“As adults, it’s common to downplay, dismiss, or invalidate the many obstacles faced by children and teenagers. Despite our best intentions, it’s been a while since we’ve worn their shoes, and witnessed the world from a young person’s point of view. Sometimes, adults may minimize the issues our children are facing because our “adult” perspective can make our “adult” problems seem so much greater by comparison. It’s important to remember, however…”
Seasonal food typically refers to produce that is purchased and consumed around the time that it is harvested. “Seasonal eating” is a popular term used by restaurants, chefs, farmers, and dietician/nutritionists. The focus on seasonal eating is on fruits and vegetables since unlike animals, their growth is very much related to season-specific weather. This may bring to memory eating apples and pumpkins in the fall while looking forward to watermelon and berries in the summer…
According to the National Council on Mental Wellbeing, 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced some type of traumatic event at least once in their lives. I’d offer that since COVID, that is likely 100% of us. I mean, “surviving a natural disaster” is a criterion for trauma, and certainly a global pandemic fits the bill. Of those 70-100% of the population, about 6% of those individuals will develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The Institutes of Health reports that 80% of first responders experience traumatic events on the job. I’m not sure how that number isn’t 100% given the nature of the job, but I’ll go with the research for now. Furthermore, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that roughly 1 in 3 first responders develop PTSD.
Recent studies have shown that our diet influences our sleeping habits more than we previously thought. We definitely need to consider this since sleep may account for approximately one third of our day, and plays a role in our health and well-being. Research has shown correlations between poor sleep and hypertension, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and other chronic conditions. While we know sleep hygiene and technology play a role, we need to consider the role of the modern diet in the rise in sleep disorders. We could say that what you eat effects your sleep AND that sleep impacts what you eat, making this a complicated relationship…
Regaining control over the hour before bedtime can be a major first step in getting more sleep and falling asleep faster. Even very simple routines can cue our bodies to know that it’s time to start shutting down for sleep. This could look as basic as lowering the lights at the same time each day, powering down or silencing devices, brushing your teeth, and getting into bed…
“As adults, it’s common to downplay, dismiss, or invalidate the many obstacles faced by children and teenagers. Despite our best intentions, it’s been a while since we’ve worn their shoes, and witnessed the world from a young person’s point of view. Sometimes, adults may minimize the issues our children are facing because our “adult” perspective can make our “adult” problems seem so much greater by comparison. It’s important to remember, however…”
Seasonal food typically refers to produce that is purchased and consumed around the time that it is harvested. “Seasonal eating” is a popular term used by restaurants, chefs, farmers, and dietician/nutritionists. The focus on seasonal eating is on fruits and vegetables since unlike animals, their growth is very much related to season-specific weather. This may bring to memory eating apples and pumpkins in the fall while looking forward to watermelon and berries in the summer…
According to the National Council on Mental Wellbeing, 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced some type of traumatic event at least once in their lives. I’d offer that since COVID, that is likely 100% of us. I mean, “surviving a natural disaster” is a criterion for trauma, and certainly a global pandemic fits the bill. Of those 70-100% of the population, about 6% of those individuals will develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. The Institutes of Health reports that 80% of first responders experience traumatic events on the job. I’m not sure how that number isn’t 100% given the nature of the job, but I’ll go with the research for now. Furthermore, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reports that roughly 1 in 3 first responders develop PTSD.
Recent studies have shown that our diet influences our sleeping habits more than we previously thought. We definitely need to consider this since sleep may account for approximately one third of our day, and plays a role in our health and well-being. Research has shown correlations between poor sleep and hypertension, obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and other chronic conditions. While we know sleep hygiene and technology play a role, we need to consider the role of the modern diet in the rise in sleep disorders. We could say that what you eat effects your sleep AND that sleep impacts what you eat, making this a complicated relationship…
Regaining control over the hour before bedtime can be a major first step in getting more sleep and falling asleep faster. Even very simple routines can cue our bodies to know that it’s time to start shutting down for sleep. This could look as basic as lowering the lights at the same time each day, powering down or silencing devices, brushing your teeth, and getting into bed…
Young kids can learn a lot about food through family meals by watching their parents and learning to eat what they eat. Family meals will usually include more vegetables and fruits than fast food and meals at restaurants. Meal planning may result in meals being more balanced leading to less mindless snacking. Picky eaters may be more likely to try new foods at mealtime when eating with others. Involving others in choosing and preparing meals may increase the chance they will try new foods.
