Tag: Depression

Cyclothymic Disorder

Cyclothymic Disorder

Written by Samson Motavassel on . Posted in Articles, Intensive Outpatient Program, IOP, Mental Health, mental health therapy, mental health treatment, Online therapy, Online Treatment, outpatient therapy, outpatient treatment, Partial Hospitalization Program, PHP, therapy, treatment.

Cyclothymic Disorder, often referred to as cyclothymia, is a lesser-known mood disorder that falls within the spectrum of bipolar disorders. Characterized by chronic fluctuations between periods of hypomania and mild depression, cyclothymia can significantly impact emotional well-being and daily functioning.

Defining Cyclothymic Disorder

Cyclothymic Disorder is a chronic mood disorder that involves numerous periods of hypomanic symptoms and depressive symptoms that do not meet the criteria for a major depressive episode or a full manic episode. It represents a milder form of bipolar disorder and is often considered a precursor to Bipolar Type I or Bipolar Type II.

Symptoms of Cyclothymic Disorder

  1. Hypomania: During hypomanic episodes, individuals with cyclothymia may experience:
    • Elevated Mood: An abnormally upbeat, energetic, or expansive mood.
    • Increased Energy: A noticeable surge in physical and mental energy.
    • Racing Thoughts: Rapid, often uncontrolled thoughts.
    • Impulsivity: Engaging in pleasurable, high-risk activities without considering the consequences.
  2. Depression: Cyclothymia also involves periods of mild depression, characterized by:
    • Persistent Sadness: An enduring sense of sadness or hopelessness.
    • Fatigue: A lack of energy and persistent feelings of tiredness.
    • Sleep Disturbances: Changes in sleep patterns, either insomnia or excessive sleep.
    • Poor Concentration: Difficulty focusing on tasks or making decisions.

The key feature of cyclothymia is the chronicity of these mood fluctuations, with symptoms persisting for at least two years in adults (one year in adolescents) without a gap of more than two months without symptoms.

Causes of Cyclothymic Disorder

While the precise causes of Cyclothymic Disorder are not fully understood, several factors may contribute to its development:

  1. Genetics: A family history of bipolar disorders may increase the risk of developing cyclothymia. Certain genetic factors are thought to play a role.
  2. Neurobiological Factors: Imbalances in neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin and dopamine, may contribute to the mood fluctuations seen in cyclothymia.
  3. Brain Structure and Function: Abnormalities in the structure and function of certain brain regions involved in mood regulation may be associated with cyclothymia.
  4. Environmental Stressors: High-stress life events or trauma may act as triggers for the onset or exacerbation of cyclothymic symptoms.

Management and Treatment

Managing Cyclothymic Disorder often involves a combination of the following approaches:

  1. Mood Stabilizers: Medications such as lithium or anticonvulsants may be prescribed to help stabilize mood and prevent extreme fluctuations.
  2. Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and psychoeducation can help individuals understand and manage their mood swings, develop coping strategies, and maintain regular routines.
  3. Lifestyle Management: Consistent sleep patterns, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress-reduction techniques can contribute to stabilizing mood.
  4. Monitoring and Awareness: Keeping a mood journal to track mood swings and identifying triggers can enhance self-awareness and help individuals manage their condition proactively.
  5. Support System: Building a strong support network, including friends, family, and support groups, can provide emotional understanding and practical assistance during challenging times.

Cyclothymic Disorder presents unique challenges due to its chronic and fluctuating nature. Understanding the symptoms, seeking professional help, and developing effective coping strategies are crucial for living with cyclothymia. While the disorder may require ongoing management, it is possible to lead a productive life with the right combination of treatment.

What is seasonal depression?

What is seasonal depression?

Written by Samson Motavassel on . Posted in Articles, Intensive Outpatient Program, IOP, Meditation, Mental Health, mental health therapy, mental health treatment, Online therapy, Online Treatment, outpatient therapy, outpatient treatment, Partial Hospitalization Program, PHP, therapy, treatment.

What is seasonal depression?

As the seasons change, so do our moods. For some, the transition from summer to fall and then to winter can bring about a noticeable shift in emotional well-being. This phenomenon is often referred to as seasonal depression, and it can have a significant impact on the quality of life.

