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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addiction definition

Over 19 million Americans struggle with substance addiction, costing the U.S. an estimated $6.6 billion in 2022 for substance use prevention along with millions and billions more appropriated funding for mental health care and state-level opioid epidemic response programs (SAMHSA). Is Addiction a Disease? Diseases are characterized as having a physiological or biological basis. They…

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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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insta label

VIEW POST ON INSTAGRAM   To boost self-esteem, some might seek external validation by pleasing others and constantly presenting achievements in a positive light. When some achievement receives praise and recognition, it is attributed to a greater sense of self-worth. Unfortunately feeling insecure about self and the world can lower self-esteem, creating the perception that…

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laced drugs on the rise

Laced Drugs On The Rise – Why, How & What You Need To Know Though psychoactive substances and prescription medication have long been in circulation, we currently face a new threat with the increasing instances of laced drugs and fentanyl related overdose. Laced drugs are substances mixed with other harmful chemicals or drugs without the…

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