Most of us know that the December holiday season is not all merry and bright for many people, however we feel somehow that it is supposed to be, and when it isn't for us, there is a disconnect that can be incredibly painful. Here are some ways to care for yourself during this holiday season:
Anxiety
Includes social anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, and panic disorder
The Shadow Side of the Wellness/Self Help/Mental Health Industry
When we use wellness strategies, mental health diagnosis and medication and see help guides to avoid acknowledging larger social concerns, we risk doing harm to ourselves and others.
Hope-Based Living
According to attachment theory humans require an emotional foundation from which to hope and risk and venture out. I've shared where I find my security in hopes that you might discover yours.
Calming Panic
If we have experienced trauma in our lives, our system may be on high alert and send adrenalin through our bodies even when it is not needed.
Childhood and its influence on Adult Alcohol Consumption
This study showed that people who scored 4 or more on the ACE questionnaire were seven times as likely to become addicted to alcohol.
Processing Memories with EMDR
In this process I came to fully understand that my memories and beliefs were not only thoughts or images but also emotions and bodily sensations and that all of these needed to be processed in order for true change and healing to happen.
7 Steps to Emotionally Safer Sex
Emotional safety in a sexual relationship is the best way to ensure a good sexual experience for everyone. Check out the ways to improve your sex life.
Nightmares as Signposts
Historically, I have paid much closer attention to my dreams than to my nightmares, I have discovered that, like my waking life, looking closely at the things that cause me fear and shame, has been very effective in helping me to understand areas of my self that require attention and have, surprisingly to me, greatly reduced their intensity and frequency.
How to Ask for What you Want
Georgia sprained her ankle recently and wants her husband to pick up the slack with the housework. Dennis wants the holiday time he asked for and was denied by his manager. Joyce wants her siblings to pitch in with caring for their mother who has cancer and is needing a lot of support. Sabrine wants her … Continue reading How to Ask for What you Want
How Men Can Care for their own Mental Health
Men learn that emotions, and emotional connection are, at best, distractions (unless they are a means to money or sex) and, at worse, anathema to true masculinity.