Mental Health America Blog https://mhanational.org/ en Self-Love: A Radical Act of Healing, Resilience and Well-being https://mhanational.org/blog/self-love-radical-act-healing-resilience-and-well-being <span>Self-Love: A Radical Act of Healing, Resilience and Well-being</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=02wOUDxr 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=Iw5ET5u1 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=fhBgxbc_ 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=pEYXAKyL 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=mD_T7Vu4 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=PTgFohL0 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=02wOUDxr 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=Iw5ET5u1 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=fhBgxbc_ 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=pEYXAKyL 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=mD_T7Vu4 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=PTgFohL0 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-02/self-love.jpg.webp?itok=PTgFohL0" alt="Black person smiles broadly" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Fri, 02/07/2025 - 09:24</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">February 07, 2025 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Ian Davis, Creative Strategist, Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher (CMT-P), Level 1 MBSR Teacher at Age of The Creative™</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Amid our ever-changing world, with life sometimes happening beyond our control, it's easy to get pulled into mental spaces that don't serve us. Whether navigating daily life, work challenges, family pressure, or anxiety, we're all working through something. In our shared human experience, none of us has it completely figured out – we're all works in progress.</p> <p>Terms like "<em>self-care</em>," "<em>healing</em>," and "<em>prioritizing mental health</em>" have entered our daily lexicon, but have they truly become things we practice? Within the Black community, balancing self-care with daily survival in a world that often overlooks our contributions can feel impossible. But, loving ourselves isn't optional – it's paramount.</p> <p>When we board a plane, we get instructed that in the event of an emergency, we have to put our masks on first before we help someone else. To be and show up as our best in the world, I believe we need love and it starts with ourselves: We need to love ourselves before we are capable of opening our hearts, sharing, and spreading love to others.</p> <p>Self-love is an active practice with a myriad of benefits that show up in real time to help us heal, grow, and prioritize our mental well-being. Here are practical ways to pour back into yourself and cultivate it:</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">1. Practice Loving Kindness</h2> <ul><li>“May I be safe”</li> <li>“May I be healthy”</li> <li>“May I be happy”</li> <li>“May life unfold with ease”</li> </ul><p>Start by offering these phrases to yourself, then extend them to others (“may you’’) – from beloved friends to challenging relationships, and finally to all beings (“may all beings”).</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">2. Set Boundaries</h2> <p>Recognize your limits and communicate them to yourself and others unapologetically. Protect your space and energy by passing on things that may feel draining. In doing this, you allow yourself to show up fully to places and spaces that best align with you. Remember: "No" is a complete sentence.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">3. Audit your consumption</h2> <p>Everything we take in impacts our mental wellness. Evaluate:</p> <ul><li><em><strong>Media:</strong></em> What are you watching, reading, and listening to? How does it affect you?</li> <li><em><strong>Community:</strong></em> Who's in your circle? Identify those who lift you up and those whose energy may be draining you.</li> </ul><h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">4. Create more time for YOU</h2> <p>Prioritize time with yourself. This isn't selfishness – it's necessary maintenance for your spirit.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">5. Speak over yourself</h2> <p>Words and language are important – our tongue has the power of life and death within it. Be mindful and intentional about our words and language. Sometimes, the words we choose for ourselves can define our circumstances, outcomes, and capabilities.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">6. Love is powerful and radical</h2> <p>Love can instantly shift the atmosphere, your mood, how you do things, and how you perceive things. Practicing self-love isn't easy, especially when we're caught up in our emotions. Yes, feel your feelings – but you don't have to stay in moods or mental spaces that don't serve you.</p> <p>"Being our best" exists on a spectrum – some days are 10s, others are 7s, and that's okay. The more we intentionally practice self-love, the more natural it becomes. Over time, these practices transform into radical acts of resilience, helping us resist those mental spaces that don't serve us.</p> <p>Self-love isn't just self-care – it's a revolutionary practice of reclaiming our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. As we build these habits, we don't just survive; we create space to thrive.</p> <p>Try loving on yourself more and see how your heart, mind, body, and energy shift and open up.</p> <p style="margin-top:50px !important;"><em>Ian Davis is a results-oriented visionary creative strategist and Certified Mindfulness Meditation teacher and MBSR teacher at the intersection of creativity, entertainment and wellness. His focus on delivering results through a mindful approach has established him as a respected thought leader and game-changer in both the creative and wellness industries.</em></p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/tags/minority-mental-health" hreflang="en">BIPOC mental health</a></div> </div> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/self-love-radical-act-healing-resilience-and-well-being" data-a2a-title="Self-Love: A Radical Act of Healing, Resilience and Well-being"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> </section> Fri, 07 Feb 2025 14:24:18 +0000 MHA Admin 28731 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/self-love-radical-act-healing-resilience-and-well-being#comments Understanding Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder as a Mother https://mhanational.org/blog/understanding-arfid-as-mother <span>Understanding Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder as a Mother</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=Y1EmsubW 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=f4M_47uU 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=-laoA5I_ 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=RpzwkLPG 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=s2Cug6pz 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=RXUFOCO3 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=Y1EmsubW 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=f4M_47uU 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=-laoA5I_ 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=RpzwkLPG 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=s2Cug6pz 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=RXUFOCO3 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-02/arfid-mom.jpg.webp?itok=RXUFOCO3" alt="mom and kid talking over a table full of food" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Mon, 02/03/2025 - 12:14</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">February 03, 2025 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Kristen Abell, Director of Website and Digital Projects at Mental Health America</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>“He’s just a picky eater,” I found myself telling just about everyone we dined with when my son was younger. “I’m sure he’ll grow out of it.”</p> <p>“He just is very sensitive to textures,” I explained when people were surprised he didn’t want meat.</p> <p>“He’s very particular—I don’t get it, but he’s still growing, so I guess it’s fine,” I responded when they questioned the lack of variety on his plate.</p> <p>I was often embarrassed and felt like I had failed as a mom when my son would reject all the food given to him, only to ask for chicken nuggets (again) on the way home.</p> <p>Two years ago, everything about how I viewed my son’s eating habits changed, though. I was diagnosed with autism and recognized my son was also likely autistic. And that’s when I began to learn about Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, or ARFID, an eating disorder that is somewhat common for autistic people.</p> <p>ARFID tends to differ from other eating disorders in that eating challenges are rooted in factors that are not related to a desire for thinness or body shape. Rather, they tend to be driven by things like <a href="https://neurodivergentinsights.com/misdiagnosis-monday/anorexia-and-arfid?rq=arfid" target="_blank">sensory issues, fear, or even just a lack of interest in eating</a>. There are <a href="https://neurodivergentinsights.com/misdiagnosis-monday/anorexia-and-arfid?rq=arfid" target="_blank">three types of ARFID</a>:</p> <ol><li><strong>Sensory-based ARFID</strong> is when someone struggles with textures, tastes, colors, or smells of food because of sensory issues. People with sensory-based ARFID, like my son, tend to have a very bland and colorless diet.</li> <li><strong>Fear-based ARFID</strong> manifests as challenges with eating because someone is afraid they might choke, vomit, or experience other uncomfortable issues associated with eating.