Embracing self-care is a core strategy for anyone dedicated to maintaining long-term recovery and containing setbacks. Self-care strategies for preventing relapse are necessary for sustaining health and wellness after rehabilitation. Proactive self-management includes regular exercise, sufficient sleep, and healthy dietary habits that fortify mental and physical resilience against potential relapse triggers. This paragraph also sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of practical self-care techniques that support recovery. These strategies help individuals manage stress, recognize early warning signs of emotional distress, and maintain a balanced lifestyle. Throughout this post, we will discuss how integrating simple self-care routines can profoundly impact one's ability to stay on the path of recovery, highlighting several methods to enhance well-being and prevent relapse effectively.

Understanding Relapse: A Key Step in Prevention

Relapse refers to the return to substance use after a period of abstinence, which can be a part of many people's long-term recovery process. Recognizing the triggers and stressors that lead to relapse is essential for anyone looking to maintain their sobriety. These triggers often include emotional distress, environmental cues linked to past substance use, or social pressures.

Self-awareness involves being conscious of the feelings and external situations that pose a risk for relapse. By acknowledging these warning signs early, individuals can take proactive steps to manage their responses to these triggers. It might involve seeking support from peers or counselors, engaging in healthy activities, or utilizing coping strategies learned during therapy. Increasing self-awareness helps individuals anticipate challenges and arm themselves with the tools needed to navigate them, maintaining their commitment to recovery.

Self-Care Strategies for Preventing Relapse

Implementing strategies that bolster physical and mental health reduces the risk of returning to old habits. Engaging in physical activities is a powerful tool for managing stress and enhancing overall health. Activities such as brisk walking, jogging, or swimming will improve cardiovascular health while boosting mood through endorphin release. Incorporating mental health practices like mindfulness and meditation into daily life is equally vital. These practices help center thoughts, reduce anxiety, and improve emotional regulation, creating a more resilient mindset capable of handling potential stressors that might trigger a relapse.

Furthermore, maintaining regular sleep patterns and adhering to a nutritious diet is essential for a comprehensive self-care regimen. Consistent, restorative sleep and balanced meals ensure that the body and mind are well-nourished and primed to tackle challenges, reducing susceptibility to stress-induced relapse. Together, these self-care strategies form a robust defense against relapse, fostering long-term recovery and stability.

Building a Support Network: Essential for Longevity

Building a robust support network is another critical component of self-care strategies for preventing relapse. Choosing the right support group or network can be transformative. Look for groups with similar experiences and recovery goals, as this alignment can provide more relevant advice and empathetic understanding. Family and friends' support can offer emotional comfort and practical help during challenging times. They should learn the best ways to support their loved ones in recovery. It may include participating in family therapy sessions or educational programs.

Additionally, using professional help is a cornerstone of a successful recovery strategy. Therapists and counselors trained in addiction recovery can offer guidance, monitor progress, and help navigate the complexities of maintaining sobriety. This professional support is essential for dealing with underlying issues that contribute to substance use and for learning new coping strategies to prevent relapse.

Avoiding High-Risk Situations

Being aware of the most common relapse triggers, such as exposure to substances, stress from interpersonal conflicts, or attendance at high-pressure social events, enables you to steer clear of potential pitfalls. Developing a keen sense of these triggers and the ability to predict high-risk situations before they occur will help you build a robust recovery strategy.

To manage temptations and avoid risky environments:

● Stay away from old haunts and routines: Alter your routes and habits that were part of your past substance use.
● Use refusal skills: Practice saying no in a convincing, respectful manner.
● Engage in alternative activities: Fill your time with hobbies and interests that do not involve substances.

Furthermore, having a solid exit plan empowers you to leave unsafe or uncomfortable situations without hesitation. This plan can be as simple as having a friend on call, knowing nearby safe locations, or even rehearsing reasons to leave risky scenarios.

Monitoring Progress and Setting Realistic Goals

Monitoring progress and setting realistic goals are fundamental to sustaining recovery and preventing relapse. Keeping a journal to track progress allows individuals to reflect on their successes and areas for improvement, providing a tangible record of their journey toward recovery.

Setting achievable and meaningful goals is crucial. Goals should be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, a goal might be to attend a support group meeting twice a week or to practice meditation for 15 minutes daily. These goals help structure daily life and give a sense of direction.

Celebrating milestones, whether big or small, acts as a motivational tool. Acknowledging these achievements boosts self-esteem and reinforces the value of the hard work put into recovery. Celebrations can be as simple as a quiet evening at home or as lively as a gathering with close friends or supporters.

Adapting Your Strategies Over Time

Adapting your strategies over time is crucial in maintaining effective self-care and preventing relapse. Recognizing when you need adjustments in your self-care plan allows you to remain aligned with your current needs and challenges. Life circumstances can change, and what works at one stage may not be as effective later. Be flexible and responsive to these changes to sustain recovery. Staying adaptable involves periodically reviewing your strategies and being open to modifying them. For instance, if your stress levels are increasing despite your current routine, it may be time to introduce new activities or support mechanisms that better address your needs.

Learning from setbacks without self-judgment is also vital. Viewing mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures helps to foster resilience. It's important to approach these moments with kindness and understanding towards yourself, which encourages personal growth and helps prevent discouragement and relapse.

Conclusion

Maintaining balance and health is essential in making self-care strategies for preventing relapse, which is the ongoing process of recovery and relapse prevention. This article has highlighted critical self-care strategies for preventing relapse and supporting mental and physical well-being. Regular exercise, mindfulness practices, and a robust support network are just a few methods that can enhance your resilience. Finally, we encourage you to continue prioritizing these self-care measures, adapting them as your circumstances evolve. Start implementing these strategies today to strengthen your recovery journey. Your commitment to self-care is not just beneficial—it's necessary for a balanced and healthy life.

Bringing a new life into this world is an awe-inspiring moment that's often clouded by the unanticipated emotional turmoil of postpartum depression (PPD). If you find yourself feeling unusually despondent, anxious, or overwhelmed after giving birth, it's crucial to recognize that you're not alone in this struggle. Understanding the fine line between normal hormonal changes and symptoms of PPD is the first step toward healing. This guide is designed to walk you through the maze of emotions and help you find your footing again.

Understanding the Normal Hormonal Roller Coaster

The days and weeks following childbirth are a tumultuous time for a new mother's body, largely due to the dramatic hormonal shifts that occur. After delivery, estrogen and progesterone levels, which were significantly elevated during pregnancy, rapidly decline to their pre-pregnancy states. This swift change can significantly impact a mother's emotional and mental state, contributing to mood swings, feelings of sadness, and irritability. These symptoms, often referred to as the "baby blues," are a common experience for many new mothers as their bodies attempt to recalibrate. While unsettling, these feelings are typically short-lived, usually resolving within the first two weeks postpartum. It's crucial for mothers to recognize these hormonal fluctuations as a normal part of the postpartum period, understanding that these emotional responses are a direct result of their body's natural adjustment process.

