Breezy Mental Health Blog Posts

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 19, 2025 In my clinical experience, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic has been marked by a rise in cases of social anxiety disorder. This increase in social anxiety appears to be a consequence of people adapting to a more isolated lifestyle , a finding supported by evidence and especially affecting women [1] . This lifestyle is particularly damaging because it likely reinforces the core mechanism of the disor

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Antidepressants come in many forms, and finding the right fit can feel daunting. This side-by-side antidepressants comparison breaks down the most common classes, what they’re used for, and what you can expect to make the decision process a little easier. SSRI Antidepressants (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) Examples:  Sertraline (Zoloft), Fluoxetine (Prozac), Escitalopram (Lexapro). Best For:  T

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Psychiatric medications often carry stigma, confusion, and fear; sometimes more than the conditions they’re meant to treat. Let’s unpack the most common medication myths in psychiatry and replace them with facts that empower informed decisions. Myth 1: “Psych meds change your personality.” Most medications aim to reduce distressing symptoms, not alter who you are . Patients often report feeling more like

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 If you’ve ever searched for psychiatric medication help near me or mental health meds Florida, you’ve probably seen the term medication management. But what does it actually involve, and how does Breezy Mental Health approach it differently? Let’s break it down. Medication Management Isn’t Just Prescriptions At its core, medication management is the process of evaluating, prescribing, and monitoring psych

After more than a year of providing high-quality virtual psychiatric services across Florida, Breezy Mental Health is excited to announce...

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Across the globe, countless lives are touched by the intricacies of mental health. Yet, a pervasive stigma often cloaks these experiences in shadow, hindering open dialogue and the vital pursuit of support. Born from misunderstanding and fear, this stigma casts a long shadow, profoundly impacting those who bravely seek solace and healing. By confronting its corrosive effects head-on and championing a cult

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 In today’s fast-paced, digitally connected world, it is paradoxical that feelings of loneliness and isolation are becoming increasingly prevalent. As a mental health provider, I have witnessed firsthand the profound impact that these emotions can have on an individual's mental well-being. Loneliness is not just a fleeting feeling; it is a deeply ingrained emotional state that can exacerbate existing menta

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Mindfulness is a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and promoting emotional well-being. By practicing mindfulness, you can learn to stay present, calm your mind, and alleviate anxiety symptoms. Here are some effective mindfulness techniques to help manage your anxiety. 1. Deep Breathing Exercises Deep breathing is a simple yet effective way to calm your mind and body. Practice the following exercise: Find

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Self-care involves taking time to care for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach but rather a personalized set of practices that help you recharge and maintain balance. In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to overlook the importance of self-care. However, prioritizing self-care is essential for maintaining good mental health. Here are some t

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 ADHD isn't just a childhood condition—many adults grapple with it daily. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 15.5 million adults in the United States have ADHD and that about one-third of those adults are not receiving any care for their symptoms. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by your symptoms, you’re not alone. Here are some practical strategies to help you address ADH

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 As a psychiatric provider, some of the most common questions I hear about starting antidepressants are “Is this going to make me feel like a zombie?” or “Is this going to change who I am as a person?” Taking the step to address your mental health with medication is a big step and often a very important step. For many, the fear of taking antidepressants stems from worry that the medication might alter thei

The emotional toll of displacement following Hurricanes Helene and Milton is profound for many residents of Florida. As the rest of the state begins to rebuild and move forward, those still displaced grapple with feelings of abandonment and isolation. The emotional strain of being uprooted from their homes, coupled with the slow pace of recovery, leaves many feeling forgotten and overwhelmed. The destruction of homes and cherished belongings can evoke a deep sense of loss and

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Social anxiety is a debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by an intense fear of social situations, often driven by the fear of being judged, embarrassed, or humiliated. In recent times, the rise of social isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic and technological advancements that allow us to avoid interacting with others by doing such things as shopping onlin

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 As a psychiatric provider, I have frequently seen in my patients that living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can be a daily challenge, not just because of symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, but also due to the relentless inner critic that often accompanies the disorder. While most of us can relate to having an inner critic, I have often found that among patient

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 For me the best part about my job is being able to listen to people. It sounds cliche, but it is the truth. When a patient is in front of me, it is as if the rest of the world falls away. Everything I might have been worried about or distracted by slips from my mind, and the patient I am looking at has my entire focus. It is honestly a mindful experience that I hope brings as much peace to others as it do

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Recently, I was asked “if someone wants to kill themselves, is there really anything that you can do to stop them? Aren’t they going to kill themselves if they want to?” As someone who has worked in mental health almost all of my adult life, this question came as somewhat of a surprise. I have worked with many individuals with suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts. I have seen so many of these individual

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Your psychiatric provider is an integral part of your mental health care, often prescribing medications and therapy. It is vital to share personal details with them to obtain optimal treatment. Remember to share these 5 crucial pieces of information with your psychiatric provider to help you obtain the best care possible. Your Current Psychiatric Symptoms  - It is very important that your psychiatric prov

Medically reviewed by David Newby, APRN, PMHNP-BC   on October 18, 2025 Antidepressants are prescribed to manage depression and other mental health conditions. However, there are times when these medications may not work as expected. Here are some reasons why your antidepressant medication may not be working:   1. Incorrect Diagnosis If your diagnosis is incorrect, the medication prescribed may not be the right one to treat the symptoms you’re experiencing. For example, antid