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How a Caregiver Support Group Can Benefit You

2024-09-25T09:07:27+00:00April 16th, 2024|Aging and Geriatric Issues, Family Counseling, Featured, Individual Counseling|

You are not alone. Caregiving is a highly stressful duty that millions of people take on to care for loved ones. Many of these caregivers are unpaid. According to AARP, caregivers spend an estimated twenty-two hours per week caring for their loved ones. These caregivers care for a loved one or a close friend, whether an aging parent, chronically ill sibling or spouse, or special needs child. A caregiver support group can help. Caregiver support is important in maintaining physical and mental health during this time. You can typically find family caregiver support through the local hospital, hospice center, home health agency, or Center on Aging. Caregiver support groups offer several benefits to members beyond camaraderie. Emotional support The stress of caregiving can negatively impact your mental health. Common ailments of caregiving include: Depression. Anxiety. Insomnia. Too much sleep. Rapid weight loss or gain. Chronic pain. Headaches. Digestive issues. Panic attacks. Do you feel like you are lacking in “me-time”? Does it feel like you are at your wit’s end? A caregiver support group allows you to surround yourself with others who have felt that way. You will meet people who have come out the other side of anxiety and depression and can share with you what they did to conquer panic attacks and feelings of not being good enough or overwhelmed. Social networking Your entire life can quickly become immersed in caring for a loved one. It may seem that every minute of the day is spent trying to assist with the activities of daily living. This can leave you feeling isolated. A caregiver support group is an excellent place for socializing with others. You all share a common goal: to remain healthy while providing the best care to a loved one. Your fellow members can recommend other [...]

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Help for Dating After Divorce

2024-09-25T09:44:40+00:00April 10th, 2024|Featured, Individual Counseling, Relationship Issues|

One of the things we learn early in life is how to press on when things go sideways and don’t work out as expected. These lessons are learned as we first learn how to walk, communicate, ride a bicycle, or work through math problems. As we grow older, we learn this through relationship conflict and even loss of loved ones. These hardships don’t destroy you if you embrace them and take them in stride. They can help forge your emotional and psychological resilience. All this is a roundabout way of saying that when you’ve gone through something as life-changing as a divorce, whether that divorce was acrimonious or civil, there is life beyond it. Part of what life holds after a divorce is the possibility of dating and entering another committed relationship with someone. How does divorce affect a person? It may be tempting to get back on the horse as soon as possible after a divorce and to start dating again. However, the loss of a loved one through divorce is a loss, and loss affects people in profound ways. Sometimes, that loss can surprise you by moving you to tears, or even to anger. This is grief working its way through you as you process what you’ve been through. In addition to grief, divorce also affects you by altering your living situation as well as your economic status in many cases. You may have had two incomes and one household to maintain, but a divorce can be expensive and splits the family’s income between two households. This is to say nothing of the challenge of changing your life trajectory because of the divorce, or the feelings of embarrassment, guilt, or regret that may surface. Depending on if you’re the one who initiated the divorce or the recipient [...]

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Childhood Emotional Neglect: Examples, Signs, and Treatment

2024-10-29T12:07:51+00:00March 28th, 2024|Abandonment and Neglect, Featured, Individual Counseling, Relationship Issues|

In the Bible’s view, children are a gift and one of the ways the Lord shows His favor to people. One Psalm says, Behold, children are a gift of the Lord, The fruit of the womb is a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them; They will not be ashamed When they speak with their enemies in the gate – Psalm 127:3-5, NASB These precious gifts come to us vulnerable and in need of nurture. It’s the responsibility of a parent or caregiver to provide a safe environment that allows that child to flourish and meet their full potential. The unfortunate reality, however, is that not every parent or caregiver has the intention, capacity, resources, or skills to meet the needs of a child successfully. Childhood emotional neglect is a concern that affects many children when they are young, and its impact lasts into their adulthood. Defining childhood emotional neglect The picture that might be conjured when you hear the word ‘neglect’ in connection with children could be a dark one. You might picture neglect as starving or isolating a child from contact with other people by locking them up in a basement. Such actions, because they are intentionally disregarding the needs and well-being of a child, would be better classified as childhood emotional abuse. ‘Neglect’ primarily names the way a parent or caregiver fails to notice or act upon a child’s expressed needs. Examples of childhood emotional neglect A parent who meets the physical needs of a child can be emotionally neglectful if they don’t meet the emotional needs of that child. Some of the examples of childhood emotional neglect include: Brushing off a child’s feelings as unimportant or exaggerated. Not listening when a child expresses [...]

