https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/home daily 0.75 2021-04-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1604963118006-QQMS9KMJD2E3V0DH4QAY/image-asset.jpeg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1604963231659-5N7WL3ELFCST2YR5A3JY/image-asset.jpeg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1604963589618-PQI865PRFFILZXCYFTIQ/image-asset.jpeg Home - Plan your practice Find a flow that fits your schedule We’ve created three types of membership plans to best align with your individual practice. Whether you’re looking to improve on basic yoga principles, gain unlimited access to a variety of classes, or start a teacher training program—we’ve got a plan that can flex to meet your goals. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1604964582621-Z61S0OVBTXP9VVIR1ACD/image-asset.jpeg Home - Receive gentle guidance With experienced teachers you can trust Each of our registered yoga teachers have gone through certified training programs, specializing in a variety of different practices including Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Yin. At Align & Flow, we provide guidance for all levels of practice so you can decide what feels best for your body. Meet your teachers https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1604978275845-7NT15QECXR7ZJV2FP8T5/image-asset.jpeg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1604977911113-HOBG33NMMJO9Q1YT7T6K/image-asset.jpeg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1604978203098-WDTEWRH7W27QZ8Y972TV/image-asset.jpeg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1604964348992-Z0H3VML1VD0H7O5EPHQY/image-asset.jpeg Home - Explore our virtual classes With a variety of styles and formats to match your goals Not all yoga and meditation is made the same, which is why we’ve created a dynamic selection of classes and video tutorials. Whether you’re looking for a full cardio flow or a relaxing meditation, we’ve got the options you need to balance your practice. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1605027500581-9QXO47MIYR9XTJVF66HT/image-asset.gif Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5e4c62180de433438a7c32da/1605027451289-3OAS7W277UMUFNP94LKO/image-asset.jpeg Home Instructor Alexis leading Unwind Meditation from an open field in Marfa, TX https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/about-us daily 0.75 2026-01-21 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/d1f2da14-ea1a-4534-8c11-6ee7177cc5d3/955A31BE-4983-4D45-B8B3-5B94FE6008CD.PNG About Us - Ajit Kalayil, APN, MSN, PMHNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Ajit Kalayil is trained to use both medication and talk therapy to treat all psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and perinatal mental health. Kalayil specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of emotional and mental health conditions at his clinic in Chicago, Illinois. Kalayil works with patients from a broad range of backgrounds. Kalayil also has a particular interest and experience in LGBTQ+ issues. All patients are treated equally and in a non-judgemental, warm, and strictly confidential environment. Ajit Kalayil completed undergraduate education at DePaul University where he received a bachelor’s in Biology. Kalayil then attended Rush University to obtain a master’s degree in nursing. Kalayil’s decade of experience in Obstetrics working with mothers and babies was what sparked his desire to work with postpartum depression. While working in the field he also worked as a faculty member at Rush University College of Nursing. Kalayil then went on to advance their education with an additional master’s degree and board certification as a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. Most commonly, patients consult Kalayil Psychiatry for help with mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, ADHD, and anxiety disorders. These are problems that require an integrated approach: a medical assessment, a detailed and careful history, and a review of the individual’s current situation and medical and genetic history. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/our-services daily 0.75 2023-12-11 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620324710861-MTD3KIVTA92DZ393WWBR/Psychopharmacology_image_services.jpg Our Services - Psychopharmacology https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620324785451-U80Q2Q7EY6CZ65JGNJ8M/Postpartum_services.jpg Our Services - Postpartum Depression https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620324817072-3XCHZRIYLSWKCP6D38LI/LGBTQ_image_services.jpg Our Services - LGBTQ Issues https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620324857167-E5PME845IN7FMC9DRXC0/ADHD_image_services.jpg Our Services - ADHD https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620324892133-BDSI2OD39WGH1YJ4ZANS/Anxiety_image_services.jpg Our Services - Anxiety https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620324924387-I9BEGT8ZY7I8J7K5RFKI/Bipolar+Disorder_image_services.jpg Our Services - Bipolar Disorder https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620324959960-WB49JRIRTBWC73PCAOFM/Mood+disorders_image_services.jpg Our Services - Mood Disorders https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620325759061-Z2D1X6H3N2EKINDS830I/Grief+loss_image_services.jpg Our Services - Grief & Loss