Negative thinking patterns, or cognitive distortions, can manifest as incorrect assumptions, unrealistic self-criticisms, and even the denial of reality itself. Yet, the effects of this thinking can be all too real for someone struggling with their mental health. Breaking free from negative thought patterns requires learning how to cope effectively with the feelings and triggers…
March is National Disability Awareness Month. Approximately 61 million Americans are living with a disability. The term “disability” is defined in various ways but for the purposes of federal disability nondiscrimination laws (such as the Americans with Disabilities Act), the definition of a person with a disability is typically defined as someone who “has a physical…
For some individuals, pregnancy is the happiest time of their lives. But for others, pregnancy and childbirth are full of confusion, pain, fear, stress, and even depression. The mismatch between cultural expectations and personal expectations can also make it difficult for pregnant people to cope and seek help when they need it. Perinatal anxiety or…
The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Questioning, Intersex, and Asexual (LGBTQIA+) community represents a diverse range of identities and expressions of gender and sexual orientation. Research shows that LGBTQIA+ populations of all ages disproportionately experience more instances of mental health and substance use disorders, suicidality, and poorer wellbeing outcomes compared to their heterosexual and cisgender (people whose…
The term “triggered” often refers to the experience of having an emotional reaction to a disturbing topic such as violence or the mention of suicide in the media or a social setting. Though this term is commonly used to refer to the experiences of those with PTSD, the term “trigger” can also be used in the…
The brain has many different parts that affect both our mental and physical health. Let’s review the human brain and how it influences our thoughts and behavior. Basic Brain Overview Each region of the human brain has particular functions. The three main parts of the brain include the:Cerebrum: Located at the front of the brain, the…
Everyone knows that not getting enough sleep, or having their sleep disturbed, can have many different affects. Irritability, difficulty concentrating, drowsiness, and memory issues are all common side effects of low-quality, insufficient sleep. In a previous blog post, we looked at the connection between insomnia and depression. However, a lack of sleep has also been linked…
As a behavioral health provider, you know that success can look different for each person. It is not an all-or-nothing approach. Diet is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, and nutrition can have a real impact on our mental health. But many of our beliefs and habits regarding diet can be unhelpful and even harmful.Enter…
Human beings are social creatures, meant to live in relationships, to one degree or another. Unfortunately, many of us experience loneliness—a sense of discomfort or distress when we want social connection, yet feel alone. Loneliness is not just about the size of a person’s social network. You can know a lot of people—you can even…
In a previous blog post, we talked about the alarming link between loneliness and a wide range of physical ailments. So how can you work with those behavioral health clients who are struggling with loneliness, to help improve their mental and physical outcomes? First Step: Identifying At-Risk Clients Loneliness can be challenging to treat, especially…
