National Suicide Prevention Month: Break Silence, Build Hope Posted on July 17, 2025July 17, 2025 by bonmente September marks National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to reflect on and communicate about one of the leading causes of death in the United States.In the United States, suicide rates increased by 37% between 2000 and 2018, and despite an interval of a few years when rates dipped down a bit, suicide rates have remained troublingly high in the U.S.A. Mental health challenges can lead to the risks associated with suicide: feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, a belief that one’s situation will not improve, and thinking oneself to be a burden on others. The Purpose of National Suicide Prevention MonthStigma, shame, and misinformation can keep people experiencing suicidal thoughts from seeking help.National Suicide Prevention Month exists to spread awareness about risk factors and warning signs, share resources, and remind vulnerable people that help is available.The Power of Open CommunicationResearch on crisis hotlines shows that being able to talk openly about suicide can help those at risk to reconsider their potentially fatal lines of thought. National Suicide Prevention Month emphasizes openly discussing suicide in an effort to reduce stigma and increase the likelihood that someone in crisis will reach out. Also, it serves to help others be more comfortable helping a suicidal individual reaching out in crisis.Keeping open lines of communication can lead to life-saving discussions where a suicidal person manages to challenge the thoughts that could lead to suicide. For instance, people who believe they are a burden may see that those around them actually see value in them, and don’t believe them to be a burden. Risk Factors of SuicideSuicide is complex and rarely has a single cause. Risk factors often overlap, including:Mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, or substance-use disorders; certain mental illnesses, when left untreated by mental health care, can lead to thoughts of suicide and even attempting suicideChronic pain or illness (this can lead to one feeling that things cannot get better, a common belief that predicts suicidal ideation)Recently undergoing a tragedy or lossIsolation, especially without a strong support networkHistory of trauma or abuseAccess to firearms, medications, or other potentially lethal means of suicide.Risk factors do not necessarily lead to a suicide attempt, but awareness of risks can help us recognize when someone needs support.Warning Signs of SuicideMood swingsSocial withdrawal AggressionIncreased substance useGiving away possessions, saying goodbye.Buying a weaponCollecting or saving pillsImpulsivity or recklessnessIf you see these signs, trust your gut and be active in reaching out. How to Help Someone in CrisisA mental health professional can give someone at risk of suicide the treatment necessary to getting a handle on the situation. Whenever possible, try to get someone who is at immediate risk of suicide into professional medical care ASAP. If you have been noticing risk factors of suicide in someone, or suddenly find yourself in a situation with someone who is evincing these risks, here are some ways to offer support: If the situation worsens or seems to be an emergency, call 988 or offer to take them to an emergency room. Stay calm and be open, honest, and transparent. Calmly ask simple direct questions in offer of help, like “Can I help you get in touch with your psychiatrist?” Even if you do not feel calm, try to keep a neutral face and not show signs of nervousness. Remove weapons, stockpiled pills, or other means of suicide or self-harm. If in a group, make sure one person at a time speaks. Avoid interrupting if necessary, and try to keep everyone calm. Communicate your personal concern and support (e.g., why you personally value this person).Avoid philosophical discussions about whether suicide is justified or not, right or wrong, and the like; keep the discussion practical and grounded. Be patient — this could be a long conversation.Breaking the Stigma of SuicideUnfortunately, stigma that encourages people to view mental health struggles as a sign of weakness or personal failure can make it harder for people at risk of suicide to reach out. In some cases, this stigma may worsen the risk, as seeing suicidality as a personal deficiency could exacerbate feelings of worthlessness or being burdensome. Understanding the causes, influences, and risk factors related to suicide can help individuals challenge the stigma of suicide. Also, realizing how common the issue is could lead to a more compassionate view on suicide. It’s a public health crisis that needs people to take action. Resources for People in a Suicidal CrisisGetting professional mental health treatment can help manage suicide risk. It also supports a return to health and emotional safety.In an immediate crisis, connecting to a suicide hotline can be a helpful recourse. The professionals on the other end of the line will know where to find treatment at any time of the day. National Hotline for Mental Health Crises and Suicide Prevention: 988 LifelineCrisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741. You can also chat online or use WhatsApp to speak with one of the volunteer crisis counselorsFor a larger list of crisis hotlines, see this compilation, which includes specialized hotlines for suicide and other issues.Need professional mental healthcare for you or someone at risk of suicide? Professional help from bonmente can be lifesaving. We offer telepsychiatry services to residents of Arizona, California, or Florida. Our in-person treatment is available at our psychiatric practice in Long Beach, California. We accept most insurances and have appointments readily available.
