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Alcohol Use Among Us
In 2022 84.1% Americans reported that they had used alcohol at some point in their lives. Alcohol use is part of life in our society. Many drink to socialize and during social activities. Alcohol can be part of cultural and religious ceremonies and practices. Alcohol is a personal preference, some individuals choose not to drink, and not all alcohol use is problematic. However, research has revealed that any amount of alcohol consumed can be risky. While the risk is low, it becomes greater as the consumption increases. So, when does the use of alcohol become an issue? Alcohol use and Alcohol use disorder impacted approximately 29.5 million people in the United States in 2022, and an estimated 178,00 individuals lose their lives to this condition yearly. Alcohol Awareness To increase our awareness and knowledge related to alcohol use, it is important to understand some of the terminology. Alcohol use varies in individuals based on how long it has been used and how much is being used. Some terminology related to this includes.
Binge drinking: This is considered to be a very serious problem and is the most common form of excessive alcohol use. It is described as consuming five or more alcoholic drinks for men, and four or more alcoholic drinks for women on one occasion. Binge drinking is not considered alcohol dependence; however, it can be harmful. It is linked to disease, injuries and can lead to alcohol use disorder. It is estimated that one in six adult Americans binge drink weekly. Excessive drinking: Includes binge drinking, heavy drinking, and any drinking by people under the age of 21 or pregnant women. Alcohol intoxication and Alcohol poisoning: Alcohol intoxication can happen very fast in a short amount of time, and varies based on sex, weight, health status, percentage of alcohol in drink, combining alcohol and medications/drugs, the rate and amount of alcohol consumption, and level of alcohol tolerance. There are seven stages to alcohol intoxication.
Alcohol use disorder: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is also referred to as alcoholism, alcohol abuse, alcohol addiction, or alcohol dependence, and is a common medical condition. It is defined as the impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use. AUD is classified as a brain disorder and can be mild, moderate, or severe. There are risk factors associated with AUD that includes binge drinking and heavy alcohol use. Other factors include.
Alcohol use can be the root of many problems related to relationships, family, employment, and finances. But, perhaps most concerning is the impact it has on the mind and body. While alcohol can make us feel better, help with our stress, and help us to relax, it is important to remember this is only a temporary coping mechanism. As the alcohol leaves our system, we often feel worse. These feelings are a result of how the alcohol withdrawal is affecting our brain and body. Alcohol is a depressant and can disrupt the functioning of the neurotransmitters in the brain. This can affect feelings, behavior, and thinking. While you may feel relaxed and less anxious while drinking, once the alcohol wears off the chemical changes in your brain can result in anger, anxiety, or depression. Currently, research links the use of alcohol to an increase in mental health issues, and regular heavy drinking has been linked to depression. If used long-term alcohol can decrease the number of neurotransmitters in our brain which are needed to defend against anxiety and depression. The effects alcohol has on the body is concerning. Short-term effects include sleep problems, stomach distress, migraines, and reckless behavior. The effects from long -term alcohol use include serious health and social conditions including.
