Month: January 2025

Dissociative Identity Disorder

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Dissociative Identity Disorder

By: Nicole Staub

Dissociative Identity Disorder, DID, can happen when kids are in a traumatic situation and they don’t quite know how to handle their emotions so the kid dissociates from the situation and their mind essentially “shuts off”. When a kid dissociates, it means that the kid is disconnecting from their thoughts, feelings, and memories. What dissociating may look like is that the kid will “space out”. They will stare blankly at things, look disconnected from the conversation or whatever is going on around them. There can be a sudden shift in their mood or behavior as well. Dissociating looks like the kid is daydreaming. When someone “shuts off” during an incident, they will compartmentalize the experience and how they feel. This is a way of their body protecting themselves from facing the incident at hand. The type of situations a kid might be in could be emotional, physical, or even sexual abuse. Most of the time, Dissociative Identity Disorder forms when you’re an adolescent. There have been examples of DID in movies or TV shows. However, more likely than not, movies and TV shows portray the disorder incorrectly.

Dissociative Identity Disorder can help kids keep their ability to understand humor, have creativity, and reflection. If someone has DID, it could be hard for their family and friends to notice when someone is switching. People rarely see the symptoms if someone is experiencing DID. One of the symptoms someone may have is “memory gaps”. Memory gaps are considered missing memories. What this means is that someone might not be able to recall important events or details that have happened in their lives because they weren’t present for that memory. A different identity was present for that event and will remember it. If the patient doesn’t know they have the disorder, it can be scary for them to have “memory gaps”. Having Dissociative Identity Disorder in your adult life can become more of a problem if the threats of the incidents are no longer there. If you are an adult and are first seeking help for DID, it could be more a difficult recovery process but not impossible.

To get diagnosed with Dissociative Identity Disorder, you need to experience these criteria:

– The presence of two or more distinct identities or personality states.

– At least two of these identities or personality states recurrently take control of the person’s behavior.

– Inability to recall important personal information that is too extensive to be explained by ordinary forgetfulness.

– The disturbance is not due to the direct psychological effects if a substance (blackouts due to alcohol) or a general medical condition (seizures).

This disorder is treatable. Typically, how the treatment goes is that it is done in three phases. Phase one is about the patients’ stability and safety. Make sure that the patient has healthy coping mechanisms in general and if the patient has thoughts about or has harmed themselves or has had suicidal thoughts. Phase two is to identify the traumatic situation, address it and working through the problem. Finally, phase three is for the patient to not rely on dissociating when difficult situations occur.

If you or someone you know is having mental health difficulties and/ or experiencing symptoms of Dissociative Personality Disorder, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling & Psychotherapy. Contact our offices at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

Source

Dissociative identity disorder: What you need to know | McLean hospital. Understanding Dissociative Identity Disorder. (2024, July 6). https://www.mcleanhospital.org/essential/did

Relationships and Money: Money problems could be affecting your relationship

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Relationships and Money: Money problems could be affecting your relationship

By: Michelle Cocone

Money doesn’t usually get discussed in relationships until it becomes a hardship. When it does occur, you and your partner might find yourselves in a repetitive argument, leading to stress. According to Psychology Today, about 70% of the population in the U.S. is married; they might face money problems throughout their marriage. It’s not uncommon to have differences in handling money as people are raised differently. It’s never too late to discuss finances with your partner to improve your relationship moving forward. As well as it’s never too early to establish financial goals to promote a healthy relationship. There are three key questions to discuss with your partner about money problems.

  • What did your parents teach you about money?
  • What are your financial goals?
  • What are your fears about money?

