Graduating From College – What To Do Next?

Graduating from college can be exciting but slightly intimidating at the same time. So when you’ve taken your place on the stage and awarded your certificate, the final question that comes into your head are, what should I do now?

Some people there are so confused about their next big move that there ask for advice or even individual therapy with an expert to give them some perspective.

Maybe you’re uncertain about what to do with your degree, or perhaps you haven’t made up your mind about your next move.

Fortunately, these tips will point you in the right direction, helping you reduce the anxiety of what should be your next move.

Spend Time Networking

After college, network as much as possible with people. It is something you can even do while still in college. When you go into an interview for a job, most of what employers want is your skill and knowledge.

There want to know that you can be a valuable employee in their company and will do what it takes. If you don’t have many contacts after graduating from college, it might seem harder to find a job which most times can lead to depression.

But you’ll find more opportunities if you spend time networking by attending career fairs and meeting with alumni from your school. Plus, networking makes getting a job easier: 50% of all jobs are found through networking.

If you notice you have a problem communicating with others, experts usually recommend trying individual therapy with an expert psychologist.

Get an Internship or Apprenticeship

You may feel a little lost after graduating. Maybe you are not sure what job you want or if you should look for an internship or apprenticeship. It is pervasive for people to start a new field by doing an internship first.

It allows you to try out different career paths and find out more about each one before deciding which one you would like to pursue as a full-time position.

The benefits of an internship or apprenticeship are that you get real-world experience in your field and learn how things work in your industry which can help you avoid career stress later on.

It also helps you build your resume with experience and network with professionals in your field. In addition, you get to make contacts to help you land a job after your internship.

Try Working Freelance

shallow focus photo of woman using a laptop. What to do after graduation. — Photo by fauxels on Pexels.com

So far, I’ve largely concentrated on advice that pertains to regular office jobs. However, it is worthwhile to investigate alternative work opportunities. Self-employment is one such opportunity.

Working for oneself is commonly associated with obtaining investors and building a startup.

However, while working for yourself may be an exciting and gratifying profession for the appropriate people, it can also entail freelancing or launching a modest web business that you can handle remotely.

While your parents may object to you leaving the safety net of a large, stable corporation, working for yourself provides a level of independence and mobility rare to achieve in a corporate career.

At the very least, it’s a means to increase your income while you look for other opportunities.

Look for a Volunteer Opportunity

There are good reasons volunteering can be a great start for you. First, it will help fill in your resume and give it some much-needed experience.

Second, you’ll learn more about yourself and others—sometimes, there’s no better way to gain empathy for people than by working with them one-on-one.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, volunteering lets you explore a career path that might interest you while gaining real-world experience.

For example, if you enjoy working with pets but don’t have any formal education in veterinary medicine (yet), get some volunteer hours under your belt at a local animal shelter or vet clinic before committing to an expensive program of study.

Try Getting a Good Job

It’s tempting to take a job you don’t like for money. It’s also tempting, especially when you start fresh from college, not to think about getting a job and those student loan debt looming overhead.

However, jumping straight into career mode is critical in your first years after graduation. This can get you on a solid path and give you time to figure out what you want from work and life.

Getting a job after graduating from college gives you time to get your bearings and try different things, helping you figure out what matters to you in a career—and it will help pay your bills.

It’s also an opportunity to see if you can cope with career stress like working for someone else or if you’d rather strike out on your own.

Try To Further Your Studies

Many people choose to further their studies after they graduate, while others decide that they would instead enter directly into the workforce.

If you fall into either category, there are some things you need to consider before moving forward with your decision.

While continuing your education will most likely mean more time spent in college and increased costs, having a bachelor’s degree or even a master’s degree can open doors for many career options.

So what do you aim to achieve out of life? It’s essential to take some time and truly contemplate your goals.

You have to think about all of these, which will help you curb depression and anxiety in the long haul.

Conclusion

After college, you may find yourself at a loss for what to do next. Don’t be too hasty; make sure you carefully think about your options.

You can always get another degree or even a master’s when you decide your first option was not quite right for you.

Also, when thinking about your future career path, take into account precisely what type of job will allow you to live comfortably.

And, if you’re still confused about all of it, you can always talk to a certified Sarasota psychologist. They will be happy to help you solve the puzzle.

Benefits of Vacation on Your Mental Health

Free Man and Woman Sitting on Hanging Chair

Vacation can often seem like it’s just another item on your ever-growing to-do list, and it’s easy to get caught up in the everyday hustle of work and chores that you forget to make time for the things that matter – such as yourself!

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 18.8% of US adults have mental illness in any given year. So it’s safe to say that we live in a stressful world, but there are ways to escape it, such as taking time out to travel.

