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    easing winter blues

    Easing the Winter Blues

    January 5, 2021

    It is estimated that as many as 10 million Americans struggle with seasonal depression each year, while many more face the winter blues, according to Psychology Today. Bring with that the social isolation, fear, and despair brought on by COVID-19 and you might be feeling more depressed and hopeless than ever before. Here are some tips to ease your winter blues.

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    Easing the Winter Blues

    January 5, 2021

    For some people, the winter months are a time to embrace, whether it be a love of skiing or other outdoor sports, or a desire to snuggle up with a cozy blanket and a book by the fire. But, for many, the cold months of winter are a struggle to get motivated, find energy and, overall, a time of feeling down and depressed.

    It is estimated that as many as 10 million Americans struggle with seasonal depression each year, while many more face the winter blues, according to Psychology Today. Bring with that the social isolation, fear, and despair brought on by COVID-19 and you might be feeling more depressed and hopeless than ever before.

    The good news is there are ways to help yourself feel better and get through the winter months and on to happier, brighter times. What can you do to ease the winter blues and combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) this year?

    1.) Understand when its time to get help

    The winter blues and seasonal depression are similar but Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD) is more severe. If you find that you are always struggling with depression, low mood, irritability, anxiety, fatigue, lack of energy, hopelessness, and despair at the same time every year then you may have SAD. People with SAD may disconnect from family and friends, lose interest in the things they once enjoyed, have difficulty concentrating, oversleep, or have muscle tension or stomach problems. 

    If you have severe symptoms of SAD or are struggling to pull yourself out of a depressed state then consider seeking the help of a licensed mental health professional. A trained counselor or therapist can help you work through this time and develop healthy coping mechanisms. 

    talk therapy winter blues

    2.) Get outside

    Even if going out in the cold is the last thing you want to do, getting a little fresh air can do wonders for your mood and mental health. Layer up and go for a short 20-minute walk each day to keep unpleasant feelings at bay. You can also make it fun—go sledding, ice skating, or snowshoeing. Build a snowman with your kids or engage them in a snowball fight. You will be amazed at how good it can make you (and them) feel.

    3.) Find the sun

    Lack of sunlight is what makes this time of the year so challenging. It is also why we need to do our best to get as much sun as possible. Open curtains and blinds on sunny days and let it all in. Go for walks in the sun. Find a sunny spot near a window to read a book. If it is possible, consider taking a vacation to a warmer, sunnier spot during the worst of the winter months. 

    Another helpful tool for many SAD sufferers is light therapy. You can purchase special lights that help to mimic sunlight and use those a few minutes a day on the darkest days. 

    sun winter blues

    4.) Maintain a routine

    It can be easy to let old routines fall by the wayside in hard times. Do your best to keep your routine to help prevent yourself from falling too deep into depression. Wake up at the same time as you usually do, eat at the same time, keep the same exercise schedule. As unmotivated as you might be, keeping this routine will help keep your mental health in check.

    5.) Avoid overindulging 

    Whether it be alcohol, carbohydrates, or fatty foods, whatever you crave during times of unrest do your best to avoid overindulging. Yes, that donut or martini might provide a little mood boost to start but too much can leave you feeling crummy. Overindulging in unhealthy habits can have a big impact on your overall mental health.

    6.) Connect with others

    Humans need connection. Whether it be in-person, over the phone, Facetime, or even letter writing. We all thrive on connecting with others. So, as tempted as you might be to shut yourself off from the rest of the world and go into hibernation—don’t. Staying connected and busy, having meaningful interactions with others, are the things that are going to help keep you well. 

    phone winter blues

    7.) Practice mindfulness

    Getting into a habit of regular meditation and mindfulness can help you to better regulate your emotions. We spend so much time worrying about things that happened yesterday or things we have to get done tomorrow that we miss all the things right in front of us. Being mindful can help us appreciate the little things, soak up the small moments, and not get as overwhelmed worrying about what is coming next. 

