Serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone, plays a vital role in our overall well-being. This neurotransmitter, primarily found in the brain and the central nervous system, helps regulate various functions and influences our appetite, sleep patterns, and even cognitive abilities. It’s also known for its powerful effects as a natural mood elevator. Elevate […]
Have you ever experienced a moment when everything suddenly falls into place, and you gain a deep understanding or insight? Mental breakthroughs are common – they happen to most of us on a regular basis, whether we realize it or not. I had one such experience recently. I was trying to learn how to do […]
When it comes to supporting our loved ones, it’s natural to want to help them overcome challenges and lead better lives. However, there’s a fine line between providing support or assistance and enabling unhealthy behavior. Enabling occurs when we unintentionally perpetuate destructive patterns instead of promoting growth and change. Here’s how to spot and stop […]
Arrested development refers to a condition in which a person’s emotional and psychological growth is hindered or halted during one of the normal stages of maturation. This phenomenon can have profound impacts on a person’s overall well-being and interpersonal relationships. Today’s post focuses on the stages of arrested development and the challenges faced by those […]
Those who experience arrested development (the inability to mature emotionally), can encounter significant struggles as they attempt to navigate adulthood and relationships. Overcoming this challenge requires a proactive approach that involves self-reflection, personal growth, and a commitment to change. There are promising strategies that may support our efforts as we or a loved one work […]
Self-harm can be a difficult and sensitive topic, especially when it involves children. It’s essential to understand it, however, as self-harm in children may have serious consequences, and likely has equally serious underlying causes. If you spend time among young people, it’s important to understand the nature of self-harm in children, signs that it may […]
Self-harm is a potentially dangerous coping mechanism that involves intentional harm to oneself. It can take many forms, including cutting, burning, or scratching oneself, hitting or bruising oneself, or pulling out one’s hair. Self-harm can be a sign of deep emotional distress and should be taken seriously. If you spend time around young people, it […]
As parents and caregivers, it can be heartbreaking to witness self-destructive behaviors in children. These types of behaviors can manifest in various ways, such as self-harm, substance abuse, extreme risk-taking, or engaging in toxic relationships. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing appropriate strategies can help guide children towards healthier coping mechanisms and foster their overall […]
In the humdrum of our everyday routines, it’s easy to become a creature of habit. But shaking things up and trying something new can feel like a refreshing splash of cold water. It’s a great way to improve your mental health and well-being. And it can help also you not only cope better with the […]
Self-destructive behaviors in loved ones can cause tremendous distress and pain in families. Self-destructive habits encompass a wide range of harmful actions, such as substance abuse, self-harm, or reckless behavior that jeopardize one’s well-being. It is both challenging and frustrating to cope when we have a loved one who repeatedly puts themselves at risk. Understanding […]
Emotional Detachment Disorder (EDD) can significantly impact a person’s ability to form meaningful connections and experience a full range of emotions. However, with the right strategies and support, it is possible to overcome emotional detachment disorder, reconnect with your emotions, and enjoy healthy relationships. How to Overcome Emotional Detachment Disorder 1. Seek Professional Help to […]
Emotions are an integral part of our human experience, influencing our relationships, decision-making, and overall well-being. However, emotional detachment disorder significantly impacts some people’s ability to experience emotions in a healthy and balanced way. Those impacted by EDD also have difficulty truly connecting with other people in their lives and in establishing and maintaining healthy […]
As adults, we often find ourselves grappling with emotional wounds from our childhood. These wounds can manifest in a variety of ways, including low self-esteem, anxiety, and difficulty setting boundaries. Working to re-parent your inner child is one impactful way to heal these wounds. Inner child work involves addressing our unmet emotional needs and providing […]
Our inner child holds the key to our emotional well-being, and nurturing this part of ourselves can lead to profound healing and growth. One powerful tool that can be useful in this healing journey involves the use of affirmations. Affirmations are positive statements that can help rewire negative thought patterns and establish a foundation of […]
As we grow older and navigate the demands of adulthood, we often lose touch with our inner child—the part of us that embodies innocence, curiosity, and joy. Reconnecting with your inner child can have profound benefits for your mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. It can remind you of what truly brings you happiness and […]
September 11, 2001, was one of the most tragic and frightening days many of us have experienced. As the anniversary of that awful day approaches, we may benefit from advice about how to cope with what we are feeling. Whether we are conscious of the date or not, subconscious memories may be clouding our well-being. Somehow, our […]
Anger is a natural emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. However, when anger becomes uncontrollable or starts to negatively impact your personal and professional life, it’s essential to seek help. Anger management coaching can offer strategies and techniques to better understand and manage anger effectively. Learning more about these potential strategies may help […]
A sound awakens you in the middle of the night. Your think your home is being robbed and feel a burst of adrenalin accompanied by an uncomfortable energy spike. Your senses are heightened and make it difficult or impossible to calm down, sit still, or relax. Once we determine the source of the noise (it […]
Childhood trauma can have a profound impact on a person’s mental and emotional well-being. Although these wounds may remain hidden, they can manifest in various ways, affecting relationships, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. A surprisingly large percentage of the population has experienced trauma of one kind or another. If you suspect that you or […]
Are you a thalassophile? Thalassophiles are lovers of the sea. They feel an especially deep connection to the ocean. In fact, they only feel whole when they are near the beach or water of some kind. They are transfixed by the beauty and power of saltwater. And often seek opportunities to immerse themselves in its […]
Trauma bonding is a psychological phenomenon that occurs in abusive or toxic relationships. It involves a powerful and unhealthy attachment to an abuser, often resulting from a cycle of positive and negative experiences. Bonding of this type may also be referred to as “Stockholm Syndrome.” The dynamics in this syndrome are complex, but by recognizing […]
It’s hard to believe we are already about to begin the month of September! Summer vacation and long days in the sun are soon to become a fond memory. This time of year, it can be especially important to pay attention to our mental health. In fact, for those who suffer from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), […]
We all have days when getting out of the house is a challenge. And for some, especially those who suffer from mental health issues like anxiety, agoraphobia, and PTSD, leaving home is always a struggle. Of course, while the long-term goal is to get out into the world more and challenge the thoughts and feelings […]
Indulging in what we refer to as “guilty pleasures” is often accompanied by feelings of shame and remorse. We’re conditioned to believe that such indulgences are inherently wrong or frivolous. It’s time to challenge this notion and enjoy our guilty pleasures without guilt. And just focus on the pleasure. Occasional “guilty pleasures” are necessary, and […]
It may start to creep up on us in September. By mid-October it’s in full swing. By the time we get to February, we’re pulling our hair out, and it becomes the longest month even though it only has 28 or 29 days. For many, there’s much more to it than a down mood. Some […]
Forty or fifty years ago, things were pretty clear. When you hit the age of 21, you were on your own. In some communities, the norm was even earlier – it was time to support yourself when you reached the age of 18. But over the last few decades, it has become increasingly common for […]
What do you wish for when you blow out a candle? I heard this question the other day. It got me thinking. Do I have one dream? If I could will one thing to happen, what would it be? If I had a bottle with a genie in it, what would I ask for? Not “world […]
I don’t think any of us intend to become a martyr. But boy it sure seems like many of us wind up playing that incredibly unhealthy role! Do you take on too much? Do you feel taken for granted? You may have martyr syndrome. How It Feels to be Taken for Granted The other day […]