While travel isn’t exactly the easiest thing to do with a busy lifestyle, it offers so many benefits for your mental health, so it’s important to find ways to fit it into your life.

Below are the reasons why taking a vacation is good for your mental health.

Taking a vacation is a great stress buster

The hustle and bustle of everyday life can take a toll on our mental health. Travel is a great way to clear your head if you’re trying to get your mind right.

Studies show that people who travel more often have higher levels of happiness and lower stress levels than those who don’t.

Taking even one vacation can improve your mood for months afterward. So, in addition to giving you some much-needed rest, a vacation can be incredibly helpful for your mental health if it comes when you need it most.

“Even though I’m constantly busy when I travel, whether it’s sightseeing, shooting photographs, or simply exploring,” says Swapnil Gohil, “I know I’m the happiest and most peaceful when I travel.”

For example, studies show that heart attack patients recover faster after being admitted to intensive care units with windows than those without them! This might be because spending time in nature can help reduce stress and anxiety.

It’s also possible that simply being able to see outside improves your mood by reminding you of all of life’s possibilities.

It boosts happiness and satisfaction

You experience a new environment with different people and customs when you travel. It can make you more open-minded about your life and experiences, giving you a sense of fulfillment.

Free Multiethnic group of students sitting at table with laptop and having high five to teacher while rejoicing victory

Those feelings of fulfillment will make it easier for you to live your day-to-day life because they’ll improve your overall mental health. For example, one study found that mental health is an important predictor of how much joy people experience while traveling in their spare time.

Those who were mentally healthy reported feeling more satisfaction and happiness during their trips than those who weren’t mentally healthy.

Some individuals say they feel like locals when they visit a new place because they learn so much about its culture and customs through interactions with locals. In addition, it can lead to increased self-confidence and better social skills.

“Travel certainly makes me happy,” agrees Dr. Charles. “Even arranging a vacation gives me something to look forward to and makes me happy,” Wilson explains. It turns out she’s not alone in her feelings.

According to a Cornell University research, the anticipation of a vacation may significantly improve your happiness, even more than the prospect of receiving something tangible, such as a new automobile.

It makes you mentally resilient

Being able to quickly adapt to a new environment is a good skill for your mind and body. For example, when you travel, you’re forced to get used to new surroundings, people, etc. In short, you’re growing as a person—and that’s never a bad thing.

Plus, if you can grow outside of your comfort zone in one area of life (e.g., work), it can make it easier for you to do so in others (e.g., personal relationships).

All of this allows you to appreciate what you have. For example, remember when you lost your wallet and couldn’t pay for your meal at a restaurant? Or how about that one time you were sick in a foreign country with no medical insurance?

In both instances, it was stressful and unpleasant. But did they also serve as wake-up calls to show you how much better off you are in many other areas of life?

If so, then consider yourself lucky—many people never learn that lesson until it’s too late. Traveling lets us see how far we’ve come, which can help us appreciate what we have even more.

At the same time, though, it also gives us a new perspective on those areas where we need to improve or change our approach.

Enhances your creativity

Researchers have found that people who travel extensively are more likely to be creative, intelligent, and open-minded. So while there’s no guarantee that a trip to Costa Rica will help you create your next great novel, it could spur you to make unexpected connections or try new things.

At a minimum, your trips might give you a better perspective on life. But, whether traveling helps you think differently or not, if you’re open to learning about new cultures and ways of living, it can broaden your mind in amazing ways.

A trip can contribute to stronger mental health

The majority of those who travel use it to recharge their batteries. Not thinking about work-related things, being distracted by different elements, and simply indulging in new activities can contribute to a happier mind.

A study from 2014 at The Chinese University of Hong Kong discovered that travelers feel more engaged, productive, and enthusiastic after vacations than non-travelers do.

Traveling is often used to escape current problems and encourages us to take on different challenges that positively affect mental health and life satisfaction. After escaping from your routines, you will come back home with a fresh new approach toward them.

Conclusion

One of your friends complains about how his job is killing him, and he can’t wait to retire. You probably wondered if there will ever be a time in your life when you feel that way. No one seems to be content with what they have, and you can’t help but wonder if it’s all worth it.

But think back to all of those amazing experiences you had traveling, living abroad, or just taking a long weekend trip somewhere and its benefits on your mental health.

How different would your mental health look right now if you never took those risks? So if you always wanted to take a trip but held yourself back for some reason, take that first step today and see where it takes you. Your health will thank you!

The Benefits Of Counseling For Young Executives

A Forbes article pointed out that 60% of millennial executives feel confident about their career prospects, yet only 28% have the desired career satisfaction level.

