In recent years, the conversation around mental health has evolved, with greater emphasis on the importance of authenticity and emotional well-being. While positivity can enhance our well-being by cultivating an optimistic mindset, too much positive thinking can lead to toxic positivity. But what is toxic positivity, and how does it affect people who feel pressured […]
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Election season can be a particularly stressful time, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. The political discourse, media coverage, and heightened rhetoric can feel overwhelming or even threatening, particularly when LGBTQ+ rights are at the center of debate. But as the dust settles following the 2024 election results, it’s crucial to focus on self-care and rebuilding […]
Stressful events like the COVID-19 pandemic, global conflict, divisive politics, inflation, and the threat of recession have strained people’s mental health in recent years. This sentiment is echoed in data collected by the Mental Health Foundation, which found that 37.1% of women and 29.8% of men now live with high levels of anxiety. While you […]
Much is known about the physical benefits of exercise, but its positive impact on mental health is just as powerful, if not more so. In today’s fast-paced world, where stress, anxiety, and depression are on the rise, incorporating regular physical activity into your routine can be a simple yet effective way to enhance your mental […]
In today’s world, most of us rely on our phones, computers, and other devices to connect with others. However, many people diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), have more trouble regulating their use of these devices. There is a growing concern that more people on the autism spectrum are becoming addicted to digital media. Due […]
Potentiation is a term widely used in psychiatry, pharmacology, and the study of substance use. It is the process by which one substance enhances the effects of another when used together, resulting in amplified therapeutic benefits or increased risks of adverse effects. Potentiation plays a significant role in psychiatric medication management, substance use, and understanding […]
There has been a rise in awareness of narcissistic abuse in the past decade. Countless pop psychology videos can be found explaining the zero-sum game of the pathological narcissist, helping victims sort through the disorienting fallout of a psychologically abusive relationship. Many professionals have attempted to discredit these influencers, calling it unwarranted panic. The prevalence […]
Addiction recovery is a challenging journey that involves not just the physical act of overcoming substance dependence but also the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of rebuilding one’s life. One of the most powerful yet often overlooked tools in this process is the role of routine and normalcy. Establishing a stable, predictable daily routine can […]
Anxiety is often experienced as tension, fear, or worry when you face perceived or real threats. It is the body’s response mechanism to danger and can be provoked in non-dangerous situations such as public speaking, important events, or social environments. While most people experience anxiety, too much of it can impair your quality of life […]
The term “triggered” is commonly used these days for comic effect on social media, in everyday conversation among friends, and in work situations. More than just a cool or funny “buzz” word, the term triggered is loaded with meaning. Recognition of the state of being triggered is essential for self-awareness. Equally important is being able […]
College is often described as a formative period filled with learning, self-discovery, and personal growth. However, it is also marked by significant challenges that can have a profound impact on students’ mental health. According to the American College Health Association (ACHA), more than 60% of college students reported feeling overwhelming anxiety, while nearly 40% experienced […]
Understanding the relapse process is crucial for addiction recovery. It’s rarely a straight line to sobriety, and there are plenty of subtle emotional and mental forces that can set you back. Setting personal guardrails, retraining your brain from instant gratification, and understanding the importance of long-term goal-setting can help you avoid potential pitfalls. No matter […]
First semesters are starting across the country, and college freshmen have immersed themselves in an environment unlike any they’ve been in before. Without parental oversight, this year’s 18-year-olds will begin the rites of adulthood, surrounded by large amounts and varieties of alcohol and drugs. College freshmen are at the end of adolescence and the beginning […]
In today’s world, mental health and addiction issues are pervasive challenges that affect millions of people across various demographics. Despite increasing awareness, the barriers to seeking help for these conditions remain significant. A major contributor to these barriers is stigma, which often prevents people from pursuing treatment due to fear of judgment, discrimination, and isolation. […]
Suicide is an issue that affects families, friends, and communities across the globe. It’s hard to believe, but someone dies by suicide every 11 minutes in the United States. Still, despite the prevalence of suicide, it’s often a topic shrouded in silence and shame. Today, we hope to break that stigma by providing a guide […]
Personal boundaries are essential for protecting emotional well-being and mental health. They define the limits between ourselves and others, helping us navigate relationships while maintaining a firm sense of self. Respect for boundaries creates a strong foundation for emotional stability, self-respect, and healthier connections. Without clear boundaries, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, drained, or resentful. […]
Maintaining mental health has become more crucial in today’s fast-paced world. Among the many strategies to foster mental well-being, building healthy boundaries is an indispensable element. But what exactly are boundaries, and why are they vital for our mental health? This article delves into the concept of boundaries, their importance, and their critical role in […]