As the number of those suffering from the effects of alcohol and alcohol use disorder grows, so do efforts to increase awareness about the condition. This month is National Alcohol Awareness Month, with a focus on increasing awareness about alcohol abuse and dependency before it becomes fatal. We are all encouraged to increase our awareness about the causes of alcoholism, the risks of alcohol, and to discuss this serious disease openly. All those who are experiencing the negative effects of alcohol should know they are not alone. There is a plethora of resources and sites providing help and support. The following provide information and resources related to alcohol use. https://ncadd.us/ (National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence). https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/niaaa-middle-school/helpful-resources (National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism). https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/002199.htm (Medline Plus). Burn Away Your Burdens also provides helpful resources related to mental health and alcohol use. Check out their link at: https://www.alcoholrehabguide.org/treatment/. Even if you do not struggle with alcohol use, or alcohol abuse, it is important to have this knowledge in order to make smart decisions for yourself and maybe help others to do the same. Peggy Fossen, DNP, RN, CNE References Alcohol and Mental Health. Mental Health Foundation. (n.d.). https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/alcohol-and-mental-health#:~:text=Alcohol%20affects%20the%20part%20of,anxiety%2C%20regardless%20of%20your%20mood Alcohol poisoning. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16640-alcohol-poisoning Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024a, February 29). Binge drinking.. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/binge-drinking.htm Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024b, February 29). Drinking too much alcohol can harm your health. learn the facts. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, February 29). Deaths from excessive alcohol use in the United States. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/features/excessive-alcohol-deaths.html Cirino, E. (2018, June 29). Alcohol intoxication: Acute, symptoms, treatments, signs, and more. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol-intoxication Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024, January 20). Alcohol in moderation: How many drinks is that?. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551 National Alcohol Awareness Month. National Today. (2021, August 4). https://nationaltoday.com/national-alcohol-awareness-month/ Symptoms and signs of alcohol addiction: Am I addicted to alcohol?. American Addiction Centers. (2024a, March 8). https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcohol/signs-symptoms U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Alcohol use in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.-a). Alcohol use disorder (AUD) in the United States: Age groups and demographic characteristics. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohol-topics/alcohol-facts-and-statistics/alcohol-use-disorder-aud-united-states-age-groups-and-demographic-characteristics. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.-c). Understanding alcohol use disorder. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder
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Bipolar disorder affects approximately 2.6 % of the population in the United States. That is around 5.7 million people. Another source estimates 4.4 % of the population will experience bipolar during their lifetimes. While there are specific characteristics that most will experience, bipolar disorder is a unique journey for every individual experiencing it.
Defining bipolar disorder can be difficult, as it is such a different experience. Some descriptions are: “I am good for a while. I’ll talk more, laugh more. Sleep and eat normally. But then something happens, like a switch turns off somewhere and all I am left with is the darkness of my mind” (unknown). “It’s like having the motivation to change the world one moment, then not having the motivation to wash yourself.” (Unknown). “I was actually manic a lot of the times that I would take on workloads…I was conquering the world, but then it would all come crashing down, and I would be more depressed than ever” (Demi Lovato). Bipolar disorder is a very complex condition, and understanding what it is can help us to understand those who live with it better. To better understand bipolar disorder, knowledge of the concept of ‘Mood” is necessary. Mood can be defined as an individual’s emotional tone, that influences behavior, personality, and perception. Our mood consists of depression, joy, anger, and elation (Morgan & Townsend, 2021). Bipolar disorder is considered to be a mood disorder. We all have changes in our moods, and everyone has ups and downs. This is normal. But it is when these mood changes become extreme and pervasive that problems can arise. There are certain terms that are used frequently, and you may hear when bipolar disorder is discussed. Mania, mood lability, rapid cycling, and hypomania are used frequently when describing the moods of bipolar disorder (Morgan & Townsend, 2021). Mania: is a key symptom of bipolar disorder. It is recognized by an elevated, expansive, and irritable mood. The need for sleep decreases and energy increases. Mood Lability: This refers to rapid shifts in mood. One month the individual with bipolar disorder is happy, and the next month they are sad and depressed. Rapid Cycling: This is a continuous cycle that occurs between mania and depression. Types of Bipolar Disorders Adding to the complexity of bipolar disorders, is the fact that there are different types, and everyone who experiences this disorder experiences it differently. In order to understand this condition, it is essential to have an awareness of these different types which include.
You may have heard this referred to as Manic-Depressive Disorder in the past. Bipolar I is one of the most common forms experienced. Those with this type have persistent and severe episodes of depression and mania. In between these episodes, the individual may return to their normal mood state or baseline. This is known as euthymia. To be diagnosed with bipolar I, the person must experience depression lasting at least two weeks and at least one episode of mania, which lasts a week or results in hospitalization. Someone with bipolar I may also experience delusions or hallucinations. Individuals with bipolar I have difficulties maintaining relationships and employment. Bipolar II Disorder Bipolar II is also one of the more commonly experienced forms of this disorder. These individuals experience depression that lasts over two weeks. This depression is chronic and usually more severe than bipolar I. Another difference between I and II, is that those with bipolar II do not experience mania, but will have a less extreme form called hypomania. Cyclothymic Disorder Cyclothymic disorder or cyclothymia, is less common and also less severe than bipolar I and II. While the person experiences the highs and the lows they are not as severe. However, cyclothymic disorder can develop into bipolar I or II Coping Strategies for Bipolar Disorder Bipolar disorder is ongoing and can be a lifelong condition. It usually will not go away on its own. People that experience this disorder can feel alone and overwhelmed. Therefore, it is important they receive the care and support they need. Treatment for Bipolar disorder can include medications, psychotherapy, and long-term treatment. However, it is just as important to have personal coping strategies and lifestyle habits that can assist in managing this disorder. Some ideas that have been shared include.
