Priyanka Nair (Joshi)'s Blog, page 10

Effects of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome on Mental Health

Chronic fatigue syndrome; all in mind? Battling the intangible, the inexplicable can make a person feel irrational and utterly hopeless. With no real causes and no available treatment (other than modest attempts to alleviate one’s symptoms), chronic fatigue is more on the metaphysical side of ailments than most maladies.

The wound it uncovers multiplies by one’s helplessness. “Darkness imprisoning me; All that I see, absolute horror · I cannot live, I cannot die.” – (Metallica, one of America’s finest bards of heavy metal, perfectly describes the condition) Chronic fatigue is a state of peculiar confinement – one is simply unable to discern whether one’s mental or physical bed conditions the shape. Be it as it may, we mustn’t look at it as an entity – it organically intertwines and affects our mental health. Here are the effects of chronic fatigue syndrome.

Defining Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Let’s attempt the impossible. How do we define CFS? Chronic fatigue syndrome or ME (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) is a long-term illness (defined by fatigue that has lasted for at least six months and its severity obstructs our day-to-day activities) that affects numerous systems in our body. It substantially differs from our standardized understanding of “fatigue,” as it is a different, more intense type of tiredness than what we usually experience when overworked or stressed.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Symptoms

Chronic fatigue syndrome and various psychiatric disorders often occur comorbidly, as they share similar phenomenological features. The debate among the “whitecoats” on whether neurasthenia or chronic fatigue should be considered a syndrome entity distinct from various disorders is ongoing. Many associate Chronic Fatigue Syndrome with depression, as the two share key symptoms and differences. So, what are the symptoms?

● a perpetual feeling of extreme exhaustion – to the point of experiencing difficulties with executing day-to-day activities
● the condition usually worsens after mental or physical exercise
● resting or sleeping fails to recharge our batteries; we feel the same
● it takes a long time for us to recover after any physical activity
● sleep problems; insomnia or waking up frequently during nighttime
● issues with cognitive functioning: concentration, memory, thinking

Other symptoms may include:
● sore throat is a frequent occurrence
● headaches
● joint or muscle pain
● flu-like symptoms
● dizziness
● nausea
● heart palpitations (irregular heartbeats)

Effects of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

A person’s subjective experience suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome: “I drag my weary existence across the earth’s plane. Until I am no more.” We can deem it poetic or stoic; however, the suffering is more than tangible. We talk about “holistic” philosophy, whose narrative is infallibly positive. Nevertheless, we mustn’t exclude the negative spectrum of interconnectedness – the domino effect—the holy trinity and its invisible thread: the body, the mind, the soul. If one starts to erode, it’s only a matter of time before the remaining layers of one’s existence turn to rust. So, in what ways does chronic fatigue syndrome affect our mental health?

Weep, don’t sleep

Chronic fatigue and insomnia? An oxymoron. Or so it seems. “At least you get some sleep, am I right?” Ironically, no. In truth, no amount of sleep can recuperate one’s incurably perpetual tiredness. Individuals suffering from CFS/ME are found to report frequent awakenings during sleeping hours, primarily due to pain.

And here’s where the vicious cycle unfolds: ceaseless sleep disturbance inevitably leads to a reduced pain threshold during conscious hours. And so, physiological arousals during sleep (a vigilant state) massively contribute to daytime hypersensitivity, pain, and fatigue. The adaptive stress response is thought to be a common factor between chronic fatigue syndrome and insomnia. For this reason, many CFS sufferers use substances for pain and fatigue alleviation. And how does alcohol affect sleep? Without any emphasis on fatalism, the impact on your sleep cycle is simply – detrimental.

Cognitive functioning

The effects of chronic fatigue syndrome are more than a hindrance for those suffering from the condition. Statistically speaking, almost 90% of CFS individuals report cognitive abnormalities caused by recurring and relapsing fatigue. One of the cardinal symptoms is a form of cognitive impairment that we today recognize and describe as “brain fog.” The general reduction in one’s cognitive ability reflects in working memory, poor concentration, information processing speed, and memory loss. Frequently posturally driven, dizziness or lightheadedness leads to neurocognitive impairment. Fancy terms? Agreed!

To summarize, those suffering from CFS struggle daily with basic cognitive functioning, be it work, interpersonal relationships, or something seemingly undemanding, such as reading a book or watching the news. “What were they saying? Where were we?”

Buzz Killers

Have you ever worn a shoe too tight? A thrilling experience, isn’t it? Two hours in, and you’re looking for potential manslaughter victims. You can’t make sense of anything; gravity holds no meaning, your ancestral wounds open, and somehow, through association, you remember how that one time your mother forgot to pick you up from kindergarten. – and you say: forget, but not forgive. In a word: utter mayhem caused by nothing but a half-size smaller shoe.

A minor inconvenience. Much like the shoe (shoutout to Cinderella), chronic fatigue makes us moody and, at times, borderline sadistic. Dealing with constant pain loosens our otherwise sensible take on anything from interpersonal relationships to multiverse theories. We become irritable, hostile, and cynical, and our mouths forget which muscles form a sincere, genuine smile.

