As the summer season approaches, many of us start to plan our vacations and leisure activities. It’s a time of year when we want to enjoy the sunshine, spend time with friends and family, and explore new places. However, it’s also important to remember that balance is key to maintaining optimal mental health. Let’s explore some tips and strategies for balancing work and leisure time during the summer season. First and foremost, it’s important to set realistic expectations for yourself. While it’s great to have goals and aspirations, it’s also important to recognize that you only have a limited amount of time and energy. Prioritize the things that are most important to you and be mindful of how much time and energy you are putting into each activity. It’s okay to say no to things that don’t align with your priorities or that you simply don’t have time for. Another important aspect of balancing work and leisure time is setting boundaries. This can be especially challenging during the summer season when there may be more social events and activities. However, it’s important to carve out time for yourself and your own well-being. Set boundaries around your work schedule, and make sure to take breaks throughout the day to recharge and refocus. When it comes to social events, consider setting limits on the amount of time you spend at each event or the number of events you attend per week. In addition to setting boundaries, it’s important to practice self-care. This can take many forms, depending on your personal preferences and needs. Some people may find that exercise or outdoor activities are the best way to recharge, while others may prefer to read, meditate, or practice yoga. Whatever it is that makes you feel energized and refreshed, make sure to prioritize it and make time for it in your schedule. One way to balance work and leisure time during the summer season is to combine the two. For example, if you enjoy being outdoors, you could take your work outside and enjoy the sunshine while you work. Alternatively, you could plan a work outing or team-building event that involves outdoor activities. This can help to break up the monotony of the workday and make work feel more enjoyable and rewarding. Another important aspect of balancing work and leisure time is to make time for social connections. While it’s important to prioritize your own well-being, it’s also important to maintain meaningful connections with others. This can be especially challenging during the summer season when people may be traveling or spending time away from work. However, there are still many ways to stay connected, such as scheduling regular check-ins with colleagues or friends or planning virtual or in-person events. Finally, it’s important to recognize that balancing work and leisure time is an ongoing process. It’s not something that can be achieved overnight, and it requires a certain amount of flexibility and adaptability. If you find that your current approach isn’t working, don’t be afraid to adjust and try new strategies. In conclusion, balancing work and leisure time is essential for maintaining optimal mental health during the summer season. By setting realistic expectations, practicing self-care, setting boundaries, combining work and leisure, making time for social connections, and staying flexible, you can achieve a healthy balance that works for you. Remember to prioritize your own well-being and enjoy all that the summer season has to offer. We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/finding-the-balance-how-to-balance-work-and-play/
0 Comments
How to help struggling adolescents during summer breakSummer break can be a time of excitement and adventure for children and teens, but for those struggling with mental health challenges, it can also be a time of added stress and anxiety. The lack of structure and routine that comes with the summer months can exacerbate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. However, there are many ways parents and caregivers can support children and teens with mental health challenges during summer break. Firstly, it’s important to maintain a sense of structure and routine, even if it’s different from the school year routine. Children and teens with mental health challenges often benefit from predictability and consistency, so try to establish a daily routine that includes regular mealtimes, exercise, and leisure activities. This can help create a sense of stability and reduce anxiety. Encourage physical activity. Exercise is a proven mood booster, and it can also help reduce stress and anxiety. Encourage your child or teen to engage in physical activity each day, whether it’s a walk, bike ride, swim, or other activity they enjoy. You could also investigate local summer camps or programs that offer physical activities, such as sports, dance, or outdoor adventure programs. Practice mindfulness. Mindfulness is a technique that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It can be an effective tool for reducing stress and anxiety. Encourage your child or teen to practice mindfulness each day, whether it’s through guided meditations, yoga, or other mindfulness practices. There are many resources available online or through apps that offer guided meditations and mindfulness exercises specifically for children and teens. Help your child or teen stay connected with friends and family. Social connections are important for mental health and well-being, but during summer break, it can be easy to become isolated. Encourage your child or teen to stay in touch with friends and family members, whether it’s through phone calls, video chats, or in-person meetups. You could also investigate local community programs or groups that your child or teen could participate in to meet new people and make new friends. Encourage healthy eating habits. A healthy diet is important for both physical and mental health. Encourage your child or teen to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit sugary and processed foods, which can contribute to mood swings and energy crashes. Create a safe and supportive home environment. Children and teens with mental health challenges often need a safe and supportive home environment to thrive. Make sure your home is a place where your child or teen feels comfortable and supported. This may include creating a quiet space for relaxation, limiting screen time, and establishing clear boundaries