Understanding Anxiety Disorders: When Worry Is Overwhelming Posted on July 17, 2025July 17, 2025 by bonmente Understanding anxiety disorders begins with recognizing that everyone feels anxiety from time to time. It’s a perfectly normal emotional response to an upcoming meeting, performance, or life change. Anxiety disorders, which are the world’s most common mental health conditions, go beyond normal anxious feelings and into excessiveness. For millions of people with anxiety disorders, the persistent anxiousness significantly affects relationships, work, physical health, and their overall function. Long-term risk factors can play a role in disrupting one’s daily life with anxiety and fear. That being said, the many types of anxiety disorders are highly treatable psychiatric disorders. With the right help from bonmente, you can better manage your anxiety.Understanding Anxiety Disorders: What You Need to KnowAnxiety disorders are common mental health conditions in the United States, affecting over 40 million adults each year. Anxiety disorders involve excessive ongoing worry or fear that can feel difficult to control and is often out of proportion to the actual situation.The term anxiety disorder covers a range of conditions, including:Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): This involves fear and feeling overwhelmed about everyday things. Panic Disorder: This condition leads to panic attacks: sudden intense fear, discomfort, or feeling a loss of control. In some cases, this can feel like a heart attack with sensations like chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, sweating, chills, and other physical symptoms alongside the emotional panic. These can be as frequent as daily, or infrequent as a few times a year; the difference between an isolated panic attack with an identifiable trigger and a panic disorder is that the latter involves recurrent unexpected panic attacks and inhibiting oneself to try to avoid panic attacks. Social Anxiety Disorder: Here, fear or anxiety symptoms occur in situations where others may judge the person. These can be everyday situations such as using a public restroom, or occasional ones like job interviews. This can lead to avoidance behaviors and worrying about interactions weeks before the interaction takes place. Phobias: Overwhelming fears of specific things or events. Though there are terms like arachnophobia and claustrophobia that are familiar to many, in the context of healthcare the term “specific phobia” is the official diagnosis that is given by a mental health professional. Separation Anxiety Disorder: A common childhood anxiety disorder, this involves a heightened version of a normal anxiety felt when separated, or anticipating separation, from an attachment figure.Agoraphobia: Fear of being in settings or situations that could be hard to escape from, such as public transportation or crowded supermarkets. This could present as avoidance of such situations, and in severe cases could involve an unwillingness to even leave one’s house. What Causes Anxiety Disorders?Genetics: GAD has a heritability of approx. 30%. So, it can indeed run in families, and anxiety disorders in children could be a sign of inheritance.Brain Chemistry: Here, the brain’s defense systems will trigger heightened feelings of perceived threat in situations that are neutral. Life Experiences: Traumatic events can potentially trigger anxiety disorders. Health Issues: Medical conditions like thyroid problems or respiratory disorders have been linked to anxiety.Getting a psychiatric evaluation for an anxiety disorder can identify root causes and build a custom treatment plan that works.Common Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety DisorderExcessive worry or fearRestlessness and feeling “on edge”Difficulty concentratingSleep issues, such as trouble falling asleepPhysical symptoms like excessive sweating, trembling, or shortness of breathAvoidance of potential triggers, which could be a person, place, thing, or situationEffective Treatments for Anxiety DisorderThough the symptoms may be unpleasant, the good news is that anxiety disorders are highly treatable. We here at bonmente have experience with treating anxiety disorders. We know that with the right treatment plan, which may involve talk therapy and medication along with lifestyle changes, patients can gain control over their condition. PsychotherapyCognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) identifies and challenges irrational thoughts and patterns to develop better coping strategies.Exposure therapy is a form of CBT that can be particularly helpful for treating anxiety. It gradually helps patients face and reduce their fears in a safe setting for encountering the triggering stimuli. Medication ManagementMany anxiety medications are available, most of which fall under two