Everyone experiences low moods now and then—but when sadness lingers, motivation disappears, and everyday tasks feel exhausting, it may be more than just a rough patch. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we want to help you recognize when what you’re feeling might be clinical depression—and offer the support you need to begin healing. Depression doesn’t always look the way people expect. While some individuals may feel tearful or withdrawn, others keep pushing through with a smile, feeling numb or disconnected inside. That’s why it’s often misunderstood or missed, especially during seasons when you’re "supposed" to feel upbeat—like summer. Common Signs of Depression Include:  Feeling persistently sad, empty, or hopeless Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy Fatigue or low energy, even after rest Changes in sleep or appetite Difficulty concentrating or making decisions Feeling worthless or overly self-critical At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, our providers take time to understand your full story—because mental health is never one-size-fits-all. Whether your symptoms have built slowly or come on suddenly, we’ll work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that may include therapy, lifestyle support, and if appropriate, medication. You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone Depression is treatable, and asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness. Our therapists and psychiatric providers are here to walk alongside you with empathy, evidence-based care, and hope. If you’re unsure whether what you’re feeling is "serious enough" to reach out, know that we are always here to listen and support your next step. Call 954-341-5215 to schedule a consultation at Blue Umbrella Psychiatry. You deserve to feel better—and we’re ready to help you get there.

Summer can be a time of excitement, spontaneity and new experiences—but it can also bring disruption to your routines, increased social demands, and emotional overwhelm. Whether you're travelling, adjusting to kids being home, or just feeling out of sync, it's easy to feel ungrounded during seasonal transitions. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we recognize that summer can be a time when your mental health needs extra care. We're here to help you stay balanced and connected through mindfulness-based strategies. The Importance of Staying Grounded During Seasonal Shifts Summer's change in pace and structure can affect your emotional regulation, especially if you're already managing anxiety, depression, or stress. With the longer days, social invitations, and travel plans, it's easy to forget the routines the routines that help you feel emotionally secure. That's why incorporating mindfulness into your summer rhythm is key—it allows you to remain anchored in the present, no matter what's going on around you. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, our providers can help you build mindfulness practices that are both simple and effective—designed to work with your lifestyle, not against it. Mindfulness Tools to Use During Summer Mindfulness isn't about perfection—it's about presence. Here are the few tools you can start using right away to stay grounded: Mindful Breathing: Whether you're in a crowded airport or dealing with a busy day at home, taking just a minute to focus on slow, intentional breaths can help reduce stress and calm your mind. Body Scans: A simple check-in with your body—especially at the beginning or end of the day—can help you reconnect and notice areas of tension or stress areas of tension or stress. Nature Anchoring: Spending time outdoors? Use your senses to ground yourself—feel the sun on your skin, listen to the sounds around you, or notice what you see in the environment. Tech-Free Moments: Carve out 10-15 minutes a day where you unplug from devices. This helps reset your attention and reconnect with the present moment. Our therapists at Blue Umbrella Psychiatry often incorporate mindfulness techniques into both individual and group sessions, making it easier for patients to integrate these habits into daily life. Therapy as a Tool to Stay Present and Balanced If you're feeling especially overwhelmed or notice your mental health symptoms intensifying over the summer, therapy can be a powerful support. Talking to a therapist can help you explore what's triggering your sense of unease and develop strategies to stay emotionally regulated. Whether it's difficulty adjusting to change or stress related to social expectations, our team can guide you in finding practical solutions. For those travelling or with limited time, we offer flexible options including virtual therapy and group sessions that focus on stress reduction, mindfulness, and emotional coping. Take the First Step Toward a Grounded Summer If the change of season is leaving you feeling off balance, now is the perfect time to reach out. Our team is here to help you find mindfulness strategies, therapeutic supports, and emotional stability all summer long. Call 954-341-5215 to schedule your new patient consultation with Blue Umbrella Psychiatry. Let us help you create a summer of intention, presence, and peace.