Understanding Seasonal Depression

Seasonal depression, formally known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern. It is most commonly associated with the fall and winter months, when daylight becomes scarcer and the weather turns colder. However, a less common form of SAD known as “summer-onset SAD” can also occur, primarily during the warmer months.

Common Symptoms

Seasonal depression shares many of the symptoms of major depressive disorder.

Some common symptoms of SAD include:

  1. Low Mood: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or despair that persist for most of the day.
  2. Fatigue: A pervasive sense of tiredness and a lack of energy, often leading to an increased need for sleep.
  3. Changes in Appetite: A tendency to overeat, especially high-carb and sugary foods, often resulting in weight gain.
  4. Social Withdrawal: A desire to isolate oneself from social activities and a general decrease in interest in things previously enjoyed.
  5. Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks or making decisions.
  6. Irritability: Increased irritability or restlessness.

Potential Causes

The exact cause of seasonal depression remains the subject of ongoing research, but several factors are thought to contribute to its development. These include:

  1. Light Exposure: Reduced exposure to natural sunlight during the shorter days of fall and winter is believed to play a central role in SAD. Sunlight helps regulate our internal body clock and the production of certain hormones like serotonin and melatonin.
  2. Biological Clock: Some individuals may have a biological clock that is more sensitive to seasonal changes, making them more prone to SAD.
  3. Neurochemical Factors: SAD is associated with changes in the balance of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which affect mood and sleep patterns.
  4. Genetics: A family history of depression or SAD can increase an individual’s susceptibility to seasonal depression.
  5. Vitamin D Deficiency: Reduced sun exposure can lead to lower levels of vitamin D, which has been linked to depressive symptoms.

Managing and Preventing Seasonal Depression

The good news is that there are several strategies for managing and preventing seasonal depression. Here are some effective approaches:

  1. Light Therapy: Light therapy, also known as phototherapy, involves exposure to bright, artificial light that mimics natural sunlight. It’s a common treatment for SAD and has been found to alleviate symptoms in many individuals.
  2. Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and a consistent sleep schedule can help regulate mood and energy levels.
  3. Psychotherapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other forms of talk therapy can be effective in managing SAD by helping individuals develop coping strategies and thought patterns that reduce depressive symptoms.
  4. Medication: In some cases, healthcare professionals may prescribe antidepressant medication to alleviate the symptoms of seasonal depression.
  5. Increase Sunlight Exposure: Spend time outdoors during daylight hours, even when it’s cold. Open curtains and blinds to let more natural light into your living spaces.
  6. Vitamin D Supplements: If you have a vitamin D deficiency, your healthcare provider may recommend supplements.

What is seasonal depression?

Seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a real and challenging condition that affects people during certain times of the year. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and available treatments can empower people to find effective strategies for managing their condition. With the right approach, individuals with SAD can better navigate the changing seasons and maintain their emotional well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with seasonal depression, don’t hesitate to reach out to CAST Centers for guidance and support.

Is there a cure for depression?

Is there a cure for depression?

Written by Samson Motavassel on . Posted in Articles, Drug Addiction, IOP, Meditation, Mental Health, mental health therapy, mental health treatment, Online therapy, Online Treatment, Recovery, therapy.

Depression, a common mental health disorder affecting millions worldwide, is often characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. It can have a profound impact on an individual’s quality of life and relationships. As the prevalence of depression continues to rise, many people wonder if there is a definitive cure for this debilitating condition.

Understanding Depression:

Depression is a complex and multifaceted condition that can have both biological and environmental causes. It is not a temporary state of sadness but a chronic mental health disorder that requires proper attention and care. Various factors, such as genetic predisposition, life events, trauma, and brain chemistry, contribute to the development of depression.

Available Treatments:

While there might not be a single “cure” for depression, effective treatments can help manage the symptoms and improve an individual’s well-being. The most common treatment options include:

  1. Psychotherapy: Also known as talk therapy, psychotherapy involves discussing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors with a trained therapist. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy are proven to be effective in treating depression.
  2. Medication: Antidepressant medications are prescribed to balance brain chemicals that influence mood. They can be beneficial for individuals with moderate to severe depression, often in conjunction with psychotherapy.
  3. Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly impact depression. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and avoiding alcohol and drug use are essential elements of self-care.
  4. Support Groups: Participating in support groups or group therapy sessions provides an opportunity for individuals to connect with others facing similar challenges, reducing feelings of isolation.
  5. Mind-Body Practices: Mindfulness, yoga, and meditation techniques can help manage stress and improve overall mental well-being.