Assorted nuts and effects

When something is wrong, our entire being is in mutiny mode. We might not be able to identify the very culprit, not on a conscious level, at least, but the being knows. The behind-the-scenes of our psyche works tirelessly, even when we’re willingly trying to disassociate. Other effects include:
● decreased libido
● no optimism/absence of enthusiasm
● fatalistic approach
● anxiety
● depression
● cynism

Final words

The effects of chronic fatigue syndrome are more than noticeable for those suffering from the condition. There are no beautiful mornings and starry nights when we’re in pain. The hues of beauty are indefinitely dimmed. There’s only pain—and perpetual cloudiness of the mind.

When Women Are Judged For Every Move They Make

It is 2023, and we still raise our voices against inequality faced by women across the globe.  It is not only the struggle of striving for a quality of life but also overcoming fifty thousand judgemental views as we aim to break the glass ceiling.

Women are judged based on societal norms, cultural expectations, and stereotypes that exist in many parts of the world. Women are expected to look, act, and behave in certain ways that are deemed acceptable by the dominant culture. They are expected to be submissive or to prioritize their family over their career.

Such unrealistic expectations can be difficult for women to fulfil, and those who deviate from them are often judged harshly. Additionally, women who challenge the status quo and push for gender equality may also be judged for their actions, as these can be perceived as threatening to the traditional power dynamic.

I am mental health blogger and my work demands some quality social media presence, as a result, I come across so many posts which leave me questioning our whole ecosystem from time to time. Comment sections are mostly full of judgements, assumptions, negativity and hatred. While I try to be mindful of what I see on my feed, there are some posts which grab my attention and I deliberately stop myself from putting my views in the comment box.

As someone who has chosen an off-beat career path, a divorcee and a single mom staying alone in a foreign country, the amount of judgements I have faced and still facing is immeasurable but it has to stop impacting me now.

Women Are Judged And 5 Ways to deal with it

In this article, I will share a few practices for all the women out there sailing in the same boat as me.

Practice self-compassion: Self-compassion is a powerful tool for promoting emotional well-being and resilience, especially in the face of criticism and judgement.Surround yourself with supportive people: Seek out friends, family members, and other individuals who are supportive and encourage you to be yourself. Being around positive, uplifting people can help boost your confidence and reduce the impact of judgement.Reframe negative thoughts: When faced with judgement, try to reframe negative thoughts and see them from a more different perspective. This can help you to maintain a positive outlook and reduce the impact of judgement on your self-esteem.Focus on your intentions: Remember what is important to you and focus on your goals and values. When faced with judgement, try to stay focused on what you want to achieve, rather than getting bogged down by negative thoughts and feelings.Speak up for yourself: If you feel that you are being treated unfairly, it’s okay to speak up for yourself. Be confident and assertive, and let others know how you feel.You will be judged when you deck up and you will be judged when you don’tYou will be judged when you stay in a broken marriage and you will be judged when you stepped out of it.You will be judged for dreaming big and you will be judged for sitting on your dreamsYou will be judged for speaking up and you will be judged for keeping mumYou will be judged for giving sticking by and you will judge for letting go

You need to decide what you want to be judged for. What is worth the pain of going through? Remember, it’s important to not let the opinions of others define you. It’s okay to be yourself and to live life on your own terms, regardless of what others may think or say.

Love and light

Priyanka Joshi

25 Positive Affirmations For Anxiety That Will Help You Ease

Positive affirmations for anxiety could help you to be at ease in your daily routine. Anxiety is a feeling, a constant state of mind leading to certain thought patterns, that makes one restless and too anxious.

When a person suffers from any kind of mental distress, he/she tends to dwell on a lot of negative self-talk that only worsens the condition. Positive affirmations can help to restore your self-worth to a larger extent by boosting your opinion of yourself and your confidence in your ability to fulfil your dreams and goals.

Affirmations are like a balm that can help an individual to counter feelings of panic, stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. 

25 Positive Affirmations For Anxiety

Affirmations are nothing but a set of positive statements we make for ourselves. Affirmations are very useful to come out of certain self-sabotaging beliefs we hold for ourselves. 

We often dwell on negative self-talk and self-doubt. We hardly pay attention to our inner voice and leave it unattended. If you listen carefully there is always a need for assurance and validation and that gap could be filled by the use of positive affirmations.

These positive affirmations for anxiety help you when you repeat them and believe in them, when you have faith in what you are saying, you begin to experience positive changes in your mindset slowly and gradually.

If we can think of harming ourselves, if we can choose to give up on our dreams, if we can choose to doubt our own self, how about choosing ourselves this time? When you say positive things to yourself you start believing in yourself, nurturing yourself, and preparing yourself for a better tomorrow. Let the healing begin with these simple yet power-packed statements.

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 25 Positive Affirmations For Anxiety That Will Help You Ease

You can use these affirmations any time as per your convenience, but make sure you repeat the affirmations looking into the mirror eye to eye, when you do this you see yourself becoming a more confident version of yourself and it gives a positive message to your brain. It will not only help you to enhance your visual experience but also boost your confidence in yourself.

Research shows that affirmations are a powerful way to improve your mindset and increase your feeling of self-worth. Your thoughts play a big part and it is very important to find ways to enhance them. It could be a lot easier to affirm others than it is to ourselves, but we need to remember to encourage ourselves daily.

