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. […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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. […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
11
Apr
Apr
RtoR Family-Endorsed Provider Profile Andrew Wagenseller, LCSW Psychotherapist Southport, CT Andrew Wagenseller, LCSW, works from a client-centered approach where he meets individual clients where they are in their process of change to help clarify and achieve their personal goals in therapy and in life. He helps individuals identify and capitalize on their strengths to […]
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 […]
25
Mar
Mar
You love your family. You cherish your friends. You find pleasure and fulfillment in your work. You have every reason to be a happy, well-adjusted person in almost all respects. Sometimes, though, the pressures of the day and the inevitable challenges of life get to be too much. You lash out. You lose control and […]
21
Mar
Mar
Each year, over 96,000 Americans die due to drug overdose. The internet has made addictive activities such as gambling, porn, or shopping more accessible than ever. But it’s also opened the door for access to treatments such as virtual psychotherapy. If you or a loved one are struggling, you may be considering whether therapy is […]
16
Mar
Mar
Life can be difficult at times. But if we express and communicate our needs to the people around us, we can navigate our way. Expression and communication help us get through the challenges of life. Now think of somebody who cannot do something as simple as that. How tough can that be for a person? […]
14
Mar
Mar
Everybody experiences stress at some point in their lives. For some, it’s just a fleeting feeling that passes once the source of stress is gone. But for others, stress can become a chronic problem that affects not just their mood but also their personality. Mental health experts note that stressed-out people tend to become more […]
11
Mar
Mar
In modern society, conversations about mental health are becoming more frequent as the stigma around the subject continues to diminish. If you have felt your mental health suffer recently, you’re not alone, with one in five American adults experiencing a mental health illness every year. Whether you’re stressed about job security and workload or are […]
09
Mar
Mar
Writing Helps Mental health issues are no longer a taboo subject. People of all trades and walks of life can be affected. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 53 million adults in the United States live with some form of mental illness. That is approximately one in every five adults. While the […]
07
Mar
Mar
The term obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is often used to describe a wide variety of behaviors, thoughts, and compulsions. Some people casually throw the phrase around, even using it to make light of certain character traits such as being highly organized or exhibiting attention to detail. Because of this, there’s often confusion and speculation surrounding what […]
28
Feb
Feb
Body dysmorphic disorder is a mental health condition that involves excessive negative thoughts about the appearance of a person’s own body. It is estimated that about one in 50 people in the United States has this condition. Characteristics of Body Dysmorphia People who have body dysmorphic disorder are hyper-focused on their personal appearance and their […]
23
Feb
Feb
Spending time outdoors is essentially crucial for people of all ages. Interacting with nature lifts spirits and boosts physical and mental health, and is a perfect way to relax and find peace. While being outdoors is important for every person, it is particularly crucial for seniors with limited mobility. Experts advise that spending time outdoors […]
compiled by Danielle Leblanc, LMSW, Diversity Outreach Resource Specialist, Laurel House, Inc. & www.rtor.org Resources to Recover (www.rtor.org) and its sponsor, Laurel House, Inc., are committed to the advancement of racial equity and social justice, and to making mental health services available to all. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in […]
16
Feb
Feb
Mental health problems are more common than meets the eye, especially for children. It’s thought that about 15% of children and adolescents worldwide have a mental health disorder. Child psychologists and psychotherapists play an essential role in the treatment of mental health problems. They help children cope with stresses in their lives, assess mental health […]
07
Feb
Feb
In these unprecedented times, many people across the nation have experienced some form of low mood. Whether triggered by an event such as stress at work, the death of a loved one, or illness, the feeling can be unbearable. Many describe a “low mood” as a feeling of hopelessness. Others describe it as a lack […]
04
Feb
Feb
In my time as a therapist, I’ve worked with many people who struggle with symptoms of anxiety and depression, as they are the common cold and the flu of the mental health world. Generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder have long been two of the most common mental health disorders, while several other anxiety […]
02
Feb
Feb
The days of hushed conversations surrounding mental health struggles are gone. People are more comfortable than ever discussing how they’re doing and what they need to find more inner balance. The change also affects professional spaces, which is great for both employees and management teams. Mental health awareness is changing in the workplace, making the […]
31
Jan
Jan
Have you ever felt that you are too tired to even get out of bed? All you want to do the entire day is just sleep. Is your life hectic? Do you feel you cannot take it anymore? If yes, you need to take a good look at what is going on with you. You […]
28
Jan
Jan
The declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) sparked widespread fear around the world. Even though it’s been almost two years since the pandemic’s start, it’s still a reality in many parts of the country. Our daily lives have changed significantly due to the preventive measures to curb the further spread […]
26
Jan
Jan
Things were different a few decades back when you didn’t have to retreat to the countryside to find clean, breathable air. With global warming on the rise, the environmental side effects are wreaking havoc on physical and mental health. Mental health problems are also on the rise, and one unexpected culprit is the deteriorating air […]
21
Jan
Jan
You’ve been planning a vacation for a few months, but is now the right time to go? Taking a break could do you some good. A 2013 study found that traveling can enhance empathy, attention, energy, and focus, so you have more reason than ever to book a flight. But what if the mere thought […]
17
Jan
Jan
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurological disorder that can be complicated to diagnose and treat, especially without professional help. It affects about 1 in every 68 children, according to a recent report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is among the widely preferred treatments for autism. […]
14
Jan
Jan
Financial stress is a serious problem in America. Data collected by the American Psychological Association (APA) found that 61% of Americans say they feel stressed about money, and nearly three-quarters of respondents said they experienced mental health issues such as feeling overwhelmed, headaches, fatigue, and changes in sleep habits. The good news is that the […]
07
Jan
Jan
Mental health includes a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It impacts everything we do—how we think, feel, and behave. In addition, it plays a role in how we cope with stress, relate to other people, and make certain choices. As a result, mental health is essential at every stage in life, whether childhood, adolescence, […]
05
Jan
Jan
About 15 years ago, I told my therapist about the social isolation I was struggling with. It had been a few years since my mental breakdown, and I didn’t want to be seen by my friends until I felt better. I didn’t know what to say to them, so I avoided them. I was too […]
03
Jan
Jan
College is supposed to be a safe place where learning, growth, and fun interconnect to give young adults a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, the quest for academic validation, success, and the natural human desire to learn new things can become a daunting experience—leaving students with nothing but stress and apathy. We call that academic burnout. According […]
31
Dec
Dec
When people think about ways to relieve stress in their lives, things like meditation, yoga, and journaling often spring to mind. These are, without a doubt, excellent techniques. Getting a new best friend, on the other hand, might have several stress-relieving health advantages. While human friends give excellent social support and offer many benefits, this […]
