Ricardo Arribas-Cruz MD

Psychiatrist | Psychiatry

Sergento Gerardo Santiago St 14 Rd Int Aibonito PR, 00705 Show map

About
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About

Ricardo Arribas-Cruz, MD, is a leading psychiatrist currently serving patients at Hospital Menonita CIMA and VA Caribbean Healthcare System in San Juan, Puerto Rico. After earning his medical degree in 2012, he completed his psychiatric residency and psychosomatic medicine fellowship at Ponce Health Sciences University. Additionally, in order to stay up to date on all medical advancements in his field, he maintains a professional membership with the American Psychological Association, the Puerto Rico Psychological Association, and the Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine.

Board Certification

American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology

Psychosomatic Medicine (Psychiatry and Neurology)

Provider Details

Male English, Spanish

Ricardo Arribas-Cruz MD

Ricardo Arribas-Cruz MD's Expert Contributions

My Answers

Why am I not happy as all other moms around me are?
Hi! That is an excelent question. Post-child birth mother might suffer from post-partum “blues” within the first month post-partum. Has been associated with decreasing hormones levels, increased responsability, poor sleep and worriedness associated to infant care. Usually fades away but if symptoms persist for more than 1 month post-partum and develop other symptoms like poor appetite, decrease interest in activities, guilt, poor concentration, hopelessness, helplessness or having death wishes/suicidal ideas then post partum depression should be considered. Post-partum depression needs psychotherapy and possible pharmacotherapy depending on severity. Hope everything improves with you motherhood experience. READ MORE
I worry too much about death. Is this normal?
Hi! Death is a natural process. All living things go through a life cycle. We live and we die. Some die earlier associated to diseases or accidents. Human society behavior tends to overvalue life. Death is usually not spoken of or taught most of the time. No matter your beliefs, either religious or personal, death will be the end your life on earth. If you have negative thoughts about illness and jump to the conclusion that individuals will die, then it is most likely your beliefs and personal experiences in this life have taken you to reach that thought. We form bonds and attachments to individuals we love and appreciate. We want them to be with us forever and the thought of losing them is frightening. We must train ourselves to let go of everything we fear to lose (like Yoda said). If these thoughts affect your overall functionality and quality of life, then therapy can be an option. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, helps improve thoughts and emotions associated to your beliefs. Hope this helps. READ MORE