Let’s Start With Sleep
As you may already know, receiving enough sleep is one of the building blocks to maintaining a healthy body and mind. In today’s world, there are unlimited roadblocks that can get in the way of receiving the amount of sleep that is right for us, such as technology, busy schedules, to active minds. Luckily, there are many factors within our control that can dramatically improve our sleep!
For starters, it’s important to know that the development of insomnia is a three-stage process. First, some of us are predisposed to developing insomnia. This can happen if we have first-degree relatives with sleep concerns or if we grew up in a chaotic household. Next, are precipitating factors. This can be a significant life event, such as a divorce, career change, or anything notable in our lives that sets insomnia in motion. Lastly, are the maintaining factors, or behavioral strategies we implement in order to try to improve our sleep. Ironically, the strategies we might use to get better sleep can actually maintain insomnia and poor sleep in the long run.
The good news is that the maintaining factors are fully within our grasp to change and can be addressed in therapy over the course of just several weeks. No matter how long you’ve been struggling with insomnia, rapid results in improving the quality of your sleep are attainable. A good place to start is to refrain from the use of electronics and TV-watching at least one hour before attempting to sleep. The light from these devices sends signals to your brain that it is time to wake up, which is the last thing we want if we are struggling to sleep. That being said you, can also use light as your friend, letting it wake you up at a decent time in the morning. Waking up to natural light helps you feel refreshed and can even boost your overall mood. Stay tuned for additional tips, strategies, and information regarding how to get your best sleep.
The Different Types of Therapy (Explained)
If you’re thinking about starting therapy, you will have encountered different types, approaches, and modalities. Therapy is a deeply personal journey, it can help to address mental health challenges, enhance coping skills, and improve well-being.
How to Explain Depression to Someone You Love
Despite depression touching the lives of millions of people, depression can be tough to talk about. With so many misconceptions about depression, it can be frustrating and overwhelming to explain. If you do choose to talk about your experience with depression, here are some tips for discussing symptoms, treatment options, recovery, and myths.
Calming Techniques for Everyday Anxiety
If you are feeling anxious, calming techniques help you feel more in control and calmer. Relaxation skills can help you regain your focus, slow your breathing, think more rationally, and reduce your anxiety in the moment.
Coping with Family Stress Around the Holidays
If you’re feeling nervous about the family get-together around the holidays, you’re not alone. While the festive season can be a time to spend with loved ones, family dynamics can bring more stress than you would like.