Did you know that children need therapy too? It's not just for adults! Children go through a lot of changes during their development, and sometimes they need a little extra help to process these changes. That's where children's therapists come in. They can help children learn how to cope with difficult emotions, life changes and situations. If you're looking to understand what child therapists are and how to find one to ensure your child's mental health, this blog post is for you. [Therapy is a means for your child to be their best selves.] What does a child therapist do? A child therapist is a licensed mental health professional who specializes in working with children. They provide therapy to children of all ages, from toddlers to teenagers. Not only that, child therapists also assess and evaluate for mental illness, behavioral disorders and emotional and cognitive issues, and provide intervention and intervention programs to ensure the healthy development of your child. Child therapists use play therapy, art therapy, and other creative techniques to help children express themselves and work through their issues. Other techniques may also include behavioral therapy, parent-child interaction therapy, and occupational therapy, among others. Why do children need therapy? Children go through a lot of changes during their development, and sometimes they need a little extra help to process these changes. Your little one could be dealing with feelings, stress, anxiety, school problems, family problems, health problems, and other stressful situation that can be too much for you child to process. That's where children's therapists come in. They can help children learn how to cope with difficult emotions and situations as a child therapist is specially trained to understand the needs of your little one. [Image] The emotional and cognitive processes of a child are different from adolescents and adults, hence the need for a professional that is trained to work with children. How does therapy work? Many children learn best through doing in therapy sessions. This entails collaborating with the entire family, drawing, playing, and talking with younger kids. Therapists can also provide activities and suggestions to help older children master their skills. They work through concerns and solve difficulties together. Therapists provide encouragement and praise as children learn. They assist youngsters in believing in themselves and recognizing their talents. Therapy establishes positive thought patterns and good behavioral habits. A therapist may either meet with the child and parent together or independently. It is dependent on the child's age. A therapist might also meet with a parent to provide pointers and advice on how to support their kid at home. What's the difference between a child therapist and a child psychologist? [Image] The terms therapist and psychologists are often used interchangeably, but the two terms are both used for two different professionals. While they both share the same goal for your child, both have different functions, hence the importance to understand the distinctions between the two to know which professional help to seek.  A psychologist is a person who has received specialized training in one or more forms of therapy and applies that knowledge to treat mental illnesses. The word "psychologist" is sometimes used interchangeably with "psychotherapist" in the context of mental health. A child psychologist, for example, specializes in working with children. Child psychologists receive specialized training on how to administer tests that identify neurodevelopmental disorders such as ASD and learning difficulties such as ADHD. [Image] A therapist is a more general term for people who have undergone rigorous training and are often licensed, to give a variety of therapies and rehabilitation to clients. The aim of a therapist is for patients to be able to make decisions and express their feelings in order to solve difficulties. Therapists aid patients in making good decisions while also assisting them in receiving the appropriate levels of treatment and support. How do I start therapy for my child? If you're looking for a children's therapist, the best place to start is with your child's pediatrician. They can give you some referrals to local therapists who specialize in working with children. You can also ask friends or family members if they know of any good children's therapists in your area.  Once you have some names, you can look up each therapist online and read reviews from other parents. When you've found a few that look promising, give them a call and set up an initial consultation. This is a great opportunity to meet the therapist and see if they're a good fit for your child. [Image] You can also ask your friends or family if they know of any good children's therapists in your area. Another option is to search online for children's therapists in your area. Once you've found a few options, you can call and ask about their qualifications and experience. You should also make sure that the therapist is licensed by the state in which they practice. Does my child really need therapy services? [Image] Parents are the first determinants of their children's mental state and should be the ones to decide whether their children need immediate help. Therapy is a means to help your child achieve a happy life and be their best selves and when your little one is at their best, this radiates unto the whole family. Don't be afraid to discuss your concerns with the therapist. Talk to your child therapist today to explore treatment options for your child as their health always comes first.  In these early stages of your child's life, the power to transform their life is in your hands. 

