Tag: Anxiety

Discover a wealth of knowledge on ‘Anxiety’ at Davenport Psychology. Our articles, written by experts in the field, delve into the causes, symptoms, and coping strategies for anxiety. Whether you’re dealing with general anxiety, panic attacks, or specific phobias, we provide practical advice and psychological insights. Join us at Davenport Psychology, your trusted resource for understanding and managing anxiety effectively.

Supporting a Loved One with a Mental Health Condition

Mental health conditions are disorders that affect a person’s mood, thoughts or behaviors. They can include schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and major depressive disorder. These conditions are treatable, and individuals diagnosed with them can live full, rewarding lives. However, they may also face challenges and need support from their family and friends.

If you have a loved one who is living with a mental health condition, you may wonder how to best help and support them. Here are some tips and strategies that can help you and your loved one cope with the situation.

Recognize the Warning Signs

The first step to helping a loved one with a mental health condition is to recognize the warning signs that they may be struggling. Some common signs are:

  • Social withdrawal
  • Difficulty functioning at school or work
  • Problems with memory and thinking
  • Feeling disconnected from reality
  • Changes in sleeping, eating and hygiene habits
  • Alcohol or drug abuse
  • Extreme mood changes
  • Thoughts of suicide

If you notice any of these signs in your loved one, don’t ignore them or assume they will go away on their own. They may indicate a serious mental illness that requires professional help.

Start the Conversation

Start a conversation with Davenport Psychology to help support someone struggling with mental health.

One of the hardest but most important steps is to start a conversation with your loved one about their mental health. You don’t have to be an expert or have all the answers. You just need to express your concern and offer your support.

Here are some tips for starting the conversation:

  • Choose a time and place that is comfortable and private for both of you.
  • Use “I” statements to express your feelings and observations. For example, “I am worried about you because you seem more stressed than usual.”
  • Avoid using accusatory or judgmental language. For example, don’t say “You are acting crazy” or “You need to snap out of it.”
  • Listen attentively and empathetically to what your loved one has to say. Don’t interrupt, argue or dismiss their feelings.
  • Encourage your loved one to seek professional help from a mental health care provider or their primary care doctor. Explain that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
  • Offer to help them find a suitable provider, make an appointment or accompany them to their visit.

Educate Yourself

One of the most important things you can do to support a loved one with a mental health condition is to educate yourself. The more you learn about what to expect, the easier it will be to provide the right kind of support and assistance.

You can educate yourself by:

  • Reading reputable sources of information about mental health conditions, such as Psychiatry.org, APA.org or Healthdirect.gov.au.
  • Attending workshops, seminars or support groups for family members of people with mental health conditions.
  • Talking to mental health professionals or other caregivers who have experience in dealing with similar situations.

Help Address Barriers

Sometimes, your loved one may face barriers that prevent them from seeking or receiving the help they need. These barriers may include:

  • Stigma or shame associated with having a mental health condition.
  • Lack of awareness or understanding of their condition or treatment options.
  • Difficulty accessing or affording mental health services.
  • Fear of losing their autonomy, privacy or dignity.
  • Denial or resistance to accept their condition or need for help.

You can help address these barriers by:

  • Challenging any negative stereotypes or myths about mental health conditions that you encounter in yourself or others.
  • Providing accurate and positive information about mental health conditions and their treatments.
  • Helping your loved one find local resources that offer affordable, accessible and quality mental health care.
  • Respecting your loved one’s preferences, choices and rights regarding their treatment.
  • Supporting your loved one’s recovery goals and celebrating their progress.

Set Boundaries

While it is natural to want to help your loved one as much as possible, it is also important to set healthy boundaries for yourself. This means:

  • Recognizing your own limits and needs as a caregiver.
  • Not taking on more responsibilities than you can handle.
  • Not sacrificing your own well-being for the sake of your loved one.
  • Not enabling your loved one’s unhealthy behaviors or avoiding conflicts.
  • Saying “no” when necessary and asking for help when needed.

Setting boundaries can help you avoid burnout, resentment and stress. It can also help your loved one develop more independence, responsibility and self-esteem.

Find Support

Caring for a loved one with a mental health condition can be challenging, rewarding, exhausting and isolating. You don’t have to do it alone. You can find support by:

  • Reaching out to your family, friends, neighbors or co-workers who can offer practical or emotional help.
  • Joining a support group for family members of people with mental health conditions, where you can share your experiences, learn from others and feel less alone.
  • Seeking professional help for yourself, such as counseling, therapy or coaching, if you feel overwhelmed, depressed or anxious.
  • Engaging in activities that bring you joy, relaxation and fulfillment, such as hobbies, exercise, meditation or socializing.

Finding support can help you cope with the challenges and stress of caregiving. It can also help you maintain a positive outlook and a balanced life.

Contact Us

Contact Davenport Psychology 941-702-2457

If you or your loved one need professional help for a mental health condition, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Davenport Psychology. We are a team of licensed psychologists who provide compassionate and evidence-based mental health services for individuals, couples and families. We can help you and your loved one overcome the challenges of living with a mental health condition and achieve your goals.

We also offer online therapy for your convenience and safety. You can access our services from anywhere in Florida using a secure and confidential platform. Online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for most mental health issues.

To learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you and supporting you on your journey.

Supporting LGBTQ Mental Health: How Therapy Can Help

For the next two minutes I’ll be discussing about LGBTQ mental health.

Have you ever felt like you couldn’t talk to anyone about your mental health because you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community? 

You’re not alone. LGBTQ+ individuals often face unique challenges when it comes to mental health, such as discrimination, social stigma, and lack of support from family and friends. 

However, therapy can be a safe and supportive space to address these challenges and improve your mental health and well-being.

This blog post will look at how therapy can help support LGBTQ+ mental health. 

