One of our patients had some interesting questions about lithium orotate. He said he had come across a couple of research papers that suggested that lithium orotate might have a unique pharmacologic profile, one that reduces adverse effects from lithium while preserving its therapeutic benefit. Lithium orotate is a compound formed from lithium and orotic acid. It is available for …
Brain Activity and Bipolar Disorder
The exact cause of bipolar disorder is unknown, but it is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Brain imaging studies have shown that people with bipolar disorder have differences in the structure and function of certain brain areas, including the frontal lobe, temporal lobe, and limbic system. A review of articles (a meta-analysis) published in the …
Navigating Drug Shortages: Tips for Finding the Medication You Need
Facing a shortage of your essential medication can be stressful. But with planning and proactive steps, you can increase your chances of getting the medication you need. Here’s a short guide based on an article from Vox.com. 1. Plan Ahead and Stay Informed: 2. Explore Independent Pharmacies: 3. Communicate with Your Doctor and Insurance: 4. Exhaust Pharmacy Options: 5. Seek …
Finding Relief Beyond the Pill: Mindfulness Shows Promise for Military with Chronic Pain
Chronic pain and opioid dependence can be a debilitating double whammy for military personnel and veterans. But a recent study offers a beacon of hope: mindfulness training, coupled with therapy techniques, can significantly reduce both pain symptoms and opioid use in this population. The research, published in The American Journal of Psychiatry, compared two approaches to treating chronic pain in …
Breakthrough Hope for Bipolar Depression: Stanford Study Seeks Clinical Trial Participants
Are you struggling with treatment-resistant bipolar depression? Stanford University’s Brain Stimulation Lab (BSL) is offering a unique opportunity to participate in a groundbreaking research study aimed at bringing relief to individuals like you. The study, titled “Accelerated Intermittent Theta-Burst Stimulation (aiTBS) in Treatment-resistant Bipolar Depression,” explores the potential of a novel therapy called Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy (SAINT), also …
Embracing Nature’s Wisdom: Four Seasons of Mindfulness Class Highlights
In a recent mindfulness class led by certified mindfulness meditation teacher Andrea Starn, participants embarked on a transformative journey through the Four Seasons of Mindfulness. Andrea, a licensed psychotherapist and a graduate of the intensive two-year Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program led by Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield, offered insights and practices that transcended traditional meditation, inviting participants to uncover …
Gateway Psychiatric Fee Update: Effective February 1, 2024
At Gateway Psychiatric, we strive to provide the highest quality mental healthcare services while ensuring our practice remains financially sustainable. To achieve this, we regularly review and adjust our fees to reflect the rising costs of healthcare and ensure we can continue to attract and retain experienced, compassionate clinicians. Our annual fee revisions are based on a comprehensive analysis of …
Genetic Testing Could Revolutionize Depression Treatment
Depression is a debilitating mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. While there are a variety of effective treatments available, many patients do not respond to the first antidepressant they are prescribed. This can lead to frustration, discouragement, and even worsening symptoms. A new study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ) suggests that genetic testing could …
Loneliness: A Silent Epidemic Plaguing the Nation
In a groundbreaking move, the United States Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, has issued a Surgeon General Advisory declaring loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection a public health crisis in the United States. This alarming announcement highlights the pervasive nature of loneliness in American society and its detrimental impact on our mental, physical, and societal well-being. The Magnitude of the …
UCSF Psycho-Educational Zoom Group for Adults with Bipolar Disorder – January 2024
The Adult Psychiatry Clinic at UCSF has released the schedules of their Group Psycho-Education for Bipolar Disorder for January 2024. This activity under the Bipolar Disorder Program of the Department of Psychiatry is aimed at providing a community resource for individuals with bipolar disorder, mental health professionals and psychiatrists. Headed by Dr. Descartes Li, the program director, it is designed …