ESPAÑOLTag: Emotional Health
Ways to Talk to Men About Their Health
3 min read
A survey conducted by the Centers for Disease Control confirmed what we already suspected: American men are much less likely to go to the doctor than women. No doubt, you might need to n...
Three ways to bounce back from a setback
2 min read
It’s likely that from time to time we might encounter disappointment. Here are some ways to deal with occasional setback. 1. Be kind to yourself It’s important to address your disappoint...
Why some men avoid meditating
2 min read
There is a myriad of reasons why some men dismiss meditation as a means to improve their mental and emotional health. Here are a few ‘excuses.’ • Fear of being alone with thoughts: Being...
Understanding men and emotions
2 min read
Men are often told they must ‘get in touch with their feelings,’ but what does this mean and how do you do it? Here are some strategies forgetting to know your feelings better: • Be awa...
Shake off the blues before they begin this season
2 min read
If you are like millions of people who experience a lull in their emotional health because of shorter days and less sunlight, here are some things you can do to head it off at the pass: ...
Sugar and Mental Health
2 min read
Research shows that sugar consumption can take a toll on mental health. Here are 3 Ways Sugar Impacts Mental Health: • Depression Eating sugar can cause an initial high followed by the ...
Caregiving For a Loved One with Memory Loss
3 min read
Experts believe that family caregivers need to be vigilant about their loved ones’ short-term memory deficits that pose safety issues — for example, taking medications incorrectly. But t...
The emotional impact of a breast cancer diagnosis
2 min read
A breast cancer diagnosis can evoke many emotions, from fear, shock and anger to disbelief, sadness and numbness. These emotions may change day to day or even hour to hour. Experts beli...
Learning how to forgive
3 min read
Many people have misconceptions about what forgiveness really means—and they may eschew it. Others may want to forgive but wonder whether they truly can. Forgiveness does not necessarily...
HPV vaccine: How to talk to your kids
2 min read
Experts say that approaching the subject of the HPV Vaccine with your children should be the same as with any other vaccine. It is important to explain that the HPV vaccine is a safe and...
Why do men delay seeking advice about prostate cancer?
2 min read
Around 1 in 8 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime but many don’t know where their prostate is and even fewer know what it does or the physical symptoms that can ...
When you strongly disagree with a loved one
2 min read
Disagreeing vehemently with a loved one can be frustrating but it’s important to remember that a disagreement is not the end of the world – or the end of a relationship. It is important ...
Signs Your Child Needs Counseling
3 min read
Changes in your child’s personality can leave you wondering, “does my child need therapy?” Sometimes these changes become prominent because of a traumatic experience, while other times t...
How Does Your Physical Environment Affect You?
3 min read
Scientists have been exploring the impact of our environment on our health for decades. In her book Healing Spaces: The Science of Place and Well Being, researcher Esther Sternberg cites...
Tips for Dealing with Breast Screening Anxiety
2 min read
Breast exams and mammograms are two of the most feared screening procedures in the OBGYN field; however, these screenings are necessary to help you maintain your breast health. It’s impo...
Understanding the issues men face about mental health
2 min read
Depression and anxiety affect both men and women, but men often exhibit different symptoms or may not recognize their emotional distress. According to the National Institute of Mental He...
Effects of Aging on Emotional Health
2 min read
Mental health is important at every stage of life, and it includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. As people age, they may experience certain life changes that impact t...
What causes emotional exhaustion?
3 min read
Experiencing some daily stress and anxiety is normal, but over time, chronic stress can take a toll on the body. Emotional exhaustion is caused by a long period of constant life stress, ...
Boundaries: How to say no to others
2 min read
If you struggle to say no, learning to identify signs of personal discomfort can help you know when to draw the line. These five signs indicate your need to say no for your own good. 1....
Understanding weight loss and mental health
2 min read
While most therapists will encourage having a positive body image regardless of your weight, it has been long believed that losing weight improves your mental health. Here’s how: 1. Redu...
Summer Burn Out Tips
2 min read
Summer fatigue or summer burnout is that sluggish feeling that you sometimes experience because of the effects of hot weather. Here are a few tips on how to curb your burn out: 1. Create...
Parents may experience negative emotions during the summer
2 min read
It can be normal for parents to experience negative emotions in the summer. Parenting is a full-time job that often doesn’t offer a break, especially in the summer when children are home...
FOMO and Emotional Health
2 min read
FOMO stands for “fear of missing out.” It’s the anxious feeling you get when you think others are having more fun, living better lives, or experiencing more exciting things than you are....
The connection between sleep and moods
2 min read
Sleeplessness and mood disorders are closely linked. And it can work both ways – sleep loss can affect your mood, and your mood can affect how much and how well you sleep. Studies show p...
Heatwaves and Mental Health
2 min read
In many parts of the US, including Texas, the summer weather can be brutal. If you believe you are sensitive to hot weather, here are a few ways to tell: • Anxiety and Depression Summer ...
Summer Activities to Support Your Mental Health
1 min read
Summer is a great time to be active and get outside. There are many summer activities that you can do to support your mental health and practice self-care. Here are a few: • Go outside ...
Is It Time for a Mental Health Checkup?
3 min read
Many of us go to the doctor to get regular checkups our body, but what about our minds? If you have any of these symptoms for more than a few weeks, it may be time for a mental checkup: ...
As the heat increases, so may your temper
2 min read
High heat and changing weather can affect everyone’s mood to an extent. But some people have a higher risk of mental health symptoms associated with heat. This may include people who exp...
Health Benefits of Human-Animal Interactions
2 min read
Nothing compares to the joy of coming home to a loyal companion. The unconditional love of a pet can do more than keep you company. Pets may also decrease stress, improve heart health, a...
Herbs for Happiness: These plants can boost your mood
2 min read
Managing stress, maintaining a sense of calm and clarity and looking after our physical wellbeing are all factors we can control. Along with some simple daily practices, we can look to p...
National Garden Meditation Day
1 min read
National Garden Meditation Day, annually on May 3rd, encourages everyone to take time for yourself and relax. Working in the garden, tending to the plants and flowers, or resting quietly on ...
