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
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
I want to talk about something we all have and something we might not think about. Cell phones. Addiction. Do you put those two together? No. Well, you're not alone in that. I don't think many people would think of anyone having an addiction to their cell phones, but there are people who are. So, … Continue reading What Is Phone Addiction?
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
Conversations can be overheard in homes, stores, medical offices, restaurants, parks, and other places. Even while social distancing, talk continues. Whether taking a walk in the neighborhood and visiting with friends or sharing a phone call with family, the coronavirus will likely be mentioned. Our two years old grandson told me, “Mimi, that coronavirus … Continue reading How to Share About the Coronavirus with Children
I don’t think hitting rock bottom happens all at once most of the time. I think it happens gradually. At least it did for me. The better part of my 20s was spent going downhill, in and out of abusive relationships, and slowly learning that I had mental health issues that were out of … Continue reading Hitting Rock Bottom: A Story About Change
Thinking and decision-making are a part of everyday living, but when thinking and making decisions becomes overbearing and overwhelming, we are cautioned to consider if maybe we are thinking "too much." To overthink is to think about a topic, idea, or situation too much or for too long. Unlike helpful and balanced thinking habits where … Continue reading Signs You Are Overthinking And What You Can Do About it
I have experienced anxiety and depression at various times in my life. Certain situations or events can trigger a panic attack or a time of depression. Before I was first diagnosed with these conditions many years ago, I had no idea what was happening or what to expect from my body. Through help from … Continue reading Physical Symptoms You Might Not Realize Are Actually Anxiety
Defying Shadows 