A Nurse Practitioner’s View on the Burden of Depression in Pasco County

I see directly the devastation that depression causes to our community as a nurse practitioner in Pasco County, Florida. The idyllic lifestyle may be portrayed by the sunshine and mild weather, but the truth is that depression and other mental health issues are common in this area. Like many other places, Pasco County has certain […]

Reducing the Stigma of Mental Health Access via Telemedicine in Pasco County: A PMHNP-BC Perspective

Mental health stigma remains a significant barrier to accessing care, particularly in rural and underserved areas like Pasco County, Florida. Telemedicine offers a promising solution by increasing accessibility and potentially reducing stigma associated with traditional in-person care. This blog post explores the potential of telemedicine to reduce mental health stigma in Pasco County from the […]

Reducing the Stigma of Mental Health in Pasco County: A Call to Action

Mental health stigma remains a significant barrier to accessing care in Pasco County, Florida. This blog post explores the multifaceted nature of stigma, its impact on individuals and communities, and effective strategies for reducing it. By promoting education, increasing awareness, fostering open dialogue, and championing inclusive policies, we can create a more supportive and understanding […]

The Power of Dry January: A Mental Health Perspective

As a PMHNP-BC, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound impact that alcohol consumption can have on mental health. While moderate alcohol use may be socially acceptable, excessive drinking can lead to a host of negative consequences, including anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders. That’s why I’m a strong advocate for Dry January, a month-long challenge to […]

Navigating the Hormonal Maze: Hormone Replacement Therapy for Perimenopausal Women

Introduction Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, is marked by fluctuating hormone levels that can significantly impact a woman’s physical and emotional well-being. As estrogen and progesterone production declines, women may experience a range of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has emerged as a […]

Supporting Your Child Through the Abstinence Violation Effect (AVE) During the Holiday Season: CBT Strategies for Families in Pasco and Hillsborough Counties

By Karen Schwartz Triana, LMHC, LCPC and Yvette Triana, LMHC For those in recovery, the holidays may be a difficult time because of the joyous celebrations, traditions, and occasionally increased emotions. This time of year may make lapses more likely for kids and teenagers trying to refrain from risky habits. The Abstinence Violation Effect (AVE), a cycle of […]

Navigating the Mental Health Landscape of Perimenopause: A PMHNP-BC Perspective

Introduction Perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause, is often accompanied by a constellation of physical and psychological symptoms. While the physical manifestations, such as hot flashes and night sweats, are well-recognized, the mental health implications of this hormonal transition are frequently overlooked or underestimated. This article delves into the intricate relationship between perimenopause and mental health, […]

Hillsborough and Pasco County Families this Holiday Season: Using the Grey Rock Method: A Stress-Free Approach to Family Gatherings This Thanksgiving

By: Karen Schwartz Triana, LMHC and Yvette Triana, LMHC Thanksgiving is a time of love, happiness, and treasured family customs for many people. However, not all family dynamics are easy to manage, and some interactions, especially those involving challenging, confrontational, or emotionally volatile family members can cause unneeded stress. One technique mental health professionals recommend […]

PTSD & Sleep Apnea

Veterans are disproportionately affected by sleep apnea and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which frequently exacerbate one another’s symptoms and have serious negative health effects. Hyper-vigilance, sleeplessness, and nightmares are common symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in veterans, which interfere with their sleep cycles. The presence of sleep apnea, namely obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), worsens […]