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06

How to combat stress during the holiday season

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
How to Create a Self Care Plan

The holiday season is a time for joy and celebration, but it can also be a time of stress. From shopping and decorating to cooking and entertaining, there’s a lot to do in a short period of time. And if you’re not careful, it can all get a little overwhelming.

If you’re feeling stressed about the holidays, don’t worry – you’re not alone. A recent study found that nearly half of Americans say they feel stressed during the holiday season. But there are things you can do to manage your stress and enjoy the holidays to the fullest.

Here are a few tips:

  • Set realistic expectations: It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday hype and set unrealistic expectations for yourself. But it’s important to remember that it’s okay to say no to social events, delegate tasks, and take things easy. Don’t try to do too much, or you’ll end up feeling overwhelmed and burnt out.
  • Take care of yourself: It’s important to take care of yourself, both physically and mentally, during the holiday season. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, and exercising regularly. You should also take some time for yourself each day to relax and de-stress. Try reading a book, taking a bath, or listening to music.
  • Avoid overspending: Financial stress is one of the biggest sources of holiday stress. To avoid overspending, set a budget for yourself and stick to it. Don’t feel pressured to buy expensive gifts for everyone on your list. Instead, focus on giving gifts that are meaningful and thoughtful.
  • Delegate tasks: Don’t try to do everything yourself. Ask your family and friends for help with holiday tasks, such as shopping, decorating, and cooking. Delegating tasks will free up your time and energy so you can focus on enjoying the holidays.
  • Say no: It’s okay to say no to social events and holiday commitments, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Don’t feel guilty about taking some time for yourself.
  • Take breaks: If you’re feeling stressed, take a break from the holiday festivities. Go for a walk, listen to music, or read a book. Taking some time for yourself will help you relax and recharge.
  • Seek professional help if needed.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by holiday stress, talk to a therapist or counselor. They can teach you coping mechanisms and help you manage your stress.

Here are some additional tips for combating stress during the holiday season:

  • Practice mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. There are many different ways to practice mindfulness, such as meditation, yoga, and simply taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath. Mindfulness can help you reduce stress and anxiety, and it can also help you appreciate the simple things in life.
  • Spend time with loved ones: Spending time with loved ones is a great way to reduce stress and boost your mood. Make time for the people who are important to you during the holiday season, even if it’s just for a quick phone call or coffee date.
  • Give back to others: Helping others can be a great way to reduce stress and feel good about yourself. Consider volunteering your time to a local charity or homeless shelter during the holiday season.
  • Take care of your physical health: Eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep are all important for managing stress. Make sure you’re taking care of your physical health during the holiday season, even if it’s just by making small changes, such as going for a walk after dinner or eating a piece of fruit instead of a candy bar.
  • Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask for help from your family, friends, or a therapist. There’s no shame in admitting that you need help, and it can make a big difference in your stress levels.

The holiday season should be a time of joy and celebration, not stress. By following these tips, you can manage your stress and enjoy the holidays to the fullest.

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01

How to Successfully Co-parent with your Ex Partner and How it Benefits your Child

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
How to Successfully Co-parent with your Ex Partner and How it Benefits your Child

Co-parenting can be a challenge, but it is essential for the well-being of your children. When you co-parent effectively, you are setting your children up for success in all areas of their lives.

Here are some tips for successfully co-parenting with your ex partner:

  • Put your child first. This may seem obvious, but it is important to remember that your child’s needs come first, even when you are in the middle of a conflict with your ex. When you make decisions about your child, always ask yourself, “What is best for my child?”
  • Communicate effectively. Communication is essential for successful co-parenting. It is important to be able to communicate openly and honestly with your ex, even if you don’t always agree. Try to avoid using negative language or name-calling. Instead, focus on the needs of your child and how you can work together to meet them.
  • Be respectful. Even though you are no longer together, you should still treat each other with respect. This will set a good example for your children and make co-parenting easier.
  • Agree on a parenting plan. This plan should outline things like visitation schedules, child support, and decision-making procedures. Having a plan in place will help to avoid conflict and confusion.
  • Be consistent. Consistency is important for children, and it is even more important when they are co-parenting. This means having similar rules and expectations at both homes. It also means being consistent with your communication and your behavior.
  • Avoid speaking negatively about your ex. It is important to set a good example for your child by avoiding speaking negatively about your ex. This can be difficult, but it is important to remember that your child loves both of you, and they don’t need to hear you bad mouthing each other.
  • Celebrate your child’s successes together. When your child accomplishes something, be sure to celebrate their success together with your ex. This shows your child that you are both proud of them and that you are working together to support them.