    You are becoming more resilient than ever.

    There is no doubt the last few months have been some of the most challenging for many of us. Now, faced with seasonal depression you might feel like this is never-ending. But, the truth is, this won’t last forever. All of these challenges are teaching you to be more resilient than ever before.

    If you are struggling with how to combat the winter blues or other struggles in your life, don’t hesitate to get help. The sooner you get the help you need, the sooner you can get back to feeling healthy and happy.

    Searching For Online Counseling In Pennsylvania?

    Counselors at CW Psychological Services are professionally-trained and licensed. We have openings for online, or telehealth, therapy appointments. Email us at info@cwpsychologicalservices.com or call at (610) 308-7575. We are here for you.

    Filed Under: Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Telehealth

    child struggling

    Signs Your Child Is Struggling and How to Help

    September 10, 2020

    Certain emotions can be hard for anyone to process, but even more so for children. What are some signs your child is struggling?

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    Signs Your Child Is Struggling and How to Help

    September 10, 2020

    Certain emotions can be hard for anyone to process, but even more so for children. They might not know how to react when they feel a certain way, so, as a parent, it is important to be aware of other signs your child may be struggling.

    The signs are not always obvious. Instead of telling you how they feel, they might act out in behavioral ways or complain of physical discomforts. 

    The best thing you can do is pay attention. Note any sudden shifts in mood, behavior, or physical symptoms. These can be indicators your child could use some help coping. And, listen to your gut. Parents tend to have a sense something isn’t right.

    Coping With COVID

    The past few months, living during a global pandemic COVID-19, have been particularly challenging with everything being canceled and closed down. Now, as we begin another school year and our children and teens take on education in a new way—whether in-person or remote— it is perfectly normal for them to be having a hard time.

    They might be mad that they have to wear a mask or confused as to why they can’t be in school with their friends. They might feel anxious about getting sick.

    Whatever it is that is ailing them, what are some signs to watch for?

    Physical signs your child is stressed:

    • Headaches
    • Upset Stomach
    • Chest Pain
    • Heart palpitations or increased heart rate
    • Insomnia
    • Nightmares
    • Bedwetting
    • Decreases in appetite, comfort-eating, or binge eating
    • Pretending to be sick to avoid certain activities

    Emotional signs your child is stressed:

    • Anxious
    • Mood swings
    • Restlessness
    • Clinginess
    • New or recurring fears
    • Increased crying, anger, stubbornness, or aggression
    • Decreased concentration or motivation
    • Emotional overreactions to minor events
    • Regressing toward comforting behaviors like thumb-sucking, nail-biting, or sleeping with a stuffed animal
    • Social isolation, withdrawal, or unwillingness to participate in activities they used to enjoy

    There are lots of reasons your child might be struggling, COVID-related and beyond. They might be upset they didn’t make a sports team, frustrated or confused by things going on within the home, sad about something with friends, or feeling depressed and not knowing why. 

    child struggling

    As a parent you probably wish you could take their pain and frustration away, you want to fix things, but you might not know how. 

    How can you help?

    1.) Recognize Anxiety is Contagious. Sometimes without even realizing we project our feelings onto those around us. If you are feeling anxious yourself, look inward, try to find your calm so you don’t pass on those anxious feelings to your children. Deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, and meditation can be helpful. You may also want to consider counseling services for yourself so you can better work through your own struggles.

    2.) Validate Your Child’s Feelings. Does what they are going through stink? It sure does. Talk to your child. Tell them it’s ok to feel angry, sad, frustrated, disappointed, etc. Whatever they are struggling with is ok. They don’t need to hide it from you. Help them to feel comfortable opening up about their struggles. Explain that they are not alone. Give them space to grieve.

    3.) Avoid Referencing the Bigger Picture. Saying things like “life isn’t fair” or “we have to do this to keep others safe” aren’t going to help your child. Developmentally their worldview revolves around them, their friends, and their family. 

