Category: Mindset

Mental Health in the Workplace: How Employers and Employees Can Prioritize Wellness

Posted on by Blogger

Mental health is no longer just a personal matter—it’s a workplace priority. With rising awareness of how emotional well-being impacts performance, collaboration, and overall success, businesses and employees alike are recognizing the importance of creating mentally healthy work environments. Prioritizing mental health at work isn’t just good for individuals; it’s essential for building resilient, productive organizations.

Here’s how both employers and employees can take meaningful steps toward fostering a culture of wellness.

Why Workplace Mental Health Matters

The average person spends a third of their life at work. Stress, burnout, anxiety, and depression don’t stay behind when employees clock in—they show up in reduced focus, absenteeism, turnover, and strained workplace relationships. Research shows that prioritizing mental health leads to increased engagement, higher job satisfaction, and even better financial outcomes for companies. Simply put: when people feel supported, they thrive—and so does the organization.

What Employers Can Do

1. Build a Culture of Openness
Normalize conversations about mental health. Encourage leadership to model vulnerability and promote the idea that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Offering mental health awareness training can equip managers to recognize signs of distress and respond with empathy.

2. Offer Meaningful Resources
Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), access to counseling services, wellness workshops, and mental health days are tangible ways to show employees their well-being is valued. Make sure these resources are easy to access, confidential, and promoted regularly—not just in times of crisis.

3. Rethink Workload and Expectations
Chronic stress is often tied to unrealistic expectations and lack of control. Encourage reasonable workloads, realistic deadlines, and autonomy wherever possible. Implementing flexible scheduling or remote work options can also help employees better balance their work and personal lives.

4. Create Safe Physical and Virtual Workspaces
Design environments—both in-office and online—that support wellness. This can include quiet spaces for breaks, encouraging regular movement, or hosting virtual mindfulness sessions for remote teams.

5. Recognize and Reward
Positive feedback and recognition go a long way in boosting morale. Make it a habit to celebrate not just outcomes, but effort and collaboration. Feeling appreciated can significantly buffer against workplace stress.

What Employees Can Do

1. Prioritize Self-Care
Taking care of your mental health isn’t selfish—it’s foundational. Build routines that support your well-being, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and time for hobbies or relaxation.

2. Set Boundaries
Communicate clearly about your workload and availability. It’s okay to say no to additional responsibilities when you’re at capacity, and to log off at a reasonable time. Boundaries help prevent burnout before it begins.

3. Use Available Resources
Take advantage of mental health programs, therapy benefits, or wellness initiatives your employer offers. Seeking support early can prevent small issues from becoming larger challenges.

4. Stay Connected
Building positive relationships at work can reduce feelings of isolation and create a network of support. Make time to connect with colleagues—whether through collaboration, mentoring, or informal conversations.

5. Advocate for Yourself and Others
If you notice areas where mental health support could be improved, speak up. Employers often welcome feedback and may not be aware of gaps unless employees share their experiences and ideas.

Moving Forward Together

Prioritizing mental health in the workplace requires commitment from both leadership and employees. It’s about creating an environment where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to bring their full selves to work. At Southend Psychiatry, we believe that healthy workplaces create healthy communities—and we’re here to support organizations and individuals every step of the way.

If you or your organization is looking for mental health resources, workshops, or professional support, contact Southend Psychiatry today.

Together, we can build workplaces where wellness isn’t an afterthought—it’s the foundation.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

How to Talk to Teens About Mental Health: A Guide for Parents and Educators

Posted on by Blogger

Talking to teens about mental health can feel overwhelming, but these conversations are more important than ever. With rising rates of anxiety, depression, and stress among adolescents, it’s essential that parents and educators create safe spaces where teens feel heard, supported, and empowered to seek help when needed. Here’s how to open the door to meaningful dialogue and support their mental well-being.