Here are some of the benefits of successfully co-parenting:

  • Children have a better emotional and behavioral outcome. Children who co-parent with their parents have lower rates of depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems. They also have better relationships with their parents and their peers.
  • Children are happier and healthier. Studies have shown that children who have successfully co-parenting parents are happier and healthier than those who do not.
  • Children have better relationships with both parents. When parents are able to co-parent effectively, their children are more likely to have close relationships with both of them.
  • Children are more resilient. Children who are raised in a co-parenting environment are more likely to be resilient in the face of challenges.
  • Parents are less stressed. When parents are able to co-parent effectively, they are less stressed. This is because they do not have to worry about the other parent doing something that will harm their children.

Co-parenting is not always easy, but it is worth it for the sake of your children. By following these tips, you can set your children up for success in all areas of their lives.

Talking to a therapist, counselor, or mediator could help if you are struggling to co-parent with your ex. 

Here are some free online resources for co-parenting as well:

  • UptoParents (https://www.uptoparents.org) offers a free online co-parenting class with a certificate of completion. The class covers topics such as communication, conflict resolution, and setting boundaries.
  • TalkingParents (https://talkingparents.com) provides a variety of free resources for co-parents, including articles, videos, and toolkits.
  • The Gottman Institute (https://www.gottman.com) offers a free online guide to co-parenting. The guide covers topics such as staying connected with your child, setting boundaries, and resolving conflict.
  • The National Parent Information Network (https://npen.org) provides a list of free co-parenting resources, including websites, apps, and books.
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11

Tips and Tools on how to work through frustration

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging

How to Work Through Frustration

Frustration is a normal human emotion that everyone experiences from time to time. It can be caused by a variety of things, such as:

  • Not being able to achieve a goal
  • Dealing with difficult people
  • Experiencing setbacks
  • Feeling overwhelmed

When we’re frustrated, it can be hard to think clearly and make rational decisions. We may lash out at others, become withdrawn, or give up altogether. But it’s important to remember that frustration is temporary. It doesn’t have to control us.

Here are some tips on how to work through frustration:

  1. Acknowledge your feelings. The first step to dealing with frustration is to acknowledge that you’re feeling it. Don’t try to bottle it up or pretend that you’re not bothered. Instead, take a few deep breaths and allow yourself to feel the frustration.
  2. Take a break. Sometimes, the best way to deal with frustration is to take a break from the situation that’s causing it. Get up and move around, or take a few minutes to relax and clear your head.
  3. Talk to someone. Sometimes, it can be helpful to talk to someone about your frustration. This could be a friend, family member, therapist, or anyone else you trust. Talking can help you to process your feelings and get some perspective.
  4. Change your perspective. Sometimes, the best way to deal with frustration is to change your perspective on the situation. Instead of focusing on the negative, try to find something positive to focus on. For example, if you’re frustrated because you’re not achieving a goal, try to focus on the progress you’ve made so far.
  5. Take action. If you’re feeling stuck, sometimes the best way to deal with frustration is to take action. This could mean making a plan to achieve your goal, setting boundaries with difficult people, or asking for help when you need it.
  6. Practice self-care. When we’re feeling frustrated, it’s important to practice self-care. This could mean getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising, or doing something you enjoy. Self-care can help us to manage our stress and feel better overall.

Frustration is a normal emotion, but it doesn’t have to control us. By following these tips, we can learn to work through frustration in a healthy way.

Here are some additional tips that may be helpful:

  • Identify your triggers. What are the things that typically make you feel frustrated? Once you know your triggers, you can start to avoid them or develop strategies for coping with them.
  • Set realistic expectations. Don’t expect to be perfect or to achieve your goals overnight. Set realistic expectations for yourself and be patient with yourself when you don’t meet them.
  • Learn to say no. Don’t be afraid to say no to things that you don’t have time for or that will add to your stress. It’s okay to prioritize your own needs sometimes.
  • Delegate tasks. If you have too much on your plate, don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to others. This will free up your time so that you can focus on the things that are most important to you.
  • Take a step back. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and look at the situation from a different perspective. Sometimes, all you need is a little distance to see the solution.
  • Remember that you’re not alone. Everyone experiences frustration from time to time. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone and that there are people who care about you and want to help.