Identifying the Signs of Postpartum Depression

Unlike the transient nature of the "baby blues," these feelings linger well beyond the initial two weeks following childbirth. Recognizing these symptoms as potential indicators of PPD is a crucial step in advocating for your mental health. It’s imperative to understand that such experiences, while deeply distressing, are not reflections of your capability or love as a mother but signals that you may need support and treatment to navigate this challenging period.

When and How to Seek Help

If feelings of despair, intense anxiety, or detachment persist beyond the initial weeks following childbirth, it's imperative to initiate a conversation with a healthcare professional. This crucial step can pave the way to receiving the comprehensive care necessary for recovery. A doctor or mental health specialist can offer a tailored approach to treatment. This may encompass therapy sessions, medication, or a blend of both, depending on the individual's specific needs. Additionally, it's beneficial to openly discuss your experiences with close ones. Sharing your struggles not only fosters a supportive environment but also demystifies the challenges of PPD. It will encourage a collective effort in your recovery process. Engaging in dialogue about your feelings is not an admission of failure. It's a proactive measure towards reclaiming your well-being. Remember, seeking assistance is a proactive gesture of self-care and an important milestone on the path to healing.

Building Your Support System

Creating a strong network of support is crucial for mothers facing the challenges of postpartum depression. Identifying those in your life who can offer practical and emotional assistance is vital. Family members, friends, and even neighbors who understand what you're going through can be invaluable resources. They can provide a listening ear, share experiences, or help with daily tasks. This will make it easier for you to focus on recovery.

Consider joining a support group for new moms, where you can connect with others who are navigating similar experiences. These groups offer a safe space to express feelings and share coping strategies. Additionally, leveraging online communities can also provide support and information at any time of the day. It can make it easier to find encouragement even during late-night feedings. Embrace the help offered by those around you; it's a sign of strength to accept support when you need it the most.

Exploring EMDR Therapy

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy has been gaining traction as a notable option for managing symptoms of postpartum depression, especially for individuals who have experienced traumatic events. This form of psychotherapy utilizes bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, to help patients process and integrate distressing memories and traumas that may be contributing to their current emotional state.

For mothers grappling with PPD, EMDR offers a pathway to address underlying traumas that might be exacerbating their symptoms. This will facilitate a deeper healing process. It's essential to consult with a mental health professional skilled in EMDR to assess its suitability for your specific situation. This therapy is not a one-size-fits-all solution. For many, it provides a valuable tool in the recovery toolkit. This can offer a ray of hope for those feeling ensnared by the grip of postpartum depression. Engaging in EMDR could be a pivotal step toward emotional resilience and a more positive postpartum experience.

Self-Care Strategies for Managing Symptoms

Even brief moments of self-indulgence can foster a sense of normalcy and personal well-being. Embrace these practices not as luxuries, but as essential components of your recovery journey. Acknowledge that caring for yourself empowers you to care for your baby with renewed strength and positivity.

Navigating Relationships and Setting Boundaries

In the throes of postpartum depression, the dynamics of your relationships may shift, underscoring the importance of clear communication and the establishment of boundaries. It's essential to express your needs and limits to those closest to you during this sensitive period. Asserting what you're comfortable with, be it declining social visits when you're not feeling up to it or requesting specific types of help, is crucial for your emotional health. Encourage an open dialogue with your partner, emphasizing the need for mutual understanding and support. Remember, setting boundaries isn't about pushing others away. It is about safeguarding your well-being and creating a nurturing environment for both you and your baby. Recognize that it's healthy and necessary to ask for space or assistance, and those who genuinely support you will honor these requests without judgment.

The Power of Trust and Letting Go

Trusting in your inherent capabilities as a mother and allowing yourself the grace to make mistakes can significantly lighten the emotional load of PPD.

Additionally, relinquishing some control and entrusting others with tasks, even those involving your baby, can foster a healthier, more balanced environment for everyone involved. This act of letting go not only helps in redistributing the weight of responsibilities but also in strengthening the bonds of trust with those around you. The journey through PPD is one of gradual healing, learning, and growing stronger in the realization that it's perfectly okay to not have all the answers, and that reaching out and opening up is a sign of resilience, not weakness.

The journey of balancing pregnancy, work, and motherhood is akin to performing a high-wire act without a safety net. The stakes are high, and the fear of falling can be overwhelming. In this complex juggling act, pregnancy introduces a new level of challenge. This can stir up a mix of emotions and significantly amplifying anxiety. However, amidst the chaos, there's a path to harmony and well-being. Let's explore how to navigate this multifaceted journey with grace and strength.

Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Pregnancy and Work

To sail through these tumultuous waters, it’s essential to cultivate a mindset of flexibility and kindness towards oneself. Understand that it’s natural for energy levels and capabilities to fluctuate during pregnancy. Accepting this fact can lead to a more compassionate approach to self-expectations and workload management.

Embracing open communication with your employer about your needs and potential adjustments in your work environment or schedule is crucial. Likewise, building a support network that includes colleagues aware of your situation can provide a safety net for days when the balance feels particularly precarious. It’s about finding and implementing strategies that cater to your changing needs. It is also about ensuring that your health and the well-being of your unborn child are prioritized. By acknowledging the unique challenges of this journey and actively seeking solutions, you pave the way for a smoother transition through each trimester, fostering resilience against the backdrop of professional and personal demands.

The Unseen Battle: Anxiety, Depression, and Motherhood

The interplay between motherhood, pregnancy, and work often serves as a fertile ground for the development of anxiety and depression. The relentless pursuit of perfection in every aspect of life can spiral into a cycle of self-doubt, persistent overwhelm. This can lead to an eventual sense of burnout. It's imperative to recognize these emotions as a normal response to an exceptionally demanding set of circumstances. Early recognition of anxiety and depression symptoms is critical, allowing for timely intervention and support.

This phase can particularly intensify the challenge of managing everyday stressors, leading to an increased risk of experiencing feelings of not being good enough and a fear of losing control over one’s life. The pressure to maintain an unwavering façade of strength and composure only adds to the emotional load, making it harder to reach out for help. However, acknowledging these vulnerabilities can be transformative, setting the stage for a journey towards healing and equilibrium.

It's important to understand that these feelings do not define one's capabilities as a mother or a professional. They are, instead, indicators of the need for a more supportive environment and possibly professional help. Recognizing the signs and seeking assistance is a sign of strength, paving the way for recovery and a more balanced approach to the dual demands of work and family life.

Seeking Support: You Don't Have to Do It Alone

In the dynamic and often demanding journey of managing pregnancy, work, and motherhood, the strength found in community and support cannot be overstated. Acknowledging the need for help and actively seeking it is a testament to one's wisdom and resilience, not a mark of inadequacy. It’s crucial to lean into the networks available to you, whether they consist of family, friends, or professional resources. Opening up to a partner about the pressures you’re facing can create a shared understanding and collaborative solutions. Engaging with friends who uplift and encourage you can provide emotional respite and practical assistance. Furthermore, professional support groups or counseling services offer structured guidance and understanding from those well-versed in these challenges.

