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Why Patience Matters With Psychiatric Medications: Trusting the Process
Starting psychiatric medication can feel frustrating when relief isn’t immediate—but patience matters. Medications like SSRIs, SNRIs, and adjunctive treatments work gradually, often requiring 4–6 weeks for full benefit. Early side effects are usually temporary, and stopping too soon can limit success. With clear planning, close follow-up, and open communication, allowing medications time to work is a key step toward lasting mental health stability.

Lorrie Smith-Esterle
Jan 162 min read


Benzodiazepines, Antihistamines, and Hypnotics: Short-Term Relief, Long-Term Risks
Benzodiazepines, sedating antihistamines (like Benadryl®, ZzzQuil®), and hypnotics (Ambien®, Lunesta®) can help with anxiety or sleep short-term, but long-term use carries serious risks—memory problems, cognitive decline, falls, and sedation—especially in older adults. Safer options include CBT, CBT-I, SSRIs, SNRIs, beta blockers, and hydroxyzine under guidance. Always review risks vs. benefits with your healthcare provider.

Lorrie Smith-Esterle
Jan 34 min read


Navigating Mental Health During the Holidays
The holidays can be overwhelming, especially if you're facing depression, stress, or grief. Prioritizing self-care, setting boundaries, and honoring loved ones can help ease the season. Reconnecting with faith or spiritual traditions often brings comfort and peace. Remember—the heart of the holidays is meaning, presence, and time with loved ones. From all of us at Kentucky Psychiatric Care, PLLC, we wish you a happy holiday season.

Lorrie Smith-Esterle
Nov 24, 20253 min read


Struggling With Insomnia? An Evidence-based Approach to Beat Insomnia
Learn how insomnia affects mental health and explore evidence-based treatments like CBT-I, sleep hygiene, and medication options from a psychiatric perspective.

Lorrie Smith-Esterle
Nov 9, 20254 min read


Marijuana, Anxiety, Depression, and Mental Health
Many people turn to marijuana hoping it will ease symptoms of anxiety or depression. While it may bring temporary relief, research shows that regular use can actually make these conditions worse over time and may even increase the risk of psychosis. Understanding how marijuana affects the brain can help you make informed choices about your mental health and explore safer, more effective treatment options.

Lorrie Smith-Esterle
Oct 10, 20253 min read


Building Strength From Within: How the Community Resiliency Model (CRM®) Can Guide You Toward Greater Resilience
Resilience isn’t about avoiding stress—it’s about finding our way back to balance. The Community Resiliency Model (CRM®) offers simple, body-based skills like grounding, resourcing, and tracking sensations to help steady the nervous system. These tools are practical and portable, making it possible to handle life’s challenges with more calm, connection, and hope. With practice, anyone can strengthen resilience and restore a sense of well-being.

Lorrie Smith-Esterle
Sep 21, 20253 min read
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