Temporary Mental Illness: Myths, Realities, and Management Tips
Temporary mental illness can be severe, prolonged, or chronic. It's not always necessary to prescribe antidepressants for it, and sometimes alternative therapies are better.
Can mental illness be temporary? In this episode of 'The MAP', host Andrew Berstein sits down with Dr. Kimberly Walsh to unpack the concept of temporary mental illness. They dive into what it means, its causes, and how it manifests in everyday life. Ever wondered if stress can trigger mental health issues that eventually fade away? This conversation explores just that, shedding light on how stress and other factors can lead to temporary mental conditions. Dr.
Walsh shares fascinating anecdotes from her practice in New York, including surprising cases where patients lost hair due to the stress of recovering from COVID-19. The episode doesn't shy away from the tough questions, like whether antidepressants are always necessary. Instead, it explores alternative therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and exercise. The discussion also touches on the effects of benzodiazepines and the importance of finding non-addictive ways to manage anxiety.
One key takeaway is the significance of continuous treatment. According to a Harvard study mentioned in the episode, significant drops in relapse rates aren't seen until after 100 days of consistent treatment. Andrew and Dr. Walsh also talk about navigating mental health resources and the critical role empathy plays in supporting others. If you're curious about the nuances of temporary mental illness and practical ways to manage it, this episode is a must-listen.
It’s packed with valuable insights, personal stories, and expert advice that make complex topics accessible and relatable.