Top 10 Signs of Depression

Depression affects every person differently. Some people will experience a few symptoms, while others will experience many. The most common signs of depression are:

1. Persistent sadness, emptiness or anxiety.
2. Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, guilt, worthlessness or helplessness.
3. Fatigue, decreased energy or feeling “slowed down.”
4. Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex.
5. Restlessness or irritability.
6. Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions.
7. Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, early-morning waking or oversleeping.
8. Eating and weight changes, such as appetite and weight loss or overeating and weight gain.
9. Thoughts of death or suicide, including actual suicide attempts.
10. Persistent physical symptoms that don’t respond to treatment, such as headaches, chronic pain and digestive disorders.

Treating Depression

About 80% to 90% of people who seek treatment for depression feel better within two to three weeks. There are a variety of successful depression treatment options, including psychotherapy (“talk” therapy) and medications. There are also holistic treatments for depression like as yoga, acupuncture and meditation that help to restore balance by reconnecting the mind and body.

If you or someone you love exhibits any of the warning signs of depression, it’s important to seek help right away, especially if they’re abusing drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with and mask their symptoms. Casa Palmera offers a comprehensive alcohol and drug addiction treatment program that helps patients with depression and other mood disorders to learn how to cope with their disorder without the use of substances. Our skilled, compassionate staff will tailor a drug and alcohol treatment program to the patient’s specific needs to help the person develop the hope, knowledge, skills and support needed to manage their disorders and pursue a life in recovery.

If you know someone who is struggling with a dual diagnosis of substance abuse and depression, call Casa Palmera today and help them get the life they deserve back.

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One of the reasons that depression in men is less recognized is because our culture requires men to “be strong” and discourages them from talking about their feelings. As a result, men who are depressed are less likely to talk about the emotional symptoms of their depression — since expressing emotions is considered a “feminine” trait — and are more likely to talk about the physical symptoms of their depression. Most people are aware of the emotional symptoms of depression, but the physical symptoms are rarely discussed. As a result, when a man (or woman) complains about being tired all the time or that he has trouble sleeping through the night, we don’t realize these are warning signs that he may be depressed.

The Center for Disease Control reports that men in the U.S. are nearly four times more likely than women to commit suicide. Knowing the warning signs of depression in men could literally save your life or the life of a loved one. That’s why we’ve compiled the following list of the top five warning signs of depression in men.

Top 5 Signs of Depression in Men

Men and women share many of the same symptoms of depression, including:

• Persistent sadness, emptiness or anxiety
• Feeling fatigued or tired all the time
• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia, early-morning waking or oversleeping
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
• Eating and weight changes, such as appetite and weight loss or overeating and weight gain
• Thoughts of death or suicide, including actual suicide attempts
• Persistent physical symptoms that don’t respond to treatment, such as headaches, chronic pain and digestive disorders

Men, however, tend to exhibit slightly different symptoms and/or express their symptoms differently. Some of these signs of depression in men are:

Feeling unusually aggressive or having inappropriate rage. Men who are depressed often repress their feelings of sadness or hopelessness. Instead of crying or talking about their feelings, men will keep their emotions hidden, which can make them more irritable, aggressive and angry. This can manifest itself in different ways like having a short tempter, road rage, and even violence.

Increased alcohol consumption or drug use. Since men don’t typically talk about their feelings and emotions, they may turn to alcohol or drugs as a way to cope with their feelings and mask their symptoms of depression.

Changes in sexual behavior. Depression can affect sexual desire and cause men to become uninterested in sex or unable to perform. Conversely, it can also make men more prone to sexual liaisons as a way to feel better through thrill-seeking behavior.

Increased risk taking. Sometimes depressed men will engage in risky, thrill-seeking behavior like reckless driving, compulsive gambling, casual sex or dangerous sports.

Escapist behavior. Men who are depressed may throw themselves into activities such as work, hobbies or sports in order to escape their feelings of depression. They may also go to the opposite extreme and isolate themselves from friends, family and co-workers by avoiding events, meetings and work.

