Tag: Depression

Alcohol Abuse: How Does It Affect Women on an Emotional Level? by Maya

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: Matthew Ball: Unsplash)

Alcohol addiction can affect every area of a person’s emotional health. They may start to feel a sense of shame with their friends and loved ones. It can also affect interpersonal relationships, as alcohol can instigate arguments with loved ones. Here are some important ways that alcohol addiction can affect your emotional health.

How Brain Affects The Brain

If you attend a women’s recovery center, you’ll learn the many ways that alcohol affects the brain. Firstly, alcohol travels to the brain through the bloodstream, where it affects the neurotransmitters (the parts of the brain responsible for sending chemical messages between brain cells). Over time and when alcohol abuse occurs, the balance of these neurotransmitters is affected, which can lead to emotional instability. It can also increase the level of dopamine, causing people to become addicted to these heightened feelings of euphoria. Sometimes, alcohol also numbs emotions as well as heightening them.

How Alcohol Affects Mental Health

When alcohol abuse occurs over a long period of time, then mental health is greatly affected especially if someone has a pre-existing condition. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, including:

● Depression

● Mania

● Psychosis

● Anxiety

If these symptoms become severe, then treatment from a mental health professional might be required.

As women are also more prone to depression than men, alcohol can exacerbate the symptoms of depression they might already be experiencing.

Factors That Determine How Alcohol Affects The Brain

Drinking alcohol to excess will negatively impact your mental health. However, other factors include your overall physical and mental health, the amount of alcohol you regularly drink, how often you consume alcohol, how long you’ve been drinking alcohol, the age you started drinking, and certain background factors like if there is a family history of alcohol abuse present.

The Emotional Impact Alcohol Has On The Body

Since alcohol can damage the emotional centers of the brain, it can lead to severe mood swings and erratic behaviour. It has other effects on the brain as well:

● Anger: women who struggle with alcohol abuse tend to struggle more with anger over time. It can be directed at anyone and anything, leading to the destruction of relationships with loved ones.

● Stress: alcohol abuse tends to be the result of relieving stress; this is compounded by the instead of stress during withdrawal symptoms.

● Anxiety: alcohol can be used to ease anxiety, but this only worsens anxiety over the long run. Women who abuse alcohol tend to have more panic attacks and experience generalized anxiety disorder.

● Depression: women who drink heavily tend to be more depressed than others and the risk of suicide increases.

● PTSD: women who have experienced trauma and use alcohol as a coping mechanism are at risk for developing full symptoms of PTSD. Alcohol can make traumatic memories worse and more intense, increasing their feelings of anxiety and fear.

It can be difficult to overcome these negative emotions on your own, but the good news is that you don’t have to. If you fear that you are addicted to alcohol and that it is making your emotional health worse, speak to a mental health professional as soon as possible.

This article was written by Maya.

5 Potent Paths for Prolonged Pain: Where to Turn When Life Feels Overbearing by Meghan Belnap

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

(image: free image)

Few trials in life are as demanding or relentless as those rooted in chronic physical pain or emotional trauma. For the young adult grappling with long-term afflictions, navigating through daily life can feel like traversing a battlefield with no map and an unreliable compass. 

Seeking Solace in Shared Stories 

When the weight of your struggle seems too heavy to bear, one of the most powerful avenues toward comfort and understanding is through storytelling and shared experiences. Whether you’re dealing with the debilitating effects of chronic illness, the fallout from trauma, or a blend of both, realizing you’re not alone can be profoundly liberating. 

Joining Support Groups 

Surrounding yourself with peers who understand firsthand the turmoil you face can provide a unique and invaluable support system. Consider reaching out to local or online support groups focused on your specific condition or trauma type. Here, you can share your story, glean insights from others’ journeys, and forge connections that transcend your individual pain. When you open up to a circle of understanding listeners, you’ll find that there is collective strength in solidarity. 

Creating Community 

Online forums and social media groups can serve as modern-day campfires, where you can find solidarity and support among those with similar struggles. From these virtual communities, real friendships and mentorships can blossom, creating a network that uplifts and sustains, even on the darkest of days. 

