![]() Even before the pandemic, being a teenager was tough. Between working out their identity, forming relationships with others, and juggling school, work, and hobbies, teens have a lot on their plates as it is. Add a global pandemic on top of all of that, and it isn’t hard to see why teens have been struggling more than ever. Between increased feelings of isolation, anxiety, and Covid-driven changes in our interactions with others, 38% of Gen Z have said that their mental health has gotten worse since the pandemic started. If you’re a teenager, or if you have a teen who is struggling, here are some ways that therapy can help.
0 Comments
![]() When I was a teenager, the internet wasn't a thing yet. If I wanted to talk to my friends about mental health, I had to do it in person or on the phone–and that was if I felt like mental health wasn’t too taboo a topic to approach a friend with. These days, teens can tap on an app, swipe through a few videos, and find an almost endless source of support regarding mental health topics. While parents may be apprehensive about teen social media use, the ability for teenagers to connect with others about their mental health can actually be a good thing if approached with the right mindset. ![]() The honeymoon phase is that exciting beginning period of a relationship when everything feels new and thrilling. There's a huge wave of neurochemicals that make you feel excited, giddy, elated, and on top of the world. It can feel like you've finally figured something out, or come home, or discovered an amazing secret. But how long does this initial burst of intense passion last for lesbian and woman-loving-woman couples? Let's find out! ![]() Spring is here, bringing with it warm weather, longer days, and the perfect opportunity to spruce up your space and boost your mental health: spring cleaning. But if you're like most people, the thought of doing a deep clean overwhelms you and increases your stress. If you're struggling with anxiety or depression, cleaning can feel downright impossible. Let’s explore some of the ways that a little spring cleaning can help to boost your mood and improve your mental well-being without adding to your already-too-long mental load. ![]() Enneagram therapy is an exciting and innovative approach to personal development that can provide you with powerful insights into your psychological make-up, enabling you to identify your core strengths and weaknesses, gain greater self-awareness, and work through challenges more effectively. In therapy, it allows you to engage in growth beyond a psychiatric diagnosis.
![]() We are often warned to stay on the lookout for red flags when dating or entering a new relationship. These include toxic or troubling behaviors like aggression, excessive jealousy or poor conflict resolution. While it is important to be mindful of warning signs of an unhealthy dynamic, it is just as important to notice and appreciate signs of a healthy and loving relationship. Here are some green flags to pay attention to in your relationship:
![]() When it comes to finding an online therapist, it's important to do your research. Online therapy, also known as teletherapy, is a growing area of mental health care that offers people the convenience of therapy from the comfort of their own homes. But with so many providers to choose from, how do you find the right one for you? Don't worry, we're here to help. Here are some tips on how to find the right provider for you. 1. Know what you're looking for The first step is to know what you need from a therapist. What are your goals for therapy? What are your expectations? Are you looking for someone who specializes in a certain area? What type of therapy are you looking for? Do you need help with anxiety, depression, or something else? Once you know what type of therapy you need, you can start looking for providers that specialize in that area. ![]() The holidays can be an incredibly busy time for our social calendar as we share in festivities with family and friends. For many of us, however, the holidays can amplify feelings of loneliness and isolation. Strange as it may seem, you are most certainly not alone in feeling lonely during the holiday season. In fact, several studies have found that a growing number of Americans are experiencing feelings of loneliness or “the winter blues”, especially in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic. So, what can make “the most wonderful time of the year” feel not so wonderful? ![]() Have you ever noticed that your mood and energy levels suddenly drop when the weather gets colder? Do you just not feel like yourself during the dark and shorter days of winter? You’re not alone. Millions of Americans experience an annual onset of depressive symptoms during specific seasons of the year. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a common form of depression that can affect people during seasonal transitions, particularly the colder months in Fall and Winter. SAD is different from other forms of depression because people tend to feel better once the weather warms up in the Spring and Summer. People living in northern, colder climates (think Seattle or Boston) are more likely to experience SAD compared to those living in southern, sunny climates (think Miami or Los Angeles). While many people may experience a temporary feeling of the winter blues (Hello Daylight Savings!), SAD can impact the way we think, feel and function in daily life for long stretches of time every year. So, what might winter-pattern SAD look like? Here are some common symptoms:
![]() December 1st is World AIDS Day. While it's important to acknowledge the physical toll that AIDS takes on the body, it's also crucial to acknowledge the mental health effects of the disease. Historically, HIV and AIDS have been associated in the US with the gay community, but many, many people outside the LGBT community become infected every year. In 2010, over 10,000 heterosexual individuals contracted HIV. For many people living with AIDS, the diagnosis can be devastating. The financial burden of treatment can be overwhelming. The social stigma surrounding the disease can be isolating. It's important to remember that your mental health is just as important as your physical health, especially on a day like World AIDS Day. |
Laurel Therapy Collectiveoffers online therapy to California residents for anxiety, transitions, and trauma. Categories
All
Archives
May 2023
|