Depression doesn’t seek out specific individuals. It can impact anyone from all walks of life and backgrounds. However, research has shown that there are certain groups that might be more at risk of this mental health condition than others. In recent years, there has been a spike in immigrant depression.

People seeking a better life for themselves and their families in a new location are also at risk of many challenges — some of which could take a toll on their mental well-being.

So, what has actually caused the recent spike in mental health distress among immigrants? Let’s take a look at some of the biggest contributing factors.

Restrictive Immigration Policies

No matter which side of the political aisle you’re on, there’s no denying that we have seen a lot of changes in immigration policies over the last few months. Unfortunately, some of these policies have also caused an increase in anti-immigrant rhetoric. Some people believe that all immigrants fall under the blanket idea of someone who does something illegal. Outdated stereotypes and offensive tropes also contribute to discrimination.

These policies and the rhetoric they create limit opportunities for immigrants when it comes to finding good jobs, improving their education, or even finding safe places to live. As you might expect, that can exacerbate both physical and mental health issues.

Limited Access to Resources

In addition to having fewer opportunities, it’s not uncommon for immigrants to have less access to mental health care. There are several factors that contribute to those disparities, including potentially having to live in low-income neighborhoods or rural neighborhoods without local healthcare facilities.

Some cultures tend to frown upon mental health issues and treatment, as well. So, even if someone knows they are struggling, they might not seek out the help they need due to specific beliefs or fear they might be judged by their culture.

Loss and Grief

Even if someone leaves a country to start a better life elsewhere, they’re still going to experience feelings of loss and potentially grief. They’ve left everything they know, from familiar foods, sights, and sounds to family members and friends.

This kind of loss can create disillusionment, especially in the early stages of being somewhere new. It can also make it difficult to maintain cultural ties, leading to identity issues. All of these things can create extra stress and lead to hopelessness and depression.

Family Conflict

Leaving family members behind is difficult, no matter what situation you’re in. But, for someone immigrating to another country, it can be even more difficult if the move creates conflict within the larger family unit.

It’s important to have a support system when you’re heading to a new country. If it creates conflict with your family back home, it will be harder to have the support you need. Isolation and loneliness are major contributing factors when it comes to depression.

What Can You Do?

Whether you’ve recently moved from another country or you’ve been here for a while and you’re struggling with your mental health, it’s never too early or too late to get help.

Therapy can help you better understand where your depression stems from. Together, we’ll work from the ground up to make it easier to manage your symptoms and to fight back against the debilitating negative thoughts that often come with depression.

Don’t let social stigmas or even outdated cultural beliefs keep you from getting the mental health help you deserve. You decided to move from one country to another for a reason, and depression therapy can help you stand firm in that decision. If you’re ready to take that step together, contact me to set up an appointment soon.

While ketamine treatment for mental health issues like depression continues to rise in popularity, one of the most common questions people still have is a fairly simple one.

What are the benefits?

It’s important to understand exactly what you can expect to experience with ketamine treatment. Of course, that includes the potential risks. But, when you look at the benefits and see how they continue to unfold as more research is conducted, it’s fair to argue that the rewards are often worth the risk, especially when you’re working with a trusted ketamine therapist.

So, what are the benefits of ketamine treatment? Let’s take a closer look at a few so you can determine if this is the right step for you.

Improved Communication in the Brain

There is some evidence that ketamine impacts the brain differently than most traditional antidepressants. So, even if you’ve tried other medications before without success, it might be worth it to go through ketamine therapy.

When you’re dealing with depression, neurons within the brain don’t typically communicate with each other the way they’re supposed to. Ketamine can help to regrow those connections and improve the neuroplasticity of your brain, allowing you to respond to things more quickly.

A Fast Change

There’s no quick fix when it comes to most mental health issues. However, because ketamine therapy tends to reactivate connections in the brain while creating new ones, studies have shown that many people can see reduced symptoms of depression within just a few hours.

Even better, the effects of one session of ketamine therapy can last for at least a few days. When combined with talk therapy, the combination can foster a journey of healthy, effective treatment that allows you to overcome depression rather than just spending your life combatting the symptoms.

Different Options

Ketamine can be administered in a variety of ways depending on your needs and potential preferences. IV infusion is the most commonly studied and remains the most widely used. But there are nasal sprays, oral options, and even injections.

