Michelle Dinesen, Author at Bloom Behavioral Health Partners

Is This Just Stress? Recognizing the Early Signs of Anxiety and Depression

Life throws a lot our way, and it’s completely normal to feel stressed. Deadlines, financial worries, relationship ups and downs – these can all leave us feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. But what if that feeling of being “stressed out” starts to linger, change your daily life, or feel like something more profound? How do you know when it’s more than just a bad week, and when it might be the early signs of anxiety or depression?

At Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, we often hear people wondering this very thing. It’s easy to dismiss persistent changes as “just stress,” but recognizing the subtle shifts early on can make a huge difference.

Here are some examples of what those early signs might look like, and when it might be time to consider reaching out for professional support.

Beyond the Usual Stress: What to Look For (Adults)

Stress is typically a reaction to a specific trigger and tends to subside once the stressor is gone. Anxiety and depression, however, can be more pervasive and persistent.

Changes in Your Routine and Habits:

Appetite Shifts: Are you suddenly eating significantly more or much less than usual? Stress can sometimes cause minor changes, but a consistent lack of appetite or an urge to “stress eat” for days or weeks could be a red flag.
Sleep Disturbances: We all have a restless night now and then. But if you’re consistently struggling to fall asleep, waking up frequently, or finding yourself sleeping excessively (much more than usual, even when you’re not physically tired), it’s worth noting.
Loss of Interest in Hobbies & Activities: Remember that hobby you used to love – painting, hiking, reading, gaming? If you find yourself completely uninterested in it, or even the thought of doing it feels like too much effort, that can be a significant sign. It’s not just “not having time;” it’s a lack of desire.
Social Withdrawal: Feeling less inclined to spend time with friends and family is common when busy. But if you’re actively avoiding social situations, turning down invitations more often than not, or feeling drained after even brief interactions, it could be more than just stress.

Shifts in Your Mood and Feelings:

Persistent Irritability or Edgy Feelings: Are little things suddenly setting you off? Do you find yourself snapping at loved ones more easily? While stress can make us short-tempered, persistent irritability, feeling constantly on edge, or having trouble relaxing could point to anxiety.
Constant Worry or Feeling Overwhelmed: It’s normal to worry about important things. But if you find yourself worrying excessively about things you can’t control, replaying scenarios in your head, or feeling a constant sense of dread, that’s more indicative of anxiety.
Persistent Sadness or Emptiness: We all have bad days. But if you’re experiencing a pervasive sense of sadness, hopelessness, or an inexplicable emptiness that lasts for weeks, it’s a strong indicator of depression. This isn’t just “feeling down;” it’s a heavy, lingering cloud.
Fatigue Even After Rest: Feeling tired when you haven’t slept well is expected. But if you’re constantly exhausted, even after getting a full night’s sleep, it could be a symptom of depression. Your mind can be as draining as physical labor.

Physical Symptoms Without a Clear Cause:

Muscle Tension & Headaches: Chronic stress can cause these, but if they become persistent, severe, or are accompanied by other symptoms, it’s worth considering.
Digestive Issues: Upset stomach, nausea, or changes in bowel habits can be linked to anxiety and stress. If these are ongoing and can’t be explained by diet or other medical conditions, they might be emotionally driven.

When to Seek Professional Support for Children

It can be particularly challenging for parents and caregivers to distinguish between typical developmental stages and the early signs of a mental health concern in a child. While every child is different, here are key indicators that suggest seeking professional help might be beneficial:

Significant Behavioral Patterns:

Sudden or Escalating Defiance: While all kids push boundaries, a sudden, marked increase in tantrums, aggression, or oppositional behavior that is disproportionate to the situation can be a sign that they are struggling to cope internally.
School Avoidance or Decline: A sudden refusal to go to school, persistent complaints of physical illness (stomach aches, headaches) that coincide with school days, or an unexpected drop in grades can often mask underlying anxiety or depression.