We’ll discuss some of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and how therapy can help address these challenges.

Lastly, I’ll walk you through ways therapy can help you improve your mental health.

Challenges Faced by the LGBTQ+ Community

As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, you may face challenges that impact your mental health and well-being.

For example, discrimination and social stigma can contribute to feelings of isolation and invalidation. 

You may also experience a lack of support from family and friends, making it challenging to talk openly about your experiences. 

Additionally, fear of rejection, discrimination, and violence can make it challenging to talk openly about your sexual orientation or gender identity.

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy can be a unique tool to help you manage the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Below are some ways therapy can help improve your mental health and well-being.

Validation and Support

As an LGBTQ+ individual, you may feel invalidated and unsupported due to discrimination and stigma.

Free Three Men Holding Assorted Painted Love Is Love Banner Stock Photo

Therapy can provide a safe and supportive space where you can talk about your experiences without fear of judgment or discrimination. 

A qualified psychologist can offer validation and support, help you develop coping strategies to manage your challenges, and empower you to find your voice.

Developing Coping Strategies

Therapy can help you develop coping strategies to manage the stressors of being an LGBTQ+ individual.

Your therapist can teach you mindfulness techniques, relaxation exercises, and other skills to help you reduce anxiety and manage depression. 

They can also help you identify triggers, work through negative thought patterns, and manage trauma symptoms.

Building Resilience

Therapy can help you build resilience and improve your mental health and well-being.

By working with a therapist, you can develop healthy ways to manage stress, build social support, and develop a more positive self-image. 

A therapist can help you identify and leverage your strengths, overcome challenges, and achieve your goals.

Navigating Relationships

Navigating relationships can be challenging for LGBTQ+ individuals, especially if you’ve experienced rejection or discrimination from family or friends. 

Therapy can help you explore and improve your relationships, whether they’re romantic, platonic, or familial.

A therapist can help you set boundaries, communicate effectively, and manage conflict.

Identity Exploration

Exploring and accepting your identity can be a powerful tool in improving your mental health and well-being as an LGBTQ+ individual. 

Therapy can help you explore your gender identity or sexual orientation, challenge internalized biases, and find ways to live authentically. 

A therapist can help you identify and work through any shame, self-doubt, or internalized stigma you may be experiencing.

Addressing Trauma

Therapy can help LGBTQ+ individuals address trauma and its effects on their mental health and well-being.

Trauma-focused therapy, such as cognitive processing or prolonged exposure therapy, can help them work through traumatic experiences.

With help you can develop coping strategies to manage trauma symptoms.

Here are a few ways that therapy can support advocacy:

  • Developing Assertiveness Skills

Therapy can help LGBTQ+ individuals develop assertiveness skills to navigate discrimination or stigma.

Assertiveness involves standing up for oneself and expressing one’s needs and boundaries clearly and confidently. A therapist can help individuals develop assertiveness skills and practice using them in various situations.

  • Identifying Discrimination and Stigma

Therapy can help LGBTQ+ individuals recognize discrimination and stigma when they encounter it.

Free Crowd Walking at the Sidewalk Stock Photo

By developing an awareness of these issues, individuals can become more adept at identifying and addressing them personally and in the larger community.

  • Building Self-Esteem and Confidence

Therapy can help LGBTQ+ individuals build self-esteem and confidence, which can be essential for effective advocacy.

When individuals feel good about themselves and their identity, they are more likely to speak up and advocate for themselves and others.

  • Finding Community

Finding community as an LGBTQ+ individual can be vital to improving your mental health and well-being. Therapy can help you connect with LGBTQ+ support groups, organizations, or other community resources. 

A therapist can also help you explore ways to build social support and develop meaningful connections with others in your life.

Remember, therapy is a collaborative process; finding a therapist you feel comfortable working with and who understands your unique needs and challenges is essential.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions and advocate for yourself throughout therapy.

Conclusion

As an LGBTQ+ individual, you may face unique challenges that impact your mental health and well-being.

However, therapy can be a powerful tool to help you manage these challenges and improve your overall quality of life. 

Therapy can help you improve your mental health outcomes and live a more fulfilling life by providing validation and support, developing coping strategies, and building resilience. 

So if you’re struggling with your mental health as an LGBTQ+ individual, don’t hesitate to seek the help of a qualified therapist today.

The Importance of Play for Adults 

Have you ever felt like the daily grind of work and responsibilities have left you feeling drained and uninspired? 

As adults, we may put play on the back burner, but what if I told you that incorporating play into your daily routine can profoundly impact your overall well-being? 

Playing has many benefits for adults, from reducing stress and anxiety to improving relationships. 

In this article, we’ll explore the importance of play for adults and why you should make it a priority in your life.

How Play Help Adults

1. Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Adults often experience stress and anxiety from work, responsibilities, and daily life.

Engaging in enjoyable and distracting activities, such as playing games, sports, or pursuing hobbies, can help shift our focus away from these pressures and lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. 

Adults who engage in regular play have been found to have lower levels of cortisol, which can lead to better stress management and overall well-being.

2. Boosting Creativity

Play can also boost creativity and problem-solving skills by stimulating new ideas and fresh perspectives.

Play allows the mind to explore and experiment in a safe environment. It can be a way to take risks, think outside the box, and stimulate the imagination. 

A study found that people who engage in play are more likely to come up with new ideas and find innovative solutions to problems,

3. Improving Relationships

Play can be a shared language that helps to bond and strengthen relationships.

Engaging in activities with friends or loved ones can help to foster a sense of connection and understanding. 

Play can also serve as a way to communicate and express emotions, which can lead to deeper understanding and connection in relationships.

4. Enhancing Mental Acuity

Play can also enhance mental acuity. Engaging in activities that challenge the mind, such as puzzles, brain games, and learning new skills, can help to improve cognitive function.

