Our Latest Blogs

The Link Between Trauma and Addiction

sad woman drinking wine

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 […]

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 […]

Finding the Best Counselor for Your Teenager: A Comprehensive Guide

teen boy with skateboard

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 […]

40 Positive 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 positive affirmations. These affirming statements can change our mindset, boost self-love, and […]

Validating Your Child’s Emotions and the Connection to Mental Health

parents under blanket with small child

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 […]

Navigating Mental Health Transitions in Later Life

older man with gift box

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. […]

Failure to Launch

Failure to Launch syndrome is not a formal mental health disorder. Rather, it is a popular term for a young adult living at home who is highly dependent on parents or other family members.

Adulthood Is a Gift: An Interview with “Sarah’s Scribbles” Cartoonist and Illustrator Sarah Andersen

Sarah’s Scribbles and her works

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 […]

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 […]

How Alcohol Affects The Brain

man drinking glass of beer

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 […]

Gen Z Mental Health Epidemic: Can Telehealth Be The Solution?

Gen Z friends on smartphone

“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 […]

Creating a Safe Space at Home for LGBTQ+ Youth

proud father with support sign

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 […]

Navigating the Benefits of Ketamine Treatment for Depression

water lily blossom

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, […]

Online Therapy: Why Is it So Popular with Young Adults and How to Pick the Right Counselor?

woman using laptop

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 […]

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, […]

Two is Not Necessarily Better Than One: An Alternative Perspective on Comorbidity and “Behavioral” Health Diagnoses

worried woman with smartphone

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 Therapist: A Practical Guide To Navigating Outpatient Mental Health Services

woman with appointment book

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 […]

Bridging the Gap: The Role of Therapy in Addressing Teen Mental Health

smiling teen boy

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 […]

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 […]

Finding Purpose Living with Treatment-Resistant Mental Health Conditions

close-up of woman’s face

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 […]

How to Protect Children from the Negative Influence of Drugs and Alcohol Use on Social Media

teen viewing smartphone

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 […]

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 […]

Understanding ADHD and Gender: A Comprehensive Study on Gender-Specific Comorbidities and Care

chalk transgender flag

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 […]

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 […]

Online Help for Depression: A Guide to Treatment and Support

smiling man on laptop

Did you know that approximately 280 million people worldwide struggle with depression, according to the World Health Organization? Depression is more than just feeling sad sometimes. It’s a mood disorder that can stem from various causes, such as genetic vulnerabilities, faulty mood regulation by the brain, or stressful life events. Depression, also known as a […]

The Importance of Self-Care in Long-Term Addiction Recovery

four friends high-fiving

Reaching out for help with addiction takes a great deal of courage, and many people focus only on the detox process or the therapy required for recovery. However, self-care in addiction recovery is equally important. During addiction treatment, your care plan will probably include things like group therapy sessions, giving you a chance to relate […]

Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder

close-up of smiling woman

Living with borderline personality disorder (BPD) can be challenging, impacting various aspects of one’s life. This guide aims to shed light on the complexities of BPD, from understanding the disorder to resources for support and coping strategies. Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder: BPD stands for borderline personality disorder. It is a mental health condition characterized by […]

Managing ADHD When Working from Home

man working from home in kitchen

For many adults with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the rise in work-from-home culture has been a double-edged sword. On one hand, working from home eliminates the stress of a traditional office environment and provides more flexibility. On the other, it introduces new challenges that can impede focus and productivity, amplifying the difficulties inherent to ADHD. If […]

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 […]

The Rise of Micro-Therapy for Accessible Mental Health Support

close up of woman scrolling smart phone

Psychotherapy has traditionally involved hour-long sessions with a therapist. However, a new trend is emerging – micro-therapy. As the name suggests, micro-therapy consists of much shorter sessions, usually 5-15 minutes. This new form of therapy is gaining popularity due to its efficiency and accessibility. What is Micro-Therapy? Micro-therapy, also known as micro-counseling or micro-coaching, refers […]

The Power of Female-Centered Therapy: Celebrating Women’s Unique Journeys

close up of women’s hands in therapy

Every person’s life path is different, marked by various challenges and triumphs that define each one of us. However, women frequently face distinct challenges that may not be acknowledged fully. Issues such as gender bias, discrimination, and the stress of adhering to societal norms can have a substantial impact on women’s mental health. This makes […]

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 […]

Harnessing the Power of CBT for Effective Relapse Prevention

three friends smiling

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on changing patterns of thinking or behaviors that can lead to problems in your life. CBT is a highly effective evidence-based practice used to treat a range of mental health problems, including anxiety, depression, and addiction. If you’re struggling to stay sober, CBT might […]

PCOS and Body Image: Embracing These Lifestyle Changes Helped Me Feel Empowered

smiling woman with curly hair

I was in my late twenties when I was finally diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) — a hormonal imbalance where the ovaries produce an excess of male hormones. After nearly two decades of irregular, painful periods, chronic inflammation, and rapidly increasing weight, I was equally relieved and overwhelmed to know what was wrong. Years […]

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 […]