Changes in Emotional Expression and Self-View:

Pervasive Negative Self-Talk: A consistent pattern of saying things like, “I’m stupid,” “I can’t do anything right,” or “No one likes me,” suggests low self-esteem and potentially depression.
Increased Worries or Fears: While childhood fears are normal, excessive or constant worry that interferes with daily activities, such as an inability to sleep alone or participate in age-appropriate activities due to fear, points toward anxiety.
Regression: A return to younger behaviors, such as bedwetting or thumb-sucking, especially after a period of having stopped, can be a sign of distress.

The Need for an Additional Safe Space:

Child therapy is not always about fixing a “problem”; often, it’s about providing a child with a safe, neutral space and a professional adult to talk to.

If your child is going through a significant life transition (divorce, moving, loss of a loved one), therapy offers a vital resource for processing those big feelings.
If you notice your child seems unable to open up to you or other trusted family members, a therapist can become that trusted, non-judgmental adult who helps them find their voice and tools for emotional management.

If these patterns are persistent (lasting more than a few weeks), intense, and interfere with your child’s functioning at home, at school, or with friends, it’s time to reach out.

When Is It Time to Talk to a Professional? (Adults and Children)

If you recognize several of these signs in yourself or a loved one, and they have been persistent for more than a couple of weeks, or if they are significantly interfering with daily life – work, school, relationships, or overall well-being – it’s time to talk to a professional.

Think of it like this: if you had a persistent cough, you wouldn’t just ignore it and hope it goes away. Mental health is no different.

The Benefits of Therapy for Anxiety and Depression

Seeking therapy for anxiety and depression is a sign of strength, not weakness. It provides a safe, confidential space to explore what you’re experiencing and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Understanding Your Triggers: A therapist can help you identify the root causes and triggers of your anxiety or depression.
Developing Coping Strategies: You’ll learn practical tools and techniques to manage symptoms, challenge negative thought patterns, and regulate emotions.
Improving Relationships: By understanding yourself better, you can communicate more effectively and improve your connections with others.
Regaining Control: Therapy empowers you to take an active role in your mental well-being, helping you feel more in control of your life rather than at the mercy of your symptoms.

At Bloom BHP, our compassionate therapists specialize in helping individuals and families navigate the challenges of anxiety and depression. We believe in a personalized approach, working with you or your child to create a path towards greater peace, resilience, and joy.

Don’t dismiss what you’re feeling as “just stress.” Your mental health matters, and reaching out is the first step towards feeling like yourself again, or even discovering a stronger, more resilient you.

Ready to explore if therapy is right for you or your child? Contact us today for a confidential consultation.

Navigating Back-to-School Stress with Resilience

The start of a new school year is often a mix of excitement and anxiety. While a new backpack and fresh notebooks can spark a sense of possibility, the transition back to a structured routine can be challenging for everyone involved.

At Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, we know that a little bit of stress is normal, but when it becomes overwhelming, it’s important to have strategies to build resilience.

Here’s how to navigate back-to-school stress, whether you’re a student, a parent, or a helping professional.

For Children and Teens: Building a Strong Foundation

The return to school can bring worries about making friends, keeping up with schoolwork, or dealing with social pressure. These anxieties are real and should be acknowledged.

Wendy Kopitsch, LLMSW at Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, notes that the first step is to “normalize those feelings of anxiety or nervousness for children.” This means acknowledging that new environments require time to acclimate to and that feeling nervous is a part of the “common humanity” of it all—something everyone experiences.

A simple, effective tool parents can teach their children is a mindful strategy based on the 5 Senses:

5 things you see
4 things you feel
3 things you hear
2 things you smell
1 thing you taste

This practice can be used before school, or even the night before if anxiety is interfering with bedtime. As a child gets older, they can easily prompt themselves throughout the day to calm their minds.

For Parents: Managing Your Own Anxiety

Parents often carry the weight of their child’s worries in addition to their own. The stress of school logistics, extracurriculars, and academic expectations can feel immense.

