As June unfolds, it brings a significant reminder: it's PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) Awareness Month. This month serves as an opportunity to shed light on a condition that affects millions worldwide yet often remains misunderstood or overlooked. PTSD can affect people of all ages and backgrounds, including children who may present with irritability and difficulty learning. While PTSD can be very distressing, the good news is that treatment can be highly effective and individuals can find relief and healing, though it may take time. "It is really important to seek care, work closely with a therapist and/or psychiatrist and stick with it. It can be scary at the beginning, but things can get better," says Dr. Lisa Fortuna, Chair of Psychiatry and Neurosciences at UCR Health.

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. These events can range from natural disasters, accidents, and combat exposure to physical or sexual assault and other forms of violence. While it's normal to experience stress reactions after such events, for some individuals, these reactions persist, intensify, and interfere with daily life.

Symptoms of PTSD

• Flashbacks and Intrusive Memories: Individuals with PTSD may experience intrusive memories of the traumatic event, often triggered by reminders such as sights, sounds, or smells. Flashbacks can feel as though the trauma is happening again, leading to intense emotional and physical reactions.
• Avoidance: Avoidance behavior is common among those with PTSD. They may avoid people, places, activities, or situations that remind them of the traumatic event. This avoidance can disrupt daily routines and social relationships.
• Hyperarousal: Individuals may feel constantly on edge, experiencing heightened anxiety, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. They may be easily startled or have difficulty concentrating, leading to challenges in work or school environments.
• Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: PTSD can lead to negative changes in thoughts and beliefs about oneself or others. Feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment from others are common. This can manifest as difficulty experiencing positive emotions or maintaining close relationships.
• Emotional Reactivity: Those with PTSD may experience intense emotional reactions, including anger, sadness, or fear, that seem disproportionate to the current situation. These emotional responses can be overwhelming and challenging to manage.

How to Help

• Educate Yourself: Take the time to learn about PTSD and its symptoms. Understanding the condition can help you provide more effective support to those experiencing it.
• Offer a Listening Ear: Sometimes, all someone with PTSD needs is someone to listen without judgment. Be patient and attentive when they choose to open up about their experiences.
• Encourage Professional Help: Encourage individuals with PTSD to seek professional help. Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), can be highly effective in managing symptoms.
• Be Supportive: Offer your support in practical ways, such as helping with daily tasks or accompanying them to therapy appointments. Let them know that you are there for them, even if you may not fully understand what they're going through.
• Practice Self-Care: Supporting someone with PTSD can be emotionally draining. Take care of yourself by setting boundaries, seeking support from others, and engaging in activities that help you recharge.

As we observe PTSD Awareness Month this June, let us remember that PTSD is not a sign of weakness but a natural response to experiencing trauma. By raising awareness, fostering understanding, and offering support, we can create a more compassionate and inclusive community for those living with PTSD. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote healing and resilience.

Talk to your UCR Health primary care provider for more information 

If you don't have a primary care provider, find one by visiting https://www.ucrhealth.org/make-an-appointment/ or give us a call at 1-844-827-8000.

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What is stress? 

Stress is the body's response to pressure, triggered by various situations or life events. It typically arises when we encounter something new, unexpected, or challenging that makes us feel out of control. When stressed, our body produces stress hormones that help us respond quickly in dangerous situations (flight, fight, freeze) response. While stress responses can be helpful in some scenarios, excessive stress can have negative effects, leaving us feeling overwhelmed or anxious all the time.

“Our mind and body are connected. When your mental health is not doing well, it impacts your physical health.  When your  physical health is not doing well, it impacts your mental health” - Maribel Torres, LCSW

What are the symptoms of stress? 

Stress can be triggered by various events. Maturational is normal stress during the course of life (like divorce, marriage, the birth of a child, retirement) and situational is a sudden traumatic event that is unexpected (like loss of a job, illness, death of a loved one, death of a pet, birthdays). Many adults experience symptoms of stress such as:

• Anxiety 
• Worry 
• Feeling Overwhelmed 
• Sadness
• Irritability 
• Feeling on edge 
• Suicidal thoughts 

Some physical symptoms may include:

• Headaches/lightheadedness/dizziness
• Nausea/digestive problems 
• Muscle tensions (jaw, shoulders, arms, stomach, legs, back)
• Change of appetite/weight 
• Trembling or shaking
• Heartaches/accelerated heart rate
• Sweating  

Individuals experiencing stress may withdraw from social interactions, neglect responsibilities, or turn to substances like alcohol or tobacco. Recognizing these symptoms in oneself or others is crucial to prevent long-term stress-related issues.

