#17: Finding hope – rapid care for mental health crises

#17: Finding hope – rapid care for mental health crises

What You’ll Learn People experiencing a mental health crisis often turn to the emergency room for help, but ERs are rarely designed to provide the calm, supportive environment needed for stabilization. In this episode, psychiatrist Rachel Bronsther, MD [https://www.inova.org/doctors/rachel-b-bronsther-md], explains how the EmPATH Unit [https://www.inovanewsroom.org/expert-commentary/2024/11/inova-opens-innovative-empath-unit-to-handle-psychiatric-emergencies/] is changing the way mental health crises are treated – offering a calmer, more supportive alternative to the ER. She shares what makes it different, what to expect during a short stay, and how care teams help patients stabilize and connect to ongoing support after they leave. Featured guest: Rachel Bronsther, MD Psychiatry Key takeaways * The EmPATH Unit offers a quieter, more therapeutic space designed specifically for psychiatric care. * Focused, short-term care: most stays last 24–48 hours, with the goal of stabilizing patients and creating a clear next step. * Whole-person support: care includes therapy, group sessions, medication support, and access to social workers. * Strong follow-up planning: patients leave with a structured care plan and connections to outpatient services like therapy or intensive programs. * Bridging a critical gap: the EmPATH Unit fills the space between emergency care and inpatient hospitalization—helping patients who need more than a quick visit but less than a hospital stay. FAQs: What is the EmPATH Unit? EmPATH stands for emergency psychiatry assessment, treatment and healing. It’s a dedicated space designed to care for people experiencing a mental health crisis in a more supportive, less stressful environment than a traditional ER. How is it different from going to the emergency room? Unlike a typical ER, which can be busy, loud, and not specialized for mental health, the EmPATH Unit is calming, staffed by psychiatric professionals, and designed specifically for emotional and behavioral health needs. Who is the EmPATH Unit for? It’s best for individuals who: * Are in a mental health crisis * Need immediate support but may not require inpatient hospitalization * Are seeking help voluntarily What happens during a visit? Patients can expect: * Evaluation by psychiatric providers * Support from therapists and social workers * Group sessions and coping strategies * Help building a plan for ongoing care after discharge Do patients still need to go through the ER? Yes, patients are first medically evaluated in the ER to rule out other conditions, then transitioned to the EmPATH Unit for specialized care. What kind of follow-up care is provided? Patients leave with a clear care plan, which may include: * Therapy referrals * Psychiatry appointments * Intensive outpatient or partial hospitalization programs * Connections to community resources How do I know if I should seek help? A simple rule: If you’re wondering whether you need help  –  it’s a good time to seek it. Early support can make a meaningful difference. Explore your options and find the right behavioral health care [https://www.inovanewsroom.org/featured-posts/2026/04/a-guide-to-behavioral-and-mental-healthcare-at-inova/]  –  when you need it.

