Last spring, there were two suicides in the high-achieving Connecticut town where I live. They were separate tragedies, one involving a twelfth grader, the other a tenth grader. It rocked us all, especially the classmates of these young people. We need not know what drove them to their last desperate act. It is not our […]
Our Latest Blogs
05
Sep
Sep
The idea of independence is associated with strength, self-sufficiency, and autonomy. While being independent is important for survival, we cannot function independently without interdependence. Interdependence is when two or more people rely on each other for support, and it is a necessary and healthy part of our physical, mental, and emotional development. Interdependence is often […]
01
Sep
Sep
Video games have been growing in popularity for decades. When gaming consoles and PCs first hit the market in the 70s and 80s, people could conveniently play their favorite arcade games without ever leaving the house. Fast forward to the late 90s and early 2000s, when multi-player role-playing games hit the scene, and gaming became […]
29
Aug
Aug
It starts with a twinge in the chest, a slight tremor in the hands, and difficulty catching a breath. My old companions, anxiety and depression, have joined me once again. Sometimes an event or a personal interaction precedes their appearance. Sometimes they show up out of nowhere and club me in the chest. As a […]
25
Aug
Aug
Choosing between inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs isn’t easy, especially if you’re dealing with an addiction to alcohol or drugs. On the one hand, going to inpatient rehab allows you to fully immerse yourself in your recovery and work one-on-one with professionals who can help you overcome the hurdles around recovery while providing 24/7 support. […]
22
Aug
Aug
Everyone has a unique personality. People’s personalities grow as they go through various life events. Most people are adaptable enough to learn from their mistakes and adjust their behavior when necessary. On the other hand, people with personality disorders find it far more challenging to manage their behavior. They have distressing thoughts and emotions that […]
19
Aug
Aug
As a parent, nothing is more exciting than having your children thrive in life. Parenting is not easy; it takes time, patience, and know-how. One of the things most parents desire is to have their children listen to them. For parents and kids alike, there can be challenges related to listening to each other. However, […]
17
Aug
Aug
I first heard the term ‘people pleaser’ in my mid 30’s when I started working in a residential addiction treatment facility. Until then, I had never really thought about how my bending over backward to please others had affected me. I had always believed that accommodating other people’s needs was a good thing—that I was […]
15
Aug
Aug
If you’ve ever lied awake at night staring at the ceiling, heart racing, and thoughts running through your mind uncontrollably, you know how damaging it can be to your sleep. Unfortunately, at night, when your body finally comes to rest is when your anxious mind comes alive. Anxiety affects over 40 million adults and ranges […]
12
Aug
Aug
At some point in your life, you might experience a violent or frightening event that triggers a severe stress response and trauma symptoms. In many cases, those symptoms get better with time, but sometimes they get more intense and linger, interfering with your everyday life. Persistent trauma symptoms could mean you have post-traumatic stress disorder […]
10
Aug
Aug
Most of us are familiar with the effects of stress on our mood, emotions, and behaviors, but we may not be considering the impact on our bodies. During chronic stress, our sympathetic nervous system (“fight, flight, or freeze”) is upregulated to prepare the body for threats and conflict. While these physiologic changes are highly advantageous […]
05
Aug
Aug
Technology is a double-edged sword for parents. The internet and smart devices can be great learning tools. Yet, online bullying and the presence of various online predators make these tools potentially dangerous and damaging to young minds. What we know: There are links between excessive internet and social media use and lower self-esteem in children. […]
03
Aug
Aug
Functional neurological disorder (FND), or conversion disorder, as some people know it, is a disease where electrical signals in the brain aren’t communicating correctly. The body relies on these signals for everything from movement to digestion, so disruption can be catastrophic. While there isn’t a mechanical or structural cause for FND, there are several symptoms […]
01
Aug
Aug
A year or even a few months ago, I never would have played a PC game for self-care — and I certainly wouldn’t have chosen to spend my nights and weekends holed up in my home office. As a freelance writer who works from home, I already spend most of my days on a computer, […]
