When the days grow shorter and colder, many people notice changes in mood, energy, motivation, and focus. For some, these seasonal shifts are marked by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—a form of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most commonly during fall and winter. The most effective support for SAD looks at mental and physical health together. Small, consistent habits can gently...

As a practicing psychiatrist who holds my Christian faith dear to my heart, I have had the privilege of walking alongside patients through some of their most challenging mental health struggles. In addition to my clinical work, I have served as Chair of the Psychiatry Section of the Christian Medical and Dental Association (CMDA), where I have had the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues...

Autism is often thought of as a condition that predominantly affects boys. According to the CDC, boys are identified with autism about four times more often than girls.  That being said, research shows that girls on the spectrum are frequently underdiagnosed. In fact, as many as 80% of females with autism remain undiagnosed at age 18.  To compound matters, autism in girls often presents...

As a parent, you’re always watching out for your child—especially when something seems off. Maybe your child worries more than other kids. Maybe they ask the same questions over and over. Or maybe they have small routines that feel a little… rigid. Many parents are unsure whether their child is struggling with anxiety, OCD, or something else entirely. At Next Step 4 Mental Health, we...

This is the final article in the Religious OCD Series. Religious OCD can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to define a person’s faith or life. God’s grace is bigger than obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. There is hope, healing, and freedom ahead. Introduction If you’ve followed this series from the beginning, you now understand what Religious OCD is, how it manifests, and how...

This blog is part of the Religious OCD series. Small groups are meant to be places of encouragement, accountability, and spiritual growth. For members struggling with Religious OCD, a small group can either become a source of pressure or a place of healing. Here’s how to help your group be the latter. Introduction Small groups play an essential role in the life of the church. They provide...

This blog is part of the Religious OCD Series. Pastors are often the first to hear the spiritual struggles of their congregants. Recognizing Religious OCD and knowing how to respond with grace and wisdom can prevent misunderstanding and offer hope. Introduction As a pastor, you have likely encountered church members who are burdened by deep spiritual anxiety—fearing they have committed the...