Mariella Arceo

Aug 01, 2022

Do you know the difference between anxiety attacks and panic attacks? If not, you are not alone. A lot of people don't know the difference, because the two terms are often used interchangeably. However, there is a big difference between the two. In this blog post, we will discuss what anxiety attacks and panic attacks are, and how they differ from each other. [Panic Attacks] What are panic attacks? Panic attacks are sudden, intense episodes of fear or anxiety. They usually peak within minutes, and can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Symptoms of panic attacks typically include heart palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, and dizziness, among many others. Some people also experience mental symptoms during a panic attack, such as a fear of losing control, going crazy, or dying. Panic attacks can be very frightening, and may even lead to a feeling of being detached from reality. What are anxiety attacks? Anxiety attacks are similar to panic attacks in that they are also sudden, intense episodes of fear or anxiety. However, anxiety attacks do not always peak within minutes, and can last for hours or even days. Anxiety attacks also typically involve physical symptoms such as racing heartbeat, a choking feeling, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, sweating, trembling, and dizziness. However, the mental symptoms experienced during an anxiety attack are different from those experienced during a panic attack. [Image] With an anxiety attack, people may feel a sense of impending doom or danger, but they do not usually feel detached from reality. What's the difference between an anxiety and a panic attack? The main difference is that panic attacks tend to be more intense and happen more suddenly than anxiety attacks. Panic attacks also usually peak within minutes, while anxiety attacks can last for hours or even days. Both types of episodes can be very frightening, and may involve physical and mental symptoms. If you are experiencing repeated panic attacks and anxiety attacks, it is important to seek professional help. What triggers panic attacks and anxiety attacks? There are many different things that can trigger a panic or anxiety attack. For some people, it may be a specific situation, such as being in a crowded place or riding on an airplane. For others, there may be no obvious trigger. Panic and anxiety attacks can also be caused by stress, illness, or certain medications. If you have panic or anxiety attacks, it is important to talk to your doctor to find out what might be causing them. How can one deal with anxiety and panic attacks? If you have anxiety or panic attacks, there are some things that you can do to help manage them. First, it is important to identify your triggers and try to avoid them if possible. If you cannot avoid your triggers, try to desensitize yourself to them by exposure therapy. Exposure therapy involves gradually exposing yourself to your trigger in a safe and controlled environment. This can help you learn to cope with your trigger and may eventually lessen the intensity of your anxiety or panic attacks. Second, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercises or meditation can also help. These techniques can help you calm down during an anxiety or panic attack and prevent future episodes from occurring. [Image] Finally, it is important to seek professional help if you are having difficulty managing your anxiety or panic attacks. A mental health professional can help you identify your triggers and develop a treatment plan to manage your symptoms and prevent unexpected panic attacks in the future. Anxiety and panic attacks can be very frightening, but there are things that you can do to manage them. If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or panic attacks, please seek medical help. With the right treatment, you can learn to control your anxiety and live a normal, healthy life. You don't have to let overwhelming anxiety, intense fear or a traumatic event take control of your everyday life any further. Mosaic Minds Counseling cares about your mental health. symptoms. Don't hesitate to reach out and get connected with our therapists to explore the best treatment plan for you. 

Mariella Arceo

Jul 12, 2022

Exposure response prevention, also known as exposure therapy or exposure response prevention therapy, is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy used to treat anxiety disorders. It works by exposing people to the things that scare them in a controlled and safe environment. This allows people to face their fears without feeling overwhelmed or panicked. In this blog post, we will discuss what exposure response prevention is and how it works. We will also talk about the benefits of exposure response prevention therapy and who can benefit from it. What is exposure response prevention? Exposure therapy was first developed in the 1950s as a treatment for phobias. It has since been found to be effective in treating other anxiety disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Exposure therapy works by helping people to confront their fears and learn new, more adaptive ways of responding to them. Exposure therapy is usually conducted with the help of a therapist, who will work with you to gradually exposure yourself to your fear. The therapist will also teach you how to manage your anxiety and cope with your fear in a healthy way. Exposure therapy has been found to be an effective treatment for anxiety disorders. In one study, exposure therapy was found to be more effective than relaxation training in treating people with PTSD. exposure therapy has also been found to be effective in treating OCD. A review of studies found that exposure therapy was more effective than medication in treating OCD. Avoidance reinforces fear In addition, exposure therapy helps minimize fear and reinforces the fears that arise. It's important because avoiding anything we're afraid of sends an enormous warning to our brains that there are good causes of such fears and that our brains are incapable of responding to them. Let's consider a case study on how exposure promotes habitual behavior. What is an example of exposure and response prevention? An example of exposure therapy is a case of an individual with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) symptoms. OCD has obsessions, which are intrusive thoughts, images and urges that cause anxiety and distress. Compulsions are a response to these obsessions that individuals with OCD perform to ease their distressing thoughts about their obsessions. Take for example a man with germ-contamination fears who is obsessed with keeping clean by performing hour-long cleaning rituals. Applying exposure response prevention to this case could be making the individual shake hands, the exposure, without being followed up by hand washing, the response prevention. [Exposure Therapy] Habituation: The backbone of exposure therapy Exposed-based treatment uses the habituation process. Habituation occurs in people who have been exposed repeatedly to the stimulus or stop responding and paying the attention to the stimulus. The entire human experience is filled with habit. Often people will be aggravated by the noise of a busy highway near the home. Each and every day the sounds on a road fade to a quiet silence before being noticed. The person becomes comfortable with the sound of the highway. How long does it take for ERP therapy to work? On average, an individual may see results after 12-20 sessions of repeated exposure therapy but results still depend on the severity of the case. Of course, everyone has different cases and may respond differently to ERP therapy; some may respond quicker and some may have a slower response. In a study conducted in 2019, exposure and response prevention therapy has been shown to have clinically significant improvement in OCD symptoms in 50-60% of patients. This shows that ERP works. If you or somebody you know could benefit from the effects of ERP therapy, do not hesitate to reach out to Mosaic Minds Counseling. Your worst fears do not have to control your life, they can end at your therapist's office. It all starts with deciding that you want to reach out to a therapist.