29
Jul
Jul
Living in the modern world means stress is a normal part of life. The simple act of existing takes a toll on us all. From having to work stressful jobs to raising kids to worrying about bills, there is no shortage of things to stress us out. Although you may insist on being a relentlessly responsible […]
27
Jul
Jul
You’ve overheard your teenage daughter saying she wants to lose weight. Maybe she’s spent too much time scrolling through content from influencers on Instagram. Or perhaps a comment you made about another person’s body stuck with her. In today’s world, teens are inundated with messages about how they should look online. Yet, their perception of […]
25
Jul
Jul
You may know a lot about the physical effects of menopause, but how much have you heard about its cognitive and psychological impacts? The mental health implications of this transition are just as real as the bodily ones and just as manageable with good information and support. Confidence and Self-Esteem In our youth-idolizing culture, changes […]
22
Jul
Jul
Mental health is a challenge that the entire nation has struggled with of late. While this in and of itself is worrying, those living in rural America seem to have even more significant barriers to overcome. People in rural areas have less access to healthcare resources than their urban counterparts, resulting in poorer health. Though […]
20
Jul
Jul
People of color face many challenges, from substance abuse to health concerns and trouble accessing mental health resources. Though employment programs, mental health clinics, and free rehab centers have been put in place to offer assistance, those in communities of color dealing with these issues still lack proper care and recognition. Professionals working with BIPOC […]
18
Jul
Jul
Today’s mental health landscape is turbulent. Worldwide events of the past few years have created some of the most widespread mental health strains and stress the world has ever known. Though awareness of mental illness and psychological health might be at an all-time high in many places, the number of people living with significant mental […]
15
Jul
Jul
One of the most important things you can do to help students succeed in school is to create a productive study environment. However, when it comes to managing students with mental health needs, it becomes a bit more complicated. The ultimate goal is to still create a productive study environment, but also one that meets […]
13
Jul
Jul
As human beings, we all feel sad at times. Sadness is a natural emotion that everyone experiences. It occurs at different levels, and people often confuse extreme sadness with depression. Here is a detailed guide to help you know the difference between sadness and depression, so you can treat your depression or cope with sadness […]
11
Jul
Jul
Most of us have experienced being othered by an individual or an entire group. For some of us, this experience can be quite common. I’ve been traversing life in this Black skin for a few decades, and as a Black woman, that otherness invariably includes exaggerated perceptions of strength, resilience, and independence. From childhood, I’ve […]
08
Jul
Jul
Mental health is a vital part of overall health and wellbeing. According to the World Health Organization, health is a condition of complete physical, mental, and social wellbeing, not just the absence of sickness or disability. Mental health encompasses much more than the absence of mental disorders or disabilities; it is mainly about quality of […]
06
Jul
Jul
No matter how mentally strong you are, deployment can be a stressful experience that takes its toll on you. It’s no surprise that many service members struggle to return from deployment. If you’re a veteran who has recently returned from operational deployment, you might find these tips helpful in readjusting to life as a civilian. […]
04
Jul
Jul
Does hearing laughter as you walk by a group of people make you feel self-conscious? Are you a lover of the great indoors, specifically your home? You walk into a room of seated people, and they’re looking at you. How do you feel? Everybody experiences social discomfort throughout their lives. It’s the reason for common sayings […]
01
Jul
Jul
If you constantly feel on edge or are riddled with anxiety and don’t know why you may need to take a minute to look around your own home. You may not realize it, but how you decorate, use your space, and interact with your housemates may be what is causing your anxiety to go through […]
29
Jun
Jun
Employee mental health problems can impact a business quite seriously. Approximately 80% of adults with depression report at least some difficulty with their work, home, or social activities, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Among the many dimensions of wellness, mental health in the workplace and associated issues are more difficult […]
27
Jun
Jun
