Cyndi Turner's Blog, page 8

Ending the Stigma Around Therapy – From Illness to Wellness

The stigma around mental health and engaging in therapy has often acted as a barrier for people seeking services. In this Insight Minute video, Dr. Johnny Pierce challenges this stigma by proposing a new perspective on mental health care, shifting our focus from illness to wellness.

In the companion “Holding Space” video, Dr. Pierce has a conversation with his colleague Matt Christian, LCSW, exploring the root of this stigma and showing why in the end, the stigma just doesn’t make sense.

If you or your loved one is experiencing mental health difficulties and would like to embark on the journey towards wellness, please reach out to our team at Insight Into Action Therapy!

https://www.insightactiontherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Ending-the-Stigma-Around-Therapy_Main-video_Final.mp4

Close https://www.insightactiontherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Ending-the-Stigma-Around-Therapy_second-video_final.mp4

Close

The post Ending the Stigma Around Therapy – From Illness to Wellness appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

How To Be Diagnosed for Dual Diagnosis

What does it mean to have a dual diagnosis? Many people with mental health issues also suffer from addiction. Sometimes it is because people turn to drugs or alcohol as a way to cope with their mental health issues. In other cases, it is because addiction can lead to mental health issues. For example, people may become depressed due to the social isolation and financial distress caused by substance abuse. No matter what the cause of the connection between substance abuse and mental health is, it is important to seek professional help.

These scenarios are known as dual diagnosis, and it can be challenging to diagnose properly. Thankfully, there are ways for you to get the help and treatment you need. If you are curious about how to get properly diagnosed for dual diagnosis, reach out to Insight Into Action Therapy today at 703.935.8544. Our dual diagnosis treatment specialists can provide you with the best care for your addiction and mental health issues. We are here to help you every step of the way on your journey toward recovery.

Dual Diagnosis Symptoms

There are several symptoms that can indicate a dual diagnosis disorder. If you have any of the following signs and symptoms, it is essential to reach out to your doctor for evaluation:

Substance abuse as a way to cope with mental health issues or vice versaWithdrawal from activities, family, or friends due to substance useInability to control substance useUsing more of the substance than intended Increasingly hostile or violent behavior when using a substanceExperiencing physical symptoms such as nausea, sweating, shaking, or vomiting when not using the substanceDepression or anxiety that worsens with continued use of a particular drug

If you or someone you know is displaying any of the symptoms above, it is important to seek help. Dual diagnosis treatment can help address both substance abuse and mental health issues to give individuals a better chance at long-term recovery.

How To Get Diagnosed for Dual Diagnosis

There are a few steps to getting properly diagnosed for dual diagnosis:

Understand the Symptoms of Dual Diagnosis

Before you can get a proper diagnosis, it’s important that you understand the symptoms of dual diagnosis. Common symptoms include anxiety, depression, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, substance abuse, and difficulty controlling impulses or behavior. If you think that you may be suffering from a dual diagnosis disorder, it’s important to seek help as soon as possible.

Make an Appointment With Your Primary Care Physician

Once you have identified the symptoms of your condition, the next step is to make an appointment with your primary care physician (PCP). The PCP will assess your overall health and may refer you to specialists if they believe that further testing is necessary. During this appointment, make sure that your doctor is aware of any mental health issues or substance abuse issues that you are currently dealing with so that they can provide an accurate assessment of your condition. It’s also important to note any family history or other factors that might suggest a dual diagnosis disorder since these could play into the diagnosis process.

Seek Treatment From Specialists

Depending on your PCP’s assessment of your condition, they may refer you to specialists such as psychiatrists or psychologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating mental health disorders as well as substance abuse disorders. These specialists can conduct comprehensive assessments to determine if a dual diagnosis disorder exists and then provide proper treatment for the condition if necessary. They will also take into account any other medical conditions or medications that might affect their assessment in order to ensure accuracy when diagnosing and prescribing treatment options.

Get Diagnosed for Dual Diagnosis at Insight Into Action Therapy

Taking the time and effort needed to understand dual diagnosis can go a long way toward getting the help and treatment necessary for recovery from mental health issues as well as addiction issues. Contact Insight Into Action Therapy in Northern Virginia today at 703.935.8544. We are here to help you every step of the way.

The post How To Be Diagnosed for Dual Diagnosis appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

How to Help Someone With Anxiety

Anxiety is a common mental health issue that can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender. It’s estimated that nearly 20% of adults in the US have an anxiety disorder. If you know someone who is struggling with anxiety, it can be difficult to know how best to support them. That is why recognizing the signs and symptoms of anxiety, understanding triggers, and providing compassionate support are so important.

