Category: Psychiatry

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Prioritizing Mental Health

Prioritizing Mental Health

We focus on Mental Health Awareness during the month of May. This is a time to shine a light on the importance of emotional well-being, encourage open conversations, and most importantly, break the stigma that keeps people from seeking help. However, the message behind this awareness matters all year long.

The professionals at Flying Horse Medical center in Colorado Springs believe that your mental health is just as important as your physical health. This is why we take a holistic approach to care, supporting the full spectrum of your health: mind, body, and spirit. After all, when your mental wellness is nurtured, you can live a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Why Breaking the Stigma of Mental Health Matters

Mental health impacts every part of our lives: how we think, feel, relate to others, and navigate stress. Strong mental health helps us find our purpose, build relationships, and thrive through the ups and downs of life.

However, despite this, mental illness is widely misunderstood. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 20% of adults in the United States experiences a mental illness each year- that’s more than 50 million people. Unfortunately, due to fear of judgement, shame, or misunderstanding, many of these people suffer in silence.

The stigma associated with mental illness tells people they’re weak for struggling, depression is just laziness, and anxiety is all in their head. The truth is that mental health conditions are medical conditions and deserve the same compassion and treatment as a physical illness.

When we can talk about mental health openly, we reduce the stigma and let others know that it’s okay to not be okay- and it’s okay to ask for help.

Common Signs of Mental Health Struggles

Mental health struggles look different for different people. Some will put on a brave face and power through, while others withdraw from the world around them. When we know the signs, we can better support ourselves and others:

  • Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness for extended periods of time
  • Mood swings, irritability, or emotional outbursts
  • Withdrawing from friends, family, or once-loved activities
  • Trouble concentrating or making decisions
  • Changes in appetite and/or sleep patterns
  • Unexplained physical aches and pains
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

If you notice these in yourself or those around you, don’t ignore them. These are signals that support is needed. Help is available, you just have to reach out.

How to Prioritize Mental Wellness

There’s more to caring for mental health than reacting when something feels off- it also involves creating habits that promote emotional resilience and balance. There are several things you can do to support your mental well-being:

  • Stay connected: social relationships are critical for emotional health- make sure that you always make time for friends and family
  • Get moving: exercise doesn’t just benefit your body- it also relieves stress and boosts mood and energy
  • Practice mindfulness: activities such as deep breathing, journaling, or meditation can help you ground your thoughts and calm your mind
  • Set boundaries: learn to say “NO” to protect your time and energy
  • Talk to someone: sharing your thoughts and feelings can help whether it’s a friend, therapist, or counselor

Maintaining your mental health is just as important as physical checkups. The sooner you address a concern, the better your chances of healing and growth. 

Creating a Culture of Openness

One of the best ways to support Mental Health Awareness Month is to normalize the conversation. This means that we need to be checking in on our friends, being honest about our own struggles, and refusing to let outdated stereotypes to define how we view mental illness.

Flying Horse Medical Center believes that everyone deserves to be heard, seen, and supported. Our providers listen without judgement and offer compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your personal needs.

Whether you’re navigating depression, anxiety, trauma, or everyday stress, you don’t have to do it all alone.

Take the First Step Toward Better Mental Health

If you are feeling overwhelmed or disconnected and don’t know where to start- you are not alone. The good news is, you don’t have to navigate your struggles alone.

The mental health team at Flying Horse Medical Center is here to support you with compassionate, comprehensive, and confidential care. We offer personalized treatment plans that include a combination of therapy and/or medication management. This is part of our holistic approach to wellness.

Let’s work together to break the stigma. Reach out today to schedule your mental health consultation and take the first step toward healing and hope.

 

 

 

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Your Physical and Mental Health’s Connection

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics, Psychiatry

Your Physical and Mental Health’s Connection

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics, Psychiatry

From biological makeup to lifestyle factors, the interplay between physical health and mental health underscores the holistic nature of wellness. Understanding this dynamic relationship is key to promoting comprehensive health and fostering resilience across the lifespan.

Flying Horse Medical Center takes a holistic approach to health. We focus on all areas to help you feel your best.