Getting Help for Male Depression

Depression is a devastating condition that can put your life on hold. Our caring, highly skilled staff knows how difficult it is to admit you’re depressed, and are trained at helping men overcome the unique issues they face in depression treatment.

Don’t let depression control your life any longer.

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One simple answer is the goal of traditional aerobic exercise versus the goal of yoga. Aerobic exercise is often performed in order to burn calories and lose weight, which directly feeds into the fears and goals of an eating disorder. The more you exercise, the thinner you’re supposed to become. The problem is that an eating disorder distorts your self-image, so even if you’re fit or losing weight, you will see a fat person in the mirror. This creates a vicious cycle of self-judgment, self-loathing and the compulsive need to exercise more or restrict calories in order to lose weight. There is also a mind-body disconnect found in the gym: the music is blaring through headphones, the televisions are keeping you distracted, and you’re constantly comparing your body to other people in the gym.

The goal of yoga, on the other hand, is to teach you how to strengthen your body, your mind and the connection between the two. During yoga, you’ll practice poses that challenge people to build not only strength and stamina, but also mindfulness, stillness and physical and inner balance. The only way to maneuver through difficult poses is to listen to your body, trust your body, and let go of any ego or judgment.

“This heightened sensitivity and responsiveness to bodily sensations is associated with less preoccupation of physical appearance, more positive views of the body, and more healthy regulation of food intake,” says the study’s author, Jennifer Daubenmier.

This may be why the study found that people who practice yoga report less self-objectification, greater satisfaction with physical appearance, and fewer disordered eating attitudes compared to non-yoga practitioners. “Through yoga, this study suggests that women [and men] have intuitively discovered a way to buffer themselves against the messages that tell them that only a thin and ‘beautiful’ body will lead to happiness and success,” the author explains.

Yoga Therapy for Eating Disorders

Many eating disorder treatment centers today offer yoga therapy to help patients release feelings of negative self-worth and transform their relationship with their body. So how does yoga therapy work?

First, let’s look at the effects yoga has on the mind. During yoga class, the teacher constantly reminds students to let go of negative thoughts, let go of judgment, and let go of ego — the tiny voice inside that tells you to ignore your body’s cues and push yourself beyond what your body currently wants in order to hit a pose or to look like the person practicing next to you. There is no comparing in yoga: each person is on his or her individual journey. What you may be able to do one day in class, you may not be able to do another day; and what the person is doing next to you should have no affect on what you’re doing on your own matt. There is a saying in yoga that there is not right or wrong, no good or bad, no better or best.

Finally, let’s look at the effects yoga has on the body. Yoga is a centuries-old practice that has been developed to stimulate very specific points in the body, called chakras, that allow energy to flow through the body. There are seven major chakras on the body, and each one is associated with different types of physical, mental and emotional well-being. The first chakra, which is located at the base of the spine, has to do with the physical body, survival and safety. If this chakra is blocked an individual may feel fearful, anxious, insecure and frustrated. The second chakra, located in the belly, is associated with self-worth, confidence, emotions and intuition. If this chakra is blocked a person may feel emotionally explosive, obsessed with sexual thoughts, or lack energy. The third chakra, located below the breastbone, has to do with ego, impulses, anger and strength. When the third Chakra is out of balance you may lack confidence, be confused, worry about what others think, feel that others are controlling your life, and may be depressed. Each yoga pose has its own purpose in terms of stimulating these chakras, and studies show that yoga improves all sorts of physical and mental ailments associated with these chakras.

Yoga and Eating Disorder Treatment at Casa Palmera

At Casa Palmera we believe that treating a person’s entire well-being — their physical, mental and spiritual health — is the fastest path to full recovery from an eating disorder. Our residential eating disorder treatment program will provide individual therapy, group support, nutritional counseling and holistic treatments such as yoga to reconnect your body with your mind and spirit.

Don’t let an eating disorder control your body and mind any longer.

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The Do’s & Don’ts of Coming Off Antidepressants

DO

work closely with your doctor. Your doctor can help minimize your withdrawal symptoms by advising you how to safely come off your antidepressants. Keep your doctor informed of any side effects you’re experiencing so that he can adjust your dosage accordingly and taper it at a pace that allows your brain to adjust to the absence of the medication.