“Life is suffering.” This phrase is associated with Buddhism and its Noble Truths. If you have struggled with your mental health, you know well how painful it can be to simply reside in your brain. In the context of the Noble Truths, the term “suffering” is an English translation of the Sanskrit word “duhkha” (or […]
24
Jun
Jun
Many people may have heard of PTSD, but few understand it. There is a lot of information about it, but this is sorely lacking from the human standpoint. We often associate PTSD with flashbacks or aggression. However, many people are unaware of the complex emotions and feelings of shame and inadequacy that torment those who […]
22
Jun
Jun
Do you know that saving or storing material items of little worth can be a sign of a mental health problem? Hoarding disorder is a condition in which people have persistent difficulty letting go of things that are not useful and end up storing them unnecessarily. What is Hoarding Disorder? According to Mayo Clinic, compulsive […]
20
Jun
Jun
These days, there is greater public awareness about the impacts of traumatic events. Books such as The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk and Trauma and Recovery by Judith Lewis Herman, among many others, have played an essential role in educating us about the effects interpersonal trauma can have across a lifetime. […]
17
Jun
Jun
Depression affects people from all walks of life and is one of the most common mental health problems in the United States. Depression among LGBTQ+ individuals is higher than among cisgender straight individuals. This article will look at how much pressure and depression closeted people experience compared with those who are out and proud. I […]
15
Jun
Jun
Staying mentally healthy is a lifelong journey. Just like a plant, mental health needs care, attention, and support to flourish over a long time. You may not have a mental health disorder, but that doesn’t mean you don’t have to work on your mental health—it’s just a part of being human. Whether you struggle with […]
13
Jun
Jun
When you think about managing your mental health, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? For many people, it might be seeing a therapist or counselor, taking medication, or practicing deep breathing exercises or meditation. Those things can help your mental well-being, and other mental health boosters such as spending time outdoors and exercising […]
10
Jun
Jun
Although giving birth is usually a joyous occasion, pregnancy, delivery, and aftercare strain the mother’s body physically and mentally. While you may want to smile and cuddle your little one, cherishing the happy moments, the mind may signal other feelings: triggering sadness, nervousness, and fear. These upsetting emotions interfere with your health and are often […]
09
Jun
Jun
Here’s an alarming statistic: around 14.5 million Americans have an alcohol use disorder. What’s even more worrisome is that alcohol dependence not only affects the individuals with the addiction; it also affects their families. No wonder alcoholism is sometimes referred to as a family disease. Without alcohol treatment, the condition not only affects individuals’ physical, […]
07
Jun
Jun
People who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community are at a greater risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues due to the discrimination, harassment, rejection, and judgment they may experience in society. And while there’s much to do about creating the type of change we need to see, one of the most […]
06
Jun
Jun
Mental health is a broad term that encompasses such things as emotional regulation and psychological well-being. It is often contrasted with physical health, but mental and physical health are very much intertwined. Western medicine, in particular, tends to put more focus on physical health, while psychological wellness sometimes gets overlooked by medical professionals as well […]
03
Jun
Jun
If you’re the parent of a teenager, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of suicide pacts. Suicide pacts are when two or more people make a plan to kill themselves together. Pacts can be made via text message, social media, or in person. Suicides enacted as part of a pact are more likely to be […]
01
Jun
Jun
Communication is the bridge that connects us to others. If we build it the wrong way, sooner or later, it will tumble down. Rebuilding communication is even more challenging for people in recovery from addiction. They frequently feel frustrated and irritable and often act aggressively toward others. In this article, we’ll discuss the ways to […]
30
May
May
Watching a loved one struggle with a mental illness can be difficult and heart-wrenching. Many people don’t know what to do and how to best help that loved one during these trying times. Sometimes, good intentions go awry and what we think will help ultimately does more harm than good. Every person is different, each […]
27
May
May