</li> <li><strong>Lack-of-interest ARFID</strong> is just what it sounds like—people with this type of ARFID just don’t have an interest in eating, possibly because they don’t even recognize their body’s hunger signals.</li> </ol><p>As I have begun to better understand that what my son experiences is an eating disorder, I have stopped pushing so hard for him to try new things, eat vegetables, or change his eating habits to mirror those around him. I have started researching how he can best eat a nutritional diet without triggering his sensory sensitivities and begun to look for nutritionists who understand ARFID to better help us, and him, ensure he remains healthy.</p> <p>The larger struggle has been getting those around us to understand that my son is not just a picky eater—this is an actual eating disorder. I have family members who still regularly harass him at meals, no matter how many times I have asked them to stop. There are people who don’t understand that when we go out to dinner and I tell my 18-year-old son what he might like on a menu, I’m not just babying him or reinforcing bad habits.</p> <p>As a mom, there is a lot of frustration and even shame—whether they mean to or not, people judge mothers on how their children eat. So I often want to shout from the rooftops that this is not a fault of mine or my son’s—he has an eating disorder! At the same time, I want to respect my son’s privacy and allow him to share with whomever he wants to—and to not share with people, too.</p> <p>I recognize that it would be difficult for every single person to be educated on every single eating disorder that exists—I know I’m certainly not. What I think that we could all do, however, is quit worrying about and commenting on the eating habits, diet, and weight of other people when there may be more that we don’t understand. And frankly, it’s just unnecessary.</p> <p style="margin-top:40px !important;"><em>Kristen Abell is director of website and digital projects, </em><a href="https://kristenabell.com/blog/" target="_blank"><em>writer</em></a><em>, and advocate for mental health and neurodivergence.</em></p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/tags/eating-disorders" hreflang="en">eating disorders</a></div> </div> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/understanding-arfid-as-mother" data-a2a-title="Understanding Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder as a Mother"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> </section> Mon, 03 Feb 2025 17:14:23 +0000 MHA Admin 28727 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/understanding-arfid-as-mother#comments Guest blog: Advice from a healthcare provider to members of the LBGTQ+ community living with depression https://mhanational.org/blog/guest-blog-advice-healthcare-provider-members-lbgtq-community-living-depression <span>Guest blog: Advice from a healthcare provider to members of the LBGTQ+ community living with depression </span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=QDo8Cav2 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=TmUXIaqL 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=SFQvdOun 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=TS_4sjwg 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=G84Eu129 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=tcLn-h_m 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=QDo8Cav2 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=TmUXIaqL 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=SFQvdOun 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=TS_4sjwg 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=G84Eu129 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=tcLn-h_m 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-01/lgbtq-depression.jpg.webp?itok=tcLn-h_m" alt="person sits on couch while another person sits across from them with clipboard and pen" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Mon, 01/13/2025 - 09:10</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">January 13, 2025 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Dr. Amir Ahuja, Board-Certified Psychiatrist and Director of Psychiatry at the Los Angeles LGBT Center</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><img style="float:left !important;margin-right:24px !important;max-width:30% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2025-01/Dr.-Ahuja-Photo.jpg" alt="Dr. Amir Ahuja headshot" /><em>Dr. Ahuja is a Board-Certified Psychiatrist and a leading voice for the LGBTQ community. As the Director of Psychiatry at the LA LGBT Center, the largest LGBT Center in the world, he leads a team that sees over 2,500 patients.</em></p> <p>Major depressive disorder (MDD) is one of the most common mental illnesses in America, affecting more than 21 million adults in the US.<sup>1</sup> Depression can happen to anyone, at any age, and to people of any race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status or religious background.<sup>2</sup> While only 4.5% of the U.S. population identifies as LGBTQ+, 39% of the LGBTQ+ community has reported experiencing a mental illness in the past year.<sup>3</sup> In fact, LGBTQ+ adults are 2.5 times as likely to use mental health services compared to cisgender heterosexual adults.<sup>3</sup> This can be heightened by the unique challenges that the LGBTQ+ community faces, like discrimination or rejection from loved ones and society, or not feeling confident in or trusting of the healthcare system.</p> <p>Here, Dr. Amir Ahuja, MD, a Board-Certified Psychiatrist, shares his personal insights on the challenges that members of the LGBTQ+ community may struggle with when it comes to experiencing and managing depression—as well as some strategies for coping.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">1. What is your background and experience treating patients living with depression?</h2> <p>Depression is anything but simple. It is an illness unlike any other, and some forms of depression can persist even after multiple treatments. I have helped thousands of people in the LGBTQ+ community manage their depression as the Director of Psychiatry at the Los Angeles LGBT Center. I also have a wealth of experience treating patients with all forms of depression, including those with treatment-resistant depression (TRD).</p> <p>TRD is often defined as an inadequate response to two or more antidepressants (of adequate dose and duration) in the current depressive episode, which is why many who are diagnosed with this form of depression cycle through treatments without relief.<sup>4</sup></p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">2. What unique challenges do you find members of the LGBTQ+ community struggle with when it comes to experiencing and managing depression?</h2> <p>I find that members in the LGBTQ+ community tend to feel more isolated than their cisgender, heterosexual counterparts. Many have been rejected by family members and ostracized by society. I also believe that this is compounded by the fact that many gay men were lost in the AIDS epidemic, and the surviving gay men of a certain age have lost many partners and friends.</p> <p>Additionally, I believe that there are disparities in trauma that is experienced by LGBTQ+ people, like intimate partner violence, harassment and discrimination. There are also health disparities in terms of physical health where LGBTQ+ people in certain subsets have higher rates of heart disease, cancer, and shorter lifespans.<sup>5</sup></p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">3. What roles do community resources and support networks play in mental health of the LGBTQ+ community, and how can members talk with their doctors about finding resources?</h2> <p>I believe that culturally competent resources are vital for the LGBTQ+ community to get the healthcare they need. Many LGBTQ+ individuals, especially transgender individuals, have had terrible experiences with healthcare and resist going to the doctor because of it. A welcoming environment goes a long way towards making a change in this and rebuilding trust. Also, research repeatedly shows that all LGBTQ+ communities feel more comfortable with culturally competent providers and centers.</p> <p>I work at the LA LGBT Center, which is the largest LGBT center in the world. The LA LGBT Center offers LGBTQ+ patients the help and resources they need to manage their depression. While not everyone lives in a city where there are physical centers to go to, there are a lot of online resources available like <a href="https://www.depressionlookslikeme.com/" target="_blank">DepressionLooksLikeMe.com</a>, which houses mental health resources tailored to the LGBTQ+ community. This includes healthcare directories that make it easy to find a provider, including the closest LGBTQ+ friendly healthcare professionals or community centers, as well as live and ongoing support that can connect people with trained counselors.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">4. How do you approach discussions about mental health with LGBTQ+ patients?</h2> <p>In my practice, I approach these discussions with my LGBTQ+ patients just as I would with any patient. I start by discussing what depression can feel like, as there are many misconceptions. Depression is not a mood or a choice and not something someone can snap out of. It’s a serious mental illness that can happen to anyone at any age, and people of any gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status or religious background. Many people think it just consists of being “sad.” In reality, it can involve feelings of numbness and disconnection with lack of joy, fatigue and brain fog. It often affects appetite and sleep. It can be caused by life stressors or seemingly come from nowhere. I believe that normalizing the discussion around mental health and erasing the stigma often associated with it can help people feel less alone in their struggle.