Blog

Dealing with Grief and Loss

By Khalia Graham, BSW Intern

March 3rd , 2025

Grief is a complex combination of feelings that occur after a significant loss - deep sadness, mental anguish, and/or emotional distress. Grief is most commonly known to be experienced after the death of a loved one. However, people can experience grief over any major loss that changes the course of their lives - including a relationship, a home, or a job. It is important to remember that grief is not a linear process and the timeline for processing a loss looks different for everyone. There are five stages of grief:

1.) Denial – feeling numb is common in the early days after a loss, and denial is a coping mechanism used to avoid the intensity of the situation by pretending it hasn’t truly happened.

2.) Anger – feelings of anger arise to mask the emotions one feels from the loss and may be redirected at other people, oneself, or even the person who has passed away.

3.) Bargaining – statements of “what if” and “if only” are common as feelings of hopelessness overcome a person.

4.) Depression – this stage is almost inevitable following a loss and can last over many months or even years, often coming in waves.

5.) Acceptance – during this final stage, the pain eases and it becomes possible to accept the loss.

Tips to cope with grief include:

 Allowing yourself to acknowledge your emotions and avoiding suppressing your feelings, keeping in mind that this is all a part of the healing process.

 Reach out for support from friends, loved ones, or a therapist.

 Join a support group.

 Honor memories of your loved one.

 Be patient with yourself and remember that healing takes time.

Tips to help someone else deal with grief are listening and allowing them to express their emotions, validating their emotions, offering help with tasks such as childcare, meals, or housework, and encouraging them to seek professional help if necessary.

If you are struggling with grief and need support, please reach out to us. We will match you with a licensed therapist that can help you navigate the grieving process and reach a point of healing.

The Season for Self-Love 

By Olivia Reuss

2/9/25

February is typically seen as the season for celebrating romantic relationships. While it’s great to celebrate your love for others, it’s also important to take time to appreciate yourself. 

What is Self-Love?

Self-love isn't about being narcissistic or overly self-absorbed. Instead, it is about recognizing your inherent worth as a person and accepting yourself, flaws and all. It’s about having a healthy relationship with yourself, understanding your needs, and setting boundaries that honor your emotions, time, and energy.

Why is Self-Love Important?

1. Mental Health: Self-love allows you to foster a positive mindset. The more we engage in self-love, the better we can handle stress and negative emotions.
   
   

2. Physical Health: When you love yourself, you are more likely to make healthier choices. Taking care of your body is a key part of self-love.
   
   

3. Healthy Relationships: Self-love helps you establish healthy boundaries. When you know and honor your worth, you are better able to form balanced, respectful relationships.
   
   

4. Resilience: When life throws curveballs, self-love helps build resilience. It reminds you that setbacks don’t define you and that you are deserving of healing and growth.
   
   

6 Tips for Cultivating Self-Love Through Self-Care

1. Practice Mindful Meditation or Journaling Take some time each day to check in with your thoughts and feelings. Meditation and journaling are great tools for quieting the mind and cultivating awareness. Through these practices, you can gain clarity, reduce anxiety, and develop greater self-acceptance.

Tip: Start small with five-minute meditation sessions or a gratitude journal where you jot down three things you’re thankful for each day.

2. Prioritize Your Needs Self-love means acknowledging your own needs—whether they’re emotional, physical, or mental—and ensuring you meet them. Whether it’s taking a break, saying no to an extra commitment, or treating yourself to a relaxing evening, self-love involves making your well-being a priority.

Tip: Create a list of your needs, and make sure you’re addressing at least one each day.

3. Set Healthy Boundaries Saying “no” is one of the most powerful ways to practice self-love. Setting boundaries with others (and yourself) helps you protect your time, energy, and emotional health. You don’t have to justify your boundaries—they’re there to protect your mental space.

Tip: Identify areas in your life where you feel overwhelmed or drained and take small steps to create boundaries. You can start by scheduling “me-time” or communicating openly with others about your limits.

4. Take Care of Your Body Self-love includes caring for your physical well-being. This means getting enough sleep, eating nourishing foods, and staying active. Exercise isn’t just about fitness—it’s about honoring your body and the energy it needs to thrive. You deserve to feel strong and vibrant!