City living offers many fantastic opportunities. Urban centers provide greater employment, amenities, and social diversity than smaller towns. Urban living on your own can be exciting, but it can also be quite challenging. One thing to be mindful of during your solo urban experience is your mental health. The stress and pressure of living alone […]
Brain science and the latest technologies are rapidly reshaping how we understand and treat mental health conditions. Traditional methods, while still valuable, are now being complemented by innovative solutions addressing the diverse needs of individuals seeking support. Today, we’ll explore these cutting-edge therapies and treatments and the exciting possibilities for enhanced mental well-being. The Rise […]
There’s a concept in psychology called anticipatory anxiety. It is a fear or worry about something that could happen in the future. This sort of anxiety generally happens because of our desire to control or foresee future events. Yet, despite our deepest longing to do so, we are always bound to miss something. Take Tim, […]
Who would want to be a teen today? As adults, it’s easy to look back on our teen years with rose-tinted nostalgia, but in reality, the physical and emotional effects of puberty combined with hectic social lives and a more demanding school schedule can make teenage years a time of anxiety and stress. As parents, it can […]
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is growing in popularity. Therapists value its strength-based and compassionate approach, while clients appreciate its action-oriented results. Although a Licensed Therapist is trained and qualified to help diagnose and treat mental health disorders, you can implement techniques of ACT into your own life. By practicing the skills taught in ACT, […]
As adolescents with chronic mental health conditions approach adulthood, they often face significant changes in their care, including different treatment approaches and potential gaps in services. The shift from the supportive, family-oriented environment of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) to the more autonomous framework of Adult Mental Health Services (AMHS) can be disorienting […]
The early years of childhood are some of the most memorable in a person’s life. Still, as children start branching into adulthood, they’ll likely face many challenges as they learn to navigate the physical and emotional feelings they experience. For young adolescent girls, these challenges can be difficult to handlle without the right level of […]
Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can leave lasting scars on an individual’s mental and emotional well-being. Whether it’s the result of a single event, such as an automobile accident or natural disaster, or prolonged exposure to distressing situations, like abuse or neglect, trauma can significantly impact a person’s life. Trauma therapy […]
The world of work has undergone a monumental shift in the last few years. From being in the office at least five days a week, an increasing number of employees today work remotely. According to Techreport, 12.7% of full-time US employees were working from home in 2023, 28.2% have adopted a hybrid work model, and […]
Anyone can be impacted by depression, a serious mental health condition that can even affect friends and family. Early detection of the symptoms and understanding how to assist can profoundly impact someone’s life. This guide offers crucial details on how to spot depression in a friend and what to do in the event of a […]
Studying for a college degree can be an enjoyable, rewarding pursuit. However, if you’re struggling with your mental health, the challenges and responsibilities that come with college life can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you find the right support and make the most of your academic journey when you’re struggling with […]
Most of us have a general idea of what anxiety is – and perhaps you even know what it feels like. But how would you know the difference between healthy, contextual anxiety (such as that anxiety you feel standing at the edge of a cliff looking down) versus anxiety that is maladaptive? Anxiety is supposed […]
Leading a busy life can make it easy to overlook your holistic wellness. You may already have valuable coping strategies, such as seeing a therapist or going to the gym to support physical health. Achieving mental and physical harmony can benefit more than just your health; it can also improve your quality of life. While […]
In our bustling cities, the constant rush of urban life can make us feel like mere cogs in a grand machine without any sense of community. Yet our urban landscapes also offer opportunities to forge strong connections. These connections can significantly enhance our mental wellness. For younger city dwellers especially, these bonds can be essential […]
Stress is a powerful emotion that impacts both our mental and physical well-being. Managing this biological impact is essential for maintaining optimal health. Music has been long recognized for its healing abilities, providing a therapeutic outlet for those suffering from stressful or anxious emotions. It has a unique ability to trigger positive emotions that relieve […]
The best therapy for depression will include a holistic approach tailored to each individual’s needs, combining various modalities to address the multifaceted nature of the condition. Primarily, evidence-based psychotherapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Interpersonal Therapy (IPT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are widely regarded as effective treatments. These therapies help individuals identify and […]
It is widely assumed that a pause in a relationship means the couple is only a few steps away from a complete separation, which is not always the case. Many couples take a break from each other to meditate, introspect, and, hopefully, strengthen the relationship. However, for individuals who tend to develop separation anxiety, this […]