The Healing Art of Expression 

When words fail us, sometimes the canvas, the page, or the stage can amplify our voices. The creative process—whether through visual arts, music, writing, or performance—can be an outlet for the unspoken struggle within us. Engaging in art as a form of therapy not only provides an escape; it can also catalyse healing on a deeper, psychological level. Be careful though!

Exploring Therapy Through Art 

Art therapy, a form of psychotherapy that utilises creative means to express and process emotions, can be particularly powerful for young adults navigating complex internal landscapes. In a safe and guided environment, you can use artistic mediums to explore memories, release pent-up feelings, and discover new perspectives on your pain. 

Finding a Creative Community 

Being part of a creative community can cultivate a shared language around your pain that transcends traditional dialogue. Whether you join a local writers’ group, painting class, or theater troupe, immersing yourself in art alongside others can provide catharsis, camaraderie, and a fresh lens through which to comprehend and cope with your experiences. 

Professional Partners in Your Personal Battle 

With a struggle as intricate and unyielding as chronic pain or emotional trauma, it’s often necessary to call upon specialized professionals who can provide the knowledge and guidance you need to manage and, ideally, overcome your challenges. 

Therapy and Counselling 

The benefits of therapy and counselling for chronic pain and emotional trauma are well-documented. Contacting a skilled therapy center or counselling office can equip you with tools to address the cognitive and emotional aspects of your condition. Cognitive-behavioural therapy, in particular, has shown efficacy in helping individuals reframe their experiences and manage their pain more effectively. 

Seeking Medical Specialists 

Chronic pain often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Connecting with pain management specialists, physical therapists, or holistic health practitioners can lead to innovative treatments and strategies for maintaining your well-being. For those contending with trauma, seeking out psychiatrists, psychologists, or trauma-focused therapists can pave the way toward understanding and healing deep psychological wounds. 

Navigating Life With a Compassionate Guide 

The path to healing and resilience from long-term afflictions is rarely a straight line. Sometimes, having a life coach or mentor—a compassionate and knowledgeable guide—can help you chart a course that aligns with your personal goals and values. 

Life Coaches 

Life coaches work with clients to identify areas of dissatisfaction, set goals, and make strategic plans to achieve those objectives. While a therapist may look into your past to heal emotional wounds, a life coach can help you focus on the present and future, encouraging you to move forward with intention and purpose, despite your struggles. 

The Power of Mentorship 

Mentors, too, can be instrumental in guiding young adults through the labyrinth of chronic pain and trauma. Whether personal or professional, a mentor can offer support, share wisdom, and act as a role model for resilience. A mentor’s insight and perspective can prove invaluable as you learn to not just survive, but thrive, despite the weight you carry. 

Fortifying Your Internal and External Network 

In your darkest moments, it’s crucial to know that there are sources of strength—both internal and external—to which you can turn. These can be practices that you cultivate within, or connections you foster without, that fortify you against the relentlessness of your pain. 

The Power of Daily Practices 

Mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and relaxation techniques can serve as anchors in the storm of chronic pain or trauma. These practices help you tune into your body-mind connection, fostering a sense of control and calm that is often elusive. Establishing a consistent routine of these activities can help reduce stress, manage pain, and improve your overall quality of life. 

Building Resilient Relationships 

Cultivating healthy and supportive relationships can significantly bolster your resilience in the face of chronic pain or trauma. Whether it’s family, close friends, romantic partners, or even pets, the unconditional support and love found in strong relationships can act as a wellspring of hope and comfort. Nurturing these connections—through open communication, empathy, and mutual aid—can create a network of resources that sustain you through even the most challenging times. 

Finding your way through the intricate labyrinth of chronic pain and emotional trauma as a young adult can be daunting, but it’s not a lonely path. By reaching out to these potent sources of support and understanding, you can begin to unravel the complexities of your experiences and piece together a map that leads to a life defined not by your pain, but by your resilience and triumph. 

This article is by Meghan Belnap, freelance writer.

5 Ways You Can Transform Your Space for Personal Growth by Addy Reeds

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

(image: Roberto Nicks, Unsplash)

Have you ever noticed that your environment has a direct impact on your mood, productivity, and overall well-being? Creating a space that fosters personal growth and self-improvement is essential in creating a positive mindset and achieving your goals. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to transform your space for your personal development and positive mental health. In this post, we’ll explore some practical tips and tricks to help you create a space that nurtures personal growth and inner transformation.