Embracing assistance allows for a redistribution of the load, making the path forward less daunting. It is through this sharing of burdens that a more balanced and sustainable approach to navigating this period becomes possible. By welcoming support, you not only fortify your own wellbeing but also model for your children the value of community and vulnerability. This journey, while uniquely yours, need not be a solitary one. The act of reaching out for help can illuminate the way, revealing a landscape of resources and allies ready to walk alongside you.

Setting Boundaries: The Art of Saying No

Embracing the power to say no is not about closing doors but about opening up space for what truly enriches you and your family. It’s an exercise in prioritizing, making conscious choices about where your time and energy are best invested. This may mean declining additional projects at work that conflict with your health or family time or opting out of social engagements that leave you more drained than fulfilled.

Learning to navigate these choices without guilt is critical. Society often glorifies busyness, equating it with importance or success. However, true strength lies in recognizing when less is more. By setting boundaries, you safeguard your mental and emotional well-being, ensuring that you remain resilient and energized. It is through these deliberate choices that you carve out a path that respects your needs and nurtures your family’s well-being.

EMDR Therapy: A Ray of Hope for Anxiety and Depression

EMDR Therapy, standing for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, emerges as a promising solution for those grappling with the shadows of anxiety and depression amidst the whirlwind of pregnancy, work, and parenting responsibilities. This therapy operates on the principle of facilitating the brain's innate healing processes, particularly focusing on how traumatic memories and emotional distress are processed. Through guided eye movements and a structured approach, EMDR aids individuals in revisiting emotional disturbances in a safe and controlled environment.

What sets EMDR apart is its ability to delve into the root causes of emotional turmoil without the need for detailed discussion of the distressing events, making it a less verbally intensive yet profoundly impactful therapy. This aspect is especially beneficial for those who may find traditional talk therapies daunting or re-traumatizing. By reprocessing these memories and reducing their psychological impact, EMDR therapy fosters a significant decrease in the symptoms of anxiety and depression, paving the way for a clearer path to emotional well-being.

Incorporating EMDR therapy into a holistic approach to mental health can assist in unlocking a more balanced state of mind. It stands as a testament to the power of innovative psychological treatments in overcoming the complexities of emotional distress, offering a ray of hope to those navigating the intricacies of motherhood, pregnancy, and professional life.

Incorporating Self-Care into Your Daily Routine

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep-breathing exercises, can also be powerful tools in managing stress and enhancing your emotional well-being.

Physical activity, tailored to your body’s changing needs during pregnancy, can significantly contribute to your overall health and mood. It's not about rigorous exercise routines but finding joy in movement, be it through prenatal yoga, swimming, or gentle stretching. Moreover, ensuring adequate rest is paramount. Pregnancy and early motherhood can be physically demanding, making quality sleep and relaxation crucial for your body’s recovery and well-being.

By weaving self-care into the fabric of your daily life, you create a sustainable foundation that supports not only your health but also enables you to nurture your family with renewed energy and patience. This commitment to self-care is a reflection of your strength, allowing you to embrace each day with resilience and grace.

Trusting in Your Strength and Abilities

Amid the flurry of managing pregnancy, career demands, and nurturing a family, it's crucial to anchor yourself in the belief of your own strength and capabilities. This chapter of your life, teeming with its own set of hurdles and highlights, demands a deep-seated trust in your resilience and ingenuity. Embracing this period means understanding that you possess an innate power to overcome obstacles and forge a path that aligns with your values and aspirations.

It's essential to remind yourself that while the journey is challenging, it also highlights your incredible capacity to adapt and thrive. Each day presents an opportunity to learn, grow, and extend grace to yourself, recognizing that perfection is not the goal—progress and well-being are. Celebrate the small victories, for they are testament to your perseverance and dedication.

By cultivating a mindset that appreciates your efforts and acknowledges your achievements, you create an inner dialogue that supports and uplifts you. Let this trust in your abilities be the compass that guides you through moments of doubt or uncertainty. Remember, the journey of balancing pregnancy, work, and motherhood is not just about surviving but thriving, powered by an unwavering belief in your own strength and potential.

Welcome to the wonderful world of therapy where every session is a journey into the human psyche. But what happens when the journey is internal? When the therapist is also dealing with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)? ADHD is often viewed as an obstacle, but it can also be a source of strength, especially in a therapeutic setting. This blog post delves into the world of therapists with ADHD, exploring the challenges and triumphs of navigating this unique path.

Understanding ADHD in Therapists

ADHD doesn't just choose students or artists or entrepreneurs—it reaches into every occupation, therapy included. Having ADHD as a therapist is not a rare occurrence. It's a journey marked with a unique mix of struggles and advantages. With ADHD, therapists may find they have an innate ability to connect with clients on a profound level. Their tendency to notice the subtleties that others may overlook can give them an edge. However, it’s not without its trials. Struggles with organization and concentration—hallmarks of the profession—can turn into significant obstacles. Yet, understanding these realities is the first step towards turning potential stumbling blocks into stepping stones.

The Challenges of Being a Therapist with ADHD

For example, tracking the growth and progress of clients, planning for future sessions, or dedicating time for research can become daunting tasks. The emotional heaviness that often comes hand-in-hand with therapy can amplify ADHD symptoms like impulsivity and restlessness. It's like trying to juggle while walking on a tightrope - except the balls keep changing shapes and the tightrope is swaying. But acknowledging these challenges is the first step in crafting a plan to manage them, turning them into an avenue for growth and resilience.

ADHD as a Superpower in Therapy

Imagine ADHD not just as a hurdle to leap over, but as a secret superpower within the therapeutic landscape. Yes, it's a reality that those with ADHD can bring a uniquely powerful perspective to therapy sessions. Let's start with hyperfocus. This is a common characteristic of ADHD, and it can morph into an incredible tool. It can help therapists maintain intense concentration, facilitating a profound and insightful exploration of clients' challenges.

Therapists with ADHD are often excellent at thinking outside the box. This penchant for innovative problem-solving can lead to creative and effective treatment strategies. This is particularly beneficial in therapy, where a one-size-fits-all approach is seldom the answer.

It's not about dismissing the challenges; it's about recognizing and harnessing the potential strengths that come with ADHD. In the end, it's these unique traits that can enhance the therapeutic experience, creating a deeper, richer connection with clients, and helping them navigate their own journeys with renewed strength and resilience.