Mariella Arceo

Jun 23, 2022

“There is no such thing as a stress-free life. No evidence has ever been presented which suggests that a stress-free life can ever be achieved. Stress can be managed, relieved and lessened, but never eliminated.” —Gudjon Bergmann Have you ever heard of the terms "eustress" and "distress?" Many people use these words interchangeably, but they actually have very different meanings. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between eustress and distress and explain how each one can affect your life. We will also provide tips on how to manage both types of stress. What is stress? [Distress vs. Eustress] Everyday tasks may create taxing demands and stress is simply our body's response to those demands. During this response, the body produces stress hormones that activate the body's fight or flight response which helps us during dangerous situations. Sometimes, stress response is useful in pushing us to get things done. Contrary to popular belief, not all stress is negative stress. Because we use "stress" as a description for negative situations, this leads to the idea that stress has purely negative affective outcomes when the reality is the complete opposite. Is there negative stress and a positive stress? The answer is...yes! There is negative stress and positive stress. The terms for these are called eustress and distress. Good stress is called eustress is caused by positive personal stressors. It may be a promotion, buying a home, marriage, vacations, holidays, etc. Positive stress has positive effects; it focuses energy, improves performance, and motivates, among other positive outcomes. [Image] Negative stress, on the other hand, is called distress and is caused by negative personal stressors such as the death of a loved one, injury, separation, sleep problems, excessive job demands etc. As a result, distress may cause anxiety, negative emotions, decreased performance and mental and physical problems. Everybody experiences stress differently; what one perceives to be a positive or negative personal stressor may not be the same to the next person. An individual's stress response may vary too as everyone has different coping abilities and ideas of stressful events. Some may experience stresses more intensely than others. How can I deal with stress? There are a few different ways that you can manage stress. First, you can try relaxation techniques. There are many relaxation techniques available online you can try and adopt to your everyday routine to reduce stress levels. [Image] Second, you can exercise. Physical activity has been known to release "happy hormones" and increase self-confidence, improve your mood, help you relax, and lower symptoms of mild depression and anxiety. It may induce positive stress, hence inducing positive feelings. Third, give yourself breaks. Breaks are needed in daily life to combat bad stress. Enjoy a short walk, your favorite book, or whatever it is that sparks joy in you. By giving yourself short breaks, you are doing your mental health and well being a favor. Lastly, spend time with friends and family. Your interpersonal relationships can make all the difference in your day to day life. Surround yourself with people that bring positive emotions and positive experiences in your life. If you are experiencing distress, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Mosaic Minds Counseling is here to help if you or someone you know is struggling with stress.

