Most of us carry shame from habits or addiction we can’t kick. Find freedom through vulnerability, self-care, and the power of your story.
“Suicidal.”
It’s a weighty word. This touchy topic is often avoided out of fear or discomfort, which can be a major barrier when it comes to seeking help for yourself or a loved one. Oftentimes the label can be more frightening than the reality. Here are some common misconceptions when it comes to suicidal ideation.
Imagine, it’s time to take the big test you’ve spent hours studying for. You walk into the auditorium, and all of the sudden your heart starts pounding faster and faster. You sit down and as the proctor begins passing out the assessments your stomach starts to turn. Your hands are clammy as you rub then together. “I hate tests,” you think to yourself as the proctor counts down. “Open your assessments in 3, 2, 1.”
The leaves are changing, temperatures are dropping, playoff football is in full swing and you know Christmas family time is just around the corner. Maybe you’re traveling home to see the family, or hosting a gathering at your place. Or perhaps you’re doing the marathon house-hop all in one day, or looking forward to your TV dinner alone because it’s easier than being with family.
Parenting a child who has experienced trauma can be an emotional rollercoaster. Though it can be filled with challenges, with the right approach, it can also be a road to healing and growth for both you and the child.
As a mental health professional, I am confident that almost all of us experience anxiety. Someone recently asked me what I do for a living, and when I replied that I was a therapist and work with people who experience anxiety, they responded with, “Oh you’ve got great job security. We’re all anxious.” I agreed, but it’s also true that we deal with anxiety to different extents and in a myriad of ways.