Strategies for Therapists with ADHD

So, how can therapists with ADHD navigate their profession while leveraging their unique qualities? Let's explore a few strategies:

• Harness Hyperfocus: Use your ability to hyperfocus as a strength. Train your attention to center on the details and subtleties of your client's narratives. This can facilitate a deeper connection and a more thorough understanding of their struggles.
• Embrace Innovation: Your ability to think outside the box is a great asset in therapy. Use it to design creative and flexible treatment strategies that cater to your clients' unique needs.
• Connect Through Shared Experiences: Your firsthand experiences with ADHD can foster empathy with your clients. This shared understanding can make them feel seen and validated, and deepen your therapeutic relationship.
• Develop Organizational Strategies: Using organizational tools and techniques can help manage ADHD symptoms like forgetfulness and distractibility. This might include keeping detailed notes during sessions, using calendar reminders for important tasks, or utilizing task management apps to keep track of your responsibilities.
• Incorporate Regular Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care is paramount. Regular exercise, adequate sleep, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices can all contribute to managing your ADHD symptoms, as well as reducing stress and promoting overall wellness.
• Seek Professional Support: Engaging in therapy or ADHD coaching can provide you with practical coping strategies and a safe space to explore and understand your own experiences with ADHD.

Remember, while ADHD may pose challenges, it also offers unique gifts. These strategies can help you not only cope with ADHD in your therapeutic practice, but also thrive and excel.

The Role of Professional Support and Self-Care

Seeking professional assistance and prioritizing personal well-being are essential aspects for a therapist with ADHD. Coaches and therapists specializing in ADHD can provide practical techniques to manage ADHD symptoms, helping therapists align their cognitive patterns with their professional responsibilities. It's like acquiring a personal navigation system, guiding you through your professional journey.

Meanwhile, it's essential not to overlook the vitality of self-care. See it as an act of refueling your mental and physical energy reservoirs, keeping you on top of your game. Regular exercise, for instance, can boost your cognitive function, improving focus and memory. A balanced diet nourishes your brain, enhancing mental agility. Sufficient sleep acts as a reset button, helping you wake up refreshed and ready to conquer the day. And don't forget mindfulness practices! Activities like meditation, yoga, or even simple deep breathing exercises can act as a salve to soothe ADHD symptoms and stress.

Together, professional support and self-care create a comprehensive strategy, fortifying you against the challenges ADHD may present. It's like suiting up in armor, ready to turn every challenge into a triumphant victory. Remember, self-care isn't a luxury—it's a necessity. And professional support isn't a sign of weakness—it's a pathway to strength. Cultivate these elements in your routine, and watch as they transform your professional journey, one session at a time.

Embracing ADHD in Therapy

As we close, let's reflect on the vibrant journey that is being a therapist who also has ADHD. Yes, it's an adventure punctuated by trials and victories. It demands a deep sense of self-awareness, abundant compassion towards oneself, and a well-equipped toolbox of coping strategies. But more than anything, it invites an embracing of ADHD, in all its multifaceted glory. Instead of viewing it as an impediment, see it as a stepping stone, a catalyst for growth.

As a therapist, you have the power to transform your ADHD into an asset, enhancing the quality of your practice and adding a distinctive flavor to your therapeutic interactions. After all, is there anyone better equipped to traverse the labyrinth of the human psyche than a therapist who courageously navigates it personally every day? By boldly owning your ADHD, you seize it as an ally, becoming a beacon of understanding, resilience, and hope for your clients.

Do you constantly feel like you don't belong or aren't good enough? Do you fear being exposed as a fraud and worry that your accomplishments are just luck? If so, you may be experiencing imposter syndrome. This common phenomenon can lead to intense anxiety symptoms and hold you back from reaching your full potential. But don't worry, relief is possible. In fact, with the right treatment, you could start feeling like a confident and capable individual in just a few days. Keep reading to learn more about how EMDR, TF-CBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR Intensive for Busy Professionals can help you say goodbye to imposter syndrome and its anxiety symptoms for good.

Understanding Imposter Syndrome and Its Impact on Mental Health

The impact of imposter syndrome on mental health is significant. It can contribute to the development of anxiety disorders and depression symptoms. The constant fear of being discovered as a fraud can lead to a constant state of stress, which can manifest as physical symptoms, including sleep disturbances, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems.

Recognizing imposter syndrome and understanding its impact on mental health is the first step toward finding relief. By seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can overcome the negative effects of imposter syndrome and regain their self-confidence.

If you are experiencing imposter syndrome, there are innovative therapeutic approaches that can help. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and mindfulness techniques have shown promising results in reducing imposter syndrome symptoms. These therapies can help individuals challenge negative beliefs, reframe their thoughts, and develop coping mechanisms to deal with imposter syndrome.

In the following sections, we will explore the role of these therapies in combating imposter syndrome and how they can help individuals embrace their confidence and reach their full potential.

Innovative Therapeutic Approaches to Combat Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome can be a challenging mindset to overcome, but there is hope. Fortunately, there are innovative therapeutic approaches that can help combat imposter syndrome and its negative impact on mental health. Let's explore these approaches and how they can empower individuals to embrace their confidence and reach their full potential.

One such approach is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. Originally designed to treat individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR has shown promising results in alleviating imposter syndrome symptoms. This therapy works by helping individuals reprocess past experiences and negative beliefs that contribute to feelings of inadequacy and fraudulence. Through targeted eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR helps individuals process and integrate these experiences, leading to a more positive self-perception and increased self-confidence.

Mindfulness techniques are also invaluable in combatting imposter syndrome. Mindfulness involves bringing one's attention to the present moment and cultivating a non-judgmental awareness. By practicing mindfulness, individuals can gain insight into their thoughts and emotions, recognizing them as transient experiences rather than absolute truths. This can help individuals detach from imposter syndrome-related thoughts and instead focus on their skills, achievements, and strengths.

These innovative therapeutic approaches, such as EMDR, TF-CBT, and mindfulness, provide powerful tools for combating imposter syndrome. They offer individuals the opportunity to challenge negative beliefs, reframe their thoughts, and develop effective coping strategies to navigate imposter syndrome. With the right treatment, imposter syndrome and its accompanying anxiety symptoms can become a thing of the past, allowing individuals to step into their confidence and reach their full potential. Don't let imposter syndrome hold you back any longer - embrace these innovative approaches and start living your life with confidence.

The Role of EMDR in Tackling Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome can be a debilitating condition, causing individuals to doubt their abilities and constantly fear being exposed as a fraud. Fortunately, there are effective therapeutic approaches that can help combat these feelings and restore confidence. One such approach is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.

Originally designed to treat individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR therapy has shown promising results in alleviating imposter syndrome symptoms. During EMDR therapy, individuals are guided through reprocessing past experiences and negative beliefs that contribute to feelings of inadequacy and fraudulence. This can be particularly helpful for those who have experienced trauma or have deep-rooted insecurities.

EMDR therapy utilizes targeted eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help individuals process and integrate these experiences. By doing so, it helps individuals reframe negative beliefs, reduce imposter syndrome symptoms, and increase self-confidence. The effects of EMDR therapy can be long-lasting and can lead to significant improvements in overall mental well-being.

In addition to reducing imposter syndrome symptoms, EMDR therapy has also been found to be effective in treating PTSD symptoms, anxiety attacks, and depression. It addresses the underlying issues that contribute to imposter syndrome, allowing individuals to heal and grow.