Tip: Make self-care rituals part of your daily routine. This could be a morning stretch, drinking enough water throughout the day, or taking a walk in nature.

5. Engage in Positive Self-Talk Our inner dialogue can significantly impact how we feel about ourselves. Challenge negative self-talk and replace it with affirmations that empower you. Remind yourself of your strengths, your accomplishments, and your worth.

Tip: Every time you catch yourself thinking negatively, pause and reframe the thought into a positive one. For example, change “I’m not good enough” to “I am enough, just as I am.”

6. Seek Support When Needed While self-love is about doing things for yourself, it’s also okay to reach out for support when you need it. A counselor or support group can provide guidance when you’re struggling to build self-love on your own.

Tip: If you’re feeling overwhelmed by negative thoughts or emotions, consider reaching out to a mental health professional who can help you develop healthy coping strategies and self-compassion.

Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s a necessary practice for leading a fulfilling and balanced life.Start small, be gentle with yourself, and over time, you’ll build a strong foundation of self-love that will positively impact every aspect of your life.

If you’re interested in exploring ways to deepen your self-love or would like guidance on personal growth, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you on your journey toward greater self-care and emotional well-being.

Veteran Domestic Violence Awareness & 

Key Strategies for Healing and Support

By Wolph A Clark, MSW Intern

10/25/24

October is Domestic Awareness Month, and all people deserve to be safe in their relationships. One group of people that are disproportionately affected by intimate partner violence (IPV) are Veterans. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that 13-58% of female veterans experience IPV, a rate significantly higher than that of civilian women. Male veterans, too, are more likely to be perpetrators of domestic violence, with estimates suggesting

up to one-third of veterans are involved in IPV. Several factors contribute to this increased risk, including the psychological and emotional toll of combat, challenges in adjusting to civilian life, and untreated mental health conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and substance use disorders.

PTSD plays a critical role in the link between veterans and IPV. Veterans who have PTSD are two to three times more likely to engage in IPV due to increased aggression, irritability, and difficulty with emotional regulation. Combat experiences can exacerbate feelings of frustration and hyperarousal, making it challenging for veterans to manage their emotions in stressful domestic situations. Additionally, veterans with co-occurring mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are at a higher risk of violent behavior toward their partners. These conditions often go together with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), further complicating emotional regulation and increasing the likelihood of aggression.

Substance abuse is also prevalent among veterans, particularly those who have PTSD and other mental health conditions. Veterans with substance use disorders are almost four times more likely to commit IPV, as alcohol and drug misuse can lower inhibitions, escalate tensions, and contribute to violent outbursts. The combination of PTSD, mental health issues, and substance abuse creates a cycle of violence that is difficult to break without proper intervention. Veterans may face significant barriers when it comes to seeking help for domestic violence or mental health issues. Stigma, fear of legal repercussions, and concerns about losing VA benefits are common reasons for not seeking assistance. Female veterans encounter unique challenges in disclosing IPV, as they often lack access to resources tailored specifically to women within the VA system.

Recognizing the Signs of Domestic Violence

Recognizing domestic violence within the veteran community is essential for early intervention and support. Domestic violence can manifest in various ways, including physical, emotional, behavioral, and situational signs. Identifying these signs can help those experiencing IPV, clinicians, family members, and friends take appropriate action.

• Physical signs of domestic violence may include unexplained injuries such as bruises, cuts, or signs of physical restraint. Victims may frequently visit medical providers but are reluctant to explain the actual cause of their injuries. They may also wear long sleeves or sunglasses to hide visible injuries, even when it is inappropriate for the weather.  

• Emotional and behavioral signs are equally telling. Victims of domestic violence often appear unusually anxious, fearful, or on edge, particularly around their partner. They may exhibit low self-esteem or feelings of helplessness, worthlessness, or hopelessness. Social withdrawal is standard, with victims distancing themselves from family, friends, and social activities. Veterans with PTSD may exhibit hypervigilance or appear to be walking on eggshells around their partner, as well as sudden mood changes, like irritability, depression, or anger. 

•  Changes in work or school performance can also be indicators of domestic violence. Victims may frequently miss work or school due to injuries or emotional stress, leading to decreased productivity or focus. A once-confident individual may suddenly appear insecure or overly apologetic.

