Dec

Hope for Christmas: The Psychological Meaning of the Christmas Tree

by Dr. Jermaine Thomas, Psy.D. in Active, Anxiety, Articles, Blog, Depression, emotional health, Family Relationships, Grief, Healing, Holidays, Seasonal, Uncategorized Comments: 0 tags: Christmas, Holiday Stress, hope, Psychology

Given that the Christmas season is upon us, I felt compelled to write a short piece on the meaning of the Christmas tree. Over time, certain traditional symbols have become so commonplace that we can sometimes forget to think about their meaning or origin. Like most symbols, the Christmas tree is polysemic, which indicates that it is replete with a multitude of meanings. Given that this is the case, this article will not be an exhaustive meditation on the meaning of the Christmas tree. However, I hope that this commentary will give you something to think about during this holiday season.

Prior to the advent of Christmas, pagans would decorate their homes with evergreen fur branches in order to remind them of the coming spring while in the midst of winter. Over time, Christians adapted this tradition, and the evergreen tree has since become the perennial symbol of Christmas. For Christians, the evergreen tree came to represent the Tree of Life that is alluded to in the Garden of Eden. Moreover, it came to represent nativity and everlasting life with God, even while surrounded by death. Unlike many other trees or forms of vegetation, evergreens maintain their needles and foliage in the wintertime, which is a reminder that life is to still be found even when mired in bleakness and death.

If you’re experiencing overwhelming darkness this holiday season, I hope that you’re able to look to the Christmas tree as a symbol of hope that light persists even amid the darkness.

References

Cooper, J. (2019). The history of the Christmas tree. Why Christmas? https://www.whychristmas.com/customs/trees.shtml

Nov

What is the Blues All About?

by Monica Caldwell, MA in Active, Articles, Blog, Depression, Holidays, Seasonal Comments: 0 tags: depression, Holiday Stress, mental health, seasonal

Summer days are gone. Autumn has begun. For many, this time of the year signals the launch of fall festivities, savory treats to indulge along with deliciously comforting fragrances that are sure to cozy you into the change in season with grace and poise – caramel apples, pumpkin spice donuts, mint hot chocolate, spearmint, eucalyptus. While this time of the year is indicative of shorter days, longer nights, and the arrival of winter. It is, for others, the start of an accompanying risk of seasonal affective disorder, or SAD.

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Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depressive disorder that strikes at the shifting of the seasons and is marked by changes in mood that vary from mild to severe (DSM-V., NAMI). Some may refer to it as winter depression, very different from the winter blues, as it can be debilitating and very overwhelming, shaping daily functioning, productivity, and overall wellness. Approximately five percent of adults in the U.S. experience SAD (APA) during predictable months of the year. While people commonly experience depression symptoms during the cold fall and winter months, some people experience symptoms of SAD during the warm summer months (Melrose, S).

What are the symptoms of SAD?

It is important to note that symptoms of SAD may vary across several different factors, however common symptoms of SAD include alterations in mood – such as sadness, hopelessness, numbness, irritability – furthermore, changes in sleep, appetite, energy, loss of pleasure and interest in activities once enjoyed, or in cases that are severe, suicidal ideation (APA).

Although the primary differentiating element concerning SAD symptoms is that it occurs seasonally, individuals experiencing SAD might also present with sustained depressed mood for periods greater than two weeks where there lies a propensity to develop lethargic depression versus irritability , which is why people experiencing this condition are prone to behaviors such as overeating and oversleeping.

How is it caused?

The evidence for SAD is related to the hormone, melatonin, which is discharged by the pineal gland that controls the sleep-wake cycle (Melrose, 2015). Lack of light stimulates the discharge of melatonin, grooming the body for sleep (Melrose, 2015). Simply put, as the fall and winter cold settles in, melatonin production in the body rises and people tend to be affected by this in ways that lead to increased feelings of lethargy, exhaustion, and sluggishness.