Typically the information we have about managing money we learn from our parents. If your parents taught you how to keep track of bills, save money, and credit card management, then you have a good understanding of how to deal with money. Whereas some people had parents who were always late on bills, lost track, didn’t save money, and probably didn’t manage money well. Talk to your partner about financial goals and how you can combine them to fit both your needs. Remember you are a team with your partner and you are working together to improve your financial situation. Discuss the fears you have about money, which is where the money problems could be coming from. Set up a time to sit down and discuss creating a spending plan that works for both of you. Discuss how to divide the finances to help establish a baseline. Additionally, use any money left over to spend quality time as this will help relieve stress about money. Good communication about money problems will improve relationships and help avoid any anxiety/stress. When a couple suffers from anxiety or stress about financial hardship in their relationship, they may benefit from therapy to address the underlying psychological issues.

If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety or stress about financial hardship, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

References

Klontz, B., & Gresham, M. (2015). Happy couples: How to avoid money arguments. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/money/conflict

Langabeer, J. (2022, December 7). The psychological impact of money on relationships. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/how-make-better-choices/202212/the-psychological-impact-money-relationships

OCD Rumination vs. Problem Solving: Help Quiet Your Mind

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OCD Rumination vs. Problem Solving:  Help Quiet Your Mind

By: Katerina Kostadimas

What is Rumination?

Rumination is a common symptom of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It refers to the repetitive, excessive, and intrusive thoughts about a specific issue, question, or event. These thoughts can often feel uncomfortable and can involve:

–Overanalyzing past actions or decisions.

–Trying to “solve” unanswerable questions (e.g. moral, existential, or religious dilemmas).

–Seeking certainty about a fear or doubt related to an obsession.

Unlike productive problem-solving, rumination is circular and unhelpful- it doesn’t lead to resolution but instead amplifies distress and reinforces the OCD cycle.

Why do we ruminate?

Rumination is a compulsive response to reduce anxiety or gain assurance about intrusive thoughts or fears. Some reasons include:

  • Seeking Control: This is an attempt to rationalize or figure out answers to uncertain or distressing thoughts.
  • Fear of consequences: People ruminate to ensure they aren’t missing something important or to avoid perceived risks.
  • Perfectionism: A desire to think things through “perfectly” before making a decision or taking action.

However, rumination often worsens anxiety instead of resolving it, making you feel trapped in a cycle of obsession and compulsion.

What to do if you start ruminating?

  1. Recognize and Label the Rumination

– Acknowledge when you’re ruminating and remind yourself, “this is rumination, not helpful problem-solving.”

2. Avoid Trying to “Solve” the Thought

-Accept that there is an unknown problem and make a conscious effort to not engage in these types of thoughts.

3. Shift Your Focus to the Present

–Engage in grounding techniques (e.g. mindfulness or sensory awareness).

–Focus on your current environment rather than the thought.

4. Engage in an Activity

-Distract yourself with meaningful or enjoyable activities that redirect your attention and energy.

5. Seek Professional Help

–A trained and licensed mental health professional can provide tools to break the rumination cycle and address underlying OCD patterns.

If you or someone you know is struggling with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and symptoms such as rumination, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) – 368-3700 or (212)-722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit https://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

References:

Lcpc, D. S., & Staff, O. (2023, August 15). Rumination. The OCD & Anxiety Center. https://theocdandanxietycenter.com/rumination/

Social Media: The Impact on Mental Health

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Social Media: The Impact on Mental Health

By: Maria Koutsothanasis


Social media plays a significant role in shaping how we connect, communicate, and even view ourselves. While social media has its benefits, it can also have a detrimental impact on mental health. Social media can negatively affect our mental well-being through constant comparisons, unrealistic expectations, and exposure to harmful content. By being intentional about what we engage with, we can use social media as a tool to enhance our lives and protect our mental well-being.

One of the main drawbacks of social media is the tendency to compare ourselves to others. Platforms such as Instagram and TikTok are often filled with images of people’s “perfect” lives, highlighting their achievements, beauty, and happiness. This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, especially when we find ourselves measuring our lives against these unrealistic portrayals. Social media comparison can lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and even body image issues. The more we focus on the idealized versions of others’ lives, the more likely we are to forget that what we see online isn’t always an accurate reflection of reality.

