Mental Health Blog - Philadelphia, PA | Waves Treatment Centers

Wave Treatment Centers Expands Services to Include IV Hydration Therapy in Chestnut Hill

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 23:10:41 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA - September 23, 2025

Philadelphia, PA — September 23, 2025 – Wave Treatment Centers, a physician-led practice

recognized for its advanced care in mental health and addiction recovery, is proud to announce

the addition of IV Hydration Therapy to its comprehensive suite of services at the Chestnut Hill

location.

With more than 18 years of clinical expertise, Wave Treatment Centers continues to deliver

innovative, evidence-based treatments designed to support lasting recovery and wellness. The

launch of IV Hydration Therapy reflects the center’s commitment to whole-body health by

addressing the physical needs that complement mental health and addiction care.

“Many patients dealing with stress, recovery, or the challenges of everyday life benefit from

replenishment at the cellular level,” said Dr. Jonathan Beatty, Founder of Wave Treatment

Centers .

“IV Hydration Therapy provides rapid hydration and essential nutrients that can boost

energy, strengthen the immune system, and enhance overall well-being—all in a safe,

physician-led setting.”

Benefits of IV Hydration Therapy

Wave’s IV Hydration Therapy delivers fluids, vitamins, and minerals directly into the bloodstream

for fast and effective results. Treatment options include:

NAD+ Therapy for energy production and cellular repair
Wellness Hydration for full-body rejuvenation
Immune Boost with vitamin C, zinc, and antioxidants
Energy Boost with B-vitamins and amino acids
Athletic Performance blends for recovery and rehydration
Hangover Recovery formulas with fluids, electrolytes, and anti-nausea support

Unlike spa-based services, Wave Treatment Centers provides IV Hydration under physician

supervision, ensuring individualized care in a professional, comfortable environment.

About Wave Treatment Centers

Located in Chestnut Hill, Wave Treatment Centers specializes in advanced therapies for mental

health and addiction recovery, including TMS Therapy, Spravato®, psychiatric care, and

medication-assisted treatment. Founded by board-certified physician Dr. Jonathan Beatty, the

center is dedicated to delivering personalized, compassionate care to adults throughout Greater

Philadelphia.

Media Contact

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Founder, Wave Treatment Centers

6 E. Willow Grove Ave.

Philadelphia, PA 19147

215-242-0420

Surviving Football Season Without Alcohol

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 00:42:43 GMT

The Excitement—and the Challenge—of Football Season

In Philadelphia, Eagles football season is more than a pastime—it’s a tradition. From tailgates to Sunday watch parties, the city comes alive with green jerseys, loud cheers, and plenty of beer. For many, these gatherings are harmless fun. But if you’re living with alcohol addiction or working on your recovery, football season can bring a unique set of challenges.

At Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill, we understand how social settings like these can put extra pressure on individuals struggling with alcoholism. Whether you’re newly sober or years into recovery, knowing how to navigate these environments is key to protecting your health and well-being.

Why Football Season Can Be a Trigger

Sports culture and drinking often go hand in hand. At parties, the expectation to drink can feel unavoidable. Friends may offer you a beer without thinking twice, or coworkers may invite you to “grab a drink and catch the game.” These situations can spark cravings, stir up feelings of isolation, or make it hard to stick to your recovery plan.

Strategies to Stay Strong in Social Settings

Here are some practical, proven strategies for enjoying the season without compromising your sobriety:

Plan Ahead
Before attending any gathering, make a plan. Decide how long you’ll stay, how you’ll handle offers of alcohol, and who you can call if you feel triggered.
Bring Your Own Beverage
Having a soda, sparkling water, or non-alcoholic alternative in hand makes it easier to avoid questions. It also gives you something to do physically, which helps reduce anxiety.
Go With Support
If possible, attend with a friend or family member who knows your situation. A supportive companion can help shield you from peer pressure and provide encouragement.
Have Simple Responses Ready
You don’t owe anyone an explanation. Short replies like “I’m good with what I have” or “Not tonight” are enough.
Know Your Exit Strategy
If the environment becomes uncomfortable, it’s okay to leave. Prioritizing your health and sobriety is more important than staying for the final score.

Building Resilience Beyond Game Day

At Wave Treatment Centers, we know recovery is not just about avoiding alcohol during football season—it’s about learning to thrive in every season of life. Our Chestnut Hill team provides advanced, science-backed treatments like outpatient detox, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and ketamine therapy to support both addiction and mood disorders.

Our psychiatrists specialize in creating personalized treatment plans , recognizing that no two recovery journeys look the same. Whether you’re navigating football parties, workplace happy hours, or family holidays, we help you develop the tools and confidence to protect your sobriety long-term.

Your Recovery, Your Season

Football season is about community, excitement, and celebration—it doesn’t have to mean compromising your health. With the right strategies and support, you can enjoy the game, cheer for your team, and stay true to your recovery.

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism or other addictions in the Philadelphia area, Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options and start building a healthier future. Go Birds.

Ketamine Therapy: What Mormon Wives Got Right & Wrong

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:02:56 GMT

From What the ‘Mormon Wives’ Show Gets Right—and Wrong—About Ketamine Therapy

A recent episode of Secret Lives of Mormon Wives on Hulu gave viewers a raw look at ketamine therapy. Cast members Jen and Zac turned to it as a last resort to repair their relationship, while others opened up about using it to heal from trauma and depression. The episode struck a nerve—especially among viewers unfamiliar with how ketamine works in a medical setting.

If you're in the Chestnut Hill area and curious about ketamine therapy, here’s what the show got right, what it glossed over, and how it's safely administered at Wave Treatment Centers.

What Is Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic that, in low doses, can help patients with treatment-resistant depression and other mood disorders. The version portrayed on TV involved IV drips and lounge chairs- At Wave Treatment Centers, we have 1:1 direct care with our nurse (R.N) throughout the treatment process.

Additionally, Wave Treatment Centers uses Spravato, an FDA-approved nasal spray form of ketamine. It’s given under direct medical supervision and paired with ongoing psychiatric care.

In either form, this therapy helps "reset" thought patterns by promoting new connections in the brain. Patients often report feeling more emotionally open and reflective during treatment—something the Mormon Wives episode showed, even if dramatized.

The Hulu episode wasn’t far off in a few areas:

Some patients do feel a mental reset. People often describe a shift in how they think and feel after treatment.
It's a last-resort option for many. Patients turn to ketamine when other approaches— oral medication, psychotherapy, or both—haven’t worked though it may not be necessary to suffer through those treatment trials and getting evaluated by the staff at Wave Treatment Centers should not be delayed; they can tell you during the first visit if you are a candidate for this treatment option.
The emotional impact is real . The show captured how deeply ketamine can help people connect with their emotions and begin healing.

What the Show Left Out

That said, there were key details missing:

The therapy shown lacked medical oversight. Ketamine treatment should always be monitored by medical professionals. That wasn’t clear in the episode.
They didn’t mention Spravato. T he FDA-approved version used in clinical settings like Wave is different from what was implied onscreen.
It’s more than just a session—it’s a plan . At Wave Chestnut Hill, ketamine isn’t a standalone option. It’s part of a personalized mental health strategy built with psychiatric guidance and support.

Why Supervision Matters

At Wave Treatment Centers, patients undergo a full psychiatric evaluation before beginning treatment. Ketamine or Spravato is administered in a quiet, controlled space. Sessions are monitored by trained professionals who check in throughout the process to ensure safety, emotional well-being, and medical stability.

After the session, patients are observed until they’re cleared to leave. Follow-up care is part of the plan to track outcomes and provide support.

Ketamine Therapy at Wave Chestnut Hill

If you’ve seen the headlines or the Hulu episode and are wondering if ketamine might help you, it’s worth having a conversation with a professional. At Wave Chestnut Hill, you’ll be cared for by board-certified psychiatrists who understand the science, the risks, and the potential benefits.

This isn’t a trend—it’s a carefully guided medical treatment for people who haven’t found relief with traditional therapies.

Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD, Named Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctor for 2025

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Sat, 03 May 2025 00:32:35 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA — May 1, 2025 — Wave Treatment Centers proudly announces that Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD, a triple board-certified psychiatrist, has once again been recognized as one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors—marking his third consecutive year receiving this prestigious honor.

This ongoing recognition reflects Dr. Beatty’s commitment to high-quality, patient-focused mental healthcare and his standing as a trusted leader in psychiatry and addiction treatment.

Dr. Beatty’s private practice provides:

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Ketamine and Esketamine Therapy
Outpatient Detox and Addiction Treatment

He is board-certified by:

The American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology
The American Board of Pain Medicine
The American Board of Addiction Medicine

Dr. Beatty is also a Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association.

“I’m honored to be recognized again,” said Dr. Beatty. “My goal has always been to offer compassionate, evidence-based care that helps people feel better, function better, and reclaim their lives.”

A Philadelphia native, Dr. Beatty returned to the region after completing residency in New Orleans. He joined the faculty at Thomas Jefferson University and later served as Chief of Psychiatry in the Northeast for a national addiction treatment provider. He then established his private practice, with locations in Chestnut Hill, PA and Vero Beach, FL.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit www.wavetreatmentcenters.com , call 215-242-0420 (Philadelphia) or 772-300-9077 (Vero Beach).

Exploring TMS Therapy: A Modern Solution for Depression in Chestnut Hill

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Sun, 16 Mar 2025 00:24:20 GMT

A Non-Invasive Alternative for Lasting Relief

Depression can be challenging, especially when traditional treatments like medication and therapy don’t provide the relief you need. For residents in Chestnut Hill and the surrounding Greater Philadelphia area, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy offers a cutting-edge, non-invasive solution . At Wave Treatment Centers , we specialize in advanced psychiatric care, including TMS therapy, to help individuals struggling with depression regain control of their lives.

What is TMS Therapy?

TMS is an FDA-approved treatment for depression that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain responsible for mood regulation. Unlike medications, TMS does not rely on chemicals and does not cause systemic side effects like weight gain, fatigue, or sexual dysfunction. It is also non-invasive , meaning there are no needles, sedation, or recovery time required.

Who Can Benefit from TMS?

TMS therapy is an excellent option for individuals who:

Have tried antidepressants with little or no success
Experience side effects from traditional medications
Want a non-invasive alternative to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)
Prefer a drug-free approach to mental health treatment
Struggle with treatment-resistant depression

At Wave Treatment Centers , we create personalized treatment plans to ensure each patient receives the best possible care tailored to their specific needs.

Why Choose TMS at Wave Treatment Centers?

Expert-Led Care – Our highly trained psychiatrists specialize in mood disorders and cutting-edge treatments.
Proven Results – Clinical studies show that up to 68% of patients experience significant symptom relief with TMS.
Convenient, Outpatient Treatment – Sessions are short (typically 20-40 minutes) and require no downtime.
Insurance Coverage – TMS is covered by most major insurance plans, making it an accessible option for many patients.

What to Expect During Treatment

Consultation – Our team assesses your medical history to determine if TMS is right for you.
Personalized Mapping – A psychiatrist pinpoints the exact areas of your brain to target.
TMS Sessions – During treatment, you’ll sit comfortably while a device delivers gentle magnetic pulses.
Gradual Improvement – Most patients start seeing positive changes within a few weeks.

Take the Next Step Toward Healing

If you or a loved one in Chestnut Hill is seeking a modern, effective treatment for depression , TMS therapy at Wave Treatment Centers could be the solution.

Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about how TMS can help you take control of your mental health.

From Campus to Career: Navigating Mental Health Challenges for Young Professionals and Graduate Students

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Sat, 28 Sep 2024 12:57:47 GMT

From Campus to Career: Navigating Mental Health Challenges for Young Professionals and Graduate Students

The transition from university life to the professional world is an exciting yet challenging time. Here in Chestnut Hill, Philadelphia, we see many bright, ambitious individuals taking their first steps into demanding careers or pursuing advanced degrees. At Wave Treatment Centers, we understand that this transition can also bring unique mental health challenges. Let's explore these challenges and discuss how young professionals and graduate students can prioritize their mental well-being during this crucial life stage.

Understanding the Transition

The leap from campus to career is more than just a change in daily routine. It often involves:

Increased responsibilities and expectations
Financial pressures, including student loan debt
Navigating new social and professional networks
Balancing work or studies with personal life
Adjusting to a new city or living situation

These changes can be overwhelming, potentially leading to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues.

Common Mental Health Challenges

Imposter Syndrome: Many young professionals doubt their abilities and fear being exposed as a "fraud." This is particularly common in competitive fields prevalent in Philadelphia, such as finance, law, and medicine.
Burnout: The pressure to prove oneself in a new job or excel in graduate studies can lead to overwork and exhaustion.
Anxiety: From job performance to social interactions, new environments can trigger anxiety symptoms.
Depression: Feelings of loneliness or disappointment if reality doesn't meet expectations can contribute to depression.
Substance Abuse: Some may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with stress or to fit into new social circles.

Strategies for Mental Well-beingHow Wave Treatment Centers Can Help

Establish a Routine: Structure can provide a sense of control and stability.
Practice Self-Care: Regular exercise, healthy eating, and sufficient sleep are crucial.
Set Realistic Goals: Break larger objectives into manageable tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Build a Support Network: Connect with peers, mentors, or support groups who understand your experiences.
Learn to Say No: It's okay to decline additional responsibilities if you're feeling overwhelmed.
Seek Professional Help: Don't hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals if you're struggling.

How Wave Treatment Centers Can Help

At Wave Treatment Centers, we offer innovative treatments tailored to the unique needs of young professionals and graduate students:

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) : This non-invasive treatment can be highly effective for depression, especially for those who haven't responded well to traditional antidepressants.
Ketamine and Spravato Treatments : These cutting-edge therapies can provide rapid relief from severe depression and anxiety symptoms.
Outpatient Detox : For those struggling with substance abuse, we offer discreet, effective outpatient detox programs that can fit into busy schedules.
Personalized Treatment Plans : Our expert team develops individualized strategies that consider your career goals and personal aspirations.
Flexible Scheduling : We understand the demands of your budding career or graduate studies and offer appointment times that work for you.

A Success Story

Sarah (name changed for privacy), a law student at a prestigious Philadelphia university, shared her experience:

"The pressure of law school and internships was crushing. I felt like I was drowning. Wave Treatment Centers helped me develop coping strategies and provided TMS treatment that made a world of difference. Now, I feel equipped to handle the challenges of my career without sacrificing my mental health."

Taking the First Step

Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Many successful professionals in Chestnut Hill and beyond have faced mental health challenges and sought treatment to thrive in their careers.

If you're a young professional or graduate student feeling overwhelmed, know that Wave Treatment Centers is here to support you. Our advanced treatments and compassionate care can help you build a strong foundation for both your mental health and your career.

Don't let mental health challenges hold you back from achieving your dreams. Reach out to Wave Treatment Centers today and take the first step towards a balanced, successful future.

Contact Wave Treatment Centers at 215-242-0420 to start your healing journey today.

Your mental health is an investment in your future. Let us help you make it a bright one.

Psychotherapy in the Digital Age: The Benefits of Telehealth

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Tue, 04 Jun 2024 12:32:07 GMT

Psychotherapy in the Digital Age: The Benefits of Telehealth

In today's fast-paced world, accessing mental health care has never been more convenient, thanks to advancements in telehealth services. Wave Treatment Centers, in collaboration with platforms like Osmind , is at the forefront of integrating digital solutions into psychotherapy, ensuring patients receive the best possible care no matter where they are. Here’s a look at how telehealth is transforming psychotherapy and what patients should know.

Enhancing Access to Psychotherapy

Breaking Down Geographic Barriers: One of the most significant advantages of telehealth is its ability to reach patients regardless of their location, as long as the clinician is licensed or has reciprocity in the state where the patient is located. Whether you're in a remote area or simply unable to travel to a clinic, telehealth ensures that you can still access top-notch psychotherapy services. This is particularly beneficial for those living in rural areas or regions with a shortage of mental health professionals.
Telehealth provides unmatched convenience by allowing patients to schedule appointments that fit seamlessly into their busy lives without the need for commuting. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those juggling work, family, and other commitments. Sessions can be conducted from the comfort of home, making it easier to integrate therapy into daily routines. Telehealth is designed to complement, not replace, in-person visits. At Wave, we offer psychotherapy services both in person and through telehealth to enhance access to care.
Continuity of Care: For many patients, maintaining regular therapy sessions can be challenging due to travel, illness, or unforeseen circumstances. Telehealth ensures that these interruptions do not hinder your mental health journey. Consistent access to your therapist, even virtually, helps maintain the continuity of care crucial for effective treatment.

What Patients Should Know

Privacy and Security: At Wave Treatment Centers, patient confidentiality is paramount. At Wave, our Osmind platform uses Zoom For Healthcare, a more secure, HIPAA-compliant version for protected health information (PHI); thus employing robust encryption and security measures to protect your personal information. Patients can rest assured that their sessions are private and secure, meeting all legal and ethical standards.
Technological Requirements: Engaging in telehealth requires a reliable internet connection and a device capable of video conferencing, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Most telehealth platforms are user-friendly, but it's important to familiarize yourself with the basic functions beforehand. Wave Treatment Centers provides support to ensure you can navigate the technology with ease.
Insurance and Billing: Many insurance providers now cover telehealth services, but it’s essential to check with your provider regarding your specific plan. Wave Treatment Centers also assists patients in submitting out-of-network insurance claims, making the billing process smoother and more transparent.
Therapeutic Effectiveness: Research has shown that telehealth can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many mental health conditions. Telehealth allows therapists to offer various treatment modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), mindfulness practices, and more, tailored to your needs.

The Future of Telehealth at Wave Treatment Centers

Wave Treatment Centers is committed to staying at the cutting edge of mental health care. Our partnership with Osmind exemplifies this commitment, as we leverage digital tools to enhance patient care. By integrating telehealth into our services, we aim to provide more accessible, flexible, and effective psychotherapy for all our patients.

Conclusion

Telehealth is revolutionizing the field of psychotherapy, breaking down barriers and providing patients with the tools they need to manage their mental health effectively. At Wave Treatment Centers, we are proud to offer these innovative services, ensuring that high-quality mental health care is within reach for everyone. If you’re interested in learning more about our telehealth services, please visit our Patient Portal or contact us at 215-242-0420.

About Wave Treatment Centers: Wave Treatment Centers specialize in advanced medical treatments for psychiatry, mental health, and addiction medicine. Located in the Greater Philadelphia area, our centers focus on cutting-edge therapies like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), outpatient detox, ketamine, and Spravato treatments.

Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD, Named Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctor for 2024

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Thu, 16 May 2024 22:42:12 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA - May 16, 2024

Wave Treatment Centers is proud to announce that Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD , a triple board-certified psychiatrist, has been recognized as one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors for 2024. This marks the second consecutive year that Dr. Beatty has received this prestigious accolade, highlighting his continued excellence in mental healthcare and his dedication to providing top-tier services to the Philadelphia community.

Dr. Beatty has been delivering exceptional mental healthcare services for years through his private practice, with a strong focus on personalized, evidence-based treatments. His practice offers a wide range of cutting-edge treatments and procedures, including:

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Ketamine/Esketamine therapy
Outpatient detox and treatment for addictive substances

Dr. Beatty's commitment to his patients and his dedication to providing the highest quality care has earned him numerous awards and certifications. These include:|

Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology
Diplomate, American Board of Pain Medicine
Diplomate, American Board of Addiction Medicine
Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Dr. Beatty returned to his hometown after completing his residency training in New Orleans. He joined the faculty at Thomas Jefferson University, where he played a crucial role in developing a comprehensive pain management program through the Department of Psychiatry. Subsequently, he was recruited as Chief of Psychiatry in the Northeast by a leading national addiction psychiatry organization.

Dr. Beatty then established his private practice in Center City Philadelphia, later expanding with a second office in Chestnut Hill, Northwest Philadelphia. His unwavering dedication to patient care and mental health has made him a trusted and respected figure in the field.

For more information about Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD, and his practice, please visit Wave Treatment Centers or contact the office at 215-242-0420. Join us in congratulating Dr. Beatty on this well-deserved recognition as one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors for 2024.

Contact:

Wave Treatment Centers

Phone: 215-242-0420

Website: www.wavetreatmentcenters.com

Why Healthcare Professionals Should Consider Referring Patients to Wave Treatment Centers for TMS Therapy

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 22:52:16 GMT

Why Healthcare Professionals Should Consider Referring Patients to Wave Treatment Centers for TMS Therapy

As healthcare professionals, finding the right treatment facility for your patients is crucial, especially for those with complex conditions like treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Wave Treatment Centers excel in providing cutting-edge Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, tailored to individual patient needs. Here’s why you should consider referring your patients to our centers for TMS therapy:

Expertise of the Medical Team

Our medical team comprises board-certified psychiatrists and mental health professionals who specialize in mood disorders and are extensively trained in TMS therapy. This expertise allows us to provide a high level of care and adapt treatment protocols to align with the latest research and best practices. The depth of knowledge and experience our team offers ensures that your patients are in capable hands.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Wave Treatment Centers are equipped with the latest TMS technology and designed to ensure a calming, therapeutic environment. Our facilities cater to patient comfort while maintaining the highest standards of safety and efficacy. This combination not only enhances the treatment experience but also contributes to better outcomes, making our centers a preferred choice for TMS therapy.

Success Stories

At Wave Treatment Centers, we have numerous success stories that demonstrate the effectiveness of our TMS therapy programs. Many patients who had previously struggled with depression for years have seen remarkable improvements in their symptoms and overall quality of life. These stories not only testify to the efficacy of TMS therapy but also to the comprehensive care approach that our centers uphold.

Collaborative Care Approach

We believe in a collaborative care model, where we work closely with referring healthcare professionals to ensure continuity of care. When you refer a patient to us, we keep you informed of their progress every step of the way. Our goal is to act as an extension of your practice, providing specialized care that complements your efforts and ensures the best outcomes for your patients. We are a tertiary care provider, offering highly sub-specialized treatment options; you remain the primary psychiatrist and/or therapist to continue their treatment plan after TMS.

Benefits of Referring to Wave Treatment Centers

Comprehensive Assessment: Each patient undergoes a thorough evaluation to ensure that TMS therapy is suitable for them, considering their medical history and treatment preferences.
Personalized Treatment Plans: We tailor each patient's treatment plan based on their specific needs and adjust protocols as necessary to maximize therapeutic outcomes.
Seamless Communication: We prioritize open lines of communication with referring providers. You’ll receive regular updates on your patient's treatment progress and be involved in any significant decisions.
Ongoing Support: Post-treatment, we offer follow-up care recommendations and support to maintain treatment gains and manage any recurring symptoms.

Referring your patients to Wave Treatment Centers for TMS therapy not only provides them access to advanced treatments in a state-of-the-art facility but also places them in the hands of a dedicated team committed to their mental health recovery. By choosing Wave, you’re opting for a partner who values expert care and patient success as much as you do.

For more information on our referral process or to discuss a potential patient, please contact us today . Together, we can achieve better health outcomes for those in need of innovative mental health solutions.

Comparative Analysis - TMS Therapy Versus Traditional Treatment Methods for Depression

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 22:43:27 GMT

Comparative Analysis - TMS Therapy Versus Traditional Treatment Methods for Depression

Depression remains a formidable challenge in mental health, affecting millions globally. Traditional treatment methods like medication and psychotherapy have been the cornerstone of depression management. However, innovations such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy present new horizons. Wave Treatment Centers are at the forefront, integrating TMS into our comprehensive treatment strategies. This blog post provides a detailed comparison between TMS therapy and conventional treatments, underscoring why TMS may be a superior option for certain patients.

Understanding TMS Therapy

TMS therapy is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. It is typically considered when other depression treatments haven't been effective.

Efficacy of TMS Therapy

Research indicates that TMS therapy can lead to significant improvement in depression symptoms. Studies suggest that approximately 60% of patients who did not benefit from antidepressants experienced a clinically meaningful response with TMS (Mayo Clinic). Additionally, TMS has shown potential in sustaining these improvements longer than traditional medications, with many patients experiencing relief for several months post-treatment; with maintenance treatments we often see benefits beyond a year.

Side Effects Profile

One of the most appealing aspects of TMS therapy is its relatively mild side effect profile compared to antidepressants. Common side effects are generally limited to scalp discomfort at the treatment site, headache, or lightheadedness immediately following treatment. In contrast, traditional antidepressants can cause a range of side effects from nausea, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction to emotional numbing.

TMS Therapy at Wave Treatment Centers

At Wave Treatment Centers, TMS therapy is administered by a team of highly trained psychiatrists who specialize in mood disorders. Our approach is guided by the latest research and customized to each patient’s unique needs, ensuring optimal outcomes. The integration of TMS with other treatment modalities, like psychotherapy and medication management, enables us to offer a holistic approach that addresses the complex nature of depression.

Conclusion

For many patients, especially those who have not responded to traditional treatments, TMS therapy offers a promising alternative. With a favorable side effect profile and robust efficacy, TMS therapy represents a significant advancement in the treatment of depression. At Wave Treatment Centers, we are committed to leveraging such innovative therapies to provide our patients with the best possible care.

Wave Treatment Centers continue to lead in mental health innovation, offering new hope and improved therapies for those battling depression. To learn more about how TMS can benefit your practice or your patients, contact us today .

Understanding TMS: A Comprehensive Guide for Newcomers

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 12:45:00 GMT

Understanding TMS: A Comprehensive Guide for Newcomers

Welcome to a New Wave of Care

Navigating through the challenges of mood disorders or seeking addiction recovery is a journey—you're not alone. Wave Treatment Centers is your partner in the Greater Philadelphia area, dedicated to shining a light on a transformative path to wellness.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS): A Glimpse into Healing

TMS is revolutionizing the treatment of depression and other mood disorders. Here's how Wave Treatment Centers can guide you through this innovative therapy:

Non-invasive approach: No surgery, no anesthesia, and patients can resume daily activities immediately after treatment.
Targeted therapy: TMS directly stimulates the brain regions involved in mood regulation.
Scientifically supported: Clinically proven to improve symptoms of depression when other treatments have not met expectations.

Why TMS? Your Questions, Answered by Wave Treatment Centers

Choosing TMS at Wave Treatment Centers can be a game-changer, and we’re here to clarify why:

Effectiveness: A significant number of our patients experience a notable improvement.
Safety: TMS is FDA-approved, with a track record of safety and tolerability.
Convenience: Treatment sessions at Wave Treatment Centers last around 20-40 minutes, typically 5 days a week for 4-6 weeks.

The Wave Treatment Centers Difference: Personalized Care at Its Best

What sets Wave Treatment Centers apart? Our commitment to personalized care:

Tailored Treatments: Every patient receives a customized care plan.
Speedy Response: Wave Treatment Centers is quick to respond to your needs and questions.
Expertise: Our psychiatrists specialize in cutting-edge treatments backed by deep knowledge.

Empathy Meets Excellence: Our Expert Team at Wave Treatment Centers

Our team's high level of training and qualification ensures you receive unparalleled care:

Specialized Skills: Our psychiatrists at Wave Treatment Centers bring a wealth of expertise in mood disorders and behavior.
Comprehensive Support: From the first consultation to follow-up, Wave Treatment Centers is with you at every step.
Ongoing Education: We stay abreast of the latest research to provide the best care possible.

Taking the Next Step with Confidence at Wave Treatment Centers

Wave Treatment Centers understands the importance of making an informed decision:

Transparent Information: Clear explanations about what to expect from TMS.
Continuous Support: Access to our team at Wave Treatment Centers for any concerns or questions you may have.

Should you have any questions or wish to begin your treatment journey, Wave Treatment Centers is ready to assist you. Prioritizing your well-being is at the heart of what we do, and we're dedicated to ensuring a seamless and supportive experience for you.

The Role of Spravato in Managing Treatment-Resistant Depression: A New Horizon of Hope

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 12:38:56 GMT

The Role of Spravato in Managing Treatment-Resistant Depression: A New Horizon of Hope

At Wave Treatment Centers, we understand the frustration that comes with treatment-resistant depression. But with the introduction of Spravato, there’s a new horizon of hope. Here’s what this innovative treatment means for you.

Spravato: Understanding the Breakthrough

Spravato, known scientifically as esketamine, is a prescription medication that has changed the game for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression. Here’s how it’s making a difference:

FDA Approved: Spravato is approved for use in conjunction with an oral antidepressant for treatment-resistant depression.
Rapid Response: Patients often experience symptom relief much quicker than with traditional antidepressants.
New Mechanism: Spravato targets NMDA receptors in the brain, offering a new way to influence mood and emotional regulation.

The Treatment Journey with Spravato at Wave Treatment Centers

Embarking on treatment with Spravato is a journey, and Wave Treatment Centers is with you at every step:

Initial Consultation: Our experts evaluate your medical history and discuss the potential of Spravato for your unique situation.
Supervised Administration: Treatment takes place in a comfortable setting under the supervision of our healthcare professionals.
Supportive Follow-Up: Post-treatment, we ensure you're monitored for comfort and safety, offering the peace of mind you deserve.

What Sets Wave Treatment Centers Apart with Spravato Therapy?

Wave Treatment Centers believes in innovative care delivered with compassion:

Expert Care Team: Our specialized clinicians provide not only Spravato but also the support and monitoring critical to its success.
Tailored Treatment Plans: Every Spravato treatment plan at Wave Treatment Centers is as unique as the individuals we proudly serve.
A Holistic Approach: We combine Spravato with comprehensive care strategies to support your overall well-being.

Navigating Your Path to Recovery with Confidence

Wave Treatment Centers is committed to demystifying the journey to recovery:

Educational Resources: Understand the ins and outs of Spravato through our educational materials and consultations.
Transparent Process: We outline what to expect during and after Spravato therapy, fostering a transparent and trusting patient-clinician relationship.

Wave Treatment Centers: Your Partner in Progress

Are you or a loved one grappling with treatment-resistant depression? Spravato may offer the breakthrough you’ve been searching for. Reach out to Wave Treatment Centers to explore how this treatment can fit into your comprehensive care plan. Let’s embark on this hopeful journey together.

When All Else Fails, an Alternative Treatment for Depression

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 15:18:44 GMT

When all Else Fails, an Alternative Treatment for Depression
Chestnut Hill Local, March 7, 2024

by Jeff Meade

An estimated nine million Americans live with depression. And research suggests that about 30 percent suffer from treatment-resistant depression, meaning that traditional approaches like antidepressant drugs and talk therapy simply haven’t worked.

Enter a state-of-the-art treatment approach to major depression called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a noninvasive treatment that transmits magnetic pulses into the brain to improve depression symptoms. About 50 to 60 percent of people with depression who have tried traditional depression medications without success experience significant remission with TMS, and about a third experience full remission.

“You’ve tried this medicine and you’ve tried that medicine, but they haven’t gotten your brain physiology back on track,” says Dr. Jonathan Beatty, a psychiatrist, TMS provider, and medical director and founder of Wave Treatment Centers. But these drugs, called neurotransmitters or monoamines, he says, “are really only half the story of the brain. That’s the chemical side. But there’s also the electrical side.”

Traditional antidepressant drugs control neurotransmission, a chemical process that carries impulses between nerve cells in the brain. In the case of depression, the chemicals regulate mood and behavior. Often overlooked are electrical impulses – much like the electrical impulses in the heart that produce a normal rhythm, says Dr. Beatty, who grew up in Chestnut Hill.

Areas of the brain can be altered or shut down by depression, but brain waves can be retrained back into a normal rhythm with TMS, says Dr. Beatty. During the procedure, a handheld magnetized wand is held lightly against the left side of the scalp, and an electrical current passes through the coils at the end of the wand, stimulating nerve cells in highly localized areas of the brain. It might seem like something out of the future, but TMS has been around for a while, approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2008. The procedure is performed in the doctor’s office.

“The treatment or the technology itself is very similar to the MRI machine,” he says. “Most people are familiar with that. But instead of generating an image, TMS generates a pulsatile magnetic field that helps influence the way the brain communicates. The pattern of that pulsing is consistent with the way a normal brainwave should function, and it coaxes the brain back into that rhythm.”

TMS isn’t a one-and-done treatment. It requires a significant time commitment. Patients generally receive treatments once per day, five days per week for six weeks.

The initial appointment consists of brain mapping, using the device to identify the area of the optimal treatment location. The treatments that follow last about 20 to 30 minutes each. Benefits last six months to a year.

Many people only need the initial set of sessions, Dr. Beatty says. Others might benefit from maintenance sessions, an average of once per month. Treatments are generally painless, with side effects at most being a mild headache.

A successful treatment for depression when all else fails is more than just desirable. It’s vital, perhaps life-saving.

Those who suffer from depression know that it is more than just a rough patch, or a temporary bout of sadness. Depression can cause long-term dejection and despondency, a depressed mood, leading to loss of interest in everyday activities and feelings of worthlessness, among other symptoms. This form of mental illness can be deeply disabling. The risk of suicide in those with major depression is roughly 20 times that of the general population, according to government statistics.

“These people are suffering, and many have been suffering for years,” says Dr. Beatty. “Most of the patients we see have been within the same depressive pattern for five years, sometimes 25 years. And then with some of these treatments, we are seeing them break through and come back to themselves. Sometimes they don’t know what to do with themselves because they’ve been depressed for so long. It’s pretty amazing, and it’s a good problem to have. About 35 percent of these patients go into full remission, meaning they are symptom-free. The statistics are pretty compelling in the most severe population.”

TMS is also used for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, and memory loss. Medicare and many (but not all) other insurers cover it after treatment with medications has failed.

In addition to TMS, Dr. Beatty treats major depression with ketamine and a medication called Spravato (esketamine). These medications can be life-savers in patients who are at risk of psychiatric hospitalization or even suicide – what Dr. Beatty describes as “the sickest of the sick.”. There are rigorous government requirements and training qualifications for the use of these drugs, so they are not available in general practice.

Wave Treatment Centers also provide specialized addiction services and a full range of psychiatric services. For more information: 215-242-0420. The Chestnut Hill office is at 6 East Willow Grove Ave., the corner of Germantown and Willow Grove Avenues.

For more information about Wave Treatment Centers, which has offices in Chestnut Hill and Center City, call (215) 242-0420 or visit wavetreatmentcenters.com .

Wave of Progress

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Sun, 04 Feb 2024 13:41:07 GMT

Wave of Progress
SuburbanLifeMagazine.com, Vol 15, Issue 5

by Matt Cosentino
Photos by Nina Lea Photography

At Wave Treatment Centers, Dr. Jonathan Beatty leads a team of clinicians who provide TMS and other customized solutions for patients struggling with mental health and addiction.

“It’s the last frontier in the human body.”

As someone who was always fascinated by the central nervous system and human behavior, Jonathan Beatty, M.D., considered psychiatry the perfect career choice. The ability to push the envelope in the field, to embrace emerging modalities, and to truly make a difference for patients suffering from a wide range of disorders has only confirmed that this path was the right one for him to follow.

Triple board-certified in psychiatry and neurology, pain medicine, and addiction medicine, Dr. Beatty is the founder of Wave Treatment Centers, with offices in Chestnut Hill and Center City. The comprehensive practice provides treatment for mental health and addiction recovery that is customized to each patient, thereby enhancing the traditional models of psychiatry.

“I think most people conceptualize going to a psychiatrist’s office as sitting in a chair to discuss their problems,” Dr. Beatty says. “The doctor is going to offer insights and solutions in a talk-oriented fashion—psychotherapy—or in a medication-oriented fashion like prescribing an antidepressant, adjusting the dose and so forth. That is very much still a part of what we do, but there are also more advanced treatments and procedures that are unique to this practice based on our medical backgrounds and training.”

One of those specialized treatment methods is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. A noninvasive outpatient procedure, TMS is FDA approved to address treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, anxiety, and obsessive compulsive disorder, as well as protocols for Parkinson’s disease and dementia, among others. TMS uses magnetic waves to stimulate the brain; unlike medications, TMS targets specific regions of the brain to deliver the exact amplitude (dose) unique to individual patient physiology.

TMS is administered five days a week for 30 to 36 sessions, with each session lasting about 20 minutes. Often used when traditional approaches to treating depression do not relieve symptoms, it has very high success rates that typically last for six to 12 months, perhaps even longer if monthly TMS maintenance sessions follow the regular treatment. Because not a lot of psychiatrists in the area offer TMS, many therapists refer their patients to Wave Treatment Centers.