Surprising emotional health benefits of watching sports
2 min read
For many people watching sports is fun, whether it involves shouting at the TV, cursing the bad calls, or cheering on your favorite team with your nearest and dearest. But beyond the overall...
The Physical Benefits of Intimacy
2 min read
Physical touch has been shown to have a direct impact on our nervous system, helping to reduce stress and promote feelings of relaxation. When we engage in physical touch, such as hugging or...
Do you suffer from ‘money stress?’
2 min read
Tax day has millions of Americans focused on their money. In many cases, it may be causing ongoing stress. Financial anxiety can be extremely personal, so it's important to recognize the...
Breaking the Pickle Mindset
2 min read
The world is a constantly changing place, and with it, our emotions and thoughts can become overwhelming and cloud our judgment. We often fall into a “pickle mindset,” feeling trapped and u...
Spring as a time for emotional renewal
1 min read
Spring is a commonly seen as a time for renewal, growth, and expansion. It is a great time to dream up new possibilities, and to use our creative gifts to reach new levels of achievement...
Sleep and moods
2 min read
Think about how one bad night’s sleep, or not enough sleep, makes you feel the next day. For many of us, we’re grumpy and irritable, we find it difficult to concentrate, and we have no e...
Seasonal allergies can make you feel sad this Spring
2 min read
Seasonal allergies, which affect about 36 million Americans, aren’t just an annoyance; many doctors agree that there is a real connection between allergies and mood. Research has shown th...
Understanding Empathy
2 min read
Empathy is the ability to see things from another's perspective and feel their emotions. Putting yourself in another person’s shoes might lead you to act with compassion and do what you ...
Grow a better attitude this Spring!
2 min read
Here are a few things we can do to prepare ourselves mentally, physically, and spiritually for spring. • Connect with yourself by connecting with nature. Spring invites us to spend more...
How Essential Oils Support Emotional Well-Being
2 min read
Essential oils have a profound influence on our emotions and can be used to address a wide range of emotional concerns. Here's how essential oils support emotional well-being: • Mood Enh...
Prolonged stress may increase the risk of death from cancer
2 min read
Long-term exposure to stress has long been known to increase risk for cardiovascular disease. A study in the September 2022 issue of SSM-Population Health suggests it also may raise the ...
How to eliminate toxic people from your life
2 min read
It is in our human nature to socialize, make friends and eventually find a partner. But not all relationships are picture perfect. There may be a time in your life when you determine tha...
How to set healthy social media boundaries
2 min read
While taking breaks from social media is great, it’s important to be realistic (and not militant) about your use. If social media is a part of your life, there are ways to lessen some of...
Why diets make you moody
2 min read
We have all seen the Snickers Bar commercials when people change their personalities because they are ‘hangry.’ While amusing, it’s a serious thing. Dieting can cause hormone and blood s...
The importance of embracing change
2 min read
“Life is change. Growth is optional. Choose wisely.” ~Karen Kaiser Clark Life has but one guarantee: change. While we can’t control life’s ebbs and flows, we can learn how to acce...
Benefits of mindfulness for mental well-being
2 min read
Mindfulness practices can have a positive effect on mental well-being and can help people develop healthy thought patterns. Practicing mindfulness may help people learn how to avoid gett...
Mentally Prepare for The New Year
2 min read
Here are 5 helpful tips on how to improve and maintain your mental health to be successful in all your 2024 resolutions: • Forget about high Expectations and set realistic goals Sure, we...
End of year melancholy
1 min read
Not everyone approaches the new year with unbridled merriment. In fact, most don’t. As the holidays come to an end and we embark on another year, it is common for many people to feel som...
Coping with grief at Christmas
2 min read
For some people, this Christmas will be filled with sad memories of someone close who is no longer here. When you’re grieving, everyone handles their emotions and reactions differently. ...
What to Do When You Feel Alone
2 min read
Feeling alone is a normal, human experience. You can feel lonely when you're by yourself or even when you’re in a room full of people. When you don’t feel connected with anyone or you feel l...
Make a personal declaration
2 min read
Caregiving can take an emotional toll on you. Experts agree that self-care, in addition to the care you provide to your loved one, is equally important. Here is a coping mechanism that y...
Ways to Cope with Holiday Stress
2 min read
Here are some coping strategies to help you bolster your mental health during the holidays. • Practice Mindfulness and Meditation Mindfulness can be a valuable mental wellness tool. Mind...
Expressing gratitude to a loved one
1 min read
If you are not comfortable expressing emotions in person, express them through a handwritten note. In today's digital world, receiving a letter written personally for you can be extremel...
Protecting your emotional health over the holidays
2 min read
Holidays are a time to get together with your family and celebrate. Many people consider the holidays their favorite time of year. But for people who have complicated relationships with ...
Therapy for men
2 min read
According to a recent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) survey, the number of men who seek treatment for mental health concerns is significantly lower th...
Helping someone with memory loss to manage their emotions.
2 min read
Some people with dementia may not seem troubled by their memory loss, while others may find it frustrating and upsetting. The person may lose self-confidence and be embarrassed by their ...
Helping your child work through Halloween fear
2 min read
For some children, spooky costumes and decorations can be overstimulating. To help, start preparing for Halloween early. Using titrated exposure — or exposing someone slowly and carefull...
Cold and flu can leave you blue
2 min read
It started with a sniffle. Now you’re in the throes of a cold or the flu and, adding insult to injury, you feel inexplicably sad. Unlike depression, sickness blues fade in a couple d...
Ready Your Mind in the Fall
2 min read
Preparing for the fall-to-winter transition isn’t limited to wardrobe updates or getting your home ready for the new season — consider preparing your mind, too. Regularly allotting ti...
Self-Care and Relaxation Techniques for Breast Cancer patients
2 min read
Breast cancer diagnosis and treatments demand a lot from you and your body. You owe it to yourself to take time -- even a few moments every now and then -- to unwind and take care of yourse...
Tend to your emotional garden
1 min read
Gardening can be a fantastic form of physical activity. It can also be relaxing to connect with nature and get some fresh air (though you can tend to indoor plants, too). Plus, there’s s...
Autumn may be ideal season to start therapy.
2 min read
As we enter Autumn, the carefree, relaxed and sociable months of summer (with the longer days, sunshine and warmer temperatures), are replaced by work, responsibilities, family commitmen...