</p> <p>When I look at treatment options for my patients living with depression, I like to understand my patients’ goals, so I can help them accomplish them while managing their depression.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">5. What advice would you give to LGBTQ+ individuals who are struggling with depression but may not feel comfortable seeking help?</h2> <p>You are seen, you are heard, you are not alone, and help is just a phone call or a text away. Many people, including myself, are here to help you overcome depression and live your best life. We care about you and want the best for you, but we can’t help if you don’t reach out. So, taking that first step in reaching out for help is so important.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">6. Where are some additional resources that people living with depression in the LGBTQ+ community can find care and help?</h2> <ul><li><a href="https://lalgbtcenter.org/" target="_blank">LA LGBT Center</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.depressionlookslikeme.com/" target="_blank">Depression Looks Like Me</a></li> <li><a href="https://callen-lorde.org/" target="_blank">Callen-Lorde Community Health Center</a></li> <li><a href="https://howardbrown.org/" target="_blank">Howard Brown Health</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.amirahujamd.com/" target="_blank">www.amirahujamd.com</a></li> </ul><p><em>This post was sponsored by Johnson &amp; Johnson.</em></p> <h2 style="font-size:1.2rem !important;">References</h2> <ol><li>National Institute of Mental Health. Major depression. Accessed November 1, 2024. <a href="https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression#part_2563" target="_blank">https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression#part_2563</a> </li> <li>Mental Health America. Depression. Accessed November 1, 2024. <a href="https://www.mhanational.org/conditions/depression">https://www.mhanational.org/conditions/depression</a> </li> <li>Mental Health America. LGBTQ+ Communities and Mental Health. Accessed November 1, 2024. <a href="https://www.mhanational.org/issues/lgbtq-communities-and-mental-health">https://www.mhanational.org/issues/lgbtq-communities-and-mental-health</a> </li> <li>Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Definition of treatment-resistant depression in the Medicare population. <a href="https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Coverage/DeterminationProcess/downlo ads/id105TA.pdf" target="_blank">https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Coverage/DeterminationProcess/downlo ads/id105TA.pdf</a>. Published February 9, 2018. </li> <li>Health.com. 7 Major Health Disparities Affecting the LGBTQ+ Community. Accessed November 1, 2024. <a href="https://www.health.com/mind-body/lgbtq-health-disparities#:~:text=People%20in%20the%20LGBTQ%2B%20community%20face%20significant%20health%20disparities%20that,use%2C%20and%20mental%20health%20disorders" target="_blank">https://www.health.com/mind-body/lgbtq-health-disparities#:~:text=People%20in%20the%20LGBTQ%2B%20community%20face%20significant%20health%20disparities%20that,use%2C%20and%20mental%20health%20disorders</a> </li> </ol></div> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/tags/lgbt-mental-health" hreflang="en">LGBT Mental Health</a></div> <div class="field__item"><a href="/tags/depression" hreflang="en">depression</a></div> </div> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/guest-blog-advice-healthcare-provider-members-lbgtq-community-living-depression" data-a2a-title="Guest blog: Advice from a healthcare provider to members of the LBGTQ+ community living with depression "><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> </section> Mon, 13 Jan 2025 14:10:24 +0000 MHA Admin 28721 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/guest-blog-advice-healthcare-provider-members-lbgtq-community-living-depression#comments Stop Chasing Perfect: Build Lasting Habits in 2025 https://mhanational.org/blog/stop-chasing-perfect-build-lasting-habits-2025 <span>Stop Chasing Perfect: Build Lasting Habits in 2025</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=DmVwGgXy 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=MhDBs4hQ 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=N7psA_mh 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=2ReKSlPi 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=bhuLWG6- 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=JUzb59W6 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=DmVwGgXy 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=MhDBs4hQ 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=N7psA_mh 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=2ReKSlPi 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=bhuLWG6- 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=JUzb59W6 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2025-01/build-lasting-habits.jpg.webp?itok=JUzb59W6" alt="notebook and pencil on wood table next to green plant" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Mon, 01/06/2025 - 12:40</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">January 06, 2025 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Keith “Duke” Davis, Founder and CEO, Inner Journey: Mental Clarity App and Mental Fitness Advocate</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Picture this: It’s January 1, and you’re pumped. You’ve written down your resolutions, stocked up on healthy groceries, and maybe even shared your goals with friends. “This is it,” you tell yourself. “This is the year I crush it.” Fast forward three weeks, and… well, life happened. The snacks are back, the gym bag is gathering dust, and your motivation is nowhere to be found.</p> <p>Sound familiar?</p> <p>You’re not alone. We’ve all been there. The problem isn’t you—it’s the way we approach resolutions. We aim big, chase perfection, and burn out fast. But what if this year could be different? What if, instead of chasing impossible goals, you focused on small, consistent habits that actually last?</p> <p>Let’s make this the year you build mental fitness—habits that keep you grounded and resilient, no matter what life throws at you.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">1. Forget Perfect—Just Show Up</h2> <p>We’ve all made those “all or nothing” goals: “I’ll work out every single day” or “No more desserts, ever.” They sound inspiring… until the first curveball hits. Then missing one day feels like failure, and before you know it, the whole plan falls apart.</p> <p>Here’s the trick: Let go of perfect. Just show up. Didn’t make it to the gym? Try a quick walk. Craving something sweet? Go for a smaller portion. Consistency beats perfection every time. The goal is progress, not perfection.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">2. Start Small, Build Big</h2> <p>It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a new year and try to change everything all at once. But let’s be honest—how often does that work?</p> <p>This time, start small. Pick one or two habits you can stick to, like writing down one thing you’re grateful for each day or meditating for five minutes. These tiny wins build momentum. Over time, they’ll snowball into bigger, more impactful changes. Think of it as planting seeds—you’re setting yourself up for growth.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">3. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection</h2> <p>Life isn’t perfect, and neither are you. And that’s okay! Missed a workout? Skipped journaling? So what? Progress isn’t about being flawless—it’s about sticking with it, even when things don’t go as planned.</p> <p>Celebrate the wins, no matter how small. Showed up for yourself three times this week instead of seven? That’s still progress. Every little step counts, and those small victories will carry you forward.</p> <h2 style="font-size:1.3rem !important;">A Mentally Fit Year Ahead</h2> <p>Let’s ditch the pressure to have it all figured out. Instead, focus on habits that help you feel your best—mentally and emotionally. Mental fitness isn’t about chasing perfection; it’s about building resilience and showing yourself kindness.</p> <p>Here’s to a year of small wins, steady progress, and habits that actually stick. You’ve got this.</p> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/stop-chasing-perfect-build-lasting-habits-2025" data-a2a-title="Stop Chasing Perfect: Build Lasting Habits in 2025"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> </section> Mon, 06 Jan 2025 17:40:36 +0000 MHA Admin 28714 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/stop-chasing-perfect-build-lasting-habits-2025#comments Navigating Holiday Stress for Parents: 5 Learnings From Mental Health America and Arizona State University's Parenting Webinar https://mhanational.org/blog/navigating-holiday-stress-parents-5-learnings-mental-health-america-and-arizona-state <span>Navigating Holiday Stress for Parents: 5 Learnings From Mental Health America and Arizona State University&#039;s Parenting Webinar</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=hn-yX20C 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=hry0B32F 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=HTuwdxLg 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=kcULlxak 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=qu5ofFwz 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=w3qnSeCY 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=hn-yX20C 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=hry0B32F 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=HTuwdxLg 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=kcULlxak 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=qu5ofFwz 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=w3qnSeCY 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-12/Navigating_Holiday_Stress_for_Parents.jpg.webp?itok=w3qnSeCY" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mhassan" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHassan</span></span> <span>Thu, 12/19/2024 - 13:38</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">December 19, 2024 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">Written by Jackie Zimmermann, Manager of Public Education Partnerships and E-Learning</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><em>Content from MHA and ASU's webinar: I Don't Know How to Care for Myself in Stressful Times featuring Dr. Ruben Parra-Cardona, Bethany Younkers, Dr. Ariana Hoet </em></p> <p>The holiday season is often marketed as a time of joy and togetherness. Still, for many parents, it can quickly become overwhelming. The pressure to make everything perfect, manage endless tasks, and juggle family dynamics can take a toll on mental health. Prioritizing self-care, setting healthy boundaries, and tapping into your support system can help you navigate the season with more balance and less stress. Here are five learnings to help you do this from MHA and ASU's webinar, "I don't know how to care for myself in stressful times." After all, creating moments of joy doesn't require perfection—it just takes presence and intention.