What Is Postpartum Depression?

What Is Postpartum Depression?

Postpartum depression is much more than the baby blues.

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a more severe, long-lasting form of depression. Unlike the baby blues, PPD doesn’t fade away on its own and can appear days or even months after delivering a baby. Symptoms may include intense sadness, anxiety, or despair and can be so powerful that it’s challenging for the mother to care for her baby or herself.

How to Support a New Mom with Postpartum Depression

• Lend a Listening Ear: Sometimes, the opportunity to talk about her feelings can make a world of difference for a new mom.
• Help with the Baby:Offer to babysit for a few hours so the mother can get some much-needed rest or sleep. Sleep deprivation can exacerbate feelings of depression.
• Encourage Professional Help: Encouraging a loved one to seek medical attention and therapy can give her the tools to cope and recover.

Do You Need Help?

Our multidisciplinary team can help you navigate postpartum depression as well as postpartum anxiety. To make an appointment in our Louisville, Kentucky, office, click here to get started.

Finding the Right Child Psychiatrist in Louisville, Kentucky

Parenting a child with mental health challenges can be both rewarding and demanding. Whether your child is grappling with anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, witnessing their unique perspective on the world comes with its highs and lows. If you’re in search of a child psychiatrist in Louisville, the good news is that Louisville, Kentucky, boasts a strong community of child psychiatrists ready to assist.

Here are the essential tips you need for finding the right child psychiatrist in Louisville.

Mental Health Concerns Are Common… 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anxiety problems, ADHD, and depression are the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Approximately 5.8 million children aged 3-17 years have anxiety, while another 2.7 million have depression.

Mental health challenges can affect both children and adults, presenting symptoms such as mood swings, changes in behavior, and difficulties in coping with daily life. Diagnosing and managing mental health conditions requires specialized knowledge and skills, making the role of child psychiatrists crucial.

Why Choose a Child Psychiatrist in Louisville, Kentucky?

Louisville is home to a growing number of child psychiatrists who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression in children. Here are some key reasons why seeking their help is beneficial:

• Expertise: Child psychiatrists have extensive training in child and adolescent mental health. They understand the nuances of diagnosing and treating many conditions (and comorbid conditions), tailoring their approaches to each child’s unique needs.
• Comprehensive Evaluation: Child psychiatrists take a holistic approach to assess your child. They not only evaluate the symptoms your child currently has, but they also consider any co-occurring conditions, environmental factors, and family dynamics that may impact your child’s well-being.
• Medication Management: In some cases, medication may be part of your child’s treatment plan. Child psychiatrists are well-equipped to prescribe and manage medications, ensuring your child’s safety and effectiveness.
• Behavioral Interventions: Child psychiatrists can provide guidance on evidence-based behavioral interventions and strategies to help manage symptoms, both at home and in school.
• Support for Families: Managing a mental health diagnosis can be challenging for the whole family. Child psychiatrists in Louisville offer guidance, resources, and support to parents and caregivers, helping them understand and cope with their child’s condition. You can read more here:
  • Nine Surprising Ways Anxiety Shows Up in Kids
  • 32 Ways to Help Someone With Depression 
• Collaborative Care: Child psychiatrists often work closely on our multidisciplinary team, such as psychologists, therapists, and ADHD coaches, to provide a comprehensive and coordinated treatment plan for your child. This means that everything you need is all under one roof.

Finding the Right Child Psychiatrist in Louisville, Kentucky

When searching for a child psychiatrist in Louisville, consider the following steps:

• Ask for Recommendations: Reach out to your pediatrician, school counselor, or support groups for recommendations. They may have valuable insights into trusted professionals in the area.
• Research Credentials: Ensure the psychiatrist is board-certified and has experience in child and adolescent psychiatry.
• Consultation: Schedule a consultation to meet with the psychiatrist, discuss your concerns, and evaluate their approach and compatibility with your child.
• Communication: Open and effective communication with the psychiatrist is key. You should feel comfortable discussing your child’s needs and asking questions.

Read more about each of our child psychiatrists here.

Why NextStep4MentalHealth?

NextStep4MentalHealth is committed to providing comprehensive resources and support for families dealing with mental health challenges. We understand the importance of child psychiatrists in managing these conditions and aim to connect parents and caregivers with qualified professionals who can make a significant difference in their children’s lives.

Our team page offers a user-friendly interface that allows you to search for child psychiatrists in your area who specialize in various mental health issues. We believe that access to the right healthcare professionals is a critical step in the mental health management journey.

