Category: In the Loop

6 Tips to Stay Positive During Difficult Times

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Challenges are a part and parcel of life. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to cope during tough times. One effective way is positive thinking. Studies have found that it reduces the risk of several serious diseases, including stroke, respiratory complications and heart issues, while ensuring better psychological health and lower rates of depression, according to an article by Healthline. So, the key is to try to remain optimistic, enter a “survival mode,” if required, and be realistic about the whole situation. Further, take a look at a few other therapeutic but simple ways to stay positive through hard times. 1.    Stress Therapy Stress and anxiety can be too much to handle at times. In case you are unable to deal with it, set up an appointment with a professional therapist, trained to help people understand and manage their stress for positive outcomes, according to experts at the Institute for Personal Growth. This way, you are less likely to face a crisis situation. 2.    Small Goals One of the best ways to stay motivated is to set short term goals. These are usually ones you can accomplish quickly, without too much effort. For example, finishing a school assignment or achieving… Read more »

How to Help A Child that is Lacking Social Stimulation

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Good social skills mean a lifetime of healthy interactions. It helps a child develop better social skills, interpret feelings of others and learn to cooperate. In fact, the development of the brain depends on environmental stimulation, which further enhances cognitive, language and emotional skills, according to an article by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF). Self-regulation, play-skills, attention, executive functioning and sequencing also improve. However, not every child is as social. They might stand away from the crowd, bury themselves in books or prefer solitary play. This could be a personality trait, but it is important to examine whether the child is having trouble connecting with others or communicating through speech, gestures and facial expressions. Further, children also need to learn how to behave in different social situations. So, for children with lower social interaction, here’s how to help navigate challenges. Seek Professional Help Experienced child counselors have a unique ability to establish rapport and relate the causes of social skill deficits to their effects and provide effective counseling, according to an article by the Institute for Personal Growth. Choose a therapist who keeps parents in the loop too, while working on body image and insecurities to alleviate social fear…. Read more »

6 Reasons to Visit a Gay Friendly Psychologist

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Sadly, discrimination and mistreatment have been a way of life for the LGBTQ community, although organizations like the Society for Human Rights strive to promote social acceptance. Federal agencies have also laid down laws to protect gays and transgenders. But millions of Americans still fear embarrassment due to their sexual orientation. If you or someone you love has been a victim of such njdiscrimination, it is a good idea to seek professional help from a gay-friendly psychologist. If you are questioning your identity or finding it difficult to talk to your friends and family about your sexual orientation, you can opt for therapists who themselves are a part of the community, as they can completely understand your experiences, according to experts at Institute For Personal Growth. If you are hesitant, here’s how they can help you cope better in a world that is less than welcoming. 1.    Relationship Advisor Same-sex relationships can be overwhelming. They may lead to chronic mental health problems due the inability to fit into social conventions. A gay-friendly therapist can offer the right advice to help sustain the relationship. 2.    Child Counselor Parental conflict in a homosexual marriage affects the child’s emotional health, can persist through… Read more »

How to Tell if My Child is Depressed

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Beyond the regular “blues,” children often suffer from clinical depression. They tend to become unusually irritable, angry, or quiet, which disrupts their lives. Worldwide, 10%-20% of the children experience psychological disorders and depression is often called the “common cold” of mental illnesses. In fact, 3 in 4 children aged 3-17 with depression also suffer from anxiety and 1 in 2 has behavioral issues, according to an article by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. If left untreated, such conditions can severely influence the potential to live a fulfilling life. Fortunately, depression is treatable and can help the child get life back on track. Professionals offer Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), meditation, mindfulness training and interpersonal therapy techniques to relieve depression among children, according to experts at the Institute For Personal Growth. But how do you know whether your child is suffering? Take a look at the various ways in which they might act out under the shadow of depression. Low Self Esteem The child might constantly feel that they are ugly and worthless. This triggers emotions like guilt, hopelessness, shame, failure, and lack of confidence in almost every aspect of life. They might also become indecisive or reckless and refuse… Read more »

4 Signs That Your Spouse is Bisexual and How to Support Them

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Sexuality is not always black and white. It comes in more than just “50 shades of grey!” Life for bisexuals is very similar. They desire physical and emotional connection from both genders. Traditionally a controversial concept, the authorities have argued for centuries that it doesn’t exist and that people are “naturally” straight, homosexual or lying, where bisexuality could be part of youthful experimentation, according to an article on Psychology Today. However, researchers have confirmed that this sexual orientation is as real as heterosexuality and not a temporary phase. Today’s progressive society is increasingly accepting that sexuality is flexible. Psychotherapists ensure that bisexuality does not become the cause of personal issues and allow you the space to figure out your gender identity and sexuality, according to experts at the Institute for Personal Growth. So, if you feel stressed, consider seeking therapeutic help. But before that, here are a few hints that could point towards your spouse being bisexual and in need of your support. 1.    Threesome Talks This sexual fantasy is the most common among Americans. In fact, a study by Kinsey Institute found that 95% men and 87% women, aged 18 to 87, wished to have sex with multiple partners…. Read more »

