Category: <span>Individual Treatment</span>

Individual Treatment By riverview 0 Comments

Alzheimer’s Disease | Best Medication and Treatments

Alzheimer's disease

 

Alzheimer’s Disease Symptoms and Treatments

Alzheimer’s disease amasses a frightening vocabulary of symptoms.

Some of the most common symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include the following.

  • Forgetting words
  • The sense that one is not in control
  • Experiencing lapses in memory
  • A decline in social skills
  • Trouble solving thinking problem
  • Losing the ability to reason properly

Alzheimer’s is a progressive, sometimes fatal disease that causes nerve cells in the brain to deteriorate and die. The first symptom of this disease might be a person forgetting recent happenings or words. As the disease advances, a normal individual with Alzheimer’s may develop severe mental decline and lose the capacity to perform basic tasks such as riding a bike or operating a refrigerator.

Treating the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s Disease

Medications

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most common causes of dementia and researchers have been in an ongoing effort to come up with treatments for this condition. In the United States alone, there are millions of people who are afflicted with Alzheimer’s, and the number of people diagnosed with this debilitating condition is expected to increase.

As medical technology improves, there is still a lot of research to be done to find new courses of treatment. It has yet to be proven conclusively that there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, though many researchers believe that early detection and prevention is the best treatment for this disease. This is because the earlier it is detected, the better chance there is to slow down the progression of Alzheimer’s. Some of the best treatments for Alzheimer’s have already been developed and have proven to be quite effective.

A range of options exist for the treatment of Alzheimer’s, and patients can choose from using drugs, psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and other methods.

One Alzheimer’s disease study conducted and funded by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) found that the most successful treatment method for Alzheimer’s was through using a combination of medications and cognitive behavioral therapy. Based on this research, the NINDS has developed standards for testing eligibility for Alzheimer’s patients. Generally, when evaluating mild Alzheimer’s patients, doctors check for the following symptoms: decline in attention, memory, understanding, language, judgment, and coordination; a reduction in the ability to make standard decisions; and a significant loss of social functions.

Another way to treat Alzheimer’s is with one drug or group of medications known as antipsychotic drugs. The NINDS also supports this approach by conducting a series of trials on mice that were specifically developed to be resistant to Alzheimer’s. In these studies, results showed that the mice treated with the new drugs showed a significantly higher survival rate than a control group that did not receive the new drugs. Also, people living with Alzheimer’s Disease who are given these drugs show an improvement in their moods and in balancing their mental activity.

Another treatment option available for people living with Alzheimer’s is to take cholesterol-lowering medications known as statins. These drugs can lower the level of “bad” cholesterol in the body while increasing the levels of “good” cholesterol. This will help to reduce the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular problems. Although statins are recommended for people with mild Alzheimer’s Disease, it is important to note that there is an increased risk of stroke in people taking these drugs. Also, a few months after stopping this medication, people may experience a withdrawal symptom which is called the “algia” or “malaise” that is associated with the lower levels of the cholesterol-lowering drug.

Alzheimer’s Disease is a difficult disease to live with, but fortunately, there are a variety of Alzheimer’s disease medications that exist. It is very important that if you are prescribed one or more medications that you discuss it thoroughly with your doctor and research the possible side effects that may occur. There are also many support groups, both local and online, for those who suffer from Alzheimer’s and for their loved ones. These groups are often a wealth of information and can help you through the process as well.

Riverview Community Mental Health Center

Stuart
865 SE Monterey Commons Blvd
Stuart, Florida
United States
34996
772-266-4713

Port Saint Lucie
451 SW Bethany Drive, Suite 103
Port Saint Lucie, Florida
United States
34986
772-301-1354

Individual Treatment Medication Therapy Management By riverview 0 Comments

Medication Management – 5 Things You Need To Know Today

Managing medication can get confusing for those that require multiple medications on a daily basis. For the patient and their loved ones, the management of medication can seem a bit daunting. With the proper steps and techniques in place, the process becomes much more manageable.

Medication Management Today

The following five steps will help you to safely and effectively manage your medications, or the medications of your loved one that requires them:

  1. Listen to the doctor and pharmacist. When you listen to the doctor and pharmacist, you are given proper instructions to reduce chances of negative reactions. Some medications require you to take them with food. Others require you to have an empty stomach. Some may make you feel tired, while others may keep you awake. Knowing what to expect from the medication being administered is the first step. If something seems unclear, ASK. Do not be afraid to ask questions when it comes to the care of yourself or a loved one.
  2. Organize medications. At the beginning of the week, set up all medications that are needed, in order of the times they are taken. A medication dosage organizer is a great help. They are available in date and time formats that allow you to put the pills in the certain slot where they are required to be taken. There are even applications available on smartphones to assist with organizing medications. Taking the correct amount at the correct time is imperative, and having all doses set up in advance will assist with ensuring that the medication is taken appropriately.
  3. Keep information handy. You need to have a complete list of medications that are taken ready and available in case of an emergency. Medical professionals need to know what you are taking and what is in your system in the event of an emergency, when determining how to give emergency care. Some medications can not be mixed with others. Keep a list of your medications with you in your wallet, so you have it at all times. Make sure it is up to date regularly.
  4. Keep the correct supply in your possession. Make sure that you refill prescriptions when you notice that the bottle is getting low. Usually, a week or two notice should be given for a refill at the pharmacy. Don’t leave it until the last minute, or you may run out.
  5. Notice changes in the medication. If you refill a prescription and the pill or bottle looks completely different, consult with the pharmacy or doctor to make sure that the correct medication is given. Over time, the appearance of the pill or bottle may change, but errors can also occur. Making sure you have the correct one is important to your health.

These five steps should assist in making medication management easier. Keeping a list of medications, dosage amounts, and dosage times, and using a pill organizer are the simplest and most effective ways of managing medication. If you still feel like you could use more help, contact Riverview Community Mental Health Center

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RiverviewCMHC-PsychotherapyHelpWithAnger
Individual Treatment • By riverview 0 Comments

Psychotherapy Works to Help Control Anger

Psychotherapy, or counseling as it is commonly referred to, can be beneficial for a wide variety of things. Managing emotions, traumatic events, and even mental illness can all be helped with psychotherapy. Therapists work with their patients in several ways including, but not limited to, talk therapy, CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy), meditation, breathing techniques, relaxation strategies and so much more.

What Is Psychotherapy?

Psychotherapy, by definition, is “a way to help people with a broad variety of mental illnesses and emotional difficulties.” (www.psychiatry.org) Typically the therapist provides a safe and controlled method of using talk therapy to help their patients work through their emotions surrounding a particular event in their lives. While therapy can have a certain stigma surrounding it, this shouldn’t intimidate you from trying it out. Many people report feeling an improved quality of life, better sleep, enhanced relationships, and more.

Working Through Anger

Anger is a complex emotion, and when left untreated it can fester and grow to the point that it will take over your daily life and cause you to feel stressed and unhappy. Specific events such as the death of a loved one or just a traumatic event in your life can lead to having residual anger. Psychotherapy can help by giving you an outlet and a way to work through that anger in a healthy manner. Anger that isn’t dealt with can lead to harmful coping mechanisms such as abusing drugs and alcohol in order to feel better temporarily.

Is Psychotherapy For Anger Right For Me?

If you’re experiencing anger that seems to be affecting other areas of your life and keeping you from being truly happy, then psychotherapy might be a great option for you. Research the various options that are available to you and make the best choice for your health. Do not feel compelled to settle for the first option either, as it is important to find the right fit for you, your personality, and your needs. The therapist you choose should be someone that you feel comfortable talking to, so if your first appointment doesn’t feel right then don’t feel obligated to stay with that specific therapist.
If you’re not sure if psychotherapy is right for you, then talk to your doctor and see if this is a viable option for you. Taking care of your mental and emotional health is crucial to your health as a whole, and psychotherapy is just one option that could make a big difference in your life.

Therapy Sessions

Therapy may be individual, as a  family or couple, or sometimes in a group setting. Sessions are available for both children and adults and they are typically held once a week. Both the patient and the therapist need to be actively involved in the treatment. The trust and relationship between a person and his/her therapist are essential to successful and effective psychotherapy.

depending on the individual, sessions may be short-term (a few sessions), just to work out pressing and immediate issues, or long-term (up to months or years), if the patient is dealing with longstanding and complex issues, and both the patient and the therapist believe the long-term sessions are helping. The goals of treatment and arrangements for how often and how long to meet should be planned and agreed upon jointly by the patient and therapist.

Confidentiality is always a basic requirement of psychotherapy so this is a safe place to bond and share topics that may otherwise be difficult to discuss with personal friends or family.

Research shows that approximately 75 percent of people who enter psychotherapy show some benefit from it. and experience symptom relief.  Psychotherapy has been shown to improve emotions and behaviors and studies show a definite link to positive changes in the brain resulting in patients feeling better both physically and mentally and thus able to function better and enjoy their lives.

close up of a couple's hands finger locking
Couples Therapy Individual Treatment Self-improvement By riverview 0 Comments

Mental Illness and Relationships

Many people across the United States and beyond have healthy, strong, supportive
relationships, even despite mental illness in one or both partners. While this can sound
somewhat hard to believe, it really comes down to both people being open and honest with the
other about their strengths, weaknesses, and struggles within their relationship. This way people can lean on each other.

The most important thing to know when it comes to mental health and
relationships is taking the steps to learn how to manage mental illness and promote sustainable habits.

Do I Need To Tell Others About My Mental Illness?