Raising a child with mental health challenges can be a rewarding journey with the right support system in place. In Louisville, Kentucky, you have access to a dedicated community of child psychiatrists who can provide expert guidance and assistance. Remember that you’re not alone in this journey, and with the help of a knowledgeable child psychiatrist, you can empower your child to thrive and reach their full potential. Don’t hesitate to seek the support your family needs to make the journey with mental health challenges a successful one.

Click here to schedule an appointment with us today to explore the benefits of multidisciplinary care here in Louisville, Kentucky.

Navigating the Holiday Season: Support for Those Sandwiched Between Childcare and Caring for Aging Parents

The Holiday Stress for the Sandwich Generation

Recognizing Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression

• 8 Risk Factors for  Depression
• 11 Ways to Help Someone with Depression 
• Anxiety at Christmas
• What Is Generalized Anxiety?

The Importance of Self-Care

• Setting achievable expectations
• Delegating tasks
• Setting aside ample personal time for relaxation and enjoyment

• Ways to Prioritize Self-Care If You’re Feeling Sad
• How to Motivate Yourself to Work-Out

Support Systems and Resources

Establishing a support network is vital. This network can comprise friends, family, and community resources. Support groups tailored for the sandwich generation or caregiver support can provide a sense of community and understanding.

Seeking Professional Help

Shining a Light on Seasonal Depression: More Common Than You Think

Seasonal depression is more common than you might think. According to the American Psychiatric Association, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) affects 5% of the American population, and for those that suffer from it, it can last 40% of the year!

Below, Dr. Brian Briscoe, a board-certified psychiatrist in Louisville, Kentucky, shares the ins and outs of seasonal depression:

More about Seasonal Depression

As November’s chill sets in, many of us find ourselves longing for the warmth and light of summer days. It’s not just the early sunsets and cold temperatures that can get to us; for some, this time of year brings about a specific type of depression known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Interestingly, this condition is more prevalent in Northern latitudes. While we might not be planning a move to the South Pole anytime soon (trust me, even the penguins have their share of problems), it’s striking to note that a significant number of persons living in most parts of the United States can be affected.

SAD isn’t merely a case of the “winter blues”. It’s a genuine depressive disorder that varies in severity and is believed to be linked to reduced exposure to sunlight during the shorter days of fall and winter.

Enter light therapy: a common treatment for SAD, which involves exposure to a specific kind of bright light for a set amount of time each day. However, before you rush off to purchase the biggest and brightest lamp at the store (who would gladly take your money), it’s essential to understand that not all lightboxes are created equal. Consulting with a psychiatrist is crucial to determine the right specifications and duration for light therapy that is evidence-based and tailored to your needs.

Moreover, while SAD is a significant concern, it’s essential to rule out other medical conditions that could be contributing to feelings of depression. Thyroid illness, anemia, vitamin deficiencies, electrolyte disturbances, and other conditions can all mimic or exacerbate depressive symptoms. A thorough evaluation can ensure that you’re not just treating the symptoms but addressing the root cause.

So, as the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, remember to be attentive to your mental well-being. Whether you’re in sunny California or snowy Minnesota, seasonal changes can impact us all.

Taking steps towards understanding and addressing any shifts in mood can ensure a brighter winter season, no matter where you are on the map.

5 Tips to Beat the Winter Blues

The American Psychiatic Association shares these five tips for managing the winter blues:

 

Get Help for Seasonal Affective Disorder in Louisville, Kentucky

Here at NextStep2MentalHealth, our multidisciplinary team offers everything you need under roof from diagnosis to treatment for seasonal depression. If you’re experiencing the symptoms of winter blues, don’t brush it off. Reach out and get the help you need.

About Dr. Briscoe

Brian Briscoe, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of private practice experience. Dr. Briscoe founded the practice in 2011 which grew into a multidisciplinary group, Next Step 2 Mental Health, in Louisville, Kentucky.   Dr. Briscoe provides compassionate and nonjudgmental care to adults of all ages.

Brian Briscoe graduated with honors from Centre College and was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa in Spring 2000. He went on to study at the University of Louisville, where he earned his medical degree and completed specialty training in psychiatry. During residency, Dr. Briscoe was elected to serve as the president of the Resident’s Association and received a number of accolades, including awards from Community Mental Health Agencies, awards for research, and the Ruby & John Schwab Award for Academic Excellence. He is certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Dr. Briscoe is a former full-time teaching faculty member for the University of Louisville Department of Psychiatry, and he continues to teach residents, medical students, and nurse practitioners through a gratis faculty appointment. He has published several scholarly articles and has presented for international conferences.