Here is a list of 25 positive affirmations for anxiety for you:

1.) I believe in myself

2.) I am capable of doing things that matter to me

3.) I am stronger than I know

4.) I overcome my fears

5.) I put my energy in the right direction

6.) I am more mindful of my actions

7.) I manage my worries and work on them

8.) I define goals for myself

9.) I am grateful for what I have

10.) I am at peace with myself

11.) I trust myself

12.) It will be alright

13.) I regain my calm

14.) I replace all the negatives with the positives and smile

15.) I am safe and in control

16.) My mind is clear

17.) All is fine in my world

18.) I am free from all the things that are not in my control

19.) I am calmer with each breathes I inhale

20.) My mind is clear and in control

21.) I am happy to be at peace

22.). I feel free

23.) I feel lighter 

24.) I am in control

25.) My body is in control

Pick up two or three of the above-mentioned positive affirmations, or you can also make up some of your own and say them to yourself regularly throughout the day. make sure you say them aloud. You can make the maximum use of these affirmations if you face anxiety issues and no one is there to ground you.

These positive affirmations for anxiety will help you to calm down and take a breather. If you make it a practice to affirm a few of these regularly, it will become the magic tool that you can access whenever you feel a lack of worth or self-esteem.

A human mind roughly goes through 50,000 thoughts in a single day, now imagine the quality of thoughts you might be feeding your brain with. What food is to the body are thoughts to our mind. These positive affirmations for anxiety will surely help you to calm down.  But before practising these or making your own affirmations, do remember the below-mentioned things to keep in mind, it will help you

Few things to keep in mind 

Be consistent with your affirmationsBelieve in what you are sayingKeep your affirmations in the presentUse ‘I’ or ‘Myself’Make sure it is a positive sentimentMake them specificStick them to your work-deskKeep them where you can see them often

 

How Can A Single Parent Raise A Happy Child? 8 Workable Approaches

Can a single parent raise a happy child? How can a single mom or dad provide a child with all the needed love and care to their children? Is it possible to fill the GAP single-handedly or do you need two to run the village?

As per an African proverb, it is said that it takes a whole village to raise a child, believing that an entire community of people must interact with children for those children to experience and grow in a safe and healthy environment.

In single parenting, things are pretty different and the environment not only becomes unconducive for the upbringing of the child’s mental health and well-being but also quite challenging if you are a single mother or a father.

How can a single parent raise a happy child?

For single mothers or fathers, the initial setup with the child is the most difficult part. Your marriage might not have worked out for several reasons to mention and now you have no legal obligation to look after each other but all this and a lot more goes behind you. You are no more married parents who co-parent a child and that becomes a tough part to have peace with.

The positive attitude and little sense of security go for a toss. One chapter closes and a new one begins. A lifelong one, balancing the mother-father after and the long-term effect on the child and not letting all this mess get inside the child’s head is another level of whammy.

Raising a child on your own can be stressful but once you are in the game, you have to play it. You have to develop healthy boundaries with the people around you and develop some relationship rules for both of you. You can be a team of two and play this game beautifully if you stand by each other strongly.

Some truths to be told here, you might occasionally go into self-doubt, and you will feel alone and isolated with very little support. You will feel intruded on, you may doubt your own realities because that is how we are conditioned to think and analyze.

All of this will lower your self-esteem and decision-making ability. To fight this, you will have to develop your own coping mechanisms and be a rock-solid support system of your own to raise a happy child.

With the given environment, financial constraints (if any), emotional trauma, mental distress, and past life trauma, the million-dollar question is, can a single parent raise a happy child? I say YES, a single parent can equally raise a positive and happy child once they set their priorities and responsibilities right from the beginning.

8 Workable approaches to raise a child alone

Now is the time to set some goals, live your life guilt-free, pursue your passion, and make a new circle. Children of divorce or separation require sensitive caregiving. With this thought when you see this phase as a new beginning of your life, you will be pushed to make a difference in your life.  There is always a bright side, and there is always something to be grateful no I am not saying this just because I believe in these affirmations, but it really works.

When you start counting your blessings you realize that the universe is abundant and there lies a whole new world full of opportunities waiting for you to bless you and help you unleash your hidden powers, we all have superpowers, powers to heal, powers to overcome obstacles, and power to come back from every setback.

With this positive mindset if you plan your life ahead with your child you will know how can single fathers or moms raise a happy child. I always believe in conscious parenting as it is a mix of mindfulness and self-awareness. It requires more of working on a parent’s job than on the child. Here are a few approaches that can help you establish a stronger bond with your child:

1.) Set your priorities right

This is the time to redefine your priorities, now it is you and your child, and managing all the expectations between you two could be overwhelming or it can be manageable based upon the rules you enforce. Your house, your work, your health, your financial stability all these factors will play a very vital role in your single parenting, make sure you are able to prioritize all this every day.

Because if you are able to manage these, you will be mentally strong and stress-free, when you are stress-free, you are happier as a parent, to pass on that happiness to your child.

2.) Make peace with your past

You had a past that leads you to the present, now this could be the most unpleasant and unresourceful memory of your life but maybe a few years down the lane, you will be in the position to let it go completely and free yourself from the burden of hatred, anger, and guilt.

Maybe you got separated, divorced or lost your partner to an accident or illness, but you stop living a peaceful life, if you lose self-control, if you stop forgiving yourself, you will not be able to pass on that deserved happiness to your child. Work on yourself, that inner healing is very important.

3.) Take time for yourself

I know, societal pressure, and family expectations, don’t let you grieve or take time to heal. But please take time to figure out things, take time to make peace with yourself, and don’t feel guilty about being an alone parent to your child. You are there for him/ her and that is important.