and expectations. Encourage your child or teen to pursue their interests and hobbies. Summer break can be a great time for children and teens to explore new interests and hobbies. Encourage your child or teen to pursue activities they enjoy, whether it’s painting, writing, playing music, or learning a new skill. Engaging in meaningful and enjoyable activities can be a powerful tool for improving mental health and well-being. Finally, be open and supportive. It’s important for children and teens to know that they have a support system in place. Let your child or teen know that you are there for them and that they can come to you with any concerns or issues they may be experiencing. If your child or teen is struggling with mental health challenges, consider seeking professional support from a mental health provider. Therapy can be a valuable tool for improving mental health and well-being. Summer break can be a challenging time for children and teens with mental health struggles, but there are many strategies that parents and caregivers can use to support their child’s mental health. We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/how-to-help-struggling-adolescents-during-summer-break/ How to be social without social mediaSummer is a time of fun, sun, and relaxation. But for many of us, social media can make it difficult to fully enjoy the season. In recent years, research has shown that social media can have a negative impact on our mental health, and this is especially true during the summer months. The constant barrage of images of friends on vacation, having fun at the beach, or attending music festivals can lead to feelings of envy and FOMO (fear of missing out). This can be particularly difficult for people who are struggling with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. The problem is compounded by the fact that social media use tends to increase during the summer months. With more free time on our hands, we may find ourselves scrolling through our feeds more often than usual, leading to increased exposure to content that can negatively impact our mental health. So what can we do to manage our social media use during the summer months? Here are some tips:
One of the most effective ways to manage social media use is to set limits on how much time you spend on these platforms. This can be done using a variety of tools, such as apps that track your usage or by setting specific times of the day when you allow yourself to use social media. 2. Be mindful of your feelings When you do use social media, be mindful of how it makes you feel. If you find yourself feeling anxious, jealous, or envious, it may be time to take a break. Remember, social media is often a curated version of people’s lives, and it’s important not to compare your real life to the highlight reel of others. 3. Prioritize real-life connections During the summer months, it can be easy to get caught up in the virtual world of social media and forget about the importance of real-life connections. Try to prioritize spending time with friends and family in person, whether that means planning a weekend getaway or simply having a picnic in the park. 4. Unfollow or mute accounts that trigger negative emotions If certain accounts or types of content are consistently triggering negative emotions, consider unfollowing or muting them. Remember, you have control over what you see on social media, and it’s important to curate your feed in a way that supports your mental health. 5. Take a social media detox If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by social media, consider taking a break altogether. This can be done for a day, a week, or even longer, depending on your needs. Use this time to focus on other activities that bring you joy, such as reading, hiking, or spending time with loved ones. 6. Seek support if needed If you’re struggling with mental health issues and social media is exacerbating these feelings, it’s important to seek support. This may mean reaching out to a mental health professional or confiding in a trusted friend or family member. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. Social media can have a significant impact on our mental health during the summer months, but there are steps we can take to manage our use and prioritize our well-being. By setting limits, being mindful of our feelings, prioritizing real-life connections, curating our feeds, taking breaks when needed, and seeking support, if necessary, we can enjoy all that summer has to offer without sacrificing our mental health. We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/how-to-be-social-without-social-media/ Nourish your body and mindAs the temperature rises and the sun shines brighter, summer brings an opportunity for outdoor activities, vacations, and relaxation. However, it’s important to remember that nutrition plays a critical role in maintaining good mental health during the summer months. With the right dietary choices, you can ensure that you’re nourishing both your body and your mind. The Connection Between Nutrition and Mental Health It’s no secret that what you eat can have a significant impact on your physical health. However, recent research has also shown that your diet can play a crucial role in your mental health. Studies have found that a diet high in processed foods and refined sugars can increase the risk of depression and anxiety. In contrast, a diet rich in whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats, can help to improve mental health outcomes. The summer months offer an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, which can provide essential vitamins and minerals that are important for brain function. For example, blueberries are rich in antioxidants that can protect the brain from oxidative stress, while leafy greens like spinach are a good source of folate, which has been shown to help reduce symptoms of depression. In addition to providing important nutrients, a healthy diet can also help to reduce inflammation in the body, which has been linked to a higher risk of depression and other mental health conditions. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fatty fish like salmon and tuna, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Tips for Eating Well During the Summer Now that we understand the importance of nutrition for mental health during the summer, let’s explore some tips for eating well.
Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of the abundance of fresh, seasonal produce. Try incorporating fruits like watermelon, strawberries, and peaches into your breakfast or snack routine. For lunch and dinner, experiment with grilled vegetables like zucchini, peppers, and eggplant. 2. Hydrate with water and other hydrating beverages Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining good mental and physical health during the summer. Try to drink at least eight glasses of water per day, and consider incorporating other hydrating beverages like herbal teas, coconut water, and infused water with fruit and herbs. 3. Choose lean proteins like chicken, fish, and tofu Protein is important for maintaining healthy neurotransmitter function, which can impact mood and cognition. Choose lean proteins like chicken, fish, and tofu, which are low in saturated fat and can help to support healthy brain function. 4. Limit processed foods and added sugars As mentioned earlier, processed foods and added sugars can increase the risk of depression and anxiety. Try to limit your consumption of processed foods and instead opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 5. Practice mindful eating Eating mindfully can help you to tune into your body’s hunger and fullness signals and can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Take time to savor your meals, eat slowly, and pay attention to the flavors and textures of the food you’re eating. 6. Plan ahead for meals and snacks Planning ahead for meals and snacks can help to ensure that you have healthy options on hand and can help to reduce the likelihood of making unhealthy choices. Try meal prepping on the weekends or packing snacks like cut-up veggies, fruit, or nuts to bring with you on the go. 7. Don’t forget about healthy fats Healthy fats, like those found in nuts, seeds, avocado, and olive oil, are important for brain health and can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Try incorporating healthy fats into your meals by adding avocado to your salad, sprinkling nuts and seeds on your breakfast, or cooking with olive oil. Maintaining a healthy diet during the summer months is essential for supporting good mental health. By incorporating seasonal fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and practicing mindful eating, you can nourish your body and mind and enjoy all that summer has to offer. We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/nourish-your-body-and-mind/ Bye, Bye, “perfect” bikini bodySummer is a season that many people look forward to, with warm weather and plenty of opportunities to spend time outdoors. However, for some, the summer months can bring about a sense of anxiety and insecurity, particularly when it comes to body image. This is especially true during swimsuit season when many people feel pressure to look a certain way in order to feel confident and comfortable in their swimsuits. Body image concerns are not just about wanting to look good in a swimsuit. They can have a significant impact on mental health, particularly during the summer months when the pressure to look a certain way is heightened. Studies have shown that body image concerns can lead to a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. One of the main reasons why body image concerns can be so damaging to mental health is that they are often rooted in unrealistic expectations and societal pressures. Women, in particular, are bombarded with images of “perfect” bodies in the media, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. Men are not immune either, with the rise of the “dad bod” trend leading to pressure to maintain a certain level of physical fitness. These societal pressures can be particularly intense during swimsuit season when people are expected to show more skin and be more exposed. This can lead to a sense of vulnerability and self-consciousness, particularly for those who are already struggling with body image issues. The fear of being judged or ridiculed for their appearance can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of anxiety and low self-esteem. Additionally, the emphasis on appearance during swimsuit season can also lead to unhealthy behaviors. Many people turn to extreme diets or exercise regimens in order to achieve the “perfect” body, which can have negative consequences on both physical and mental health. These behaviors can also become obsessive and lead to a cycle of self-criticism and shame. It’s important to recognize that everyone has a unique body shape and size, and there is no one “perfect” body type. We should strive to focus on being healthy and strong, rather than conforming to unrealistic beauty standards. It’s also important to remember that everyone has imperfections and insecurities, even those who may appear to have the “perfect” body. One way to combat negative body image during swimsuit season is to focus on self-care and self-compassion. This means treating ourselves with kindness and understanding, rather than harsh criticism. We can also try to reframe our thoughts and focus on our positive qualities and strengths, rather than fixating on our flaws. Another helpful strategy is to surround ourselves with positive influences. This might mean following social media accounts that promote body positivity and self-love or spending time with friends who uplift and support us. It’s also important to remember that we have the power to choose our own sources of information and inspiration, and