The truth about obesity and depression
2 min read
New research suggests that both physical health and social factors impact mental health in people who are overweight or considered obese. A recent study found that having a higher body mass...
The Emotional Toll of Prostate Cancer
2 min read
A prostate cancer diagnosis is life changing. In 2020 survey was conducted to gain a better understanding of what men and their families go through while facing prostate cancer. More th...
How to meditate in 30 seconds
1 min read
Looking for a moment of Zen? Here’s how: • Stop everything you are doing and close your eyes. • Inhale to the count of four. • Hold your breath to the count of four. • Exhale to the coun...
Music to soothe emotions
2 min read
Music can have a profound effect on both the emotions and the body. Faster music can make you feel more alert and concentrate better. Upbeat music can make you feel more optimistic and p...
Signs of a midlife crisis
2 min read
The severity of midlife crisis symptoms can vary from person to person. Gender can also play a role in how a midlife crisis unfolds. Women may be more likely to go through a period of se...
Getting kids emotionally ready for ‘back to school’
2 min read
The start of the school year is difficult for many children. It is often filled with anxiety, dread, and other negative emotions. Experts believe that talking with your kids about the u...
Mindfulness to reduce stress
2 min read
Moments of stress typically begin with three thoughts: • Something is wrong. • There isn’t enough ____. (Money, time, fill in the blank) • I need to do something. So, what can we do to h...
Does summer put you in a bad mood?
2 min read
Studies have shown that people experience increased frustration and anger in the summer months. Exposure to hot summer temperatures increases your heart rate, which leads to discomfort. ...
What does a vacation do for your mental health?
2 min read
People who take at least one vacation report better health than those who don’t. A primary reason is the effect a vacation has on our mindset. When we encounter new experiences, rang...
Reiki for mental health
2 min read
Reiki is not a cure for any specific condition. Rather, it’s seen as a complementary treatment that promotes optimal balance of the body’s energy to encourage natural healing. Reiki is u...
A subtype of depression identified
1 min read
Scientists at Stanford Medicine conducted a study describing a new category of depression -- labeled the cognitive biotype -- which accounts for 27% of depressed patients and is not effe...
Calm your dogs during firework season
2 min read
Today we take a break from exploring emotional health in humans and turn to our four-legged friends. Here are a few expert-approved tips to prevent your dog from freaking out during fire...
Feel like the sun is draining your energy?
1 min read
While the sun may not literally be draining your energy, it can decrease melatonin production in your body. Melatonin is a hormone that plays a vital role in mood regulation, so any inc...
How to connect with a man on an emotional level
2 min read
Connecting with a man on an emotional level can be a challenge for many women, especially if the man is not very expressive or open about his feelings. Yet, emotional connection is essen...
Crying while watching a movie is a good thing
1 min read
If you cry while watching movies, it is probably a sign of your emotional strength; and not a sign of weakness according to psychiatrists. Crying in the movies is a sign that oxytocin h...
Emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis
2 min read
June is National Cancer Survivor Month. According to the National Cancer Institute, a cancer survivor is anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer. It is to be expected that such a diagn...
Embrace the emotions around graduation
1 min read
Ask any parent who’s had a child graduate. You can expect a roller coaster of emotions in the weeks before, the day of, and the weeks after. Accept them. Share them, as appropriate, with...
Create boundaries and learn to say no
2 min read
Not all stressors are within your control, but some are. Putting too much on your plate may increase your stress load and limit the amount of time you can spend on self-care. Taking cont...
How to manage stress eating
2 min read
Perhaps the simplest way to describe stress eating is when you are experiencing intense emotions and you find comfort in food (especially when you are not hungry) as a distraction from a...
Emotional issues around Mother’s Day
3 min read
Not all mother-child relationships are Hallmark worthy. In fact, family dysfunction can be one of the most significant contributing factors to emotional health issues. If your relationsh...
Mood changes with the wind
1 min read
Much like seasonal depression, high winds can have a lasting impact on your mood. During windy weather, air becomes laden with positively charged ions, which is not a plus, as they can a...
Get moving for emotional health
1 min read
Dance/Movement Therapy is the psychotherapeutic use of movement to further one’s cognitive, social, physical, and spiritual growth. The dance/movement therapist aims to facilitate health...
Understand the impact of your emotions
2 min read
Emotions make our lives exciting, unique, and vibrant. Our feelings can tell us that we embrace life fully, and that we’re not repressing our natural reactions. Yet sometimes emotions ca...
Lift weights to lift your spirits
2 min read
As with most exercises, the mental health benefits are just as important as the physical. Here are some ways weight training can improve your mental health. • Decreases anxiety Anxiety ...
Music for mood improvement
1 min read
Music takes 13 minutes to ‘release sadness’ and 9 to make you happy, according to new study. Recent research (February 2023) proves that music heals and suggests that in the future, musi...
Spring-onset depression
2 min read
Psychiatrists believe spring-onset depression may be due in part to various transitions, such as the end of the school year, ramp-up to graduations in May and June, or relocation associa...
Using the Mediterranean diet to reduce stress
1 min read
New animal research in Neurobiology of Stress found that following a Mediterranean diet may help tone down stress and promote healthy aging. Stress can manifest itself in many forms and ...
Retreat to self-care when overwhelmed
2 min read
Most therapists emphasize the importance of self-care when feeling overwhelmed. Here are some ways you can set your boundaries and begin to help yourself when life starts to feel stressf...
The problems with not expressing your feelings
1 min read
Keeping our emotions hidden from our loved ones is usually a bad idea. While we have known for some time that keeping our feelings bottled up can cause tension and stress, recent researc...
Chronic Pain and Emotional Health
2 min read
Chronic pain and mental health disorders often occur together. In fact, research suggests that chronic pain and mental health problems can contribute to and exacerbate the other. People ...
What to do when you wake up in a bad mood
2 min read
Just because you woke up on the wrong side of the bed, you don’t have to let your bad mood carry on throughout the day. Here are two tips: • Understand your bad mood: It helps to acknow...
How to nurture hope
2 min read
Hope is the ability to see the positivity in life. A study published in Global Epidemiology from Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program found that people who had more hope were in better ph...
Building a healthy relationship with exercise
1 min read
Today we look at the benefits of exercise with your significant other. Research suggests exercising with one’s romantic partner or spouse is associated with creating a better mood during...
Express your needs when feeling taken for granted:
2 min read
Whether at work or at home most of us will feel that are efforts are overlooked or underappreciated. Take heart, here’s some tips on what you can do. • Clarify your needs. You need to ge...
How to stop taking life too seriously
3 min read
Many of us long for the carefree days of our youth when being silly was normal and nothing really got to us for long. Then, as we get older, we grow more serious. (Cue ‘Puff the Magic Dr...
How baking can boost your mood
2 min read
Baking has been linked to boosting emotional health. In fact, people who suffer from depression or other mood disorders turn to baking as a form of therapy to relieve stress and anxiety ...
Understanding Anxiety
2 min read
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) usually involves a persistent feeling of anxiety or dread, which can interfere with daily life. I...
Start The New Year with A Positive Attitude
2 min read
A new year is a perfect time to adopt a new attitude. Here are some simple ways to help kick off the year on a positive note and how to keep it up for the next 12 months. 1. Start each...
Free Series of Classes for Emotional Health
2 min read
The Rio Grande Cancer Foundation kicks off the year with a new classroom series, “Becoming Stress-Free in 2023.” Claudia Ornelas from Family Service of El Paso will offer the first clas...
Set Your Emotional Intentions
2 min read
This new year consider setting intentions as well as resolutions. An intention can offer you a fresh outlook on how you view long-term, positive changes, which can impact your mental hea...
Quick tips for stress-free holidays
1 min read
Here are three recommendations that can help ensure that holiday celebrations are enjoyable without becoming exhausting: Focusing on the reason for celebrations will help you put away un...
Coping with loss during the holidays
2 min read
Holidays, as well as birthdays, anniversaries, and other special days, can be stressful for many people.The following suggestions have been found useful in coping with holiday times when...
Take control of holiday stress
2 min read
Don't let the holidays become something you dread because of the emotions they evoke. Here are some ways to prevent the stress and depression that can descend during the holidays: •Learn to ...
Adjusting your holiday tradition expectations
1 min read
The holidays don't have to be exactly as they were. As families change and grow, traditions and rituals often change as well. Choose a few to hold on to and be open to creating new ones....
Coping with family stress at the holidays
2 min read
Not all family gatherings are the picture-perfect ideal that is portrayed in Hallmark movies or Christmas cards. In fact, most families are not. Experts offer this simple advice on how t...
Understanding SAD
2 min read
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that is related to changes in seasons — SAD begins and ends at about the same times every year. If you're like most people with ...
Seeking solitude for mental health
2 min read
Studies have shown that the ability to engage in solitude has been linked to increased happiness, better life satisfaction, and improved stress management. People who enjoy solitude also...
Open the door to sharing your emotions
2 min read
If a loved one is obviously nervous, upset, worried, or concerned about something, ask them to vent and share their feelings with you. Let them know that you want them to be able to let ...
Adjusting to time changes
2 min read
This year, Daylight Saving Time (DST) ends on Sunday, Nov. 6, when we return to Mountain Time. This changeover can be more than a simple inconvenience. Disruptions in our normal sleep sc...
Acknowledge Your Irritability
2 min read
When someone asks why you’re so grumpy, it’s tempting to snap at them and say, “I’m not grumpy!” You might even blame everyone else for being too sensitive, too loud, or too annoying. ...
How to Stop Worrying
3 min read
There are things (and people) in life that we have absolutely no control over. It is a hard truth for some to accept. This denial can lead to becoming a control freak or an excessive wor...
Be present by noticing your surroundings
2 min read
Many a guru, life coach, inspirational speaker or counselor have talked about the importance of ‘living in the moment.’ While it is in concept, a great way to help alleviate stress and b...
Build self-awareness
2 min read
Achieving a higher level of self-awareness is a major pathway towards reaching emotional maturity. To begin the journey of self-awareness, it is important to examine your emotions, actio...
Raising low self-esteem
2 min read
Everyone experiences times when we lack confidence and do not feel good about ourselves. When we have healthy self-esteem, we tend to feel positive about ourselves and about life in gene...
Gratitude is the attitude - write that down
1 min read
It has been well documented that exhibiting gratitude is closely associated with a greater sense of happiness and well-being. Science tells us that counting our blessings increases our o...
Emotional eating
2 min read
Emotional eating is when you eat food to cope with difficult emotions. Because emotional eating has nothing to do with hunger, it is typical to eat a lot more calories than your body nee...
Fall can clear the brain fog
1 min read
Here’s another reason to look forward to fall: The end of scorching summers benefits your brain in several ways. As thermostat pushes past 80, our bodies try to cool themselves by drawin...
Take a mental health day
3 min read
Everyone feels stressed from time to time. This can be particularly difficult to manage if you also have symptoms of depression or anxiety. When you feel like your stress levels have rea...
Understanding ‘closure’
2 min read
Closure is any interaction, information, or practice that allows a person to feel that a traumatic, upsetting, or confusing life event has been resolved. The term has its origins in Gest...
Reasons for Ending a Friendship
2 min read
Not all friendships will last forever. Sometimes one or both people have changed or simply grown apart. Phycologists have often cited the emotional dangers of staying in an unhealthy marriag...
Be an active listener
2 min read
There are times when we all get consumed in our own issues that we leave a conversation with a friend or family member and realize that we did not ask them how they were doing. Improving...
Have a scoop of happiness
2 min read
Neuroscientists at the Institute of Psychiatry in London wanted to find out if eating ice cream made people happier. The study used a functional magnetic resonance imaging machine to wat...
Benefits of joining a community
2 min read
Being part of a community can have a positive effect on mental health and emotional wellbeing. Emotional health experts believe that community involvement provides a sense of belonging and s...
Temperature up, motivation low
1 min read
It’s common for some people to lose their motivation during what seems like endless summer days. Whether it be work, home improvement or upkeep, exercise or something simple like cooking...
Learn to laugh
3 min read
A good sense of humor can't cure all ailments, but data is mounting about the positive changes laughter can create. When you start to laugh, it doesn't just lighten your load mentally, i...