How to help? 

Stress is a common emotion in many individuals day to day life, however, to manage it effectively, it's important to recognize its symptoms and triggers. Some ways to help and feel less stressed include: 

• Recognizing the issue: Recognize your symptoms of stress and the triggers that may cause it. With any mental health, addressing the symptoms as an issue is always the most important step to seeking help and improving yourself. Although you can’t control your symptoms of stress, you can take control of the small triggers of stress.  
• Limit Stressful Triggers: Minimize exposure to situations that may increase your stress. If a situation is known to make you more stressed, take a step away; this may include declining additional commitments.
• Develop Health Habits: Getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, and regular exercise may improve your physical and mental well-being. 
• Build Supportive Relationships: Talking to friends or family about your feelings and symptoms can help bring you support and comfort in tackling your mental health. Surrounding yourself with supportive people can often help take your mind off of the stress.
• Stress Monitoring: Apps such as Sanvello, Bloom or the Calm App can help you monitor your stress as well as provide self-care methods. 
• Seek Professional Help: If your symptoms of stress begin to affect your daily life, seek help from a mental health professional or therapist. They can offer additional support, guidance, or medication to help reduce your stress levels. 
• Resources: (988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, National Mental Health Hotline 1866-903-3787, California Peer-Run Warmline 1800-845-6264, SAMHSA National Helpline 1800-662-4357)

Stress is a natural human response to challenging situations. While short-term stress can be beneficial, long-term stress can have detrimental effects on physical and mental health. Recognizing and addressing stress symptoms in oneself or loved ones is essential for maintaining overall well-being.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

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Seasonal Depression also known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that typically occurs in the fall and winter months when the sunlight is reduced. During this time, many people experience sadness or mood changes affecting how they feel, think, and behave. As the winter and holiday seasons approach, it is important to take care of yourself and your loved ones who may experience Seasonal Depression. 

Causes and Factors

Seasonal Depression typically occurs in the fall and winter due to a change in environmental factors. As there is a reduction in natural light, there is a disruption in the body’s circadian rhythm which affects the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and melatonin. With a lack of serotonin and overproduction of melatonin, our mood and sleep are affected and worsened. Although Seasonal Depression is associated with environmental factors, it can also be associated with genetic and psychological factors. Many individuals with a family history of mental disorders are more susceptible to Seasonal Depression. 

Symptoms

Many symptoms of Seasonal Depression are similar to those with regular depression but typically last a few months of the year in the fall/winter. Symptoms of someone experiencing seasonal depression include: 

• Oversleeping
• Overeating, causing a weight gain
• Lack of social interactions 
• Persistent sadness or feeling “empty” 
• Hopelessness
• Irritability and frustration 
• Lost interest in hobbies 
• Decreased energy and fatigue
• Physical pain 

It is important to watch for these symptoms in your loved ones and yourself. Seasonal Depression can lead to more physical and psychological pain if not recognized early on. If you or any loved one are experiencing symptoms of Seasonal Depression, talk to your physician or a psychiatrist to get your diagnosis. Symptoms in each person may vary but talking to a health care provider can give more insight on how to help you tackle your depression. 

Treatments

Some treatments for Seasonal Depression include: 

• Exposure to sunlight or Light Therapy can help relieve symptoms of depression by increasing your serotonin levels. It can help regulate the circadian rhythm and improve mood. 
• Antidepressants can help correct the chemical imbalance and alleviate many symptoms. A serotonin reuptake inhibitors can increase the availability of serotonin in the brain by blocking its reuptake, thereby enhancing its effects.

Some other ways to help relieve symptoms include: 

• Getting regular exercise
• Staying away from alcohol and drugs 
• Hanging out with friends 
• Participate in small activities that may bring you joy
• Don’t push yourself to big tasks 

By doing these activities, seasonal depression does not just go away. It is important to know that it takes time to adjust back to your normal routine and self. Be patient with yourself or any loved one experiencing these symptoms. 

