When Money and Mood Collide: The Impact of Financial Stress on Mental Health
Financial stress can play a big role in mental health, and mental health issues can impact your finances. Here’s what you should know.
What Does It Mean to Be “Triggered?”
Not too long ago, the term “triggered” became a part of everyday language. It’s often used to describe reactions to an array of stimuli, but what does it actually mean to be triggered?
Understanding what it means to be triggered involves taking a look at its psychological concepts, knowing its significance, and acknowledging its cultural implications.
Psychological Definition of Being Triggered
In psychology, being “triggered” refers to experiencing a strong emotional reaction to a specific stimulus that recalls a stressful or traumatic event. This concept is rooted in trauma studies and post-traumatic stress disorders. For individuals with PTSD, certain sights, sounds, smells, or situations can trigger traumatic memories, leading to intense responses like panic, anger, or fear.
For example, a war veteran might be triggered by the sound of fireworks, which can remind them of gunfire or explosions experienced during combat. Similarly, a survivor of domestic violence might be triggered by a loud argument, as it evokes memories of past abuse.
Signs of Being Triggered
Being aware of when someone is triggered can be difficult, as responses to stimuli can vary widely from person to person. However, there are a few signs that commonly arise when a person has become triggered. These include:
- Emotional Overwhelm: Sudden feelings of intense emotion, such as fear, anger, or sadness.
- Physical Symptoms: Increased heart rate, sweating, shaking, or difficulty breathing.
- Behavioral Changes: Withdrawal from social interactions, sudden outbursts, or avoidance of certain places or situations.
- Cognitive Distress: Intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or difficulty concentrating.
It’s important to understand that being triggered is not a sign of weakness in people. It’s a natural response to past trauma.
Cultural and Social Context for Feeling Triggered
Beyond its clinical definition, the term “triggered” has become common in popular culture and social discourse. It’s often used humorously or dismissively to describe someone who is upset or offended by something minuscule. This casual usage of the term can greatly undermine the serious nature of trauma-related triggers. It also contributes to the stigma surrounding mental health issues and how society views emotional well-being.
Addressing Triggers
For those who experience trauma-related triggers, managing these responses is crucial for mental health. Here are some strategies that may help:
- Identification: Recognize and understand what specific triggers are. Keeping a journal can help track and identify patterns.
- Coping Mechanisms: Develop healthy coping strategies such as deep breathing exercises, grounding techniques, or mindfulness practices.
- Therapy: Seek professional help from a therapist trained in trauma and PTSD. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy can be particularly effective.
- Support Systems: Lean on friends, family, or support groups who can provide you with understanding and comfort during difficult times.
Respect and Sensitivity When Others Are Triggered
Understanding what it means to be triggered also involves respecting others’ experiences and reactions. If you know someone who deals with triggering events, here are a few ways to make their environment feel a little more supportive.
- Listen Actively: If someone shares that they are triggered, listen without judgment and offer empathy.
- Avoid Minimizing: Refrain from dismissing their feelings or telling them to “get over it.”
- Educate Yourself: Learn more about trauma and triggers to better understand and support those who experience them.
Being “triggered” is an often misunderstood experience rooted in psychological trauma. While the term has become commonplace in modern language, it’s important to recognize its serious implications for mental health. By fostering understanding, respect, and support, we can create a better environment for those living with the challenges of trauma-related triggers.
If you’re struggling and you’d like to see how therapy can benefit you, reach out to DK Therapy. Schedule an appointment with our office to speak with an experienced counselor.
5 Common Misconceptions About Seeing a Therapist
Seeing a therapist can be a highly beneficial experience, as it offers many a path to better mental health and personal growth. However, there are an array of misconceptions surrounding therapy that can deter people from pursuing this resource.
In this article, we’ll debunk five common myths and misconceptions about seeing a therapist.
1. Therapy is Only for the Mentally Ill
One of the biggest, widest-reaching misconceptions about seeing a therapist is that it’s only for people who live with severe mental health issues. This sort of stigma may prevent people from seeking therapeutic services when they need help.
In reality, therapy is beneficial for anyone who’s dealing with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, challenges with personal growth, or various life transitions. Just as we visit a medical doctor for our physical health therapy is a proactive approach to maintaining mental well-being.
2. Therapists Just Listen and Nod
The detached therapist who responds to every statement with, “And how did that make you feel,” is a common stereotype in TV and movies. As such, many people believe that therapists simply sit in the session and nod without offering any real solutions or guidance.