</p> <ol><li><em><strong>Identify your values and priorities and set boundaries accordingly</strong></em>.<br />It can be easy to fall into the mindset that we must do everything during the holidays, and quickly, you are saying yes too much. Dr. Ruben advised you to take a moment to recognize your values and priorities during the holiday season. Once you have a clear vision, set your boundaries and stick to them. That could mean spending more time together as a family instead of overcommitting to outside activities or saying yes to a half-day event instead of a full day. When you realize by saying "no" to something, you are making space for what you value most, it takes away some of the guilt you may feel. Reframe boundaries as saying "yes" to things you value.</li> <li> <p><em><strong>Reframe the way you think of self-care.</strong></em><br />Shift the way you think of self-care from self-indulgence to self-preservation. Often, parents feel as though they must prioritize themselves last to ensure everyone else is taken care of. When we reframe the way we think about self-care, we can identify how it is a necessity to maintain our physical and mental health. </p> <p>Self-care doesn't have to be this big, expensive thing. It's caring for our needs and providing nourishment, rest, and energy to your mind and body. That looks different for everyone! Try not to fall into the thinking trap that self-care is costly, like getting your nails done or going to the spa. Getting caught up in what self-care "should" look like is easy. </p> <p>Some examples of self-care practices include:</p> <ul><li>Finding a moment to take some deep breaths and re-regulate your nervous system</li> <li>Asking your support system for help:an someone watch the kids while I go out and shop? </li> <li>Finding time for movement that feels good for your body - even if it's 5-10 minutes of stretching or walking</li> <li>Saying no to a holiday event if you need the time and space </li> </ul></li> <li> <p><em><strong>Welcome - and ask for help from your support system.</strong></em><br />Instead of parenting by yourself, parent with your village. You are not alone–and it's okay to ask for help. Likely, others in your life are feeling the same overwhelm. Consider reaching out to friends, neighbors, or community members to co-care for each other. Maybe that means a different family hosts kids for dinner once a month so the other parents can have a night for themselves. Or you rotate through drop-off and pick-up, so you can do it with others. Find a shared community if you can to support each other, especially during busy times like the holidays. </p> <p>Dr. Ruben shared the importance of creating a lifestyle that builds protective factors so that when things hit us, they bounce off a little more easily, which can really help. Recognizing that can be hard for many people, but that is where your community can come in for support. </p> <p>The holidays may also bring up feelings of grief and sadness, especially if some of your loved ones are no longer with you to celebrate. Having a support system can help provide comfort during challenging times of grief.</p> </li> <li> <p><em><strong>Find ways to embed joy in your routines.</strong></em><br />When you have so much on your plate, the little things like washing dishes or doing laundry can seem exhausting. Bethany shared that these are activities in her weekly routine, and she has tried to create moments of joy with her daughter. Invite your children to help dry while you wash or fold laundry together. Put on some fun music and try to make a moment where you bring joy into the mundane. </p> <p>Many parents experience guilt when they are not around their children enough, especially working parents who have limited hours together. Dr. Ariana shared her approach to managing stress and guilt as a working parent, emphasizing the value of being present and intentional with her children during daily activities. This is similar to Bethany's approach of finding activities you are already doing to invite joy and quality time into your day.</p> </li> <li> <p><em><strong>Leave comparison at the door</strong></em>.<br />It's easy to compare yourself to others, especially with social media's highlight reel—only showing what seems to be the best parts of everyone's lives. During the holidays, this can be heightened by the stress of buying gifts, participating in all the activities, and traveling to see family. These things can add additional emotional stress and financial strain on families. </p> <p>Dr. Ruben discussed the importance of deconstructing societal narratives about parenting and how these narratives can be oppressive. He emphasized the need to focus on what one can do with one's resources rather than comparing one's actions to those of others. </p> <p>Some of the best memories and moments you can provide your family are quality times together—ones where you are fully present, even for a short time. Dr. Ruben shared that his favorite activities are popping popcorn with his family and enjoying a movie together at home. Finding ways to create joy and happiness in your homes without adding financial stress. </p> <p>By focusing on what truly matters—setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, leaning on your support system, and embracing the simple joys—you can create a season that's meaningful and enjoyable for you and your family. Remind yourself that it's not about perfection but about being present and intentional with the time and resources you have. Take a deep breath, let go of comparison, and give yourself grace this holiday season.</p> </li> </ol></div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/navigating-holiday-stress-parents-5-learnings-mental-health-america-and-arizona-state" data-a2a-title="Navigating Holiday Stress for Parents: 5 Learnings From Mental Health America and Arizona State University&#039;s Parenting Webinar"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> <h2>Add new comment</h2> <drupal-render-placeholder callback="comment.lazy_builders:renderForm" arguments="0=node&amp;1=28713&amp;2=comment_node_blog_post&amp;3=comment_node_blog_post" token="4bsh6GQZCrgpiwmm1Vnv0PYWrgWL4PeY5afOMpPcIRc"></drupal-render-placeholder> </section> Thu, 19 Dec 2024 18:38:17 +0000 MHassan 28713 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/navigating-holiday-stress-parents-5-learnings-mental-health-america-and-arizona-state#comments Neuroprogression: What it is and why you should know about it https://mhanational.org/blog/neuroprogression-what-it-and-why-you-should-know-about-it <span>Neuroprogression: What it is and why you should know about it</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=XpwPSVq8 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=hl0Wzs5B 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=YtswvO-s 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=Huf8DVzT 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=ql1EV74V 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=Bqegptgo 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=XpwPSVq8 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=hl0Wzs5B 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=YtswvO-s 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=Huf8DVzT 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=ql1EV74V 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=Bqegptgo 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Header.jpg.webp?itok=Bqegptgo" alt="two clouds, one is sad, stormy and rainy; the other is happy and in sunlight" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Fri, 12/13/2024 - 16:32</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">December 16, 2024 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Shivani Kapadia, PharmD, Medical Director of Global Medical Affairs, Neuropsychiatry, Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development &amp; Commercialization, Inc (OPDC); and Sara Asif Spencer, PharmD, MS, BCGP, Medical Science Liaison, Neuropsychiatry, OPDC </div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p><em>This post was sponsored and developed by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development &amp; Commercialization, Inc.</em></p> <p class="text-align-center"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_01-Image.jpg" alt="1 Mental health conditions may start with mild symptoms initially but can have a progressive nature." /></p> <p>Physical, behavioral, and emotional changes may signal an underlying mental health condition.