#16: Navigating menopause – answers, options, relief

What you’ll learn: Night sweats, hot flashes, brain fog, cognition issues, sleep disturbances, joint aches and pains. Sound familiar? They’re all symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Most women experience one or more, but there is relief. In this episode, Dr. Erin Perucci [https://www.inova.org/doctors/erin-e-perucci-md], OB/GYN, provides insights into symptoms and treatment options and reveals some surprising truths. Tune in for practical tips to help you navigate your changing hormones and get back to feeling like yourself again.   Featured guest: Erin Perucci, MD, MSCP Obstetrics and Gynecology Inova Women’s Services [https://www.inova.org/our-services/womens-services]   Key takeaways and chapter markers: * Symptoms, night sweats to cognition issues  [1:47] * How the Menopause Society governs science-based recommendations for care  [2:55] * Assessing if you’re in perimenopause or menopause [5:37] * Why some symptoms, like heart palpitations, get overlooked [8:00] * Range of treatments, from lifestyle changes to newer medicine options [8:53] * What you need to know about supplements [10:36] * Nutrition and menopause [https://www.inovanewsroom.org/expert-commentary/2017/10/nutrition-and-menopause/] [11:10] * Debunking old hormone therapy myths [11:44] * Different forms of hormone therapy, risks and benefits [15:16] * HRT patients can see a 60-80% reduction in symptoms in first six weeks [16:41] * When to seek care [17:17] FAQs: What is menopause? Menopause is the stage of life when a woman’s menstrual period has stopped permanently. Typically, after a menstrual period has not occurred for 12 consecutive months. This marks the end of her reproductive years. Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase leading up to menopause, during which hormonal changes occur and symptoms can start.   How long does perimenopause last? Perimenopause can last for several years, typically four to eight, before menopause occurs.   Is hormone replacement therapy (HRT) safe? HRT can be safe for many people. More recent research and newer types of HRT have led experts and the FDA to update their warnings. Like with any medication, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.  There are risks and benefits based on your age and other health factors, and it’s important to discuss your options with your doctor.

#15: Mental health check-in – kids and teens

What you’ll learn: Is your child feeling overwhelmed by school, screens or a packed schedule? In this episode, Dr. Satish Shashidhara [https://www.inova.org/doctors/satish-shashidhara-do] – division chief of child and adolescent psychiatry at Inova – shares expert insights on the most common challenges kids and teens face, from school and sports to relationships and high expectations. Learn how to support your child’s mental and social development, create an open line of communication, and recognize when they might need extra help. Tune in for practical tips to help you help your child navigate the challenges of growing up today.   Featured guest: Dr. Satish Shashidhara Division Chief, Child and adolescent psychiatry [https://www.inova.org/our-services/inova-behavioral-health-services/programs-and-services/child-adolescent-services] Inova   Key takeaways and chapter markers: * Lingering social effects of COVID-19  [5:35] * Being emotionally available, the best support parents can give [6:11] * How to set boundaries without resentment [7:23] * Opening lines of communication early [8:21] * Recognizing when additional support [https://www.inova.org/our-services/inova-behavioral-health-services/programs-and-services/child-adolescent-services] is needed [9:51] * Comprehensive outpatient support from Inova Keller Center [https://www.inova.org/our-services/inova-kellar-center] [12:46] * Anxiety and depression, the most common issues [15:01] * Navigating the impacts of social media [26:52] * Top tips for parents, from giving yourself grace to open communication [33:18]  FAQs: When and how should parents start conversations about mental health with their children? The earlier the better. Early conversation can help kids understand and manage their emotions as they grow and will help them build confidence to seek support when they need it.   What mental health disorders can affect children? According to the National Institutes of Health, many mental health disorders can begin in childhood including anxiety disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), depression and other mood disorders, eating disorders and post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD).    Are you or your child in crisis? If you’re thinking about suicide, are worried about a child or loved one, or would like emotional support, the Lifeline network is available 24/7 across the United States. The Lifeline is free and confidential.                  English: call 988                Español: 1-888-628-9454