Can a single parent raise a happy child? Yes, work on yourself,  get into self-care and physical activities, cycling, swimming, yoga, and meditation, and pick anyone you like. Eat a good diet, forget about gaining weight, sleep as much as you want to, Do things you loved to do when you were young and spend some time in nature.

4.) Don’t seek perfection

Perfection is a myth, our society has set some standards based on their limiting beliefs and which they very conveniently alter and amend from time to time. Parenting is an art we all learn while parenting, we learn from our children and we both grow together. We can develop our own version of positive parenting and take care of the child’s well-being and our family life. There is nothing like perfect parenting, all you need to thrive for is a happy one.

If your child is happy you are imperfectly a perfect mom/dad. How can a single parent raise a happy child? You got to remember that in order to fill some gaps, don’t blame yourself or spoil your child to make up for being a single parent.

5.) Structure your day

Can a single parent raise a happy child and manage everything smoothly? Structuring a day helps you both develop healthy habits and makes your life a little less tedious. Your child knows when and what to expect. You know what to do and you both get enough time to spend with each other towards the end of the day.

6.) Be honest with your kids

 Most of the time single-parenting arrangements are the result of divorce or separation. If this is the case with you, you must talk to your child about the changes you’re facing. Being honest with your kids will help you form a strong bond in your relationship. 

Listen to your child’s feelings and try to answer his or her questions honestly, avoiding unnecessary details or negativity about the other parent. This will help with behavioural control measures and your parenting style. Remind your child that he or she did nothing to cause the divorce or separation and that you’ll always love him or her.

7.) Stay positive

Staying positive will instil a positive mindset in your children. Here staying positive doesn’t mean staying hopeful for things that will not work out or unrealistic desires but looking at life from a positive perspective helps to see good in one’s life. This is how we build resilience in our children, by preparing them for their life.

When we radiate positivity in our attitude children learn to see things differently which imbibes a lot of courage and strength in them that could help them in their upbringing and future life. If you really want to raise a successful child, be honest with your child regarding your feelings but remind him or her that things will get better with time.

8.) Ask for help

Can a single parent raise a happy child? Yes, they can if they have a small support group. Assemble all your supportive people, have mindful communication, keep them informed, and stay connected with them. Isolation is not the solution. Socializing in a healthy group will help your child to feel loved and cared for.

To conclude, I would say that, parenting never comes with a manual and I repeat there is nothing like perfect parenting. There are only happy parents and children. No one ever prepares or tells you once you have a child, you will never sleep the same.  As single parents, we feel that we carry the whole world on our shoulders, to keep our child in the safest environment.

How can a single parent raise a happy child? Little things will help you to keep rolling and form a positive relationship with your child. Remember to praise your child. Spend quality time with your children and give them your unconditional love and support. Have some time for yourself to unwind and de-stress.

Be their friends and emotional coach rather than being a controlling parent and you both will develop a beautiful bond. Healthier relationships create confident kids.

Love and Light!

The Role of Effective Leadership in Mental Health

The field of mental health is constantly evolving, with new research and technologies emerging all the time. As a result, it’s crucial for professionals to accumulate leadership in mental health area and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field in order to provide the best possible care for their patients. 

One way to do this is by obtaining an advanced degree, such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in psychology. This type of degree can not only enhance a professional’s knowledge and skills but also open up new opportunities for career advancement.

This article aims to explore the role of a DNP in psychology in effective leadership in mental health. It will provide an overview of the importance of leadership in mental health care and the benefits that a DNP degree can offer. 

Additionally, it will delve into how a DNP degree can help develop the leadership skills needed to shape the future of mental health care. By the end of the article, readers will have a better understanding of the value of a DNP degree in psychology for those interested in leadership roles in mental health.

The Importance of Leadership in Mental Health

Leadership plays a vital role in mental health care, as it shapes the way services are provided and can greatly impact patient outcomes. Effective leadership can lead to better communication, improved patient satisfaction, and higher-quality care. In mental health care, where patients are usually dealing with complex and chronic conditions, good leadership and management skills are crucial to the success of the program.

With the constant need for evolution in the mental health area, care providers and effective leaders need to navigate these changes and ensure that services are provided in the most efficient and effective way possible. They are also responsible for the development and implementation of policies and programs that will improve the overall mental health of the population.

To obtain a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) in psychology, one can opt for an online or in-person medium. Online Psych DNP programs are becoming increasingly popular as they offer flexibility and convenience for working professionals.  These programs usually offer the same curriculum as traditional on-campus programs but with the added benefit of being able to complete coursework from anywhere. 

On the other hand, in-person DNP programs offer a more traditional classroom setting, which can be beneficial for those who prefer face-to-face interaction with instructors and classmates. Both options have their own set of advantages, and it’s important to carefully consider which one is the best fit for an individual’s needs and goals.

The Benefits of a Doctoral Degree in Mental Health

Earning a Doctoral degree in mental health, such as a DNP in psychology, can provide a wide range of benefits for mental health professionals. First and foremost, it provides advanced knowledge and skills that can be applied directly to patient care.

A DNP in psychology program provides in-depth training in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of mental health disorders, as well as the latest research and evidence-based practices. This knowledge and skills can help professionals provide more effective care for their patients.

