Mental Health Topics, Self-Improvement How to harness the power of positivity: choose optimism, foster a supportive environment, and live in the present (Updated) by Taylor Bennett on Nov 23, 2018 When you find yourself in a less than desirable situation, it’s easy to react with negativity; however, it’s more beneficial to channel positivity instead. In fact, if you learn to harness the power of positivity in your every day, you’ll be well-prepared to deal with the bad. One way to…
Mental Health Topics, Self-Improvement Show your appreciation for others and experience a boost in wellbeing by making a gratitude visit by Taylor Bennett on Nov 21, 2018 Gratitude is all about showing your appreciation for the good things in your life; and engaging in gratitude practices is incredibly beneficial to your health. Some scientifically proven benefits of practicing gratitude include a boost in self-esteem, improved quality of sleep, and enriched relationships. One gratitude practice in specific can…
Mental Health Topics, Self-Improvement How can focusing on building personal strengths versus ruminating over my weaknesses benefit me? by Diviya Lewis on Nov 21, 2018 Within the field of positive psychology, we have learned that our happiness is comprised of three main components: 1) our genetics, 2) our life situation, and 3) our thoughts and behaviors. Our genetics account for approximately half of our happiness, but I used to think our life situation (e.g., health,…
Mental Health Topics, Self-Improvement We flourish when we prioritize each element in the PERMA model—here’s what that means and how you can master the process by Taylor Bennett on Nov 20, 2018 The PERMA model is characteristic of the positive psychology movement; it offers a comprehensive understanding of how we can accomplish optimal wellbeing. P stands for positive emotions: it’s important we experience positive emotions like pleasure, love, inspiration, and gratitude. E stands for engagement: we experience engagement when we become completely…
Mental Health Topics, Self-Improvement Do I have enough gratitude? Gain a little perspective, be grateful for your fortunes, and have a positive impact on those around you (Update) by Taylor Bennett on Nov 19, 2018 It’s easy to get down on ourselves and feel a little unlucky or unfortunate; but the reality is, we all have something to be grateful for. Take, for example, your very existence! The chances of you being, well, you are slim to none; therefore, you should celebrate even being alive….
Mental Health Topics, Psychology The psychology of gratitude: 6 benefits of being thankful this Thanksgiving (Updated) by Taylor Bennett on Nov 19, 2018 Many of us celebrate Thanksgiving by helping ourselves to a plate stacked high with turkey, potatoes, green beans, and pumpkin pie—but the holiday isn’t just for eating delicious food! The whole point of Thanksgiving is to give thanks for all of your fortunes such as the incredible people in your…
Family, Mental Health Topics Blended families: How to improve the bond between both “sides” and bring everyone together by Taylor Bennett on Nov 16, 2018 Merging two families into one can be a challenge, as kids can be hesitant about the new family dynamic. That said, it can be done successfully: so long as parents take it upon themselves to improve the bond between both “sides” and make the transition as easy as possible. First,…
Mental Health Topics, Relationships Are you worried about a loved one and where their life is headed? by Taylor Bennett on Nov 16, 2018 If your loved one is engaging in troublesome behavior—perhaps they’re drinking a lot or turning into a workaholic—it’s normal to be wholly concerned. And while you might not be able to force them to make a change, you don’t have to sit idly by either; you can take a few…
Mental Health Topics, Parenting Is your approach to child discipline wrong? These strategies work better than others, according to the professionals by Taylor Bennett on Nov 15, 2018 Child discipline is tricky business: as there is a wide range of strategies and techniques that can (or actually can’t) get the job done. So which one’s do get the job done? According to science, the authoritative parenting style proves the most effective; this involves encouragement and clear communication. Another…
Family, Mental Health Topics, Money & Financial Issues Is your family under financial stress? Don’t let it rule your lives—here’s what you should do instead by Dr. Carla M. Manly on Nov 14, 2018 Many of us struggle financially from time to time, as the cost of day to day living expenses continue to rise. As these bills continue to pile up, the stress of financial burden weighs heavy on the family, from the parents to the kids. Fortunately, your financial stress doesn’t have…
Family, Grief & Loss, Mental Health Topics When a family member dies—how to adjust to a new normal by Christy Monson on Nov 13, 2018 There are many different types of loss and a plethora of different reactions to loss; loss might mean a loved one’s death, divorce, or moving, while common reactions to loss include depressive or anxious feelings. The way we react to such a loss has much to do with two systems:…
Abuse & Neglect, Mental Health Topics, Parenting, Relationships How do you leave an abusive relationship when a child is involved? by Taylor Bennett on Nov 9, 2018 By this point, Morgan’s used to being pushed around—literally and figuratively. Her boyfriend, Jon, who used to treat her with the utmost love and respect, became abusive about 2 years into their relationship. It started with words: demeaning, condescending, cruel words. Then it turned into a little nudge here and…