The 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that about 21 million adults (8.3% of U.S. adults) in the U.S. have experienced at least one major depressive episode (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). It can be easy to dismiss some of the symptoms of depression as just feeling off, but it…
Pew Research Center states about 72% of the American public use social media¹ It is natural to feel compelled to stay informed about what’s happening in the world around us, even if it can be distressing. We can be engaged with the media while still regulating our stress response. In this article, we dissect the…
How to Spot & Treat Alcohol Use Disorder? Alcohol use is a common cause of addiction in the United States. According to the latest data from 2021, 29.5 million people ages 12 and older met diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorder and from that statistic, 22.2 million had alcohol use disorder only¹. How do you…
According to the American Psychiatric Association, 1 in 11 people will receive a PTSD diagnosis in their lifetime. Though some causes and symptoms may be expected, PTSD can develop and manifest itself in many more ways than expected. Read this blog to better understand the latest research on PTSD, its causes, and how to treat…
Watching a loved one struggle with an addiction and their mental health can be incredibly difficult. You want the best for them, but convincing them to seek help can be a delicate and complex process. PCI’s clinical director, Miriam Hamideh, Ph.D. shares effective strategies to convince a loved one to get the help they need,…
Approximately 19%, or 53 million Americans use marijuana regularly, with an estimated 30% of those users able to meet criteria for cannabis use disorder (CDC 2021). Marijuana (cannabis, weed, etc.) is a drug derived from the cannabis sativa plant, getting its psychoactive properties from the chemical THC. The latest research shows that heavy marijuana use…
In everyday life and language, the lines between obsession and addiction can often appear blurred. These terms are frequently used interchangeably, but in reality, they represent distinct psychological phenomena. This blog aims to provide a unique and insightful perspective on the difference between obsession and addiction, shedding light on the importance of insight, self-awareness, and…
In a world where distractions abound and the pressures of daily life can take a toll on mental health, journaling offers solace, clarity, and healing. There’s no right or wrong way to journal – all that matters is the intention to connect with yourself on a deeper level. In this article, we’ll explore how journaling…
Our minds are complex and fascinating entities, capable of producing a wide range of thoughts and emotions. However, not all thoughts that cross our minds are beneficial or accurate. Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs) are those pesky, spontaneous, and often irrational ideas that can creep into our consciousness and lead us down a path of self-doubt,…
