Specializing in Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Bipolar Disorder
Anxiety
Occasional anxiety is a normal part of life. Many people worry about things such as health, money, or family problems. But anxiety disorders involve more than temporary worry or fear. For people with an anxiety disorder, the anxiety does not go away and can get worse over time. The symptoms can interfere with daily activities such as job performance, schoolwork, and relationships.
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and various phobia-related disorders.
Depression
Depression (also known as major depression, major depressive disorder, or clinical depression) is a common but serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working.
To be diagnosed with depression, the symptoms must be present for at least 2 weeks.
There are different types of depression, some of which develop due to specific circumstances.
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Major depression includes symptoms of depressed mood or loss of interest, most of the time for at least 2 weeks, that interfere with daily activities.
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Persistent depressive disorder (also called dysthymia or dysthymic disorder) consists of less severe symptoms of depression that last much longer, usually for at least 2 years.
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Perinatal depression is depression that occurs during or after pregnancy. Depression that begins during pregnancy is prenatal depression and depression that begins after the baby is born is postpartum depression.
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Seasonal affective disorder is depression that comes and goes with the seasons, with symptoms typically starting in the late fall and early winter and going away during the spring and summer.
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Depression with symptoms of psychosis is a severe form of depression in which a person experiences psychosis symptoms, such as delusions (disturbing, false fixed beliefs) or hallucinations (hearing or seeing things others do not hear or see).
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder (formerly called manic-depressive illness or manic depression) is a mental illness that causes unusual shifts in a person’s mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration. These shifts can make it difficult to carry out day-to-day tasks.
There are three types of bipolar disorder. All three types involve clear changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. These moods range from periods of extremely “up,” elated, irritable, or energized behavior (known as manic episodes) to very “down,” sad, indifferent, or hopeless periods (known as depressive episodes). Less severe manic periods are known as hypomanic episodes.
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Bipolar I disorder is defined by manic episodes that last for at least 7 days (nearly every day for most of the day) or by manic symptoms that are so severe that the person needs immediate medical care. Usually, depressive episodes occur as well, typically lasting at least 2 weeks. Episodes of depression with mixed features (having depressive symptoms and manic symptoms at the same time) are also possible. Experiencing four or more episodes of mania or depression within 1 year is called “rapid cycling.”
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Bipolar II disorder is defined by a pattern of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes. The hypomanic episodes are less severe than the manic episodes in bipolar I disorder.
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Cyclothymic disorder (also called cyclothymia) is defined by recurring hypomanic and depressive symptoms that are not intense enough or do not last long enough to qualify as hypomanic or depressive episodes.
Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
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Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that typically manifests in childhood and can continue into adulthood. It is characterized by symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development.
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Symptoms of ADHD may include:
- Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or play activities
- Frequently making careless mistakes in schoolwork, work, or other activities
- Difficulty organizing tasks and activities
- Avoiding or being reluctant to engage in tasks that require sustained mental effort
- Frequently losing items necessary for tasks and activities
- Being easily distracted by extraneous stimuli
- Fidgeting with or tapping hands or feet, or squirming in seat
- Leaving seat in situations when remaining seated is expected
- Running or climbing in situations where it is inappropriate
- Talking excessively or interrupting others
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Our Approach to Treating ADHD at IAW Behavioral Health & Wellness
At IAW Behavioral Health & Wellness, we understand that each individual with ADHD has unique needs. Our comprehensive treatment approach is tailored to address these needs effectively. Here’s how we can help:
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1. Comprehensive Assessment:
We begin with a thorough assessment to understand the specific symptoms and challenges faced by the individual. This involves clinical interviews, behavioral observations, and standardized rating scales.
2. Personalized Treatment Plan:
Based on the assessment, we develop a personalized treatment plan that may include a combination of behavioral therapies, counseling, and medication management. Our goal is to create a balanced approach that addresses both the symptoms and the underlying issues.
3. Behavioral Therapy:
Our experienced therapists use evidence-based behavioral therapies to help individuals develop strategies for managing symptoms. Techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and behavior modification are employed to improve focus, organization, and impulse control.
4. Medication Management:
For some individuals, medication can be an effective part of the treatment plan. Our medical professionals carefully evaluate and prescribe medications, while monitoring their effectiveness and any potential side effects.
ADHD is a chronic condition that requires ongoing management. We provide continuous support and regular follow-up appointments to monitor progress, make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan, and address any new challenges that arise.
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Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
​Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a long-lasting disorder in which a person experiences uncontrollable and recurring thoughts (obsessions), engages in repetitive behaviors (compulsions), or both. People with OCD have time-consuming symptoms that can cause significant distress or interfere with daily life. However, treatment is available to help people manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Post- Traumautic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event.
It is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation. Fear is a part of the body’s “fight-or-flight” response, which helps us avoid or respond to potential danger. People may experience a range of reactions after trauma, and most people recover from initial symptoms over time. Those who continue to experience problems may be diagnosed with PTSD.