While listening is a key part of therapy, therapists are also trained professionals who can offer valuable insights, recommend tools, and help form strategies to empower their clients to manage their emotions and behaviors.
3. You Must Be in Crisis to Benefit from Therapy
Plenty of people believe that therapy only makes sense during times of crisis or intense distress, such as after the loss of a family member or following a traumatic event.
While therapy is indeed valuable during these times, it is also beneficial for preventing issues from escalating, as well as maintaining one’s overall mental health. Seeing a therapist regularly can help individuals develop coping mechanisms, build resilience, and overcome everyday stressors more effectively.
4. Therapy Is a Quick Fix
Some people expect incredible results after their first few therapy sessions. When this doesn’t happen, they may believe that therapy is a band-aid or quick fix for some people, but not for them.
However, therapy is usually a gradual process that requires time and commitment. Progress may vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the issues in their lives. Patience and persistence are key to achieving meaningful and lasting change through therapy.
5. Therapists Will Judge Me
Fear of judgment is a significant barrier for scores of people who would otherwise want to attend therapy. People worry about being judged for their thoughts, feelings, and past actions.
Keep in mind, though, there are few thoughts, feelings, or actions that are new to a therapist. These individuals speak with people from many walks of life and they’re trained to create a judgment-free, empathetic, and confidential environment. Their goal is to support clients in exploring their feelings and experiences without fear of criticism.
Breaking down misconceptions about seeing a therapist is a must in order to make way for people to seek help when they need it. Therapy can be a valuable resource for anyone looking to improve their mental health, understand themselves better, and respond productively to life’s challenges. By explaining the reality that exists beyond these myths, we can create a more open and accepting view of mental healthcare, which helps ensure that everyone has the opportunity to benefit from therapy.
If you’re struggling and you’d like to work with an experienced therapist, reach out to us at DK Therapy. I hope one of our therapists is the right fit.
The Importance of Mental Health Days: How to Recognize When You Need One
Studies have shown that mental health days have quite a few benefits. Explore the benefits of mental health days here.
Mindful Packing: How to Prepare for a Calm and Centered Journey
Traveling can be a time of excitement and adventure, but the stress that comes with packing can sometimes overshadow the joy of the upcoming journey. This is where mindful packing comes into play. This packing method can help you stay organized and make sure your travel experience begins with a sense of calm and purpose.
Let’s go over a few ways you can approach packing mindfully for a near-future trip.
Start with Intention
Before you even dig your suitcase out of storage, take a moment to set an intention for your trip. What do you want to experience when you travel? Whether you want to relax, go on an adventure, or connect with distant family, having clear intentions will help guide your packing decisions. Being mindful in this way can make it easier to pack only what aligns with your goals, which reduces your odds of overpacking.
Create a Thoughtful Checklist
A mindful packing list is more than just a piece of paper. It’s an organized reflection of what’s going to supplement your journey. Think about your destination’s climate, local activities, and cultural expectations. Choose versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched, and be sure to prioritize items that bring you comfort. By creating a thorough list, you can avoid last-minute packing and the mistakes that may arise from it.
Pack with Purpose
Now that you have an organized list, approach packing with a sense of purpose. Instead of rushing to throw clothing and other items into your suitcase, take time to make room for all of your belongings. Fold your clothes, use packing tubes, or sort items into bags to make the most out of the space in your suitcase. This approach also makes it easier to double-check what you’ve packed so that you don’t forget anything.
Minimize and Simplify
Less is more when it comes to mindful packing. When you’re loading items into your suitcase, try to leave behind items that don’t serve a clear purpose on your trip. If you think you might need it, bring it along, but avoid troubling yourself with things you absolutely don’t need. This approach not only lightens your load but also reduces decision fatigue and stress during your travels.
Be Aware of Your Mindset
It’s not uncommon to become anxious when you’re packing, especially if you’re worried about forgetting something important. Do your best to practice mindfulness by staying aware of what you think and how you feel throughout the packing process. If you’re getting stressed out or you’re losing focus, take a break and a few deep breaths. Remind yourself that you’re okay and you don’t need to do this perfectly. Trust that you’re taking care of what you need and give yourself time to relax before you try again.
Incorporate Comfort Items
If you’re still feeling a little nervous about your upcoming trip, bring along an item or two that contributes to your sense of well-being. A favorite item can help keep you feeling grounded and in control when you’re in an unfamiliar place. Whether you bring your favorite book, a trinket, or a pajama shirt you’ve had for years, a comfort item lets you take a piece of home with you on your journey.