https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/postpartum daily 0.75 2022-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620081653107-YF2WMF8F1LP4IRKXTB2P/Postpartum_image1.jpg Postpartum - What is Postpartum Depression? Are sadness and worry keeping you from the joy of connecting with and caring for your baby? If you’ve recently given birth and now find that being a new mom is nothing like you’d expected or hoped it would be, you’re not alone. “Postpartum” means the time after childbirth. Most women get the “baby blues,” or feel sad or empty, within a few days of giving birth. For many women, the baby blues go away within a few weeks. If your “baby blues” don't go away or you feel sad, hopeless, anxious and have trouble sleeping for longer than 2 weeks, you may have postpartum depression (or PPD). This is a severe form of depression related to pregnancy and childbirth. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620081719609-5VEVIZ7M7U3N6541DA1S/Postpartum_image3.jpg Postpartum You might feel on-edge, nervous and worried about all of the things that could happen to your newborn. Perhaps you have a million fearful thoughts running thoughts your head, making it impossible to relax and feel at ease with your new child. It can be difficult to distinguish between the typical “baby blues” and the signs of postpartum depression and anxiety. And, if you are the newborn’s father, you may wonder if postpartum depression in men is real. But, whether mother or father, if you are struggling to care for your child or yourself, it may be that something more serious than transitional growing pains is happening. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620081541337-MH7Z8WIH9DVAXGCOB68O/Postpartum_image2.jpg Postpartum Postpartum depression and anxiety are medical conditions, and although they can be serious, you don’t have to feel this way forever. By working with a skilled, compassionate postpartum therapist, you can cultivate acceptance, relief and connection with your newborn. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620081479001-N426E91GKNDQ5NXRI1GR/Postpartum_image5.jpg Postpartum - We are here to help As a postpartum specialist, Ajit Kalayil offers complete acceptance and nonjudgmental support, and his office is a safe place for you to express exactly what you’re going through, no matter how dark or frightening it may seem to you right now. The signs of postpartum depression and anxiety can be alarming. At Kalayil Psychiatry, we will develop a strategy that works best for you. Our goal is to help you restore calm in moments of panic and anxiety, relief from pressing symptoms and let go of any feelings of shame or guilt. Remember, postpartum depression is a medical condition. It has nothing to do with your character, how good a mother you are, or how much you love your baby. It’s just like any other health problem -- you need care in order to get better. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/welcome-page daily 1.0 2022-12-28 https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/grief-and-loss daily 0.75 2022-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1646247105466-Y0V9VHF94ROPMT8CHQ44/unsplash-image-z0-MQoZrAS8.jpg Grief and Loss - What is Grief Grief is a natural response to loss. It’s the emotional suffering you feel when something or someone you love is taken away. Often, the pain of loss can feel overwhelming. You may experience all kinds of difficult and unexpected emotions, from shock or anger to disbelief, guilt, and profound sadness. The pain of grief can also disrupt your physical health, making it difficult to sleep, eat, or even think straight. These are normal reactions to loss—and the more significant the loss, the more intense your grief will be. Whatever your loss, subtle or significant, it’s personal to you. Everyone’s response is different. There is no need to feel ashamed about how you feel, or believe that it’s only appropriate to grieve for certain things. If the person, animal, relationship, or situation was significant to you, it’s normal to grieve the loss you’re experiencing. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620398310196-LBMON25CJWSE5711WXLM/Grief+loss_image_services.jpg Grief and Loss - Healing Takes Time… There is no right or wrong way to grieve, but there are healthy ways to deal with the grieving process. In time, you will be able to find ways to ease your sadness and come to terms with your loss, find new meaning, and eventually move on with your life. Healing happens gradually; it can’t be forced or hurried. Some people start to feel better in weeks or months. For others, the grieving process is measured in years. Whatever your grief experience, it’s important to be patient with yourself and allow the process to naturally unfold. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1646247159328-R9TJOJPZYENKB8ZF5Q99/unsplash-image-BH8-YFSNEIw.jpg Grief and Loss - Symptoms of Grief While loss affects people in different ways, many of us experience the following symptoms when we are grieving. Some of the emotional responses to grief are shock and disbelief, sadness, guilt, anger and fear. You may feel anxious, helpless, or insecure. You may even have panic attacks. The death of a loved one can trigger fears about your own mortality, of facing life without that person, or the responsibilities you now face alone. Many people often think of grief as a strictly emotional process, but grief often involves physical problems, including: Fatigue Nausea Lowered immunity Weight loss or weight gain Aches and pains Insomnia https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1652751061278-6095LHF9EJQ6PWZR81K3/unsplash-image-8qudl9pDZJ0.jpg Grief and Loss - We are Here to Help… The pain of grief can often cause you to want to withdraw from others and retreat into your shell. But having the face-to-face support of other people is vital to healing from loss. Even if you’re not comfortable talking about your feelings under normal circumstances, it’s important to express them when you’re grieving. While sharing your loss can make the burden of grief easier to carry, that doesn’t mean that every time you interact with friends and family, you need to talk about your loss. Comfort can also come from just being around others who care about you. The key is not to isolate yourself. When you’re grieving, it’s more important than ever to take care of yourself. The stress of a major loss can quickly deplete your energy and emotional reserves. Looking after your physical and emotional needs will help you get through this difficult time. We can help. Call Kalayil Psychiatry or schedule online today. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/lgbt daily 0.75 2022-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620069167576-G14ARRV9LFMNHVXXZ1X1/LGBTQ_image1.jpg LGBTQ - What are LGBTQ Issues LGBTQ+ stands for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer, encompassing the many variations of human sexuality and sexual identity. Kalayil Psychiatry recognizes the challenges faced in our growing LGBTQ+ community and we specialize in issues of sexual and gender identity, acceptance, stigmatization, dating, and relationships. Some people find they need help with cultivating an awareness of patterns that are interfering with their ability to move forward in their lives. We can help you move past challenge, uncertainty, and fear to begin to recognize all that you have to offer and all that you are capable of. Through open and supportive conversation, we will work to help you more fully appreciate your authentic self. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620069367644-HR2KQVYO0W04SZTAZWN9/LGBTQ_image2.jpg LGBTQ We have found that in many cases for LGBTQ+ people, issues of sexual orientation and identity are likely to play a role in how treatment evolves and becomes key in understanding the individual. Because of this, a therapist with some specialized knowledge and understanding of these issues will be most helpful to the patient. There are many important and unique aspects of working with the LGBTQ+ population. Therapists need to be familiar with the coming out process and must understand the complexities of internalized homophobia and heterosexism. Ajit Kalayil has expertise in helping members of the LGBTQ+ community with their mental health needs. In the LGBTQ+ community, there are a few issues that seem to be more prevalent than in other communities. Alcohol and substance abuse is one area of significance, along with evidence to suggest there are higher rates of mood disorders amongst LBGTQ+ people. HIV is another important and concerning area to the LGBTQ+ community. Many patients may require special assessment and monitoring of medications that produce psychiatric side effects and drug interactions. The syndrome itself may also present with psychiatric symptoms ranging from depression and anxiety to loss of memory and other cognitive changes. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620069733712-9GV2OKQ64D3Z3HR5YMUM/LGBTQ_image4.jpg LGBTQ - Do you find yourself struggling with an LGBTQ+ Issue? If you identify as LGBTQ+ and need professional help with a mental health problem, you want a qualified LGBTQ+ therapist in Chicago who is well-versed, knowledgeable, and experienced in working with and understanding the LGBTQ+ community. Ajil Kalayil, is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health conditions and has considerable experience supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community. Call us today or complete the online form to schedule an appointment. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/psychopharmacology daily 0.75 2022-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620073175564-5G85A0QVYKCCKGN2TU5N/Psychopharmacology_image1b.jpg Psychopharmacology - What is Psychopharmacology? Psychopharmacology is the scientific study of the effects that drugs have on mood, sensation, thinking, and behavior. It is distinguished from neuro-psychopharmacology, which emphasizes the correlation between drug-induced changes in the functioning of cells in the nervous system and changes in consciousness and behavior for the treatment of mental disorders and to promote overall patient health and well-being. The required expertise for clinical psychopharmacology includes the main principles of pharmacology: pharmacokinetics (what the body does to the medication) and pharmacodynamics (what the medication does to the body). The purpose of these medications is to treat mental disorders and requires an understanding of neuroscience, pharmacology, psychopharmacology, clinical science, pathophysiology, biochemistry, and differential diagnosis of mental disorders. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620073394282-VZ3JG9R3ZE6AA2BJNUGI/Psychopharmacology_Image4.jpg Psychopharmacology Ajit Kalayil is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in diagnosing and treating a variety of mental health conditions at his clinic in Chicago. Mental health disorders typically respond to either talk therapy or a psychopharmacological approach, and in many cases, a combination of the two is the most effective treatment. Kalayil has the knowledge and experience to perform psychopharmacological evaluations to determine if the use of psychotropic medication is indicated as part of the treatment of mental disorders, in addition to the full range of psychotherapeutic treatments. He is focused on the best outcome for the well-being of his patients. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620072964233-9TM338EFNUUNFAHUEUD7/Psychopharmachology_image3.jpg Psychopharmacology If at any time during your treatment you have any concerns about the medications Ajit Kalayil prescribes for you, he’s happy to discuss your treatment with you and the reasons he believes it’s the best approach. It’s important for you to have an understanding of and be in agreement with your treatment. We want you to be empowered to express any concerns that you may have. For more information or to book an appointment, call Kalayil Psychiatry today or schedule an appointment online. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/bipolar daily 0.75 2021-05-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620084781562-VY8SCP0KSM69CWAWU0G9/Bipolar_image2.jpg Bipolar - What is Bipolar? Bipolar Disorder, formerly known as Manic Depressive Disorder, is a condition with both physical and mental changes, which are characterized by extreme swings in mood. It is typical for individuals to experience a combination of low moods or depression lasting for days on end alternating with periods of elation or elevated moods also lasting for days or weeks. These euphoric moods are referred to as periods of “hypomania” or mania depending on the degree of elevation of mood, and can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgement, behavior and the ability to think clearly. The presentation of bipolar disorder can vary greatly from individual to individual and must be thoughtfully evaluated and considered. Careful attention must be paid to the differential diagnosis to rule out mixed states, drug intoxication, psychotic states and many other possible conditions with similar presentations. Genetics are the most commonly known cause for this disorder. However, sometimes medical and environmental factors can bring out symptoms. For example, starting someone on an antidepressant may uncover a previously unknown tendency toward mania… an important reason as to why patients require careful medication monitoring when beginning a course of treatment. Moreover, illicit substances, in particularly stimulants, may have similar mania inducing effects. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620084816508-UMYPMQCJZ91NDYMOA3K4/Bipolar_image3.jpg Bipolar Episodes of mood swings may occur rarely or multiple times a year. While most people will experience some emotional symptoms between episodes, some may not experience any. Bipolar Disorder is a treatable mental syndrome and individuals can lead very functional lives when they are compliant with their medication and treatment. Although bipolar disorder is a lifelong condition, you can manage your mood swings and other symptoms by following a treatment plan. In most cases, bipolar disorder is treated with medications and psychological counseling (psychotherapy) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620085197535-28VYVOY4Q62V0WZ2CBDT/Bipolar_image4.jpg Bipolar There's no sure way to prevent bipolar disorder. However, getting treatment at the earliest sign of a mental health disorder can help prevent bipolar disorder or other mental health conditions from worsening. If you are experiencing any of these, please call Kalayil Psychiatry or schedule an appointment now. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/adhd daily 0.75 2022-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620075049141-NGIHZ44UD2SEPBJ22MZN/ADHD_image1.jpg ADHD - What is ADHD? At first, it was believed that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was a condition that affected children and adolescents. Although it was known that children with ADHD were more likely to have difficulties in adulthood, clinicians usually diagnosed and treated these as other conditions. More recently, ADHD has been an increasingly common problem in adults as well as children. Frequently over diagnosed, this disorder has become nearly epidemic in our society and requires careful and thoughtful evaluation. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder may be present with or without hyperactivity or inactiveness. The diagnosis and treatment are similar regardless. A diagnosis is not made unless it can be demonstrated that there are actual impairments in functioning in a variety of different settings, e.g., home, school, and work. The diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in adults can be a complex process. By definition, ADHD is a condition that has its onset in childhood. Not everyone has an accurate recall of their early life. Often it is useful to get information from relatives, spouse or old school records. Careful evaluation and history is vital to making a proper diagnosis. Particular attention must be paid to medical and neurologic issues in these individuals. Often Psychological testing is helpful and frequently other studies are useful tools in assisting in making an accurate diagnosis. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620075086483-LROC6FWNCR1AA7HGXCG8/ADHD_image5.jpg ADHD - ADHD in adults As a child moves from adolescence to adulthood, the predominant symptoms of ADHD tend to shift from external, visible ones (such as physical hyperactivity) to internal symptoms. There seems to be a decrease in observable symptoms of ADHD with age. Although a given adult may not meet the full criteria for full ADHD any longer, they may still experience significant impairment in certain aspects of life. Depending on professional or domestic situation, the adult may need to deal with more complex, abstract issues. A given individual’s perception of their degree of impairment may vary. Many adults were never correctly diagnosed, even when they were children. Sometimes this was because their main symptoms were inattention and impulsivity rather than physical hyperactivity. In other cases, the individual used their high intelligence or great determination to mask the ADHD symptoms. Often this compensation occurred at great emotional cost. Many high-functioning individuals with ADHD may harbor feelings of poor self-worth. They may see themselves as failures and feel that they constantly let others down. Over the years, the individual adapts to the situation. These adaptations, positive or negative, become part of one’s personality, layered over the ADHD symptoms. Many of these symptoms are also elements of codependency and intimacy dysfunctions resulting from childhood abandonment, emotional and / or sexual abuse. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620075133167-NDTQY3CNTS3JZQRW9BQO/ADHD_image2.jpg ADHD - What are the signs & symptoms of ADHD? The trademark symptoms of ADD and ADHD are inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Symptoms usually present in childhood before the age of 7 but may be subtle as all children can at times display some of these behaviors. Though there are several signs and symptoms of ADD/ ADHD many may not apparent until the individual is in a setting that calls upon skill sets that bring into sharper focus his or her deficits. Some of these may include the following: Difficulty paying attention to details, carelessness with schoolwork or work in general Distractibility, poor concentration, focus Inability to sustain attention or focus on tasks Difficulty completing tasks, lack of follow through Inability to prioritize Procrastination, forgetfulness Generally disorganized work habits Often, individuals recall a history of hyperactivity as a child which may include behaviors such as fidgeting and squirming, always being on the go, getting into trouble in class etc. In adolescents, teens and young adults, this may present more as impulsivity - e.g. difficulty-delaying gratification, which leads to all sorts of behaviors associated with poor judgment. Adults with ADHD are often bored with tedious, repetitive tasks. They may also have trouble with planning and organization. Procrastination is very common. They often become frustrated or angry rapidly, but then cool off just as quickly. Impulsivity may lead to frequent job changes, troubled romantic relationships, financial problems and a tendency to interrupt others. College students may have trouble staying focused on paperwork or lectures. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620075219060-NW13GERJGTRDP0S68JH6/ADHD_image4.jpg ADHD ADHD treatments vary but often involve the use of stimulants, which are medications that require careful regulation. When correctly diagnosed and treated, individuals often report excellent responses to available medications as well as the multiple therapies available to augment the pharmacologic treatments, all of which help to restore the individual to good mental health. Call Kalayil Psychiatry today or complete the online form to schedule an evaluation and personalized ADHD treatment in Chicago. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/anxiety daily 0.75 2022-05-17 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620071327673-T655836THEBENAG98ZUR/Anxiety_image3.jpg Anxiety - What is Anxiety? We all experience anxiety. Anxiety is a mental health disorder, but also a basic human emotion. It is characterized by feelings of worry, fear, dread, and uneasiness that are strong enough to interfere with one’s daily activities. It might cause you to sweat, feel restless and tense, and have a rapid heartbeat. It can be a normal reaction to stress. It is adaptive. It’s the force that gives someone the drive to compete, win at something, practice or study extra hard, or be meticulous with regard to being on time or doing a good job. Other examples of anxiety include panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These feelings can also be chronic and not based on specific scenarios; and it could indicate an anxiety disorder. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620071362151-05BFRAFRN8GNQ083Q3GT/Anxiety_image2.jpg Anxiety - What are the Symptoms of an Anxiety Disorder? According to the DSM-V (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), several symptoms of anxiety must be present for a specific duration of time in order to meet the criteria for the diagnosis of an anxiety disorder. These may include but are not limited to: Feelings of fear and uneasiness Panic attacks Uncontrollable, intrusive, obsessive thinking Nightmares Ritualized behaviors Changes in sleep patterns Feelings of loss of control Ruminations or repeated thoughts of a traumatic episode (flashbacks) Patients often experience physical symptoms of anxiety as well, such as palpitations, shortness of breath, tightness in the chest, gastric upset, numbness or tingling in the extremities, and lightheadedness. Anxiety disorders come in a variety of forms and present in a variety of different ways. Some of the more common subtypes include: Panic disorder OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) Phobias https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620071496663-8NUOQBCQC3POUJ132NOZ/Anxiety_image4.jpg Anxiety Anxiety doesn’t have a single cause, but there is some common ground between the disorders, so treatment plans can be quite similar between patients, typically including a combination of medication and psychotherapy. We will look at a patient’s medical history and assess their current state of mind to differentiate the subtype of anxiety disorder. Making an accurate diagnosis is essential since this will have important implications for any treatment decisions. Anxiety affects millions of people around the world, and although everyone has different reasons for feeling worried and stressed out, you are not alone, and support is always available. Correct diagnosis leads to the proper choice of a variety of different treatment options, which include the types of psychotherapy and psychopharmacologic interventions, both essential to restoring good mental health. If you are overwhelmed with feelings of anxiety and it’s interfering with your ability to lead a happy, fulfilled life, call Kalayil Psychiatry today, or schedule an appointment online. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/mood-disorders daily 0.75 2021-05-07 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620395072423-RDGA0JO8OJWKIBMO2BZI/Mood+Disorders_image3.jpg Mood Disorders - What is a Mood Disorder? Anyone can feel sad or depressed at times. But mood disorders are more intense and last longer. They are also harder to manage than normal feelings of sadness. Mood disorders come in many different forms, but all of them cause such severe disruption to your emotional well-being that they can make it tough to lead a gratifying and functional life. In mood disorders, these feelings are more intense than what a person may normally feel from time to time. It’s also of concern if these feelings continue over time. Or if they interfere with someone's interest in family, friends, community, or work. Any person who has thoughts of suicide should get medical help right away. Some of the more frequently occurring mood disorders include: Major depressive disorder Bipolar disorder or bipolar affective disorder Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) Cyclothymic disorder Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620395288155-V34SS3PF737YB21JGDBX/Mood+Disorder_image4.jpg Mood Disorders - What are the Symptoms of Mood Disorders? The symptoms of mood disorders can vary depending on the type of disorder you have. You may feel persistently down and sad, cry constantly, have trouble sleeping, and find it hard to focus and concentrate or remember as well as you normally would. You might feel angry or overexcited, for example, when in a manic phase, people who have bipolar disorder often feel elation and invulnerability that causes them to behave irrationally and take risks. Interestingly, different people who have the same mood disorder can also experience a different set of symptoms from each other. For instance, some people who have persistent depressive disorder may find it difficult to get to sleep, waking often and sleeping very little through the night. Other people with the condition might sleep for 12 hours or more at night and take naps in the daytime as well. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/607edb271bec031728a78f2b/1620394416921-J02O6AZYOPPAFD4Z98V7/Mood+Disorders_image1.jpg Mood Disorders - I think I’m experiencing mood problems, what should I do? Once you have a diagnosis of your mood disorder, Ajit Kalayil will create a treatment plan that he tailors to your individual needs, circumstances, and condition. Typical treatments for mood disorders are psychotherapy, medication, or most often, a combination of the two. If mood problems are impacting your daily life, it’s important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. In most cases, mood disorders can be successfully managed with therapy and medication. Ajit Kalayil is a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner who specializes in diagnosing and treating mood disorders at his clinic in Chicago and has considerable experience in helping patients who are struggling to cope. Find effective treatment solutions for your mood disorders and other mental health issues by calling Kalayil Psychiatry today or schedule an appointment online. https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/inquire daily 0.75 2022-05-10 https://www.kalayilpsychiatry.com/scheduleportal daily 0.75 2022-05-10