Living with depression can be challenging for various reasons, including making it more difficult to maintain positive relations with those around us. After all, many of the symptoms associated with depression — such as fatigue, low energy, and mood swings — make managing all aspects of life more challenging. Those difficulties become all the more pronounced when there’s a romantic partner or close friend involved.
While managing depression and a relationship can be challenging, there are tools and strategies that can make it easier. By making a proactive investment in yourself and your relationships, you can ensure that both you and your loved ones continue to have positive relations.
In this post, we’ll take a closer look at how depression affects relationships, and also run through some handy coping strategies that both the person living with depression and their loved ones can use.
Depression is one of the world’s most common mental illnesses. In the United States alone, more than twenty million people — 8% of the population — experience depression each year.
Depression can have a significant impact on how we think, act, and feel. When we’re in a negative state of mind, it becomes more difficult to do the things that are required to be a good partner or friend. Happily, there are a host of things that anyone can do to manage their condition and prevent it from having a negative impact on the health of their relationships.
Let’s take a look at some of the ways that depression impacts relationships.
Being in a close romantic relationship with another person requires significant emotional and mental energy. Spending quality time together and showing an interest in each other’s lives is the foundation of any good relationship. When a person is going through a depressive episode, they may find it more difficult to engage in emotional conversations or to be present during activities. To the partner, this can appear as the person is withdrawing from them. At the same time, the person with depression may feel guilty for their feelings, causing them to withdraw even further.
Depression can manifest itself in various ways. In many cases, people with depression can find it difficult to express themselves. These communication issues can put a strain on a relationship and can lead to frustrations and arguments that impact the union.
It’s normal for a person’s libido to lower when they’re living with depression, which can make engaging in physical intimacy more difficult. People with depression may also avoid other forms of close physical contact.
People with depression often experience mood swings that can make their behavior and words appear unpredictable. This can lead to an increase in the number of disagreements that the couple has.
We’ve seen how depression can impact relationships in any number of ways, but it’s important to remember that there are plenty of strategies that individuals can use to avoid letting their depression put strain on their relationships.
Recognizing that you have depression is the first step towards getting better and preventing it from having a negative impact on your relationship. While signs of depression can vary from person to person, some common symptoms include:
If you think you may be experiencing depression, then it’s important to speak to a professional. At Telapsychiatry, we offer personalized online mental health support that can help improve your mental well-being.
Creating a safe space within the relationship for all members to talk openly about their mental health challenges is paramount. By creating this environment, the person living with depression can feel comfortable sharing their experience, while at the same creating a window for the partner to show empathy towards their condition.
It can take time to create this environment. If you have a partner who is showing signs of depression, then it’s best to broach the topic gently. Taking the time to understand their experience during a judgment-free, caring conversation will make it more likely that your partner opens up about their difficulties in the future.
Living with depression isn’t easy. If you or your loved one is struggling with their mental health, then it’s recommended to seek professional help. Taking a proactive approach to treatment as early as possible can help avoid many of the side effects of living with depression, making it easier to manage relationships. At Telapsychiatry, we offer mental health services for various types of depression, including:
Practicing self-care can be a powerful tool in the fight against depression. People who have depression often fall into a cycle of negative thoughts, blaming themselves for arguments and other shortcomings in the relationship. Replacing those thoughts with positivity — for example, reminding yourself of the good qualities you bring to the relationship — can be an important step towards mental and emotional well-being.
Partners of people living with depression can also practice self-care. While you’ll want to be supportive, it’s important to ensure that your own well-being is your primary priority.
Planning trips, activities, and other events gives both people in the relationship something to look forward to. These activities also provide an opportunity to spend quality time together, and also function as a welcome reprieve from the stresses and strains of living with depression.
Schedule an Appointment With Telapsychiatry Today
A better future for you and your relationship is possible. At Telapsychiatry, our expert team of experienced mental health professionals are on hand to deliver personalized treatment plans that get results. Our affordable online services allow you to access mental health help from the comfort of your own home. To make an appointment for you or your partner, please call 888-903-5505.
You don’t have to be a diagnosed with an anxiety disorder to struggle with anxiety. Acute and short-lived anxiety can arise in anyone due to unexpected stress or a sudden change occurs in a person’s life. The experience of anxiety can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few months. Once the stressor passes, your anxiety may subside. However, if your anxiety is chronic, you may want to explore non-prescription options that may avoid some side effects that can be seen with certain prescription medications.