The difference between these two statistics suggests that many young professionals are not as happy with their careers as they should be—and they’re not alone in this sentiment.

A survey by the American Psychological Association revealed that most Americans feel there is room for improvement in their personal and professional lives, which is why more young professionals are turning to executive counseling to set them on the right path.

When an executive struggles with stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, it’s crucial to seek counseling and therapy to prevent these difficulties from impacting their work performance and overall quality of life.

But what are the benefits of counseling for young executives precisely? Let’s have a look!

1. Uncover hidden obstacles

hidden obstacles stress therapy | counseling for young executives at Davenport Psychology

The root cause of many employee issues is rooted in employees’ personal lives, not their professional responsibilities. However, sometimes people need a little guidance. A good counselor can help you identify obstacles and figure out ways to handle them before they become big problems.

It could be as simple as helping you define your goals or supporting you as you cope with recent life changes. Counseling can also uncover emotional and mental roadblocks preventing you from reaching your goals.

2. Vent your frustrations about occupational burnout

Everyone’s talking about burnout these days, and everyone wants to know how to manage it, says Charles Davenport, a psychologist at Davenport Psychology in Florida.

And many executives say they don’t have time to see a therapist; they don’t think they can afford it. I say you pay more by not seeing someone. Burnout is real — and it affects your performance at work, whether you want to admit that or not.

If you’re feeling burnt out, take some time to talk with a counselor who has experience working with professionals like yourself. You might be surprised at what happens when you start venting your frustrations.

3. Manage anxiety and work stress

Anxiety and work stress therapy in Sarasota, FL

If you’re a young professional facing stress and anxiety, it can be difficult to seek support. The fear that you’ll be perceived as weak or unprofessional is enough to deter many employees from reaching out.

However, working through your emotions head-on is ultimately a better alternative than ignoring them—both for your mental well-being and long-term career prospects. It also might make sense to consider therapy as an option.

Working with a counselor can help you manage these feelings while giving you valuable insight into how they affect your work life and relationships.

Unfortunately, therapy isn’t something most people talk about openly. Still, suppose we want to change workplace culture so that young professionals feel more comfortable seeking support when they need it.

In that case, we have to start by normalizing conversations about therapy in our day-to-day lives.

4. Balance work and family

balancing expectations for young executives counseling

Work and family aren’t mutually exclusive for most people—they are intertwined. To maintain good mental health and a positive mindset about your career goals, you need to make time for your business and personal life.

If you’re an executive trying to juggle a demanding job with family responsibilities, consider finding support through professional counseling. A counselor can help you identify ways to achieve a better balance in your life and relieve stress that might be holding you back from success.

5. Improved self-awareness

self-awareness is part of counseling for young executives in Sarasota, FL.

Counseling can help people learn more about themselves by pointing out their strengths and weaknesses. Through counseling, they can also better understand their personalities and behaviors, discover where they are on their development continuum, and determine what type of behavior is most effective in different situations.

With all that self-knowledge, individuals will be able to make better decisions about how to move forward.

Studies have shown that people who seek professional counseling do so because they feel they’re not achieving their goals or making progress as quickly as possible. It means that some of those same individuals could see an increase in success after just one session with a counselor.

6. An increase in motivation

It can be challenging to muster motivation when you’re going through a difficult time. When you’re feeling low, a counselor can help guide you back to doing things you love.

Sometimes, it takes some gentle reassurance that your normal confidence will return and your life will improve. Feeling motivated and in control of your life again can help increase your performance at work and other aspects of your life.

7. An ability to learn how to become a better leader

Leadership takes a lot of focus and discipline. While it’s easy to get caught up in daily tasks, you must also regularly examine your role as a leader and learn how to become better.

By seeking guidance from an experienced business psychologist, you can hone your leadership skills while enjoying some peace of mind by knowing that you’re in good hands.

8. Figure out who you are outside of work

who is the young executive outside work? Learn this and more with stress counseling at Davenport Psychology in Sarasota, FL.

In our society, we define ourselves through our jobs. As a result, many people find it challenging to take a step back and gain perspective on their lives as a whole—instead of just living in their career roles.

One way to start figuring out who you are outside of work is by keeping a journal where you can write down your thoughts and reflect on past experiences and things that make you happy (or not).

You can also keep a gratitude journal or jot down things that make you happy each day. It helps you see how much more there is to life than just work. A counselor can help you with these exercises if you feel stuck.

If you have read the benefits listed here, you are on your way to deciding if executive counseling is right for you. However, if you have any doubts or want to know how to get started, please reach out to our experienced therapist/ counselor team. Contact us today, we’ll love to help.