The positive aspect is that we can decide what content we engage with. By intentionally following accounts that promote positivity, self-love, and well-being, we can counteract the negative effects. Following fitness influencers who focus on health rather than body perfection, or mental health advocates who offer advice and share stories of resilience, can create a more positive environment. By engaging with content that aligns with our values, we can shift our mindset toward growth and self-empowerment.

Social media often highlights negativity, which can significantly affect our mental well-being. Platforms frequently highlight drama, conflicts, and extreme opinions, contributing to constant criticism and judgment. Posts that focus on problems, such as failed relationships, mental health struggles, or societal issues, can evoke anxiety or feelings of hopelessness. Viral content that spreads negativity, such as gossip or inflammatory comments, often gains attention, while positive messages may not receive the same recognition. This constant exposure to pessimism can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from the positive aspects of life.

While social media has its negative aspects, it’s possible to transform how we interact with it to protect our mental health. By being mindful of the content we consume and consciously seeking out positive, uplifting posts, we can create an online environment that nurtures our well-being. Social media can be a powerful tool for connection, education, and personal growth if used intentionally. Ultimately, it is important to remember that we control our social media environment and can shape it to support our mental health.

If you or someone you love is struggling with depression or anxiety, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/. 


UC Davis Health. (2024, November 27). Social Media’s impact on our mental health and tips to use it safely. health. https://health.ucdavis.edu/blog/cultivating-health/social-medias-impact-our-mental-health-and-tips-to-use-it-safely/2024/05

ADHD – How to Be Less Overwhelmed

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ADHD – How to Be Less Overwhelmed

By: Angy Farhat

ADHD overwhelm often arises when the brain finds it challenging to handle excessive information, numerous tasks, or overwhelming environmental stimuli. This situation is linked to various executive functioning difficulties, such as issues with planning, starting tasks, organizing, prioritizing, managing time, and regulating emotions. Additional factors like sensory overload, frequent task-switching, procrastination, perfectionism, and sleep difficulties can further contribute to this feeling of overwhelm.

When the ADHD brain becomes overstressed, it may react by either shutting down, becoming hyperactive, or spiraling out—much like the body’s response during fight, flight, or freeze situations. Your mind is attempting to cope with the influx of information while trying to process ongoing events. This reaction can manifest in different ways, such as withdrawing, becoming distracted, or feeling irritable. Ultimately, it’s your brain signaling that it has reached its limit.

Experiencing high-stress levels can push you into this uncomfortable state, and it’s important to recognize when that happens. To help reduce overwhelm, we can start by focusing on lowering your stress levels. Stress often stems from feeling overwhelmed or overloaded. Take a moment to examine how much time you spend scrolling through social media, getting distracted by notifications on your devices, or scrambling to meet deadlines. If you’re looking to reduce that overwhelming stress, it’s essential to slow down, identify the areas where you feel most pressured, and make necessary adjustments.

1. Focus on one task at a time: When we multitask, we stress our brains and exhaust ourselves. Multitasking doesn’t really exist in the brain. Instead, opt for single-tasking as often as possible. You may not be able to eliminate all media multitasking habits but, with single-tasking, you’ll feel more productive and less stressed. Plus, you’ll be able to perform better on what you’re doing.

2. Let Go of Perfection: Striving for perfection is an impossible goal that can lead to unnecessary pressure. It’s important to recognize that nobody is perfect. If you’re interested in self-improvement, consider narrowing your focus to one aspect of yourself that you would like to enhance rather than creating an overwhelming list of changes. Think about areas in your life, whether it’s your morning routine, keeping commitments, or meeting project deadlines, where you’d like to experience greater ease. Approach this process with self-compassion, reminding yourself that progress isn’t always linear—two steps forward and one step back still means you’re moving ahead.