Additionally, many organizations have a preference or requirement for advanced degrees when filling leadership positions, and having a DNP degree can increase the chances of being considered for such roles.

Furthermore, having a DNP degree can also have a positive impact on earning potential. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Nurse Practitioners was $120,680 in 2021. With a DNP degree, mental health professionals can earn higher salaries and command a higher level of respect within the field.

The Role of a Doctoral Degree in Developing Leadership Skills

A Doctoral degree, such as a DNP in psychology, provides opportunities for leadership training and development. Many DNP programs include coursework and experiences that focus specifically on leadership and management in the healthcare setting, such as healthcare systems management, healthcare policy, and healthcare finance. 

These courses provide an in-depth understanding of the organizational, financial, and political aspects of healthcare and help mental health professionals develop the skills needed to lead effectively.

Additionally, many DNP programs also include clinical or fieldwork components that provide opportunities for hands-on experience leading teams, managing projects, and implementing change in healthcare settings. These experiences give mental health professionals the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to real-world situations and develop their leadership skills in a practical setting.

Furthermore, a DNP degree can help mental health professionals acquire the skills needed to lead effectively by providing the opportunity to engage in research. Through the course of the program, students will learn how to conduct research and analyze data, which are important skills for leadership roles in healthcare. They will also have the opportunity to conduct their own research projects, which can provide valuable experience in leading and managing projects.

Real-World Applications of Doctoral-Level Leadership in Mental Health

Doctoral-level leadership in mental health can have a significant impact on the quality of care provided to patients. One example of effective leadership in mental health care is the implementation of evidence-based practices in clinical settings. 

A DNP-prepared mental health professional with leadership skills can lead the implementation of these practices and ensure that they are being used correctly, which can lead to better patient outcomes.

Another example of effective leadership in mental health care is the development of programs and services that meet the specific needs of a patient population. A DNP-prepared mental health professional with leadership skills can lead the development of these programs and ensure that they are tailored to meet the unique needs of the patient population. 

Conclusion

Finally, leadership in mental health plays a critical role in shaping the future of mental health care. With a DNP degree and leadership skills, mental health professionals are equipped to take on crucial roles and shape the direction of mental health care. 

They can be involved in developing policies and programs that will improve the overall mental health of the population and contribute to the development of new research and evidence-based practices that will improve the quality of care provided to patients.

5 Fulfilling Careers in the Mental Health Field

Do you want to make a career in one of the mental health professions? The mental health field is an enriching career path. It allows you to see the impact of your work directly in the lives of people dealing with mental illness or other emotional issues. 

Whether you’re a therapist treating patients one-on-one or working with larger groups, you’ll find that there’s always more work than hours in the day. Opportunities abound for advancement within this field and outside of it.

Why Mental Health Profession Is Extremely Rewarding?

In 2021, 52.9 million US residents were living with some form of mental health disorder. No wonder a career in this sector is highly regarded. If you choose this profession, your work will impact thousands of lives. You will be able to improve the mental health of victims, reduce crime rates and prevent suicides. Consequently, you will make society and the globe a healthier place to exist.

As a mental health professional, you’ll have the chance to interact with patients with a wide range of needs and issues. Issues may range from as tolerant as stress and anxiety to as severe as depression and schizophrenia. The victims might even do self-harm and attempt suicide. 

Mental health is undoubtedly gratifying when you witness how much progress your patients make over time. If you want to dominate this area, here are some of the most unique and high-paying career opportunities to consider:

Five Gratifying Mental Health Professions

Before we get into the most fulfilling mental health careers, let’s look at what qualifies you for them.

You must hold a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 or higher GPA. This will help you gain admission into most master’s programs. If you have already graduated from college and earned your bachelor’s degree, consider enrolling in an accredited master’s degree program that offers courses related to mental health counselling. 

You can also consider attending legit online Master‘s in Mental Health Counseling programs. This will allow you to work full-time or part-time as a counsellor alongside taking courses.

It is crucial to note that eligibility criteria may vary between institutions. Hence, before applying, check their course specifications and make an informed decision. Now that you know how to enter the profession, here are 5 must-consider fields:

Aviation Psychologists

In a survey of 1848 pilots, about 12.6% suffered from depression, and 4.1% had suicidal thoughts. You’ll save countless lives if you help with their mental issues. A pilot who has a mental condition may be unfit to operate at work. This might endanger the passengers’ lives. 

Aviation psychologists assist pilots in dealing with stress, anxiety, and personal issues. They also help understand the flight process and train pilots to deal with stressful situations effectively. In addition, they provide psychological support to them as and when needed. Ultimately, ensuring that your pilots are mentally fit for duty is essential.

Art Therapists

Art therapy leverages art to explore and express emotions. It’s been around since the 1940s. However, it’s only recently become more popular in the world.

Art therapists treat their client’s mental health issues by focusing on the creative process. They do not choose to find solutions immediately. They act as observers while the patient creates visual art like paintings or sculptures. 

The therapist then helps the patient analyze their work. This allows them to better identify how they are feeling psychologically. Unlike conventional techniques, art therapists help patients realize the root cause of their problems and emotions and treat them accordingly.

Art therapists are not just limited to working in hospitals. They also work at schools where children may face challenges such as bullying or feeling isolated from others because of a disability like autism spectrum disorder (ASD). And the opportunities are endless. 

Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor

In the US, over 20.4% suffer from alcohol use disorder, and 25.4% suffer from drug use disorder. Many sufferers need help to overcome their addiction and prevent relapse. 

As alcohol and drug abuse counsellors, you’ll work with individuals addicted to alcohol or drugs. You will advise them to seek therapy and rehab. The treatment can be individual therapy, group counselling sessions, or a combination. 

In this field, you can work in various settings, such as hospitals, rehabilitation centres, private practices, or even school systems. However, for specific environments, most states require licensure.

Disability Service Officers

A disability service officer (DSO) supports people with disability and mental health problems. While most DSOs work for government agencies, you can also find them in community-based organizations or hospitals.

Some DSOs have psychology, sociology, or counselling backgrounds and hold master’s degrees from graduate schools of social work. They provide case management services to the disabled with mental health disorders. These professionals help clients live independently while providing support when they need it most.

To be effective in this field, you must have strong communication abilities. You will closely work with clients regularly to build treatment programs that match their specific needs. Since people with disabilities are five times more likely to suffer mental health problems, this can be a lucrative job opportunity for you.

Forensic Psychiatrists

Forensic psychiatrists are medical doctors who study mental disorders and their relationship to criminal conduct. They may also be called “forensic psychologists” or “clinical forensic psychologists.” 

Forensic psychiatrists help courts determine a criminal’s mental state during the trial and at the time of the crime. Also, if any psychiatric symptoms that may be relevant to the case. You may also:

Testify as an expert witness at trial. Consult with police detectives about suspects’ mental states during interrogations.Assess a suspect’s fitness for release on bail or bond and recommend suitable conditions. Provide treatment for mentally ill inmates in prisons or jails.

If you want to get deeper into the areas of work, you can read the story of Taj Nathan, a forensic mental health practitioner who also helps murderers.

Conclusion

While the mental health field is a rewarding career path, it’s essential to research the various jobs and training options before jumping in. Consider what you want from your career, do you hold what it takes to into a mental health professional? Can you empathise with others? How much time and money do you want to invest, and whether you’d like to volunteer for an internship or take courses at a community college? 

If you’re uncertain about these things, try looking up some resources online or asking friends who work in the industry. There are several avenues to enter this field. Harness your enthusiasm for helping others to treat those with mental illnesses.

What Are The Benefits Of Journaling For Mental Health?

Do you know? Journaling for mental health could lead to drastic psychological benefits. Now journalling does not mean you have to decorate your diary, put a fancy label, use colorful pens and markers, dry flowers, and leave that to Instagram influencers (pun intended).

I know, almost everything has lost its real essence in today’s digital world. Due to this many of us get misguided and fail to understand that all we need to do is stay “REAL” and “BE OURSELF”.

Journaling, in easy words, is writing down or recording your thoughts and feelings. It is believed that when you vent out your feelings on a piece of paper and make it a habit, you allow yourselves to acknowledge your thoughts.

This acknowledgement not only helps you to enhance your awareness about yourself but also creates room for self-improvement.

In this blog, I am going to share 5 psychological benefits of journaling for mental health. And you will discover that it is one of the easiest and cheapest ways of spending some me-time and understanding yourself.

5 Psychological Benefits Of Journaling For Mental Health

You might think that how maintaining a journal can help to improve your mental health, but research shows that when you put your creative side to work when you sit to write, you actually sit with your thoughts. This creative outlet enhances your sense of well-being and boosts your mood. It is also known as Writing Therapy.

Maintaining a daily journal can change your life in many ways. This is not something I am saying just for the sake of sharing some information, but I have been maintaining journals for a decade now and I have personally experienced its benefits.

1.) Maintaining a journal helps you to reflect. For example: If you have been writing about how something/someone made you feel, over the period, you might observe a pattern and once you open-mindedly reflect on those patterns, you will discover how you have been doing the same thing, responding in the same manner in every situation coming your way, to get the same output every time.

Now, this is just an example but yes, you can understand a lot more about yourself when you regularly maintain a diary with you.

2.) Journaling for mental health might also change the way you talk to your inner self. It is natural that we often speak in a negative manner to our inner-self and believe in what others say about us. However, it is important that we change the way of our inner dialogue, by reframing the context and self-concept.

This way, we become resilient towards any critical words coming our way at the workplace or by any of the family members.

3.) It helps you to prioritise what matters. It helps you to accept your fears, when you write down your raw feelings, you will be able to identify a blockage, something very prominent that holds you back every time. And with your daily habit, you might be able to draw some lines and crack the code for yourself.

That’s when you also learn to prioritise your feelings, and your work and reduce the unwanted clutter from your mind.

4.) It helps you to spend some quality me-time. I feel very relaxed and cathartic when I sit in my diary and write a few things. Sometimes I just free-flowingly write out my thoughts and feelings in the form of a poem. It helps some feel lighter.

5.) Journaling for mental health is very beneficial if you feel stressed, anxious, or have any underlying mental illness. It helps you to take note of your triggers and also alerts you. It helps you understand your patterns more closely and might help you to work on them to prevent yourself from the triggers and save yourself some sanity.

Sounds good, eh! But all this will only work when you will make it a habit. When you will dedicate a few minutes from your daily routine and sit with a journal.

5 Prompts for Journaling For Mental Health

Now, if you are wondering how, to begin with? Let me help you walk through the initial few steps, you can begin your journaling with a diary/notepad, or you can choose a pen or pencil and use any of the below prompts, to begin with:

1.) You can describe your feelings and emotions about a particular thing or a person.

