Our Latest Blogs

Recovering from Toxic Positivity: A Path to a Healthier You

Person in party dress with smiley face balloon

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 […]

Combating Anxiety in a World of Uncertainty

Stressed woman using laptop

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 […]

The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise: Why Movement Matters

Man running in front of city skyline

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 […]

I Feel Triggered: How to Recognize and Work Through Emotional Triggers

Upset man on couch with head in hands.

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 […]

The Importance of Personal Boundaries for Mental Wellness

Hand on chain link fence.

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. […]

Building Healthy Boundaries: The Role of Limits in Maintaining Mental Health

Four friends having a good time.

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 […]

Thriving Alone in the City: Making Connections in Urban Environments

Young Black woman with tablet walking in urban setting

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 […]

Helpful Mentorship Strategies for Working with Teen Girls

Teen girl standing in stairwell with schoolbooks in hand.

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 […]

Recognizing the Effects of Remote Work on Mental Health

Man working from home in basement den

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 […]

Mindfulness Practices for Physical and Mental Harmony

Mindful woman meditating on bed

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 […]

The Power of Belonging: How Neighborhood Connections Boost Mental Wellness

People gathering in urban neighborhood

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 […]

Learning to Make Music as a Tool for Stress Management

Young man playing guitar and relaxing with friends

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 […]

How Social Media Affects Your Emotional Well-Being

woman scrolling smartphone

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 […]

Global Pandemonium: Prioritizing Mental Health During Chaotic Times

troubled woman staring at laptop.

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 […]

40 Affirmations for Self-Care and Mental Health

triumphant person above the clouds.

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 […]

Holistic Approaches to Mental Health: Integrative Healing for Emotional Well-being

woman doing yoga

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 […]

15 Self-Care Ideas for Fantastic Health You Wish You Knew Sooner

candle, book, and tea

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 […]

Behind the Anger: Why You Need to Meet Your Needs Before You Can Calm Down

angry woman shouting.

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, […]

Why Games Celebrating Cultural Diversity Matter More Than Ever Now

happy gamers with controllers.

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 […]

Beyond the Selfie: A Guide to Authentic Mental Health Advocacy on Social Media

young adult taking selfie.

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 […]

How Love Affects Our Lives and Mental Health

word ‘love’ written in the sand

Love is a simple concept, yet it contains a universe of feelings. It’s a global language that transcends borders, cultures, and time. It’s the glue that binds us together, the force that drives us, and the gift that enriches our lives. It influences our self-worth, motivates us to become better individuals, and teaches us the […]

Receiving Gifts: Understanding Your Love Language’s Hidden Message

glove hands holding snow heart

In the realm of human relationships, understanding the intricacies of how we express and receive love can be a game-changer. Dr. Gary Chapman’s groundbreaking concept of the Five Love Languages has provided a valuable framework for comprehending these dynamics. In this article, we’ll explore the world of “love languages,” exploring how they can enrich your […]

Identifying 5 Subtle Signs of Self-Sabotage in Your Relationships and How to Break the Pattern

couple disagreeing over finances.

Self-sabotage is the silent killer of relationships. It can doom our relationships before they even begin by whispering lies about our inadequacy and impossibility of being loved.  Relationships are hard. Even the healthiest relationships suffer from trials, arguments, and setbacks. No one is perfect, so it makes sense that a union of two people is […]

Physical Wellness Beyond the Gym: Unconventional Paths to Better Mental Health

woman doing outdoors yoga

When you’re struggling with your mental health, getting yourself up and going to the gym can seem impossible. Whether it’s because you have social anxiety or because you’re just feeling down and unmotivated, it’s understandable that working out is the last thing on your mind. That said, moving your body can do your mind a […]

Winter Wellness: Embrace Online Therapy for Stress-Free Seasonal Serenity

Two women walking in snow

The holidays have passed, and winter stress is one of the challenges of the season that can make us feel down. With frosty, short days and cloudy weather, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. How you approach these challenges affects how you feel. In this article, we’ll introduce you to winter blues and share some […]

Becoming A Morning Person: A Beneficial Change that Supports Positive Mental Health

woman with morning coffee and laptop

Becoming somewhat of a morning person has been a stunning development in my life. Now, in my forties, early rising is part of a long-term program to sustain positive mental health. In short, I have a purpose and a routine that includes getting an early start on my work. I have coping strategies, but keeping […]

How Small Wins Can Start an Impactful Chain in Your Life

smiling man in cap and denim

In the business world, employers are always looking for ways to keep their employees motivated and engaged for a more productive work environment. The most popular technique is the small-wins approach, popularized by Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer in their work on progress theory. I was always aware of this concept, having read about it […]