If you are struggling with imposter syndrome, consider exploring EMDR therapy as a powerful tool to help you overcome these feelings and step into your confidence. With the guidance of a trained therapist, you can reprocess past experiences, challenge negative beliefs, and embrace your true abilities. Don't let imposter syndrome hold you back any longer - take the first step towards a more confident and fulfilling life with EMDR therapy.

Embracing Mindfulness to Counteract Imposter Syndrome

Mindfulness can be particularly helpful in combatting imposter syndrome because it allows individuals to detach from negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to feelings of inadequacy and fraudulence. Instead of getting caught up in self-doubt and comparison, individuals can focus on their own skills, achievements, and strengths. This shift in perspective can lead to a healthier self-image and increased self-confidence.

Moreover, mindfulness has been shown to be an effective depression treatment and anxiety treatment. By practicing mindfulness regularly, individuals can reduce stress, enhance emotional regulation, and improve overall well-being. This can have a profound impact on combating imposter syndrome, as individuals are better equipped to manage their anxiety symptoms and negative self-talk.

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can be as simple as setting aside a few minutes each day to practice deep breathing exercises, meditation, or body scans. By making mindfulness a regular part of your life, you can cultivate a sense of inner calm and resilience that can counteract the effects of imposter syndrome.

Utilizing TF-CBT as a Powerful Tool Against Imposter Syndrome

Imposter syndrome can be a challenging mindset to overcome, but fortunately, there are effective therapeutic approaches that can help. One powerful tool in combating imposter syndrome is Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).

TF-CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs that contribute to imposter syndrome. By working with a trained therapist, individuals can explore the root causes of their self-doubt and develop strategies to overcome them. This therapy helps individuals replace negative thoughts with more positive and realistic ones, building a healthier self-image and increasing self-confidence.

TF-CBT is particularly beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma or have deep-rooted insecurities. By addressing these underlying issues, individuals can heal from past wounds and grow into a more confident version of themselves.

Through TF-CBT, individuals also learn valuable coping skills to manage imposter syndrome in their daily lives. They gain tools to challenge self-sabotaging thoughts and develop healthier patterns of thinking. By integrating these new coping strategies, individuals can break free from the grips of imposter syndrome and step into their true potential.

If you're struggling with imposter syndrome, consider seeking out a therapist who specializes in TF-CBT. Together, you can embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. With the guidance of TF-CBT, you can overcome the limitations of imposter syndrome and embrace your confidence with open arms. Don't let imposter syndrome hold you back any longer - leap into a more fulfilling and authentic life.

Benefits of EMDR Intensive for Busy Professionals Struggling with Imposter Syndrome

One of the main benefits of EMDR Intensive for busy professionals struggling with imposter syndrome is the accelerated pace of treatment. Typically, EMDR therapy involves weekly or biweekly sessions over an extended period. However, with the intensive format, individuals can experience significant progress in a shorter amount of time, such as a few days or a week. This is particularly advantageous for professionals who cannot commit to long-term therapy due to their demanding schedules.

Another benefit of EMDR Intensive is the focused and concentrated nature of the treatment. With longer sessions and daily practice, individuals can delve deeper into the root causes of their imposter syndrome and work towards resolving them. This targeted approach allows busy professionals to address their imposter syndrome more efficiently and effectively, leading to quicker and more noticeable results.

Additionally, EMDR Intensive provides a supportive and safe environment for busy professionals to explore their imposter syndrome. With a trained therapist guiding the process, individuals can openly discuss their challenges, fears, and insecurities. This collaborative approach helps busy professionals gain valuable insights and develop personalized strategies to combat their imposter syndrome.

By investing in EMDR Intensive for imposter syndrome, busy professionals can experience transformative changes in a condensed timeframe. They can break free from the grips of self-doubt, gain confidence in their abilities, and ultimately excel in their personal and professional lives. Don't let imposter syndrome hold you back any longer - take advantage of EMDR Intensive for Busy Professionals and step into a future filled with self-assurance and success.

Final Thoughts: Stepping Into Confidence Despite Imposter Syndrome

Remember, imposter syndrome is just that - a syndrome. It's not a reflection of your true abilities or worth. It's a mindset that can be changed. The first step is recognizing that imposter syndrome is common and that many successful people have experienced it too. You are not alone in this.

The next step is to seek appropriate treatment. Consider the innovative therapeutic approaches discussed in this blog post - EMDR, TF-CBT, and mindfulness. These therapies have shown promising results in alleviating imposter syndrome symptoms and helping individuals embrace their confidence.

EMDR therapy can help you reprocess past experiences and negative beliefs that contribute to imposter syndrome. It can help you let go of self-doubt and embrace your true abilities.

TF-CBT can help you identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs, replacing them with more positive and realistic ones. It can help you build a healthier self-image and develop effective coping strategies.

And mindfulness can help you detach from imposter syndrome-related thoughts, focusing instead on your skills, achievements, and strengths. By practicing mindfulness regularly, you can cultivate inner calm and resilience.

Remember, overcoming imposter syndrome takes time and effort. But with the right treatment and mindset, you can step into your confidence and reach your full potential. Believe in yourself, celebrate your accomplishments, and embrace the amazing individual that you are. Don't let imposter syndrome hold you back any longer!

The weight of these symptoms can make you feel:

• Overwhelmed by the relentless stress and trauma.
• Isolated from loved ones and colleagues who may not understand.
• Trapped in a cycle of darkness, affecting every aspect of your life.

Our team at Long Island EMDR provides specialized treatment for first responders dealing with the symptoms mentioned earlier. We understand what you are going through and know how challenging it can be. You are not alone, and we are here to help you find a path forward.

Picture a life where you:

• Conquer the demons of trauma and stress.
• Regain your emotional balance and vitality.
• Reconnect with your loved ones on a deeper level.
• Rediscover your passion for your work, feeling a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Our evidence-based therapies are designed to help first responders move forward, no matter how challenging their past experiences have been. Our program utilizes treatments like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing and EMDR intensives to help individuals make progress more quickly. By implementing more flexible scheduling options, we make treatment even more accessible.

If you're ready to take action and work on improving your life, then Long Island EMDR is here to support you. When you join our program, we provide you with a welcoming environment that caters to your specific needs. We offer tailored programs and individualized support, all in the name of ensuring that you can achieve the best possible outcomes.

How Trauma Therapy for First Responders Works:

Our treatment program begins by identifying your specific pain points and what you would like to work on during therapy. Afterward, our experienced clinicians create a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs. Your treatment may include EMDR intensives or other evidence-based therapies that help reduce symptoms like stress, depression, and suicidal ideation. By taking this approach, we can offer flexible treatment schedules, and get more rapid results.

Benefits of Trauma Therapy for First Responders:

Our evidence-based therapies are designed to help first responders from the invisible wounds of your profession. We offer the support and guidance needed to take that first step forward. By prioritizing our patients' mental health needs, we can help first responders get back on track to live the lives they deserve. With our innovative treatment program and compassionate approach, we are committed to your success.

