Oceanview Mental Health & Wellness

08/06/2026

Have you ever wondered...

"Why do I feel more anxious or depressed during the summer?"

You're not imagining it.

While many people think of seasonal depression as something that only happens in the winter, some folks experience worsening anxiety, depression, irritability, or emotional exhaustion during the warmer months. Heat, disrupted routines, poor sleep, financial stress, social pressure, and the constant expectation to "enjoy summer" can all take a toll on mental health.

If you've been struggling this summer, you're not alone, and you don't have to simply push through it.

Our newest blog explores:
☀️ Why summer can affect mental health
🌊 The difference between the "summertime blues" and mood disorders with a seasonal pattern
😴 How heat, sleep, and changing routines influence mood
💙 Practical, evidence-based strategies for feeling better
🏖️ Why living near beautiful places like coastal communities doesn't make someone immune to anxiety or depression

Read the full article here:
🔗 https://oceanviewofwilmington.com/summer-depression-wilmington-nc/

If anxiety or depression is interfering with your daily life, our team at Oceanview Mental Health & Wellness offers in-person therapy in Wilmington and telehealth therapy across North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia. Psychiatric medication management and psychological evaluations are also available throughout North Carolina.

07/10/2026

With American Counseling Association – We were just recognized as one of their top fans! 🎉

07/06/2026

Many adolescent boys feel pressure to live up to standards of appearance that are harmful to their mental health.

https://bit.ly/4wr9Pd5

07/04/2026

Summer can bring joy, rest, and time outside—but extreme heat can also affect mental health. Taking small steps to stay cool, connected, and supported can help protect your well-being during the hottest months of the year.

Learn more: https://at.apa.org/4o3

07/02/2026

07/02/2026

An intense heat wave is impacting many parts of North Carolina. Extreme temperatures can be especially dangerous for people with disabilities, who may be more sensitive to heat.

NCDHHS recommends the following tips to stay safe in hot weather:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day and don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Avoid or reduce alcohol and caffeine intake.
Limit time outside: Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day if possible. Wear light, loose clothing and take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning.
Seek air conditioning: If you don’t have air conditioning and it’s hotter than 95 degrees, go to a public building where it’s cooler.
Look out for others: Check in on family, friends and coworkers to make sure they are hydrating and staying cool.
Stay informed: Sign up for NCDHHS heat alerts and stay updated on local weather forecasts so you can safely plan outdoor activities.

Find out more, including recognizing signs of heat related illness:
https://www.ncdhhs.gov/news/press-releases/2026/07/01/ncdhhs-urges-caution-outdoors-amid-late-june-early-july-heat-wave

07/02/2026

🚨 Great news for Ambetter members!

Oceanview Mental Health & Wellness is excited to announce that Sarah Ritenour, MSW, LCSW and Madison Holland, MSW, LCSW are now in-network with Ambetter and are accepting new clients!

Even better, both clinicians have appointments available as early as next week.

💙 Sarah Ritenour, MSW, LCSW
Specializes in:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fertility and perinatal mental health
• Life transitions
• Parenting stress
• Self-esteem
• Stress management
✅ In-network with Ambetter, Aetna, BCBS, Cigna, Harvard Pilgrim, Meritain, and UnitedHealthcare (including UBH and UMR)
📍 In-person in Wilmington
💻 Telehealth throughout North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia

💙 Madison Holland, MSW, LCSW
Specializes in:
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Grief and loss
• ADHD
• Relationship therapy
• LGBTQIA+ affirming care
• Religious trauma
• Polyamorous, consensually non-monogamous (CNM), and kink-affirming therapy
✅ In-network with Ambetter, Aetna, and BCBS
📍 In-person in Wilmington
💻 Telehealth throughout North Carolina

If you've been waiting for an in-network therapy appointment, now is a great time to get started.

📞 (910) 812-4324
🌐 www.oceanviewofwilmington.com
📅 https://oceanview.clientsecure.me

07/01/2026

Every July, we honor the incredible work of Bebe Moore Campbell by recognizing Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.

We recognize the prevalence of stigma and discrimination in our healthcare systems and communities.

We recognize the need for trustworthy, culturally sensitive mental healthcare, especially in traditionally underserved areas.

We recognize that there is still much work to be done to create equitable pathways to healthcare for all people.

Together we can learn new perspectives, find solutions, and ensure that all North Carolinians have access to quality mental healthcare. Learn more about Minority Mental Health Month:

06/30/2026