DON’T

quit cold turkey. Abruptly quitting antidepressants can create withdrawal symptoms that interfere with your ability to function without medication. Signs and symptoms of antidepressant withdrawal vary, depending on the medication, and may include irritability, anxiety, sadness, insomnia, headaches, dizziness, fatigue and nausea. You can avoid these unpleasant withdrawal symptoms by working with your doctor to develop a plan to safely come off your antidepressants.

DON’T

confuse withdrawal symptoms with a relapse. It’s very common for patients who are experiencing withdrawal to believe they are experiencing the old symptoms they were originally trying to treat. This can cause them to stay on their medication for an unnecessarily long period of time. Continue working with a mental health professional who can monitor your well-being and help you through feelings of anxiety, sadness and irritability with talk therapy rather than returning to medications.

DO

continue psychotherapy. Antidepressants work by covering up the symptoms of a mental health problem, but they aren’t a cure for the underlying issues causing the problems. Even though you feel well enough to come off your antidepressants, continue your therapy sessions to ensure you don’t relapse into old behaviors, feelings and symptoms.

DO

practice a healthy lifestyle. Numerous studies show that healthy, balanced diet and regular exercising play a major role in boosting your mood, energy and self-esteem, and help reduce stress, anxiety and insomnia. Consult with a nutritionist or holistic practitioner who can recommend vitamin and herbal supplements that can treat your symptoms. Also consider “centering” exercises, such as yoga and meditation to find balance and inner peace.

If you’ve decided to come of antidepressants, the most important thing you can do is consult with a doctor or mental health practitioner. At Casa Palmera, we believe in a holistic approach to mental health treatment that combines traditional antidepressant and talk therapy with natural methods of mental health treatment. The result is a total mind, body and emotional healing. If you feel like you’re ready to come of antidepressants, call Casa Palmera today and ask how our holistic depression/anxiety treatment program can help you accomplish your goals.

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Severe anxiety disorders are often treated with medications like antidepressants, SSRIs and MAOIs, but people with mild to moderate anxiety symptoms can often find some sort of relief through natural anxiety treatments. Even though these methods are “natural,” it’s important to check with your doctor to determine if these treatments are safe for you, especially if you’re taking antidepressants or other medications, which can react dangerously with some herbal and natural supplements. If your doctor gives you the go-ahead, try these six natural ways to treat your anxiety symptoms.

Natural Anxiety Treatment #1: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most effective ways to reduce or eliminate anxiety symptoms. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy works by helping patients use new thinking skills to modify negative behaviors and thought patterns.

Natural Anxiety Treatment #2: Natural & Herbal Supplements

Studies show that some natural and herbal supplements can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety. Many of these natural supplements are safe alternatives to prescription medications; however, you should always consult a doctor before taking herbal and natural supplements because they may cause dangerous interactions with certain medications. Some of the most effective herbal supplements for treating anxiety symptoms are St. John’s wort, ginkgo biloba, passion flower, rhodiola (or roseroot) and valerian root. Kava is another herb that helps alleviate anxiety, but recent studies show it can produce liver damage if taken in large quantities. L-glutamine and L-histidine are two amino acids that help reduce stress and irritability, and the amino acid GABA has shown to positively affect the brain in relation to anxiety. There are also two naturally occurring compounds called 5-HTP and SAMe that studies have shown to be just as effective as many prescription antidepressants, making them some of the most popular natural antidepressants.

Natural Anxiety Treatment #3: Exercise

Exercise is more than just good for your body; it’s also good for your mind. Exercise helps to boost your mood by stimulating various feel-good brain chemicals that leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. Exercise also takes your mind off worries, boosts your energy level, promotes better sleep, and even improves your sex drive.

Natural Anxiety Treatment #4: Diet

Studies show that a healthy, balanced diet improves your mood in numerous ways. Anxiety symptoms can by greatly reduced by eliminating caffeine and alcohol and reducing your intake of sugar, refined carbohydrates and foods with additives and chemicals. Increase your consumption of foods rich in omega-3s, an extremely healthy oil found in salmon, walnuts, flaxseed and other foods that has been shown to boost mood. Foods high in vitamin B, magnesium and calcium also help the nervous system to function properly. Also, try adding foods high in folic acid, which some studies suggest helps improve the effectiveness of antidepressants. Folic acid can be found in many vegetables, beans and whole-wheat products.