This cab be in terms of memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Play can help keep the mind sharp and delay age-related cognitive decline.

5. Maintaining Physical Health

Playful physical activities can also help to maintain physical health.

Incorporating playful physical activities such as sports, dancing, or even a park walk can improve cardiovascular and muscular health.

Play can also help to improve coordination, balance, and flexibility.

6. Improving Emotional well-being

Play can stimulate the release of feel-good chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine and endorphins, which can help to improve mood. 

Play can be a great way to cope with difficult emotions and provide relief, which can improve overall emotional well-being.

Engaging in activities that bring joy and pleasure can also help to boost self-esteem and overall happiness.

7. Promoting a Positive Outlook

Playful activities can also help to promote a positive outlook and increase a sense of joy and satisfaction.

Engaging in activities that bring pleasure and a sense of accomplishment can help to shift perspective and make us appreciate the small things in life.

Play can also serve as a reminder to take life less seriously and to enjoy the present moment.

5 Ways to be More Playful

Incorporating play into our daily routine as adults can bring numerous benefits to our mental, physical and emotional well-being.

Here we will discuss 5 ways to be more playful in our daily lives.

Make time for hobbies

Set aside time each week to pursue a hobby or activity that you enjoy. This can be something as simple as reading a book, taking a walk, or something more structured like painting, writing, or playing an instrument.

Play games

Games can be a fun and easy way to add play to your daily routine. Whether it’s a board game, card game, or video game, playing games can be a great way to unwind and have fun.

Engage in playful physical activity

Incorporating playful physical activities into your routine can be a great way to add play to your day. This can be as simple as going for a walk, dance class, or playing a sport.

Connect with others

Relationships play a big role in our emotional well-being, and a shared hobby, activity, or game can help to foster a sense of connection and understanding.

Engage in an activity with friends or loved ones, either online or in person, and have fun together.

Be open to new experiences

You should be open to new experiences. When you leave your comfort zone, you’ll broaden your perspectives and discover new ways of having fun.

Key Takeaway

In conclusion, incorporating play into our daily routines as adults can profoundly impact our physical, emotional, and mental well-being. 

Playing has many benefits, from reducing stress and anxiety to boosting creativity and improving relationships.

It is important to make time for play, whether it be through hobbies, sports, games, or simply spending time with loved ones. 

By making play a priority in our lives, we can experience greater happiness, satisfaction, and well-being.

Are you struggling with anxiety, stress or feeling depressed about the things happening around you? We encourage you to seek the help of a licensed psychologist and take back your life.

 

Caregiver Burnout: Causes and How to prevent it – Davenportpsychology.com

Caregiver burnout is something that is common with caregivers. Caregiving is a noble and selfless act, but it can be a difficult job. As a caregiver, you may feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and drained of energy.

Caring for others can demand an emotional and physical toll, which can have severe consequences for your health and well-being.

That’s why it’s essential to recognize the warning signs of burnout and take steps to prevent it. This article will discuss how caregivers can avoid burnout and stay healthy.

What is caregiver burnout?

Caregiver burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by the demands of caring for a loved one who is ill, elderly, or disabled. It can occur when caregiving becomes overwhelming, often due to feeling overworked or unsupported in providing the care.

Caregiver burnout can lead to frustration, guilt, depression, loneliness, and anger. If left untreated, it can have severe physical and psychological health consequences for the caregiver and the person they are caring for.

Caregivers may feel overwhelmed due to their lack of time for self-care and the emotional stress of caring for a loved one. Caregivers are often so focused on the needs of others that they forget to take care of themselves.

This can result in fatigue, poor nutrition, lack of sleep, and an overall decrease in quality of life. This is a serious condition and should not be taken lightly. Caregivers need to recognize the signs of burnout and seek help before it becomes too late.

Warning signs of caregiver burnout

Caregiver burnout can be incredibly difficult to detect, as it often sneaks up on you slowly over time. That being said, there are some warning signs to be aware of so you can recognize the onset of burnout and take steps to prevent it.

Common signs of caregiver burnout include:

Exhaustion: Do you often feel exhausted, even after a full night’s rest? Do you have difficulty staying awake or concentrating during the day?

Feeling overwhelmed: Do you feel like there’s too much for you to do and need more time? Are you frequently anxious or panicked about taking care of your loved one?

Social withdrawal: Are you withdrawing from social activities and neglecting your needs? Have you stopped spending time with friends and family members or participating in leisure activities?

Mood changes: Are you feeling more irritable, depressed, or anxious than usual? Are you having difficulty finding joy in life?

Physical symptoms: Are you experiencing headaches, digestive issues, or changes in appetite? Are you having trouble sleeping?

If you are experiencing any of these warning signs, take a step back and evaluate what may be contributing to your stress or anxiety. It is important to recognize when you need help to avoid long-term physical and mental health problems associated with burnout.

Make sure to reach out to supportive family members, friends, or psychologist if you need assistance in managing the demands of caregiving.

Causes of caregiver burnout

Caregiving can be an incredibly rewarding job, but it can also be extremely stressful and draining. Caregiver burnout is a real phenomenon that affects many individuals caring for someone else, often due to a combination of factors.

The most common causes of caregiver burnout include:

1. Emotional Stress

Emotional stress can lead to caregiver burnout because caring for someone is mentally and physically draining. Caregivers may experience feelings of guilt, helplessness, and resentment, which can affect their mental health.

2. Physical Fatigue

Taking care of someone else can be physically demanding and lead to exhaustion. This exhaustion can cause caregivers to become less able to perform their duties effectively and can increase the risk of burnout.