Alternatively, researchers have found that individuals with SAD may have difficulty regulating their levels chemically, where the neurotransmitter, serotonin, is influential on mood (NAMI., Melrose, 2015). In conclusion, research also suggests the role of Vitamin D in serotonin activity where less sunlight contributes to the body’s response of less Vitamin D (Melrose, 2015). Other factors found to increase a person’s chance of developing SAD include biological, environmental, and geographical influences.

How is SAD treated?

SAD can be successfully treated in many ways, including counseling or talk therapy, antidepressant medications, light therapy, Vitamin D supplementation or a combination of these. Self-care is also an important component of treatment (APA., Melrose, 2015). For those who experience SAD, it is important to:

Take advantage of available sunlight and monitor your body’s internal clock
Get creative by tapping into your inner artist
Develop healthy eating and sleep habits
Exercise in the morning
Approach the cooler season with a positive attitude and reinforce it with self-affirmations
Plan pleasurable, physical activities (outdoors if safe to do so)
Seek out a healthy support network through relationships
Learn and practice relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation, mindfulness, imagery, and deep breathing

References

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition

American Psychiatric Association

National Alliance on Mental Illness

Melrose, S. (2015). Seasonal affective disorder: an overview of assessment and treatment approaches. Depression research and treatment, 2015.

Oct

Perinatal Depression

by Karen Bryant, MA, LPC, NCC in Active, Articles, Blog, Depression, emotional health Comments: 0 tags: depression, mental health, perinatal depression

Changes in emotions and mood swings may be expected during and for a period after childbirth. What may not be unexpected are symptoms of depression. Perinatal depression is depression experienced during pregnancy (antenatal) and up to one year after childbirth (post-partum). World-wide, the occurrence of perinatal depression is estimated to be between 10 and 13%, with slightly higher rates reported in the United States (U.S.). In 2018, one in five and one in eight women in the U.S. reported experiencing antenatal and post-partum depression, respectively. Women from all social economic, racial/ethnic backgrounds, and geographic locations in the U.S. reported experiencing perinatal depression. However, there are several factors that increase the risk of experiencing perinatal depression including a pre-pregnancy episode of depression, being younger than 19 years old at the time of the pregnancy, intimate partner violence, and limited physical support. In addition, having antenatal depression increases the risk for post-partum depression. Risks associated with perinatal include elevated potential for pre-term delivery, decreased mother-child bonding, and delayed cognitive/emotional development. Identifying and addressing the symptoms of perinatal depression are important steps to ensure the current and future welfare of the mother and the child.

Symptoms of perinatal depression include:

Persistent sadness, anxiousness, or feeling empty
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness, or helplessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
Fatigue or abnormal decrease in energy
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Difficulty sleeping (even when the baby is sleeping), awakening early in the morning, or oversleeping
Abnormal appetite, weight changes, or both
Trouble bonding or forming an emotional attachment with the new baby
Persistent doubts about the ability to care for the new baby
Thoughts about death, suicide, or harming oneself or the baby

If you believe you or someone you know is experiencing perinatal depression, it is important to have the symptoms assessed by a qualified medical and/or a mental health professional to ensure the appropriate diagnosis and course of treatment. Once perinatal depression is confirmed, there are several options available to help alleviate the symptoms.

Treatment Options

Medication and psychotherapy are effective methods to address the symptoms of perinatal depression. Health care providers can assess your symptoms and coordinate appropriate treatment which may include medication and/or psychotherapy. Antidepressant medications may be prescribed by a medical provider after consideration of the medical history, the physical condition of mother and child, as well as the potential risks to their future health. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are mental health strategies that have been effective in helping to address the symptoms.

Taking care of yourself helps to decrease the depressive symptoms. Components of self-care include eating nutritious food throughout the day, getting regular exercise to reduce stress, getting an appropriate amount of sleep, having time for yourself each day, and creating a support network.

Joining a support group may be beneficial. Support groups offer the opportunity to discuss concerns with people familiar with and who have experienced like symptoms while decreasing the sense of isolation. There are support groups specifically for perinatal depression. Your health care provider can direct you to local groups, groups may be found by searching the Psychology Today database, and the Post-partum Support International organization has information on local chapters.