If you're struggling with symptoms of stress, depression, or post-traumatic stress, we want you to know that help is available. At Long Island EMDR, we offer innovative and evidence-based treatment that has been shown to be effective for first responders. Our compassionate approach prioritizes our clients' needs and fosters a supportive environment that leads to healing and progress. If you're ready to take that first step forward, then contact us today and start your journey to healing.

Flashbacks are our brain’s way of processing traumatic events that we’ve experienced. Our subconscious taps into those important memories but they are not contained- meaning they tend to spill out everything related to the traumatic event. For many individuals, this experience can be just as terrifying as the initial event, and result in panic or anxiety.

Flashbacks usually happen without warning. Most result from a “triggering” that occurs by an external experience. Triggers are typically sensory-based experiences that manifest via smells, sounds, tastes, textures that remind the person of the traumatic event. The sound of fireworks or a car backfiring can remind a soldier of gunfire. I once had a patient who would have flashbacks around flower shops, as the overwhelming smell of flowers would bring him back to his sister’s funeral.  

Living with flashbacks is very difficult, but with practice there are some ways you can work through these disturbing events:

1. Remember

Remind yourself that you are in a safe place and having a flashback. Use that self-talk and tell yourself, as many times as necessary, that these are only memories until you can feel yourself begin to calm.

2. Empower Yourself

3. Breathe

Fear and panic causes our breathing to become shallow and erratic. Shallow our erratic breathing exacerbates the stress we feel in that moment because our body is literally panicking from a lack of oxygen. In these fearful moments, when we slow our breathing and take deeper and deeper breaths, we actually signal to our brain and body that everything is okay. One of my favorite breathing tricks is to trace one hand with the opposite. When you go up a finger breathe in, then breathe out as you trace back to the palm of you hand. Repeat till you are calm and your breathing is regular. A meditation app such as Insight Timer can be very helpful too.

4. Honor the Experience

Going through trauma alone is not really advisable. I understand there may be feelings of shame, guilt, fear that are preventing you from feeling comfortable opening up. However, it is important for you to have supports.

Stay Shining,

Jamie Vollmoeller, LCSW

By Jaclyn Martinez, LMSW - Long Island EMDR

People’s motivation to exercise can vary so significantly depending on their personal values, goals, hobbies, and ways they take care of themselves. 

My Journey with Exercise

On one hand, there are people like me who struggle to get motivated to work out. I know it’s good for me, and I’ve seen amazing results in the past. My close friend Jessica Lopez is a personal trainer who helped me lose a significant amount of weight, tone up, and improve my overall mood, energy, and confidence after giving birth to my first child. I never felt better, and was so grateful to her for her guidance and expertise! But over time, I noticed that with additional responsibilities and a second baby on the way, I slowed down my exercise routine to the point of being out of commission for at least 2 years. My energy is always low, I’m always grumpy, and then I get all butt hurt by the fact that I’m fluffier than I prefer these days. And whose fault is that?!

But anyway, there are other people who dedicate their lives to exercise, not just for the desired physical outcomes, but because it’s like a high for them (ugh I wish I had that!). People like my friend Jessica base their lives around wellness rituals such as exercising, nutrition, and grounding to maintain positive energy in their lives. 

As reflected by Jessica Lopez, Personal Trainer, “Reaching your fitness goals is such an excellent tool to see exactly what you’re capable of with unrelenting focus and dedication. Along the way you develop habits that will allow you to keep the results. Exercising and eating a healthy, balanced diet will boost your overall mood, it’ll positively affect your decision-making skills, and even raise your own standards and expectations for yourself”. 

Benefits of Exercise

Multiple studies have shown that regular exercise can significantly improve overall mood as well as clinical symptoms of depression and anxiety. According to Mayo Clinic, ways that exercise improve mental wellness include the endorphin (a cannabis-like brain chemical) releases, distraction from stressors, improved self-confidence, socializing (meeting new people at the gym or having a consistent work out buddy) and promotes healthy coping rather than turning to substances or overeating. 

The National Center for Biotechnology Information notes that with aerobic exercise, anxiety and depression symptoms decrease due in part to increasing blood flow to the brain, stimulating parts of the brain such as the limbic system, responsible for motivation and emotion; and the hippocampus, which is responsible for memory, mood, and motivation. This blood flow in the brain helps to foster improved mood, energy, and motivation to keep up with regular exercise and fitness goals for both physical and emotional wellness.

So why do mental health providers recommend exercise? It’s not just to torture you, I promise. It is because exercising, even just taking 30 minute walks out in nature with beautiful scenery 3 days a week not only gets your blood pumping, but it can be quite relaxing and grounding to have that self care. It helps you to be able to get out of your head for a little while and just focus on the present moment. You can notice your surroundings, how your body feels, and just observe your thoughts and let them pass without judgment. Incorporating these pieces of mindfulness alongside working out can be very emotionally empowering in addition to having improved self confidence.

How do we get motivated to create and maintain the habit of working out? 

So here, we need to get creative. Motivation is not a one-size fits all. We have to take a look at what our reasons for increasing physical activity are; whether that be to improve physical health conditions, bodybuilding and/or toning, losing weight in general, or coping with emotional symptoms such as those that come with depression, anxiety, grief, and/or trauma. 

After establishing your motivator for working out, it’s time to create a schedule. Figure out how many days per week and at what times will be the most realistic for you so that you hold yourself accountable to your exercise goals. You’re doing this for a reason, so find ways to keep yourself in check and stay consistent. It gets easier and more routine when you maintain the consistency of making these new changes. 

Next, it’s time to figure out what form of exercise your body and mind need to have the best possible self care. Whether that be 30 minute walks, jogging, zumba, weight training, crossfit, body lifting, yoga, barre, pilates, or whatever floats your boat. Find your groove and stick to it. Make sure that whatever form of physical activity you choose is something you actually enjoy, otherwise it's easy to come up with a million excuses on why “I’m too busy to work out today”. 

Working out and engaging in wellness does not have to be a drag. We can find ways to fit this into our daily routines at least 3 times per week to have a noticeable change to our mood, energy, cognition, and productivity in our lives. I highly recommend hiring a personal trainer to help you assess your current needs to ensure your fitness goals are being properly and safely addressed as they have the expertise to help you reach your goals safely. You will feel a world of difference with a little added consistency and encouragement from others, such as personal trainers, or fellow work out buddies to improve physical health and have an emotional outlet. 

By Jaclyn Martinez, LMSW - Long Island EMDR

Sources:

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression-and-exercise/art-20046495

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1470658/

By Jillian Martino, CAT-LP

What is Self-Love?