“Compared to the list of side effects for medications which are taken daily for months and often years, TMS has very few side effects,” Dr. Beatty says. “Some people report a mild headache after the treatment that usually goes away within an hour, and sometimes people notice some scalp sensitivity where the treatment took place.”

Wave also offers ketamine to treat depression, as well as esketamine—brand name Spravato—which is an intra-nasal spray administered in an office setting, with constant monitoring of the patient, measuring blood pressure and other vital signs. Both can produce rapid benefits, sometimes within one or two treatments.

Before starting his independent practice, Dr. Beatty was on the faculty of Thomas Jefferson University and was then recruited to work for a national addiction center to head its residential treatment facilities in the Northeast; helping patients with addiction to alcohol, opiates, and benzodiazepines continues to be a major focus of his. Wave stands out in this realm by providing long-acting injectable medications and offering an outpatient detox program with medically assisted withdrawal.

“Many people don’t want to go away from their home and family for detox, either psychologically speaking or for logistic reasons, like if they have pets they need to care for or they can’t miss work,” Dr. Beatty says. “A lot of times we think of addiction as something that affects people who aren’t working, but in this practice the majority of our patients are high functioning. With outpatient detox, they don’t have to miss work or notify their employer. We can avoid that altogether and have them stay in the comfort of their home in a safe way, with minimal disruption to their life.”

Whatever reason someone is visiting Wave Treatment Centers, they can expect a caring and empathetic staff that additionally includes a full-time physician assistant and a part-time psychotherapist. With the national conversations about mental health and addiction changing and more people seemingly willing to seek help, Dr. Beatty and his entire team are happy to assist in any way they can.

For more information about Wave Treatment Centers, which has offices in Chestnut Hill and Center City, call (215) 242-0420 or visit wavetreatmentcenters.com .

Revolutionizing OCD Treatment With TMS with Dr. Jonathan Beatty

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 13:27:59 GMT

Revolutionizing OCD Treatment With TMS with Dr. Jonathan Beatty

The Behavioral Corner Podcast, December 12, 2023

This week on the next Corner, Steve Martorano hosts Dr. Jonathan Beatty, the visionary behind Wave Treatment Centers, as they delve into the latest breakthroughs in treating Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Their conversation illuminates the profound impact of these advancements, providing optimism and fresh opportunities for those grappling with OCD.

The Behavioral Corner

Hi, and welcome. I'm Steve Martorano, and this is the Behavioral Corner. You're invited to hang with us as we discuss how we live today, the choices we make, what we do, and how they affect our health and well-being. So you're on the corner, the Behavioral Corner. Please hang around for a while.

Steve Martorano

Hi, everybody. Welcome to the Behavioral Corner. It's me again, Steve Martorano, hanging here on a podcast that we described as being about everything because everything winds up affecting our behavioral health, well made possible by our underwriting partners, of course, the good people at Retreat Behavioral Health, you'll hear more about them down the road. First, we want to welcome back to the program, a friend of the program and a frequent contributor, Dr. Jonathan Beatty. Jonathan is the founder of the Wave Treatment Centers and we'll find out more about them straight ahead. He is board-certified in psychiatry, pain medicine, and addiction medicine. So he covered the waterfront here on both addiction problems and mental disorders. We're going to take a look at one specifically, which you probably have heard of, and think you know, something about I know I thought I did, but I'm learning every day. And that's obsessive-compulsive disorder. You know, the old cliches people washing their hands, opening the door, closing the door. We're going to find out all about that and some of the leading techniques now that Jonathan can share with us on how they're treating obsessive-compulsive disorder. So welcome again to the program. Dr. Beatty.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Thank you, Steve. It's good to be here. And if I may, I just want to on a little bit of a somber note, kind of dedicate this interview to a close family friend and mentor who I just learned passed away this week. Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad. He was a family friend and also a cardiothoracic and vascular surgeon. He was a pioneer in his field. And he was just a really dynamic individual. He was an incredibly well-educated, learned person who studied everything. He was a renaissance man in the truest sense, and just had a passion for learning and helped me develop a similar passion. And so I was very saddened to find out yesterday that he had died. And I just wanted to dedicate this to him in his memory.

Steve Martorano

Well, our condolences, of course, we're sorry to hear that you've lost a friend and a mentor. Anyway, let's talk about the Wave Centers right off the bat for people who might not know you, you are among the many techniques that you employ and treat all the issues that we've talked about. I guess the specialty at the wave centers is TMS, what is TMS?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Yes, so TMS stands for transcranial magnetic stimulation. And what that means is transcranial meaning through the cranium or the skull, and magnetic meaning it's a magnetic field. So there's a pulse, a tile magnetic field, which is able to make its way through the scalp, skin, through the bone, and into the brain. So you're able to actually influence the way that the brain signals itself from different circuits in the brain. And it does that through these through these magnetic pulses. And so there are different target locations for different types of treatment, different parts of the brain that is that we identify and then different pulse patterns, depending on what it is that we're trying to treat.

Steve Martorano

Yeah, it's amazing to think of all that's a pretty thick structure that those waves are getting through. And this is, this sounds like the least invasive technique that you can imagine when dealing with our brains. So TMS is about rewiring the electrical circuits in our brain with specificity towards certain parts of the brain, and what sort of things are treated effectively or indicated for treatment with TMS?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

It's interesting because I think we're just scratching the surface, which is what's exciting about TMS as to what it can do. But to answer your question, and I guess to bring up the point you made, right, it's getting it's the magnet is penetrating through those structures to get into the brain. It's limited to some extent as to how much depth into the brain it can go and one of the things that has become more understood in the recent past is this brain circuitry and understanding that there are different parts of the brain that communicate with other parts of the brain, different neural networks. And some of those are superficial but they communicate with deeper structures in the brain. And so the location of treatment can be a superficial part of the brain meaning close to the surface, but it's able to then connect packed with deeper structures. And so to answer your question of what is currently available, there are so-called on-label device uses an off-label device uses. But in the present there are several FDA indications one is probably the most common would be major depressive disorder has very good results for that obsessive compulsive disorder. We'll talk a little more about that as the focal point of today. Anxiety and angst and anxious depression. Those are three big ones, there is a smoking cessation protocol. Interestingly enough, there's a migraine headache protocol. And they are looking into whether there are some neuropsychiatric benefits, or benefits for those types of conditions such as Parkinson's, and certain dementia, there's a little debate about that, because as the brain is kind of aging, or there's a lot of a lot to be understood about what's happening in those types of disorders. But stimulating the brain this neuro-modulation seems to at least help some aspect of that. And it's probably, perhaps a nomenclature that we will redefine over time, meaning that what we see as depression might be a brain disorder that somebody else might see as a component of a movement disorder, which is more obvious because you can see it, or an anxiety disorder or a memory problem. So all these different parts of the brain, I think, manifest symptoms that we cluster together, and we call those particular disorders. But I suspect over time, as we identify these brain circuits, in better form, we'll have a new set of diagnoses that will better fit what we're targeting and treating.

Steve Martorano

I want to get into what a typical TMS session would look like. But before that just occurs to me when you talk about the neural circuitry in the brain. This is a complete sidebar, as they make these leaps, these exponential leaps in the development of artificial intelligence, as I understand it, from a very layperson perspective, is that these neural networks that that they're creating with algorithms, are really just trying to replicate the way the human brain works. Which is a remarkable thing. I mean, the synapses are snapping all the time, and the brain is communicating to different parts of the brain simultaneously. I'm wondering if down the road, we won't have depressed, artificial intelligence machines. So you don't I mean?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Yeah, that's a fascinating concept, actually. And I think I'm not in any real sense knowledgeable about AI, other than, you know, sort of in the general sense, I think that it's to some degree almost reverse engineered, meaning that it has the accessibility of all of the literature and all of the information that's out there that's online. And then it has the ability to identify a human's interaction with a computer and it can gauge based on that interaction, what's going on. I don't know how well it understands which parts of the brain are being activated, in that interaction with the computer with the AI. But it is an interesting point as it quotes, the machine learns, if it will learn the human condition, so to speak, which...

Steve Martorano

I don't see how...I don't see how it could avoid it. No way, if they feed these miss these programs, enough information, they want to arrive at a point where you're going to have a lot of very disturbed machines who need to talk to other machines, because...

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Maybe they'll need TMS because that'll be a way to interface with the robots, right?

Steve Martorano

Maybe it'll be even easier to administer. Anyway. So... that's a real, just an interesting thought I have there then let's talk about a typical TMS visit, I mean, sitting in your office, correct?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Yes. So this is an office-based procedure, I think what's important to identify or at least understand and recognize that this is different from a pill or a talk therapy, this is, an actual procedure that's accessing a particular part of your brain. So it's very targeted and specific, as opposed to a medication that goes throughout the entire body, and some piece of it goes to the part that you're hoping it will. So, basically, if I use my handy brain here, the process there's a there's chair that you sit in, and the stimulator is, is right next to that with these coils, the different types of magnetic coils, and depending on what you're doing, so the initial session is what we call a brain mapping procedure. And the way we deal with that is this kind of...I don't know if you can see it,

Steve Martorano

Hold it up a little higher. Yeah, yeah.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Yeah, that's it. That's the primary motor strip. So that's the part of your brain that controls your movement. So there's a different part of your brain that kind of converts a thought like, let me raise my hand into the action of that. So that's more a deeper structure the basal ganglia, but the actual motor aspect of it is this part of the brain and so we can see a movement, we can't see an emotion. So we can, but what we know is that the way a brain communicates for initiating a movement, is the same signal strength, if you want to call it that, as it would be to alter an emotional state. So we can see a thumb twitch easily. So the left side of the brain controls the right side of the body. So we take a different coil, not the treatment coil, but I'm choosing my fist as if it were the coil, we placed that basically in an area near will on or over the part that controls hand movements. And then we look for a little thumb twitch, the abductor pollicis, longus, and brevis those muscles that control the abduction of your thumb when we identify that first by finding it, and then we adjust the strength of the magnetic force or field and we continue to lower that strength until we get the bare minimum. And then we know that's the exact strength that your brain needs to depolarize to make...

Steve Martorano

That's sort of calibrating the machine?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Right or identifying, we're really the location writing it to your specific physiology, you as the individual patient getting the treatment. So once we know that number, it doesn't matter what the number is, I mean, it matters clinically, but in our conversation, it doesn't matter, we get that number, and then we typically treat at 120% of that number in a different location, depending on the condition, so for depression, or anxiety, it would be 120%. The reason or the perceived reason for that is there is as we move forward, as we age, there is sometimes some cerebral atrophy. So we want to get a little bit deeper than that. So we might need a little bit more than 100% or so we got 120. So we use a different coil, that's a treatment coil, and we move that by anatomical landmarks, because of EGS, there have been probably millions and millions of EEG, so we have a ton of clinical data about the average skull size and where these different parts are. So there's an anatomical EEG coordinate called F three. And so we use a combination of measurements and calculations to identify a part of the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex on that left side. That's where we move the treatment coil. And that's where we place it.

Steve Martorano

Sounds like...it sounds like a very precise, it's...

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Yeah, it's precision medicine, I mean, we're going to the exact target location that we want. And we're identifying the exact dose, if you will, that the patient needs.

Steve Martorano

When I come in for a session, who is it...are you providing the technique? Are you doing the technique or their technician's hands at work?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

It's a little of both. So the part I just outlined, that's a physician-driven or at least a provider-driven protocol. And so that's kind of the medical aspect of it. And then there's, once you've identified that, and we also give you a treatment cap, so each patient gets their own sort of like a shower cap, but it's made out of cloth, we can mark that cap with all these different landmarks. And that gives us the opportunity to...I actually have somewhere around here. And so these are the treatment caps. And they are, each patient gets their own, and then we keep those for the daily treatments. So once the technician can put the cap on and know that they're going to hit the same location every time that the physician or the PA is marked. And then they can give that treatment, it's a daily treatment. So depending on the protocol, anywhere from three minutes to 30 minutes, let's say, depending on if there's more than one protocol, and that's typically 30 to 36 sessions. So they come in often Monday through Friday, at least four days a week, if not five days a week, times six weeks gives you the 30 sessions, and then we kind of taper off from there.

Steve Martorano

So what's the sensation?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

A lot of people describe it as a woodpecker, interestingly enough, not that they feel actual physical pain, but they just don't know what else to compare it to. And because it's pulsatile it is. It's not like it's tapping your brain. I mean, it's it's really the magnetic, the magnets going in and out hitting the housing...the coil housing, so you hear like a little bit of a tapping, but it's not actually like pushing you or it but you because of that magnetic pulse, you feel sort of a little bit of a stimulation there. And so it's typically not uncomfortable, should never be painful, because there's really nothing else like it. It's just an unusual experience. But...

Steve Martorano

Are there any drugs involved in this?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Not at all the biggest but also the rarest risk is there's probably about a one in 100,000. Or let's even say if it's one in 10,000, although it's often cited as one and 100,000 patient risk of a seizure, and that would be a self-limited seizure, meaning it would stop on its own and that you would not then have seizures from that point forward. But that's it...we do a very careful screening to make sure that you don't have a history of seizures. You don't have anything implanted in your head. If you're a war veteran and you have shrapnel in your head that could heat up from the magnet, if you had any sort of surgical implants that were done or cochlear implants that were done, those would be well, cochlear implants would be a contraindication. But metal clips depending on what they are, most things are magnetic safe, now they're titanium. So those are not necessarily a contraindication. But they could be so we screened for all of that. Again, that's all part of the medical evaluation. And, then we get you situated in the chair and you know, go through that process, like I said, a brain mapping and then the actual procedure, you're wide awake, there are no medications, you could theoretically read a newspaper, although more commonly we interact with the patient and try to identify how they're doing. We also before starting ask them a few screening questions each day about their sleep habits, their medication habits, their drinking habits, any changes in moods, and so forth. And then we also measure their their moods through rating scales at periodic intervals. And that's how we help drive the protocol decisions. If we need to change something, increase the number of pulses at another location, those sorts of things.

Steve Martorano

Our guest is Dr. Jonathan Beatty, he is the founder of the Wave Treatment Centers, talking about the broad use of TMS. And now to talk about one of the things that caught our attention here, why we reach out to you, you've mentioned that this is a very precise procedure that can treat a number of mood disorders. And you've had some success now with, I guess, a new piece of equipment on the machine so that you can treat obsessive-compulsive disorders. If you can give us just a quick thumbnail. When we talk about OCD, what are we talking about?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

So obsessive compulsive disorder is basically a combination of those first two words. So an obsessive thought is something that is repetitive, that you can't do you have frequently over and over again, and you may not have any control over it. In some of the older kinds of Freudian literature, they would refer to either ego-syntonic, or ego-dystonic type of obsessions, and what those mean and kind of present-day is, are the obsessive thoughts troubling to you. Like, for example, it could be an obsessive thought that there are a lot of germs. A germ fear or infestation these kinds of things are sometimes one of the types that occur there, to some extent, distressing. And that can be very distressing. And there's often than a compulsive behavior, and we'll get into that next. But the obsessive thought could be some horrific thing, like thinking about somebody dying, or something that you would never actually think about in your own personality. But yet, you have this thought, and so it's very distressing or dystonic. And so that's what that means. So you have these obsessions that can happen throughout the day that can happen for multiple hours per day. And then there's often some type of compulsive behavior, which you typically will try to do in order to alleviate or, or reduce this distress. So the hand washing, I think you mentioned that we started that's a common one. So if you touch something, and you think that it's dirty, or that you're not contaminated this fear of contamination, you have to wash your hands. And you might have to wash your hands in a compulsive way, like, you might have to wash five times then soap again, then five more times, something like that. People have very various things like evening out, some people will call it so that they touch something on the left, they have to touch something on the right, they have to touch, you know, if they walk on a sidewalk and they walk on a crack, then they have to walk on a crack on the other foot like these sort of balancing things. So yeah, those kinds of things are just some basic examples of OCD. I want to quickly differentiate that as a pathology to what a lot of people are sort of colloquially referred to as OCD, right? So like, Okay, I have OCD. So I need to like wash my hands or something that's not really what we're talking about. This is a much more severe level an in the most extreme sense. People might have raw skin because they've washed their hands so much, or even burns because they needed to use such hot water. So that's, it's really a much more severe thing than just, you know, a low-level type of distress.

Steve Martorano

Yeah, or certainly not. It's certainly not, you know, Hollywood has a tendency to take diseases and make them Hollywood diseases where, you know, people never seem to lose weight when they're ill. And, you know, there's been depictions of people with obsessive-compulsive disorders that make it seem like it's kind of quirky. That's all. We're not talking about quirky, we're talking about behavior that can ruin not ruin but certainly distributed life.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Generally speaking, yes. Now there is actually a differentiation to something called obsessive-compulsive personality disorder, which depending on the level of severity might be more like what you're talking about, which is a little bit more quirky, a little bit less flexible. And so yeah, people are like, Oh, well, he just, you know, can't or she can't just adjust to something on the fly. They need it to be, you know, that's a little bit different.

Steve Martorano

But it's not paralyzing...it's not paralyzing in it's impact.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

The best example I can think of in relatively modern cinema would be As Good As It Gets with Jack Nicholson. Great job. If anybody hasn't seen that you should watch it. It really does depict OCD very well.

Steve Martorano

Yeah. Tony Shalhoub, the actor, the terrific actor has a series.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Yes, Monk. Yeah.

Steve Martorano

And he does a pretty good job with it. So tell us now, oh, by the way, how common is OCD?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

I don't have a statistic on you. I should have looked that up for you rather ahead. I mean, I think that it's relatively common among psychiatric diagnoses. So that's obviously a selection bias. People coming to see me have already been troubled by whatever's going on in order to come see me. So in the general population, obviously, that would dilute that frequency quite a bit. But I mean, I think it's among, you know, the more the more common disorders, I would say. But I don't want to misquote an exact number.

Steve Martorano

Jonathan, what's new about what you guys are doing at the Wave Centers?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Sure. So the OCD protocol uses a slightly different coil, a magnetic coil. So we have a different ad that was more recently approved by the FDA or cleared by the FDA to be used for treating OCD. And so the target is different. And the...so that motor threshold that I described, for thumb Twitch, instead, we use a more central towards the vertex, which was the top of the brain part of stimulation for the motor threshold of a toe, we look for a toe twitch actually. So we have patients take their shoe off for that one visit in order to look carefully at their toe as it and then we identify the same strength, same process, and then we're treating a deeper structure. So we need to increase the intensity. So we that's one of the reasons that the magnetic coil is a different coil is that it has the capability of penetrating deeper down into into the it's still a relatively anterior approach. It's more or less the dorsal medial prefrontal cortex, it's the location. And other than that, it's basically the same one other differences. I mean, the protocol is basically the same, it's it's 100% of the motor threshold, rather than 120% the number of treatments the the number of pulses are a little bit different than what they call it. So a series of pulses is called a train. So if you have five or 10, or 15 of these pulses, then there's an interval between them called the inter-train interval, it's a much longer inter-train interval for that protocol. I mean, these are kind of, you know, not that interesting, probably in a conversation, but they're they have clinical relevance.

Steve Martorano

And the...and the processes are the same six weeks?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Exactly. Yeah, exactly. It's, it can be a little shorter sometimes for the OCD, but typically, it's about the same number of sessions.

Steve Martorano

And then just as follow up on on treatment, while this is going on, while the 30 to 36...

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

30 to 30 treatments, yeah.

Steve Martorano

Is there any we've mentioned, you've mentioned that there are no drugs during that process. Is there a component of talk therapy that also goes on during the sessions?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Yes, and actually, I should just back up to clarify that although this treatment and this procedure don't require or don't involve medications, the typical patient that we're seeing has already not responded to a number of medications. And that's, that's sort of refractory disorder in that sense that it hasn't responded to, depending on which insurance company you're talking to, or how you define it in the literature, anywhere from two well, Medicare actually one but one medicine but usually two to four medications for that condition. So SSRIs are the most common there are a couple of TCAS that are associated with tricyclic antidepressants these are the meds that are most commonly used to treat OCD, similar medicines to treat depression and anxiety and they are often ineffective at treating OCD. So this is kind of a more robust treatment for it. Talk therapy that they may have not responded well to talk therapy or psychotherapy as another indicator of why they need OCD. Whether or not you incorporate psychotherapy into the TMS sessions, we try at least at a minimum to provide some sort of supportive psychotherapy. So depending on whether there's a clinician present and versus a technician present, obviously a technician doesn't have the level of psychotherapy training that a clinician has. But on some level, there's obviously a supportive element to this and trying to understand kind of in? Well, since we're talking about the OCD, what are the obsessions? What are the compulsions? And then how are they affecting you? And how are they improving? Hopefully?

Steve Martorano

Yeah. Pretty good. Particularly that last point, obviously, it's inheriting the whole thing is when you know, they show up and how you do it. Right. Yeah. And this final question on OCD strikes me that it might be common or not so uncommon, anyway, that people don't recognize they have a problem with this kind of behavior and I would guess they get to you and other people say to them, you know, you, you got to, you got to find out what's going on here. You, you know, you're doing some stuff that is very peculiar. In other words, do people know they have this disorder?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

I think that is not always, I mean, there's definitely a subset of patients with any psychiatric condition where they're just like, thought that was normal. And then somebody described it, or I've had situations where somebody has talked to a friend even or somebody else that and that friend maybe got diagnosed with it and had this distress over it, got the diagnosis, got the treatment, and was explaining it and then the soon to the patient was like, that I have that same thing going on and come to find that it is something like OCD or, or it's one that's, you know, if you're depressed, it's usually a little more obvious maybe, if you have obsessive thoughts, and the compulsions are also thoughts rather than actions, then it's not as obvious I mean, you can see somebody washing their hands 10 times a day and be like, that's something's going on there. Let's ask what that is. One of the things that's helpful, I just wanted to bring up there's, I mentioned rating scales, there's one called the Y-BOCS, the Yale-Brown, Obsessive Compulsive Scale. That's a kind of industry-standard rating scale. It's well tested, normalized across populations, and so forth. And by the way, I did quickly just glance, I think one in 40 adults in the United States can be diagnosed potentially, or have OCD. So it's pretty common.

Steve Martorano

Pretty common.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

I won't go through this whole thing in detail, but on a cursory level, this symptom checklist breaks down the obsessions into aggressive obsessions, contamination obsessions, sexual obsessions, hoarding and saving obsessions, religious obsessions, obsessions with the need for symmetry or exactness and miscellaneous. Also somatic or body experience cleaning and...I'm sorry and then compulsions there are cleaning and washing compulsions, checking compulsions, like having to check the door a certain number of times or the lock and you know the handle whatever, rituals counting compulsions, ordering and arranging compulsions, hoarding and collecting compulsions, and miscellaneous and you know

Steve Martorano

And what's the name of that... that scale?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

That's the Y-dash-BOC and that's the Yale-Brown, obsessive-compulsive scale.

Steve Martorano

Dr. Dr. Bailey thanks so much. We appreciate this. Johnson Beatty, founder of the wave treatment centers, if you want more information about them. They have a terrific website. And you can check them out there. It's just what Wave Centers dot...

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

WaveTreatmentCenters.com. So W-A-V-E-TreatmentCenters.com.

Steve Martorano

Jonathan, thanks so much. If I don't see you before the holidays, have a great holiday, and hope you'll join us in the New Year as well.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty

That would be great. Steve, thanks so much. It's great speaking with you.

The Behavioral Corner

That's it for now. Make it a habit to hang out at the Behavioral Corner, and when we're not hanging out, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at the Behavioral Corner.

Navigating Insurance for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment: A Wave Treatment Centers Guide

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 13:10:54 GMT

Navigating Insurance for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment: A Wave Treatment Centers Guide

Embarking on a journey toward mental health and addiction recovery is a significant step, but for many, the complexities of insurance can create unnecessary stress. At Wave Treatment Centers, we aim to simplify this process, offering transparency and guidance. This blog post is designed to help our working and insured target audience better understand how to navigate insurance for mental health and addiction treatment effectively.

Understanding Our Fee and Insurance Structure

Before we dive into the tips, it's crucial to understand Wave Treatment Centers' approach to fees and insurance:

Our Fee Policy

Our fees vary depending on the clinician and type of service.
Any questions about fees? Please feel free to contact us.

Our Insurance Policy

We prioritize quality care, so we're an "out-of-network" provider for all PPO insurance plans.
We don't participate in-network with most insurance plans and do not accept Medicaid or HMO commercial insurance.
You pay the full fee upfront, but we assist you in submitting claims to your insurance for potential reimbursement.

Practical Tips for Insurance Navigation

1. Know Your Insurance Type

Understanding the type of insurance you have is the first step. PPO plans typically offer more flexibility for out-of-network providers like Wave Treatment Centers. If you have an HMO plan, unfortunately, our services won't be covered by your plan.

2. Contact Your Insurance Provider

The customer service number is usually on the back of your insurance card. Call this number to understand your benefits, especially for "out-of-network" providers.

3. Ask the Right Questions

What percentage is covered for "out-of-network" providers?
What is the "maximum allowed amount" for complex “E/M code 99214” visits and psychotherapy (code 90837) or TMS (code 90868)?
Do I have a deductible for out-of-network providers? If yes, how much?

These questions will give you a clearer picture of your financial responsibilities and potential reimbursements.

4. Understand Common Procedure Codes

During your call with the insurance provider, you might be asked for a CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code. At Wave, we commonly use:

Initial Evaluation: 90792
Follow-up Medical Visit plus Psychotherapy: 99213 + 90833 or 99214 + 90833
For TMS: 90868

5. Track All Communication

Keep records of all conversations and correspondence with your insurance company. This can be crucial if there's a dispute or if you need to appeal a denied claim.

6. Utilize Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) or Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

These accounts can help cover medical expenses, including mental health treatments. Check if your employer or insurance company offers these options.

7. Consider Direct Reimbursement Plans

Some employers offer plans that reimburse for medical expenses directly. Check with your HR department to see if this is an option for you.

Your Wellness Journey, Simplified

At Wave Treatment Centers, we understand that the financial aspects of healthcare can be overwhelming. But remember, you're not navigating this complex landscape alone. We're committed to assisting you every step of the way, so you can focus on what's truly important—your path to recovery and wellness.

For further queries or to schedule your first appointment, feel free to reach out to us. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Why Psychiatry Expertise Matters in Addiction and Mental Health Treatment

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 00:07:21 GMT

Why Psychiatry Expertise Matters in Addiction and Mental Health Treatment

In the intricate landscape of addiction and mental health, one aspect often stands out as crucial—expertise. The role of a highly trained psychiatrist in overseeing your treatment journey can mean the difference between temporary relief and long-lasting recovery. At Wave Treatment Centers, we emphasize the importance of psychiatric expertise in delivering a comprehensive medical and psychological personalized treatment approach.

The Multi-Faceted Nature of Addiction and Mental Health

Addiction and mental health disorders rarely exist in isolation. Dr. Jonathan Beatty, the Founder of Wave Treatment Centers, elucidates this complex relationship: "Sometimes helping you get off drugs is enough to resolve mood disorders—and sometimes patients are trying to self-medicate mood disorders with drugs. As an addiction psychiatrist, you have to look for both and treat both for recovery to be possible."

Addiction can often be a symptom of an underlying mental health issue. At the same time, substance abuse can exacerbate existing psychiatric conditions. It's a delicate balance that requires a nuanced understanding to properly diagnose and treat both issues simultaneously. This is where the role of a specialized psychiatrist becomes invaluable.

The Comprehensive Treatment Approach

Treatment is far more than just medication. While medication plays a pivotal role, Dr. Beatty stresses that "Sometimes medication alone is sufficient and only a shorter appointment is needed. While some degree of supportive psychotherapy is generally a part of every appointment, some patients need more time to explore aspects of their lives and recovery.”

This flexibility is essential in treating addiction and mental health issues effectively. Shorter appointments for medication management can be invaluable for patients who may not require in-depth psychotherapy but need medication adjustments. At Wave Treatment Centers, our psychiatrists have the expertise to determine what each patient needs, providing a tailored treatment plan that is as unique as you are.

Breaking Barriers with Unique Treatment Options

Wave Treatment Centers takes pride in offering unique treatment options. One such example is the opportunity for patients to undergo psychotherapy during their in-office ketamine treatment. According to Dr. Beatty, "The ketamine can help reduce barriers to difficult thoughts and help access emotions to further the therapeutic process."

Ketamine has been found to be particularly effective in treating depression and other mood disorders, offering rapid relief that traditional antidepressants may not provide. Coupling this with psychotherapy can amplify the treatment's effectiveness, offering a multifaceted approach to mental health care.

Distinguishing Wave Treatment Centers

As Dr. Beatty emphasizes, "We distinguish ourselves from most other practices with the highly specialized treatment options that we offer to treat mood disorders and co-occurring substance use disorders." What sets Wave Treatment Centers apart is not just the advanced treatments we offer but also the expertise of our highly trained psychiatrists. They are equipped with the knowledge and skills to administer these treatments effectively and safely.

The specialized training of our medical staff allows us to offer a broad spectrum of treatments, from Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to long-acting injectable medications like Vivitrol and Sublocade. This specialized expertise ensures that you are receiving the most advanced and appropriate care for your unique needs.

Why Choose Wave Treatment Centers?

Expertise: Our team of highly trained psychiatrists offers a deep and nuanced understanding of addiction and mental health.
Personalization: We believe that treatment should be as unique as you are, and we tailor our treatment plans to meet your specific needs.
Advanced Treatments: From transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), ketamine treatments, medication-assisted therapy (MAT) for addiction, we offer a range of cutting-edge options.
Comprehensive Care: Our holistic approach ensures that we treat both addiction and any co-occurring mental health issues, offering you the best chance at long-term recovery.

At Wave Treatment Centers, we offer a perfect blend of advanced treatments and compassionate, personalized care. Our team of highly trained psychiatrists ensures that you receive the comprehensive and specialized treatment you deserve.

Whether you or a loved one is grappling with addiction or mental health issues, don't settle for anything less than the best possible care. Contact Wave Treatment Centers today to learn more about our specialized treatment options and to schedule your first appointment. Thank you for taking the time to read, and we look forward to assisting you on your journey to wellness

Suboxone vs. Sublocade: Navigating Your Path to Recovery with Wave Treatment Centers

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Wed, 23 Aug 2023 12:13:10 GMT

Suboxone vs. Sublocade: Navigating Your Path to Recovery

If you or a loved one are seeking effective addiction recovery treatments, you might have come across the names Suboxone and Sublocade. These two-options offer hope and healing to individuals striving to overcome opioid addiction. At Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill, PA, we understand that making the right choice for your recovery journey is crucial. In this article, we'll delve into the differences between Suboxone and Sublocade, shedding light on their unique qualities to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Suboxone

Suboxone is a well-known medication that contains a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine acts as a partial opioid agonist (meaning that it partially activates opioid receptors in the brain), helping to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Naloxone is added to the buprenorphine to deter misuse by inducing withdrawal symptoms if the medication is abused.

Exploring Sublocade

Sublocade offers a different approach to addiction recovery. It's an extended-release buprenorphine injection that provides steady medication levels over time. This eliminates the need for daily dosing and ensures a more consistent and controlled experience. With Sublocade, you can focus on your recovery without the daily hassle of taking medication. This can be particularly helpful in early recovery when it can be more difficult to make a choice every day between taking the medication and slipping back to drugs.

The Difference in Approach

Choosing between Suboxone and Sublocade depends on your individual preferences and needs. Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill and Washington Square West believes that these medications should part of a comprehensive treatment plan and will help you develop a strategy that works best for you.

Why Choose Wave Treatment Centers?

At Wave Treatment Centers, we prioritize quality care above all else. Our commitment to your well-being means that we're selective about the insurance plans we work with. While we don't accept Medicaid or HMO commercial insurance at this time, our focus is on providing comprehensive and personalized treatment options that truly make a difference.

Take the Next Step?

If you're ready to take the next step towards your journey to recovery, Wave Treatment Centers is here to support you. Our knowledgeable and compassionate team is dedicated to helping you make the right choice between Suboxone and Sublocade. When you choose us, you're not just a patient; you're a valued individual on the path to transformation.

Ready to make a positive change? Call us at 215-242-0420 to schedule an appointment today. Let us guide you towards a future free from the grip of addiction.

In conclusion, the choice between Suboxone and Sublocade is a significant one, and Wave Treatment Centers is here to provide the guidance and care you need. Reach out to us, and let's embark on this journey to recovery together. Your well-being is our priority.

Discover A New Wave of Healing with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation at Wave Treatment Centers

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Mon, 03 Jul 2023 12:42:19 GMT

Discover A New Wave of Healing with TMS at Wave Treatment Centers

Every journey begins with a single step and asking questions is a critical step in understanding your path to wellness. At Wave Treatment Centers, we're committed to guiding you on that journey. Today, let's explore one of the innovative treatment methods we offer - Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

Understanding TMS

TMS is a non-invasive therapy that employs magnetic pulses to gently stimulate particular areas of your brain. This FDA-approved treatment is a trusted and safe solution for conditions like depression, especially when other treatment methods have not yielded the desired results. This approval from the FDA further underscores the established efficacy and safety profile of TMS, providing reassurance for patients seeking alternative treatment options.

Experience the Wave Way

When you undergo TMS therapy at Wave Treatment Centers, our compassionate team ensures your comfort. The procedure involves a small device, referred to as a coil, placed near your head. This coil creates a magnetic field to help re-balance the activity in your brain, potentially easing symptoms of depression.

Your Comfort Matters

We understand the importance of comfort throughout your treatment. Most people find TMS therapy to be comfortable, experiencing just a mild tapping sensation on the scalp. Some patients may report a slight headache or scalp discomfort after initial sessions, but these effects typically fade over time.

Minimal Side Effects, Maximum Relief

The safety and wellbeing of our patients is paramount at Wave Treatment Centers. TMS therapy is generally well-tolerated with few side effects, mainly limited to mild headaches or scalp discomfort. Although extremely rare, there's a minimal risk of seizures. Rest assured, our knowledgeable team thoroughly reviews your medical history to ensure TMS is a safe choice for you.

Your Personalized Treatment Plan

A typical TMS session with us lasts between 20 to 40 minutes, making it a treatment option that can easily fit into your routine. Treatment frequency and duration are customized to your specific needs, usually involving sessions 5 days a week for 4 to 6 weeks.

Your Journey to Brighter Days

Everyone's journey is unique, and so is the timeline to see improvement with TMS. While some may notice mood and energy changes within a few weeks, others might take longer. Regardless, our empathetic team will closely monitor your progress and adjust your treatment plan as needed.

Working Alongside Your Medications

TMS therapy typically doesn't interfere with medications, allowing you to continue your current regimen. Our team, however, will be sure to take a comprehensive review of your medications to tailor a safe and effective treatment plan for you.

At Wave Treatment Centers, we're more than just a clinic - we're your partners in your journey to a healthier, happier you. For a nurturing fresh start and the relief and support you seek, schedule your consultation with us today. Let our empathetic team guide you on your path to a brighter future with TMS therapy.

Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD, Named One of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors for 2023

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Thu, 04 May 2023 11:24:42 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Philadelphia, PA - May 3, 2023

Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD, Named One of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors for 2023

We are proud to announce that Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD, a triple board-certified psychiatrist, has been recognized as one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors for 2023 . Dr. Beatty has been providing exceptional mental healthcare services to the Philadelphia community for years through his private practice, with a focus on personalized, evidence-based treatments.

Dr. Beatty's practice offers a wide range of treatments and procedures, including:

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Ketamine/Esketamine therapy
Outpatient detox and treatment for addictive substances

Dr. Beatty's dedication to his patients and commitment to providing the best possible care has earned him numerous awards and certifications, such as:

Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology
Diplomate, American Board of Pain Medicine
Diplomate, American Board of Addiction Medicine
Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Dr. Beatty returned to his hometown after completing his residency training in New Orleans. He joined the faculty at Thomas Jefferson University, where he played a crucial role in the development of a comprehensive pain management program through the Department of Psychiatry. Subsequently, he was recruited as Chief of Psychiatry in the Northeast by a leading national addiction psychiatry organization.

For more information about Dr. Jonathan A. Beatty, MD and his practice, please visit https://www.wavetreatmentcenters.com or contact the office at 215-242-0420 . Join us in congratulating Dr. Beatty on this well-deserved recognition as one of Philadelphia Magazine's Top Doctors for 2023.