If you’re struggling to work through frustration on your own, it may be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor. They can help you to develop coping mechanisms and strategies for dealing with frustration in a healthy way.

Remember, frustration is a normal emotion. It doesn’t have to control you. By following the tips in this article, you can learn to work through frustration in a healthy way and live a more fulfilling life.

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02

Mental Health Myths

Posted by Collaborative Counseling
How to Know When You Need Therapy or Counseling?

Mental health is just as important as physical health, but it is often stigmatized and misunderstood. There are many myths about mental health that can prevent people from seeking help when they need it. Here are some of the most common mental health myths:

Myth #1: Only weak people have mental health problems.

This is simply not true. Mental health problems can affect anyone, regardless of their strength or weakness. In fact, some of the strongest and most successful people in the world have spoken openly about their struggles with mental health.

Myth #2: Mental health problems are not real.

Mental health problems are very real and can have a significant impact on a person’s life. They are caused by a combination of biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Just like physical health problems, mental health problems can be treated with medication, therapy, or a combination of both.

Myth #3: You can just “snap out of it” if you try hard enough.

Mental health problems are not something that you can just “snap out of.” They require professional help and treatment. Trying to “tough it out” or “wishing it away” will not make the problem go away.

Myth #4: People with mental health problems are dangerous.

This is a dangerous myth that can lead to people with mental health problems being discriminated against and avoided. In reality, people with mental health problems are no more likely to be violent than anyone else. In fact, they are more likely to be the victims of violence.

Myth #5: Children don’t have mental health problems.

Children can and do experience mental health problems. In fact, one in five children will have a mental health problem by the time they reach adulthood. It is important to get help for children with mental health problems early on, as untreated problems can have a lasting impact on their development.

Myth #6: Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.

Having a mental health problem does not mean that you are weak. It means that you are struggling with something that is out of your control. There is no shame in seeking help for a mental health problem. In fact, it is a sign of strength to ask for help when you need it.

Myth #7: You can’t have both mental and physical health problems.

This is simply not true. In fact, many people with mental health problems also have physical health problems. The two are often interconnected. For example, stress can contribute to both physical and mental health problems.

Myth #8: Mental health problems are only treatable with medication.

While medication can be an effective treatment for some mental health problems, it is not the only treatment option. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and other complementary therapies can also be helpful.

Myth #9: Once you have a mental health problem, you will always have it.

This is not always the case. Many people with mental health problems recover and go on to live healthy and productive lives. With the right treatment, it is possible to manage your mental health and live a full and meaningful life.

Myth #10: Mental health problems are not a disability.

This is also not true. Mental health problems can qualify as a disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means that people with mental health problems are protected from discrimination in employment, education, and other areas.

These are just a few of the many myths about mental health. It is important to remember that mental health is just as important as physical health. If you are struggling with a mental health problem, please know that you are not alone and that there is help available. Talk to your doctor, a therapist, or a mental health professional. There is no shame in seeking help, and it could make a big difference in your life.

Here are some additional resources for mental health information and support:

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27

How to Maintain a Long-Lasting Relationship With Your Partner

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

Maintaining a long-lasting relationship is not always easy, but it is definitely possible with effort and commitment. Here are some tips to help you keep your relationship strong and healthy for years to come:

1. Communicate openly and honestly.

Communication is key to any successful relationship. Make sure you are always open and honest with your partner, even when it is difficult. This means sharing your thoughts, feelings, and needs, as well as listening to your partner’s thoughts, feelings, and needs. It is also important to be respectful of your partner’s opinions, even if you disagree with them.

2. Show your love and appreciation.

It is important to let your partner know how much you love and appreciate them on a regular basis. This can be done through words, actions, or gifts. Some examples of ways to show your love and appreciation include:

  • Saying “I love you”
  • Giving your partner a hug or kiss
  • Doing something nice for your partner, such as cooking dinner, running errands, or giving them a massage
  • Buying your partner a gift, such as flowers, jewelry, or a new book

3. Spend time together.

It is important to make time for your partner, even when you are busy. This means setting aside time for date nights, weekend getaways, or just spending time together at home. It is also important to be present when you are with your partner and to avoid distractions such as your phone or computer.

