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How to Know if You’re an Introvert

Understanding Introversion and ExtroversionIntroversion vs. ExtroversionTo understand whether you might be an introvert, it's important to first grasp the difference between introversion and extroversion. These two personality types are distinguished by what energizes a person: introverts feel recharged after spending time alone, while extroverts gain energy from being around other people.Signs You Might Be an IntrovertContrary to popular belief, introverts...[ read more ]

Understanding Post-Traumatic Embitterment Disorder (PTED)

You may have heard of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but have you come across post-traumatic embitterment disorder (PTED)? PTED is a condition characterized by chronic feelings of bitterness and resentment following a negative life event, such as being bullied, assaulted, or fired from a job.PTED is more likely to develop in individuals who have invested significant effort in achieving their...[ read more ]

Rumination: What It Is & How to Stop Doing It

Understanding RuminationRumination involves persistently thinking about negative experiences and feelings. Some individuals replay past events, while others worry about potential future situations. This pattern of thinking tends to snowball—certain mental health conditions, such as generalized anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder, can lead to rumination, which in turn can exacerbate the symptoms of these conditions. This often results in heightened anxiety,...[ read more ]

Navigating Divorce: Steps to Protect Your Mental and Emotional Health

Divorce is often one of the most challenging experiences a person can face. It may require you to leave your family home, lose touch with couple friends, and miss out on time with your children. Almost always, it involves losing someone you once loved and the future you had envisioned together.Despite how difficult divorce can be, there are steps you...[ read more ]

5 Summer Activities That Can Boost Your Mental Health

The sun is shining, temperatures are climbing, and yet... you're grappling with feelings of depression. While seasonal affective disorder (SAD) typically strikes in the colder months, it can also cast a shadow during spring and summer. Whether it's SAD or another cause, here are five summer activities to uplift your spirits:Step outside for a new outdoor workout regimen like walking,...[ read more ]

Navigating Boundaries

Are you ready to take the proactive step of setting boundaries in your life?Boundaries are essential to maintaining relationships with friends, family members, and coworkers, as they can help build trust and respect. Once you've identified your boundaries, the next step is to articulate them to those around you. Here are some strategies to effectively communicate your boundaries:Clarity is key....[ read more ]

Sleep Better with 8 Tips

Struggling to catch those Z's? You're definitely not alone. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute reports that 50 to 70 million Americans grapple with sleep disorders. But fret not, as there are ways to tackle this. Regularly missing out on quality shut-eye can mess with your mood, cognitive abilities, and even put you at risk for serious health issues...[ read more ]

What Causes OCD to Flare Up?

You've likely come across obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), a condition characterized by recurrent, unwanted thoughts and urges (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions). However, did you know that certain factors can exacerbate OCD symptoms? Here are four potential triggers for OCD flare-ups:Stress and Anxiety: Heightened stress or anxiety levels often intensify the urge to engage in rituals to alleviate discomfort, making this...[ read more ]

Affirmations for Well-Being

The language we use towards ourselves carries immense power, shaping our thoughts and actions. This is where affirmations step in—they involve repeating certain phrases to oneself, fostering self-esteem, reducing stress, cultivating positivity, spurring action, and enhancing overall well-being.Curious about tapping into these benefits? Start by selecting affirmations tailored to your needs. Here are 10 suggestions:1.Embrace happiness: "I deserve to be...[ read more ]

Why Does Exercise Reduce Stress?

Incorporating exercise into your daily routine offers a multifaceted approach to stress relief. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases endorphins, often referred to as the body's natural painkillers or mood elevators. These neurotransmitters interact with receptors in your brain, reducing your perception of pain and triggering positive feelings, akin to the effects of morphine.Moreover, regular exercise has...[ read more ]