Many people believe that individuals labeled ‘psychopaths’ are incapable of change, destined to remain stuck in their patterns of criminality, manipulation, and lack of empathy. But is this really true? In this article, we will explore what psychopathy truly is and whether treatment can be effective in helping those with this condition. Understanding more about […]
25
May
May
Psychotherapy is a form of treatment that involves talking to a trained counselor or therapist to understand, change, or cope with troubling thoughts and emotions. It uses emotional insights and interpersonal relationships to help people change their behavior, thoughts, and feelings. Doing so can help you understand yourself better and work through issues that might […]
23
May
May
There are plenty of things that can help calm the nervous system. Deep breathing, relaxation techniques, and certain medications can help to ease anxiety and nervousness. Sometimes, simply taking a break from whatever is causing the stress can be enough to help the nervous system relax. In some cases, though, more drastic measures may be […]
20
May
May
Though awareness regarding mental health conditions is growing, it isn’t a given in all communities. While rates of mental illness vary across demographic groups, some populations face additional vulnerabilities or lack adequate resources for treatment and support. Inner-city communities commonly experience significant numbers of underdiagnosed and undertreated mental health conditions. Untreated mental health conditions perpetuate […]
18
May
May
You didn’t plan to owe money. You’re financially aware of your income. However, life happens sometimes, and now you’re faced with more bills than you anticipated. Maybe your car broke down, leaving you with more prominent credit card payments. You had to take out student loans to receive a higher education only to find out […]
16
May
May
When you’re battling mental health disorders such as anxiety or depression, the last thing you want to do is exercise — but it’s actually one of the best and most important steps you can take. Moving your body can do so much good, even beyond burning calories and reducing your risk of disease. This is […]
13
May
May
It can be incredibly challenging for parents to determine the best approach to childrearing in certain situations. You may wonder if your way of parenting is too harsh and strict or if you are not enforcing enough boundaries or consequences. Many of these tendencies are encompassed by the four basic parenting styles. This article will […]
11
May
May
It’s okay to feel sad. Some days we’re happy, and on other days we feel sad. It’s a normal emotion, and you need to allow yourself to go through the sadness. Don’t mask it or shove it aside. It’ll do more damage if you keep it bottled up. Accept the emotion but don’t dwell on […]
09
May
May
While many people have heard of PTSD, there is still widespread misunderstanding about it and the various ways it can show up in people. We often connect PTSD with flashbacks, but many are unaware of the cognitive symptoms and avoidance behavior that are also prominent for those who live with the disorder. This article will […]
06
May
May
Healthcare professionals, particularly nurses, have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Working longer hours, risking infection, and dealing with the anxiety and stress that the past few years have brought, nurses are beginning to question whether their job is worth the anguish. Duquesne’s School of Nursing’s Dr. Mai-Ly Nguyen Steers believes “the pandemic has […]
05
May
May
May is Mental Health Month. It’s a great time to become more intimately acquainted with your own mental health needs and educate yourself on specific topics within the field of mental health. Just as it’s essential to keep a first aid kit on hand to ensure your preparedness for medical emergencies, it is vital to […]
04
May
May
Routine and habit are ingrained in the human psyche. Adult personalities take at least 20 years to form, which is true for the behaviors and habits we acquire. Sadly, some of those habits and routines are not always beneficial to us. There aren’t many forces as powerful as your daily routines when it comes to […]
02
May
May
overthink* verb Think about (something) too much or for too long. The term ‘overthinking’ has been increasingly used by people around the world over the past two years, thanks to a pandemic. A lot of people overthink, especially young adults. According to a study at the University of Michigan, 73 percent of Americans aged 25-35 […]
29
Apr
Apr
Though we often use the word phobia in casual conversation, many people are unaware of the extent of fear and distress they cause. Specific phobias are serious mental health conditions that require professional attention and support. This article will discuss specific phobias in more detail and reveal which treatment for phobias has proven to be […]
27
Apr
Apr