Perinatal Depression in the time of COVID-19

Limited information indicates there has been a substantial increase in women experiencing symptoms of perinatal depression during the pandemic. A Canadian study reported rates in excess of 40%. Stay at home mandates, worries about contracting and transmitting the virus to the baby, limits or bans on birth support, contracting the virus during the hospital stay, and having other young children to care for so there’s limited time for rest or relief are factors cited by women reporting depressive symptoms. In addition to the strategies listed above limiting exposure to media is suggested to reduce symptoms.

Perinatal depression is estimated to affect more than 10% of women in the U.S. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking treatment are important first steps. There are effective treatment options to reduce the severity of the symptoms and the potential for future health risks for the mother and child.

References

Alessandra Biaggi a,n , Susan Conroy b , Susan Pawlby b , Carmine M. Pariante bJournal of Affective Disorders 191 (2016) 62–77 Identifying the women at risk of antenatal anxiety and depression: A systematic review

Rebecca M. Pearson, PhD; Jonathan Evans, MD; Daphne Kounali, PhD; Glyn Lewis, PhD; Jon Heron, PhD; Paul G. Ramchandani, DPhil; Tom G. O’Connor, PhD; Alan Stein, FRCPsych Maternal Depression During Pregnancy and the Postnatal Period Risks and Possible Mechanisms for Offspring Depression at Age 18 Years Original Investigation jamapsychiatry.com

Brenda L. Bauman, MSPH1; Jean Y. Ko, PhD1; Shanna Cox, MSPH1; Denise V. D’Angelo, MPH1; Lee Warner, PhD1; Suzanne Folger, PhD1; Heather D. Tevendale, PhD1; Kelsey C. Coy, MPH1; Leslie Harrison, MPH1; Wanda D. Barfield, MD1 Vital Signs: Postpartum Depressive Symptoms and Provider Discussions About Perinatal Depression — United States, 2018 US Department of Health and Human Services/Centers for Disease Control and Prevention MMWR / May 15, 2020 / Vol. 69 / No. 19

National Institute of Mental Health. Perinatal Depression. Retrieved from Maternal%20depression/20-MH-8116.

Pregnancy Anxiety and Postpartum Depression During COVID-19. The uncertainties of the situation have presented challenges for our families. Dr. Dawn. Psychology Today.

Perinatal Depression Treatment Options BC Reproductive Mental Health Program. BC mental health and addition services. August 2011.

Moms Are Not OK: COVID-19 and Maternal Mental Health. Margie H. Davenport^1*, Sarah Meyer¹, Victoria L. Meah¹, Morgan C. Strynadka¹ and Rshmi Khurana² Front. Glob. Womens Health, 19 June 2020 https://doi.org/10.3389/fgwh.2020.00001

Sep

Addiction and Isolation in the Time of COVID

by Nicholas Guerrero, M.S.W., LSW, CADC in Active, Addiction, Anxiety, Articles, Blog, Depression, emotional health, Healing, physical health, Uncategorized Comments: 0 tags: Addiction

“We cannot live only for ourselves. A thousand fibers connect us with our fellow men.”

― Herman Melville

A pandemic in the time of a pandemic, “COVID-19 and addiction are the two pandemics which are on the verge of collision causing a major public health threat.” (Dubey, 2020). During the Covid-19 pandemic there has been an alarming rise in substance use and overdoses. “The coronavirus disease is causing an insurmountable psychosocial impact on the whole of mankind. Marginalized communities, particularly those with substance use disorders (SUD), are particularly vulnerable to contract the infection and also likely to suffer from greater psychosocial burden.” (Dubey, 2020) This “psychosocial burden” is a cause for concern for those struggling in substance abuse and recovery.