3. Financial Stress

Caring for another person can be expensive and lead to financial stress. This can add even more strain on caregivers and lead to burnout if they cannot afford the costs associated with caregiving.

4. Isolation

Caregivers may feel isolated or unsupported in their roles, leading to loneliness and depression. This isolation can further increase the risk of burnout.

5. Lack of Resources

Caregivers may have limited resources or access to support services, making it difficult to provide quality care for their loved ones. This can be a major cause of burnout.

Caring for someone else can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it is important to recognize the signs of caregiver burnout and take steps to prevent it. Understanding the causes of caregiver burnout is the first step in taking action to prevent it from occurring.

Tips for preventing caregiver burnout and staying healthy

Here are some steps you can take to help prevent caregiver burnout:

Tip #1: Prioritize self-care

taking time for yourself is key to avoiding burnout. Schedule regular time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as reading, exercising, meditating, or spending time with friends and family.

Tip #2: Ask for help

It can be difficult to ask for help, but it’s essential to maintaining your well-being. Consider enlisting the help of family, friends, and professional services to ease the burden and provide respite care when needed.

Tip #3: Take a break

Permit yourself to take breaks, even if just for a few minutes. For example, a short walk outside or a hot cup of tea can make all the difference in reducing stress.

Tip #4: Embrace your feelings

It’s okay to feel frustrated or angry about the responsibility of the individual you are caring for. Having guilt about caregiving does not make you a bad person.

Tip #5: Stay connected

Connecting with others in similar circumstances can provide much-needed support and validation. For example, join a local caregiver support group or online forum where you can share experiences and offer advice.

Seek professional help

If you feel overwhelmed and unable to cope, seek professional help. A psychologist or counselor can provide invaluable guidance on handling stress and managing the demands of being a caregiver.

Click here to book an appointment with a psychologist in Sarasota and Venice, Florida today.

Dealing With Mental Stress During Inflation

How do you cope with mental stress when the economy heats up? As the prices of goods and services increase, you may feel like you’re getting squeezed in more ways than one.

The reality is that everyone deals with inflation differently, but one fact remains the same: your mental state matters just as much as how much money you spend on milk and bread each month.

Inflation can seriously strain your finances and affect your emotional health, so here are psychological tips for dealing with mental stress during inflation.

Let’s get to it, shall we?

1. Acknowledge You’re Stressed and Get Specific About What’s Triggering It

Stress may be addressed by pausing, recognizing, and acknowledging the feelings brought on by worries and anxieties associated with inflation by asking oneself questions like “How does this feel in my body?’ You can better comprehend the source of your emotions.

For instance, where does worry tend to rise to the surface in your body? Is it in your stomach? Your torso? Consider the event that triggered the fear as well.

Was it a news story about tech job cuts? Was it perusing the store aisles? Maintaining an anxious state may impair our physical and mental health and cause wear and tear on the body.

This assessment is being conscious while doing it. Practicing mindfulness may reduce our tendency to overthink things and improve our ability to see things clearly.

2. Find an Activity That Doesn’t Take a Lot of Thought To Execute

Distracting oneself from worrisome issues like inflation can be done by engaging in meaningless hobbies like rewatching your favourite movie, going for a run, or cleaning the dishes.

Everyone has a different definition of mindlessness, but you probably already know what brings you greater calm.

Take a step back and do something you don’t have to worry about the next time you feel worried.

3. Create Micro-Moments of Joy

It sounds good to say “micro-moments of bliss,” doesn’t it? Fortunately, incorporating this anxiety-relieving habit into your life is simple. One helpful tactic in times of stress and worry is to focus on the little things that have a significant impact.

These “micro-moments of delight” are referred to as such. Some examples of these moments are observing the sunset, drifting off to the sound of a nearby brook, or simply pausing to take in the beauty of nature.

In addition, positive feelings like pleasure, thankfulness, and peace can aid during stressful times, even in tiny doses.

4. Establish a Soothing Atmosphere

Your living situation may have an impact on your mental health. Clean surroundings do benefit me. During times of increased stress, you are cleaning your house (which, as an added benefit, also serves as a mindless pastime).

Concentrating on the little, beautiful things in your life while experiencing financial hardship might be beneficial.

5. Put Your Social Ties First

Our urge to relate to people is one of our greatest personal assets. Find methods to interact with people rather than withdrawing into solitude, which can lead to developing feelings of loneliness and sadness.

Although they are not required, in-person contacts are still possible. Family members can be reached by Zoom, phone, SMS, or social media. More than we realize, helping others matters.

It may foster a sense of belonging and purpose, which in turn helps counteract any stressors, whether they are monetary or not.

6. Use a Journal

Spend some time writing in your diary if you’re feeling uneasy. Write down anything that comes to mind, but it might be especially beneficial to write about the feelings you’re experiencing right now.

It’s simple to hold our emotions within. Journaling can help you fight against it.

7. Take Care of Yourself

Don’t undervalue your feelings. Given how challenging these moments are, it’s critical to practice self-compassion. It has advantages to do so.

According to studies, self-compassion is a crucial component in developing stress resistance. Recognize that you are doing the best you can while also practising self-compassion.

You may start your body’s self-soothing and relaxation reaction by being aware of your sensitivity.

8. Aim To Control What You Can

Start a high-yield savings account, set up an automated transfer to a savings account, or stop paying for streaming services you don’t use to manage your finances better.

Additionally, making a budget is beneficial since it allows you to assess your expenditures.

Whilst nothing unpleasant lasts forever, nothing good does either. Try to stay positive if you start to worry about the future. Connect with loved ones and look for a community you can rely on if that doesn’t work.

Taking Care of Your Mental Health While Considering Inflation

How can you maintain your mental health while considering inflation? The following are some options for you:

1. Develop Resilient Coping Mechanisms

We all require coping mechanisms, especially concerning worries like inflation and current world events. Breathing exercises, art, music, exercise, meditation, cognitive reframing, positive self-talk, and other activities are examples of coping mechanisms.

2. Find Inexpensive Activities To Entertain Yourself

Our hobbies greatly enhance our mental and physical wellness. So it’s crucial to carve out time for your favourite activities. This cannot be easy, especially given the extended hour’s many people have been putting in, but it’s essential.

Consider how much time you’ve invested in leisure pursuits or activities you do solely for fun and brainstorm strategies to increase this time.

This could help you reduce your financial stress and worry. There is nothing shameful about asking for assistance with daily expenses if you qualify for the programs and services that can help.

3. Enlist the Aid of Others

Positive social interactions promote both physical and mental health results. There are several ways to get more social support or locate more social support already there.

You can, for instance, join support groups, which may be found offline or online. One of the most remarkable things about support groups is that they are frequently cost-free and helpful for people dealing with various issues.

Conclusion

It’s no secret that inflation can be a major source of stress for many people. After all, when prices go up, it can feel like your hard-earned money is worth less and less.
 
Fortunately, we’ve walked you through some few things you can do to help deal with mental stress during inflationary periods. 
If you or anyone you know is currently struggling from mental stress, or anxiety due to environmental or other causes we recommend you seek expert help.

The Aftermath of Hurricane on Mental and Physical Health

Psychological science offers evidence-based strategies for coping with unexpected, uncontrolled disasters amid a staggering death toll and devastation in Florida.

It’s crucial to be aware that individuals frequently feel very intense emotional reactions when a storm makes landfall and causes devastation to houses and entire towns.

Frank C. Worrell, PhD, president of APA, said: “We comprehend the concern individuals across the state of Florida are facing right now. Please observe all safety precautions and adhere to your local and state emergency response officials’ directives.

You are not the only one who may be upset. However, you can better regulate your feelings, thoughts, and behaviors if you are aware of the common reactions to extreme events.

Following a hurricane or other traumatic incident, you have several options, including the following:

  • Realize that this is a difficult period. Keep yourself protected and go slowly. Ensure you’re looking after yourself and your family in a secure environment. Do not take any actions that might jeopardize your safety or the safety of those you care about.
  • You could feel uneasy responses like shortness of breath, trouble focusing, forgetfulness, or distractibility. Under the conditions, such is typical. A normal response to an abnormal circumstance is an abnormal response.
  • Permit yourself to lament the losses you have endured. Recognize that you might feel a range of different emotions.
  • Your location in relation to the storm will determine where you can access information. Keep up with the latest recent alerts and information if you can access the news.
  • Seek the assistance of those who will listen to you, care about you, and have compassion for your predicament. But remember that your regular support system may be compromised if individuals close to you have also seen or seen the hurricane.
  • Relaxation techniques may help you get some rest if you have trouble falling asleep. Avoid using alcohol and drugs as they might make you feel more depressed and prevent you from taking the necessary action to be resilient and cope with life’s challenges.

Tips To Protect Your Physical And Emotional Health After Hurricane Storm

Physical Risks Abound; the recovery process following a hurricane can be physically demanding. Additionally, it may be pretty harmful. The following advice can help you, and your family stays safe as you reintegrate into daily life:

1. Don’t Use Wet Electrical Devices

Electrical shock is a threat that exists everywhere. Turn off the electricity to the house and unplug any wet devices that are still connected.

2. Use Flashlights Instead of Candles

Don’t use any open fires since your home may contain dangerous vapours. Your best bet is almost always a flashlight.

3. Take Extra Care Around Damaged Properties

Hurricanes may inflict significant structural damage that isn’t often visible due to their tremendous winds. Till a specialist certifies that damaged houses and structures are safe, stay away from them.

4. Be Aware of Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide can be produced using tools and machinery that burn gas or coal. Therefore, refrain from using any of these items indoors. Also, never put a portable backup generator indoors or in a garage if you’re using one. It must be outside and at least 15 feet away from your house.

5. Avoid the floodwaters

Floodwaters can be unexpected and bring pathogens that could cause illness. Avoid whenever you can, and if you are exposed, follow the advised steps.

6. Keep Away from Power Lines

Report downed power lines and avoid the area around them since water and electricity wires can be fatally combined.

How Psychologists Can Help

People who endure sustained emotional distress during a hurricane that interferes with their everyday activities may speak with a qualified and experienced mental health practitioner.

Psychologists and other qualified mental health professionals can help people learn about typical reactions to high stress and develop a strategy for the future.

To assist people in managing their emotions in the wake of traumatic experiences, psychologists can offer therapies supported by research. Psychologists most frequently employ treatment (sometimes referred to as psychotherapy or talk therapy).

There are many different therapeutic approaches, but the psychologist will pick the one that best addresses the patient’s issue and complements their personality and preferences.

Cognitive, behavioral, interpersonal, humanistic, psychodynamic, or a mix of many treatment methods is some popular forms of therapy. Individuals, couples, families, or other groups might get therapy.

Hypnosis, which has been shown in studies to help treat a variety of diseases such as pain, anxiety, and mood disorders, is a skill that some psychologists have undergone training in.

Therapy and medicine are sometimes the best courses of treatment for some illnesses. Psychologists collaborate on patients’ overall care with general practitioners, paediatricians, and psychiatrists for those who benefit from medication.

Conclusion

The aftermath of a hurricane did not only lowers the quality of life but also throws a significant burden on one’s physical and mental health and that of the community.

To lessen the negative impacts of the disaster on people’s emotional and physical health, effective treatments should be delivered before, during, and after the disaster.

Due to incorporating several efficient strategies, therapeutic interventions using psychosocial education would provide superior results.