It’s important to do what you’re comfortable with. You shouldn’t participate in a treatment that will make you more stressed or anxious. Having options is great, so don’t hesitate to talk to your therapist about those options and which one would be best for you.

An Alternative to Traditional Methods

Again, ketamine treatment tends to work so well because it reshapes the brain differently than most antidepressants on the market today. One of the biggest benefits, then, is that it can offer hope to those who might not have responded well to previous treatment solutions.

No one should have to live with depression forever. While there are many medications available, it’s easy to get frustrated and feel helpless if you’ve tried several without success. Looking at ketamine as an alternative option could be the solution.

Is Ketamine Treatment Right for You?

Even with all of the benefits, it’s understandable to have some questions about ketamine treatment. Keep in mind that it might not be for everyone. For example, it can have more extensive risks for those with cardiovascular issues, people with liver disease, or even those with psychiatric disorders.

If you want to learn more about the benefits of ketamine treatment, the best thing you can do is to talk to an experienced therapist. Whether you’ve been dealing with depression for years and traditional depression treatment hasn’t helped, or you’re not comfortable with the idea of depending on prescription medications, ketamine treatment might be what you’re looking for. Feel free to contact me with any questions you might have or to set up an appointment soon.

Millions of people across the globe struggle with various mental health issues. If there’s a silver lining, it’s that there are many different treatment options and solutions for most of those issues. But there isn’t a one-size-fits-all option.

What works for some might not be the right fit for others. That’s why many people seek out alternative approaches when it comes to mental healthcare — including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy (KAP).

Maybe you’ve heard of KAP, but you’re not sure whether it’s right for you. Let’s take a closer look at what ketamine-assisted psychotherapy is and what to expect from this type of treatment.

What Is Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy?

KAP utilizes small doses of ketamine to help with conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. While it’s become so popular that some companies are offering at-home options, it’s typically much safer to use ketamine under the guidance and experience of a professional.

Ketamine is an anesthetic medication with dissociative properties. It’s often used in high doses in operating rooms. In low, controlled doses, it can be used to ease negative mental health symptoms right away while helping with long-lasting results.

How Does it Work?

Ketamine blocks a receptor in the brain that is responsible for mood regulation and the reception of pain. When that activity is blocked, it can instantly give you a huge mood boost. This is sometimes referred to as the “peak experience” when you’re going through KAP.

Many people experience a decrease in mental health symptoms in hours or days. Others may need multiple infusions to experience lasting results. However, the long-term goal of KAP is to achieve more sustained results.

The residual effects of KAP include a better mood, greater motivation, and more positive insight. For some, it’s a short-term therapy that can help them get through a serious bout of mental unrest. For others, KAP has become a lifelong treatment plan to maintain mental wellness.

What to Expect

No matter how many ketamine infusions you might need, they tend to look the same so that you can feel a sense of comfort and security during every treatment.

Under the direct supervision of a clinician, small doses of ketamine are given. Typically, ketamine is given intravenously. However, it can be administered in a variety of ways that might seem less invasive, including via a nasal spray or lozenge. Talk to your clinician about your options and what makes you feel the most comfortable.

There are, of course, some potential risks and side effects. Some people experience dissociation, dizziness, or headaches. Certain people with other underlying health issues might have greater risks for things like high blood pressure or heart issues with KAP. You might reconsider this type of therapy if you’re pregnant, have liver or heart disease, or deal with drug or alcohol abuse.

It’s crucial to talk to your doctor as well as a KAP specialist before deciding if the treatment is right for you.

Who Is Eligible?

KAP can be especially beneficial to patients who don’t respond well to traditional talk therapy methods, or for individuals who have treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, or PTSD.

The unique approach offers significant benefits for people who are struggling with their mental health. But it’s understandable to have questions. While the use of ketamine is nothing new, this type of therapy is still foreign to a lot of people. There’s also still more research to be done when it comes to the lasting impact of ketamine, the benefits, as well as additional risks.

If you’re interested in learning more about KAP and whether it’s right for you, feel free to contact me for information or to set up an appointment for anxiety or depression treatment.

Most people understand the basics of depression. But it’s so much more than just extreme sadness. People experience depression differently, and symptoms can fluctuate from person to person.

One symptom of depression you might not have heard of is anhedonia.