If you would like to help someone with anxiety, reach out to Insight Into Action Therapy today at 703.935.8544. Our anxiety treatment is created to help people recognize signs of anxiety and symptoms of anxiety attacks. A happier, healthier future is possible.

What Is Anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of worry, fear, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. It’s normal to feel anxious when faced with a stressful situation or a difficult decision. However, for some people, anxiety can become so severe that it interferes with their daily life and causes significant distress. If left untreated, it can even lead to serious health complications, including depression and substance abuse.

Signs of Anxiety

Anxiety can manifest itself in many different ways. Common signs and symptoms include:

Persistent worrying or fearConstant stressPhysical tension such as headaches or fatigueAgitation or restlessnessDifficulty concentrating or focusing on tasksPanic attacks or extreme fear/anxiety in certain situations

It’s important to note that everyone may experience anxiety differently. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s also important to remember that just because someone doesn’t exhibit any outward signs of anxiety, it doesn’t mean they aren’t struggling internally.

Triggers of Anxiety

Anxiety triggers vary from person to person, but some common triggers could include the following:

Stressful situations such as taking tests or public speaking engagementsCertain people or environments that cause discomfortNegative thoughts and self-talkCertain sounds or smells (such as loud noises)Illness or injury (real or imagined)Substance misuseLack of sleepPoor diet

Understanding these triggers can help someone with anxiety.

How to Support and Help Someone with Anxiety

The best way to support someone with anxiety is by being patient and understanding. Try not to judge their feelings. Instead:

Focus on listening and validating their experiences and emotions without offering solutions.Offer practical suggestions such as going for a walk outdoors, practicing deep breathing exercises, eating healthy meals, and getting enough sleep.You could also encourage them to seek professional help from a mental health professional if neededSometimes, talking about our experiences with an objective third party can be very helpful.Finally, reassure them that they are safe and loved, remind them that they are not alone in this journey, and encourage them however you can.

While supporting someone with anxiety can be challenging at times, it is possible with patience and understanding. Keeping track of the signs and symptoms of anxiety can help you recognize when your loved one needs extra support. Remember that each person’s experience with anxiety is unique. There is no one size fits all solution when it comes to helping someone cope with their anxieties, so it’s important to offer personalized care whenever possible

Help Someone with Anxiety at Insight Into Action

With compassion and empathy, you can make a huge difference in the life of your loved one who struggles with anxiety. Insight Into Action Therapy provides comprehensive mental health services for those suffering from addiction as well as those dealing with issues like depression and anxiety in Ashburn, VA. Our team of highly experienced professionals is here to provide compassionate care tailored specifically to your individual needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out today at 703.935.8544

The post How to Help Someone With Anxiety appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

“Can I Keep Drinking?” – The Alcohol Moderation Assessment

In my almost 30-years of working in the addiction treatment field, the most common question clients ask me is “can I keep drinking?” I have found that there is over 50 years of research that shows that many people actually can.

In our culture, and even in the substance use treatment field, people often view problems with alcohol as a binary, either you’re an “alcoholic” or you’re not. The reality is that there is a spectrum of alcohol use. The image that many have of an “alcoholic” – physical dependency, withdrawals, severe consequences – only account for around 6% of people that occupy the far end of this spectrum. For these people, long-term sobriety may indeed be the safest option.

https://www.insightactiontherapy.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Can-I-Keep-Drinking_-The-Alcohol-Moderation-Assessment-Video.mp4

Close

However, there are many people who are aware that they have a problematic relationship with alcohol but for whom complete abstinence is a non-starter. Unfortunately, when they seek help, they are told that they must pursue long-term sobriety. These people typically drop out of treatment and never receive the tools they need to develop a healthier relationship with alcohol.

So, how might someone determine if they are a good candidate to try alcohol moderation? I developed the Alcohol Moderation Assessment to help answer this very question. Furthermore, I’ve made this tool available to the public.

The 20-question assessment consists of research-based predictors, both positive and negative, that can help one gain insight into whether they may be a good candidate to drink in moderation. Upon completion of the assessment, a score is given that corresponds to the likelihood that one will be able to successfully practice alcohol moderation.

If you are interested in pursuing alcohol moderation, there are resources available to help you on that journey. I have published a workbook titled “Practicing Alcohol Moderation – A Comprehensive Guide” that provides practical strategies for implementing alcohol moderation. One can also check out the mutual support group Moderation Management or work with a clinician trained in alcohol moderation.