•  Domestic violence often involves control and manipulation by the abuser. An overly controlling partner may insist on knowing their partner's every move, monitoring their communication, and restricting access to finances or basic needs. Victims may become dependent on their partner for transportation, money, or healthcare decisions, further isolating them from support.

How Mental Health Counseling Can Help

We are here for those going through IPV. Mental health counseling is an essential tool in addressing domestic violence within the veteran community.

For survivors of domestic violence

Counseling offers emotional healing, support, and practical tools for coping with trauma. Trauma-informed care provides a safe environment for survivors to process their experiences without fear of judgment or re-traumatization. Through therapy, survivors can learn healthy coping mechanisms such as mindfulness, grounding techniques, and emotional regulation skills to manage their pain and fear. Counseling also empowers survivors to rebuild their self-esteem, set personal boundaries, and regain control over their lives.

Mental health counseling also addresses the co-occurring mental health conditions often experienced by survivors, including PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and trauma-focused CBT are effective in helping survivors reframe negative thoughts, address avoidance behaviors, and process traumatic memories in a safe and structured way. For those who have developed substance use disorders as a coping mechanism, integrated treatment for both substance abuse and trauma is crucial in breaking the cycle of violence.

Counselors play an essential role in helping survivors develop safety plans to protect themselves and their children from future violence. These plans may include identifying safe places, preparing emergency contacts, and organizing important documents. Additionally, mental health professionals can connect survivors with resources such as shelters, legal aid, support groups, and financial assistance, guiding them through complex systems like the VA or

family court. 

For perpetrators of domestic violence

Mental health counseling focuses on addressing underlying mental health issues, changing violent behaviors, and promoting accountability. Veterans who perpetrate IPV often do so because of untreated PTSD, depression, or TBI. Through counseling, veterans can learn to manage their emotions, reduce impulsive reactions, and express frustration nonviolently. Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) effectively teach

perpetrators emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and healthier communication skills.

Substance abuse treatment is a critical component of counseling for perpetrators, as many individuals who engage in domestic violence also struggle with alcohol or drug misuse.  Programs like the Strength at Home initiative offer veterans integrated treatment for both substances use disorders and IPV, helping to reduce violent behaviors and reliance on substances as a coping mechanism. Couples affected by domestic violence may benefit from therapy once the immediate threat of violence has passed and both partners are committed to change. Counseling can help couples rebuild trust, improve communication, and set healthy boundaries. Trauma-informed couples therapy can also address the harm caused by abuse, promoting healing and forgiveness on both sides.

Though the statistics and plans can seem overwhelming, there is hope for healing and moving forward from the experience of IPV. 

Reach out today to receive the support you need if you are experiencing IPV.

The Benefits of Seeking Therapy

By Amanda Morgan, LCSW

9/30/24

In a fast-paced world where stress, uncertainty, and emotional challenges can feel overwhelming, therapy offers a safe space for individuals to explore their inner world, heal from past wounds, and find healthier ways to navigate life. While there’s often stigma or misconceptions around seeking professional help, therapy can be a transformative experience for people from all walks of life.

1. Emotional Support and Validation
Therapy provides a unique opportunity to be heard without judgment. For many, it’s a relief to speak openly about their thoughts and feelings with someone who listens deeply and offers validation. This kind of support can help individuals feel less isolated and better understood.

2. Managing Stress and Anxiety
Life’s pressures—whether from work, family, or personal struggles—can lead to chronic stress and anxiety. Therapy can equip individuals with effective coping strategies, relaxation techniques, and a healthier mindset to manage these challenges. Over time, people often report feeling more in control of their emotions and better able to handle stressors.

3. Healing Past Trauma
Many people carry unresolved trauma that affects their daily lives, relationships, and self-worth. Therapy offers a space to safely process these experiences, release pain, and find new ways of relating to oneself and the world. For trauma survivors, this healing journey can lead to greater emotional freedom and resilience.

4. Improved Relationships
One of the most significant benefits of therapy is improved relationships with others. Whether it's couples therapy, family therapy, or individual sessions focused on interpersonal dynamics, therapy can help people communicate more effectively, set boundaries, and build healthier connections with loved ones.

