Category: Behavioral Health

Negativity surrounds us daily. Whether it is thoughtless attacks across social media, unkind words overheard at the grocery store, or internal uncertainty and judgment, pessimism can be a grueling matter to deal with – both mentally and physically. Ways Negativity Hurts Weakened Immune System – Studies have shown that negative emotions are linked to a lowered immune response against disease, making you more prone to illness, heart attack, and even stroke. It’s Contagious – We all know that if we experience someone unnecessarily complaining or being overly toxic, we can get worked up. Although we don’t always consciously allow others’ emotions to affect our own, it’s natural and can happen without us even realizing it. Intelligence – Yes, really. Negative …

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In response to the rising opioid crisis in the United States, Nevada law makers recently passed Assembly Bill 474, otherwise known as the “The Controlled Substance Abuse Act,” making various changes to how doctors prescribe controlled substances to their patients. The bill, which went into effect January 1, 2018, requires prescribers to evaluate each patient and their specific needs before prescribing large amounts of medication. The hope is that the rigorous processes may lead to proper use (and less abuse) of specific medications, which may not be necessary for the patient. Before writing an initial prescription for a controlled substance each prescriber must have: An established relationship with the patient Given the patient a comprehensive physical and mental health assessment Obtained …

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  With the recent news of a local “pill mill” in Northern Nevada, and even related addictions and overdoses making national headlines, like the recent death of legendary musician, Prince, many are pulling together to search for the source of this current “epidemic” and most importantly, a possible solution. At Carson Tahoe Health, we know pinpointing the source is complex. However, it appears pharmaceutical companies, prescriber patterns, patient demands and expectations, patient lack of knowledge about addiction and dependency, all play an important role. In an age where doctors and health systems are being rated akin to a new movie and discussed on social media as being “good” or “bad,” it can be easy to give their “customers” (i.e. patients) …

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Several studies suggest that a negative mood once in a while can have some benefits. On the other hand, a persistent bad mood could signal a serious health condition like depression or a mood disorder. Here are some ways a little negativity can be good for you. Good news for the people having a bad day: A negative mood could make you more motivated. Everyone has the occasional bad mood. It might be the weather or something that happened at work. But several studies suggest that a negative mood once in a while can have some benefits. On the other hand, a persistent bad mood could signal a serious health condition like depression or a mood disorder, which can negatively …

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While Fall’s colors are undeniably beautiful, the leaves’ transition ultimately signifies Summer’s passing and Winter’s approach. Days are distressingly longer and darker, but our behavioral health pros have some tips on how you can combat those impending seasonal blues. The autumnal equinox was September 23, and as darkness begins to creep in earlier and earlier each day, it only makes sense that things can start to feel a bit dark as well. Many of us experience some form of seasonal blues, which, at its most severe, is also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Symptoms, including depression, loss of energy, and social withdrawal, typically start in the Fall and continue through Winter. Life can seem really hard or out of …

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