-free range 
  • Wearing supportive footwear 
  • Stopping if dizziness, sharp pain, or discomfort occurs 

Mobility exercises don’t just help maintain and improve strength, flexibility, and balance to prevent falls. They also help improve your mental well-being, heart health, and overall quality of life.  

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. 

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.

Why Aren’t Children Getting Enough Sleep?

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Sleep plays a crucial role in a child’s development as it is an important building block for their mental and physical health. It has a direct effect on a child’s overall wellness, as research shows that sleep can impact their alertness and attention, cognitive performance, mood, resiliency, vocabulary acquisition, and learning and memory. In toddlers, napping is necessary for memory consolidation, executive attention, and the development of motor skills. What’s more, sleep crucially affects their growth, especially in early infancy.  

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) estimates that 25% to 50% of children and 40% of adolescents are affected by sleep problems, such as: 

  • A new sibling 
  • Teething 
  • An illness, such as the cold or an ear infection 
  • Sleeping in a different place 
  • A new caregiver 
  • A change in schedule 
  • Allergies 

In addition to these sleep problems, a significant number of children also suffer from sleep disorders at some point. Sleep disorders are connected to mental and physical issues, with one amplifying the other in a pattern that can be difficult to stop. The most common sleep disorders in children include: 

  • Sleep apnea  
  • Snoring 
  • Nightmares and night terrors 
  • Sleepwalking and sleep talking 
  • Restless leg syndrome 

Another reason why children aren’t getting enough sleep is that they aren’t sleeping for the number of hours recommended. According to research data released by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) from their 2026 Sleep in America poll in March of this year, 44% of children in the U.S. do not consistently get the recommended amount of sleep for their age. Younger children especially fall short. 

In 2015, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) looked at the sleep behavior in middle and high school students and found that around 60% of middle school and 73% of high school students were getting less than the recommended 9-12 hours a night for children 6 to 12 years old and 8-10 hours a night for children 13 to 18 years old.  

Several issues have been discovered as the contributing factors of why children within this age group aren’t getting the recommended amount of sleep, including: 

  • The use of electronic devices 
  • Changes in their internal clocks 
  • Early school start times 
  • Caffeine consumption 

A child’s daytime habits also affect sleep. To promote restful sleep for a child, you can follow these sleep hygiene rules: 

  • Keeping a regular bedtime  
  • Arranging a balanced schedule with alternating moments of rest and play 
  • Creating a no-screen zone in the child’s bedroom, even during the day 
  • Providing them with a healthy diet 
  • Setting the thermostat at a slightly cooler temperature 
  • Using dark curtains to block out light, or a nightlight if they’re afraid of the dark 
  • Keeping the bedroom quiet, or using a white noise machine to block out outside sounds 
  • Avoiding caffeine, large meals, and sugary snacks before bedtime, choose a healthy bedtime snack instead 

Practicing good sleep hygiene can help your child get into a consistent bedtime routine and help them sleep better. 

If your child is having trouble sleeping, you can receive treatment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. 

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.

Things You Should and Shouldn’t Do After Bariatric Surgery

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Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure. Following your doctor’s post-operation instructions and making healthy lifestyle changes are essential to avoiding complications and achieving long-term weight loss success. 

Patients should expect to have a new lifestyle that combines healthy eating, exercise, and attending regular visits with their healthcare providers. They should also consider these dos and don’ts after bariatric surgery: 

  • What you should do after bariatric surgery: 
    • Eat slowly and chew food well 
    • Aim to drink 64oz of fluids daily, taking small sips 
    • Eat 60g or more of protein daily, starting every meal with it 
    • Make fruits and vegetables the priority of your diet 
    • Start walking for five minutes every hour after surgery 
    • Aim for a goal of 30 minutes of exercise daily after it is allowed to do so 
    • Take all medications and supplements as prescribed, they will need to be taken for the rest of your lifetime 
  • What you shouldn’t do after bariatric surgery: 
    • Skip any meals 
    • Eat red meat early in recovery 
    • Engage in any strenuous activities 
    • Lift any objects over 10 lbs. for the first four to six weeks after surgery 
    • Eat fast food 
    • Eat or drink anything with natural sugar 
    • Drink liquids within 30 minutes after eating 
    • Eat bread, rice, pasta, bagels, or dumplings 
    • Allow yourself to get too hungry 
    • Take a bath or go swimming for two weeks after surgery 
    • Smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol 
    • Eat snacks loaded with empty calories 
    • Get pregnant for 12 to 18 months after surgery 
    • Stop taking medications as directed by your healthcare provider 

Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing and life-altering event for those who are trying to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle. Making diet changes, modifying exercise routine, and following the guidelines set by your healthcare provider and surgical team can lead you to long-term success. 

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. 

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.

Perimenopause

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Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause. During this time, a woman’s body is preparing to stop having periods.   

During this transition, the number of hormones a woman’s ovaries produce varies. Perimenopause can last two to eight years. The average is about four years. The hormone changes can cause symptoms that include: 

  • Irregular periods 
  • Vaginal dryness 
  • Hot flashes 
  • Night sweats 
  • Sleep problems 
  • Mood changes 
  • Trouble finding words and remembering, also known as brain fog 
  • Dry skin, dry eyes, dry mouth 
  • Worsening premenstrual syndrome (PMS) 
  • Breast tenderness 
  • Decreasing fertility 
  • Changes in sexual function 
  • Loss of bone 
  • Changing cholesterol levels 

Perimenopause is caused by changes in two key female hormones: estrogen and progesterone. As a woman goes through perimenopause, these hormones fluctuate, and many of the changes they have during perimenopause are caused by lower estrogen. 

Menopause can happen earlier in some women than in others, like before the age of 40, or between the ages of 40 and 45. Certain factors may make it more likely for perimenopause to start at an earlier age, such as: 

  • Smoking 
  • Family history 
  • Cancer treatment 
  • Hysterectomy 

Some health conditions may make early menopause more likely, such as: 

  • Thyroid disease 
  • Rheumatoid arthritis 
  • Other autoimmune diseases 

Perimenopause is a gradual change, and there is no single test or symptom that tells it has started. A healthcare provider looks at many things to diagnose perimenopause, including: 

  • Age 
  • Menstrual history 
  • Noticeable symptoms or body changes  

Some healthcare providers may order tests to check hormone levels. However, other than checking the thyroid, which affects hormone levels, hormone testing isn’t usually helpful to know if a woman is in perimenopause. That is because hormone levels in perimenopause change unpredictably.  

The treatment for perimenopause usually consists of medicines that treat perimenopausal symptoms, such as: 

  • Hormone therapy 
  • Vaginal estrogen 
  • Antidepressants 
  • Gabapentin 
  • Fezolinetant 
  • Oxybutynin 
  • Birth control pills 

If you are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause, call  (718) 670 8994 for more information about gynecological services at FHMC’s Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology. 

 

 

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.

High-Functioning Depression

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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

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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. 

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.