Simply put, anhedonia is an inability to experience joy or pleasure. Some people with depression can still find moments of pleasure, but those experiencing anhedonia have a hard time finding joy at all — even in things they typically enjoy.

Unfortunately, anhedonia is one of the most difficult depression symptoms to treat. Let’s take a closer look at what anhedonia really is, why it’s so difficult to manage, and what you can do if you’re struggling with it.

What Is Anhedonia?

The things you enjoy can change throughout your life. Your interests might fluctuate, and that’s normal. But, when you start to lose interest in things you genuinely love or regularly enjoy doing, it’s a red flag.

Anhedonia is the word for that loss of interest. It can be social or physical. Social anhedonia occurs when you no longer like being around people. That includes your family members and close friends. You might struggle to spend time with them or find the motivation to go out and do things with loved ones.

Physical anhedonia refers to anything tangible that doesn’t bring you joy. It could be a hobby you used to enjoy. It could also be something that would typically make you happy, like your favorite meal, hearing an upbeat song, or even having physical intimacy.

Why Is Anhedonia a Symptom of Depression?

Research hasn’t quite determined exactly what causes anhedonia. However, it’s often linked to depression due to a lack of activity in the area of the brain responsible for experiencing pleasure.

Depression can negatively impact your brain, reducing dopamine levels and changing the way you perceive things that might typically feel rewarding. One of the symptoms of those changes is a lack of joy and interest.

How to Spot Anhedonia

Not everyone dealing with depression will experience anhedonia, but it’s one of the most common symptoms. It’s important to know what it feels like so you can take the right steps in treating the problem.

Anhedonia can cause you to feel emotionally numb, constantly bored, or even negative about most things. Combine that with other symptoms of depression, including a lack of motivation and fatigue, and it can be very difficult to break free from the cycle of negativity.

Essentially, the symptoms you experience during depression fuel themselves. The more depressed you feel, the less likely you are to experience joy. The less joy in your life, the worse your sadness will become.

Is Anhedonia Impossible to Treat?

Because of this cyclical nature, anhedonia can be difficult to overcome — but not impossible.

While there isn’t a specific treatment for anhedonia, getting help for depression can make a big difference. One of the best ways to combat this and other symptoms is to work with a mental health professional.

Therapy can help you better understand where your depression stems from. Once you know the root cause, you can start taking steps forward.

At home, make sure you’re practicing self-care and doing what you can to promote positivity in your life. Exercise regularly. Write in a journal. Practice gratitude each day. These things can help improve your mood and motivate you to participate in pleasurable activities.

If you’re struggling with the effects of depression, including anhedonia, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Feel free to contact me for more information about depression treatment or to set up an appointment soon. You don’t have to live with this overwhelming weight forever.

Depression doesn’t discriminate. It can impact every race, gender, and age. It also tends to affect people differently, and there are a variety of factors that can play into things like the severity of your depression and the way your symptoms manifest themselves.

One of those factors is your cultural background. Cultural expectations can affect nearly every aspect of depression, from the way you feel about mental health, in general, to the treatment you might seek out.

Let’s take a closer look at what happens when depression and cultural expectations collide and what you can do to prioritize your mental well-being above all else.

Defining Depression

The first area of collision between cultural expectations and depression is how the condition is defined. Some cultures might not consider mental health issues to be all that valid. They might only look at the physical issues associated with depression, which often include things like aches and pains and digestive issues.

Other cultures might try to minimize mental health issues completely. They might suggest that a condition like depression would make you appear weak — this can be especially problematic for men of certain ethnicities and backgrounds.

With that in mind, it’s essential for you to have a clear personal understanding of what depression is and what it looks like. At its very core, depression is a prolonged feeling of sadness. It can cause you to feel overwhelmed, fatigued, hopeless, and helpless. You’re likely to experience changes in your eating and sleeping habits, and you might withdraw from the people and things you typically love.

Social Factors

Where you live can also impact how you view depression and how it’s treated. Even in the United States, certain areas and people of specific cultural backgrounds might not have access to treatment as easily as others.

Some cultures might also have different treatment methods. For example, many Eastern cultures focus on traditional forms of medicine, including spiritual healing, rather than relying on Western methods of mental health help.