If you or a loved one are struggling with alcohol use, Insight Into Action Therapy is here to help you on your journey towards developing a healthier relationship with alcohol.

The post “Can I Keep Drinking?” – The Alcohol Moderation Assessment appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

6 Benefits of an In-Person Group Therapy Session

Mental health care is an important part of overall well-being. Group therapy has become a popular choice for those seeking to improve their mental health and well-being. If you are considering starting group therapy, it is important to know the differences between virtual and in-person sessions and the benefits of an in-person group therapy session.

At Insight Into Action Therapy, we believe that group therapy can be a powerful tool for healing and growth. Participants have access to immediate feedback from peers and counselors while using this feedback to build their communication skills. Find out how you can get started in our group therapy program by calling 703.935.8544 today.

Virtual vs. In-Person Group Therapy

In recent years, virtual group therapy has become increasingly popular due to its convenience and affordability. However, there are still many advantages that come with attending an in-person group therapy session. The physical presence of other members provides a sense of support that cannot be replicated through virtual sessions. Additionally, observing facial expressions, body language, and nonverbal cues can provide a deeper level of understanding than possible through video conferencing alone.

6 Benefits of an In-Person Group Therapy Session1. Sharing Experiences

One benefit of attending an in-person group session is the opportunity to share experiences with others who have similar struggles. This can create a sense of camaraderie and understanding among members as they discuss their issues openly with one another. Additionally, hearing how others have dealt with similar issues can provide insight into how you might approach your own situation differently or more effectively.

2. Developing New Skills

An in-person group session provides a safe space for members to practice new skills, such as communication and problem-solving, without fear of judgment or criticism from others. This can help members develop healthier coping mechanisms as they learn how to manage their emotions in difficult situations better.

3. Enhancing Self-Awareness

Participating in an in-person group setting allows members to gain greater insight into themselves by listening to different perspectives on shared issues within the group. This can help individuals become more self-aware as they learn more about their individual triggers and responses to challenging situations or emotions.

4. Practicing Vulnerability

Opening up about your struggles or feelings can be difficult, but it is essential for progress when it comes to mental health care. Attending an in-person group session allows individuals to practice vulnerability by sharing their experiences with others who understand what they are going through and will not judge them for it.

5. Building Trust

Trust is key when it comes to any type of therapeutic relationship, whether it’s individual or group therapy sessions. By meeting face-to-face with other members regularly, individuals can build trusting relationships over time that can make all the difference when engaging in difficult conversations about personal topics within the group setting.

6. Enhancing Motivation

Engaging with other individuals working towards similar goals—such as improving mental health—can be incredibly motivating for those participating in an in-person support group setting as they see firsthand what progress looks like while also receiving encouragement from fellow participants along the way.

Group Therapy Is Part of a Full Therapeutic Regimen

It’s important to remember that while attending a weekly support group meeting may be beneficial for many people struggling with mental health issues, it should not replace treatments prescribed to you. Group therapy should only ever supplement existing treatments tailored specifically for each person’s unique needs rather than replacing them altogether.

In-Person Group Therapy at Insight Into Action Therapy

Our team at our Ashburn, VA center understands how beneficial attending regular support groups can be for those struggling with mental health disorders. We offer in-person group therapy and access to comprehensive mental health care services. To learn more about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us online or by calling 703.935.8544 today.

The post 6 Benefits of an In-Person Group Therapy Session appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

Beat Winter Depression with In-Person Therapy

Winter depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), is a type of depression that is linked to the changing of the seasons. While this condition can occur during any season, it is most commonly associated with the winter months. Symptoms of winter depression may include feeling low energy and having difficulty concentrating, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, feeling hopeless or worthless, and thoughts of suicide. Fortunately, there are many ways to fight winter depression, including in-person therapy.

At Insight Into Action Therapy, we specialize in helping individuals cope with winter depression. With personalized treatment plans, we can help you identify and manage symptoms, work through underlying issues, and develop healthy coping strategies. We also offer support groups for people with SAD, which allows individuals to connect with others who share their experiences. Learn more and get started in our depression treatment program today by calling 703.935.8544.