Whether your symptoms are short-lived or chronic, you may be wondering if there are any natural and effective alternatives to prescription medications to treat your anxiety. We will describe some of the options to consider when searching for an over the counter (OTC) anxiety treatment. Please make sure to consult your physician before adding new nutritional supplements to your routine.
Adaptogen herbs can come in many different formulations such as gummies, supplements, tinctures, powders, and teas. These formulations have plant-based ingredients that can help one’s body respond to stress, thus reducing anxiety. When stress is high, the body goes into “fight or flight mode”, which leads to activation of the sympathetic nervous system and also elevation of cortisol levels. A temporary increase in sympathetic activation and cortisol can helps a person respond to stress. However, a prolonged increase can weaken the immune system and create a negative mind-body ripple effect over time.
While adaptogen herbs can help to dampen down excessive cortisol levels and boost a person’s immune response, it can take time for the adaptogens to work. On average, one may need to take an adaptogen supplement for 4 to 12 weeks to experience a benefit. So, if you’re stressed about a presentation at work in a few days, adaptogens aren’t an effective option. However, they can be part of a preventative approach to reducing anxiety in the long run for those who regularly struggle with anxiety.
Top adaptogens for natural anxiety treatment:
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an important neurochemical and is made from one of the 9 essential amino acids your body requires to thrive. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins and can exert many different functions in your body, supporting a range of vital functions, but not all amino acids serve as an OTC anxiety treatment. 5-HTP is a precursor chemical that is responsible for helping your body produce the mood-boosting neurotransmitter serotonin.
Supplementation of 5-HTP may also help with:
There aren’t any foods that contain 5-HTP, but there are foods that contain tryptophan to stimulate the production of 5-HTP. Ensuring a diverse range of dietary protein sources is one way to provide your body with the full spectrum of amino acids.
To stimulate 5-HTP production without a supplement, add more of the foods below to your diet:
Magnesium is an essential mineral that you should consume daily. In terms of anxiety support, magnesium helps to regulate your neurotransmitters. If you aren’t consuming enough magnesium from food and not taking supplementation, your brain can become over excitable, and as a result intensify your anxiety.
Studies find that 50% of Americans are either “deficient” or “near deficient” in magnesium. If your diet is high in processed foods, you probably aren’t getting enough of this powerhouse mineral from food. Supplementation and dietary changes ensure you obtain the magnesium your body requires.
Magnesium-rich foods include:
While Magnesium technically is not a beta-blocker, which is a common blood pressure medication that is also used to treat anxiety, it is however a natural calcium channel-blocker. Magnesium naturally blocks the effects of calcium in the body. However, magnesium supplements don’t replace prescription calcium channel-blockers or Beta-blockers to treat high blood pressure. While beta-blockers like propranolol or other prescription medications like benzodiazepines, may reduce adrenaline production, minimize panic attack frequency, and minimize anxiety symptoms, it is possible that magnesium can provide similar benefits. Taking magnesium can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and also reduce muscle tension. It is a safe and natural supplement with limited side effects, so feel free to discuss it with your physician.
Kava kava root and valerian root are two OTC anxiety treatment options. Both herbal supplements can be found in different forms such as teas, supplements, tinctures, and powder. Both herbal supplements are often paired together to treat stress-induced insomnia.
While tryptophan is an essential amino acid, L-theanine is a non-essential amino acid found in green tea, black tea, and a few mushrooms. L-theanine has been linked to a variety of health benefits, including easing anxiety symptoms.
Unlike many of the options on this list, drinking tea is generally safe and effective for most, and can generally be utilized long-term. Like all caffeine sources, one must be mindful of how late in the day you consume green or black tea. However, it is important to pay attention to the amount of caffeine in the tea your drink, as caffeine is known to worsen anxiety in patients who have generalized anxiety disorder.
When you head online or to your local pharmacy or health food store, you’re likely to find a variety of supplements formulated specifically for stress, anxiety, and insomnia. Most contain a combination of the natural ingredients above.
Consider these options, but also be sure to:
Chamomile and lavender tea are two caffeine-free options that you can drink in the evenings and throughout the day to relax and unwind. Both flowering plants promote calm and relaxation when consumed as tea or utilized as aromatherapy.