Moving your Body can help you Feel Better.

Despite how obvious it may seem that your physical actions affect your emotional state, it is not as clear that your bodily activities might impact your mood.

When you’re experiencing sadness and lethargy, for example, you may move at a much slower rate. According to recent studies, your brain and body are inextricably linked, implying that when you physically active, your brain can alter as well.

How Exercise Can Improve Mood Disorders

Regular aerobic exercise can reduce anxiety by causing the fight or flight part of the brain to respond less quickly. In addition, anxiety sufferers can build a tolerance to a specific trigger.

Exercise like biking or going to the gym for aerobic, resistance, flexibility, and balance exercises–reduces depressive symptoms. Regular exercise can be as effective as medications and psychotherapies. When people exercise, they produce a brain protein called BDNF that helps to increase nerve cells in the brain. We think this is part of the reason exercise helps us feel better.

The study, as mentioned earlier, had shown that when persons with attention-deficit disorder exercised moderately for 20 minutes, they became more focused and energetic and did not have as many negative symptoms such as confusion, fatigue, and depression. But interestingly, in this study, exercise didn’t affect attention or hyperactivity in and of itself.

There is evidence that depressive symptoms can be reduced through meditative movement. It’s a type of exercise in which you’re aware of your bodily feelings, position in space, and changes in heart rate or breathing as you go. Qi-gong, tai-chi, and some yoga techniques are all beneficial.

Yoga may help alleviate the severity of symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder to the point that some individuals no longer qualify for this diagnosis.

Changing your posture, breathing, and other behaviors may help you relax more quickly, reducing sadness and anxiety by altering your brain.

The Surprising Benefits of Synchronizing Your Movements

When you engage in one by yourself, whether physical exercise or meditative movement, it can help improve your quality of life. But a recent study shows that if you move in sync with someone else, it also increases your self-esteem.

Furthermore, studies have shown that by moving in sync with someone else, you are more likely to like them, cooperate with them, and feel more charitable to them.

More specifically, being in rhythm with someone else is an easier way to recall what they said, and it makes you feel better about yourself. People who suffer from depression might feel better after participating in dance movement therapy.

Tune Into Your Body’s Response

A great way to change your mood with body-related triggers is to take notice of your internal response. Feel what you feel and determine what external thing you might have come into contact with that might have impacted your body.

Watch your body and take note of when tension emerges and why. Try to identify the moments when you are feeling safe or calm. Keep track of the physical sensations when you have peace of mind.

Look after your body, too. We will be grumpy when we are tired, hungry, or stressed. So to nourish your physical body with some exercise, sleep, and good food, and recognize that you are helping boost your mood by taking care of your health.

For example, every day, you should add in some activity that makes your body and brain feel good, like listening to your favorite song. Nature. Take a stroll. Vent. Jot down ideas. Find something you’re passionate about and do it.

Therefore, when you have attended and are giving your body the essentials, you can consciously move in ways that will induce specific good feelings.

The Emotional and Physical Connection

Our bodies are in a constant state of chemical change, which intensifies during times of excitement, fear, and stress. Those chemical reactions can also intensify during periods of intimacy and make it, so we’re easily overwhelmed by love or feel as though our organs are turning inside out.

Both physical and emotional experiences affect how we feel. For example, when some people have a lot of stress triggers their arthritis. For some people, pain in their bodies can be a symptom of depression.

Does Exercise Make any Difference When Depressed?

In theory, depression is when the body’s serotonin levels are too low. Depression can be treated with antidepressants that stimulate serotonin release. Unfortunately, many people experience such profound forms of depression that this kind of medication is ineffective.

The reason, unfortunately, is that their depression has nothing to do with serotonin levels. Instead, many of us who study depression think the disorder may involve inflammation connected to stress. Inflammation begins to affect cells in the body, provoking an immune response and increasing inflammation.

Inflammation then can infiltrate the brain, affecting mood. As a result, some people don’t get any relief from their depression and don’t feel like themselves again until they start exercising.

It seems to help fight inflammation and depression. And in studies, when individuals who haven’t responded to anti-depressants start exercising, they usually see significant reductions in their symptoms.

Put it All Together

In addition to other therapies, psychotherapy or movement therapies are sometimes used to address depression and anxiety. For example, a more physical approach such as dance or guided imagery can come to the rescue when you’re feeling exhausted.

Getting exercise, going for a meditation walk alone, or going for a synchronous walk with someone else may allow you to change your mental state without having to focus too hard on the subject.

The next time you feel like you have a lot on your mind or don’t know what to do with yourself, move your body, go for a walk, dance or have some activity with a therapist. You doing these can quickly turn your mood around. Contact Davenport Psychology 941-702-2457 today.