we can choose to prioritize those that promote healthy attitudes and behaviors. Finally, seeking professional help can also be beneficial for those struggling with body image issues during swimsuit season. Therapists and counselors can provide guidance and support for overcoming negative thoughts and behaviors and can help develop healthy coping strategies. Body image concerns can have a significant impact on mental health during swimsuit season when the pressure to look a certain way is heightened. These concerns can lead to a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. However, by focusing on self-care and self-compassion, surrounding ourselves with positive influences, and seeking professional help when needed, we can work towards a healthier and more positive relationship with our bodies. We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/bye-bye-perfect-bikini-body/ How to be more mindful this summerAs the warm summer months approach, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the benefits of mindfulness practices for mental health. Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the moment, without judgment or distraction. It can help to reduce stress, improve concentration, and increase overall well-being. Here are some of the benefits of mindfulness practices for mental health during the summer: 1. Reducing Stress Summer can be a time of increased stress for many people. Whether it’s due to family vacations, social events, or work obligations, there’s often a lot to juggle during these months. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help to reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation and calmness. By taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breathing and clear your mind, you can feel more centered and in control of your emotions. 2. Improving Sleep The long days and warm temperatures of summer can also disrupt our sleep patterns. It’s important to get enough restful sleep, as lack of sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, and decreased concentration. Mindfulness practices can help to improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing stress. By practicing mindfulness techniques before bedtime, such as gentle yoga poses or meditation, you can create a more peaceful and restful environment for your mind and body. 3. Increasing Happiness Summer is often associated with feelings of happiness and joy, but it’s not uncommon to experience periods of low mood or anxiety during this time. Mindfulness practices can help to increase feelings of happiness by promoting positive thinking and reducing negative self-talk. By focusing on the present moment and cultivating gratitude for the small things in life, you can increase your overall sense of well-being and happiness. 4. Boosting Immunity During the summer months, our bodies are exposed to a range of environmental factors that can weaken our immune system. Mindfulness practices, such as yoga and meditation, have been shown to boost immune function by reducing stress hormones and improving overall well-being. By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can help to protect your body from illness and promote long-term health. 5. Improving Relationships Summer is often a time for socializing and spending time with loved ones. Mindfulness practices can help to improve relationships by promoting empathy and compassion. By practicing mindfulness techniques, such as deep listening and non-judgmental awareness, you can improve your communication skills and deepen your connections with others. 6. Increasing Productivity With so many distractions and competing priorities during the summer months, it can be challenging to stay focused and productive. Mindfulness practices can help to increase productivity by improving concentration and reducing stress levels. By taking a few minutes each day to practice mindfulness, you can create a more focused and productive work environment. 7. Enhancing Creativity Summer is often a time of increased creativity and inspiration. Mindfulness practices can help to enhance creativity by promoting a sense of openness and curiosity. By practicing mindfulness techniques, such as visualization exercises or creative writing prompts, you can tap into your creative potential and unlock new ideas and insights. The benefits of mindfulness practices for mental health during the summer months are numerous and significant. From reducing stress and improving sleep to increasing happiness and boosting immunity, mindfulness practices can help us to lead healthier and more fulfilling lives. By incorporating mindfulness into our daily routines, we can cultivate a greater sense of awareness and well-being, and enjoy all that the summer season has to offer. So, take a deep breath, focus on the present moment, and let mindfulness help you to make the most of your summer. We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/how-to-be-more-mindful-this-summer/ Summer scaries: How to stay cool, calm, and collected at social eventsSummer is filled with social events and gatherings. From backyard barbecues to pool parties and weddings, the warmer weather and longer days can bring about a plethora of opportunities to socialize with friends and family. However, for individuals who experience social anxiety, these events can also bring about feelings of fear, nervousness, and discomfort. Let’s explore strategies for navigating social anxiety and social events during the summer season.
