Mindfulness is associated with numerous benefits, from decreased stress to improved self-esteem to better mental and physical health. People who cultivate mindfulness also tend to have more gratitude in daily life, regardless of their external circumstances. It's easy to dismiss mindfulness and assume you're too busy for it. But learning to live in the present moment is truly a moment-by-moment...[ read more ]
Sometimes anxiety symptoms like racing thoughts, chest pain, or panic attacks are incredibly apparent. You know that you're feeling nervous, and maybe other people can sense it, too. And if you've ever been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, you might be able to identify the emotional and physical symptoms indicating you're struggling. But anxiety can also be subtle and covert....[ read more ]
Approximately 60% of Americans live with at least one chronic disease, such as diabetes, cancer, or heart disease. Living with chronic illness can feel challenging for many reasons, and you may struggle emotionally, physically, or financially. While chronic illnesses may be difficult, having the right mindset, appropriate support, and healthy coping skills can make all the difference. Here are some...[ read more ]
There's no easy or straightforward way to cope with a cancer diagnosis. But knowing what to expect and being prepared for how to take care of yourself can make this challenging time feel a bit easier. If you've just received your diagnosis, you may feel any combination of fear, sadness, or shock. There's a lot of information to review, and...[ read more ]
Grief therapy refers to a specific kind of therapy intended to help you cope with a loss. While grief symptoms are not inherently problematic (they are an essential part of being human), they can certainly feel heavy and overwhelming. Sometimes, people don't know how to manage their grief- or it feels larger than life- which can perpetuate a deeper level...[ read more ]
A recent study found that 36% of Americans report feeling seriously lonely. And while this research was conducted a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, this trend speaks to the silent struggle many people face every day. Loneliness is real, and it affects people of all ages, demographics, and social classes. Temporary feelings of loneliness may inspire people to reach out...[ read more ]
If you suspect someone you love has Alzheimer's disease or dementia, you may not know what to do next. Even though more than 6 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease, simply talking about memory problems often feels taboo. People may present as resistant to your support, even when you approach them with care and concern. If you're worried someone you love...[ read more ]
Grief has a way of turning everything in life inside-out and upside-down. It is quite unlike any other experience we have in this lifetime, and each episode of grief is unique and inherently its own. In addition to feeling sad, angry, or confused after experiencing a loss, you may find that your grief feels emotionally or physically exhaustive. Even staying...[ read more ]
Many people experience guilt when grieving. Sometimes feeling guilty has positive benefits, especially if it motivates you to change problematic behaviors. But sometimes the guilt lies in holding yourself overly responsible for things that are out of your control. This type of guilt can quickly become burdensome, and it may stunt the healing process. Understanding Guilt During Grief Guilt is...[ read more ]
Most people understand the depression, anger, or guilt that emerges after a loss. These are some of the hallmark symptoms characterized by grief. But there are fewer conversations about the anxiety that sometimes arises within this vulnerable process. Grief-induced anxiety can be heavy and complicated, and it's often misunderstood. It can take the form of physical symptoms like insomnia, panic...[ read more ]