Frank S.K. Appah, Jr., MD PhD

RtoR Family-Endorsed Provider Profile Frank S.K. Appah, Jr., MD PhD Psychotherapist and Board Certified Adult Psychiatrist Westport, CT Dr. Appah is a board-certified psychiatrist specializing in emerging adult and adult psychiatry. He is the founder of Meroë Psychiatric, a Westport-based private practice providing psychiatric consultation, psychotherapy, pharmacogenetic testing, and medication management. Dr. Appah specializes in […]

Combating Holiday Season Loneliness When You’re in Recovery

Black family cutting Christmas tree

The holiday season, often considered a time of joy and celebration, can be a challenging period for many individuals, especially those navigating the twisting path of addiction recovery. For those who have embarked on the journey to overcome substance use disorders, feelings of loneliness during the holidays can be particularly troubling. The struggle to maintain […]

The Gut-Brain Connection: How Your Gut Health Affects Your Mental Wellbeing

woman with stomach pain.

An optimally functioning gut has trillions of microbes living harmoniously to provide essential nutrients while protecting the body from potential pathogens. These microbes also communicate with your immune system and the rest of the body through hormonal and neural messengers known as the gut-brain connection axis. Many studies show a connection between gut health and […]

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, […]

Effective Strategies for Maintaining Sobriety During the Holiday Season

young woman in holiday street scene.

**Updated on 11/26/24** Navigating the holiday season while in recovery can be both challenging and rewarding. With a season full of parties, family gatherings, and potential triggers, it’s essential to have a plan for staying sober. This guide outlines actionable strategies to help you maintain your sobriety during the holidays, allowing you to enjoy the […]

How Stigma Impacts People with Mental Health Issues

locked chain link fence.

When people struggle with mental health, it can feel like no one else understands what they’re going through. This lack of understanding can create an isolating feeling that makes their struggles worse. The stigma surrounding mental health can make many afraid of sharing their mental health struggles with friends and family, worried that they might […]

Nurturing Physical and Mental Well-being in Adolescent Boys

teen boy with backpack

Adolescence can be a challenging time for many boys as they experience the onset of puberty and must navigate new social situations. Many boys feel confused during this time and need extra support. Parents should be available to answer questions and reassure their teenage sons whether they’re on the right path or need a change […]

Navigating the Intersection of Psychology and Psychiatric Care for Mental Well-being

two professional women

The United States has a major mental health problem. Not only are there millions of people living with mental health conditions, but a significant portion of them go through life without any form of treatment at all. Many factors contribute to this unfortunate situation. For many years, mental health stigma was a driving force. People […]

Advancements in Medical Treatments for Mental Health Disorders

health professional at laptop

There have been remarkable advancements in medical treatments for mental health disorders in recent years. These breakthroughs offer hope and relief to millions worldwide who grapple with conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. The collaboration between pharmaceutical companies, healthcare professionals, and contract research organizations (CROs) has led to significant progress in understanding […]

Georgette Harrison LPC, CCMHC

RtoR Family-Endorsed Provider Profile   Georgette Harrison LPC, CCMHC Psychotherapist New Canaan, CT Georgette Harrison is a psychotherapist specializing in infant, early childhood, and parent mental health. She helps families address the issues of early childhood (feeding, sleeping, tantrums, bonding difficulties, power struggles, socializing, concentration) so parent and child can have the relationship they want. […]

What Is the Actual Relationship between Mental Illness and Gun Violence? A Look at the Science Behind Mass Shootings

Strangers hold hands at Aurora, CO memorial

For years, psychologists, politicians, and policymakers have debated whether or not mental illness causes mass shootings. Due to the high rates of mental health disorders and the increase in mass shootings in the United States, people have begun to assume that the two are inevitably related. Following the occurrence of another tragic mass shooting in […]

Narcissistic Abuse and Codependency: Breaking the Enmeshment Cycle

troubled couple sitting on curb

Being partnered with an abuser can be as disorienting as it is devastating, creating challenges that are not always immediately apparent. Victims of narcissistic abuse, subjected to varying levels of manipulation and control, often find themselves slipping into patterns of codependency, defined as maintaining a relationship that is one-sided or abusive in nature.[1] Such interactions […]

Teen Bullying Is the New Epidemic: What Steps Should Parents Take?

worried teen with smartphone

In July 2023, News 18 reported on Aydin Pedone, a 15-year-old teenager from Hudson Falls, who fell prey to bullying. An online video clip of the teen in a Spiderman costume showed that he was subjected to severe bullying, leading to a broken nose. According to the New York Post, Aydin was coerced into coming […]

The Comprehensive Healing Power of Holistic Therapy

serene waterfall in woods

Holistic therapy, also known as holistic psychology, considers the entirety of an individual, encompassing the physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual dimensions of being. By emphasizing the interconnected facets of a person’s existence, this therapeutic approach has become increasingly favored among those open to supplementary and unconventional mental health treatments. How Can Holistic Mental Health Care […]