Create Inspiring Zones

Designate specific areas in your space for different activities that align with your personal growth goals. Whether it’s a cozy reading nook, a meditation corner, or a home office for pursuing your passion projects, having designated spaces for different activities can help you stay focused and motivated. Personalize these zones with items that inspire you, such as motivational quotes, artwork, or plants that bring a sense of calm and positivity to the space. In addition to personalizing these spaces, incorporating elements of nature can further enhance your inspiring zones.

Natural light, for instance, not only improves mood but also increases productivity and creativity. If possible, position your dedicated spaces near windows or in well-lit areas. Adding indoor plants to these areas can also boost air quality while providing a tranquil and refreshing ambiance. For a more dynamic and versatile space, consider using movable dividers or curtains. These can help in delineating your zones without committing to a permanent layout, allowing you the flexibility to adapt your space as your personal growth journey evolves.

Incorporate Natural Elements

Bringing the outdoors in can have a profound impact on your mental and emotional well-being. Consider adding plants, natural light, and earthy tones to your space to create a soothing and grounding environment. Plants not only improve air quality but also have been shown to reduce stress and improve concentration. Open up your curtains during the day to let in natural light, or invest in a light therapy lamp to mimic the benefits of sunlight on cloudy days. Integrate water elements into your space to foster a tranquil and healing environment conducive to personal growth.

A small desktop fountain or an aquarium can introduce the calming sound of moving water, creating a serene atmosphere that enhances focus and mindfulness. Furthermore, selecting furnishings or decor made from natural materials like wood, stone, or bamboo can add texture and warmth to your surroundings, further rooting your space in the calming beauty of nature. These elements, when thoughtfully incorporated, work harmoniously to not only beautify your environment but also to support your mental and emotional well-being, making it a fertile ground for personal development and growth.

(image: free image)

Clear the Clutter

One of the most important steps in transforming your space for personal growth is decluttering. Clutter can create chaos and overwhelm, making it difficult to focus and be productive. Start by going through your belongings and getting rid of anything that no longer serves you or brings you joy. Consider donating items you no longer need or use, and organize the remaining items in a way that is visually appealing and functional. Investing in climate controlled storage can be a great option for storing seasonal items or sentimental belongings that you want to keep but don’t need on a daily basis.

After tackling the physical clutter, addressing digital clutter is equally critical in creating a space conducive to personal growth. Digital clutter, including unorganized files on your computer, unused apps on your phone, and a cluttered email inbox, can be just as overwhelming as physical clutter. Set aside some time to organize your digital life by deleting unnecessary files, unsubscribing from unwanted emails, and organizing your digital documents into clearly labeled folders. A clean digital workspace can significantly boost your focus and productivity, making it easier for you to concentrate on your personal growth goals.

Cultivate a Mindful Routine

Establishing a mindful routine in your daily life can help you stay grounded and present, even amidst the chaos of daily life. Create a morning and evening ritual that includes activities like meditation, journaling, yoga, or reading that nourish your mind, body, and soul. By dedicating time each day to self-care and reflection, you can cultivate a sense of inner peace and clarity that will support your personal growth journey. Your physical environment can play a crucial role in facilitating these routines, so make sure to curate your space with intention and purpose.

Embrace Minimalism

Simplifying your space and your life can have a transformative effect on your mental and emotional well-being. Embrace the principles of minimalism by focusing on quality over quantity, decluttering regularly, and being mindful of your consumption habits. By simplifying your surroundings, you can reduce distractions, increase your focus and productivity, and create a sense of calm and harmony in your space. Additionally, minimalism can cultivate a sense of gratitude and contentment, leading to greater self-awareness and personal growth.

Transforming your space for personal growth is a powerful way to create a supportive environment that nurtures your goals and aspirations. By decluttering, creating inspiring zones, incorporating natural elements, cultivating a mindful routine, and embracing minimalism, you can foster a sense of peace, balance, and inspiration in your space. Remember that personal growth is a journey, and your environment plays a crucial role in supporting your growth and self-improvement efforts. By taking intentional steps to create a space that aligns with your values and aspirations, you can create a sanctuary that empowers you to be your best self!