While we all are suffering in some way right now, the most vulnerable of us, as always, are suffering the most. A major factor in the increase in drug and alcohol use is isolation. And, isolation is a major risk factor in relapse. What makes this so difficult is that we as a society are encouraged to isolate now more than ever. The conflict comes then while we are supposed to be isolating, as much as possible; we are now isolating those who need the support system the most. Since the invaluable support groups are not encouraged to meet in person, many 12 step and recovery groups have moved online. While positive that they are occurring, the social component of the groups is what draws people in. Online forums and zoom meetings are good, but they do not hold up to the quality, human connection, and positive influence of an in person group.

This world wide pandemic has been difficult to navigate for everyone, however we need to be extra aware of those who are struggling or who have struggled with substance abuse and addiction. I ask, please reach out to those who you know have struggled in the past or are struggling now. Many who may seem to “have it under control” are under new stressors, challenging even the best of coping skills. In this novel time we should be reaching out to a friend or family member and checking in on them. We can all use a caring person in our life right now, it just takes a minute to send a text or give someone a call.

For those reading this and are thinking ‘well, ll I have noticed I have been drinking more’ or have increased frequency of drug use, please consider this. Many who may have historically been “just a social drinker” or “recreational user” may even have noticed an increase in their use. Reach out and talk to someone as well. This is an unprecedented time in our history, stress is at an all time high. It will not hurt to reach out and talk to someone, maybe it can alleviate just a little of that stress that we are all feeling.

Dubey, M. J., Ghosh, R., Chatterjee, S., Biswas, P., Chatterjee, S., & Dubey, S. (2020). COVID-19 and addiction. Diabetes & metabolic syndrome, 14(5), 817–823. Advance online publication. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.dsx.2020.06.008

Apr

Better Than Before

by Rev. Dr. Peonita Harris, Psy.D., LMFT, CSAT, CDWF in Active, Anxiety, Articles, Blog, Depression, emotional health, Healing, physical health, Self Improvement Comments: 0 tags: anxiety, depression, mental health

We all want another chance to get something right, or to be granted a do-over. The one question that continues to be paramount is: How do we get through this time? A time that appears to have no set end. Every report, conference, appointment has been completely refocused to include the impact of COVID-19 on our society, bodies, business, finances, families, churches, communities, race, culture and emotions. Most Americans have experienced heightened anxiety, low mood, loneliness and isolation.

When I first started learning therapy skills, I learned the power of reframing. I took a workshop that was about interventions. We had to describe the picture we saw as the presenter placed a different frame over each picture. I started thinking about this exercise a couple of days ago and thought, in order to make this better, we have to think about this time differently. We need to REFRAME this. How can we not only survive this, but thrive through this so that at the end we are better than before? I struggled to this of this differently. This is only a reset, so that we can rest, so that we can recommit. Let me explain what I mean.

Reset – Reset can be viewed as a re-entry to the state of zero, or to start over, or to be given another chance. To start afresh. I thought, the year has already started, that was our reset. We made commitments to ourselves, we started new schedules, started a new journal and thought through the old. We said farewell to Auid Lang Syne (Scottish for days gone by). We let go so that we can enter in. We embraced what could be and set our hearts to engage in new possibilities with great anticipation. Our goals were set, our schedules were set, we were engaged and then all of a sudden it all came to a halt. In Using a different frame: We have been given the gift to reset again. What a treasure and what a wonderful opportunity. In resetting, we can clear out the last three months and try one more time. What was not there prior, we can now add. We can start anew and embrace the beginning once again.

Lexapro is my first medication when I was depressed and had various anxiety disorders. it only helped a little but since I was undergoing intensive therapy it was not enough in my opinion. Check out more info about Lexapro medication.