    4.) Stay Calm. If your child is emotionally unraveling it can be hard as a parent to keep your cool. You want them to relax but saying “just relax” is not the most helpful response. Instead, try to maintain your calm, be a listening ear. Coach them, point out the positives, tell them to breathe. 

    parent with struggling child

    5.) Be Flexible. If your child struggles with anxiety they might not want to do something that you think they should be doing. Try to have some flexibility but also maintain a normal routine. Extra planning for transitions can be helpful as well. Maybe they need a little extra time or a pep talk. 

    6.) Modify Expectations & Praise Them for Accomplishments. During stressful times we all can have trouble getting things done. Modify your expectations for your child during challenging times and praise them for little things. For example at the end of a stressful e-learning day, tell them you are proud of them for sticking with it even though you know it was hard. 

    7.) Get Help. If your child is struggling consider getting them help. Online therapy options are available to connect your child to a therapist virtually. Counseling services can help teach your child ways to cope and manage their stress and disappointment in a healthy way. It is also good for parents to get the help they need so they are better able to support their child during these difficult times.

    And, don’t forget to practice self-care. You also need breaks and an occasional reset to feel your best. You need to take care of yourself to take care of your child in the best way possible. 

    Searching For Online Counseling In Pennsylvania?

    Counselors at CW Psychological Services are professionally-trained and licensed. We have openings for online, or telehealth, therapy appointments. Email us at info@cwpsychologicalservices.com or call at (610) 308-7575. We are here for you. 

    Filed Under: Adolescents/Teens, Anxiety, Children, Depression, Parenting, Teens/Children Tagged With: anxiety, behavioral, child, children, covid-19, depression, help, mental, parenting, physical, stress, stressed, struggling, support, tantrum

    depression pandemic

    Tips to Help Manage Depression During A Pandemic

    August 20, 2020

    For those struggling with depression—new or chronic—COVID-19 has compounded symptoms and made treatment feel more out of reach.

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    Tips to Help Manage Depression During A Pandemic

    August 20, 2020

    As I sit here writing this blog post I can’t help but feel a little down. These times are tough for everyone. Disappointment is all around us, fear of the unknown, financial struggles, concerns about our children and school, isolation as we try to be socially responsible, and anxiety over the potential of getting sick. For those struggling with depression—new or chronic—COVID-19 has compounded symptoms and made treatment feel more out of reach. 

    The good news is online therapy is available and many insurance companies have made changes to their plans to include coverage for online services, making treatment more easily accessible. But even so, we could all use some tips on how to manage depression during these unprecedented and extremely trying times. 

    Let Yourself Grieve

    It’s ok to be sad. It is ok to be upset that schools are closed or events are canceled. It is normal to be disappointed that your favorite store had to shut down or you can’t enjoy your favorite summer festival. Don’t try to minimize your feelings. Instead, let yourself feel them. Allow yourself space to process and move towards acceptance.

    caution tape pandemic

    Don’t Let Isolation Take Over

    You might be physically isolated from social situations right now but you don’t have to give in to complete isolation. Find other ways to connect, even if it is a chat with your neighbor through the fence. Phone calls and video conferencing are both helpful tools to keep you feeling connected. Human contact is crucial to everyone’s mental health and can help depression sufferers tremendously. 

    Lean On Your Support Network

    Identify friends, family members, or counseling professionals you can turn to in times of vulnerability. Everyone should have a person they trust who will be understanding and empathetic to their feelings. 

    pandemic depression support network

    Limit Media Consumption

    Being stuck at home and bored can cause us to spend more time scrolling social media or watching news shows. Try to limit the amount of time spent absorbing this information. There is a lot out there and it can feel overwhelming and difficult to process. Pay attention to how you feel when you are on these networks—if it isn’t good, then cut yourself off. 