Mindful packing is more than just a technique. It’s a way of preparing for travel that encourages calmness and intention. By setting clear intentions and approaching the task with awareness, you can transform packing from a stressful chore into a mindful practice. As you leave for your journey, you’ll carry not only the organized items you’ve packed, but also a sense of peace and readiness for the experiences ahead.
If you’re struggling and you’d like to discover the benefits of therapy, reach out to DK Therapy. Schedule an appointment with our office to speak with an experienced counselor.
Green Therapy: Exploring the Mental Health Benefits of Gardening
The world is a busy and demanding place, and because of this, it can be incredibly difficult to make time to unwind and connect with nature. Though it’s a challenge, the practice known as “green therapy” can offer a wide array of benefits for mental health, so it’s well worth investing time in.
Let’s take a look at how gardening can effectively enhance your mental well-being and provide you with a little sanctuary from the stresses the rest of your day brings.
Gardening Reduces Stress
Gardening has been shown to significantly reduce stress levels. The simple act of nurturing plants and spending time in natural surroundings can help lower cortisol levels, which are the body’s key stress hormone. The often repetitive, soothing tasks that gardening entails, such as digging, weeding, and watering, can be meditative. Time in the garden can allow participants to fall into a state of mindlessness, where worries simply fade away with little effort.
Gardening is a Mood Booster
Working in the garden can also boost your mood and overall well-being. The combination of light to moderate physical activity, exposure to sunlight, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from nurturing seeds into plants can lead to the release of endorphins (aka “feel-good” chemicals). On top of that, being surrounded by greenery and colorful blooms you brought to life can elevate your mood and combat symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Gardening Enhances Cognitive Function
Gardening isn’t just effective in boosting emotional health. It also positively affects an individual’s cognitive capabilities. The mental investment required in planning, planting, and maintaining a beautiful garden stimulates the brain. These actions can improve your focus, attention span, and problem-solving skills. For older adults, gardening may help reduce the risk of developing dementia or cognitive decline.
Gardening Presents Physical Health Benefits
While the focus of green therapy is often on mental health, the physical benefits of time in the garden is worth noting as well. This activity is a low-impact form of exercise that can improve strength, flexibility, and even heart health. The light to moderate physical activity that gardening calls for can also promote better sleep, which is a must when it comes to maintaining your mental health.
Gardening Inspires a Sense of Purpose
Gardening can present you with a goal to achieve. Watching your plants flourish thanks to your dedicated care can be incredibly rewarding. The responsibility of tending a garden can give individuals a sense of purpose and routine, which remains a great reason to get outside and be active for brief periods of the day.
Simple Tips for Gardening Beginners
If you’re relatively new to gardening, here are a few tips to help you get the process going:
- Start Small: Begin with a small garden or even a few potted plants. Choose easy-to-grow plants that are suited to your climate (and the current season).
- Learn and Explore: There are plenty of resources available, from gardening books and websites to local gardening clubs. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or experiment with different plants and gardening techniques.
- Make it Enjoyable: Gardening should be a relaxing and enjoyable activity. Choose plants and flowers that you love and create a space that is pleasant to spend time in.
- Be Sun-Safe: While sunlight is a great way to absorb vitamin D, it can also lead to sunburns and heat exhaustion. If you’re spending time outdoors, bring water with you, wear a sun hat, apply sunscreen, and go inside for rest when you start feeling a bit too warm.
Working in a garden offers numerous mental health benefits, from reducing stress and improving mood to enhancing cognitive function and making you feel accomplished. Whether you have a large garden or a small balcony, incorporating green therapy into your life can be a powerful tool for improving your mental well-being.
If you’re struggling and you’d like to try therapy, reach out to DK Therapy at your convenience. Schedule an appointment with our office to speak with a caring counselor.
The Workaholic Escape: Are You Overworking to Avoid Life?
Being incredibly busy can sometimes be worn as a badge of honor in our society. However, when being busy turns into chronically overworking oneself, it may indicate a deeper issue. The phenomenon known as the “workaholic escape” involves using work as a means to avoid dealing with personal problems, complex emotions, or aspects of life outside of the office.
But why do people fall into this trap, and how can they break free from it?
