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What are the symptoms of anxiety?

Common signs and symptoms of anxiety include:

1. Feeling nervous, restless, or tense
2. Having a sense of impending danger, panic, or doom.
3. Having an increased heart rate
4. Breathing rapidly (hyperventilation)
5. Sweating
6. Trembling
7. Feeling weak or tired
8. Trouble concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present worry

What are the risk factors for anxiety?

These factors may increase your risk of developing an anxiety disorder:

•   Trauma
•   Stress due to an illness
•   Stress buildup
•   Other mental health disorders
•   Having blood relatives with an anxiety disorder
•   Drugs or alcohol

How does my provider diagnose anxiety?

To find out if you have anxiety, the Aura Integrative Psychiatry team discusses your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms. They complete a comprehensive psychiatric assessment. If needed, your provider may recommend you undergo a completed blood test to detect or rule out any underlying health problems.

How is anxiety treated?

The two main treatments for anxiety disorders are psychotherapy and medications. You may benefit most from a combination of the two.

​​Some ways to manage anxiety disorders include: 

Medications

Lifestyle changes 

(Dietary adjustments, mindfulness, exercise, limiting caffeine intake, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and sleep hygiene practices)

Psychotherapy 

(Cognitive behavioral therapy, building self-esteem, learning to be assertive, and support groups)

To learn more about anxiety treatments and find out they’re right for you, call Aura Integrative Psychiatry to schedule an appointment or book one online today.

Depression Q & A

What is depression?

Persistent sadness and lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities. It negatively affects how you feel, the way you think, and how you act. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:

• Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Loss of energy or increased fatigue
• Increase in purposeless physical activity (e.g., inability to sit still, pacing, handwringing) or slowed movements or speech (these actions must be severe enough to be observable by others)
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Difficulty thinking, concentrating or making decisions
• Thoughts of death or suicide

How does my provider diagnose depression?

We diagnose depression after discussing your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms. We will perform a comprehensive psychiatric assessment and have you undergo blood tests to detect or rule out underlying medical problems.

What are the treatments for depression?

Our team will help you to develop a personalized depression treatment plan, which may include:

Oral Medications

(Anti-depressants)

Individual Psychotherapy (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

OCD obsessions are repeated, persistent, and uninvited thoughts impulses, or images that are intrusive and trigger anxiety.

If you struggle with OCD obsessive thoughts and compulsions, contact Aura Integrative Psychiatry in Silicon Valley, California. Behavioral health specialist Azmeena Hashem (DNP, APRN, and PMHNP-BC) is here to help. Call the office to schedule an appointment or book one online today.

OCD Q & A

What is OCD?

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health disorder that affects people of all ages. Obsessions are unwanted, intrusive thoughts, images, or urges that trigger distressing feelings. Compulsions are behaviors an individual engages in to attempt to get rid of the obsessions and/or decrease distress.

What are the symptoms of OCD?

OCD often centers on themes such as a fear of germs or the need to arrange objects in a specific manner. Symptoms usually begin gradually and vary throughout life.

People may also experience:

What are the risk factors for OCD?

What causes OCD is unknown, but some factors increase your risk of having it:

• Age and gender
• Genetics
• Presence of other mental health conditions
• Life events
• Stress

How does my provider diagnose OCD?

We diagnose OCD after discussing your medical history, lifestyle, and symptoms. We will perform a comprehensive psychiatric assessment.

What are the treatments for OCD?

Medications

Psychotherapy

TMS

Bipolar Q & A

What is bipolar?

A disorder associated with episodes of mood swings ranging from depressive lows to manic highs.

What are the types of bipolar disorders?

Bipolar 1

Bipolar 1 is mostly associated with manic episodes/psychosis, which may last at least one week and are characterized by a mood shift that’s elevated, expansive, or irritable and not the result of a medication or other substance. 

Bipolar 2

Bipolar 2 is mostly associated with hypomanic and or depressive episodes and may not have the same level of impulsive behavior or disruption in daily activities. Hypomanic episodes may be shorter than manic episodes.

Cyclothymia

Cyclothymic disorder, or cyclothymia, involves repeated mood shifts between depressive and hypomanic that persist for more than two years. The depressive and mania episodes do not meet the diagnostic criteria for bipolar disorder episodes. There may be periods of normal mood as well, but those periods last less than eight weeks.

Unspecified bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder not otherwise specified is present when the symptoms do not fit the other three categories, but still involve episodes of unusual manic mood.

How is bipolar treated?

Medications

Treatment is usually lifelong and includes a combination of medications including mood stabilizers and anti-psychotic medications to help manage bipolar symptoms.

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is an effective treatment for bipolar disorder, it includes supportive group, cognitive behavioral therapy and psychoeducation.

TMS Q & A

Q: What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) used for?

