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.
Long Beach Mental Health Services Posted on November 1, 2024November 4, 2024 by bonmente For many people, getting high-quality mental health care, including Long Beach mental health services, is crucial to their wellbeing. In some cases, it is a matter of life and death. Life in Long Beach, in Los Angeles, and in California in general comes with a unique set of stressors. The density of living in the Golden State can cause some people to isolate themselves to get some “breathing room.” Congested traffic – and the road rage it sparks – often adds some extra anxiety to going anywhere. Although California is an amazing place for its acceptance of different lifestyles and cultures, its residents encounter social problems, such as homelessness, substance abuse, and public mental health crises, that affect our everyday lives in unusual ways. Stress takes its toll on mental health, even in sunny California. If you live in or near Long Beach, California, you can find a comprehensive range of mental health services at bonmente. Understanding your options is important for making informed decisions about your mental health care journey.Whether you’re seeking urgent care, ongoing therapy, or telepsychiatry options, this blog post runs down what you can get with bonmente. We are located in the Long Beach area, and offer telepsychiatry options for patients anywhere in California. Getting Started with a Psychiatric EvaluationWhen mental health support is needed, it is not always the case that people know exactly what condition(s) they need help for.Our Long Beach, California clinic provides psychiatric evaluations that serve as the first step to professional help. Our experienced team provides expert assessments that consider each individual’s history and current state. We do so to design an appropriate care plan for addressing mental health issues.A proper psychiatric evaluation can function as a welcome intervention for individuals experiencing acute problems concerning mental health. Our team works diligently to provide comprehensive treatment plans while developing appropriate follow-up care plans that ensure continued support, which may include medication management.Our Long Beach Mental Health ClinicWe are proud that bonmente continues to be a pillar of community mental health support in Long Beach, Ca. We provide essential services that address a wide spectrum of mental health needs. For many in Long Beach, Ca., bonmente serves as a primary resource for comprehensive services. That includes individualized therapy sessions, group counseling programs, and specialized treatment approaches.We excel in providing continuous care through:Ongoing mental health monitoring and adjustment of treatment plansPatient-centric individual therapy sessions that address personal needsAdvanced medication management servicesBy design, the bonmente environment yields healing and growth with professionals who understand the complexities of mental health challenges. Whether dealing with anxiety, depression, or more complex psychiatric needs, our facility offers both short-term and long-term treatment options that adapt to each patient’s situation.Connecting to a bonmente Psychiatrist in Long BeachThe team of psychiatrists at bonmente’s Long Beach facility represents a diverse group of mental health professionals. They offer various treatment approaches and specializations. Our psychiatrist care includes:Expert psychiatric evaluationsIndividualized treatment planningDetailed medication managementConsistent progress monitoringCrisis intervention when neededFlexible appointment schedulingInsurance considerations matter in accessing psychiatric care. At bonmente, we handle determining your care’s eligibility for coverage based on your insurance plan. We get that straightened out so that you can focus on getting the care you need. Telepsychiatry in CaliforniaThe emergence of telepsychiatry has transformed mental health care access throughout California. If you are a California resident, you do not need to live anywhere near our Long Beach facility to access our services. That is all thanks to telepsychiatry, which offers innovative solutions for treatment delivery. This modern approach to psychiatric care provides numerous advantages:Easier coordination for follow-up careImmediate access to mental health professionals from homeMitigation of travel-related barriersScheduling flexibilityMaintained privacy and confidentialityConsistent care quality comparable to in-person visitsReduced wait times for appointmentsThrough telepsychiatry services, patients can receive comprehensive care including initial evaluations, medication management, and regular follow-up appointments. This service proves particularly valuable for individuals with mobility challenges, busy schedules, or those who simply prefer the convenience of remote care.Accessing Mental Health Services in Long Beach, CaliforniaNavigating the mental health care system requires understanding the steps involved in accessing services. To begin your mental health care journey in Long Beach, California, consider reaching out to bonmente. Not only do we offer a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and collaborative treatment plans, we take care of things like finding out the details of your insurance coverage. Our plan is to offer treatment that is convenient and helpful for your wellness journey. Prevention and WellnessOur mental health services emphasize both treatment and prevention through comprehensive wellness programs. These initiatives include:Early intervention strategiesOngoing mental wellness supportPrevention education and resourcesThese preventive measures help individuals maintain good mental health while providing tools for managing daily stressors effectively.Getting Help for Mental Health in Long Beach, CaliforniaBonmente’s extensive mental health services provide robust support for Long Beach, Ca. residents throughout their mental health journey. From initial psychiatric evaluations to long-term wellness maintenance, bonmente offers multiple pathways to mental health care. Whether choosing traditional in-person visits or modern telepsychiatry solutions, patients can find resources that match their specific needs and preferences.Remember that seeking mental health support demonstrates strength and self-awareness. If you or someone you know requires assistance, Long Beach’s mental health community stands ready to provide professional, compassionate care. Your mental health journey matters, and bonmente’s comprehensive mental health services are designed to support you every step of the way. For Long Beach mental health care and beyond, don’t hesitate to reach out to bonmente for support!