Discover the Drug-Free, Non-Invasive TMS Treatment for Depression

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Sun, 26 Mar 2023 15:11:22 GMT

Discover the Drug-Free, Non-Invasive TMS Treatment for Depression

Explore Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) , a cutting-edge, FDA-approved therapy for seniors battling depression. With no sedation, shock treatment, or invasiveness involved, patients remain fully conscious and engaged throughout the process. Enjoy comprehensive support from Wave Treatment Centers, with coverage from Medicare and most health insurance plans. Call 215-242-0420 to start your transformative journey today!

The Rise of Telemedicine and its Potential Pitfalls | Dr. Jonathan Beatty

Wed, 01 Mar 2023 00:32:32 GMT

The Rise of Telemedicine and its Potential Pitfalls

The Behavioral Corner Podcast, February 28, 2023

In this episode of The Behavioral Corner, Steve Martorano talks to Dr. Jonathan Beatty about the rapid expansion of telemedicine during the pandemic and its potential risks for patients. They discuss the benefits and limitations of virtual treatments, particularly for psychiatric disorders like depression. Dr. Beatty shares his experience with ketamine and S-ketamine for treating depression in-office and emphasizes the importance of patient confidentiality and proper oversight. The conversation also touches on the rise of online medical practices, which are raising concerns about patient safety and adherence to guidelines. Overall, patients need to be well-informed and cautious when seeking help online and understand that healthcare requires more nuance than online shopping.

Steve Martorano
Hi, everybody, welcome again, in the Behavioral Corner. It's me, the "King of the Corner," Steve Martorano. We're here talking to interesting people, we hope you find them interesting. We do. And they cover everything. As a matter of fact, because everything affects our behavioral health. The Corner is made possible by our underwriting partners Retreat Behavioral Health , you'll hear more about them down the road. I want to address this real quick at the top of the program. the young'uns out there maybe some young'uns watching the podcast and listening to the podcast, I'm going to tell you a story that you probably may have never heard about. There was a time when if you were of a certain age, doctors made house calls. Now I know what you think a call is. But this is different. This is a doctor that you called your family physician and said, "That's not feeling well" or "The kids are out of school, they're not feeling well. Can you come on by and take a look at them?" And believe me, kids that doctors used to do it. It was a venerable part of medicine, the house call, if you don't believe me, go check out, Leave it to Beaver, and you'll see their family physician show up. It happens. I'm sure it still happens. My guest is saying it does not happen the way it did in my youth, believe me, although having said that, doctors now do make house calls. But they don't do it...in fact, they do it virtually the way we're doing this interview, they do it over the internet. It's telemedicine, it has exploded out of use, initiated or hyper-initiated because of the pandemic and a public health emergency declaration that the CDC made that allowed doctors to do this. We have that story to tell you very quickly. And then what has grown up around telemedicine that presents perhaps problems we, in fact, know it can present problems to join us in filling in some of those blank spaces for me as our great friend, Dr. Jonathan Beatty . Dr. Beatty has contributed to the program in the past. And I hope he continues to do that he's a great source of information. This doesn't do his resume or his background justice. But succinctly he is an addiction psychiatrist . And we welcome him back to the Behavioral Corner. Dr. Beatty, thanks for joining us. Did I get most of that right?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
You did, Steve, and thanks for having me back to the show. It's a pleasure to be here. And I'm looking forward to talking about this very interesting topic. And just to say, for the record, I actually made a house call probably about two weeks ago. So I do on occasion, in real life make non-virtual but actual house calls, but it is definitely, you know, much less common than it was in the era that you're talking about and describing.

Steve Martorano
Yeah. And then it was just a normal course of affairs that doctors would come to your house. And they do now but they do it virtually like everything else. And therein lies our story. I mean, I knew people were using telemedicine, I'm sure for a very long period of time prior to the pandemic, but it wasn't the pandemic that put this thing into hyperdrive. Tell us a bit about that.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Absolutely. And you're correct in that telemedicine existed long predated the pandemic. So virtual, what they call "synchronous telemedicine," meaning that it's a live video and audio feed between a patient in a remote location can be their home or anywhere. And then the clinician or usually the physician, you know, from their office, or I guess theoretically from wherever they might be. And so the idea of expanding care and access to care by doing this led to the development I think it's the American Telehealth Association or something ATA, I believe whatever that stands for. So they created guidelines behind how this is, again, way before the pandemic and there was a lot of hesitation for this to kind of get rolling because we're trained in hospital settings, were trained in office settings, we're not trained in virtual settings, and many of us are not all that familiar with, depending on how you know how old the physician is the technology behind it. And so, there are also some limitations in terms of tangible you know, the patient's not directly in front of you, and you may not, you know, so there's this hesitation in the guidelines, as I recall, and don't quote me but I think more or less where that initial visits were intended to be in person and follow up visits guidelines would suggest were adequately monitored and processed through the telemedicine platforms. So then you get to, let's say 2008, where there was a situation regarding an online pharmacy, I believe, and or doctor that was prescribing, there was a patient and I am not 100% certain of the I believe the patient is Ryan Haight, I can tell you that the act that was developed as the Ryan Haight, and that's H-A-I-G-H-T Act of 2008. My understanding is he was a patient who was prescribed from a few different locations, multiple prescription medications that were controlled substances. And subsequently, I guess succumbed to those, those medications and as a result of that, they identify that the DEA through the DEA that one of the requirements for prescribing controlled substances, is that you need to have met the person face to face prior to initiating any prescription for a controlled substance.

Steve Martorano
Was this Ryan Haight? Was he being treated for a psychiatric disorder?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
I'm not certain of that. So I don't, I'm not positive. But regardless of the purpose of their treatment, the controlled substances, my understanding, or were, at least in part, if not entirely behind...

Steve Martorano
There was a bright line with what the physician could do in a virtual capacity and it stopped at prescribing drugs.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
You could, let's say, at any point in time, I've never met you before. And you say, "Hey, I think I have strep throat." or I really, you know, whatever. And I might say, Oh, I'm gonna give you this antibiotic. And I can prescribe that from evaluation, I can maybe even be able to see your throat, if you can shine a light there, I might be able to see it virtually. And identify, you know, that it's very red and irritated. And there's mucus and so forth, plus, whatever, and be able to treat it that way, and send the electronic prescription for an antibiotic. That I don't have to meet you face to face for and still don't. But as a result of this outcome, if it were, hey, I'm really anxious, and I need Xanax, I mean, paraphrasing, obviously, or I felt you needed Xanax, I would have to, up until the pandemic as a result of this act, I'd have to see face to face and then subsequently at least once a year in person. So we could meet any number of times during that year, but at least once a year would have to be in person, the rest could be virtual.

Steve Martorano
And the logic behind that is obvious. It's in the description of the drugs that you couldn't do that too, they are controlled, right? And if you were to be able to do that without actually seeing the patient, then you're losing control over what potentially could be a dangerous drug. And also, I suspect, can lead to abuse of that drug. Correct?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Very much. So those are two important distinctions. And then there was another element of the guidelines, which remain in effect until the pandemic that had to do with state lines. And so generally speaking, a physician is licensed in the state where he or she practices medicine, I mean, they have to at least have that sometimes they do have additional licenses, for example, I'm in Pennsylvania, a lot of patients come from New Jersey, a lot of doctors in Pennsylvania think it makes sense to have a jersey license as well. So I happen to have one, although I don't know that I ever actually use it, I have it. That being said the patient's location defines the state licensure requirements. And by that, I mean, if a patient is in Pennsylvania like you're in Pennsylvania, if you were my patient, I'm licensed to treat patients in Pennsylvania, I can do that remotely because you're in Pennsylvania. Likewise, if you were in New Jersey, I could because I happen to have that license. If you were in Alaska, I would not be able to practice medicine in Alaska, because I'm not licensed there. So I would not be able to have a telehealth visit with you. If you were in Alaska. Now I could be a physician, I could be anywhere in the world theoretically. But the patient I'm treating has to be in a state in which I'm licensed.

Steve Martorano
Again, for obvious reasons. When the pandemic hits, what changes?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
We are entering into what they refer to as a state of emergency which there the Emergency Use Authorizations, the E U A, that allowed for a lot of the rapid tests that were developed for COVID-19. Some of the treatments for COVID-19, at least initially, even the vaccines initially, are now fully FDA approved, but at the time they were emergency use authorized. So what that means is, during that time period, there are lots of exceptions because they don't want to delay access to care, they don't want to limit access to care. And so in order to, you know, the greatest common good would be to make sure every patient is able to get to their doctor. So the compliance of the software that you would use for the telemedicine was also lifted somewhat the requirement that it had to be HIPAA compliant so that there's encryption between you and me so that no one a third party wouldn't be able to intercept that because it's protected health information. That changed to a point where you could theoretically use like Facebook Messenger or an iPhone, FaceTime, or one of these things, just during the pandemic and I suppose technically until May of this year when they end the state of emergency might be able to do that. I never did that. I didn't think it was a good idea. But I was able to incorporate a telehealth platform that I had already been using ahead of the pandemic in a much more limited capacity to roll that out into a major part of my practice.

Steve Martorano
People had to be confident that while they meet their doctor and are treated by him, or her, virtually over the internet, it was protected so that no third party could see what drugs you're taking.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Or whatever the conversation or whatever they could theoretically hear you talking about, you know, whatever disease state you're, you know, all that is confidential. And so it's important to maintain that confidentiality. I mean, it's always important, but because of the emergency state, they were making it a little less stringent, you were obviously supposed to do the best you could under the circumstances.

Steve Martorano
Yeah, we don't need to go over the history of the pandemic, we know that as you've already pointed out: Guardrails went down, was full speed ahead on getting certain things done, we'll worry about whether or not there's any efficacy to this stuff, later on. We got to get out in front of this national -- international critical emergency. And so telemedicine, found itself on steroids, doing all sorts of things it was really never intended to do. The problem now arises with regard to I guess any number of doctor-patient interactions, but specifically, what piqued our interest is I see online every day, ads for the use of certain for a better lack of better terms that will define later psychedelic drugs or mood drugs to treat things like depression and bipolar anxiety and stuff like that, that are now not only diagnosed virtually but you can be prescribed specific drugs to treat these and never have to leave your house. That's a problem. Right?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Well, it's certainly a potential problem. It remains to be seen on some level. But I think it's important to identify that psychiatry and mental health in general, are well positioned, I think for telehealth visits because of the fact that there's not as much of a physical examination necessary. Although I would argue there are certain things that aren't necessary, such as checking vital signs, you know, identifying drug screens and other things to identify what else might be going on, that you can't pick up through a video call, I mean, even the smell of alcohol, frankly. So there are limitations. But nonetheless, compared to say, cardiology, and the need to listen to a heartbeat, that would be somewhat difficult, although there are ways that they can now do that.

Steve Martorano
I'm looking into the future. And I can see a situation where first of all, this won't be foreign, right be a common experience. Technology will catch up to it. And you probably will be in fact, probably can now...

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
There are types of hardware now available that go to the patient's house, you can mail them theoretically. And so there are ways of monitoring remotely, things like vital signs, but...

Steve Martorano
So that people understand. So where we're on the cusp of sort of an inflection point, what we're talking about as a potential problem is in its infancy right now. But going forward as virtual healthcare, and telemedicine become more ingrained, there's gonna be generations who grew up with no other relationship to their physician, than this, what we're doing.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
The so-called "New Normal" that we heard about all along is ongoing.

Steve Martorano
Exactly. We have the accident of birth will be at the moment when it's being figured out.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right. Let me give you a quick, just a quick sort of example, which would be an appropriate use of telemedicine in psychiatry. So let's say, for example, somebody is depressed, they contact our office, and they'd like to get evaluated for what they think is depression. We might be able to do that virtually by a telemedicine appointment, visually seeing the patient and then collecting the history as we do identify certain symptoms and trying to funnel that into some form of diagnosis to oversimplify it. And that treatment plan might then be an anti-depressant medication to be prescribed. I mean, there are some potential limitations. But for the most part, that's a pretty reasonable approach -- especially when you consider how debilitating depression can be, and somebody might not be able to leave their home and the thought of having to get a ride or get themselves to you or even get out of bed and get a shower and get dressed might be daunting. So other than the potential risk of suicide, which of course, is a very grave concern. The idea that we could increase their access to care by doing it remotely is potentially a win. So let's say that in that scenario, the person is depressed and not suicidal, we give them an antidepressant medication prescription electronically, and they start the medicine and they start feeling better and maybe when they're feeling a little better, they're able to come in for an actual in-person visit. That's a slam dunk. Right? I mean, that's like what we would hope for. Now let's add to that a little bit of anxiety. Now let's say they are I'm not responding to the anti-depression medication as much for the anxiety as they are for the depression. And maybe you're considering something called a benzodiazepine. Well, now you're dealing with a controlled substance. So now in the pre-pandemic era, we would have to have the face-to-face evaluation prior to that. There are a lot of advantages to that when you see somebody in real life, again, as I alluded to, you can evaluate and assess, you can collect urine drug screen, you can do other things to try and identify if there's a greater chance of this person abusing the substance down the road, or if they're already abusing something else, quite frankly, I mean, a patient could tell you know, "I've never taken a benzodiazepine in my life." And then you do a urine drug screen, and they have, you know, three different benzodiazepine-positive results in their drug screen. So there is value, obviously, in the in office. And I would never diminish that. But there are scenarios like the first one where it can be very helpful to have telehealth.

Steve Martorano
So as you pointed out, in your initial remarks, there are people who, because of their circumstances, would just be cut off from care, because they're unable to come to the doctor. So this was a boon to a lot of people. But it was born out of an emergency. That emergency directive is about to lapse, is it not?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right? So the idea that it was it did exist prior to that, but then it accelerated to the point where, you know, five or 10% of physicians had the capability of telehealth, and I don't know that exact number, that's just a guess. And then among those percentages, maybe, you know, I'll use myself like so I had the capability, I would say, less than 5% of my patients pre-pandemic, I would visit through telehealth. And now it went up, I guess there was a brief period of time when it was nearly 100% because it was almost the only way to conduct health care. I mean, our doors were always open, and we had a lot of precautions in place. But a lot of facilities don't have the capabilities to do so. And as you recall, the protective equipment, the personal protective equipment, wasn't available. So yeah, the pandemic accelerated -- I mean, it threw gasoline on this fire, so to speak, and made it really available, which again, is a good thing, and probably even most ways, but then I think what we're getting at is what else could you use to treat depression? And there are some other medicines that are around to treat depression that is that were not considered to be safe to do it to be treated at home prior to the pandemic. And that has since shifted. And so what I'm talking about more specifically is ketamine, and a more novel compound, which is really just a portion of ketamine called S-ketamine. So as ketamine, branded as Spravato by Johnson and Johnson, was approved as an in-office treatment for depression, what that means is the patient would come into the office and receive the dose of medicine that was kept under lock and key in the doctor's office, there are all kinds of DEA requirements to protect against diversion. It has to be a certain number of keys locking, it can only be there for two weeks ahead of the appointment, it has to be used within that period, and so forth, we have to confirm after the dose is given to the DEA that it was given and to whom it was given and so forth. So here's what they call a REMS criteria, which is something that the DEA has for a lot of different controlled meds. So that's Risk Evaluation Mitigation Strategy. And that's many times a much simpler method of identifying where's this medicine going, you know, who's getting it and so on. And I participate in those REMS as required for many different medications. The one for private, which is this S ketamine is by far the most complex, even though it's a schedule three drug and there are many schedule two drugs which has a higher level of security or risk of abuse, as the DEA perceives it, that have fewer requirements, let's say. But nonetheless, ketamine, and S-ketamine, were being used in the office to treat depression and other things. But we'll talk just about the case today about depression.

Steve Martorano
And in your practice, you have treated people with ketamine, as you just described.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
I have with both molecules the racemic ketamine, which includes S-ketamine, and then the isolate. S-ketamine, which is branded as Spravato. And so I've been using those ahead of the pandemic. They were approved very shortly before the pandemic, if I remember the timing exactly. So I started using both treatment options. And prior to that, I'd used ketamine in hospital settings for a variety of different circumstances. So pretty familiar with the medication. And I was pleased to identify these options in the office. One of the reasons that it's in the office is that you have to monitor blood pressure and other vital signs needed to be sure the patient...

Steve Martorano
During the treatment?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right, so they have to be in the office for at least two hours from the point when they start the medication. And that's so that the medicine can fully wear off so to speak, almost like a Post Anesthesia Care Unit. So these drugs are really anesthetic as they're classified. And so we're using sub-anesthetic doses meaning they're not going fully to sleep. But the policy and protocol around monitoring are the same meaning they can't drive afterward. They have to be given a ride home, and they need to be monitored until they're sort of clear from the medication.

Steve Martorano
The backstory of ketamine is fascinating because we're talking about a use that grew out of its initial purpose, which was as an anesthetic.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right.

Steve Martorano
We've covered that and we'll cover it in the future, again. We're talking to Dr. Jonathan Beatty, he is an addiction psychiatrist. And he and I saw several articles in a rush of the mainstream news in the past week or so, and immediately began contacting each other because we both saw a problem here, at least in terms of information for the public. This is the classic buyer beware, or know what you're getting into and what the situation is before you fall into the easy pattern of listening to claims that you're bombarded with about these drugs that have some very wonderful results, treating depression and even bipolar and anxiety. But you got to be careful. You've painted a picture in the history of telemedicine, that sort of is a brave new world. It sounds terrific. Where's the problem started?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Well, in general, I think some of the limitations of telemedicine as it pertains to say abuse and diversion of medications, and the inability to fully assess a patient and their response to medications. But I think in specifics when we're talking about this particular medication, the ketamine or S-ketamine, the idea that you're so first of all the DEA requirements for the S ketamine, this rems thing I talked about, they're worried about diversion. So if you're mailing this medication to someone's home, as some of the programs are doing, it's possible that medication could get diverted, obviously, now, it's possible that any prescription for a controlled medication could get diverted. And so there's not necessarily a difference or a difference in risk about this drug versus another drug in terms of diversion, but because of this monitoring that's necessary. There are some other risks that are inherent to ketamine and S-ketamine. And so...

Steve Martorano
And one of them is its history as a recreational...it's club drug. Special K was a drug you took and went to a rave and had a wonderful time. So in arise...ketamine arrives into the story with a rep. And so I can see where the concern would be that it would be used that way again,

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Sure. But again, I mean, lots of other medications are used in illicit ways that are prescribed and then not use appropriately. So I don't know if it's, maybe there's just more of a sort of conception of this medicine in ways that made that concern greater.

Steve Martorano
I think we understand the diversion of concern and the potential to abuse the drug or not use it properly. But assuming all of that is taken care of, what are the...are there any dangers...you described a beautiful setting for how you treat patients with this...with ketamine. They're in there, they're monitored, professional people are always around, leave in an orderly time. That's a far cry from the ads I see on the internet, which are taken at home. What about the dangers to the patient? What are the potential drawbacks to telemedicine in that context?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
So I think one of them, which is not insurmountable or it is surmountable, is there should be another person, in my opinion, in the setting where the patient is taking the medication. So, you know, for lack of a better term, a caregiver. Somebody that's at least aware that they're there and that they're on this medication, and they have some sense of what's going on. So I think if you have somebody there, that is a trusted confidant of the patient, and you, the provider, have had an opportunity to have a conversation with the caregiver and say, "Okay, this is what I, you know, if anything goes on, and you call me directly." You know, if we get disconnected, let's say we're doing a therapy session with the patient, but they're at home, then I can contact you can go check on them. So that can really help reduce a lot of the potential concerns. But these are impairing substances. So if somebody's at home, and there's no real oversight of what they're doing, they could potentially become subject of abuse of some sort, meaning like if there was somebody if they weren't in a safe place where they took it, somebody could take advantage of them. Because they're anesthetized. I mean, they're awake, but they're, you know, their, their guard is down certainly from the medication and so they need to be in a safe setting. And then, of course, if the blood pressure were to go above a certain threshold, that could be dangerous, depending on the age of the patient. High blood pressure acutely high blood pressure can lead to strokes and heart attacks, and other serious consequences. So there are some very significant considerations.

Steve Martorano
Isn't another one of the considerations, you say "caretaker," it's obvious you'd be administered a drug in at home with no physician nearby. It's important just on that sort of garden variety stuff, blood pressure, and stuff like that. Isn't it also unique to something like ketamine, that you are also in an altered state of consciousness, so that a caregiver, Aunt Mini, who comes by three days a week, makes sure you're okay? Who's 82 years old and doesn't know what an altered state of mind is about might not be the right person to be with you while you're taking ketamine at home? Right?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Yes, of course, the selection of the caregiver would be critical, in my opinion...

Steve Martorano
...and different if you were just suffering from diabetes or something right?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Very much, so. Yes. You know, I think it's important to have a, you know, a concept ahead of that what you're in for potentially as the caregiver, and make for that person is vetted and inadequately prepared for it.

Steve Martorano
You know, children of the 60s know who that person is. That's "the guide." That's the person you have confidence in. The person that can keep you centered, and get the most out of this treatment, the altered state you're in.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right.

Steve Martorano
So that becomes a problem right away. How many people have that person available?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
It would seem fewer than there should be. I think, given the way that the medicine has become available in these ways, these send-home or mail-home drugs that are prescribed and there's some sort of an evaluation, I guess, online ahead of that, those types of requirements are not necessarily being met, or even possibly considered or confirmed. And so it's hard to know. I can give you a vague example, without specifics, just to maybe drive the point home that I have a patient who was considering ketamine on his own or her own and ordered one of them, you know, paid for and, you know, signed up for one of these programs online and had some kind of evaluation that he said was basically, a few minutes and within, I don't know, a week or a few days, or whatever arrived in the mail, a pack of six doses of this medication or whatever the number was, and some visual aids, you know, descriptions of what to look out for, and a number to take, you know, like to let them know, there's a problem. I mean, not a lot of oversight. It didn't seem and frankly, the patient didn't feel comfortable doing it. And thankfully, he was able to tell me about it. So that was sort of my first learning about this type of program in this practice.

Steve Martorano
Let me ask you about where the drugs are coming from. I've read about a new phrase to me, "compounding pharmacies." What are they? Are they reputable? Are they safe?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
That's a great point that we should talk about for a minute. The compounding pharmacies are licensed pharmacies. They, generally speaking, should be perfectly fine and perfectly legitimate with registered pharmacists or doctors of pharmacology who are licensed by the state as pharmacists who are able to compound these drugs. So if you look at over time, the beginning of time, you know, doctors would compound their own medications. And that's how things started with medicine. Later, the School of Pharmacy was developed as a way to try, and you know, broaden the ability to make different medications. And so, theoretically speaking, that's part of pharmacy training. And then there's a more specific pathway, I believe, for compounding pharmacists, or at least in there, in their subsequent training to be comfortable doing that. So all that is totally above board. And as long as they're following the requirements that are state-imposed, you know, they're licensed by whatever state they make the medications, and they're using, you know, certain recipes that are specific for whatever they're doing. That should be fine. Now, what's happening now and what you're talking about or getting at is the idea of off-label use. Now we use medicines off-label all the time, meaning it wasn't used in the manner that it was initially tested and approved through the DEA. So you know, even an antibiotic might be approved for a certain type of infection,. Then they might find that it also helps in a different type of infection and use it for that. That might be an off-label use. That doesn't mean it's a bad thing. Now with ketamine, the development of ketamine is intravenous use. So Ketalar, I believe, is the original brand name for ketamine. It's an intravenous, so in the hospital setting, as you alluded to, for anesthesia, it has since been used in other settings, but still in the intravenous preparation. And so that's being manufactured by the company that makes ketamine as opposed to a third party, which, again, might be perfectly fine, but it's just different. So compounding pharmacies are allowed to make things that are not commercially available. So if ketamine and the concentration of ketamine in the liquid suspension is available a certain way commercially, they can make it in a different ratio that's not commercially available, and they're licensed to do that. And again, that might be perfectly safe. And those are sterile products that are still for intravenous use in that context. But they can also make non-sterile products. And so what we're talking about in this way is ketamine that's being compounded into another preparation, say intra-nasal so that it's insufflated basically inhaled, which is how the Spravato was done. So the FDA-approved label major depressive disorder treatment with Spravato is a canister that you inhale through your nostril. It's not an intravenous route. Now ketamine was tested, and there was a nice NIH study done where they used six doses of intravenous ketamine to treat depression, it was ver...shown to be very effective. And so, in most cases, and so, the idea of can we compound IV ketamine, or the ingredients of ketamine, into this intranasal ketamine and use it? And the answer seems to be "yes." Now, that's not what they're typically shipping out to these patient homes. What they're typically shipping there is what's called a "troches," and that's basically like a lozenge that is sublingual, or under your tongue. And so there's a different type of absorption under your tongue. The bioavailability is greater than if you were to swallow it by mouth. So your GI tract has a first-pass effect and many other reasons why the drug doesn't get into your bloodstream as easily as it would sublingually or intranasal, or the best route would be intravenously. So they're sending these troches home, and that's how they're getting them. They're being compounded by these pharmacies. Now, that may or may not be appropriate. By themselves, the pharmacies aren't, you know, they're just responding to a prescription. They're not necessarily, you know, mishandling that prescription and making what the doctor was ordering.

Steve Martorano
And without getting into too much detail about the compounding pharmacies, as you say, they're licensed, and they have their guidelines and protocols to follow. Are they still as stringent on these compounding pharmacies when it comes to making the kinds of drugs you're talking about? I mean, are the guidelines they? Are people checking? Do they report to the government what they're doing?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
I honestly don't know the answer to that. My guess is that they are. I mean, the ingredients that they're using to prepare the medications are highly regulated ingredients. And so for them to access those ingredients. I'm sure they have to log how they're using them.

Steve Martorano
There has to be a paper trail. Yeah. Well, so you can see what's happened here. A perfect storm has formed. And now what I've read -- some of the stuff you've sent me and stuff, I've found -- entire practices that didn't exist, medical practices are now popping up all over the country. They are driven by venture capital money because these guys see a potentially huge payday. And it's going to become easier and easier -- never to meet a physician never be seen by a physician to be diagnosed with some psychiatric disorder, like depression or bipolar, and have a prescription written and just filled out. This looks like, I'm sorry, it's a horrible term, but it looks like the formation of a gigantic, potentially a pill mill. We should be worried about that. Right?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
I think it's important to at least be worried about it. Yes. I'm not suggesting that's what's happening, although it's certainly a possibility. I think that in the pandemic, because of the restrictions that are lifted as a state of emergency, which are about to shift back, at least, they're supposed to that idea of that Ryan hate act that we talked about. So you would have to see the patient face to face, they're currently not required to do that, which makes a big difference when they're trying to grow a venture capital-driven business as opposed to medical practice.

Steve Martorano
Do you think the guidelines will be rolled back? They're supposed to be rolled back in May? Right?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Are they supposed to be rolled back in May? I think it's a little curious that, at least as far as I know, to date, the FDA and or DEA have not given us a clear answer as to whether there's going to be any change in the way they're currently defined.

Steve Martorano
I don't know if you're a betting man, but I'm not. But I would bet that there will at least be a notification that the status quo will remain. While we take another look at this. I don't see where except the public and people like yourself, professionals who are saying, "slow down," why there would be any incentive to say, we're going to clamp down on this stuff. First of all, there are a lot of patients that are going to suffer.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right? So that's where you're right, I think in the way they'll suggest as well until we figure out, you know, if we just cut this off now suddenly 10,000 20,000, whatever the number is of patients that are receiving this kind of care or going to it might be hundreds of 1000s, frankly, are going to lose access to care. And that could be devastating.

Steve Martorano
Many people are actually being helped through this process. And by the way, without getting too deep into the weeds on this thing, the growth has been nothing less than explosive. I mean, there are chat groups online where people are being treated this way. You know, two years ago, three years ago, there might be four or 5000 people in the chatroom; there are now 10s of 1000s of people in those chat rooms. So we know it's gigantic and getting bigger every day. I know we are pressed for time here. So we're gonna have to have you back then more of this. But just this final thing, if someone is looking for help and is inclined to look for help online, what did a couple of little two or three things they should be aware of before they decide this is the way to treat my problem?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
I think it's a difficult scenario when you're talking about somebody struggling with depression, especially if they're dealing with what's called treatment-resistant depression, or refractory depression, meaning it hasn't responded to the traditional medications, or several trials of the right dose, the right timeline, and all. So these are people that might be a little more, feeling a little more hopeless, like, "What am I going to do," and then they might genuinely be searching for a solution online. But because of the money backing some of these practices, let's say, for example, they might look for a psychiatrist who provides in-office ketamine. They probably wouldn't search that way. But maybe they would, ahead of that result might be one of these sorts of mail-order companies, and they might click on it without even really realizing what it is. And it'll promise, you know, a very streamlined, easy approach to an evaluation and medication treatment for your depression in that you can be feeling better, you know, by tomorrow or the next day. You take somebody who's been feeling depressed for maybe years, and hasn't responded to what you know traditional medicines have offered? That seems like a really obvious, like, let me try that. And so I think what you should look for if you're seeking out care and you aren't able to come into an office setting would be how sincere does the program or the practice seem? What sort of steps are they taking to safeguard you are the patient? Are they confirming, you know, even for just a regular evaluation, they can, confirm what type of safety is available to you? Do you have emergency contacts? Do you have the specific address of where the person? Do you or somebody else know where they are? Because in the mental health field, one of the ways that our patients die is through suicide. And so it's important to be able to assess that carefully. And I think having a psychiatrist as part of the process is important. Not all practices involve psychiatry, when they're doing these evaluations, or they may accept an evaluation from another provider. And so I think, looking at the practice, that you're, if you're vetting it as a patient, trying to find out and understand how involved they are in the treatment plan, do they offer psychotherapy. You know, there's more to this than medication. And I think it's we didn't really get into that. But it's important to understand that ketamine, S ketamine, are really good medications to help the process of treating depression, but they're not really meant, in the general understanding of how these things work, to be the only solution for treating depression. They allow and facilitate recovery from depression. But there are important other aspects of recovery that involve psychotherapy, good self-care, sleep, hygiene, nutrition, and all kinds of things that it's important for a practice to assess when they're treating a patient like this.

Steve Martorano
It's all great advice. Dr. Beatty, I would just add the tendency to look at health care, and treat what's troubling us should not be confused with the ease of buying a sweater through Amazon. We live in an age now where if you want something, you can have it tomorrow.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right.

Steve Martorano
And these ads that you will see online. They may be reputable people, but they are appealing to this same instinct, "Oh, I just push a button. And it'll be okay. Everything will be okay." This is not that.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
I agree with you. That's a very good way to kind of summarize the the issue at hand. The culture is adapting towards that desire and it's available in many other ways and I think that healthcare still requires a little more time and nuance.

Steve Martorano
We thank you for your time. We're going to have to have you back, of course, a lot. We really just brushed the surface of this growing trend. Jonathan Beatty. Thank you so much. Appreciate your time. I'll let you get back to your important work, and we'll talk to you soon.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Okay, sounds good, Steve. Thanks again for having me.

Steve Martorano
You guys, thank you as well. Don't forget the subscription. Look for the button. I'm going to make it bigger so you can find it, but it's there at the top of the page. Subscribe to the Behavioral Corner. We appreciate it. See you next time.

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When Fentanyl Crashes the Party: The Fast and Deadly Downfall of Recreational Drug Use

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 00:22:12 GMT

When Fentanyl Crashes the Party: The Fast and Deadly Downfall of Recreational Drug Use

(Aka: Why Would a Drug Dealer want to Kill their Clientele)

It’s just weed, right?

Illicit drug use both from a “harmless” recreational level to a much more societally insidious and detrimental level with skyrocketing addiction rates, has brought a powerful and troubling adversary to the public in recent years. While varying forms of substances have been used for centuries for medicinal value they have always presented various effects that can be exploited to provide mind-altering, pleasurable results to the user. This ranges from the natural plant-based herbs up to and including marijuana, to the heavily processed and refined versions of other plant-based compounds, to the vast number of synthetically (lab) produced drugs. With explosive rates of growth in depression and mental illness, society has found itself falling into a rapidly revitalized drug abuse epidemic.

Where does fentanyl come from?

While the FDA has a system to regulate drugs based on their medical uses, one could argue there is no truly “safe” drug. As with all species, humans metabolize, respond to, react to, and process the drugs they consume in varyingly different degrees. In the last decades, a very potent, synthetic opioid compound (Fentanyl) has joined the realms of some very addictive and deadly substances. Opioids mimic their opiate cousins from nature.

Opiate: a substance naturally derived from the poppy plant, papaver somniferum- used medicinally to treat pain or produce sleep (somniferum comes from Latin for “sleep inducing.” Codeine and morphine are medical examples and heroin is the illicit form. Heroin metabolizes into codeine and morphine.
Opioid: a compound that resembles opium but is not naturally occurring. May have medical uses such as pain control or illicit uses. Oxycodone and fentanyl are examples of opioids which can be used to alleviate suffering or contribute to it through their addiction.

Looking at a history of anesthetic medications morphine sulfate is an original “gold standard” drug that was and is used by the medical profession for legitimate anesthetic/pain blocking purposes. As the scientific community began to develop more powerful synthetic drugs, Fentanyl entered the scene as a substance that is 100 times stronger than morphine. It is used medically in hospital settings using dosages of micrograms, rather than milligrams, because of its extreme potency. Wave Treatment Centers has noted an alarming trend of fentanyl overdoses due to misuse and diversion of the drug.

How do I know if my drugs are laced with fentanyl?

Modern medicine has had miraculous and life saving results with drugs like fentanyl when used appropriately. Unfortunately, it has also been found that fentanyl can be easily and extremely inexpensively synthesized for illicit uses as a “cutting” agent for street drugs. Many may think of “cutting” a drug like cocaine or heroin as a method to double or triple quantities of the substance by using an inert, tasteless, odorless substitute like talc, inositol or even powdered laxative. With Fentanyl entering the scene, drug traffickers have begun exploiting its equally inexpensive nature combined with its highly addictive nature. Their logic is to make their brand of drug more desirable than that of the competition because it adds a bigger “high”. It also becomes much more addictive assuring a repeat customer base. This very misguided business tactic may have helped increase sales for the trafficker but has also begun to thin the herd of customers as many are dying due to intolerance and physical naivety to the powerful nature of fentanyl. Dr. Jonathan Beatty and the staff of Wave Treatment Centers have identified fentanyl in numerous instances where a patient thought they were purchasing something much more innocent. It becomes a crapshoot.

The epidemic of lacing drugs with fentanyl is only growing and extending into other street drugs beyond heroin and cocaine.

Buying “pressed” pills on the street which look like oxycodone “Perc 30s” “Roxys” in the right shape and color may actually be fentanyl
Urine drug testing has revealed multiple cases where the user thought they were taking oxycodone but there was no oxy in the urine, only fentanyl
People taking what they think they can handle such as oxycodone 30mg and have accidental overdoses because of the fentanyl

There really is no way to know if a user is obtaining a “safe” dose from a dealer. With the countless lives lost to overdose in recent years, this adds a terrifying new angle to the dangers of drug abuse and addiction. If you would like to know more or have any questions about the dangers of fentanyl or what treatment looks like, please contact Wave Treatment Centers: Contact us . 215.242.0420

Wave Treatment Centers specializes in outpatient detoxes (medically assisted withdrawal) where in many cases you are able to receive detox treatment in the office and home without having to go to an inpatient facility. Contact us . Detox is often the first step in a comprehensive treatment plan to help you get your life back.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty, The Behavioral Corner Podcast, Ep 74

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 23:56:35 GMT

The Behavioral Corner
Hi, and welcome. I'm Steve Martorano. And this is the Behavioral Corner; you're invited to hang with us, as we've discussed the ways we live today, the choices we make, the things we do, and how they affect our health and wellbeing. So you're on the corner, the Behavioral Corner, please hang around a while

Steve Martorano
Hey, everybody, welcome again to the Behavioral Corner. Here we are hanging I'm Steve Martorano, on the Corner all the time. As a matter of fact, I spend more time on the corner than the newspaper box. And I'm lucky because I always run into great people who have I think, interesting things to tell us and information to share. So we're no different today here on the Corner. It's all brought to us by our underwriting partners to Retreat Behavioral Health . Listen, I got a fascinating one for you today. I am really looking forward to talking to our guest, Dr. Jonathan Beatty. Briefly, he is a psychiatrist and I will give you his full resume in a second. But psychiatry is so fascinating. At least it is to me I have never been in need of psychiatric help. <<knock knock>> Knock wood. I get my information the way a lot of us do through the media. I think I know what psychiatry is. Certainly, Woody Allen has spent 100 years telling us what it means to him. And we all have seen every actor in the world play, Freud. So we know about the couch, we know about the chair, we know all that stuff. But really, what we want to do today is take what not a deep dive because we don't have all day, but certainly, get our feet wet on trying to get our heads around modern psychiatry right now in general, and something called neuropsychology, which is we'll get a little more specific about straight ahead. I want to thank Dr. Jonathan Beatty for joining us. Dr. Beatty is a Board Certified psychiatrist and neurologist. He is board-certified pain medicine, as well as addiction medicine, and we welcome him to the corner. Doc, thanks for joining us.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Thank you for having me, if I may, just a brief clarification. I'm board-certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in psychiatry. So the idea of neuropsychiatry is valid, but I wouldn't, I'm not separately boarded in neurology, just...

