Laurel Fay
type: channel
date: 2025-07-30T18:38:02Z
update period: hourly
update frequency: 1
update base: 2000-01-01T12:00+00:00
items: How Does Childhood Trauma Manifest In Adults?
items: Is Depression a Symptom of COVID-19?
items: Yes, New Fathers Suffer from Depression Too!
items: How to Navigate Challenging Life Transitions
items: The Healing Power of Nature
items: Therapy for Divorce
items: How to Face Food and Fitness Challenges During COVID-19
items: Understanding Mental Health in the LatinX Community
items: Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder
items: Is Telehealth the Future of Therapy?
items: 5 Strategies to Calm Your Anxiety Quickly
items: Are You Doing Self-Care All Wrong?
items: Can Long-Term Isolation Lead to an Addiction?
items: The Mental Health Impact of COVID-19 on Families
items: Tips for Coping with Social Isolation
items: Let Go and Let God – Faith-Based Therapy for Christians
items: How to nurture three domains of wellness during times of hardship
items: Do You Have C-PTSD?
items: The Benefits of Online Therapy
items: How to Cope with the Stress and Anxiety Caused by COVID-19

How Does Childhood Trauma Manifest In Adults?
type: item
creator: Michelle Strickland
date: 2023-09-01T10:00:41Z
subject: Abuse/Neglect
subject: Trauma / PTSD
subject: childhood trauma
subject: emotional abuse
subject: mental health
subject: trauma
description: How Does Childhood Trauma Manifest In Adults? Childhood trauma can have a devastating and long-lasting impact on an individual’s life. It is estimated that one in four adults have experienced some form of childhood trauma, whether it be physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, or neglect. Unfortunately, many of these individuals carry this trauma into […] The post How Does Childhood Trauma Manifest In Adults? appeared first on Laurel Fay.
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Is Depression a Symptom of COVID-19?
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2021-08-11T14:49:33Z
subject: Blog
subject: Uncategorized
description: Research shows there may be a link between COVID-19 and the symptoms of depression. Here’s why it happens. Whether you’ve lost a loved one to COVID-19, experienced financial difficulties, or had a hard time adjusting to all the changes, the pandemic likely impacted you in some way. If you feel like you’re living with depression […] The post Is Depression a Symptom of COVID-19? appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: Research shows there may be a link between COVID-19 and the symptoms of depression. Here’s why it happens. Whether you’ve lost a loved one to COVID-19, experienced financial difficulties, or had a hard time adjusting to all the changes, the pandemic likely impacted you in some way. If you feel like you’re living with depression resulting from all of this, you’re not alone. Between 2020 and 2021, diagnoses of anxiety and depressive disorders jumped from 36% to 41%Trusted Source, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But are these symptoms of depression a result of external factors only, or is depression a residual effect of the disease? So far, the research is pointing toward both. Read Full Article The post Is Depression a Symptom of COVID-19? appeared first on Laurel Fay.

Yes, New Fathers Suffer from Depression Too!
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2021-06-10T17:00:09Z
subject: Men's Issues
subject: Parenting
description: Having a baby is an event that typically brings a lot of joy and excitement for couples. However, roughly 60% of new mothers suffer from postpartum depression (PPD), with symptoms being either moderate or severe. Fortunately, PPD is a common health issue with much discussion and content outlining the symptoms and treatment. What’s not commonly […] The post Yes, New Fathers Suffer from Depression Too! appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: Having a baby is an event that typically brings a lot of joy and excitement for couples. However, roughly 60% of new mothers suffer from postpartum depression (PPD), with symptoms being either moderate or severe. Fortunately, PPD is a common health issue with much discussion and content outlining the symptoms and treatment. What’s not commonly discussed is that new fathers can absolutely suffer from depression as well. While this depression is usually caused by stress and lack of sleep, and not hormonal shifts, the fact remains that men can and do suffer from PPD. In fact, according to the JAMA Network, roughly 10% of new fathers suffer from PPD. Other research by APA has also shown that a “similar proportion” of new fathers experience some form of depression after childbirth. Since the frequency of depression is fairly similar between new mothers and new fathers, PPD can no longer be viewed as a woman’s issue. Because of these recent findings, researchers are now recommending that both new mothers AND new fathers (or expectant mothers and fathers) get regular screenings for signs of depression. This is especially important in new mothers and fathers with a history of mental health issues in their own past, or in their family lineage. Causes of Male PPD A study out of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas published in the Journal of Family Issues found there were a handful of common causes of PPD in new fathers: No Education Fathers simply didn’t know they could suffer from PPD and so ignored any symptoms they were experiencing, instead of focusing on supporting their partner. Gender Expectations Many men feel the need to be “manly” and act like a “tough guy” that isn’t bothered by emotions. Repressed Feelings Men are often reluctant to share their feelings, let alone seek help because of them. With these new findings, hopefully, more men will pay attention to how they are feeling and seek help should they feel depression creeping on. If you or a loved one are a new f…