#14: Sleep smarter – ABCs of ZZZs

What you’ll learn: Getting a good night's sleep is super important for your health, helping your body and brain recharge. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Eric Sklar [https://www.inova.org/doctors/eric-b-sklar-md], a board-certified neurologist who specializes in sleep and brain health. He breaks down what makes for great sleep and shares some easy tips to enhance your nightly routine for better rest. We also go over common sleep issues, like sleep apnea, and talk about sleep studies, the pros and cons of wearables and more. Tune in for practical advice and insights that can help you get those much-needed ZZZs. Featured guest:  Dr. Eric Sklar Neurologist Medical Director Inova Sleep Disorders Program [https://www.inova.org/our-services/inova-sleep-disorders-program] Key takeaways with chapter markers: * Why getting enough sleeps matters to your health [https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2021/04/good-sleep-good-health] [2:06] * The most common complaints related to sleep [6:16] * Sleep hygiene and why it matters [8:28] * Why insomnia is the most common sleep issue [14:47] * Tips for getting back to sleep in the middle of the night [17:24] * Common symptoms of sleep disorders [https://www.inova.org/our-services/inova-sleep-disorders-program], like sleep apnea [18:25] * Sleep studies [https://www.inova.org/our-services/sleep-disorders-program/sleep-study-information] and how they’re conducted [26:46] * The pros and cons of wearables [29:13] FAQs: How much sleep should I be getting? To ensure you are getting enough restorative sleep, aim for seven to nine hours per night and pay attention to how you feel during the day. If you often feel tired or have difficulty concentrating, consider adjusting your sleep habits or consult a healthcare professional for guidance. How can I improve my sleep quality? Practice good bedtime routines, such as sticking to a regular bedtime; relaxing 30-60 minutes before bed by reading and engaging in light stretching; avoiding all electronics while in bed, including screens; avoiding alcohol and caffeine before bed; and creating an environment conducive to sleep. What are common symptoms of sleep disorders? Daytime fatigue and sleepiness, low energy levels, waking up feeling tired, difficulty concentrating, irritability, personality changes, weight gain, reflux, and snoring are just some of the symptoms that can be the cause or result of a sleep disorder.

#13: Brain health essentials – Alzheimer’s and dementia

What you’ll learn: Get clear, practical guidance on Alzheimer’s and dementia – from early detection and treatment options to brain-health tips and caregiver support. In this episode, Inova’s Dr. Pauldurai [https://www.inova.org/doctors/jennifer-pauldurai-md], a cognitive behavioral neurologist, explains the differences between Alzheimer’s and other dementias, the latest treatments and the importance of early detection. Whether you're navigating your own health or caring for a loved one, this conversation offers support and insights for preventing and managing cognitive decline.   Featured guest: Dr. Jennifer Pauldurai Neurologist Inova    Key takeaways with chapter markers: * What is Alzheimer’s [https://www.inova.org/our-services/inova-memory-disorders-program/conditions-we-treat/alzheimers-disease] and how it differs from dementia [https://www.inova.org/our-services/inova-memory-disorders-program/conditions-we-treat/dementia] [1:56] * How to tell the difference between normal forgetfulness and something more serious [7:28] * What does dementia care look like? [9:16] * Two new Alzheimer’s drugs, Leqembi [https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/nia-statement-report-lecanemab-reducing-cognitive-decline-alzheimers-clinical-trial] and  Kisunla [https://www.nia.nih.gov/news/nia-statement-donanemab-results-more-alzheimers-research-progress]™, slow progression when caught early [13:22] * Healthy eating [https://www.inovanewsroom.org/expert-commentary/2025/03/food-for-thought-nutrition-and-brain-health/] and other steps you can take now to protect your brain health later [21:47] * The importance of vitamin D, B12 and magnesium for brain health [23:01] * Advice and resources for caregivers [https://www.inova.org/about-inova/inova-your-community/community-care-inova/elderlink] [24:48] FAQs What is Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer's disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disease that occurs when nerve cells in the brain die. It is the most commonly diagnosed form of dementia. Symptoms include the loss of cognitive functioning, such as thinking, remembering and reasoning, and the loss of behavioral abilities. What causes Alzheimer’s? Scientists have made great progress in understanding Alzheimer’s in recent years. They don’t yet fully understand what causes the disease in most people but probable causes include age-related changes in the brain, along with genetic, health and lifestyle factors. Can Alzheimer’s be prevented? While Alzheimer’s disease cannot be definitively prevented, certain lifestyle changes may help reduce risk. A healthy diet, exercise, social engagement and mentally stimulating pursuits have all been associated with helping people stay healthy as they age and may help reduce risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s. When should I see a doctor? When thinking problems or unusual behavior start to interfere with everyday activities, it’s time to talk to your doctor.