TW: Sexual violence, sexual assault, suicidal thoughts, depression, and PTSD. April marks the beginning of Sexual Assault Awareness Month. This year, the focus of awareness is on building connected communities to help us “reduce the likelihood of sexual abuse, assault, and harassment.” By focusing on connection within our communities, we can promote safety and look […]
CW: Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, homicidal urges, mentions of depression and anxiety. Disclaimer: I am not a mental health professional. The following explains my experience with OCD. When you hear the term “OCD”, you may think of lining everything up in order or keeping your room extremely clean. You may even picture Jack Nicholson’s character in […]
CW: Eating disorders This year, Eating Disorders Awareness Week (EDAW) takes place from February 26th to March 3rd with the theme of “healing in community.” EDAW is an annual campaign that focuses on educating the public about eating disorders and provides information, hope, visibility, and support to those affected by eating disorders. According to the […]
Mindful eating is underrated – it can be so beneficial! According to Utah State University, many individuals experience improved self-esteem and a sense of empowerment from practicing regularly. Additionally, mindful eating helps our bodies absorb more nutrients! Overall, mindful eating is a great way to improve both our physical and mental/emotional relationships with food. So, […]
CW: Mention of suicide, and suicide ideation. Crisis. The word itself is daunting and complicated, presenting itself uniquely in the experience of each individual. Crisis can take on many forms: perhaps it may look like suicidal ideation, relationship turmoil, financial strain, personal loss, or overbearing stress. These are just a few of the many examples […]
CW: Mention of Chronic Illness and Mental Health Each year, October marks the arrival of cold weather and sweaters, but it also serves as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. But breast cancer does not strike just one month out of the year- it affects the lives of many people all over the world every day. And […]
CW: Mention of Eating disorders, body dysmorphia, anxiety, and depression. Based on U.S. research, around ⅔ of all young people face some sort of insecurities about their body or have experienced body dysmorphia (Linardon). Body image issues often stem from insecurities about weight, hair, muscle mass, and skin concerns, like acne (Byrne and Young). These […]
Content Warning: Suicide Words fall short in many situations, and for those impacted by suicide in any way, this rings exceptionally true. September is National Suicide Prevention Month, a time to spread information and awareness about how to help ourselves and those around us who may be struggling with suicidal ideation. Importantly, this month brings […]
CW: Suicidal ideation, Suicide It can be challenging to reach out for help, especially in times of distress. Some people find it easier to deal with issues alone, even when the situation becomes dangerous for their own safety. That’s why having a suicide safety plan on hand can help people in times of crisis. September […]
CW: PTSD As we meet new people, we have many questions that may come up, whether it be what someone does for work, inquiries about their family, or where they were born. When we think about family, this can also include our pets. For many of us, our animals are truly part of our family. […]