    Maintain A Routine 

    Routine and structure are important to your mental wellbeing. With all the changes in our day-to-day, it can be tempting to sleep-in each morning, skip the shower and stay in our sweats. Establishing some kind of healthy balance and structure can help to keep your depressive symptoms in check—even if that means having one pair of yoga pants for relaxing and another for working.

    Practice Self-Care

    A loss in structure often results in letting go of healthy habits like exercise, sleep, and eating healthy foods. Having a daily exercise routine and a healthy eating plan can keep you feeling your best and help with emotional regulation. Not to mention, getting that heart rate up can help you to burn off some steam and release stress. 

    Do Things Even If You Don’t Want To

    Depression often leaves you feeling fatigued and unmotivated but by forcing yourself to do things even if you don’t want to, your mood can benefit. For example, you don’t have the energy to take the dog on a walk but you set an alarm and make yourself do it when it goes off, in turn, you might notice an improvement in your mood and have more motivation to do other things. 

    Get Outside 

    Fresh air and Vitamin D are so important for our bodies and minds. Consider moving your home office to the back porch for part of the day, or add a morning walk to your routine. If you are feeling overwhelmed or claustrophobic getting outside can relieve those feelings.

    outside depression pandemic

    Seek or Continue Treatment

    It can be easy to let normal routines go (including that weekly counseling appointment) when schedules are unraveled and we are forced into isolation. But, seeking help from a licensed mental health professional can offer a lot of benefits. And, if you were already receiving some kind of counseling services it is important to continue treatment.

    Searching For Online Counseling In Pennsylvania?

    Counselors at CW Psychological Services are professionally-trained and licensed. We have openings for online, or telehealth, therapy appointments. Email us at info@cwpsychologicalservices.com or call at (610) 308-7575. You don’t have to manage depression on your own. We are here for you. 

    Filed Under: Depression Tagged With: connection, covid-19, depression, interaction, isolation, pandemic, quarantine, self-care, social

    Do You Know the Signs of Someone Who is Suicidal?

    May 26, 2020

    According to the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, over 47,000 people died by suicide in the United States in 2017. In the same year, there were an estimated 1,400,000 suicide attempts. Knowing the signs of suicide is the primary step in preventing someone you know and love from successfully taking their own life. The Warning […]

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    Do You Know the Signs of Someone Who is Suicidal?

    May 26, 2020

    According to the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, over 47,000 people died by suicide in the United States in 2017. In the same year, there were an estimated 1,400,000 suicide attempts.

    Knowing the signs of suicide is the primary step in preventing someone you know and love from successfully taking their own life.

    The Warning Signs of Suicide

    Hopelessness

    Many individuals who are contemplating ending their own life experience and express feelings of hopelessness.

    Other Strong Emotions

    Suicidal people may also experience and express excessive anger and rage and talk about seeking some kind of revenge.

    Risky Behavior

    People who are thinking about ending their own life start showing signs of risky behavior. Since their lives are not valuable in their own eyes, they may engage in certain behaviors, not caring about the consequences. This can be drinking and driving, experimenting with hard drug use, and spending time in unsafe parts of town.

    Isolation

    Have you noticed your loved one withdrawing from friends and family and isolating themselves more?

    Trouble Sleeping

    Suicidal individuals often experience great anxiety that causes them to suffer from insomnia. Has your loved one been complaining of not sleeping? Are they taking medication for sleep issues?

    The above are warning signs that your loved one may be experiencing a deep depression that needs attention.

    The following are three signs that your loved one needs some help IMMEDIATELY:

    They’ve Come Right Out and Said It

    Your loved one has actually verbalized a desire to harm themselves or kill themselves.

    You’ve Discovered A Plan

    You have somehow come to know that your loved one is actively planning their suicide by stocking pills or getting their hands on a weapon.

    They Have Become Obsessed with Death

    Many suicidal people, especially teenagers, begin talking or writing more and more about death or suicide in a positive light.