3. Prioritize one self-soothing activity per day: It doesn’t matter what this is. What is important is that you create a list of things that help you fill your bucket and feel calm. Repeated stress and ADHD overwhelm wear you down. So, practice self-care in some way each day. Have a quiet cup of tea, a workout at the gym, a walk around the block, and a short meditation. Make a list of 5-10 things that make you feel good and feel grounded. Exercise is very helpful for doing this.

4. Nurture connections: Spending time with people who love and accept you naturally reduces stress. Laughter, lively conversations, sharing fun activities, and feeling supported increase your happy neurochemicals. Plus, when you engage with others, you are more likely to stop thinking about the stressors in your life and pay attention to what’s happening around you. You give yourself a lift and a healthy distraction at the same time.

5. Set realistic expectations for yourself: Instead of concentrating on goals based on compare and despair, use your internal compass to assess how you are doing and what you want. Consider what you can actually handle versus what you think you should do. Rule out items that seem unrealistic or vague; make things as specific as possible. Being more organized is a great goal, but it isn’t precise enough to lead you to do anything differently. Whereas being more organized with your bills, homework, or work presentations are all more exact and will likely result in more success.

If you or someone you love is struggling with ADHD, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/. 

References:

American Psychological Association. (n.d.). ADHD. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/adhd

American Psychological Association. (n.d.). An ADHD diagnosis in adulthood comes with challenges and benefits. Monitor on Psychology. https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/03/adult-adhd-diagnosis

Beyond BookSmart. (2024, April 24). ADHD overwhelm: Why it happens & how to control it. Beyond BookSmart: ADHD & Executive Function Coaching Online. https://www.beyondbooksmart.com/executive-functioning-strategies-blog/adhd-overwhelm-why-it-happens-how-to-control-it

Stigma Surrounding Therapy

GalleryJudy Gurfein Leave a comment

Stigma Surrounding Therapy

By: Maria Koutsothanasis

Therapy is a tool that supports individuals struggling with mental health and different aspects of their lives. Despite the growing conversations about mental health, there continues to be stigma surrounding it. Due to the stigma, individuals find it difficult to seek support through therapy due to fear of judgment, shame, or cultural expectations.

Common Misconceptions about Therapy

  1. Therapy is only for “crazy” people.
    Many people still associate therapy with severe mental illness and believe it’s only for those experiencing extreme mental health conditions. Therapy can benefit any individual, regardless of the severity of their situation. Therapy is about growth, coping with life’s challenges, and improving overall mental well-being.
  2. Therapy takes too long or is not effective.
    Some fear that therapy is a lengthy process that will not have results. While the length of therapy depends on the individual’s needs, many individuals find that even a few sessions can lead to meaningful improvements. Therapy is not a quick fix, but it is an investment in long-term mental health.
  3. Only “weak” people need therapy.
    A common misconception is that seeking therapy is a sign of personal weakness. On the contrary, therapy is a sign of strength and courage. Therapy helps individuals confront their emotions and commit to bettering themselves. Many individuals believe therapy to be an invaluable tool for growth; instead, it promotes emotional resilience.

Breaking the Stigma

Breaking the stigma surrounding therapy is essential for creating a more supportive and open environment for society. The idea of seeking therapy can still feel uncomfortable for many individuals due to the misconceptions that treatment is only for those facing serious mental health issues, with therapy often viewed as something reserved for those with severe problems. These misconceptions prevent many from seeking the help they need. By normalizing therapy and highlighting its benefits, an environment can be created where mental health care is as accessible and accepted as physical health care.

If you or someone you know is seeking support, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling & Psychiatric Services. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2017, May 24). Mental health: Overcoming the stigma of mental illness. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mental-illness/in-depth/mental-health/art-20046477

Saporito, J. M., Ryan, C., & Teachman, B. A. (2011). Reducing stigma toward seeking mental health treatment among adolescents. Stigma research and action. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3839682/

Stigma, prejudice and discrimination against people with mental illness. Psychiatry.org – Stigma, Prejudice and Discrimination Against People with Mental Illness. (n.d.). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination

Therapy: A Lifeline, Not a Last Resort

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Therapy: A Lifeline, Not a Last Resort

By: Angy Farhat

For many years, therapy has been misunderstood, with many individuals associating it only with severe mental health problems. According to the American Psychological Association, nearly 50% of individuals with mental health issues don’t seek help, partly due to the stigma that therapy is for “broken” people or those in crisis. This narrative discourages people from reaching out, preventing them from using therapy as a preventative measure. Therapy should be seen as a lifeline—an essential tool for maintaining mental wellness, not a last resort.

