Understanding Suicide: Facts and Statistics Suicide is a devastating reality affecting people across all age groups. According to the CDC and American Psychiatric Association, suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10-14 and 25-34, and the third leading cause of death among those aged 15-24. For people aged 35-44, it ranks…
The Risks of Oversimplifying Psychology: Why Pop Psychology Falls Short Pop psychology is short for “popular psychology”. Pop psychology refers to concepts and theories about human behavior that gain widespread acceptance and are disseminated to the public (Cuncic, 2023). These ideas often derive from valid psychological research but are simplified or adapted for mass consumption….
Feeling down or stressed? You might be experiencing an imbalance in your “feel-good” hormones. These powerful chemicals—dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins—play crucial roles in your mental and emotional well-being. The actual mechanisms and functions of these hormones is more complex than the scope of this blog. Still, we’ll explore some of the unexpected functions of…
Recognizing the Signs: Is Someone You Know Bipolar? Bipolar disorder is a complex and often misunderstood mental health condition. According to the DSM-V-TR, there are three primary types of bipolar disorder, each involving distinct shifts in mood, energy, and activity levels. These moods can vary from episodes of being highly “up,” euphoric, irritable, or energized…
What is an Existential Crisis? An existential crisis is more than just a passing phase; it’s a deep, often troubling experience that involves persistent negative emotions and questions about the inherent meaning of life. Whether triggered by major life changes like loss, a medical diagnosis, divorce, or even the birth of a child, these crises…
Understanding Obsessive–Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition characterized by intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors .OCD is more prevalent among close relatives of individuals with the disorder, particularly when the onset occurs in childhood or adolescence. This familial link suggests a genetic component to OCD. Additionally, research has identified dysfunctions in…
What does it mean to be triggered? Emotional triggers are sensory reminders that provoke negative and unwanted reactions based on past experiences. Our senses play a significant role in creating memories, and triggers reactivate these senses, making the brain think the negative event is happening again. The American Psychological Association (APA) defines a trigger as…
What is Self-Sabotage? Self-sabotage involves decisions and behaviors that hinder progress and mental wellness. It can occur both consciously and unconsciously, often as a form of self-protection (Schuster, 2023; Montare Behavioral Health; Upneja, 2017). Self-sabotage can stem from past traumas, maladaptive coping mechanisms, and internalized negative perceptions, making it a complex barrier to personal, professional,…
The Loneliness Epidemic In today’s rapidly changing world, individuals often feel adrift and isolated, contributing to what has been termed the “loneliness epidemic.” The allure and ubiquity of modern technology, including artificial intelligence, offer the promise of connection and intimacy. However, paradoxically, these technological advancements may exacerbate feelings of loneliness by providing only a superficial…
