The holidays are often a complex time for many people. On the one hand, there is a sense of joy in the air, while on the other hand, sorrow and grief because of either a loss or dysfunctional family dynamic.The following are some ways you can deal with family trauma around the holidays.Have an Escape PlanIt’s important to not isolate...[ read more ]

The holidays are right around the corner! And that means many of us will begin losing our minds, patience, and good cheer. Well, can you blame us? The holidays are one of the most stressful times of the year. Between shopping, decorating, and keeping your drunk aunt away from your recently widowed neighbor, it’s enough to pull your hair out!If...[ read more ]

“I do.” Two simple enough words. And when you say them on your wedding day, you really mean them. But “I do” can quickly turn into, “I thought I could” when you don’t know exactly who or what you are committing to.Let’s face it, relationships are tricky and it’s important that you and your partner are 100% open and honest with...[ read more ]

For many children, childhood is a time of wonder, play, and discovery. These children have parents who give them the safety and security to explore the world around them and grow to reach their full potential. But some children have one or more parents who lack the right skills or behavior to allow their children to feel safe, secure, and unconditionally...[ read more ]

According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, one out of every five students reported being bullied in 2019, with slightly more female than male students reporting being a victim. 41% of students who reported being a target said they believed the bullying would continue.Anti-Bullying Awareness Week occurs each November as a reminder that we all, parents, teachers, and faculty,...[ read more ]

According to a report released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide was the tenth leading cause of death overall in this country, claiming more than 47,000 people’s lives in 2019. In fact, there was nearly double the rate of suicides that year as homicides (19,141).Suicide prevention is an incredibly important agenda, and the reason Lifeline and other...[ read more ]

Codependency is a term that describes an unhealthy or unbalanced relationship where one person’s needs are met while the others aren’t. Codependent people are said to “enable” the bad behavior of a loved one by supporting them, no matter if it negatively affects their own well-being.As an example, a parent may have a hard time setting healthy boundaries by telling...[ read more ]

“Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them, and filling an emptiness we didn’t ever know we had.”– Thom JonesFor many of us, our home is just a house unless there is something with four legs and a tail sharing the space with us. Our pets are not only cuddly and cute, they give us unconditional love.But...[ read more ]

Relationships can enrich our lives, but they can also cause damage. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or significant other, any relationship comes with its share of challenges. And more often than not, putting in the effort to resolve relational issues can and does result in a healthier bond.But there are those relationships that, no matter the amount of work...[ read more ]

We live in a society that rewards those with courage and valor. We are taught from a young age that it’s good to face our fears, for doing so is often the catalyst for powerful and lasting change.And yet, how many of us allow ourselves to be vulnerable?Think of the amount of courage it takes to allow yourself to be...[ read more ]