2.) You can write about what makes you feel anxious and sad

3.) You can mention a few things you are grateful for

4.) You can write some positive self-affirmations

5.) You can make a note of your daily routine and sit with yourself for a while.

I hope you find this post useful and that it will help you start your journey of journaling for mental health.

Love and light,

Priyanka

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Dealing With Seasonal Depression During Festivities

Have you heard about the seasonal depression during festivities? The holidays have a way of making everyone feel overwhelmed. For some, it can be the best time of year. But for others, the holidays can be a stressful time with many emotions and feelings that are hard to manage.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a condition where the darker and shorter days in winter trigger depression. Scientists believe its root cause is the reduced production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood. It may be triggered by vitamin D deficiency due to low or zero exposure to sunlight. 

Dealing with depression or anxiety in the aftermath of the festive period can be challenging. Here are a few effective ways to cope.

5 Tips For Dealing With Depression During FestivitiesShift your Focus

When you feel like your world is falling apart, it can be difficult to see any light at all. If it seems like everyone around you is happy and having fun, remember it is never possible to know what someone else is going through without standing in that person’s shoes. 

It’s worth noting seasonal depression affects at least 5% of the population of the United States. That means even if you’re feeling alone. Many people are going through the same experience. Make sure you are kind to yourself. It’s time you start celebrating yourself and what makes your life special.

After your break is over, start small by getting involved in activities that bring you peace and joy. You can do simple things like share food with colleagues if you can’t go home or spend time with loved ones. Don’t forget to buy presents for yourself because self-love is the best. You can also spend a day at home listening to your favorite music or watching a nice film.

Seek Support 

A support network is an integral part of coping with depression. Reach out to friends or family members who will understand what you’re going through and provide emotional support.

It’s also a good idea to consider seeking professional help from a therapist. Therapists and counsellors are trained to help people deal with depression. They’ll be able to offer useful advice on how best to handle things during this time of year. 

Find a therapist or support group in your area. For instance, Florida has mild winters, so chances are your depression may have a deep-rooted cause. Instead of attributing it to a seasonal cause, it is better you seek help from a qualified therapist in Florida to help your mind heal and cope.

Celebrate Small Wins

One of the most important things to remember is that you can control your happiness. The beginning of the year is a time when we have extra responsibilities, but it’s also a time when we can celebrate what makes us happy.

Think about what you have achieved, not what you didn’t do. It has been a difficult year worldwide, with wars tearing continents apart and a recession on the horizon. It is perfectly fine if you can’t achieve some of your financial goals. It’s also fine if you didn’t get a much-awaited promotion at work. Focus on celebrating the things and people in life that make it worthwhile.

Volunteer

Volunteering is an excellent way to help others and feel good about yourself. You can volunteer at home or in your community. Volunteering can help you connect with others, which, in turn, will help you cope with depression.

If you’re suffering from seasonal depression, reaching out to people who are also experiencing the same symptoms might be helpful for you. You’ll be able to talk through your feelings, share some laughs, and maybe even come up with some solutions together. 

We suggest you visit a Seniors Home to cheer up the residents with some good cheer. Mentoring youngsters is also a great option. Recent studies have found around 59% more kids in Florida suffered from depression and had suicidal thoughts in the timeline from 2016 to 2021. 

The pandemic, of course, has created isolation, and this can be one of the triggers. Hence your small efforts will help them share their pain. It will help you heal, too. If you are an animal lover, you can spend time at the local animal rescue shelter to help you bond with a few pawed friends.

Stay Active

Exercise releases endorphins, which are your body’s natural feel-good chemicals. When you exercise regularly, your brain will begin to associate the feeling of exercising with feeling happy and healthy. 

If possible, join a gym or attend classes at the local community centre. However, if these aren’t options for you and time is tight due to other commitments, there are some alternative ways that can help relieve depression symptoms.

Take walks outside, even if it’s just in the yard. It’s good for both your body and mind as long as it isn’t too cold outside. Spend time in nature, if possible. 

This helps clear your head and ground yourself back into reality after feeling like you’re floating away from everything else around you. If there isn’t much snow where you live yet, then take a walk outside amidst greenery. The color will help uplift your mood.

Try doing yoga at home using online videos. Just remember that any exercise should be done slowly and gently so that there’s no risk of injury from overexertion during this busy time of year.

I hope that this year is a happy one for you and your loved ones. Focus on what makes you happy during the darker days. Be it baking cookies with your kids or going for coffee with your friends. Avoid dwelling on all the things that make you sad. Remember to take care of yourself by focusing on the positive and getting help if needed. 

Reflections Of 2022 And A Way Forward To 2023

This blog post is straight from my heart, no keyword research, no SEO features and no content strategy for this one. My reflections about the year 2022 and moving ahead in 2023 with more courage. I have always been a believer in self-improvement and long ago I adopted a mantra of focusing on one thing at a time, one day at a time, one goal at a time.

This article will talk about how 2022 is the foundation of my life ahead, and how I sacrificed a few things willingly for a more realistic and better tomorrow. In early 2020, I moved back to my parent’s house after my marriage was over. I never had to explain the hundreds of whys asked to a woman when she takes such a huge step with a kid by her side. Neither did I feel that I should’ve waited more, tried more or done more to save my marriage, it was over long before I knew it.