main classes.These are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines (the second-line option).At bonmente, our medication management involves continual monitoring of the effectiveness of medications and promoting safe usage.Lifestyle ChangesRegular exercise can lower stress and feel genuinely empowering. A healthy diet has also been shown to positively affect anxiety.Practicing good sleep hygiene has an overall positive effect on mental and physical health. Stress-management techniques like meditation and breathing exercises can be calming.Social SupportSharing one’s fears and worries with trusted friends, family, or even a support group can be relieving, especially when the reaction is better than expected.People whose anxiety disorders are comorbid with substance-use disorders could see a positive change in anxiety issues if sobriety is achieved.Need a psychiatric evaluation, or treatment for understanding anxiety disorders? Reach out to bonmente to get started! We accept most insurances and have appointments readily available.
Bonmente Extends Telepsychiatry with Mental Health Services in Arizona Posted on July 17, 2025July 17, 2025 by bonmente We are proud to announce that bonmente has expanded its telehealth psychiatric services to include mental health services in Arizona. We are now licensed to provide telepsychiatry services in three states: Arizona, California, and Florida. If you live in any of those states, read on for our services and what conditions we treat.Mental Health Services in Arizona: An Overview of What We DoOur team of experienced licensed psychiatric providers can offer talk therapy, medication management, and other mental health services via our secure telehealth platform.Psychiatric EvaluationsIf you are wondering whether you are suffering from a mental illness, a psychiatric evaluation from one of our licensed mental health providers will get you an answer from an expert. We do a thorough evaluation of your symptoms before offering a diagnosis. If we determine that you do have a mental health condition, we can be on our way to building a personalized treatment plan.Medication Management Some treatment plans involve us prescribing medications. If this is the case, then we will keep tabs on you to see how the medication is working, making any adjustments if necessary along the way. TherapyMany of our mental health treatment plans rely on talk therapy, which comes in many different forms, to help patients work through their conditions. Negative thought patterns, unchallenged beliefs, and other issues can be effectively overcome in therapy. TelepsychiatryWe understand that not everybody is able to (or just willing) to attend an in-person mental health treatment. That is why we offer telepsychiatry services to our patients. We are currently serving residents anywhere in Arizona, California, or Florida. In-person treatment is available at our practice in Long Beach, California. Electronic PrescriptionsE-prescribing allows us to remotely fulfill your prescriptions, which you can pick up at your pharmacy of choice. This goes well with our telepsych services, and is a convenient complement to our medication management services. Concierge SupportSometimes patients cannot wait until the next scheduled appointment to get the help they need. That is why we have concierge support, which offers on-demand access to mental health support. Enrolling in our program for concierge support offers reliable contact and extra time with one of our licensed mental health providers. Patients in this program also have higher priority and more flexibility in scheduling. Why Telehealth Matters for Mental Health Services in ArizonaIn mental healthcare, telehealth offers more than just the convenience of remote mental health treatment. It can be a lifeline during difficult periods. If you are a resident of California, Arizona, or Florida, you can connect from anywhere in your state to a compassionate, board-certified professional at bonmente. Our secure, HIPAA-compliant telepysch platform offers privacy and fast connectivity. All patients need is a phone, tablet, or computer (preferably with a working camera) with internet access.What We Treat at BonmenteOur team of psychiatrists, mental health nurse practitioners, therapists, and other mental health professionals treat a wide range of psychiatric conditions. We offer evidence-based treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication management, to help patients gain control and perspective on their mental health conditions. We are also able to help patients safely taper off of medications that they may no longer need but have been taking for years. For us, success in treatment comes from the personalized approach we take for each patient. Our individualized treatment plans may include talk therapy, medication management, lifestyle changes, and other approaches that treat your specific condition with your unique goals in mind. Read on for an overview of some of the common mental health conditions we treat. AnxietyAnxiety disorders, characterized by excessive fear or worry, are the most common mental health condition in the U.S. It affects over 40 million adults and nearly 7% of children. Symptoms can be physical or emotional, examples including:DreadJumpiness IrritabilityCatastrophizingInsomniaStomach