How to Navigate Challenging Life Transitions
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2021-06-08T19:00:24Z
subject: General
subject: Telehealth
description: When we’re young, life transitions are fun and empowering. We go from crawling to walking, walking to running. We start with training wheels but soon no longer need them. As we age we graduate into higher grades and become more independent. But as adults, life transitions can feel not so fun and far from empowering, […] The post How to Navigate Challenging Life Transitions appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: When we’re young, life transitions are fun and empowering. We go from crawling to walking, walking to running. We start with training wheels but soon no longer need them. As we age we graduate into higher grades and become more independent. But as adults, life transitions can feel not so fun and far from empowering, because life transitions can often include loss: loss of a job, a marriage, and loved ones. During these life transitions, we can feel out to sea, completely at the mercy of the tides that seem to be tossing our lifeboat around. If you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed right now because you are facing one or more life transitions, here are some ways you can navigate these choppy waters: Slow Down Have you noticed that the pace of life has picked up? Most likely your heartbeat and breathing have also picked up as a response. It’s time to slow down. As simple as it may sound, slow, deep breaths are a powerful way to tell your body that everything is okay. Right now, your body is in “fight or flight mode,” as you subconsciously, and maybe even consciously, feel you are being attacked. Making time each day to be still, away from the noise and chaos to breathe deeply and slowly, will slow down your heart rate and make you feel calm and peaceful. Embrace Uncertainty I know, it seems completely counterintuitive if not downright impossible. But when we surrender control and embrace the unknown, with an almost scientific curiosity about outcomes, we feel positive emotions (curiosity, wonder) instead of negative emotions (lost, out of control). Acknowledge the Cycles of Life Someone once said, “This too shall pass.” Life, like weather, has seasons. While you may feel stuck right now and like nothing is going the way you hoped or planned, recognize the truth, which is, this too shall pass. Transitions are just that, an uncomfortable bridge from one part of life to the next. Fall Back on Traditions Rites of passage have been used for thousands of years in all cul…

The Healing Power of Nature
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2021-06-03T18:00:29Z
subject: Anxiety
subject: Depression
subject: General
description: One only needs to read a few lines from poets such as Frost, Wordsworth, and Thoreau to recognize the love for and connection to nature human beings have always had. Nature stirs our souls and imagination and brings beauty to our everyday lives. But it turns out, nature also brings a slew of benefits to […] The post The Healing Power of Nature appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: One only needs to read a few lines from poets such as Frost, Wordsworth, and Thoreau to recognize the love for and connection to nature human beings have always had. Nature stirs our souls and imagination and brings beauty to our everyday lives. But it turns out, nature also brings a slew of benefits to our mental and physical health. The Many Benefits of Spending Time in Nature Research is now clearly indicating that spending time outdoors can have a positive impact on our health. Whether you bike, hike, or simply sit under a tree enjoying the sights and sounds, time in nature has shown to reduce stress, slow heart rate, improve pain, lower cortisol, and stimulate the immune system by boosting the production of natural killer cells that fight disease and infection. In addition, time outside means time in the sun, and THAT means getting a nice boost of vitamin D, which can do everything from preventing disease, make our bones and teeth stronger, and improve our mood. Give Ecotherapy a Try Ecotherapy, which is also sometimes referred to as nature therapy, is a practice in the emerging field of ecopsychology. The idea behind this practice is that many modern people, whether they are aware of it or not, feel a massive disconnect from the natural world. When you think about it, our ancestors spent hundreds of thousands of years living WITH nature, feeling it under their bare feet, being outside, ebbing and flowing with the shifts in seasons. But today, most of us are only connected to a digital device. Ecotherapy gets us away from our screens and out into the beauty of the natural world. Many clinicians, including myself, believe that the earth has a natural ability to balance us. When we get back in touch with the systems of nature, we can experience improved mental health. If you are feeling out of sorts and like the idea of trying ecotherapy, you can simply spend more time outside. If you would like someone to help you reconnect with nature, please get in touch with …