Other cultures might be too quick to medicate you for showing symptoms of depression. Rather than encouraging tried and true treatment options, they look at mental health conditions as things that need to be “eliminated” as quickly as possible, so you might not end up getting the right kind of help.

Your cultural expectations can prevent you from getting the help you need in various ways. However, again, it’s essential to do what’s best for you personally.

What Can You Do?

No matter your cultural background, your overall well-being needs to come first in your life. If you feel like you’re struggling with symptoms of depression, don’t hesitate to reach out for the help you deserve.

Therapy is often the best way to manage depression. A therapist can help you determine where it stems from and what might trigger it. They can also help you develop effective strategies for managing your symptoms.

Self-care is also an important part of managing your depression. If your cultural background includes religious practices, lean into your faith to find peace and de-stress. Additionally, take care of yourself every day. Try meditation to reduce stress. Practice mindfulness. Write in a journal. Go for a jog. Simple self-care practices can go a long way in boosting your mental health and making it easier to fight back against depression.

Most importantly, don’t hesitate to challenge any lingering stigma that might be mislabeling mental health issues in your culture. Those outdated ideas and stereotypes will never go away if the next generation doesn’t step up and break them. If you’re interested in learning more or you’re ready to set up an appointment for depression treatment, contact me today.

On the surface, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression might seem like two very different conditions. Most people have a basic idea of what each one is, but they are more closely linked than you might realize.

Not only are many of the symptoms of depression and OCD similar, but the risk factors can also be the same.

Whether you’ve received an official diagnosis or you’ve suspected for a while that you might be dealing with one — or both — let’s take a closer look at the connection between OCD and depression and what you can do to combat them.

OCD Can Cause Depression

Obsessive-compulsive disorder can be a difficult thing to live with. At times, it might feel like you can’t find any peace or comfort. You can feel overwhelmed with negative thoughts or get caught up in rituals and compulsions just to feel a moment of relaxation.

The consistent negative thoughts and need to perform rituals can take a toll on your mental well-being. As a result, it’s not uncommon for people with OCD to develop depression. You might feel like your condition will never get better, and life seems hopeless. Those extreme feelings of sadness can cause you to withdraw and feel even worse about your quality of life.

Additionally, the intrusive thoughts that often come with OCD can fuel depression, leading you to isolate from others and think negatively about yourself.

Shared Symptoms

While some of the symptoms of OCD and depression are different, the two conditions also have quite a few overlapping qualities.

Both issues can make it difficult to concentrate or stay focused. Both can cause negative thoughts. Most importantly, both can cause you to feel helpless and hopeless with no way out and no sense of relief.

These shared symptoms tend to create a vicious cycle of negativity. The more you let them take over, the worse they’re likely to become, which can make both conditions feel endless and exhausting.

Depression Can Worsen Treatment

If you’ve been diagnosed with OCD and you’re trying to get help, it’s important to understand that depression can hinder your treatment. First, because depression tends to cause fatigue and lethargy, you might lose the motivation and drive to stick with your treatment.

Additionally, your negative self-image and sense of hopelessness might make you feel like there’s no point in continuing treatment.

Unfortunately, people with OCD and depression tend to struggle with positive treatment outcomes. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to find relief and freedom from both conditions.

What Can You Do?

Depression and OCD are often treated with different types of therapy. However, if depression is making it difficult to get the help you need with your OCD, consider starting with medication. Antidepressants can be a great way to improve the chemical balance of your brain so you feel more stable, hopeful, and positive as you go through therapy for OCD.

Talk therapy can also make it easier to manage your depression. You’ll learn more about where your condition stems from, as well as effective strategies to tackle your symptoms and eventually overcome your negative thoughts.

Finally, make sure you’re practicing self-care. Establish a healthy sleep routine. Stay physically active. Practice mindfulness and meditation, or write your thoughts down in a journal. Prioritizing your physical and mental well-being can make a big difference in how you feel and how easy it is to manage these two conditions.

Treating depression and OCD is a big mountain to climb. Thankfully, it’s not one you have to do on your own. Feel free to reach out for more information regarding our depression therapy services or to set up a consultation.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) impacts nearly 1 in 40 people across the globe. It’s often characterized by common compulsions and obsessions, including things like excessive hand-washing, unwanted thoughts, rituals, and fears.