You can also explore your options in topical and aromatic aromatherapy. Ensure the aromatherapy oils you utilize are pure, not synthetic.
The best essential oils for anxiety include:
Of note, Lavender can also be found in pill form and studies have suggested that it can be as effective as a benzodiazepine in reducing anxiety symptoms. A common manufactured lavender supplement is known as Silexan and can be purchased on Amazon.
Another OTC anxiety treatment one may consider are non-THC cannabis products. CBD or Cannabidiol stimulates the endocannabinoid system in the brain, helping the brain to self-regulate and reduce anxiety. This may improve sleep, reduce internal inflammation, alleviate pain, relax your mind and body, and regulate your neurotransmitters to reduce your anxiety symptoms.
Take cannabis products under medical supervision, as directed, and only if you aren’t prohibited by your work, school, or extracurricular activities. Even though CBD is legal in all 50 states, the use of this supplement may be regulated depending on your employer or school.
Maybe, but this isn’t a decision to go alone. Natural remedies may be utilized in combination with talk therapy, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), mindfulness techniques, coping mechanisms, and prescription anxiety medications. Medication management of both OTC and prescriptions should be guided by a trained healthcare professional.
Whether acute or chronic, anxiety isn’t something you must manage alone. If you would like a compassionate listener and a safe place to share, consider a virtual consultation with one of our licensed psychiatrists or therapists. Together we will tailor your treatment plan with the intention of minimizing your symptoms and improving your quality of life.
Telapsychiatry provides virtual and in-person treatment in 10 states. If needed, your treatment plan might include both OTC natural remedies and prescription medication management.
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To most people, jealousy isn’t the average emotion. It’s common to feel sad, happy, maybe stressed at times, but jealousy is a complex and often confusing emotion. While commonly associated with relationships, jealousy extends beyond romance, affecting other aspects of life, including self-esteem, friendships, and careers.
Understanding jealousy and its roots can be important in managing its effects on mental health. Our mental health care team at Telepsychiatry offers tools and resources to help individuals overcome jealousy and find mental peace and balance. Let’s start by exploring jealousy more so we can get to the bottom of this complex feeling.
At its core, the meaning of jealousy lies in the fear of losing something valuable to someone else. To you, this may look like someone vying for your coveted position at the office, or maybe a friend flirting with your date. It’s a multifaceted emotional response resulting in insecurity, suspicion, and even anger.
Unlike envy, which focuses on desiring what another person has, jealousy arises from the perceived threat to what one already possesses. For example, jealousy in relationships often comes from the fear of losing a partner when someone else “steals them” away.
For most people, jealousy can have strong negative effects on mental health. The nature of jealousy stems from evolutionary survival mechanisms, acting to protect our safety, but today, unchecked jealousy can strain relationships, damage self-esteem, and cause anxiety.
To truly understand the meaning of jealousy, we’ll need to explore its origins. Different factors contribute to experiencing jealousy:
Early relationships with caregivers often shape how we process emotions. A child who feels overshadowed by a sibling may carry feelings of inadequacy into adulthood, which can lead to ongoing jealousy struggles.
Individuals with insecure attachment styles may experience more intense jealousy since they fear abandonment or rejection.
Social norms and media often glorify comparison, making it easier to feel inadequate or threatened by others. Just take a look at modern-day social media.
Jealousy may arise when personal or relationship needs remain unfulfilled. This may trigger feelings of resentment and insecurity.
Jealousy doesn’t just affect your mood. Some people may try to push the feeling away, but ongoing jealousy can have serious consequences for your mental health.
For many, jealousy leads to anxiety and constant overthinking. Maybe you’re stuck worrying about what your partner’s doing when they’re not with you or feeling like you’re not enough because a friend just got the promotion you wanted. These feelings can spiral, soon affecting your self-esteem and overall well-being.
Unchecked jealousy can even cause self-sabotaging behavior. You might push people away with accusations or shut down emotionally, which can hurt your relationships in the long run. Acknowledging how jealousy shows up in your life is the first step toward managing it.
It’s normal to feel a little jealousy in relationships. After all, it shows you care. But when jealousy gets out of control, it can lead to distrust and conflict. Maybe you’ve found yourself constantly checking your partner’s phone or feeling uneasy about their friendships. While these feelings are valid, they’re often rooted in insecurity or fear of being replaced.