Natural Anxiety Treatment #5: Yoga and Meditation

Yoga is a great way to quiet your mind and relieve stress. Simple meditation techniques can also help you control your breathing and thoughts to help ease panic attacks.

Natural Anxiety Treatment #6: Massage and Acupuncture

Many studies have proven the healing power of touch. Both massage and acupuncture help restore the body’s emotional balance by stimulating the flow of energy through specific points on the body. Both treatments are widely used to relieve stress, diminish muscle tension and improve sleep.

Holistic Anxiety Treatment at Casa Palmera

Anxiety can be a debilitating disorder that disrupts your life. At Casa Palmera, we believe in treating anxiety and other mood and mental disorders with traditional treatments like therapy and medications, but we also believe in a holistic approach that uses the healing power of natural anxiety treatments. Call Casa Palmera today and ask how our holistic anxiety treatment program can return you to a healthy mind, body and emotional state of being.

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Natural treatments for depression can be very effective, but even though these methods are “natural,” it’s important to check with your doctor to determine if these treatments are safe for you, especially if you’re taking antidepressants. If your doctor gives you the go-ahead, try these six natural ways to treat your depression symptoms.

Natural Depression Treatment #1: Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy (or “talk” therapy) is a highly effective form of depression treatment that has been used for years. Psychotherapy helps relieve symptoms of depression so that you can regain a sense of control and happiness in your life.

Natural Depression Treatment #2: Natural & Herbal Supplements

Studies show that some natural and herbal supplements can significantly reduce feelings of depression. Many of these natural supplements are safe alternatives to prescription antidepressants; however, you should always consult a doctor before taking herbal and natural supplements because they may cause dangerous interactions with certain medications. Some of the most effective herbal supplements for treating depression symptoms are St. John’s wort, ginkgo biloba, passion flower and rhodiola (or roseroot). L-glutamine and L-histidine are two amino acids that have shown significant anti-depressive properties in addition to reducing stress and irritability. There are also two naturally occurring compounds called 5-HTP and SAMe that studies have shown to be just as effective as many prescription antidepressants, making them some of the most popular natural antidepressants.

Natural Depression Treatment #3: Exercise

Exercise is more than just good for your body; it’s also good for your mind. Exercise helps to boost your mood by stimulating various feel-good brain chemicals that leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. Exercise also takes your mind off worries, boosts your energy level, promotes better sleep and even improves your sex life.

Natural Depression Treatment #4: Diet

Studies show that a healthy, balanced diet improves your mood in numerous ways. Foods that are high in sugar, simple carbohydrates and fat can cause dips in your energy level and mood, so try to limit their consumption. You also want to avoid alcohol, which acts as a depressant. Increase your consumption of foods rich in omega-3s, an extremely healthy oil found in salmon, walnuts, flaxseed and other foods that has been shown to boost mood. Foods high in vitamin B6 and magnesium also help the body to produce the mood-enhancing chemicals serotonin and dopamine. Also, try adding foods high in folic acid, which some studies suggest helps improve the effectiveness of antidepressants. Folic acid can be found in many vegetables, beans and whole-wheat products.

Natural Depression Treatment #5: Yoga and Meditation

Yoga is a great way to quiet your mind and find inner peace and balance. You can also alleviate depression symptoms by practicing simple meditation techniques that help you control negative thinking and focus your mind on positivity.

Natural Depression Treatment #6: Massage and Acupuncture

Many studies have proven the healing power of touch. Both massage and acupuncture help restore the body’s emotional balance by stimulating the flow of energy through specific points on the body. In addition to being physically relaxing, massage and acupuncture also increase the body’s production of feel-good chemicals such as endorphins and the mood-altering hormone serotonin.