June 5th, 2025

Do you ever feel drained after saying "yes" to something you didn't want to do? Or overwhelmed because you're constantly putting other's needs before your own? These are signs that your boundaries may need attention. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we believe that learning how to set and maintain healthy boundaries is one of the most important steps in protecting your mental health and emotional well-being. What Are Healthy Boundaries —and Why Do They Matter? Boundaries are the limits we set with ourselves and others to feel safe, respected and in control of our time and energy. They help define what is okay and what is not in our relationships, routines, and daily lives. When boundaries are clear and respected You feel more emotionally stable You reduce stress and resentment You're able to prioritize your own needs without guilt Relationships become more balanced and respectful When boundaries are missing or unclear, it can lead to anxiety, burnout, depression, and conflict. That's why boundary work is often a key part of both therapy and psychiatric care. Signs You Might Need Stronger Boundaries You feel guilty for saying "no" You're often overwhelmed or stretched too thin You avoid conflict, even when something bothers you You take responsibility for others' emotions You feel taken advantage of or unappreciated At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, our therapist help patients identify where their boundaries are lacking and develop the confidence to set limits that feel right for them. How Therapy Can Help You Build Healthy Boundaries Therapy provides a safe space to explore your current relationships and the roles you tend to play—whether it's the fixer, the people pleaser, or the one who never asks for help. Our therapists will work with you to: Identify where boundaries are needed Practice assertive communication Navigate guilt or discomfort around saying "no" Rebuild your self-worth and self-trust We also offer group therapy options that focus on interpersonal skills and emotional regulation—perfect for patients looking to practice boundary-setting in a supportive environment. Medication and Emotional Boundaries For some patients, struggling with boundaries is linked to underlying anxiety, trauma, or mood disorders. In these cases, our providers may recommend a combination of therapy and medication to help regulate emotional responses, improve-self awareness, and build mental resilience. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we take an integrated approach that considers the full picture—mental, emotional, and relational—when helping patients create healthier boundaries. Ready to Protect Your Peace? If you've been feeling emotionally exhausted or resentful, it might be time to evaluate your boundaries. You deserve relationships and routines that support your well-being—not drain it. Call 954-341-5215 to schedule your new patient consultation today. We're here to help you strengthen your boundaries, restore your balance, and prioritize your peace.

From scrolling late at night to comparing ourselves to curated highlight reels, social media plays a huge role in how we feel—and often, it's not for the better. While staying connected online can have its benefits, too much time on social media can lead to increased anxiety, low self esteem, and emotional burnout. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry we work with patients to understand the impact of their digital habits and support healthier, more mindful technology use. How Social Media Affects Mental Health Social media can be a powerful tool—but it's also designed to be addictive. With endless content, constant notifications, and the pressure to keep up, many people experience emotional consequences such as: Anxiety from information overload or fear of missing out (FOMO) Depression linked to social comparison or feeling left out. Sleep disruption due to late-night scrolling or screen time before bed Low self-esteem from seeing filtered, idealized images of other's lives. For those already managing mental health conditions, excessive social media use can worsen symptoms and make it harder to stay grounded in the present. The Power of Digital Boundaries Just like setting boundaries in relationships, creating limits around social media use can protect your mental and emotional space. Some simple, powerful strategies include: Time limits: Use app timers to reduce screen time Curate your feed: Unfollow or mute accounts that trigger comparison or anxiety Schedule tech-free moments: Make space for real-life connection and reflection Mindful scrolling: Ask yourself, "How does this make me feel?" before continuing At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, our providers often incorporate digital boundary work into therapy sessions, especially when social media is linked to symptoms of stress, depression, or anxiety. When to Seek Support  If social media is negatively impacting your mood, your self-image, or your relationships, it may be time to talk with a therapist. Therapy can help you explore what drives your digital habits, work through the emotional effects of online comparison, and build self-worth that doesn't depend on likes or follows. We also offer group therapy, where patients can share their experiences, gain insight from others, and practice new coping strategies in a supportive environment. In some cases, psychiatric support may also be helpful if you're noticing deeper issues—like persistent anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or sleep problems—that are linked to digital overload. Take the First Step Toward Healthier Online Habits You don't have to give up social media entirely—but you do deserve to use it in a way that supports your mental health. If your digital life is affecting your emotional well-being, we're here to help. Call 954-341-5215 to schedule your new patient consultation with Blue Umbrella Psychiatry. Together We can help you take back control and feel more balanced—online and off.

