Despite the cliched platitudes about living life with no regrets, reality proves to be much different. It's estimated that we make at least 35,000 decisions a day- with so many options available, regret is unavoidable. The good news is that regret isn't a bad or negative feeling. It's a natural reaction everyone experiences. While regret feels uncomfortable, you can learn...[ read more ]
Grief and dissociation can sometimes go hand-in-hand, particularly if your grief is recent or you have an unresolved past trauma related to loss, anxiety, or abandonment. Dissociation refers to experiences of disconnection from your body, feelings, thoughts, or external surroundings. Dissociation itself is not bad or wrong, but it can cause distress and impact your grief process. Regardless of your...[ read more ]
Resilience is one of the most admirable traits a person can have. Resilience is associated with flexibility, grit, and toughness. People who exude resilience can handle the ups and downs of life and manage their stress effectively. It may, therefore, seem paradoxical that resilience often starts with vulnerability, the state of deliberately opening yourself up to harm and threat. If...[ read more ]
Grief, with its profound and varied impact, can represent a tumultuous journey among even the closest couples. It can affect communication, safety, intimacy, and more. When one or both partners are coping with loss, the dynamics and normal equilibrium within the marriage can change in uncomfortable ways. At times, however, the grieving process may also bring you and your spouse...[ read more ]
You sold your home, but you feel a sense of sadness, anger, regret, or confusion. These feelings can be difficult, and they can be especially surprising when people choose to sell their home to upgrade to a better space or to make a sound financial decision. It's important to note that selling a home can be as exciting as it...[ read more ]
Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide, and it affects people of all ages and demographics. If you experienced depression in the past, you may be more likely to experience depression in older age. That said, older adults don't recognize their emotional or physical complaints as a sign of a mental health condition. Elderly Depression: Statistics...[ read more ]
For as emotionally heavy as grief can be, there often isn't enough conversation about the physical symptoms associated with such loss. But the grieving process can be intensely physical, with people noting all kinds of bodily sensations from chest pain to stomachaches to muscle tension. This speaks to the complex interplay between the mind and body. Understanding How Grief Affects...[ read more ]
The aging process is inevitable, but knowing that doesn't automatically make aging easier. Both men and women can struggle with getting older. While we've made some societal efforts to reduce ageist stereotypes, we still have a very long way to go, and this form of discrimination still runs rampant. As you transition from middle age to older age, it's important...[ read more ]
Research shows that nearly a quarter of adults aged 45-64 provided immediate assistance or care to a loved one in the past month. Over one-third of caregivers devoted at least 20 hours a week to caregiving. Caregiving can be rewarding and meaningful, especially if you're tending to a close friend or family member. When you're in charge, you can ensure...[ read more ]
Anger in grief is one of the most common emotions people experience. Regardless of what specifically happened, feeling angry is a normal reaction after a loss. You might be angry about the circumstances surrounding the loss itself. You may feel angry toward yourself for things you did or didn't do. And you might also feel angry toward your loved one...[ read more ]