Therapy for Divorce
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2021-06-01T15:00:45Z
subject: Couples/Marriage
subject: Separation/Divorce
description: When we say the words, “I do,” we never imagine that one day those words will turn into, “It’s over.” But the statistics point to the fact that many marriages do not make it. In fact, the CDC reports that 42% of marriages have a high probability of ending in divorce. Why Should You Consider […] The post Therapy for Divorce appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: When we say the words, “I do,” we never imagine that one day those words will turn into, “It’s over.” But the statistics point to the fact that many marriages do not make it. In fact, the CDC reports that 42% of marriages have a high probability of ending in divorce. Why Should You Consider Therapy for Divorce? When a marriage ends, it typically leaves one or both partners wondering, “what happened?” As a major life transition, divorce can be traumatic and mentally, physically, and emotionally draining. Therapy offers individuals powerful coping skills that can help them navigate their overwhelming thoughts and feelings. Therapy offers a safe space to explore and share your feelings so you can make sense of them yourself. It’s a way for people to have a healthier outlook on their divorce and become empowered during a very difficult time. Different Therapy Modalities for Divorce Every situation is unique and will require the right type of therapy: Individual Therapy Individual therapy is incredibly helpful for those people experiencing depression or anxiety, or who view the divorce as a personal failure. This type of therapy can help you discover your own needs and a better understanding of who you are. Couples Therapy Divorce will never be easy. But with the proper guidance, the lines of communication can stay open and the separation can remain constructive and amicable. A therapist can help you both navigate those hard decisions such as financial obligations and co-parenting. Family Therapy Children are, of course, deeply affected by a divorce, and often the parents are too consumed in their own emotions to offer proper guidance. Family therapy can help the entire family deal with the feelings of loss and grief. Mediation Settling a divorce in court can be costly and exhausting. Many couples choose to mediate their own divorce through the help of a trained therapist. Mediation not only costs less and typically takes far less time than divorce litigation, but it may…

How to Face Food and Fitness Challenges During COVID-19
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-11-05T18:01:00Z
subject: Nutrition
subject: Sports / Exercise
description: If anyone had told us a year ago that we would be facing a global pandemic – one that would cause the entire world to go on lockdown – no one would have believed it. But here we are. While some states have begun to reopen, there are still many areas where children are not […] The post How to Face Food and Fitness Challenges During COVID-19 appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: If anyone had told us a year ago that we would be facing a global pandemic – one that would cause the entire world to go on lockdown – no one would have believed it. But here we are. While some states have begun to reopen, there are still many areas where children are not going to school and adults are still working remotely. Without question, this disruption in our day-to-day lives has caused many people to make poor food and fitness choices. How to Make Better Food Choices Eating healthy can be challenging on its own, but couple that will seclusion at home and the added stress we’ve all been feeling for months – stress that BEGS us to eat comfort foods – and you can see how many of our food choices have taken a nosedive. Here are some ways you can begin to make better food choices during the pandemic: Plan Your Groceries Carefully You may have given yourself and your family some leeway these past months when buying groceries. Did you allow more processed garbage into your home because, after all, we’re dealing with a pandemic, and Doritos and cookies help you cope? If so, it’s time to buckle down and start shopping better. If you don’t allow junk food into the house, you won’t be as tempted to eat it. Do your best to buy fewer processed foods and more wholesome, organic foods. Try a Healthy Meal Delivery Service Parents have been hit particularly hard during the pandemic. Many have had to work from home while at the same time teach their children. Not so easy. This has, no doubt, caused many people to order in pizza and other potentially not-so-healthy foods. Who has time to cook?! If you do need some help preparing your meals, it is a much better idea to sign up for a HEALTHY meal delivery service. There are plenty of options out there to choose from, a simple Google search will turn up numerous companies who cater to those who don’t have time to cook but want to eat healthily! Deal with Your Emotions None of us had time to prepare for this pandemic. One day life…

Understanding Mental Health in the LatinX Community
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-11-03T15:00:50Z
subject: General
description: Living your best life means not only being healthy physically but also emotionally and mentally as well. For many, seeking the guidance of a mental health professional is a way of ensuring their overall well-being. But for some communities, there is a stigma associated with getting help for depression and other mental health issues. One […] The post Understanding Mental Health in the LatinX Community appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: Living your best life means not only being healthy physically but also emotionally and mentally as well. For many, seeking the guidance of a mental health professional is a way of ensuring their overall well-being. But for some communities, there is a stigma associated with getting help for depression and other mental health issues. One such community that holds conflicting beliefs about mental health is the LatinX community. The Stigma of Mental Health Like other communities, the LatinX community faces some common mental health conditions, primarily anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, and drug and alcohol addiction. The burden of these conditions can even lead some to commit suicide. Sadly, many in the community, though struggling, refuse to seek help because of cultural stigma. There is a saying in the LatinX community, and that is: “la ropa sucia se lava en casa.” This translates to “don’t air your dirty clothes in public.” Mental health is often not seen as a “real thing” and it is certainly not discussed by many in the community, especially among older individuals. There are other reasons why some individuals in the LatinX community do not seek mental health treatment. Privacy concerns, shame, language barriers, legal status, and a lack of health insurance are some of the main ones. What Can Be Done? Some of the work to bring about a change of perception will have to be done within the community itself. LatinX community members, especially younger individuals, can start conversations about mental health. The more the topic is discussed openly, the more the overall culture can shift and begin to embrace therapy as a viable health practice. Secondly, more healthcare organizations can and should conduct public screenings for depression and other mental health issues. This will help people in the community learn more about mental health issues and trust those in their community who are there to help. No one should have to suffer from depression, anxiety, or addicti…

Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-10-15T11:00:09Z
subject: Depression
subject: Women's Issues
description: Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a major depressive disorder that occurs during the same season each year. Also known as the “winter blues,” SAD typically comes on in the fall and winter, when the light is diminished. SAD is believed to affect nearly 10 million Americans and is four times more common in women […] The post Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a major depressive disorder that occurs during the same season each year. Also known as the “winter blues,” SAD typically comes on in the fall and winter, when the light is diminished. SAD is believed to affect nearly 10 million Americans and is four times more common in women than men. Many people experience symptoms that are severe enough to affect their quality of life. Though not everyone will experience the same symptoms, here are some of the most common: Feelings of sadness and hopelessness A change in appetite and developing a craving for sweet or starchy foods Weight gain A drop in energy level Decreased physical activity Fatigue Difficulty concentrating Irritability Avoidance of social situations Thoughts of suicide Treatments If you suffer from SAD, here are some ways you can alleviate your symptoms: Light Boxes By far the greatest relief, according to research, comes from the use of lightboxes. Lightboxes emit high-intensity light between 2,500 to 10,000 lux. Compare this to a normal light fixture that emits only 250 to 500 lux. Lightboxes closely mimic the sun’s natural rays, helping our brains produce the right amount of neurotransmitters that are responsible for mood. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, you may only need to use the lightbox for 30 minutes once a day. For more severe symptoms, people have found relief by using the box for long periods of time and can often feel true relief in as little as two weeks. Some insurance providers will cover the cost of lightboxes, but not all do, so be sure to speak with your provider. Exercise While it may feel counterintuitive, if not downright impossible, to get up and get moving when you’re feeling depressed, exercise is one of the best ways to improve your mood. Exercise not only reduces stress and tension, but it releases those feel-good endorphins. Studies have also found that one hour of aerobic exercise outdoors (even if the sky is overcast) has the sam…

Is Telehealth the Future of Therapy?
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-10-04T11:00:10Z
subject: Telehealth
description: As a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, many therapists have had to quickly pivot and offer their clients online sessions in an effort to help them to continue to make progress while at the same time abide by the social distancing guidelines to flatten the curve. While it seems our country and the rest of […] The post Is Telehealth the Future of Therapy? appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: As a result of the Coronavirus pandemic, many therapists have had to quickly pivot and offer their clients online sessions in an effort to help them to continue to make progress while at the same time abide by the social distancing guidelines to flatten the curve. While it seems our country and the rest of the world are slowly opening back up, many of us have learned something very important during this crisis: telehealth offers clients something very valuable, and that is therapy on THEIR terms. It’s really not so surprising that telehealth is currently a $6 billion industry that is expected to reach $20 billion by 2025. Here are just some of the benefits of “virtual therapy”: Privacy Traditionally, many people, especially those that live in smaller towns and cities, refuse to seek help from a therapist for fear people will find out. With telehealth, a patient can receive help from the comfort and privacy of their own home. This can be particularly helpful for therapists who treat teens and young adults who go to the same school/college and can feel ashamed of seeking professional help. Telehealth is a Time Saver Not many of us ever feel we have enough time in the day to accomplish all that we need to. You will find your clients will appreciate telehealth because it saves them having to deal with traffic, scheduling in possible long drive times, and looking for parking. Flexibility I have found in my own practice that those clients who often require my services the most are the ones that are overworked and often have scheduling conflicts. Telehealth helps you to offer clients timeslots outside of regular hours that you may not normally have available. Clients Show Up on Time Therapists benefit from telehealth as well. In any given month, many clients may show up late to an appointment. When a session can begin with the simple mouse-click, timeliness is greatly improved. Cost Savings Online therapy means a therapist can run their practice without the need of a front…