 

Halloween Fear In Children

Children look forward to Halloween with much excitement, but not all children are enthralled by the holiday. 

For some children, Halloween can be downright scary. 

If your child has expressed fear about trick-or-treating or other Halloween activities, you can take steps to help them surpass their fears so they can have fun on this special night. 

Here’s how to help your child over their fear of Halloween.

1. Let Your Child Know It’s Normal To Be Scared

One day, your little one may come home from school with a sad story. The other kids teased them because they were scared of Halloween. You see the distress on their face and want so badly to reassure them that they aren’t alone. 

We all have things that we’re scared of. Some people are afraid of spiders, heights, open spaces, or creepy masks, even grown-ups. No matter what it is, it can be really hard to get over being scared. 

But if you know why someone might be afraid, you can help make it less scary for them. Explaining this to your child and offering reassurance will help them feel more comfortable in their skin.

2. Ensure You Check Their Candy

It may seem not easy, but checking their candy can help ensure they are safe. Next, if they’re wearing a mask, take it off. 

It would be best to do this with the parents present in case the child gets angry or resistant. 

Next, try taking away their candy and asking them if they think they should wear their mask while they go through the rest of their treats before re-clothing them in their costume.

3. Discuss Possible Strangers Who Might Scare Them

Strangers are scary for children, but it doesn’t have to be a child with bad intentions who scares them. Many children will be frightened by people they don’t know and may also worry about seeing ghosts or monsters (they are mere fantasy). 

It is important to remember that Halloween is just one day out of the year and is not meant to cause undue fear in our kids. 

We need to educate our kids on holidays, so they can feel prepared instead of scared or confused by what might happen. 

Talking to your kids about Halloween beforehand should help relieve some of their fears. 

4. Do Not Let Your Child Watch Scary Movies

To help your child overcome their fear, you may want to cut out the chance to watch a horror movie. For example, not letting them watch TV shows or movies with scary scenes. 

You could also talk about this in advance and tell them that it is okay if they get scared because it just pretends there are no real monsters. 

It will also be good for them to feel brave by staying up late or turning off during bedtime. 

5. Remind Them Halloween Is About Dressing Up and Having Fun

On October 31st, children wear costumes and go door-to-door asking for candy, while adults dress up in costumes too. This can be a scary phase for a lot of children unfamiliar with the spooky holiday. 

First, discuss the day and show them pictures or videos from previous Halloweens. Next, talk about why you think people wear costumes on this day. 

Next, discuss whether they like it when kids come to their door and ask for candy. 

Then explain that other kids may not have enough money to buy their treats, so they have to rely on others giving them things at home. 

6. Do a Fun Activity Before Going Out Trick or Treating

Help your child become comfortable dressing up in costume by doing a fun activity together. A great example is trying on different costumes, getting their makeup done, or painting a holiday-themed mural. 

The goal is to expose them to see that dressing up in costume isn’t so scary! And when it comes time for trick or treating, encourage them to talk about what they’re feeling and devise an action plan to overcome their fear.

7. If They See Something Scary, Explain It Away As Being Fake

If your child sees something scary, you might try explaining that it is just a costume. 

For example, if they see someone in a big costume, tell them the person is wearing their pajamas or has a bed sheet over them. 

Tell them that because it’s dark outside, people might wear masks to make themselves look like different things like ghosts or animals. 

Make sure they know that everything at home and school is safe and that the adults around them will protect them. 

Let them know this by hugging them, telling them how much you love and care for them, and asking questions about their actions to keep themselves safe.

If your child has been fearful throughout October, you may choose to avoid trick-or-treating this year and instead attend a community event. 

Conclusion

Every child sees fun differently, and while some find clowns and scarfaces custom cool, others find it quite scary. Unfortunately, it’s the same when it comes to Halloween.

But following the tips we’ve highlighted below and reassuring your child that there is nothing to be scared about on Halloween will help them overcome that fear.

But, if that fear persists for too long, an expert child therapy can help them overcome that fear. 

Five Ways to Overcome The Fear of Death

Everyone has that fear of death to some degree, even if it’s not always on their radar. So it would be unusual if you didn’t have at least some trepidation regarding your mortality. 

Sometimes this fear can feel like an overbearing specter that threatens to consume your every thought and movement, but that doesn’t mean you have to let it take over your life. 

Dr. Charles Davenport highlights five ways to overcome your fear of death so you can live the best life possible without that consuming fear of death.

Here is a preview of what Dr. Charles emphasizes:

  • Accept that every living thing dies
  • Love every moment 
  • Accept that nothing last forever
  • Focus on positive things 
  • Remember who is in control 
  • Seek help from a psychologist 

Let’s carefully examine each of these ways to overcome the fear of death. 

  • Accept That Every Living Thing Dies

You first need to accept that death is a part of life and eventually happens to everyone. 

Acknowledging this will make things easier for you because it might seem like less of a tragedy. So, reflect on your life and how you plan on living it. 

Accept that you will die and list things you want to do before that happens. It can be as simple as spending more time with family members or friends. Doing these things will ensure that you are truly living and leave no regrets when the day comes. 

Live like you’re going to die tomorrow. If you knew that you could lose your life at any moment, wouldn’t you want to live in such a meaningful way? 

When we know our mortality, we realize what matters most in our lives. So live every day like it will be your last one on earth. 

Find meaning in everything- work hard and pursue your dreams while they’re still within reach. You don’t know when they’ll disappear forever. So be present and thankful for every moment. 

  • Love Every Moment

It may sound cliche, but the only way to overcome your fear of death is to live a life you love, which takes courage and commitment.  

But, you’ll be more mindful and at peace with what’s happening in your life when you are present in it rather than dwelling on the things that haven’t happened yet. 

Think about how you would like people to remember you if they were going to write a eulogy. Then, make lists of all the things that make life worth living. 