Jessica Bell

Jun 08, 2022

There are four attachment styles that people tend to fall into: secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized. Each adult attachment style is characterized by different patterns of behavior in close relationships. Understanding your attachment style can help you to understand why you act the way you do in relationships and what you can do to improve them as relationships tend to be affected by attachment styles. [Secure Attachment] What is the attachment theory?  The attachment theory theorizes the long-lasting effects of the bond between children and their caregivers. Children who grow up in close proximity to their primary caregivers are able to receive comfort and protection, hence the formation of a healthy emotional bond. This first experience of bonding may affect personal relationships, how we relate to other people and how we respond to emotional intimacy. According to pioneers of the theory, John Bowlby and Mary Ainsworth, there are four main attachment styles: anxious, avoidant, disorganized and secure attachment styles. Children develop a secure attachment style when parents play often with them and respond quickly and consistently to their needs. Securely attached children then become securely attached adults who feel comfortable in close relationships. They are able to express their feelings and needs openly and they feel confident that their partner will be there for them when they need them. Securely attached people generally have positive relationships and are able to seek emotional support when needed. They also tend to have positive self-esteem and stable relationships. [Image] However, not all people are able to experience this healthy nourishment during their early childhood. How does this lack of nourishment in the early years affect young adults and future relationships? What are insecure attachment styles? [Image] As a result of inconsistent attention care, rejection and unavailability, or unresolved issues by parents, insecure attachment styles develop in children. Eventually, they carry the insecure attachment style to adulthood and manifest themselves in later relationships. These attachment styles are anxious attachment, avoidant attachment and disorganized attachment. People with an anxious attachment style are often overly dependent. People with this attachment type are frequently jealous, nervous and insecure, exhibiting a lack of self-esteem. They want emotional intimacy but are afraid that others won't want to be around them. Individuals with this attachment style make romantic relationships the center of their life and may fixate on their partners. To keep the relationship, they may resort to guilt tripping, controlling and manipulative behavior. A lot of constant reassurance and attention is demanded from romantic partners by individuals with this attachment style. In contrast to the anxious attachment style is the avoidant attachment style, where instead of craving intimacy, it is avoided. Instead of yearning for closeness, they are so wary of intimacy that they seek to avoid emotional connection with others. They'd rather not rely on anyone else, or have someone else rely on them. People with this attachment style are independent and may withdraw as romantic partners and other people try to get close. They are also more likely to downplay or ignore their partner's feelings, keep secrets from them, have affairs, and even terminate relationships in order to reclaim their sense of independence. People with the anxious attachment style may prefer casual relationships to keep an emotional distance in romantic relationships. [Image] Lastly, the disorganized attachment style is characterized by intense fear, usually due to childhood trauma, neglect, or abuse from childhood attachment figures. Adults with this style of avoidant attachment believe they do not deserve love or closeness in a relationship. They may also find adult relationships confusing and may shift between extremes like love and hate towards their intimate partners. They may display insensitive, selfish, controlling, and untrusting behavior towards their partners and may also refuse to take responsibility for their own actions. Adults with this attachment style are also more likely to exhibit negative patterns of behavior such as smoking, abusing drugs and alcohol, and violence. How to deal with insecure attachment styles? If you or your romantic partner has an insecure attachment style, it's vital to know that you don't have to live with the same attitudes, expectations, or behaviors for the rest of your life. It is possible to improve and acquire a more secure attachment style as an adult. Therapy can be very beneficial, whether you're working one-on-one with a therapist or going to couples counseling with your current partner. A psychologist experienced in attachment theory may help you understand and feel more secure, either on your own or as a couple. There are a variety of things you may do on your own to develop a more secure attachment style if you don't have access to effective therapy. Learn everything you can about your insecure attachment style, starting with it. The sooner you understand, the better equipped you'll be to spot and correct reflexive attitudes and behaviors associated with insecurity in your connection. Below are some ways you can start developing a more secure attachment style: 1. Improve your nonverbal communication abilities 2. 3. The attachment theory shows the importance of nonverbal communication, as children and their primary caregivers communicate nonverbally in the early stages of the relationship. 4. Even though you are not aware of it, you constantly transmit and receive wordless messages through the gestures you make, your posture, how much eye contact you make, and other things when interacting with others. These nonverbal signals send clear indications about what you truly feel. 5. Developing your nonverbal communication skills at any age may help you build and strengthen your relationships with others. By being present in the moment, learning to control stress, and enhancing your emotional awareness, you can learn to improve these abilities. 6. 7. Improve your emotional quotient 8. 9. Emotional intelligence (often referred to as emotional quotient or EQ) is the ability to understand, utilize, and manage your emotions in a beneficial way to empathize with your partner, communicate more effectively, and deal with conflict in a healthier manner. 10. 11. Building emotional intelligence can help strengthen your relationship by aiding you in improving how effectively you read and utilize non-verbal communication. Emotional intelligence may help to enhance a relationship by allowing you to better communicate your needs and feelings to your partner while also comprehending how they feel. 12. 13. Create friendships with individuals who are securely attached 14. 15. When you're in a relationship with someone who has an insecure attachment style, you may find yourself being out of sync, rocky, perplexing, or even painful. While you can work through your insecurities as a couple, if you're single it will be easier to seek for a partner with a secure attachment style that can help you move away from negative patterns of behavior. 16. 17. A good relationship with someone who makes you feel loved may aid in the development of your sense of security. According to statistics, around 50% of people have a secure attachment style, so there's a good probability of finding a love partner that can assist you overcome your fears. Equally, forming meaningful relationships with these individuals can also help you recognize and adopt healthier patterns of behavior. 18. 19. Resolve childhood trauma 20. 21. Trauma, as we've said before, can disrupt the attachment and bonding process in infants and young children. Childhood trauma might stem from a number of factors, including an unsafe or unstable home environment, being separated from one's primary caregiver, major disease, neglect, or abuse. Insecurity, fear, and helplessness may continue into adulthood if childhood trauma is left unresolved. 22. 23. While your memories of the trauma may have faded over time, there are things you can do to heal, regain your emotional balance, and reconnect in relationships again. 24. If you or someone you know is struggling with an insecure attachment style, do not hesitate to reach out to Mosaic Minds Counseling.