    How You Can Help

    Talking to someone you love about suicide can feel uncomfortable. You may be worried that by merely talking about it, you will somehow inspire the act. This just isn’t so.

    Speaking with a loved one who is suicidal allows them to discuss openly their feelings and desire to end their life. Just opening up to someone who is supportive and non-judgmental can assist them in recognizing their need to get some help from a trained therapist.

    For immediate help, please call the toll-free National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. All calls are confidential.

    Filed Under: Depression, General, Self-Esteem

    How to Boost Your Self-Esteem

    January 22, 2020

    What does it mean to have a healthy self-esteem? Some people think it means you are okay with how you look. Other people think you must accomplish something big in your life to have a good self-esteem. But the reality is, having a healthy self-esteem means you like and appreciate yourself faults and all. A […]

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    How to Boost Your Self-Esteem

    January 22, 2020

    What does it mean to have a healthy self-esteem?

    Some people think it means you are okay with how you look. Other people think you must accomplish something big in your life to have a good self-esteem.

    But the reality is, having a healthy self-esteem means you like and appreciate yourself faults and all. A good self-esteem can be the difference between being a happy, resilient individual, able to face life’s challenges head on, and someone who suffers from depression and anxiety and is often overwhelmed with life.

    If you have struggled in the past with self-esteem issues, there are some things you can do to give it a much-needed boost:

    Face the REAL Reality

    Are you someone that generalizes your lack of self-esteem? By that I mean, do you make generalities about yourself such as, “I’m an idiot,” “I’m not pretty enough or smart enough?” The truth is, we all act like idiots from time-to-time, and most human beings on this planet can find someone who is smarter and more attractive than they are.

    If you’re going to work on your self-esteem, you need to first recognize that you often lie to yourself with these generalities. It may be a very convincing lie from your point of view, but it’s still a lie.

    To become familiar with reality, make a list of 10 of your strengths and 10 weaknesses. If you have a hard time coming up with your strengths, think about what others have said about you: you’re a good listener, you are thoughtful, you cook a mean burger.

    When you’re done making this list, you’ll see there are plenty of things you are really good at. And, some of the weaknesses may be things you can absolutely change over time and with some effort.

    Forget About Perfection

    Perfection doesn’t exist. Now you may think all of those Hollywood A-listers that are on the cover of magazines are the epitome of perfection, but even they are air-brushed, photoshopped and have a team of people following them around so their hair is never out of place.

    Stop spending your energy trying to have the perfect face, body, bank account, career, children or relationships. None of that exists. Focus your energy on achieving attainable goals like obtaining your degree and enjoying hobbies.

    Get to Know Your Authentic Self

    We spend so much of our lives comparing ourselves to others that we don’t really take the time to get to know ourselves. Beyond strengths and weaknesses, who are you as a person? What makes you happy or excites you? What hobbies do you enjoy? What kind of brother or sister are you?

    The more you know about yourself, the more chances that you’ll find things out you really like.

    If you would like to speak to someone about your self-esteem issues, please be in touch with me. I’d be happy to discuss how I may be able to help.

    Filed Under: Anxiety, Depression, General, Issues for Women, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Teens/Children

    6 Signs Your Teen May Be Depressed

    January 16, 2020

    As teens struggle through the tough transition period of childhood into young adulthood, it can be difficult to decipher a teen’s behavior. Are their out-of-control emotions and conduct a result of the natural process of adolescence, or is it something more serious? According to the National Institute of Mental Health, in 2016 approximately 3.1 million […]

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    6 Signs Your Teen May Be Depressed

    January 16, 2020

    As teens struggle through the tough transition period of childhood into young adulthood, it can be difficult to decipher a teen’s behavior. Are their out-of-control emotions and conduct a result of the natural process of adolescence, or is it something more serious?

