The Holidays are here! The list of things to fit into the schedule is long – office parties, kids’ recitals, family obligations, shopping, cooking, cleaning – and that is not even half of it. It can easily become overwhelming.

So, be sure to take some time just for you! Practice mindfulness, and focus on why this time of year is so special. Enjoy time with loved ones, and share with those who are less fortunate. Take stock of the year that has passed, and all the blessings it has given us.

Everyone here at Lakes Psychiatric Center wishes you a wonderful Holiday Season, and best wishes for 2022.

- Dr Lynne Lyons
Many people go through short periods of time where they feel sad or not like their usual selves. Sometimes, these mood changes begin and end when the seasons change. People may start to feel “down” when the days get shorter in the fall and winter (also called “winter blues”) and begin to feel better in the spring, with longer daylight hours.
In some cases, these mood changes are more serious and can affect how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. If you have noticed significant changes in your mood and behavior whenever the seasons change, you may be suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression.

In most cases, SAD symptoms start in the late fall or early winter and go away during the spring and summer; this is known as winter-pattern SAD or winter depression. Some people may experience depressive episodes during the spring and summer months; this is called summer-pattern SAD or summer depression and is less common.
Prioritize Sleep
If you’re hosting during the holidays you might be busy cleaning, decorating, and planning. However, don’t let the excitement and busy-ness of the day prevent you from getting enough sleep. Constantly running on not enough sleep can impact your mental and physical well-being. Specifically, research links sleep deprivation with increased rates of insomnia as well as increased irritability. WHAT TO DO: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep in a cool, dark room. Avoid using any blue lights (e.g., TV, tablets, phone) for 1-2 hours before bed.
Fresh Air, Fresh Outlook
Even if you can’t venture outdoors, getting a bit of fresh air and daylight in your home can help. Try opening the window a bit and sitting in a well-lit room during daylight hours. Just make sure to keep warm, whichever option you choose.
Lakes Psychiatric Center
We provide comprehensive psychiatric and psychotherapy services for a vast array of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychotic illness, borderline personality disorder, substance abuse/addiction, trauma related issues, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and behavior problems. Call (248) 859-2457 to set up an appointment.
Lakes Depression Center
Did you know? SPRAVATO® can have a rapid antidepressant response and is added on to an antidepressant and the rest of your regimen. It is the first new mechanism of action to treat depression that has come out in over 30 years. 
There is hope for treatment-resistant depression. Call (248) 859-2457 to set up an appointment.
Lakes DBT
Marsha Linehan, developer of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), explained that “people with Borderline Personality Disorder are like people with third degree burns over 90 percent of their bodies. Lacking emotional skin, they feel agony at the slightest touch or movement.” We can help. Learn more.
Lakes Psychiatric Center remains open for business. We are offering Zoom online tele-therapy appointments for new and existing clients as well as in person sessions. Please contact the front desk to assist you with your appointment type or instructions for using Zoom. Call (248) 859-2457 for info.
Lakes Depression Center is continuing to provide SPRAVATO® treatments per the usual schedule. We have enhanced our safety and cleaning protocols. You are safe to start treatment or continue treatment. Call (248) 956-7164 for info.
Susan Deutsch
Clinical Social Worker

Susan received her master’s degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan in 1986. She has 30+ years of clinical experience treating clients with a wide range of issues. Her practice includes adult men and women of all ages, who are trying to bring about positive change in their lives. Her approach is eclectic, using a broad range of techniques from psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and supportive psychotherapies.

Catherine DuFresne
Clinical Social Worker

Cathy is a clinical social worker with 20 years of experience working with adults, teens, and families. She is committed to helping people build happiness and joy in their lives, while also helping them learn to manage feelings of anxiety and depression. Her life experiences has taught her the importance of compassion and empathy; she strives to incorporate these qualities into her practice techniques.