5 Strategies to Calm Your Anxiety Quickly
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-09-30T11:00:21Z
subject: Anxiety
description: When you live with an anxiety disorder, any moment can become one that creates a slow-rising panic within you. Life is normal one second and the next, you feel your chest tighten and your heart begin to race. You may begin to hyperfocus on future events and find yourself getting lost in “what-ifs.” To make […] The post 5 Strategies to Calm Your Anxiety Quickly appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: When you live with an anxiety disorder, any moment can become one that creates a slow-rising panic within you. Life is normal one second and the next, you feel your chest tighten and your heart begin to race. You may begin to hyperfocus on future events and find yourself getting lost in “what-ifs.” To make matters worse, you may then begin to berate yourself for allowing the panic to get the best of you and begin to believe that all of those what-ifs are indisputable facts. Luckily there are many powerful tools and techniques you can use to manage your anxiety effectively. Breathe Deeply The minute you feel a panic attack coming on, the first thing to do is stop and gain control of your breath. Deep, slow breathing sends a signal to our brains that everything is safe in our environment. Controlled breathing is one of the most powerful ways to activate your body’s relaxation response. It will take your mind and body out of “fight or flight” mode and put it instantly into a calm and relaxed state. Accept That You are Anxious It’s important to always remember that anxiety is “just a feeling.” And like all feelings, it can go as quickly as it came. You are having an emotional reaction to a string of thoughts. Accept your anxiety because trying to pretend it’s not happening will only make matters worse. Let’s be clear – by accepting your anxiety, you are not resigning yourself to a life of eternal misery. You are not throwing in the towel and trying to suddenly like your anxiety. Nope. You are simply living a more mindful existence, being in the moment, and accepting whatever is in that moment with you. Your Emotions Cannot Kill You One of the most frightening things about a panic attack is the feeling that you are having a heart attack. But you aren’t. Your brain can and will play tricks on you, trying to get you to believe that you are in physical danger. But the truth is, you are not in physical danger. You are having an episode based on emotions and it will pass. Rem…

Are You Doing Self-Care All Wrong?
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-09-25T11:00:20Z
subject: General
description: The topic of self-care is one that has been discussed openly and often over the past decade. But for many, the concept of self-care is one that is still a bit mysterious, if not downright confusing. What Is Self-Care? First, self-care is a practice and a commitment we make to ourselves. It is any activity […] The post Are You Doing Self-Care All Wrong? appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: The topic of self-care is one that has been discussed openly and often over the past decade. But for many, the concept of self-care is one that is still a bit mysterious, if not downright confusing. What Is Self-Care? First, self-care is a practice and a commitment we make to ourselves. It is any activity we do deliberately to support our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Not only does the right kind of self-care improve our health and life, but it can also improve the relationships we have with others. Some examples of self-care might be: Creating better habits Eating right Getting plenty of quality sleep Exercising Meditation Spending quality time with loved ones Making time to enjoy a hobby Learning something new Self-care isn’t always fun or easy, but you do it anyway because you know that the activity is what is BEST for you. In this way, self-care is a bit like acting as your own parent, making sure you do the things you don’t necessarily feel like doing because it is what your mind, body, and spirit need. What Self-Care Isn’t Self-care isn’t necessarily about making yourself feel better. Person A has had a very bad day. They practice proper self-care and, when they get home, they change clothes, go for a 3-mile run, then cook a healthy dinner that refuels their body. Person B has also had a very bad day and practices phony self-care. On their way home, person B stops at the store and gets a 6-pack of beer and a gallon of ice cream, then spends the entire night on the sofa drinking and eating poorly in an attempt to make the bad day go away. This phony style of self-care is very immature. It is not parental but something a child does. If the parent insists you eat your veggies because they are good for you, the child will eat only candy bars when the parent isn’t looking. Self-care is about making decisions based on what is good for you, not what you FEEL like doing at the moment. Self-care should also not be confused with pampering. While there is n…

Can Long-Term Isolation Lead to an Addiction?
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-09-21T11:00:08Z
subject: Addiction
subject: General
description: We are living through some of the most stressful times in recent history. With the global pandemic raging on, many of us are still worried about our own health and the health of our loved ones, especially our older friends and family members. Many of us have also been hit with financial burdens. Some have […] The post Can Long-Term Isolation Lead to an Addiction? appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: We are living through some of the most stressful times in recent history. With the global pandemic raging on, many of us are still worried about our own health and the health of our loved ones, especially our older friends and family members. Many of us have also been hit with financial burdens. Some have lost jobs and others have had to close their businesses. How will the mortgage and bills get paid? To make an already bad situation worse, a lot of us are still experiencing lockdown and quarantine. Many are working from home for the first time and still, others are unable to travel and be with loved ones. This has left a majority of people feeling alone and isolated when they are already feeling they are most vulnerable. The Link between Isolation and Drug Use During stressful circumstances, it is a natural tendency for people to turn to drugs and alcohol as a way of coping. A study reported in the American Journal of Epidemiology found there was a 25% increase in alcohol consumption in the weeks following 9/11. The stress and isolation of the current pandemic are putting those people who are prone to addiction at great risk. Virtual cocktail hours are now officially a thing. But how many of those cocktail hours end when the computer is shut off? Human beings are social creatures. When you take our ability to be social away, it can lead to depression and anxiety. Even people who have no history of addiction are at risk of developing a drinking or drug problem during the pandemic as a way of coping with social isolation. When coping with stress, it can be hard to self-monitor our behaviors, but it is incredibly important for our overall health and well-being. If you suspect you have been drinking or using any drug more than you should at this time, it’s important to be honest about that. Ask yourself a few questions: Has cocktail hour started earlier or gone later than usual lately? Does the bottle of wine that used to last 3 days barely last one night? Do you ever…