Addy Reeds is a freelance writer.

The Problem with Self-Medicating for Mental Health Issues by Maya

~ Eleanor Segall ~ Leave a comment

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Self-medicating to resolve mental health issues can sometimes leave the door open for substance abuse. A lot of information goes into choosing the right psychiatric medicine, and it is not something you should choose without medical input. To avoid this common problem, here are a few things you should know about self-medication.

The Consequences

Mental and physical health are a top priority for dual diagnosis treatment. Depression, mania, anxiety and irritability are only a few underlying mood changes that someone may experience. On their own, these mental health conditions are already hard to deal with. When those same conditions are combined with possible substance use disorders, it creates a co-occurring disorder. As an example, a person that is suffering from anxiety will try to self-medicate with unprescribed depressant drugs. These downers are sedatives by nature, and can quickly turn into an addiction for someone who becomes dependent on how it makes them feel. These should only be prescribed by doctors and taken with care.

The Truth

When you’re aware of the consequences of self-medication, the treatment steps become much clearer as a goal. Without professional experience, you can’t diagnose the original underlying cause of your condition. Not all symptoms are created equally, and there is no way for a patient to factor in how a specific medication will interact. Psychiatric medications should never be combined with alcohol, which includes things like cough medicines. Self-medication is not good for you and your body or mind should never be the experiment to find out what works.

Risky Behaviour

Mental health stigmas are one of the reasons that people are open to the dangers of self-medication. They feel that society has a judgmental attitude towards mental health prescriptions. With self-medication, these same prescriptions and their variants are purchased after going through multiple illegal hoops.

Besides the legal issues that could arise, there is a good chance that you are not treating the correct condition. Getting medication to treat depression is a terrible idea for someone that is suffering from bipolar disorder. And when you’re suffering from anxiety, the risk of overdose rises. There is no reason to risk the mental and physical consequences of self-medicating when there are more appropriate avenues to treat your condition. Please seek help from your psychiatrist or get referred to one.

Reaching A Personal Goal

When your health is in danger, think twice about going the risky route of self-medicating. It’s easy to use clouded judgement as an excuse for not getting better. No matter how you start, a healthy mind will always be positively fuelled by making healthy personal decisions. Sometimes, self medication can turn into addiction, which can wreak havoc on your body and mind. Reach for appropriate medical support to help support your recovery.

This article was written by Maya.

World Bipolar Day 2024

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

Today is World Bipolar Day and its a day where we raise awareness globally about living with bipolar disorder and battling social stigma

When I had my first depressive and manic episodes in 2004; I was a teenager and had no idea what was happening to me. I was helped not only by family support (my dad was diagnosed 4 years before me) but also by some amazing psychiatry health professionals (shout out to Dr Mark Berelowitz at the Royal Free and the team at the Priory North London).

Bipolar changed my life as a young person in both good and difficult ways. It made me stronger; more resilient and more empathetic. But it also made me depressed, manic; anxious and fearful. There were times where I was scared of my own brain and didn’t know where bipolar started and Eleanor ended.

20 years later, I take daily medicines and engage in therapy and I go long periods between episodes due to finding the right medications. This is my own experience and some people with bipolar rapid cycle or have more regular episodes.

Remember it’s ok not to be ok but reach for support and never give up. There is a future and a way forward. I will keep talking about bipolar to help others and raise vital awareness and funds for our condition. Please also support charities like Bipolar UK and have a read of my book Bring me to Light.

Teaching Resilience to Teen Girls in a Challenging World by Dr Hannah Yang.

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Yin Ge: Unsplash)

Today’s teen girls are growing up in a time that’s very different from when their parents and grandparents were young. They’re surrounded by new technology and social media that consistently exposes them to unrealistic beauty standards, cyberbullying and constant comparison to others.

This is why it’s so important for educators and parents to teach teen girls resilience – the ability to cope with challenges, bounce back from failures, and develop a strong sense of self-worth. This will then boost their mental health.