How Does Telepsychiatry Work? Posted on April 26, 2024June 4, 2025 by bonmente Psychiatry services help individuals handle mental health issues like anxiety and depression, but not everyone has the time to visit a physical psychiatry office. Telepsychiatry is ideal in these situations, using live video sessions to provide treatment in the comfort of your home or office. Bonmente provides this service to allow our patients access to treatment at any time and from anywhere. Here’s an overview of how telepsychiatry works:Finding a Telepsychiatry Provider While many mental health treatment providers offer their services, not all provide telepsychiatry sessions. The first step is finding a provider who does, and Bonmente is a reputable choice. We understand your busy schedule can get in the way of your treatment, so we offer diagnosis and treatment through video sessions. This option helps you talk to a medical professional regardless of time and location. As long as you have a smart device and a stable internet connection, you can access treatment.Booking an AppointmentWhen you find a qualified telepsychiatrist, the next step is booking an appointment. Many providers have online portals where you can easily schedule your consultation. Determine when you’re free and book during that time. It can be lunchtime hours when you’re at work or evenings after work or when children are asleep. If you’re on Bonmente’s website, we have questionnaires you must fill in before getting treatment, and we ask that you fill them out completely to get the right care.Discussing Your SituationTelepsychiatry providers have an audio and video platform where they can interact with patients as they work to understand their situations better. The team at Bonmente will help treat a wide range of mental health issues, including ADHD, PTSD, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, sleep disorders, OCD, and more. We encourage our clients to be as open and truthful as possible for effective treatment. Our platform features point-to-point NIST-approved AED 128-bit encryption and SHA 256 for excellent security. It also doesn’t store any audio or video calls for maximum confidentiality.Getting Personalized TreatmentDuring your session with a telepsychiatrist, they’ll evaluate your condition thoroughly to formulate a customized treatment plan. They’ll assess your symptoms, the condition’s duration, how it’s affecting your personal life, and other related factors. Our team is qualified to prescribe anti-anxiety medication, antidepressants, stimulants, and other helpful medications. We have electronic prescribing here at Bonmente. We send the prescription electronically to your desired pharmacy, and they receive it immediately. You can pick up the medications at your earliest convenience and use them as directed to treat your condition.Scheduling Follow Up Appointments Your telepsychiatry treatment doesn’t end after your first session with the professional. Follow-up appointments are necessary to evaluate the efficacy of your recommended treatment plan. During this appointment, the telepsychiatrist may ask whether you’ve noticed any improvements since the first session. If negative symptoms have improved, the professional will determine your treatment plan has been effective. They may recommend continuing with the same treatment until you make significant progress. If you haven’t noticed any improvement or your situation has worsened, the psychiatrist may recommend changing your treatment plan. Additional follow-ups may be required to assess your progress further and adjust the treatment plan as necessary.Choose Telepsychiatry for Your Mental Health TreatmentTechnology has revolutionized how people access mental health care. Bonmente offers quality telepsychiatry services to evaluate your condition and develop a personalized treatment. We have a team of professional psychiatrists, and as long as you have a smart device with a stable internet connection, you can get the care you need to improve your quality of life. Contact us to book your appointment today.