    According to the National Institute of Mental Health, in 2016 approximately 3.1 million adolescents between the ages of 12 to 17 experienced at least one episode of major depression. Depression is a serious mood disorder that, if left untreated, can cause serious short and long-term mental and even physical health problems. Moreover, depression carries a high risk of suicide.

    Below are six signs you can look for to determine if your teen could be experiencing depression.

    1. Excessive Crying and Sadness

    While emotions tend to run high in most teenagers, excessive crying and sadness that persist for more than two weeks could be a sign of depression.

    2. Loss of Interest and Motivation

    When a teen is depressed, they may have trouble concentrating. This will cause them to lose motivation and interest in activities they once enjoyed.

    3. Problems at School

    The loss of concentration and motivation could also result in problems at school. Skipping school, plunging grades and a lack of participation in school and extracurricular activities are all signs that could be pointing to teen depression.

    4. Changes in Weight or Eating Habits

    Has your teen’s eating habits changed? Are they skipping meals or eating larger portions more frequently? Eating more or less, as well as dramatic changes in weight (either gained or lost) is one of the signs of depression.

    5. Withdrawal

    Depression causes people to isolate themselves. It’s not uncommon for a depressed teen to begin to withdraw from friends and family, choosing instead to spend time alone or locked in their room. If your teen is depressed, you may notice them begin to avoid spending time with friends and loved ones.

    6. Suicidal Ideation

    Thoughts or expressions of death or suicide should never be taken lightly. Threats or even jokes about suicide are a cry for help from your teen. If your teen expresses thoughts of suicide, react calmly, and then seek immediate help. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.

    If you suspect that your teen is experiencing depression, it’s important that you seek professional help from an experienced mental health professional that specializes in treating teens. Call me today and let’s set up an appointment to talk.

    Filed Under: Depression, Teens/Children

    Coping with the Holidays After Loss

    December 26, 2019

    For many people, the holidays are about spending time with loved ones. But for those who have suffered a recent loss, the holidays can be painful and isolating. Here are some ways you can cope with the holidays after a loss: Recognize You are Not Alone It’s easy to feel as though you are the […]

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    Coping with the Holidays After Loss

    December 26, 2019

    For many people, the holidays are about spending time with loved ones. But for those who have suffered a recent loss, the holidays can be painful and isolating.

    Here are some ways you can cope with the holidays after a loss:

    Recognize You are Not Alone

    It’s easy to feel as though you are the only one experiencing great pain during the holiday season. Everywhere you turn, people seem to be happy, putting up decorations, buying gifts and making holiday plans. It’s important to recognize the truth right now, and that is that you are not alone. There are people all over the world who have experienced loss, some perhaps very recently.

    Honor Your Pain

    No one expects you to feel joyful and in the holiday mood right now, so don’t feel as though you must pretend for others’ sake. It is very important that you honor whatever emotions you may be experiencing, whether it’s sadness, anger, regret or a combination.

    Take Your Time

    The holidays are usually a busy time for people. There is much to accomplish and many events to host and/or attend. You do not have to keep your normal schedule this year. You simply will not have the mental or emotional stamina for it. So take the time you need. If you don’t feel like attending many (or any) events this year, that is fine. People will understand.

    Help Others in Need

    One of the worst parts about losing a loved one is the feeling that we no longer have any control over our lives. Loss makes us feel helpless. One way to fight this feeling is to help others who are in need. As a bonus, connecting with others who are hurting can often be a salve on our hearts as well.

    When Don’t These Guidelines Apply?

    If you have children, it’s important to understand that they are looking to you right now to know what life will be like from now on. To a child, the loss of a parent or sibling can frighten them terribly. Though you may not at all feel like celebrating the holidays, doing so helps your child know that life does go on and that there is space in your life to feel joy along with sadness.

     

    If you have experienced loss and would like to explore grief counseling, please be in touch. You don’t have to suffer alone.

