Dr. Sheenie Ambardar, MDother common mental health concerns
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Join us as we explore the benefits of working with a female psychiatrist, as well as discuss common conditions frequently treated by holistic female doctors
- Comfort level: Women may feel more at ease discussing personal mental health concerns with another woman
- Shared experiences: Female psychiatrists may have a better understanding of the unique challenges women face
- Specialization: Some female psychiatrists specialize in women’s mental health issues, including Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), PMS, Trauma, Body-Image Issues, and Perinatal and Perimenopausal Depression and Anxiety.
Women may feel more comfortable discussing sensitive issues like body image, relationships, and menstrual mood changes with female psychiatrists. This level of comfort can help build trust and enable patients to achieve better overall health outcomes.
Additionally, female psychiatrists may have a deeper understanding of the societal pressures and expectations that many women face. This awareness can help us tailor treatment plans to address not only your individual symptoms but also the external factors that may be contributing to women’s mental health struggles.
~ Dr. Sheenie Ambardar, MD
The bottom line? Feeling comfortable with your psychiatrist is crucial. If a female physician feels like a good fit, go for it!
Studies show that women are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, body image issues, and eating disorders compared to men. Whether this is due to the fact that women are more likely to seek out mental health treatment has yet to be determined. However, we do know that the unique biological, psychosocial, hormonal, and societal influences women face can strongly impact their mental health and happiness.
Compared to men, women are more likely to experience:
- Depression
- Anxiety and Panic Disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Body Image Issues
- Eating Disorders
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and alone in these struggles and to think you’re the only one suffering, but remember: you’re not. So many women go through similar experiences and there’s no shame in reaching out for help. Whether it’s talking to a friend, joining a support group, or seeking professional help, you deserve to prioritize your mental health and find the resources you need to thrive.
Many mental health conditions disproportionately affect women.
You don’t have to let mental health concerns control your life.
Now, let’s take a closer look at some of these conditions:
PMDD and PMS
Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) are two related but distinct conditions that affect many women during their reproductive years.
PMS is a common condition, with approximately 50% of menstruating women experiencing some level of physical or emotional suffering in the days leading up to their period (Direkvand-Moghadam et al., 2014).
PMDD, on the other hand, is a more severe form of PMS that affects approximately 3-8% of women of childbearing age. While the exact causes of PMDD and PMS are not fully understood, research suggests that these conditions are related to increased sensitivity to the natural hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle, particularly the rise and fall of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Recent studies have also implicated the role of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, in the development of PMDD symptoms. Symptoms of PMDD can significantly impact a woman’s daily functioning and quality of life. These symptoms often emerge in the 1-2 weeks before the onset of menses, improve within a few days after the period starts, and largely dissipate the week after menstruation is over.
Common symptoms of PMDD include: 🩸
- Severe mood swings, including irritability, anger, or increased interpersonal conflict
- Depressed mood or hopelessness, sometimes with suicidal feelings
- Anxiety or tension
- Difficulty concentrating and brain fog
- Changes in appetite, such as binge-eating or specific food cravings
- Physical symptoms, including bloating, breast tenderness, headaches, or weight gain
- Lack of energy or fatigue
Treatment for PMDD may include a combination of pharmacological, lifestyle, and therapeutic interventions, such as:
- Low-dose antidepressant medications, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine (Prozac) or sertraline (Zoloft), which have been shown to be effective in reducing PMDD symptoms (Marjoribanks et al., 2013)
- Nutritional supplements such as Inositol, Vitex (Chaste tree), Omega-3 fish oils, and specially formulated vitamin blends
- Hormonal birth control, such as oral contraceptives or the hormonal IUD, which can help regulate hormonal fluctuations and alleviate symptoms (Yonkers et al., 2005)
- Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, deep breathing), and reduced alcohol, caffeine, and sugar intake
- Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy, which can help women develop coping strategies to manage the emotional and interpersonal challenges associated with PMDD (Kleinstäuber et al., 2012)
Depression
Depression is a prevalent mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide, with women being disproportionately impacted. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, women are nearly twice as likely as men to experience depression.
This increased risk may be attributed to a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors, such as hormonal fluctuations, societal pressures, and exposure to trauma or gender inequality.