Challenges Encountered by Teenage Girls During Adolescence

The path to adulthood for adolescent girls is often lined with various challenges that significantly influence their development. While each girl’s experience is unique, there are some common struggles they frequently encounter:

Regular Use of Social Media

Building connections with family and friends is crucial for individuals of all ages. Social media has revolutionised the way we maintain these relationships, particularly over great distances. However, this constant online presence has a downside.

Many teenagers find themselves grappling with the pressure to maintain a certain persona on these platforms. Influenced by the glorified lives of young celebrities and popular influencers, as well as the need to keep pace with peers, this pressure can take a toll on their self-esteem and lead to a skewed perception of themselves.

Expectations From Friends and Family

The role of education in developing an individual’s skillset is undeniable. However, the stress of excelling academically, often influenced by lofty expectations within the family, can create significant strain on teenagers’ mental health. Comparing themselves to their peers, parents, or siblings sets high standards that can be challenging to meet.

If academic pressures aren’t managed well, they can harm a teenager’s self-esteem, particularly when they don’t meet their own expectations. It’s important for teenage girls to realise that their worth and intellect aren’t just measured by their grades or school performance.

Unhealthy Desires to Fit In

Despite the current portrayal of young online influencers as champions of self-expression, the struggle to conform to their ideals can be a significant issue for many teenage girls. Being part of a social circle can offer comfort and a feeling of belonging, which is often an essential aspect of their growth.

However, this pursuit of fitting in can lead girls to sacrifice their own beliefs and values. This may take various forms, such as changing their appearance significantly or adopting harmful eating habits, all in an effort to gain acceptance within a particular social group of peers.

The Importance of Resilience in Overcoming Challenges

Adolescent girls often draw strength from their relationships with friends and family. However, they frequently confront some of their toughest challenges when by themselves. This underscores the importance of resilience, giving them the ability to respond or recover from difficult situations.

Resilience goes beyond simply picking yourself up after setbacks. It encourages learning from these experiences and using them to build character, ultimately coming out stronger from going through various challenges in life.

Overcoming Personal Setbacks

In their formative years, young women often encounter various personal hurdles, including dealing with rejection, managing failures, or going through traumatic life events. If they don’t have strong coping mechanisms, these challenges can have lasting effects, shaping their self-confidence and future relationships.

Developing resilience equips these young women with the necessary skills to confront and overcome these challenging moments, growing stronger and more self-assured.

Learning From Success and Failure

Learning from life’s challenges doesn’t need to be a solo journey. Engaging with a mentor or participating in a support group can offer young girls new insights and different perspectives they might not have considered alone.

In situations that are more complicated, consulting with professionals in settings such as anxiety therapy or trauma therapy can provide a secure space for teens to work through their experiences effectively. These forms of support can also help young women build self-awareness of how their experiences may be having a lasting impact on their mental health while also discovering helpful coping mechanisms.

Improving Decision Making

Young individuals often possess a feeling of invulnerability and belief that they have all the answers. This combination of perceived invincibility and limited experience can result in hasty, impromptu choices, some with lasting impacts.

Teen girls who focus on building their resilience are more inclined to consider the long-term implications of their actions. They become experienced at evaluating the advantages and disadvantages beforehand, leading to wiser choices and avoiding potential mistakes.

Begin Cultivating Resilience Today

Developing resilience isn’t a one-off task – it’s an ongoing journey that demands persistence and dedication. By actively engaging in resilience-building activities and learning from both their successes and setbacks, young girls can cultivate effective coping mechanisms that will benefit them throughout their lives and help their mental health.

This article was written by Dr. Hannah Yang.

Visionary and healthcare entrepreneur by passion, Licensed Psychologist by training, Dr. Hannah Yang loves creating new possibilities in the world of mental health and wellness. Dr. Yang established Balanced Awakening in 2015 as a niche psychotherapy practice for women. As Balanced Awakening flourishes in Chicago, and soon Miami, she also loves to tap into her passion for design and Feng Shui to create fabulous environments for herself, her team, and clients.

5 Valid Reasons For Not Becoming a Mother

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 3 Comments

(image: Valentina Conde: Unsplash)

Women that don’t have children will often be on the receiving end of the big question of when they’re going to start having children. But, there are some women who simply don’t want to have children, and all of them are extremely valid. However, some don’t understand this concept, and if you’re wondering why someone would ever feel like that, you’ve come to the right place. While no woman should ever have to explain herself, we’re going to explore some of the reasons why a woman wouldn’t want to become a mother.

