Depression can easily cut a person off from everyone in their lives, so providing help when they need it most can be difficult. The depressed individual may react very little when addressed or may be unresponsive to questions entirely. This does not mean that helping is futile, or that by trying to help, one is […]
Author Archives: Alta Loma
25
May
May
Yes, being happy is the ultimate goal here. Still, there is a difference between being happy in life and being happy at all times. Forcing a smile, or trying to “just cheer up” could actually be counterproductive to reaching the end goal kind of happiness. Not to mention, it’s just kind of annoying to hear. […]
23
May
May
Stress and anxiety are two words that are commonly used as synonyms, completely interchangeable with each other. While the symptoms can appear to be the same, there are critical differences between the two that can help to identify the source of the symptoms and seek appropriate help. The symptoms of stress are very similar […]
22
May
May
Depression is more complicated than being sad. It is a full-scale assault on motivation and self-worth. It leads to a view of the world through an absolutely negative filter. It is absolutely crushing. Breaking through these feelings is a daunting task, but you can move past depressive episodes by following some simple steps. Keep […]
Mental Health, Recovery
Trauma and Substance Abuse: How Does Trauma Influence the Risk for Addiction?
22
May
May
Having concerns and questions about mental health disorders and their connection to addiction is valid. There is a link between trauma and substance abuse. Trauma impacts a person’s ability to cope with stress and suffering. Unbearable and unmanaged stress may lead to addiction as a person seeks to numb themselves and withstand the trauma. Their […]
21
May
May
“Humans are creatures of habit,” if the old adage is to be believed. Even the most absolutely spontaneous people still maintain relatively consistent bedtimes, morning routines, and daily rituals. These routines help to organize not only each passing day but all of the shooting thoughts that pass through our minds. For people suffering from anxiety […]
21
May
May
Concern about relapse is common for recovering addicts and their loved ones. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that 40-60 percent of those in recovery will relapse. (www.drugabuse.gov) There are many causes for relapse and practices to help prevent the possibility. Addiction: Addiction is a chronic disease, and recovery is a life-long process. […]
20
May
May
Experiencing a loved one having a panic attack for the first time can be scary, but know that it is much more frightening for them than for you. While specific symptoms may vary, it is essential to familiarize and prepare yourself for any possibilities to be able to best help your loved one. Keep […]
20
May
May
Understandably, most people are not waiting eagerly to show off their less-than-stellar artistic abilities. Still, during times of anxiety and depression, art can be used as a coping mechanism. While art won’t necessarily overcome these episodes, it can provide us with a way of expressing them. “Doing art” does not necessarily mean that one […]
19
May
May
Suffering from anxiety and panic can take a massive toll on our bodies and minds. Anxiety can dictate each action and cause our perception of the world to change. Over time, it reframes our outlook, skewing our perception through a lens of pure fear. This causes those suffering to process sounds and images incorrectly or […]