By: Mandie Schreck What are the first steps in the healing journey for individuals who have been abused? Acknowledging the abuse you’ve experienced and having a clear understanding that you are not the one at fault It can be difficult for many because you may have many underlying fears, regrets, shame, guilt, and questions about self-confidence...
A Poem By: Josie Nelson Breathe in deep. Expand your lungs. Drop your shoulders. Raise your chest.Exhale s-l-o-w-l-y out your mouth, so you feel wind across your lips.Breathe in. Exhale out. Breathe in. Exhale out.Do you feel lighter? Do you feel brighter?Do you feel that little spark of hope that there’s more to come?More LIFE....
By: Rashmi Negi We live in a society where young boys are taught not to express emotions and may often feel discouraged to share whatever they are going through in their lives. People commonly talk about women’s abuse but remain hushed when it comes to men. It may happen more often than you expect in...
By: Whitney Derman So you’re considering therapy? I’m proud of you for taking that first step to a healthier and better you! Planning to go to therapy is a great step; however, not every therapist will be perfect for you. Finding your ideal match can be the make-it-or-break-it point between successful treatment that will help...
By: Mandie Schreck Over nine percent of Americans (almost 30 million people) have been affected by eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and orthorexia (ANAD, 2021). Most individuals who suffer from eating disorders also have other mental health disorders such as anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and depression. Many have also suffered abuse. This is...
By: Whitney Derman When I started writing this piece, my first thought was, “How is bullying not a type of abuse?” Both involve a person who considers themselves stronger picking on a person they consider weaker. However, after coming across the following definition of the two words, it is easy to see the difference: “Bullying:...
By: Josie Nelson I’ve always loved the quote, “Throw kindness around like confetti.” It just brings a smile to my face thinking about how simple kindness and inspiring others can be. World Kindness Day (WKD) occurs each year on November 13th, with its primary goal to “help everyone understand that compassion for others is what...
By: N.M. Bialko The term “love bombing” has become a part of our everyday vernacular and is often used to describe the beginning of what will ultimately become a toxic or emotionally abusive relationship. Moving too fast in a relationship has always been regarded as a potential “red flag,” but love bombing takes that idea...
By: Josie Nelson The holidays can bring such a whirlwind of emotions and expectations that can be difficult to manage. On one hand, you could be feeling excited about traditions and upcoming family gatherings. On the other hand, you could be nervous and even fearful of being hurt or triggered by past experiences. These seemingly...
By: N.M. Bialko Just before Christmas in 2019, I was home for the holidays but in the throes of a toxic and emotionally abusive relationship. I was feeling like a shell of my former self, and my mind was fixated on negative thoughts. I found myself thinking of a woman who had made the local...