One of the first steps in managing social anxiety is to understand your triggers. What specific situations or circumstances cause you to feel anxious or uncomfortable? For some, it may be the thought of being in a crowded space, while for others, it may be the fear of not knowing anyone at an event. Once you have identified your triggers, you can develop strategies to manage them. For example, if you know that being in a crowded space triggers your anxiety, you may want to arrive early to an event to avoid the crowds or seek out a quiet space where you can take a break if needed. If the fear of not knowing anyone is your trigger, consider reaching out to the host ahead of time to ask if they can introduce you to a few people or bring a friend along to the event. 2. Practice Mindfulness Mindfulness is a powerful tool that can help you manage social anxiety. Mindfulness involves being present in the moment, without judgment or distraction. By practicing mindfulness, you can learn to recognize and manage anxious thoughts and feelings, allowing you to feel more at ease in social situations. To practice mindfulness, try taking a few deep breaths and focusing your attention on your breath. Notice the sensations of your breath as it moves in and out of your body. When your mind begins to wander, gently bring your attention back to your breath. You can also try practicing mindfulness during everyday activities, such as walking or eating, to build your mindfulness skills. 3. Set Realistic Goals It can be helpful to set realistic goals for yourself when attending social events. Rather than expecting to meet and connect with everyone at an event, set a more realistic goal, such as having one or two meaningful conversations. This can help to alleviate some of the pressure you may feel to be social and allow you to focus on connecting with others on a deeper level. 4. Remember that it’s okay to take breaks It’s important to remember that it’s okay to take breaks when attending social events. If you begin to feel overwhelmed or anxious, take a few minutes to step outside or find a quiet space to regroup. You can also try practicing mindfulness or deep breathing exercises during these breaks to help calm your nerves. 5. Use Positive Self-Talk Positive self-talk can be a powerful tool in managing social anxiety. Rather than allowing negative thoughts to take over, try replacing them with more positive, supportive thoughts. For example, if you begin to feel anxious about attending an event, try telling yourself, “I can do this. I am strong and capable.” These positive affirmations can help to boost your confidence and self-esteem, allowing you to feel more comfortable in social situations. 6. Practice Exposure Therapy Exposure therapy is a type of therapy that involves gradually exposing yourself to the situations or triggers that cause your anxiety, allowing you to develop coping strategies and build resilience. While exposure therapy is often conducted in a clinical setting, you can also practice exposure therapy on your own by gradually exposing yourself to social situations that make you feel anxious. For example, if you feel anxious about attending a large social gathering, you may want to start by attending smaller events or gatherings with close friends or family members. As you become more comfortable in these settings, you can gradually work your way up to larger events and gatherings. Navigating social events during the summer doesn’t have to be scary, use these approaches to help overcome social anxiety and take control of your summer. We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/summer-scaries-how-to-stay-cool-at-social-events/ Summertime Sadness: how to cure the summertime bluesSeasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that usually affects people during the winter months when there is less sunlight. However, there is also a lesser-known form of SAD that affects people during the summer months. This condition can be just as debilitating as winter SAD, but the symptoms and coping strategies are often different. What is Summer SAD? Summer SAD is a type of seasonal affective disorder that typically occurs during the summer months. It is characterized by feelings of depression, anxiety, and irritability that are often accompanied by physical symptoms such as insomnia, weight loss, and decreased appetite. While the exact cause of summer SAD is unknown, it is believed to be related to changes in the amount of sunlight and heat during the summer months. Coping with Summer SAD If you experience summer SAD, there are several strategies that you can use to cope with your symptoms. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