Communicate and Connect: Talk openly with your child about their feelings without judgment. Share your own experiences with new beginnings to show them they aren’t alone.
Prioritize Self-Care: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take time for yourself, whether it’s a quick walk, a quiet moment with a book, or a conversation with a friend. Your well-being directly impacts your ability to support your child.
Collaborate, Don’t Control: Partner with your child in the back-to-school process. Involve them in decisions about their schedule or school supplies. This empowers them and reduces the feeling of being a passive participant.

For Helping Professionals and Teachers: Fostering a Supportive Environment

Educators and school staff are on the front lines, often managing the collective stress of an entire student body and their families. Their own well-being is critical to a healthy learning environment.

Set Realistic Expectations: You cannot solve every problem. Focus on what is within your control, such as creating a welcoming classroom and providing clear communication.
Lean on Your Community: Connect with fellow teachers and counselors. Sharing strategies and simply knowing you are not alone in the challenges you face can be incredibly validating.
Model Resilience: Demonstrate healthy coping mechanisms for stress. By openly and appropriately managing your own feelings, you provide a powerful example for students and families alike.

A Note on Communication and Confidentiality

When it comes to coordination between a therapist and school staff, Wendy Kopitsch notes that “a teacher or administrator would need a release from the client or client’s parent/guardian.” With this release, a therapist can share insight into what the client and family are working on to achieve their goals, ensuring a consistent and supportive environment while maintaining confidentiality.

The transition back to school doesn’t have to be a source of dread. By acknowledging the challenges and actively working to build resilience, we can all make this a positive and empowering experience.

If you or your family are struggling with back-to-school anxiety, don’t hesitate to reach out to Bloom Behavioral Health Partners. We are here to support you in navigating these transitions and building a foundation for emotional wellness.

Growth and Innovation from the West Coast Symposium

Matthew Thatcher, LPC, CCS, founder of Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, recently attended the West Coast Symposium for Addiction Professionals, a conference focused on the evolving landscape of addiction, trauma, and their respective treatments. The symposium featured highly regarded speakers, including Grand Rapids’ own David Dawdy LLP, who presented with a colleague on the topic of Artificial Intelligence.

One of the most compelling aspects of the conference for Thatcher was a deeper understanding, guided by current research, of how psychotherapy and substance abuse counseling can be assisted by certain pharmacological agents, all under the expert guidance of psychiatry. “For me,” Thatcher stated, “a better understanding guided by current research, of how therapy and substance abuse counseling can be assisted by drugs like ketamine, GLP-1s and psilocybin was most exciting.” He also expressed enthusiasm for discussions on therapy assisted by AI, particularly for situations “where it could be appropriate or where traditional talk therapy historically has fallen short.”

Technology and AI used in behavioral therapy

This newfound knowledge will enhance how Bloom Behavioral Health Partners works with clients. Thatcher believes he can now “speak more confidently about this complementarity psychotherapy treatment and they are more clinically appropriate.” He anticipates that technology, particularly AI, which he’s become more educated on as a powerful tool, will allow therapists to “continue to focus more on the therapy hour and client themselves.” Looking ahead, Thatcher suggested that AI could potentially “help make therapy more accessible and more frequent for my clients in the future.”

The conference also offered a fresh perspective on common mental health challenges. Rather than viewing symptoms like anxiety, depression, or stress as flaws, Thatcher learned to understand them as “Adaptations.” He elaborated, “Rather than being viewed as inherent flaws or disorders in isolation, challenges like anxiety, depression, and stress (or problematic behaviors like substance use) are understood as the brain and body’s ‘ways of dealing with the impact of traumatic experiences.'”

When these experiences occur early in development, these coping mechanisms can become “maladaptive traits” if persistent. Thatcher noted that this understanding has led him to “rethink some of my approaches with adolescents and the adaptations as superpowers.”

Discussions at the symposium also extensively covered new technologies for making therapy more accessible, including AI-assisted documentation and treatment planning. These conversations deeply explored the ethical use of such tools and the crucial protection of private health information, alongside their potential benefits for clients. Thatcher shared a positive early adoption experience: “Some clients at BloomBHP have already consented to the therapist using AI to assist with sessions and note-taking. The feedback from adult clients or parents has been all positive.” He highlighted the benefit of this approach, stating, “It allows more of the therapy hour to be focused and centered on the client along with several other benefits.”