Rest – During this period of time we have also been given the gift of rest. I think about this more in terms of respite. Although we were only in the 3^rd month of the year, some of us were deeply engaged in completing our goals and well-set to move through to the summer with great anticipation of warmth and beauty. We were running hard and moving fast. All of a sudden it all stopped. In Using a different frame: I picture respite as a little slice of joy. I see myself resting near a pond with my toes in the warm water, the warmth of the sun on my back and the sound of beautiful birds chirping in the background. I lean back to get the full warmth of the sun as I listen to the most beautiful sound that only God can create – Birds chirping, the warm wind blowing and the thought that I’m in the best place ever. This is what the scripture means in Hebrew about entering into His rest — His rest. Everything about respite was created by Him. Even this small slice of time in which we are resting, and becoming comfortable with what is so odd, with what we cannot control. Take a deep breath and enter into His rest. Hebrew 4:10 – For whoever enters into His rest, he also ceases from his own works, as God did from His.

Recommitment – The commitment we made at the beginning of the year, a couple of months ago seem so far away. In Using a different frame: This is an opportunity for a recommitment to self. One of the promises that we don’t want to break is a promise we made to the self. The promise of want to do better, be better and live better. Some of us had already picked up bad habits. We had fallen back into the late arrivals, the bad eating, the loss of sleep, the loss of connection with others. In the 3^rd month, this started to look like the old schedule we wanted nothing to do with. This period of time gives us the opportunity to recommit to self. To do what we said. It also gives us the opportunity to recommit to family. What a wonderful word. It is always and has been complex but yet deep. It has been layered, but yet beautiful. Family is this amazing group of people that we all have been gifted with who teach us so much. Family teaches us about how deeply we can love, and how often we can forgive. This is a recommitment to our faith, as well. The very essence of who we are and why we are. It is a reassurance of what we stand for and who we are.

Yes, we will get through this. What appears to be suffering, fear and sadness, we will get through it. We will come out of this and we will be better than before as we use this time to reset, rest and recommit!

Apr

COVID-19 – The Worry of Violence From An Economic Crisis: Just Another Day For The Poor

by Stephanie Rose Torres, M.A., LPC in Active, Anxiety, Articles, Blog, Depression, emotional health, Healing, physical health, Uncategorized Comments: 0 tags: mental health

“The opposite of poverty is justice.” Bryan Stevenson, lawyer and social justice advocate
“Like slavery and apartheid, poverty is not natural. It is man-made and it can be overcome and eradicated by the actions of human beings.” Nelson Mandela
“He that oppresseth the poor, reproacheth his Maker; but he that honoureth Him hath mercy on the poor.” Proverbs 14:31

As the federal and state sanctions unfold, in response to the Coronavirus, I find myself grateful that our nation and city are taking steps to flatten the curve of the outbreak. In so doing, it can prevent widespread panic, economic crisis, and subsequently, thoughtless violence. However, while I feel grateful, I realize I also feel afraid. And while I am sure I am not alone, rather I am joined by many Americans across the country, I also realize that my fear of unchecked panic turning violent feels eerily familiar. I think, “When have I felt this before? This fear of leaving my house, and coming in contact with people?” Then I remember, “Oh. My childhood.”

Growing up in a moderate- to high-crime neighborhood, fear was a common feeling. Not to mention, being a female and a child/youth meant I was part of a population that was vulnerable to certain crimes. I would not have admitted it then, because the fear was masked by its defensive cousin: anger. However, no matter how the fear was presented, it was a sort of oppression–“mental pressure of distress” (Oxford Dictionary). In this state of fear, I learned from various sources that “I can’t cross the front gate”, “I shouldn’t look at people when I’m walking down the street”, and “even if I feel like someone is going to touch me [perversely or violently], I should hit them”: this way, I would be aware of the real dangers I faced, and the damage to me would be minimal.

Then, things changed. As I journeyed from the inner city via CTA to a better high school and college education, I noticed a different type of oppression: one centered around race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status (SES). It was no longer a physical issue, it was a mental one. I did not have the words to describe it then, so I initially tolerated the microaggressions silently: my peers turning away dismissively when I would begin to speak in group discussion, and chuckling comments like, “I’m sorry, can you say that in English?” when I was clearly speaking English. Seemingly unprompted, I became more aware of my Latina-ness, and the “inequitable distribution of power” (Wyatt & Hardy, 2008) I experienced as a person of lower SES and of color. I was unaware and unprepared for this kind of danger.