What Is Seasonal Depression?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a form of depression that typically occurs during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter, and temperatures are colder. People with SAD may experience symptoms such as:

FatigueDifficulty concentratingChanges in appetite or sleep patternsFeelings of guilt or worthlessnessThoughts of death or suicideWithdrawal from social activitiesThe Effects of Winter Depression

Seasonal affective disorder can significantly impact an individual’s mental health, well-being, and relationships with others. For example, individuals with SAD may find it difficult to engage in social activities due to low energy levels or feelings of worthlessness; this can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness which can further exacerbate one’s symptoms. Furthermore, SAD can also cause an individual to feel unmotivated or have difficulty focusing on tasks at work or school, which can lead to a decline in job performance or academic achievement.

Managing Seasonal Depression at Home

Although there is no cure for SAD itself, there are things that individuals can do at home to help manage their symptoms. Some strategies include:

Engaging in regular physical activity such as walking or yogaLimiting alcohol intakeReducing stress through relaxation techniques such as deep breathing exercisesIncreasing exposure to natural light by going outside for walks throughout the dayEating healthy foods such as fruits and vegetablesGetting plenty of sleep each nightTalking with friends and family about how you are feelingPracticing mindfulness techniques such as meditation and journalingHow to Fight Winter Depression with In-Person Therapy

In addition to managing seasonal depression at home by following some strategies outlined above, another way individuals can fight winter depression is by seeking professional help from a licensed mental health professional specializing in treating depression.

A qualified therapist will be able to provide personalized treatment plans tailored specifically toward one’s individual needs, which may include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) sessions designed to target negative thought patterns that contribute to one’s symptomsPsychotherapy sessions focused on exploring underlying causes for one’s depressive episodesMedication management services provided by psychiatrists who specialize in prescribing medications that are safe for people battling SADGroup therapy sessions where individuals can connect with others facing similar struggles while receiving support from professionals trained in facilitating these types of conversations effectivelyLifestyle coaching services aimed at helping individuals make changes necessary for long-term success when it comes to managing one’s mental health condition(s)Depression Treatment for Winter Months at Insight Into Action Therapy

Our Ashburn, VA treatment center’s team of experienced mental health professionals is dedicated to providing evidence-based treatments to individuals struggling with winter depression or seasonal affective disorder.

Contact us online or call us at 703.935.8544 today to find out how you can get the help you need to get through the cold months of winter.

The post Beat Winter Depression with In-Person Therapy appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

Why In-Person Therapy Is the Most Effective Approach in Mental Health Treatment

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and stressed. With work, family, and social obligations, it can be hard to find time to take care of yourself. When you are struggling to keep up with the demands of everyday life, your mental health can suffer. If you feel like you can’t cope, it’s important to get professional help.

One of the most effective approaches to mental health treatment is in-person therapy. In-person therapy is a type of therapy that is conducted face-to-face between a therapist and a patient. This type of therapy can be beneficial for various mental health conditions. At Insight Into Action Therapy, our group therapy program is just one example of how we use in-person therapy. Call 703.935.8544 or contact us online to learn more.

Common Mental Health Conditions

There are many different mental health conditions that can benefit from in-person therapy. Some of the most common mental health conditions include:

Anxiety disorders – Anxiety disorders are the most common type of mental disorder. They can include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).Depression – Depression is a serious medical condition that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities. Major depression is the leading cause of disability in the United States.Eating disorders – Eating disorders are illnesses that cause people to change their eating habits. The three most common types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.Bipolar disorder – Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that causes extreme mood swings that include both manic and depressive episodes.Types of Mental Health Treatment

There are many different types of mental health treatment available. The most common types of treatment include medication, psychotherapy, and hospitalization. Medication can be prescribed by a psychiatrist or other mental health professional to help stabilize moods or manage symptoms. Psychotherapy is also known as talk therapy or counseling. It involves talking to a trained therapist about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. Hospitalization may be necessary for people who are suicidal or pose a danger to themselves or others.

The Importance of In-Person Therapy

When you are struggling with a mental illness, it’s important to get professional help from a qualified mental health professional. In-person therapy is one of the most effective approaches in mental health treatment because it allows you to build a rapport with your therapist and develop trust. Trust is essential in any therapeutic relationship because it allows you to feel comfortable sharing your deepest thoughts and feelings. When you feel comfortable sharing your innermost thoughts with your therapist, you can work together to develop coping skills and strategies to manage your symptoms.