4. Be supportive.

Being supportive of your partner means being there for them when they need you. This means listening to them when they are going through a tough time, offering advice or help when they need it, and celebrating their successes.

5. Be willing to compromise.

No two people are exactly alike, so it is important to be willing to compromise in a relationship. This means being willing to give up something that you want in order to make your partner happy, and vice versa. It is also important to be willing to work through disagreements and find solutions that work for both of you.

6. Forgive each other.

Everyone makes mistakes, so it is important to be willing to forgive your partner when they do something to hurt you. Forgiveness does not mean forgetting what happened, but it does mean letting go of anger and resentment.

7. Continue to grow and learn.

As people, we are constantly growing and learning. This means that our relationships are also constantly evolving. It is important to be willing to grow and learn together as a couple. This can be done by talking about your hopes and dreams, taking classes together, or traveling to new places.

8. Seek help if needed.

If you are struggling in your relationship, do not be afraid to seek help. There are many resources available to help couples improve their relationships, such as counseling, therapy, or support groups.

Maintaining a long-lasting relationship takes effort and commitment. However, it is definitely possible with the right tools and strategies. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of having a happy and fulfilling relationship for years to come.

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11

Remembering 9/11: The Courage, Strength, and Resilience of the Human Spirit

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

Twenty-two years ago today, the world changed forever. On September 11, 2001, terrorists hijacked four airplanes and carried out a series of coordinated attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people and injured thousands more.

The attacks were a horrific act of violence, but they also brought out the best in humanity. In the days and weeks that followed, people from all over the world came together to show their support for the victims and their families.

We saw acts of courage and compassion from firefighters, police officers, and ordinary citizens. We saw people donate blood, volunteer their time, and open their hearts to those in need.

The courage, strength, and resilience of the human spirit was on full display in the aftermath of 9/11. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.

Here are some specific examples of the courage, strength, and resilience of the people in the aftermath of 9/11:

  • Firefighters and police officers risked their lives to save others.
  • Ordinary citizens volunteered their time and money to help the victims and their families.
  • People from all over the world donated blood and other supplies.
  • Businesses and organizations offered free or discounted services to help those in need.
  • Children wrote letters of support to the victims and their families.
  • Survivors of the attacks found the strength to rebuild their lives.

The attacks of 9/11 were a terrible tragedy, but they also showed us the best of humanity. We saw people come together to help each other in a time of need. We saw the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity.

How Can We Celebrate the Courage, Strength, and Resilience of the People?

  1. Honor the past. Learn about the history of your community or country and the challenges that people have faced. This can help you to appreciate the courage and strength of those who came before you.
  2. Recognize the present. Be aware of the challenges that people are facing today, both locally and globally. This could include things like poverty, war, or natural disasters. Find ways to support those who are struggling.
  3. Celebrate the good. There are many stories of courage, strength, and resilience happening all around us. Take the time to read about or watch these stories to be inspired.
  4. Get involved. There are many ways to get involved in your community and make a difference. You could volunteer your time, donate to a cause, or start your own project.
  5. Be kind. One of the simplest ways to celebrate the courage, strength, and resilience of others is to be kind to them. This could mean something as small as holding the door open for someone or as big as donating blood or volunteering at a soup kitchen.

We can also celebrate the courage, strength, and resilience of the people by living our lives to the fullest. Let us never take our freedom for granted and let us always be willing to help others in need.

Conclusion

September 11, 2001 was a dark day in our history, but it also showed us the best of humanity. The courage, strength, and resilience of the people in the aftermath of the attacks is an inspiration to us all.

Let us never forget the victims and their families, and let us always strive to live our lives to the fullest. We can honor the memory of those who lost their lives on 9/11 by being courageous, strong, and resilient in the face of adversity.

