Clinical Depression is diagnosed when an individual meets 5 or more of these 9 criteria: Depressed mood or irritable most of the day, nearly every day Decreased interest or pleasure in most activities Significant change in appetite Change in sleep: Insomnia or hypersomnia Psychomotor agitation Fatigue or loss of energy Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness or […]

Anyone who has suffered anxiety or depression knows that mornings can be a tough time. Whether you spent the night tossing and turning with insomnia or awaken suddenly with looming dread, getting out of bed can be a challenge. Many people become plagued with overwhelming negative thoughts which can either leave you feeling paralyzed or […]

We’ve all had moments when we’ve gotten caught up in our own ego or feelings and found it difficult to empathize with the person with whom we were communicating. Occasional arguments, even with those we love dearly, are just a part of being human. Here are a few tips for helping communication during these moments […]

Positive reframing is a classic technique used in cognitive behavioral therapy. The premise of this type of thinking is that when you change your thoughts, you change your feelings and actions. Often our thoughts are based on underlying assumptions and patterns of repetition that started at birth.  Mark Twain aptly said, “I’ve had a lot […]

According to the Mayo Health clinic, current research has shown that positve thinking can have many benefits including; increased life span lower rates of depression and anxiety greater resistance to the common cold reduced risk of cardiovasular disease ​better coping skills during hard times The Buddha said “We are what we think. All that we […]

Last week, I posted Part 1 of this blog entry which addressed what self-care is and how it can improve your parenting.  If you missed Part 1, you can find it here. In part 2 of this post, we will address how to get started incorporating self-care into your life. So how do I get […]

I have heard it many times and even said it myself: “I can’t do [whatever one does to take care of themselves] because the kids need [whatever it is that presents as pressing in that moment…].”  Sometimes we really do have to put our kids first.  It may be easier to parent if we sit […]

What is stress? We have all heard of the “flight or fight” response, but actually stress starts all in your mind. The reason most scientists have a hard time defining stress, according to the American Institute of Stress, is because it is different for everyone. Stress depends on whether or not you think situations around you […]