We can conceptualize post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a tug-of-war between intrusions and avoidance. Intrusions are things like nightmares, flashbacks and thoughts that arise in relation to past trauma(s). AVOIDING TRAUMA There is also a component of avoidance. This can be avoidance of talking about trauma, thinking about it or simply avoiding anything that …
Grief therapist, Dr. Dawn Joosten-Hagye, PhD, LCSW, MSW, GC-C, explains the need for “continuing bonds” after the loss of a loved one. In moments of death, Dr. Joosten-Hagye states, “That relationship doesn’t end, it continues in a modified form”. Click into her recent interview below to learn more. BIO: Dr. Dawn Joosten-Hagye, PhD, LCSW, MSW, …
We know, it probably feels like December 45th, 2020, but let’s move forward. This is a new year and we’re ready to take it on with awareness one month at a time. Check out our checklist for mental health holidays in 2021, and don’t forget to update your calendar. JANUARY #MentalWellnessMonth Between the global pandemic, …
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 800,000 people die by suicide every year. One person every 40 seconds. As the second leading cause of death for those between the ages of 15 and 24 years old, suicide continues to affect more and more people every year, making mental health care accessibility an increasingly …
Dr. Martin Vitorino, of InsightLA Meditation, discussed with The Collective the weighted emotions around PRIDE in 2020. From US Supreme Court rulings to personal story, Dr. Vitorino urges everyone to continue tough conversations with anyone opposing equality for the LGBTQ+ community. It’s Pride Month, a time of year typically filled with celebration and historical tributes …
Every year, eight million adults suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), be it from sexual assault, physical trauma or trauma inflicted during combat situations. Commonly associated with war veterans, PTSD can be incredibly debilitating, causing depression, anxiety, hopelessness, flashbacks to the event and behavioral changes. Understanding PTSD According to the National Institute of Mental Health …
Our once connected world has quickly morphed into one of uncertain isolation with the onset of COVID-19. With a record setting unemployment rate in the U.S., in addition to state-mandated social distancing and stay-at-home orders, many have felt a foreign unnerve and hopelessness brought on by the global pandemic. Immunity to the impact is nearly …
Grieving over a loved one’s death or other loss is an inevitable part of our common humanity and life experience. However, most people move through the painful stages of the grieving process and, eventually, are able to enjoy life once more. While we will always miss our loved ones, at times intensely, we recover and …
Depression is a complex word. Beyond its clinical definition, we have the stigmas, misconceptions, variations, and implications that come with it. Questions like “Why are you sad?” or “What happened?” seem natural, but as anyone with depression can attest, these are often far from answerable. WHAT IS DEPRESSION? The World Health Organization defines depression as …
Between the pressures of academic success, social fulfillment and everything in-between, college can be a trying time for many. As a result, an increasing number of universities are actively bulking up their mental health services. According to a study by the American Psychological Association (APA), approximately 86 percent of students with a psychiatric disorder left …