    Filed Under: Depression, General, Grief

    Coping with Depression During the Holiday Season

    November 29, 2019

    During this time of year, radio and TV ads would have us believe we should all feel merry and bright. Sadly, that’s not always the case. According to the National Institute of Health, many people experience depression during the holiday season. Some of the most common reasons people experience depression during this time of year are: Financial hardship – […]

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    Coping with Depression During the Holiday Season

    November 29, 2019

    During this time of year, radio and TV ads would have us believe we should all feel merry and bright. Sadly, that’s not always the case. According to the National Institute of Health, many people experience depression during the holiday season.

    Some of the most common reasons people experience depression during this time of year are:

    • Financial hardship – ‘Tis the season to be jolly, unless your bank account is overdrawn and your credit cards maxed out. Not having a budget to buy loved ones presents, especially our children, can feel devastating.
    • Stress – It’s easy to become overwhelmed from the added stress of shopping, planning and travel. Studies have found this is particularly true for women.
    • Grief and loneliness – Many people feel incredibly lonely during the holidays. Whether it’s from being single, recently divorced, or having just lost a loved one, the holidays are often a reminder of what we don’t have but wish we did.

    If you can relate and are looking for some relief, here are ways you can cope with your depression this holiday season:

    Feel Your Feelings

    If you are grieving a loss, it’s important that you’re honest about your feelings. Your instinct may be to put on a brave face for friends and family, but forcing yourself to be happy for the sake of others will only make matters worse. Sadness and grief are a part of life, no matter the season, and it is 100% okay for you to feel your feelings.

    Give Something Besides Money

    If a lack of finances is the primary source of your mood, look for other ways you can give to others. You can volunteer at a local charity. Are you a good cook? Offer to cook for friends and family. If your talent is writing, write your kids a bedtime story or, if it’s painting, paint a beautiful mural on their wall. At the end of the day, thoughtful gifts from your heart will leave the greatest lasting impression.

    Focus on Self Care

    It’s important that you care for yourself during the holiday season. Eat right, drink filtered water, exercise, and get plenty of rest. While these steps are important for everyone throughout the entire year, they are particularly important for those suffering from depression during the holidays.

    Seek Help

    Depression is nothing to take lightly. If your depression has lingered, is getting worse, or you’re having suicidal thoughts, it’s imperative that you seek help from a qualified mental health professional. They will be able to help you navigate your overwhelming emotions and offer tools to manage symptoms.

    If you’d like to explore treatment options, please get in touch with me. You don’t have to suffer alone. I would be more than happy to speak with you about how I may be able to help.

    Filed Under: Depression

    Why Did I Feel Fine Yesterday? The Causes of Depression

    September 12, 2019

    With 322 million people suffering with depression worldwide, it’s not surprising to learn that in America, depression is among the most common mental disorders. The cause of depression is often simplified as a chemical imbalance in the brain, but the reality is that the disease is far more complicated. Scientific research has yet to completely […]

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    Why Did I Feel Fine Yesterday? The Causes of Depression

    September 12, 2019

    With 322 million people suffering with depression worldwide, it’s not surprising to learn that in America, depression is among the most common mental disorders. The cause of depression is often simplified as a chemical imbalance in the brain, but the reality is that the disease is far more complicated. Scientific research has yet to completely understand the biology of depression. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors.

    What Causes Depression?

    The disease of depression is the complicated combination previously described; this disease gives you the predisposition to fall into a depression after having experienced a negative external event. For example, getting fired from a job might send one person into a deep depression, while another simply bounces back after experiencing the initial sadness and disappointment.

    Many experts in the cognitive behavioral field believe that depression is caused by, and worsens, with distorted negative thinking. The emotions you experience during an episode of depression are created by negative thoughts and perceptions. Your feelings will result from the meaning you attach to those thoughts. If you eliminate distorted, negative thoughts, you will find it easier to cope with the negative event that triggered your depression.

    Why Did I Feel Fine Yesterday?