One of the most effective ways to cope with summer SAD is to make sure that you are getting plenty of sleep. Lack of sleep can exacerbate feelings of depression and anxiety, so it is important to establish a regular sleep routine and stick to it. Try to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night and avoid staying up late or sleeping in too late in the morning. 2. Stay Cool Heat can make symptoms of summer SAD worse, so it is important to stay cool. This might mean spending time indoors in air-conditioned spaces, taking cool showers or baths, or wearing lightweight, breathable clothing. You might also try using a cooling pad or ice pack to help you feel more comfortable. 3. Stay Hydrated Dehydration can increase feelings of depression and anxiety, so it is important to stay hydrated during the summer months. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can make you feel more anxious. 4. Practice Mindfulness Mindfulness is a practice that involves paying attention to the present moment without judgment. It can be a helpful tool for coping with symptoms of summer SAD. Try practicing mindfulness meditation, or simply take a few moments each day to focus on your breath and observe your thoughts and feelings without getting caught up in them. 5. Stay Connected Social isolation can make symptoms of summer SAD worse, so it is important to stay connected with friends and family. Try to reach out to loved ones regularly, even if it is just through a phone call or text message. You might also consider joining a support group for people with SAD. 6. Consider Light Therapy Light therapy is a treatment that involves exposing yourself to a special light box that simulates natural sunlight. While light therapy is typically associated with treating winter SAD, it can also be helpful for summer SAD. 7. Talk to a Mental Health Professional If you are struggling to cope with the symptoms of summer SAD, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. They can provide you with a diagnosis, offer treatment recommendations, and provide ongoing support as you work to manage your symptoms. You might also consider talking to your doctor about whether medication might be helpful for you. Summer SAD is a real condition that can be just as debilitating as winter SAD. However, with the right strategies and support, it is possible to manage your symptoms and enjoy the summer months. If you are struggling with summer SAD, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. With the right treatment and support, you can feel better and enjoy all that summer has to offer. We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/summertime-sadness-how-to-cure-the-summertime-blues/ Pet Your Stress AwayPets bring joy and companionship to their owners. But, did you know that pets can also improve your mental health? Studies have shown that owning a pet can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. One of the most obvious ways in which pets can help improve mental health is through companionship. Pets are always there for us when we need them, offering unconditional love and support. They provide a sense of comfort and security, which can be especially beneficial for people living alone or experiencing feelings of loneliness. Having a pet by your side can help you feel less isolated and more connected to the world around you. Pets can reduce stress and anxiety. Petting a dog or cat can be incredibly calming and relaxing. Studies have shown that interacting with pets can lower cortisol levels, which is the hormone associated with stress. Simply spending time with your pet can help you feel more relaxed and at ease, which can be especially helpful for people dealing with anxiety or depression. In fact, some therapy dogs are trained to specifically help individuals with mental health conditions. Pets encourage exercise and outdoor time. Dogs, in particular, require regular exercise and outdoor time. This means that pet owners are more likely to go for walks, runs, or play outside with their furry friends. Getting outside and engaging in physical activity can have a positive impact on mental health, as it releases endorphins and boosts mood. Plus, spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Pets offer a sense of purpose and routine. Taking care of a pet requires a certain level of responsibility and routine. For example, dogs need to be walked and fed regularly, while cats require regular litter box maintenance and playtime. Having a pet can provide a sense of purpose and structure to daily life, which can be especially beneficial for people struggling with mental health issues. It can also help create a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Pets can improve socialization. Owning a pet can also improve socialization skills. For example, taking your dog to a park