One parent’s feedback underscored this point: “This is the first time I felt like I knew what was going on in therapy and how it was helping my son!” Thatcher hopes this enhanced transparency will significantly engage parents in their children’s therapeutic process, helping to generalize more positive changes beyond the therapy office for the children they serve.

A concept that particularly resonated with Thatcher regarding effective therapy and patient care was the emphasis on caring for the entire family system, rather than focusing solely on the identified client. While this idea isn’t new, he felt it truly highlighted how to provide the most effective therapy and care for those seeking help.
Thatcher emphasized the importance for providers to engage in continuous learning and attend conferences. He sees it as crucial for maintaining “a fresh perspective and stay up to date,” and personally, this ongoing education “keeps me interested and helps self guard me from burn out.” He concluded that a therapist who “continues to learn and is practicing good self care, likely will be able to provide better therapy.”

Looking to the future, Thatcher believes that the world of therapy is set for positive change. He foresees easier access, better coverage between sessions, and an improved ability for therapists to better attune to their clients.

For anyone considering therapy, Thatcher offers a hopeful message: “Yes there are lots of new treatments coming out with good data to support their use, Ie Ketamine, GLP-1’s.” He stressed, however, that all of these “will need to be paired to assist and compliment psychotherapy from a licensed professional.”

Finally, Matthew Thatcher shared a comforting thought for anyone considering therapy: He strongly believes that AI won’t replace the human connection and expertise of a good therapist. Instead, he sees it as a tool that therapists will learn to use, helping them provide even better care in the future. It’s about making your therapy experience more focused and effective, not less personal.

What new developments in mental health care are you most hopeful about?

Ready to explore a new path in your mental health journey? Contact Bloom Behavioral Health Partners today to learn more about our services and how we can support you.

Navigating Life’s Transitions

Life is a journey filled with constant movement. We experience exciting new chapters and navigate challenging endings, all of which shape who we become. While some changes feel like a breath of fresh air, others can bring significant stress and require a period of adjustment. These pivotal moments can sometimes feel like navigating a stormy sea, and at Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, we understand the complexities of these times and are dedicated to offering support and guidance.

Wendy Kopitsch, LLMSW, a valued part of Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, offers insights into navigating these shifts. Her experience helps us understand the common experiences and effective strategies for finding our footing during times of change.

Many people feel they don’t “qualify” for therapy or that their problems aren’t “big enough” to warrant seeking support. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Therapy isn’t reserved for extreme situations; it’s a resource for anyone seeking a supportive and confidential space to explore their thoughts and feelings, gain self-awareness, and develop coping skills for the everyday ups and downs of life.

Understanding Common Life Changes and Their Impact

Life throws a variety of transitions our way, each with its unique set of challenges. When we consider the types of life changes that often lead to stress, Wendy highlights several key areas: “Relationships: both when they begin and when they end, are often the biggest sources of stress. Following closely is any kind of loss… this could be a shift in family dynamics, like a child leaving for college, or the difficult transition to becoming a caregiver.”

Think about it: the excitement and vulnerability of starting a new romantic relationship, the grief and re-evaluation that comes with a breakup or divorce, the profound shift in identity and routine when a child leaves home for college, or the immense responsibility and emotional toll of becoming a primary caregiver for a loved one. These are all significant life events that require substantial emotional and practical adaptation. Even if these experiences don’t feel like a “major crisis,” the emotional impact can still be significant, and therapy can provide valuable support in navigating these adjustments.

Beyond these, other major life changes can also be incredibly difficult to navigate alone. Consider the stress of a significant career change, whether voluntary or involuntary, which can impact not only your financial stability but also your sense of purpose and identity. Moving to a new city or state can uproot your social support system and require building a new life from scratch. Even seemingly positive events like becoming a parent, while filled with joy, also bring immense responsibility, sleep deprivation, and shifts in relationships and personal time. As we journey through life, the process of aging itself can bring about changes in our physical health, social roles, and sense of self, requiring ongoing adaptation.