<sup>4</sup> Examples of signs and symptoms that may indicate a mental health condition include changes in eating and sleep habits, irritability, and physical ailments without cause.<sup>4</sup> Just as with a physical health condition, a mental health condition can start off as mild and worsen over time; therefore, it is very important not to ignore these signs and symptoms.<sup>4,5</sup></p> <p class="text-align-center"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_02-Image.jpg" alt="2 Delays in addressing symptoms of a mental health condition may lead to neuroprogression." /></p> <p>Neuroprogression relates to a series of biological processes that contribute to gradual worsening, relapse, and recurrence of mental health conditions.<sup>6</sup> Neuroprogression has interconnected mechanisms, with physiological, neurochemical, immunological, and genetic factors playing a role.<sup>6</sup> The result is structural and functional changes in multiple systems, specifically in the nervous, immune, and metabolic systems.<sup>6</sup> </p> <p class="text-align-center"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_03-Image.jpg" alt="3 Stress and inflammation play a role in neuroprogression." /></p> <p>Stress is associated with worse health outcomes for both physical and mental health and can exacerbate underlying or existing conditions.<sup>12</sup> Mental health conditions are correlated with both physical and psychological stress, which leads to systemic inflammation, including neuroinflammation.<sup>6,13</sup> Prolonged inflammation can lead to structural and chemical changes in the brain associated with neuroprogression. These changes could be irreversible if left untreated and can lead to worse clinical outcomes.<sup>6</sup> </p> <p class="text-align-center"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_04-Image.jpg" alt="4 Early detection and timely intervention may limit or halt neuroprogression." /></p> <p>Longer and increased episodes of mental health conditions may accelerate neuroprogression and lead to further cognitive and physical decline.<sup>1,2,7,14,15</sup> The sooner an individual recognizes symptoms of a possible mental health condition and seeks help, the sooner they could slow neuroprogression.<sup>16</sup> For many mental health conditions, early intervention can lead to a greater likelihood of better outcomes.<sup>17</sup> Timely intervention can help reduce disease burden and health care costs and improve quality of life both for those with the mental health condition and for their loved ones.<sup>17</sup> </p> <p class="text-align-center"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_05-Image.jpg" alt="5 Screening is key to early detection and early intervention" /></p> <p>Screening is a quick way to check for the symptoms of mental health conditions.<sup>18,19</sup> Mental health screening is recommended for everyone starting at age 8 years and can lead to early intervention.<sup>20-23</sup> Primary care physicians and mental health professionals can provide screenings.<sup>18</sup> There are also online, free, confidential, and scientifically validated mental health screening tools that can help you determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition.<sup>19</sup> </p> <p class="text-align-center"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_06-Image.jpg" alt="6 One size does not fit all: Every mental health journey is unique!" /></p> <p> Even with similar symptoms and the same diagnosis, each individual has a different mental health journey.<sup>24</sup> Finding the right therapy might take time; the earlier a patient seeks therapy, the sooner they can potentially benefit from treatment.<sup>7,25</sup> Remember that in many cases without proper treatment, neuroprogression may go unchecked, can worsen symptoms, and may make recovery more difficult.<sup>6</sup></p> <p class="text-align-center"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Image-LearnMore.jpg" alt="Learn more | Now that you know about neuroprogression and its impact on mental health conditions, here are some resources and options for you to learn more" /></p> <p class="text-align-center"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44WvzyRp0MI&amp;t=7s" target="_blank"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Image-LearnMore1.jpg" alt="Don't ignore what your body's telling you. Learn more about warning signs and early symptoms of mental health conditions...| Click here to view video" /></a></p> <p class="text-align-center"><a href="https://psychu.org/getting-well-staying-well-shared-patient-provider-case-study-2/?collection_id=27536" target="_blank"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Image-LearnMore2.jpg" alt="Hear from a real patient about their mental health journey | Click here to view the interview on PsychU" /></a></p> <p class="text-align-center"><a href="https://mhanational.org/finding-help"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Image-LearnMore4.jpg" alt="Finding the right support may help you manage the stress in your life | Click here to find support groups in your area" /></a></p> <p class="text-align-center"><a href="https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/2021/06/the-importance-of-early-intervention-for-people-facing-mental-health-challenges/" target="_blank"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Image-LearnMore5.jpg" alt="Learn more about the importance of early intervention | Click here to read the article" /></a></p> <p class="text-align-center"><a href="https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/" target="_blank"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Image-LearnMore6.jpg" alt="Take a weight off your mind: get screened | Click here to access MHA's screening tools" /></a></p> <p class="text-align-center"><a href="https://mhanational.org/recovery-journey"><img style="margin-bottom:12px !important;margin-top:12px !important;max-width:90% !important;" src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-12/Otsuka-blog/image_Image-LearnMore7.jpg" alt="Learn more about the journey of recovery | Click here to read more about recovery" /></a></p> <p><em>Shivani Kapadia, PharmD, is the medical director of global medical affairs, neuropsychiatry, at Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development &amp; Commercialization, Inc (OPDC). She received her doctor of pharmacy degree from St. John’s University in Queens, New York.</em></p> <p><em>Sara Asif Spencer, PharmD, MS, BCGP, is a medical science liaison, neuropsychiatry, at OPDC. She received her doctor of pharmacy degree from Albany College of Pharmacy in Albany, New York.</em></p> <p><em>The views and opinions expressed in this blog solely belong to the author, and external content does not necessarily reflect the views of Mental Health America. </em></p> <h2>References</h2> <ol><li>Berk M. Neuroprogression: pathways to progressive brain changes in bipolar disorder. <em>Int J Neuropsychopharmacol</em>. 2009;12(4):441-445. doi:10.1017/S1461145708009498</li> <li>Lieberman JA, Perkins D, Belger A, et al. The early stages of schizophrenia: speculations on pathogenesis, pathophysiology, and therapeutic approaches [published correction appears in <em>Biol Psychiatry</em>. 2002;51(4):346]. <em>Biol Psychiatry</em>. 2001;50(11):884-897. doi:10.1016/s0006-3223(01)01303-8</li> <li>Kanter JW, Busch AM, Weeks CE, Landes SJ. The nature of clinical depression: symptoms, syndromes, and behavior analysis. <em>Behav Anal</em>. 2008;31(1):1-21. doi:10.1007/BF03392158</li> <li>American Psychiatric Association. Warning signs of mental illness. Accessed July 15, 2024. <a href="https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/warning-signs-of-mental-illness">https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/warning-signs-of-mental-illness</a> </li> <li>Mental Health America. Is mental illness physical or mental? Accessed July 19, 2024. <a href="https://screening.mhanational.org/content/mental-illness-physical-or-mental/">https://screening.mhanational.org/content/mental-illness-physical-or-mental/</a> </li> <li>Halaris A, Leonard BE. Unraveling the complex interplay of immunometabolic systems that contribute to the neuroprogression of psychiatric disorders. <em>Neurol Psychiatry Brain Res</em>. 2019;32:111-121. doi:10.1016/j.npbr.2019.05.005</li> <li>Post RM, Fleming J, Kapczinski F. Neurobiological correlates of illness progression in the recurrent affective disorders. <em>J Psychiatr Res</em>. 2012;46(5):561-573. doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2012.02.004</li> <li>Fond G, Lançon C, Korchia T, Auquier P, Boyer L. The role of inflammation in the treatment of schizophrenia. <em>Front Psychiatry</em>. 2020;11:160. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2020.00160</li> <li>Lee DH, Lee JY, Hong DY, et al. Neuroinflammation in post-traumatic stress disorder. <em>Biomedicines</em>. 2022;10(5):953. doi:10.3390/biomedicines10050953</li> <li>Hassamal S. Chronic stress, neuroinflammation, and depression: an overview of pathophysiological mechanisms and emerging anti-inflammatories. <em>Front Psychiatry</em>. 2023;14:1130989. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1130989</li> <li>Calcia MA, Bonsall DR, Bloomfield PS, Selvaraj S, Barichello T, Howes OD. Stress and neuroinflammation: a systematic review of the effects of stress on microglia and the implications for mental illness. <em>Psychopharmacology</em> (Berl). 2016;233(9)1637-1650. doi:/10.1007/s00213-016-4218-9</li> <li>Schneiderman N, Ironson G, Siegel SD. Stress and health: psychological, behavioral, and biological determinants. <em>Annu Rev Clin Psychol</em>. 2005;1:607-628. doi:10.1146/annurev.clinpsy.1.102803.144141</li> <li>Davis MT, Holmes SE, Pietrzak RH, Esterlis I. Neurobiology of chronic stress-related psychiatric disorders: evidence from molecular imaging studies. <em>Chronic Stress (Thousand Oaks)</em>. 