Health problems

For some women, the choice to have children may be taken away from them due to health concerns. It might be that they can’t have children because of their health, or it might even be that becoming pregnant could endanger their health. And, while there are many avenues when it comes to having children, such as surrogacy or adoption, some women would simply prefer to carry their child themselves. When this isn’t possible, they may then choose to not have children at all.

A painful history

Sadly, some women will have a difficult or painful history that might put them off the idea of having children all together. It might be that they’ve grown up with abusive parents and don’t want to make the same mistakes. Or, it could be that they’ve been through something extremely traumatic like rape, and would rather not bring that kind of history into their children’s lives, especially if they experienced a life long injury because of it. Instead, they may speak with a sexual offence solicitor and bring the offender to justice, and then move on with their lives.

They don’t want to bring a child into this world

Every person thinks about this at some point or another, and some women will choose not to bring a child into this world if they don’t believe they can provide them with a safe and happy upbringing. Others may look at the world, citing the sense of war, environment and poverty as a reason to question whether it’s a good idea to bring a child into this world.

Giving up a social life and less freedom

Another concern that some women have and choose not to give up is their social life or freedom to travel. While times have changed compared to, say, fifty years ago, it’s still common for the mother to stay at home with the child while the partner goes out to work. While it’s not impossible to have a social life when you’re a mother, it’s certainly not as easy. And, for some, this plus freedom to live the life they want to live is simply not something they want to give up.

Career priorities

Women have just as much of a right to have a successful career as men do, and some women choose to prioritise their career over having children. A career can sometimes take decades to climb and some don’t want to have time off to have children and juggle their work.

This article was written by a freelance writer.

What is Trichotillomania and How Can You Treat It?

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 4 Comments

(image: Unsplash: Tim Mossholder)

Trichotillomania is a condition where you have an uncontrollable urge to pull out your own hair. This is usually hair from your scalp but may also involve other areas of your body such as your eyelashes, eyebrows, genital area, legs, armpits, or face. Pulling out your hair may help to relieve feelings of stress or anxiety. It is also known as “trich” or TTM. 

What are the symptoms of trichotillomania?

Symptoms of trichotillomania vary from person to person. They may be automatic, meaning you pull out your hair without being aware that you are doing it; for example when you are studying, reading, or watching TV, or focused which involves hair-pulling on purpose to relieve anxiety or stress.

Hair-pulling is usually done in private, and many people with trichotillomania feel ashamed or embarrassed about their condition and try to hide it from others. It is commonly accompanied by other behaviours such as biting your nails, picking your skin, or chewing your lips or cheeks.

Symptoms of trichotillomania may include: 

  • Frequent, repeated episodes of pulling out hair from your scalp or other parts of your body 
  • Increased tension before pulling out your hair, followed by a feeling of pleasure or relief afterwards
  • Visible hair loss, thinning or bald areas on your scalp or other parts of your body
  • Irritated or sore skin around the area 
  • Damage to your hair follicles
  • Rituals such as pulling out specific types of hair, following the same steps or pulling out your hair in certain patterns
  • Playing with pulled-out hair, such as rubbing it across your lips or face, biting, chewing, or eating pulled-out hair
  • Repeated failed attempts to stop hair-pulling 
  • Avoiding situations where people might find out about your hair-pulling such as sleepovers, visiting hair salons, swimming, or sexual relationships 
  • Problems or conflict with family and friends as a result of your hair-pulling
  • Pulling fibres from blankets and clothing or hair from pets or dolls

What causes trichotillomania?

The cause of trichotillomania isn’t fully understood. It may be a way of dealing with stress, strong emotions anxiety, a habit, or a hormonal or chemical imbalance. Trichotillomania may also be genetic and often runs in families. 

What should I do if I have symptoms of trichotillomania? 

If you have symptoms of trichotillomania, remember that you are not alone, and help is available. Make an appointment to see your GP. 

How is trichotillomania treated? 