The Concept of a “Cure”:

While there is no definitive cure for depression in the sense of eradicating it permanently, many individuals can achieve long-term remission or significant improvement in their symptoms with appropriate treatment and support. Recovery from depression is often a journey rather than a destination. It is essential to recognize that each individual’s experience with depression is unique, and their response to treatment can vary.

Managing Chronic Depression:

For some individuals, depression might be chronic and recurring, meaning they experience periods of remission followed by relapses. In such cases, ongoing treatment and developing coping mechanisms are vital in managing the condition effectively. Managing chronic depression involves understanding triggers, recognizing early signs of relapse, and seeking help promptly when needed.

Promoting Mental Health Awareness:

Rather than focusing solely on finding a “cure” for depression, society should prioritize mental health awareness and reducing the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Encouraging open conversations, empathy, and understanding can create a supportive environment for those struggling with depression to seek help without hesitation.

While there might not be a one-size-fits-all cure for depression, effective treatments and support systems exist to help individuals manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. The journey to recovery from depression is unique for each person, and seeking professional help, adopting healthy lifestyle habits, and fostering a supportive network are crucial steps in the process. By fostering mental health awareness and promoting early intervention, we can empower those battling depression to seek help, break the stigma, and find hope in their journey towards healing.

3 tips to live a balanced life

3 Tips to Live a Balanced Life

Written by Samson Motavassel on . Posted in Articles, Mental Health, mental health therapy, mental health treatment, Online therapy, Online Treatment, Recovery, Uncategorized.

Finding balance can often feel like an elusive goal. Juggling work, family, social commitments, and personal pursuits can leave us feeling overwhelmed and stretched thin. However, it is essential to prioritize our well-being and strive for a balanced life. Here are 3 tips to live a balanced life.

Set Priorities and Manage Your Time Wisely.

One of the key elements in achieving balance is setting clear priorities and managing your time effectively. Start by identifying the areas of your life that hold the most significance to you. Is it your career, relationships, health, or personal growth? Once you have determined your priorities, allocate your time accordingly.

Create a schedule or use a planner to organize your days, weeks, and months. Set aside dedicated time for your work, family, self-care, hobbies, and relaxation. Learn to say no to commitments that do not align with your priorities. Remember that balance is about making conscious choices and creating boundaries to ensure you have time and energy for the things that truly matter.

Nurture Your Mind, Body, and Soul.

Living a balanced life involves taking care of your overall well-being. Nurturing your mind, body, and soul is crucial for maintaining balance and harmony. Make self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine.

Take care of your physical health by engaging in regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep. Prioritize activities that promote mental well-being, such as meditation, journaling, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy. Set aside time for relaxation and rejuvenation, whether it’s through reading, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness.

Don’t forget to nourish your relationships and social connections. Carve out time to spend with loved ones, whether it’s having meaningful conversations, sharing meals, or engaging in activities together. Building and maintaining healthy relationships is an essential aspect of a balanced life.

Practice Mindfulness and Embrace the Present Moment.

Living in the present moment is a powerful tool for finding balance and contentment. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It helps us slow down, appreciate the little things, and find joy in everyday experiences.

Practice mindfulness by being fully present in whatever you are doing. Whether it’s having a conversation, eating a meal, or engaging in a task, give it your undivided attention. Slow down and savor the present moment. Take breaks throughout the day to pause, breathe, and check in with yourself.

Embrace gratitude as a daily practice. Take a moment each day to reflect on the things you are grateful for. Cultivating gratitude shifts your focus to the positive aspects of your life and helps you appreciate the abundance around you.

3 Tips to Live a Balanced Life are simple and effective.

Living a balanced life is a continuous journey that requires conscious effort and commitment. By setting priorities, managing your time wisely, nurturing your mind, body, and soul, and practicing mindfulness, you can create a more harmonious and fulfilling life. Remember that balance looks different for everyone, so be kind to yourself and find what works best for you. Strive for progress, not perfection, and embrace the beauty of living a life in balance.