In later 2021, I filed for divorce and started preparing myself for a life independent of anything and anyone who takes away my spark. I started filtering out people, and I reflected a lot. I was grieving, hurting and healing, but with a child as my sole responsibility, I didn’t have the option to sit and cry. I wanted to set an example for my daughter that you are allowed to be at your weakest self at the most vulnerable state, but you are not allowed to hurt yourself over the same wound again and again.

I wanted to do something and make my parents happy, I wanted to secure my daughter’s future and above all, I wanted to restart my life, as I would have done a decade ago. If there is anything I could have done differently, I would have focused on myself, my career and my growth and I still had time. I wanted to do it this time with more vigour, determination and courage.

Later in 2021, I started looking for courses I could do to upskill myself and get a high-paying job. With my father’s support and encouragement, I started exploring options abroad and ended up applying for courses in UK universities, by the end of October, I had 7 unconditional offers in my hand and I chose the University of Dundee for pursuing an MSc in Digital Marketing.

In January 2022, I move to the UK, although it sounds swift and smooth now when I write this, there is a tremendous amount of documentation work, visa processing, mind management and financial arrangement behind this whole scene which took away a little piece of my mind, but I believed in my idea and wanted to give it a go. I kept thinking what worse could happen, what can go wrong? In the worst case, I will fail, I will not be able to survive in a new country, and I will not be able to adjust, learn new things or get a job. I can always go back, I have a home and there is no shame in backing off when you have at least tried something you believed in.

I moved to the UK alone and left my daughter with my parents as I didn’t want her to be a part of my initial struggle of finding accommodation and getting my foot in the right place in a new country. I couldn’t sleep without her, it was the hardest 4 months for me, staying away from her. Once I felt settled, I started her visa application, due to the Ukraine war at that time her visa got delayed and I was stuck in India. Finally, I could get her here with me and that day when I woke up, I felt complete, and whole and my life was in front of me. My purpose and my biggest goal – my daughter.

With my daughter just when she arrived in the UK

Today in January 2023, exactly after a year, I have Ishaanvi by my side, I have finished my course, I have a job and I have made new friends, learned new things, and explored different places, cuisines, and cultures. I have constantly updated my optics to see the world, cut down on my circle, learned to draw firmer boundaries and have completely stopped pleasing people.

I could have stayed back in India, and life would have been easier with family support, financial ease and a comfortable environment, but I could have never known my potential and my capacity to outperform the internal barriers I had within myself. With each and every hurdle I have overcome, I have learnt three things:

1.) Nothing is permanent

2.) Other’s opinion is not your reality

3.) Self-belief is the most powerful tool

There were times when I had to choose between my blog and my studies, my daughter’s guitar classes and my lectures, and I chose what needed my most attention at that moment, that’s how we managed each other. We will make such choices daily. There will be never a perfect time to do things, there will be no defined day to make things work for you and there will be no one to do it for you, if you have to do something for yourself, if you want to make a change in your life small or big, you will have to sacrifice a lot and be willing to go through it all alone without complaining about your own choices. Trust me, it will empower you, strengthen you from the inside and you will become more aware of yourself.

Love and light,

Priyanka

Darkness And Light: Poems on Mental Health And Society- Book Review

Being a mental health blogger, I love reading content about mental health and understanding how society sees it from a different point of view. I recently came across a poem book, “Darkness and Light” written by Mahevash Shaikh and in this short piece, I am sharing a few of my favourite reads out of 133 soulful poems on mental health.

Darkness And Light

Darkness and Light is a collection of 133 poems about mental health and society. In this book, the author has poured her vivid thoughts and emotions into very simple language. The very first poem is about staying in life, taking one day at a time. Through her poems like Social Media Besting, Life Without Screens and The Power of the Internet, the author shares how we all are losing the face of humanity in the race to show what we are not, the faces we put forward on screen and how we are losing our essence.

While reading the book, I felt as if the author has penned down these poems over a span of time, maybe when she was experiencing the rage, angst and reactions of society over the different stages of life, as each poem has a message and a hidden story to it.

Poems like Social Pressure, Disturbed, Slowing Down Time, and Existential Crisis, show a mirror to the society questioning them about their norms, and stereotypes and how so many people have literally burnt their dreams with their bare hands just to follow these norms which lead nowhere. How people just give up on their desires, questioning their identity and wanting to be someone else throughout their life.

Fitting In Is Waste of Time- yes our mental health starts to bloom when we stop paying heed to what people will think when we stop whistling ourselves to meet their expectations, we need to learn to say No and draw certain boundaries because we cannot pour from an empty cup.

Healing from Trauma is a long, dark journey, and most of the time it is a lone journey. I personally resonate with these lines as the pain is not self-inflicted but fixing it becomes our job, which takes a lot of time.

The book is available at Amazon – Darkness and Light

About The Author Of Darkness and Light

Disabled mental health and lifestyle blogger | Author -Mahevash Shaikh

Mahevash Shaikh is a millennial writer who talks about culture, society, and mental health. She has been recognized at esteemed platforms for her work. You can find her words on various websites like HealthyPlace, Reader’s Digest, HuffPost, Ladders, and World Institute on Disability. Her book, Darkness And Light, has been released five years after her profound debut book, Busting Clichés. Enjoy reading.