May is recognized as Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness about mental health and promote the importance of mental well-being for everyone. But at Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we believe Mental Health Month is about more than just awareness—it’s about taking action, breaking down stigma, and creating a culture of support that extends beyond the month of May. Why Mental Health Month Matters Mental Health Month is a powerful reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health, and it deserves our attention, care, and respect. This month provides an opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to engage in conversations about mental health, seek help when needed, and promote resources that support mental wellness. However, the truth is that mental health challenges don’t disappear at the end of the month. For lasting change to happen, it requires an ongoing commitment to understanding, supporting, and advocating for mental health year-round. Mental Health Is for Everyone One of the most important messages of Mental Health Month is that mental health affects us all, regardless of age, background, or circumstance. Whether you’re facing anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress, mental health struggles are valid and should be met with compassion and care. It’s essential to recognize that anyone, at any time, can experience challenges with their mental health. This includes students, parents, professionals, and caregivers—all of us are impacted by mental health in different ways. Going Beyond Awareness: Taking Action Raising awareness is the first step, but real progress comes from action. This May, Blue Umbrella Psychiatry encourages you to take proactive steps toward improving your own mental health and supporting others. Here’s how you can take action: Check in with yourself: Take a moment to evaluate your own mental well-being. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burnt out? It’s okay to acknowledge these feelings and seek support. Talk openly about mental health: By having conversations about mental health with friends, family, or colleagues, we break down stigma and create a culture of openness. You never know who might need to hear that it’s okay to not be okay. Seek help when needed: Whether through therapy, medication, or a combination of both, seeking professional help is an important step toward healing. If you’ve been struggling with your mental health, reaching out for support can make a world of difference. Support others: If someone in your life is struggling, be there for them. Offer a listening ear, encourage them to seek help, or simply remind them that they are not alone. Our Commitment to Mental Wellness At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we are dedicated to offering compassionate care that prioritizes your mental wellness. We provide a variety of services, including therapy, medication management, and comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, all designed to help you manage your mental health and live a more fulfilling life. Throughout May, and beyond, we continue to focus on breaking the stigma around mental health and creating a safe, supportive environment for our patients. Our team is here to listen, guide, and offer support, whether you are beginning your mental health journey or need ongoing care.  Let’s Keep the Conversation Going Mental health awareness is important, but the real change happens when we continue the conversation and work together to create a world where mental health is prioritized. Call 954-341-5215 today to schedule your consultation at Blue Umbrella Psychiatry. Whether it’s through therapy, medication, or a combination of both, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Anxiety can affect anyone, at any age, and for adults, it can have a significant impact on day-to-day life. From persistent worry and overwhelming thoughts to physical symptoms like a racing heart, trouble sleeping, or difficulty concentrating, anxiety can make even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we understand how anxiety affects not only your emotional well-being but also your overall quality of life. We are here to offer effective solutions through therapy and other treatment options to help you regain control. The Importance of a Psychiatric Evaluation: Your First Step Toward Relief  The journey to managing anxiety begins with a psychiatric evaluation, which is part of our new patient consultation process. This evaluation is designed to gain a deeper understanding of your specific symptoms, triggers, and mental health history. By conducting this thorough assessment, we can determine the underlying causes of your anxiety and create a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your needs. This evaluation helps us to not only assess anxiety but also identify any other mental health concerns, such as depression or trauma-related conditions, that may be contributing to your anxiety. This comprehensive approach is essential in providing the most effective treatment, whether that involves therapy, medication, or a combination of both. How Therapy Can Help Manage Anxiety Therapy plays an important role in managing anxiety. It provides a safe space to explore your feelings and concerns, helping you understand the factors contributing to your anxiety and providing you with coping tools to manage stress more effectively. Whether you’re dealing with overwhelming thoughts, panic, or emotional strain, therapy can give you strategies to navigate those challenges and build resilience over time. In addition to individual therapy, group therapy can be a powerful way to address anxiety. It allows you to connect with others who are experiencing similar struggles, providing support, shared insights, and a sense of community. Group therapy can also help you learn new ways to cope with anxiety and feel less isolated in your journey. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, if medication is not needed or agreed upon, we have in-house therapists who specialize in treating anxiety. They offer individual therapy and group therapy sessions designed to provide you with the skills and strategies to manage your anxiety effectively. Take the First Step Toward Relief Today If you’ve been struggling with anxiety, it’s important to take the first step toward finding relief. Our psychiatric evaluation, which is part of your new patient consultation, will allow us to assess your situation and determine the most appropriate course of action. Whether you decide on individual therapy, group therapy, or a combination of both, we are committed to offering personalized care that addresses your specific needs. Don't wait any longer to take control of your anxiety and start living a more peaceful life. Call us at 954-341-5215 to schedule your new patient consultation today. Our team is here to help you find the support and relief you deserve.

For many teens, the end of the school year signals not only the promise of summer but also the pressure of exams, final projects, and the desire to perform well academically. Unfortunately, this time of year can also bring heightened stress, anxiety, and even feelings of depression. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we understand that school performance is just one aspect of your teen’s life, and maintaining their emotional well-being during this period is just as important as academic success.  As parents and caregivers, there are several ways you can help your teen navigate the challenges of the end-of-year academic pressures: 1. Create a Calm and Organized Study Environment Stress often starts to build when teens feel overwhelmed by the demands of schoolwork. One of the simplest ways to reduce anxiety is by helping your teen organize their study space. A quiet, clutter-free environment with all the necessary materials can help them focus and feel more in control. Work together to set a study schedule that allows for breaks, meals, and rest. Reducing distractions—like social media or the TV—during study time is also crucial for maintaining focus. 2. Teach Healthy Stress Management Techniques Teens need to know that it’s okay to feel stressed—but it’s also important to equip them with tools to manage it. Teach your teen how to implement stress-relieving activities like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or even short mindfulness exercises. Encouraging physical activities like running, swimming, or yoga can also provide a natural way to relieve stress and improve their mood. 3. Encourage Open Communication Teens often don’t express their anxiety and stress until it becomes overwhelming. By maintaining an open line of communication, you can check in regularly to see how they’re feeling. Ask open-ended questions, and listen carefully without judgment. Sometimes, just knowing they have someone to talk to can make all the difference in reducing anxiety. 4. Promote Physical and Emotional Health Physical health plays a big role in mental well-being. Encourage your teen to get enough sleep, eat nutritious meals, and stay hydrated. Regular physical activity, like walking, biking, or swimming, can help reduce stress and improve their emotional state. And just as important, make sure they know that emotional health is a priority. If your teen is feeling down or overwhelmed, therapy may be a helpful way to process their emotions. 5. Focus on Effort, Not Perfection Many teens feel immense pressure to achieve perfect grades, but it’s important to help them focus on doing their best instead of being perfect. Emphasize the importance of effort, learning from mistakes, and resilience. This shift in perspective can help reduce pressure and allow them to approach exams with a healthier mindset. If your teen is feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of exams or struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression, it’s important to address these challenges early. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we understand that emotional well-being is just as crucial as academic success. Our team is here to offer the support and guidance your teen needs to navigate this stressful period. Whether through therapy, medication management, or customized care, we are dedicated to helping your teen build resilience and maintain mental health. Every journey begins with a new patient consultation, where we’ll work together to find the best approach to support your teen. Call us at 954-341-5215 to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward helping your teen thrive, both academically and emotionally.