It is understandable to see why many people would be hesitant to share with their friends and/
or their significant other that they suffer from any sort of mental illness or disability.

As many probably already know, beginning any relationship or friendship while hiding a piece of
your identity can only lead to an unhealthy relationship and undoubtedly increased secrecy and
poor trust.

This isn’t to say that you have to share any health information on your first date or
upon meeting a new friend, but moreover that when both of you feel the relationship is
progressing into a more of long-term relationship it becomes more important to share this
information.

Close friends and partners will want to support you with your illness, but also
need to be aware should any sort of episode or situation arise.

Mental Illness

How Will My Condition Affect My Relationships?

Mental health and relationships very much go hand in hand as they can have a drastic affect on
each other.

An unhealthy or abusive relationship with a significant other can lead to poor
mental health and even depression, suicide or PTSD. On the other hand, entering into a
healthy, loving relationship when you are already struggling with any sort of mental illness can
turn the relationship sour very quickly. So, how do we strive for both good mental health and
good relationships?

  • Exercise – Maintaining physical health directly relates to your mental health. Exercising
    regularly has shown to improve stress levels, overall mood, as well as anxiety and
    even PTSD.
  • Talk to a Doctor – If you’ve never actually been diagnosed with a mental illness, but you can feel
    yourself changing or acting in a way that feels unusual to you, it can’t hurt to talk to
    a doctor. There are several therapies, medications, and strategies to help you cope
    rather than doing it alone.
  • Counseling or Therapy – Whether or not you have or haven’t been diagnosed with a mental illness, counseling or therapy can always be helpful for both mental and overall emotional
    wellbeing.
  • Nutrition – Several studies have shown the importance of a well-balanced diet and the major
    effects it can have on your overall health, including mental health. Talking to a
    nutritionist about your specific struggles can really help to maximize your overall
    health.

Overall taking care of your mental health is crucial to maintaining successful relationships and
friendships throughout your life.

individual counseling
Individual Treatment Therapy By riverview 0 Comments

Individual Counseling – 5 Amazing Benefits

Get the support you need with individual counseling

Medical professionals have been assisting people by providing individual counseling sessions for numerous years. Individual counseling has many advantages and benefits that will help those that take part in their daily lives. 

Individual counseling is a more personalized session that really digs deep and addresses the client’s specific problems. A plan can be drawn in order to coincide with a specific recommendation, and include tailored treatment options for the situation.

Below are the top five benefits of individual counseling:

  1. Regain a sense of self-control. Individual counseling helps the patient develop positive behaviors to use in their day-to-day activities. It helps to get the patient to a level where they are ready to take on more responsibility when it comes to their lives and confront challenges that would otherwise make them feel hopeless or helpless.
  2. Improve relationships with loved ones. Individual counseling helps to address issues within relationships, which creates a fresh outlook. Relationships improve with friends, loved ones, and the community as a whole. The patient is better able to interact with those around them and may choose to take part in social gatherings more often.
  3. Confront addictive behaviors. Individual therapy helps the patient get specific advice when it comes to substance abuse, eating disorders, relationship issues, and alcoholism. There is no cookie-cutter method when it comes to confronting these behaviors, but when the sole focus is on you individually, you achieve better results.
  4. Relate and address emotional hindrances. Individuals sometimes act irrationally without even realizing that they are doing it. Individual therapy can help with ways to deal with emotional challenges in a better manner, without giving in to anger or depression. This will result in better communication skills and better interactions with others.
  5. Develop fresh ideas about life. Individual therapy helps to create a positive mindset and acquire useful techniques for patients to deal with patterns of depression, anxiety, and other destructive behaviors and thoughts. Learning various techniques can assist when times get hard and help the patient cope a bit better.

Consulting a professional for an individual counseling session is a great step toward a better life and a better quality of life. While group and family therapy sessions are helpful, it is also important to focus completely on yourself.

No matter what is troubling you, individual therapy sessions are beneficial. With programs designed specifically for you, you can be sure that the session will provide great resources, techniques, and advice to help you put your best foot forward.

Individual counseling is the most common type of therapy that people take part in. Many different treatment styles are utilized depending on the situation and the medical professional of your choosing.

When the client and the professionals have the time to focus on each other in an individualized setting, rapport and trust are built. This, along with the techniques used, are a recipe for success.

The safe, confidential, and caring office that you choose will prove to be a great resource for you to achieve the results that you desire.

 One in six people will experience some degree of depression at some time in their life. Individual counseling or talk therapy can be used to treat many types of mental illness issues and emotional difficulties. The goal of psychotherapy is to control troubling symptoms so the patient can function better.

A trained therapist can help people make positive lifestyle changes and identify the causes of symptoms. In time a good therapist can provide strategies to change unwanted thoughts and behaviors. Therapy can equip people with the skills to manage symptoms, reduce anxiety, shame, fear, and stress and improve their quality of life.