There is no doubt that bipolar disorder is a difficult, and sometimes life changing, disorder for those who have it. As more people speak out and share their experiences, awareness and hope grows. March 30th of every year is World Bipolar Day. This provides global education, open discussion, and improved sensitivity about the disorder. It also provides an opportunity for those living with bipolar disorder to connect. “The ultimate goal is to inspire a global shift in thinking that will eliminate social stigma and promote acceptance” (www.ISBD). If this goal can be achieved, then hope will flourish! “Though I am often in the depths of misery, there is still calmness, pure harmony, and music inside me” (Vincent Van Gogh). Peggy Fossen, DNP, RN, CNE References Bipolar disorder. SAMHSA. (n.d.). https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/bipolar Cleveland Clinic. (2024, March 19). Do you know the different types of bipolar disorder? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/bipolar-1-vs-2 Collins, D. (2021, July 21). Quotes about bipolar disorder: You’re not alone. Psych Central. https://psychcentral.com/bipolar/bipolar-disorder-quotes#bipolar-disorder Morgan, K. I., & Townsend, M. (2021). Davis advantage for Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing. F. A. Davis Company Publishers. Team, B. E. (2024, March 3). 21 quotes about living with bipolar disorder. BetterHelp. https://www.betterhelp.com/advice/bipolar/33-bipolar-quotes-and-sayings/ WebMD. (n.d.). What are the types of bipolar disorder?. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/bipolar-disorder-forms 9 essential coping strategies for bipolar disorder. (n.d.). https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/essential-coping-strategies-for-bipolar-disorder Additional Links https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21603-mania https://www.verywellhealth.com/euthymic-mood-in-bipolar-disorder-5208599 https://www.verywellmind.com/hypomania-vs-mania-5208167 https://www.everydayhealth.com/bipolar-disorder/guide/resources/ https://www.isbd.org/world-bipolar-day What exactly are eating disorders, and why should we care about them?
Eating disorders are considered one of the deadliest mental health disorders, second only to opioid addiction. It is estimated that eating disorders claim 10,200 lives annually. Eating disorders impact the individual experiencing it, along with family and loved ones. Everyone impacted experiences a range of emotions, including grief, guilt, confusion, fear, sadness, anger, and stress. While eating disorders affect an estimated 28.8 million Americans, many of us are unaware of what eating disorders consist of and what it means to have this complex condition. Types of Eating Disorders When the term eating disorder is used, most of us will think of anorexia. While anorexia nervosa is a common and well-known eating disorder, it is only one in this group of disorders, which includes.
Characteristics While we have identified some symptoms specific to each eating disorder, characteristics of eating disorders involve psychological aspects as well, including (Boyd & Luebbert, 2022).
Treating eating disorders can be complicated, and even more so when co-existing conditions, such as anxiety, are present. Treatments The treatment of eating disorders must be holistic and should include psychotherapy, medical care, nutritional counseling, and medications. Frequently, a combination of these approaches must be used to achieve the treatment goals, which should include.