One of the most prevalent challenges in intimate relationships is the presence of poor communication skills. This may manifest as ineffective listening, frequent misunderstandings, or a lack of clarity in expressing thoughts and emotions. When partners struggle to communicate effectively, it can lead to frustration, resentment, and a breakdown in their emotional connection. Couples can benefit from developing active listening skills, practicing empathy, and using "I" statements to express feelings and needs…
If you are someone who notices changes in your mood during the winter months, you are not alone. When daylight commands far too little of our 24-hour day, many people experience the “winter blues,” which can make you feel sluggish in the dimly lit, gloomy weather. According to some experts, women are four times more likely to experience it than men. Some of the symptoms that may accompany the winter blues include carbohydrate cravings, overeating, and weight gain; however, some diet and lifestyle changes can help to manage these symptoms, increase your energy, and even boost your mood…
While it is true that the “winter blues” share some similarities with Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.), the “winter blues” typically do not cause significant impairment in daily functioning and tend to resolve independently as the seasons change. Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons, typically occurring during the fall and winter months when there is less sunlight. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, symptoms usually last 4-5 months out of the year and are estimated to affect 10 million Americans. Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) is characterized by symptoms such as low mood, lack of energy, changes in appetite, difficulty concentrating, and increased need for sleep. S.A.D is thought to be caused by a disruption in the body's internal clock and a decrease in serotonin levels due to reduced exposure to sunlight. Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D) is most prevalent in higher geographical latitudes.
Overeating and gaining a little weight is common during this time, but you can enter this time with a positive mindset and strategies to take care of yourself. Managing one’s intake and blood sugar through non-holidays times is difficult enough; consider using this time to recommit to a health-oriented mindset. Some may even use it to launch into new behaviors and patterns ahead of the new year.
As we enter a very busy holiday season, we know that there will be “hustle, bustle” while we are busy and hectic. We will certainly try to enjoy the fun and festivities, but we can sometimes lose sight of the blessings around us. Whether this is due to grief, sadness, depression, anxiety, or the stress of the expectations, we can work to shift our focus to a mindset of gratitude for improvements in our overall well being.
Boundary setting requires the ability to assert your needs and priorities as the highest form of self-care; protecting your own mental health. Be clear and straightforward if someone does not understand the extent of your boundaries. This will leave no room for them to assume you are okay with them breaking them down. Allow yourself grace and accept the discomfort that can come with expressing your needs to others - guilt, shame, remorse, or worry how others will react. The discomfort is common amongst individuals with poor boundary setting, people pleasers and those who are codependent – which is a commonly learned behavior when there is a history of childhood trauma…
As I sat down to write a blog to include in our September edition of our Hope and Healing newsletter, which is dedicated to the celebration of our 5th anniversary, I realized something. We are gearing up for a big 5th anniversary, but we’ve neglected to celebrate along the way. And, well, that is just sad. I’m not going to start at the beginning because…
As the back-to-school season approaches, I always catch myself feeling anxious. The anxiety could be due to sport tryouts, wondering whether I have classes with friends, or even just general anxiety about a new school year. I have also experienced this feeling of anxiety due to starting a new year at a brand-new school. Growing up as an "Air Force Brat" comes with a lot of challenges...
PTSD is a collection of symptoms that occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic experience. It is important to understand that these experiences are very individualized but all include threats of or actual harm to oneself or others, experiencing or witnessing the injury or death of another person as well as sexual violence. These are broad categories due to the individualized nature of the experiences and later coping. If after a traumatic event the following symptoms persist, someone might consider an evaluation and treatment for PTSD. Symptoms include varying degrees of irritability, depression and suicidal feelings, hypervigilance, hyperarousal, flashbacks, nightmares, persistent memories, intrusive thoughts as well as significant impacts on sleeping, eating, relationships, occupation and social interactions.
Hope and Healing recognizes the many burdensome challenges faced by our LGBTQIA+ community members when seeking adequate healthcare, resources, and community support. We also recognize the fatal impact that these barriers are making on the health and well being of LGBTQIA+ individuals, specifically among young people.
Key findings from The Trevor Project’s 2022 National Survey on LGBTQ Youth Mental Health include the following statistics:
If you have experienced or can resonate with this cycle, breaking the pattern of people-pleasing may seem daunting, however, with patience and practice, it is not only possible, but extremely worthwhile. The next time the opportunity to set a boundary presents itself, try one of the strategies below before agreeing with, allowing for, or committing to something:
The world we are all living in is drastically different from the one we grew up in so we can’t fully lean on our teenage experience to help them figure things out. A better understanding of the world they live in might be the key to gaining their acceptance (of our stories and guidance) and a listening ear.
Here are 3 reasons being a teenager is uniquely challenging today and some pointers on having a greater influence than saying, “back in my day” to your teenager:
Where do you see hope this spring?
I began the hard work of clearing space. I raked the heavy magnolia leaves and seed pods. I pulled armloads of oak leaves out of the azaleas and rhododendrons. I gently broke away the leaves that restricted the flower stems. The flowers emerged, no longer eclipsed by the remnants of winters past.
What are you clearing away?
Have you been considering therapy for a while? Does your insurance not cover mental health treatment? Have you been struggling to get scheduled for an appointment? Great news - Hope and Healing Therapy and Wellness Center has a graduate student intern available! You might be wondering, what makes a student intern different, and can they really help me? Read on to find the surprising benefits to seeing a student intern:
