AI has been hailed as a revolutionary tool for mental health available anytime, anywhere, and always ready to listen. But for people struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or OCD-like tendencies, that very availability can become part of the problem. In this post, we’ll explore the effects AI use can have on people living with OCD or OCD-like symptoms, and what to do if you suspect you may be struggling with compulsive use of AI.
“Should I stay in the U.S.? And if I do, what will that mean for me?” On the surface, it’s a practical question about visas, jobs, or futures. But beneath it is something deeper: a longing for belonging and authenticity…
Immigrant families often carry histories shaped by poverty, war, displacement, political persecution, or natural disasters. These experiences leave a deep imprint—not just on those who directly endured them, but on future generations. Trauma shows up in parenting, family roles, and communication patterns. This can create emotional distance between generations.
Setting boundaries with a parent can feel confusing, painful, and even taboo, especially if you were raised to "honor thy father and mother." Maybe your parent dismisses your feelings, crosses emotional or physical boundaries, or makes you feel responsible for their moods. If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone.
American society is divided and polarized in our beliefs and perspectives, now more than ever. This can present unique challenges around connecting with others who we may not view as “like us” in our thought processes or belief systems, and this isolation can negatively impact our mental health. In this blog post, we’ll explore how to find community in a divided world, and why community is so important to our mental well-being.
Due to COVID-19 there has been a rapid transition to remote therapy services over the past two years. This has left clients wondering whether to pursue teletherapy or seek out in-person providers - a dilemma I imagine prospective clients will be asking long after COVID recedes in the years ahead. As for many decisions in life, the old tried and true method of the Pros and Cons list is a wonderful starting place to discern what is best for you.
Panic attacks feel different to everyone, but if you’ve ever had a panic attack you can agree they aren’t “fun”. A panic attack is the repeated fear for several minutes or longer in which a strong physical reaction occurs even though there’s no real danger. This can be caused by the fear of losing control and can happen at any time. Everyone experiences these attacks differently but most people will experience racing heart, feeling like you are dying, tingling or numb sensation, nausea, difficulty breathing, chills or sweats, etc. An attack can leave you extremely exhausted afterwards even if the episode only lasts a few minutes.
Winter is upon us, and for those that live far north of the equator, it can be a time of year we brace ourselves for. It is the season that bridges the end of year to the new, and a time to truly rest and reset. Along with that, there are naturally fewer sunnier days, shorter days, and less movement. These changes can impact our circadian rhythm, as well as our serotonin and melatonin levels. For some this causes symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Family drama, financial strain, lack of routine, increases in substance use, and memories that can trigger grief and trauma - the holidays are rife with opportunities for emotional distress. Establishing a coping plan is essential to navigating the stress of the holiday season with your sanity intact. Consider the strategies below:
We all have needs, and to prioritize our needs is a way to a fulfilling life. Acknowledging that we have them is the first step towards figuring out what they are and how to have them met. You are not needy for requesting them to be met, nor are you selfish for placing your needs before others’. Let us explore knowing about our needs, being resourceful in meeting our needs and then, not being afraid to make mistakes.
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