Start Early and Normalize the Conversation

Mental health shouldn’t be a taboo topic saved for crisis moments. Begin conversations early by talking openly about emotions, stress, and coping strategies in everyday situations. Normalize mental health the same way you would physical health—acknowledging that everyone experiences emotional ups and downs, and it’s okay to ask for help.

Create a Safe, Nonjudgmental Space

Teens are highly sensitive to judgment. Approach conversations with empathy and without jumping to conclusions. Let them know you’re there to listen, not to lecture. Simple phrases like, “I’m here for you” or “It’s okay to feel what you’re feeling” can go a long way toward building trust.

Listen More Than You Speak

When a teen opens up, resist the urge to immediately offer advice or solutions. Instead, focus on listening fully. Ask open-ended questions like, “Can you tell me more about how you’re feeling?” or “What do you think would help you right now?” Listening without interruption validates their experiences and shows that you value their voice.

Watch for Subtle Signs

Teens aren’t always direct about what they’re experiencing. Changes in mood, sleep patterns, academic performance, or social habits can all be early signs of mental health struggles. Pay attention to these cues, and approach them gently, without accusation. A simple “I’ve noticed you seem a little different lately—want to talk about it?” can open a door.

Use Language They Relate To

Avoid clinical jargon or labels that might feel intimidating. Instead of asking, “Are you depressed?” try saying, “Have you been feeling really down lately?” Speak in a way that feels natural, relatable, and free of stigma.

Empower, Don’t Shame

If a teen shares that they’re struggling, validate their courage in opening up. Focus on empowering them with coping tools and resources rather than shaming them for how they feel. Reinforce the message that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Involve Professional Help When Needed

Sometimes professional support is necessary—and that’s okay. Let teens know that therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists are there to help them build skills and strategies for managing life’s challenges, not to “fix” them. Normalize therapy as a healthy, proactive choice.

Educate Yourself

The more informed you are about mental health, the more confident you’ll feel talking about it. Learn about common teen mental health conditions, risk factors, and warning signs. This knowledge helps you approach conversations from a place of understanding, not fear.

Be Patient and Consistent

Building trust takes time. Even if a teen doesn’t open up right away, keep the door open. Check in regularly, and remind them you’re always available to listen—no matter what.

At Southend Psychiatry, we believe that open, supportive conversations about mental health can change lives. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, coach, or mentor, your willingness to talk—and to truly listen—can make a lasting difference for the teens in your life.

If you or your teen needs additional support, our compassionate team is here to help. Contact Southend Psychiatry today to learn more about our services.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Recognizing and Managing Winter Depression

Posted on by Blogger

As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many people find themselves feeling a bit more tired, unmotivated, or down than usual. For some, however, these seasonal changes bring on a deeper and more profound sense of sadness, lethargy, and withdrawal—a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, most often occurring in the fall and winter months. Understanding the symptoms of SAD and exploring effective ways to manage it can make a significant difference for those affected by this condition.

At Southend Psychiatry, we’re here to help you recognize the signs of SAD and provide support through therapies, lifestyle changes, and treatment options that can bring relief and restore balance during the darker months.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder often begins in late fall and can persist until spring. Its symptoms can range from mild to severe and typically include:

  • Low Mood: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or apathy.
  • Lethargy and Fatigue: A strong sense of tiredness and low energy, even after a full night’s sleep.
  • Increased Sleep: A tendency to sleep more than usual, often feeling like it’s never enough.
  • Weight Gain and Appetite Changes: Increased cravings for carbohydrates and comfort foods, which can lead to weight gain.
  • Social Withdrawal: Reduced interest in social activities, hobbies, and connections with others.
  • Difficulty Concentrating: A feeling of “brain fog” or trouble focusing on tasks.

These symptoms can disrupt daily life, making it difficult to maintain routines, work effectively, and engage in relationships. While it’s normal to feel some adjustment as the seasons change, people with SAD experience symptoms that significantly impact their quality of life.