So, what is self-love? We all talk about it and influencers constantly preach about it. But what exactly is self-love? Why do we all want it? Most importantly, how do we get there? Self-love is the practice of having a positive attitude towards yourself. The main ingredient of self-love is learning to accept and appreciate yourself for who you are and understanding your worth and value. When you are actively engaging in self-love, you are able to have a healthy relationship with yourself and take care of your emotional, physical, and mental wellbeing. Loving yourself is about being kind and compassionate to yourself, as well as recognizing and honoring your needs.

Finding, accepting, and loving yourself is the best thing you can do for your own growth and mental health. When you love yourself, you truly understand yourself. Learning to love yourself also helps us go after what we want, because we finally know what we deserve, making life more fulfilling.

For a lot of us this sounds great on paper but sounds as realistic to us as wizards and warlocks. So, this begs the question, how do we learn to love ourselves when we were taught against it from birth? This blog will explore that exact thing. Before we can make you a self-love master, we need to talk about what is blocking and making loving yourself so hard.

The Impossible Task of Self Love

Loving yourself doesn’t come naturally to all of us. Even though it’s something we are all capable of, some of us find it harder than others to unconditionally love ourselves. I myself was one of those people, knowing firsthand how hard it can be. I have also learned also how to move through the high and lows that come with this journey.  

Self-love can be difficult because we often have trouble accepting ourselves as we are and recognizing our own worth. It can be difficult to practice self-love when we are surrounded by messages from society that tell us that we are not enough or that we need to compare ourselves to others, not to mention the standards we set for ourselves or from our families. We cannot have self-love without acknowledging our own unique strengths, challenges, vulnerabilities-accepting ourselves in spite of our “imperfections”. It requires us to focus on our needs, and not feel selfish or guilty for taking care of ourselves. It's not easy, but with practice, self-love can become one of the easiest and most rewarding parts of our life. Let’s breakdown some of the common reasons people struggle with self-love: 

 What you think is self-love isn’t realistic… 

Sometimes loving yourself is hard because we have an unrealistic definition of self-love. Have you ever taken a moment to think about what it means to you to love yourself??  If you are anything like me, you believe self-love is some giant overly indulgent act of kindness to yourself, and frankly who has time for that? Not me. Where was I supposed to fit in an hour of self-care with my schedule? I loved a “Treat-yo self” moment, but it fit better in Parks and Recreation than in my world. 

The problem was I didn’t understand that self-love isn’t something I needed to carve time out for, but a mindset that I could carry throughout my day.

It’s not about blocking out an hour to have a bath or get a facial (although this is a great way to give yourself some love and care), but rather it is embedded in all of the actions you take throughout the day. Starting as early as the moment we wake up. 

The truth is caring for ourselves begins with how we speak to ourselves: 

• Self-love is saying kind things about yourself.
• Self-love is praising yourself for all that you do.
• Self-love is affirming that you’re worthy. 

It can be hard to be positive, especially when we are used to being negative with ourselves. Trust me even, I’m still working on it, but you can begin to bring in more self-love by canceling out some of the negativity with positive affirmations. Here are a few affirmations that I love: 

• I accept myself for who I am.
• I accept myself for where I’m at 
• I love myself unconditionally. 
• I am loveable. 

Some fun ways I like to include affirmations into my life is by writing them on my mirror or by setting reminders on your phone, so they pop up in the day. Setting them as your phone background is also another fun easy way to make affirmations a staple in your life. 

Learning to love yourself is about being mindful of the choices we make throughout the day and paying attention to how our choices affect our wellbeing. 

2. You are hardwired to have a negative bias for yourself.

Most humans struggle with shame, which is one of the largest reasons we have trouble loving ourselves. Shame keeps us focused on the “should ofs”, “could ofs”, and “buts” of our life. Shame is the voice in our head saying we are never enough, and we can always do better. It keeps us focused on our past failures and not where we are right now. Shame’s main goal is to convince us we are not worthy of love. For a lot of us, shame can be very convincing. 

We experience shame when we feel a sense of guilt, humiliation, and/or embarrassment around who we are.  Oftentimes, it is connected to the belief that we are failing to meet social expectations or our own personal standards. It makes us feel unworthy or inadequate and can lead to a laundry list of negative feelings such as depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. It is important to recognize the difference between guilt and shame, as guilt is often a sign of healthy self-reflection and accountability, while shame can be damaging in the long run. Guilt is, "I'm sorry I made a mistake” while shame is, “I’m sorry, I am a mistake.”

Before I learned to love myself, I was the queen of self-deprecation.

The truth is that it is easy to fixate on all of the things we’ve ever done wrong and go over all the ways in which we wish it was different for the rest of our lives. However, our thoughts can’t change the past. All we can do is accept that we’re human and sometimes. We may not like who we were or things we have done. If anything, that is even more reason to send that little you love. In the wise words of Rupaul “If you can’t love yourself, how in the hell you gonna love somebody else?” Can I get a hell yeah?? Self-love means showing up and presenting yourself to the world fully without fear or shame. The truth is that it can only come from you!

For as long as I could remember I would look back to the decisions I made in my late teens and think “Girly what were we thinking?” I would berate myself for all that I was, and all of the things I thought I should have been that I clearly wasn't reaching.  The truth is that I was powered by a whole lot of shame. No matter what I did, I was never enough, and my family was really good at reminding me of that exact thing. 

Dealing with Shame

It was easy for me to live in this space of shame. It was all I knew and was fed to me in so many areas of my life (but we’ll get into that in a further section). Shame is hard, but it took me actively choosing to make a difference, to change the narrative of what I had been telling myself, and finally seeing myself for who I am and not who I thought I was. Sometimes you have to draw a hard line in the sand and decide you deserve better than being your own bully. I needed to choose to love myself in every form- especially the parts that felt so impossible to deal with. 

3. The War between Acceptance and Perfectionism 

It can be hard for us to love ourselves because how we feel about ourselves is based on what others think of us. This can become our mentality for many reasons, such as:  

• Growing up in a household where love is conditional.
• Being mistreated in a romantic relationship
• Someone has said something horrible to you.
• Social media and comparing ourselves to others.
• Struggles with perfectionism. 

We were all born worthy and loveable, however over time along the way we collect a narrative from other people that we aren’t all these things. As we experience negative situations/interactions, it can affect us and damage our self-worth. 

This lack of self-worth leads to us becoming our harshest critics-and start to focus on our flaws and scrutinizing our flaws to no end.

We end up being a perfectionist and start comparing ourselves to others, asking ourselves why we aren't thinner, prettier or smarter. In some areas, being a perfectionist can be a good thing, but when it comes to ourselves, it’s a losing battle. You’re not a project, and ‘perfectionism’ doesn’t exist. However, many of us get stuck on feeling as though we need to be perfect by society standards, or unrealistic standards we or our families have set for us. For many of us, our parents, teachers, or other significant people around us have told us who and what we should be from a young age. You might have thought that you’ve needed to be financially stable, a certain weight, or in a relationship in order to be worthy. 