Become independent from your inner critic
2 min read
Fourth of July weekend is as good a time as any to declare independence from your inner critic. Learning how to replace negative thoughts about yourself with more positive ones is the fi...
Reconnecting with your spouse
2 min read
Every couple needs time to connect. It’s essential for happiness and satisfaction in a marriage. Each of these exercises, recommended by relationship therapists, have been proven to help...
Do you have the summertime blues?
2 min read
Warm-weather mood changes are often referred to as the “summertime blues.” It’s not an official diagnosis because symptoms aren’t severe enough to be categorized as depression, and exper...
Responses to distressing events on the news
2 min read
In the wake of recent events, it is important to understand the common responses to international, national, or regional tragedies. Here are a few common reactions according to experts: ...
Grounding exercises for emotional health
2 min read
Grounding exercises are things you can do to bring yourself into contact with the here and now. They can be quick strategies (like taking three deep “belly breaths”) or longer, more form...
Emotional toll of empty nest syndrome
3 min read
Graduations are new beginnings and logically, a final chapter. Many parents will face the emotional roller coaster of ‘empty nest’ syndrome. Empty nest syndrome isn't a clinical diag...
Possible causes for emotional imbalance
2 min read
While some people are naturally more emotional than others, we all have days that are more trying than others. This could be due to a few reasons, including stress, diet, hormonal change...
Emotional wellbeing linked to physical wellbeing
2 min read
Research has proven that physical activity can help bring emotional wellbeing into focus. It’s important to know that mental wellbeing does not mean being happy all the time, and it does ...
Honoring our lost mothers
2 min read
It’s important to include our mothers who have passed on as we we celebrate Mother’s Day. In fact, Hope Edelman, Author of Motherless Daughters offers this advice: Look for ways to ho...
Talking to yourself can be a great conversation
3 min read
What we say to ourselves, when we say it, and how, has a tremendous impact on our self-esteem, beliefs about self-efficacy, and overall sense of worth. Dr. Julia Harper, an occupation...
Emotional Benefits of Holidays
2 min read
During times of uncertainty and danger, people often use rituals to reduce their stress and exert control over their environment. From reciting blessings to raising a glass to make a toa...
Feeling Nostalgic
1 min read
We are often told the secret to happiness is to live in the moment. However, research shows that feeling nostalgic for our past has its benefits as well. According to Linda Rising, a...
Adopt a sunny outlook
2 min read
Optimism is a mental mindset of hope and confidence for a positive future. Optimists are those who expect good things to happen, where pessimists instead predict unfavorable outcomes. Op...
Write down your anger
2 min read
A common recommendation for people who are angry at someone is to ask them to write the person they are angry with a letter but do not send it. While that might seem like a waste of time, sc...
Start a gratitude journal
1 min read
Experts agree that giving thanks is good for your mental health. You can take a simple step to living a more grateful life by starting a gratitude journal. Here are some tips:Start off by li...
Reset Your Mindset
2 min read
A mindset is a collection of beliefs we each have about ourselves and the world around us. When things aren’t going well, we tend to think more negatively about everything. Sometimes, it...
Flowers Improve Emotional Health
2 min read
According to behavioral research conducted at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, nature provides us with a simple way to improve emotional health – flowers. The presence of flo...
Focus on positive thinking
3 min read
Even the most optimistic person hits a wall sometimes and finds it difficult to look on the bright side of life. Research shows that adopting a positive outlook is critical to our emotio...
How pets can improve your health
2 min read
Studies have shown that pet owners are less likely to suffer from depression than those without pets.And they deal with stress more effectively. People with pets have lower blood pressur...
Positive relationships make you feel better
1 min read
Adults who have a circle of friends are healthier and can even live longer than those who don’t. Research has shown that people who are part of a strong social network have a lower risk ...
Understanding stress
3 min read
Stress is a part of life. Most of us feel it when we are stuck in traffic, running late or working under a deadline, while a little stress is nothing to fret about, the kind of intense w...
Dealing with discouragement
3 min read
As we near the end of January many of us will be evaluating how we are doing with our new year’s resolutions. If things seem right on track, that will certainly be a boost to your mood. ...
Pandemic Frustration is real
2 min read
Research has shown that many people are experiencing increased frustration, agitation or anger throughout the course of the COVID-19. And over time, that anger becomes exhausting. Exp...
Emotional self-care in the new year
3 min read
Many people make resolutions in the new year to improve their physical health. Now is also the time to make some resolutions to improve your emotional health. As the new year begins, ask you...
Avoid the winter blahs with Vitamin D
1 min read
People who develop mild depression during the winter months may have insufficient levels of vitamin D. Research investigating this association suggests that daily intake of 4,000 IU of v...
Rid yourself of toxic people
3 min read
As we ring in the new year and focus on our resolutions, you may consider who you are bringing with you into 2022 and re-examine their place in your life. Toxic relationships can come in...
Missing loved ones during the holidays
2 min read
It is natural to miss loved ones during the holidays. For some, missing a deceased parent or spouse becomes particularly difficult at Christmas time. How you choose to cope with the feel...
Staying sober this holiday season
2 min read
If you are in recovery and are not drinking due to an alcohol use disorder, being around alcohol at all, particularly in the early days, can be next to impossible. Instead of risking a reaso...
Holiday stress? Remember what really matters
1 min read
With long lines and nasty traffic, the holidays can get hectic. When overwhelmed by the hustle and bustle, ask yourself: Where does this fit in the grand scheme of things? If you’re ...
Beat the holiday blues
2 min read
Here are some positive actions that can help you prevent the holiday blues. Source: https://ct.counseling.org/2019/12/positive-actions... (https://ct.counseling.org/2019/12/positive-a...
Social anxiety around family
3 min read
Experiencing social anxiety around family is common especially if you feel like your family members do not respecting your boundaries. Here are some ideas on how to handle social anxiety...
Giving thanks can make you happier
2 min read
Each holiday season comes with high expectations for a cozy and festive time of year. However, for many this time of year is tinged with sadness, anxiety, or depression. Certainly, major...