5. Personal Growth and Self-Understanding
Therapy isn’t just about addressing problems—it’s also a path to self-discovery and growth. Through reflection and guided conversations, individuals can gain deeper insights into their patterns of thinking, behaving, and feeling. This increased self-awareness often leads to more intentional decision-making, greater self-compassion, and a stronger sense of purpose.

6. Mental Health Maintenance
Just as people visit the doctor for physical health check-ups, therapy can serve as regular mental health maintenance. It allows individuals to stay in tune with their mental and emotional well-being, preventing issues from escalating into crises. By cultivating mindfulness and emotional intelligence, therapy supports long-term mental health and balance.

7. Empowerment and Resilience
At its core, therapy is about empowering individuals to navigate life with greater strength, resilience, and hope. Whether dealing with chronic mental health conditions or simply seeking clarity and support during tough times, therapy helps people build the inner tools necessary to thrive.

Seeking therapy is an act of courage and self-care. It’s an investment in your emotional and mental well-being that can enhance every area of your life. By providing support, tools for change, and a deeper understanding of yourself, therapy offers the opportunity to heal, grow, and lead a more fulfilling life.

Supporting Individuals with Sensory Processing Disorder 

By Amanda Morgan, LCSW, Parent of, & Individual Living with SPD

3/25/24

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition that affects how the nervous system processes sensory information, leading to difficulties in effectively responding to stimuli from the environment. Individuals with SPD may experience hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory input, impacting their daily functioning and quality of life. Understanding and supporting someone with SPD is crucial for fostering their well-being and helping them thrive in various environments. Let's explore what SPD is, its common symptoms, and practical strategies for providing support.

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?

Sensory Processing Disorder is a neurological condition where the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes through the senses. This can include sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, and even movement. While SPD is not officially recognized as a standalone disorder in some diagnostic manuals, it is often seen in individuals with conditions like autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and delayed development.

Common Symptoms of Sensory Processing Disorder:

• Overreactivity or Underreactivity to Sensory Input: Individuals may be extremely sensitive to certain sensory stimuli (hypersensitivity) or may not respond to stimuli as expected (hyposensitivity).

• Sensory Seeking or Avoidance Behaviors: Some individuals may seek out intense sensory experiences, while others may avoid certain sensations altogether.

• Difficulty with Motor Skills: SPD can impact fine and gross motor skills, leading to challenges in coordination, balance, and motor planning.

• Emotional Regulation Issues: Sensory overload or discomfort can trigger emotional responses such as anxiety, frustration, or meltdowns.

• Difficulty with Transitions: Changes in routine or environment can be particularly challenging for individuals with SPD.

How to Support Someone with Sensory Processing Disorder:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about SPD and how it manifests in individuals. Understanding the specific sensory challenges faced by the person you're supporting is key to providing effective assistance.

• Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment: Minimize sensory triggers by controlling lighting, noise levels, and visual clutter. Provide sensory tools like weighted blankets, fidget toys, or noise-canceling headphones.

• Establish Predictable Routines: Consistent routines can help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of stability for individuals with SPD.

• Respect Sensory Preferences: Be mindful of the person's sensory preferences and aversions. Allow them choices whenever possible and respect their need for space or breaks.

• Use Visual Supports: Visual schedules, timers, and social stories can help individuals with SPD anticipate and understand upcoming events or transitions.

• Offer Supportive Strategies: Teach coping strategies such as deep breathing, mindfulness exercises, or sensory breaks to help regulate emotions and sensory input.

• Encourage Self-Advocacy: Help the individual develop self-awareness and advocate for their sensory needs in different environments.

Supporting someone with Sensory Processing Disorder requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to adapt to their unique sensory needs. By creating a sensory-friendly environment, providing appropriate tools and strategies, and fostering a supportive and inclusive atmosphere, we can empower individuals with SPD to navigate the world more comfortably and confidently. Let's work together to raise awareness and create inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive, regardless of their sensory differences.  

If you or someone you love struggles with some of the things listed here, please reach out for support.  We provide individual consultations as well as ongoing therapy to help individual learn to navigate life more comfortably. 