Whether it’s the joy of a new relationship, the sadness of one ending, the evolving dynamics of family life, the pain of loss, the demands of caregiving, the uncertainty of a career shift, the isolation of a big move, the overwhelming nature of new parenthood, or the gradual shifts of aging, these transitions all demand significant emotional and logistical adjustments. You don’t need to be at your breaking point to seek support in navigating these experiences.

The Emotional Side of Change

It’s completely normal to experience a wide range of emotions when facing a life transition. Wendy explains some of the most common feelings: “The most common emotion I see is anxiety, which often stems from fear of the unknown. Overwhelm is another very frequent response.”

The uncertainty that comes with change can easily trigger feelings of anxiety and worry about the future. The sheer task of adjusting to new circumstances, learning new routines, and facing the unfamiliar can also lead to feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and emotionally drained.

Knowing When It’s More Than Just Adjustment

While some stress is a natural part of adapting to change, it’s important to recognize when those feelings become too much to manage on your own. Wendy offers some key signs that it might be time to seek support:

“If you find yourself constantly thinking ‘I’m overwhelmed,’ or if you notice physical changes like significant shifts in your sleep patterns (sleeping too much or too little), it’s a red flag. Another sign is when self-care becomes nonexistent, or the thought of it doesn’t even cross your mind because you feel you don’t have the ‘time’ or your mind is constantly racing.”

These indicators suggest that the stress of the transition is having a significant impact on your well-being and your ability to cope effectively in your daily life.

When to Seek Professional Support: Recognizing the Red Flags

Wendy emphasizes critical times when reaching out for professional therapy or counseling is particularly important, pointing out specific “red flags”:

“Changes in sleep patterns, persistent anxiety, ongoing sadness, or increasing isolation are all reasons to seek support. A significant red flag would definitely be an increase in substance use as a way to cope, or any kind of addictive behavior like gambling, excessive shopping, or overeating.”

These are serious signs that someone is struggling to cope in healthy ways and that professional help can provide essential support and guidance to navigate these challenges.

How Therapy Can Help During Times of Change

Therapy can be an incredibly valuable resource when navigating significant life transitions. Wendy explains some of the key ways a therapist can help:

“Having someone who will truly listen and offer a different perspective can be so helpful. For example, a therapist might point out that feeling exhausted is a completely normal response to a challenging situation. We also use techniques like mindful self-compassion to help people accept that it’s okay to struggle during these times. And, of course, therapy provides practical coping strategies for things like low mood, sleep difficulties, and anxiety, such as breathing exercises and simple mindfulness to help quiet racing thoughts and worries.”

A therapist offers a safe and supportive space to process your emotions, gain new insights, develop healthy ways to cope, and practice self-compassion during challenging times, empowering you to navigate the complexities of change with greater resilience. Many of our experienced partners here at Bloom Behavioral Health Partners have specialized expertise in helping individuals navigate the complexities of life’s transitions.

If You’re Hesitant About Therapy

For those who feel overwhelmed by a life transition but are unsure about seeking therapy, Wendy offers this reassuring thought: “We all need support at different points in our lives… think of it like medicine – if it’s available and can help, why not use it?”

Reaching out for therapy is a sign of strength and self-awareness, not weakness. It’s about proactively taking care of your mental and emotional health during times when you might need it most.

Finding Strength and Support Beyond Therapy

In addition to professional support, Wendy shared some helpful resources for finding strength during times of change: “I often recommend the app Insight Timer. It offers a wide variety of guided meditations, talks, music, and even binaural beats that can be really helpful for relaxation and finding a sense of calm.”

Utilizing calming apps and exploring websites that offer mindfulness techniques can provide valuable tools to manage stress and support your well-being in between therapy sessions, offering accessible ways to cultivate inner peace.