Steve Martorano
Terrific. I can't think of anybody, given the current state of affairs who would be busier than a psychiatrist. So thank you, thank you for your time. Let's begin there with you know, the term I'm least familiar with. And that is neuropsychiatry. What is it? And what do you do?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
So, I guess, to backup neuroscience, which is one of the basic sciences that we learn about in, you know, to some extent in college and often in graduate school programs or doctoral programs, as well as part of the basic science course in medical school. So neuroscience is kind of the study of the brain from various anatomical perspectives. So the physical tangible, what is in the brain, you know, I was telling you earlier, this is, you know, a plastic model of a brain and, you know, if you dissect it, what's inside it.

Steve Martorano
My brain feels like that, just now we twisted this

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
The little part, right.

Steve Martorano
Yeah.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Neuroscience from an electrical standpoint is often more thought in terms of neurology, at least historically. And then from a sort of what often is commonly referred to as a chemical standpoint, which is often in the realm of psychiatry. So the reality is the same brain, right. And the brain communicates with itself and with other parts of the body, through both electrical signals, and hormones. So the neuro train and neurotransmitters, so the neurotransmitters, the ones you hear about a lot in the media, probably dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, people have this idea in their head of this, you know, chemical imbalance. And that's, that has become people imagine that, and it's a really good image that makes sense, and that you can explain to people, it's not entirely accurate, but at least it sort of explains a little bit about what's happening inside your brain. But again, that's from a neurotransmitter perspective. There's also an electrical aspect of the brain. So each communication is because of a low voltage system that basically either activates or inactivates certain channels or certain, you know, ion influxes of positive and negative charges that then open and allows the neurotransmitters to go through from point A to point B. So all of that together is kind of neurology, and then the behavioral aspects or the outcomes of those interactions, you know, is kind of psychiatry. And so I suppose the interface of those two would be neuropsychiatry.

Steve Martorano
Yeah, I was reading up on it a little bit last night. And while the two disciplines or fields have been around for a very, very long time, they sort of separated in a sense, a while back, and now they're slowly coming back together, and that's where I guess we get the idea of neuropsychiatry. How closely are they getting now?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right. So that's a good question. And just to, you know, explain the board of the American Board that I alluded to earlier of Psychiatry and Neurology, it's a combined board. So there's always been a recognition that these two things are together. But there's been sort of a little bit of a separation between them, that probably stems back from Sigmund Freud, who you alluded to earlier, who, you know, kind of started the field of psychiatry in many ways, in terms of the behavioral aspects of the brain, he was a neurologist, and, you know, he was more focused on the intangible qualities of the brain and how they, you know, at that time, they didn't understand anything about the connections in the brain, you know, it was really just neuroanatomy, there was no real understanding of the physiology of the brain. So he looked at behavioral aspects and sort of postulated what could be driving those. So these unconscious wishes and things like that. It has continued, but it has sort of continued in parallel with neurological sciences in the sense that not necessarily disputed or refuted, but it wasn't necessarily congruent with everything that was starting to become discovered. And interestingly enough, now there are some connections that may explain some of those behaviors that he was describing now through more of a physiological lens. And so that I think is how psychiatry is moving forward in terms of not just, you know, talking about what's going on, although, you know, that is a very important aspect to understand. It's one way that we can access the brain, in a sense and understand at least through the language, what the experiences are, and then through certain neuroimaging technologies, like functional MRIs, and PET scans, which are two types of ways that we can look at the brain function. In other words, while you're talking about your childhood, which part of your brain is active, and which party raises inactive, when you're thinking about a drink, for example, in an alcoholic, which part of your brain goes into hyper mode and gets really excited just looking at a picture or watching a commercial or whatever, with an alcohol bottle? That gives us a sense of what's going on in the brain in that part? And then how can we maybe modulate that piece of the brain or that overall interaction between the different parts of the brain in a way maybe through talk therapy, maybe through pharmacology, such as certain medications, or maybe through brain stimulation techniques, and these things, I would say, are moving the field forward at a very interesting pace, and are allowing us to deploy new understandings of the brain and the connections between the brain to develop new techniques to treat things in a more kind of modern way, I suppose.

Steve Martorano
Yeah, a scientific way. I mean, there have been techniques that have been successful in the past. And now there are new and even more exciting techniques that are being employed. Let me just say this about a classical analysis --- psychoanalysis. seems obvious to me that if Freud had done what he did 100 or so years ago, today, it would never have risen up the way it did today would have just been No, no, you're groping around in the dark. Here are some of the places to be looking to explain this behavior, not where you're looking. Right?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right. I think that's a very good way to conceptualize.

Steve Martorano
And I will and then we'll go on to some of the things you treat with neuropsychiatry. I think it was because of that -- tell me if you agree -- that we get this notion that certain behaviors even addiction are somehow rooted in character or free will or choice made poorly. And it's taken a very long time for science to turn around and say, yeah, listen, it's not about a fraud their character their behavior is being affected by something going wrong in their brain.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Absolutely. That's a great example actually because if you look at addiction obviously has been around probably since the invention of alcohol and even before that with opium and you know, poppy plants when they discovered what those can do, and to some extent, even with the caffeine, you know, with the coffee bean so you know, these are things that when you look back at when people started paying attention to this and it became a societal problem. So that was recognized before there was a science to explain it. And so it was what else do we call it? Well, just don't drink anymore. And you know, like, you don't have that you must be lacking in willpower somehow that you have a moral deficiency, you're a bad person and even the language that still permeates the culture which is clean and sober, right? So what is the opposite of clean and sober, dirty and drunk I guess so? You know, there's this implicit bias that you're only clean you know, you just got out of the shower, you're clean if you're sober, but think about what that means for the people that are struggling with addiction, they're being told that they're not clean. You know, I mean, that's, that's awful. That's just demoralizing. If anything, that's the character flaw, not the person with the struggle. It's the, it's the people that are observing it and calling it something, it's a judgment really

Steve Martorano
disingenuous. And it's almost easily understood in the sense of, it's kind of a defense mechanism by the rest of us, that's not going to happen to me, because I'm not that kind of person. So I sort of get that. But anyway, it has set us way back. And now we're starting to catch up

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Now that science can show us that there's this pleasure reward pathway in the brain that goes haywire when a substance of sorts is introduced to the system to the brain, so to speak, that part of your brain that is designed for survival. So for food and sex, basically, the things that would promote our survival in order to pass on our genes, which, evolutionarily speaking, is essentially why we're here, not very romantic, I realized, but from a brain biology standpoint, that's what that part of the brain does. If you introduce a substance, be it alcohol, or you know, even nicotine, frankly, which is also obviously highly addicting, that does a lot to that pleasure reward pathway in the brain, and it skews it completely to favor that particular, that substance. And what we've also more recently learned is that there's an anti reward pathway, which is what gets activated as you withdrawal from those substances. So when you become physiologically dependent on say, heroin, or alcohol, or even nicotine, nicotine is a good example of coffee, people are cranky in the morning before they have their cup of coffee. That's caffeine withdrawal, that's the anti reward system, coming online and becoming activated and making you irritable, and people will go out and get a cup of coffee when it's caffeine. But when it's something a little stronger, like heroin, they'll plunder to get to another dose of that, and you know, in that it's to avoid that anti reward pathway. And that's, that's one of the really important details of the imbalance in addiction,

Steve Martorano
And why we can hopefully look to something like neuropsychiatry to help us get to the root causes of these things. And maybe, you know, maybe adjust that behavior, because it's always struck me as particularly cruel and scary fate, to have a problem, the origin of which is in your mind, your brain, I should say. If you're diagnosed with cancer, overwhelmingly, your brain focuses very specifically on what should I do to save myself. But when the problem that you're dealing with is, is a miss function of the brain? What tool do you use? Because as you mentioned an addiction, you know, you're being told there is no problem or mood disorders, you're being told. There's nothing wrong with me, everybody else's sort of crazy,

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
How do you self-advocate when the self-advocacy party is functioning? Right?

Steve Martorano
So tell us, if you might, this is a brand-appropriate moment, the sort of things you would treat as a neuropsychiatrist.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
As I alluded to addiction as a big is a big part of what I do. That has certainly overlapped with neuropsychiatry, but I would say some of the other sorts of areas outside of addiction that are a big component are again behavior so that what is the driving force, what is the inactive or underactive or overactive part of a brain that we could potentially identify and then do something about to change either a behavior or mood symptoms, say like depression or anxiety, or maybe a memory problem like Alzheimer's, dementia, or even a movement disorder like Parkinson's or, you know, a migraine headache, even. You know, some of these things which have more clear physiology. And by clear, I mean, more well-known or well understood, and then some of the things that are a little bit less are understood, but at least we get the concept of where they take place. So one of the things that I do, for example, is TMS, transcranial magnetic stimulation. So that's a form of brain stimulation, which is very different from one of the more well-known forms of brain stimulation, which is called ECT, or electroconvulsive therapy, what people used to call shock therapy. So shock therapy in that sense, which was an electrical shock, or even many, many years ago, they don't do it anymore, there was actually insulin shock therapy where they would use insulin to lower your blood sugar, which would cause basically a seizure. So ECT, the shock therapy through an electric convulsion, and insulin shock therapy, which again is no longer used anymore, because depriving cells of glucose is a bad idea, especially in the brain. The end result was a seizure. That seizure, you know, again, electrical, the brain is an electrical organ. So the seizure activity seemed to sort of reset the brain and it was a global seizure. I mean, and in the earlier days of ECT, and again, this is different from what I do. I'm setting up a distinction here. Sure, in the older days you would see the entire body convulsing.

Steve Martorano
It's what Nurse Ratched did.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Yes. And unfortunately, that movie set back psychiatry quite a bit. I mean, even to this day, people asked me about that I'm not going to end up like that right? No, you're not gonna end up like that. That was a movie it was, you know, embellished for Hollywood and, and even in its day, it was inaccurate, but even the more modern version of ECT, which involves succinylcholine, and other anesthetics, so that you're asleep, and you're not moving, so your brain is convulsing, and we're identifying that on an EEG a brainwave monitor, but we're not physically moving.

Steve Martorano
So in the bad old days, it was a kind of a blunt instrument to achieve the desired result?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right. It's a sledgehammer to fix the clock. You know, the old-fashioned clock as opposed to, you know, a finer instrument. So, so TMS, I would argue, is this newer, finer instrument. So in this case, you're wide awake, there's no anesthesia involved, and you're pinpointing specific areas in the brain that you can actually access non-invasively. So it's an electromagnetic field that you can locate, this magnetic coil, on the scalp, and it has enough power to penetrate through the scalp and skull and get the magnetic field into certain areas in the brain. And we can identify those areas. For example, the motor cortex, which is you know, is fairly well understood. Different parts of the motor cortex, as you move along, say, from medial to lateral, you can find where they activate different parts of the body. We can use the magnetic field to identify, in most cases, we use what's called a thumb twitch, so the adductor pollicis muscle in your thumb, we get that to twitch, and we dial down the dosage or the power of the magnet to get it to what is the lowest possible dose or power strength of the magnetic field that will elicit that thumb switch. That's unique to you. So for one person, it might be 40. For another person, it might be 60. And the numbers aren't important, but just the difference between them.

Steve Martorano
You get a baseline for people.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
You get a baseline, and then you calculate a strength. And then you use another anatomical landmark in order to identify this area in the brain called the dorsal lateral prefrontal cortex, which is more or less right about here. That's like a gateway to the other networks in the brain. And so this idea of networks we were talking about before, like the brain is just sort of a blob, what does it when you look at it grossly, what is it? But when you look at it functionally, when you can do these tests, you can see we right now seem that there are connections between different parts of the brain. So there are various networks in the brain, one of them called the default mode network that I alluded to earlier, has a lot of connection with the anterior cingulate cortex, which is a part of the brain in the front. Now, again, these names are not important to remember, but what's important to understand is that the DLPFC is a very superficial structure. So we can get the magnetic fields to reach that without hitting the entire brain. So instead of that, you know sledgehammer approach, we can use a finer instrument non-invasively, to get the right part of the brain that that then accesses these other critical functions.

Steve Martorano
So you're in a position now with a technique like TMS, to be able to, as you said, Get that baseline. So as an individual treatment for an individual person, locate, you already know the area of the brain that impacts whatever behaviors going on, and then raise or lower the magnetic force in that specific area. For something like depression, and addiction, you can do the same techniques?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Well, same techniques, slightly different protocol in terms of the pulse wave of the magnetic field changes somewhat, you know...

Steve Martorano
It's the same, it's the same idea.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Same idea, though, absolutely. And part of that has to do if you think about a repetitive loop in your head of, you know, let's say depression, where I'm really down in the dumps, my life is terrible, I can't get out of bed, I can't do anything, I everything I do fails, I'm no good. That's a really repetitive loop that a depressed person has that is essentially their default mode network. And their default mode network is highly connected to that other part of the brain that I mentioned, the anterior cingulate cortex, that part of your brain has to do with the future anticipation of pleasure. So if you think about, you know, tomorrow night, you're going out to dinner with your wife, and you're looking forward to it. On some level, that's a healthy ACC anterior cingulate cortex telling, you know, functioning properly, like this is something to look forward to tomorrow. If you're really depressed, you can't get to that because you're just stuck in this loop. And the TMS protocols can help kind of separate those two things so that the anterior cingulate can work properly without this repetitive loop. Interestingly enough, and we're gonna go into a different topic if we address this but psychedelics like psilocybin seem to do something similar to that they seem to kind of take that default mode network offline for a little while, not in, it's not permanent, but for even a few hours, enough that you then gain this new perspective like, "Hey, that's not me, that's just this weird loop." And then you can kind of access it differently along with talk therapy in those sessions, people are showing some interesting, you know, that's sort of another direction of the future of neuropsychiatry.

Steve Martorano
Yeah, we're hearing a lot about that. Now, our guest is Dr. Jonathan Beatty, he is a psychiatrist, he is treating people for a number of problems, from pain management to mood disorders to addiction, and he has joined us to really give us you know, what is the kind of the future of this, of this field of medicine, we are a long way, from the time when, if I were depressed, or having some other sort of behavior or mood disorder problems, were a long way from the time where the process began with someone saying, so tell me about your relationship to your mother.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Right and, and, you know, I just to clarify, I mean, you know, one of my mentors in training is a psychoanalyst, so he's a physician. He's a psychiatrist -- does not prescribe any medication -- strictly does psychoanalysis. It's remarkable how there is a place for that. So I don't want to discount that. I just want to clarify, I'm not.

Steve Martorano
First of all, as you know, a psychiatric examination is only as good as the person -- and this is true of any, any physician -- only is competent is the guy in front of you, the girl in front of you. It takes a special individual, who's sharp, understands the field, and is very empathetic, to use just the talk therapy to get to the bottom of anything. What's exciting about this is let's face it, it's more scientific. What's more, yeah, this is what we know. Let's see what we can do about it. You mentioned medicine I wanted we talked about TMS, which, by the way, you told me earlier, is an outpatient procedure, you go in for your regular visit, how's that work?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Exactly, right. So it's an outpatient procedure, you come into the office, you sit down in a chair, the equipment is there, it's again, non-invasive, you're wide awake the whole time, you could be if you wanted to read a newspaper, or listening to headphones of your favorite music. But again, you're alert and wide awake. And the technician whether it's me the as the physician in the room, or a technician, certain pieces of it need to be done by the medical provider. So that motor threshold and some of the more sort of technical logical aspects of it are done by the physician. And then the rest of it is often done by a technician in my office is done by a physician assistant. And so the procedure length is based on the protocol, there are protocols that are the shortest three minutes protocols that are as long as 37 minutes. The most common protocol I would say right now is a 19-minute protocol. And then yeah, as soon as it's finished. There's a coil that rests on your scalp. And it's if you've been in an MRI or ever seen when you hear that, like tap, tap, tap, tap, that is magnetic, the electromagnet inside the housing tapping against it, you know, against the inside wall, and you can hear that, although it's fairly quiet, you can definitely hear it and then you can feel it to a small degree, even though the housing is not moving because it's making contact and then the thing is tapping inside it. You can Dr. Jonathan Beatty a light tapping that's the sometimes people described as if...

Steve Martorano
You enter into an enclosure for this the way you would for an MRI?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Not at all. Nope, so you're sitting in a room in a chair, a comfortable chair that reclines and you know, it's sort of you know, it's a medical chair that where you can raise the legs and recline and so you're in a comfortable position with your arms on the armrests. And you're wide awake and you're looking around, you're not like enclosed in a claustrophobic type thing, the way that some people experience in MRI.

Steve Martorano
Here to talk about the use of medicines, which are referred to as MAT.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Yes.

Steve Martorano
Medical Assisted Treatment. They've been some great success in that. What can you tell us about how you use them in your practice?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Sure, well, even that, you know, we talked a little bit in this interview about the history of things and where the names for certain things come from and what they come to me now. So even MAT is sort of a funny term. So Medication-Assisted Treatment. Well, we don't treat heart disease with medication and refer to it as medication-assisted treatment, we refer to it as medical treatment. So it's this idea that MAT refers most commonly or most frequently with addiction. So it's the idea that we're taking something that was historically not medical. So we had a set of treatments that were nonmedical, and now we're going to try using medication to treat it. Which is sort of odd when you consider that it is a medical disease and that we are treating it as such. There are behavioral components to it which of course can be addressed in you know, more psychological type. There are certainly pharmacologic interventions, and so to speak to those in terms of addiction, one of the common ones that I use a lot is Naloxone. So that's an opioid antagonist, meaning that it blocks opioid receptors throughout your central nervous system -- certain subtypes of that opioid receptor more importantly. And it can be used and is FDA approved to treat both alcohol use disorder and opiate use disorder. The latter is a bit more obvious if you block opiate receptors. If you take an opiate, it's not going to work. You said alcohol use disorder. Yeah. What does that mean? You know, how does blocking an opiate receptor do anything to alcohol addiction? And the answer is, I don't entirely know and neither does anybody else. But to some extent, it seems like that the pleasure reward pathway is mediated through an endogenous opioid pathway in the brains of alcoholics. So when a non-alcoholic brain experiences intoxication, there is a degree of euphoria and enjoyment. It's not like overload. It's not high gear, it's enjoyable, but a lot of it is based on the surroundings, the social atmosphere, the experience of where you are the good meal, that it's complementing those things. In a nonalcoholic brain, they activate the pleasure reward pathway, but they're probably not doing much to the opioid pathway. An addicted brain, an alcoholic brain, it's more commonly through this opioid pathway, which if you block it, you diminish the euphoric effect of the alcohol and therefore reduce the association with that and therefore reduce that heavy drinking.

Steve Martorano
Isn't it also the case in addiction treatment that involves medicine or a technique that we don't know about yet? Also, benefits from talk therapy?

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Absolutely. And so I should have even started off by saying that none of these medications is intended to be a silver bullet by itself. They're intended to be part of a comprehensive treatment program that includes psychosocial support. And there are other medications like for opioids, there's buprenorphine, you've certainly heard of methadone and methadone clinics that buprenorphine is an option that can be done in the office setting, whereas a methadone clinic is a special government-designated facility, anti-abuse, or disulfiram. That's for alcohol. So that's a very old drug that has a place but again, looks at it from a different perspective that was developed when that was just they all they understood was if we block an enzyme that breaks down alcohol, we leave it in a toxic state that makes you sick, if so, in other words, if you drink alcohol, you get sick. That's a punishment though, that's like you're a bad person, I'm going to give you this drug that makes you sick if you drink. So it's a punitive model. And if you didn't also complement that with talk therapy to explain No, we're not trying to punish you for that we're just trying to get the alcohol out of the way so that we can find out what else is going on. There are newer drugs like naltrexone, you know, which can work better. There's another one called Campral that has a place for alcohol, you know, and so this OBOT - it stands for Office-Based Opioid Treatment is a newer thing. I mean, newer, you know, a couple of decades at this point. But buprenorphine has been available and is now available in the long-acting injectable, there used to be an implantable form of it. And so these things can really help get the drug out of the way, or the substance out of the way. But then the work has to happen...

Steve Martorano
You want to make that we make that point a lot. You know, if you're in the grip of some addiction, and you find yourself in front of someone that says, this drug or this injection is all you need, then you're in front of the wrong person.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
If somebody without addiction without any mental health issues, goes to the doctor and says oh, I, you know, I broke my ankle, okay, here's Percocet, and you get a month or two of Percocet or three and I see this, a lot of patients that come to me, this is how it started. It wasn't like they went out on the street looking for heroin. These were people that were highly functional, basically, you know, upstanding people in the sense that they weren't, they were going somewhere in their life, they weren't looking to fall into a drug addiction. Not that most people who become addicted are but some certainly do. But in this example, they get the Percocet and they get to take it and they like the way they feel from and they may or may not realize that But either way, they will eventually become physiologically dependent on it. And so if they didn't stop it abruptly, they're gonna have withdrawal and not know what it is. And so they might become addicted. And they might be somebody that you could just taper or use the buprenorphine to taper them off of it. And they may not need a lot of psychiatric or psychological intervention in terms of talk therapy, which would still probably be relevant, at least in the initial stages.

Steve Martorano
Sure.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
There's not something that we're missing.

Steve Martorano
Dr. Beatty can we sort of wrap up here talking about the leading edge of what's going on with something you mentioned earlier, but I want to just get a little more detail about it. You referred to it in some notes to me during the week, as psychedelic psychiatry.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Sure.

Steve Martorano
There's been a lot written about that. Tell us what's going on there.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Absolutely. So that's something we're hearing and seeing a lot in the news. You know, as you alluded to earlier, a lot of people get their information about mental health and treatments through the news and good, bad, or otherwise, I mean Time Magazine, I believe just recently had it on their cover. So this idea of psychedelic psychiatry, which, you know, began its research in the 50s and 60s, but unfortunately, it was not done in a very proper manner, scientifically speaking, and ethically speaking. And that led to basically shutting down all of this research for decades. And then more recently, they've been doing some research and it's sort of coming back into focus. And they're identifying some really remarkable benefits to the application of certain psychedelic drugs such as psilocybin and what's in magic mushrooms, and LSD. Which is being researched, I think, in Israel for alcohol addiction. And now most recently in the United States, the MDMA, which is the active drug, that's an ecstasy, the club drug, and, and of course, ketamine, which is a dissociative anesthetic. So ketamine from I think was invented or approved in 1972 used during surgery, a very safe drug, in fact, used in children for surgery for decades. They've identified that this is actually something that can be helpful to treat depression. And now there is another form of it that's available to treat depression, I also use that in my office called SPRAVATO, or S ketamine. It's a nasal spray that the patient inhales

Steve Martorano
Wow.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
And then they're under this sort of semi-anesthetic or subanesthetic state where they're a little bit sort of dreamy, for about 60 to 90 minutes. So they're in the office for two hours, actually. So they're monitored until they're completely resolved. And you know, interestingly enough, that's the sort of paradigm is just to have them sit there and you observe them. And that makes you know, you're just monitoring them. It's the sort of medical model. And this is, I guess, kind of tying into your question, what about incorporating, you know, sort of talk therapy. So it's not one or the other, but both that seem to show the best results. So what if we have either a psychiatrist or a psychotherapist that's able to talk with that person, while they're in this state where they're at default mode network is a little bit offline, they can access certain parts of the brain. And the patient who's suffering can actually have insight about those pieces of their brain or their experience that may be causing sadness or causing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. So in the example of MDMA, it's Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. In phase three trials, 60% or more of these people who have 20-year histories of PTSD are no longer meeting the criteria.

Steve Martorano
Wow.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
Now, mind you, that's 12 weeks of intensive psychotherapy, and in that about three sessions with MDMA. So like people are on MDMA all the time, this is three focalized sessions, they're about eight hours apiece with two therapists in the room...

Steve Martorano
Well, none of this is like methadone, which is a maintenance drug. These drugs, if they have any utility, will hopefully solve the problem with no further need for the drugs. It's a very exciting time, you know, we could do a whole other show. I mean, when you mentioned the irresponsibility, that the beginning of the psychedelic experiments if you're old enough, you know them. A couple of things happened after the creation in a laboratory of LSD that was not good. One was that the United -- you know, the Central Intelligence Agency immediately thought well, we can control people's minds. And of course, Timothy Leary, and a couple of other people said, "Oh, this is great. We'll just you know, have a great time and disrupt everything." And 15 minutes after that happened. the government said that's the end of it it's class one substance and you can't fool with it. So we're coming out from under that and hopefully doc and I know you'll agree with me on here we will get to a point it doesn't look like we are where these things go from being demonized to the pendulum swinging the other direction where suddenly there the appeal and end door of every problem we have. Marijuana is undergoing just that right now. Where it went from causing everything from you know, your hand...hair on your hands to pillaging and plunder to today we're being told we can cure everything. And that's certainly not the case either. Can we have you back many more times I have so many more questions about what you do and neuroscience and...

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
It was my honor and pleasure. I really enjoyed this and thank you so much for having me and I look forward to doing it again.

Steve Martorano
Appreciate it a lot Dr. Jonathan Beatty of you may become our in-house go-to guy when we talk about what's going on inside our heads. Thanks, Doc.

Dr. Jonathan Beatty
You got it.

Steve Martorano
Thanks as well. And don't forget to look for us everywhere you get your better podcasts. We appreciate it. See you next time on the Corner.

Retreat Behavioral Health
At Retreat Behavioral Health, we believe in the power of connection and quality care. We offer comprehensive holistic and compassionate treatment from industry-leading experts. Call 855-802-6600 and begin your journey today.

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TMS for Depression - One Patient's Journey

doc@wavetreatmentcenters.com (Jonathan Beatty) — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 01:23:02 GMT

Hi I'm Dan, my family nursery. Some of the problems that led me to seek TMS treatment were definitely depression and anxiety. I was seeing different doctors for six, seven years, probably a dozen different psychiatrists. They've all had their own game plan their own medication that they would try and come up with. I have been on medications for probably 12 years, you take a pill, it goes into your system, it can go anywhere, eventually, it's some gonna go up to your brain where it needs to work. Yeah, you have no idea where it's going, or what it's doing. With TMS, it's directly targeted at the area that needs to be addressed. Therefore, it makes sense that you wouldn't have to experience anything, you know, wild and crazy on the side. found Dr. Beatty, look at his info checked out his background, everything for me checked out. So I gave him a call. And very glad I did. I liked the fact that he was younger, very organized, very well spoken. You actually sit down and talk to him, instead of sit down and being spoken to, which for me, was everything. Didn't find that with any other doctors.

So leading up to the therapy, it was a question of do I want to try a different medication and deal with its own list of side effects? Or do I want to try something new, that has very little side effects, and had a pretty good chance of working. So I looked into it.

The treatment was 26 minutes long, five days a week for six weeks. So it's a commitment. But for me, it was worth doing the actual treatment. Obviously, the first day, you're scared to death, you have no idea what it's going to feel like the process itself was super easy. You just sit there, there's no pain feels like a mild massage. And then you're done.

So I started to see results, probably about halfway through. And whenever I would talk to Dr. Beatty, I would always say, I'm not sure what's going on. But I'm processing stuff differently. My thoughts seem a little slower. And that was great. So I went with it. Finishing the treatment the two main symptoms that I was trying to work on, was breaking down at night -- just crying -- and the physical sensations that come with anxiety, stomach dropping out, cold sweats, shaking, knock on wood...it wasn't I woke up one day, and it was all gone. Over the course of a couple of weeks, it seems like they don't exist.

The treatment completely changed relationships that I had personal professional. And when my parents that's both because I work with them. I live next to him. So they've seen the good, the bad, the ugly. And now it's a good.

Every doctor that he went to see said we're missing something. The only doctor that seemed to believe and turned out did believe in Danny follow them through getting them off all the medicines that the different doctors had put them on. They seem to be throwing darts at a board to try medicine for this and that. But it was never simple medicine. It was medicine that he had to taper off. Dr. Beatty was there by his side the whole time, giving them the support and we finally could then trust a doctor.

With working out here especially being organized is huge. Being on top of your schedule and other people's schedule is huge. When those side effects of depression and anxiety, you know creep in, it can cripple you sometimes. So the fact that I've overcome those, I'm gonna say day to day, everything's just improving and different aspects of my life seem like they're falling more into place. I can actually feel excited smile in a picture. That's huge.

It's been an incredible transition. After so many doctors said we're missing something. But Dr. Beatty was right there guiding them through it. And and it took a while. It was not an overnight thing by any means. But we've got Danny back.

What is the Difference Between OCD and Anxiety?

Mon, 12 Sep 2022 09:23:00 GMT

The Difference Between OCD and Anxiety

Obsessive-compulsive disorder and anxiety disorders can both involve distressing feelings. But the difference between OCD and anxiety is distinct. Here are a few examples:

OCD can involve compulsive behaviors. These types of behaviors are not symptomatic of anxiety disorders. People with anxiety disorders may experience severe fear or worry, but they do not feel forced to take action (other than to avoid the cause of their anxiety). People with OCD often feel pushed to engage in certain behaviors so that they can feel momentary relief.
Some people who have OCD fear that they will harm themselves or someone they care about. People who have anxiety may worry that they will embarrass themselves or offend others, but fear of causing bodily harm is not a typical symptom of anxiety.
Some anxiety disorders cause painful physical symptoms. OCD is not associated with this type of physical distress.

Another important difference between OCD and anxiety is the rate at which these conditions occur.

The National Institute of Mental Health reports that about 30% of adults will develop an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. The lifetime prevalence of OCD among American adults, the NIMH notes, is about 2%.

How Do I Know if I Have OCD or Anxiety?

The best way to find out if you have OCD, an anxiety disorder, or another mental health condition is to consult with a trained professional. This person can assess your symptoms, provide you with an accurate diagnosis, and (if necessary) recommend treatment options.

The difference between OCD and anxiety isn’t always easily observable by an untrained individual. This is why it is so important not to rely on self-diagnosis. To be sure that you are getting the help you need, you must be assessed and diagnosed by a qualified healthcare provider.

Once you know for certain which type of mental health disorder you have, you will be one step closer to getting the treatment that’s right for you.

What Does an OCD Compulsion Feel Like?

Some people who have OCD have both obsessions and compulsions. Other people have only one type of symptom or the other.

Obsessions are intrusive, distressing thoughts. OCD obsessions can be sources of great shame and significant emotional pain.

What does an OCD compulsion feel like? Imagine that you feel forced to engage in a certain behavior over and over again, day after day, week after week, month after month.

Specifically, what does an OCD compulsion feel like? Here are some examples:

Inability to leave a room unless all the lights have been switched on an off a certain number of times
Cannot walk out of a house until you have touched certain objects in a certain order
Repeatedly checking to make sure you have locked the door, unplugged an appliance, or performed some other safety-related task
You must ensure that objects in your house, room, or office are arranged in a particular order
Excessive hand-washing, even if you haven’t touched anything that would require you to do so
You take several showers every day, even if you haven’t engaged in any activities that would typically cause a person to need to shower
If you can’t or don’t engage in certain behaviors, you might feel that this inaction will result in something bad happening to someone you care about

To understand if you have OCD, it can be important to answer questions like What is an OCD obsession? and What does an OCD compulsion feel like? But to be certain that you have this disorder, you need to consult with a qualified mental health professional.

What Does Anxiety Feel Like?

Anxiety disorders can cause both physical and psychological symptoms. If you have developed an anxiety disorder, you may experience one or more of the following:

You feel persistent tension in the muscles in your back and shoulders
Frequent stomach aches, headaches, or more generalized pain
You feel you are in danger but you can’t identify a specific threat
Excessive worry that something bad may happen to someone you care about
You’re afraid that you are going to be fired from your job, even though there is no indication that your position is in peril
You have an overwhelming fear of certain situations, objects, or animals
You cannot be in small, confined spaces; in large, open areas; or in a crowd
When you’re in situations that trigger your symptoms, you may experience heavy perspiration, shortness of breath, racing heart rate, and the sensation of being smothered or choked

Symptoms are one difference between OCD and anxiety. The most effective type of treatment for these disorders can also differ.

How to Treat OCD?

An effective comprehensive treatment plan for obsessive-compulsive disorder often includes several types of therapy along with prescription medication.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often prescribed to people who have OCD. Examples of SSRIs include sertraline (which is sold under the trade name Zoloft) and fluvoxamine (Luvox).

Medications are typically most effective when they are used in combination with therapy. Therapy can help you develop symptom-management skills and make helpful behavioral changes. Therapy for OCD may include the following:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT)
Exposure therapy

Ketamine-assisted therapy can also be an effective component of treatment for OCD.

How to Treat Anxiety?

As with OCD, anxiety is also often treated with a combination of therapy and medication.

Fluoxetine, escitalopram, and paroxetine are among the medications that may be used to treat anxiety disorders. These three medications are marketed under the brand names Prozac, Lexapro, and Paxil, respectively.

The therapeutic part of anxiety treatment might include CBT, DBT, and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) . If you have a history of trauma, your care might also include eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

Treatment for anxiety can also include ketamine-assisted therapy .

Treatment for OCD and Anxiety in Philadelphia, PA

If you have been living with OCD and/or an anxiety disorder, the WAVE Treatment Centers team is here for you. Our facility in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a respected source of personalized outpatient treatment for adults who have OCD and anxiety. It’s time for you to get the care you need, so you can start living the healthier life you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can help.

The post What is the Difference Between OCD and Anxiety? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Dealing With Depression in Addiction Recovery

Fri, 02 Sep 2022 09:34:00 GMT

What is Depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder that can affect mood, energy level, motivation, and several other aspects of a person’s physical and emotional well-being. Depression is a general term that can refer to several conditions. The clinical term for these conditions is depressive disorders.

Two of the most common types of depression are major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder. Major depressive disorder is characterized by severe symptoms that last for at least two weeks. Persistent depressive disorder involves symptoms that aren’t always as intense as those of major depressive disorder, but which last for much longer.

A person who has persistent depressive disorder may experience symptoms on most days over a period of two years or longer. During this period, they may also sometimes have major depressive episodes.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

Common signs and symptoms of depression include the following:

Extreme sadness
Diminished energy level
Inability to feel joy or experience pleasure
Abnormal sleeping patterns (which can include both insomnia and hypersomnia)
Changes in appetite and resultant weight loss or gain
Headaches and stomach aches
Loss of interest in important topics, issues, or events
Difficulty concentrating or focusing
Lack of motivation
Pervasive sense of hopelessness
Thoughts of self-harm and suicide

The symptoms of depression can have a profound negative effect on a person’s life. But depression is treatable. People who experience depression in addiction recovery or at any other time in their lives can achieve improved quality of life when they get effective professional care.

The Link Between Depression and Substance Abuse

There is a strong association between depression and substance abuse. In certain cases, people who have depression turn to substance abuse as a form of self-medication. They abuse alcohol or another drug in an attempt to temporarily numb themselves from the distressing symptoms of depression.

In some circumstances, people who have been engaging in heavy or long-term substance abuse may have an elevated risk for developing a depressive disorder. This may be especially true of people who have experienced personal, professional, and/or legal problems due to their substance abuse.

Co-Occurring Disorders of Depression and Addiction

One of the many dangers of substance abuse is the development of a substance use disorder . This is the clinical term for addiction.

Millions of Americans are currently living with depression and co-occurring addiction. Clinicians refer to this as dual diagnosis. According to the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 9.5 million adults in the United States had a substance use disorder and depression or another mental illness in the previous year.