The Healing Power of Intentional Fresh Air: 

Nurturing Physical & Mental Well-Being

2/24/24

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it's easy to get caught up in a whirlwind of responsibilities and stressors, often neglecting our basic need for fresh air and connection with nature. However, carving out intentional time to breathe in the crisp, clean air outdoors can have profound benefits for both our physical and mental well-being.

Physically, immersing ourselves in fresh air allows our bodies to intake oxygen-rich air, which is essential for optimal functioning of our organs and tissues. Deep breathing outdoors helps to oxygenate our blood, improving circulation and boosting energy levels. Additionally, exposure to sunlight during outdoor activities stimulates the production of vitamin D, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system.

On a mental and emotional level, spending time in nature and breathing in fresh air has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind. The tranquility of natural surroundings provides a welcome respite from the noise and distractions of everyday life, allowing us to quiet our racing thoughts and find inner peace. Fresh air also contains negative ions, which have been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Taking a moment to pause and breathe deeply amidst nature can serve as a powerful form of mindfulness practice, grounding us in the present moment and fostering a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the beauty of the natural world.

Moreover, intentional fresh air breathing offers a much-needed break from the sedentary lifestyle that many of us lead, especially in today's digital age.   Many of us use social media and/or screens as a way to unwind from the day.  We lay in bed and scroll through social media accounts, or relax on the sofa watching some TV.  Although these are forms of relaxing, they aren't necessarily giving us a break from screens.   Whether it's going for a leisurely walk in the park, hiking along forest trails, or simply sitting on a bench and inhaling the scent of flowers in bloom, these outdoor activities encourage movement and physical activity, promoting cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. The gentle rhythm of walking combined with deep breathing creates a harmonious synergy between body and mind, leaving us feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Incorporating intentional time to breathe fresh air into our daily routines doesn't have to be a daunting task. It can be as simple as stepping outside for a few minutes during a lunch break, opening a window to let in a breeze while working or studying, or dedicating a weekend morning to explore nearby nature trails. By prioritizing this fundamental need for connection with the natural world, we can reap the myriad benefits for our physical, mental, and emotional well-being. So, the next time you feel overwhelmed or stressed, take a deep breath, step outside, and let the healing power of fresh air envelop you in its embrace. Your body and mind will thank you for it.

Understanding Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): 

Myths, Facts, and Coping Strategies

10.20.23

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, commonly known as OCD, is a mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, OCD is often misunderstood and stigmatized. In this blog, we will delve into the world of OCD, shedding light on what it is, debunking common myths, and providing coping strategies for individuals and their loved ones.

I. What is OCD?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a chronic mental health condition characterized by intrusive, distressing thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions). These compulsions are performed to reduce the anxiety associated with the obsessions. OCD can manifest in various forms, such as washing, checking, hoarding, or even pure obsessional OCD, where the obsessions are mainly in the form of distressing thoughts.

II. Common Myths and Misconceptions:

1. OCD is just about cleanliness: While cleanliness and hygiene can be a part of OCD for some individuals, it can manifest in numerous other ways. People with OCD may have obsessions about harm, symmetry, or orderliness, leading to compulsions that are not related to cleanliness.

2. OCD is a personality quirk: OCD is not a quirk or a personal preference. It is a mental health disorder rooted in the brain's structure and function.

3. People with OCD are simply seeking attention: This is a harmful misconception. People with OCD often go to great lengths to hide their symptoms due to shame and embarrassment.

4. OCD can be cured by willpower: Although willpower has a role in managing OCD, it is not the sole way to cure OCD.  It's a mental health condition that requires professional treatment and support, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Exposure & Response Prevention (ERP), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), distress tolerance skills, and in some cases, medication.

III. Coping Strategies for Individuals with OCD:

1. Seek professional help: If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of OCD, it's crucial to consult a mental health professional. A therapist or psychiatrist can help diagnose the condition and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and help you find relief.

2. Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness and meditation techniques can help individuals with OCD learn to tolerate the discomfort of obsessions without acting on compulsions. These techniques can be beneficial as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

3. Medication: In some cases, medication can be prescribed by a psychiatrist to help manage the symptoms of OCD.

4. Educate yourself: Understanding your condition is a vital part of managing it. Learn about OCD, its triggers, and its treatment options. Knowledge can empower you to better cope with your symptoms and help you realize you do not have to be alone in navigating OCD symptoms. 

