Most people know that practicing gratitude has many profound physical and emotional benefits. However, tapping into your appreciation during a depressive episode can feel like trying to enjoy the sun during a rainstorm. The heaviness of depression and anxiety often makes it challenging to connect with the positive aspects of life, even when you can logically recognize their worth. Gratitude...[ read more ]
Philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre once said, 'Everything has been figured out, except how to live.' This poignant quote speaks to the intricate complexity of what it means to be alive. As we grow and evolve as humans, our own mortality is something each of us must grapple with. Moving through existential dread can be challenging. And when you experience it amid...[ read more ]
Sometimes discerning the differences between anger and depression isn't so obvious. Most of the time, when people think about what depression looks like, they focus on symptoms of sadness, hopelessness, fatigue, or a general sense of apathy. And when they think about anger, they imagine someone who's dysregulated when they get triggered. However, one of the more common symptoms of...[ read more ]
Passion is rarely a fixed state, and feeling passionate about something can wax and wane throughout life. However, staying connected to your passions can maintain your emotional well-being, improve your relationships, and give you a deeper sense of purpose. This can be especially important if you're navigating difficult life circumstances. Passion acts as an anchor, as something to hold onto,...[ 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 ]
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 ]
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 ]
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 ]