The Mental Health Impact of COVID-19 on Families
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-09-14T11:00:09Z
subject: Family Therapy
subject: General
description: If you asked any of us a year ago what would life be like in 2020, it’s doubtful anyone would have guessed we’d be going through a global pandemic, replete with lockdowns and self-quarantining. At the beginning of the year, some families might have thought of being forced to stay home from work and school […] The post The Mental Health Impact of COVID-19 on Families appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: If you asked any of us a year ago what would life be like in 2020, it’s doubtful anyone would have guessed we’d be going through a global pandemic, replete with lockdowns and self-quarantining. At the beginning of the year, some families might have thought of being forced to stay home from work and school would be a fun little vacation. But as the weeks and months have passed, we’ve all learned this has been anything but fun. But how is COVID affecting families? Well, it affects parents and kids and spouses a little differently. How it Affects Kids Kids haven’t enjoyed the time off nearly as much as we all initially thought. Disruption to normal routines caused many teens and adolescents to feel anxiety. Add to this being away from their friends, and many young people are also feeling depressed. Summer vacation for many this year wasn’t as fun as normal as travel has been next to impossible for some families in certain states. Sports teams were canceled, and boredom has set in for many kids, which has led to a lot of acting out and showing mood swings. The pandemic has also negatively impacted those youths already suffering from a mental health issue, such as those on the autism spectrum. For many of these kids, a disruption of routine combined with cancellation of speech therapy sessions has stalled their progress and caused anxiety. With some schools opening and some only offering online classes, life is still not back to normal and many kids are simply not able to deal with this crisis any longer. How it Affects Parents Parents have, without question, been hit hard by the pandemic. With forced school closures, many parents have had to learn how to home school while also learn how to get used to the “new normal” of working from home. As if that wasn’t enough, parents have also had to become mental health therapists, helping their children navigate through the fear, anxiety, and depression they are experiencing. How it Affects Spouses Quarantining and self-isolatio…

Tips for Coping with Social Isolation
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-09-11T11:01:32Z
subject: General
description: Humans are social creatures and we don’t do well in isolation. That’s exactly why state penitentiaries punish prisoners by putting them into solitary confinement. It causes them great mental anguish. Many of us have felt like prisoners in solitary confinement over the last couple of months because of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown. And […] The post Tips for Coping with Social Isolation appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: Humans are social creatures and we don’t do well in isolation. That’s exactly why state penitentiaries punish prisoners by putting them into solitary confinement. It causes them great mental anguish. Many of us have felt like prisoners in solitary confinement over the last couple of months because of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown. And many of us have been feeling our own mental anguish from this extended isolation. Who knows how long this may go on? While none of us have control over what our governments do, we do have control over ourselves and our perceptions of the world. With this in mind, here are some tips for coping with social isolation, for however long it goes on. Isolate Yourself from the Media If you’re paying attention, it almost seems as if the media is trying to confuse us and cause panic more than report on actual news. Watching too much news doesn’t help anyone’s anxiety levels, so stay informed as best you can but don’t binge-watch. Get Creative Being isolated can get very boring very quickly so it’s important that you try and get creative with your time. This could mean painting the living room and rearranging the furniture or getting your husband and kids to learn a new language with you. It could mean experimenting with an old recipe or making up a game with your kids. Just have fun and think outside the box! Reconnect Now is a great time to reconnect with friends and loved ones you haven’t spoken to in a while. And technology like Skype and Facetime makes it incredibly easy to chat with someone no matter where in the world they are. Stay Active A lot of the anxiety we may feel comes from the fact we aren’t moving our bodies as much as we usually do. It’s important to stay physically active during this time. So get outside and get some sun. Go for a walk or ride your bike. Not only is exercise good for us physically, but physical activity releases endorphins that make us feel good mentally and emotionally as well. Meditate The wo…