The Appeal of Working
Work offers people a structured environment, complete with clear goals, tasks, and rewards, which can be very appealing. It creates a sense of accomplishment, control, and purpose for many. The workplace can, at times, become a sort of sanctuary from the uncertainties and complications that come from everyday life. When relationships are strained, emotions are high, and personal goals feel out of reach, burying oneself in work can appear to be a productive solution. It’s a slippery slope though, and can become something of a crutch when leaned on too often.
Signs of Overworking
Recognizing the signs of overworking is the first step in addressing the issue. Here are some common indicators:
- Extended Hours: Consistently working late nights and weekends without needing to.
- Neglecting Personal Life: Missing out on family events, hobbies, or social engagements due to work commitments.
- Physical and Mental Health Issues: Experiencing chronic stress, fatigue, insomnia, or other health problems.
- Decreased Productivity: Working too much can lead to burnout, resulting in decreased efficiency.
- Emotional Withdrawal: Using work to avoid dealing with personal emotions, relationships, or conflicts.
The Underlying Causes
Several factors can contribute to someone becoming a workaholic. These include perfectionism, fear of failure, low self-esteem, cultural pressures, and the need to escape from reality. While each of these issues is relatively common, they can make it easier to turn to work rather than addressing one’s own personal, emotional, or mental health concerns.
Breaking Free from the Workaholic Cycle
Being a workaholic right now doesn’t mean you have to continue for the foreseeable future. There are several steps you can take to break the cycle you’ve fallen into. However, freeing yourself from the workaholic cycle calls for a conscious effort to address underlying issues in life.
Start by:
- Setting Boundaries: Establish straightforward boundaries between your professional and personal life. Stick to a regular work schedule and don’t bring your work home with you.
- Prioritize Self-Care: Take time to participate in activities that nurture your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. For example, try getting some exercise, stepping into exploring a new hobby, or spending time with people you care about.
- Seek Professional Help: Therapy can be valuable in uncovering and addressing the deeper issues driving workaholic behaviors.
- Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises can make it easier to manage stress and stay present in the moment. Check-in with yourself on a regular basis to make sense of how you’re feeling and what you need.
- Develop a Support System: Surround yourself with friends, family, or colleagues who encourage a healthy work-life balance.
- Learn to Delegate: Trust others to handle tasks and share responsibilities. Delegating tasks can help reduce your workload and build a more collaborative work environment.
The workaholic escape is a complicated issue influenced by several social and psychological factors. Working hard is commendable, but it’s important to recognize when work has become a tool for escaping your life. By identifying the signs, understanding the underlying causes, and implementing strategies to achieve balance, you can break free from overworking and lead a more balanced life.
If you’re struggling and you’d like to see how therapy can benefit you, reach out to DK Therapy at your convenience. Schedule an appointment with our office to speak with a counselor today.
5 Signs You May Have Postpartum Depression
Pregnancy and giving birth are among the most demanding biological processes a person can experience. Because so much happens when bringing new life into the world, it’s no wonder that many new parents struggle with complicated feelings after the birth of a baby.
Postpartum depression (PPD) is a serious mental health condition that affects many new mothers, and sometimes fathers, after childbirth. Because the hormonal changes that take place during and after having a baby can be a lot to deal with, it’s important to recognize the signs of this condition. This way, new parents can seek the support and treatment they need early on.
Here are five common signs you may have postpartum depression.
1. Persistent Sadness or Hopelessness
Feeling down or experiencing occasional sadness is normal for new parents, especially when considering the stress of caring for a newborn and the significant disruption in a new parent’s schedule. However, if these feelings last for more than a couple of weeks and they seem overwhelming, postpartum depression may be worth looking into.
2. Severe Mood Swings
It’s natural to have mood swings after giving birth, especially because your mind and body are trying to fall into a brand-new life stage. However, severe or uncontrollable mood swings that impact your daily life are a red flag. If you find yourself crying for no apparent reason, feeling irritable or angry, or having intense episodes of anxiety, don’t ignore them. It may be time to reach out for help.
3. Loss of Interest in Activities
One of the key signs of postpartum depression is a loss of interest or joy in activities you once found happiness in. In some cases, this lack of interest can extend to an aversion to your baby, which makes caregiving activities incredibly challenging.
Of course, no new parent wants to experience these feelings, and their existence can lead to guilt and feelings of inadequacy as a parent. It’s important to remember, though, YOU are not doing anything wrong. You can’t control how you’re feeling, and signs of postpartum depression are nothing to be ashamed of. You may need professional help, and nothing about that makes you a bad parent.