problemsHeadachesSweatingUntreated anxiety can interfere with work, relationships, and life in general.DepressionApproximately 280 million people worldwide have depression. Major depressive disorder (MDD) is diagnosed if the following symptoms — among others — have been present daily (or nearly daily) for at least two weeks:Intense sadnessHopelessnessLoss of interest in activities or hobbiesOversleeping or undersleepingThoughts of suicide or self-harmSleep DisordersOur sleep is closely connected to mental and physical health. Sleep disorders, which affect the timing, duration, and/or quality of sleep, can therefore have an adverse impact on our mental health. A sleep disorder can even exacerbate mental health conditions. In some cases, it could even contribute to the development of mental illnesses like depression. Sleep disorders include: InsomniaSleep apneaRestless leg syndromeNarcolepsy.Our providers can identify root causes of sleep problems, targeting these in personalized treatment plans for bringing restorative sleep back to patients’ lives. Postpartum DepressionThis form of depression, which occurs after childbirth, typically lasts three to six months. This can be an intense time period, as symptoms can be compounded by all of the challenges of taking care of a newborn. Symptoms may include:Mood swingsDifficulty concentrating CryingThoughts of harming oneself or the babyGetting treatment can be crucial for mothers experiencing postpartum depression, as it can ensure that their family life stays happy and fulfilling. ADHDAttention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) makes it difficult to control one’s attention. This can present in many ways, such as: Chronic disorganization, such as always losing personal items (“Where’s my phone?”)Difficulty with time management Trouble sitting still or staying in place Our professional evaluations, thorough testing, accurate diagnoses, and individualized treatment plans help patients get a handle on this condition that often interferes with work, relationships, and more. PTSDPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Natural disasters, serious accidents, assaults, or combat are examples of traumatic events. PTSD symptoms can include: FlashbacksNightmaresAvoidance behaviorsHypervigilance.PTSD treatment at bonmente works toward the ultimate goal of restoring an appropriate sense of safety and control in the lives of patients. Bipolar DisorderPeople with this condition deal with intense shifts in mood. This can involve depressive lows to manic highs. We work with patients with bipolar disorder to manage this condition, which if left untreated can lead to a variety of issues like damaged relationships, employment problems, financial issues, and more. SchizophreniaSchizophrenia is a chronic brain disorder affecting how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Symptoms can include:HallucinationsDelusionsDisorganized speechSocial withdrawalCognitive difficultiesSince schizophrenia has no cure, we work with patients to help them cope with this condition for better quality of life. Personality DisordersPersonality disorders are characterized by enduring patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that deviate from social norms and expectations. These patterns can significantly disrupt relationships, work, and overall quality of life.There are several types of personality disorders, each with distinct traits and challenges. For example, avoidant personality disorder often involves extreme sensitivity to rejection, while borderline personality disorder is marked by emotional instability and fear of abandonment.Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)OCD is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) that are performed to ease distress. In many cases, the source of this distress may seem irrational or exaggerated. At bonmente, we understand how overwhelming OCD can feel. That’s why our mental health services are designed to help patients regain control, so they can act based on their own intentions, rather than what OCD compels them to do. Reach out to us to learn more about bonmente’s telepsych mental health services. We accept most insurances and have appointments available.
Understanding Depression, A Common Mental Health Condition Posted on July 17, 2025July 17, 2025 by bonmente Despite being a common mental health condition worldwide, depression is often misunderstood, highlighting the importance of understanding depression.It can also go untreated. This can lead to major problems down the road, especially when co-occurring with other mental health conditions.At bonmente, we know how this mental illness can overwhelm those experiencing it. It can also have a profound impact on the people around them. Our compassionate evidence-based care helps patients address the root causes of the issue, working toward a healthier life. Understanding Depression: What is it?Understanding depression begins with recognizing what it is. Major depressive disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression, is a mood disorder that impacts everything from emotional well-being to daily functioning. When left untreated or unmanaged, it can feel all-encompassing. Depression can cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. But understanding depression also means