The National Institute of Mental Health defines social anxiety as “an intense, persistent fear of being judged by others.” For many, it is not that straightforward. For those who struggle with social anxiety, it may be hard to explain why they feel uncomfortable in social situations. It can be as simple as an increased heart […]
CW: Binge eating, self-harm, addiction. Most people deal with stress throughout their lives. Learning to cope with stress in healthy ways can make people more resilient and help combat chronic illness and mental health issues according to the CDC. However, not all coping mechanisms are healthy. Negative coping mechanisms such as substance abuse, compulsive spending, […]
Get outside! No, really! There are a couple of things we’ve learned through research that tie together here. First, looking around at the space we’re in can help us feel grounded. Second, when we’re in nature, our eye movement is naturally increased. That means that when we’re in “green space” (a nature trail, forest, or […]
From mindful walking to fidget cubes, I’ve been exploring tools and techniques that help me when I’m feeling anxious or overwhelmed. With the support of my therapist, I’ve been finding ones that work for me! In this blog, I’d like to introduce you to a few so you can try them, too! I’ve been collecting […]
It can be hard to know how to support your friends when they’re struggling. Even if you can relate to what they’re going through with a similar experience, it can still be a challenge to support them. If a friend is going through something relatably difficult, think about what you would’ve needed to hear at […]
CW: Alcoholism/Abuse A year ago, my life felt harder than it ever had before. Having a therapist at the time to talk it over with made it easier for me to recognize what I needed. I was taking on too many responsibilities while running on empty. I was always “mature for my age”, but I […]
I’ve always been told that finding the right therapist can feel like online dating. Recently, I found this to be true. For the past three months, I’ve been using Talkspace to find a therapist to help guide and support me through life’s hardships, whether they be from the past or the present. I’ll be honest, […]
Every other Thursday, five o’clock, I have plans. “I can’t hang out, my mom needs me to babysit tonight.” “I already promised I’d help around the house.” “Sorry, I’m grounded.” “I can’t tonight, I’ve got loads of homework.” Every other Thursday, I used to lie. It’s not that I was doing anything of concern, but […]
I remember the first time I felt like I was watching myself. It was 2018. I was in a therapy session with one of my past trauma counselors, and I was talking about one of my abusers. I couldn’t move my arms because they felt like lead and I was convinced they would fall off […]
(potential content warning) I remember it like it was yesterday. It was early 2016, and I was in the eighth grade. I genuinely felt as though I had everything going for me: I was earning good grades, I found a love for the game of golf, and I had phenomenal relationships with my friends and […]