What Causes Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Although the exact causes of SAD are still being studied, several factors appear to contribute to this condition:

  • Reduced Sunlight Exposure: Shorter days and less sunlight can disrupt your body’s internal clock, leading to feelings of fatigue and depression. Sunlight exposure plays a crucial role in regulating mood by impacting serotonin production and melatonin levels.
  • Circadian Rhythm Disruption: Our bodies rely on sunlight to maintain a consistent sleep-wake cycle. When daylight hours decrease, the disruption of this natural rhythm can affect our mood and energy.
  • Serotonin and Melatonin Imbalance: Reduced sunlight can lead to lower serotonin levels, impacting mood and emotional stability. Melatonin production, which helps regulate sleep, may also increase during darker months, contributing to sleepiness and lethargy.

Managing Seasonal Affective Disorder: Therapies, Lifestyle Changes, and Support Options

If you recognize the symptoms of SAD in yourself or a loved one, there are several effective treatment and management strategies to consider. Here are some approaches to help reduce the impact of SAD and enhance your mental well-being:

1. Light Therapy

  • Light therapy is one of the most effective treatments for SAD. This involves sitting in front of a specially designed light box that mimics natural sunlight, typically for about 20-30 minutes each morning. Light therapy can help regulate your body’s sleep-wake cycle, boost serotonin levels, and alleviate symptoms of SAD.
  • When using a light box, make sure to choose one with at least 10,000 lux of light and follow your doctor’s recommendations for usage.

2. Therapy and Counseling

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is highly effective for treating SAD. CBT helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to feelings of depression. Through CBT, you can develop coping skills to manage symptoms and improve your overall mental health.
  • At Southend Psychiatry, our licensed therapists specialize in providing support for individuals with SAD and other forms of depression. A personalized approach to therapy can empower you to manage your symptoms more effectively.

3. Medication

  • In some cases, medication may be recommended to help manage the symptoms of SAD. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help boost serotonin levels and improve mood.
  • If you’re considering medication, speak with a psychiatrist or healthcare provider who can assess your specific needs and help you find the most suitable treatment options.

4. Vitamin D Supplementation

  • Reduced sunlight exposure during the winter months can lead to lower levels of vitamin D, which may contribute to feelings of depression. Taking a vitamin D supplement can help boost your mood and energy levels, especially if you’re not getting enough sunlight.
  • Consult your healthcare provider for guidance on the right dosage for you.

5. Lifestyle Changes

  • Exercise: Regular physical activity, particularly outdoors, can significantly improve mood and energy levels. Even a short walk outside on a bright winter day can make a difference.
  • Healthy Diet: Focus on nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Limiting sugar and processed foods can help prevent energy crashes and maintain stable blood sugar levels.
  • Sleep Routine: Aim for a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Good sleep hygiene practices, such as limiting screen time before bed, can also improve your sleep quality.

6. Social Support and Connection

  • Staying connected with friends, family, and community can help alleviate feelings of isolation that often accompany SAD. Even if you don’t feel like socializing, spending time with supportive people can provide comfort and lift your mood.

Don’t Let SAD Keep You in the Dark—Seek Support

If you’re struggling with symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, remember that you’re not alone. SAD is a common condition, and there are effective treatments and support options available. By recognizing the signs, seeking appropriate treatment, and making small lifestyle adjustments, you can minimize the impact of SAD and enjoy a brighter, more balanced winter season.

At Southend Psychiatry, we’re committed to helping you find relief from SAD and other mental health challenges. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can support you on your journey to better mental health.

Ready to Take Control of Your Mental Health?

If you or someone you know is struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder, contact Southend Psychiatry for a consultation. Our experienced team of mental health professionals is here to provide personalized support and guidance. Don’t let SAD keep you from living fully—let us help you find light in the darker months.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

Rest Easy: 5 Effective Ways to Fall Asleep When Stress Keeps You Awake

Posted on by Blogger

Stress has an uncanny ability to disrupt our sleep when we need it the most. As your mind races and tension builds, falling asleep can feel nearly impossible. At Southend Psychiatry, we understand how crucial a good night’s sleep is for mental and emotional well-being. To help you combat those restless nights, we’ve put together five proven strategies to help you relax and drift off, even when stress is trying to keep you awake.

