Rafael Achacoso

By Rafael Achacoso , MSN, PMHNP-BC Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner | ADHD · Anxiety · Depression | LGBTQ+ Affirming Care In today’s digital world, it’s easy to confuse wellness with mental health care . One moment you’re scrolling through self-care routines on TikTok, and the next, you’re being told that your anxiety just needs a detox smoothie and a vision board. Let’s get one thing clear: Wellness trends are not a substitute for mental health treatment. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner working with young professionals and LGBTQ+ clients, I often see people trying everything under the sun — yoga, supplements, productivity hacks — and still feeling stuck. And while those things can support your mental health, they aren’t designed to treat it. 🌿 What Is Wellness Culture? Wellness culture is the world of lifestyle fixes meant to help you feel better — physically, emotionally, and mentally. It includes: Morning routines Meditation apps Clean eating Gratitude journ...

As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner in Washington, D.C. - Rafael Achacoso , I've observed a subtle yet pervasive struggle gripping today's young professionals, particularly millennials and Gen Z. Beneath the polished exteriors of successful careers often lies a silent battle with burnout , a state of chronic exhaustion, emotional depletion, and profound disconnection. This isn't merely stress; it's an epidemic reshaping how a generation experiences their professional lives. The Deceptive Nature of "High-Functioning" Distress Many bright, driven individuals are quietly contending with anxiety and depression that often go unnoticed. They maintain their output, hit their deadlines, and seemingly "function" effectively—but at a significant personal cost. This phenomenon is often rooted in what I term high-functioning mental health conditions . From the outside, these individuals appear productive and organized, even thriving. Yet, internally, they grap...