2017;1:2470547017710916. doi:10.1177/2470547017710916</li> <li>Wertz J, Caspi A, Ambler A, et al. Association of history of psychopathology with accelerated aging at midlife [published correction appears in <em>JAMA Psychiatry</em>. 2021;78(5):569. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.0268]. <em>JAMA Psychiatry</em>. 2021;78(5):530-539. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2020.4626</li> <li>Ruiz NAL, Del Ángel DS, Olguín HJ, Silva ML. Neuroprogression: the hidden mechanism of depression. <em>Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat</em>. 2018;14:2837-2845. doi:10.2147/NDT.S177973</li> <li>Correll CU, Galling B, Pawar A, et al. Comparison of early intervention services vs treatment as usual for early-phase psychosis: a systematic review, meta-analysis, and meta-regression. <em>JAMA Psychiatry</em>. 2018;75(6):555-565. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2018.0623</li> <li>Singh V, Kumar A, Gupta S. Mental health prevention and promotion—a narrative review. <em>Front Psychiatry</em>. 2022;13:898009. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2022.898009</li> <li>American Academy of Family Physicians. Mental and behavioral health care services by family physicians (position paper). Accessed July 17, 2024. <a href="https://www.aafp.org/about/policies/all/mental-health-services.html">https://www.aafp.org/about/policies/all/mental-health-services.html</a> </li> <li>Mental Health America. About MHA Screening. Accessed July 17, 2024. <a href="https://mhanational.org/cri/screening">https://mhanational.org/cri/screening</a> </li> <li>US Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for anxiety in children and adolescents: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. <em>JAMA</em>. 2022;328(14):1438-1444. doi:10.1001/jama.2022.16936</li> <li>US Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for depression and suicide risk in children and adolescents: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. <em>JAMA</em>. 2022;328(15):1534-1542. doi:10.1001/jama.2022.16946</li> <li>US Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for anxiety disorders in adults: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. <em>JAMA</em>. 2023;329(24):2163-2170. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.9301</li> <li>US Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for depression and suicide risk in adults: US Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. <em>JAMA</em>. 2023;329(23):2057-2067. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.9297</li> <li>Mental Health America. Mental health treatments. Accessed July 17, 2024. <a href="https://mhanational.org/mental-health-treatments">https://mhanational.org/mental-health-treatments</a> </li> <li>Mental Health America. Finding the right clinical mental health care for you. Accessed July 17, 2024. <a href="https://www.mhanational.org/finding-right-mental-health-care-you">https://www.mhanational.org/finding-right-mental-health-care-you</a> </li> </ol></div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/neuroprogression-what-it-and-why-you-should-know-about-it" data-a2a-title="Neuroprogression: What it is and why you should know about it"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> </section> Fri, 13 Dec 2024 21:32:37 +0000 MHA Admin 28707 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/neuroprogression-what-it-and-why-you-should-know-about-it#comments 11 Ways to Support Youth this Holiday Season https://mhanational.org/blog/11-ways-support-youth-holiday-season <span>11 Ways to Support Youth this Holiday Season</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=nhN8xc9c 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=hyuOGzQL 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=FZPdA1M- 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=ndAhDe_i 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=eQgcNEo3 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=wttEOxS_ 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=nhN8xc9c 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=hyuOGzQL 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=FZPdA1M- 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=ndAhDe_i 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=eQgcNEo3 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=wttEOxS_ 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/holiday-youth.jpg.webp?itok=wttEOxS_" alt="" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Mon, 12/09/2024 - 12:48</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">December 09, 2024 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Erin K Risner, Senior Director, Marketing &amp; Communications, Camp Fire National Headquarters</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>What does the holiday season mean for you? For many, it may bring both immense stress and joy. Gatherings can highlight family tensions, disrupt sleep and routines, and normal sources of support aren’t as readily available; this may amplify the <a href="https://campfire.org/blog/article/growing-up-is-hard/" target="_blank">mental health struggles</a> youth are already experiencing.</p> <p>So what’s a caring adult to do? Here are 11 ideas, based on the <a href="https://www.search-institute.org/developmental-relationships/developmental-relationships-framework/" target="_blank">Search Institute</a>’s <a href="https://campfire.org/blog/article/developmental-relationships-help-kids-thrive/" target="_blank">framework for positive developmental relationships</a>:</p> <p><strong>1. Be warm and intentional:</strong> Don’t forget to individually greet kids at your next holiday get-together. Make sure they know they are welcome and that you’re happy to see them, not just their accompanying adults.</p> <p><strong>2. Include me:</strong> Include kids and teens as you’re building your holiday schedule. What gatherings, activities, or traditions mean the most to them? What are their priorities for the season? Give them a say in the decisions that affect them.</p> <p><strong>3. Respect me:</strong> If you’re getting resistance to a particular holiday tradition or gathering, stop and ask why. Listen to understand. Even if you ultimately ask for their participation, try to clearly understand their concerns first and come to a fair solution.</p> <p><strong>4. Encourage:</strong> Specific compliments go a long way. Look for opportunities to recognize a young person’s unique point of view, persistence, or character.</p> <p><strong>5. Let me lead:</strong> Consider asking the kids and teens in your family if they’d like to lead a holiday activity traditionally headed up by an adult. What would change if the kids took over? Or how can you create a new holiday tradition with the young people in your life?</p> <p><strong>6. Expect my best:</strong> Experts agree that the holidays are a good time to let the small stuff go. But when it comes to the big things — your community’s shared values, for example — keep standards high for yourself and young people.</p> <p><strong>7. Stretch:</strong> Help a young person work on a robotics project after a holiday dinner, gift a book one reading level up, or teach them a new phrase in a language they are learning.</p> <p><strong>8. Advocate:</strong> If any holiday gatherings have become potentially harmful for the young people in your life (if family members aren’t affirming of an 2LGBTQ+ teen, for example), take action. If you’re the primary caregiver, you can set protective boundaries for your family, including not attending events. If you are an extended family member or friend, ask the young person how they’d like to be supported and make a plan for how you’ll intervene. (This <a href="https://www.parents.com/how-to-support-our-lgbtqia-youth-this-holiday-season-6944835" target="_blank"><em>Parents</em> article</a> has some great resources!)</p> <p><strong>9. Set boundaries:</strong> If it’s within your control, set limits on the seasonal schedule. Help young people prioritize their favorite activities instead of getting overwhelmed. And keep rest at the top of the to-do list!</p> <p><strong>10. Reflect on failures:</strong> If a holiday event or activity doesn’t go as planned, debriefing calmly (and with humor, if possible!) can help young people learn failure is part of growing, not something to be scared or ashamed of.</p> <p><strong>11. Hold me accountable:</strong> If you lose your seasonal cool, model how to deliver a timely, sincere apology and any necessary restitutions. Expect the same (in developmentally appropriate ways) from any young people you’re responsible for.</p> <p>Child development experts emphasize the importance of <a href="https://childmind.org/article/how-to-take-the-stress-out-of-the-holidays/" target="_blank">setting realistic expectations</a> for the holidays, <a href="https://childmind.org/article/4-ways-to-make-the-holidays-better-for-kids/" target="_blank">sticking to a normal schedule</a> as much as possible, <a href="https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/seven-ways-to-cope-with-holiday-stress" target="_blank">getting time outside</a>, and <a href="https://nosidebar.com/simple-holidays/?utm_source=convertkit&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=%E2%9B%8FGo+Camp+Pro%27s+USELetter+-+November+2023+%28part+2%29%20-%2012286841" target="_blank">practicing gratitude</a> together. <a href="https://nosidebar.com/simple-holidays/?utm_source=convertkit&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=%E2%9B%8FGo+Camp+Pro%27s+USELetter+-+November+2023+%28part+2%29%20-%2012286841" target="_blank">Simplifying gift-giving, practicing social skills</a> before get-togethers, and <a href="https://www.mghclaycenter.org/parenting-concerns/teenagers/survive-holidays-teens/?utm_source=convertkit&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_campaign=%E2%9B%8FGo+Camp+Pro%27s+USELetter+-+November+2023+%28part+2%29%20-%2012286841" target="_blank">giving teens space to be moody</a> are also solid strategies.