Coping Strategies for Depression in Addiction Recovery

One of the many benefits of receiving professional care for a substance use disorder is that you can develop effective strategies for coping with depression in addiction recovery. Depending on how you have been impacted by both addiction and depression, the following services and strategies may help:

Mindfulness : This is the practice of being fully present and aware of your emotions and environment without judging or otherwise reacting to what you are experiencing. In addition, mindfulness can be an effective tool for managing symptoms of depression without resorting to substance abuse.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) : This therapeutic approach can help you develop skills in four areas: distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. These skills can empower you to cope with depression in addiction recovery in a healthy manner.
Journaling : Expressing your thoughts and feelings in writing can help you process them more effectively. Journaling can provide you with both distance and perspective, so you can acknowledge your emotions and consider how they are impacting your life. The insights you receive from journaling can help you develop healthier ways of responding to difficult situations.

Find Treatment for Depression and Addiction

Depression and addiction are both treatable conditions. However, it’s important to receive comprehensive care from a provider that can effectively address both disorders.

If you have been seeking professional treatment for depression and addiction, here are some important questions to ask when you contact or visit a facility:

Do you offer specialized dual diagnosis programming?
If I need to complete detox, can I do that at your center?
What are the qualifications of the professionals who provide care at your facility?
How will you determine what services are best for me?
Do you offer medication management services or medication-assisted treatment (MAT)?
Can you effectively treat people who also have a history of trauma?
Can I tour your facility or see photos of your treatment environment?

When you are trying to find treatment for depression and addiction, focus on identifying the provider whose services match your needs and expectations. In conclusion, there is no single form of treatment that is perfect for every person. What’s most important is finding the place that’s the best fit for you.

Begin Treatment for Depression & Addiction in Philadelphia, PA

September is National Recovery Month as well as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month . Don’t let detression derail your addiction recovery. WAVE Treatment Centers is a trusted source of personalized care and comprehensive support for adults in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, area. Contact us today to learn how we can help.

The post Dealing With Depression in Addiction Recovery appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Can You Get Addicted to Marijuana?

Fri, 19 Aug 2022 09:04:00 GMT

Marijuana Addiction Treatment in Chestnut Hill, PA

If marijuana addiction has disrupted your life or the life of someone you care about, please know that effective treatment is available. WAVE Treatment Centers provides personalized care for adults who have become addicted to marijuana and other substances. Contact us today to learn how we can help.

Can You Get Addicted to Marijuana?

For decades, marijuana has been one of the most commonly used illegal substances in the United States. In recent years, changes to state laws have expanded legal access to this drug. However, just because a drug is legal, that does not mean it is harmless. So, can you get addicted to marijuana? The answer to this questions may surprise you.

What is Marijuana?

The substance that is commonly referred to as marijuana is composed of dried flowers from the cannabis sativa plant. The primary psychoactive element in marijuana is delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. The cannabis sativa plant also contains more than 100 other compounds that are similar to THC. These substances are known as cannabinoids.

THC and other cannabinoids are responsible for the effects that a person experiences when they use marijuana. Common effects of marijuana use include:

Elevated mood
Relaxation
Euphoria
Increased sensitivity to light and sound
Impaired coordination
Distorted perception of time
Diminished inhibitions
Memory problems
Pain reduction
Increased appetite

Some people who use marijuana also report feelings of anxiety, paranoia, and depression.

Is Marijuana Addictive?

Contrary to what some people claim, you can get addicted to marijuana.

The risk of developing marijuana addiction is lower than the risk of becoming addicted to certain other drugs, such as opioids. But this does not mean that marijuana use is a risk-free endeavor. The longer a person continues to use marijuana, the greater the likelihood becomes that they will develop marijuana addiction.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) , about 10 percent of people who use marijuana become addicted to the drug. Among people who begin using marijuana before age 18, SAMHSA reports, the rate of addiction is about 17 percent.

In 2015, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reported that about 4 million Americans met the clinical criteria for marijuana addiction.

Signs of Marijuana Addiction

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) uses the term “cannabis use disorder” to describe marijuana addiction. According to the DSM-5, signs of marijuana addiction include:

Using larger than intended amounts of marijuana
Using marijuana for a longer amount of time than intended
Spending considerable time acquiring marijuana, using it, or recovering from the use of the drug
Having powerful urges to use marijuana
Failing to meet personal, academic, or professional responsibilities due to marijuana use
Continuing to use marijuana even after experiencing harm or other problems due to previous use
Using marijuana at times when it is clearly hazardous to do so (such as when driving a car)

Two other significant signs of marijuana addiction are tolerance and withdrawal.

Tolerance means a person needs to use larger amounts of the drug to achieve the effects they used to experience through minimal use.
Withdrawal means developing physical or psychological pain when a person stops or reduces their marijuana use.

A person who exhibits the signs above may be addicted to marijuana. If a person who has developed this disorder doesn’t get appropriate help, they may be at risk for many long-term negative effects.

Effects of Long-Term Marijuana Use

Long-term marijuana use can lead to several negative effects, including:

Substandard performance in school or at work
Academic failure
Inability to get and keep a job
Financial difficulties
Conflicts with family members and friends
Physical injuries due to impaired judgement and coordination
Legal problems, including being arrested, fined, and jailed
Development or worsening of certain mental health symptoms
Cognitive deficiencies

When a person enters treatment for marijuana addiction, they reduce their risk for continued harm. During treatment, they can also begin to repair any damage that marijuana abuse has caused in their life.

Symptoms and Timeline of Marijuana Withdrawal

As mentioned earlier on this page, withdrawal is a common sign of addiction, also known as substance use disorder .

When a person becomes addicted to marijuana or any other substance, their body adapts to the presence of the drug. However, when a person can’t acquire the drug, or when they try to stop using it, their body may react with a variety of unpleasant symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms can include physical and psychological distress.

Possible signs of marijuana withdrawal include:

Irritability
Anger
Restlessness
Anxiety
Insomnia
Loss of appetite
Depression
Fever
Chills
Headache

Marijuana withdrawal symptoms usually begin to appear within 24 to 72 hours after a person has stopped using the substance. The symptoms typically reach peak intensity within five to seven days, then gradually subside over the next week or two. The DSM-5 notes that sleep difficulties due to marijuana withdrawal may persist for a month or longer. The development of withdrawal symptoms is one of the reasons why professional treatment for marijuana addiction can be so beneficial.

When a person tries to stop using the drug on their own, the distress of withdrawal can quickly push them back into active marijuana abuse. However, when a person enters a treatment program , they will be in a safe and closely supervised environment. They won’t have access to marijuana, and they will be able to receive focused support to help them manage their cravings and other withdrawal symptoms.

Find Treatment for Marijuana Addiction in Philadelphia, PA

The post Can You Get Addicted to Marijuana? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

How Diet and Exercise Support Mental Health

Fri, 12 Aug 2022 09:15:00 GMT

How Diet and Exercise Support Mental Health

You already know that diet and exercise are the keys to improving your strength and maintaining a healthy weight. But did you know that proper nutrition and appropriate physical activity can also enhance your mental and emotional well-being? When you understand more about how diet and exercise support mental health, you can begin to make the changes that can significantly improve your quality of life.

The Benefits of Exercise for Mental Health

Moving your body can improve your mood, boost your self-confidence, and ease the symptoms of many mental health disorders. Best of all, you don’t need to train for a marathon or become a world-class weightlifter in order to enjoy the mental health benefits of exercise.

Reduces Depression Symptoms

Physical activity alone cannot eliminate all depressive disorders. But considerable research indicates that regular exercise can improve symptoms. Studies also suggest that exercise can reduce the likelihood that a person will develop depression.

For example, a study in the June 2022 issue of JAMA Psychiatry found that even moderate amounts of physical activity can lower a person’s risk for depression. The JAMA study involved an analysis of 15 prior studies that involved more than 190,000 adults.

The study’s authors estimated that, if the entire population got the recommended amount of daily physical activity, more than 10% of all cases of depression may have been eliminated.

Helps Control Anxiety

Anxiety disorders can cause people to become more sedentary. This lack of activity can, in turn, exacerbate symptoms of anxiety. But when people who have anxiety incorporate greater amounts of activity into their daily life, they may begin to experience relief from their symptoms.

According to a 2013 study in the journal Frontiers in Psychiatry , exercise promotes a range of physiological changes in the body. Several of these changes can have a beneficial effect on how people respond to stress and manage anxiety. One of the changes noted in the study involves exercise’s ability to reduce reactivity levels in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis plays a key role in how a person responds to stress. Preventing the HPA axis from overreacting to stress can lead to an easing of anxiety symptoms.

Promotes Mindfulness

Mindfulness can be incorporated into treatment for several types of mental and behavioral health disorders. Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and substance use disorders are just a few examples of the many concerns that can be helped by mindfulness.

Mindfulness encourages people to be present in the moment and aware of their emotions and surroundings. It also promotes a nonjudgmental perspective, as well as a healthy mind-body connection. Yoga, walking meditation, mindful running, and various breathing exercises offer opportunities to blend mindfulness with physical exercise to improve your emotional well-being.

The Benefits of Diet for Mental Health

Food is the fuel that powers your body. When you put the wrong type of food into your body, you diminish your ability to perform to your greatest potential. But when you start to follow a healthier diet, you can improve both your physical strength and your cognitive abilities.

Healthier Brain Functioning

What you eat can impact how you think. A 2021 article on the Harvard Medical School website reports that the following five foods can promote improved brain functioning:

Green vegetables such as kale, broccoli, and spinach
Fatty fish such as tuna, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids
Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries
Caffeinated coffee and tea
Walnuts and certain other types of nuts

The foods listed above are also associated with improved heart and blood vessel health.

Production of Serotonin

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. It relays messages between cells in your central nervous system. Your body’s ability to produce and regulate serotonin can affect your mood. Improper serotonin levels have been linked to anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns .

One of the many benefits of following a healthy diet plan is that this can help your body produce an appropriate amount of serotonin. Poultry, eggs, spinach, salmon, and soy products are among the many foods that can help you maintain optimal serotonin levels.

Controls Blood Sugar

Excess sugar in the blood has long been linked to health problems such as diabetes. Research indicates that blood sugar levels can also affect a person’s mental health. High blood sugar can influence and heighten anxiety, irritability, and depression.

To reduce your sugar levels, experts advise including fruits, nuts, sweet potatoes, oatmeal, and legumes in your diet. Reducing your intake of carbonated soda, candy bars, white bread, and other sugar- or carbohydrate-rich foods and beverages can also have a positive impact.

Treatment Programs Can Advise on Diet and Exercise For Mental Health

Effective treatment can help you understand how diet and exercise support mental health. When you get help from a reputable provider, your treatment team may offer nutritional guidance. They may also help you find appropriate ways to incorporate exercise into your daily life.

Of course, for diet and exercise to support your mental health, they have to include foods you like to eat and activities that you enjoy taking part in. You don’t have to eat food you hate or engage in exercise that feels like punishment. When you work with compassionate treatment providers , they’ll help you find the healthy foods and beneficial activities that you will want to include in your life.

Find Outpatient Mental Health Treatment in Philadelphia, PA

WAVE Treatment Centers provides a personalized outpatient programming for adults who have been struggling with anxiety, depression, and many other mental health disorders. Our treatment center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is a safe and supportive place where you can learn to manage your symptoms and regain control of your life. Contact us today to learn more.

The post How Diet and Exercise Support Mental Health appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Can You Lose Your Job for Going to Rehab?

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 09:01:00 GMT

Can You Lose Your Job for Going to Rehab?

Deciding to enter a drug treatment program can literally save your life. But some people delay taking this essential step because they fear it will cost them their job. But can you lose your job for going to rehab? Each case is unique, but both the law and your employer may offer protection and support.

Your Job Versus Rehab

If you’ve been wondering if you can lose your job for going to rehab, here’s some good news: Making the courageous choice to get help for an addiction to alcohol or another drug should not cause you to be fired or laid off.

Federal law offers some protection. Also, your workplace may have additional policies in place to protect your job while you are in rehab. If you are in a union, or if your employer has an employee assistance program (EAP), you may be able to access them for information about your rights and your options. Of course, if you have been using drugs while at work, or if you have been showing up for work while under the influence of alcohol or another drug, these protections may not apply. Employers typically have the right to terminate employees in these circumstances.

However, if you decide to get professional addiction treatment, and you haven’t been cited for an alcohol or drug infraction at work, you should be able to keep your job while you’re getting the help you need.

Can You Go to Rehab and Still Work?

In certain circumstances, it is possible to continue to work while you’re in rehab. This depends on three factors: your needs, the type of rehab program you’re participating in, and your job requirements.

If you need to detox before engaging in outpatient rehab, you may need to take some time off from work.

Our outpatient rehab professionals can help you get through withdrawal safely and with minimal discomfort. However, even with this assistance, detoxing from alcohol or other addictive drugs takes a toll on the mind and body. Withdrawal may make it difficult for you to perform at work, so having some time off can be beneficial.

If you enter an inpatient or residential rehab program, you won’t be able to work while you’re receiving treatment. After all, these programs require you to be at the facility 24/7. But if you choose an outpatient rehab program, you may have much more flexibility. For example, when you receiving outpatient detox care at WAVE, you only need to be present at our facility for counseling. During non-treatment hours, your time is yours to use as you see fit. This may include continuing to work.

The requirements of your job can also influence if you will be able to continue to work while you’re in rehab. If your job offers flexible hours, or if you have the opportunity to take a few hours away from work on treatment days, you might be able to continue working while you’re in outpatient rehab. But if you have a strict work schedule, or if you need to be on-call around the clock, it may be more difficult for you to continue working while you are in rehab.

Communication is key when trying to determine if you can continue to work while you are in rehab. Talk to your treatment provider and your employer to identify options that are best for your health.

Can You Collect Unemployment While in Rehab?

According to the Pennsylvania Office of Unemployment Compensation , if you lost your job because you failed a drug test at work, you are not eligible for unemployment benefits. The only exceptions to this policy are if the test was unlawful or if it violated an existing labor agreement.

Similarly, you probably cannot collect unemployment if you quit your job, even to attend rehab.

PA’s Office of Unemployment Compensation also notes that a person must be “able and available” for work in order to qualify for unemployment benefits. You must also prove that you have been actively searching for work each week that you receive unemployment.

If you are in an inpatient or residential rehab facility, you probably won’t qualify for unemployment based on these criteria. However, if you’re taking part in outpatient rehab but also continuing to look for work, you may be able to receive unemployment.

To determine if you can collect unemployment while in rehab, contact the PA Office of Unemployment Compensation. You might also ask a representative of the rehab facility you are considering.

How You Are Protected If You Go to Drug Rehab

Two pieces of federal legislation can protect you from losing your job if you go to rehab. The first is the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the second is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Here’s a quick overview of how each can help:

Family and Medical Leave Act : The FMLA was signed into law by President Bill Clinton in 1993. If your employer meets certain criteria, they must give you up to 12 weeks each year to receive care for a health condition. This includes mental illness and addiction. During this 12-week period, your employer does not have to pay you, but they must continue your group health benefits. You can read more about FMLA requirements for mental illness and addiction on the U.S. Department of Labor website .

Americans with Disabilities Act : President George W. Bush signed the ADA into law in 1990. As described on this fact sheet from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) , drug addiction that “substantially limits a major life activity” is defined as a disability under the ADA. Addiction is also considered to be a disability by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

The ADA protects people from workplace discrimination if they have completed a treatment program or if they are currently participating in rehab.

Begin Drug Rehab in Philadelphia, PA

Drug rehab can put you on the path toward a much healthier and more satisfying life. WAVE Treatment Centers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, can provide you with the focused outpatient care you need. Our team can also explain the legal and workplace protections that may prevent you from losing your job. Contact us today to learn more.

The post Can You Lose Your Job for Going to Rehab? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Avoid Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms for Trauma

Fri, 22 Jul 2022 09:25:00 GMT

Avoid Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms for Trauma

Trauma is a sadly common part of life. According to a 2017 article in Psychotraumatology , surveys indicate more than 70% of people go through at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. In other words, while it may be virtually impossible to avoid trauma, you can influence how trauma affects your life. If you avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms for trauma, you may be able to lessen your risk for long-term harm.

What is Trauma?

When mental health professionals use the word trauma, they are referring to the psychological impact of terrifying occurrences or circumstances. People may be traumatized by physical attacks and sexual assault. Being abused or neglected during childhood can also lead to emotional trauma. Other potential sources of trauma are car accidents, serious illnesses, tornadoes, military combat, the sudden loss of a loved one, and acts of terrorism.

In short, trauma typically occurs after a person has been involved in one or more life-threatening experiences. People can also develop trauma after witnessing a horrifying event.

Regardless of the cause, untreated trauma can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. Physical health problems, substance abuse and addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and an increased risk for other mental health concerns are among the many potential negative effects of untreated trauma.

What are Coping Mechanisms?

Coping mechanisms are the behaviors and strategies that people employ to deal with stress, pressure, and other difficult experiences. People also use coping mechanisms in the aftermath of trauma.

Some coping mechanisms are short-term responses, while others can lead to lasting changes in how a person thinks, feels, and acts. Some of these are healthy and productive. But there are also several unhealthy coping mechanisms for trauma.

Healthy vs. Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms for Trauma

Traumatic experiences are, by definition, horrible. Healthy coping mechanisms can’t eliminate the pain entirely, but they can limit a person’s risk for future harm. On the other hand, unhealthy coping mechanisms for trauma can intensify a person’s suffering.

Examples of Healthy Coping Mechanisms

Here are a few examples of healthy ways to respond to trauma:

Talk to someone : Isolation can exacerbate emotional distress. Having honest conversations with trusted loved ones will remind you that you are not alone.
Practice mindfulness : Yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness-based practices can ease your mind and help you resist the urge to react impulsively.
Write : Journaling is a safe and productive way to express your thoughts. Sometimes, the simple act of translating your feelings into words on a page can be both therapeutic and cathartic.
Get professional help : Schedule an appointment with a therapist, counselor, or other healthcare provider. This person can assess your needs and recommend the best course of action for you, which might include psychiatry .

Examples of Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms

The following are examples of unhealthy coping mechanisms for trauma:

Ignoring the problem : Denying the existence of trauma doesn’t make it go away. It simply delays the inevitable moment when you will have to face your feelings. The longer you wait, the more painful this experience may be.
Abusing alcohol or other drugs : Substance abuse is an unfortunately common means of trying to avoid difficult emotions. As with denial, numbing yourself to emotional pain doesn’t do anything to address the problem. Also, substance abuse can lead to addiction and a host of other negative outcomes.
Isolating yourself : When you withdraw from friends and family, you deny yourself a valuable source of support. Isolation can also intensify the symptoms of certain mental health disorders. When you are struggling, having the right people in your life can make a world of difference.
Distracting yourself : Spending binges, overeating, excessive gambling, and unsafe sex are just a few of the many dangerous behaviors that some people take as a means of distracting themselves from their inner turmoil. As with substance abuse, these behaviors are likely to lead to additional problems and more intense mental anguish.

How to Avoid Unhealthy Coping Skills for Trauma

One of the best ways to avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms for trauma is to develop constructive response strategies before you need them. For example, if you already practice mindfulness, follow a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Also, regularly interact with a group of supportive friends and family members. With these tools, you may be better prepared to deal with the aftermath of future trauma.

If you haven’t already acquired the skills that can help you manage the effects of trauma, this doesn’t mean that you have failed. It just means that you may have to put in some additional work to protect your physical, emotional, and social well-being.

Consulting with a trained professional is a highly beneficial step to take, regardless of how effective you believe your coping skills are. A mental health professional can evaluate the symptoms you’ve been experiencing and identify the full scope of your needs.

If you receive a diagnosis of a mental health disorder, this professional can either provide the care you need or refer you to a treatment center that offers the services that are best for you.

Begin Treating Trauma and Addiction in Philadelphia, PA

WAVE Treatment Centers provides of customized treatment for adults in the Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, area whose lives have been impacted by PTSD, other effects of trauma, and addiction. Our outpatient mental health program incorporates a dynamic variety of therapies and support services to help clients live healthier and more satisfying lives. Contact us today to learn more.

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The Dangers of Mixing Klonopin and Alcohol

Fri, 15 Jul 2022 09:16:00 GMT

The Dangers of Mixing Klonopin and Alcohol

Klonopin and alcohol are both legal substances. In certain circumstances, they can be safe when used in moderation. But this doesn’t mean they are harmless. In fact, the dangers of mixing Klonopin and alcohol can be catastrophic.

When people misuse either of these substances, their minds and bodies can be profoundly affected. The dangers of mixing Klonopin and alcohol can include addiction, overdose, and death.

What is Klonopin?

Klonopin is a prescription medication that is typically used to treat people who have panic attacks or seizures. The generic version of this medication is clonazepam. The effects of Klonopin can include sedation, relaxation, and the easing of anxiety.

Klonopin is categorized as a benzodiazepine. Other common benzodiazepines, or benzos, include Ativan, Valium, and Xanax. Benzos are sometimes also referred to as downers or tranquilizers. Unfortunately, the pleasurable effects of Klonopin can entice some people to abuse them for recreational purposes.

When taken as directed by a qualified healthcare provider, Klonopin can be safe and beneficial. But when a person abuses Klonopin, they put themselves at risk for several negative outcomes, including overdose and addiction. Certain types of Klonopin abuse, such as mixing Klonopin and alcohol, can be fatal.

Effects of Mixing Klonopin and Alcohol

Combining any prescription medication with alcohol can be extremely harmful. The following are among the many dangers of mixing Klonopin and alcohol:

Physical injuries due to slips, falls, and other accidents
Damage to the liver, kidneys, and other organs
Legal problems, including arrest, fines, or imprisonment
Losing your job and being incapable of finding another one
Becoming addicted to one or both of these substances
Developing a co-occurring mental health concern
Loss of hope for the future
Overdose and death

As these effects may indicate, the dangers of mixing Klonopin and alcohol can include physical, emotional, and social problems. However, when you receive proper care from a trusted treatment provider, you can avoid these outcomes. With effective professional help, you can live a healthier, more satisfying life.

Signs and Symptoms of Klonopin and Alcohol Addiction

Addiction impacts different people in different ways. Some exhibit clear signs of becoming addicted to alcohol or other substances. Others may be more successful at hiding evidence of their substance abuse and addiction. In general, however, the following are among the many potential signs and symptoms of addictions involving Klonopin and alcohol:

Using Klonopin in larger amounts than directed, or using it longer than advised by the prescribing physician
Attempting to acquire multiple Klonopin prescriptions by visiting several doctors and lying about symptoms (a process that is called “doctor-shopping”)
Needing to use Klonopin or alcohol to wake up in the morning or to get to sleep at night
Experiencing anger or agitation when unable to acquire and use Klonopin and alcohol
Continuing to abuse Klonopin and alcohol even after incurring harm due to prior use
Engaging in dangerous behaviors, such as mixing Klonopin and alcohol
Lying or being otherwise deceptive about their use of Klonopin and alcohol
Trying to stop using Klonopin and alcohol, but being unable to do so

Addiction is a behavioral health disorder that can have a devastating impact on a person’s life. If someone you know has been exhibiting warning signs of Klonopin and alcohol addiction, they need to consult with a doctor or addiction expert.

Completing an addiction assessment and receiving an accurate diagnosis are two important steps on the path toward successful recovery from Klonopin and alcohol addiction.

Signs of Klonopin Overdose

The risks of Klonopin abuse include overdose. Overdose occurs when a person takes more of a drug than their body can safely process.

Depending on which type of substance a person has taken, the effects of an overdose can include significant irreversible damage, as well as death. The following are possible signs of Klonopin overdose:

Dizziness
Extreme fatigue or sleepiness
Double vision
Slurred speech
Tics, tremors, or other involuntary movements
Dangerously low body temperature
Abnormal heart rate
Hallucinations
Bluish coloration near the lips and fingertips
Inability to wake up

Anyone who exhibits any of the signs above after taking Klonopin may need immediate medical care.

Treatment for Co-Occurring Alcohol and Klonopin Addiction

Co-occurring alcoholism and Klonopin addiction are complex challenges, but they can be treated. People struggling with these co-occurring disorders can achieve an improved quality of life.

Whenever a person has developed more than one disorder, it is important that treatment addresses the full scope of their needs. Treating one concern while ignoring the other can be a recipe for disaster.

In the case of co-occurring alcohol and Klonopin addiction, some people may need to begin their treatment journey in a detoxification program.Also often referred to as detox, detoxification helps people get through withdrawal safely. Depending on how long a person has been abusing Klonopin and alcohol, trying to stop can be both painful and dangerous.

After a person has completed detox, they will be better prepared to fully engage in therapy.

During therapy, people can address the problems that may have initially pushed them to abuse Klonopin and alcohol. Psychotherapy sessions are supportive forums where people can also begin to develop the skills that will help them to resist future urges to use alcohol and Klonopin.

Find Treatment for Addiction in Philadelphia, PA

WAVE Treatment Centers provides life-changing treatment for addiction to Klonopin, alcohol, and other substances. Our center in Philadelphia is a safe and welcoming place where people benefit from quality clinical care and customized support services. Contact us today to learn how we can help.

The post The Dangers of Mixing Klonopin and Alcoho l appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

What is MAT For Opioid Addiction?

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 21:29:00 GMT

What is MAT For Opioid Addiction?

MAT for opioid addiction is a powerful tool in the fight to end our nation’s opioid epidemic. Opioids are highly addictive drugs. Once a person has become addicted to them, it can be extremely difficult to break free. The pain of opioid withdrawal can be overwhelming. This can cause a person to quickly begin abusing opioids again, even though they desperately want to stop. When a person gets proper professional treatment, they can finally end their opioid use for good. For many people, the path to long-term recovery from opioid addiction begins with medication-assisted treatment, or MAT.

What Is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

As reported by the National Association on Drug Abuse (NIDA) , there were more than 68,000 opioid overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2020 alone. This is more than three times as many opioid overdose deaths as there were in 2010. Medication-assisted treatment, or MAT , is a comprehensive service for people who have developed certain types of addiction . Medical experts use MAT to treat opioid use disorder and alcohol use disorder. These are the clinical terms for opioid addiction and alcohol addiction.

MAT has two primary components: medication and therapy. Some of the medications used in MAT can ease the symptoms of withdrawal. Other medications can alleviate cravings or cause unpleasant reactions if a person uses opioids or alcohol.

The therapeutic part of MAT for opioid addiction or alcoholism can help people make important lifestyle changes. Another way to look at this is that medications can address the biological aspect of addiction, while therapy addresses the behavioral and psychological aspects of this disease.

Benefits of MAT for Opioid Addiction

The following are a few of the many potential benefits of receiving MAT for opioid addiction:

Safety & comfort : Opioid withdrawal can be an extremely painful process. MAT for opioid addiction can help people end their opioid use without experiencing intense distress. Also, these medications do not cause the disorienting high that results from opioid abuse. This means that MAT clients can drive, work, take classes, and otherwise participate in a full and satisfying life.
Community : Untreated opioid addiction can cause people to pull away from friends and family members. This isolates them from vital sources of support. During their time in treatment, people can form healthy relationships with others who are working toward similar goals.
Personalization : MAT for opioid addiction is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Decisions about medications are made on an individual basis. Clinicians can customize MAT for opioid addiction in order to best serve each client.
Peace of mind : Many people who enter treatment for opioid addiction are ashamed of their struggles. Others feel guilty about how their addiction has impacted their life and the lives of their loved ones. During therapy sessions, they can begin to overcome these negative emotions. Therapy can help them understand that they are valuable individuals who are worthy of being treated with compassion and respect.

Completing MAT for opioid addiction can also demonstrate to a person that they are capable of more than they realize. This initial success can empower a person to overcome future obstacles and make continued progress.

How Does MAT for Opioid Addiction Work?

MAT for opioid addiction works by addressing the impact that this disorder has had on a person’s body, mind, and behavior.

As noted earlier on this page, the medications often incorporated into MAT for opioid addiction may help to ease withdrawal and prevent relapse. During therapy, MAT clients can identify the issues that caused them to begin to abuse opioids. Therapy can help people learn how to respond to these problems in a healthier manner, without resorting to opioid abuse.

Two medications commonly prescribed to MAT clients include buprenorphine and naltrexone.

Buprenorphine

In 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved buprenorphine for use in opioid treatment.

Buprenorphine interacts with the same receptors in the central nervous system that become impacted by opioids. This prevents the onset of drug cravings and other withdrawal symptoms that would normally occur when a person stops using opioids.

Buprenorphine is included in several brand-name medications, including Suboxone, Subutex, Bunavail, Zubsolv, and Cassipa.

Naltrexone

Naltrexone has been authorized for use in the United States since 1984. In 2010, an extended-release form of the drug, which is administered via monthly injection, was also approved.

Naltrexone blocks the opioid receptors in the central nervous system. If a person uses an opioid while they are taking naltrexone, they won’t experience sedation, euphoria, or other pleasurable effects.

Brand name medications that contain naltrexone include Revia and Vivitrol.

The Risks/Cons of MAT for Opioid Addiction

Buprenorphine, naltrexone, and other medications used in MAT for opioid addiction are safe and effective when used as directed. This does not mean that their use is completely without risk, though. Like virtually every other prescription medication, buprenorphine and naltrexone can cause certain unpleasant side effects.

Possible side effects of buprenorphine can include constipation, lightheadedness, fatigue, dry mouth, and certain dental problems. If a person abuses buprenorphine by taking it in a larger than recommended dosage, they can overdose on the drug.

Overdose is not a risk for clients who take buprenorphine as part of an approved MAT program for opioid addiction because they only have access to safe amounts of the medication.

Naltrexone side effects can include cramps, pain in the muscles or joints, headache, fatigue, racing heart rate, and anxiety. Using larger quantities of naltrexone will not result in a recreational high, so this medication holds a low risk for being abused.

When a person receives either buprenorphine or naltrexone in an opioid addiction treatment program, their treatment team will monitor their progress. If a person experiences persistent or particularly severe side effects, the prescribing physician can either adjust their dosage or recommend a different medication.

Begin MAT for Opioid Addiction in Philadelphia

You don’t have to live in the darkness of untreated opioid addiction. Medication-assisted treatment can help you achieve the healthier future you deserve. When you feel ready to change your life, the WAVE Treatment Centers team can help. Contact us today to learn more about MAT and our many other services.

The post What is MAT For Opioid Addiction? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

How to Help a Spouse Struggling with Addiction

Fri, 17 Jun 2022 09:12:00 GMT

How to Help a Spouse Struggling with Addiction

Addiction is an unfortunately common problem in the United States today. According to the National Institutes of Health , about one in ten American adults struggle with addiction at some point in their lives. If your spouse had a substance abuse problem, would you notice the symptoms? Would you know how to help a spouse who is struggling with addiction?

What is Addiction?

Addiction is not simply a lack of willpower. If your spouse has become addicted to alcohol or another drug, they have a serious condition. They need help.

People who develop an addiction experience cravings for the substance they’ve grown dependent upon. Also, once they start using the substance, they may be unable to stop. If they can’t get the substance, they may experience painful symptoms.

It is important to understand that addiction is a chronic, progressive substance use disorder . If your spouse does not get proper care, their struggles will not disappear. The progressive nature of addiction means that the effects of this disorder will grow worse over time.

Signs of Addiction in a Spouse

Marriage vows often include the promise to support each other for better and for worse. Most people think of these circumstances in terms of financial stability and physical well-being. However, what they don’t often consider is that the person they love might become addicted. The following signs may indicate your spouse has become addicted to alcohol or another drug:

Significant changes in mood and energy level
Change in appetite and resultant weight loss or gain
Frequently missing school, work, or other important activities
Being secretive or deceptive about where they’re going and what they’re doing
Unexplained financial problems
Acting with uncharacteristic recklessness or violence
Apparent lack of attention to hygiene and grooming
Needing to use alcohol or other drugs to experience joy or cope with sadness
Needing to use substances to wake up in the morning or get to sleep at night

In conclusion, if your spouse has been demonstrating any of these signs of addiction, they should consult with your family doctor or another professional. This person can assess their symptoms, provide an accurate diagnosis, and offer recommendations for treatment.

Helping vs. Enabling

Learning how to help a spouse struggling with addiction can be a challenge. In addition to understanding what you should be doing, you also need to identify the behaviors you should avoid. When you know the difference, you can be sure you’re helping your spouse, not enabling them.

Helpful activities can include encouraging them to get treatment, taking them to appointments, and reminding them that they are worthy of love and support.

Enabling activities can include acquiring substances for them. In addition, it can include covering for them when their substance abuse leads to problems and refusing to admit they need help.

How to Help a Spouse Struggling with Addiction

Discovering that your spouse has developed a substance use disorder can be confusing and frightening. Here are a few simple ways you can help a spouse who’s struggling with addiction:

Let them know they have your full support.
Share your concerns and listen to their response.
Research treatment options.
Identify providers that can help your spouse.
Discuss the importance of getting help without ultimatums.
Find a therapist or counselor for yourself. Addiction impacts entire families.
Participate in family programming if your spouse’s treatment center provides it.

In other words, you may not be able to cure your spouse’s addiction, but you can make a big difference.

The Importance of Support in Recovery

Addiction recovery is a lifelong endeavor. People who are in recovery work every day to manage their symptoms and resist relapse.

In treatment, your spouse will learn about the importance of support. Also, if you participate in family programming, this topic will also be addressed there.

Support for people in recovery can take many forms. Depending on how your spouse has been impacted, your support can include:

Helping them avoid triggers
Transporting them to treatment sessions and support group meetings
Maintaining a substance-free household
Celebrating their successes

Addiction can be an isolating disorder. Your support can be a continual reminder to your spouse that they’re not alone.

How to Support a Spouse in Detox

Depending on what type of addiction your spouse has developed, their recovery journey may begin in detox. Detox is a short-term program where they can get through withdrawal safely and with minimal discomfort.

Entering detox can be a scary experience. Remind your spouse that they’re doing the right thing. Let them know you’re proud of them for taking this important step.

For instance, while your spouse is completing detox, they may need you to drive them to our center for their appointments. They might need you to pick up prescriptions, prepare their meals, or simply be a source of moral support.

Maintain an atmosphere of open and honest communication throughout your spouse’s time in detox. For example, ask them what they need, listen to their answers, and be there when they need you.

What Follows the Detox Process?

After detox, your spouse can transition into the next phase of their addiction treatment. At WAVE Treatment Centers, we begin to prepare for our patients’ next steps the day they begin detox. Our team can work closely with you and your spouse to develop the plan that best meets their needs and expectations.

If your spouse can benefit from outpatient treatment, they may transition directly into our outpatient addiction treatment program. If it turns out they need inpatient or residential care, we can refer you to trusted area providers.

Get Addiction Help For Your Spouse in Philadelphia

In conclusion, when a spouse struggles with addiction, the whole family is affected. If your spouse has a substance use disorder, Wave Treatment Centers can help. Our professional medical staff is waiting with open arms. Contact us today to learn more about our services and programs.

The post How to Help a Spouse Struggling with Addiction appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

What is Polysubstance Abuse?

Fri, 10 Jun 2022 09:21:00 GMT

What is Polysubstance Abuse?

The short answer to the question, “What is polysubstance abuse?” is it’s the simultaneous abuse of more than one drug. However, a more detailed response to this question will note that polysubstance abuse can refer to a variety of behaviors involving alcohol and a range of additional substances.

What is Polysubstance Abuse?

The term polysubstance abuse can encompass behaviors that meet several criteria, including:

Intentional and unintentional actions
One-time events and ongoing behavior patterns
The use of legal and illicit substances

One of the most important things to know about polysubstance abuse is that it is a dangerous practice. Abusing alcohol or any other drug can put you at risk for several damaging effects, including overdose and death. When you abuse multiple substances at the same time, the likelihood that you’ll be harmed increases dramatically.

Common Polysubstance Abuse Combinations

The misuse of any two drugs can be correctly described as polysubstance abuse. However, certain drug combinations are more common than others. Mixing alcohol and cocaine, opioids and benzos, and heroin and cocaine are three common types of polysubstance abuse.

Alcohol and Cocaine

Alcohol is a depressant. Initially, alcohol use can improve mood and diminish inhibitions. But alcohol’s interaction with the central nervous system eventually results in slowed breathing, the diminished ability to feel pain, and loss of consciousness.