Here are some resources for those who are struggling with grief or trauma:

  • National Center for PTSD: This website provides information and resources on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including coping strategies, treatment options, and support groups. https://www.ptsd.va.gov/.
  • American Psychological Association: This website provides information on grief and loss, trauma, and coping strategies, as well as a directory of psychologists who specialize in these areas.  https://www.apa.org/topics/grief/.
  • The Dougy Center: The Dougy Center is a national organization that provides grief support to children, teens, and their families. You can find their website here: https://www.dougy.org/.
  • The Compassionate Friends: This organization provides support to bereaved parents and families. https://www.compassionatefriends.org/.
  • The National Child Traumatic Stress Network: This website provides information and resources on childhood traumatic stress, including treatment options and support groups. https://www.nctsn.org/.
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13

How to Help Family Members with Mental Health Issues

Posted by Collaborative Counseling

Mental health issues are a common occurrence in the United States, affecting one in five adults each year. While mental health issues can affect anyone, they are more common in certain populations, such as young adults, women, and people of color.

If you have a family member who is struggling with a mental health issue, it is important to know that you are not alone. Listed below there are many resources available to help you and your family member get the support they need.

Here are some ideas on how to help your family member with a mental health issue:

  • First, Educate yourself about mental health issues. The more you know about mental health, the better equipped you will be to help your family member. There are many resources available to help you learn more about mental health, including books, websites, and support groups.
  • Secondly, Talk to your family member about their mental health. Let them know that you are there for them and that you want to help. Furthermore Encourage them to talk to you about how they are feeling and what they are going through.
  • Thirdly, Support your family member in seeking professional help. If your family member is struggling with a mental health issue, it is important to encourage them to seek professional help. A mental health professional can provide your family member with the support and treatment they need to get better.
  • Lastly, Be patient and understanding. It is important to be patient and understanding with your family member as they work through their mental health issue. Recovery takes time, so be there for them every step of the way.

Resources for Mental Health in Wisconsin and Minnesota

There are many resources available to help people with mental health issues in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Here are a few of the resources available in these states:

  • Wisconsin Department of Health Services: The Wisconsin Department of Health Services provides a variety of resources for people with mental health issues, including information on mental health disorders, treatment options, and support groups.
  • Minnesota Department of Human Services: The Minnesota Department of Human Services provides similar resources to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMI is a national organization that provides support and advocacy for people with mental illness and their families. NAMI has chapters in both Wisconsin and Minnesota.
  • MentalHealth.gov: MentalHealth.gov is a website from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that provides information on mental health disorders, treatment options, and support groups.

If you are struggling with a mental health issue or know someone who is, please know that you are not alone. There are many resources available to help you get the support you need.

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29

Empirical Supported Treatment for Trauma

Posted by Sam McManigle
Living with bipolar disorder can be challenging

Trauma can be a devastating experience that can have a lasting impact on a person’s life. Symptoms of trauma can include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping. In some cases, trauma can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a serious mental health condition that can significantly impair a person’s ability to function. There are a number of empirical supported treatments available for trauma.

Some of the most effective treatments include:

  • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of therapy that uses eye movements, taps, or tones to help people process traumatic memories. EMDR is a relatively new treatment, but it has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD in a number of studies.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of therapy that focuses on changing the way people think and behave. CBT can be used to help people with trauma learn how to manage their symptoms and cope with stress.
  • Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) is a newer type of therapy that is similar to EMDR. ART uses a combination of eye movements, tapping, and other techniques to help people process traumatic memories.

In addition to these specific treatments, there are a number of other things that can help people who have experienced trauma. These include:

  • Support groups: Support groups can provide a safe and supportive environment for people to share their experiences and learn from others who have been through similar experiences.
  • Yoga and meditation: Yoga and meditation can help people to relax and reduce stress. They can also help people to focus on the present moment and let go of negative thoughts and emotions.
  • Acupuncture: Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment that has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD.

Furthermore If you have experienced trauma, it is important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. There are a number of effective treatments available that can help you to heal and recover.

Other treatments for trauma

In addition to the treatments listed above, there are a number of other treatments that may be helpful for people who have experienced trauma. These include:

  • Group therapy: Group therapy can provide a safe and supportive environment for people to share their experiences and learn from others who have been through similar experiences.
  • Art therapy: Art therapy can help people to express their emotions and trauma in a safe and creative way.
  • Music therapy: Music therapy can help people to relax and reduce stress. It can also help people to express their emotions and trauma in a safe and creative way.
  • Hypnosis: Hypnosis can be used to help people access and process traumatic memories.
  • Animal-assisted therapy: Animal-assisted therapy can help people to reduce stress and anxiety. It can also help people to feel more connected and supported.

The best treatment for trauma will vary depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. It is important to talk to a qualified mental health professional to find the treatment that is right for you.

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