Happiness and Well-Being
2 min read
Recognizing the characteristics of emotional well-being is helpful in understanding some of the keys to happiness. People with good emotional health usually display the following: Be...
Dealing with bad habits (not yours)
3 min read
They say it's the little things that make life interesting. But the little things may also be annoying. Anyone who has ever lived with someone else gets a front row seat to all their hab...
How to Help Children Manage Fear
3 min read
Fears are part of being a kid. Monsters in the closet. Dogs who come too close. Loud thunder. As parents we always want to make kids feel better. But experts say parents can’t — and shou...
Different forms of depression
3 min read
Most people understand that depression often involves sadness or a low mood, but it also has other, less well-known symptoms. For example, many people don’t realize depression can involv...
Develop a Passion
2 min read
Experts agree that investing time in something that you are truly passionate about will improve your overall quality of life and help to make you feel emotionally fulfilled.Here is advic...
Ways to boost your self-esteem
2 min read
Everyone feels the pain of self-doubt occasionally. Here are some ways to help boost your self-esteem. Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult... (https://www.mayoc...
Shed some light on S.A.D. feelings
1 min read
Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD can be characterized by mood changes and in more severe cases, fatigue, depression, hopelessness, and social withdrawal. Experts agree that one of the...
The importance of ‘feeling’ safe
2 min read
Being safe is the state of being protected from harm or other non-desirable outcomes. Feeling safe, which is also called psychological safety, means being self-assured that you are not i...
COVID stress and anxiety persists
2 min read
In what seemed to be a clearing in the woods of the COVID pandemic, we are now mired in unsettling statistics and causes for concern. For many people, coping with COVID can be emotionall...
Take the good with the bad
1 min read
Some days you may find yourself in a serious or sad mood. Experts say this is a normal reaction and that the key to working through it is to understand duality. All our lives are spec...
Appreciate the first responders in your life
1 min read
This year marks the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of 9/11/2001 and today is a great day to do something special for the Firefighters, Police officers, and EMT’s in your life....
Saying goodbye to our old friend, summer
1 min read
Most of us enjoy the slower pace and relaxed vibe of summer. But, experiencing end-of-summer sadness can be a mix of negative emotions, such as guilt, regret, panic, and the realization ...
Feeling Irritable
3 min read
Irritability is a common emotion. Many factors can cause or contribute to irritability, including life stress, a lack of sleep, low blood sugar levels, and hormonal changes. When a perso...
The emotions of aging
2 min read
If you find yourself spending too much time looking into the rearview mirror of life, you may be experiencing a midlife, or later-life, crisis. You’re not alone: In fact, recent research...
Lucid dreaming for emotional health
2 min read
Lucid dreaming occurs when you are in REM sleep and you are aware that you’re dreaming. During lucid dreaming you can recognize your thoughts and emotions as the dream happens. Sometimes...
Being grateful
1 min read
Adopting a thankful attitude for almost any experience is a good way to stay emotionally healthy according to experts.Here is a list of positive prompts that you can focus on: Source:...
Preparing children emotionally for going back to school
3 min read
Now is the time to begin to prepare children who need a little extra support as they head back to school. Here are some tips from the experts at KinderCare to help you emotionally prepar...
What type of mind do you have?
3 min read
Understanding a person’s mindset can be useful in identifying what challenges they are facing and how to best approach them. Likewise, understanding your own mindset can be useful in identif...
Pandemic proved our emotional resiliency
2 min read
A recent article in the Atlantic examines the long-term effects the pandemic has had on our collective psyche. Interestingly, it found that we are far more capable of bouncing back emotional...
Learn from Luca
2 min read
Disney-Pixar’s streaming hit of the summer is Luca. The animated film starts under the sea and quickly whisks views above ground to the beautiful Italian Coast. Central to the film is th...
Care for your pets this 4th of July
1 min read
Most Saturdays we explore Emotional Health issues. Today, we encourage you to consider your pet’s emotional health by helping them cope with the startling effects that fireworks have on them...
Understanding emotional triggers
2 min read
An emotional trigger is any experience, memory or event that ignites an intense emotional reaction. Sometimes these triggers will seemingly come out of nowhere. Understanding your emotio...
Pride is for everybody
2 min read
It’s June and rainbow flags abound. While it may be ‘Pride Month,’ being proud is not a feeling solely set aside for the LGBT Community. Feeling a sense of pride in who you are is an essenti...
‘Summertime Blues’ is really a thing
2 min read
When it comes to imagining summertime, our visions seem to revolve around outdoor fun, fresh fruits, picnics and swimming pools. Well, not for everyone. For some people, the stress of su...
Graduations trigger many types of emotions
2 min read
Whether it is from middle school, high school or college, a graduation is a rite of passage. While it is a time for celebration and congratulations, it may also bring about unexpected em...
Recognizing Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
3 min read
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by uncontrollable, unwanted thoughts and ritualized; repetitive behaviors you feel compelled to perform. If you...
Practice Active Listening
1 min read
Active listening involves more than just hearing someone speak. When you practice active listening, you are fully concentrating on what is being said. You listen with all your senses and...
To forgive is divine
2 min read
In the American Masters series on PBS, Author Amy Tan and her relationship with her mother was intimately documented. For those familiar with the writer’s work, The Joy Luck Club (and ot...
Taking your space
1 min read
During the pandemic many of the social rules that we have known went right out the window. As we slowly readjust to the world, our instinct may be to surround ourselves with (hopefully v...
Rediscover your soul
1 min read
Amid all of the demands of everyday life it is easy to misplace or forget things along the way. Today we say make it your goal to find a way to rediscover yourself. One way to get back t...
How to center yourself
3 min read
Feeling centered can help work your way through many negative emotions, such as grief, anger, trauma, depression, and sadness. A regular practice of centering can also allow you to have ...
Understanding post COVID anxiety
2 min read
The COVID-19 pandemic has given rise to a new emotional condition. It lies somewhere between a slight hesitancy to leave the house, and a full-blown case of agoraphobia. The new condi...
How gardening teaches us acceptance
2 min read
Of the many benefits of gardening, the psychological effect may often be overlooked. Gardening can be a metaphor for life, the things we can control, the things we can’t and learning to ...