Write down everything you have done right in your life, and create a vision board of everything you want to do. 

Write a letter to yourself from ten years into the future detailing what makes you happy now, and then compare it to where you thought you would be ten years ago.

  • Accept That Nothing Lasts Forever

Fear of death is a natural part of the human condition. We’re all aware we will eventually die, and it terrifies us. 

However, you have to accept that nothing lasts forever, and we can only live in the present. 

Every day you are alive, you should be thankful for another day on earth because you can’t tell if it’s your last. Therefore, you should enjoy life as much as possible without holding back. 

Living in fear of death isn’t going to make anything better. Instead, live life to the fullest and take risks, so you don’t regret not trying later. Face your fears head-on, not hide from them. 

Spend time with friends and family daily because they won’t always be around when you need them most. Remember that death is inevitable, so you might as well try to enjoy yourself while you’re alive.

  • Focus on Positive Things

It’s natural to fear death, and sometimes it can be difficult to stay focused on the good things in life when you know that everything will eventually end. 

But, we have no way of knowing how long our life will last, so we might as well enjoy what time we have. 

This can help you overcome any fear of death that may be holding you back from reaching your full potential. 

Instead of worrying about what could happen, you can start thinking about all the good things life has brought you and how lucky you are to be alive.

  • Seek Help From a psychologist 

You must understand that you can’t win the battle of depression and fear of death alone. Sometimes you have to ask for help, especially when you find yourself always thinking about death.

Expert help from a psychologist in Sarasota when you’re battling this sort of issue can help you get back on the right path and eventually overcome the fear of death. 

Conclusion

The first step toward overcoming this fear is understanding that death is inevitable. It happens to the rich and the poor, and it doesn’t matter whether you’re a cleaner in a mall or a pilot traveling the world.

But, you don’t have to be afraid of it, instead, see it as a new beginning and try to find that inner peace while you still have time here on earth.

You also need to ask for help; the best help you can get is from a medical psychologist. Please reach out to a psychologist if you’re struggling with the fear of death, depression, or feeling suicidal. 

Trauma and Parenting: Understanding Your Child’s Needs

When you’re parenting after trauma, your focus naturally turns to your child and helping them recover from the pain they’ve experienced. However, it’s essential not to neglect yourself and your own needs during this time since doing so could negatively impact your parenting abilities.

Studies have shown that childhood trauma can affect children as they grow up and can be linked to depression, anxiety, drug addiction, and many other social problems. Nevertheless, there are several things parents can do to help their children recover after a traumatic event and may even help prevent issues from arising in the first place. 

This article is tailored to help you cope with trauma and meet your child’s needs best when you or they have been affected by trauma. 

Forms of Trauma

One is traumatized when they feel threatened, which is the case with children who rely on those close to them for safety and love. Abuse can be traumatic, but traumatic experiences are numerous. 

  • Neglect​
  • Separations
  • Violence between caregivers
  • Natural disasters
  • Accidents 

How the Brain Reacts to Trauma

When you are confronted with a painful experience, your brain will ensure that you never forget it. Such incidents are remembered in mind and by the body. Trauma can be viewed as a succession of sensations accompanied by sound, scent, and sentiments. 

They can enter the present, with the person experiencing them unaware that they recall a memory. Memories can also be remembered in this manner. Any of these events could trigger a child’s memory of what occurred to them, causing them to become terrified. That is referred to as a trigger.

Triggers

Triggers can be odors, sounds, locations, postures, or vocal tones. For example, if someone is nervous about violence at home, this may lead to anxiety about school. Physical violence or retreat are examples of these changes. Even for a toddler, identifying triggers might be complex. If a child learns what a trigger is, they will be more cautious to avoid it.

Associated Disorders

The linked problem manifests itself in various ways, such as when children are unable to concentrate because they are constantly on alert. If caregivers and doctors do not recognize the effects of trauma on development, children with experience may exhibit hyperarousal or hypervigilance, symptoms that are easily confused with hyperactivity and indifference may lead to an incorrect diagnosis of ADHD.

Traumatized children may also be filled with emotion and struggle with unexpected events. Their desire for control may be misconstrued as deceptive or demanding that everything be done their way. These violent behaviors may be difficult to transition from one activity to another, even if they were suitable at the time of the trauma, but they may no longer be appropriate.

What Foster and Adoptive Parents Can do to Help

Children adopted or who are in foster care have frequently experienced trauma. They may be able to detect and deal with the threat that others do not, and their minds may constantly be “on guard.” 

Many of these children have never learned to rely on steady, dependable parents, and traditional parenting methods may no longer be effective. It can be difficult to recall that these emotions may occur with you, but they are not about you. These intense sentiments are a result of the previous traumas. 

​Learning to Trust After Trauma

All newborn newborns are defenseless and reliant. Consistent and caring caretakers teach babies to trust others and to feel worthwhile and deserving of love. This is crucial for a child’s healthy development. We cannot survive without the assistance of others. It is especially true when times are tough.

Adults who are supportive and compassionate can assist a youngster in recovering from traumatic circumstances. Some youngsters may have never had adults help them before and may be unaware that people can assist them or be trusted. 

They may be resistant to outside assistance. Adults’ lack of trust can be misinterpreted as disdain towards authority. This can cause issues at home and school. It can also make learning more difficult.

It might be challenging to determine who is affected by trauma. Children who have been abused may withdraw from people and appear shy and fearful. They might also be extremely friendly to everyone they meet. 

They may overstep personal boundaries, putting themselves at risk of further abuse. They must choose between “trust no one” and “trust everyone, but not too much.”

