Anxiety is a feeling of worry, nervousness or unease, typically about something with an uncertain outcome or even in the absence of a stressor. Anxiety is a normal emotion and a common human experience. Not only can it serve to motivate us, it can also protect us from harmful or unpleasant consequences (e.g. failing an exam due to lack of...[ read more ]

Recognizing that you have a mental health disorder can be difficult to accept. It’s a whole new part of life that you have to navigate, and a challenge that some people will never have to face. Medications, therapy, the feeling of being alone, and battles inside your brain. But perhaps the most difficult part of having a mental health condition for many...[ read more ]

Adolescence can be both an exciting and challenging time. There are many significant physical, behavioral, and psychological changes that adolescents experience during this stage. Teenagers experience a wide variety of emotions on a daily basis and many teenagers may feel that they are on an emotional roller coaster. They may feel overwhelmed by changes around them and struggle to cope...[ read more ]

What is Perfectionism? Many individuals perceive perfectionism as attempting to “be perfect” or acting in a “perfect way”. Perfectionism is defined as striving for unrelenting high standards for self or for others, basing our self-worth on the ability to strive and achieve these high standards, as well as persevering these high standards despite what it may be costing you. These...[ read more ]

What is Rumination? Most people can relate to something getting stuck in their head and thinking about it for longer than they'd like; a thought, a song, an idea.... When it's a song, we call it an ear worm, and for the most part it's a pleasant experience. When it's a thought, particularly a distressing negative one, it's a far...[ read more ]

Teenage anxiety is on the rise. A study by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) found that almost 32 percent of teens have an anxiety-based disorder. In terms of gender breakdown, 38% of female adolescents and 26% of male adolescents have an anxiety disorder.  Causes  There are various causes of anxiety in teens. As humans, we are vulnerable to...[ read more ]

Children need to be nurtured, loved, and experience positive regard to develop to their full potential. As a parent, it is important to make a conscious and intentional effort to connect with your child in order to both understand them and help them grow. When you understand your child; his/her verbal and non-verbal communication style, interests, strengths, and areas of...[ read more ]

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Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is one of the most common anxiety disorders, occurring in 3.1% of the U.S. population in any given year. It can occur at any age; however, the onset is most often during childhood to middle age. A person with GAD worries uncontrollably about common occurrences and situations. GAD can interfere with daily activities. Everyone feels anxious;...[ read more ]

About half a million children in the U.S. have Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. As parents play an integral role in their child’s life, their involvement is essential in their child’s OCD treatment. Parent involvement in the treatment process is key in helping children overcome their anxieties and build confidence in their ability to cope with fears. Exposure & Response Prevention Therapy...[ read more ]