There is no medical test to screen for OCD. If you’re concerned that you might be dealing with it, you can’t walk into your doctor’s office and ask for a blood test or some scan to determine if you have the disorder.

Thankfully, you can receive an official diagnosis from your doctor or a mental health professional when you allow them to learn a bit more about your symptoms. Once you receive a diagnosis, you can start getting the help you deserve.

With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at how OCD is diagnosed.

Looking at History

Because there is no medical test for OCD, a medical professional will look at a few different things when making a diagnosis.

First, they’ll want to know more about your medical history. They might even be curious about your family history. While there are a few potential causes of OCD, some studies have suggested that genetics can play a role. If you have a relative with OCD, you might be more likely to develop the condition yourself.

Some studies have also shown a correlation between childhood trauma and OCD. Abuse or neglect can cause changes in the brain at a young age. Those changes can eventually lead to obsessions and/or compulsions as a way of coping.

Understanding the Criteria

Once you’ve talked more about your medical history and background, the medical professional you’re working with will determine if your symptoms meet the criteria for an OCD diagnosis.

Some of the factors they’ll consider include whether you have obsessions and compulsions, how much of your life is defined by those things, and whether any other underlying factors cause those symptoms. It’s not uncommon for people to experience OCD-like symptoms while dealing with other mental health conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorder.

If a medical professional determines that nothing else is contributing to your symptoms, they can use the information collected to make an official diagnosis.

What Happens After You Receive a Diagnosis?

People can be diagnosed with OCD at almost any stage of life. But, no matter when you receive your diagnosis, your first question will likely be something like, “What now?”

Thankfully, OCD is often manageable with the right help. A combination of therapy and medication is typically the best way to manage your symptoms. You’ll be able to fight back against negative, intrusive thoughts that could be impacting your quality of life.

Additionally, there are things you can do to take care of yourself if you have OCD. Self-care can make symptom management easier. Prioritize getting enough sleep, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy diet.

Learning de-stressing and relaxation techniques can also help you feel more in control of your symptoms. Mindfulness, meditation, and journaling are all great ways to help you relax while prioritizing your mental well-being.

It’s also essential to remember that you’re not alone. Dealing with OCD isn’t always easy. However, leaning on the support system of family and friends or even joining a support group (in person or online) of others who have OCD can help.

Next Steps

If you haven’t officially been diagnosed with OCD but you’ve been struggling with the symptoms for a while, don’t wait any longer. While getting a diagnosis might seem scary, it’s the first step in being able to put a name to what you’re going through, so you can get the help you deserve. Contact me for more information about anxiety or depression therapy, and together, we’ll help you recognize that OCD doesn’t have to define who you are, even after a diagnosis.

Postpartum depression (PPD) impacts nearly 1 in 8 women. While most people have a basic understanding of what it is, there are some common misconceptions about signs and symptoms.

Some of the things you might think are signs of PPD are actually signs of the “baby blues,” which are far more common for women who have just given birth.

The baby blues can cause sadness, make you feel overwhelmed, and lead to irritability and mood swings. Typically, however, these symptoms are fairly mild and last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.

Postpartum depression symptoms are often much more severe, and can last for months. Let’s take a closer look at some of those symptoms and what you can do if you’re struggling.

What Causes Postpartum Depression?

Your mind and body go through a lot of changes throughout the pregnancy process and even after giving birth. Many experts believe that PPD is triggered by the sudden drop in estrogen and progesterone after having a baby. This sudden hormonal shift can lead to mood swings and can create active changes within the brain.

PPD can also feel like a very personal issue. You might be struggling with the way your body has changed. You might feel overwhelmed and tired, scared about parenthood, or even anxious.

Some people are more susceptible to PPD than others. For example, if you have a history of depression or other mental health issues, you might be more likely to struggle. Women without a support system, those with financial issues, or other underlying health issues might also be more likely to experience PPD.

What Are the Signs?

Postpartum depression can impact women differently. You might not experience all of the stereotypical symptoms. But it’s important to listen to your mind and body and don’t assume that what you’re feeling is “normal” or that it will pass quickly. The baby blues are often manageable and allow you to still function normally. PPD often feels like a completely overwhelming experience.