Out of the Clouds: Managing Anxiety-Induced Dissociation in the Age of Social Media Overload

woman on a mountain in the clouds

Every time we open our laptops or phones, we are bombarded with information: the latest crises at home and overseas, falling financial trends, eco-disasters, and the personal lives of hundreds of online friends and strangers. A study done in 2020 found that more than half of U.S. adults get their news through social media. What’s […]

Distinguishing Emotions from Feelings: A Look at Two Essential Parts of the Human Experience

collage of different facial expressions

Emotions and feelings are fundamental aspects of what makes us human. The terms are often used together in everyday conversation. However, psychologists note essential differences between these two phenomena. Understanding this distinction can provide critical insight into the workings of the human mind and pathways for personal growth. Emotions: Involuntary Reactions to Significant Events According […]

Reclaim Your Mental Health: Twenty Practical Tips To Take You From Broken To Better

Mental Health Tips

Have you ever felt lost, hopeless, and overwhelmed? When you are in a dark and lonely headspace, you can feel desperate, and the scariest part is not knowing if it will get better. Hope, coupled with dedication, can light the path to a healthier mental state. Mental health recovery involves a process of healing, adaptation, […]

Healthy Aging: Strategies to Maintain Mental Well-being in Later Life

older couple walking

It’s sad to see friends in their golden years sink into depression or lose their sharpness of mind. However, if you’re in that spot and getting up there in age, it’s important to know that not everyone ages the same, and you can retain clarity and happiness well into your later years. It’s never too […]

What is Your Learning Language? Part 4: Learning from Power and Authority

triumphant person on mountop at sunrise

Based on the concept of the Love Languages by Gary Chapman, I developed a series of 15 Learning Languages or Learning Styles I present here to help people understand how we learn throughout our lifetimes. Learning Languages 13-15 are our ways of Learning from Power and Authority. Learning from Power and Authority means learning from […]

What is Your Learning Language? Part 3: Learning from Experience

skateboarder in striped shirt

Based on the concept of the Love Languages by Gary Chapman, I developed a series of 15 Learning Languages or Learning Styles I present here to help people understand how we learn throughout our lifetimes. Learning Languages 9-12 are our ways of Learning from Experience. Learning from Experience means gaining knowledge and wisdom from the […]

What is Your Learning Language? Part 2: Learning Through Teaching Pathways

couple assembling furniture

Based on the concept of the Love Languages by Gary Chapman, I developed a series of 15 Learning Languages or Learning Styles I present here to help people understand how we learn throughout our lifetimes. Learning Languages 4-8 are about Learning through Teaching Pathways. Teaching Pathways include being self-taught and having others instruct you. Anyone […]

What is Your Learning Language? Part 1: Learning Through Reflective Wisdom

woman outdoors holding mirror

Based on the concept of the Love Languages by Gary Chapman, I developed a series of 15 Learning Languages or Learning Styles I present here to help people understand how we learn throughout our lifetimes. “You never learn” and “Why can’t you learn?” are comments frequently made by people frustrated with loved ones who repeat […]

Cultivating Healthy Habits: Small Steps Towards Long-Term Wellness

woman running

In today’s fast-paced world, healthy habits often take a backseat to the demands of work and social life. However, cultivating healthy habits is essential for long-term wellness and a fulfilling life. The good news is that even small changes can make a big difference in how you feel in mind and body. From drinking plenty […]

The Crucial Role of Nutrition in Mental Health

family preparing healthy food

In the pursuit of better mental health, various factors come into play. One often overlooked aspect is nutrition. The food we consume can significantly impact our mental well-being, influencing mood, cognition, and overall mental health. This article will explore the vital connection between nutrition and mental health, shedding light on how a well-balanced diet can […]

Emotional Intelligence and Intellectual Health: Integrating Empathy and Rationality

women with braided hair at window

In our fast-paced and interconnected world, Emotional Intelligence (EI) and Intellectual Health (IH) have emerged as crucial elements for personal and professional growth. Emotional Intelligence refers to understanding and managing emotions effectively, while Intellectual Health encompasses critical thinking, open-mindedness, and intellectual humility. Striking a delicate balance between rationality and empathy is essential for fostering healthier […]

Top Screen Time Management Tips for Those with Mental Health Conditions

smartphone selfie

As technology continues to develop at a rapid pace, it’s virtually impossible to avoid screens and digital devices. From work to leisure time, it has become all too easy to spend hours on end looking at a screen without considering the impact on your health. By being more aware of your devices’ impacts, you can […]

10,000 Friends, One Lonely Soul: The Impact of Social Media on Stress, Depression, and Anxiety

laptop and smartphone

Social media has helped us connect and communicate with thousands of people around the world. However, as our connections grow in number, an emptiness within our hearts emerges. Many people around the globe are experiencing a feeling of loneliness, depression, and stress despite having thousands of friends online. A recent study found that reducing social […]

