The third Monday in January has been named the most depressing day of the year (also known as Blue Monday); this has to do with post-holiday slump, cold weather, debt, and lack of motivation. Fortunately,…
Mental Health
In the fall and winter, we’re especially vulnerable to a form of depression called seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or winter depression, which is related to shorter…
New research shows that smokers who want to quit the habit might find success if they increase their nicotine intake. The researchers say that smokers can tolerate a much larger dose (four times what is…
Between shopping for gifts, preparing for lavish dinners, and having visiting relatives and friends, the holiday season creates more stress than we might realize. This can lead to feeling burned out, tired, cranky and it…
During the holiday season, there’s a distinct emphasis on giving thanks for all that we’re fortunate enough to have. But in trying to make the season festive, we often put unnecessary stress on ourselves and…
Let’s face it, sometimes the holidays aren’t always a time for fun and celebration. They can be a time of increased depression because we are alone, or they can be filled with anxiety because we…
While there isn’t a cure for personality disorders, there are effective treatment methods out there for those who struggle with these conditions, such as therapy. These clients can often be described as “change-resistant” as they…
New research says that superheroes can inspire us to want to be helpful and perform altruistic acts. Researchers sought to understand how our heroes—specifically fictional heroes—might affect how we approach life. Study participants were exposed to…
Personality disorders are characterized by unhealthy thoughts and behaviors that make everyday functioning significantly difficult. The 10 personality disorders have each been analyzed and defined; however, there is still much to understand, such as how…
For better or worse, we live in a culture that’s heavily influenced by personalities. Having a personal brand has now become a practical necessity for many people across countless industries. For a counselor — particularly…
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is characterized by a disruption in normal functioning, which is rooted in serious personality changes and mood instability. People who suffer with this condition typically experience a distorted self-image and struggle to understand their identity. Additionally, those with BPD…
Pessimists and optimists are polar opposites; the former focus on the downside, while the latter tend to look on the bright side. While neither of these mentalities are classified as mental illnesses, they each can…
