Harm Reduction: Cannabis v Prescription
Ashley Bradford’s article highlights a study indicating that cannabis legalization is linked to reduced prescription refill rates for anxiety medications, such as benzos and antidepressants. This suggests that cannabis, being non-addictive and having a low overdose risk, may serve as a safer alternative for anxiety treatment, advocating for further acceptance and potential insurance coverage.
The childhood brain and addiction
The article from PsyPost explores brain differences in substance users that precede addiction, challenging the notion that addiction is solely genetic. Dr. Gabor Maté emphasizes emotional needs and brain responses in treating addiction, suggesting effective approaches beyond genetics. Understanding these factors can improve treatment and support for those struggling with addiction.
A Grounding walkthrough
Grounding is a mindfulness technique to help process emotions and stay present by engaging the senses. It involves focusing on physical sensations, such as feeling the ground with your feet. This technique can also apply to managing emotions, where awareness and acknowledgment help in emotional resolution. Consistent practice prepares one for stronger emotions.
What if I’m not getting better from therapy?
Therapy encompasses various methods aimed at improving mental wellbeing, yet clients often hesitate to provide negative feedback to their practitioners, fearing emotional repercussions. Open communication is essential for effective change, and recognizing unproductive patterns is crucial. Clients should feel empowered to seek help and suggest adjustments to enhance their therapeutic experience.
Depression: Why don’t I …?
The content discusses the impact of depression, highlighting feelings of numbness, fatigue, and disconnection from enjoyable activities. It emphasizes the importance of socializing and making changes to counteract depressive thoughts. Encouraging proactive steps like daily routines and community involvement, it asserts that transformation is possible with time and support.
How can I deal with Anxiety?
Anxiety triggers a fight or flight response, releasing chemicals like adrenaline. It can manifest as a physical sensation, resembling a roller coaster ride. Accepting anxiety rather than avoiding it is crucial for managing it. Mindfulness tools, like Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, may effectively alleviate anxiety, as shown in comparative studies with medication.
How do I find the right therapist?
Finding the right therapist is a challenging yet crucial step toward mental health. Start by searching psychologytoday.com for licensed professionals. Consider their specialties, fee structures, and whether they accept insurance. Therapy costs can vary, so choose options that align with your financial situation. Building a solid therapist-client relationship is key for ongoing support.
Consequences of chasing happiness
Happiness is a strange thing in this world, as we are taught to chase it endlessly. Ask yourself, are you happy? In this moment, the answer might be yes, the answer might be no. How long until that answer changes? Can a life be good without having always been happy? Do we only need to […]
Trust your gut
If you grew up in a home that had emotional abuse or gaslighting, that could greatly affect your ability to trust yourself. This is a normal reaction to unhealthy behavior, especially when it is reinforced by an unjust system that supports the perpetrator. It can be easy to blame yourself for anything that goes wrong […]
Intellectualization in therapy
Intellectualization is the use of logic and facts to avoid the uncomfortable feelings of emotion. It is often the defense mechanism used by people who struggle with therapy. These people might state that they understand what is wrong, but they don’t know how to change it. I used to always have clients come into the […]