</p> <p>And perhaps most of all: Find ways to care for your own needs so you can find beauty and keep showing up for the young people in your life!</p> <p>Wishing you an enjoyable - and less stressful - holiday season.</p> </div> <div class="field field--name-field-tags field--type-entity-reference field--label-inline"> <div class="field__label">Tags</div> <div class="field__items"> <div class="field__item"><a href="/tags/youth-mental-health" hreflang="en">youth mental health</a></div> </div> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/11-ways-support-youth-holiday-season" data-a2a-title="11 Ways to Support Youth this Holiday Season"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> </section> Mon, 09 Dec 2024 17:48:06 +0000 MHA Admin 28705 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/11-ways-support-youth-holiday-season#comments How to Know if You’re Doing Too Much: Recognizing Overfunctioning and Avoiding Burnout https://mhanational.org/blog/how-know-if-youre-doing-too-much-recognizing-overfunctioning-and-avoiding-burnout <span>How to Know if You’re Doing Too Much: Recognizing Overfunctioning and Avoiding Burnout</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=jXqMf78G 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=ELp9fVLb 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=b6ucsAzA 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=W4IHNBWP 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=TNhfPO3_ 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=8mX3HZOR 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=jXqMf78G 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=ELp9fVLb 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=b6ucsAzA 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=W4IHNBWP 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=TNhfPO3_ 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=8mX3HZOR 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/toxic-stress.jpg.webp?itok=8mX3HZOR" alt="stressed person sits at desk with head in hand and laptop and notebooks in front of them" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Wed, 11/20/2024 - 11:32</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">November 20, 2024 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Israa Nasir, therapist and author of “Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World That Always Demands More”</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>We live in a culture that prioritizes productivity over taking care of yourself. So, it becomes easy to overdo it—without even realizing it. This can lead to overfunctioning—when you take on responsibilities and tasks that are (1) not necessarily yours to complete or take on, and (2) are beyond your time and energetic capacity.</p> <p>Recognizing when you're doing too much is essential for preserving your mental well-being, physical health, and overall happiness.</p> <h2>What Exactly is Overfunctioning?</h2> <p>Overfunctioning is a common but often overlooked response to stress, where we step in to manage, control, or take responsibility for things that may not truly be ours to handle. When faced with challenges, people who overfunction often feel compelled to “do more” as a way of coping. You might take on more responsibilities at work, constantly offer help to others, or overextend yourself in your personal life as a way to keep everything running smoothly. Over time, this pattern not only leads to burnout but can also damage relationships by enabling others to underfunction or become overly reliant.</p> <h2>Red Flags for Overfunctioning</h2> <ol><li>You are never not tired. Consistent feeling of exhaustion (outside of any physical health issues) even after a full night's sleep or a day off.</li> <li>You feel overwhelmed by small tasks. If you’re finding it hard to concentrate, easily frustrated, or feeling mentally or physically cluttered, you may be spreading yourself too thin.</li> <li>You want to feel in control of the situation or avoid disappointment. This mindset prevents you from trusting others to help or take over, so you end up doing everything yourself.</li> <li>When you’re the one constantly doing more, you might start to feel resentful or frustrated with others—you might feel they are not contributing equally. This can strain relationships and create an unhealthy dynamic where others rely on you too much.</li> </ol><h2>How to Prevent Overfunctioning</h2> <ol><li>Boundaries: Start by identifying your needs and reflecting on your time and energy capacity. Boundaries might look like saying no to an extra project at work or limiting your availability.</li> <li>Release Perfectionism: Embrace a more flexible approach to success. Recognize that perfection isn’t realistic or necessary, and that “good enough” often gets the job done just as well.</li> <li>Actively Rest: Make a habit of taking regular breaks throughout the day, and carve out time each week for activities that truly relax and rejuvenate you.</li> <li>Delegate Mindfully: Start small by asking for help with minor tasks, and gradually build your comfort with delegating larger responsibilities.</li> <li>Improve Self-Awareness: Reflect on why you started taking on so much in the first place. Are you driven by a fear of failure or desire to prove yourself? Do you worry about disappointing others or what other people might think of you? Understanding your motivations can help you redefine your approach to productivity, letting go of unnecessary pressure.</li> </ol><h2>Overfunctioning is a One-Way Street to Burnout</h2> <p>You might feel like you are more in control, highly competent, or a valued member of your team or family if you are constantly the one responsible for getting things done. However, if you don’t catch these signs early on, overfunctioning can lead you to burnout.</p> <p>If you recognize yourself in these patterns, it might be time to take a step back and reevaluate. Learning to recognize when you’re doing too much and taking steps to manage your workload and expectations can be transformative. Remember: You don’t need to do it all to be valuable.</p> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/how-know-if-youre-doing-too-much-recognizing-overfunctioning-and-avoiding-burnout" data-a2a-title="How to Know if You’re Doing Too Much: Recognizing Overfunctioning and Avoiding Burnout"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> </section> Wed, 20 Nov 2024 16:32:35 +0000 MHA Admin 28698 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/how-know-if-youre-doing-too-much-recognizing-overfunctioning-and-avoiding-burnout#comments West Fraser grant powers rural mental health outreach in South Carolina https://mhanational.org/blog/west-fraser-grant-powers-rural-mental-health-outreach-south-carolina <span>West Fraser grant powers rural mental health outreach in South Carolina</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=xVXAGGhM 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=l5v9O3JP 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=kk685ezh 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=sN2sVHxG 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=BETs0DyK 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=nsryAg7T 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=xVXAGGhM 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=l5v9O3JP 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=kk685ezh 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=sN2sVHxG 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=BETs0DyK 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=nsryAg7T 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/west-fraser-rural-mental-health.jpg.webp?itok=nsryAg7T" alt="rural town with church in forefront" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Wed, 11/20/2024 - 12:10</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">November 20, 2024 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Eileen Schell, Community Resource Coordinator</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>Mental Health America of South Carolina (MHASC) is taking big steps to support rural communities in the state, and it's all thanks to a partnership with Mental Health America National and West Fraser, a global wood products company. Through this partnership, MHASC received funding to extend its mental health services to rural South Carolina, and reach smaller towns that may not have access to mental health resources otherwise.</p> <p>The team started by sending letters and resource packets to local faith leaders. Since September was Suicide Prevention Month, the materials included helpful bulletin announcements, resources in both English and Spanish, and information about their Mental Health 101 sessions, offered both in person and online. They also highlighted the free mental health screenings available through the Mental Health America website.</p> <p class="text-align-center"><img src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-11/Dont-Duck-mental-health.jpg" alt="volunteers stand with buckets of mental health resources on tables in front of them" width="90% important" /></p> <p>One special program MHASC introduced to faith communities is "I.C. Hope/Don’t Duck Mental Health." It features a duck mascot and is designed to teach both children and adults that mental illness is real and treatable. The materials are engaging, with a curriculum for teachers and adults, and even fun items like coloring pages, stickers, and craft supplies for a paper sack puppet. This initiative makes learning about mental health interactive and accessible for all ages.