Capitalizing on the good days: How weather can impact motivation and mental health

Capitalizing on the good days: How weather can impact motivation and mental health

It’s no secret that the weather has an impact on our mood. Over the last few months, clients have shared concerns with lack of motivation, increased sadness, and overall negative mood. The climate in which we live gives way for dark, cold, and dreary months during the winter which most people refer to as the “winter blues”. I talk with my clients about Seasonal Depression and how it is highly relevant to that time of year. They report not wanting to get out of bed, struggle to complete everyday tasks and even the thought of leaving the home is dreadful. Though this season feels like it goes on forever, you may have noticed slightly warmer and sunnier days. These days may have felt much lighter or “happier” to you which means Spring is here. The trees are blooming, it’s getting darker later in the evening, and nature is coming back to life! How exciting?!

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Food Brings Us Together

Food Brings Us Together

March is a special month. Not only does it bring the first signs of spring, but it's also National Nutrition Month! As a registered dietitian and therapist, I see every day how food connects to mental health. Food isn’t just about what we eat, it’s also about how we prepare it, share it, and experience it with others. The meals we choose can tell stories about our families, cultures, and even ourselves.

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How Trauma Affects Relationships

How Trauma Affects Relationships

Have you ever seen a new home? Everything feels fresh and full of possibilities. There’s excitement about making it your own. But as with any new house, the foundation goes through a process of settling. The soil underneath tightens and shifts, causing the house to slowly reach its final position. This is normal, but it can lead to small cracks in walls, uneven floors, or doors that don’t close properly. Most of the time, this settling stops on its own. However, if the house settles too much or unevenly, it can lead to bigger problems, requiring repairs to keep it stable. When this happens, homeowners can feel frustrated and discouraged about their once-exciting new home.

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Mental Health and Service To Country

Mental Health and Service To Country

As we celebrate Veteran’s Day (and the Marine Corps birthday!), let’s pause and address the mental health implications of service to country.  Those who serve in our armed forces signed on the dotted line, pledging their time, life, and limb.  Their family members, on the other hand, do not make this choice.  The mental health implications for the military member and their family deserve to be talked about.

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