To keep jealousy from damaging your relationships, open communication is what’s needed. Talk to your partner about your feelings without placing blame. This can help you both understand each other’s perspectives and build trust. If jealousy feels like too big of an issue to handle alone, therapy for jealousy can be huge for your relationships. A therapist can help you dig into the root causes and teach you healthier ways to cope.
Managing jealousy takes effort, but it’s definitely possible with the right strategies. Here are some steps to get you started:
Take a moment to pause and ask yourself: Why am I feeling this way? Journaling or practicing mindfulness can help you uncover patterns and triggers for your jealousy.
Jealousy often comes from a place of feeling “not enough.” You’ll need to work on building your confidence by celebrating your strengths and achievements. Small wins, like learning a new skill or sticking to a goal, can make a big difference.
If your jealousy involves another person, don’t be afraid to talk about it. Express your feelings calmly and clearly. For example, instead of accusing someone, try saying, “I’ve been feeling insecure lately, and I want to work through it.”
When jealousy starts to take over your thoughts, shift your focus to something positive. It’s helpful to reset your mindset through exercising, working a hobby, or spending time with friends or family.
Therapy for jealousy can provide tools and insights to help you manage your emotions. Our experts at Telapsychiatry can help you work through jealousy and mental health struggles through online therapy and psychiatry.
Sometimes, managing jealousy on your own isn’t enough, and that’s okay! Therapy is a powerful way to explore the deeper causes of jealousy and learn healthier coping strategies.
With Telapsychiatry’s online services, you can work with our licensed professionals from the comfort and freedom of your home. Whether you’re struggling with jealousy in relationships or feeling stuck in comparison traps, we’re here to help you find balance again.
Believe it or not, jealousy can have a silver lining. If you look closely at the triggers and causes, it can show you what matters most and motivate you to make positive changes. But the important piece is to recognize jealousy as a sign, not a roadblock. For example, if you’re feeling jealous of a friend’s career success, it might show you that you’re ready for the next step in your career and inspire you to set new goals for yourself.
When approached with curiosity and self-compassion, jealousy can be a stepping stone toward personal growth and stronger relationships. And that’s what we want to help you with at Telapsychiatry. We want to walk alongside you to turn your jealousy into healthy goals and help balance your mental health.
You’re not alone in feeling jealousy – we’ve all been there! Jealousy is a natural part of being human, but it doesn’t have to control your life. By understanding the meaning of jealousy and learning how to manage it, you can improve your mental health and build better connections with your friends, family, and work colleagues.
If jealousy feels overwhelming or you’re ready to make a positive change, remember that support is just a call away. Our therapists at Telapsychiatry offer compassionate online therapy to help you work through jealousy and other emotional challenges. Call us today at (888)-903-5505 to start your journey toward mental peace and balance.
When searching for a psychiatrist, it's important to consider their expertise in treating PTSD specifically. Psychiatrists who specialize in trauma-related disorders and have extensive experience in helping patients overcome the challenges of PTSD. Often times psychiatrists who work with PTSD develop a niche in working with patients who share a common trauma. Common examples of at risk populations include first responders, healthcare workers, veterans, or victims of domestic or sexual abuse.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. This can include events such as combat, natural disasters, sexual assault, or other life-threatening situations. PTSD can have a profound impact on an individual's daily life, causing symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and depression.
Seeking professional help from a qualified psychiatrist is crucial for individuals struggling with PTSD. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of mental health conditions, including PTSD. They have the most expertise to provide comprehensive care, including medication management, psychotherapy, and other evidence-based interventions. A skilled psychiatrist can also assist patients with coping strategies to effectively process their trauma, and regain a sense of control and stability in their lives.
There are many different mental health professionals that a patient can schedule with. To find the right psychiatrist, try to ask whether or not they utilizes evidence-based therapies for PTSD, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), acceptance commitment therapy for trauma (ACT), prolonged exposure therapy, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). These therapies have been proven effective in helping individuals with PTSD manage their symptoms and work through their traumatic experiences. The best psychiatrist for PTSD will have an adequate understanding of all of these treatment options or can at least work with another therapist who does.
It's also important to consider the psychiatrist's approach to treatment. Effective PTSD treatment often involves a collaborative, patient-centered approach, where the psychiatrist works closely with the individual to develop a personalized treatment plan. This treatment plan can include medications like an SSRI antidepresant such as sertraline. Look for a psychiatrist who takes the time to understand your unique needs, concerns, and goals, and who is committed to supporting you throughout the entire healing process.
