Years ago, when the diagnosis of anxiety and depression was finally discovered for me, I experienced many different emotions. I had already journeyed through the ups and downs of joy and sadness. My daily activities were often interrupted by a serious change in emotions that would arise at any moment. Doctor visits often left me … Continue reading What is Your Biggest Fear When It Comes to Your Mental Health?
Lists, Questions and Mental Emails For me, most mornings consist of waking up worrying about what the day will bring. From overthinking decisions I made in the past or ones I must make in the present to a long list of "what ifs" plaguing my ability to access any type of relaxation and peace, I … Continue reading How I’m Overcoming the Fear of “What Ifs” as Someone With Depression, Anxiety, and PTSD
It's the day after my 49th birthday and I have no hangover! It wasn't always like that though. I always drank to get drunk, right from my first carry out at the age of 11 or 12. Scotland was like that, and in many ways it still is. I think that's why I never really … Continue reading Alcoholism, Trauma and Depression
When you have a conversation in your mind about yourself, how does the conversation go? What words do you use? How do those words and ideas make you feel? Why did you choose those words? The internal dialogue or conversation you have with yourself daily affects how you approach and perceive reality. Your self-talk structures … Continue reading Why Positive Affirmations Are A Good Idea for Building Self-Esteem and Self-Worth
Life is going along fine. Days are filled with love and laughter. My husband and I have moved again. Same neighborhood, just a different section. We’re finally living in what we hope is our “forever home”. My health has been good. Boxes from the move are unpacked. Pictures are hung on the walls. Furniture is … Continue reading Unexpected Anxiety
Art therapy helps children, adolescents, and adults explore their emotions, improve self-esteem, manage addictions, relieve stress, improve symptoms of anxiety and depression, and cope with a physical illness or disability. Art therapists work with individuals, couples, and groups in a variety of settings, including private counseling, hospitals, wellness centers, correctional institutions, senior centers, and other … Continue reading Why art therapy is a great tool for relieving stress and anxiety
As coronavirus restrictions ease and many slowly begin to transition back into some form of "normalcy," a number of concerns arise about what life will look like post lockdown. From socializing and getting back to work to mental health and overall safety, there remains a thick atmosphere of uncertainty. What's next? Will life be like … Continue reading How to Cope With Post-Lockdown Anxiety
Working from home has been a huge part of my life while battling my mental illness. It seems like a dream job on the surface, but there are many challenges that come with it. A huge part of obtaining success in it is support from friends and family. Here are some ways you can … Continue reading How to Support a Worker Who is Struggling to Work From Home
Staying mentally and physically healthy is important, especially during these times of the coronavirus and other situations that cause us distress. Every day we wake up to troublesome news. From the coronavirus to riots to job losses and more, the news reports share about tough times all over the world. Along with our own … Continue reading Simple Changes to Improve Your Mental Health in Tough Times
Everyday chores and responsibilities require attention, energy, and dedication. The more tasks we take on the busier we become. Whether we are doing school work, building a brand and a business, answering emails, attending meetings, going to the office/other work locations, or taking care of our families, busyness demands time and effort. While our daily … Continue reading The Dangers of Being Too Busy
Defying Shadows 