1. Practice Deep Breathing or Meditation

When stress keeps your mind in overdrive, practicing deep breathing or meditation can calm both your body and mind. Try the 4-7-8 breathing technique:

  • Inhale through your nose for 4 seconds.
  • Hold your breath for 7 seconds.
  • Exhale through your mouth for 8 seconds. Repeating this cycle a few times signals your nervous system to relax, easing you into a more restful state.

2. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine

A consistent bedtime routine signals your body that it’s time to wind down. An hour before bed, switch off screens and engage in calming activities such as reading, journaling, or taking a warm bath. Incorporating aromatherapy, such as lavender or chamomile essential oils, can further enhance the relaxation process. Over time, your brain will associate this routine with sleep, making it easier to unwind after a stressful day.

3. Limit Caffeine and Heavy Meals in the Evening

Caffeine, sugar, and large meals can interfere with your body’s ability to wind down. Avoid these stimulants at least 4-6 hours before bedtime. Instead, opt for sleep-friendly snacks like a handful of almonds or a small glass of warm milk. This will not only help regulate your blood sugar but also promote the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for sleep.

4. Use Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)

Progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) is a simple technique that involves tensing and then slowly relaxing each muscle group in your body. Start from your toes and work your way up to your head. As you release the tension in each area, you’ll find yourself feeling calmer and more connected to your body, which can make it easier to fall asleep despite feeling stressed.

5. Journal Your Worries Away

If your mind is racing with worries, try journaling before bed. Write down everything that’s stressing you out, along with any to-do lists or tasks for the next day. This process helps clear your mind and allows you to put those thoughts aside until the morning. You can also end your journaling session by writing down three things you’re grateful for. Focusing on gratitude shifts your mindset away from stress and toward positivity, helping you fall asleep with a calmer mind.

Sleep Is Within Reach

Falling asleep when you’re stressed may feel difficult, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to reclaim your rest. By practicing relaxation techniques, establishing a bedtime routine, and making mindful choices about your evening habits, you can overcome stress-induced sleeplessness.

If stress and sleeplessness are persistent issues, you’re not alone. At Southend Psychiatry, we offer tailored solutions to help you manage stress and improve your sleep. Reach out to us for professional guidance on achieving a balanced and restful life.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

What Does Mental Health Look Like for Men

Posted on by Blogger

June is Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month and SouthEnd Psychiatry is raising awareness for this less publicized yet critically vital topic.

As Healthline.com writes, there’s still a stigma around men’s mental health, making it more difficult for males of all ages to reach out for help. Some men might still feel as if people expect them to hide their emotions and “man up,” or be strong for others. Having or acknowledging a mental health condition is still seen as a sign of weakness or lack of masculinity among some men.

Mental Health America (MHA) adds that more than six million American men experience symptoms of depression annually and most go undiagnosed. Let’s dive into what causes those stressors.

Stressful Transitions

An article published by Medical News Today states that situational stressors play a major role in suicide deaths among males, many of whom do not have a documented mental health history, according to a 2021 analysis from the CDC. These stressors can include anything from relationship troubles to arguments, but all indicate a need for “support during stressful transitions.”

Stumbling Blocks for Men of Color

The National Alliance on Mental Health reports that just 1 in 3 Black adults with mental illness receives treatment, despite the fact that they are more likely to experience emotional distress than white adults. Generational racial trauma and violence against people of color, as played out in the news media, intensify this distress.