How to Stay Calm During a Crisis

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Persistent exposure to crisis situations, such as the endless months of the coronavirus spread, can prove harmful for mental health. A study published by Boston University School of Public Health found that 8.5% US adults experienced symptoms of depression before COVID-19, which spiked to 27.8% by mid-April in 2020. Reorganization of mental health services and support to reduce loneliness by local and government authorities must continue, particularly for older people, according to a press release by the World Health Organization (WHO). This will help people plan and prepare better to cope with emergencies, if any. Additionally, here’s a look at how to manage stress and stay calm during a crisis. Vent Your Feelings A critical situation can give rise to bouts of depression, with accompanying lethargy and appetite disruptions. Remember, you cannot overcome depression with sheer willpower or mindfulness. Seeking help from experienced counselors can help alleviate the symptoms of depression, prevent the life-long struggle with anxiety or compulsive behaviors through interpersonal therapy techniques, according to experts at the Institute for Personal Growth. Therefore, do not hesitate or feel embarrassed to sign up for online therapy. Take a Walk Everyday Spend at least an hour in solitude to help yourself… Read more »

3 Ways to Introduce Therapy to a Child

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Children are as vulnerable to anxiety, depression and emotional abuse as adults. In fact, kids as young as 3 might have body image issues. These mental health issues can grow and fester, unless the right treatment and care is provided. The good news is that child experts can establish a unique rapport with their skills and patience and work to provide the most effective therapy for various types of childhood mental health problems, according to experts at Institute For Personal Growth. Individual therapy offers a safe space for children to explore difficult emotions and learn coping techniques. However, the child needs to start with a positive attitude towards the process for it to be helpful. Here’s how to be honest and introduce them to therapy in an age-appropriate way. 1.    Present it as a New Adventure Kids with anger, sadness, low self-esteem and high stress are unable to cope effectively with their feelings by themselves and therapy can help them feel happy and active, according to an article on KidsHealth. However, inaccurate information about the sessions might result in aggression or resentment. Make it seem like a new chapter of their lives that will help them deal with life’s challenges… Read more »

Managing Anxiety When There is No Place to Go

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If you are suffering from anxiety, remember you are not alone. Anxiety is one of the most common psychological issues in the United States. Around 18% of the population or 40 million people are affected by it in America, according to information provided by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. The figures might be even higher due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic has made people uncertain about their job and students confused about their future, while putting a strain on even the strongest relationships. In addition, the on again-off again lockdown restrictions and the fear of getting infected by the Coronavirus aren’t really conducive to peace of mind. This makes the situation even more difficult. If you too are finding it difficult to cope with the current situation, here are some tips to help manage your anxiety. 1.   Make a Daily Schedule Just because you are stuck at home does not mean you should not have a routine. A lack of routine can lead to a chaotic mind, the breeding grounds of anxiety, according to experts at the Institute for Personal Growth. So, each night, try to make a list of things you want to do the next… Read more »

Strategies for Uplifting Your Mood While Sheltering in Place

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National isolation, economic upheaval and COVID panic are all taking their toll on our mental health. The WHO has already predicted that one in four people in the world will be affected by a psychological problem at least once in their lifetime. And now, the impact of the pandemic might just worsen the situation. In fact, 50% of Chinese healthcare workers have reported depression and 47% of Canada’s frontline workers have admitted to the need for psychological support, according to data released by the World Health Organization. Given that the United States had 2.04 million confirmed cases, as of June 11, 2020, stay-at-home measures cannot be altered for now. The good news, however, is that mindful techniques, relaxation approaches and meditation training can help regulate stress and emotions and make people better able to cope with the situation, say experts at the Institute For Personal Growth. Here are a few other strategies approved by psychotherapists to lift your spirits during this time of isolation. 1.    Stay Connected Let social distancing not turn into emotional distancing! Connect with your loved ones regularly and take updates on their lives. You can also contact psychotherapists, since most of them are offering quality online… Read more »

Dealing with Depression in the Time of Coronavirus

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The coronavirus pandemic has managed to bring the entire world to its knees. As of April 17, 2020, almost 2.2 million people had been infected by the virus, with over 148,000 fatalities, according to information presented by Worldometer. But that’s not all. The disease has put a halt on international travel, companies and industries have shut down and schools across the globe are closed. Being cooped up at home 24/7 can be overwhelming. In these volatile times, it is common to see people struggle with depression and anxiety. But just because you cannot get out of your home, does not mean there is no way to deal with such mental health conditions. Here are some tips to help you deal with depression during the lockdown period. Stay Connected It is vital that you maintain social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19. But that does not mean you cannot interact with your friends and family over the phone or the internet. During such times of uncertainty, staying connected with your loved ones, via video calls, messages or phone calls, can be great for your mental health. Online Therapy It is unsafe to go out, but you can still seek help… Read more »