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How to Set Boundaries with Family and Protect Your Peace
The holidays can be a reminder for grief, a breeding ground for disappointment, and a healthy reminder of why we don’t see our extended family every day. These moments have made some of my clients realize that they want to change their boundaries with some of their family, or change their relationships with them. Here we’ll cover some tips on how to do that if you are in a similar situation. But first, let’s explore what setting boundaries means. What Setting Boundaries With Family Means? There can be some confusion about what setting boundaries really means. Your boundaries are about you and what behavior you will and will not tolerate;…
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Finding the Right Words: How to Comfort Someone You Love
Have you ever found yourself worrying about someone you care about, unsure of how to reach out or what to say to comfort them? It can be a difficult place to be, especially when so many people struggle in silence, hiding their challenges behind a brave face. Picture a close friend—someone with whom you’ve shared countless laughs and heartfelt moments—sitting across from you, seemingly weighed down by unspoken burdens. You sense a shift in their mood and notice changes in their behavior, making it clear that something isn’t quite right. In these moments, you may feel the urge to say something, yet the right words seem to be hard to…
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Exploring the Benefits of Different Types of Therapy
Today, many individuals are turning to therapy as a way to cope with the challenges and stressors of everyday life. Therapy comes in many forms, each offering unique benefits and approaches to healing. Let’s explore the benefits of different types of therapy and how they can help individuals navigate their mental health journey. 1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Therapists widely use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to focus on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. The main benefit of CBT is its practical approach, offering clients tangible tools to manage symptoms. CBT has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. 2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT):…
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Coming Out: A Survival Guide to Coming Out to Your Family
When considering coming out to your family, it is important to remember the goal of the conversation. This more than likely means wanting to share and be vulnerable with your loved ones. Whether you have a close-knit family or you only have a few family members whom you are close with, here are a few tips that can help you have this conversation. 1. Practice, practice, practice Practicing what you want to say can be a step in the right direction to prepare you for this conversation. Think of a time, place, and location—somewhere private and quiet will allow you the opportunity to speak out about your feelings. Practicing may…
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“I Said…You Heard”—How to Have Effective Communication
Ever had that moment where what you said was totally misunderstood? You’re not alone. Effective communication is key in all relationships, whether it’s with friends, family, or coworkers. But the message you intend to send and what the other person actually hears can sometimes be miles apart. Let’s dive into how to make sure “I said” and “you heard” are on the same page. 1. Active Listening First up, active listening. This means really paying attention when someone’s talking to you. Put away your phone, make eye contact, and give nods or little verbal cues to show you’re engaged. It’s about making the other person feel heard and understood, which…
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Make Therapy Work for You: Tips for a Successful Journey
Have you tried mental health therapy and felt like it didn’t work for you? You are not alone. I urge you to try again. Here are some tips that can help make the therapeutic process actually work for you: 1. Find the right therapist You might want to consider their experience and knowledge, as well as their credentials. Mostly, look for a therapist who is knowledgeable and skilled in the areas that you need. Keep in mind, you and that therapist may still not be a right fit for each other, and that’s okay. Don’t give up. Ask that therapist to refer you to someone who they think might have…
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Conflict–The Way Out is (Talking) Through
I have met very few people in my lifetime who actually enjoy conflict. For many, conflict is something they avoid at all costs. This is because conflict often brings emotional discomfort, as it involves facing different opinions, or tensions that can be hard to navigate. Sometimes we fear consequences that may result from conflict, such as hurt in relationships, rejection, or even professional repercussions. Conflict, even on a good day, can cause stress and anxiety–especially if you avoid important issues in the name of “keeping the peace” or not “rocking the boat.” Before I dive into how to address and resolve conflict in a healthy, productive way, let’s first talk…
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The Magic of Saying “No”
How Protecting Your mental Health Can Start with a Simple Word Life is a whirlwind, isn’t it? We’re constantly bombarded with requests, invitations, and favors that seem to pile up faster than laundry on a Sunday afternoon. And let’s be real, we’ve all been there—saying “yes” to everything that comes our way because we want to be helpful, supportive, and well-liked. But what if I told you that the power to protect your mental health could be as simple as saying “no”? The Heavy Burden of Overcommitment We’ve heard the phrase “burning the candle at both ends,” and it couldn’t be truer in today’s world. Overcommitting yourself can lead to…
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The Complex Interplay of Domestic Abuse, Narcissism, and Self-Esteem
Domestic abuse is a deeply troubling issue that affects countless individuals worldwide. It is important to understand the dynamics surrounding this issue. This includes the role of narcissism and self-esteem. While domestic abuse is not solely caused by low self-esteem, it is often observed that individuals with low self-esteem are more vulnerable to becoming victims. Additionally, some abusers may unknowingly target individuals with low self-esteem. This article aims to shed light on the relationship between domestic abuse, narcissism, and self-esteem. It emphasizes the need for healthier communication and understanding. Understanding Narcissism: Narcissism is often misunderstood, with many associating it solely with self-centeredness and a lack of empathy. However, true narcissism…
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The Power of Our Words
Words are not merely a means of communication. They possess an extraordinary power that can shape our lives and the world around us. From the ancient wisdom of philosophers to the modern understanding of neuro-linguistic programming, the impact of our words has been recognized throughout history. In this blog, we will explore the profound influence our words have on ourselves and others. Also, we will explore how we can harness this power to create positive change. 1. Self-Talk: The Inner Dialogue The words we use in our internal conversations, also known as self-talk, have a profound impact on our self-perception and overall well-being. Positive self-talk can boost confidence, motivation, and…