Physical Health’s Impact on Mental Well-being

The state of our physical health can significantly impact our mental well-being. A healthy body provides a foundation for a healthy mind, facilitating optimal cognitive function, emotional regulation, and resilience to stressors. Conversely, physical illness, pain, or disability can exert a heavy toll on mental health, contributing to feelings of distress, anxiety, and depression.

Chronic physical conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or chronic pain, can have profound implications for mental health. The burden of managing a chronic illness, coping with symptoms, and navigating the healthcare system can lead to heightened stress, fatigue, and psychological distress. Moreover, the impact of physical health challenges on daily functioning and quality of life can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness or helplessness.

Furthermore, lifestyle factors that influence physical health, such as diet, exercise, and sleep, also play a crucial role in mental well-being. Regular exercise, for instance, not only promotes cardiovascular fitness and strength but also releases endorphins and neurotransmitters that improve mood and reduce stress. Similarly, a balanced diet rich in nutrients supports brain health and cognitive function, while inadequate sleep can impair mood regulation and cognitive performance.

Mental Health’s Impact on Physical Well-being

Conversely, mental health issues can have far-reaching implications for physical well-being. Conditions such as depression, anxiety, or chronic stress can manifest in physical symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, headaches, or gastrointestinal problems. Moreover, the impact of psychological distress on health behaviors, such as poor dietary choices, sedentary behavior, or substance abuse, can further compromise physical health outcomes.

The stress response, a physiological reaction to perceived threats or challenges, illustrates the intricate connection between mental and physical health. Chronic stress triggers the release of stress hormones such as cortisol, which can disrupt immune function, increase inflammation, and contribute to the development or exacerbation of various physical health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders.

Mental health disorders can influence healthcare utilization and adherence to medical treatment, leading to disparities in physical health outcomes. Individuals with untreated mental health conditions may struggle to engage with healthcare providers, adhere to medication regimens, or follow recommended lifestyle modifications, thereby compromising their physical health and well-being.

Promoting Holistic Well-being

Recognizing the relationship between physical health and mental well-being underscores the importance of adopting a holistic approach to health promotion and healthcare delivery. Integrated interventions that address both physical and mental health needs are essential for promoting comprehensive wellness and resilience.

By fostering healthy lifestyle behaviors, promoting access to mental health services, and addressing the social determinants of health, we can empower individuals to optimize their overall well-being. From healthcare providers to policymakers to individuals themselves, each plays a vital role in nurturing a culture of holistic wellness that honors the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit.

Schedule your appointment with the care team at Flying Horse Medical Center in Colorado Springs. We take a holistic approach to care to ensure that your physical and mental health are in optimal shape.

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What is the Difference Between Psychiatry and Psychology?

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics, Psychiatry

What is the Difference Between Psychiatry and Psychology?

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics, Psychiatry

In the world of mental health, the terms psychiatry and psychology are often used interchangeably. This can lead to confusion regarding the services that each field provides. However, there are some distinct differences, and in order to make sure you choose the best provider for your needs, it’s important to understand the difference.

The team at Flying Horse Medical Center has put together this guide to help you understand these differences:

Psychiatry vs. Psychology: Navigating the Differences

While both psychiatry and psychology are branches of mental health care, they differ in their approaches and focus areas.

Psychiatry: The Medical Approach

Psychiatry is focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of mental illness. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who has completed medical school and further training in psychiatry. They are licensed to prescribe medication, provide psychotherapy, and administer alternative treatments.

In Colorado Springs and Monument, psychiatrists play a significant role in addressing a wide variety of mental health issues including anxiety, depression, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and more. They will take the time to assess your symptoms, conduct diagnostic evaluations, and develop personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs.