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Practical Tips for Dealing with Existential Anxiety

2024-09-25T09:07:11+00:00February 6th, 2024|Anxiety, Featured, Individual Counseling|

Anxiety is a normal part of the human experience, as are concerns about existential topics such as death, aging, world events, why we are here, and what the future holds. For some people, pondering these things serves as motivation to find their purpose and grow as they work toward specific goals. For others, it can be a source of stress and anxiety. Existential anxiety, also known as existential angst or dread, is a chronic feeling of unease or panic triggered by thoughts of mortality, the lack of meaning and purpose in life, and that nothing is certain other than the inevitability of death. Although existential anxiety can appear at any stage of life, it is often sparked by a major life event, transition, or time of uncertainty, that leads to a loss of security and causes you to question your beliefs and who you are. Common signs of existential anxiety. Frequent thoughts about the finite nature of life. Feeling panicky when you think about death. Wondering why you are here and what the point of anything is if you’re ultimately going to die. Feeling that life is pointless and your existence is meaningless. Having trouble making decisions, setting goals, or planning for the future. Feeling hopeless and empty. Lack of motivation or interest in activities you used to enjoy. Feeling as though getting through each day is a struggle. Panic attacks. Having regrets about your past and wondering what your life would be like if you had made different choices . Engaging in risky behaviors such as substance abuse or promiscuity . Trying to escape your anxiety through compensating activities such as excessive shopping or use of media. Questioning your faith and/or other long-held beliefs. Tips for dealing with existential anxiety. Accept the uncertainty of life and that the [...]

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How to Fix Your Marriage After the Affair

2024-09-25T09:44:31+00:00December 30th, 2023|Couples Counseling, Featured, Infidelity and Affairs, Marriage Counseling, Relationship Issues|

Having a marriage damaged by infidelity is intensely painful. But the affair does not automatically mean the end of a marriage union. This brief article describes how fix your marriage after the affair. While it is true that there are not much harder knocks a marriage can take than the sense of betrayal and heartbreak of infidelity, experience shows that when both marriage partners are committed to ensuring their relationship is rebuilt and completely healed, many marriage relationships do survive. Sometimes they thrive after the affair because of the renewed bonds of intimacy. Defining an affair. There is no one set definition of an affair that everyone subscribes to. It could be that one person in the marriage relationship defines infidelity differently from what their partner does. This could be when there is an emotional connection between a marriage partner and another person. Does the fact that there was no sex automatically mean that there was no infidelity? Each marriage partner needs to come to a clear understanding of what betrayal means for the marriage. What are the reasons for affairs? Unfortunately, affairs happen in all types of marriages. This may include those which seem happy and content, and more typically those which already experience a variety of issues. These factors are often listed as a lack of affection,falling ‘out of love’ with the other, having a weak commitment to the relationship, low self-esteem, physical and mental health issues, and some types of addiction. Stressful periods, such as being apart for a long time, or major life changes, like when your children leave home, as well as problems that are not addressed inside the marriage such as avoiding conflict, or a fear of intimacy all add to the likelihood of an affair taking place. The process of discovery after [...]

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Adult Attachment Styles and Their Effect on Relationships

2024-09-25T09:05:01+00:00December 20th, 2023|Abandonment and Neglect, Featured, Individual Counseling, Relationship Issues|

Adult attachment styles describe the way people interact with others in close relationships and how they connect with them on an emotional level. According to attachment theory, there are four different adult attachment styles: secure attachment, which is the ideal one, and three others that are classified as insecure. All of them are shaped by the type of bond infants develop with their primary caregiver. This first emotional connection determines the way they learn to view themselves, others, and the world, and becomes a prototype for how they navigate their relationships in adulthood. Although people may at times exhibit traits across the continuum of attachment styles, they will typically fall into one of the following. Four types of adult attachment styles Secure attachment People with a secure attachment style tend to have a positive view of themselves and of others and to feel confident in their relationships. They are resilient, able to handle conflict in a healthy way, lead balanced lives, openly communicate their feelings, and ask for support when they need it. Because their needs for love and security were met in infancy, they are more likely to trust their partner, expect him or her to reciprocate their love, and give him or her space for alone time without feeling rejected or threatened. Anxious attachment People with an anxious attachment style tend to be insecure, self-critical, and needy, and to have a negative view of themselves. They derive their sense of self-worth from their relationships and tend to suffer from extreme anxiety when their partner is away. Because their primary caregiver alternated unpredictably between warmth and rejection and was never consistently available during infancy, they have grown into adults with a deep-rooted fear of being abandoned and they spend a lot of time worrying about their relationships. Their [...]

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How to Better Understand Teen Depression

2024-09-25T09:44:17+00:00November 29th, 2023|Christian Counseling For Teens, Depression, Family Counseling, Featured|

It is normal for all of us to go through ups and downs – teenagers included. A teen’s sad feelings can last several days and during this time they may have trouble eating, sleeping, concentrating well, or feeling motivated. But keep in mind that teen depression is more than simply feeling sad or experiencing moodiness. It is a significant mental health condition that deserves attention. Differences between everyday sadness and teen depression. Telling the difference between when your teen is simply feeling down in the dumps and when they are experiencing depression can be difficult. Parents are advised to start with these questions: Regarding time. For how long have the emotions and changes to behavior lasted? If your child is displaying sadness or behavior that resembles them when they are overly tired and irritable for more than 14 days, then it may be depression. Regarding intensity. How strong are these emotions, and are they present all the time, or do they come and go? Regarding impact. Is your teen’s schoolwork, friendships, enjoyment of life, level of participation in routine activities, or physical health being affected by these emotions? It is important to know that if depression is not treated in your teen can have long-term consequences. If you are worried about your child, then know it is important for you to look for the signs of depression. As with many things, the earlier a professional can intervene the more your child will benefit. Be encouraged to know that teen depression is often treated successfully. Teens are good at recognizing how new skills can help them manage problems and actively managing the signs of depression make it far less likely that it will come back. Signs to look out for. It may be that teen depression is difficult to positively [...]

