Finding the right mental health clinician can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to navigate care in Chicago or Wisconsin. Many people are unsure where to start or how to tell whether a psychiatrist or psychiatric nurse practitioner is the right…
Light plays a vital role in regulating many of the body’s biological functions, particularly the circadian rhythm, which is our internal clock that governs sleep, mood, energy levels, and hormone production. In environments where natural sunlight is limited, especially during…
Do you notice yourself feeling more tired, sluggish, or down when fall begins, then feeling better again in the spring or summer? You may be experiencing symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that follows a predictable…
As a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with over a decade of clinical experience, I have long been fascinated by psychotic disorders: their complexity, their profound impact on individuals, and how they reflect shifts in our evolving culture. At the…
Understanding Menopause and the Brain Menopause is a major life transition, but it’s so much more than just your period stopping. It’s a profound shift in your brain health and function. If you’re suddenly forgetting things, feeling moody, or struggling…
Parenthood: Expectation vs. Reality Parenthood is wild. It’s magical, exhausting, joyful, overwhelming, and everything in between. Many parents imagine slow mornings cuddling their baby, capturing picture-perfect Instagram moments, and basking in peaceful bonding time. But for most, the reality is…
“Infertility is deeply personal, yet too many endure it in silence. Many face failed cycles, mounting anxiety, and financial strain, but mental health is just as essential as medical care. With trust, resilience, and support, parenthood is possible, and no…
Pregnancy and the first year after childbirth, known as the perinatal period, represent one of the most profound and transformative chapters in a woman’s life. This phase is often depicted with images of glowing mothers, smiling babies, and joyful families…
Understanding PMS and PMDD: From DSM-5-TR Criteria to Cultural and Historical Contexts Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) affect millions of women worldwide but remain widely misunderstood. Though both are linked to the menstrual cycle, PMS and PMDD…
Mental health is a vital part of our overall well-being, yet it is often misunderstood or overlooked. While many people acknowledge the importance of treating medical conditions, psychiatric disorders continue to face significant stigma. This stigma can create barriers to…