Unlikely Symptoms

A recent study conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health, found that symptoms of depression in males can be physiological, such as a racing heart, digestive issues, or headaches. Males may be more likely to see their doctor about physical symptoms than emotional symptoms.The organization also notes that men who experience depression may self-medicate with alcohol and other substances. However, this can exacerbate their issues and put them at risk of other health conditions.

What You Can Do

While it is becoming more and more acceptable for men to seek therapy, it is vital that we continue advocating for men’s mental health. Talk to your male loved ones. Check in with them. If they are experiencing depression, anger, anxiety or any other stressor, SouthEnd is here to help.

SouthEnd Psychiatry wants you to be well and to feel well in life. We invite you to start a conversation with us, on your terms, in-person or online and want you to know you’re not alone.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

Learn. Act. Advocate.

Posted on by Blogger

This month, we spotlight May’s Mental Health Month and recognize the importance of mental health and its impact on our personal and professional lives. This month is dedicated to prioritizing our well-being and promoting open conversations about mental health.

This year’s theme for Mental Health Month is “Where to Start: Mental Health in a Changing World”. Mental Health America gives us three areas to start: learn, act and advocate.

LEARN: 

To fully understand how the world around us affects mental health, it is important to know what factors are at play – some of which an individual can change, such as screen time, and others that may be outside of their control, like access to basic resources or current events. Social drivers of health include economic status, education, your neighborhood, social inclusion, and access to resources like nutritious food, health care, green space, and transportation. 

All of these factors can have a far-reaching impact on not just your physical health, but also your mental health. Loneliness, current events, technology, and social drivers are having an impact on the mental well-being of Americans, but there are protective measures that can prevent mental health conditions from developing or keep symptoms from becoming worse or severe.

ACT: 

There are many ways to take action – big and small – to improve mental health and increase resiliency, regardless of the situations you are dealing with. Knowing when to turn to friends, family, and coworkers when you are struggling with life’s challenges can help improve your mental health. Change is hard, but it’s unavoidable in life. It’s important to find coping skills that can help you process these changes, prioritize your mental well-being, and accept the situations in life that we can’t control. 

ADVOCATE: 

“Advocacy” doesn’t always mean talking to a government official or local leader. There are things everyone can do to improve the way mental health conditions are perceived and treated. Integrating mental health care into primary care, and providing mental health programs in schools, workplaces, and communities can improve the well-being of everyone. In an election year, it’s especially important to understand where candidates stand on mental health issues. We urge everyone to vote with mental health in mind.

Let’s make May a month of mental health awareness, support, and action. SouthEnd Psychiatry wants you to be well and to feel well in life. We invite you to start a conversation with us, on your terms, in-person or online and want you to know you’re not alone.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

3 Stress-Reducing Coping Skills

Posted on by Blogger

April is Stress Awareness Month. Learning to cope with our stress and finding healthy ways to deal with these situations can go a long way in living a healthy and positive life. Let’s take a look at a few things we can do to reduce stress and anxiety.

1. Avoid the Panic

Overthinking refers to the excessive and repetitive thinking or dwelling on a particular topic, problem, or situation. We can start to change these habits by asking ourselves if these concerns are based on facts or assumptions. Practicing mindfulness and developing a trusted support system can help break patterns of overthinking.

2. Be You

Take some time to get in touch with yourself, to identify and reconnect with what makes you… YOU! Make a list of some of the values you have and how you can still carry those in your community. If you are a naturally generous person then KEEP BEING GENEROUS to people around you. Do you have a gift of making people laugh? Then really grab hold of it and spread some cheer in your neighborhood. Embracing these things about yourself will help keep you grounded and out of too much negative thinking. 

3. Self-Care

What is refreshing to you? Recharging? What gives you energy? The activities you come up with are a great place to start with self-care. Remember, it is difficult to encourage, support, be present for your relationships if your tank is empty. Sleep is well-documented to reduce stress levels so don’t feel bad about a quick afternoon nap from time to time if it leads to a better you! Be intentional about making time for yourself.