Experiences are like bricks that lay the foundation of children’s mental health. If the bricks are weak, they will never sustain the pressure and weight. Thus, the building is at risk of collapsing. Just like that, traumatic childhood experiences destabilize the foundation of children’s mental health, leading to serious problems later in life. How Do […]
26
Apr
Apr
There continues to be widespread misunderstanding about psychosis—why it occurs, what it looks like, and how it is managed. This article will discuss the truth and debunk five common myths about psychosis. Increasing our understanding of psychosis can lead to reduced stigma and increased compassion for those who experience it. What is Psychosis? Psychosis is […]
25
Apr
Apr
Body image covers so many aspects of our feelings about our appearance, from how we think others perceive our looks to comparing ourselves to ‘cultural norms.’ It even goes beyond appearance, affecting many people’s beliefs about what their bodies can and cannot do physically. With mainstream and social media channels at our fingertips 24/7, it’s […]
22
Apr
Apr
Mental health issues affect one in every six people in the workplace. As a result, many businesses have implemented programs to assist employees by teaching them Mental Health First Aid (MHFA). With a rise in demand for MHFA training, it’s vital to understand what it is and how it can benefit the workplace. What is […]
20
Apr
Apr
While getting treated for alcoholism or substance abuse, you may worry you will have to neglect your responsibilities at home, work, or school. However, outpatient treatment programs may allow you to get the help and support you need on a part-time basis that fits into your schedule. An inpatient treatment program requires you to put […]
19
Apr
Apr
College can be an exciting time in young people’s lives, as they explore their independence and prepare for a bright future. However, it can also be a period of transition, growth, and changes, often leading to stress in college students. While some stress can be beneficial in motivating students to develop their competencies and skills, […]
18
Apr
Apr
Bipolar disorder and ADHD are the two brain conditions that can affect an individual of any age. ADHD or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is the most common childhood neurodevelopmental disorder. Both conditions affect many people, and some symptoms are even similar. It is sometimes difficult to distinguish between the two conditions. Since bipolar disorder can […]
15
Apr
Apr
“Comparison is the death of joy.” – Mark Twain Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is an obsession with one’s appearance and becoming overly focused on flaws (real or imagined), leading to significant emotional distress. Those who struggle with body dysmorphia often attempt to “fix” the problem with excessive exercise, dieting, or cosmetic procedures. Fixing or eliminating […]
13
Apr
Apr
Emotional upheaval is part and parcel of life for many, and it’s pretty common. But what if the up and down feelings reach an extreme level? Those extreme ups and downs might be due to a mental health condition called bipolar disorder. In this disorder, a person experiences manic highs, other times sinking into depressive lows. […]
11
Apr
Apr
For the entirety of my life, I have tried to do right in everything and by everyone. For the first time this past year, I questioned my capacity to do that and, in turn, questioned everything that I thought I knew about myself. Since adolescence, I have prided myself upon my successes, resiliency, willingness to […]
06
Apr
Apr
Everyone can have “one of those days.” But when you start to feel like everything is wearing you down over time, it could be a sign you’re suffering from workplace burnout. In one recent study, 76% of people have experienced feelings of burnout and agreed that stress at work has negatively impacted their mental health. […]
04
Apr
Apr
Mental health is complex and can involve many different factors, from the environment around you to your genes to what’s going on in your life. We are all individuals, and it’s important to remember that when considering your own needs. The COVID-19 pandemic has been incredibly stressful for a large portion of the population, and […]
01
Apr
Apr
Porn addiction is a topic that is often ignored and rarely recognized. Porn addiction develops early, particularly in young men. Usually, it begins when puberty sets in and sexual attraction is a brand new feeling. Porn becomes the default method for dealing with these foreign feelings at that age and generally sticks around. Most people […]
30
Mar
Mar
The global COVID-19 pandemic is constantly turning our world upside down. It is safe to say that there is not a single person who the pandemic has not impacted. However, as CNN reports, women bear the brunt of the effects, especially concerning mental health. Compounded with the stress from isolation, school closures, and the general […]