    If you felt fine yesterday, but today feel depressed and hopeless, distorted thinking may be to blame. As an example, let’s say you woke up late and had to rush to work. This put you in a bad mood, and you started thinking distorted negative thoughts. “I’m always late. I’m a loser. My boss is going to be angry at me all day. He probably hates me anyway. I’m going to get fired.” As the day goes on, every event will be processed through this negative filter, causing you to feel worse.

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

    Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is a form of psychotherapy that helps you challenge negative patterns of thought. By challenging these thoughts, you can improve your mood. For example, “I’m always late.” This is an overgeneralization. More than likely, you have not been late that often. If this is something you want to change, you can alter your schedule and habits to become more punctual.

    Depression is a complicated illness, and as such is best managed by comprehensive treatment. If you’re suffering from depression, a licensed therapist can help you understand your mood disorder and develop strategies to cope with and improve your symptoms. Together, we can develop a plan for you to create the life you want to live. Give my office a call today, and let’s schedule a time to talk.

    Filed Under: Depression

    Five Warning Signs of Postpartum Depression

    August 15, 2019

    Being a new mom can cause you to go through a rollercoaster of emotions. You might feel overwhelmed with love or bliss, or you might feel panicky or anxious about your responsibilities as a new mother. It’s natural to feel a variety of both positive and negative emotions, given the dramatic hormonal changes that occur […]

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    Five Warning Signs of Postpartum Depression

    August 15, 2019

    Being a new mom can cause you to go through a rollercoaster
    of emotions. You might feel overwhelmed with love or bliss, or you might feel
    panicky or anxious about your responsibilities as a new mother. It’s natural to
    feel a variety of both positive and negative emotions, given the dramatic
    hormonal changes that occur following childbirth. However, if you find that
    your negative emotions are becoming unmanageable, and fear you might be
    experiencing postpartum depression, here are five warning signs to look out
    for.

     

    Lack of Interest
    Towards the Baby

    If you’re suffering from postpartum depression, you may find
    that your new role as a mother lacks joy. You may struggle to bond with your
    baby, feel overwhelmed by your new responsibilities or overall feel a lack of
    interest in your baby.

     

    Lack of Concentration

    Trouble focusing, difficulty making decisions or memory
    problems are possible signs of postpartum depression.

     

    Change in Eating or Sleeping
    Habits

    While it’s natural for eating and sleeping habits to change
    when you’re a new mom, drastic changes are a sign that something may be wrong.
    If you’re having difficulty falling or staying asleep, or are sleeping longer
    than usual, this could be a sign of postpartum depression. Eating too much or
    too little are other warning signs to look out for.

     

    Feelings of Sadness
    or Hopelessness

    Hormonal changes after childbirth will naturally cause mood
    swings that will differ from what you experienced before giving birth. However,
    if you find yourself feeling excessively sad or experiencing feelings of
    hopelessness, you may be suffering from postpartum depression.

     

    Lack of Energy and
    Motivation

    Your newfound responsibilities as a mother will naturally
    leave you tired, but overwhelming feelings of exhaustion are something to be concerned
    about. If you find that you frequently lack energy or motivation, this is a
    sign that you may be experiencing postpartum depression.

     

    If these warning signs seem familiar, you should know that
    you’re not alone: 1 in 9 new mothers has postpartum depression. Postpartum
    depression is a serious health condition, but it can be treated.

     

    Postpartum Psychosis

    In rare cases, women can have postpartum psychosis;
    experiencing symptoms such as hallucinations, delusions, obsessive or fearful
    thoughts, deep paranoia or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby. If you’re
    experiencing any of these symptoms, call your doctor or 911 immediately.

     

    If you believe you’re struggling with postpartum depression,
    a licensed therapist can help teach you strategies to manage your depression
    and improve your mood. Give my office a call today, and let’s schedule a time
    to talk.

    Filed Under: Depression, New Mother

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