Stress is a fact of life and we can’t escape it. Most stress resolves once a person is removed from the situation and research has shown that occasional exposure to stress may actually increase brain health and alertness. Any prolonged exposure, however, can have long lasting impacts on our overall well being. In addition, toxic … Read More
Are you someone who struggles with anxiety? According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 million people in the US, over the age of 18, have a diagnosable anxiety disorder. Treatment for anxiety is available, and one way to support recovery from anxiety is to pay attention to how you can support your … Read More
In most cases, we think of “productivity” as a positive concept. In fact, many believe being a workaholic is necessary, if you want to be successful. But what happens when being productive is taken too far? Dr. Sandra Champman, Chief Director for the Center for BrainHealth, defines addiction as a “brain disease that affects the … Read More
In Gary Chapman’s book, “The Five Love Languages: The Secrets to Love that Lasts,” the author identified five ways that people can express love or caring. These expressions are not limited to only relationships, but can also apply to friends, family and even co-workers. Learning these “languages” can promote selflessness, increase empathy, create greater intimacy, … Read More
As we collectively face the uncertainty of the coronavirus landscape, psychologist Dr. Morgan McCain suggests we may find ourselves engaging in people-pleasing behaviors as a survival strategy or coping mechanism. This behavior can also be a way to find acceptance or avoid vulnerability. It allows us to focus on the needs of another while not … Read More
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) can increase an adult’s likelihood of poor mental and physical health outcomes later in life. The other side of the ‘ACEs coin’ is Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs), which can lead to improved mental health and healthier relationships throughout childhood as well as into adulthood. In 2019, Christina Bethell, et al. studied … Read More
Tai Chi and Qigong are ancient Chinese practices that involve meditation, controlled breathing and movement. These low-impact exercises have been studied because of their many health benefits, including reducing anxiety and stress, aiding in relaxation, minimizing clinical symptomology, and improving immune function.
Hope can feel like one of those rose-colored concepts that seem superfluous, particularly during times of struggle. According to University of Wisconsin psychologist, Shilagh Mirgain, when things are difficult, hope can provide an anchor by reminding us that “things will work out.”
Have you ever felt like a fraud? Like somehow you would be found out as not good enough, not belonging, or not deserving? In 1978, psychologists Pauline Rose Clance and Susanne Imes identified a set of symptoms they called impostor syndrome, which gave a name to these feelings. Many folks in recovery struggle with impostor … Read More
In an earlier post, we explored the value of animal-assisted psychotherapy in the treatment of substance use and co-occurring disorders. The following is a narrative of how a service dog, named Gander, saved the life of his human companion, military veteran Lon Hodge.
