Suzanne Wallach Blog
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Follow to read about mental health, addiction treatment, and DBT treatment options in the Los Angeles area. Dr. Wallach works mainly from both behavioral and psychodynamic perspectives, using Object Relations and Attachment Theory as well as existential, dialectical behavior and cognitive behavioral interventions as needed to help patients dealing with substance abuse, behavioral addictions,..
Suzanne Wallach Blog
5h ago
Anxiety can significantly impact relationships, as it can affect how you perceive yourself, your partner, and the relationship itself. It can manifest in different ways in relationships, depending on the individual and the nature of the relationship. Common manifestations of anxiety in relationships include:
Fear of Abandonment: Anxious individuals may fear being abandoned or rejected by their partner, leading to clinginess or insecurity.
Communication Challenges: Anxiety can make it difficult to communicate effectively, leading to misunderstandings or conflict.
Need for Reassurance: Anxious ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
6d ago
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based, rigidly structured psychotherapeutic intervention. DBT combines techniques from western cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-educational modules, and eastern mindfulness-based practices to foster the systematic learning of new emotional coping skills. One of the key components of DBT is mindfulness. Mastering the art of being present through DBT mindfulness can have profound effects on mental health and overall well-being.
Understanding DBT Mindfulness
DBT mindfulness is about learning to observe, describe, and participate in the p ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
1w ago
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can have serious physical consequences. These disorders can have a profound impact on nutrition, leading to deficiencies in essential nutrients and imbalances in energy intake. Restrictive eating patterns can result in inadequate intake of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients, which are essential for maintaining health. Additionally, purging behaviors such as vomiting or laxative abuse can further disrupt nutrient absorption and lead to electrolyte imbalances. While therapy and medication are essential components of treatment, nutrit ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
1w ago
In today’s digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives, offering a platform for connection, information, and entertainment. However, the constant use of social media can also have negative effects on our mental health, contributing to feelings of anxiety and stress. Understanding the impact of social media on anxiety and learning how to cope with these stressors is essential for maintaining mental well-being in the digital age.
The Impact of Social Media on Anxiety
Social media can contribute to feelings of anxiety in several ways. The curated nature of social media feed ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
1w ago
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic condition that is classified in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) as an anxiety disorder. OCD is characterized by unreasonable, uncontrollable, or recurring thoughts (obsessions) followed by a behavioral response (compulsions). Obsessions are defined as “repeated thoughts, urges, or mental images that cause anxiety.” Compulsions are defined as “repetitive behaviors that a person with OCD feels the urge to do in response to an obsessive thought.” The International OCD Foundation asserts that OCD equa ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
1w ago
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that are loosely characterized by abnormal, irregular eating habits, and an extreme concern with one’s body weight or shape. While they are often portrayed as primarily affecting women, the reality is that men also struggle with these disorders. However, due to various societal and cultural factors, men with eating disorders are less likely to seek help or be accurately diagnosed, leading to a silent struggle that is often overlooked.
The Prevalence of Eating Disorders in Men
Research suggests that up to 25% of individuals with anorexia or ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
1w ago
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based psychotherapeutic modality that emphasizes the psychosocial aspect of treatment. Psychologist Marsha M. Linehan developed DBT in the late 1980s as a means to more effectively treat chronically suicidal individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Psychology Today explains that the “goal of DBT is to transform negative thinking patterns and destructive behaviors into positive outcomes.” DBT combines standard cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques for emotional regulation and reality testing with psycho-education ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
1M ago
The intricate relationship between anxiety and insomnia often creates a challenging cycle, where one exacerbates the other. Insomnia is characterized by “the subjective complaint of difficulty falling or maintaining sleep, or nonrestorative sleep, producing significant daytime symptoms including difficulty concentrating and mood disturbances.” Breaking this sleepless cycle requires a comprehensive approach that addresses both the underlying anxiety and the associated sleep difficulties. Here are strategies to help manage anxiety and insomnia:
Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule:
Stick to a ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
1M ago
Occupational stress and workplace anxiety is highly common. According to Mental Health America’s 2021 Mind the Workplace report, nearly 83 percent of respondents felt emotionally drained from their work, and about 9 in 10 workers, which is equal to 85%, reported that job stress affected their mental health. Navigating occupational stress and anxiety is essential for maintaining mental well-being in the workplace. The following guide can help individuals learn to better manage stress and anxiety within the work terrain:
Self-Awareness:
Recognize Triggers: Identify specific stressors in t ..read more
Suzanne Wallach Blog
1M ago
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence-based, rigidly structured form of psychotherapy. It was developed by psychologist Marsha M. Linehan in the late 1980s as a treatment method specifically designed for chronically suicidal individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder. DBT combines techniques from western cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psycho-educational modules, and eastern mindfulness-based practices to foster the systematic learning of new emotional coping skills. Here is a roadmap to guide the treatment of BPD using DBT:
Assessment and Diagnosis:
Thorough ..read more