Holistic Depression Treatment at Casa Palmera

Depression can be a debilitating disorder that disrupts your life. At Casa Palmera, we believe in treating depression and other mood disorders with traditional treatments like therapy and medications, but we also believe in a holistic approach that uses the healing power of natural depression treatments. Call Casa Palmera today and ask how our holistic depression treatment program can return you to a healthy mind, body and emotional state of well-being.

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Signs of Teen Depression

It can be hard for parents to distinguish between “normal” teen angst and moodiness and the signs of serious depression. That’s why its imperative for parents to really pay attention to their teen and not dismiss the red flags of depression as “hormonal” issues.

Some common warning signs of teen depression include:

• Sadness or hopelessness
• Irritability, anger or hostility
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities
• Changes in eating and sleeping habits
• Sloppy appearance
• Sudden drop in grades
• Restlessness and agitation
• Spending a lot of time in their room
• Lack of enthusiasm and motivation
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Overreacting to criticism
• Dramatic weight loss or weight gain

Teens and adults share many of the same signs of depression, but teens sometimes express their depression in different ways. For example, Rather than showing sadness, teens will often be irritable, grumpy, hostile, easily frustrated and prone to angry outbursts. Depressed teens will also be extremely sensitive to criticism, rejection or failure, which is a common problem for “over-achievers.” Some depressed teens will even frequently complain about physical aches and pains, such as headaches or stomachaches, that can’t be explained by the doctor. Finally, while depressed adults tend to isolate themselves from everyone, depressed teens will withdraw from some people, but not all people, by socializing less, pulling away from their parents, or hanging out with a different crowd.

Problems Caused by Teen Depression

Teens have a hard time understanding and verbalizing their emotions, which can cause them to “act out” in rebellious or unhealthy ways. If your teen is exhibiting any of the following behaviors, they may be trying to cope with the emotional pain of depression.

Slipping grades — Depression makes it difficult to concentrate and focus. It also causes sleep problems, fatigue and low energy.

Substance abuse — Teens may use drugs or alcohol as a way to self-medicate and cope with their depression.

Eating disorders — Anorexia, bulimia and binge eating are often signs that undiagnosed depression exists.

Internet addiction — Sometimes depressed teens will try to escape from their problems and withdraw from friends and family by excessively using the computer.

Self-injury — Cutting, burning and other kinds of self-mutilation almost always indicate a person is depressed.

Reckless behavior — Depressed teens sometimes engage in high-risk behaviors, such as reckless driving, unsafe sex and binge drinking.

Violence — Self-hatred and suicidal thoughts can sometimes lead to violence and rage, especially in teens who are victims of bullying.

Suicide attempts — Serious depression can lead your teen to talk about or attempt suicide. This should not be dismissed as “attention-getting” behavior. Suicide attempts should always be taken very seriously.

How to Help a Depressed Teen

The first thing you should do if you suspect your teen is depressed is to listen — without judgment, without lecturing, and without criticizing. Encourage your teen to open up about his or her feelings and then validate their feelings by acknowledging their pain and sadness, even if their feelings appear irrational to you. Second, offer support and make it clear that you’re ready and willing to help them in any way that they need. Your teen may try to shut you out at first, but be persistent, yet gentle, about supporting him or her.

Perhaps the most important thing you can do, however, is immediately seek out the advice of your family doctor or a mental health specialist. Your doctor will be able to perform a depression screening that includes a physical exam to determine if a medical condition is causing for your teen’s depression. If medical causes are ruled out, your doctor can recommend a psychologist or psychiatrist who specializes in adolescents and young adults.

If your teen has turned to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with his or her depression, an addiction treatment center that specializes in dual diagnosis treatment will help them conquer their addiction and their mood disorder. At Casa Palmera, our skilled, compassionate staff is experienced at dealing with the unique issues teens with depression face. We believe the only way to recover from addiction is to treat the underlying issues that have lead your teen to use drugs or alcohol in the first place. Our caring staff will use traditional methods of addiction and depression treatment, such as talk therapy and medications if necessary, and holistic methods that include all-natural treatments and methods that will address your teen’s entire well-being.

Don’t let your teen suffer in silence any longer.

