Understanding Your Narrative Identity We all have a story woven inside our heads. It’s not written on paper, but it shapes every aspect of our lives. This story is our narrative identity – who we are, where we’ve been, and our hopes for the future. Understanding our narrative identity is crucial because it influences our […]
Breaking Free from the People-Pleasing Trap
The Importance of Strong Boundaries In the hustle of our daily lives, many of us fall into the trap of people-pleasing, often at the expense of our own well-being. The inability to set strong boundaries can lead us down a path of overcommitment, suppressed emotions, and ultimately, resentment. As a psychiatrist deeply invested in mental […]
Ketamine: A New Dawn in the Treatment of Depression
Two years have passed since I last discussed ketamine, and the landscape has significantly evolved. As a psychiatrist deeply invested in mental health education, I find it crucial to share these groundbreaking developments. What is Ketamine? Originally used for anesthesia since the 1970s, ketamine offers pain relief, amnesia, and sedation during medical procedures. However, its […]
Adderall and Heart Health: Understanding the Risks
Understanding Adderall: A Stimulant for ADHD Adderall, a medication in the amphetamine class, is widely used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It differs from methylphenidate-class stimulants (like Focalin and Ritalin) in its stimulating effects. The Heart of the Matter: Cardiovascular Effects Adderall does influence cardiovascular health. Its primary function is to boost dopamine […]
What a Good Antidepressant Response Really Looks Like
As a psychiatrist dedicated to mental health education, I often receive questions that reflect common concerns about psychiatric medications. A viewer named Trey recently asked, “I’m not sure if my antidepressant is working or not. When I take it, I feel numb. I’m glad that I don’t feel sad, but I don’t like feeling numb […]
Unmasking Anger: The Surprising Link to Childhood Trauma
Depression is a multifaceted mental health condition that goes beyond the commonly recognized symptoms of sadness and withdrawal. In some cases, it manifests as irritability and intense anger, which can be particularly perplexing for both the individual experiencing it and those around them. In my latest video, I explore this less understood side of depression, […]