expert type icon EXPERT

Dr. Carmen Mayugba Sugai, MD

Adolescent Psychiatrist

Dr. Carmen Mayugba Sugai MD is a top Psychiatrist in Baton Rouge, . With a passion for the field and an unwavering commitment to their specialty, Dr. Carmen Mayugba Sugai MD is an expert in changing the lives of their patients for the better. Through their designated cause and expertise in the field, Dr. Carmen Mayugba Sugai MD is a prime example of a true leader in healthcare. As a leader and expert in their field, Dr. Carmen Mayugba Sugai MD is passionate about enhancing patient quality of life. They embody the values of communication, safety, and trust when dealing directly with patients. In Baton Rouge, LA, Dr. Carmen Mayugba Sugai MD is a true asset to their field and dedicated to the profession of medicine.
47 years Experience
Dr. Carmen Mayugba Sugai, MD
Specializes in:
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • WASILLA, AK
  • University of Santo Tomas, Manila, Philippines
  • Not accepting new patients

Can a psychiatrist treat people who are suffering from alcohol addiction?

Addiction is caused by multiple factors, including psychological factors such as depression or anxiety. The first step in treatment of addiction to drugs and alcohol is to achieve READ MORE
Addiction is caused by multiple factors, including psychological factors such as depression or anxiety. The first step in treatment of addiction to drugs and alcohol is to achieve sobriety first. Once the person is cleared of the substance of addiction, then counseling or therapy can be used to help the person get to understand his psychological issues which may have contributed to his addiction.

Is there a connection between mental health and chronic pain?

Depression and anxiety can coexist with chronic pain syndromes. The neurotransmitter in the brain - serotonin - is involved in pain as well as in depression and anxiety.

What could be the reason my mother is just not eating?

Your mother could be suffering from intense grief from the loss of her husband. To be safe it is best for her to see a counselor or psychiatrist to verify whether there is concomitant READ MORE
Your mother could be suffering from intense grief from the loss of her husband. To be safe it is best for her to see a counselor or psychiatrist to verify whether there is concomitant depression. If she exhibits sleep problems, negative thoughts and death wishes - these could be signs of vomit I’d depression.

My daughter has suddenly lost her appetite. Could it be a hormonal issue?

Eating problems such as not feeling hungry and losing appetite could be the start of a depression or an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa. Does she exhibit other peculiarities READ MORE
Eating problems such as not feeling hungry and losing appetite could be the start of a depression or an eating disorder such as anorexia nervosa. Does she exhibit other peculiarities in her eating pattern, is she engaged in intensive exercise routines, is she overly conscious about gaining weight? If she shows any of these behaviors, it may be time to see a psychiatrist.

Can insomnia be psychological?

Sleep problems like insomnia in young children are often due to underlying psychological issues such as excessive worrying or fears, nightmares, sadness associated with problems READ MORE
Sleep problems like insomnia in young children are often due to underlying psychological issues such as excessive worrying or fears, nightmares, sadness associated with problems at school or at home.

What are the guidelines for recommending psychiatric medication?

Medications to treat depression are available if cognitive behavior therapy is not completely helping you. There are concomitant biochemical changes in the brain in depression READ MORE
Medications to treat depression are available if cognitive behavior therapy is not completely helping you. There are concomitant biochemical changes in the brain in depression which can be the targets for antidepressants.

I am feeling very depressed, and have not had success with medication. What can be done to help me?

There are other non- pharmacological interventions for management of depression such as: cognitive behavior therapy to address negative thoughts which are very common in depression; READ MORE
There are other non- pharmacological interventions for management of depression such as: cognitive behavior therapy to address negative thoughts which are very common in depression; maintaining adequate rest - at least 7 hrs of sleep every night, regular exercise daily or at least three times a week, including omega 3 fatty acid in diet such as fish meals three times a week, nuts - 1/4 cup per day, involvement in activities that are stimulating to the brain, engaging in positive interactions with others.

How can I manage my anxiety?

If the worrying is excessive it can interfere in your parenting. It is best to consult with a psychotherapist for you to explore what is behind your fears. If therapy is not enough READ MORE
If the worrying is excessive it can interfere in your parenting. It is best to consult with a psychotherapist for you to explore what is behind your fears. If therapy is not enough you may also need a trial of anti- anxiety agents for which you can consult a psychiatrist.

Don't have anyone to help me

You may have to access mental health services through your local city mental health clinics which are usually affordable services. You may also look for support groups for parents READ MORE
You may have to access mental health services through your local city mental health clinics which are usually affordable services. You may also look for support groups for parents dealing with problems with their children.

Bipolar Medicaton

Bipolar disorder is best treated with mood stabilizers - consult with a psychiatrist in your area. There are also mood disorder clinic which specialize in treating bipolar disorders. READ MORE
Bipolar disorder is best treated with mood stabilizers - consult with a psychiatrist in your area. There are also mood disorder clinic which specialize in treating bipolar disorders. In addition to medications, you can also make sure you have regular sleeping patterns, have a nutritional diet rich in omega 3 fatty acid which is good for th brain, adequate exercise and involvement in meaningful activities. It is also important to maintain a daily routine and structure - that is waking up at regular time in the morning and going to bed also at regular hours.