Eating disorders can be very personal, and as a result, the person can feel very alone. Family members can play a crucial role in getting these individuals help. Family members are usually the first to notice the eating disorder and to attempt to obtain treatment and help. Family members and loved ones of those with eating disorders should also remember to take care of their health and needs. There are many resources available to assist with dealing with eating disorders, such as. Eating disorder hope: This website provides a hotline for assistance. It also provides support and resources. https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/treatment-for-eating-disorders/eating-disorder-hotlines National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders: This website provides support and help for those suffering from an eating disorder, family, and friends. https://anad.org/ UPMC: This website provides many resources specifically for families. Eating disorders are a complex and concerning disorder. While we have covered many key components of this disorder, it is important to continue to increase our knowledge and awareness of this very important condition. Experiencing an eating disorder, or having a loved one with an eating disorder, can be traumatic for all involved. Understanding symptoms, treatments, and resources may help someone when they need it the most. Peggy Fossen DNP, RN, CNE References Admin. (2021, November 2). Connection between anxiety and eating disorders: Toledo center. Toledo Center | Eating Disorders Treatment Center. https://toledocenter.com/resources/the-connection-between-anxiety-and-eating-disorders/ Boyd, M. A., & Luebbert, R. (2022). Psychiatric nursing: Contemporary practice. Wolters Kluwer. Eating disorder statistics: ANAD - National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and associated disorders. ANAD National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders. (2024, January 11). https://anad.org/eating-disorder-statistic/ Family involvement: The role of family in eating disorders. Eating Disorder Hope. (2023, October 7). https://www.eatingdisorderhope.com/treatment-for-eating-disorders/family-role Graber, E. (2022, January 13). Eating disorders are on the rise. American Society for Nutrition. https://nutrition.org/eating-disorders-are-on-the-rise/ O’Donoghue, S. (2019, October 3). The impact of an eating disorder can have on you and your family. Tabor Group. https://www.taborgroup.ie/news/the-impact-of-an-eating-disorder-can-have-on-you-and-your-family/ Petre, A. (2022, May 18). Learn about 6 common types of eating disorders and their symptoms. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/common-eating-disorders U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (n.d.). Eating disorders: About more than food. National Institute of Mental Health. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/eating-disorders#:~:text=Treatment%20plans%20for%20eating%20disorders,weight%20to%20a%20healthy%20level What is Stigma?
What exactly is stigma and why should we care about it? Stigma is a form of social discrimination and prejudice. It refers to negative attitudes, stereotypes and beliefs that people have about those who have mental health disorders. Stigma can lead to discrimination and prejudice resulting in negative outcomes for those experiencing mental health issues. There are seven types of stigmas. Public stigma This form of stigma refers to the discriminatory and negative attitudes that people have about mental illness. People believe that those with mental illness are dangerous, incompetent, and unpredictable. Self-stigma Those with mental health disorders may internalize negative feelings and stereotypes. They could also internalize shame related to their mental health condition. This could result in poor self-esteem and their willingness to seek treatment. Perceived stigma This type of stigma is when those with mental health disorders believe that others have negative attitudes and beliefs about people with mental health disorders. Label avoidance This form of stigma can be detrimental to the individual who experiences it, as it prevents them from seeking mental health treatment. They do this to avoid a stigmatizing label. Institutional stigma This stigma involves government and private policies that limit opportunities for those with mental health disorders. This could result in less opportunities, fewer mental health services, and is also referred to as structural stigma. Health practitioner stigma This stigma occurs when the health practitioner’s beliefs or stereotypes interferes with their ability to provide effective care to those with a mental illness. This could negatively affect the patient’s care. Associative stigma This stigma affects those connected with individuals with mental health conditions. Friends and family are impacted. The effects of stigma are extended to those associated with the person with a mental illness. This stigma is also referred to as courtesy stigma. The Impact of Stigma Unfortunately, there are many personal stories that demonstrate the prevalence of stigma within those with mental health conditions. Mental health disorders can be challenging and difficult to cope with. Having to deal with stigmatism elevates these challenges and presents additional barriers. Individuals have reported experiences of stigmatism from colleagues, friends, and family members. While stigma and discrimination both make the situation worse. There is a difference between them. Stigma is when you are seen differently because of your mental illness, and discrimination is when someone treats you differently because of your mental illness. Stigma can be very discouraging and harmful to those experiencing it and it can have negative effects including.
