People living with depression know the difference between the easy days and the hard days. On those easier days, the symptoms may feel far more manageable. You may notice yourself experiencing moments of joy or happiness, and you might feel confident with yourself. But the hard days can be extremely hard. And when those days start accumulating, you might be...[ 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 ]
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 ]
You've probably heard that new year's resolutions overwhelmingly don't work. In fact, research shows that 91% of Americans won't achieve their goals. To be exact, most people quit on January 19, the infamous day coined as Quitter's Day. But that doesn't mean you should abandon your efforts to set goals for self-improvement and happiness. New Year's Intentions vs Resolutions: What's...[ read more ]
It's cited as the most wonderful time of the year, but grief can have a gripping and devastating effect on the winter months. As we move into the holiday season, grief often feels more intense. The memories of your loved one may seem more pronounced, and the accompanying sadness or fear may feel unbearable. Whether it's your first or tenth...[ read more ]
Shame is that warm feeling that washes over us, making us feel small, flawed, and never good enough- Brene Brown We all feel shame from time to time. It's a natural human response to making mistakes or hurting the people we love. Healthy shame can motivate us to be better people and think more consciously in the future. But toxic...[ read more ]
Do you frequently ruminate over mistakes? Does your shame keep you guarded and embarrassed? Does it seem like everyone else has a better or easier life than you? If you resonate with those struggles, you're certainly not alone. Many of us are our own worst enemies, and we live in a society that conditions us to question, doubt, and even...[ read more ]
You have probably heard about the virtues of mindfulness. Maybe you've even taken steps to practice meditation or acknowledge gratitude more often. But mindfulness doesn't need to be this formal, time-consuming process. Instead, simply prioritizing being more present in everyday life can make a significant difference in how you feel. Best of all? Mindfulness tends to compound itself. That means...[ read more ]
It's no secret that divorce can take a significant toll on your mental health. Research shows that new divorcees are at a heightened risk for depression, anxiety, and substance use. With that in mind, divorce regret is a real struggle, and many people aren't prepared for its impact. They often feel angry or even guilty over this regret. While some...[ read more ]
It's the most wonderful time of the year. Or is it? Despite what all the movies and retail industry want us to believe, the holiday season isn't always filled with cheer. And if you hate the holidays, you're not alone. The American Psychological Association reported that only 8% of people felt happier this time of year. Many people find the...[ read more ]