My son is failing in school. Should I consult a counselor?

Yes, consulting with a counselor can help you and your son understand the reason behind his academic decline. Explore for the possibility of depression, drug use, anxiety or other READ MORE
Yes, consulting with a counselor can help you and your son understand the reason behind his academic decline. Explore for the possibility of depression, drug use, anxiety or other mental illness.

Can excessive anger be termed as a psychological disorder?

There are many factors or causes of excessive anger. It can be caused by medical disorders like seizure disorders, traumatic brain injury. It can also be secondary to psychological READ MORE
There are many factors or causes of excessive anger. It can be caused by medical disorders like seizure disorders, traumatic brain injury. It can also be secondary to psychological causes like depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or intermittent explosive disorder. And anger can also be classified as behavioral problems as in oppositional disorder, poor impulse control problems, poor anger management as part of other underlying problems as in ADHD and conduct disorder.

I saw my daughter stealing money from my bag. Could it be kleptomania?

Kleptomania is a type of impulsive behavior where stealing satisfies a psychological urge, often times accompanied by remorse later. If there is no remorse associated with the READ MORE
Kleptomania is a type of impulsive behavior where stealing satisfies a psychological urge, often times accompanied by remorse later. If there is no remorse associated with the stealing behavior then one might consider possibility of conduct disorder. There could also be psychological reasons behind the stealing behavior such as bid for attention or a need to fill something perceived as a loss in her life. Whatever the cause your daughter needs to be evaluated by a psychologist or psychiatrist.

What are the warning signs to identify mental illness?

Yes, there are some general signs and symptoms of mental illness: 1. Difficulty falling asleep 2. Recurrent nightmares 3. Decreased energy and loss of interest in things they READ MORE
Yes, there are some general signs and symptoms of mental illness:

1. Difficulty falling asleep
2. Recurrent nightmares
3. Decreased energy and loss of interest in things they used to be interested in
4. Restlessness
5. Anxiety attacks
6. A lot of fears which may or may not have a realistic basis
7. Unusual or bizarre conversations
8. Decreased performance in school or work
9. Thoughts of harming self or others
10. Mood swings
11. Angry outbursts and increased irritability

How often is depression treated without anti depressants?

In the case of recurrent episodes of depression, it is advisable to stay on antidepressant medications on a maintenance regimen and maybe even consider a mood stabilizer medication READ MORE
In the case of recurrent episodes of depression, it is advisable to stay on antidepressant medications on a maintenance regimen and maybe even consider a mood stabilizer medication like depakote, lamotrigine, lithium or quetiapine.

Why do I feel so agitated before my periods?

You are describing premenstrual mood change. You can take care of yourself by being aware that this mood change is hormonally related which means it is likely to occur rendering READ MORE
You are describing premenstrual mood change. You can take care of yourself by being aware that this mood change is hormonally related which means it is likely to occur rendering you vulnerable to external stressors. It is best to avoid situations that are likely going to upset you or make you angry. During this vulnerable period you should take care of your physical health as well by maintaining good sleep patterns, healthy diet and exercise. You could also learn siome strategies to control your anger or frustrations such as doing Tai Chi, yoga or simple deep breathing exercises.

My brother is 39 and single, and I think it's making him depressed. What can we do to help?

You may be observing clinical signs of depression related to midlife issues. You can support him as family by helping him focus on his positive traits and achievements. You can READ MORE
You may be observing clinical signs of depression related to midlife issues. You can support him as family by helping him focus on his positive traits and achievements. You can also recommend him for counseling to a competent therapist.

Can schizophrenia be treated?

Schizophrenia is a chronic condition which can be treated with medications. We now have very effective medications which can be prescribed by psychiatrists. In addition to medications, READ MORE
Schizophrenia is a chronic condition which can be treated with medications. We now have very effective medications which can be prescribed by psychiatrists. In addition to medications, one also has to observe healthy habits such as proper diet, good sleeping patterns, exercise, involvement in meaningful activities, etc.

Why do I feel gloomy and sad during winters?

Winter can trigger depression in some people - this is called seasonal depression. There ways to manage this such as light therapy, antidepressant use during the winter months, READ MORE
Winter can trigger depression in some people - this is called seasonal depression. There ways to manage this such as light therapy, antidepressant use during the winter months, vitamin D supplement and maintaining regularity in sleep and eating patterns to maintain normal circadian rhythm. People who have seasonal depression are negatively impacted by Decreased amount of sunlight during the winter months. It is important to have light exposure - phototherapy to simulate daytime - usually by using special artificial light in the morning and in the early evening.

My colleague is undergoing severe stress at work. Can a therapist help him?

Talking to a therapist can definitely help him. Therapy will allow him to discuss his concerns with someone trained in techniques to uncover underlying psychological issues that READ MORE
Talking to a therapist can definitely help him. Therapy will allow him to discuss his concerns with someone trained in techniques to uncover underlying psychological issues that could be interfering in his ability to cope. The Therapist can also help on working with him on stress reduction techniques as well as learning some coping strategies which he can use at the workplace. While in therapy he can also be assessed and referred to a psychiatrist for medications if necessary.