IV. Coping Strategies for Loved Ones:

1. Be patient and understanding: Supporting someone with OCD can be challenging, but it's essential to be patient and empathetic. Avoid judgment and criticism.  Help them set goals and determine what they need to achieve the goals. 

2. Educate yourself: Just as individuals with OCD should educate themselves, so should their loved ones. Understanding the disorder can help you provide better support.

3. Encourage professional help: Encourage your loved one to seek professional treatment. Offer to help them find a therapist or psychiatrist if needed.  Sometimes going with them to a first appointment can be helpful to support them, or even help share the extent of OCD symptoms present in their life. 

4. Avoid enabling: While it's essential to be understanding, avoid participating in or enabling their compulsions. This can reinforce the cycle of OCD.

Conclusion:

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder is a challenging condition, but with the right treatment and support, individuals with OCD can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives. By dispelling myths, seeking professional help, and employing coping strategies, both those with OCD and their loved ones can work together to improve their well-being and quality of life. Remember, you are not alone, and there is hope for a peaceful future.  

If you think OCD may apply to you or a loved one and you are ready for support, please reach out to us.  We are happy to support you on your journey. 

Navigating the Depths of Burnout: Understanding, Preventing, and Overcoming

Written with thoughts of Grace for yourself-Amanda Morgan, LCSW

8.17.23

Over the past few months, Jordan and I have been working diligently in helping various organizations navigate what it means to be mentally well.  One of the areas we are focusing on is Burnout!  We are aiming to share more on how to prevent it, what it looks/feels like, and how to navigate experiencing burnout.  We have been offering large group support meetings, educational opportunities, as well as smaller individual wellness check ins to help individuals reduce burn out and learn interventions to healthily manage life stressors.  

In today's fast-paced world, where we juggle multiple responsibilities, pursue ambitious goals, and connect through various digital channels, burnout has become an all-too-familiar adversary. Burnout isn't just a buzzword; it's a real and serious condition that affects countless individuals across the globe and is on the rise!  Burnout can further create extensive mental health concerns in individuals if left untreated.  In this blog, we'll delve into just some information about burnout: what it is, how it manifests, ways to prevent it, and strategies to overcome it.  

Defining Burnout: Beyond Just Stress

Burnout is more than just feeling stressed or tired. It's a state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion, often accompanied by feelings of cynicism and detachment from work or other responsibilities. This condition can lead to reduced performance, feelings of ineffectiveness, and even physical health problems.

Recognizing the Signs of Burnout-what to look for:

• Physical Exhaustion: Feeling constantly drained, lacking energy, and experiencing unexplained physical symptoms like headaches and stomach issues.

• Emotional Exhaustion: Feeling emotionally drained, overwhelmed, and detached from others, leading to irritability, mood swings, and a sense of hopelessness.

• Reduced Performance: Struggling to concentrate, accomplish tasks, and meet deadlines, despite putting in the effort.

• Cynicism and Detachment: Developing a negative and cynical attitude toward work, relationships, and life in general, often accompanied by a sense of isolation.

• Lack of Satisfaction: Feeling unfulfilled and dissatisfied, even when achieving goals or milestones.

Preventing Burnout: Self-Care and Beyond:

• Set Boundaries: Learn to say no when you're overwhelmed. Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life is essential.  We understand this is not always an easy thing to do, so we support you in discussing how to do this further during sessions. 

• Prioritize Self-Care: Engage in activities that rejuvenate you – whether it's exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing hobbies.

• Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques can help you stay present and manage stress more effectively.

• Time Management: Break tasks into manageable chunks and create a balanced schedule that includes breaks and downtime.  Create a schedule if you need to and learn to follow it. 

• Seek Support: Don't hesitate to talk to friends, family, or a mental health professional if you're feeling overwhelmed.

• Please note that this list could be much longer.  Each individual is faced with learning and determining what will work best for them.  We aim to support you and help you along in that journey of learning about yourself care needs. 

