We are thrilled to introduce Dr. Kaden Facer, MD, the newest addition to our Live Well Psychiatry team! Dr. Facer is a board-certified psychiatrist treating adults in Idaho, and he brings a wealth of knowledge and compassionate care to our practice. We couldn’t be more excited to welcome him.

Cyclothymia is a mood disorder marked by recurrent episodes of hypomanic symptoms (elevated mood, increased energy, and impulsivity) and depressive symptoms, but without meeting the full criteria for Bipolar Disorder. This means that while these mood shifts are significant, they don’t last long enough to qualify as full-blown episodes of mania or major depression. The mood fluctuations in Cyclothymia often feel less intense than those seen in Bipolar I or II disorders, but the impact on everyday functioning can be considerable.

When we think of bipolar disorder, the first images that often come to mind are the intense highs of mania or the crushing lows of depression. But beneath these dramatic mood swings lies a quieter yet equally powerful force that often goes unnoticed: sleep disturbances. From insomnia to hypersomnia, disrupted sleep is a hallmark of bipolar disorder, impacting not only the course of the illness but also the effectiveness of treatment. 

Depression is often thought of as a singular experience, but science tells us it’s more complex. Researchers have identified distinct subtypes of depression, each rooted in unique brain activity patterns and emotional dynamics. Understanding these subtypes can help tailor treatments that address the specific struggles of each person, rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. Let’s explore the six subtypes and what they reveal about the diverse nature of depression. 

For Jennifer Hua, PA-C, mental health care isn’t just a profession—it’s her passion. As part of the Live Well Psychiatry team, she is committed to fostering a supportive environment where patients feel safe to share their experiences and receive personalized care.

Anxiety is one of the most distressing emotions we experience, and for good reason. Its primary purpose is to alert us to danger and motivate us to take action to ensure our safety. From an evolutionary perspective, this bias toward safety is crucial—if we’re not safe, nothing else matters. However, this same system can lead to overwhelming feelings of anxiety in the absence of real danger, especially when the root causes of anxiety are not fully understood or addressed.

Many individuals who meet the criteria for ADHD question whether treatment is necessary, particularly if they have managed their symptoms for years. However, a growing body of research underscores the importance of treating ADHD, highlighting the profound impact it has on various aspects of life.

The holiday season is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration, but it can also bring challenges for mental health. Stress, loneliness, and the pressure to meet expectations can take a toll. At Live Well Psychiatry, we believe in empowering individuals to take proactive steps toward maintaining their mental well-being. Here are tips tailored for parents, grandparents, those who may be spending the holidays alone, and young single adults.

While sadness and discouragement are normal human emotions that everyone experiences at some point in their lives, anhedonia is not. Anhedonia—the inability to feel pleasure from previously enjoyable activities—it may be a sign of clinical depression.

Steve believes in empowering his patients through education and personalized care plans. He knows that mental health and physical health are deeply interconnected and that improving one can positively affect the other. His goal is to ensure his patients feel confident, supported, and understood.

Crystal’s favorite thing about working at Live Well Psychiatry? The dedication to personalized care. “We’re committed to getting our patients feeling better as quickly as possible,” she says.

Meet Dr. Scott Hoopes, Psychiatrist and owner of Live Well Psychiatry.

Ever wondered if you should see a psychologist or a psychiatrist? Here is a brief post explaining the difference between the two providers.

Is Telehealth as good as seeing a provider in person? (Spoiler: when it comes to mental health, it is!)