There are six major types of depression and learning about each may lead to better personal mental health habits.

The Six Most Common Types of Depression

Written by admin on . Posted in Articles.

By Jackie O’Brien, CADC III

Depression is one of the leading causes of disability in the United States. According to the WHO (World Health Organization), depression affects more than 264 million people worldwide. There are six major types of depression and learning about each may lead to better personal mental health habits.

MAJOR DEPRESSION DISORDER

One of the most common types that is more acute (has occurred within the last 2 weeks to six months), symptoms associated with Major Depression are an increase or decrease in sleep, poor eating habits, an increase or decrease in libido and a deep sense of anhedonia, which means loss of pleasure-seeking feelings and activities. In severe cases, suicidal ideations can occur. Treatment varies depending on the severity of symptoms. Outpatient group therapy, individual therapy, and medication are often recommended.

PERSISTENT DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

This type of depression is chronic and has lasted for at least two years. People suffering from this have a low mood, but it is usually not as severe as Major Depression. People experience many of the same symptoms of MDD including, concentration issues and feelings of hopelessness. PDD is best treated with a combination of therapy and medication.

BIPOLAR DISORDER

This mental health disorder is a little different from the aforementioned types of depression. Bi-polar disorder has two major components. The first being, Mania. Manic episodes are defined as periods of time in which one’s mood is extremely elevated and there is a major increase in energy and motivation levels. Also present are racing thoughts, hyper-verbosity and in severe cases, psychosis or hallucinations. Subsequent to mania, depression occurs and is highly debilitating. Bipolar Disorder, left untreated, can endanger one’s life. Medication combined with intensive outpatient treatment is most effective.

SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER

SAD, as it’s known, occurs in most people during the winter months, when the days get shorter and the evenings longer. There is a plethora of research out there and most of it indicates that there is a link between sunlight and the levels of serotonin and melatonin released in the brain. The most effective treatment is light therapy which involves sitting in front of a specific light box for short bursts during the day.

PERIPARTUM/POSTPARTUM DEPRESSION

While primarily known to affect women during or after pregnancy, research suggests that 1 in 10 men may also experience symptoms after the birth of a child. Due to the importance of early childhood connections between caregiver and child, this type of depression can be particularly devastating for all parties involved. The symptoms found in Major Depressive Disorder can be found in Postpartum Depression as well as psychotic symptoms, such as delusions and hallucinations. Medication and intensive therapy are usually the most effective treatment for caregivers.

PREMENSTRUAL DYSPHORIC DISORDER

PMDD occurs in people biologically assigned female at birth. It is directly connected to the female menstrual cycle and most symptoms occur in the weeks prior to the start of menses. These symptoms include extreme irritability and agitation as well as drastic mood swings, anxiety, fatigue, and changes in sleeping and eating patterns. Often the symptoms go away after the start of a period, but they are severe enough when present to disrupt the quality of life. Usually, oral contraceptives are most often prescribed to combat these disruptive symptoms.

Depression is a soul-sucking and life altering disease. When left untreated the results are disastrous and, in some cases, life-ending. However, a common thread between the various types is the effectiveness of therapy as treatment. In fact, Intensive Outpatient Group Therapy has shown to be most effective across the board. If you start experiencing any symptoms of depression, please reach out to someone and give yourself the help you deserve.

A man contemplating solutions for depression.

5 Most Common Solutions For Depression

Written by admin on . Posted in Uncategorized.

A man who would benefit greatly from our solutions for depression.

By Tricia Moceo

Being sad is a normal human emotion. It’s natural to feel despondent when someone you love dies or you’re dealing with life-altering events such as an illness or divorce. While these challenges are never forgotten the subsequent emotional distress usually dissipates over a normal period of time. However, if your sadness is constant, intense, and never seems to go away then you may be suffering from depression. In this article we will explore some treatment options and solutions for depression that can help you recover both safely and effectively.

