Winter 2021 Newsletter
Happy New Year! We have settled into our new space and are excited for what this year has in store. We tried to make the transition as smooth as possible for all and thank every one of you for your support. With the expansion of our office, we are excited to share some exciting news! In addition to the same excellent care you already receive, you can look forward to new groups and events we are hosting including support groups, skill development groups, meditation groups, and more!
Mindful Moment
Protect your peace with a mindful winter walk. Leave your phone and headphones at home; just take in the experience of the walk. Pay attention to how your feet feel as they hit the pavement or the snow. Listen to the crunch of snow and ice beneath you. Notice the sound of bird chirping in the distance. Feel the crisp air or snowflakes as they fall onto your face. Engage all of your senses.
Depression Treatment & Beyond
Our mental health providers in Warrenville, IL, have a variety of treatments to help you or a loved one cope and manage depression. Some of our treatments for depression include NeuroStar and Spravato.
NeuroStar
Conventions TMS & NeuroStar deliver an advanced and unique form of TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), a non-invasive, medicine-free, FDA-approved therapy that uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain that are under active in people suffering from depression and OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder).
If you feel this treatment may be beneficial for you or a loved one and would like to learn more, ask your current Conventions mental health provider or call Rhonda at 630.642.1801 for more information.
News & Announcements from Our Partners
Conventions Research LTD.
Researchers at AMR Conventions Research conduct clinical trials to determine whether or not a drug is effective, tolerable, and safe in treating a particular psychiatric condition like, Major Depressive Disorder, ADHD, PTSD, and Borderline Personality Disorder. An independent board of medical and non-medical professionals carefully review all aspects of clinical trials to ensure patient safety is the highest priority. Participation is always voluntary and a subject can withdraw at any time for any reason. No cost to participate, No insurance required. Compensations for time/travel will be provided.
A Look into: "Holiday Blues" or Depression?
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 64% of people with an existing
mental illness report that the holidays make their condition worse. According to the DSM-V,
Major Depressive Disorder with a Seasonal Pattern (formerly known as seasonal affective
disorder, or SAD) is characterized by recurrent episodes of depression in late fall and winter,
alternating with periods of normal mood the rest of the year. Major Depressive Disorder with
a Seasonal Pattern symptoms can include:
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Depressed or irritable mood
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings or worthlessness or guilt
- Feeling more tired than usual
- Feeling tense, worried or anxious
- Loss of pleasure in doing thing you used to enjoy
- Duration – “Holiday blues” typically begin in November or December and lifts around the New Year. It can last up to 40% of the year, starting in late fall and lasting until spring or summer.
- Severity – “Holiday blues” symptoms are typically mild in comparison to the symptoms of depression, which are often more severe or debilitating.
What are my options for treatment?
Major Depressive Disorder with a Seasonal Pattern and “holiday blues” can be improved with lifestyle changes, such as monitoring alcohol consumption, adjusting expectations, not overextending financially, and engaging social supports. Although it may be short term, talking to a therapist can help to manage expectations and stress. Patients can also benefit from the following:
- Support group
- Depression lamp/light therapy
- Self care including regular exercise
- Boundaries/saying “no”
- Gratitude journal
- Medication
If you suspect your experiencing Major Depressive Disorder with a Seasonal Pattern or “holiday blues,” our team of therapists and medical providers are here to help! Our recurrent, in-person, and FREE Adult Depression/TMS Support Group is held every Wednesday 6pm-7:30pm. All are welcome!
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