This experience of loss of power–“the capacity or ability to direct or influence the behavior of others or the course of events” (Oxford Dictionary)–subsequently exposed me to feelings of inferiority. Dr. Kenneth V. Hardy describes the positions in this struggle as 1) the privileged and 2) the subjugated (Hardy, 2016). And, let me tell you, feeling inferior: MADE. ME. ANGRY. I played reels of violent responses in my mind. But over time, I built a thickness of skin and learned to speak, and write, and hold my ground relentlessly. Psychotherapy and the prayers of persistent parents shaped my perseverance. Yet my anger did not resolve. To cope, I often shamed myself, believing that this aggressive predisposition did not fit my childhood experience. I would tell myself, “I came from an intact family, my parents were involved and supportive, and Christian values were a high priority in my education”. My mind would circle back to the question, “So, where did the aggression come from?” After wrestling with this for years, I have since been able to ask a more telling question: “when (or, in what instances) was anger experienced? And from where did I learn how to respond?”

As an adult, I have gained life-changing insights from my training in patterns of behavior and Life Styles–“This expression does not refer to a particular way of life, but to how different aspects of the personality [emotional and cognitive organization] work together” (Oberst & Stewart, 2005, p. 19). I have come to understand that in my early years of anger and fighting, it was often for the purpose of 1) protecting others, or 2) exerting my own physical/mental power in response to others’ imposition of power over me (i.e. self-defense, or perceived unjust use of power by peers or authority). I can now argue that my aggression was the start of a passion for social justice. So instead of shame, I receive empowerment, and invite wisdom to guide me to healthier responses. Therefore, as I currently fear the outbreak of violence, introspect my own history with anger and violence, and study patterns of behavior, the question begs, “what will make people violent in a time like this?”

And the answer is the same: Poverty. Inferiority. Loss of power.

Poverty is not merely the absence of money, it is a psychological state of powerlessness. The Institute for Research on Poverty (IRP) posits that “scarcity experienced as a result of economic instability and poverty reduces already limited cognitive resources, resulting in detrimental behaviors and ineffective decision-making ” (2011). IRP additionally exposes that poverty has also been linked to higher risk of illness (2013). This means that unhealthy decision-making and risk of illness in the poor or under-resourced is not based on biological inferiorities, rather, it is based on the psychological oppression of the experience of powerlessness. Further, people of color and the underrepresented (to varying degrees, and despite income status) encounter a similar psychological experience of powerlessness. And finally, I would argue that this reveals that ANYONE, despite privilege or skin color, is capable of violence if they experience loss of power, increased panic, and extreme financial distress.

So, what is the connection between this and the state of the world regarding COVID-19? To name a few: the mental-emotional state of uncertainty, desperation, hopelessness, and fear. If you are not currently in poverty (in terms of wealth, health, or privilege) but fear it, count yourself blessed. You are ahead of the curve and you still have power. But if this is just another day of fear, violence, high risk of illness, and inequitable power for you, and/or you are in poverty, know that your mind does not have to be. There is hope and power lying inside each of us, even if it is inequitable. Faith and early experiences have taught me of resilience: ultimately, that WE. WILL. SURVIVE. Therefore, I urge you to use your influence to inspire peace (versus violence), understanding (versus power-struggle), conscientiousness (of the poor, and of privilege), and solidarity in our collective struggle.

Stay connected and wash your hands.

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” John 14:27

“Stop your fighting — [Be still] and know that I am God…” Psalm 46:11

References

Hardy, K. V. (2016). Anti-racist approaches for shaping theoretical and practice paradigms. In M. Pender-Greene & A. Siskin (Eds.), Anti-racist strategies for the health and human services. Oxford, UK: Oxford University Press.