The main treatment for trichotillomania is a type of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) called habit reversal training. Habit reversal training aims to replace a bad habit with something that isn’t harmful, and may involve:

  • Keeping a journal of your hair-pulling to identify triggers and learning how to avoid them
  • Learning to replace hair-pulling with another action that isn’t harmful, like squeezing a stress ball
  • Getting support from loved ones and support groups 

Some self-help tips for trichotillomania that may help include: 

  • Relieve stress by squeezing a stress ball or using a fidget toy 
  • Wear something over your hair such as a bandana or a tight-fitting hat
  • Cut your hair short
  • Exercise
  • Practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation or take a soothing bath to ease stress or anxiety
  • Exercise
  • Put plasters on your fingertips

Other possible treatments for trichotillomania may include: 

  • Acceptance and commitment therapy — can help you learn to accept your hair-pulling urges without acting on them
  • Cognitive therapy — works by changing negative thoughts and beliefs, and learning healthy ways to manage your condition
  • Medication — trichotillomania isn’t usually treated with medication, but you may be prescribed medication such as antidepressants to treat an underlying condition like depression or anxiety. 

Further help and support 

Many people with trichotillomania feel isolated and try to hide their condition from others. Talking to people you trust as well as your GP and joining support groups can help you feel less alone and often helps to reduce your anxiety and hair-pulling. 

For further information, advice, and support on living with trichotillomania, contact:

  • Trichotillomania Support
  • OCD UK
  • Anxiety UK
  • Alopecia UK

This article was written by HealthPrem. Features sponsored links.

5 Ways How Working Remotely Can Benefit Your Mental Health by Breanna Howell

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 2 Comments

(image: Kornel Mahl, Unsplash)

People are embracing working remotely; even tech companies are allowing their employees to decide whether they want to work from home indefinitely. There are several advantages of working remotely compared to working in offices, in person, but most importantly, remote work is valuable to your mental health. Here are five ways that working remotely can benefit your mental health.

1.   Flexibility and Work-Life Balance

When focusing on work, other aspects of life often end up neglected unless you have a healthy work-life balance. To be content and excited about work, employees also need leisure time to connect with their loved ones and pursue other talents and interests. Based on the time constraints, this becomes challenging with in-person work. Luckily, it is easier to find a balance when working from home; there is more time with family, and with proper management, more leisure time to pursue other interests.

If working conditions are more flexible, staff can find a healthy and effective work-life balance. Being able to work while still having a personal and social life makes them happier and improves their mental health. That is why more and more companies opt for time and attendance solutions to help their employees have a better work-life balance.

2.   Reduced Commute Stress

The daily commute is the least favourite part of a job for employees. Whether private or public transport, a lot of time is spent on the roads and you have to deal with traffic and overcrowding as everyone is in a hurry to get to their workplace. Thanks to remote work, you don’t have to worry about waking up early to beat traffic; simply prepare and start your day. You even have more time to establish an effective morning routine.

Commuting daily can take a toll on you, making you anxious and increasing your stress. You have to wake up early every day and deal with other people rushing to get to work on time. Working from home gives you a reprieve, allowing you to rest, have a good night’s sleep, and avoid traffic and congestion, which is a win for your mental health.

3.   Customisable Work Environment

With the traditional work setup, you get a designated space at the office, work with the same people, and have the same routine daily. You can also get interrupted by colleagues or have managers looking over your shoulders. The monotony and lack of freedom can negatively affect your outlook on life, sometimes even making you indifferent towards your job. Imagine working in your living room, your favourite cafe, or on the seafront. Being able to customise your space makes remote work exciting because it is not predictable; you can finally look forward to the day.

The power to control where and when you work makes you more productive because you are more relaxed and excited about your day. You can customise your workspace however you want, and that makes you happy and fulfilled, which is recommended for your mental health.

4.   Increased Autonomy

One of the advantages of working from home is that the staff gets the freedom to structure their day. Everyone knows what works best for them and can easily decide when and where they are more productive. Instead of a strict and stressful routine, you get the flexibility to choose, which has a massive positive impact on your work and overall well-being.

Autonomy allows you to prioritise the important while scheduling other activities that matter to you. Having control gives you peace of mind, calms you down, and makes you more productive, positively impacting your mental health.