Therapy is not just for people in crisis; it’s a vital tool for anyone looking to enhance their emotional well-being. Much like going to the gym for physical fitness, therapy helps strengthen your mental resilience. Regular sessions provide a space to understand your thoughts and behaviors, improve emotional regulation, and build coping strategies for life’s challenges. By addressing concerns before they escalate, therapy can prevent issues like anxiety or depression from becoming overwhelming.

Types of Therapy

There are various types of therapy, each suited to different needs:

  1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Focuses on changing negative thought patterns.
  2. Psychodynamic Therapy – Explores unconscious processes influencing behavior.
  3. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Aids in managing intense emotions.
  4. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – encourages individuals to accept their thoughts and feelings without judgment while committing to actions that align with their values.
  5. Couples or Family Therapy – Improves communication and resolves conflicts.

These diverse approaches allow individuals to choose the therapy that best fits their needs, whether they’re struggling with a specific issue or simply seeking personal growth.

The Lifelong Benefits of Therapy

Therapy offers lasting benefits beyond temporary relief. Research from the National Institute of Mental Health shows that therapy can significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. People who engage in therapy often experience improved emotional resilience, healthier relationships, and better-coping mechanisms. The skills you gain in therapy can help you manage stress, navigate life transitions, and maintain mental balance in the long term.

While therapy can benefit anyone, there are certain signs that indicate it might be time to seek help:

  • Persistent Feelings of Overwhelm or Stress
    If daily tasks are becoming increasingly difficult to manage due to stress or anxiety, therapy can help you develop coping skills and regain control.
  • Significant Mood Changes
    If you notice consistent changes in your mood, such as prolonged sadness, irritability, or feelings of hopelessness, therapy can help you address underlying emotional issues.
  • Difficulty Managing Relationships
    Struggles in personal or professional relationships, marked by ongoing conflict or miscommunication, can be a sign that therapy is needed to improve interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence.
  • Changes in Behavior
    If you’ve noticed significant changes in behavior—such as withdrawal from activities, social isolation, or changes in sleeping or eating habits—it’s important to address these shifts with professional support.
  • Difficulty Coping with Major Life Changes
    Life events such as a breakup, job loss, or the death of a loved one can trigger emotional

If any of these resonate, therapy could be a helpful resource to regain clarity, manage emotions, and improve your well-being.

If you or someone you love is seeking therapy, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/. 

References:

American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Why therapy works: Therapy and mental health. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/topics/therapy

American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). Myths about therapy. American Psychiatric Association. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-psychiatry

Harvard Health Publishing. (2018, May). Cognitive behavioral therapy: A whole-body approach to improving your mental health. Harvard Health. https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/cognitive-behavioral-therapy

Mayo Clinic. (2021, December 20). Mental health care: Types of psychotherapy. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/expert-answers/therapy/faq-20057886

World Health Organization. (2013, October). Mental health: Strengthening our response. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response

Healthy Lifestyle: Promoting Mental Health

GalleryJudy Gurfein Leave a comment

Healthy Lifestyle: Promoting Mental Health

By: Maria Koutsothanasis

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular exercise and a balanced diet offers significant benefits for mental health. Physical activity and proper nutrition can enhance mood, reduce stress, and promote overall well-being, improving mental and emotional stability.