To read more about Seasonal Depression:

• National Institute of Mental Health - Seasonal Affective Disorder
• Johns Hopkins Medicine - Seasonal Affective Disorder

If you are struggling with your mental health, consider talking to someone you trust or your doctor. Therapy is available at CAPS and outpatient psychiatric treatment is available at SHS and UCR Health. Contact us at 1-844-827-8000 or submit an online appointment form to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout the Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

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What to Notice

Dr. Yamaguchi, Director of Student Mental Health speaks on some signs and symptoms one may express if they are going through a tough mental headspace. Some signs of worsening mental health include

• withdrawing or isolating from typical social contacts or activities
• increased substance use, worsening grades or other issues at school
• increasing conflict in relationships
• decline in hygiene or grooming

Dr. Yamaguchi shares these from her own experience working with students struggling with mental health. They may not be apparent signs that some may share either but having a conversation about mental health can help encourage disclosure. Many individuals express different symptoms so noticing any abnormal behavior may help someone that is struggling.

How to Help 

If a loved one is struggling with their mental health, consider conversing with them about what you’ve noticed. Focus on listening to them and trying to understand. If you feel they may benefit from a professional evaluation or other professional services, you can help them set up a therapy or doctor appointment. You may call the CARES line at (800) 499-3008, which offers support and referrals 24/7 in Riverside County. If this is an emergency, call 911.

If you are struggling with your mental health, consider talking to someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, professor, or your doctor. If the issue has risen to the level of an emergency, it is best to seek immediate assistance by calling 911 or going to the nearest hospital. For suicidal thoughts, you can call the national suicide hotline by dialing 988. Therapy is available at CAPS and outpatient psychiatric treatment is available at SHS and UCR Health. Contact us at 1-844-827-8000 or submit an online appointment form to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

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Men’s mental health conditions and symptoms may appear in many shapes and forms. “Some of the most common conditions include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, PTSD, and substance abuse,” says Dr. Castanos. According to Riverside University Health System, over 28,113 men have struggled with mental health and 4,643 men have struggled with substance abuse in 2017-2018. Unfortunately, men tend to fall into dangerous situations because they are hesitant to ask for help due to the stigma in the professional world. Job security can be a huge issue that contributes to the lack of men who seek help as many have been threatened to be fired from their job for seeking help as many would claim “makes them weaker”, though seeking help is quite the opposite.

There are also misconceptions circulating regarding men’s mental health. These include:

• Men don’t need therapy.
• Men don’t suffer from certain mental health illnesses
• Men don’t feel emotion
• Men don’t get sad

All these misconceptions aren’t true. Men CAN have therapy. Men CAN suffer from certain mental health illnesses. Men CAN feel emotion. Men CAN get sad. Men are human and deserve to be heard and be provided the same resources and support as others. Seeking help shouldn’t be seen as a weakness, but rather a way to strengthen oneself and find their happiness and true calling once more.

Here are four tips to help maintain your physical and mental health:

• Stay active. Even 30 minutes of daily exercise helps keep a heart and mind healthy!
• Visit your primary care doctor. Visiting your primary care physician, even for annual checkups, allows you to ensure that you're physically and mentally healthy.
• Eat healthy. Eating healthy doesn’t mean always and only eating healthy foods. Maintaining a balanced, healthy diet allows for a healthier mind as well.
• Protect your mental health and advocate. Take care of your mental and physical health. Advocate for yourself and listen to your mind and body!

Want to talk to a psychiatrist or physician to prioritize your mental and physical health? Our team is here for you. Contact us at 1-844-827-8000 or submit an online appointment form to schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment.

Helpful resources:

• CDC Mental Health
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
• Riverside County Mental Health

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

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Common Misconceptions Debunked

Myth: Individuals who self-harm are trying to kill themselves.

Fact: Individuals who self-harm are not typically trying to kill themselves. They may be trying to distract themselves from painful feelings, or they may be punishing themselves. 

Myth: Individuals who self-harm are making up stories and none of it is real.

Fact: Those who self-harm often have a history of childhood sexual or physical abuse, emotional neglect, or bonds with caregivers that were unstable or insecure. Self-harm may at times be an attempt to neutralize intrusive memories or negative feelings of a depressive or angry nature, and may reflect an underlying posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Myth: Individuals who self-harm attention-seeking.

