Diet, sleep, and exercise are the “Big 3” of depression fighting habits. Some research indicates that these three things combined might be more effective than anything else – including medication – at treating depression. Here are some tips on how to improve your sleep quality: Avoid bright light after the … Read More
The Loneliness Epidemic
In today’s world, there are so many ways for us to connect, and in wider circles than has ever before been possible. We can video chat with someone in Australia, play video games live with friends all the way across the country, and find groups of people who share our … Read More
I’m Not Defensive, You Are
Okay, so we’ve all experienced this with someone we know. Your friend/co-worker/family/spouse makes a comment about something you did. Perhaps their well-meaning directive is meant to be helpful and corrective. But, their suggestion creates a rise in your temperature. In fact, you feel hot, your face feels red, and your … Read More
Can a Story Be Any Good Without a Struggle?
If you are like me, then you enjoy all kinds of movies. From classics like It’s A Wonderful Life or Shawshank Redemption, to quirky movies like The Intouchables or Captain Fantastic. Occasionally I use movies as a tool for clients to make sense of their emotional experience. Inside Out has … Read More
Michael Phelps and How Therapy Can Make a Difference
We often believe, “If I had their life (a person more successful, with a bigger paycheck, etc…) I would be so happy!” Can you imagine a “better life” than being the most decorated Olympic athlete in history? That is the life Michael Phelps was living, but after two Olympics and … Read More
Young Adult Fiction Booklist: 16 Books That Address Mental Health Topics
As our culture continues to fight the stigma of mental illness, a number of authors in young adult fiction have begun to address the subject through stories of teen characters living with mental health issues. Check out the booklist of titles that address mental health topics rounded up by Riveted, … Read More
How Gardening Can Help Reduce Stress
Looking for a new way to help reduce your stress? Research indicates that spending time in the soil, and nurturing vegetation through gardening can help reduce stress levels over time. Some benefits of gardening include… feeling connected to nature and living organisms the opportunity to serve as a nurturer a … Read More
Wanderlust
Wanderlust: the intense desire to travel. Personally, when I think of that word, I immediately begin planning my next exploration trip. My creative brain begins to engage, and I start researching places to go. From the time I was little, I always liked to be on the go. I loved … Read More
Connect, then Redirect: Helping Calm Your Child’s Brain and Emotions
Finding the best way to help calm your child’s emotions can be challenging. Dr. Dan Siegel is an expert on neurodevelopment and parenting. He has an extensive list of credentials and achievements. He has also written several books and given numerous speeches on the calming the brain. Here is a … Read More
Depression and Habits
Brushing our teeth, bathing, putting on pants before we leave the house – we all have habits that we maintain, even when we are beginning to feel depressed. If the depression gets bad enough, some of those habits may go by the wayside. But when we are first sliding into … Read More