Welcome Message from Jen, a New Provider at OptiMed!
Hello! I am thrilled to connect with you and introduce myself.
My name is Jen, and I am one of the new providers here at OptiMed HealthCare Partners. I am writing this to share a little about myself, discuss the importance of mental health, and touch on a wonderful new treatment that we now offer.
About Me
I grew up in Kalamazoo and have worked in healthcare for over 30 years. I live in a small farmhouse on 40 acres with my husband, and we have two adult children. Over the past few years, I have made significant positive changes to improve my own mental health. I now walk outside in nature daily, have surrounded myself with positive relationships, eat better food, prioritize good sleep, and enjoy a real work-life balance with my new job.
My Passion for Mental Health
Mental health has been a focus of mine for a long time. In my personal life, I have had family members and friends who have suffered from depression, substance abuse disorders, psychotic illnesses, suicidality, and even homelessness. These experiences, combined with my innate awareness of others’ emotional health, have fueled my interest in understanding how people feel and how it relates to the lives they lead.
The Human Connection
I believe we all have unique gifts and talents. Throughout my life, I have had a knack for reading people, being strongly intuitive, a great listener, acutely aware of others’ emotions, and connecting with people on a deeper level. My passion lies in understanding what makes people thrive, what drives them to act on their physical and emotional health, and how to help them heal. It’s not just about being alive, but feeling alive.
The State of Mental Health
In recent years, especially since COVID-19, I have observed a decline in mental health. According to the National Institute of Mental Health in 2021:
An estimated 21.0 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode.
An estimated 61.0% of U.S. adults aged 18 or older with a major depressive episode received treatment.
The effectiveness of traditional antidepressants varies.
Mental health is influenced by many factors, including our environment, relationships, physical health, stress processing, sense of purpose, and overall lifestyle. Our life experiences, support systems, traumas, upbringing, genetics, and interactions with others also play significant roles.
Joining OptiMed HealthCare Partners
Most of my professional career has focused on community health and what drives people towards improved health outcomes. At OptiMed, our mission is to optimize health outcomes and quality of life through personalized and coordinated care. For the past six months, we have offered a new treatment option called SPRAVATO® for major depressive disorder, which has shown real promise and positive outcomes.
SPRAVATO®: A Game-Changing Treatment
SPRAVATO® triggers glutamate production, prompting the brain to form new neural connections. This allows for the creation of new pathways, allowing patients to develop more positive thoughts and behaviors. Studies show that SPRAVATO® is effective in over 75% of patients treated. In my practice, I have seen patients experience fewer intrusive thoughts, improved mood, less anxiety, a return to work, more engagement in activities and with others, and an overall improved lifestyle and sense of hope.
Personal Experience with Depression
When my boys left for college, I experienced a long period of sadness and a feeling of “who am I now.” As someone who has personally experienced depression, I understand the struggle of feeling stuck and disengaged. SPRAVATO® helps people feel unstuck and often works quickly, allowing them to feel lighter and start engaging in their lives again. This treatment enhances the effectiveness of therapy, improves relationships, and helps people simply start to feel better.
A Renewed Sense of Purpose
My passion for mental health and the well-being of others has been reignited. I have studied both traditional and holistic treatment options and have been part of both reactive and proactive health systems. I’ve realized that the biggest impact I can make is by allowing space for people to feel seen and heard. Do they feel my presence, care, and understanding? This has been the biggest difference-maker of all. Now, I get to hold space and stay present with my patients while offering a treatment that truly works. As a provider with passion and empathy, I can’t express how good that feels.
Upcoming Events
Stay tuned!