5.   Opportunities For Healthier Habits

Between the daily commutes and extended office hours, there is little or no time for exercising, cooking, and eating healthy meals. Establishing a morning exercise routine becomes challenging, and many rely on calorie-rich snacks to help get them through the day. Fortunately, working from home gives you enough time to work out, cook proper meals, and develop healthier habits.

Eating healthy and exercising have a positive and lasting impact on your mental health. Being healthier can (along with other medical treatments) help issues like depression, ADHD, anxiety, memory loss, insomnia, and other illnesses that affect your productivity.

Conclusion

High stress levels are common in the workplace. There is quite a lot to deal with, from hectic daily commutes to strict schedules and a lack of time to pursue other interests and connect with loved ones. Before all these take a toll on your mental health, it is crucial to consider working from home. This way, you don’t have to worry about commuting, and you can customise your work environment and lead a healthy, happy life.

Breanna Howell is the public relations specialist at Claremont Diamonds living her dream of promoting positive public awareness of the company. As a freelance blogger and mom of two millennials, she’s also passionate about providing inspiration and support to everyone on their journey to a fantastic marriage.

This article contains a non sponsored link.

5 Benefits Of Rehab And Why you Shouldn’t Delay Treatment by Lizzie Weakley

~ Eleanor Segall ~ 4 Comments

(image: Matthew Ball, Unsplash)

Drug and alcohol addiction can take a toll on your mind, body, and soul. It’s not easy to overcome addiction, but it’s never too late to start your journey to recovery. Rehab centres provide ample opportunities and resources for people struggling with addiction. Unfortunately, some people delay treatment because of fear, uncertainty, denial, or other valid reasons. Delaying treatment can lead to dire consequences, such as chronic health issues, financial problems, relationship issues, and even death. This blog post outlines the top 5 benefits of rehab and why you shouldn’t delay treatment.

Sense of Community

Rehab gives you the opportunity to surround yourself with people who are supportive, understanding, and empathetic to your situation. It helps to know that you are not alone in your struggle and that there are other people who genuinely care about your recovery. Being a member of a recovery community can help provide accountability, social connection, encouragement, and motivation to push through the tough times. It’s easier to navigate the journey to recovery when you have the support and guidance of others who have gone before you.

Professional Support

Rehab centres have trained and experienced professionals who can assist you in your recovery journey. From therapists and counselors to medical doctors and holistic practitioners, these professionals can help you optimise your physical, mental, and emotional health. They can provide personalised treatment plans, medication-assisted therapy, holistic therapies, and other useful resources to help you achieve your recovery goals. Going to a rehab centre gives you access to evidence-based treatments that have been proven successful in addiction recovery.

New Habits take time to form, but being in a rehab center gives you the chance to create healthy habits and routines. Repetition leads to new neural pathways, which eventually leads to new habits that are sustainable and beneficial for your recovery. You learn things like healthier coping strategies, better communication skills, mindfulness techniques, and relapse prevention skills. Through rehab, you can learn how to retrain your brain to respond to situations in ways that are not harmful to you or others.

Safe Environment

Rehab provides a safe and secure environment that gives you fewer opportunities to relapse. Being in a controlled space helps minimize distractions, triggers, and temptations that can hinder your progress. You’ll have the chance to focus solely on your recovery without the distractions of daily life. Moreover, rehabs help keep their clients accountable to themselves and others. As such, being in an accountable and safe environment can help set the foundation for success.

Self-Identity

People who struggle with addiction often lose sight of their self-identity and what makes them unique. Being in rehab can help rediscover who you are and what you stand for. You’ll have the chance to uncover your strengths, talents, passions, and goals. You’ll be able to reflect on your life and identify what led you down the path of addiction in the first place. By discovering your true self, you’ll be better prepared to cope with any challenges that may come your way.

Seeking treatment for addiction is daunting, but the benefits of rehab are worth the effort. Taking the first step towards recovery can give you a chance to regain control over your life. The sense of community, professional support, formation of new habits, safe environment, and rediscovery of self-identity are just some of the benefits of going to rehab. Don’t delay treatment; the sooner you start your recovery journey, the sooner you’ll be on your way to living a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling life.

This article was written by Lizzie Weakley.