Anxiety Solutions that Work

If you’re suffering from anxiety, it might be difficult to know where to go or what to do next. With so many options accessible and conflicting information, determining what will work and what won’t be difficult.

At Davenport Psychology in Sarasota, we strive to assist as many clients as possible locate the genuine solutions they need to live happier, healthier lives by understanding anxiety and how to deal with it effectively through therapy and medication. Here are some of the solutions we provide that have shown to be beneficial for our clients.

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

CBT, in particular the rational emotive behavior therapy approach, focuses on changing thought processes and behaviors to promote a more positive attitude. According to Charles R. Davenport, who provides services at Davenport Psychology, cognitive-behavioral treatment (CBT) teaches you how to modify your thinking patterns.

Then, as your mind becomes more used to having these ideas, it becomes easier for you to have a more optimistic viewpoint. It also tries to modify unhelpful behaviors like eating or sleeping patterns and substance abuse that may be contributing to anxiety.

CBT is frequently used in combination with other forms of therapy. CBT might help people who are suffering from social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction

For decades, mindfulness-based stress reduction, commonly known as MBSR, or mindfulness-based stress reduction, has been available. However, its appeal is rising as more individuals become aware of its usefulness in alleviating anxiety symptoms and assisting patients in gaining serenity of mind. Classes—usually several sessions—are included in an MBSR

In these sessions, you’ll discover how to use meditation and relaxation techniques to regulate your emotions in stressful situations. You may conquer many harmful feelings associated with chronic anxiety when you learn to solve the problem rather than dwelling on past mistakes or anticipating future outcomes.

Mindfulness may also help you manage your anxiety by reducing stress and promoting a sense of calm. If you have an existing problem, such as depression or sleeplessness linked to your anxiety issues, practicing mindfulness techniques might help cure those problems over time.

Correct Breathing Techniques

In physiological terms, hyperventilation causes over-oxygenation and under-carbon dioxide levels in the blood, which can trigger panic and dread. Carbon dioxide is important for regulating the body’s response to panic and anxiety.

To prevent hyperventilation, it might be useful to learn how to breathe from their stomach rather than their chest. It’s as simple as allowing your stomach to expand with each breath.

Place one hand on your stomach and the other on your chest. If you’re utilizing the correct breathing method, your stomach should move rather than your chest. When you’re feeling uneasy, taking deep breaths can aid in relaxation.

Some people have difficulty using their abdominal muscles to breathe. Other kinds of breathing exercises are available for those who suffer from this problem. Alternatively, you can attempt holding your breath for a few seconds instead. It aids in the increase of carbon dioxide in the blood.

Behavior Therapy

Behavior therapy is one alternative treatment for people with severe anxiety. Clients learn new ways to think about their concerns and acquire healthier coping methods as a result of this therapy.

Behavior therapy, on the other hand, has been scientifically confirmed to be quite successful in decreasing symptoms for many individuals. It does take time, however—at least 12 weeks for a complete result. Furthermore, some people may find it more beneficial to work through these difficulties on their own rather than in group sessions.

Behavior therapy often works well alongside other treatments such as medication or cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).

Support Groups and Education

Professional assistance may make all the difference in managing and curing anxiety disorders. Whether you join a local support group, attend education seminars, or seek out therapy services, expert help may make all of the difference.

Individual and group therapy sessions are available at Davenport Psychology for individuals experiencing anxiety problems. In addition, our medical experts are skilled in providing you with helpful tools and methods to help you manage your symptoms and return to living your life on your own terms.

We also provide counseling services for couples looking for effective ways to address their mental health concerns.

Medication

Medication may also be used in combination with therapy. Medication can provide short-term relief by addressing certain features of an anxiety disorder. However, keep in mind that these drugs do not cure anxiety disorders—and many people take them only during specific periods of their lives, such as while they are going through therapy or working on a particular problem.

Some people take benzodiazepines until they can get into therapy or get married, then quit taking them once they no longer require it for any other reason.

Another frequent prescription drug used to treat anxiety problems is antidepressants, which include SSRIs and SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors).

Wrap up

It may seem like an impossible task to get relief from anxiety. It’s natural to be concerned, but when your worries impact your daily life and you have panic attacks or melancholy, it’s time to seek professional help.

Davenport Psychology in Sarasota provides anxiety therapy for a variety of issues. Our staff is prepared to assist you with panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), GAD, or other anxiety problems.

Our psychotherapists have received extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, both of which are evidence-based treatments. We also support medication management services via collaboration with our local Sarasota psychiatrists, who are experts in treating mental health issues with medicine.