The Role of Exercise in Mental Health

Exercise is an effective way to boost overall mental health. When we engage in physical activity, the brain releases dopamine and serotonin; neurotransmitters that play key roles in elevating mood, improving cognition, and reducing feelings of anxiety and depression. Regular exercise also helps to lower cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone, which can help reduce overall stress.

Exercise can also improve sleep quality, which is crucial for emotional well-being. A good night’s rest enhances cognitive function, memory, and emotional regulation. Additionally, accomplishing exercise goals can increase self-esteem and a positive body image, further supporting mental health.

The Impact of Diet on Mental Health

Diet plays an equally important role in mental health. Food provides essential nutrients that support brain function and emotional stability. Food can be a fuel to the body. Healthy and nutrient-filled foods can produce serotonin and dopamine and regulate them. A balanced diet helps stabilize blood sugar levels and prevent energy crashes, which can lead to irritability and fatigue. Foods rich in fiber and probiotics, such as fruits and vegetables, play a key role in emotional regulation.

Exercise and diet together can increase overall mental health. Regular physical activity is a natural treatment for feelings of anxiety and depression. A well-balanced diet provides the energy and nutrients needed to fuel physical activity. Incorporating regular exercise and a healthy diet into daily life can significantly enhance physical and mental health. These habits not only improve mood, reduce stress, and boost self-esteem, but they also support emotional resilience.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, eating disorders, or other mental health issues, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling & Psychiatric Services. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

Diet and mental health. Mental Health Foundation. (n.d.). https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/a-z-topics/diet-and-mental-health

Lifestyle to support mental health. Psychiatry.org – Lifestyle to Support Mental Health. (n.d.). https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/lifestyle-to-support-mental-health

Understanding the effects of a healthy lifestyle on Mental Health. Penn State Health News. (2021, May 3). https://pennstatehealthnews.org/topics/may-2021-one-group-blog-mental-health/

Being Seen: The Key to Emotional Connection and Mental Wellness

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Being Seen: The Key to Emotional Connection and Mental Wellness

By: Angy Farhat

There’s a unique magic that happens when someone truly sees us. Not just when we’re noticed in passing or acknowledged in a crowd, but when someone listens with intent, understands our feelings, and validates our experience. It’s a profound sense of connection—a feeling of being understood deeply, personally. And it turns out, that sense of being seen is one of the most powerful contributors to mental health and emotional well-being. To feel seen goes beyond simply being noticed. It’s about being fully acknowledged for who we are, with all our complexities, struggles, and joys. Human beings are inherently social creatures, and from a biological standpoint, being recognized by others plays a crucial role in our survival and well-being. When we feel unseen, it can lead to feelings of isolation, loneliness, and emotional distress. On the flip side, when we feel truly seen and understood, it’s a balm for our mental health. The act of sharing a moment of connection with another person can:

  • Build Self-Worth: When we feel seen, we feel valued. That validation is crucial to our sense of self-esteem and confidence.
  • Promote Emotional Balance: Having someone understand your emotions can help you process them more effectively, reducing overwhelm and emotional turbulence.
  • Reduce Loneliness: Genuine connection alleviates feelings of isolation, helping us feel less alone in the world.
  • Enhance Resilience: Feeling supported and understood can make us stronger when facing life’s challenges. It gives us the strength to navigate difficult times with a sense of solidarity.

How to Cultivate the Feeling of Being Seen

While we can’t always control how others interact with us, there are ways to create and encourage feelings of connection, both with ourselves and others:

  1. Open Up: Vulnerability is key to feeling seen. It’s not always easy, but when we share our thoughts and emotions with others, we invite them to see our true selves. Being honest and authentic in your relationships helps create a space for mutual understanding.
  2. Seek Professional Support: Sometimes, talking to a therapist or counselor is the best way to feel seen, especially when dealing with difficult emotions or mental health struggles. A mental health professional can offer validation and support in ways that friends and family may not always be able to.
  3. Create a Safe Space for Yourself: Feeling seen also involves seeing yourself. Engage in self-reflection, journaling, or mindfulness practices that help you connect with your own emotions. When you understand and accept yourself, it’s easier to invite others to do the same.
  4. Cultivate Healthy Relationships: Surround yourself with people who truly care about your well-being—people who listen without judgment, who are empathetic, and who create space for you to be yourself. These relationships provide emotional nourishment and a sense of security.