Gardening as mental and physical therapy
2 min read
Interacting with nature — even in the simple act of viewing trees or visiting garden-like settings — can have dramatic therapeutic results. Post-surgical hospital patients who viewed trees o...
The beauty in grief
2 min read
Perhaps most devastating to our emotional health is the loss of a loved one. Many people who have experienced a profound loss in their life may have to seek professional help or attend a...
Let it go
1 min read
It’s been several years since the Disney song, ‘Let it go,’ permeated our ears and brains but psychiatrists agree there is something to that message. If you suffer from anxiety or find y...
Can Spring make you moody?
2 min read
If you are sensitive to environmental toxins — and the majority of us are — you may very well have a harder time keeping your spirits up as the flowers and trees bloom. The blowing winds...
Maintaining hope during COVID fatigue
2 min read
There are several signs of COVID fatigue say experts. One aspect is being excessively tired despite adequate rest. Additionally, if you have maintained isolation from loved ones, co-workers ...
Emotional Spring-Cleaning Checklist
2 min read
Here area few ways you can clean up your emotional and mental space and have a happy, healthy spring season. Source: https://www.makanapath.com/blog/spring-cleaning-for-your-mental-h...
Take responsibility for your own emotions
1 min read
At times when our emotions run high it is easy to assign blame to others as to why we feel the way we do. “She made me very angry,” or “he really bummed me out,” are phrases that...
Fake it till you make it
1 min read
While we all struggle to be as authentic to our own nature as possible, putting on a happy face--even if you don’t really feel happy can help. Experts say that simply acting happy can ac...
Valentine’s Day Blues?
1 min read
Thanks to Hallmark, the flower and chocolate industries, Valentine’s Day has become a retail red letter day for couples. For single people however, the day may bring feelings of isolatio...
Ask yourself how you feel every day
2 min read
One simple way to connect more with your emotional self is to schedule time to reflect and ask yourself how you feel every day. Five to ten minutes of calm introspection and questioning ...
How to agree to disagree – and mean it
1 min read
Recent events have not only divided our country, they may have also divided your friends resulting in emotional distress or a sense of loss. We often hear the phrase, ‘let’s agree to dis...
How to curb emotional eating
2 min read
While there is nothing wrong with occasionally enjoying ‘comfort food,’ eating to fulfill an emotional void can be serious. People who emotionally eat reach for food as a way to suppress...
Tell yourself to shut up
2 min read
We begin each new year with a renewed mission for personal improvement. But most of the time that mission is sabotaged by our own inner critic. Our inner critic is the voice in our head ...
Learn self-compassion
1 min read
Self-compassion begins with the simple practice of noticing what you are feeling. In doing so, you remind yourself that you are human and therefore not perfect. When you learn to treat yours...
Work on being optimistic
1 min read
It’s a new year and hopefully it will be much better than last. Here is a tip on how to bolster your optimism: Think of your best possible self. Spend about 15 minutes thinking of ...
Post-Holiday Blues
2 min read
Many of us feel a let-down after Christmas. Experts say that emotional exhaustion is primarily to blame. While we put so much time and emotional energy preparing for the holidays, the da...
Coping with loss over the holidays
2 min read
If you are grieving the loss of a loved one this year it may become difficult to participate in all the normal festivities. Communicating your emotional state to friends and family is no...
Understanding ‘bad’ thoughts
2 min read
Our brains sometimes tell us things that may hurt our feelings or cause us to feel insecure. These patterns are learned and develop into habits. Many people develop these cognitive disto...
Renew your enthusiasm this holiday season
1 min read
We are almost certain to be disappointed this holiday season. Some of us are grieving a loss, others are missing tradition and family. However, it is important not to spread that disapp...
Tips for coping with holiday stress and depression
1 min read
The holidays are here. Under normal circumstances they bring hustle and bustle, a crowded house,shopping worries and quite a bit of stress. This year, the scene will be different, but th...
Be honest about your emotions this holiday season
2 min read
The upcoming holidays may drastically highlight our feelings of distance from those we love. It may be necessary to start mentally preparing now for a different experience this holiday s...
Practicing gratitude brings happiness
1 min read
The benefits of practicing gratitude can lead you to a feeling of happiness and give you a deeper appreciation of your daily life. Taking time to reflect upon the things you are grat...
Plan a digital-detox day
1 min read
COVID updates and other topics currently in the news are upsetting. While staying informed is important, it does not mean we have to be attached to our phones for hours on end engaged in...
Pandemic stress is real, here’s what you can do
3 min read
Staying calm during the pandemic isn’t easy, but it’s possible. “Having some fear and anxiety over coronavirus is perfectly normal. But if anxiety begins to impede your ability to c...
Fight the good fight
2 min read
Conflict is inevitable in all relationships. No matter how perfectly matched two friends or partners are, there will always be something that sparks an argument. Learning how to keep...
Why a hug can lift our spirits
2 min read
When we touch, cuddle, hug, or hold hands our bodies release the “feel good” hormones. These hormones include oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin. Once the hormones are released int...
Understanding Loneliness
2 min read
You don’t have to be totally alone to feel loneliness. Loneliness is also tied to the quality of your relationships as well as the number of connections you have. While feelings of lonel...
Practice Emotional Hygiene
3 min read
We all learn to brush our teeth, bathe and groom as children. But good hygiene shouldn’t stop there when we become adults. Experts believe that you should also practice emotional hygiene...
Foods to avoid when feeling moody
2 min read
If you have been feeling moody or are experiencing sudden changes in your mood and energy levels, it can be helpful to avoid certain foods and beverages that can trigger mood swings. Her...
The truth and emotional maturity
2 min read
Becoming an emotionally mature person takes effort, patience and an understanding of how to process and deal with your own emotional issues. It also comes from simply accepting peopl...
Write a letter to your younger self
1 min read
Journal entry prompts and therapists suggest writing a letter to your younger self as a way to help get an understanding of where you have been and how you have grown.In doing so, we...
How dinner can lead to a bad mood
2 min read
If you find that you wake up in a bad mood for no identifiable reason at all, it may be diet related.Experts agree that what you eat in the evening will not only have an impact on how yo...
It’s Nap time!
