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Crisis Recovery For Military or First Responders
Recovery from a crisis can be especially challenging for military personnel and first responders, who often face the dual burden of managing their own emotional responses while providing support to others. This guide offers practical steps to help you navigate the recovery process effectively, integrating key practices such as maintaining personal connections and establishing healthy routines. Avoiding Over-Identifying with Survivors’ Grief One of the critical aspects of recovery for military or first responders is Avoiding over-identifying with survivors’ grief. It’s natural to empathize with those you’re helping; however, maintaining a professional distance is crucial to preserve your mental health. Techniques such as mindfulness and reflection can help you acknowledge your…
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A Reflection for Mental Health Awareness Month
As we kick off Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s essential to shine a spotlight on the significance of taking care of our emotional well-being, no matter where we are in life. Did you know approximately 1 in 5 adults (20%) will experience a mental illness this year? And that doesn’t include statistics about our children and youth’s mental health. Despite the prevalence of mental health conditions, only around 43% of adults with mental illness receive help, highlighting the need for increased awareness and support for mental health. The Importance of Self-Care Life can get pretty hectic sometimes, right? Between work, family, and everything else on our plates, it’s easy to…
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What Exactly is Gaslighting and Are You a Victim?
Gaslighting is a term that has gained attention in recent years, especially in discussions surrounding toxic relationships and psychological manipulation. The term “gaslighting” originates from the play and film “Gaslight,” where a husband manipulates his wife into questioning her own reality. The concept was further popularized by the 1944 film adaptation starring Ingrid Bergman. The term “gaslighting” was coined to describe a form of psychological manipulation where the perpetrator seeks to sow seeds of doubt in the victim, making them question their own perceptions and sanity. It is a tactic often used by abusive individuals to gain control and power over others by undermining their confidence and sense of reality.…
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How to Test Prep to Stress Less
When the days get longer, it’s a sure sign that spring has arrived. This change of seasons also ushers in the time of year when teachers, parents, and students prepare for testing. Whether it’s a final exam, a standardized test, or even a pop quiz, tackling tests can be nerve-wracking. But fear not, because I want to share some strategies to help you prepare for a test while keeping your mental health in check. Starting Early and Staying Organized First things first, let’s talk about starting early and staying organized. Procrastination is the ultimate enemy when it comes to test prep, at least it was for me growing up. It…
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Silencing Your Inner Critic
The words we tell ourselves are powerful. They shape how we show up in the world and what we believe we are capable of. After thousands of conversations I’ve had over the years, along with my own lived experience, I have come to realize we all have an internal world unseen by the people around us. One recurring theme that emerges is the undeniable power of the words we tell ourselves, and the profound impact it has on our mental well-being. Our inner dialogue, that constant stream of thoughts buzzing in our minds, plays a crucial role in shaping our emotions and behaviors. It’s like having a personal narrator, commenting…
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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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6 Holistic Tips to Help with Insomnia
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that affects many individuals, both young and old. It can be frustrating to deal with but there are simple tips and tricks that can help improve your sleep quality and overall well-being. Here, we will explore six useful tips for managing insomnia, focusing on natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can make a significant difference in your sleep patterns. 1. Melatonin for Adults, Not Children and Teens Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. While children and teens typically have enough melatonin naturally, adults may benefit from supplementation. If you choose to take melatonin, it is recommended to start with a low dosage—between…
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Overcome Codependency to Feel More Confident
Heal and break free of people-pleasing patterns with proven strategies, therapy insights, and steps towards healthier relationships. Let’s dive into a deep and personal adventure, shall we? Understanding the codependent actions that can cause a problem in our relationships. That overwhelming urge to make everyone else happy. We can learn how to beat codependency by using some cognitive behavioral therapy tactics. We will discuss how setting boundaries can stop people-pleasing behaviors and heal relationships. Today, I will share some tips and tricks for anyone looking for effective strategies to help you become more independent and have meaningful, mutually satisfying relationships. Exploring the Roots of Codependent Behaviors and People-Pleasing Tendencies Do…
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Finding PEACE in an Unpeaceful World
Living in an unpeaceful world can take a toll on our mental health. The constant stress, negativity, and chaos can leave us feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from our inner peace. However, it is possible to find peace within ourselves, even amidst the chaos. In this blog, we will explore five steps that can help us cultivate inner serenity, using the acronym PEACE. Step 1: Practice Mindfulness Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, without judgment. It allows us to observe our thoughts and emotions without getting caught up in them. For my friends who are spiritual, mindfulness can be in the form of listening to the…
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Restoring Balance After a Manic Episode
Experiencing a manic episode can be overwhelming, but with the right approach, it is possible to regain balance and reconnect with your true self. By following the steps outlined in the acronym R.E.S.T.O.R.E., you can embark on a journey of recovery and find your way back to a balanced and fulfilling life. Reach Out to a Therapist: The first step towards reclaiming yourself after a manic episode is to seek professional help. Reach out to your mental health professional or psychiatrist to discuss your experience and develop a plan for recovery. They can provide guidance, adjust medications if necessary, and offer therapy or counseling options tailored to your needs. Establish…