Avoid Unhealthy Comparisons

It can become very easy to get stuck in the loop of comparing ourselves to others, especially with the unattainable perfectly photoshopped bodies we see on social media and the external expectations that have been set for us by society. All these comparisons do is keep us stuck in an endless cycle of not fully seeing ourselves and accepting ourselves for who we are. 

4. You think self-love is selfish… 

Okay so let’s talk about one of the biggest misconceptions around self-love. 

Self-love is entirely selfless. Loving yourself does not harm anyone, but what it does is make you a better friend, partner and colleague. Why? Because when we love ourselves, we are happier. We show up for ourselves, go after what we deserve, and never accept anything less.

After I was able to stop telling myself that I was selfish for loving myself, a change happened. People in my life started to comment on how I seemed lighter, happier, and more me. I started attracting healthier friends and partners. I finally not only knew who I was but loved who I was, and the right people noticed.

It may sound narcissistic to focus on loving yourself first. But it’s not. The point isn’t to believe you’re better than others, or to accept things about yourself that you really do need to change. It’s about developing a healthy and nurturing relationship with you!

Self-Love Mastery 

The act of loving ourselves is our birthright and brings you to the life you are dreaming of. We are the key to having everything we want, but first we have to believe we are deserving of it. Like the saying goes, “Love yourself first and everything else falls into place.”

 Self-love is essential for a healthy and balanced life. It means understanding your needs and feelings, and responding to them in a positive, adaptive way.

Here are some tips on how to practice self-love during your day to day:

• Practice positive self-talk. You deserve it! Don’t forget our affirmations!
• Spend time engaged in activities that make you feel good.  Surround yourself with people who don’t judge you and accept you unconditionally, no matter where you are in life. 
• Take care of your physical health. Eat a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and remember to rest when you need to.
• Let go of perfectionism. Remember being perfect isn’t real, and being human is one of the most beautiful things we can be. Mistakes help us grow, so lean into them. 
• Celebrate yourself whenever you can. Acknowledge your accomplishments and take pride in them.
• Set healthy boundaries! Don’t be scared to say “no” when you need to and be clear about your needs and wants.

Learning to love ourselves is an ongoing process. It takes time, effort, and lots of patience. But it’s worth it and mostly you’re worth it. Self-love will bring you more joy and happiness in life, and it’s something that we all deserve. I know it may feel impossible, but you are capable! <3 Jillian Martino, CAT-LP

We all go through unenjoyable experiences, which can be unpleasant all the way up to a full-blown crisis.  At the mild end of this spectrum, it could be the cat seriously stunk up the litter box, you forgot to put out the garbage before the collection time, or someone left just a quarter-cup of milk left in the carton – you know, enough for them to lazily put it back in the refrigerator, but not enough for you to do anything with it. These are all a series of annoyances but generally they are not enough to disrupt our entire day.

There are also those times in our lives when we will experience far more severe circumstances, such as the death of someone we cared about, the end of a relationship, or financial hardships. Sometimes these events can be compounded, too, further adding to the burden. For instance, perhaps you were the caregiver to the person who died. During the caregiving journey, your romantic partner became fed up with your anxiety about the person’s illness and oncoming death, and so they broke up with you. That exacerbated your stress further, and you found yourself recklessly spending to cope with all the stressors. But then you fell behind on paying your credit cards, utilities, and other bills. As a result, you feel as if you are drowning from all the pressures.
However, some people, such as those with borderline personality disorder (BPD) feel the distress of these situations more intensely than others. Furthermore, their psychological pain can be seemingly out of nowhere, as if driven only by internal factors – it can be difficult for them to identify the source or reason of the pain, and only know that it hurts.

It is important to learn effective, healthy, long-term skills to properly cope with intense psychological pain, thereby surviving crises. For those with BPD or other disorders where emotional pain can be especially sharp, if they have not learned the right coping skills to tolerate these issues and the emotions, they may end up coping through dangerous or impulsive means for an immediate “fix” to the situation (i.e.., self-harm, substance abuse, promiscuous sex, overspending, etc.). These behaviors may feel helpful in the moment because they take the edge off, but in the long term they are only making things harder for the individual.

And why is this pain more intolerable? Consider the following. Dr. Marsha Linehan, Ph.D., ABPP, who developed a renowned therapy for BPD called dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), said, “people with borderline personality disorder (and those like them) are people with third-degree burns over 90% of their bodies. Lacking emotional skin, they feel agony at the slightest touch or movement.”

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Through DBT, people who experience severe emotional turmoil can learn distress tolerance skills that will let them endure painful situations and cope with the urges to surrender to harmful behaviors. Dr. Linehan splits distress tolerance skills into three groups: crisis survival techniques, sensory body awareness, and reality acceptance. Please note as this article is meant to be a simple introduction to DBT, the skills listed below all pertain to crisis survival skills; it is not meant to be an exhaustive, final list of all the distress tolerance skills!

Distress Tolerance

DBT is a subform of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Originally, it was designed for people with BPD and/or suicidal ideation – essentially, the people in the greatest emotional turmoil. Over time, research found that DBT can be effective in the treatment of other mental health diagnoses, too, such as depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Some of the skills are useful regardless of if a person has a mental illness or not, and simply need a better way to cope with a situation.

DBT is especially beneficial for people with a highly sensitive temperament.

DBT is taught in four modules: mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. This article will only focus on distress tolerance as the writer plans to cover the other modules in future articles.

The Goals of Distress Tolerance

According to Dr. Linehan, the point of the distress tolerance skills is the following:

• Survive crises without making them worse through behaviors.
• Accept reality as it is. Replace suffering and feeling “stuck” with manageable, normal pain and the belief of moving forward from the crisis.
• Become liberated of having to “give in” to intense emotions, desires, and urges.

The When/Why/How to Use Distress Tolerance Skills for Crisis Survival

The crisis survival skills are considered skills of last resort. They should not be executed for coping with minor frustrations, or changing a situation or emotion, as those issues are better for the emotional regulation skills. Rather, the crisis survival skills should be employed for the following cases – anytime there is an actual or perceived crisis:

• An individual is going through severe emotional or physical pain that will not be relieved soon (i.e., diagnosed with a serious, chronic medical issue).
• Someone wants to behave on an emotion or urge that will only make the outcome worse (i.e., drinking to “drown out” a problem).
• A situation is exhausting and overwhelming, but there are needs that must be addressed (i.e.., someone may feel depressed about a heated argument with their romantic partner, but they still need to care for their baby).
• Someone desires to “fix” an issue that cannot be resolved right away.

Below are three of the distress tolerance skills for crisis survival.

Final Points…
The skills listed above are not the typical “psychology 101 self-help” skills, but rather are ones that are meant to be utilized only after being fully understood to thus prevent misuse that could end up making the situation backfire. Without context and more background, it can be difficult to know when, why, and how to properly use the skills. This writer emphasizes the importance of working with a DBT-informed therapist for DBT skills. Contact Long Island EMDR today if you are interested in such help!

– Valerie Smith, LMSW, CFTG