​Strategies That Can Help You and Your Child Adjust to Trauma’s Effects

  • Learn to recognize and avoid (or reduce) “triggers.” Determine what distracts or causes anxiety in your youngster. Make an effort to reduce these things.
  • Establish routines for your child (for each day, meals, and bedtime), so they know what to expect.
  • Simple decisions can give your youngster a sense of control. It will help if you respect your child’s decisions.
  • Try to remain calm. Find strategies to respond to outbursts that do not exacerbate the situation. Reduce your volume. Do not yell or act aggressively. Do not gaze or look directly at your youngster for an extended period. Some children perceive this as a danger.
  • When your kid keeps you at a distance, stay available and responsive.
  • Avoid physical punishment as a form of discipline. It may trigger panic and out-of-control behavior in a child who has been abused.

Allow your youngster to express their emotions. Teach your child words to explain their feelings while calm and words to use when they are distressed. Show kids acceptable ways to deal with their feelings. Then, commend them for expressing their emotions or for calming down.

Conclusion

The most challenging part of parenting after trauma is finding a balance between focusing on your child’s needs, acknowledging your history as well as any challenges you may face as a result of it, and respecting your child’s experience. 

By understanding your child’s feelings and acting in ways that validate those feelings—and staying connected with them through open dialogue—you can create an environment that supports both of you.

If you’re struggling with parenting and trauma, do contact a mental health expert in your locality. 

Pandemic-Related Trauma and How to Cope With it

While we thought we were recovering from the pandemic-related trauma, we realized just how dark it got for many teens during the peak of the lockdown.

Recent data suggests that high school students’ mental health declined, and many lacked a safe and comfortable home to study from.

The CDC unveiled the findings of a recent survey, which they commissioned and completed. They asked nearly 8,000 high school students to share how they felt in 2020.

Based on a survey, 55% of the subjects claimed they were cursed or verbally insulted by an adult at home. Out of the surveyed teens, 11% had been physically abused, and 67% found it challenging to finish their work.

The CDC stated it’s unclear how significant the lockdown played in what the survey showed whether the abuse teens experienced was related to the pandemic or if it had been going on before the lockdown.

It is, however, clear that the impact on every teen wasn’t equal due to the lockdown. Here’s a case in point. The CDC found that one in five teenagers contemplated suicide in the last 12 months, and over half have felt persistently sad or hopeless in the last 12 months.

47% of gay, lesbian, and bisexual teens surveyed reported that they had considered suicide compared to 14% of heterosexual teens. In addition, 25% of girls contemplated suicide, which was double the rate of boys.

Increases in Mental Health-Related ED Visits

A disproportionate number of ethnic minorities have been hurt by mental-health challenges resulting from the outbreak.

Recent research, published in JAMA Psychiatry, shows that these groups had an increase in the number of emergency-room visits for mental-health-related complaints during and after the COWIE-19 scare.

Asian adults’ visits to emergency departments for most of the mental disorders the study looked at, including an increase of 21% in depression when COVID-19 was surging.

After the COVID-19 surged, ED visits among American Indian and Alaska Native adults for various mental disorders, including post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, and significant depression, rose significantly by 42%.

There was a 24% increase in visits to the ER for bipolar disorder among Hispanic adults and a 14% increase in visits for trauma and stress disorder-related problems among Black adults after a spike.

Can Therapy Help With Trauma for Teenagers?

Many kids and teenagers who go through traumatic experiences—whether in a car accident, being physically or sexually abused, going through a divorce, or experiencing significant loss can learn how to cope with these experiences.

And for some people, therapy may be an effective way to process these events and start moving forward.

Therapy can help with all kinds of issues—from anxiety to depression, and it can often provide critical insight into why we do what we do. The key is finding a therapist you trust, someone you feel comfortable talking to about your problems.

It could be someone at school, like your guidance counselor or a school psychologist; it could also be someone outside of school you already know (like your parents) or meet with a therapist you trust, not from your school.

What Medication Works?

There are many different medications to treat PTSD symptoms. Some of these are more effective than others, and certain medications seem to work better for certain types of trauma. So how do you know which medication is right for you?

If you’re experiencing panic attacks or severe anxiety, your doctor may first try a benzodiazepine such as Xanax or Ativan. These drugs help relieve stress by slowing down brain activity. Your doctor may also prescribe an antidepressant drug, like Zoloft or Celexa. 

Antidepressants can be beneficial in treating trauma, but they can take weeks to start working. Therefore, they’re not usually used on their own for treating PTSD.

However, some people with co-occurring depression and PTSD find that antidepressants help them manage both conditions at once. If you have trouble sleeping after a traumatic event, your doctor might recommend a sleep aid such as Ambien or Lunesta.

Natural Ways to Teenagers Can Cope With Trauma

Take good care of your body: You should eat healthy, well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. If you are curious about mental health wellness strategies, click the link below.

Make Connections: Make time to stay in touch with people and talk about your worries. Also, form healthy relationships with friends and family.

Take Breaks: It’s crucial to stop, even if only for a few minutes. Remember that emotional intensity would fade, try to stop for a minute and take a deep breath. Then, try participating in things you’re interested in because it will help you.

Stay Informed: When you are out of the loop, you might become stressed or scared. So, watch, listen to, or read the news for updates from official sources.

Know that during a crisis, rumors are common and are especially abundant on social media. When checking a news story, make sure it comes from a reliable source and a dedicated channel.

Maintain an air of distance from bad news: Taking periodic breaks from watching, reading, or listening to them will keep you. Instead, schedule as many fun things as possible and, as much as possible, go back to living your everyday life. Ask for updates from your medical team in the meantime.

We offer support and understanding therapists trained to help adolescents cope with stressful and traumatic events at Davenport Psychology.

Our approach combines traditional talk therapy with proven treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).

Whether you’re experiencing trauma from the pandemic, your school environment or your relationships, our therapists are here to support you.