Stigma and Mental Health Wellness Stigma, like mental illness, is difficult to talk about sometimes. This is somewhat hard to understand, as a growing number of people are experiencing a deterioration in their mental health. According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mental illness is now one of the most common health conditions in the United States. It is estimated that more than 50% of adults in the United States will need treatment for a mental health disorder during their lifetime. It is hard to understand why stigma would continue to exist with that number of people experiencing some form of mental health challenge. But it does. Unfortunately, stigma has been common in our society. Also, because it has been a part of our society for so long, it can be difficult to get rid of. So, what can we do to change this way of thinking and decrease this negative and unfair attitude toward those with mental health challenges. These steps have been found to be helpful in reducing stigma.
Resources The severity of this issue has not gone unnoticed, and resources are available to increase education, provide support and encouragement, and contribute to the movement to end stigma. These are just a few of the organizations that have been leaders in advocating for change. Bring Change 2 Mind: This organization promotes removing misconceptions about mental illness and stopping stigma. Stigma-Free Society: This organization offers educational tools promoting awareness of stigma. NAMI: The National Alliance on Mental Illness provides information on stigma and encourages everyone to become a stigma free partner and take the pledge. Nostigmas: This organization is committed to eliminating stigmas surrounding mental health. They are a safe space for those who lives are affected by mental illness. Mental Wellness Month January is Mental Wellness Month, with the focus of bringing awareness to mental health disorders, getting rid of stigma, and encouraging good mental health for everyone. Everyone is encouraged to participate in improving mental health for themselves and others. Some ways to do this are:
Peggy Fossen, DNP, RN, CNE References Ashley Olivine, Ph. D. (2022, February 10). Stigma: Definition, signs, impact, and coping. Verywell Health. https://www.verywellhealth.com/stigma-5215412 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, April 25). About mental health. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/mentalhealth/learn/index.htm Department of Health & Human Services. (2015, September 18). CTR, M. H. (2022, February 8). 21 ways to celebrate Mental Wellness month. Mental Health Center. https://www.mentalhealthctr.com/21-ways-to-celebrate-mental-wellness-month/ Stigma, discrimination and mental illness. Better Health Channel. https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/servicesandsupport/stigma-discrimination-and-mental-illness Duverge, G. (2023, June 16). Breaking america’s mental health stigma. Touro University Worldwide. https://www.tuw.edu/psychology/breaking-americas-mental-health-stigma/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAtaOtBhCwARIsAN_x-3JeqU_Ir7QWZGcbbvpRFnrgtjf3ql1LBvebhjAzZ6Tn3Xr-2gUHsCwaAhHGEALw_wcB Let’s talk mental health. Bring Change to Mind. (n.d.). https://www.bringchange2mind.org/ Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2017, May 24). Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/in-depth/mental-health/art-20046477 MediLexicon International. (n.d.). Mental health stigma: Definition, examples, effects, and tips. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mental-health-stigma#mental-health-stigma Mental Health Advocacy & Suicide Awareness. NoStigmas. (n.d.). https://nostigmas.org/ Pledge to be StigmaFree: Nami: National Alliance on Mental Illness. NAMI. (n.d.). See Me. (n.d.). Personal stories: End mental health stigma and discrimination. https://www.seemescotland.org/stigma-discrimination/personal-stories Stigma and discrimination. Mental Health Foundation. (n.d.). https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/stigma-and-discrimination Stigma-free society: Awareness. understanding. acceptance. Stigma Free Society. (2023, December 4). https://stigmafreesociety.com/ Stigma, prejudice and discrimination against people with mental illness. Psychiatry.org - Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination Against People with Mental Illness. (n.d.). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination Stigma types: Student Affairs: Washington State University. Student Affairs. (n.d.). https://spokane.wsu.edu/studentaffairs/counseling-services/end-the-stigma/stigma-types/ Swaim, E. (2023, July 25). Why stigma happens and how to stop it. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-stigma#types Wignall, N. (2023, November 6). 4 habits of emotionally balanced people. Medium. https://nickwignall.medium.com/4-habits-of-emotionally-balanced-people-4342d00f5b1f As the hustle and bustle of this holiday season is behind us, it is a good time to take some time, take a deep breath, and reflect. Have the holidays been a joyful time with friends and family, or has it been an overwhelming experience, leaving you feeling tired and stressed?