Fact: Some individuals may self-harm in response to dissociative symptoms such as feeling numb or as if having an out-of-body experience, and may be an attempt to “feel something”.

Myth: Individuals can stop self-harming at any time, they're not trying hard enough to stop.

Fact: It can be difficult to quit self-harming. Many reasons can contribute to this, including the shame that some individuals who self-harm feel. This shame can then contribute to resisting sources of help.

Myth: When you overcome self-harm, you can never relapse.

Fact: Individuals can relapse, especially when facing new or recurrent stressors. Though relapses are natural, it can feel like defeat.

Dr. Fichtner also shared alternatives to self-harming behavior. These include Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as Psychotherapy. Other alternatives include medication, though no medication is researched and approved specifically for the indication of self-harming behavior. 

Dr. Yamaguchi addresses that it is important to acknowledge the reasons why individuals may self-harm and to be there for those individuals who may feel alone in their recovery journey.

To schedule an in-person or virtual appointment with a UCR Health physician, click here or give us a call at 1-844-827-8000.

About UCR Health

UCR Health is comprised of a team of physicians, specialists, and healthcare professionals dedicated to improving people’s health. With five medical offices located throughout Inland Empire and Coachella Valley, UCR Health is growing to meet the healthcare needs of the region, bringing innovative, culturally sensitive medical care to the community. Established alongside the School of Medicine at the University of California, Riverside, UCR Health’s patient-centered primary care and specialty services deliver university-based healthcare excellence and innovation to all communities.

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Why World Mental Health Day is important?

This day reminds us that whatever you’re going through, you're not alone. Over 43 million Americans battle with mental health. Along with this our understanding of mental health grows each year and so does our ability to seek proper treatment. 

What are some recommendations to keep up with your mental health?

• Spend some time with your friends and family. This targets the isolation that commonly triggers psychological distress.
• Prioritize your sleep. A regular sleep routine has mental and physical health benefits. Try bedtime yoga on YouTube and sleep podcasts. Try blue-light-blocking glasses.
• Decreasing your use or even achieving sobriety from alcohol, cannabis, nicotine, and/or caffeine can produce notable differences in one’s mental health.

To speak with a provider please visit, https://www.ucrhealth.org/make-an-appointment/

We also offer telehealth services.

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Myth: People with mental health issues never get better. 

Fact: Treatment works for more than 8 in 10 people who get help for depression, and as many as 9 in 10 people who get help for panic attacks. 

Myth: People with mental health conditions are just weak 

Fact: Many factors can impact mental health — including biology, environment, and challenging life events. Anyone can develop a mental health condition — there’s no single cause, and it isn’t anyone’s fault. 

Myth: If I get treatment, my employer will find out 

Fact: You decide who you want to tell — and not tell — about your care. Your medical record is confidential, and you can’t lose your job or your health insurance for getting treatment for a mental health or addiction issue.  

Unfortunately, negative stereotypes prevent many people from reaching out and getting the help they need. By understanding the truth about mental health, you can spread the word to help raise awareness and fight stigma. 

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Four amazing doctors, Dr. Gerald Maguire, Dr. Todd Stull, Dr. Ben Strack and Dr. David Franklin have come together in leading a fellowship that ensures a collaborative, integrative, multi-disciplinary program to enhance mental wellness in athletes throughout Southern California.

The fellowship will accept one fellow annually for the year-long program with plans to expand in the future.

The post UCR School Of Medicine Launches New Sports Psychiatry Program appeared first on UCR Health.

Dr. Todd Stull is an international expert in sports psychiatry, works with NCAA and the US Olympic Team to address mental health and performance issues by using psychological and medical interventions along with mental skills training.

Dr. Jami Woods was originally a pharmacist and is a board-certified physician in psychiatry and subspecialty certified in psychopharmacology. She is a strong advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community and provides psychotherapy for transgender patients in addition to treating their comorbid psychiatric conditions and providing world-class hormone confirmation therapy.

Dr. Laurie Moore specializes in trauma-focused care and has received lifetime board certification from The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and 10 years subspecialty board certifications in Addictions and Geriatrics.

Make an appointment today!

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