Jessica Bell

Jun 08, 2022

“Courage doesn’t happen when you have all the answers. It happens when you are ready to face the questions you have been avoiding your whole life.” ― Shannon L. Alder [Getting Help] Asking for help Therapy can be an incredibly useful tool for managing mental health issues, improving relationships, and dealing with other personal challenges. However, finding the right therapist can be a daunting task. How do you know where to look? What should you consider when choosing a therapist? And what is a consultation phone call like? In this blog post, we will answer these questions and provide some guidance on getting started with therapy. What is therapy? Therapy is the process of treating mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders with the aim of improving an individual's overall functioning. It can be provided in a variety of settings, such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, community mental health centers and private practices. Recently, online therapy sessions have been gaining popularity for its convenience and easy accessibility. There are many different types of therapy available, each with its own unique approach. Some of the most popular types of therapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy, Psychodynamic therapy, and humanistic therapy. Where to look for a therapist? There are many places to look for a potential therapist. You can start by asking your primary care physicians for a referral, searching online directories (such as the American Psychological Association’s Therapist Locator,) or looking up therapy practices in your local yellow pages. Another great way to find a therapist is to ask friends, family, mental health organizations or other professionals (such as your clergyperson or doctor) for recommendations. Once you have a few names, you can research the therapists online to learn more about their approaches to therapy and whether they might be a good fit for you. Online search tools such as search engines and social media can be a good way to look for a helpful therapist or a counseling center near you as well. What should you consider when looking for a therapist? When choosing a therapist, it is important to consider your needs and goals for therapy. For example, if you are seeking therapy for substance abuse, you may want to choose a therapist who specializes in treating it. It is also important to consider the therapist’s training, experience, and approach to therapy. [Image] Therapeutic Relationship Ultimately, choosing the right therapist is a personal decision as it also boils down to the therapist's personality and how you feel during the therapy sessions. A good therapist makes you feel connected and comfortable talking about your issues and specific concerns. They help make a positive change not just in your mental health and well being. After the process of establishing a relationship with your therapist, you will know if your therapist is a good match for you. If you feel like you are not establishing a strong relationship with your therapist, you can always switch therapists. What is a phone consultation like? A consultation phone call is a brief conversation with a therapist to help you determine if they are the right fit for you. During the call, the therapist will ask about your reasons for seeking therapy, your therapy goals and other basic information. They will also answer any questions you have about their approach to therapy and their practice. This is a good opportunity for clients to get a feel for their therapist and assess if they are a good match. Looking for a therapist is a process that does not have to be a daunting one. Therapists are here to help you overcome your struggles. Your mental health is of utmost importance; there is no shame in asking for help to make it better. Here at Mosaic Minds Counseling, we care about your mental health. Visit the website for more information and do not hesitate to reach out. The therapist you need might just be with us!