The first step may appear to be the most difficult, so if you’ve made it this far, you probably already know how hard it is to live with anxiety—and if not, well done! Consider yourself fortunate if you believe therapy would be beneficial but aren’t sure where to begin. Give us a call right now 941-702-2457 or Contact Us. We can’t wait to hear from you.

What May Be Discovered Through Psychological Testing?

Distress, Autism Spectrum Disorders, tension, psychological symptoms, impaired memory, sensory-related concerns, cognitive deficits, executive functioning challenges, occupational problems, sensory impairment, Alzheimer’s disease, impaired memory, multiple sensory, cognitive deficits, and giftedness can all be diagnosed and treated with psychological testing services. Psychological and neuropsychological testing include evaluations that look at things like:

Giftedness and intellectual impairment are two examples of intellectual functioning.
ADHD and executive dysfunction
Learning difficulties and exceptionalities are examples of achievement skills.
Dementia affects impaired learning skills.
Antisocial Personality Disorder (ODD) and Conduct Disorder (CD) are two examples of behavioural issues.
Psychological disorders such as schizophrenia, as well as perspective-taking
Mental problems, irritability, and despair affect social-emotional functioning.
Autism Spectrum Disorder, for example, is one example of a mental handicap.

Personality Assessments

Personality tests try to examine a person’s fundamental personality type. They are frequently used to aid in formulating diagnostic techniques and evaluating a specific individual for good and possibly harmful characteristics. In addition, these tests may provide you with a great deal of information about yourself and help you get new perspectives into how you operate and who you are.

Cognitive/Neuropsychological Testing

Neurophysiological exams are used to assess cognitive performance, your capacity to think, communicate, reason, and so on, which may be caused by brain injury such as a cerebrovascular accident. In addition, brain activity and damage are accessed via neurological tests.

Forensic Examination

A forensic examination uses psychological, memory, and cognitive functions to provide details about a client often associated or tied to a constitutional matter, work-related difficulty, people with disabilities, conflict, or other similar situations. The review is usually requested by a third party, including an advocate, judge/court, or workplace. Employees’ insurance, incapacity, medical malpractice, criminal proceedings, and parental rights are just a few instances.

Intelligence Evaluation

Intelligence screening would be used to screen applicants or see if they may qualify for special education in the classroom, to identify mental impairment or impaired cognitive development, to assist people with disabilities and to suggest accommodation in an educational environment and work circumstances, and to evaluate strengths, character, and preferences to match with a suitable career path.

What Should You Expect Throughout a Psychological Examination?

Licensed Psychologist Florida testing is not the same as kids’ tests in school. Your psychologist may ask you questions that you will not know the answer to. Every test has a separate set of questions some will be easy some should get to the point you are not able to answer them anymore. Then, the psychologist will score and interpret the results.

There is no right or wrong answer to any question in psychological testing. The psychologist is looking for how you think and your patterns of responding, not just for correct or incorrect answers. Psychological testing is a process that takes time to complete, so be patient. It is important that you provide honest and accurate responses to the questions. If you do not understand a question, ask your psychologist to explain it.

After the examination is complete, your psychologist will meet with you to discuss the results. He or she will explain what the findings mean and make recommendations based on the results. You must understand the findings and recommendations so that you can follow through with any recommended treatments or interventions.

How Do You Get Ready For a Psychological Test?

Even though you enjoy studying for tests at school, explore Psychological Testing Services if you wish to discover what your strengths and limitations are. As a result, begin preparing yourself to complete the questionnaires, even if doing so is challenging. Remember that the examinations will be useless if you do not answer honestly and to the best of your ability.

Before coming to the psychological testing appointment you may:

Check to see if your insurance coverage covers the services.
Make sure you know when you are scheduled to come in.
Set a reminder for your testing appointment.

Psychotherapists employ medical testing in the same way that primary care doctors use to come up with solutions to problems to produce positive outcomes. They can help with various mental health, emotional, cognitive, and undesirable behaviours. Finding a trained, certified mental health nurse with whom you are familiar is the most pleasing thing you would do to begin your rehabilitation path.

Since each individual is different, each psychological examination will be tailored to that patient’s specific requirements. Psychological testing services would appear intimidating, yet it is an essential tool in determining the causative factors of your problem and, as a result, the appropriate course of therapy. We attempt to make psychological evaluations as best as possible at the health care facility. Our professionals are here to assist you, and all these exams are only the beginning. Please call us as soon as possible to schedule a meeting and begin your psychiatric treatment adventure.

Career Stress and Burnout

People who cannot cope with working stress are at significant risk of burnout. Burnout may leave individuals exhausted and unable to cope with life’s obligations.

