Active listening is a method of listening and replying that improves understanding. It can be one of the first steps we take to reduce tension in a situation and where we can begin to find solutions to problems. Active listening is when we do not only hear the words someone is saying, but we process...
Addiction can involve the use of many different types of substances, including alcohol, opioids, nicotine, marijuana and even addictive behaviors such as gambling. Studies have shown that addictive behaviors share certain neurological features such as reward and reinforcement. Alcohol abuse occurs when an individual drinks in a situation, manner, frequency or amount where that individual...
Relationships are not easy, and maintaining one takes work from each person involved. There are ways to enhance the bond between a couple and it takes commitment, mutual respect and effort. Every relationship is different, and no relationship is perfect. However, you can use some strategies to keep your relationship healthy and positive. When communicating...
Although summer tends to be seen as a season of joy and happiness, it can surprisingly contribute to increased anxiety. Warm weather can contribute to health issues including lack of sleep and dehydration. These can contiribute to the body feeling more stressed and thus more anxious. Your mental well-being can be negatively impacted during the...
Research has shown that nature can impact our mental health and well-being. Our environment can increase or decrease our stress levels, which then impacts our physical and mental health. Environmental stressors can make us feel anxious, depressed, helpless and more. These can manifest physically into higher blood pressure, increased heart rate, weaker immune system and...
There are many reasons that can make us anxious, and usually the root cause of it is something we cannot change. Coping with anxiety means changing what you can and accepting the rest. Normal anxiety comes from our ancestors being put in situations where a fight or flight response would arise, such as staying safe...
Spending time on hobbies you enjoy can improve your well-being and mental health. They are a great way to relax and unwind from your daily routines. Hobbies can be reading, art, music, learning a new skill or simply doing something outdoors. The great thing about hobbies is there are no rules on what one can...
Meditation influences both the mind and the body. Training in meditation can make you calmer, more relaxed and less stressed. Even as little as 20 minutes per day can lead to physical changes in the body – such as lower blood pressure, lower heart rate, and deeper breathing. Meditation has also been shown to reduce...
January is the month many of us are working on new year’s resolutions. We could be working on the same ones from the previous year or trying to make new goals. If you did not meet your aspirations for 2018, you are not the only one! According to studies over 80% of people fail or...
Exercise has been found to improve mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, addictions, grief, dementia, bipolar disorder and others. It has also been proven to relieve stress and even boost your mood. When we exercise the brain releases endorphins, hormones which trigger a positive feeling in our bodies. Exercising gives us the opportunity to...