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Yoga and Depression

Some studies have shown that controlled breathing, which is an integral part of most types of yoga, provides relief for depression. One study found that levels of two stress hormones, cortisol and corticotropin, dropped in patients immediately after practicing yoga and that yoga can be a beneficial treatment for depression in the early stages of recovery from alcoholism.

Yoga and Anxiety

Yoga is a great way to calm symptoms of anxiety because it reduces the heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and eases respiration. One study found that practicing yoga may elevate levels of gamma-aminobutyric (GABA) in the brain, which positively affects a person’s ability to handle stress.

Yoga and PTSD

Some evidence suggests that yoga can help alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A study out of Australia found that Vietnam veterans diagnosed with severe PTSD and who were heavy daily drinkers taking at least one antidepressant experienced less severe PTSD symptoms after six weeks of practicing yoga and controlled breathing. Nearly 20% of war veterans who served in Iraq or Afghanistan suffer from PTSD, and researchers at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Washington, D.C., are encouraging veterans returning from combat in Iraq and Afghanistan to practice yoga and deep relaxation to alleviate symptoms. Of course, yoga isn’t just beneficial for PTSD caused by war; it’s beneficial for all types of trauma.

Yoga and Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar medications are very good at taking care of mania, but they aren’t as effective at managing anxiety and depression. Similarly, medications used for anxiety and depression pose a risk of triggering mania. Adding yoga as a complementary treatment for bipolar disorder can help people better manage their symptoms and possibly reduce the amount of medications they need to take. Yoga helps bipolar patients reduce feelings of depression, anger and anxiety and calm their emotions.

Yoga and Dual Diagnosis

It’s very common for people with a mood or mental disorder such as depression, anxiety, PTSD or bipolar disorder to use drugs or alcohol to cope with their symptoms. Yoga is a great way for people with a dual diagnosis to overcome their substance abuse problem and alleviate their mood/mental disorder symptoms. In addition to the mental benefits of yoga, yoga also helps people in addiction recovery programs to detoxify their body, enhance physical and mental stamina, increase self-awareness, and reconnect with their inner spirituality.

Yoga Therapy at Casa Palmera

Our bodies and minds hold on to the past, creating blockages in energy flow that can aggravate existing emotional and mental issues or lead to new ones. Regular, long-term practice of yoga therapy can be a powerful tool for emotional healing and maintaining mental and physical health by releasing these blockages and relieving stress.

Yoga is not a cure for mood and mental disorders, but it helps alleviate the symptoms and is a great complement to traditional mental health treatments. If you’re suffering from a mental health disorder and would like more information on holistic forms of treatment like yoga, Call Casa Palmera today.

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Top Reasons Why Teens Abuse Substances

1) Stress: A recent study by the Partnership for a Drug-Free America showed that 73 percent of teens report the number-one reason for using drugs is to deal with the pressures and stress of school. Surprisingly, only 7 percent of parents believe that teens might use drugs to cope with stress, showing parents severely underestimate the impact of stress on their teens’ decision to use drugs.

2) Social Acceptance and/or Low Self-Esteem: A 2007 PATS Teens study reported 65 percent of teens say they use drugs to “feel cool.” Teens’ self-worth depends on the approval of others, and their desire for social acceptance can drive them to engage in destructive behaviors, even if they know it could harm them. The same study found that 65 percent of teens use drugs to “feel better about themselves.” Teens who have low self-esteem are more likely to seek acceptance from the wrong crowd by using drugs.

3) Self-Medication: The teen years are rough, and many teens who are unhappy don’t know how to find a healthy outlet for their frustration. These pent up emotions can take an emotional toll and can even lead to depression or anxiety. A 2009 study reported an estimated 70 percent of teens suffer from undiagnosed clinical depression at some point in their life. Many teens are unaware that they have an underlying mental or mood disorder that is causing them to use illegal or prescription drugs to self-medicate and cope with their symptoms.

4) Misinformation: Studies show that teens are widely misinformed about the dangers of drugs. Did you know that 40 percent of teens don’t perceive any major risk with trying heroin once or twice? While abuse of serious drugs is steadily declining among teens, their intentional abuse of prescription and over-the-counter medications remains a serious concern. Many teens, 41 percent to be exact, mistakenly believe that it’s safer to abuse a prescription drug than it is to use illegal drugs. Nearly 1 in 5 teens have already abused a prescription medication or prescription painkiller in order to get high or deal with stress.