Unfortunately, some people try to counteract the depressant effects of alcohol by abusing cocaine. As a stimulant, cocaine provides a temporary boost in energy, mood, and cognition.

Using alcohol and cocaine at the same time for any reason is extremely dangerous. The potential negative effects of this type of abuse include addiction, overdose, and death.

Opioids and Benzos

Common opioids include heroin, morphine, and many prescription painkillers. Examples of benzodiazepines include Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin .

Whether they are prescribed for a legitimate medical reason or abused for recreational purposes, opioids and benzodiazepines can be dangerous. Using these drugs at the same time is a recipe for disaster. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) , combining opioids and benzos is associated with an increased numbers of emergency department visits, hospital admissions, and overdose deaths.

Cocaine and Heroin

Heroin is clearly very different than alcohol. It is much more powerful and potentially more dangerous. Also, heroin use can lead to addiction much quicker than alcohol can.

But alcohol and heroin share certain characteristics. They can both cause slow or shallow breathing, impaired thinking, and loss of consciousness.

As is the case with alcohol and cocaine, some people may abuse heroin and cocaine at the same time in an attempt to counteract certain effects of the two drugs.

It is no exaggeration to note that combining heroin and cocaine is extremely dangerous. On their own, both heroin and cocaine can be life-threatening. When a person abuses both of these drugs at the same time, the danger grows significantly.

Signs and Symptoms of Polysubstance Abuse

The signs and symptoms of polysubstance abuse can vary depending on what drugs a person has been abusing and how often and for how long they abuse these substances. In general, the following are signs of polysubstance abuse:

Watery eyes and runny nose
Blurred vision
Poor coordination
Inability to concentrate or focus
Significant changes in mood and energy levels
Disrupted sleep patterns
Doctor shopping (visiting many physicians in an attempt to get multiple prescriptions)
Trying to buy, borrow, or steal drugs that were prescribed to someone else
Withdrawing from family and friends

People who demonstrate the signs and symptoms of polysubstance abuse may be in considerable danger. If you suspect that someone you care about has been combining illicit drugs, encourage them to enter a treatment program or at least consult with a professional.

Dangers of Polysubstance Abuse

The possible negative effects of untreated polysubstance abuse include the following:

Damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs
Brain damage
Physical injuries due to reckless behaviors while under the influence of drugs
Legal problems such as being arrested, fined, and jailed
Job loss and unemployment
Depression and other mental health disorders
Overdose
Death

When a person receives the help they need, they can avoid these outcomes. But if they don’t seek treatment, they remain at risk for considerable harm.

Detoxing From Polysubstance Abuse

Polysubstance abuse can quickly lead to a substance use disorder . When a person becomes addicted to alcohol, opioids, or certain other substances, they may develop severe withdrawal symptoms when they try to end their substance use. In some cases, withdrawal can be dangerous as well as painful.

Detoxification, also known as detox, can help a person end their polysubstance abuse. Detox programs typically feature round-the-clock supervision to protect participants’ health. During detox, patients can also receive services to minimize the discomfort of withdrawal. These services include Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) .

Completing detox at a reputable treatment facility, like Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill, can be an important step toward a drug-free future.

Get Polysubstance Abuse Treatment in Philadelphia

If you or someone that you care about needs addiction treatment in Philadelphia, WAVE Treatment Centers may have the solutions you’ve been seeking. Our facility is a trusted source of quality personalized care. Contact us today to learn how we can help you find the path to recovery from polysubstance abuse.

The post What is Polysubstance Abuse? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

What Is An Anxiety Attack?

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 09:00:00 GMT

What Is An Anxiety Attack?

The quick answer to the question “What is an anxiety attack?” is that it is a non-clinical term that may describe excessive fear or worry due to a specific event or situation. For example, if you feel slightly nervous before flying, that’s not an anxiety attack. But if you become so overwhelmed by fear that you develop extreme symptoms that prevent you from boarding a plane or even entering an airport, you may be dealing with an anxiety disorder.

What Is An Anxiety Attack vs. a Panic Attack?

People often confuse panic and anxiety as meaning the same thing. However, mental health professionals recognize distinctions between these two terms. Anxiety is a general term that covers several types of disorders. Panic can refer to panic disorder (which is a type of anxiety disorder). Additionally, panic can also refer to panic attacks, which are symptoms of panic disorder.

Sometimes a person experiences the sudden onset of painful physical and psychological symptoms. The symptoms remain unrelated to any actual threat or risk of harm. In fact, they may be having a panic attack. Alternatively, a person may become consumed by excessive worry. What is more, the worry is unrelated to a realistic object or event. In this case, the answer to the question “What is an anxiety attack, and am I having one?” may be no.

Symptoms of Anxiety

The symptoms of anxiety can vary from person to person. They depend on several factors, including the type of anxiety disorder they have. In general, common signs and symptoms of anxiety include:

Excessive fear or worry
Change in sleep patterns
Muscle tension
Fatigue
Changes in behavior to avoid certain people, places, or events
Difficulty concentrating or focusing
Irritability and restlessness
Elevated heart rate and racing pulse
Sweating
Feeling detached from their surroundings
Feeling detached from their own thoughts and emotions

What Is An Anxiety Attack? Common Causes

There is no single definitive cause of anxiety. For one thing, it can be caused by genetics. Additionally, it may stem from environmental factors. People who experience one or more of the following are at risk:

Family history of anxiety disorders or certain other forms of mental illness
Personal history of abuse, assault, or other trauma
Personal history of major depressive disorder
Behavioral inhibitions
Exposure to excessive stress
Death of a relative, pet, or another important loved one
Dramatic life changes such as parental divorce during childhood

Having one or more of the risk factors for anxiety does not mean that a person will definitely develop an anxiety disorder. Having said that, people who have multiple risk factors should be aware of this risk. Concurrently, if they develop warning signs, they may need professional help.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is a general term that can refer to several disorders. The following are among the more common anxiety disorders:

Generalized Anxiety Disorder

When people use the word “anxiety,” they are often referring to generalized anxiety disorder or GAD. People who have GAD experience excessive, uncontrollable worry or fear. As a consequence, their lives are negatively impacted. This includes their ability to function in school, at work, or in other important areas of life.

Social Anxiety Disorder

Social anxiety disorder is also called social phobia. Symptoms include extreme fear related to meeting new people, speaking in public, and being seen by others. People who have social anxiety often have a huge fear of humiliation or embarrassment.

Separation Anxiety Disorder

People who have separation anxiety disorder have excessive and inappropriate fears that they will lose a person with whom they have a strong attachment. Common fears among people who have separation anxiety disorder include that their loved one will get lost, develop a fatal illness, become the victim of a natural disaster, and other problems.

Specific Phobia

Specific phobia involves developing extreme worry or apprehension related to an animal, object, or event. The fear is unrelated to normal levels of fear. Common examples of specific phobia include excessive fear of heights, spiders, needles, and elevators.

Agoraphobia

Agoraphobia is a type of anxiety disorder related to places. People who have it may experience fear of several things. These include using public transportation and being in an enclosed or wide-open space. As a matter of fact, some fear even leaving their homes.

Panic Disorder

People who develop panic disorder experience sudden rushes of intense discomfort. Symptoms can include chest pain, dizziness, numbness, tingling, and a racing heart rate. Furthermore, they may believe that they are dying. Not only are the symptoms uncomfortable, but they can also make a person give up their normal routines.

Treatment Options for Anxiety Disorders

A follow-up question to “What is an anxiety attack?” is “How do I treat them?” Many options for treatment for anxiety disorders exist. As a result, people have choices. First, a person should check out their options. Second, they can decide what works best for them. After this, they can adjust their approach as needed. Treatment options for anxiety disorders include:

Medication : Prescription medications can ease the symptoms of anxiety. Thus, they allow people to assume greater control of their thoughts and behaviors.
Psychotherapy : Several types of therapy have proved helpful for people who have anxiety disorders. Therapy sessions allow a person to process their experiences. Not only that, but they can learn to manage their symptoms of anxiety.
Outpatient care : Outpatient treatment for anxiety allows people to receive quality clinical care. In addition, they can don’t have to commit to residential care. Because of this, the person saves time and money.

Find Treatment For Your Anxiety Disorder

There is no one form of anxiety disorder treatment that’s right for every person. When you’re trying to find anxiety treatment, a few things come to mind. First, focus on finding a provider whose services best meet your needs. Second, understand your insurance and payment options. Last, use a list of questions to help you make a decision. Asking the following questions can help you find the right place for you

What is the center’s treatment philosophy?
Does the center offer several types of treatment?
Will you receive a personalized treatment plan?
What are the qualifications of the professionals who will provide your care?
Will your treatment include aftercare planning?
Is the center located near you?
Will the center accept your insurance?

At Wave Treatment Centers, we will be happy to answer these and any other questions you have. You should expect nothing less from any anxiety treatment program that you’re considering.

Anxiety Treatment in Philadelphia, PA

Untreated anxiety disorders can make it difficult or virtually impossible for you to live a full and satisfying life. But when you get proper professional care from a reputable treatment provider, you can regain control of your thoughts and behaviors. When you’re ready to get the care you deserve, Wave Treatment Centers is here for you. Contact us today to learn more.

The post What Is An Anxiety Attack? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Why Do People Get Addicted to Drugs?

Fri, 20 May 2022 21:09:00 GMT

Drug Addiction Treatment in Chestnut Hill, PA

Understanding the many potential causes of addiction is a vital part of the effort to protect people from becoming dependent upon alcohol and other substances. Unfortunately, there is no single, universal answer to the question, “Why do people get addicted to drugs.”

Drug addiction is a complex disorder, and a variety of factors influences the disorder. The more a person learns about addiction and treatment, the better prepared they will be to safeguard their health and, if necessary, get appropriate professional care.

What Is Drug Addiction?

Drug addiction is a general term used to describe dependence on alcohol and many other substances. The clinical term for drug addiction is substance use disorder.

As established in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a substance use disorder is characterized by “a cluster of cognitive, behavioral, and physiological symptoms indicating that the individual continues using the substance despite significant substance-related problems.”

This means that drug addiction affects how a person thinks, acts, and feels. People who become addicted to alcohol and other drugs experience overwhelming urges to use these substances again and again, even though doing so is causing obvious harm to their bodies, their minds, and their ability to live a productive and satisfying life.

How Do People Get Addicted to Drugs?

Some people are able to use alcohol and certain other drugs in moderation without developing substance use disorders. Others quickly lose control of their behaviors and become trapped by an overwhelming compulsion to abuse drugs.

So why do people get addicted to drugs? There’s no simple answer. However, research suggests a combination of genetic and environmental factors can influence a person’s risk for becoming addicted to drugs. These factors may include:

Having a family history of substance abuse and addiction
Having a personal history of abuse, neglect, or other forms of trauma
Growing up in an environment where drugs are easily available and commonly used
Inheriting personality traits such as impulsivity and novelty-seeking
Developing poor stress-management skills
Struggling with certain mental health disorders

None of these factors guarantee that a person will become addicted to drugs. But they can increase the likelihood that a person may develop a substance use disorder at some point in their life.

Signs and Symptoms of Drug Addiction

The signs and symptoms of drug addiction that a person experiences are influenced by such factors as age and gender, the type of drug they have been using, and how long they’ve been addicted to that drug. Whether they have a co-occurring mental health disorder can also be a factor.

In general terms, the following are among the more common signs and symptoms of drug addiction:

Significant unexplained changes in mood, personality, appearance, energy level, or weight
Difficulty focusing, concentrating, or following conversations
Frequent unexplained absences from work or school
Changes in sleeping habits (including both insomnia and hypersomnia )
Pulling away from family and friends
Being unable to experience joy or cope with problems without using drugs
Acting with uncharacteristic violence or anger
Using drugs even when it is clearly dangerous to do so, such as when driving
Continuing to use drugs even after experiencing negative repercussions (such as job loss, physical harm, or legal problems) due to previous drug use
Experiencing physical pain or emotional distress when unable to access or use drugs
Trying to stop using drugs, but being unable to do so

Anyone who exhibits these warning signs should consult with a qualified healthcare provider to complete an assessment and, if necessary, get the help they need.

How Do You Overcome Drug Addiction?

Most experts view addiction as a chronic disease that can include times of remission and relapse. In other words, drug addiction is not a disorder that can be “cured.” It is a long-term condition with manageable symptoms.

When a person gets effective professional treatment for drug addiction, they can learn how to manage the symptoms they have been experiencing and overcome the self-defeating urges that have had such a harmful impact on their lives. Accomplishing this can involve components such as the following:

Addressing the issues that may have led a person to begin using drugs
Identifying triggers (which are the experiences or occurrences that may push a person back toward drug use)
Getting treatment for trauma, co-occurring mental health disorders, or other concerns as needed
Developing conflict-resolution skills and other capabilities that will enable a person to respond to difficult situations without resorting to substance use
Participating in therapy, support groups, and other services
Finding new hobbies or interests to fill the hours
Learning how to prevent and, if necessary, respond to relapse in a healthy manner
Establishing a strong personal support system

Recovery from addiction is a lifelong process. But when a person gets the type and level of care that’s right for them, they can overcome the compulsion to use drugs and achieve improved quality of life.

Treatment Options for Drug Addiction

Substance use disorders affect different people in different ways, so those who need care should be aware of the many treatment options for drug addiction.

People who receive outpatient drug addiction treatment at WAVE Treatment Centers in Philadelphia may benefit from services such as:

Detoxification and withdrawal treatment
Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
Behavioral counseling
Psychotherapy
Assessments and treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders
Referrals for inpatient care

There is no single perfect type of drug addiction treatment. Instead, what’s most important is finding the type of treatment that most closely aligns with each person’s specific history, needs, and preferences.

Personalized Drug Addiction Treatment in Philadelphia

Drug addiction is a complex challenge that can undermine a person’s ability live to a healthy and satisfying life. But when you get the customized care you need, you can regain control of your life and achieve the bright future you deserve. Contact WAVE Treatment Centers today and discover your path to successful, long-term recovery.

The post Why Do People Get Addicted to Drugs? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

What is Medication Management Psychiatry and Is It Effective?

Fri, 13 May 2022 09:04:00 GMT

What is Medication Management Psychiatry and Is It Effective?

Most people are familiar with the benefits of prescription medications for treating an illness. But what many people don’t realize is that, in psychiatry, medication management services are a vital component of treatment.

Taken under the guidance of a qualified professional, prescription medications can have a positive impact on people’s lives. This includes those whose lives have been disrupted by mental illness.

What Does Medication Management Mean?

To answer the question, “What is medication management psychiatry?” we should begin with a review of medication management.

Medication management refers to the monitored use of prescription medications to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. Medication management has proven to be an effective component of treatment for people addicted to drugs or alcohol. Prescription medications can ease distress during detox. They can also prevent the onset of withdrawal symptoms as a person works toward addiction recovery. When medication management services are part of an addiction treatment plan, this is called Medication-Assisted Treatment , or MAT.

The “management” part of medication management refers to healthcare providers’ overseeing and administering the medications a patient is receiving. This can include the physician who prescribes the medications. It can also include the nurses or other authorized personnel who maintain and distribute medications. This kind of management most often occurs in residential or inpatient settings.

What Is Medication Management Psychiatry?

When a person receives care via outpatient psychiatry, medication management can include a lot of things. It can include assessing the patient to determine the proper medication, writing the prescription, and evaluating patient progress. It can also mean monitoring side effects and adjusting the dosage if necessary.

The assessment process is an essential element of effective medication management psychiatry. A thorough assessment ensures that the patient’s treatment team is aware of the patient’s needs. An assessment of patient needs must account for the type of disorder they have. It also must account for the nature and severity of the symptoms the patient is experiencing.

Following the assessment, a psychiatrist or other qualified physician may recommend additional prescription medications to help the patient meet their treatment goals. The prescribing physician can explain the features and benefits of the recommended medications and answer any questions the patient may have.

The prescribing physician also monitors the patient’s progress while they are taking the medication. This ensures they are receiving the maximum benefit of the medications. Depending on how the patient responds to the medication, the physician may need to adjust the dosage or make other changes. As with the assessment, monitoring and making necessary adjustments are important parts of medication management psychiatry.

How Does Medication Management Psychiatry Benefit Mental Health?

When combined with psychotherapy and other support services, medication management psychiatry can make a world of difference for people struggling with certain mental health disorders.

The benefits of prescription medications for mental health concerns include reduced severity of depressive symptoms, improved focus, stabilization of mood swings, relief from overwhelming anxiety, and elimination of psychotic breaks. Of course, the benefits can vary considerably depending on the type of mental health disorder a person has been experiencing. Other factors that can affect a mediation’s benefits include the duration and severity of symptoms, the presence of co-occurring conditions, and other factors.

the benefits of medication management psychiatry are enhanced when medications are combined with therapy. During therapy sessions, patients can process their experiences, discuss their feelings, and set realistic and achievable goals. Patients can also develop the strategies that will allow them to better manage their thoughts, emotions, and actions.

Medications can help alleviate certain symptoms, but they alone cannot address the social and behavioral impact of mental illness. Incorporating therapy into medication management psychiatry enables patients to make changes that will help them experience positive outcomes at work and in their relationships.

How Can I Find a Medication Management Psychiatrist?

Once you have an answer to the question, “What is medication management psychiatry?” your next question may be “How can I find a medication management psychiatrist near me?”

Consulting with your family doctor or another healthcare provider, reaching out to local mental health support groups in your community, and conducting online research are all excellent ways to learn more about medication management psychiatrists near you.

If you are in the Philadelphia area, you can contact WAVE Treatment Centers. We are proud to be a trusted source of reliable information about psychiatric medication management and other aspects of mental health treatment.

Our team will be happy to provide you with the answers you need, so you can make the most informed decisions for yourself or on behalf of a loved one.

Begin Medication Management Psychiatry in Philadelphia

If you or someone that you care about has been struggling with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or certain other mental health concerns, medication management psychiatry may be able to help. To determine if this form of treatment is right for you or your loved one, please contact us today. When you’re ready to take a significant step toward a healthier tomorrow, WAVE Treatment Centers is here for you.

The post What is Medication Management Psychiatry and Is It Effective? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

How Long Does Cocaine Withdrawal Last?

Fri, 06 May 2022 09:30:00 GMT

How Long Does Cocaine Withdrawal Last?

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms vary from person to person and can last from a few days to a few weeks. Knowing this, it’s recommended that you seek professional help with cocaine withdrawal before, during, and after detox. Keep reading to learn how long cocaine withdrawal lasts and its effects on your body.

What Exactly is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a stimulant drug derived from coca leaves. The name comes from the Spanish word coca , which means “cocoa” in English. Cocaine is one of the oldest drugs in the world and one of the most commonly used illegal substances today.

Dangers of Cocaine Use

Over 1 million emergency room visits related to cocaine abuse were reported in 2020 alone , with 19,447 fatalities. In addition to being highly addictive, cocaine has been linked to heart problems, strokes, seizures, and death.

Other dangers of cocaine use include:

Increases in blood pressure and pulse rate
Affects your breathing and can lead to pneumonia
Severe damage to your heart
Increase of risk of stroke, seizures, and heart attacks
Damage to your liver

What Is Cocaine Withdrawal?

Cocaine withdrawal occurs when a person who has used a lot of cocaine in the past cuts down or quits taking the drug. While not as physically intense as heroin or methadone withdrawals. However, it comes with its own set of unique challenges.

The first stage is often referred to as “craving.” Craving refers to the strong urge that many people experience to use cocaine again. This feeling can be extremely uncomfortable, even overwhelming.

During the second stage of cocaine withdrawal, the brain starts to heal itself. As your brain heals, cravings begin to subside.

The third stage of cocaine withdrawal occurs as people feel “clean,” or as if they have their lives back. During this third stage of cocaine withdrawal, most people feel better than ever. They no longer crave cocaine and their bodies start to repair themselves.

While some people feel these effects for only a couple of days, others feel the effects of cocaine withdrawal for months.

Keep in mind, symptoms of cocaine withdrawal can occur after “cutting back” on cocaine use. You don’t have to be completely off the drug to experience the symptoms of cocaine withdrawal.

What are the Withdrawal Symptoms of Cocaine?

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, depression, irritability, insomnia, and increased appetite. These symptoms usually start within 24 hours of stopping cocaine use, but they can last anywhere from one day to several weeks. If you’ve used cocaine recently, talk to your doctor right away so they can monitor your progress and provide any necessary treatment.

Symptoms of cocaine withdrawal usually start within two hours after last using cocaine and peak at around 24 hours. They typically resolve within 48 hours.

Other Symptoms of Cocaine Withdrawal

If you’ve been abusing cocaine for an extended period of time, you might also experience:

Depression. When you stop taking cocaine, your body goes into shock. Your brain doesn’t know how to function without cocaine anymore. This leads to feelings of sadness and despair that are often signs of depression .
Anxiety. After you quit using cocaine, your brain will try to make sense of what happened. This process takes time. During this time, your brain makes connections between past experiences and current situations. This can result in panic attacks.
Irritability. A lot of times when people stop using cocaine, they become irritable. Their moods change drastically. For instance, they may get angry easily, snap at people, or lose their temper.
Restlessness. Some people who stop using cocaine feel restless. They want to move constantly. This feeling often lasts for up to three days.
Insomnia. People who have been using cocaine for a long period of time tend to sleep less than usual.
Sweating. Cocaine users often sweat heavily while they’re awake. This is because cocaine stimulates the sympathetic nervous system.
Nausea. Nausea is another symptom that occurs during the first few days of cocaine withdrawal. It is caused by the sudden drop in dopamine levels. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate emotions and bodily functions.
Vomiting. Cocaine users sometimes vomit during cocaine withdrawal. The reason for this is unknown. However, some experts believe that it could be due to dehydration.
Diarrhea. Diarrhea is another symptom that occurs when someone stops using cocaine. This is because cocaine increases the secretion of water in the intestines.
Abdominal Pain. Abdominal pain is one of the most common symptoms experienced during cocaine withdrawal. It’s believed this is caused by inflammation of the stomach lining.

How Long Does Withdrawal Last?

The average length of withdrawal between using cocaine and quitting is three months. This is because the body has to adjust to the absence of the drug. It takes time for the brain to stop producing dopamine, which is why people who quit “cold turkey” often experience some symptoms of withdrawal.

Typically, withdrawal symptoms go away on their own in a matter of months. However, if you continue to abuse cocaine, you could develop serious health issues such as cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), hypertension, and kidney failure.

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately. He or she can l help you get through the worst part of cocaine withdrawal. You’ll need to take it slowly if you want to overcome this substance use disorder .

Safely Detox From Cocaine in Philadelphia, PA

The first step in treating drug addiction is detoxification. This process involves removing all traces of the substance from the body. It helps prevent relapse by clearing out any physical or psychological cravings. Wave Treatment Centers offer a variety of treatments in a comfortable, peaceful environment. To safely detox from cocaine in Philadelphia, PA, give us a call or fill out our contact form today.

The post How Long Does Cocaine Withdrawal Last? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

What is Telepsychiatry and is it Effective?

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 09:29:00 GMT

What is Telepsychiatry and is it Effective?

Telepsychiatry is an effective method for treating patients with mental illness. Working with an online psychiatrist in Pennsylvania, patients can manage their mental illness without having to travel long distances. Therefore, those who live in rural areas, those who have trouble commuting to see a doctor, or those who simply prefer not to leave home can benefit from this service.

What is Telepsychiatry?

The use of telemedicine has grown rapidly since its introduction in the 1990s. It has become a popular way to provide psychiatric care to underserved populations. There are several different types of telemedicine including video conferencing, telephone consultations, asynchronous communication (e.g., email), synchronous communication (e.g. chat rooms), and real-time interactive applications (e.g., Skype and Zoom).

Telepsychiatry uses video technology to allow two parties to interact over a distance. A video connection is established between a patient and a psychiatrist. During the session, both parties can view and speak to one another. Videoconferencing is often preferred because it offers greater privacy and confidentiality than other forms of telemedicine.

Telepsychiatry is particularly useful for patients who do not have easy access to a psychiatrist. For example, if you live in a rural area or your work schedule does not allow you to make regular trips to a clinic, telepsychiatry could be a great option for you.

What is an Online Psychiatrist?

The online psychiatry market has grown to a multi-billion dollar industry. This growth is the result of increased demand for psychiatric care among people who live far away from a psychiatrist’s office. According to the American Psychiatric Association, over 1 million Americans suffer from mental illness. Of these individuals, only 20% seek out professional help. Many people choose not to seek treatment because they have little flexibility in their schedules. Additionally, some people find it difficult to go into a psychiatrist’s office due to fear, stigma, or embarrassment. This is why finding an effective online psychiatrist in Pennsylvania is so important.

Is Telepsychiatry Effective?

A study published in The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that people who received psychiatric care through video conferencing showed improvement within one year of receiving care compared to those who did not receive it.

Another study showed that patients who received psychiatric care using video conferencing had better outcomes than patients who saw their psychiatrists in person. Patients who received psychiatric care using video conferencing also reported fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Benefits of an Online Psychiatrist

The internet has become a powerful tool for delivering psychiatric care. Some people prefer this method of communication because they feel more comfortable talking to a stranger over the phone or computer rather than going to see a psychiatrist in person. Others enjoy the convenience of being able to talk to a doctor whenever they need to. Either way, online psychiatry provides an alternative to traditional methods of getting psychiatric care.

The benefits of having an online psychiatrist in Pennsylvania include:

Convenience – Instead of traveling to a distant location, patients can connect with a psychiatrist through video conferencing software that allows them to see and hear each other clearly.
Privacy – Video conferencing provides a private space where patients can talk about sensitive issues such as depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or suicidal thoughts. Online psychiatrists also offer confidential online counseling sessions.
Cost – The cost of virtual visits is typically less expensive than traditional office visits. This makes it possible for people to afford treatment when they need it most.

Which Type of Client Uses Telepsychiatry?

The most common type of patient using telepsychiatry is those who live far from the nearest psychiatric facility. These individuals often travel long distances to see a psychiatrist, and they would prefer to conserve time and effort. They also might find it difficult to take off work to attend an in-person appointment.

The most common reasons for using telemedicine include the following:

Accessibility – Patients who live in rural areas often lack access to psychiatrists.
Cost savings – Some insurance companies will reimburse for telemedicine visits.
Time constraints – People who have trouble leaving their jobs or taking time off from work may benefit from seeing a psychiatrist via video chat instead of traveling to an office.
Stigma – Some people feel uncomfortable visiting a psychiatrist in person because they believe that they will be judged or ridiculed. This feeling can make them reluctant to seek help. However, when they do speak up about their concerns, they may be surprised to learn that their fears are unfounded.

Can an Online Psychiatrist Prescribe Medication?

As long as it’s done properly and the online psychiatrist is appropriately qualified, medication can be prescribed through telepsychiatry in Pennsylvania. These medications might include antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, mood stabilizers, and antipsychotics. It is best to talk to your psychiatrist to find out your treatment options.

How to Find Quality Telepsychiatry in Pennsylvania

It is important to seek telepsychiatry at a qualified facility. Due to demand, the American Psychiatric Association has developed guidelines for psychiatrists who want to provide care through virtual visits. These include using video conferencing software, ensuring adequate lighting, having a quiet space where patients feel comfortable, and making sure they know what to expect before the visit begins. Wave Treatment Center is located in the Philadelphia area and provides telehealth as well as a wide range of mental health services.

Online Psychiatrist in Philadelphia, PA

Wave Treatment Centers is dedicated to making treatment as accessible as possible, which is why we are proud to offer telepsychiatry and virtual visits. We treat a variety of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Learn more about how we can help by giving us a call or reaching out through our contact form today.

The post What is Telepsychiatry and is it Effective? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Coping Mechanisms for Bipolar Disorder

Fri, 08 Apr 2022 09:20:00 GMT

Coping Mechanisms for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a serious mental illness characterized by episodes of mania and depression. During manic episodes, people may experience an overabundance of energy, decreased need for sleep, increased talkativeness, risk-taking behaviors, flight of ideas, and unrealistic beliefs. During depressive episodes, people may experience feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy, fatigue, low self-esteem, poor concentration, and suicidal thoughts. Thankfully, there are some coping mechanisms for bipolar disorder that can help those struggling with this complex condition.

The Science Behind Bipolar Disorder

There are several theories behind why people develop bipolar disorder. The most common belief is that both environmental and genetic factors play a prominent role in the development of this condition.

Genetics

Although bipolar disorder has been around since ancient times, scientists still don’t know what causes it. However, some research suggests that genes may be involved. For example, studies show that identical twins—who share all their DNA—are more likely than fraternal twins to have bipolar disorder. This finding indicates that genetics plays a role in the development of this condition.

Environmental Factors

Although researchers haven’t pinpointed any specific environmental triggers for bipolar disorder, some experts say stress might be a factor. Stressful life events such as divorce, job loss, death of a loved one, or moving into a new home could increase the chances of developing bipolar disorder. Other possible triggers include substance misuse, head injury, exposure to toxic chemicals, and traumatic childhood experiences.

Other Possible Causes

Some people believe that bipolar disorder is caused by chemical imbalances in the brain. Others think that bipolar disorder is related to problems with neurotransmitters, which are substances in the body that transmit signals between nerve cells. Still, other experts believe that bipolar disorder is linked to abnormalities in the immune system.

Coping Mechanisms for Bipolar Disorder

There are two coping mechanisms most people with bipolar disorder agree are useful for managing their condition:

Exercise regularly. Regular physical activity helps improve energy levels and mood. It may also help prevent relapse by reducing stress and anxiety.
Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation makes people irritable and impulsive, which can lead to relapses.

Additional coping strategies for bipolar disorder include:

Seeking professional help
Keeping your moods under control by avoiding drugs or alcohol
Eating right
Managing stress
Avoiding people who make you feel bad
Staying away from things that trigger your depression
Talking to someone about how you’re feeling
Trying new activities
Taking proper care of yourself
Being patient with yourself
Learning more about bipolar disorder

Finding Help for Bipolar Disorder

When someone has bipolar disorder , he or she usually experiences periods of elevated mood, called mania, and periods of depressed mood, called hypomania. These episodes often last weeks or months at a time. In addition, people with bipolar disorder may also experience less severe mood changes known as mixed states.

Treating bipolar disorder involves treating the symptoms of the disease and preventing future episodes. Treatment options include medications, psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and complementary therapies.

Medications

Doctors use different types of medication to treat bipolar disorder. The most common type of medication used to treat bipolar disorder is lithium. Lithium works by changing the way the brain processes information. It’s believed to stabilize mood swings and prevent them from occurring. Another type of medication used to manage bipolar disorder is an antidepressant. Antidepressants work by affecting the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. They are sometimes prescribed along with lithium.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapists help patients learn ways to cope better with bipolar disorder. Some therapists specialize in helping people with bipolar disorder deal with depression while others focus on managing manic episodes. A combination of therapy and medication is often recommended.

Lifestyle Changes

People with bipolar disorder need to follow certain lifestyle habits to maintain good health. Eating right and getting enough sleep are two key factors. To eat right, choose foods high in fiber and low in fat. Especially avoid sugary drinks and fried foods. Also, exercise regularly, get plenty of rest, limit caffeine intake, and try to keep stressful situations to a minimum.

Complementary Therapies

People with bipolar disorder may benefit from using complementary therapies, including acupuncture, yoga, tai chi, meditation, and biofeedback. Complementary therapies aren’t considered part of mainstream medicine but they are widely practiced in alternative medicine circles.

If you have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, it is best to find a psychiatrist or psychologist at a reputable mental health treatment facility, such as Wave Treatment Center .

Bipolar Disorder Treatment in Philadelphia, PA

Stop letting your bipolar disorder run your life, seek treatment today. Wave Treatment Centers located in Philadelphia, PA offer comprehensive mental health services to help patients find long-term symptom relief. Our facility offers treatment interventions such as TMS Therapy, psychotherapy, psychiatry, medication management, and ketamine-assisted therapy. Give us a call or visit our contact form to begin improving your quality of life today.

The post Coping Mechanisms for Bipolar Disorder appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Does TMS Therapy Work for PTSD?

Fri, 01 Apr 2022 09:24:00 GMT

Does TMS Therapy Work for PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental illness that causes symptoms after experiencing a terrifying event. People suffering from this disorder may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and other disturbing thoughts about what happened. The amygdala is a part of your brain that controls emotion. Traumatic experiences affect the amygdala, causing it to overreact to stressful situations. The ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFc) controls the amygdala. When the VMPFc is damaged, the amygdala goes wild. The hippocampus stores memories, but when the hippocampus shrinks, the memories become fuzzy. TMS works for PTSD by stimulating cells in the VMPFc with electromagnetic impulses. This treatment also helps regulate cells in the other regions of the brain associated with PTSD, possibly returning them to normal levels of activity; thus, restoring balance and stability in your mind.

What is PTSD Exactly?

Those who suffer from PTSD characterize it as recurring nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance, avoidance behavior, irritability, anger, difficulty sleeping, feelings of guilt and shame, and feeling numb or detached from others. It causes significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

Scientifically, PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and stress. PTSD can be very serious and affect your ability to function normally. There is currently no cure for PTSD, but there are treatments available that can help manage the condition.

TMS Therapy is one of the most commonly used treatments for PTSD. TMS Therapy uses brief electrical pulses to stimulate the brain. The pulses are delivered through electrodes placed on the scalp. The therapy has been shown to be effective in treating symptoms of PTSD, including flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.

How Does TMS Therapy Work for PTSD?

TMS therapy, or transcranial magnetic stimulation, is a form of treatment that is often used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). TMS therapy works by using a magnetic field to stimulate the brain. This can help to relieve symptoms of PTSD and help improve overall mental health. TMS therapy is considered to be safe and effective for treating PTSD.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This helps to normalize activity in areas of the brain that may be hyperactive during flashbacks. It has shown promise in treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

The exact mechanism behind how TMS therapy works for PTSD is not known. However, researchers believe that the effects of TMS therapy work by increasing blood flow to the parts of the brain that are affected by PTSD. This allows for better oxygenation and nutrient delivery. Additionally, this increases the production of serotonin, which is thought to play a role in regulating mood.

Is TMS Treatment FDA Approved for PTSD?

There is evidence that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may be effective at treating PTSD. The Food and Drug Administration has approved rTMS for depression, but this treatment hasn’t been studied specifically for PTSD. It’s important to note that rTMS isn’t considered a first-line treatment for PTSD, and many experts recommend using medications before considering rTMS.

That being said, there are several studies that show positive results with rTMS for PTSD. A 2010 review article found that rTMS was successful in reducing PTSD symptoms. Another study showed that rTMS reduced PTSD symptoms in veterans who were exposed to combat.

In addition, a 2016 study concluded that rTMS was effective at relieving PTSD symptoms. The authors noted that further research is needed to determine if rTMS is an appropriate treatment option for PTSD.

Benefits of TMS Therapy

TMS Therapy is an alternative treatment option for those suffering from PTSD. It’s noninvasive, painless, and easy to administer. Patients report positive results within days of beginning treatment.

TMS works for PTSD by:

Reducing flashbacks and nightmares
Increasing sleep quality
Decreasing anxiety
Improving mood
Relieving depression
Easing insomnia

Furthermore, TMS Therapy is safe, inexpensive, and convenient.

TMS Therapy Works for Depression:

Depression is a common co-occurring condition with PTSD. Studies show that approximately 50% of veterans diagnosed with PTSD also suffer from major depressive disorder. Depression often occurs alongside PTSD, making it difficult to treat. TMS Therapy is helpful in managing both conditions simultaneously.

TMS Therapy Is Effective for Anxiety:

Anxiety disorders are another common comorbidity found in patients with PTSD. Research shows that up to 75% of individuals with PTSD have some form of generalized anxiety disorder. TMS Therapy is beneficial in reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.

TMS Therapy Helps Reduce Stress:

Stress is a common trigger for PTSD. A study conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs showed that nearly half of the participants reported having had a panic attack while receiving TMS Therapy. TMS Therapy reduces stress and improves overall well-being. It may even reduce the risk of developing PTSD.

Begin TMS for PTSD in Philadelphia , PA

Treatment options for TMS in Philadelphia are available at Wave Treatment Centers. We offer free consultations regarding TMS treatments both in-person and online. Contact us today to learn more about TMS therapy for PTSD. We highly encourage you to contact us if you have exhausted other treatment options and want to learn about TMS therapy for PTSD. During one of our free consultations, we can discuss your needs and help you find the best solution for your situation. Call or reach out through our contact form to get started today.