</p> <p>MHASC also worked with MHA National to get a unique QR code for <a href="https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/" target="_blank">MHA’s National Prevention and Screening Program</a> so they can learn more about how people in South Carolina use the mental health screenings. Over the next few months, MHASC will continue to expand its efforts in rural communities, thanks to the West Fraser grant. This includes offering more training in Mental Health First Aid, hosting suicide awareness programs, and setting up booths at events to spread the word about mental health resources.</p> <p class="text-align-center"><img src="https://mhanational.org/sites/default/files/2024-11/IC-Hope-puppet.jpg" alt="mom and son stand holding an I.C. Hope duck paper bag puppet" width="60% !important" /></p> <p>MHASC has been busy with other projects, too. In the past year, the organization gave their website a makeover and organized two major conferences—one focusing on suicide prevention and another for peer supporters. Both were funded by a grant from the South Carolina Department of Mental Health, and they’re already planning conferences for 2025.</p> <p>In addition to rural outreach, MHASC has also maintained a presence at Soda City Market, a weekly market in downtown Columbia. There, staffers set up a table with Mental Health America materials, along with resources from other organizations like the local chapters of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and the National Alliance on Mental Illness to reach even more people.</p> <p>Finally, MHASC celebrated its 70th anniversary with a 70s-themed party! Despite the rain brought by Hurricane Helene, which later hit parts of South Carolina and continued to affect North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, they still marked this important milestone. Their hearts go out to everyone impacted by the storm.</p> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/west-fraser-grant-powers-rural-mental-health-outreach-south-carolina" data-a2a-title="West Fraser grant powers rural mental health outreach in South Carolina"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> <h2>Add new comment</h2> <drupal-render-placeholder callback="comment.lazy_builders:renderForm" arguments="0=node&amp;1=28699&amp;2=comment_node_blog_post&amp;3=comment_node_blog_post" token="JhdLXnx_Fm96DKJZlzH5ta6aHNwLfRR5D2_D0uYnaRk"></drupal-render-placeholder> </section> Wed, 20 Nov 2024 17:10:51 +0000 MHA Admin 28699 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/west-fraser-grant-powers-rural-mental-health-outreach-south-carolina#comments Care for the caregiver https://mhanational.org/blog/care-caregiver <span>Care for the caregiver</span> <div class="field field--name-field-blog-post-image field--type-image field--label-hidden field__item"> <picture> <source srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=_oyC_b_j 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=Bk9X2fMm 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=SfTtYBL4 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=o5NZxvYV 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=K7NjfSHp 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=Z1OG2I6H 1800w" type="image/webp" sizes="100vw"/> <img srcset="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_small_480x270/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=_oyC_b_j 480w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_small_576x324/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=Bk9X2fMm 576w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_medium_768x432/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=SfTtYBL4 768w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_large_992x558/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=o5NZxvYV 992w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_large_1200x675/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=K7NjfSHp 1200w, /sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=Z1OG2I6H 1800w" sizes="100vw" src="/sites/default/files/styles/hero_16_9_extra_extra_large_1800x1013/public/2024-11/caregiver.jpg.webp?itok=Z1OG2I6H" alt="one person comforts another sitting on couch together" typeof="foaf:Image" /> </picture> </div> <span><span lang="" about="/users/mha-admin" typeof="schema:Person" property="schema:name" datatype="">MHA Admin</span></span> <span>Wed, 11/20/2024 - 12:30</span> <div class="field field--name-field-post-date field--type-datetime field--label-hidden field__item">November 20, 2024 </div> <div class="em pt-2 pb-2 field field--name-field-author field--type-string field--label-hidden field__item">by Lisell Pacheco, Senior Director, Programs, Elizabeth Dole Foundation</div> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field__item"><p>There are 91.3 million caregivers across the U.S., and of those, <a href="https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_reports/RRA3212-1.html" target="_blank">14.3 million are caring for a wounded, ill, or injured service member or veteran</a>. These military and veteran caregivers are the spouses, partners, parents, family members, friends, neighbors, and loved ones who provide countless hours of often unseen and unpaid care to their care recipient. Many have sacrificed their careers, education, and health to prioritize the needs of their loved ones.</p> <p>November is National Family Caregivers Month, but we know caregivers give so much to support the well-being of their loved ones all year. We know from our newest research on military and veteran caregivers that caregiving places significant strain on caregivers’ mental health. Caregivers often place their own needs behind those of their care recipient, which can lead to burnout, stress, and other mental well-being consequences. Below are some tips to support caregivers in nourishing their own mental wellness, today, this month, and along their entire <a href="https://caregiverjourney.elizabethdolefoundation.org/?_gl=1*qc8tfw*_gcl_au*MzQ2ODkyNDAyLjE3MjU4ODk1ODg." target="_blank">caregiving journey</a>.</p> <h2>Nurture and develop the parts of your identity that make you feel like you.</h2> <p>Who were you before you became a caregiver? Caregiving can be all-consuming, leaving little room for personal goals, interests, and self-expression. Take time to reflect on your values and identify the components of your pre-caregiving identity that brought you fulfillment, passion, and joy.</p> <h2>Embrace the full spectrum of big emotions.</h2> <p>Caregiving is emotional. Offer yourself compassion as you experience powerful, complex, and seemingly conflicting emotions at the same time. Explore tools and outlets for processing these feelings – from journaling, meditating, and simply unplugging to talking with a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional.</p> <h2>Build peer connection with someone who just gets it.</h2> <p>The experience of caring for a loved one can be isolating. It can be helpful to <a href="https://hiddenheroes.org/meet-other-caregivers/caregiver-community/" target="_blank">connect with caregiving peers</a> who have similar lived experiences – both in person and virtually. Building peer connection creates a sense of inclusion and the opportunity for someone to reach out and check in on you.</p> <h2>Find time to intentionally nourish yourself.</h2> <p>It often feels like there are not enough hours in the day to care for your loved one and attend to all other daily responsibilities. Intentionally nourishing yourself will enable you to maintain your care and commitment to those around you. Consider building self-care into your everyday routine, such as listening to an audio book or <a href="https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7A6O8Zny4hLkRZibgT9TBU?si=970eda16a2bf4309" target="_blank">your favorite music</a> while walking the dog or completing household tasks. Give yourself permission to delegate tasks or intentionally do nothing.</p> <h2>Connect to trusted military and veteran caregiving resources.</h2> <p>There are a number of resources nationwide to support caregivers, but sometimes this wealth of information can be overwhelming to navigate. If you’re not sure where to start, check out the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s <a href="https://familyresourcehub.elizabethdolefoundation.org/" target="_blank">Family Resource Hub</a>, which offers vetted resources for military and veteran caregiving families, or connect with our <a href="https://hiddenheroes.org/caregiver-intake-form/" target="_blank">Resource Navigation</a> team for 1:1 guidance.</p> <p>Building in time to care for yourself takes practice. For more ideas on how to care for yourself as you care for those around you, check out the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s <a href="https://hiddenheroes.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/EDF_MWFramework_Poster_individual-parts_MAR2023.pdf" target="_blank">Caregiver Mental Wellness Framework</a>. If you’re looking to connect with military and veteran caregiver peers in a safe and structured virtual space to build greater understanding of your mental wellness, consider joining a virtual <a href="https://hiddenheroes.org/resources-online-education/caregivermentalwellness/" target="_blank">Caregiver Mental Wellness Workshop or Care Group</a>.</p> </div> <span class="a2a_kit a2a_kit_size_32 addtoany_list" data-a2a-url="https://mhanational.org/blog/care-caregiver" data-a2a-title="Care for the caregiver"><a class="a2a_button_facebook"></a><a class="a2a_button_twitter"></a><a class="a2a_button_linkedin"></a><a class="a2a_button_instagram"></a></span> <section> </section> Wed, 20 Nov 2024 17:30:43 +0000 MHA Admin 28700 at https://mhanational.org https://mhanational.org/blog/care-caregiver#comments