With that in mind, some of the common symptoms of postpartum depression include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness
• Mood swings
• Anxiety
• Withdrawing from loved ones
• Low energy and fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Loss of interest

One of the most prominent symptoms that can also be the most frightening is how you might feel about your baby. It’s not uncommon for women dealing with PPD to struggle with scary or disturbing thoughts about self-harm or about some kind of harm coming to their newborn.

Those thoughts can then trigger feelings of guilt, creating a vicious cycle of depression that’s hard to escape on your own.

What Can You Do?

Understand that having postpartum depression isn’t a reflection of who you are as a parent. It doesn’t make you a “bad” mother and it’s not something that will last forever.

Even untreated, PPD typically goes away on its own. However, it can take weeks, months, or even up to a year for you to start to see improvement without help. The good news? You don’t have to let your symptoms overwhelm you for that long.

There are many things you can do to manage your symptoms every day, including self-care. It isn’t selfish — it’s necessary. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and stay physically active. Lean on your support system for both practical and emotional help. If someone can watch the baby while you take a nap or get groceries for you, let them.

Most importantly, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Therapy is a great way to better understand your PPD and work on effective strategies that will help you overcome it, so you can enjoy motherhood and everything that comes with it. Don’t feel like you have to struggle alone. Feel free to contact me to set up an appointment for depression

We previously covered bipolar 1, including some of the common symptoms, how to spot it, and how to manage it on your own and with the help of a professional. But, as briefly mentioned in that piece, bipolar disorder is broken down into two parts.

Bipolar 2 is very similar to its counterpart. However, the symptoms are often less severe, so bipolar 2 can be challenging to detect. As a result, you might go longer without an official diagnosis or treatment.

Let’s take a closer look at bipolar 2 and some of the biggest differences it has from bipolar 1.

Fewer Highs, More Lows

With bipolar 1, manic episodes can be extreme. Someone dealing with that kind of mania can experience a decreased need for sleep, extreme joy, erratic behavior, or jumpiness.

Manic episodes still occur with bipolar 2, but they’re often less intense. The “up” moods a person with bipolar 2 experience don’t reach the same manic level as someone with bipolar 1.

The lows are also similar in both types of bipolar disorder. However, someone with bipolar 2 is likely to experience more frequent lows, often referred to as manic depression.

With fewer highs and longer lows, bipolar 2 disorder can often look like depression, but it’s important to understand the distinction so you can get the right kind of help.

What Are the Symptoms?

So, if the manic symptoms of bipolar 2 are less severe, how can you tell if this is the condition you’re dealing with? There are still specific symptoms to look out for. When you’re in the middle of a hypomanic (high) episode, you might experience things like rapid-fire ideas, extreme confidence, and increased energy.

It’s not uncommon for people with bipolar 2 to have a decreased need for sleep when they’re in a hypomanic episode. Unfortunately, that can make symptoms worse, especially when you come down and start experiencing more depressive symptoms.

Because the hypomanic episodes of bipolar 2 aren’t as extreme as the hyper-manic episodes of bipolar 1, people might just think you’re a fun person to be around. You’ll come across as a high-energy, “life of the party” individual who knows how to have a good time.

Unfortunately, hypomania comes with risks. You might make decisions you otherwise wouldn’t, thinking quickly and rashly. That includes engaging in risky behaviors, spending too much money, or even forgetting about your core values and engaging in things you don’t necessarily believe in.

While hypomania can last for days, weeks, or even months, the depression that follows can take a toll.

When you’re in a low period, you’re likely to feel extreme sadness and hopelessness. You’ll have less energy, might lose interest in things, and will likely feel fatigued. These symptoms can also last for weeks or months if not treated properly.

Treating Bipolar 2

So, what can you do to manage the effects of bipolar 2?

The first step is recognizing there’s an issue. Hypomania might not always seem like a problem. But, if it causes you to engage in behaviors that you typically wouldn’t or puts you at risk of doing something dangerous, it’s time to get the help you deserve.

There are different treatment options for bipolar 2. Most of them focus on taking certain medications, including prescriptions designed to stabilize your mood. You might find that you have to take different medications at once — some to deal with hypomania and some to deal with depression.

Talking with a mental health professional is often the best way to manage those symptoms, even while on medication. Therapy can help you better understand the effects of bipolar 2, while helping you develop strategies to overcome it. If you’re interested in learning more about depression therapy, don’t hesitate to contact me to