5) Easy Access: One reason teens use drugs is simply because they’re easy to get. Nearly 50 percent of teens report that it’s easy for them to get marijuana; 17 percent say it’s easy to get meth; 14.4 percent say it’s easy to get heroin; and more than half of teens say that prescription drugs are easier to get than illegal drugs.

Teen Drug Abuse: Prevention and Help

Research consistently shows that kids who learn a lot about the risks of drugs from their parents are 50 percent less likely to use drugs than kids who do not learn about the dangers of drugs at home. Unfortunately, only 32 percent of teens report that they are getting this vital message from their parents.

If you know a teen who is abusing drugs, don’t wait to intervene. The sooner your teen gets help for drug abuse, the more likely they’ll be able to avoid the long-lasting consequences. Fortunately, there are many different teen drug rehabs to choose from. The most effective teen drug rehab, however, may be a residential treatment program. Here your teen will have access to 24/7 supervision and care, detoxification, dual diagnosis treatment and a variety of holistic treatments based on their individual needs. Talk to a medical doctor about your teen’s symptoms and determine which type of drug abuse treatment is best for your teen.

Don’t let your child suffer at the hands of addiction any longer. Call Casa Palmera today and put your teen in the hands of trained, highly skilled professionals who will bring your child back to a healthy, happy life.

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That’s a sobering number, but you don’t have to let your marriage become another sad statistic. If you’re living with a bipolar partner, here are three tips to help you beat the odds and maintain a healthy and long-lasting relationship.

Living with a Bipolar Partner Tip #1: Educate Yourself

Educating yourself about your partner’s bipolar disorder is more than just understanding what bipolar disorder is; it’s also about recognizing the bipolar triggers that cause your partner to become manic or depressive so you can help your partner avoid them or be prepared when a episode rears it’s ugly head. The more you know about your partner’s disorder, the better equipped you’ll be to help your partner and keep things in perspective.

Living with a Bipolar Partner Tip #2: Watch for Warning Signs

Medication works really well at helping your partner control his or her bipolar symptoms, but there may be times when symptoms get worse or your partner stops taking their medication without your knowledge. Know the warning signs that your partner is about to go into a manic or depressive episode so you can take action right away and help your partner before they spiral out of control.

Mania Warning Signs:
Speaking rapidly
Elevated mood
Restlessness
Sleeping less
Increased activity level
Irritability or aggression

Aggression Warning Signs:
Sleeping more
Fatigue or lethargy
Trouble concentrating
Loss of interest in activities
Withdrawing from others
Change in appetite

Living with a Bipolar Partner Tip #3: Take Care of Yourself

Living with a bipolar partner is very difficult. Constantly taking care of someone else’s needs and neglecting your own will put you on the fast track to burnout, which doesn’t help anyone. Don’t let your partner’s illness consume you. The only way to cope with the stress of caring for a bipolar partner is to take care of yourself emotionally and physically. First, seek support through therapy or a support group. Second, don’t lose focus on your own life or give up friendships or activities that bring you joy. Third, keep your stress under control by living a healthy lifestyle and getting plenty of sleep. Finally, set boundaries. There’s only so much one person can do, so be realistic about what you’re willing and able to do without feeling overwhelmed, guilty or resentful.

Bipolar Disorder Treatment in California

If you or your partner suffers from bipolar disorder, there are bipolar treatment centers in California that can help you get your disorder under control and teach you the skills needed to live a normal life with minimal recurring episodes.

Casa Palmera is a renowned bipolar treatment center in California that focuses on holistic methods of bipolar treatment to reconnect your body, mind and emotions. In addition to traditional bipolar treatments like medications, psychotherapy and cognitive-behavioral therapy, Casa Palmera offers holistic treatments like yoga, massage, acupuncture and natural/herbal medicines to treat your entire well-being.

Don’t let bipolar disorder control your life any longer. Take back control by calling Casa Palmera today.

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