Let Go and Let God – Faith-Based Therapy for Christians
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-09-08T11:00:16Z
subject: Religion / Spirituality
description: Can spirituality and religion be used as a therapeutic strategy? More and more mental health professionals are finding that God can offer some of their clients more direction than they can. In the past, many Christians have neglected to get the help they need from a counselor because they were afraid their belief in God […] The post Let Go and Let God – Faith-Based Therapy for Christians appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: Can spirituality and religion be used as a therapeutic strategy? More and more mental health professionals are finding that God can offer some of their clients more direction than they can. In the past, many Christians have neglected to get the help they need from a counselor because they were afraid their belief in God would be ignored or, worse, belittled. But many therapists today are either religious/spiritual themselves, or highly respectful of their clients who hold Christian or other beliefs. In faith-based therapy sessions, it is common to pray, use forgiveness protocols, and use biblical texts to reinforce healthy mental and emotional habits. Another important aspect of faith-based therapy is that when a therapist is willing to interact in a religious or spiritual way, it helps the client to trust them more. And trust is the most important thing between client and counselor. Areas Where Faith-Based Counseling is Particularly Helpful Throughout life, we all face different crises and challenges. And during these times, it is common for people to turn to their faith. The following are situations where faith-based counseling can be particularly beneficial: Marital Issues For many Christians and people of other faiths, marriage is a life-long commitment and divorce is simply not an option. Faith-based therapy can help husbands and wives find their way back to one another through love, kindness, and respect. The Challenges of Parenting None of us are given an instruction manual for how to raise our children. But the Bible certainly contains wisdom and lessons that are applicable to parents. Anxiety and Depression There are many ways to deal with and treat anxiety and depression. From cognitive-behavioral therapy to medications, traditional therapy can definitely help. But for some people, the real strength and answers they are seeking come from a higher source. Loss of a Loved One Sooner or later, all of us must deal with the loss of loved ones. While therapy can…

How to nurture three domains of wellness during times of hardship
type: item
creator: Stefania Gheorghiu
date: 2020-05-22T16:43:34Z
subject: Blog
subject: Uncategorized
description: In this time of uncertainty and isolation, many of us – at one point or another – find ourselves spiraling down the whirlpool of anxious and intrusive thoughts. To experience fear during times of extraordinary disruption is natural. Though it may feel abnormal we can, at least, gain some solace in knowing that right now, […] The post How to nurture three domains of wellness during times of hardship appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: In this time of uncertainty and isolation, many of us – at one point or another – find ourselves spiraling down the whirlpool of anxious and intrusive thoughts. To experience fear during times of extraordinary disruption is natural. Though it may feel abnormal we can, at least, gain some solace in knowing that right now, many people around the world affected by this pandemic are experiencing the same (or a similar) type of fear. You are not alone. Personally, I have noticed coronavirus anxiety rearing its ugly head at least once a day since the pandemic came to America. Each day, I find myself fighting against morbid, intrusive thoughts surrounding the health and wellbeing of my family and friends, especially those on the front lines. Yet, while much of what is happening in my immediate community and around the world is out of my control, I have gained some piece-of-mind by maintaining structure in my day-to-day. Below, I have outlined three domains of wellness, accompanied by activities that I try to do on a regular basis to manage my own anxiety surrounding the coronavirus. Physical Wellbeing: A Roman poet once said: mens sana in corpore sano (a healthy mind in a healthy body). Research continues to promote the positive effects of physical exercise not only on our physical health, but also its benefit to our mental and emotional wellbeing. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends between 2h 30min to 5 hours of moderately intensive physical activity throughout the week. Personally, I have found positive effects to my mental and physical wellbeing from going on a 20 minute jog/walk (whatever I’m feeling that day) and practicing 20 minutes of yoga on the days I don’t have a chance to go outside. Here is one of my favorite 20 minute yoga exercises. Mental Wellbeing: In addition to physical activity, it is also important to exercise the mind. One way I incorporate the practice of mental discipline in my day-to-day is keeping a gratitude journal where…

Do You Have C-PTSD?
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-05-14T13:00:09Z
subject: Abuse/Neglect
subject: Anxiety
subject: General
subject: Trauma / PTSD
description: You have most likely heard the term Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – also known as PTSD. It is used to describe the mental and emotional anguish suffered by those who have experienced sudden trauma. PTSD is often experienced by soldiers as well as those who have been victims of rape and other crimes, and even […] The post Do You Have C-PTSD? appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: You have most likely heard the term Post Traumatic Stress Disorder – also known as PTSD. It is used to describe the mental and emotional anguish suffered by those who have experienced sudden trauma. PTSD is often experienced by soldiers as well as those who have been victims of rape and other crimes, and even victims of house fires and car accidents. Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) describes a condition that very much presents like PTSD, the difference being the sufferer experienced prolonged periods of abuse or neglect. This could happen as a result of childhood neglect or the abuse suffered at the hands of a narcissistic partner. Diagnosing C-PTSD Diagnosing C-PTSD is tricky because the symptoms are usually not very unique. That is to say, someone who is suffering from C-PTSD may be experiencing anxiety and lethargy, but these symptoms match other mental health issues. But it is very important to accurately diagnose C-PTSD because of the necessary treatment measures. The main difference between C-PTSD and other mental health issues – say, bipolar disorder – is that C-PTSD is a result of things that were done TO an individual, and not an intrinsic problem. In other words, someone suffers from C-PTSD because of abuse and neglect at the hands of another and not because of genetically determined brain chemistry. To help correctly identify C-PTSD, a therapist must uncover an accurate history to understand if: The individual has experienced multiple prolonged traumas that have lasted for months (or even years) The traumas were caused by someone the individual had a deep interpersonal relationship with and/or someone who was part of their primary care network (most commonly a parent or caregiver) These traumas were experienced as permanent features of life, with the individual unable to see any end in sight The individual had no control or power over the person traumatizing them Symptoms of C-PTSD As I just mentioned, the outward symptoms of C-PTSD may ma…