recognizing its physical effects, which may include changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and even unexplained aches and pains.These can occur in episodes that last anywhere from weeks to months. Symptoms must occur just about daily during these periods. This makes major depression disorder distinct from persistent sadness. The latter usually occurs naturally with difficult life circumstances such as the death of a loved one. At bonmente, our mental health providers understand that depression is more than just a low mood or negative thoughts. Understanding depression is key to identifying when support is needed, especially since it can lead to suicidal thoughts or actions if left unaddressed. Our team brings compassionate, evidence-based care to those experiencing the many layers of this mental health condition.Signs and Symptoms of DepressionIntense sadness, feelings of “emptiness” or hopelessnessLosing interest or pleasure in hobbies and activitiesFeeling excessive guilt, worthlessnessInsomnia (undersleeping) or hypersomnia (oversleeping)Slower speech, less movementTrouble concentratingChanges in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping)Changes in appetite or weight: this could be an increase or decreaseThoughts of death or suicideCauses of DepressionGenetics: First-degree family members with depression could point to a genetic link. So, having biological siblings or parents with depression can predict a high likelihood of depression. In these cases, having depression can be potentially twice or three times as likely than the average person. (The average person has only a 10% chance of developing MDD.)Brain Chemistry: Imbalances of neurotransmitters — brain chemicals like serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine — can contribute to depression. Hormonal Shifts: A common cause of hormonal shifts is pregnancy, which can sometimes lead to postpartum depression. Difficult Experiences: Trauma, divorce or end of relationship, social isolation or lack of support, death of close ones. These and other challenging life events can trigger MDD in people susceptible to it.Understanding Depression: The Different TypesUnderstanding depression means recognizing that not all forms are the same; some common forms include:Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Daily or near-daily symptoms lasting at least two weeks.Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Chronic depression lasting two years or more, often with less-severe but longer-lasting symptoms.Bipolar Depression: Periods of depression alternating with episodes of mania or the less-intense hypomania.Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depression that follows a seasonal pattern. It can present as occurring during fall and winter, or spring and summer. Peripartum (Postpartum) Depression: Severe depression occurring after childbirth. Somewhat common, as it affects up to 15% of women. Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Severe mood swings and depressive symptoms during the week before menstruation, and ending a few days after.How Is Depression Treated?Depression is treatable, as millions of people with depression around the world are able to live healthy lives. At bonmente we consider a patient’s needs in creating a personalized treatment plan for depression. This plan may include:Psychotherapy: Talk therapy comes in many forms, with cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy (IPT) being common for depression treatment. The object of much talk therapy is identifying negative or harmful perceptions and patterns that could be contributing to mental health issues, and finding ways to implement alternative healthier conduct. Medication: Antidepressants affect brain chemistry to address issues like chemical imbalances. Common classes include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). At bonmente, our psychiatrists carefully evaluate each patient to determine whether medication is appropriate. We also do antidepressant medication monitoring to ensure that your prescriptions are doing the job. Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, getting enough sleep, a nutritious diet, mindfulness practices like meditation, and moderating one’s use of alcohol or recreational use of drugs like cannabis can improve depression symptoms and even avoid triggers of MDD episodes. In some cases, going to support groups for causes (grieving, substance abuse, divorce) could be helpful.When to Seek Professional HelpIf for at least two weeks you have been feeling on a daily basis (or close enough to daily) the symptoms outlined above in this article, then you may have major depressive disorder.Whether it is you or someone in your life experiencing symptoms, getting professional treatment can be the first step in a journey toward a better life. Treatment is more about managing symptoms than eliminating them. Improving coping skills, taking the right medication, and changing behavior can dramatically improve mental health for the better. Experiencing symptoms of depression? We here at bonmente can help.If you live anywhere in California, Florida, or Arizona, then the psychiatric professionals at bonmente can treat you! We offer in-person treatment along with telespsychiatry solutions. We also in-network with most insurances.