The internet has made it much simpler for people to get help for mental health problems without leaving their homes. Now, you can search for information, talk to others experiencing similar issues, and even get professional help online. The move to online mental health support is happening because people realize how important mental well-being is, […]
In this article, we’ll explore the impact of social media on our lives. Overview of the Impact of Social Media on Personal Well-Being In our digital age, social media is essential to our lives, impacting all aspects of how we communicate, connect, and consume information. However, with the rise of social media platforms, there has […]
What Does Self-Medicating Mean? Self-medicating means abusing drugs or alcohol to manage symptoms of a mental health disorder or other illness. It’s a common form of substance abuse. According to a survey, 77% of Americans have reported self-medicating for a health condition. Read on to learn more about the substances, risk factors, dangers, and treatment […]
Trauma and addiction are two interconnected issues that can have a profound impact on a person’s life. The experience of trauma, whether it be physical, emotional, or psychological, can lead to a higher risk of developing an addiction. Studies show that individuals who have experienced trauma are more likely to develop a substance use disorder […]
Let’s be clear. There is nothing normal about the times we live in. It has been back-to-back crises for many, with global pandemics, geopolitical conflicts, and at-home mass violence hitting the news on an almost daily basis. And there’s so much pressure to stay constantly connected—to be aware of everything going on, to always have […]
Adolescence marks a pivotal period in an individual’s life, characterized by rapid physical, emotional, and psychological changes. It’s a time of exploration, self-discovery, and growth, but it can also be a period of immense challenges and uncertainty. Teens often grapple with issues such as identity formation, peer pressure, academic stress, family conflicts, and mental health […]
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget about our most important relationship – the one with ourselves. Self-care isn’t just about treating ourselves better. It’s about caring for our mind, body, and soul. A great way to deepen this self-care is through affirmations. These positive statements can change our mindset, boost self-love, and support […]
Anxiety and depression often co-exist, filling a person with negativity. At some point, these two things affect almost everyone alive, manifesting uniquely in each person. The level of depression and anxiety varies for everyone, but even when they seem to get out of control, there are several ways to manage both. According to a report […]
Travel anxiety is a common issue that affects many travelers. The thought of traveling can bring about feelings of stress, fear, and hesitancy. These feelings can arise from various concerns, such as: This article will provide eight methods to help you overcome travel anxiety before and during your trip. 1. Start Early on Your Plan […]
In the intricate dance of parenting, one of the most profound gifts we can offer children is a safe relationship container to validate and hold the experience of their emotions. Yet, in a world often driven by productivity and performance, the importance of this simple act can be overlooked. Providing a secure relationship container is […]
It is a blessing to make it to the later stages of life. You have a lifetime of experiences behind you. However, this can also make aging quite tricky. Your older years will undoubtedly bring unique challenges, opportunities, and adjustments. One of the most notable transitions is how you may have to navigate mental health. […]
Understanding Dream Interpretation and Its Role in Reducing Anxiety Dream interpretation, often sidelined in contemporary therapeutic practices, presents a straightforward yet profound avenue to combat stress and anxiety. It allows us to delve into our subconscious, uncovering insights that promote emotional clarity and well-being. This guide will illuminate the fundamentals of dream interpretation, its link […]
Welcome back, Sarah Andersen. We’ve been keeping a close eye on her journey along with millions of her followers since our first interview with her eight years ago. As you can imagine, a lot has happened in Sarah’s world since then. We caught back up with Sarah to hear her perspectives on work, life, and […]
As Pride Month approaches, I reflect back on the first Pride event my family ever attended. It was the most joyous, uplifting, and positive event, and we’ve looked forward to every opportunity to support and be a part of the LGBTQIA+ community ever since. Prior to that year, we hadn’t exposed our children to any […]
When it comes to mental health recovery, there’s something profoundly powerful about connecting with someone who’s been in your shoes and can relate to what you’re going through. This article explores the expanding role of peer support in mental health recovery, an effort led by individuals who themselves have faced mental health challenges. In this […]
In today’s fast-paced world, the need for holistic approaches to mental health has never been more critical. A holistic approach to health looks at an individual as a whole person where mind, body, and spirit are connected and influence each other. Imagine your well-being as a puzzle, where each piece represents a different aspect of […]
In today’s fast-paced world, where we measure our happiness with productivity, it is easy to get burned out quickly. While it’s okay to work on goals and achievements, it’s also important to take some time out to care for your well-being. This article will explore 15 ideas to help you take self-care into your own […]
Alcohol consumption is a common activity at social gatherings, celebrations, and everyday life for many people. Understanding how alcohol affects the brain is crucial for making informed decisions about consumption. From impairing judgment to impacting memory and motor skills, the effects of alcohol on the brain can be far-reaching and profound. Let’s explore the neuroscience […]