or attending a pet-friendly event can provide opportunities to interact with other pet owners. This can help build social connections and improve social skills. Additionally, some people may find it easier to initiate conversations with others when they have a pet with them as a conversation starter. Pets can have a significant impact on mental health. They offer companionship, reduce stress and anxiety, encourage exercise and outdoor time, provide a sense of purpose and routine, and improve socialization skills. If you’re considering getting a pet, it’s important to choose one that fits your lifestyle and personality. Whether it’s a dog, cat, or another type of pet, the benefits of owning a pet can be life-changing. So go ahead and adopt a furry friend – your mental health will thank you! We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/pet-your-stress-away/ The Influence of Caregivers on Attachment StylesAs we celebrate caregivers in our lives, now is an appropriate time to reflect on the influence of significant caregivers, attachment styles, and parenting practices, and how these impact adult attachment. Our primary caretaker(s) provide an important foundation for our sense of security within relationships. Early research on early childhood attachments has evolved the understanding of adult relationships. John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth’s early research on attachment theory focused on children’s development and forming secure or insecure attachments within the context of the relationship with their caregiver. Babies are helpless and dependent on others to meet their basic needs for survival. When a baby cries to communicate distress such as the need to be fed or to signal the time for a diaper change, they are learning what to expect. A loving and responsive caregiver engages in a way that is reassuring and emotionally connected. This communicates a sense of safety and security and a secure attachment. It builds trust, as the baby knows that their needs will be met. Caregivers who are neglectful, abusive, or emotionally unavailable impact the infant’s ability to trust that their caregivers will reliability meet their needs and may develop non-secure attachment patterns. The four attachment styles are listed below and include what this looks like in child development in response to their caregiver. Secure: Children show distress when separated and joy/comfort when reunited. The caregiver is a safe and reliable base. Avoidant: Children do not show a preference for caregivers (may go to a stranger) and may avoid caregivers. Ambivalent: Children show distress when their caregiver leaves but cannot depend on their caregiver, impacted by the unavailability of the caregiver. Disorganized: Children show a confusing mix of behaviors, impacted by parental inconsistencies. A child may receive comfort from the caregiver while also fearing them. Many children who grew up in environments that were considered abusive or neglectful may have been raised or shaped by a parental figure who has provided that secure base. Attachment styles are not all or none as one may have a predominant style but features of others. Therapy offers a safe space to explore your early upbringing and how your current thoughts, feelings, and experiences are showing up in your adult relationships. Parent-child therapy can help rebuild relationships and a more secure attachment within the caregiver relationship. Many adult children struggle with relational wounds from early childhood. While time helps create distance, it does not heal those scars. Consider therapy as a dyad with an adult child, parent, or caretaker. Therapists who work with families and couples can help build upon resiliencies and strengthen your relationship. Written By: Charlotte Johnson, MA, LPCC We’re Here to helpOur wellness experts will be happy to take care of you. You can CLICK HERE to schedule an appointment now or call (612)223-8898. Meet CliniciansWe’re united by our commitment to providing effective, relevant, and innovative mental health support at all stages of your journey. Click Here to find a therapist or find out more about who we are, where we come from, and how we live out CARE’s mission every day. The professionals at CARE are actively collecting and creating resources to help with what you need and address frequently asked questions. We’re Here for You. from https://care-clinics.com/the-influence-of-caregivers-on-attachment-styles/ |
About UsAt Care Counseling we are dedicated to ensuring that you and your loved ones can rest easy knowing that we are here to help with all of your therapy needs. Our diverse team will work to create therapeutic approaches unique to the needs of you and your family. ArchivesNo Archives Categories |