Institute for Research on Poverty (2011). The Psychology of Poverty. Fast, Vol. 28 (1), 19-22. Retrieved from https://www.irp.wisc.edu/publications/focus/pdfs/foc281e.pdf

Institute for Research on Poverty (2013). [Fact Sheet] Poverty Fact Sheet: Poor and In Poor Health. Retrieved from https://www.irp.wisc.edu/publications/factsheets/pdfs/PoorInPoorHealth.pdf

Oberst, U.E., & Stewart, A.E. (2005). Adlerian Psychotherapy: An Advanced Approach to Individual Psychotherapy. New York, NY: Routledge.

Oppression. (n.d.). In Lexipro Powered by Oxford. Retrieved from https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/oppression

Power. (n.d.). In Lexipro Powered by Oxford. Retrieved from https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/power

Violence. (n.d.). In Lexipro Powered by Oxford. Retrieved from https://www.lexico.com/en/definition/violence Wyatt, R.C. (Interviewer) & Hardy, K.V. (Interviewee). (2008). Kenneth V. Hardy on Multiculturalism and Psychotherapy [Interview transcript]. Retrieved from Psychotherapy.net website: https://www.psychotherapy.net/interview/kenneth-hardy

Feb

Come As You Are: Examining Our Own Narratives Around Food, Health, and Body Image

by Merry Baronas, M.S.W., LSW in Active, Adolescent, Anxiety, Articles, Blog, Child Behavior, Depression, emotional health, Healing, Parents, physical health, Self Improvement Comments: 0 tags: Eating Disorders, mental health, Self Improvement, Self-Care

Common assumptions around eating disorders often narrowly focus on an individual’s food intake and exercise. It’s time to examine how cultural norms directly impact all of us. A leading factor in the development of disordered eating is a cultural emphasis on being thin (Culbert, Racine, & Klump, 2015). When thinness is celebrated and equated with health, anyone outside of thinness is subjected to weight stigma and bias. One’s “discipline” and even morality is questioned. Weight stigma is a subsequent threat in and of itself as a risk factor for depression and anxiety (Andreyeva, Puhl, & Brownell, 2008). Rather than investing our time, money, and energy into a narrow and often impossible standard, what if our focus is to work against weight stigma and the idealization of thinness?

This work begins with ourselves, in identifying the ways we have internalized messages of shame for our bodies, or perhaps in how we have pursued and been devoted to this standard of thinness. For parents and caregivers there is a compelling obligation to consider one’s own beliefs and actions around health, wellness, and eating patterns for the sake of their children. All children are currently composing their own narrative of what it means to “be healthy” and are modeling behaviors from those around them, for better or for worse. (Andreyeva, Puhl, & Brownell, 2008).

This work is individual and collective. National Eating Disorders Awareness Week is from February 24^th-March 1^st. The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) theme for this year is “Come As You Are, Hindsight is 2020.” Let us take time, be it in conversations, prayer, or in counseling to reflect about our own narratives around food, health, and body image. Let us work toward a culture in our families and communities that speaks to each and every one: “Come as you are.”

References

Andreyeva, T., Puhl, R. M. and Brownell, K. D. (2008), Changes in Perceived Weight Discrimination Among Americans, 1995–1996 Through 2004–2006. Obesity, 16: 1129–1134. doi:10.1038/oby.2008.35

Culbert, K. M., Racine, S. E., & Klump, K. L. (2015). Research Review: What we have learned about the causes of eating disorders – a synthesis of sociocultural, psychological, and biological research. J Child Psychol Psychiatry, 56(11), 1141-1164.

Dec

Making A Plan For A Happy Holiday

by CCCOC Resources in Active, Adult Relationships, Anxiety, Blog, Depression, emotional health, Family Relationships, Healing, Holidays, physical health, Self Improvement, Uncategorized Comments: 0 tags: Holiday Stress, Self Improvement, Self-Care

Think About It

What is one thing that you’ve experienced on a past holiday that you do not want to repeat this year?