“I feel like I am constantly drowning in pressure. School, peers, social media, the future… It’s overwhelming.” The statement is by a high-schooler from Generation Z (aka Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012). It paints a stark picture of a generation grappling with an unprecedented mental health crisis. It’s not uncommon for Gen Zers […]
I won’t be able to handle it. It’s too risky. Better to be safe than sorry. I had just washed my hands at my sister’s house and was staring at the towel hanging between the sink and the shower. It looked like it might be wet, so I knew someone else had used that towel. […]
June 26th, 2010. I was running on little to no sleep. Suddenly, I was shaken awake, still a little drunk. I was able to focus on my parents. But there was someone else, an older man. My parents were crying. I may have been in shock, but I was not stupid. I had heard of […]
Every child deserves to feel safe at home. However, recent attacks on LGBTQ+ teens and young adults may make your kids feel uncomfortable in any space other than their bedroom. This concern is highlighted by recent FBI data, which show a 13.8% increase in attacks based on sexual orientation and a 32.9% jump based on […]
Depression is a common mental health condition that affects approximately 280 million people around the world. The biggest challenge when it comes to combating depression is that traditional treatments are not always effective. However, there is a new treatment option that offers hope for those living with depression called ketamine treatment. But what is ketamine, […]
In recent years, the discourse surrounding mental health has expanded to incorporate the concept of intersectionality, recognizing that individuals’ mental health experiences are shaped by a complex interplay of various identities. Today, we’ll briefly go over the profound impact of intersectionality on mental health and explore ways to break barriers so that mental health services […]
Stress, anxiety, despair, low self-esteem, and other mental health difficulties have been significantly more common in young adults over the past ten years, according to studies. During the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, COVID-19 outbreak matters only worsened. Psychologists and counselors were unavailable for in-person sessions due to the pandemic. Studies show that online counseling surged during […]
We’ve all been irritable, snappish, annoyed, and rageful. Anger is a universal emotion. However, unlike other emotions, such as joy, sadness, disgust, or love, anger often involves a sense of deep shame. We are told not to be angry, to calm down, or to be rational. Anger is seen as an emotion to avoid, suppress, […]
Constructing a diagnostic manual for the mental health professions is not a straightforward task. Unlike medical disorders, mental health conditions do not come with biological markers. There is no culture that can be taken, no blood test, no specific bacteria or virus that can be found. In short, while well-trained practitioners most often agree, the […]
Finding the right outpatient therapist is an essential component of recovery. Well-informed patients who understand where and what help is available tend to have better therapeutic outcomes. Having access to the right tools and resources, including therapy, can aid the recovery of those with mental health conditions, including bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety. It is critical […]
Adolescence is marked by rapid development, not just physically but emotionally and mentally. As teens navigate this tumultuous period, many are faced with mental health issues that can have lasting impacts. In this crucial phase of life, therapy is essential, serving as a bridge to more robust mental health, resilience, and well-being. Understanding Teen Mental […]
Gaming has always been a popular pastime, but with the advancement of technology, it’s now one of the most enjoyed activities on the planet. This means that game creators and developers have a platform they can use to promote change, and one way they’re doing this is by creating games that celebrate cultural diversity. These […]
Living with a mental health disorder is hard enough. It can seem like a never-ending pursuit to find the right therapist, medication, and ways to cope. The darkness and distress of conditions such as major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder can leave you feeling helpless, struggling to find anything that works. Having a purpose […]
Social media has consumed the lives of millions of children and teens. It has shaped their perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors. According to the Pew Research Center, YouTube is used by 95% of teens in the United States, followed by TikTok (67%), Instagram, and Facebook. As the reach of social media grows, so does the glamorization […]
Social media gives us a wonderful opportunity to share our personal stories. Unfortunately, far too often, people only use it to present the highlight reels of their lives. They edit and filter selfies, snap photos of food, and never go deeper than the surface. There’s a time and place for things like that, and there’s […]
There was a time when getting out of bed felt like lifting a mountain. My mind was a dark room with no doors or windows. That’s how deep my depression was. But here I am, feeling alive and kicking, making over half a million dollars a year. Sounds like a dream, right? But the journey […]
Living with co-occurring anxiety and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can feel like a never-ending uphill climb. Having both conditions contributes to what some describe as an “extra loud” mind, characterized by racing thoughts, worries, and distractions. The intersection of ADHD and anxiety can present in various ways, from struggling with organization and time management to increased […]
As a psychotherapist, I have always been fascinated by the intricate psychiatric landscape accompanying attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and its occurrence among diverse gender categories, including transgender and non-binary individuals. Frank Vitetta from ADHDtest.ai and I decided to embark on a comprehensive study that delved deep into the intricacies of ADHD, particularly focusing on its prevalence […]