The Benefits of In-Person Therapy for Mental Health

There are many benefits of in-person therapy for mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders. In-person therapy can help you:

Understand your thoughts, feelings, and behaviorsDevelop coping skills and healthy coping mechanismsImprove communication skillsReduce stressIncrease self-esteemLearn how to set boundariesDevelop problem-solving skillsCreate a support systemGet more information about community resourcesGet Help at Insight Into Action Therapy

When you receive in-person therapy at Insight Into Action Therapy, our goal is to provide you with the tools and resources you need to live a healthy, productive life. We offer individualized treatment plans that are based on your unique needs. Our highly skilled therapists offer evidence-based treatments such as:

Dual diagnosis therapyEating disorder therapyPersonality disorder therapyMotivational interviewingFamily therapyAcceptance and commitment therapyGroup therapy

If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental illness, please call us at 703.935.8544 or reach out to us online.

The post Why In-Person Therapy Is the Most Effective Approach in Mental Health Treatment appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

3 Tips to Handle Holiday Stress and Anxiety

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and fun. But for people recovering from addiction, the holidays can be stressful. Triggers like being around family, attending holiday parties, and feeling pressure to drink or use drugs can make recovery more difficult. But there are ways to manage holiday stress and anxiety.

If you need extra help during the holidays, the anxiety treatment program at Insight Into Action Therapy can provide support. Call 703.935.8544 or contact us online to learn more.

How Holidays Affect Mental Health

People in recovery or struggling with mental health often have an especially difficult time during the holidays. Some of the major sources of holiday stress and anxiety include:

Seeing family members or attending holiday parties with people who still drink or use drugsFeeling pressure to participate in celebrations and social events centered around drinking and drug useStruggling with financial stress due to gift givingFacing reminders of traumatic experiences from the past

All of these triggers can make it difficult for people in recovery to stay focused on their sobriety, so it’s important to develop strategies to manage emotions.

3 Tips to Handle Holiday Stress and Anxiety1. Make a Plan

If you know you’ll be in situations where you’re tempted to drink or use drugs, it’s important to have a plan ahead of time. Talk to your sponsor or therapist about how to deal with triggers. Make sure you have an exit strategy if things get too overwhelming. And remember, it’s okay to say no. You don’t have to attend every party or gathering you’re invited to.

2. Find Support

Surround yourself with people who will support your sobriety. This could be friends, family members, or fellow sober people. If you don’t have anyone who understands what you’re going through, seek support groups or counseling. It’s important to talk about how you’re feeling and to know that you’re not alone.

3. Take Care of Yourself

The holidays can be a busy time, but it’s important to take care of yourself physically and mentally. Exercise, eat healthy foods, and get enough sleep. Also, don’t forget to schedule some “me time” into your holiday plans. Relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation can help reduce stress and anxiety.

Building Your Safety Net

It’s important to have a support system during the holidays. Even if you take time for yourself and make a plan, building a support network and relying on people in your life can be difficult. Some critical sources of support include:

Family – Your family can be your rock, especially since you often share your strongest bonds with them. By connecting with people in your family and explaining your challenges, they can help you navigate family events so you can stay well.Friends – Your friends can provide a listening ear and emotionally support you when needed. If possible, attend group activities with your friends or plan sober outings to keep yourself engaged in recovery and surrounded by positive influences.Sponsors or therapists – Having someone who understands addiction and the dynamics of recovery can be an invaluable resource. A sponsor or therapist can help you work through your emotions, focus on your goals, and stay sober during the holidays.Support groups – It can be helpful to attend a 12-step program or other support groups for people in recovery. These meetings provide structure, accountability, and a safe space to talk about your experiences with like-minded people.Start Healing at Insight Into Action Therapy

The holidays present challenges for people in recovery from addiction, but there are ways to cope with the added stressors of the season. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, professional help is available. Insight Into Action Therapy offers evidence-based treatment programs that can help you recover from addiction and mental health symptoms to build a foundation for long-term sobriety and wellness. Contact us online or by calling 703.935.8544 today to learn more about our programs and how we can help you manage holiday stress this season.

The post 3 Tips to Handle Holiday Stress and Anxiety appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

Why is Rehab 28 days?

When most people think of substance use treatment, they think “rehab.” Specifically, 28-day inpatient rehabilitation programs. This is when I like to pause and ask questions: “Why 28 days?”, “What is someone trying to achieve by entering a 28-day rehab program?”, “Is this the best form of care to meet their needs?”

Close

The truth is, “28-day rehab” is not a medical model. Rather, it was originally a military model. For example: a soldier at Fort Bragg is out of control with their drinking and has one month before reassignment to Fort Belvoir. They may be told, “take these 28-days and get yourself together.” This wasn’t designed by clinicians as an ideal therapeutic model.

