I. I am not perfect and I will not stress by trying to be. Think of how many things don’t get done in this world simply because people are waiting for the perfect time, place and circumstance. Waiting for perfection causes more stress. The real world doesn’t reward perfectionists. It rewards people who get things [...]
Below you will find helpful suggestions to consider when looking for mental health counseling services. Keep in mind that not every counselor will be a good fit for you, so be patient when searching for someone that fits all your criteria. Remember, if you don’t feel comfortable with your counselor, keep looking. A counselor that [...]
After giving birth, it may be hard to distinguish between the “baby blues” and a more serious postpartum mood disorder. Many postpartum mood disorders go untreated because doctors and family members are unaware of the signs and symptoms of the disorder. Below you will find several characteristics to help you distinguish between the baby blues [...]
Are you feeling a bit wrung out? Running from one thing to the next? Seems like there’s no time to think? Maybe you’re even exhibiting stress symptoms… poor concentration, aches and pains, a short fuse, relying too much on your favorite “crutch” (alcohol, food, cigarettes, etc.) How much longer are you going to keep us [...]
What causes anxiety? I have found that the “unknown” can be a cause of anxiety and can actually hold people back from moving forward into their dreams and desires for life. I see anxiety in seniors heading to college, in friends who are changing jobs, in couples’ who are having their first child, and in [...]
Anxiety disorders are a very common mental health issue. It is estimated that one in four Americans will experience an anxiety disorder in their lifetime. But, if they’re so common, what causes them? Here are a few of the common contributing factors: Inherited predisposition: You may have inherited more than a receding hairline and bad [...]
Everyone experiences anxiety from time to time – in new social situations or before some type of performance-based activity, like doing a presentation at work. But, how do you know when normal anxiety becomes problem anxiety, and it’s time to seek professional help for anxiety? Anxiety ranges along a continuum, from mild to severe. Normal, [...]
“Am I crazy?” Maybe you are and maybe you aren’t. As a counselor, I don’t really know if you are crazy because it is not a usable diagnosis. This question is often asked by clients who are experiencing problems and/or symptoms that are overwhelming. “Crazy” is the best word that describes their experience. “CRAZY” IS [...]
I don’t like to exercise. Who does? I mean, really? We go to these places where everyone is trying to look leaner and meaner. We walk around like zombies trying to get through the workout so we can go home eat what we want, watch TV, be with our family/friends and then do it all over again! [...]
If wintertime has you down and you’re feeling a bit blue during these cold and wintery days, you will be happy to know that eating a few of the right foods may turn that frown into a smile! Whole foods contain vital nutrients that provide both physical and emotional benefits and are the best foods [...]