Jessica Bell

May 11, 2022

Have you ever been in a situation where you felt like your life was in danger? Maybe you were walking down a dark street and heard footsteps behind you, or someone approached you in a threatening way. If so, then you experienced the fight, flight, freeze response. This is a natural response that humans have when we feel threatened. In this blog post, we will discuss what the fight, flight, freeze response is and how to deal with it! [Fight, Flight or Freeze] What causes the fight or flight response? The fight or flight response is caused by the release of adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones are released when we perceive a threat. They cause an increased heart rate, blood pressure and breathing. This is all part of the body's natural defense mechanism to prepare us for fight or flight. What is the fight or flight response? The fight or flight response is a natural reaction that humans have when we feel threatened. This response is created by the sympathetic nervous system, which prepares the body for stress. It is an evolutionary response that helped our ancestors survive in dangerous situations. When we sense danger, our body releases adrenaline and cortisol, which prepare us to fight or flee. During this process, we might experience a racing heart and rapid breathing to prepare for physical action, increased blood pressure and tense muscles to create a higher pitch of voice, and sweating. The pupils dilate as well to allow more light to enter our eyes. These reactions are meant to help us protect ourselves from harm and is completely normal. However, sometimes when we are faced with danger, we may not be able to fight or flee. In this case, we freeze. What is the freeze response? This is a natural response that helps us survive when we are outnumbered or outmatched. By freezing, we become less noticeable to our predators and may have a better chance of surviving the encounter. While still being highly alert, the freeze response leaves your body frozen, numb, or unable to move. Freezing is a form of self-preservation that is completely natural. It may be used to escape an attacker, just as fight or flight are. Freezing can have the following effects: 1. Help someone hide: Being motionless in some cases may protect a person from harm or cause an attacker to lose interest. Tonic immobility is sometimes a last resort for animals when battling or fleeing, since many animals will not consume anything that is dead. 2. Increased virtual perception: A 2015 research claims that freezing is linked to a better perception of one's environment. The researchers examined how people's reactions to shock affected their capacity to comprehend visual information. Those who froze had a superior understanding of what they saw in low-quality or poorly defined pictures, and they processed risk-relevant information more quickly. 3. Prepare for movement: According to a 2017 study, freezing might be a period when the brain decides how to react to the danger. In tests where participants had more time to prepare to take action, a spell of immobility was more often observed. Researchers have observed in animal studies that freezing allows animals to continue scanning the environment in order to figure out the environment. 4. Reduce the impact of the event: According to a 2017 study the freeze response might be linked to dissociation. Dissociation happens when someone has a traumatic experience. It makes unpleasant events seem less real, causing people to feel numb or disconnected. This may explain why the freeze response is more prevalent in individuals who have experienced trauma in the past. How can we deal with the fight, flight and freeze response? [Image] First, it is important to understand that this response is natural and normal. It is our body's way of protecting us from danger. A reaction to anything that the body perceives as a threat is normal and should be expected. Second, we can take steps to reduce the likelihood of feeling threatened in the first place. For instance, we can choose to walk down a street with more light, or we can carry a pepper spray with us when we are out and about for added protection. It can be also helpful to add emergency contacts to your phone or to share your location to trusted friends and family from time to time to let them know of your whereabouts. Third, it can be helpful to understand what triggers the response. Perhaps an embarrassing situation or a specific person could be the trigger. Preparing for your triggers beforehand may lessen your fear and anxiety, reducing the chances of an undesirable reaction. Finally, if we do find ourselves in a situation where we feel threatened, we can try to stay calm and remember that our fight, flight, freeze response is there to help us. During the high-stress situation, remember that presence of mind is key; try doing slow inhales and exhales to calm yourself down to stay alert in the moment. [Image] Remember that the fight, flight and freeze responses are simply a reaction to what your brain perceives as a threat in your environment. Your reactions may not always be what you desire as it may be difficult to function properly during the entire process, but understand that these responses are all normal. Your nervous system is doing its best to protect you. 