Symptoms of depression in women can include: 💌
- Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns (e.g., overeating or insomnia)
- Fatigue or decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or self-blame
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Treatment for depression in women may involve a multi-faceted approach that combines pharmacological, psychological, lifestyle, and holistic interventions, such as:
- Antidepressant medications, including SSRIs like Lexapro (escitalopram) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like Cymbalta (duloxetine), which have been shown to be effective in reducing depressive symptoms
- Therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and psychodynamic therapy, which can help women identify and change negative thought patterns, improve relationships, and process past traumas
- Lifestyle changes, such as engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced diet, and establishing healthy sleep habits, which can improve mood and overall well-being
- Holistic approaches that address the whole person, including meditation, yoga, and nutraceuticals (e.g., L-methylfolate, omega-3s, and vitamin D), which can complement antidepressants and promote emotional resilience.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and specific phobias, are more prevalent among women compared to men.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, past year prevalence of any anxiety disorder is higher for females (23.4%) than for males (14.3%).
This gender disparity may be attributed to a combination of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, such as hormonal fluctuations, increased vulnerability to stress, and societal pressures.
Recent research has provided further insights into the unique manifestations and risk factors for anxiety disorders in women. For example, a study by Vesga-López et al. (2008) found that women with anxiety disorders were more likely to experience comorbid depression and eating disorders compared to men with anxiety disorders.
Additionally, women may be more susceptible to developing anxiety during certain life stages, such as during pregnancy and the postpartum period (Fairbrother et al., 2016).
Symptoms of anxiety disorders in women can include: 🚨
- Excessive worry or fear that is difficult to control
- Restlessness or feeling keyed up or on edge
- Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank
- Irritability or increased anger
- Sleep disturbances, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Physical symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, trembling, or gastrointestinal distress
Treatment for anxiety disorders in women involves a personalized approach that can combine pharmacological, psychological, lifestyle, and holistic interventions, such as:
- Anti-anxiety medications, including SSRIs like Luvox (fluvoxamine) or SNRIs like Effexor (venlafaxine), which have been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety symptoms
- Therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, which can help women identify and challenge anxious thoughts, develop coping strategies, and gradually confront feared situations
- Lifestyle changes, such as engaging in regular physical activity, practicing relaxation techniques (e.g., deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation), and maintaining a balanced diet and sleep schedule
- Holistic approaches, including meditation, Kundalini Yoga, acupuncture, and spirituality, which can help reduce stress, promote emotional regulation, and enhance overall well-being
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a subtype of depression characterized by a recurring seasonal pattern, most commonly occurring during the fall and winter months when there is a decrease in natural sunlight exposure.
SAD affects approximately 5% of adults in the United States in a given year, with women being four times more likely than men to be diagnosed (Kurlansik & Ibay, 2012). This gender disparity may be attributed to hormonal differences, particularly the influence of estrogen on serotonin levels.
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Recent research has provided further insights into the prevalence and risk factors associated with SAD in women. Younger women, especially those in their reproductive years, are more susceptible to developing SAD compared to older women. (Melrose, 2015).
Symptoms of SAD in women include: ❄️
- Persistent feelings of depression, hopelessness, or worthlessness
- Marked loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- Significant changes in appetite, often craving carbohydrate-rich foods
- Hypersomnia or difficulty waking up in the morning
- Low energy levels and increased fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Social withdrawal and increased sensitivity to rejection
Treatment for SAD in women may involve a multi-modal approach that combines pharmacological, psychological, lifestyle, & complementary interventions, such as:
- Light therapy, which uses a special light box that emits 10,000 lux and mimics outdoor light to help regulate the body’s circadian rhythms.
- Medication management with Antidepressant medications, particularly Wellbutrin, SSRIs, and SNRIs, which have been shown to be effective in treating SAD
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps women identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and engage in behavioral activation to improve mood and overall functioning
- Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a regular exercise routine, following a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, and establishing a consistent sleep schedule to promote emotional well-being and reduce the impact of SAD symptoms.
Relationship Issues
Relationship issues can have a profound impact on women’s mental health and overall well-being. Difficulties in romantic partnerships, within families, or in friendships can contribute to feelings of stress, anxiety, fear, and depression.