How to Hack Your Stress Response and Overcome Adversity

woman jogging near water

Are you feeling overwhelmed and stressed? It’s natural to feel anxious when life throws a curveball at you. It doesn’t have to last forever—there are things you can do to help yourself become more resilient, manage your stress response, and find ways to thrive in the face of adversity. This post will help you build […]

Developing Your Creativity: Innovative Ways to Enhance Your Mental Well-Being

woman observing abstract art

Embracing creativity and innovation in your life is more than just a fun pursuit. It also has positive effects on your health. Developing your creativity can decrease your heart rate, lower stress, and enhance your emotional state. Relaxing activities such as crafting and gardening create a calm and peaceful state, which allows the brain to […]

Reclaiming Your Joy: The Power of Incorporating Hobbies into Your Busy Life

visual art project

Hobbies are much more than an entertaining way to spend your time. Several studies have shown that people who actively engage in hobbies are less likely to experience stress, low mood, and depression. One 2021 study by Simon Fraser University researchers found that keeping active through varied activities can even reduce the risk of developing dementia. Just about […]

Flexing Your Mental Muscles: The Power of Brain Exercises

happy woman writing on paper.

Flexing the muscles in your brain is just as important as working out the muscles in the rest of your body. Just as doctors tell you to exercise regularly to keep your body healthy, exercising your brain helps keep it in the best shape possible. Keeping your brain active and your mind sharp can improve […]

16 MBTI Personality Types Under Stress

young woman with emotion signs

MBTI, which stands for Myers Briggs Type Indicator, is a personality assessment tool that explains our individual psychological preferences. If you’ve ever wondered what makes you unique in your perceptions and relationships, this tool can help you understand. The core concept of MBTI personality types revolves around the idea that we all have distinct preferences […]

How to Know If You Need a Break from Social Media

close up of man holding smartphone.

Social media has many wonderful uses. It is a place to share meaningful experiences—a place to make connections with like-minded people and feel that you are a part of something bigger. Despite its usefulness as an amazing tool for human connection, social media has some drawbacks. If not used appropriately, it can negatively impact your […]

5 Steps to Healing from Burnout

sunflower blossom

If work has left you feeling exhausted, on edge, or disinterested, you may be suffering burnout. Long hours, heightened responsibilities, and a lack of balance between work and home life have become the norm for many Americans following the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving workers feeling drained, pessimistic, and burnt out. What is burnout? Burnout is an […]

The Science of Sleep: Understanding Your Circadian Rhythm and Tips to Boost Restfulness

man sleeping in bed

We all know how important sleep is for our health and well-being, but have you ever wondered why we need it and how our bodies regulate it? The answer lies in our circadian rhythm – our body’s natural 24-hour cycle that regulates our sleep-wake cycle, hormones, and metabolism. Our circadian rhythm is controlled by an […]

Reduce Stress with Mindfulness Techniques

man doing tai chi outdoors

Stress is a common concern in today’s fast-paced world, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. It’s no secret that chronic stress can negatively affect your mental and physical health, causing issues such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, and even a decrease in heart rate variability (HRV), an essential indicator of your autonomic nervous system’s balance.  […]

Self-Care Practices for Better Mental Health Management

woman with headphones in bed

Self-care is more than just soaking in a bubble bath and applying expensive facial masks. It’s an essential part of our overall health and well-being and something we should all prioritize. Whether you’re dealing with chronic stress, struggling to get enough restful sleep, or simply looking for ways to boost your mood and energy, incorporating […]

How to Cultivate Self-Compassion and Improve Your Relationships

happy partners selfie

Self-compassion, the tendency to be kind and understanding to yourself when confronted with personal failures and challenges, is a strong predictor of positive mental health (Muris, 2015; Hwang, 2016). Studies indicate that high levels of self-compassion are linked to better life satisfaction and happiness and decreased self-criticism, depression, and anxiety (Neff, 2009). Self-compassion not only […]

Mindfulness Techniques for ADHD: How They Can Help

calming lake scene

This article by clinical psychologist Dr. Adeel Sarwar discusses the benefits of mindfulness techniques in managing ADHD symptoms. Do you often find it hard to stay focused, concentrate on tasks, and manage your emotions effectively due to your ADHD symptoms? If so, you are not alone. However, there is a solution – mindfulness techniques. Incorporating […]

8 Easy Life Hacks To Improve Your Quality Of Sleep

cat sleeping

From waking up in the middle of the night to finding it difficult to nod off, failing to get a good night’s sleep can leave you feeling awful the next day. In this article, we’ll explore eight simple hacks to boost your sleep quality—for good.  So keep reading if you want to discover the key […]

6 Simple Techniques to Reduce Anxiety, Stress, and Worry

reading a book with a cup of coffee

There is always a lot going on in life, and you don’t need the extra burden of anxiety, stress, and worry. Left unchecked, stress can affect your mental well-being and lead to serious mental health issues such as depression. Once you become stressed, it can be hard to feel good again, but there are tactics […]

How to Reduce Stress with Positive Thinking

stressed woman at laptop.