Navigating life’s transitions is a fundamental part of being human. By understanding the common challenges, acknowledging our emotional responses, and knowing when to seek support, we can move through these periods with greater resilience and self-compassion. Remember, therapy is a valuable form of support available to everyone, regardless of the perceived size of their challenges. It’s about investing in your well-being and having a dedicated space to process your experiences.

If you’re currently facing a significant life change and feeling overwhelmed, we encourage you to reach out for support. You can connect directly with any of our dedicated therapists listed on our team page, or contact our main office at 616-202-2138. You can also fill out the convenient form on our “Contact Us” page. We are here to help you find your footing and navigate these waves with greater ease.

Supporting Teens & Young Adults Facing Pain, Chronic Health, and Mood Difficulties

We’re incredibly excited to introduce our newest team member, Dr. Dina Karvounides, a licensed clinical psychologist with a passion for supporting adolescents and young adults. Dr. Karvounides brings a wealth of experience and a compassionate approach to Bloom Behavioral Health Partners, focusing on helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with resilience and strength.

Dr. Karvounides specializes in working with adolescents and young adults facing chronic pain and illness, understanding the profound impact these conditions can have on daily life and emotional well-being. She also provides crucial support for individuals dealing with related mood difficulties like depression and anxiety, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical and mental health. “I believe in a holistic approach,” she explains, “recognizing the intricate link between mind and body.” While she doesn’t offer psychological testing, she focuses on delivering effective therapy and personalized support to clients and their families.

Her expertise extends to addressing a wide range of issues, including pediatric chronic pain and other chronic health issues with associated mood difficulties that can impact daily functioning, stress related to navigating the medical system, and other generalized mood difficulties such as depression and anxiety, particularly in adolescents (12+) and young adults. “My goal is to create a safe and supportive space,” Dr. Karvounides shares, “where individuals can explore their experiences and develop effective coping strategies.”

She tailors her therapeutic approach to each client’s needs, drawing from evidence-based interventions like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), prolonged exposure, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Knowing everyone’s path is unique, Dr. Karvounides goes beyond the session to provide tailored resources designed to meet each person’s needs. When needed, she carefully selects various pain management and mindfulness based interventions for continued care and guidance as they navigate their week.

Dr. Karvounides’ decision to join Bloom Behavioral Health Partners was rooted in her deep respect for the organization’s values and integrity. “I was drawn to Bloom’s ethical values and commitment to providing quality care,” she says. “I’m excited to collaborate with a team that shares my passion for helping others.”

One of the common misconceptions she encounters is the perception of therapy as a passive experience. She emphasizes, “Therapy as a collaborative process, not a one-sided conversation.” She also highlights the accessibility and convenience of virtual therapy, acknowledging its benefits for individuals with mobility limitations or low motivation while recognizing the value of in-person sessions.

Dr. Karvounides offers this insightful advice for those considering therapy: “Reflect on your current life and consider what you’d like to change. It’s about exploring how you live now versus how you want to live. Therapy is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and it’s a courageous step towards creating a more fulfilling life.”

Dr. Karvounides’ areas of expertise include:

Chronic Pain and Illness: Including somatic and functional disorders and sleep disturbances.
Trauma: Supporting individuals who have experienced abuse, assault, medical trauma, or other complex traumatic experiences.
Anxiety: Addressing generalized anxiety, panic disorder, and social anxiety.
Adjustment Difficulties: Assisting with life transitions and adjustment to chronic health symptoms.
Depression: Providing support for low mood and feelings of isolation.
Social Stressors: Helping adolescents navigate bullying and peer pressure.

We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Dina Karvounides to the Bloom Behavioral Health Partners family. Her dedication and expertise will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of our clients.

If you or a young adult you know is navigating chronic pain, mood disorders, or any of the challenges Dr. Karvounides specializes in, we encourage you to reach out. Her compassionate and personalized approach can provide the support and guidance needed to foster healing and well-being.

Please contact us today to learn more about Dr. Karvounides’ services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. We’re here to help you take the next step towards a brighter future.

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