staying active and productive can be a big part of maintaining sobriety

The challenge of maintaining sobriety: In recovery, individuals are adjusting to lower levels of brain chemicals that previously generated feelings of pleasure and fulfillment. During periods of boredom, the temptation to revert to substance use can be particularly strong, especially when in environments associated with past substance activities. This risk underscores the importance of managing…

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imposter syndrome is common among students and professionals

What is imposter syndrome? Imposter syndrome, first identified by psychologists Suzanne Imes and Pauline Rose Clance in 1978, refers to a psychological phenomenon where high-functioning, high-achieving individuals doubt their skills and accomplishments and fear being exposed as unqualified or a fraud. This condition affects people of all genders across various stages of life and is…

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chronic pain affects mental health

The relationship between chronic pain and mental health: According to the American Psychiatric Association (2020), chronic pain and mental health disorders co-occur; meaning, one has the potential to exacerbate the other. Many people with chronic pain have a high chance of having a mental health disorder such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and bipolar disorder. For…

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early childhood experiences affect attachment

What is Attachment Theory? Attachment Theory explains the significance of relationships and relational bonds between people. The theory posits that people have an innate desire to establish a connection with others, emphasizing the need for early attachment between infant and parent. Attachment researchers suggest the quality or style of your relationship with a primary caregiver…

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understanding shame and guilt

Shame and guilt are both linked to disgust, embarrassment, humiliation, regret, remorse, and self-consciousness, profoundly impacting on our mental health and behavior (Lebow, 2021). These emotions are rooted in social norms and can either hinder or propel our personal growth, depending on how you address them. This guide explores the nuances of shame and guilt,…

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healing generational trauma

What is Generational Trauma? Generational trauma (or intergenerational trauma) refers to the emotional, psychological, and cultural wounds that are passed down from one generation to the next, often as a result of historical events, cultural suppression, or family dynamics (Dekel and Goldblatt, 2008; Sangalang and Vang, 2017; American Psychological Association, 2023). This type of trauma,…

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common relationship problems

Relationships are complex, dynamic, and often fraught with challenges. Whether you’re navigating conflicts with your partner, struggling with communication issues, or facing external stressors, it’s natural to encounter bumps along the road. In this blog, we’ll explore practical strategies for dealing with relationship problems, fostering understanding, and building a stronger, more resilient bond with your…

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somatic symptoms

Ever experienced a stomach ache during a stressful time? Or joint pain when feeling down? That’s somatization – where emotional distress takes a physical form. From everyday headaches to impairments in physical functioning, somatization can vary for each individual. It can be a temporary response to stress or a more prolonged experience affecting your overall…

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coping with grief

Why do we grieve? Grief is a natural, universal, and adaptive response to loss. It is understood to be a universal social emotion that elicits physiological arousal, subjective feelings, expression through face or voice, and cognitive appraisals after significant loss (e.g. death). The American Psychological Association defines grief as “the anguish experienced after significant loss,…

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