Jessica Bell

May 11, 2022

[Work from Home] With the COVID-19 pandemic, the work from home setup has slowly become the norm. While this may seem like a great solution in the short term, there are some potential long-term impacts on mental health that we should be aware of. In this blog post, we will discuss the effects of working from home on mental health and how to mitigate them for a better work life balance. How was working from home introduced during the pandemic? It started with companies giving employees the option to work from home a few days a week to help with childcare or other scheduling conflicts. Then, as the pandemic progressed, more and more companies began mandating that their employees work from home full-time. For many people, this was a sudden and drastic change. Despite not being a seamless one, the transition to remote work was quite an easy for most working adults. [Image] This new setup has created opportunities: remote jobs allowing remote workers to have flexible jobs that give them control of their time. With bringing the work life to the comfort of one's own home comes the risk of an unhealthy mix of work and personal life. What are some potential impacts of working from home on mental health? One of the main effects of working from home is increased isolation. When we are isolated, we are more likely to experience negative emotions like loneliness and depression. We may also be less productive when we work from home because we lack the motivation that comes from interacting with others. Another potential effect of working from home is that we may start to feel like work is taking over our lives. It can be difficult to disconnect from work when we are at home because there are no physical boundaries. How can you protect your mental health? To combat these effects, it is important to make an effort to connect with others, even if it is just virtually. Join a virtual book club or coffee chat to get some social interaction into your day. Perhaps the most important step you can make for your mental health is to make sure to take some time for yourself every day to do something that you enjoy outside of work. This will help you to maintain a healthy balance between work and the rest of your life. Don't forget to take some time off your phone or computer once in a while. You deserve the time you give to your businesses, company, or employer. If you are working from home, it is important to be aware of the potential impacts on your mental health. By taking steps to combat isolation and maintain a healthy work-life balance, you can help to mitigate these effects. Always remember that there can be a life outside of your career, which includes things that spark joy and give a much-needed destressing from work and technology. If you or someone you know needs help adjusting with this new setup, don't hesitate to teach out. Visit mosaicmindscounseling.com to know more about how you can aid your mental health.

Jessica Bell

May 10, 2022

[Narcissistic Personality] Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is a mental disorder characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and lack of empathy. People with narcissistic personality disorder often have an inflated sense of self-importance, self absorption, and believe that they are superior to others. They often have a deep need for excessive attention and admiration and have a sense of entitlement. People with narcissistic personality disorder also lack empathy and are unable to understand or feel compassion for others. Pursuing healthy relationships may be a challenge for individuals with the disorder. What is narcissism? The word "narcissism" comes from the Greek myth about Narcissus, a handsome young man who falls in love with his own reflection. In the story, Narcissus is so entranced by what he sees that he eventually wastes away and dies. With this story, narcissism today is characterized by an inflated self image, being extremely self absorbed, an exaggerated sense of self importance and sense of entitlement. Narcissism is a personality trait, but it can also be included in the diagnosis of a larger condition. What are the signs and symptoms of narcissism? Since most narcissists and those with narcissistic personality disorder oftentimes do not seek treatment, narcissism is still being researched but there are common traits that can be looked out for: 1. Sense of entitlement. Narcissists have a grandiose sense of self-worth; they see themselves as superior to others and deserving of special treatment. 2. Manipulative behavior. Narcissistsare self centered, putting their own needs above anyone else's and may keep people at a distance to maintain control. 3. Attention seeking. Narcissists have a liking for excessive admiration and tend to exaggerate achievements to feel appreciation as an ego boost. 4. Lack of empathy. Narcissists often have troubled relationships due to their inability to consider other people's feelings and to take responsibility of their actions. With no empathy, most people may struggle to form relationships with narcissists. 5. Haughty behaviors. With an inflated self esteem, and superiority, narcissists tend to be rude towards people they deem inferior. With this, emotional abuse is a common scenario in relationships with narcissists. What is narcissistic personality disorder? [Image] Today, narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) is used to describe a certain type of person. People with NPD tend to be preoccupied with themselves, their appearance, and their need for admiration from others. They often have difficulty empathizing with other people and may take advantage of them. Unfortunately, the term "narcissist" is often overused to describe someone who does not meet the diagnostic criteria as described in the DSM. In the diagnostic and statistical manual (DSM), Narcissistic personality disorder is a part of a group of disorders called Cluster B personality disorders, which include histrionic personality disorder, borderline personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. It is a disorder that affects both men and women, but it is more common in men. Narcissistic personality disorder usually begins in adolescence or early adulthood and can be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. NPD is a mental disorder that affects about 0.75% of the population in the United States. What are the types of narcissism? There are two distinct types of narcissism, each with its own set of characteristics. The two forms can have some similarities, but they both stem from different childhood experiences. The two types also determine how people interact in relationships differently. [Image] 1. Grandiose narcissism. This type is most likely to have been a result of a child being treated as if they were superior or above others. These notions may continue to influence them even after they become adults. They tend to boast and be elitist in nature. Grandiose narcissists are aggressive, domineering, and exaggerate their significance. They are extremely self-confident and have an inflated sense of self-importance. They believe that they are better than others and often seek attention and admiration. [Image] 1. Vulnerable narcissism. This is usually the case as a result of childhood neglect or abuse. Those who have this problem are far more sensitive. Narcissistic behavior helps to shield these individuals from feelings of inadequacy. They feel angry or afraid when others don't acknowledge them as exceptional, even if they go back and forth between feeling inferior and superior to others. How can you handle someone with narcissistic personality disorder? [Image] Narcissistic personality disorder is treatable with psychotherapy, but there is no cure for the disorder. It can be a debilitating condition that affects every aspect of a person's life. If you or someone you know may have narcissistic personality disorder, it is important to seek professional help to find the right treatment to manage the narcissistic traits. Don't be afraid to seek treatment, which a licensed therapist will be able to give you. Seeking treatment will be beneficial not only to the individual with NPD, but also the mental health of everyone in the individual's circle. Mosaic Minds Counseling is here for anyone struggling with NPD or those that know someone with the disorder. Do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Jessica Bell

