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PCOS

Mental Health & Psychiatric Nurse Practioner located in Chandler, AZ

About PCOS

Irregular periods, unexplained weight gain, and mood swings that seem impossible to control might be signs of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). At Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness in Chandler, Arizona, Chrissy McLaughlin, PMHNP-BC, takes a comprehensive approach to address the physical and emotional symptoms, like anxiety, depression, and mood changes, that often accompany this hormonal condition. Text the office today to schedule your consultation or book online to start feeling more balanced.

PCOS Q&A

What is PCOS? 

Polycystic ovary syndrome is a condition that causes an imbalance of hormones like androgens. Your ovaries don’t release eggs regularly, and your body produces higher levels of certain hormones than it should. The “polycystic” part of the name refers to small follicles that can develop on your ovaries, though not everyone with PCOS has these.

What are common PCOS symptoms? 

PCOS affects women in different ways, and symptoms often develop over time. Common signs include:

  • Irregular or missed periods
  • Infertility
  • Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
  • Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back
  • Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness
  • Acne that doesn’t respond to typical treatments
  • Anxiety and panic attacks
  • Depression and mood swings
  • Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
  • Fatigue and low energy

Many women don’t connect these symptoms to PCOS right away. You might think your mood changes are just stress or that your weight gain is from getting older. The symptoms often feed into each other — when you’re tired and anxious, it's harder to maintain healthy habits, which can make other symptoms worse.

What causes PCOS? 

Many factors contribute to PCOS, including:

  • Insulin resistance, which can lead to increased androgen production
  • Genetics
  • Chronic inflammation that triggers hormonal imbalances
  • Elevated androgens that disrupt normal ovarian function and brain chemistry

The exact cause isn’t fully understood, but these factors create a cycle where each problem worsens the others. 

How is PCOS treated? 

At Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness, Chrissy takes a whole-body approach to PCOS care that addresses the root cause of your condition. Your personalized treatment plan may include:

Comprehensive evaluation 

Chrissy orders specific lab work to identify hormone imbalances and nutritional deficiencies affecting your overall health.

Mental health support 

She addresses the anxiety, depression, and mood changes that often accompany PCOS using evidence-based psychiatric treatments.

Nutritional guidance 

Chrissy offers dietary strategies that help manage insulin resistance and reduce inflammation.

Vitamin optimization 

When labs reveal deficiencies, she may recommend targeted supplements like inositol for insulin sensitivity, vitamin D for immune function, or B-complex vitamins for energy metabolism.

PCOS can diminish your physical health, mood, energy levels, and overall quality of life. If you experience any signs of this hormonal disorder, contact Silver Lining Psychiatry and Wellness for a whole-body evaluation and customized care plan. Text the office or use the online scheduler to book a consultation today.