Overcoming Burnout: A Journey to Renewal:

If you find yourself already deep in the throes of burnout, remember that recovery is possible:

• Acknowledge Your Feelings: Admit that you're struggling and recognize that it's okay to ask for help.

• Rest and Recharge: Take time off to disconnect from your routine and focus on self-care.  This doesn't have to be time away from work or a specific role or duty you fill.  Keep in mind there are many ways to rest and recharge. 

• Reflect and Reevaluate: Consider the factors contributing to your burnout. Are there changes you can make in your work or personal life to alleviate some of the stressors?

• Seek Professional Help: A therapist or counselor can provide guidance and strategies for managing burnout.

• Gradual Return: When you're ready to return to your responsibilities, do so gradually. Don't rush back into a full workload.

In a society that often glorifies hustle and constant productivity, burnout has become an unfortunate consequence. It's crucial to recognize that our well-being is paramount, and burnout is not a sign of weakness, but rather a signal that something needs to change.  We are not robots.  That is a fact.  However, even if we were robots, robots still need maintenance, time in the shop for oil or other adjustments to keep running smoothly!  By understanding the signs, practicing preventive measures, and seeking help when needed, we can navigate the turbulent waters of burnout and find a path to renewal and well-being. Remember, you are not alone on this journey.  If you do find that you need help addressing any of these items listed above, please reach out to us.  We are happy to help and passionate about getting you the care you need.  

Please keep an eye out for an upcoming community event we will be hosting on Sept 19th at 5pm to talk a little bit more about these factors! 

What is Sensory Processing Disorder?  

Compassionately Written By Amanda Morgan, LCSW

7.22.23  

Have you ever felt overwhelmed or irritated by the stimuli around you?  Chances are that your nervous system is being overworked!  Usually our bodies are able to regulate these experiences.  For some individuals, this feeling happens more often and they may need help learning how to regulate their nervous system.  

Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), also known as Sensory Integration Disorder or Sensory Sensitivity, is a neurological condition that affects how the brain processes and responds to sensory information from the environment. Sensory input includes everything we perceive through our senses, such as sight, hearing, touch, taste, smell, as well as sensations related to balance and body awareness (vestibular and proprioceptive senses).

In a person with Sensory Processing Disorder, their nervous system may overreact, underreact, or have difficulty organizing sensory input, leading to atypical responses to everyday stimuli. This can result in various challenges and difficulties in daily life.

There are three main subtypes of SPD:

• Sensory Overresponsivity (Sensory Defensiveness): Individuals with this subtype are hypersensitive to sensory stimuli. They may react strongly or negatively to relatively mild sensory input, such as becoming overwhelmed by loud noises, being bothered by certain textures of clothing, or feeling discomfort in bright or crowded environments.

• Sensory Underresponsivity: In contrast to overresponsivity, people with sensory underresponsivity have a reduced response to sensory input. They may seem less aware of their surroundings, have delayed reactions to sensory stimuli, or show a lack of responsiveness to certain sensations.

• Sensory Seeking/Craving: This subtype involves seeking out intense sensory experiences. Individuals with sensory seeking tendencies may engage in repetitive or excessive behaviors to get the sensory input they desire. For example, they might spin, jump, or seek deep pressure by pressing against objects or people.

It's essential to understand that Sensory Processing Disorder is not a stand-alone medical diagnosis, according to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) used by clinicians and other healthcare providers. However, many professionals in occupational therapy, pediatrics, and related fields recognize SPD as a real and impactful condition that can significantly affect a person's daily functioning and quality of life.

SPD is often seen and recognized in children, but it can also persist into adulthood. It may coexist with other neurodevelopmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or developmental coordination disorder (DCD).

Occupational therapy, sensory integration therapy, and behavioral therapy consults may be used to help individuals with SPD manage sensory challenges, develop coping strategies, and improve their overall sensory processing abilities, leading to improved functioning and participation in daily activities. Early identification and appropriate support can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals with SPD, allowing them to thrive and engage more effectively with their environment.  

If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms, we want you to know that we are here to help and support you. We sincerely care about your well-being and would be more than happy to offer a consult to guide you through any environmental challenges you may be facing, as well as provide effective strategies for managing Sensory Processing Disorder. Your journey is important to us, and we are committed to making it as smooth as possible.