The impact of relationship issues on women’s mental health can be further compounded by societal pressures and gender role expectations.
Additionally, women in unhealthy or abusive relationships may face certain challenges, such as fear of retaliation if they leave, financial dependence, or concerns about the well-being of their children.
Symptoms of relationship issues women may face include: 👩❤️👨
- Frequent arguments or conflicts with a partner or family member
- Persistent feelings of emotional disconnection, loneliness, or lack of intimacy
- Difficulty communicating or expressing their needs and desires
- Trust issues or feelings of betrayal, often stemming from infidelity or broken promises
- Codependency or difficulty setting healthy boundaries in relationships
Treatment for relationship issues may involve a combination of individual and couples-based interventions, such as:
- Couples therapy or family therapy, which focuses on improving communication skills, resolving conflicts, and enhancing emotional intimacy
- Individual therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy, to address personal issues, attachment styles, or past traumas that may be impacting current relationships
- Emotion-focused therapy (EFT), which helps women identify, express, and regulate their emotions in the context of their relationships, leading to improved relationship satisfaction and personal well-being
- Mindfulness practices, including meditation or yoga, which can help reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and foster a greater sense of emotional balance and resilience
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Trauma + PTSD
While women and men experience trauma at around the same rate, women are more likely to develop PTSD compared to men. Studies have shown that women in the U.S. are 2-3 times more likely to develop PTSD symptoms following a traumatic event, with a lifetime prevalence of 9.7% compared to 3.6% in men.
The National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicates that 20% of women in the United States will experience completed or attempted rape during their lifetime, with half of female victims of rape being raped by an intimate partner and 40.8% by an acquaintance.
These deeply traumatic experiences are just one example of the kinds of trauma and suffering that can contribute to the development of PTSD, a debilitating mood disorder characterized by a range of distressing symptoms.
Symptoms of PTSD in women include: ⛑️
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma, such as people, places, or situations
- Negative changes in thoughts and mood, including feelings of shame, guilt, or self-blame
- Hyperarousal symptoms, such as irritability, difficulty sleeping, or hypervigilance
- Dissociative symptoms, such as feeling detached from one’s body or surroundings
Recent research has also highlighted the complex interplay between PTSD and other mental health conditions in women patients such as depression, anxiety disorders, and substance abuse disorders. These findings underscore the importance of comprehensive, gender-sensitive treatment approaches that address the unique needs of women patients with trauma histories.
Treatment for PTSD in women may include:
- Trauma-focused therapy, such as eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) or cognitive processing therapy (CPT), which have been shown to be effective in reducing PTSD symptoms
- Medication management, such as antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications, which can help alleviate debilitating symptoms and improve overall functioning
- Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and stress reduction techniques, which can promote resilience and support recovery
- Holistic approaches, such as yoga or art therapy, which can provide alternative avenues for processing trauma and promoting healing
Body Image Issues
Body image issues are a pervasive concern for many women, with societal pressures and media portrayals of the ideal body type contributing to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and the development of eating disorders.
According to the National Eating Disorders Association, approximately 30 million Americans will struggle with an eating disorder at some point in their lives, with women being twice as likely as men to be affected (NEDA).
In the United States, 69-84% of women experience body dissatisfaction and wish to be a lower weight than they currently are.
Symptoms of body image issues in women can include: 👥
- Persistent preoccupation with weight, shape, or appearance
- Engaging in negative self-talk or self-criticism about one’s body
- Frequently comparing oneself to others or idealized images in the media
- Engaging in excessive exercise or restrictive eating habits in pursuit of the “perfect” body
- Avoiding social situations or activities due to body shame or self-consciousness
Treatment for body image issues in women may involve a multi-faceted approach that addresses both the psychological and behavioral aspects of the problem, such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps women identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs about their bodies, while promoting the development of healthier coping strategies and self-perception
- Interpersonal therapy, which focuses on improving communication skills, resolving conflicts, and building supportive relationships that can help buffer against the impact of body image issues
- Body-positivity or self-compassion focused therapies, such as mirror exposure therapy or mindful self-compassion, which aim to foster a more accepting and nurturing relationship with one’s body
- Nutritional counseling, which can help women develop a balanced and intuitive approach to eating, while addressing any disordered eating patterns or unhealthy relationships with food (Tribole & Resch, 2020)
Binge-Eating Disorder
Eating disorders are mental health conditions that can have serious consequences if left untreated. While anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are well-known eating disorders, binge eating disorder (BED) is actually the most common, according to the NIH.
