Pandemic stress has a psychological component that affects people in many ways. That includes those who are grieving. Normally, after the death of a loved one, the world seems to stop for those left behind. Grief isolates and provides a period for processing loss. Grief after traumatic circumstances — devastating illness or injury; sudden death that leaves no time to...[ read more ]
It’s a process. Is there anything more annoying that a therapist can say? Isn’t my job to help people feel better, not just state the obvious? Yet sometimes I have to accept that there is no roadmap or perfect tool to offer my client. We have to just acknowledge that it’s a process and sit in a place where things...[ read more ]
This week’s Psychology Around the Net highlights proposed mental health funds in an upcoming legislative package, explains how to set boundaries with toxic people, discusses the impacts your company’s mental health programs are having (even if you can’t see them), and more. Oh, and takes a look at why it’s a good thing our kids are finally bored! Stay healthy!...[ read more ]
What a wonderful day! No one in the village doing anything. – Shiki Following a deceptively slow and un-concerning start, the COVID-19 virus has since gone on to turn the lives of many upside down. A third of the world’s population is currently under lockdown in their own homes as part of physical distancing measures to slow the spread of...[ read more ]
Feelings of hopelessness don’t just pop up when you’ve been through a traumatic event, but as you are going through it. Generally, feelings of hopelessness amount to a feeling that there is no possibility for change, regardless of one’s circumstance or condition. At this point in time, no semblance of optimism exists. This is what many individuals are facing right...[ read more ]
When we’re struggling, books can become a lifeline. They can uplift and inspire. They can provide helpful, even transformative, tools to navigate stubborn challenges. And they can remind us that we are absolutely not alone—and we will get through this. We asked psychotherapists to share their favorite books for coping during this strange, stressful time. Below, you’ll find books on...[ read more ]
Do you have someone in your life that you know needs some extra encouragement this year? Mother’s day is usually a day that most women are celebrated by their kids, family and friends. Unfortunately, some women don’t always receive the love and support that they really need. Some women are going through tough trials and situations, and they’re in need...[ read more ]
What happens when the police are called to handle a mental health emergency? And is the current coronavirus pandemic affecting their response? In today’s podcast, Gabe interviews Sergeant Matt Harris, a supervisor in the Mobile Crisis Response Unit at the Columbus, Ohio Police Department, to shed some light on an officer’s point of view during a mental health call. Sgt....[ read more ]
I have a 15-year-old son who is on the autism spectrum. He is in his first year of high school. For the beginning part of the school year, before COVID-19, he was doing well academically and socially. In fact, he loved school. He had many friends and was very verbal. Although he is autistic, I did not fret about his...[ read more ]
I was recently asked if I thought the pandemic is a national trauma. The answer is a simple “Yes.” By the standards of the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual), the volume used by mental health professionals to guide diagnosis and treatment, the COVID-19 pandemic meets the criteria for trauma. Not all stressful events meet those criteria. The DSM-5 definition of trauma requires...[ read more ]