If you’re looking for ways to cultivate this sense of connection in your life, start with small acts—both for yourself and for others. Whether it’s being present in a conversation or reaching out to a therapist, the power of feeling seen is transformative, and it’s something that can be nurtured every day.

If you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling and Psychotherapy. Contact our Paramus, NJ, or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/. 

References:

https://www.nature.com/articles/nature03701

Depression: Impacts on College Students

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Depression: Impacts on College Students

By: Maria Koutsothanasis

College is where many students are excited about independence, opportunities, and new experiences. Some students may experience challenges with change and experience feelings of depression. Balancing academics, social life, and financial difficulties can bring anxiety onto a student. These challenges can significantly impact mental health and lead to depression. Depression not only affects a student’s emotional well-being but disrupts all other aspects of their life.

The Impacts

  1. Academic Struggles

      Depression can disrupt a student’s ability to focus, retain important information, and meet deadlines for assignments. Symptoms such as fatigue, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, and hopelessness can lead to poor attendance and a decline in grades. Without the proper environment and support, depression can consume a student’s daily life and cause academic struggles.

      2. Social Isolation

        Depression can impair a student’s social life and cause them to lose the strong support systems they previously had. The withdrawal from social interactions can worsen symptoms of depression and lead students to feel alone. Depression can consume a student, making it difficult to get out of bed and engage in social activities that other students would enjoy.

        3. Long Term Consequences

        Without the proper support, environment, and treatment, depression can cause long-term effects. Academically, depression can lead students to fail courses and drop out of school which can impact the opportunities that are presented to students in the future. Untreated depression can lead to long-term physical health issues such as heart disease, chronic stress, and unhealthy coping mechanisms.

        Coping and Support

        1. Utilize Campus Resources

          Many colleges offer a wide range of support systems to help students cope with their depression. Counseling services, support groups, clubs, and mental health and wellness workshops are resources that can support students during difficult times.

          2. Establish Healthy Habits

          A routine such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consistent sleep can improve mood and energy levels. Incorporating mindfulness is a way to reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms. Students can use creative tasks and different outlets students can use to reduce stress and enhance their emotional well-being.

          3. Build support

          Building a strong support system and a positive environment is a way to decrease feelings and symptoms of depression. Reaching out to people who will provide you with the support you need is important. Staying connected with friends and family provides emotional support and stability.

          Depression among college students is an issue that needs awareness and actions to reduce stigma. By prioritizing mental health students can overcome mental health challenges that are constantly experienced. By accessing resources provided by colleges, establishing healthy habits and regular routines, and building a strong support system, students can develop resilience and improve their mental health.

          If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or other mental health issues, please contact our psychotherapy offices in New York or New Jersey to talk to one of our licensed professional psychologists, psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, or psychotherapists at Arista Counseling & Psychiatric Services. Contact our Paramus, NJ or Manhattan, NY offices respectively, at (201) 368-3700 or (212) 722-1920 to set up an appointment. For more information, please visit http://www.counselingpsychotherapynjny.com/

          Kristen Bowe, A. (2023, August 22). College students and Depression. Mayo Clinic Health System. https://www.mayoclinichealthsystem.org/hometown-health/speaking-of-health/college-students-and-depression

          Luo, M.-M., Hao, M., Li, X.-H., Liao, J., Wu, C.-M., & Wang, Q. (2024, January 25). Prevalence of depressive tendencies among college students and the influence of attributional styles on depressive tendencies in the post-pandemic era. Frontiers in public health. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10850216/

          WebMD. (n.d.). How common is depression among college students?. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/depression/what-to-know-about-depression-in-college-students