Category Archives: Mental Health

Should You Consider Depressant Medications?

Prescription depressants are substances that are typically used to relieve anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and insomnia. They depress the normal function of the central nervous system and often induce sleep. They come in pill, tablet, capsules, and liquid form. Examples of depressants include alcohol, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, marijuana, and inhalants. If taken correctly, they can increase […]

The Benefits of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem that people develop after they have experienced or been exposed to a life-threatening situation, serious injuries, or are exposed to violence. People develop PTSD from many things including combat, physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, abuse, and health problems. PTSD can develop at any age and […]

What is Vitamin D Deficiency?

Anaheim Hills, Anaheim, United States

Vitamin D deficiency is a common condition with implications for mental health. Several randomized controlled trials have now shown that raising vitamin D levels in individuals with a deficiency can help mitigate the effects of depression. You obtain vitamin D through food and the sun. With summer right around the corner, spending time outdoors with […]

Everything I Needed to Know About Life I Learned From Mountain Biking

A man mountain bikes near Wade Lake in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

Whizzing down the mountain, the wind whips against your face and gives you an exhilarating rush. The tires of your bike roll beneath you down the rickety path as you give yourself to the gravity of the mountain. When you slam the brakes to avoid an oncoming tree, your wheels skid at a 45-degree angle, […]

Adding Self-Care Sundays to Your Routine

Another Sunday has come and you are trying to decide how to spend the day. You have a set of chores to get done such as cleaning the house, doing the laundry, meal preparation for the week, and running a few errands you had been behind on recently. With all these competing responsibilities and priorities, […]

Summer Vacation After the Pandemic

Man singing and enjoying karaoke

The first day of summer is Sunday, June 20th. As more and more Americans get vaccinated, travel restrictions are being lifted. This presents the perfect opportunity to travel after so many months of social distancing. Not only is taking a break from work crucial for avoiding burnout, but also for incorporating adventure and new experiences. […]

The Healing Benefits of Laughter

Closeup of a man smiling in a park

Life often presents us with great adversity. Finding effective, healthy ways to cope with the difficulties in life can take time and discipline, but once you identify coping methods that work for you, overcoming obstacles and living more fully becomes easier. One of the most effective and efficient coping skills is humor. Laughing often, embracing […]

The Healing Capacity of Live Music

Happy senior man listening to music with headphones

The grass rustles between your toes, which extend past the picnic blanket you placed out on the lawn. You lean back onto your shoulders as you rest the weight of your upper body on your hands which are firmly planted in the ground. As the music notes flow past your ears, you notice your head […]

The Value of Nature as a Means to Cope

outdoor activities

Nature helps so many overcome their life stressors. It serves as a means for so many to cope. When someone is ill, several studies have proven that looking out at nature or a painting of greenery can have a significant impact on improving their health outcomes. You can use nature as a means to cope […]