In the early stages of a relationship, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. That’s part of what makes dating fun! But while you’re getting to know someone, it’s also important to stay aware of the dynamics forming between you. Some relationship red flags aren’t as obvious as constant arguing or controlling behavior—they […]
Subtle Relationship Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore Read More »
Couples, Relationships
Ever feel like your brain just won’t shut up? Like you’re carrying an invisible to-do list in your head at all times, except instead of tasks, it’s worries, doubts, and worst-case scenarios? That’s the mental load of anxiety—the constant hum of “what ifs” and “did I forget to…?” that turns everyday life into an exhausting
The Mental Load of Anxiety: Why Your Brain Feels Exhausted All the Time Read More »
Anxiety
Ever find yourself stuck in an endless loop of overthinking? You replay an awkward conversation from three days ago, analyze every possible mistake, and convince yourself that you’ve completely ruined your reputation. Or maybe you obsess over a decision, imagining all the ways it could go wrong, long after the moment has passed. This mental
Why You Can’t Stop Ruminating (and How to Break the Cycle) Read More »
Anxiety
Have you ever agreed to something that felt wrong the moment you said “yes”? Maybe you stayed late at work, even though you promised yourself you’d set firmer limits. Or perhaps you said “yes” to a favor when your plate was already overflowing. Crossing your own boundaries can feel like the easiest way to keep
Understanding the Cost of Crossing Your Own Boundaries Read More »
Boundaries, Mental Health
It can be a tricky dynamic: as our parents age, we might notice them needing more support, advice, or even care. Maybe they call you for help navigating technology or managing their finances, or perhaps they seem to rely on you for emotional reassurance more than you expected. It’s natural to want to help the
How to Stop Parenting Your Parents: Setting Healthy Boundaries with Aging Loved Ones Read More »
Boundaries, Family, How To, Parenting
“It’s okay.” It’s a phrase we often throw around without much thought. While it’s meant to comfort or reassure, it can sometimes come across as dismissive or superficial, especially in emotionally charged moments. Words carry weight, and when someone is opening up to us, choosing our responses thoughtfully can strengthen connection and understanding. Here are
Better Ways to Respond Than Saying “It’s Okay” Read More »
Communication, Relationships
When life feels like it’s spinning out of control, self-care can sound like a luxury you can’t afford. You’re juggling too much, barely keeping up, and the idea of pampering yourself with bubble baths or yoga retreats feels laughably out of reach. But here’s the thing: self-care isn’t just about indulgence—it’s about survival, especially when
Practical Self-Care Strategies for Survival Mode Read More »
Coping Skills, Tips
Relationships are a dance, a push-and-pull of connection and independence. For an avoidant-leaning woman, this balance can feel like walking a tightrope. On one hand, she craves intimacy and love like anyone else; on the other, she may instinctively pull back when things feel too close for comfort. This can create a confusing dynamic for
Understanding the Avoidant-Leaning Woman: Navigating Emotional Distance in Relationships Read More »
Emotions, Relationships, Women
Have you ever felt utterly captivated by someone, to the point where they dominate your thoughts and emotions? Maybe it feels like love, but it’s also a little overwhelming, a little consuming. This intense state has a name: limerence. While limerence is often romanticized in books and movies, it’s a psychological phenomenon with roots in
Understanding Limerence: The Psychology of Obsessive Infatuation Read More »
OCD
Have you ever felt stuck in a pattern, as if your mind is running on autopilot, steering you into the same situations over and over again? That’s the subconscious mind at work—quietly pulling strings behind the scenes. The good news is, this powerful part of your mind is not set in stone. You can reprogram
How to Reprogram Your Subconscious Mind for Lasting Change Read More »
Growth Mindset, How To, Personal Development
Anxiety is sneaky. It doesn’t always show up as a racing heart or sweaty palms. Sometimes, it hides behind behaviors that seem unrelated. Deflection is one such behavior—when we shift focus away from our anxiety to avoid dealing with it head-on. The tricky part? Many of us deflect without even realizing it. What Is Anxiety
Recognizing the Subtle Signs of Anxiety Deflection Read More »
Anxiety, Anxiety
Stress is a normal part of life, but when it becomes chronic, your body can enter a state of overdrive, producing more cortisol than it needs. Often called the “stress hormone,” cortisol plays a vital role in keeping you alert and prepared to handle challenges. But when cortisol levels remain high for extended periods, it
Understanding High Cortisol: Signs Your Stress Hormone Might Be Overactive Read More »
Coping Skills, Emotions, Stress
Anxiety is more than just feeling stressed or worried. It’s a silent thief, quietly sneaking into your life and taking things that might not seem obvious at first. Over time, the toll becomes undeniable. Understanding what anxiety robs us of can be the first step in reclaiming what’s ours. 1. Your Peace of Mind One
The Silent Thief: What Anxiety Steals from Your Life Read More »
Anxiety
Congratulations, baby therapist. You did it—you’ve made it through grad school, late-night study sessions, practicum jitters, and countless role-plays pretending to help your peers through made-up problems. Now, you’re stepping into the real world of therapy, ready to help clients navigate their lives. It’s exciting, humbling, and yes, sometimes terrifying. Let’s talk about what’s ahead.
An Open Letter to Baby Therapists: Advice for Your First Steps in the Field Read More »
Professional/Work, Therapists, Tips
Your nervous system is like the command center of your body, quietly running the show without demanding much attention—until it does. It’s a complex, powerful system that’s responsible for everything from breathing to decision-making to how you respond when your boss sends a cryptic “We need to talk” email. Yet, most of us go through
Understanding Your Nervous System: The Surprising Truths About How It Shapes Your Life Read More »
College/Students, Emotions, Sleep, Stress