Advantages of Choosing Psychiatry

There are several advantages of choosing psychiatry, including:

  • Medical expertise: a psychiatrist understands the biological and neurological aspects of mental health. They can accurately diagnose mental illness and develop evidence-based treatment plans.
  • Prescription privileges: medication is a critical component of treatment for many mental health patients. A psychiatrist can prescribe medications and work with you to ensure that you are getting the appropriate one and the best dosage.
  • Comprehensive treatment: A psychiatrist offers a holistic approach, integrating medication with other interventions. In addition to medications, they also provide other forms of psychotherapy including CBT, DBT, and psychodynamic therapy.
  • Coordination of care: A psychiatrist often works closely with other medical professionals, counselors, and therapists to ensure coordinated/integrated care for their patients. This allows the development of a comprehensive treatment plan to address all aspects of the patient’s well-being.

Psychology: Behavioral and Mental Processes Approach

Psychology is the study of behavior and mental processes. A psychologist typically holds a doctoral degree in psychology and specializes in understanding human behavior, thought patterns, and emotions. They use a wide variety of assessment tools and therapeutic techniques to help patients overcome challenges and improve their overall mental well-being.

These practitioners are unable to prescribe medication, but they excel in other areas of treatment including behavioral interventions, psychotherapy, and counseling. These modalities help individuals develop coping strategies, improve their interpersonal relationships, and achieve personal growth.

Choosing the Best Mental Health Provider

Psychiatry and psychology are distinct, but complementary fields within the world of mental health care. When you are seeking mental health care in Colorado Springs & Monument, it’s important to consider your specific needs/preferences. If you believe medication may be beneficial or you prefer a provider that can combine medication management with therapy, a psychiatrist may be the best option.

Schedule your appointment with the providers at Flying Horse Medical Center today. We can help you determine the best options for your conditions. We are a holistic provider, able to handle all of your needs.

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What’s the Difference between Psychiatry and Therapy?

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics

What’s the Difference between Psychiatry and Therapy?

Flying Horse Medical Center | Colorado Springs & Monument | Concierge Medicine, Plastic Surgery, Aesthetics

Your mental health is a critical aspect of your overall well-being. It impacts every aspect of your life. Therefore, good mental health should be a priority. There are several indicators that your mental health may be suffering:

  • Changes in eating habits
  • Reduced energy levels
  • Unexplained worry, fear, anger, or guilt
  • Severe mood swings
  • Inability to perform daily life activities
  • Indulging in alcohol, tobacco, or other harmful substances more than usual
  • Thoughts of harming self or others

If you live in or near Colorado Springs or Monument and you are experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek the best mental health provider in Colorado Springs.

Flying Horse Medical Center provides more than therapy. We offer Psychiatry services. Our medical providers will work with you to help you get your mental health under control.

Who Should I See for My Mental Health?

Many people use the terms “psychiatry” and “therapy” interchangeably. While they are both used for the treatment of mental health disorders, their approach differs. They are both effective, the best choice depends on your personal needs, the severity of your symptoms, and your personal preferences. Below, we’ll take a closer look at each one.

What type of care does a Psychiatrist offer?

The focus of Psychiatry is diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders. A psychiatrist is a medical doctor who specializes in mental health and is trained to diagnose and treat these issues using a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and other techniques.

The primary difference between Psychiatry and other types of therapy is the use of medication to manage mental health. A psychiatrist is also trained to help patients manage the physical and psychological effects of mental illness, as well as create personalized treatment plans to address their needs.

What type of care does a therapist offer?

Therapy, commonly referred to as psychotherapy or talk therapy, is focused on helping patients overcome behavioral, emotional, and psychological disorders by talking through their behaviors, feelings, and thoughts.

There are several different types of therapy:

The best approach depends on the expertise of the therapist and the patient’s needs. A therapist is not authorized to prescribe medication but can use other techniques to help patients change their behaviors and thought patterns, develop skills to help them cope with situations, and improve their mental health and overall well-being.  

Improve Your Mental Health with Flying Horse Medical Center

Flying Horse Medical Center has two locations: Colorado Springs & Monument. We are a primary care facility offering personalized care for all ages. If you are struggling with mental health, let our psychiatrists help you get back on track. We are among the best mental health providers in Colorado Springs.

We specialize in helping patients who are struggling with bipolar disorder, addiction, severe depression, ADD/ADHD, personality disorders, PTSD, anxiety disorders, and more. Schedule your visit with Flying Horse Medical Center today to improve your mental health.