Research suggests that women are three times as likely as men to be impacted by Binge-Eating Disorder.
Binge-Eating Disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time, often accompanied by feelings of loss of control, shame, and guilt.
Unlike bulimia nervosa, individuals with BED do not engage in compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise, to counter the effects of binge eating.
The impact of BED on women’s physical and mental health can be significant, with research showing associations between BED and type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, depression, anxiety, and decreased quality of life.
Symptoms of BED in women include: 🍿
- Frequent preoccupation with food and eating
- Recurrent episodes of binge eating, often in secret or when alone
- Consuming large amounts of food in a short period of time, even when not physically hungry
- Feeling a lack of control over eating during binge episodes
- Experiencing feelings of shame, guilt, or distress after binge eating
- Absence of regular compensatory behaviors, such as purging or excessive exercise
Treatment for BED in women involves a multi-disciplinary approach that addresses both the psychological and physiological aspects of binge-eating such as:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps women identify and challenge disordered thoughts and behaviors related to food and eating, while developing healthier coping strategies and self-perception
- Interpersonal therapy, which focuses on improving communication skills, resolving conflicts, and building supportive relationships that can help reduce the frequency and severity of binge eating episodes
- Nutritional counseling, which can help women establish balanced and intuitive eating habits, while addressing any nutritional deficiencies or related health concerns
- Medications, such as Prozac, Vyvanse, or GLP-1s, which may be used in conjunction with psychotherapy to manage co-occurring mental health conditions and help reduce binge eating frequency
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
PCOS, which stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, is the most common hormone disorder in females, affecting approximately 10% of women of reproductive age (Bozdag et al., 2016).
While primarily associated with reproductive and metabolic health, PCOS can also have a significant impact on mental well-being and quality of life.
Recent research has highlighted the increased prevalence of mental health concerns among women with PCOS, with studies suggesting that they are at a higher risk of experiencing depression, anxiety, and stress compared to the general population (Cooney et al., 2017; Damone et al., 2019).
Women with PCOS may experience a range of physical symptoms, such as irregular menstrual cycles, excessive hair growth, acne, and challenges with maintaining a healthy weight.
However, the emotional and psychological effects of PCOS can be equally challenging and may include: 🧘🏻♀️
- Increased feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression, which may be related to the physical symptoms, hormonal and metabolic imbalances, or the psychosocial impact of the condition (Alur-Gupta et al., 2019)
- Struggles with body image and self-esteem, particularly due to weight gain which can negatively impact self-perception and social functioning (Himelein & Thatcher, 2006)
- Mood fluctuations or irritability, which may be influenced by hormonal or metabolic changes or the stress of managing a chronic condition
- Difficulty coping with the uncertainty of fertility challenges. PCOS is a leading cause of infertility which can lead to emotional distress and relationship strain
- Feelings of isolation or frustration due to the complex nature of PCOS and the lack of understanding or awareness about the condition among family, friends, and healthcare providers
- Sleep apnea which can lead to daytime sleepiness
Treatment for PCOS may involve a multi-disciplinary approach that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of the condition, such as:
- Lifestyle adjustments, including regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and stress management techniques, which can help improve metabolic health, reduce symptoms, and enhance overall well-being
- Hormonal birth control or medications like Metformin to help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce androgen levels, and manage insulin resistance
- Supportive counseling or therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based interventions, to address emotional challenges, develop coping strategies, and build resilience
- Mind-body practices, such as yoga, meditation, or acupuncture, which may help reduce stress, regulate hormones, and promote relaxation and emotional balance
- Connecting with PCOS support groups or communities, either in-person or online, to find validation, share experiences, and learn from others who understand the unique challenges of living with PCOS
Postpartum Depression (PPD)
Postpartum depression is a serious and prevalent mental health condition that affects approximately 15% of women after giving birth.
