Negative thoughts can feel automatic, shaping how we see ourselves, others, and the world. When left unchecked, they can create a cycle of self-doubt, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. These patterns can become so ingrained that they feel impossible to change. But here’s the good news: the way you think is not set in stone. Cognitive […]
Author: Laura Baker, PMHNP-BC
The Psychological Toll of Political Uncertainty and How to Cope
Political uncertainty can be exhausting. When the future feels unpredictable, it’s easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or even powerless. The constant news cycle, debates, and uncertainty about what’s coming next can take a real toll on mental health. For some, this stress shows up as racing thoughts, difficulty sleeping, or a constant need to check […]
How to Stay Hopeful When the Future Feels Dark
The world can feel overwhelming. With so much uncertainty, crisis after crisis, and headlines that seem to confirm our worst fears, it’s easy to fall into despair, exhaustion, or a sense of helplessness. When problems feel too big and solutions feel too far away, many people struggle to stay motivated or hopeful about the future. […]
How to Create Change Without Burning Out
Political turmoil can be exhausting. For many, the return of Donald Trump to the national spotlight brings up feelings of fear, anger, and uncertainty. The instinct to fight back: to organize, protest, stay informed, and remain constantly engaged, feels urgent. But relentless engagement comes at a cost. Activism fatigue is real. The pressure to “do […]
Tips to Overcome the Fear of Your First Psychiatric Appointment
Taking the step to schedule a psychiatric appointment is a courageous move toward improving your mental health. Yet, it’s normal to feel apprehensive about what lies ahead. You might wonder: What will they ask me? Will I receive a diagnosis immediately? How can I communicate everything I’ve been feeling? Understanding what to expect and taking […]
How To Recognize Depression That Defies The Norm
When most people think of depression, they imagine persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in daily activities. While these are hallmark symptoms of depression, they don’t represent every individual’s experience. For some, depression manifests in entirely different ways, ways that can be misunderstood, dismissed, or even overlooked by healthcare providers. If you’ve noticed […]
How to Improve Teen Mental Health Outcomes with Early Diagnosis
Adolescence is a critical developmental window, one in which young people are particularly vulnerable to the onset of mental health conditions. Research indicates that half of all mental health disorders begin by age 14, yet adolescents are often underdiagnosed or diagnosed only after their conditions have significantly progressed. For pediatricians, child psychiatrists, and other healthcare […]
Unlock Your Best Mental Health With Journaling
Mental health is a deeply personal journey. While healthcare providers offer valuable expertise, you are the expert on your own lived experience. One of the most effective tools for understanding and managing your mental health is journaling. Writing down your thoughts, emotions, and symptoms gives you clarity, helps identify triggers, and creates a roadmap for […]
6 Proven Ways to Regulate Your Emotions
For people living with mood disorders, borderline personality disorder (BPD), or ADHD, emotions can often feel overwhelming. Small frustrations might escalate into intense anger, sadness can linger longer than expected, or excitement leads to impulsive decisions. These experiences are not signs of personal failure; they reflect the challenges your brain faces in processing and managing […]
Demystifying Mental Health Diagnoses for Better Care
Hearing a psychiatric diagnosis for the first time can stir up a mix of emotions. Maybe it feels like a relief — finally, there’s a name for what you’ve been experiencing. Or maybe it feels heavy and overwhelming, leaving you wondering, What does this mean for me? What’s next? Whatever you’re feeling, let’s start by […]