Everyone is familiar with stress and all the negative effects that accompanies it. While stress can occur at any time, the holiday season can shift our stress into high gear. There have been high expectations for everything to be perfect, lots of extra expenses, and full calendars. Some expectations can be unrealistic, which adds to feelings of stress. It is no wonder that we sometimes have feelings of relief that the holidays are coming to an end. The shopping, baking, gift buying, and family gatherings is over for another year. That should mean the stress should end also, but for some feelings of stress, and even depression can set in after the holidays. The Holiday Blues Many experience Post-holiday blues. This is also known as post-vacation syndrome, stress, or depression. Many of the symptoms can be distressing and include.
So why do some experience a roller-coaster of feelings related to the holidays. There are a number of reasons contributing to the post-holiday blues.
While some may be confused as to why they are feeling this way, they are not alone. Having the holiday blues is not uncommon. In a past survey, as many as 64% of people reported feeling down, depressed, or having the blues. Recognizing what you are feeling, and why you are having these feelings is a very important first step. Once recognized, interventions can be put into place to beat those holiday blues, such as.
Reach Out While all these are important and helpful suggestions, perhaps the most important to remember is reaching out, and that you are not alone. As humans, we are social beings and having connections is extremely important. Activities and socialization play an important role in feeling connected with others, decreasing stress and loneliness, and just feeling good. Social support even affects our hormones and is associated with increasing levels of oxytocin. This can lower our stress and motivate us to seek out others who are important to us, such as friends. Why is it important to reach out to friends, and maintain our relationships with those we consider to be our friends? The Importance of Friends Having connections is an important piece of the human experience. Recent studies have proven that having conversations with friends can improve mental health and increase overall well-being. This research supports the benefits that contacting and interacting with friends bring, such as.
Call a Friend Day National Call a Friend Day is December 28th. The purpose of this day is to encourage friends to stay connected. While emailing and texting has become the usual way of communication, having a conversation over the phone provides a feeling of connection. We now know that the holidays can cause stress and depression. We also know that staying connected is one method to deal with these feelings. National Call a Friend Day is supported by many psychological organizations as it is evident that talking to friends does improve your mental health. Connecting with a friend can include different interactions including.
So, on December 28th (and every other day) call a friend! Happy New Year! Peggy Fossen DNP, RN, CNE References https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/coping-with-holiday-stress-keeping-our-expectations-realistic https://www.psycom.net/depression/post-holiday-depression https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/life-without-anxiety/201401/the-holidays-are-over-why-am-i-so-blue https://www.nami.org/blogs/nami-blog/november-2015/tips-for-managing-the-holiday-blues https://www.mentalhelp.net/stress/socialization-and-altruistic-acts-as-stress-relief/#:~:text=Socialization%2C%20or%20enjoying%20other%20people%27s,are%20all%20examples%20of%20socialization https://www.apa.org/monitor/feb08/oxytocin https://www.healthline.com/health-news/how-one-conversation-with-friends-per-day-can-help-your-mental-health#1 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/friendship-20/202303/why-you-should-make-that-phone-call-to-a-friend https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/national-call-a-friend-day/ https://anydayguide.com/calendar/5030 https://www.webmd.com/sex-relationships/what-to-know-about-oxytocin |
Hello friends! My name is Kate, and I’m a senior in college studying Psychology and Philosophy, with minors in Art History and Fine Arts. I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, but I now call Boston home while I finish my last year of school.
Art and expressing myself creatively have always been central to who I am. I enjoy painting, playing guitar, and above all else, writing. While I've found that these outlets have allowed me to process the world around me on a deeper level, they have also allowed me to form a connection with myself and my ever changing identity. Writing, in particular, has been my way of grounding myself since early highschool. To me, it is a form of introspection, meditation, and healing. This is what first drew me to Burn Away Your Burdens: the shared belief that healthy and personal coping mechanisms are essential to growth and stability. Beyond journaling, I love to write fictional stories, poetry, and songs. I’m so grateful to be part of this inspiring community, and I can’t wait to keep sharing my personal and academic work with all of you. Categories |
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