Especially During Manic, Hypomanic, or Psychotic Episodes By Margaret DeCosta Understanding the Appeal & the Risk In our increasingly digital world, AI chatbots marketed as "mental health companion" or "AI therapists" are everywhere. They promise 24/7 support, no waiting lists, and judgment-free conversations. For someone struggling with their mental health, these promises can be incredibly appealing. However, as psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, we need to have

By, Margaret DeCosta PMHNP Depression is often described as a disorder of mood, motivation, or neurochemistry but clinically, it is just as much a disorder of disconnection. Many people experiencing depression report feeling isolated, misunderstood, or emotionally distant from others, even when they are not physically alone. From a psychiatric perspective, social connection is not a “nice extra”, it is a core protective factor for mental health. The Science Behind Connection

By Margaret DeCosta Many people notice that their mood drops when the days get shorter. You might feel more tired, crave carbs, lose motivation, or feel “heavy” during the fall and winter months. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. This pattern can be called Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression triggered by reduced daylight. The good news? There are evidence-based treatments that truly helps. Below is a simple guide you can start using right away, in

By Margaret DeCosta PMHNP What Is Diet Culture? Diet culture is a system of beliefs that worships thinness and equates it to health and...