Apr 21, 2022

[Exercise for Better Mental Health] “Even when all is known, the care of a man is not yet complete, because eating alone will not keep a man well; he must also take exercise. For food and exercise, while possessing opposite qualities, yet work together to produce health.” - Hippocrates Did you know that exercise can actually help improve mental health? It's true! Exercise releases happy hormones, which can help improve your mood and make you feel better overall. Not only that, but exercise is a great way to reduce stress levels and clear your mind. In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of exercise for mental health and how you can get started today! The many physical advantages of exercise are well-known: weight reduction, lower blood pressure, decreased incidence of diabetes, and increased energy, to name a few. The most obvious benefits are usually for physical health, but what about the psychological benefits of exercise? There's no lack of mental rewards from exercising; whether you're looking for motivation to go to the gym or just want to go for a quick walk around the block. Here are some mental health benefits of exercise: 1. Helps improve mood and reduce stress levels. When you exercise, your body releases endorphins. Endorphins are hormones that block pain signals from the brain and also produce a feeling of euphoria which is commonly known as a "runner's high." Exercising also releases serotonin, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in happiness, contentment, and satisfaction. 1. Clears your mind. When you're focused on your workout, you're not thinking about anything else. This can be a great way to take a mental break from whatever is stressing you out. 2. Helps with anxiety and depression. Exercise has been shown to be an effective treatment for both anxiety and depression. It can improve mood, reduce stress, and increase self-esteem. With this, exercise can help with managing mental health disorders and even preventing it. 3. Helps improve sleep quality. Regular exercise can help you fall asleep faster and sleep more soundly. Exercise also helps to improve the quality of your sleep by reducing the amount of time you spend in REM sleep, the stage of sleep where dreams occur. It is believed that people who exercise regularly have less need for REM sleep because they are able to process emotions and memories more efficiently during the day. 4. Creates new brain cells. Neurogenesis is the creation of new brain cells. And exercise has been shown to increase neurogenesis! In a study, rats that were given access to an exercise wheel had increased neurogenesis in the hippocampus, which is the part of the brain responsible for memory and learning. So, how can you get started with exercising for the betterment of mental health? [Image] Now that you know how good exercise is for your physical and mental health, you may want to start incorporating exercise into your everyday life. Don't miss out on the many health benefits or exercise! If you're new to exercise, or if you haven't been active in a while, it's important to start slowly and build up gradually. Here are a few tips to get you started: 1. Find an activity that you enjoy. If you don't enjoy the activity, you're less likely to stick with it. Don't be afraid to explore and see what works for you. You can follow an exercise program curated for your goals or try popular exercises such as yoga, weight training, etc. 2. Set realistic goals. If your goal is too difficult, you may get discouraged and give up. Set a goal to walk for 15 minutes a day, and then gradually increase the time as you become more comfortable. 3. Find a friend or family member to exercise with you. Exercising with someone else can make it more enjoyable and help you stay on track. Find someone that will motivate you or influence your workout buddy to be physically healthy as well. 4. Start small and gradually increase the amount of time or intensity of your workouts. Exercise should be challenging, but not too difficult. You can start with gentle stretching and challenge yourself with vigorous physical activity when you're ready. 5. Listen to your body. If you're feeling pain or discomfort, stop and rest. What may work for others may not work for you. Start with moderate physical activity until you feel your body starting to be in sync with your mind and your goals. As you can see, exercise can do so much more than just dealing with issues of weight gain. Exercising has many mental benefits and is good for your psychological health as well! Here's your sign to get up and get moving! So put on those sneakers and get out there! Your mental and physical health will thank you for it. 

Jessica Bell

Apr 12, 2022