How Cognitive Behavioral Group Therapy (CBGT) Can Help Teens Challenge Cognitive Distortions

older teens talking

“I failed at the swimming tryouts today. I’m no good at swimming, so I should just quit.” “What if I study now but still fail the exam tomorrow?” “My teacher complimented my art, but I know he was just being nice to me.” You might hear comments like these often from your teen. These are […]

Social Media Can Kill: The Illicit Drug Trade Goes Online

young adult on smartphone

“The package came in the mail for my daughter—I put it on the counter with everything else. I didn’t give it a second thought. Why would I?” My friend—a retired cop—had called me every day and spoke the exact same words, sometimes more than once in a single conversation. The strange thing was that his […]

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 […]

Mental Health Screening: A Proactive Approach to Well-Being

man standing in front of window

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. It relates to how we think, feel, and act and plays a significant role in determining our quality of life. Unfortunately, mental health conditions are often overlooked or stigmatized, leading to the neglect of necessary treatment and support. As such, a proactive approach to mental health […]

What do Taxi Driver, Death Note, and The Scream have in Common with the Genius of the Human Psyche? Understanding the Human Condition through Dostoevsky’s Literary Legacy

hands holding open book

When it comes to the human psyche and its imprint upon literature, no other writer is discussed and celebrated more than the Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky. Also referred to as ‘Shakespeare of the lunatic asylum,’ his realistic portrayals of mental anguish and exploration of the darkest impulses of the human mind make for some of […]

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 […]

Post-Divorce Depression: Causes, Risks, and Treatment

sad woman with crossed arms.

When a marriage falls apart, it can significantly impact a person’s life. One common health hazard that often accompanies divorce is depression. Feeling sad or down for a brief time after divorce is a normal reaction to the breakup of a marriage. However, an increasing number of divorced people stay in a depressive state for […]

Overcoming Trauma with a Holistic Approach to Therapy: Mind, Body, and Soul

person standing before sunset

Sitting on a couch is a therapist with a clipboard. We talk about our problems. We discuss them in great detail. We connect them back to problems in our childhood. Then we expand upon those problems. Sometimes we leave the session feeling more anxious and distraught than when we started. Or maybe we leave the […]

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 […]

Maternal Depression in Second Pregnancies: The Untold Story

toddler with newborn sibling

Pregnancy is one of the most life-changing events a woman can experience. A number of physiological and psychological changes occur as the body prepares to nurture and grow new life. However, people often hype the first-time pregnancy experience, while the second and subsequent ones are seen as less important. The second pregnancy is treated more […]

What’s Standing in the Way of Improved Mental Health for All?

serious African American man

Most people experience mental health challenges from time to time. However, the signs of a problem aren’t always obvious. Common indicators are stress, insomnia, anxiety, or depression—conditions millions of people suffer silently through each day. With all of the qualified professionals and tech-based solutions available, it is easier than ever to get mental health help. […]

Mental Health Misdiagnoses in Children: What to Look Out for in Diagnosing Childhood Mental Health Disorders

child with painted hands

When a child has mental health issues, getting the right treatment and care for that child is critical. Unfortunately, many children are misdiagnosed with the wrong mental health disorder, which ultimately means they may not receive adequate treatment. Find out why mental health misdiagnoses happen so often in children, what conditions are most commonly misdiagnosed, […]

Teen Suicides Are on the Rise: What Can Parents Do?

male teen wearing hoodie

In April 2023, Bloomberg reported deeply disturbing news involving Chase Nasca, who died by suicide at age 16. In the days before his death, his TikTok feed was full of videos glorifying suicide. To the horror of Chase’s parents, the social media app was still pushing suicide-obsessed content to his feed more than a year […]

Empower, Don’t Enable: How to Stop Enabling Loved Ones with Addiction Issues

Enabling is a pattern of behavior in which a parent, partner, or loved one with addiction issues assists or supports that person’s harmful or self-destructive habits, often unintentionally. This can take many forms, such as giving someone money or covering up for a loved one’s relapse. Enabling can come from a genuine desire to help, […]

The Mental Health Toll of Poverty: Understanding Challenges Faced by the Poor in the United States

homeless man on bench

Living in poverty is exhausting. People who cannot afford to live comfortably and pay all their bills often have to deal with extraordinary challenges while living under near-constant stress. In the United States, with its wealth, many people live below the poverty line. A surprising 12.8% of the population falls under the poverty line, with […]

The Impact of Combat Exposure on Veterans’ Mental Health and Strategies for Coping

Strategies for Coping When combat veterans end their service and come home, they often leave one battle behind to begin another. For many veterans, the mental health battle is one they face alone. Some will experience difficult emotions such as anxiety, guilt, anger, and feelings of worthlessness. These painful emotions can develop into mental health […]

How Nursing Interventions Can Help Families Affected by Mental Health Conditions

nurse sorting medications

Families affected by mental conditions often face significant challenges in their daily lives. The impact of mental health issues extends beyond the individual to the entire family unit, affecting relationships, communication, and overall well-being. According to the nonprofit news outlet The Conversation, parents struggling with depression tend to exhibit increased negativity towards their children, such […]