Segal Trials

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, humanity has been ushered into what many might call a "new normal," a period marked by profound shifts in our way of life and, notably, in our collective mental health. The psychological aftermath of the pandemic, compounded by other life-altering events, has spotlighted an undeniable crisis: a dramatic surge in mental health issues, burdening an already overwhelmed and antiquated mental health treatment system. Traditional treatments for conditions like addiction, anxiety, depression, and PTSD have remained largely unchanged for decades, sparking a crucial conversation about the need for innovation in mental health care.

The resurgence of interest in psychedelics, once sidelined by regulatory crackdowns and societal skepticism, marks a pivotal turn in the quest for effective mental health treatments. Psychedelic drugs, encompassing substances like psilocybin (found in magic mushrooms), LSD, MDMA (ecstasy), and ayahuasca, have moved from the fringes of scientific inquiry to the forefront of innovative psychiatric research. This article delves into how psychedelics are revolutionizing the treatment of mental illnesses such as anxiety, depression, addiction, and PTSD, the limitations of current pharmaceutical options, and the promising horizon of psychedelic-assisted therapy, underscored by rigorous clinical research aiming for FDA approval.

Exploring treatment-resistant depression (TRD), this article highlights new research and strategies offering hope through understanding risk factors, rethinking depression's causes, and innovative management methods.

In a world that often prioritizes physical health over mental well-being, it's time to shine a light on the stories that need to be heard. Welcome to "A Day in the Life With," a groundbreaking campaign series that aims to transform the way we perceive and discuss mental health. In this series, we will take you on a journey through the lives of individuals who have faced mental health challenges head-on, with courage, resilience, and a commitment to thriving. Through real-life testimonials and expert insights, we will explore a range of mental health indications, from anxiety and schizophrenia to major depressive disorder, women's health issues, migraines, and the incredible journey of caregivers.

Exploring how the lingering effects of COVID-19 in 2023 further influence depression rates and mental health challenges. 

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex mood disorder that affects many new mothers in the weeks and months following childbirth. It’s essential to understand that PPD is more than just "baby blues," a term used to describe the mild, short-term sadness many women feel after giving birth. The symptoms of PPD can range from persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness to overwhelming fatigue, severe anxiety, and even thoughts of harming oneself or the baby. Some of the contributing factors include hormonal changes after childbirth, a history of depression or anxiety, childbirth-related trauma, and various stressors associated with new motherhood.

Dear friends,

Sorry that I haven't been myself lately. I'm not ignoring you or mad about something, it's just that I don't feel like myself. I really appreciate you and I won't always be this way. Please don't give up on me.

Sincerely, Your Friend

Major depressive disorder (MDD) or Depression is often described as having a loss of interest in daily activities and feeling hopeless. As discussed in our previous blog with Dr. Kakar, A Board Certified Psychiatrist Shares Surprising Facts About Depression, while those are common symptoms, depression varies by every individual. Depression varies by treatments, triggers, and the impact of MDD on a person’s life. In this blog, we’re unpacking those differences and sharing patients’ insights on clinical trials.