2 min read
Today we look at emotional health and experts agree thata short nap can do wonders for our mood.Napping also offers various benefits for healthy adults, including: Relaxation Red...
Anniversaries of loss
2 min read
El Pasoans commemorated a difficult anniversary this past week as August 3 marked the passing of a year since the Walmart shooting incident that killed 23 of our community members. Obser...
Let Mother Nature Heal
1 min read
Spending time outdoors, especially in green spaces is an effective way to improve your health and happiness.In fact, it has been shown to lower stress, blood pressure and heart rate whil...
Emotional health and shoulder tension related
2 min read
Earlier in the week we talked about how to help alleviate the physical ailments of shoulder pain. Today, we look at the emotional factors that also play a large role in feeling as if we ...
Consider a digital detox day for mental health
3 min read
Experts agree that too much time connected to our devices and social media networks can take its toll on your emotional health. Making an effort to pause from technology may be a way to ...
How do you know you are happy?
2 min read
Sometimes recognizing that you are happy can take you by surprise. While many people spend time and money “looking” for happiness, we often don’t know what it will feel like when we find...
Pet Therapy
2 min read
Many dog and cat owners can attest to the fact that their four-legged family members are a constant source of joy, love and companionship. Scientists are proving that interacting wit...
Breaking free from toxicity
2 min read
It’s Independence Day and perhaps one of the most valuable investments you can make in yourself is to break free from toxic people, situations and environments. However, the firststep to...
Doing Nothing
1 min read
Filling your day with obligations, chores and other mindless tasks can become a habit. If you’re ever faced with a moment where you have nothing to do you, do you feel the pressure to pi...
Understanding loss in all its forms
2 min read
Coping with the loss of someone or something you love is one of life’s biggest challenges. You may associate grieving with the death of a loved one—which is often the cause of the most i...
Learn from the things you cannot control
3 min read
The harsh reality about many of the problems we face in life is that they are simply out of our own control. Learning how to step away from the need to control a situation is important f...
Get to work being happy
1 min read
In the book, ‘Are we Happy Yet?’ by Lisa Cypers Kamen, the author reminds us that ‘happiness is an inside job.’ It turns out, the key to happiness lies within. By carefully paying attent...
Scream: Letting it all out
2 min read
Primal screaming as a therapeutic tool was developed by Arthur Yanov in the 1970s. He believed that it was people repressing former traumas that created stress and tension in their prese...
Restlessness and the COVID age
2 min read
When someone is experiencing restlessness, they often describe it as feeling “on edge” or having an “uncomfortable urge to move.” It is a safe bet that more than a few of us are feeling ...
Recognizing Depression
3 min read
Life will take us through a wide spectrum of emotions. Feeling down from time to time is simply part of that journey. But depression can be characterized as something more serious and s...
There’s nothing like a good cry
3 min read
Over the ages, crying has gotten a bad rap. “Cry baby.’ ‘Don’t cry over spilled milk.’ ‘Enough with the water works’ are how we have learned to fight back tears and sublimate our frustra...
Talk about your feelings
2 min read
Talking about your feelings with a loved one can help you stay in good mental health and deal with times when you feel troubled. Yet it is not always easy to describe how you are feeling...
Learn how to cope with disappointment
2 min read
Right now, many of us are facing disappointment over something that did not go as planned. Whether it’s a cancelled graduation ceremony, a vacation that has been planned for years but wi...
Emotions erupting close to the surface
2 min read
Have you noticed that your emotions are running very close to the surface right now? Maybe you see something on television and it seems to bring more sudden sadness than you knew you wer...
Practicing self-care can help ease depression
1 min read
Basic self-care can help ease depression symptoms. Adequate rest and sleep can impact the health of both your body and mind. A healthy diet with essential vitamins and minerals...
Emotional toll of social distancing
2 min read
There are a lot of emotions people are feeling right now. • Fear and anxiety: It’s 100 percent normal to be worried about contracting or spreading COVID-19. It’s also normal to feel a...
4 Steps to Create a Peaceful Home
3 min read
1. Simplify, Organize, and Decorate. Getting rid of clutter can help you plug up energy drains all over your home. Organizing your things can help you to know where everything is, and ha...
The Difference Between Fear and Anxiety
2 min read
We are living in uncertain times. It has become almost impossible to not contemplate our future, our health, our personal finances, our plans and their consequences. Uncertainty is an em...
The value of forgiveness
2 min read
Scientists have learned that when people successfully imagine forgiving someone (in a hypothetical situation), they show increased activity in the neural circuits responsible for empathy...
Mirror, Mirror, how do I develop a positive body image?
2 min read
It seems that our most strict critics are ourselves. But, being too hard on yourself can take its’ toll. A less than positive body image can lead to other emotional issues and self-estee...
Learn about emotional intelligence
2 min read
Emotional health is comprised of emotional intelligence and emotional regulation. Emotional intelligence describes your ability to identify your emotions, express them, and use your awar...
Manifest your own mantra
2 min read
Mantras are like medicine for the soul. They can be extremely powerful when repeated often and with consistency. Mantras can even help us establish healthier relationships with food, fit...
How to Deal with News Overload
2 min read
The constant barrage of news and information being hurled at us during the day is an unprecedented phenomenon for humans. Unfortunately, psychologists agree it is taking its toll on our ...
It’s a dog of a day!
2 min read
Dogs are a man’s best friend and the benefits of spending time with them are endless. It has been proven that dogs boost your mood and your health. Dogs can also help lower blood pressur...
Take some ‘you time’
1 min read
In today’s super connected world, we often tend to ignore opportunities to spend time alone. Research shows that a little alone time can go a long way in charging your batteries, boo...
Half of one minute can make your whole day better
2 min read
Feeling a little jumpy? Have you noticed that you are more uptight than usual? Try this: Sit or stand up straight in a comfortable position. Breathe in, breathe out. Pause. One mor...
Get off social media and get social!
2 min read
When looking at your social circle, it’s not about how many people you know or how often you see them. What matters is a real connection with others. It can make you happier, more pr...
Grow Your Circle of Friends
1 min read
When you feel good about yourself, it's much easier to cope with life's little ups and downs as well as bigger events, such as divorce or a death, says Jeff Gardere, PhD, a clinical psyc...