Burnout can result from a wide range of physical and mental issues. Burnout, if left untreated, can make it hard for a person to operate successfully in their everyday life.

What Exactly Is Burnout?

Burnout is a phrase coined in 1974 by Herbert Freudenberger in his book. He initially described burnout as “the loss of motivation or drive, particularly when one’s dedication to a relationship or cause fails to achieve the intended outcomes.”

Burnout is a reaction to long-term or chronic job stress that is characterized by three major dimensions:

Weariness
Cynicism (lack of affiliation with the job)
Emotions of diminished professional abilities

Burnout occurs when you are fatigued; begin to dislike your job and start feeling less capable at work.

The stress or anxiety that leads to burnout can be attributed to your work, but your whole lifestyle can also contribute to this stress. Personality qualities and cognitive patterns like perfectionism and pessimism can also play a role.

The majority of individuals spend the majority of their time at work. And if you despise your job, dread coming to work, and get no joy from what you do, it may have a significant impact on your life.

Signs and Symptoms

While burnout is not a diagnosable psychological condition, it is a case that would be handled seriously.

Outlined are some of the most prevalent symptoms of career stress and burnout:

Apathy toward work-related activities: Individuals suffering from burnout regard their professions as increasingly stressful and irritating. They may become cynical about their working environment and coworkers. They can also become emotionally detached from their work and numb to it.

Physical symptoms: Chronic stress can cause physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, and digestive problems.

Emotional exhaustion: People burn out, feel drained, unable to cope, and tired. They frequently lack the energy to complete their tasks.

Reduced performance: Burnout primarily impacts day-to-day responsibilities at work—or home if one’s primary job entails caring for family members. Individuals suffering from burnout have a terrible attitude about tasks. They will have trouble concentrating and are frequently lacking in inventiveness.

It exhibits some of the same symptoms as mental health problems such as depression. Individuals suffering from depression have terrible sensations and thoughts about many parts of their lives, not just work.

Depression symptoms might include a loss of interest in activities, feelings of hopelessness, cognitive and bodily problems, and suicidal ideation.

The Risk Factors

Burnout is not usually the result of a high-stress job. If stress is adequately controlled, there may be no adverse consequences.

However, some people (and those in specific jobs) are at an enormous risk than others. According to the National Physician Depression, Burnout, and Suicide Report, 44% of physicians suffer burnout.

Individuals with specific personality traits and lifestyle factors are more likely to burn out due to their hefty workloads.

It’s not just health workers who are suffering from burnout. Individuals in every industry and at every level are at risk. Work Employee burnout has five significant reasons, according to a Gallup survey.

Unreasonable time constraints: Employees who report having enough time to complete their tasks are 70% less likely to have high burnout. Individuals who cannot get more time, such as firefighters and paramedics, are more likely to experience burnout.

Communication gap and assistance: Manager assistance provides a psychological barrier against stress. Employees who feel warmly supported by their manager are 70% less likely to burn out regularly.

Uncertainty about one’s role: Only 60% of employees understand what is expected. Employees may grow fatigued simply attempting to figure out what they are expected to be doing when goals are like moving targets.

The workload is unmanageable: Even the most enthusiastic employees will feel despondent when their task becomes unbearable. Overwhelming feelings can rapidly lead to burnout.

Unjust treatment: Employees who believe they are being unfairly treated at work are 2.3 times more likely to get burned out. Favoritism, unfair compensation, and abuse by a coworker are all examples of unfair treatment.

Prevention and Treatment

Although the term “burnout” implies a permanent state, it is not. If a person is feeling burned out, they may need to modify their work environment.

Approaching the human resources department or speaking with a supervisor about workplace difficulties may be beneficial if they develop a healthy work environment.

A change in role or a new job may be required in some circumstances to curb burnout. It can also be beneficial to develop specific strategies for dealing with stress.

Self-care practices such as eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, and practicing healthy sleeping habits may help mitigate some of the impacts of high-stress work.

A vacation may also provide some reprieve, but a few days away from the office will not be enough to help you overcome burnout. Regularly scheduled work breaks and daily renewal activities can be pretty beneficial in combating burnout.

Professional help is needed if you’re feeling burnout and can’t figure out how to get out of it or if you suspect you have a mental health issue like depression or an anxiety disorder.

Having therapy or consultation with a mental health professional may be what you haven’t tried of late and can help you curb burnout.

Languishing, Try Behavioral Activation

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Behavioral Activation and Anxiety

growth and anxiety can help you feel better.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health problems in the United States, with around one-third of people reporting some form of anxiety.