The post Does TMS Therapy Work for PTSD? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Is Ketamine Therapy Covered by Insurance?

Fri, 18 Mar 2022 09:20:00 GMT

Is Ketamine Therapy Covered by Insurance?

Ketamine therapy shows promising results for people who suffer from treatment-resistant depression. Though not all insurances cover this therapy, it may well be worth the investment even if you have to go out of pocket. This is because ketamine has proven to be one of the most effective antidepressant medications available today. If you would like to learn more about ketamine therapy and why ketamine depression treatment insurance is not commonly available, continue reading.

Is Ketamine FDA Approved?

Yes, ketamine has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) since 1970. It was originally used as an animal tranquilizer but has been studied extensively for its potential medical uses. It is prescribed off-label for various psychiatric conditions including depression and bipolar disorder. The most common side effects are dissociative symptoms, which include feelings of detachment, depersonalization, and derealization. These symptoms usually subside after a few hours.

Are Ketamine Treatments Covered by Insurance?

It is best to check with your insurance provider to determine if ketamine treatments are covered or not. While some insurers may cover certain treatments under specific circumstances, they will not cover ketamine treatment for depression unless you have a clinical trial underway. The main reasons why ketamine depression treatment insurance is not offered include:

Ketamine is a generic drug, readily available, and pharmaceutical companies can’t make a profit from it. Therefore research into ketamine is limited and without the science to back it, insurance companies won’t pay for it.
Ketamine was used as an anesthetic early on and continues to be used in the surgery room still today for some procedures. Insurers will typically cover these procedures but not other types of uses.
Ketamine has been shown to cause hallucinations, delusions, and confusion, which insurance companies may consider to be risky side effects.

Does Ketamine Work For Depression?

There is evidence that ketamine therapy works for depression. In fact, it’s one of the only medications that has shown consistently positive results in multiple randomized controlled trials. This means that when researchers randomly assign people with major depressive disorder to receive either ketamine or placebo, those who get ketamine experience significant improvement in their condition compared to those who get the placebo.

What Are The Benefits Of Ketamine?

There are many benefits associated with ketamine treatment for depression. First, it takes less time to see results than traditional antidepressants. A single dose of ketamine can last up to four weeks while other antidepressant drugs take several months to start working. Another benefit is that ketamine is relatively safe. Unlike other antidepressants, it carries little risk of causing suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Additionally, ketamine seems to be better tolerated by patients than other antidepressants. Most people report feeling relaxed and comfortable during ketamine sessions.

More benefits of Ketamine treatment:

Fast acting – You can feel the benefits within minutes after taking your first dose.
Relief from severe depression – Many patients report that they experience relief from severe depression following just one or two sessions.
No tolerance – Unlike many other medications, you don’t build up a tolerance to ketamine over time. It works well for people who struggle with depression throughout their lives.
No withdrawal symptoms – Withdrawal symptoms are common with other antidepressants. But since ketamine is non-addictive, you won’t experience any negative side effects.
Inexpensive – The average cost per session is around $300-$400.

The Best Options to Help Pay for Ketamine Treatment

If you want to find out if you have ketamine depression treatment insurance, you should first check what your particular policy covers. Most plans will cover certain medications used to treat mental health issues like depression and anxiety, but they may not cover ketamine treatment.

If your insurance plan covers some or all of the cost of ketamine, you might consider asking your doctor about getting a prescription for the drug. In addition to offering symptom relief, ketamine has been shown to reduce cravings for alcohol and drugs, which could be helpful for people struggling with substance abuse.

Other options to pay for ketamine treatment:

You can try crowdfunding or ask friends and family for financial assistance.
You can work with a private donor or foundation to fund a study. This would require you to apply for a grant and then wait for approval.
You can discuss payment options with your treatment facility.

How Much Does Ketamine Treatment Cost Out-Of-Pocket?

The cost of Ketamine treatment depends on where you live and what type of insurance coverage you have. If you’re uninsured, you’ll likely need to pay cash for ketamine treatment. Ketamine costs between $300 and $1,000 per session. These prices vary depending on the dosage needed to achieve the desired effect as well as the exact treatment facility. It may seem expensive, but ketamine is actually one of the least expensive treatments available for depression. For example, other antidepressants like Prozac and Zoloft cost hundreds of dollars each month. And when you factor in the costs of counseling the price skyrockets into the thousands of dollars.

Ketamine Treatment in Chestnut Hill, PA

Ketamine is commonly used to treat depression because it produces feelings of euphoria that are similar to those produced by natural highs. It also helps people feel less anxious and depressed. If you suffer from treatment-resistant depression and think there is no hope for you, ketamine could be your ticket to recovery. Get help with depression today, call WAVE Treatment Centers or visit our contact form .

The post Is Ketamine Therapy Covered by Insurance? appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

Benefits of Ketamine Therapy

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 09:23:00 GMT

Benefits of Ketamine Therapy

What are the Benefits of Ketamine Therapy?

Ketamine therapy has proven to be effective in treating depression, insomnia, and anxiety. It may also be useful in reducing the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and in relieving chronic pain. Though ketamine does not cure these conditions, it can provide relief for a long period of time. Patients tend to feel symptom relief in as early as an hour. Once a patient has undergone several therapy sessions, they may experience symptom relief for weeks at a time.

Benefits for Depression

Ketamine has been proven effective in treating depression. It works in two main ways: First, by creating space for the patient through its dissociative properties. Dissociation makes the patient feel less connected to their depression, problems, and life stresses.

Dissociative properties:

Less emotional connection
Separated from direct experience
Perceived out-of-body experience

Second, Ketamine contains psychedelic properties. These psychedelic properties create certain sensations and can even help to alter mood, which helps the patient ease out of depression and even avoid it altogether.

Psychedelic properties:

Greater sensory acuity
Time distortion
Heightened imagination

Benefits for Anxiety

Ketamine also helps with anxiety. Ketamine therapy activates prefrontal glutamate neurotransmission, which helps lessen and even eliminate anxiety. Unlike other types of antidepressant and anti-anxiety treatments, Ketamine works by blocking glutamate receptors. Interestingly, by blocking these receptors Ketamine also reduces chronic inflammation, which is believed to be a major contributor to depression and heightened anxiety.

Benefits for Insomnia

Insomnia is a common side effect of antidepressants. Ketamine therapy has shown to be effective in treating insomnia caused by antidepressants. It appears to work by increasing GABAergic inhibition in the thalamus, which regulates sleep patterns.

Benefits for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (or PTSD) is characterized by flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance. Symptoms of PTSD include excessive startle response, irritability, anger, difficulty sleeping, and social withdrawal.

Ketamine has proven to be very effective at alleviating these symptoms. One study showed that 50% of participants who received ketamine had significant improvement in their PTSD symptoms. Another study showed that 40% of participants reported complete remission of PTSD symptoms.

Benefits for Pain Management

The analgesic properties of ketamine make it useful in managing acute and chronic pain. Acute pain is usually short-lived, while chronic pain lasts for weeks, months, or even years.

Post-surgical pain is a good example of how ketamine therapy can benefit patients. After undergoing surgery, patients experience muscle spasms, nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Ketamine alleviates these symptoms.

Postoperative pain management is an area where ketamine therapy excels. A study conducted at the University of Washington examined the efficacy of intravenous ketamine as an adjunct to traditional opioid therapy. They concluded that ketamine provided better pain control than opioids alone.

Ketamine has been shown to reduce opioid use in people undergoing surgery. A recent study showed that ketamine reduced opioid consumption by a significant degree. Another benefit of ketamine is that it doesn’t cause respiratory depression. Opioids can slow breathing down to dangerous levels. Ketamine does not affect respiration.

Are There Any Cons of Ketamine Therapy?

While ketamine is generally considered safe, there are some risks associated with its use. The biggest downside to ketamine therapy is its potential side effects, such as:

Nausea/Vomiting
Dizziness
Confusion
Headaches
Numbness
Hallucinations

It is important to note that these effects are typically mild and transient.

Finding Ketamine Therapy Near Me

Ketamine therapy has increased in popularity over recent years, making it more accessible. Wave Treatment Centers, located in the Philadelphia area, offer ketamine-assisted therapy in addition to other innovative treatment options such as TMS therapy . Wave offers treatment in the form of IV-ketamine and Spravato which is esketamine in the form of a nasal spray.

Ketamine Therapy in Chestnut Hill, PA

It’s time to seek mental health treatment so you can live a more fulfilling and productive life. Wave Treatment Centers offer a variety of treatment services in a comfortable and peaceful environment. Even if you have not had success with traditional modes of treatment, we can help. To find out more about ketamine-assisted therapy in Philadelphia, PA, please give us a call or visit our contact form today.

The post Benefits of Ketamine Therapy appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

Pros and Cons of TMS Therapy

Fri, 04 Mar 2022 09:20:00 GMT

Pros and Cons of TMS Therapy

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-surgical, localized treatment. It uses electromagnetic waves to activate the understimulated parts of your brain. During sessions, patients remain awake while sitting in a reclining chair. Treatment is delivered in a series of outpatient sessions ranging from 3 to 19 minutes. These are typically administered 5 days a week for 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the patient’s needs. Continue reading to learn more about the pros and cons of TMS therapy to decide if this treatment may benefit you.

What Does TMS Therapy Treat?

In addition to treat-resistant depression , TMS has shown promise in addressing other mental health disorders, chronic pain, migraines, and tinnitus. It may also be effective for some forms of dementia and stroke. The efficacy of TMS therapy depends on which areas of the brain are being targeted. For example, if the left side of the brain is damaged by a stroke, then stimulating the right side of the brain could help with recovery. If the right side of the prefrontal cortex is damaged, then TMS could improve memory.

Here’s an explanatory list of conditions treatable with TMS therapy:

Depression – Depression can be treated by stimulating certain parts of the brain that are responsible for mood regulation. This treatment is called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, or rTMS.
Chronic Pain – Chronic pain can be treated by stimulating specific areas of the brain that help control pain signals.
Migraine Headaches – Migraine headaches can be treated by stimulating various parts of the brain.
Stroke – Strokes can be treated by stimulating other parts of the brain that help regulate movement.
Dementia – Dementia can be treated by stimulating the frontal lobe of the brain.
Parkinson’s Disease – Parkinson’s disease can potentially be treated by stimulating a part of the brain that controls motor skills.
Alzheimer’s Disease – There is evidence that Alzheimer’s disease can be treated with TMS.
Multiple Sclerosis – Multiple sclerosis can be treated by stimulating parts of the brain that regulate communication between nerves.
Schizophrenia – Schizophrenia can be treated by activating certain parts of the brain.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – PTSD can be treated by stimulating specific parts of the brain.
Hemifacial Spasm – Hemifacial spasm can be treated by stimulating portions of the brain that control facial muscles.
Tinnitus – Tinnitus can be treated by stimulating regions of the brain that control hearing.
Anxiety Disorders – Anxiety disorders can be treated by stimulating areas of the brain that control emotions.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder – OCD can be treated by stimulating several parts of the brain.

What Are the Pros and Cons of TMS Therapy ?

As with any treatment, there are pros and cons associated with TMS therapy. Before deciding if this treatment is right for you, it is important to understand both sides. The pros of this innovative form of therapy include:

Non-Surgical . Unlike surgery, which requires invasive procedures, TMS is non-invasive. Because it does not require surgery, it doesn’t have any side effects like bleeding, infection, scarring, or damage to surrounding tissue.
Safe . TMS is safe because there are no known risks associated with its use. There have been no reported deaths related to TMS. However, if you’re taking medications, discuss them with your doctor before beginning a course of TMS.
Effective . There are many studies supporting the effectiveness of TMS. In fact, one study found that 90% of people who received TMS experienced an improvement in their symptoms.
Convenient . TMS is non-surgical, making it an outpatient procedure. You don’t need to take time off from work or miss school.
Proven. TMS therapy has been FDA approved since 2008, meaning it is safe and backed by clinical research.

Most people experience no side effects to mild discomfort during TMS sessions, others encounter some. These symptoms are rare but could include the following:

Neck Pain
Headache
Sensitivity to Light
Fatigue
Nausea
Vomiting
Difficulty Sleeping
Weakness
Muscle Cramps
Loss of Balance
Blurred Vision
Seizures

Finding TMS Therapy Near Me

TMS is FDA approved for the treatment of major depression and has been used off label for many other psychiatric illnesses including bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, eating disorders, and migraines. It is not recommended for people who have had a seizure within the last 2 years due to the increased risk of seizures during this period. If you think you might benefit from TMS therapy, talk to your primary care physician about whether or not it is right for you. They will refer you to an appropriate specialist.

Wave Treatment Centers, located in Chestnut Hill and Philadelphia, PA , specializes in this convenient mode of therapy. Their specialists are trained to administer TMS therapy in a safe and secure environment. They will keep you comfortable throughout sessions and monitor you for any possible side effects. Our admissions staff is happy to answer any questions you might have about TMS therapy.

TMS Therapy in Philadelphia , PA

If you haven’t had luck with previous treatments such as therapy and medication, then TMS might be able to help. This cutting-edge treatment has proven successful in many cases. Wave Treatment Centers in Philadelphia, PA offer TMS therapy among other modes of mental health treatment. To learn more about our services or to get started today, give us a call or use our contact form .

The post Pros and Cons of TMS Therapy appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Is TMS Therapy Covered By Insurance?

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 09:10:00 GMT

Transcranial magnetic stimulation or TMS Therapy is a form of treatment that uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain. It has been used for many years in Europe and Asia as an alternative or complementary therapy. However, practitioners in North America did not often use TMS for treatment-resistant depression until recently. If you are wondering, “Is TMS therapy covered by insurance?” read to learn more.

What is TMS Therapy?

Transcranial magnetic stimulator (TMS) Therapy is a safe, non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment for depression. It works by stimulating the areas of the brain responsible for emotions, memory, and concentration. This stimulation helps restore normal function and balance to these parts of the brain. As a result, the patient feels relief from symptoms.

TMS Therapy is usually done using a device called a transcranial magnetic stimulator (TMS). The TMS machine sends short bursts of high-frequency magnetic pulses through the scalp. Practitioners direct these pulses at specific points on the surface of the brain. Each pulse stimulates only a small area of the brain, so the entire head receives no more than 20 treatments per session.

The TMS machine generates a very low current electrical charge. The amount of energy delivered to each part of the brain depends upon the strength of the magnetic field produced by the TMS machine. In other words, the stronger the magnetic field, the greater the number of pulses delivered to that spot. The TMS machine delivers the magnetic pulses through a coil placed over the top of the skull while a computer controls the delivery of the pulses.

Is TMS Therapy Covered by My Insurance?

TMS Therapy can be covered by insurance if you have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder, dysthymia (chronic mild depression), bipolar I or II disorders, or other mood disorders. If your doctor recommends TMS as a treatment option for your condition, your health plan might cover the costs. Still, you should check with your insurance company to determine whether they cover TMS therapy.

Does Medicare or Medicaid Insurance Cover TMS Therapy?

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses affecting people around the world. According to one study , depression has tripled since 2020 and the start of the pandemic. The good news is Medicare and Medicaid cover up to 80% of the cost of TMS Therapy.

If you qualify for Medicare coverage, you may be able to get TMS covered under Part B. You must first apply for Medicare before you can receive TMS therapy. To learn more about this process you’ll need to reach out to Medicare .

If you qualify for Medicaid coverage, you may be eligible for TMS therapy if you meet all of the following criteria:

What Insurance Companies Cover TMS Therapy?

Several major insurance companies cover TMS therapy, as long you meet the requirements. Insurance companies usually cover therapies deemed medically necessary. Therefore, you might need to exhaust other types of therapies before TMS. However, if you have treatment-resistant depression, you have likely attempted all other therapies with little to no effect.

Insurance companies that might cover TMS Therapy include:

With a major insurance provider, you will likely have coverage for TMS therapy. Still, not all insurance companies will cover TMS therapy, and you will need to consider other payment options.

What Can I do if TMS Coverage is Denied by Insurance?

Unfortunately, not all insurance companies will cover TMS Therapy. Insurance companies have several reasons for denying coverage. Perhaps they only cover TMS with a high-tier plan, leaving you denied if you have less expansive coverage. Maybe coverage for TMS therapy is only applicable when you’ve tried all other means of treatment first. Nevertheless, if you need or want to try TMS therapy, you need to know how to pay for it.

While your insurance companies might not pay for TMS, many healthcare providers offer payment plans or financing options. You might qualify for medical financing depending on your needs and income. In addition, your provider might base treatment costs on your income, also known as a sliding-scale payment option.

How Can I Get TMS Therapy Covered By Insurance?

In addition to looking into payment plans, you want to do all you can to ensure coverage for TMS therapy. While TMS therapy might be less expensive out-of-pocket than other treatment options, costs are often a barrier for many who need treatment.

Things that will help your gain insurance coverage for TMS are:

How Does TMS Work?

TMS Therapy works by stimulating the areas in the brain responsible for emotions and thought processes. When the brain is functioning normally, it produces certain chemicals that help regulate our moods and behavior. However, when we experience depression, our brains produce less of these chemicals. As a result, we feel sad, anxious, angry, or depressed.

When we receive TMS Therapy, the magnetic pulses stimulate the areas of the brain that control emotion and thought. This increases the production of the chemicals needed to regulate our moods and behaviors. After receiving TMS therapy, patients often report feeling happier, calmer, less stressed, and less angry.

Why Should I Choose TMS Therapy Over Other Treatments?

TMS Therapy is a safe, effective way to treat depression. Unlike medications, TMS therapy does not cause side effects such as drowsiness, weight gain, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, headaches, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, or weakness. It also does not require long-term use as antidepressants do.

Other benefits of TMS therapy include:

TMS Therapy in Philadelphia, PA

Stop letting mental disorders run your life. The time to get help is now. Even if you have not had valuable results from traditional treatments, TMS therapy can help. If you would like to learn more about TMS Therapy in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania please call us or use our contact form . We look forward to hearing from you.

The post Is TMS Therapy Covered By Insurance? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Benefits Of TMS Therapy For Bipolar Disorder

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 09:22:00 GMT

What Is Bipolar Disorder?

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), bipolar disorder , formerly known as manic-depression, “is a mental disorder that causes unusual shifts in mood, energy, activity levels, concentration, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks.” These shifts in mood and energy are “manic” and “depressive” episodes. During manic episodes, you might feel elated, euphoric, powerful, irritable, and energized. Sadness, indifference, apathy, and hopelessness characterize depressive episodes.

There are 3 main types of bipolar disorder defined by the severity and duration of your behavioral and mood changes:

Bipolar I Disorder: Defined by manic episodes that last at least 1 week, symptoms of mania that are so severe they might require hospitalization, depressive episodes that usually last about 2 weeks, and a mix of both manic and depressive symptoms occurring at the same time or cycling rapidly between both.
Bipolar II Disorder: Characterized by cycles of depressive episodes and hypomanic episodes (episodes of elevated mood and energy level).
Cyclothymic Disorder or Cyclothymia: Characterized by emotional ups and downs that occur for at least 2 years, moods that shift noticeably up and down from your baseline levels, and feeling stable for a period of time between these cycles of lows and highs.

The Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Many stereotypes of bipolar disorder can cause confusion about what this disorder looks like. Nevertheless, everyone will have different moods from time to time in response to what is occurring in their lives. You might have an appropriate shift in mood or emotion in reaction to something going on in the moment. For example, getting a little upset when someone cuts you off in traffic is not a “bipolar” moment–you are responding to the current situation.

Manic (or hypomanic) symptoms of bipolar disorder include:

Feeling suddenly euphoric or invulnerable
Boundless amounts of energy
Insomnia
Decrease in appetite
Disorganized speech
Racing thoughts and multi-tasking
Risky behaviors
Hallucinations and delusions (in extreme manic episodes)

Depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder include:

Feeling sad, worthless, empty, or excessively worried
A lack of energy or tiredness
Difficulty falling and staying asleep
Weight gain
Forgetful and appearing somewhat distant or uninterested
Trouble focusing or concentrating
Suicidal thoughts

What Is TMS?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation ( TMS ) is an innovative type of evidence-based therapy. In this treatment method, professionals place a TMS device over the patient’s head. This device works by transmitting magnetic pulses that stimulate underactive areas of the brain. The process improves communication within the brain, aiding in depression among other mental health disorders and neurological conditions.

Individuals undergo this painless process in a secure and calming environment. The procedure is entirely outpatient, and individuals can drive after receiving treatment. Lastly, TMS sessions last about 30 minutes and are conducted 5 times a week for 4 to 6 weeks.

Does TMS Work for Bipolar Disorder?

TMS therapy, initially used for treatment-resistant depression, can treat a wide range of conditions, including bipolar disorder. TMS therapy works well for bipolar disorder as it helps lessen the severity of mood cycles by stabilizing neuro-activity. As these sessions continue, they correct any abnormalities in the brain, improving cognitive processes and emotional regulation on a long-term scale. Poor communication between and insufficient function of certain regions of the brain is a potential cause of bipolar disorder, it is important to note that TMS therapy can improve both neural communication and functionality.

Who Is a Good Candidate for TMS Therapy?

The best candidates for TMS therapy are individuals living with a mood disorder who have not responded to other forms of treatment such as medication or talk therapy. This cutting-edge treatment can provide relief to those who have been searching for effective treatment for a long time. Additionally, this treatment is ideal for those seeking outpatient treatment with little to no side effects.

Traditional Treatment vs TMS Therapy

TMS Therapy varies from other forms of treatment as it has few side effects and is medication-free. Traditional methods of treating bipolar disorder include:

Antidepressants. These are used during depressive episodes and aid in long-term mood regulation.
Mood Stabilizers. These help during manic episodes and are safe when given in monitored doses.
Antipsychotics. These reduce symptoms that can surface during manic episodes such as delusions and hallucinations.
Benzodiazepines. These can help calm individuals in times of severe distress. Because these drugs are addictive, they should be carefully regulated.
Psychotherapy. There are several forms of psychotherapy. Attending therapy sessions can help identify and address the underlying causes of bipolar disorder.
Holistic Treatment Options. Activities that promote mindfulness such as yoga and meditation are helpful in developing healthy coping mechanisms.

It is important to note someone can combine TMS therapy with other types of treatment methods. In fact, we encourage individuals to still participate in traditional therapies, holistic activities, and, if medically prescribed, continue taking their medications while attending TMS sessions.

What Are the Benefits of TMS for Bipolar Disorder?

TMS therapy benefits people with bipolar disorder by providing relief from symptoms when other types of treatment are ineffective.

Additional benefits of TMS for bipolar disorder include:

TMS is proven more effective than many other treatment methods and has a high success rate.
You can use TMS therapy as part of long-term treatment of bipolar disorder following your initial weekly appointments with follow-up sessions to maintain your wellness.
Symptoms of mania can cause you to struggle with individual or group therapy, especially with racing thoughts and difficulty sitting still. TMS can target these symptoms to help you remain stable enough for psychotherapy and counseling.
Depressive symptoms can also create a barrier to getting effective treatment. TMS can help you stabilize your mood enough to begin traditional types of treatment.
You can receive TMS therapy in an outpatient setting and resume normal activities after your sessions.

TMS Therapy for Bipolar Disorder in Chestnut Hill, PA

TMS therapy can help you manage both manic and depressive symptoms of bipolar disorder. Wave Treatment Centers of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania offers TMS therapy to help you break free of the challenges of bipolar disorder with the support of a caring staff. To learn more about our services or to get started, call today.

The post Benefits Of TMS Therapy For Bipolar Disorder appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Treating Addiction and Anxiety Disorders

Fri, 31 Dec 2021 09:20:00 GMT

What are the Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders?

There are five primary types of anxiety disorders, all of which have their own set of symptoms that define them. They include generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social phobia, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Generally speaking, all anxiety disorders can produce symptoms that are shared across the different types. These symptoms can include, but are not limited to, the following:

Irritability
Excessive worrying
Gastrointestinal problems
Problems concentrating
Difficulty falling asleep and/or staying asleep
Muscle tension
Feeling on-edge

These are just some common symptoms of anxiety disorders. Depending on the type of anxiety disorder a person has, they may experience additional symptoms like shortness of breath, dizziness, fear of losing control, fear of imminent death, and hypervigilance. All symptoms associated with anxiety disorders can make daily life extremely stressful and overwhelming, wearing down at one’s overall resolve. This is where addiction and anxiety disorders often merge .

Why are Addiction and Anxiety Disorders Linked?

Anxiety disorders, especially those that go untreated, can be absolutely life-changing – and in a number of negative ways. It is common for people with anxiety disorders to find themselves isolating from others, no longer participating in things that make them happy, feeling a constant sense of worry and fear, and neglecting their needs when it comes to their mental, physical, and emotional health. Anxiety disorders can make people feel like they are someone that they aren’t, which can be extremely distressing. When the pressures associated with anxiety disorders overflow, some individuals turn to the use of drugs and alcohol for a number of reasons.

Desire to Relax

Anxiety disorders often cause people to feel like there is always something in the background that is bothering or upsetting them. They may not feel fully settled or able to approach their days without feeling like they are carrying a burden of worry. Drinking alcohol or using drugs like marijuana can feel like an easy way to help reduce that overwhelming sense of worry, which is why many people are attracted to those substances. Many people may also engage in prescription drug abuse or illicit drug use to help them feel a sense of calm that they are unable to achieve on their own.

Wanting to Numb Emotions

Anxiety disorders can produce feelings such as anger, sadness, and confusion, among many other distressing emotions that remain constant in one’s everyday life. These emotions can be extremely overwhelming and difficult to manage on a regular basis. Even though it is well-known that abusing drugs and alcohol can be dangerous and potentially fatal, those who are constantly dealing with anxiety may find themselves caring less about the risks and more about making their upsetting emotions go away.

Reducing Feelings of Anxiety in Social Situations

Many people who deal with an anxiety disorder find that being in social situations triggers their anxiety even more. This is incredibly common, but also incredibly problematic. The anticipation of a social situation as well as actually being involved in a social situation can make one’s anxiety flare significantly. When these feelings of anxiety develop, individuals may turn to the use of drugs or alcohol to “loosen up” when around others.

Can Addiction Make an Anxiety Disorder Worse?

Even though individuals may look to drugs or alcohol to help mask their symptoms of anxiety, they are often only making the situation much worse. Of course, there may be a couple of moments of relief provided when abusing drugs and alcohol, but they are few and far between in comparison to the negative consequences drugs and alcohol can produce. This is especially true for those who have an anxiety disorder, as mind-altering substances impact the function of the brain, which is already at a disadvantage due to the presence of the anxiety disorder.

So, how does addiction make anxiety disorders worse? For starters, many substances actually produce symptoms related to anxiety. Alcohol, opioids, and stimulants are some substances that when abused, create feelings of anxiety especially when the high is wearing off. This occurs because the body and brain are working to readjust to functioning without the substance in the body anymore, which can trigger anxiety-related symptoms. The regular abuse of drugs or alcohol can make this a cyclical pattern that only worsens the anxiety.

Additionally, abusing drugs and alcohol to the point where addiction is occurring keeps individuals from obtaining the treatment they need in order to manage their anxiety disorder symptoms. Addiction and anxiety disorders do not mix well in this case, as both conditions go ignored and worsen as time passes. Thankfully, there is treatment available for those who are experiencing this type of challenge.

Treatment for Anxiety Disorders

When someone has an addiction and an anxiety disorder, this condition is clinically referred to as a dual diagnosis. Treating a dual diagnosis is possible, even if it can be a bit tricky at times. At Wave Treatment Centers, we offer a number of services designed specifically to help address the issues produced by this type of dual diagnosis. We offer ketamine-assisted therapy, medication-assisted therapy, psychotherapy, and psychiatry services, as well as transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS . TMS is one of the top services we provide, as it has proven to help reduce symptoms related to anxiety significantly.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment in Chestnut Hill, PA

If you are dealing with addiction and an anxiety disorder, call us or visit our contact form to learn more about the programming that we can offer you. Our services may be exactly what you need to overcome the challenges you are currently facing.

The post Treating Addiction and Anxiety Disorders appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

Why Do Anxiety and Depression Get Worse at the Holidays?

Fri, 24 Dec 2021 09:15:00 GMT

Why Do Anxiety and Depression Get Worse at the Holidays?

There is no doubt that these past two years have been extremely stressful and caused a great deal of anxiety. The COVID-19 pandemic has completely changed all of our lives, and these changes are certainly felt even more during the holidays. But for many people across the United States, anxiety and depression have been occurring during the holidays for years. This is because millions of Americans experience anxiety disorders and depression on a daily basis, with no reprieve on holidays.

Why Do the Holidays Make Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression Worse?

No one wants to spend their holidays feeling the effects of their anxiety or depression. Of course, if there was a way to make symptoms disappear with a snap of the fingers, it’s safe to say many people would be eternally grateful. Unfortunately, that is not the reality of this situation. People who have anxiety and depression often grapple with symptoms that make them feel isolated from others, easily overwhelmed, and even sleep-deprived. However, anxiety and depression during the holidays can feel much worse. Some of the reasons why the holidays trigger these symptoms more than other times of the year can include the following:

Loneliness – The holidays are all about getting together with loved ones and celebrating. Dealing with depression and anxiety can often make social and familial circles much smaller, meaning that it can be easier to feel lonely during the holidays. Even without any type of mental illness, people from all backgrounds experience loneliness at this time.
Painful memories – It is customary to reflect during the holidays, which can be both heart-warmning and painful. Past negative memories related to friends or family members can agitate symptoms of anxiety and depression, especially if an individual is made to celebrate alongside the people in question.
Stress – Symptoms of anxiety and depression can become worse during the holidays because of the stress that is often associated with this time of year. From shopping for gifts and visiting loved ones to finding some down time and celebrating the season, it can be extremely simple to become overly stressed. Those with anxiety and depression are at greater risk for experiencing higher levels of stress.

It is important to understand that anxiety and depression are more than just a few worries and feelings of sadness here and there. While the holidays can provoke anxiety and make someone feel sad, there is a major difference between those feelings and these mental illnesses.

The Difference Between Seasonal Affective Disorder and Anxiety and Depression

It is not uncommon for people to experience seasonal affective disorder during the holidays. This particular disorder, often referred to as SAD, is characterized by significant changes in mood when seasons change. For example, many people in northern states where winters are long and cold can develop seasonal affective disorder as a result of little daylight, cold temperatures, and constantly being indoors. While they can experience anxiety or depression symptoms at this time, they often dissipate when the seasons change back to their preferred season.

Regardless of if you are experiencing anxiety and depression during the holidays or have developed seasonal affective disorder, it is imperative to be aware of how to manage these symptoms in order to have a happy holiday season.

Tips for Managing Symptoms

If you have been dealing with anxiety and depression for a long period of time, chances are you have a few tricks up your sleeve to help you better deal with the holidays. But, even if you are already equipped with the right skills, it is always helpful to consider adding more to the arsenal. Those of you who are new to anxiety and depression, or who are experiencing seasonal affective disorder, gathering as many tips for managing symptoms as possible is ideal. Consider the following:

Do not neglect your own well being. Getting wrapped up in the chaos of the holidays can cause you to forget to practice good self-care. Continue to do the things that allow you to care for yourself or even increase these things to support yourself during this time.
Get comfortable with using the word “no”. The holidays can be so busy that it can seem like you are running from one place to the next. By saying “no” to a gathering, an event, or even errands you wanted to run can be extremely helpful and reduce your symptoms of anxiety and depression during the holidays.
Check your expectations. Do not set yourself up for failure by placing expectations on others that they likely won’t meet. Do not put expectations on yourself that you know are unlikely, either. Either focus on making reasonable expectations or decide that you will proceed throughout the holidays without any expectations at all.
Do not keep to yourself too much, even if you feel like you want to. It is healthy to see other individuals and socialize. Doing so helps us strengthen our relationships, have good belly laughs, and enjoy the season together.

If you are still feeling shaky when it comes to getting through the holidays, seeking professional help can be the right choice for you.

Getting Professional Help

Getting help, regardless of what time of year it is, is absolutely critical if you are dealing with the symptoms of anxiety or depression. Depending on your needs, you may benefit from seeing a therapist frequently at this time or enrolling in an inpatient program. Regardless of the severity of your anxiety and depression, there is help available.

When you get professional help, you are not only learning how to better manage symptoms of anxiety and depression during the holidays, but you are also being seen by someone who is extremely experienced in treating these types of disorders. They can refer you to other providers, such as prescribing professionals, who can assist in enhancing your treatment.

Anxiety and Depression Treatment in Chestnut Hill, PA

If you are ready to begin enjoying your holidays instead of being overwhelmed with them, reach out to Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill. Our team of professionals is ready to help you identify your triggers, address your symptoms, and help you implement the skills you need in order to be in control of your mental health.

Do not wait any longer. Call us or visit our contact form to get started on a better, brighter future.

The post Why Do Anxiety and Depression Get Worse at the Holidays? appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

5 Tips for Managing Depression During the Holidays

Fri, 17 Dec 2021 09:20:00 GMT

5 Tips for Managing Depression During the Holidays

The holiday season is looked forward to by billions of people throughout the entire world. People get excited to visit with loved ones and engage in holiday traditions, all while keeping the magic of this season alive for the little ones in the family. However, there are countless individuals who do not share in the same excitement of the holidays as many others worldwide do. This is not because they simply dislike the specific holidays that are being celebrated, rather it’s their depression during the holidays that prevents them from fully enjoying this time of year.

1 in 3 Americans has depression, according to data collected from recent studies. There is a high chance that if you do not have depression, one of your loved ones does. This particular mood disorder can cause dozens of upsetting symptoms, ranging from feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts to excessive sleeping and social withdrawal. Whether it is you who is dealing with depression during the holidays or a loved one, it can be helpful to be aware of how to manage this particular mental health disorder during the holiday season.

5 Tips for Managing Depression During the Holidays

Everyone manages their depression differently, and rightfully so. No two people share the exact same experiences when it comes to this mental health disorder. However, there are several things that all individuals with depression can do to help reduce their symptoms and their stress during the holidays so that they can enjoy the season.

1. Take Care of Yourself

During the holidays, people are encouraged to think of others as opposed to themselves. This is certainly part of the spirit of this time of year and is absolutely something worth engaging in. However, it is important not to give so much of yourself to others that there is nothing left for you. Prioritize yourself so that your depression during the holidays does not get worse. You can do this by ensuring you are getting enough rest, eating as well as possible, exercising, and simply engaging in activities that bring you your own personal joy.

2. Avoid Alcohol and Sugars

If you are dealing with depression during the holidays, there are some things that you can avoid to help improve your odds of coping. Alcohol, for example, can be found at nearly every single place where the holidays are being celebrated. Alcohol and depression have historically never mixed well, as alcohol is a depressant substance that can exacerbate depression symptoms (especially when alcohol is consumed irresponsibly). Alcohol also contains high amounts of sugar, which is one ingredient that has been closely linked to depression. Therefore, it is a good idea to consume sugar in moderation during the holidays to help prevent agitating symptoms of depression.

3. Keep it Simple

People with depression during the holidays can easily become overwhelmed. This particular mood disorder can make even the simplest things seem difficult. Therefore, it is a good idea to keep it as simple as possible when celebrating the holidays. This can be difficult due to the amount of activity that tends to go on at this time, but the good news is that you can control it. Keep plans and expectations simple so that you can preserve your wellness.

4. Lean on Your Support System

There is no doubt that everyone is extra busy during the holidays, but it is important that you call on your support system regardless of what is going on. Chances are they want to be there for you when you feel like you may be struggling. So, whether your support system consists of your parents, your siblings, your friends, or all of them, do not hesitate to reach out to them to talk about what you are experiencing. Depression during the holidays can be extremely difficult to deal with on your own, so having others to lean on can help.

5. Up Your Therapy

Speak with your therapist about your concerns regarding your depression during the holidays and set up a plan to see them more. While you might not feel like you need to increase your sessions at the time, it is likely that once the season gets moving, you will be grateful you made these plans. These extra sessions can help you process feelings in real-time so that they do not build and become worse.

What Should I Do If My Symptoms Don’t Improve?