Drinking too much / using drugs
Spending the holiday alone at home and feeling lonely
Conflict with family or friends
Feeling guilty or sad that I had nothing to give
Feeling depressed
Wanting to hurt myself or someone else

Future Brighter Holidays

2. Can you avoid what you checked this holiday and commit not to do it?

Yes
No
Maybe

Check one box under each category that you would like to do this holiday:

Physical

Eat healthy foods (substitute fruit for sweets or vegetables for chips!)
Get exercise (bundle up and go for a walk)
Drink plenty of water (limit alcohol and caffeine)
Get enough sleep (7-9 hours each night)
Practice good hygiene (get out of your pajamas and put on something nice!)

Mental

Make a plan: Take action and decide fun ways to spend your Holiday Season with others.
Don’t fake it: embrace both good and bad feelings.
Create a tradition for yourself: light a candle, talk with a friend, say a prayer, sing a favorite song.
Tell yourself that it doesn’t have to be the “best time of the year.”

Social

Plan your holidays ahead of time (where will you go for the meal?)
Plane to be with people you enjoy.
Talk about your feelings. Cry, laugh. Do not try to hide your honest emotions.
However, if you find yourself getting angry, take 3 deep breaths and remove yourself from the situation.
Put some effort into seeing that someone else has a wonderful holiday. Serve at shelter. Ask if you can help set up for a dinner. Find satisfaction in doing for others.

3. Now circle just one of the things you checked above that you will commit to doing this holiday.

I _________________________________ (your name) commit to thriving and living with less stress this Holiday Season.

Date: ____________________________

Can you mark yes to question #1 now?

If you want to discuss this further feel free to contact Cornerstone Counseling Center of Chicago (312) 573-8860 or cccoc@chicagocounseling.org

*Please note if at any time you feel overwhelmed or that you may hurt yourself, please call the Northwestern Crisis Hotline at: (312) 926-8100 or 911 or go to your nearest Emergency Room.

Dec

Strategies to Reduce Depression During the Holiday

by Christine Collins, M.A., LPC, NCC, CADC in Active, Articles, Blog, Depression, emotional health, Holidays, physical health, Self Improvement, spiritual health Comments: 0 tags: depression, Family Relationships, Forgiveness, Rebuilding, Self Improvement

For your physical health:

Be deliberate about what activities you choose to attend. Decide ahead of time what would benefit you the most and what is in line with your needs.

Ask for help from others. We tend to think we have to do everything, when a team effort can be more fun.

Make time to rest and rejuvenate even amidst the pressure of getting things done. This will give you more energy.

Pay attention to your eating and drinking.

For your emotional health:

Express your feelings in an assertive and respectful way. Say “yes” because you want to, not out of obligation or to please others.

Surrender to those things that we cannot change. Surrendering is accepting things that we cannot control which allow us not to struggle and feel more at ease.

Don’t isolate. Reach out to others if you feel lonely. If you don’t have someone to be with, volunteer to help those in need. It can be very uplifting and gratifying. Spend time with supportive people.

Spend time to reflect and grieve, if necessary. Let yourself feel. Then do something nice for yourself and socialize.

Practice mindfulness. Try to observe your internal experience, just as it is, without judgment.

For your spiritual health:

Don’t compare yourself to others. You are perfect just as you are today.

Extend forgiveness.

Let go of the past. Life brings changes and each holiday season is different and can be enjoyed in its own way. Look forward.

Each week, call or email a family member or friend that you have not connected with in some time.

Make a new friend and invite them for coffee.

Find time to be with God. Pray!

Jun

Dr. Harris Summer 2018 Reads Suggestions

by Rev. Dr. Peonita Harris, Psy.D., LMFT, CSAT in Active, Adolescent, Adult Relationships, Anxiety, Articles, Blog, Child Behavior, Depression, Family Relationships, Healing, Parents, Self Improvement, Trauma Comments: 0 tags: Activities, Communication, Couples, Family Relationships, Forgiveness, Rebuilding, Relationships, Self Improvement, Summer, Summer Activities, Trauma

Dr. Harris Summer 2018 Reads Suggestions