4. Changes in Sleep and Appetite
Postpartum depression can disrupt your sleep patterns as well as your appetite. New parents typically experience sleep disturbances due to newborn care, but PPD-related sleep issues can be far more pervasive than that. Sleep issues brought on by PPD may include either insomnia or excessive sleeping.
Changes in appetite can follow the same path, with new parents either avoiding food or eating excessively.
5. Difficulty Bonding with Your Baby
One of the hardest components of PPD is the struggle to bond with your baby. You may be feeling emotionally distant or disconnected from your child, which makes it hard to form a loving relationship. Many new parents experience significant guilt or shame when it comes to this issue, but they shouldn’t be ignored.
Postpartum depression can be devastating, but it’s important to understand that the feelings you’re experiencing are not your fault. Seeking help is not a comment on your abilities as a parent, and there’s bravery in admitting that you’re in a tough situation you want out of. In many cases, talking to a therapist or seeking medical attention can help you reduce or even eliminate symptoms of postpartum depression.
Remember, you’ve just undergone a very demanding change in your life, and if you need help dealing with complex emotions, there’s no time like the present. You’re not alone.
If you’re struggling and you’d like to see what therapy can do for you, reach out to DK Therapy at your convenience and schedule an appointment with our office.
The Empty Space: Dealing with the Void Left by Changing Circumstances
Life is a series of changes and challenges, some anticipated and others sudden. Career changes, moving to a new city, the end of a relationship, or the loss of a loved one can leave us feeling lost and empty. Though this void is a painful place to be, it also offers opportunities for growth and transformation.
So, if you’re currently dealing with this sense of being unanchored, take a look at a few tips for making it through the changes life throws at you.
Identify What’s Happening
The first step in dealing with significant life changes is to identify it. It’s natural for things to feel bigger than they are, and from this, it’s also natural to experience a range of emotions around the situation. Sadness, anger, and fear can make it hard to look at your circumstances objectively, but once you have a clear picture of what’s happening, you can start recovering.
Let yourself feel the feelings you’re experiencing along the way as well. Journaling, talking to a trusted friend, or seeking therapy can help you process these emotions.
Rediscover Yourself
Changes often leave us questioning our identity and purpose in life. Try to use this time to rediscover who you are. Reflect on your passions, values, and dreams. What activities or hobbies bring you joy? What causes are you passionate about? This self-discovery phase can help you chart a new course for your life.
Establish New Routines
Big changes can disrupt the daily routines we’ve built for ourselves, which can worsen feeling directionless and empty. Establishing new routines can help add structure to your life during a trying time. Having this sense of normalcy will at least give you a way to tether yourself to your reality.
Start small. Set a morning ritual, schedule regular exercise, or plan weekly meetups with friends. These small, consistent actions can help rebuild a sense of stability in your life.
Build Supportive Relationships
Human connections are important during life’s many transitions. Do what you can to surround yourself with supportive friends and family who offer you empathy and encouragement. When you need help or you just want to vent your feelings, don’t hesitate to reach out to someone you trust. Sometimes, talking to someone who has gone through a similar experience can provide valuable insights and comfort.
Engage in Meaningful Activities
Filling the void inside often involves finding new sources of fulfillment. Participate in activities that give you a sense of meaning and accomplishment. Volunteer for a cause you care about, take up a new hobby, or pursue further education. Meaningful activities can redirect your focus from what you’ve lost to what you can gain.
Reflect on Your Journey
You’re not going to get from Point A to Point B overnight, and because of this, it can be hard to feel like you’re making any progress. Take time to reflect on the journey you’ve made and compare life to where you were before versus where you are now. You may not be exactly where you’d like, but it’s important to acknowledge and appreciate your own efforts to improve.
Seek Professional Help if Needed
If the void feels overwhelming and you’re struggling to cope, seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness. A therapist or counselor can you with provide tools and strategies to help you make sense of your emotions and rebuild your life.
Filling the void left by changing life circumstances is a complicated process. Take your feelings and experiences into account and do your best to just put one foot in front of the other. Recovering from the shock of a big change is hard, but taking it one day at a time will make the challenges ahead a little more manageable. Remember, change, while difficult, often leads to new beginnings and unexpected opportunities.If you’re struggling and you’d like to seek therapy, reach out to DK Therapy at your convenience. Schedule an appointment with our office to speak with an experienced counselor.
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