A recent study revealed that depression was prevelant in 1 in 10 Americans. Overwhelming feelings of sorrow and a loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable are common symptoms of depression. If you are suffering from depression, you may begin abusing substances in hopes of relieving the disparaging feelings. However, self-medicating with drugs and alcohol will exacerbate the symptoms of depression which may ultimately lead to persistent feelings that life isn’t worth living. Fortunately, there is a way out. Depression can be mitigated with a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Here are the 5 most common solutions for depression:

Living with depression can feel like living under a dark, desolate, isolating cloud of doom. However, even the most severe depression is treatable. If your depression is interfering with your quality of life it is extremely important that you seek professional help. It is important to remember that just as depression affects each individual differently, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. Becoming well informed about the various treatment options and solutions for depression will help you overcome this mental health condition, feel better, and reclaim your life. 

Medication Management

The most common treatment for depression is the use of antidepressants. There are various prescription medications utilized in in the treatment of depression. These drugs work by balancing chemicals in your brain called neurotransmitters that affect mood and emotions. A few of the most common medications used for treating depression  are: 

  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s)
  • Serotonin-norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRI’s)
  • Atypical antidepressants
  • Serotonin modulators

There are several categories of antidepressants. The best way to find out which one could work for you is consulting your psychiatrist or physician and obtaining a prescription. Antidepressants take an average of 2 to 4 weeks before you will notice a change in your mood. Most people with depression find that medication is an effective treatment method.

Therapy

Therapy can be a very effective treatment for depression. Most therapists require you meet with them in person on a regular basis or over the Internet via telecommunication. Weekly sessions can help you deal with stressful situations, address your negative beliefs, cope with challenges, and increase your self-esteem—all of which help in treating depression. There are other types of therapy that have also proven helpful, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Group Therapy, the latter of which provides a safe environment to share your feelings with people who can relate to what you’re going through and it helps to not feel so alone.

Another available therapeutic option is online depression treatment. This has gained popularity in the past few years. Especially since the onset of COVID-19 and constantly evolving technologies. Depression treatment is accessible online from the comfort of one’s home. 

You may ask: “Why would someone seek online treatment instead of in-person treatment?” The reality is that many individuals do not have access to depression treatment in the vicinity and, instead of using distance as a barrier to seeking help, choose to participate in online treatment. Additionally, for someone suffering with depression, leaving the home can be intolerable. Online treatment eliminates the need for an individual to leave the home and still allows for therapeutic interaction. 

Lifestyle Changes

In addition to medication and therapy, changing some of your negative behaviors and habits can help with treating depression.

Some of these changes would be:

  • Get a Routine: When you’re depressed your days become similar in their lack of enjoyment and hard to distinguish from one another. Setting a daily schedule can help you get active and become involved with your life. Your routine could include: getting up at the same time every day, scheduling an activity for each night of the week, getting up to shower, and making one phone call a day to a supportive friend or relative.
  • Set Goals: A major symptom of depression is the sense you can’t accomplish anything and because of that you feel bad about yourself. Setting small daily goals such as making the bed, taking a shower, or going for a walk can help. By completing small contrary acts you’ll feel better about your abilities and in turn feel better about yourself.
  • Eat Healthy: When you’re depressed the last thing you probably want to do is eat healthy. Regrettably eating overly processed foods like fast foods and sugary sweets may be adding to your depression. Processed foods contain refined carbohydrates that have no nutritional value, and unhealthy levels of sugar and salt. Clinical studies have found that a diet high in refined foods impairs brain function and encourages depression. Eating healthy foods has been shown to reverse these issues. What you eat directly affects your brain and your mood.

More wellness solutions

  • Avoid Drugs and Alcohol: People who suffer from depression desperately want to alter the way they feel. Many turn to drugs and alcohol as a solution. Unfortunately alcohol, tranquilizers, and opiates act as depressant to your nervous system and make your symptoms worse. Amphetamines can give the illusion they reduce depression, however the come down, the physical toll on your body, and the withdrawal, result in an even worse depression. Adding drugs to your already depressed system never helps. 
  • Exercise: Regular exercise boosts the naturally produced endorphins that your body uses to help you feel better and less depressed. Endorphins interact with your brain’s receptors and trigger positive feelings. Exercising, especially outdoors and in sunlight, invigorates your body. You don’t need to compete in a triathlon; something as simple as walking for an hour every other day can help get your endorphins flowing.
  • Sleep: It’s recommended you get 6 to 8 hours of sleep a night. But depression can make it hard to sleep, and with too little sleep your depression can get worse. This is where setting a routine can help. Try going to bed and getting up at the same time every day. Do not take naps as they can alter your sleep schedule. Sometimes, getting rid of the distractions you engage in at night before sleep—watching TV, looking at your cell phone, or shopping on your computer—helps to calm your mind and it’s easier to get a good night’s sleep.