Everyone experiences stress differently and to varying degrees of intensity; it is an unavoidable aspect of life. While some stress is acceptable and may even be beneficial in certain circumstances, excessive stress may be harmful to both physical and mental health. The good news is that by developing a positive mindset, we can learn how […]

6 Ways You Can Improve Employee Mental Health and Well-being in Your Business Workplace

smiling co-workers

Mental health and well-being are growing concerns for businesses. People are more aware of how work and emotional well-being affect each other but may still have difficulty maintaining or improving their mental health. Here are six ways you can improve employee mental health in your business workplace. 1. Develop Concrete, Streamlined Strategies and Objectives Every […]

Urgency Culture: On the Go or on the Nerve?

busy mother on phone with children

What is Urgency Culture? In the digital age, there has been a societal shift in our common ideas about productivity and leisure. As a psychotherapist, I find that my clients believe they must always be doing something in order to feel worthwhile or content. This phenomenon is commonly known as ‘urgency culture,’ which is the […]

4 Journaling Techniques for Better Mental Health

journal with mindful quote

Positive Mental health is fundamental for your emotional, psychological, and social well-being. In fact, your mind influences not only the way you feel and think but also the way you act. Sadly, mental health issues have been rising: indeed, the World Health Organization states that there has been a 13% increase in mental health conditions […]

5 Reasons Why Creativity in the Plastic Arts Is Good for Your Mental Health

woman painting ceramics

Mental health is a complex subject. Mental health disorders affect people differently, and what typically works for one person may be a trigger for another. No treatment or activity is universally helpful in all cases. However, exploring your creativity through the plastic arts can be a fantastic method of boosting mental health. Let’s dive a […]

Why Is Cumulative Stress a Trigger to Mental Health Problems?

worried young woman

The world is becoming increasingly aware of mental health and how cumulative stress can interfere with our mental well-being. Despite this increased awareness and sensitivity to mental health needs, populations around the world are still experiencing rises in problems related to mental health. Many forces operating outside of the average individual’s control can play a […]

How Making Art Improves Mental Health and Boosts Creative Wellness

young woman painting a canvas.

Creative wellness is the practice of using creative arts, such as music, dance, or painting, to promote physical, emotional, and psychological good health. It is a form of self-care that involves appreciating beauty in oneself and the surrounding world and expressing oneself through participation in the arts. Consider a creative pursuit that brings you joy. […]

The Most Common Forms of Autonomic Dysfunction in the Nervous System

female doctor and patient

The body’s autonomic nervous system (ANS) is responsible for automatic functions, including controlling your bladder, temperature, heart rate, breathing, and much more. Sometimes, people’s ANS doesn’t work the way that it should. This is called autonomic dysfunction or autonomic neuropathy and affects more than 70 million people worldwide. Cases can be mild to severe but […]

Overwhelmed by Life? Try These 5 Stress Management Techniques

Everyone feels stressed at times. It is a normal human response to threats. Your body adjusts to new circumstances with the assistance of stress reactions. Stress can keep us focused, determined, and prepared to stay out of harm’s way. If you have a big test coming up, a stress response might make your body work […]

How Yoga Benefits Your Mental Health

Taking care of your mental health is more important than ever. One of the best ways to do that is by practicing yoga. Combined with mental health treatment, yoga is an effective method for coping with anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It can also help improve your sleep quality. Still, […]

3 Actionable Ways Business Leaders Can Create a Culture that Supports Employee Mental Health

A strong company culture plays a significant role in employee happiness and productivity. It’s something more employers and business owners need to pay attention to since an estimated 83% of American workers struggle with work-related stress. That kind of stress leads to less productivity in the workplace and can cause employee retention to suffer. More […]

Everything You Need to Know about Restorative Yoga for Beginners

Most wellness experts agree that restorative yoga has many benefits, especially for beginners. It’s a holistic and therapeutic approach to physical and mental health. Regardless of whether you are young or old, mobility through passive stretching can help everyone. But beginners don’t always know where to start. With so many online and in-person classes available, […]

Brain Fitness and a Stress Management Program for the Workplace

The past few years have seen an explosion in research into brain structure, organization, and function. As a result, brain fitness is becoming a crucial area of scientific investigation, much like physical fitness has been a central part of human health and well-being in the past few decades. Brain fitness refers to the brain’s ability […]