Here are a few other things you can consider doing to keep anxiety and stress at manageable levels:

  • Breathing exercises + Mediation
  • Journaling
  • Spend time in nature
  • Stay connected (isolation often leads us to “stinking thinking”!)

SouthEnd Psychiatry wants you to be well and to feel well in life. We invite you to start a conversation with us, on your terms, in-person or online and want you to know you’re not alone.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

What is Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and How Can it Help Me?

Posted on by Blogger

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of effective psychological treatment for depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness. 

Numerous research studies suggest that CBT leads to significant improvement in functioning and quality of life. In many studies, CBT has been demonstrated to be as effective as, or more effective than, other forms of psychological therapy or psychiatric medications, referenced at ada.org.

According to the American Psychological Association, the core concepts of CBT include:

  • psychological issues are partly based on unhelpful ways of thinking
  • psychological issues are partly based on learned patterns of behavior
  • those living with these issues can improve with better coping mechanisms and management to help relieve their symptoms

Healthline provides some of the most popular techniques used in CBT:

  • SMART goals. SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-limited.
  • Guided discovery and questioning. By questioning the assumptions you have about yourself or your current situation, your therapist can help you learn to challenge these thoughts and consider different viewpoints.
  • Journaling. You might be asked to jot down negative beliefs that come up during the week and the positive ones you can replace them with.
  • Self-talk. Your therapist may ask what you tell yourself about a certain situation or experience and challenge you to replace negative or critical self-talk with compassionate, constructive self-talk.
  • Cognitive restructuring. This involves looking at any cognitive distortions affecting your thoughts — such as black-and-white thinking, jumping to conclusions, or catastrophizing — and beginning to unravel them.
  • Thought recording. In this technique, you’ll record thoughts and feelings experienced during a specific situation, then come up with unbiased evidence supporting your negative belief and evidence against it. You’ll use this evidence to develop a more realistic thought.
  • Positive activities. Scheduling a rewarding activity each day can help increase overall positivity and improve your mood. Some examples might be buying yourself fresh flowers or fruit, watching your favorite movie, or taking a picnic lunch to the park.
  • Situation exposure. This involves listing situations or things that cause distress, in order of the level of distress they cause, and slowly exposing yourself to these things until they lead to fewer negative feelings. Systematic desensitization is a similar technique where you’ll learn relaxation techniques to help you cope with your feelings in a difficult situation.

How CBT Can Help

Healthline states that typical CBT treatment often involves the following:

  • recognizing how inaccurate thinking can worsen problems
  • learning new problem-solving skills
  • gaining confidence and a better understanding and appreciation of your self-worth
  • learning how to face fears and challenges
  • using role play and calming techniques when faced with potentially challenging situations

The goal of these techniques is to replace unhelpful or self-defeating thoughts with more encouraging and realistic ones.

CBT can help with a range of things, including:

  • depression
  • substance misuse
  • post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • anxiety disorders, including panic disorder and phobia
  • obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • schizophrenia
  • bipolar disorder
  • eating disorders

CBT can also help with:

  • grief and loss
  • chronic pain
  • insomnia
  • relationship difficulties like a breakup or divorce
  • a serious health diagnosis, such as cancer

If you are interested in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, SouthEnd Psychiatry is here for you. Our amazing team of licensed therapists are ready to walk along side you in this journey. 

Contact Southend Psych today to inquire about appointment availability and get you on your way to a better place.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

What Mental Wellness Looks Like in 2024

Posted on by Blogger

As we recognize and raise awareness for Mental Wellness Month this January, we would like to take a look at what mental wellness looks like in 2024. Times have changed. I think we can all agree on that. COVID has changed the behavior of society in so many ways. Racial tension and social disparities are on the rise. Economic stress is affecting all walks of life. This is the day we are living in. 

We want to recognize these as real triggers for most of us. As we embark on this new year, it is so important to acknowledge these issues and stressors and be intentional to keep ourselves healthy and whole. A few ways we can do this is through mindfulness, rest and connection.

