Sometimes people think they're experiencing a midlife crisis when they're actually having a depressive episode. Similarly, people may believe they're clinically depressed when they're having a normal reaction to the stressors that often come with being middle-aged. It's also possible for depression and midlife crises to overlap, and symptoms of one experience can exacerbate symptoms of another. Understanding Common Midlife...[ read more ]
It's estimated that over 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences chronic pain. Those in the workforce often need to manage their daily job tasks while also navigating discomfort, doctor's appointments, fatigue, and medication side effects. While coping with chronic pain isn't easy, some strategies can provide you with relief and support you at work. Managing Chronic Pain at Work People...[ read more ]
It's estimated that about 5% of Americans experience seasonal affective disorder (SAD). SAD symptoms exist on a spectrum, but like major depression, they can include persistent feelings of sadness, irritability, concentration problems, fatigue, weight loss or weight gain, changes in sleep patterns, and a lack of motivation. With that said, it's important to note that grief reactions can heighten depression,...[ read more ]
We receive so many messages about how we're supposed to talk about and process grief. On the one hand, there's often a societal expectation to acknowledge grief, stay strong, and resume back to normal life quickly. On the other hand, there's more discussion about the benefits of really processing emotions and being present with the tsunami of feelings that grief...[ read more ]
If you love someone who experiences depression, you may feel confused about how to best support them. You might not really understand the complexity of their condition or what to say or do to help them feel better. At the same time, you might struggle with feeling resentful, scared, or tired when it comes to coping with their mental health....[ read more ]
Existential anxiety refers to experiencing a sense of unease or dread about life, the universe, and the role you play in existence. It often entails asking tough questions about mortality, the meaning of life, and the values we embody. Unchecked existential anxiety can significantly affect your quality of life, and it may turn into nihilism, which is the belief that...[ read more ]
Anger is a natural emotion that is often misunderstood and gets a bad reputation. But the death of a loved one can trigger many intense emotions, including anger. You might be angry about the circumstances of the loss, unresolved tension that existed between you and the other person, or how other people are coping with the loss. Keep in mind...[ read more ]
It's normal to feel numb after a loss. Numbness is a complicated experience that can sometimes be difficult to articulate. It often coincides with a sense of detachment and disconnection. You may feel empty inside, and it can seem like you're going through the motions without actually experiencing any of your real emotions. Physically, numbness sometimes refers to a reduction...[ read more ]
We've become a deeply lonely world, with research showing that 36% of all Americans reporting feelings of serious loneliness. Both loneliness and social isolation have numerous consequences and they can erode your sense of emotional well-being. But what causes loneliness even if you have a partner, friends, or a support system? Let's get into some potential explanations. Significant Life Transitions...[ read more ]
Abbreviated grief refers to an authentic form of grief that feels short-lived or even inappropriate given the circumstances. That said, even if the grief feels temporary, the feelings are still there, and they can fluctuate over time. Abbreviated grief can be difficult because it might feel like you're suppressing your emotions even when you're not. You may also feel guilty...[ read more ]