A: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, is used for various diagnostic and therapeutic purposes in the field of neuropsychiatry and neuroscience. Some common applications include:

1. Treatment of Depression: TMS is FDA-approved for treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), especially in cases where standard treatments have proven ineffective. Repetitive TMS (rTMS) modulates brain activity to alleviate depressive symptoms.
2. Treatment of Other Mental Health Conditions: TMS is being studied for its potential in treating conditions like bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
3. Research and Brain Function Mapping: TMS helps researchers understand brain function and map specific brain regions to their functions by stimulating different areas and observing their effects.
4. Pain Management: TMS is explored for managing chronic pain, including conditions like fibromyalgia and neuropathic pain.
5. Motor Disorders Investigation: TMS is used to study and diagnose motor-related conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke.
6. Cognitive Enhancement: Some research explores TMS for cognitive enhancement and memory improvement, though this is still experimental.
7. Treatment of Auditory and Visual Hallucinations: TMS is investigated as a potential treatment for hallucinations in conditions like schizophrenia.
8. Migraine Treatment: TMS can be used as a preventive treatment for migraine headaches, reducing their frequency and severity.

In addition to medication management, your behavioral health specialist will suggest you undergo evidence-based psychotherapy and other novel treatments like TMS or Spravato to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. This will improve your mood and help you enjoy life to the fullest.

To learn more about medication management for mental health disorders and determine if this treatment is right for you, call Aura Integrative Psychiatry or book an appointment online.

ADHD Q & A

Q: What is ADHD?

A: ADHD stands for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that can interfere with daily functioning.

Q: What are the common symptoms of ADHD?

A: Common symptoms of ADHD include difficulty paying attention, being easily distracted, forgetfulness, impulsivity, restlessness, and hyperactivity (in some cases). These symptoms can vary in intensity and presentation among individuals.

Q: When is ADHD typically diagnosed?

A: ADHD is often diagnosed in childhood, but symptoms may persist into adolescence and adulthood. Diagnosis usually involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional, including assessments of symptoms and their impact on daily life.

Q: What are the treatment options for ADHD?

A: Treatment for ADHD often includes a combination of behavioral therapies, educational interventions, and, in some cases, medication. Medications like stimulants and non-stimulants can help manage symptoms and improve focus and impulse control.

Q: Can ADHD be managed effectively?

A: Yes, with proper treatment and support, individuals with ADHD can learn to manage their symptoms effectively. Treatment plans are tailored to each person’s unique needs, and early intervention is beneficial.

Q: Is ADHD a lifelong condition?

A: ADHD is a lifelong condition, but its impact can change over time. With appropriate strategies and support, individuals can adapt and succeed in various aspects of life, including school, work, and relationships.

Q: Can adults have ADHD?

A: Yes, ADHD can persist into adulthood. Many adults are diagnosed with ADHD, and it may manifest differently in adults compared to children. Diagnosis and treatment in adulthood can lead to significant improvements in daily functioning.

Q: What can I do if I suspect I or someone I know has ADHD?

A: If you suspect ADHD, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist, for a thorough assessment. They can provide a diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options and strategies to manage the condition effectively.

PTSD Q & A

Q: What is PTSD?

A: PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. It is characterized by symptoms like intrusive thoughts, nightmares, heightened anxiety, and emotional reactivity related to the trauma.

Q: What are common causes of PTSD?

A: PTSD can be triggered by various traumatic events, including combat exposure, physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, or witnessing a life-threatening event. The severity and duration of symptoms can vary.

Q: What are the typical symptoms of PTSD?

A: Symptoms of PTSD include flashbacks, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, negative changes in mood and thinking, heightened arousal (e.g., irritability and difficulty sleeping), and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms can interfere with daily life.

Q: How is PTSD diagnosed?

A: Diagnosis of PTSD is typically made by mental health professionals, such as psychiatrists or psychologists. It involves a comprehensive assessment of a person’s symptoms, history, and the impact of the trauma on their life.

Q: Can PTSD be treated?

A: Yes, PTSD is treatable. Various therapeutic approaches, including psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), medication, and support from loved ones, can help individuals manage their symptoms and work towards recovery.

Q: Is PTSD a common condition?

A: PTSD is more common than some might think, especially in individuals who have experienced traumatic events. It can affect people of all ages, and timely treatment can significantly improve the quality of life for those with the disorder.

Q: Can PTSD symptoms improve over time?

A: With appropriate treatment and support, many individuals with PTSD experience a reduction in symptoms and an improved ability to cope with their traumatic experiences. It’s important to seek help to increase the likelihood of recovery.

Q: What should I do if I suspect I or someone I know has PTSD?

A: If you suspect someone has PTSD, encourage them to seek professional help. Individuals with PTSD should reach out to a mental health provider for an assessment and guidance on suitable treatment options. Support from friends and family can also be crucial in the healing process.

If you are interested in learning more about this testing, please reach out to our office for further inquiry or to schedule your appointment.