Mindfulness

The term “mindfulness” is becoming more and more widely known. As stated by discoverymood.com, practicing mindfulness is about being aware and accepting at the same time. We often pride ourselves on staying busy and thinking ahead. Mindfulness challenges us to show up fully in every area of our lives. It is the embodiment of living in the moments. 

Check in on yourself. Where is your stress level? Are you feeling hopeless or helpless? If so, it is critical to take action by calling a friend, mentor or a licensed professional like the team at Southend Psychiatry.

Rest

Allowing ourselves to rest involves our mind, body and spirit. Resting isn’t just about getting a proper eight hours of sleep each night or avoiding your phone and electronics before bed. It is also giving yourself little breaks throughout the day. Meditation is a great tool to help slow the mind, release anxious thoughts and breathe deeply. This lowers our cortisol levels and resets the body with just a few minutes of commitment. 

Developing a meditation practice not only has been shown to help lengthen our attention span and reduce age-related memory loss but may also help fight addictions, control pain and decrease blood pressure.

Connection

We are social creatures… even those that would consider themselves as an introvert. Our spirit needs connection. It is a way to feel heard and understood. Connection gives us a sense of belonging. executive.berkeley.edu/ says that because social connection is so hard-wired into human behavior, it makes sense that our relationships (or lack thereof) significantly influence our well-being. 

Connections can be just as important to physical and mental health as exercise and healthy eating. Research has shown that the psychological and physical health benefits of social contact are so great that they can even outweigh the harmful effects of other risk factors and boost life expectancy.

As you embark on this new year, we want to encourage you to be intentional about keeping yourself mentally well. If you need help or guidance, SouthEnd Psychiatry is here for you. Our amazing team of licensed therapists are ready to walk along side you in this journey. 

Contact Southend Psych today to inquire about appointment availability and get you on your way to a better place.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

5 Ways to Create Healthy Boundaries with Family

Posted on by Blogger

The holidays are here which for many means A LOT of potential family time. So, let’s look at five ways to set healthy boundaries ahead of the holiday season. 

Boundary issues are the most difficult to deal with when it comes to family. 

According to Terri Cole, author of The Boundary Boss, our boundaries are made up of our preferences, desires, limits, and deal-breakers. Think of your boundaries as your own personal rules of engagement.

Boundaries can be uncomfortable and even painful for some…until you practice the skill. Remember, you don’t need to sacrifice your identity in order to receive love or be accepted. Know what you will or will not tolerate from others. Draw the line and enforce it.

Here are five ways to establish those healthy boundaries:

  1. Define what your boundaries are. What will you tolerate or not tolerate in your life? What behaviors will you accept or not accept from family members? 
  2. Clearly communicate your boundaries.  This is particularly important for the people closest to you. Give them the chance to honor your preferences.
  3. Follow through. If someone crosses your boundaries, do what you said you would. Be compassionate, but be firm. This might be a new side of you that no one has seen before. 
  4. Show the respect you want to receive. Begin to really listen to what others prefer. Lead by example. Honor others boundaries.
  5. Keep loving yourself. It is not mean or selfish to have boundaries. Some will respect them. Others will not. How people treat you is a direct reflection of how you allow them to treat you. 

Boundaries are healthy. Establishing and keeping them is hard work. However, it is worth it!  SouthEnd Psychiatry is here for you. Our amazing team of licensed therapists are ready to walk along side you in this journey. 

Contact Southend Psych today to inquire about appointment availability and get you on your way to a better place.

Southend Psychiatry 

Schedule your appointment today with one of our SouthEnd Psychiatry clinicians. Book your appointment online or call 1-800-632-7969 to get started today.

Book Appointment

PLEASE CLICK BELOW TO BOOK YOUR IN-OFFICE VISIT

BOOK NOW
Smiling woman booking an appointment on her phone