In fact, I don’t call inpatient rehab treatment, I call it stabilization. While an individual with a severe substance use disorder may need detox and even an inpatient program, 28 days usually isn’t enough. In practice, it may look something like this: Week one, they’re detoxing. Week two, they’re upset that they’re there. Week three, they may be starting to “get it,” and by week three-and-half to four they’re getting ready for discharge. It just isn’t enough time. They often return to the same environment in which their substance use was occurring and are at high risk for relapse. Moreover, I often see family members spend tens of thousands of dollars as their loved one cycles in and out of rehab facilities.

So, what might a better model look like? Broadly speaking, a more comprehensive approach is needed. If an inpatient rehabilitation program is necessary, it’s important to be realistic about what it can achieve. I believe it should be viewed as an initial step. It can provide enough clean time that one can then more successfully engage in treatment in the community. This treatment may include an intensive outpatient program, individual and family therapy to address mental health difficulties, medications if necessary, repairing relationships, and assistance in obtaining employment and housing. Many also find it helpful to participate in mutual support groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous.

When speaking with family members whose loved one is in an inpatient rehabilitation facility, I always ask: “What’s the plan for when they are discharged?” I really empathize with individuals and families who are struggling with substance use. It’s stressful and confusing to navigate the different treatment options. Here at Insight Into Action Therapy, we specialize in developing individualized treatment plans that honor everyone’s unique needs. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use, we’re here to help.

The post Why is Rehab 28 days? appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.

How to Overcome Social Anxiety this Thanksgiving

The holidays are a time for family, friends, and loved ones. For many, Thanksgiving is a time to relax, reflect, and enjoy the company of those closest to them. But for some people, the holiday season is a time of great anxiety and stress. If you suffer from social anxiety, attending a Thanksgiving event can be enough to send you into a tailspin. Luckily, anxiety treatment and other ways to overcome social anxiety can help you feel relieved so that you can enjoy the holiday season.

What Is Social Anxiety?

Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is an extreme form of shyness. People with SAD experience intense anxiety in social situations. They might worry about being judged or evaluated by others. They might worry about embarrassing themselves or saying something wrong. This anxiety can be so severe that it interferes with work, school, and personal relationships.

SAD is different from everyday shyness in several ways:

Everyday shyness usually goes away after a short period. SAD does not.Shyness is not necessarily associated with fear or avoidance of social situations. SAD is.Shy people generally do not feel that their shyness prevents them from doing things they want or need to do. People with SAD often do.Most shy people are comfortable talking one-on-one with someone they know well. People with SAD typically are not.Children who are shy often grow out of it as they get older. Social anxiety disorder usually persists into adulthood.Impact of Thanksgiving Events on Recovery

For people in recovery from addiction or mental health conditions, attending holiday gatherings can pose unique challenges and set off triggers that lead to relapse. That’s why it’s vital for those in recovery to have a solid treatment plan in place and to be aware of their triggers during this festive but potentially stressful time of year.

Some triggers that may arise during Thanksgiving include:

Difficult family dynamicsBeing around people who are still using drugs or alcoholFeeling isolated or aloneBoredomStressful work environments leading up to the holidaysWays to Overcome Social Anxiety on Thanksgiving

But just because these triggers exist doesn’t mean that relapse is inevitable—far from it! There are many things you can do to overcome your triggers and stay on track during the holidays. Here are some tips:

Stay connected to your support system – This may mean attending more meetings than usual or checking in with your therapist or sponsor more frequently leading up to and during the holiday season. Staying connected will help you stay sober and avoid isolation during this potentially lonely time of year.Plan ahead – If you know you’ll be triggering situations, have a plan in place for how you will deal with them should they arise. This may mean having an exit strategy for awkward family conversations or avoiding certain rooms in the house where people will be drinking or using drugs. Having a plan will help you stay calm and collected if things start to get overwhelming.Be honest with yourself and others – If you’re feeling triggered or like you’re about to relapse, don’t be afraid to reach out for help—whether that means leaving early from a gathering or calling your sponsor for support. The most important thing is staying safe and sober this holiday season.Find Support During the Holidays at Insight Into Action Therapy

In the outpatient programs at Insight Into Action Therapy, support systems are in place to help people recover from addiction or mental illness. These support systems include meetings with a sponsor, therapist, or group therapy sessions. These meetings provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences and receive feedback from others who are also in recovery. This can be an invaluable resource for those struggling during the holidays.

If you or someone you love is ready to make a change or needs extra support, contact us today by calling 703.935.8544.

The post How to Overcome Social Anxiety this Thanksgiving appeared first on Insight Into Action Therapy.