There are several ways to reach out and locate a psychiatrist near you for PTSD. Start by asking your primary care physician for referrals or recommendations. They may have established relationships with psychiatrists who specialize in trauma-related disorders and can provide valuable insights. Another convenient option is to search online directories, such as those provided by professional organizations like the American Psychiatric Association or the American Psychological Association. These directories often allow you to filter your search by location and a psychiatrist's particular expertise. Finally, another helpful resource is your health insurance provider's website or customer service line. They can provide you with a list of in-network psychiatrists who may be covered under your plan, making it easier to find a provider that fits your budget and insurance requirements.
Once you've identified a few potential psychiatrists, it's important to thoroughly evaluate their credentials and experience in treating PTSD. Start by checking their educational background and board certifications. Ideally, you'll want to find a psychiatrist who has completed specialized training in trauma-informed care and has extensive experience working with individuals with PTSD. Additionally, look for psychiatrists who are affiliated with reputable healthcare institutions or academic medical centers, as these organizations often have rigorous standards for their providers. You can also check for any awards, publications, or speaking engagements the psychiatrist may have, as these can be indicators of their expertise and dedication to the field.
When searching for a psychiatrist to treat your PTSD, it's essential to consider the financial aspect of your care. The cost of psychiatric services can vary widely, and it's important to understand your insurance coverage and out-of-pocket expenses.
Begin by checking with your health insurance provider to determine which psychiatrists are in-network and what level of coverage they offer for PTSD treatment. Many insurance plans provide some level of coverage for mental health services, but the specifics can vary greatly. Be sure to understand your deductibles, copays, and any limitations on the number of sessions or types of therapies covered.
If you don't have insurance or your plan doesn't cover the full cost of PTSD treatment, you may need to explore other options, such as sliding-scale fees or community mental health resources. Some psychiatrists may offer payment plans or discounts for self-pay patients, so be sure to inquire about these possibilities during your initial conversations.
In addition to evaluating a psychiatrist's credentials and experience, it's also important to consider feedback and recommendations from other patients. Reading online reviews can provide valuable insights into a psychiatrist's bedside manner, communication style, and the overall effectiveness of their PTSD treatment approach. While online reviews are not always accurate, it does provide a small preview of what general experiences have been like for other patients.
You can pay attention to the overall rating, as well as specific comments about the psychiatrist's empathy, responsiveness, and ability to help patients achieve their goals. In addition to online reviews, consider asking friends and relatives if they have any experience with a trusted psychiatrist. They may have personal experiences or knowledge of local psychiatrists who specialize in PTSD treatment. These trusted sources can provide valuable insights that may not be available online.
Once you've identified a few promising psychiatrists, the next step is to schedule initial consultations. During an initial consulation, you may assess the psychiatrist's communication style, and determine if they are the right fit for your PTSD treatment needs. During the consultation, you may ask a variety of questions to gain a better understanding of the psychiatrist's approach and expertise. Some key questions to consider include:
What is your experience in treating PTSD specifically?
What types of evidence-based therapies do you use for PTSD treatment?
Do you tailor your approach to each individual patient's needs?
What is your communication style, and how do you involve patients in the treatment process?
What are your thoughts on incorporating medication, if necessary, as part of the treatment plan?
How do you measure progress and track the effectiveness of PTSD treatment?
What is your availability and the typical frequency of appointments?
By asking these questions, you can assess the psychiatrist's knowledge, communication style, and overall fit for your PTSD treatment needs.
After completing your consultations and thoroughly evaluating each potential psychiatrist, it's time to make your final decision. Consider all the factors you've assessed, from the psychiatrist's credentials and experience to their communication style and approach to PTSD treatment.
Ultimately, the best psychiatrist for your PTSD treatment is the one who makes you feel comfortable, respected, and confident in their ability to guide you through the healing process. Trust your instincts and choose the psychiatrist who you believe will be the most effective partner in your journey towards recovery. Sometimes there is a trial and error process and not every psychiatrist is going to be the right fit for you as a patient. Pay attention to some of the tips discussed above and understand that you can always seek a second opinion if you feel you haven't found the best psychiatrist to treat your PTSD.
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