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects millions of adults, and for many, traditional treatments like therapy and antidepressant medications may not provide the relief they need. When depression becomes resistant to treatment, it can leave individuals feeling hopeless and isolated. However, Ketamine therapy is a groundbreaking treatment option that offers new hope for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression.  At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we are proud to offer Ketamine therapy at our Breakthrough Center, providing a promising alternative for adults who have not found success with traditional treatment options. Here’s how Ketamine therapy works and why it might be the right choice for you if you’re struggling with severe depression. What is Ketamine Therapy? Ketamine has been used for decades as an anesthetic, but recent research has revealed its potential as a treatment for depression, particularly in individuals with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). TRD refers to cases where depression doesn’t improve after trying multiple medications and therapies. Ketamine offers a different approach, working in a way that traditional antidepressants do not. Unlike standard antidepressants that typically focus on balancing chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, Ketamine works on the brain’s glutamate system, which is involved in mood regulation and neuroplasticity (the brain's ability to form new neural connections). By stimulating this system, Ketamine has been shown to rapidly reduce depressive symptoms, sometimes within hours, offering a fast-acting and highly effective solution for many patients. How Does Ketamine Work for Treatment-Resistant Depression? Ketamine works by inducing a state of neuroplasticity, which means it helps your brain "reset" by promoting new connections between nerve cells. This process is thought to repair the disrupted neural circuits that may be contributing to depression, providing relief from the emotional numbness and hopelessness that can come with severe depression. Most traditional antidepressants can take weeks or even months to show noticeable effects, but Ketamine provides rapid relief, often within hours to days after treatment. This is why it’s particularly beneficial for those who have not responded to other forms of treatment. The speed and effectiveness of Ketamine therapy can help individuals feel better quickly, allowing them to regain a sense of hope and begin rebuilding their lives. What to Expect During Ketamine Therapy at Our Breakthrough Center At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we offer Ketamine therapy in a safe, monitored setting at our Breakthrough Center. Each session is personalized to fit your unique needs, and the treatment is administered by a trained professional who will monitor your progress throughout the session. The treatment typically involves being in our office for approximately two hours. Ketamine is administered via an IV infusion, and patients are encouraged to relax and let the treatment take effect during this time. Since Ketamine may cause temporary disorientation or drowsiness, you will not be able to drive yourself home after the session. It is important to arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home afterward. Many people begin to notice an improvement in their mood after just a few sessions. However, the number of sessions required can vary depending on individual needs, with some people achieving long-term relief with just a few treatments. Self-Pay Option: Making Ketamine Therapy Accessible Currently, Ketamine therapy is not covered by most insurance plans, which can make it seem inaccessible to some individuals. At Blue Umbrella Psychiatry, we understand the importance of providing innovative treatments, and we offer Ketamine therapy on a self-pay basis. This allows us to provide our patients with access to this cutting-edge treatment while ensuring the highest quality of care. Although insurance coverage is not yet available for Ketamine, the results speak for themselves. Many patients who’ve struggled with depression for years and tried numerous treatments without success have found life-changing relief with Ketamine. We’re committed to making this breakthrough therapy available to those who need it most. Find Hope with Ketamine Therapy If you’ve been struggling with severe depression that hasn’t improved with traditional treatments, Ketamine therapy might be the solution you’ve been searching for. Our Breakthrough Center is dedicated to offering innovative treatments to help you reclaim your life and well-being. Our team at Blue Umbrella Psychiatry will work with you to determine if Ketamine is the right choice for you. During your new patient consultation, we’ll assess your needs, explain the benefits of Ketamine therapy, and create a treatment plan that’s customized to fit your unique situation. Call us today at 954-341-5215 to schedule a consultation and find out how Ketamine therapy can help you break free from the grip of treatment-resistant depression.