Meditation

Stress and anxiety are major triggers for depression, and meditation has been proven to alter your reaction to those feelings. When you’re stressed the body produces a hormone called cortisol, and meditation lowers cortisol. During meditation your brain is also producing theta waves that usually only occur when you’re asleep, and alpha waves like when you’re daydreaming. When your body gets as relaxed as when it’s sleeping or daydreaming it starts producing dopamine; a neurotransmitter that’s released into your body during pleasurable situations. If you add all those together meditation is probably the best natural treatment for reducing depression. 

Challenging Negative Thoughts

A lot of the work in treating depression is changing how you think. When you’re depressed, you embrace worst-case scenarios and obsessively dwell on the negative. Challenging these negative thoughts is a common treatment for depression. You feel no one loves you, but what real evidence do you have? You think you’re a worthless horrible person, but is that really the truth? Try challenging these beliefs and ideas. 

When the thoughts come say, “No, we’re not doing this today.” When you’re telling yourself what a terrible person you are, think about how you would respond if a friend talked about themselves that way. You would probably tell them to stop being so negative. Apply the same logic to your own thoughts. It takes practice, but if you address the negative thoughts head on, don’t embrace them, or indulge, they’ll eventually become less persuasive.

The majority of people suffering from depression will not see a doctor or a therapist or ask anyone for help. Left untreated, depression can be detrimental to your mental and physical health. The over all consequences are not worth the risk. If you are depressed, feel that you may be depressed, or just can’t seem to find joy in anything—its probably time you talked with a professional. 

Get The Assistance You Deserve in California Today

Our compassionate team at CAST Centers understands that depression affects each individual differently, which is why we offer comprehensive treatment options for all of our clients. If depression is interfering with the quality of your life, contact us today to learn more about our depression treatment options!

Sources: 

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9483000/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626#:~:text=Multiple%20studies%20have%20found%20a,mood%20disorders%2C%20such%20as%20depression.

What is CBT?

Written by admin on . Posted in Articles.

By Michael Arndt, Alumni Coordinator, CAST Centers
Follow Michael on Instagram: @michaelcastcenters

CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) was first put into practice by Aaron T. Beck in the 1960’s and has in the ensuing years become an industry standard for evidenced-based care in mental health and addiction treatment. It traces its philosophical roots to a marriage of Greek Stoicism and Eastern mindfulness practices. Stoicism teaches us to essentially challenge our negative, maladaptive or unrealistic thoughts and perceptions of the world around us as a way of living. It is about finding objective truths.  Mindfulness practices teach us to be able to examine our own thoughts and to take them with a grain of salt. The idea behind CBT is that when you are able to reframe these problematic thoughts, you can then move into changing behavior that is not serving you.

CAST Centers recently hosted an in-service for our staff with Dr. Joel Becker, Ph.D who studied with Dr. Aaron T. Beck in the 1970’s in Boston after completing his training at Harvard. He now heads the Cognitive Behavior Associates practice here in Beverly Hills. He has been a leader in CBT since just after its inception. He now spends time working with SGM (sexual and gender minority) clients, in addition to teaching at UCLA in the Department of Psychology and the Geffen School of Medicine, precepting and seeing clients at Cognitive Behavior Associates.

CBT was originally developed with the hope of treating major depression. Over the years it has evolved to include many variations that treat everything from substance use disorders to OCD and anxiety. Offshoots of CBT include the very popular DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) which is primarily used in the treatment of personality disorders like borderline personality disorder. There is also mindfulness CBT, compassion-based CBT among many others, all sharing the same goal but aim to achieve it with slightly different approaches.

Mindfulness is seen across the board in all of the various offshoots of CBT. Mindfulness training teaches us to sort of detach ourselves from our thoughts (or cognitions, hence the word cognitive in CBT) instead of immediately reacting to them or even accepting them as necessarily true. In the recovery world, this is called “the pause.” It is a practice that lessens our reactivity to our thoughts and beliefs. For example, just because I have a negative thought towards my partner does not mean that it is true, or that I am a jerk for thinking it. It is just a thought, and I do not need to act on it. I can pause and ask myself if this thought is true, helpful, or in alignment with how I truly feel when I am coming from a more authentic and relaxed place. Or just because I think of using drugs, or engaging in self-harm does not mean I have to do it.