Dr. Briscoe has received numerous awards for research, service, and academic excellence. He is a recipient of the Nancy C.A. Roeske Excellence in Medical Student Education by the American Psychiatric Association. Dr. Briscoe was named one of Louisville’s “Top Doctors” by Louisville Magazine, an award that is granted by vote of 3,000 physician members of the Greater Louisville Medical Society.

Dr. Briscoe has previously served as Chair of the National Psychiatry Section of the Christian Medical and Dental Association and is actively involved in local and national efforts to assist pastors and churches in their efforts to care for persons who struggle with mental health issues.

Here at NextStep2MentalHealth, Dr. Briscoe takes a comprehensive, holistic approach that includes educating his patients on their treatment options and working with them as collaborators in their care. He specializes in attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, and mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.

Dr. Briscoe’s passion for helping people stems from his own beliefs as a Christian. Dr. Briscoe takes the time to understand each patient as a unique and whole individual – rather than just a set of symptoms to be treated. He then designs a personalized treatment plan so that patients can experience lasting change, improved quality of life, and overall improved wellness. He looks forward to providing personalized, psychiatric care to both new and current clients. His excellence in patient care is matched with the breadth and depth of his knowledge.

 

Request an Appointment with Dr. Briscoe here.

 

Seasonal Marketing and Social Media: Navigating the Perfect Storm for Fall Anxiety

However, it’s essential to remember that it’s okay not to be okay.

Learn More About Anxiety

You can read more about anxiety in the following articles:

• 9 Surprising Ways Anxiety Shows Uup In Kids
• Depression and Anxiety in Teens
• Seasonal Affective Disorder 
• 7 Ways to Manage Social Anxiety

More about Dr. Briscoe

Brian Briscoe, MD, is a board-certified psychiatrist with over a decade of private practice experience. Dr. Briscoe founded the practice in 2011 which grew into a multidisciplinary group, Next Step 2 Mental Health, in Louisville, Kentucky.   Dr. Briscoe provides compassionate and nonjudgmental care to adults of all ages.

You can read his full bio here.

Need Help Managing Anxiety?

To make an appointment with Dr. Briscoe, click here.

Fall-ing for Hypomania: The Bipolar Seasonal Twist

The Excitement of Fall

What Is Hypomania?

Hypomania is characterized by an elevated mood, increased energy, and activity levels that are distinctly different from a person’s typical behavior. It might sound great, feeling supercharged and euphoric, but it often comes with a slew of problems like reduced need for sleep, talkativeness, racing thoughts, and sometimes even engaging in risky behaviors.

While not as severe as full-blown mania, hypomania isn’t a pumpkin walk in the park.

When to Seek Help for Hypomania

How Teens Can Deal with Back-to-School Anxiety

An upset stomach. Nightmares. Unrelenting desire to avoid school. Difficulty sleeping. These are all examples of how anxiety can manifest in teens. Sometimes, these signs of anxiety are mistaken for symptoms of another condition. For example, you might think that your stomachache was caused by something you ate. The truth, though, is that anxiety can be hidden in plain sight, and as we enter back-to-school season, you might start to see the signs of back-to-school anxiety.

Whether you’re starting your final year of junior high or starting your first year of college as an 18-year-old, anxiety can flare up during the back-to-school season. In this article, we share tips and strategies for reducing anxious feelings during the school year.

1. Practice Deep Breathing Exercise

When people (teens or otherwise) feel anxious, they may subconsciously take shallow, quick breaths. These chest breaths can increase heart rate, muscle tension, and even contribute to dizziness. Taking slow, deep breaths can help you shift from chest breathing to abdominal breathing. When teens slow down their breathing, it helps to shift out of flight or fight mode so their body can relax. Isn’t science cool?!  Slow, deep breaths — that’s the key!

You can do square breathing or triangle breathing, or you can follow along with guided meditations. The following videos are cute ways to introduce the idea of deep belly breathing to young children.

2. Spend Time in Nature

Nature is healing, and it can do wonders for easing anxious thoughts. Sometimes teens benefit from simply changing up the scenery. You might even considering doing some homework outside after school if the weather allows for it. As you breathe in the fresh air, feel the breeze rustle your hair, or listen to the birds chirp, your thoughts are gently calmed.