While up to 70% of new mothers may experience the baby blues (short-lived feelings of sadness or mood swings that usually subside 2 weeks after delivery), postpartum depression is more severe and can persist for weeks or months after giving birth.
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Recent research has shed light on the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social factors that can contribute to the development of PPD.
Women with a history of depression, anxiety, or trauma are at a higher risk of experiencing postpartum depression, highlighting the importance of screening and early intervention for women with pre-existing mental health conditions.
If you think you might have PPD and would like a diagnosis, you may want to complete the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) and present the results to your doctor.
Symptoms of postpartum depression include: 🍼
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Difficulty bonding with your baby or feeling emotionally disconnected
- Significant changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Intense feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or inadequacy as a mother
- Intrusive thoughts of self-harm or of harming your baby
Treatment for PPD may involve a comprehensive approach that addresses both the psychological and physiological aspects of the condition, such as:
- Psychotherapy, which can help women identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and improve interpersonal relationships
- Medications, such as Zurzuvae, which is the first FDA-approved oral treatment for postpartum depression that works rapidly in 14 days to improve symptoms
- Support groups or group therapy with other new mothers experiencing similar struggles, providing a safe and supportive space for women to share their experiences and learn from one another
- Lifestyle changes, such as engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a balanced and nutrient-rich diet, and practicing self-care activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction
- Holistic approaches, such as acupuncture, massage therapy, or meditation, which may provide complementary support in managing postpartum symptoms and promoting overall well-being
Perimenopausal Depression
The transition to menopause, known as perimenopause, typically lasts 4-8 years and can be a challenging time for many women.
Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can contribute to the development of depression, as well as mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and insomnia.
According to a study by Bromberger et al. (2011), the risk of experiencing a major depressive episode is significantly higher during perimenopause compared to the premenopausal period.
Symptoms of perimenopausal depression include: 🩸
- Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worthlessness
- Irritability, anger, or mood swings
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or early morning awakening
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
Treatment for perimenopausal depression involves a multi-disciplinary approach that addresses both the hormonal and psychological aspects of the condition, such as:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which can help alleviate depressive symptoms by stabilizing hormonal fluctuations
- Medication management, particularly SSRIs or SNRIs, which have been shown to be effective in treating perimenopausal depression
- Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or interpersonal therapy, which can help women develop coping strategies, manage stress, and improve interpersonal relationships
- Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a balanced and nutrient-rich whole foods diet, and stress-reduction techniques, which can help improve mood and overall well-being
- Holistic approaches, such as acupuncture or herbal remedies (e.g., black cohosh, St. John’s Wort), which may provide complementary support in managing perimenopausal symptoms
Codependency
Codependency is a tendency to devalue the Self and place excessive focus on the needs and perceptions of others. It is a complex emotional and behavioral condition that impacts many women and is inversely correlated with self-confidence.
Codependency is characterized by a pattern of unhealthy relationships where an individual prioritizes the needs and desires of others above their own, often at the expense of their personal well-being and happiness.
Research has highlighted the significant impact of codependency on mental health, with studies showing strong associations between codependency and depression and low self-esteem.
Symptoms of codependency in women may include: 🥀
- Difficulty setting boundaries or saying “no” to others
- Excessive caretaking or rescuing behaviors
- Low self-esteem and a strong need for external validation
- Fear of abandonment or rejection
- Difficulty expressing one’s own needs and emotions
- Enabling or tolerating unhealthy or abusive behaviors in relationships
Treatment for codependency in women involves addresses both the psychological and interpersonal aspects of the condition, and includes:
- Individual therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or psychodynamic therapy, to help women identify and challenge codependent thought patterns and behaviors, develop healthier coping strategies, and improve self-esteem
- Group therapy or support groups, such as Codependents Anonymous (CoDA), which provide a safe and supportive environment for women to share their experiences, learn from others, and practice setting healthy boundaries
- Relationship counseling or couples therapy, to address dysfunctional patterns of interaction and communication within codependent relationships and foster healthier, more balanced partnerships
- Mindfulness-based interventions, such as meditation or yoga, which can help women cultivate greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and stress management skills
- Holistic approaches, such as art therapy, journaling, or self-care practices, which can complement traditional therapeutic interventions and promote personal growth, self-expression, and emotional healing
Pharmacokinetics is all about how our bodies handle drugs: how medications are absorbed, distributed, broken down, and eliminated from the body.
