Though research indicates 40% of what we worry about does not ever happen , and 30% of our worries are related to the past, anxiety continues to be a daily struggle for many people. The “what if” questions that often accompany anxiety prevent us from stepping out of our comfort … Read More
Photography as a Creative Outlet to Cope with Depression
The feelings that often accompany depression include loneliness, apathy, and lack of motivation. Becoming lost in our thoughts and feeling stuck are common experiences for those struggling with depression. People use a variety of coping skills to manage their depression, including journaling, joining a support group, listening to music, and … Read More
Find the Right Light: How Lighting Can Affect Your Mental Health
Medical professionals emphasize the importance of daily sunlight exposure for our mental health, but did you know that indoor lighting can also have a significant impact on mental health? We tend to spend the majority of our day surrounded by artificial lighting, whether it be at the office, at school, … Read More
The UnLonely Project: Decreasing Loneliness through Creativity and Connection
Loneliness is now considered a public health crisis that affects more than 30% of people living in the United States. People ages 18-24 report the highest rate of loneliness, with older adults and veterans reporting loneliness rates that closely follow. The negative impact of loneliness on one’s health is comparable … Read More
Alternatives to Punishment for Your Child
Do you ever feel as though punishing your child for misbehavior results in more misbehavior? When a child misbehaves, a parent’s natural response is to punish the child. However, research indicates that punishment is often ineffective, and results in the child engaging in behavior that is opposite from what is … Read More
Benefits of Mindfulness on Stress and Digestive Health
Have you ever had a nervous stomach ache before an important meeting, or digestive issues during a season of heightened stress? The brain-gut connection can explain these unpleasant experiences. When we feel stressed, our body releases the neurotransmitter norepinephrine, which in turn causes the microbes in our gut to change their … 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
Easing Your Child’s Transition to a New School
As a new school year approaches, it is normal for your child to experience back-to-school jitters. When transitioning to a new school, a child may be experiencing an increase in emotions such as uncertainty, anticipation, and curiosity. Whether your child is transitioning from middle to high school or starting school in … Read More