At its core, CBT is about examining root causes of negative thoughts and then building up towards taking contrary actions and setting goals as a team with the therapist. Over time, and with enough practice, we literally rewire our brains to act more in alignment with what we really want, and to make it second nature to do so. CBT is not the traditional open-ended talk therapy model that most of us think of when we think of therapy. Sitting in a room rehashing our childhoods over and over again with vague insights. It is about action, and implementing new tools into our daily lives. One of the things that sets CAST apart from most treatment centers is that we are very action-oriented. While we believe it is important to address underlying issues, we encourage and support our clients as they decide what kind of life they want for themselves. That is what our programs are all about: helping our clients dig deep and figure out exactly what they want out of life at their core so that they can begin building a life that is theirs and worth fighting for.

CAST Centers recently hosted an in-service for our staff with CBT pioneer, Dr. Joel Becker, Ph.D.

Exercise For Anxiety And Depression

Written by admin on . Posted in In the News.

Are you aware that your breathing can affect your anxiety? CAST Centers Clinical Therapist, Robert Oppenheimer explains.

“Shallow breathing sends a message to your brain to be alert, whereas when you do deep belly breathing, it changes that message towards a less anxious state.”

—Robert Oppenheimer, LCSW

Read more on Healthyway about the mental health benefits of exercise for depression and anxiety.

Reframing Negative Thoughts

Written by admin on . Posted in In the News.

40 Things to Stop Believing About Yourself After 40. CAST Centers Dr. Mylett gives us one tip to frame negative thoughts:

“Thoughts like this one are a feeling, not a fact, says Cecelia Mylett, Psy.D, LCSW, Clinical Director at CAST Centers. Acknowledging the feeling behind it—loneliness, depression, frustration—can help you recognize what your brain is really saying and not get bogged down in self-doubt.”

To read the full article, go to Reader’s Digest.

How to Find Out if You’re Depressed: Take the Test

Written by admin on . Posted in Videos.

How to Find Out if You’re Depressed: Take the Test. Life is full of experiences, both good and bad. It’s normal—even expected—to feel unhappy or sad sometimes. The death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, losing a job—all can cause stress and sadness. Many people find a way to carry on after these events, but for some, the negative feelings don’t go away.

How to Find Out if You’re Depressed?

Depression, even in the most severe cases, is treatable. There is an effective treatment for mild, moderate, and severe depression. Even with known effective treatments for depression, many people go untreated. Barriers to receiving appropriate care are a lack of resources, a lack of trained healthcare providers, and the stigma associated with mental health disorders. However, CAST Centers offers depression treatment in Los Angeles, California to give hope to those who struggle.

Some signs of depression

Depression affects people in different ways, and there are many symptoms of major depression:

  • Deep, persistent sadness
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities one once enjoyed
  • Feelings of shame, guilt, hopelessness, worthlessness, and anger
  • Difficulty focusing on work and other tasks
  • Difficulty making decisions

Types of depression

People can become depressed for both physical and mental reasons . Depending on the cause of depression, it can manifest in different ways:

  • Major Depression– This is what most people think of when they hear “depression.” It’s when a person feels depressed most or all of the time.
  • Bipolar Disorder– This causes periods of alternating depression and mania.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder– Triggered by conditions of low sunlight, it’s more common in winter, when there are fewer daylight hours.
  • Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder–This disorder occurs at the start of a menstrual period.
  • Postpartum Depression– Triggered by hormonal changes that occur after giving birth.
  • Psychotic Depression– This condition causes delusions and paranoia as well as depression.
  • Situational Depression– Occurs in response to a life event, such as the death of a loved one.

How to Find Out if You’re Depressed: Take the Test

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632 N Doheny Drive
West Hollywood, CA 90069
(323) 457-8208
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CAST Centers is licensed by the California State Department of Health Care Services. DHCS Certification for Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient Services.
License Number: 190936BP.
Expiration Date: 8/31/2025.

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