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Working as an Adult with ADHD

2024-09-25T09:05:12+00:00November 23rd, 2023|ADHD/ADD, Featured, Individual Counseling, Professional Development|

ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is not just for children or teens. Adults who suffer from ADHD face a daily challenge when it comes to work. Since ADHD revolves around the ability to focus it can be hard to maintain balance in work, family, and other areas of life. Working as an adult with ADHD is not impossible when you understand how to manage the symptoms. One of the best things to remember when you struggle with ADHD at work is that God did not intend for you to live an anxious or haphazard life. He desires that you live in an abundance of His peace and direction. Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:6-9, ESV ADHD and the workplace. No matter what path you have chosen as a career you will need to be able to focus, organize, and understand the details. When you suffer from ADHD these tasks can prove to be difficult and sometimes costly. However, it is possible to acquire and maintain a job as an adult with ADHD. The effects of ADHD on your job depend on the severity and whether or not you are able to use executive function abilities. ADHD is now considered a disability and this will reduce the instances of discrimination based on your diagnosis or medications. When a company hires an adult with ADHD they understand that they are required to accommodate your needs. If you feel like you are comfortable with discussing this with your employer you should research the issue so you can assist with designing a working plan. [...]

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Could You Benefit From Couples Therapy?

2024-10-29T12:07:59+00:00September 20th, 2023|Couples Counseling, Featured, Marriage Counseling, Premarital Counseling, Relationship Issues|

Every relationship has its points of stress, those areas that tend to generate friction and conflict between the couple. Even the happiest couples that have been together for a long time will have fights. Whether you are happy, or you find yourself at a crossroads in your relationship, couples therapy just might be what you need. What is couples therapy? Couples therapy is a form of psychotherapy directed at couples, whether married or in a long-term relationship. Through a variety of techniques, your therapist will get to know you both. In your sessions together, you’ll unpack whatever is happening in your relationship, and your therapist will provide you with the space you need to explore your thoughts and feelings about where you are in your relationship. Couples therapy is aimed at helping couples develop a deeper appreciation of their relationship, cultivating better communication to reduce conflict, and teaching the couple skills that will help their relationship flourish. These skills may include problem-solving, goal-setting, conflict resolution, nurturing intimacy and trust, and better communication. Some of the issues and concerns that couples therapy will address include the following: Constant conflict. Poor communication. Lack of intimacy in the relationship and growing apart from each other. Grief and loss, including the loss of a child through miscarriage, or an inability to conceive. Mental health concerns for one or both of you, including anxiety, depression, or bipolar disorder. Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries in and around your relationship. Loss of trust due to emotional or sexual infidelity . Financial concerns, including job loss. Amicably handling differences in your faith commitments or political outlook. Goal setting. Divorce . Resentment or anger toward one another. Anger issues. Issues of abuse such as emotional abuse and domestic violence. Substance abuse and addiction. Major life adjustments, such as [...]

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Partners on the Path: Encouragement for Overcoming Loneliness

2024-10-29T12:08:07+00:00August 24th, 2023|Coaching, Featured, Individual Counseling, Personal Development, Relationship Issues|

God created humanity to live in fellowship with Him, but also with one another. When we are missing connection and meaning in relationships, our lives may feel incomplete. Loneliness isn’t only about the absence of people in one’s life, but rather the absence of connection. This is why overcoming loneliness is so important. It is possible to have others around us, to be in relationships that appear to thrive on the surface, yet feel woefully alone. It is our awareness of feeling distanced from God, others, and ourselves in what we identify as significant that produces feelings of loneliness. Adding more people isn’t necessarily the remedy, but a shift in perspective can place us on a more fulfilling path. Our fragmented parts have value to Jesus, contrary to how the world esteems us when we are not quite at our best. It is in these cracked places, where the Lord binds Himself to us and we fuse to Him. This is often when we don’t have all the people or support that we want to have (2 Corinthians 12:9). We can experience the oneness of mutual abiding that the Savior prayed about in Gethsemane, right before going to the Cross on our behalf. He was fully aware that we would encounter many moments in our lives when we would feel the sting of loneliness. He was familiar, having gone to His inner circle, pleading for them to pray with Him in the garden and on the cross when He cried out in agony to His Father. Knowing this, Jesus stood in the gap and made up the hedge, in His intercession for us, praying for the Father to keep us and make us one (Ezekiel 22:30; John 17:20-23). He intervened as the Worthy Lamb who was slain before the [...]

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