There are mainstream preconceived notions that negatively reinforce what defines and constitutes rape, when in reality the victim often knows the perpetrator which creates more issues with trust and feelings of betrayal and confusion. Some may overlook nonconventional rape experiences and be overly dismissive and therefore the victim may not be diagnosed with PTSD or Rape Trauma Syndrome.

Mental illness affects many people, but what most do not realize is that it does not just cause emotional problems – it causes cognitive problems too. The person with mental illness may find it difficult to think clearly, pay attention and remember.

We have all been there. Whether you are the dumper or the dumpee, ending a relationship is

never easy. With breakups skyrocketing during the pandemic, there are so many unanswered

questions that are looming in our minds. There are endless “what ifs” that can never be

answered.

In this episode, I am joined by Andrew Susskind, LCSW who is an author, podcast host and therapist. He specializes in compulsive sexual behaviors. Andrew shares his experience working with clients struggling with these behaviors, his own journey to recovery and brings insight into what we can do to begin normalizing and healing these types of addictive behaviors through vulnerability and trauma work.

We already know that in order for a relationship to last, two people have to be compatible with one another in most things. Their dreams, plans for the future and even sense of humor should match at least a little- but the same applies to sleep habits too.

Nicole Anavim joins me to discuss her journey as a graduate student entering the field of Marriage and Family Therapy and discusses her experience and growth both personally and professionally.

If you’ve lost your job in the last few months, you’re likely dealing with a layer of stress you had no way of planning for -- and searching for a new position doesn’t do much to alleviate your anxiety. Hunting for jobs is tough and comes with a lot of rejection, which can be overwhelming for many of us. It’s OK to wait for the right opportunity to come along, but there are always bills to be paid and life to be lived -- money is simply a necessity of life.

Jillian Ziesmer, LMFT and LPCC joins me to discuss the impact of COVID-19 on our mental health. Jillian dives into easy to use coping skills that can be used to deal with anxiety or depression that might be coming up for you at this time.

Trauma bonding is a psychological response to a form of abuse. It occurs when the abused person forms an unhealthy bond with the person who abuses them. The person experiencing the abuse may develop extreme sympathy for the abusive person, which becomes reinforced by the cycles of abuse, followed by total remorse. Stockholm syndrome is one of a type of trauma bond.

You might be married to the love of your life, but you’re still your own person. You still have wants, needs, and desires of your own, which is why a lack of financial independence might be causing a rift in your relationship.

Physical fitness is especially helpful in facilitating recovery from drug or alcohol addiction. When you’re in recovery, your focus is not only on staying away from substance abuse but also on building your body back up and caring for your mental health.

Can’t help but fall asleep during your Zoom meeting? Coffee just not doing its job anymore? It might be worth a shot to try out a few supplements for brain fog. Read on for our top picks that can help get you back to a clear mind.

As we get older, various medications and prescription drugs become important to our health. Whether you are enrolled in Medicare Part D or pay for these prescription drugs out of pocket, there is no doubt they play an important role in keeping us healthy. They treat a wide variety of illnesses, ailments and conditions many of us will deal with as we age. Unfortunately, some individuals will abuse these prescription drugs and they can become a problem.

Toxic positivity refers to a pattern of behavior wherein a person adopts a lifestyle that engages in being positive at all points of time no matter what, because ‘what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger’. It involves rejecting the negative triggers of your life, thus investing all your attention and energy into the positive stimulants. How come a lifestyle that sounds like a mental detox, be labeled as toxic?

Conflict resolution is a difficult skill to master. Especially in the context of romantic relationships. It requires a variety of skills and including but not limited to high levels of self-awareness, the ability to recognize and tolerate uncomfortable emotions, the courage to stand up for what you need while simultaneously empathizing with, understanding, and considering your partner’s needs. It also requires a social tact and the ability to communicate said needs in a way such that your partner will receive them instead of encouraging defensiveness.

You may prefer one of the conflict resolution strategies discussed over the others, all of these strategies can be used effectively in certain situations. For example, if the issue is minor and won't have lasting consequences, it may be in your best interest to accommodate the other party rather than to try to serve your own needs. However, if the issue is severe and will impact multiple people, it may make sense to choose a strategy with more assertiveness.

The benefits of vitamin supplements are incredibly far-reaching. They can help aid bodily functions such as digestion, metabolism, and immuno-response. As science has progressed, researchers have continued to back the idea that vitamin supplements play a large role in. longevity. When combined with a proper diet, adequate sleep patterns, and daily exercise, a noticeable impact on life quality can be seen.

Anxiety is a normal part of life, with everyone experiencing it to varying degrees. Anxiety is one of the things that has allowed the human species to survive and evolve, allowing us to assess situations and react accordingly to them. And while it is normal for everyone to experience feelings of anxiousness at some point in their lives, many people suffer from more serious and at times debilitating forms of anxiety disorders.