The Benefits of Online Therapy
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-05-06T12:00:39Z
subject: General
subject: Telehealth
description: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in innumerable ways. But, as stressful as this lockdown has been for most of us, we have learned much about ourselves as individuals and as a nation. Another silver lining that has emerged from this crisis is a new awareness and embracing of treatment tools that have been […] The post The Benefits of Online Therapy appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our lives in innumerable ways. But, as stressful as this lockdown has been for most of us, we have learned much about ourselves as individuals and as a nation. Another silver lining that has emerged from this crisis is a new awareness and embracing of treatment tools that have been available for some time. Telehealth (or telemedicine) and online therapy have been around for decades but are now experiencing a surge in popularity because of the mandatory quarantine. Once life gets back to normal, will these virtual tools fall by the wayside? It’s doubtful because they simply offer too many benefits to patients and providers. Here are some benefits of online therapy and why you may want to start making the switch: Better Access to Care In some rural areas of the country, it’s not easy to find qualified mental health therapists. Online therapy would provide access to care to anyone that needs it, regardless of where they live. Better Integration Online therapy would allow for the integration of behavioral health care and primary care. This will ultimately lead to better outcomes for the patient. Privacy Despite the progress we’ve made over the last couple of decades, there is still a stigma attached to mental health treatments. This stops many people from seeking the help they need. Online therapy means an individual can receive help from the comfort of their home without anyone knowing. Convenience How often do patients cancel appointments or show up late because of other family and/or work responsibilities or traffic jams? Access to online therapy would reduce many of these scenarios. Safety We are currently seeing a situation where it isn’t safe to be around other people. And yet, should a person lose access to mental health care because of illness and disease? Certainly not. What about unsafe weather? In many parts of the country, there are snowstorms, icy roads, and hurricanes that make it impossible to travel safely. Online therap…

How to Cope with the Stress and Anxiety Caused by COVID-19
type: item
creator: Laurel Fay
date: 2020-04-06T11:00:12Z
subject: Anxiety
subject: General
description: If you’re like most people, you are doing your best to stay calm during COVID-19 pandemic. But that can feel incredibly difficult at times. When not worrying about friends and loved one’s health, there’s also the conflicting information provided by the media and the economic ramifications of the virus that have people on edge. Signs […] The post How to Cope with the Stress and Anxiety Caused by COVID-19 appeared first on Laurel Fay.
encoded: If you’re like most people, you are doing your best to stay calm during COVID-19 pandemic. But that can feel incredibly difficult at times. When not worrying about friends and loved one’s health, there’s also the conflicting information provided by the media and the economic ramifications of the virus that have people on edge. Signs of Emotional Distress and 6 Ways to Cope Everyone reacts differently to stressful situations, but most will exhibit some of the following signs: Changes in sleep or eating patterns Difficulty concentrating Worsening of chronic health problems Increased use of alcohol, tobacco or other drugs If you are experiencing significant stress right now, here are some ways you can cope: 1. Limit Media Consumption Hearing the media constantly spread panic isn’t good for anyone. It’s important to stay rational and do your own research to uncover facts from fiction as well as stay positive. 2. Nurture Your Body and Spirit Be sure to get outside for some fresh air and go for a walk. Eat right and make sure to stay hydrated and get plenty of sleep. Avoid consuming too much alcohol and try and find fun ways to reconnect with your family. 3. Tap into Your Sense of Fun If you have kids, look to them for some good old-fashioned playtime. Play hide and seek in the house. Create an obstacle course in the back yard. Watch some of your favorite funny movies. Laughter really is the best medicine so get plenty of it! 4. Support Your Local Community Many local businesses are hurting right now. If you’re still getting a paycheck, consider buying a gift card from a local restaurant, gym, hair salon, etc. to give them revenue now and you can use the card later. This will make you feel great at the same time. 5. Be a Role Model Remember, your kids will ALWAYS look to you first to see how they should be thinking and feeling about something. So move about each day calmly and confidently and reassure your kids everything will be okay because it will be. 6. Use Your Time …