This is a great opportunity to practice a grounding technique. Monica Clark, LPA, explains this technique:

If you find yourself beginning to lose focus, ground yourself in the moment. One effective grounding technique is the 5-4-3-2-1 Game. In this technique, you ground yourself in the physical environment by naming:

• 5 things you can see
• 4 things you can hear
• 3 things you can feel against your skin
• 2 things you can smell
• 1 thing you can taste

Describe the smells, find green leaves, describe the texture of a pebble.

3. Talk about What Anxiety Is

“Anxiety is often regarded as something that is bad and should be eradicated completely. However, anxiety by itself isn’t necessarily bad. Anxiety is actually an emotion that helps us take care of dangerous situations — and respond to those situations. If we are aware of a potentially dangerous situation, we can avoid harm,” says Dr. Dan Guy.

In other words, worry and fear is designed to help us avoid potentially dangerous situations. For example, a stray dog charging at your may instill fear, and it’s that fear that ignites flight or fight mode — so you can take flight to safety. Problems arise when anxiety and fear is triggered outside of dangerous situations — like feeling physically anxious even if there isn’t a dog nearby.

It’s tempting to remove all anxiety triggers because we don’t want to be unhappy, but the goal is to help manage anxiety because  experiencing some degree of anxiety is part of what it means to be human. For example, if you feel anxious about this school year, you may ask to skip a day of school. While skipping a day of school might temporarily ease your mind, it won’t be helpful in the long-term nor will it help you manage anxiety. Instead, it’s more helpful to learn how to manage anxiety.

4. Exercise More

Exercise is good for your body and mind — and that’s true for teens too. The above video depicts an easy at-home workout that you can perform after school without any equipment needed! But that’s not the only option. Other good-for-the-brain exercises include:

• Hiking
• Playing sports like soccer or basketball (even if it’s in your backyard)
• Rollerblading
• Biking
• Dancing
• Jump rope

Walking around the block is a good option too!

5. Focus on Good Nutrition

Good nutrition impacts your mental health too! In fact, there are plenty of tasty brain-healthy foods, such as:

• Salmon
• Yogurt
• Turmeric

Not all teens enjoy salmon, but a yogurt-lemon-dill sauce may make the salmon more appetizing for those who aren’t used to eating it. You can also make salmon loaf, which eliminates the fish texture that you might not like.

TIP: If you have a stomachache caused by anxious thoughts, you may not feel like eating. If that’s the cause, try more bland foods (like chicken noodle soup) or a warm cup of chamomile tea.

6. Read a Book

Teens can learn important life lessons through reading — plus, reading is a good relaxing activity! Review this list of books via NowPysch, and you might discover some great books for teens with anxiety.

7. Create a Safe Space

If you are feeling overwhelmed, you may benefit from a cozy place to unwind after school. From fidget spinners to books to coloring books, this can be a great way for teens to process all of their thoughts after school — rather than jumping right into homework or chores.

8. Ask for Individual Accommodations

For some teens, accommodations at school can make all the difference when it comes to anxiety. For example, if a student struggles with performance anxiety, he or she may not do well when taking tests. Some students benefit from individual accommodations such as extended time on tests. For other accommodations for kids who struggle with anxiety, check out this list from The Children’s and Adult Center for OCD and Anxiety.

9. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene

Poor sleep and anxiety often go hand-in-hand. Anxious thoughts can make it difficult to sleep, and poor sleep can exacerbate the symptoms of anxiety. Help your child practice good sleep hygiene, including:

• Going to bed at the same time every night
• Using warm-colored lights during his or her bedtime routine
• Sleeping in a cool, dark room

10. Go Over New Changes

Reduce back-to-school anxiety by going over any new changes with your parent or teacher. Maybe you feel unsure about the new rules at school.  Sometimes just a quick refresher on what’s expected can go a long way in feeling confident about the new school year.

11. Reach Out to Us

The good news about anxiety is that it can be treated with therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. With the right support and strategies, most teens are able to develop strategies that help them manage their anxiety both in the classroom and at home.

Here at Next Step 2 Mental Health, we provide comprehensive mental health care for children (and teens too!). Whether you are just now experiencing anxiety for the first time, or is seeing a resurgence in symptoms, we can help you get the relief you deserve. Call 502-339-2442 or send us a message to request more information.