When left untreated, anxiety can lead to many problems, including relationship issues, poor job performance, substance abuse, and more.

Luckily, some new research suggests that behavioral activation —a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)—may help people with anxiety find productive ways to manage their negative emotions and feel more in control of their lives.

Here’s what you need to know about behavioral activation and how it helps with anxiety.

What is Behavioral Activation?

Behavioral activation is a treatment for depression and anxiety that encourages patients to change their emotions. It is used as an alternative to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which often focuses on challenging negative or distorted thoughts through practice.

BA was developed by clinical psychologist Steven C. Hayes, who treats people with various conditions at his private practice. But, Hayes said, “we’re not just trying to think our way out of things; behavior matters.”

You have to act your way into new ways of thinking about yourself and feeling about yourself. This approach can be beneficial when someone has become trapped in destructive thought patterns and struggles with low self-esteem.

For example, one common scenario might involve someone avoiding interactions because they anticipate rejection. They aren’t able to get out of bed because they don’t want anyone judging them; they spend more time doing housework than engaging friends because it gives them something productive to do; and so on.

Behavioral Activation in Combating Anxiety

There are several theories on how to best approach anxiety. However, clinical treatment through counseling and medication may be required for those who suffer from a generalized, long-term anxiety disorder (like PTSD or GAD).

However, for people struggling with situational anxiety—that is, when they experience high levels of anxiety in a particular situation (for example, social situations, test-taking, flying)—it can be helpful to learn some effective coping strategies. This could include behavioral activation techniques to combat anxiety.

One strategy that can be helpful for those experiencing situational anxiety is behavioral activation. For example, many anxious people don’t want to leave their homes or interact with others because they think these situations will make them more anxious.

But in fact, there is some evidence to suggest that being around others and doing activities you enjoy may reduce your level of anxiety overall. There’s a lot of evidence that behavioral activation (BA) is an effective treatment for anxiety and depression therapy.

BA tries to help people identify activities that will make them feel happy and then suggests they do more of those things to combat their negative emotions. It seems like common sense: we all know that some activities can make us feel better when we’re down. So why not try to do more of those? That’s referred to as behavioral activation.

Creating an Anxiety Plan

How do you create an anxiety plan? First, start by figuring out what causes your anxiety. Is it a particular situation, place, or person? Once you’ve pinpointed what triggers your anxiety, you can start to create solutions.

While some people work more effectively under pressure, others have no choice but to prepare ahead of time. The key is to create a plan that works for you and gives you confidence.

The most important thing is to find something that helps reduce your fears and then stick with it! You should also seek support from family members or friends who love and care about you so they can encourage you along the way.

Changing Your Thoughts

Psychologists have recently discovered that one of the most powerful ways to overcome anxiety is simply changing your thoughts.

For example, if you constantly worry about an upcoming job interview, ask yourself: What’s the worst outcome for my interview? Perhaps not getting hired or getting hired and failing spectacularly? Most people realize that it’s far better to get hired and fail than not get hired at all.

Changing your thought patterns with the help of behavioral activation by using positive affirmations can help eliminate feelings of fear and anxiety—making it easier to face new situations and handle complex tasks.

Understanding Feelings

Psychologists typically divide feelings into two categories: emotions and moods. Emotions are intense feelings that can be defined, while moods are more subtle and longer-lasting. Feelings vary in intensity, frequency, and duration.

Feeling fearful one day does not necessarily mean you have clinical anxiety; most people will feel sad from time to time, but if these feelings don’t go away and start interfering with your work or relationships, it may be worth talking to a psychologist about treatment options.

In addition to medication, psychologists offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety disorders—the gold standard of treatment—and other therapies such as hypnosis, counseling, and mindfulness.

Ending Bad Habits

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We all have bad habits we would be happy to break. And we all have ways we beat ourselves up when they start to creep back in. One approach that can help you stop negative habits or start positive ones is behavioral activation (BA).

It is an evidence-based treatment method that focuses on changing behaviors and situations linked to depression, anxiety, stress, and other mental health conditions.

It identifies what triggers your discomfort or symptoms turning those triggers into motivators for good behavior…instead of excuses for avoiding bad behavior. In other words, figuring out what makes you feel better and then doing more of it.

Wrap up

Anxiety isn’t something that can be cured, per se. But by identifying and targeting triggers, as well as practicing mindfulness and other skills (more on these in a bit), you can ease your stress levels and get back to enjoying life.

It won’t happen overnight, but it can—and will—happen. Behavioral activation can help especially combined with treatment through talking therapies or alternative treatments like acupuncture or yoga, which can help people with anxiety feel calmer and happier in their daily lives.