It’s worth noting that women’s bodies can process medications differently than men’s, which can affect how well a drug works and the likelihood of experiencing side effects. It’s important to keep up with the latest research and prescribe medication in a way that takes into account women’s unique pharmacokinetics.
As one example, women eliminate the sleep medication Ambien more slowly than men, leading the FDA to recommend that female patients start on lower Ambien doses compared to male patients.
It’s also vital to consider how hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can impact medication processing. For instance, during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, when progesterone levels are high, certain enzymes that break down medications may be more or less active. This cyclical fluctuation can lead to changes in how well medications work and whether side effects are experienced.
Women also tend to have a higher percentage of body fat compared to men, which can affect the distribution of medications in the body. This difference in body composition can result in altered drug concentrations in various tissues, potentially influencing both the therapeutic effects and adverse reactions experienced by women. Understanding these nuances is important for optimizing treatment outcomes in female patients.
Did you know that estrogen and progesterone, the main female hormones, play a big role in regulating mood and mental well-being? This happens because estrogen and progesterone interact intimately with brain and gut neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Thus normal changes in estrogen and progesterone levels during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can bring about significant changes in mood, including mood swings, anxiety, and depression.
Estrogen, for example, can boost serotonin production, which helps with positive emotions. Progesterone, however, can lower serotonin levels, which might lead to irritability or anxiety.
A knowledgeable female psychiatrist understands these intricate connections and can create a personalized treatment plan that takes these factors into consideration.
In summary, choosing a female doctor who is knowledgeable about women’s mental health can offer many benefits on your healing journey. Female psychiatrists often bring unique perspectives to their work, drawing from their own experiences as women in a society that may present gender-specific stressors and challenges. This personal insight can create a deeper connection and understanding between the psychiatrist and patient, fostering a more empathic and supportive therapeutic relationship.
Additionally, female psychiatrists may be more attuned to issues such as gender disparities in mental health treatment and societal expectations that can impact women’s overall well-being.
Female psychiatrists who specialize in integrative psychiatry and mental health also incorporate a range of complementary modalities into their treatment plans. These may include advanced functional lab testing, nutritional medicine, gene testing, psychotherapy, and spiritual practices that address the interconnectedness of mind, body, and soul.
By taking a holistic approach to mental health care, female psychiatrists can help patients not only manage their symptoms but enhance their overall well-being, happiness, and quality of life.
Key Takeaways: 🔑
- Women face unique mental health challenges that can benefit from the specialized care of female psychiatrists
- Finding the right female psychiatrist near you is important for receiving personalized, holistic mental health care
- A top female psychiatrist can address specific concerns such as PMDD, PMS, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues
- Seeking out a female psychiatrist who is accepting new patients is the first step towards improving your mental well-being
- Holistic mental health care addresses the multifaceted nature of women’s mental health concerns, empowering women to lead richer, more fulfilling lives
Whether you’re struggling with PMDD, PMS, Body Image Concerns, Postpartum Depression, Relationship Issues, Binge-Eating Disorder, or Codependency, you deserve to get the help you need and to start your healing journey today.
Services We Offer and How to Get Started 🌿
Dr. Ambardar works with adults, ages 18 and older, and provides concierge psychiatry, psychotherapy, medical weight care, and coaching services including:
- Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations
- Personalized treatment plans
- Medication management
- Psychotherapy (both individual and group)
- Integrative medicine
- Advanced functional lab testing (including detailed micronutrient, GI/Gut health, and pharmacogenomic testing)
- Holistic approaches (including nutraceuticals, botanicals, and supplements)
Ready to begin your own therapeutic journey towards happiness and mental well-being? Contact The Happiness Psychiatrist® today and discover how award-winning integrative psychiatrist Dr. Sheenie Ambardar MD can help put you on the path to your best, happiest self.
Want to learn more about integrative psychiatry and concierge psychiatry? Read these pieces next from The Happiness Psychiatrist® blog: 👇
What to Expect from a Concierge Psychiatrist: A Guide to Personalized Mental Health Care
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This post was last modified on December 3, 2024 11:47 am