Nurturing Minds: Back-to-School Tips to Support Kids’ Mental Health Needs

Thriving Under One Roof: Navigating Life as the Child of Someone with Bipolar Disorder

Breaking the Stigma of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar spectrum disorder, previously known as manic depressive illness, is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that range from prolonged periods of high energy and euphoria (mania) to periods of intense sadness and hopelessness (depression). It is also characterized by abnormal sleep patterns.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe and patients can easily be misdiagnosed.  Many people associate bipolar disorder with negative stereotypes, and the stigma can make it difficult for individuals living with bipolar disorder to seek help and receive the support they need.

If you need help managing bipolar disorder, we encourage you to seek the help you need. In the meantime, Dr. Ethan Short sheds light on tips for breaking the stigma of bipolar disorder.

Breaking the Stigma: Debunk the Myths

Breaking the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder is crucial for improving understanding and support for those living with this condition. By learning more about bipolar disorder and challenging common misconceptions, you can create a more supportive environment for loved ones living with this condition.

Myth #1: Bipolar Spectrum Disorder Is Rare

One of the most common misconceptions about bipolar spectrum disorder is that it is a rare condition. While severe Bipolar I disorder is more rare, less severe versions are more common. In reality, 4.4% of Americans will experience bipolar diagnosis at some point in their life. According to the World Health Organization, 40 million people were living with bipolar disorder in 2019.  

Despite this, many people continue to believe that bipolar spectrum disorder is a rare or exotic condition, which can make it difficult for individuals to seek help and feel understood.

Myth #2: It’s “Just” Mood Swings

Another common misconception is that bipolar disorder is just another name for mood swings. While everyone experiences changes in mood, the mood swings associated with bipolar disorder are more extreme and can last longer than a week. These mood swings can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to function in daily life, making it difficult to work or maintain relationships.

Myth #3: Bipolar Disorder Can Make You Dangerous 

Perhaps the most damaging misconception surrounding bipolar disorder is the belief that individuals with this condition are “crazy” or dangerous. In reality, individuals with bipolar disorder are no more likely to be violent than anyone else. They actually tend to be much more creative than others without the condition. However, this stereotype can make it difficult for individuals to feel accepted and supported by their communities, which can have a negative impact on their mental health.

Myth #4: You Can’t Live a Productive Life with Bipolar Disorder

Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging, but with the right support and treatment, individuals with this condition can live fulfilling and productive lives. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes, such as optimizing daily routines, getting consistent sleep and regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy diet. Understanding how your condition affects the way you think can also be very beneficial.

Breaking the Stigma and Supporting Your Loved Ones

Breaking the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder is crucial for improving understanding and support for individuals living with this condition. By challenging common misconceptions and promoting empathy and understanding, you can create a more supportive environment for individuals living with bipolar disorder. 

With increased awareness and understanding, we can help to break down barriers and ensure that everyone has access to the resources and support they need to live a happy and healthy life. You may find that reading more about bipolar disorder or joining a support group (for family members or caregivers of someone with bipolar disorder) can help you.

We’re Here for You

If you are struggling with any sort of mental health issues, seeking help from a mental health professional can make a significant difference in your life. Here at NextStep2MentalHealth, we understand that seeking help can be challenging, but we are here to support you every step of the way.

Our experienced mental health professionals provide a safe and supportive environment for you to explore your thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards your mental health goals. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for help – we are here for you. Schedule your appointment here.

About Dr. Short

Dr. Short graduated from University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina, with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (Cum Laude).  He spent 3 valuable years engaging in surgical research prior to completing medical school and psychiatric residency training at University of Louisville.  He greatly enjoyed his time there gaining clinical skills and knowledge, as well as dedicating over 500 hours to educating medical students, residents, social workers, nursing staff, as well as volunteering his time to local high schools and guidance counselors to help educate the public on mental health needs in his community.

He has his full medical license and board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

Dr. Short has extensive experience working with adults with severe mental illness including schizophrenia and bipolar disorders, addictions (opiates, methamphetamine, benzodiazepines, alcohol, tobacco, etc.), PTSD, depression and anxiety disorders, and adult ADHD.  He is trained in multiple psychotherapies, but primarily practices Acceptance and Commitment Therapy as an alternative to medication, or as an adjunctive treatment for the above conditions.

You can now book an appointment with Dr. Short here. or give us a call at our Louisville, Kentucky mental health clinic at 502-339-2442.