If you are noticing that your symptoms do not improve despite some of the coping skills you have put in place, it may be time to turn up the heat a little bit. You can always start by trying some different coping skills that you have yet to engage in, however, you may need even more assistance than that. By contacting your therapist, prescriber, or other professionals in your healthcare circle, you can address these issues with people who can offer further assistance, such as increases or changes in medication or adjustments to therapy sessions.

The most important thing you can do if you are still struggling with your symptoms is to ask for help. Even simply talking to a loved one about what you are going through can help make symptoms feel less pervasive.

The Benefit of Having a “Backup Plan”

Everyone is busy during the holidays – everyone. Therefore, the best thing you can do is develop a backup plan that you can enact if your depression becomes unmanageable during the holidays. This backup plan can include gathering emergency phone numbers for your therapist or PCP, as well as knowing where local support group meetings are being held and when. Being able to get yourself the assistance you need is critical, especially considering how difficult it can be to get in touch with those who may be able to offer you assistance.

At Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill, we offer a number of services that can not only help you prepare for the holiday season but also help you cope in the moment. We provide psychotherapy and psychiatry services, along with specific treatments designed just for depression, such as TMS therapy and ketamine-assisted therapy. By reaching out to us, we can work with you to ensure that you will have the resources you need to prevent your depression from taking over this season.

Depression Treatment at Wave Treatment Centers in Chestnut Hill, PA

If you need help managing your depression during the holidays, or if you simply want to start building your own “backup plan” for the holidays, call us right now . One of our trained specialists is ready to answer any and all of the inquiries that you may have. Contact Wave Treatment Centers to learn more about the treatment options we provide.

The post 5 Tips for Managing Depression During the Holidays appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

The Causes of Treatment-Resistant Depression and How to Get Relief

Fri, 10 Dec 2021 09:15:00 GMT

Signs of Treatment-Resistant Depression

Depression is a mood disorder that can cause those who have it to experience periods of time where their depression kicks into full gear. This is the nature of depression, as this mental illness is not curable but instead, treatable. Those who do not get any relief via traditional treatment methods can exhibit other symptoms that align with treatment-resistant depression.

The signs of treatment-resistant depression can include, but are not limited to the following:

Little or no response to antidepressant medications or therapies
Slight improvement followed up by return of symptoms
Longer, more intense depressive episodes despite treatment
Development of anxiety or an anxiety disorder

It can be difficult to determine if what an individual is experiencing is actually treatment-resistant depression or just inadequate treatment. Therefore, it is important for them to consider some specific factors. For starters, these individuals should consider if they are taking their medications as prescribed. This means taking medication daily without skipping or forgetting doses. Also, it’s worth it to look at whether or not the therapy they are obtaining is working for them or not. Sometimes, individuals can get paired with therapists who they don’t click with or who are not skilled enough in providing specific treatments. Taking a good personal inventory of these factors can help individuals better understand what they may be experiencing.

Causes of Treatment-Resistant Depression

As previously mentioned, some people may think they have treatment-resistant depression because they are not following treatment guidelines appropriately or are not obtaining effective care. Outside of this, however, one might wonder: “What are the causes of treatment-resistant depression?” There are a number of different ideas as to why some people struggle to benefit from traditional depression treatments.

Low Levels of Neurotransmitters in the Brain

Research has shown that depression is most often linked to low levels of specific neurotransmitters in the brain. According to Harvard Medical School , neurotransmitters like serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, and glutamate are all connected to depressive disorders. The vast majority of people who have depression experience low levels of these neurotransmitters, which is typically treated with antidepressant medications that help increase their levels. However, not everyone responds to antidepressant medications, forcing some to wonder what is the cause of their treatment-resistant depression?

Genes

Newer studies have highlighted commonalities in some people with depression related to genes. These studies suggest that people experiencing treatment-resistant depression may be lacking two specific genes that work to build out brain circuits. When this is the case, antidepressants that would normally work for those with low levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain are not as effective, leaving the door open for continued symptoms of depression.

Tachyphylaxis

Tachyphylaxis is the clinical term used to explain what happens when certain medications (like antidepressants) stop being effective for certain individuals. There is currently no known reason as to why this occurs, however, it happens to roughly 20-30% of those with depression. For example, someone who experiences tachyphylaxis will take an antidepressant and experience benefits from it before feeling those benefits peter out.

Can Treatment-Resistant Depression Be Treated?

The good news is that, despite the many causes behind treatment-resistant depression, there are a number of alternative treatments that have proven to help address this troubling condition.

At Wave Treatment Centers, we provide several non-conventional treatment options that are fully backed by science and are safe. The most popular of our options is transcranial magnetic stimulation or TMS . This type of treatment works by sending magnetic waves into certain areas of the brain most impacted by depression to stimulate activity and reduce symptoms. This non-invasive, FDA-approved treatment does not hurt or typically does not produce any severe side effects.

In addition to TMS, we help answer the question: “ What are the causes of treatment-resistant depression? ” by utilizing our therapies to help combat several causes. For example, many of our patients receive ketamine therapy, where small doses of ketamine are administered in an effort to help reduce symptoms related to depression. A similar treatment can also be provided with SPRAVATO, a daily pill that helps to activate neurotransmitters affected by depression in the brain. When taken under guidance and care, patients can benefit from these alternative therapies without risking their well-being.

Treatment-Resistant Depression Treatment in Chestnut Hill

At WAVE Treatment Centers, we understand just how difficult it can be to carry on when you are experiencing treatment-resistant depression. Our team of licensed, experienced, and dedicated professionals strive to provide the best possible care to each and every one of our patients so that their symptoms of depression can be better managed.

If you or someone you love is in need of help regarding treatment-resistant depression, reach out to us using our contact form or give us a call . We are here to help make your depression easier to live with so you can begin living the life you have dreamed of.

The post T he Causes of Treatment-Resistant Depression and How to Get Relief appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

Alternative Treatments for Major Depression

Fri, 03 Dec 2021 09:15:00 GMT

What is Major Depression?

Everyone will go through periods in their lives where they are sad, feel hopeless, or feel like they just cannot get out of bed. This is normal from time to time, however, when these and other related symptoms start occurring on a regular basis, there could be more going on than what meets the eye.

Major depression is a mood disorder that is characterized by a pervasive sadness, feelings of guilt and shame, and worthlessness. In order for someone to be diagnosed with major depressive disorder, they must be experiencing specific symptoms daily for the same two-week period. As major depression continues on, other symptoms can develop and become more intense, potentially leading to a number of additional complications that can affect one’s physical and mental health.

Symptoms of Major Depression

Many people think that someone who is sad, grumpy, or uninterested in things means that they have major depression. This is not the case, as there are specific criteria that are used to help diagnose this mood disorder.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-V) identifies the following as symptoms of major depression:

Depressed mood for most of the day, nearly every day
Loss of interest in things that used to bring pleasure
Changes in appetite, leading to changes in weight loss or gain
Negative sleeping patterns such as sleeping too much or not enough
Fatigue
Feeling worthless or excessive/inappropriate guilt
Problems concentrating
Thoughts of death and/or suicide

These symptoms, while they might not start out as such, can become severe as time passes. The longer that a person goes without obtaining appropriate treatment (including alternative treatments for major depression) the more likely they are to continually struggle with this mood disorder. A number of physical and mental consequences can begin to occur, making the entire situation more complex.

How Major Depression Impacts Physical and Mental Health

Major depression is a serious mental health disorder that can dramatically affect all parts of a person’s life. This is not a disorder where medication can simply iron out one’s mood, as it takes several different techniques to ensure that a person is getting the most effective treatment. Alternative treatments for major depression have become highly sought after, as they have proven to offer relief from symptoms and a chance at recovery for those struggling. However, there is no way around the fact that major depression can impact one’s physical and mental health in a number of negative ways.

Physical Impacts

The mind and the body are more in sync than they are often given credit for. So while major depression is a mental health disorder, it can create a variety of distressing physical effects.

Most notably, major depression is linked to cardiovascular complications, specifically an increased risk for developing heart disease. This disorder can also cause chronic physical pain, gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, inflammation of joints, and loss of libido. Someone who is struggling with major depression may also lose or gain a significant amount of weight in a short period of time, altering their physical appearance and overall sense of self-esteem.

Mental Impacts

Mentally, major depressive disorder can create an endless amount of distress simply by nature. This disorder is known to cause anxiety, guilt, feelings of worthlessness, excessive crying, irritability, problems concentrating, thoughts of suicide, and going over thoughts repeatedly. The emotional toll that major depression can take can make maintaining good mental health extremely difficult. Thankfully, there are alternative treatments for major depression that can help reduce the likelihood of experiencing these or the physical impacts of this disorder.

Alternative Treatments for Major Depression

Major depression is either caused by biological factors, environmental factors, or a combination of both. Traditionally, this condition is treated with prescription medication and therapy. However, not everyone feels comfortable with the course of care. There are alternative treatments for major depression that have also proven to work in reducing symptoms, including some holistic methods.

The most common alternative treatments for major depression include services such as acupuncture, meditation, guided imagery, yoga, and herbal remedies. This holistic approach has helped countless individuals get a stronghold over their depression, allowing them the ability to live happier, healthier lives.

While many people utilize holistic approaches to treating their depression, some turn to transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS . TMS is an FDA-approved form of treatment that helps to stimulate areas of the brain that are not being naturally stimulated on their own, leading to depression symptoms.

Individuals who participate in TMS therapy can expect a few things from their sessions. First, the provider will place a coil on the head (usually on the forehead) near the area that they are looking to stimulate. They will then place a cap over the patient’s head, securing the coil. After that, providers will transmit magnetic waves to the brain to help stimulate neurotransmitter activity. Over the course of several sessions, patients will begin to see a decrease in their depressive symptoms, as the neurotransmitters in their brains are working to build more effective, healthy pathways that reduce the presence of depression symptoms.

Not only is TMS one of the top alternative treatments for major depression, but it is also FDA-approved and safe. The side effects associated with TMS therapy are much more minimal in both number and severity than those effects linked to antidepressant medications, making it a more viable option for many. Plus, TMS therapy does not hurt or create any immediate effects that prevent a patient from being able to drive home after their appointment.

TMS Therapy for Depression in Chestnut Hill

If you are dealing with depression that is not being treated or is not being treated effectively, TMS therapy might be one of the best alternative treatments for major depression. Our team of professionals is skilled and experienced in providing TMS services. To learn more about what we offer, visit our website .

You should not wait any longer to reach out for the help that you need to overcome your challenges with major depression. Call us right now. Our administrative professionals are available 24/7 and are ready to help you get started on a new tomorrow.

The post Alternative Treatments for Major Depression appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

Is Medical Marijuana Good for Anxiety?

Fri, 26 Nov 2021 09:20:00 GMT

Is Medical Marijuana Good for Anxiety?

Is medical marijuana good for anxiety? That seems to be one of the most popular questions asked today, as more and more people are obtaining legal prescriptions for marijuana and anxiety disorders remain the most common mental health condition in the country.

But, how much does medical marijuana help individuals who are experiencing anxiety disorders like obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder? Does it do more harm than good, or vice versa?

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a mental health condition that is characterized by excessive worry and fear that impacts daily activities. There are five major types of anxiety disorders:

Generalized anxiety disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Panic disorder
Social phobia
Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Each anxiety disorder comes with its own definitive set of symptoms, however, there are several symptoms that are shared across the board. This includes excessive worry, constant fear, irritability, and racing thoughts. Today, approximately 40 million Americans have an anxiety disorder. Even though this many people throughout the country are living with anxiety disorders, less than half of them receive professional help to treat their symptoms. When anxiety disorders are left untreated, a variety of unfavorable consequences can start to develop and even begin threatening one’s wellbeing.

How Does Anxiety Impact Daily Life?

Those who have an anxiety disorder know just how much anxiety can impact their daily lives. The more intense the anxiety disorder, the more challenging it can be to live with. People who have anxiety disorders like panic disorder or posttraumatic stress disorder may experience a number of effects on their daily life, including but not limited to, the following:

Problems sleeping, leading to clouded thinking, poor focus, and agitation
Changes in eating habits, such as emotional eating
Increased stress responses to anxiety, leading to rapid heart rate, heavy breathing, and an overall inability to relax
Fearing doing certain things, causing individuals to socially isolate or stay home
Becoming disorganized both mentally and physically due to increased focus on anxiety and its symptoms
Experiencing interpersonal problems with loved ones
Having difficulty performing at work or upholding a job

Anxiety disorders can be absolutely devastating. Many people find ways to push through the challenges they face as a result of this disorder, however, continuing to go on without obtaining some level of treatment can make the situation much more complex. With therapy and medication a common go-to combination for treating anxiety disorders, some people have started looking for alternative solutions. This begs the question, “Is medical marijuana good for anxiety?”

Is Medical Marijuana Good for Anxiety?

Marijuana, the legality of it, its usage, and so on have been a hot topic of debate for some time now. Studies have shown that marijuana, while a mind-altering substance, offers several benefits for people who are experiencing a whole slew of physical and psychological challenges, including anxiety. On the other hand, there are some cons to utilizing marijuana to treat a condition like anxiety, however, the decision to include it into one’s treatment plan depends on their own unique needs.

Pros of Medical Marijuana for Anxiety

One study concluded that those who used medical marijuana reported 50% less depressive symptoms and 58% less anxiety symptoms. This is a huge benefit for those with an anxiety disorder, as the symptoms of the condition are what are often the most challenging to address. When individuals are able to turn down the volume on their symptoms, they are better able to begin addressing the root causes of their anxiety.

Medical marijuana can also help to lessen physical pain, relax muscles, and help the brain slow down enough to where some of the anxious thoughts stop or are reduced. It helps to keep gastrointestinal issues at bay (which are common in those with anxiety) and also serves as an overall stress reducer.

Cons of Medical Marijuana for Anxiety

Medical marijuana may be effective for many people with anxiety, but it can also produce some cons that make it more unfavorable to others. For example, medical marijuana can actually exacerbate symptoms such as worry and fear as well as impact one’s long-term memory. Individuals may also start to develop a tolerance to marijuana, leading to increased usage, which can cause cannabis use disorder. Lastly, those who consume marijuana have higher risks of experiencing a psychiatric disorder.

So, is medical marijuana good for anxiety? The answer to that question depends on the needs of the individual. Everyone who has an anxiety disorder can have different experiences with medical marijuana, which is why it is important to work with a healthcare provider who can prescribe and monitor the use of the substance.

Alternative Treatments for Anxiety

Medical marijuana is easily one of the most popular alternative treatments for anxiety, and with good reason. However, there are other options to help treat these types of disorders that do not involve medical marijuana or other traditional forms of treatment.

One of the leading alternative treatments for anxiety is holistic therapy. Through holistic therapy, individuals gain the opportunity to engage in a number of different, natural therapies that can help to reduce their anxiety. These can include yoga, mindfulness, acupuncture, massage therapy, and meditation. This whole-body approach to treating anxiety has been effective for countless individuals and focuses on treating the mind, body, and spirit. Each one of these therapies offers hope for individuals who want to get their anxiety under control without the use of traditional therapy.

Anxiety Treatment in Philadelphia

Living with anxiety can be extremely painful. If you are experiencing an anxiety disorder, or if you are unsure if you are or not, reach out to Wave Treatment Centers right now. Our team of devoted professionals is ready to help you get to the root of what is causing your anxiety so that you can start to feel better as quickly as possible. Do not hesitate any longer. We can help.

The post Is Medical Marijuana Good for Anxiety? appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

What to Look For in a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 09:05:00 GMT

What to Look For in a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center

While substance use disorders and mental health conditions can occur independently from one another, many people find that they experience both conditions at the same time, prompting them to seek dual diagnosis treatment.

A dual diagnosis occurs when someone is experiencing both a substance use disorder and a mental health condition at the same time. In some cases, it can be easily determined which condition is the primary condition, while in other cases, it is not so easy. Either way, it is pivotal to treat a dual diagnosis so that the symptoms of both conditions do not continue to play into one another, creating further chaos. Thankfully, there are several treatment approaches that can be used to help individuals who are experiencing a dual diagnosis.

What is Dual Diagnosis?

Dual diagnosis treatment involves addressing all of the needs of the pacient, ranging from the mental and spiritual to the emotional and physical needs. A comprehensive approach is taken when treating a dual diagnosis, as doing so allows for the most effective healing.

A dual diagnosis is most usually treated with a combination of medication and evidence-based therapy. Depending on the type of mental health condition the pacient has, they may require medications like antidepressants, stimulants, or anti-anxiety medications to balance out their brain chemistry. These medications (if needed) are used in conjunction with therapies such as individual therapy, group counseling, behavioral therapies, and more to equip each pacient with the skills needed to keep from relapsing back into their active dual diagnosis.

Why You May Need a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center

You might be concerned that you are experiencing a dual diagnosis, but are unsure of if you need to seek help from a dual diagnosis treatment center or not. Prior to making any decisions, it is important to consider if a dual diagnosis treatment center is right for you.

Those who benefit most from attending a program at a dual diagnosis treatment center include those who:

Are physically dependent on drugs or alcohol
Have made attempts to get help before but have not fully followed through
Struggle to feel satisfied without the use of drugs or alcohol
Utilize drugs or alcohol to cope with emotions
Develop worsening symptoms of their mental health condition as a result of substance abuse (or vice versa)
Cannot stop using drugs or alcohol despite wanting to and/or experiencing negative consequences as a result of that use

You may also benefit from attending a dual diagnosis treatment program if you are experiencing any of these symptoms plus have a family history of substance abuse/mental health issues and/or have experienced one or more traumatic events in the past. The best way to determine if you should enroll in a program at a dual diagnosis treatment program is to reach out to your primary care physician or mental health professional to discuss your symptoms in order to determine the next steps.

What To Look For in a Treatment Center

Finding the best dual diagnosis treatment center for you may seem overwhelming, but it can be easier to determine the right place if you know what to look for. It is important to be thoughtful about your choices at this time, as you want to be sure you are getting the most from your dual diagnosis treatment. Consider taking the following steps during your search:

Ensure the treatment center offers programming that is unique to all pacients. You do not want to obtain dual diagnosis treatment that is predetermined for you, rather you want to find treatment that can be tailored to your needs. During your search, be sure to ask how a pacient’s treatment plan is developed, as this will give you insight on what to expect.
All reputable dual diagnosis treatment centers have a staff that is appropriately licensed to provide specified care to pacients. The facility itself should have its own accreditations, showing that it follows certain models of care and is officially approved as doing such. Steer clear from treatment centers that do not have licensed treatment professionals or who are not accredited by organizations such as CARF (Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities) or JCAHO (Joint Commission Accreditation).
Review the types of therapies the dual diagnosis treatment center in question utilizes to treat pacients. You want to see that the facility you are considering utilizes evidence-based treatment practices, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, contingency management, etc.

Above all else, be sure that you feel comfortable with the treatment center you have chosen for yourself. Call and ask to tour the facility or to speak with members of the staff to learn more about what they can offer you.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center in Chestnut Hill, PA

If you are dealing with a dual diagnosis, know that you are not alone. Millions of people grapple with this condition on a daily basis, but the good news is — you don’t have to. There are several treatment options available to help address the issues related to this type of diagnosis.

At Wave Treatment Center, we work hand-in-hand with each pacient to ensure that they are continually obtaining the most appropriate treatment for their needs. Our team of professionals is dedicated and determined to help each and every pacient achieve their goals while in our care.

The post What to Look For in a Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

Neuropsychiatry: Innovative and Effective Treatment Options

Wed, 03 Nov 2021 13:13:00 GMT

Neuropsychiatry: Innovative and Effective Treatment Options

Neuropsychiatry is in constant evolution. The fields of neurology and psychology have always been intertwined, therefore identifying a correlation between mental and physical health. Despite this, mental illness continued to be treated exclusively through psychotherapy for many years. Excitingly, that is changing. Current treatments are combining innovative technology with talk therapy to address mental disorders and addiction at their source: the brain. Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology in psychiatry, Dr. Jonathan Beatty uses his expertise to shed light on how these treatments work, how they are beneficial, and what they mean for the future of neuropsychiatry.

What Is Neuropsychiatry?

Neurology refers to the function of the brain while psychiatry focuses on the behavioral aspects or outcomes that result from the brain’s inner-communications. The brain communicates through electric signals and hormones. These signals activate or inactivate certain channels, impacting the travel of neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters cause the symptoms associated with mental disorders and are essentially the “driving force” behind the behaviors initiated by them.

What Are Common Misconceptions About Neuropsychiatry Treatment?

Mental illness and addiction are often misunderstood, which causes unfortunate stigmatization. Many people believe that addiction is a choice and that those struggling with it are weak or even bad. These offensive stereotypes could not be farther from the truth. Dr. Beatty explains that addiction has a science. When a new substance is introduced to the brain, a pleasure pathway is ignited. Your brain favors this new substance, such as alcohol, drugs, or even caffeine. When that substance runs out, a anti-reward pathway is ignited, spurring withdrawal symptoms. Essentially, the brain is then programmed to crave those substances, causing a physiological dependency.

Additionally, there are misconceptions about treatments for mental and substance use disorders. Popular movies and news outlets have inaccurately portrayed treatment. They show seizure-inducing electric shocks and demonize psychiatric staff members. In reality, these treatments are not extreme and people working with patients are compassionate. This misconception is dangerous as it sparks fear in those needing treatment.

How Has Treatment Improved Over the Years?

Over the course of history, the treatment of mental illness and substance use disorders has drastically improved. The more people understand the human brain and are empathetic to the behaviors that result from mental disorders and addiction, the more accurate treatment becomes. In addition, intertwining treatment options has been beneficial for patients. Dr. Beatty explains that combining medication with talk therapy is an excellent way to ensure patients understands why they are receiving said medication and how it is going to help.

What Is TMS Therapy?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a form of brain stimulation that can be administered outpatient. In TMS, a device is placed over the patient’s head. First a baseline is established, identifying areas in the brain that contribute to certain behaviors. Once these are identified, they can be targeted by magnetica stimulation in order to promote proper function. The procedure is quick, non-invasive, and painless.

What Is MAT Therapy?

Medication-assisted therapy (MAT) uses medication to make detox easier for many addicts. There are a few different types of medication now available to help those battling alcohol and drug addiction. Some medications reduce withdrawal symptoms while others take away the desirable effects of these substances—even replacing them with an undesirable result.

What Is Psychedelic Psychiatry?

Unlike MAT, which uses more maintenance medications, psychedelic psychiatry uses psilocybin, LSD, ketamine, and ecstasy to treat mental disorders. Though much of this is still being experimented with and refined, a form of ketamine is available to treat depression. Called SPRAVATO or S ketamine, it is a nasal spray that can be inhaled by patients to improve their symptoms of depression.

Would These Treatments Work for Me?

Overall, it is a revolutionary time in the treatment of mental disorders and addiction. With options that treat these disorders at their source multiplying, help is more available than ever. If you or a loved one is struggling with mental illness or a substance abuse disorder the time to get help is now. Contact Wave Treatment Centers at (215) 242-0420 to find the right course of treatment for you.

The post Neuropsychiatry: Innovative and Effective Treatment Options appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

Addiction Statistics and the Opioid Crisis in Philadelphia

Fri, 08 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Addiction Statistics and the Opioid Crisis in Philadelphia

Every part of the United States has felt the lasting effects of drug addiction, including in the one-time nation’s capital of Philadelphia. This city, which serves as a central point of interest for both the people of eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey, is known for many things. From the Liberty Bell and the Declaration of Independence to Philly cheesesteaks and the Rocky steps, Philadelphia is filled with rich culture. Unfortunately, as with most major cities in the country, addiction statistics in Philadelphia have continued to rise, prompting more attention to this pressing public health issue.

In the streets of Philadelphia, it is not uncommon to see people abusing drugs like opioids, cocaine, crack, and marijuana. Many residents of the City of Brotherly Love often find used up needles on the streets and trash from drug paraphernalia littering parks and community spaces. That is because rates of drug abuse in Philadelphia keep increasing slowly but surely. Sadly, that means that more residents of the city and surrounding areas are facing significant challenges in their lives, if not succumbing to their addiction via overdose.

Unintentional Overdoses Claim the Lives of More Than 1,000 Philadelphia Residents a Year

Overdoses occur in all corners of the country, and lately they have been occurring at astronomical rates. Recent data shows that more than 90,000 Americans died in 2020 alone of overdoses. This served as an alarming 30% increase in overdose deaths in just one single year, a percentage not even close to ever having been reached before. In Philadelphia, specific addiction statistics read that 1,150 citizens died from overdoses in 2019. By 2020, approximately 1,214 citizens lost their lives to overdose.

Looking at the breakdown of overdoses in Philadelphia in 2020, we see that 1,041 of the 1,214 people who died of an overdose died from an overdose involving opioids. The majority of those who died of an overdose involving opioids in Philadelphia also had stimulants in their systems at the times of their deaths. Stimulants, which are substances that produce stimulating effects, include common drugs such as cocaine, crack, meth, and Adderall. When stimulants are combined with opioids, dangerous interactions occur in the body because opioids do the opposite of what stimulants do — they slow down the body and its processes. This is one of the main reasons why so many individuals in the Philadelphia area have overdosed either intentionally or unintentionally.

Addiction Statistics Show That More Than Three-Quarters of Overdoses in Philadelphia Involved Fentanyl

There is no doubt that there are several types of drug being abused across Philadelphia, however opioids reign supreme — and by far. Not only did all overdoses in 2020 include some type of opioids, but more than three-quarters of overdoses in the city involved fentanyl.

Fentanyl is an opioid medication that is most frequently prescribed to help treat severe physical pain. It is also used to help treat patients who are in palliative care. Unfortunately, however, fentanyl has made its way into the streets over the years and has been linked to countless deaths. One of the reasons for that is because it is 100 times more potent than meth. Consuming merely 2 mg of fentanyl can prove lethal. But, despite its dangers, it is still being mass produced and distributed on the streets and laced into most street drugs. This is one reason why so many people have unintentionally overdosed, as they were unaware that the drugs they were consuming contained fentanyl. A whopping 81% of opioid overdoses in Philadelphia involved fentanyl in 2020.

How Philadelphia is Fighting Back Against Addiction

The city of Philadelphia is focusing its efforts on ways to help mitigate the level of addiction and overdoses that are impacting their citizens. They are doing this by focusing on four strategies:

Community Support
Prevention
Public Safety
Treatment

Within each one of these strategies are a number of different tactics that the city has put in place to help bring down the excessively high addiction statistics in Philadelphia. Some of tactics include, but are not limited to, the following:

Programming to increase employment opportunities
Target city services in specific parts of the city
Launch fentanyl awareness campaign
Increase education about buprenorphine to providers
Increase behavioral health crisis response
Increase medication-assisted treatment program inductions
Ensure equitable and quality treatment services

Learn more about the specifics of what the city of Philadelphia is doing to address this growing problem .

Drug Rehab in the Philadelphia, PA Area

We understand the challenges that you are facing as a result of your drug addiction. We also know that making it through these challenges requires more than just a helping hand. At Wave Treatment Centers, our team of professionals and specialists work directly with you to help you overcome your active addiction and begin building a solid recovery. With your dedication and effort, you can achieve a happy, healthy life that is free of substance abuse and filled with opportunity.

If you are ready to get the help you need and deserve, reach out to Wave Treatment Centers right now.

The post Addiction Statistics and the Opioid Crisis in Philadelphia appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

Sublocade vs Vivitrol

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 10:00:00 GMT

Sublocade vs Vivitrol

Opioids such as heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone, are some of the most widely abused substances in the United States. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) reports that a whopping 10.1 million people ages 12 and older misused opioids in 2019. Take into consideration that drug overdose rates increased by 30% in 2020 alone and it is safe to presume that even more people have been and are currently abusing opioids.

There is no doubt that opioids are highly addictive substances. In some cases, it only takes a mere few days to start developing a dependency to opioids. So when individuals who are addicted to opioids want to get sober once and for all, the process can be extremely difficult. Thankfully, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a type of care designed specifically to help those ending their active opioid addiction.

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment?

Medication-assisted treatment simultaneously utilizes medications and evidence-based therapies to help treat those diagnosed with opioid use disorder. If it is determined that a medication-assisted treatment plan is the best course of care for an individual, then they will begin this program immediately, usually in a detox setting.

Opioids are so potent that they create a strong dependency in users. Therefore, suddenly stopping the use of opioids in order to get sober creates a chain reaction of distressing (and sometimes unbearable) withdrawal symptoms. The severity of one’s withdrawal symptoms is typically related to the severity of their opioid use disorder, but common symptoms can include:

Watery eyes
Runny nose
Headache
Muscle pains and spasms
nausea/vomiting
Stomach cramps/diarrhea
Sweats and chills
Tremors

With medication-assisted treatment, however, these symptoms do not need to be as all-encompassing as they would otherwise be. That is because specific medications can be provided during the detox process to help reduce the intensity of them. Sublocade is an example of a medication used during and/or directly after detox. While an individual is receiving medication for their opioid withdrawal symptoms, they will also participate in a number of therapies that can include, but are not limited to, the following:

Group counseling
Individual therapy
Behavioral therapy
Family therapy
Trauma therapy

Some medication-assisted treatment plans begin their pacients with a medication approved for use in the early stages of detox (such as methadone) and then switch them to other medications used to treat opioid dependence like Vivitrol when they have fully detoxed. Regardless of the timing, medication and therapy are always being included into one’s treatment for the entirety of their program.

Sublocade vs Vivitrol

Both Sublocade and Vivitrol are frequently used in medication-assisted treatment programs, as both medications can help manage cravings and/or withdrawal symptoms. For some, Sublocade may be a better fit for their needs, while others may benefit more from Vivitrol. These decisions should be made with a medical professional who is working with the team of professionals who is also providing the individual’s care. It can be helpful to understand sublocade vs vivitrol when making this decision.

What is Sublocade?

Sublocade is an injectable form of buprenorphine, the active ingredient found in suboxone and Subutex. Unlike suboxone and Subutex, however, Sublocade is not administered during the actual detox process. Instead, it is provided after detox has been completed. It also cannot be used in an individual until they take a 7-day course of oral sublingual (under the tongue) buprenorphine. The week-long use of sublingual buprenorphine helps the medicine build up in the individual’s system prior to the administration of Sublocade.

As mentioned before, Sublocade is directly injected into patients. It is an extended release version of buprenorphine that provides relief from withdrawal symptoms and cravings for approximately 26 days at a time. Sublocade can only be obtained in a medical professional’s office and it cannot be self-administered. One of the greatest benefits of Sublocade is that it provides support for recovering opioid users for nearly one month at a time, preventing them from having to go to a facility for medication every day as they would with methadone or other pill-form medications.

As with many medications, Sublocade can produce a number of side effects. Typically, the benefits of the medication itself outweigh the potential side effects. The most common side effects that occur with Sublocade include:

Constipation
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Nausea
Headache
Vomiting

When buprenorphine is involved, there is always potential that someone will become addicted to it. However, when taken as prescribed, buprenorphine has proven to be a highly safe and beneficial medication. The risk for developing an addiction to buprenorphine through Sublocade injections is non-existent, as these shots are provided in appropriate, non habit-forming doses by a medical professional.

What is Vivitrol?

Vivitrol has several slight differences to Sublocade, which is why it is easy to compare sublocade vs Vivitrol. However the goal of the medications are just about the same. Vivitrol is a once-monthly injectable medication that contains an extended version of naltrexone as the active ingredient. Those who have Vivitrol included into their medication-assisted treatment plan will receive an injection every 30 days to help curb cravings for continued opioid or alcohol use. Vivitrol does not work to reduce withdrawal symptoms like Sublocade does and is only recommended for use once a person has fully and completely detoxed. Beginning Vivitrol injections before the withdrawal process has completed can trigger the onset of withdrawal symptoms again.

Like Sublocade, one of Vivitrol’s biggest benefits is that patients do not need to go to a facility each day to obtain their medication. Once injected, they are set for about one month’s time. That is because Vivitrol slowly releases throughout the body over that time, helping to reduce cravings and the urge to continue drinking or abusing opioids.

Vivitrol can produce withdrawal symptoms that are similar to Sublocade, but can also include anxiety, restlessness, irritability, and insomnia. It is recommended that a person take Vivitrol for at least one year as a part of a complete medication-assisted treatment program.

Medication-Assisted Treatment in Philadelphia Area

If you are ready to stop your active addiction to opioids or alcohol, call Wave Treatment Centers right now. We can help you gain a better understanding of sublocade vs Vivitrol and develop a plan for you that meets your needs. Contact us today to get started on your new tomorrow.

The post Sublocade vs Vivitrol appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers .

TMS vs ECT

Fri, 17 Sep 2021 12:16:00 GMT

TMS vs ECT

Depression is a deadly mental illness. Individuals who grapple with depression of any kind can quickly find themselves in a very dark place where they feel alone and hopeless. Without the proper treatment, many people put themselves in life-threatening situations or even take their own lives because of the overwhelming weight of this mental health condition. Thankfully, depression is a treatable condition that is often approached with a combination of medication and therapy. But, what if the traditional means of depression treatment don’t help to alleviate symptoms? There are a number of additional treatment options for depression, including options that involve stimulating the brain. Two of the most common treatments used to do this include transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electroconvulsive shock therapy (ECT). But what separates TMS vs ECT?

What is ECT? What is TMS?

Both TMS and ECT are designed to stimulate areas of the brain that are not properly functioning, causing depression to occur. ECT in particular, was first developed in Italy in the 1930’s, as medical professionals had already known that inducing seizures on patients with mental illness could alleviate symptoms. Because of the invasiveness and intensity of this procedure (as it caused purposeful seizures) ECT wasn’t used in the 1960’s or 1970’s, but came back into popularity in the 1980’s. It is still utilized today as a means of treating severe mental illness.

TMS does not have the same long history as ECT, but it does date back to the 1980’s when it was first developed. Based on the stigma surrounding ECT, many people were and continue to be fearful of including TMS into their overall treatment for depression. However, TMS vs ECT are very different in this way, especially because TMS does not induce seizures but still stimulates the appropriate areas of the brain just the same.

How are TMS and ECT the Same?

The greatest similarity between TMS vs ECT is that they are both used to treat treatment-resistant depression, or TRD. Up to 30% of individuals experiencing depression develop treatment-resistant depression, which occurs when traditional treatments for this mental health condition do not provide much or any relief. TMS has shown a 68% positive response in treated patients while ECT has shown a comparable 66-79% positive response in its patients. On the other hand, approximately 45% of TMS patients go into remission while 47-75% of ECT patients experience remission. Despite the stigma around both treatments, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved both TMS and ECT to be used in the treatment of depression.

How Do TMS and ECT Differ?

TMS vs ECT are more different than they are similar. For starters, ECT is a treatment that needs to be conducted while a patient is under general anesthesia. Not only does this mean that the patient is unconscious for the procedure, but it also means that they are required to be hospitalized after being treated. This can impact a patient’s daily life, especially because ECT is an invasive procedure and can cause side effects including nausea, fatigue, headache, confusion, and minor memory loss. These effects can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. TMS, on the other hand, does not require a patient to be placed under general anesthesia, nor is it an invasive procedure. Instead, TMS is a non-invasive procedure that utilizes a coil to deliver magnetic stimulation to the brain (ECT utilizes electrodes). The side effects associated with TMS are much more minor and can potentially include short-term tingling in the jaw or headache. TMS patients are able to leave the doctor’s office immediately after receiving TMS treatment, as they do not require hospitalization.

TMS vs ECT: Which is Better?

There are certainly similarities and differences between TMS and ECT, however deciding which one is best for you can be difficult. In order to determine this, speak with your mental health care provider for further information. Factors specific to you are accounted for when determining if TMS or ECT is appropriate for you. Both treatments are FDA-approved and deemed safe to use, despite the heavy stigma associated with them. TMS and ECT are both highly effective in treating symptoms of depression, allowing for a happier, fuller life.

TMS Therapy in Philadelphia

At Wave Treatment Centers, we understand that living with depression can feel like not living at all. We also know that when that depression is treatment-resistant, a great deal of frustration can develop.

At our centers, we focus on providing high-quality TMS services to those patients who fit the bill for TMS therapy. Our staff of trained, certified professionals can provide TMS services to you so that you can begin to see some relief of your symptoms.

If you are ready to get your depression under control and start living your life again, reach out to us at Wave Treatment Centers right now. We can help you get started on your recovery from this painful mental health condition.

The post TMS vs ECT appeared first on WAVE Treatment Centers .

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