In the wake of recent fires that hit close to home in Jasper, many of us are grappling with how to cope with overwhelming emotions. Witnessing the devastation of "natural disasters" often triggers a range of intense feelings, from sorrow and frustration to anger. This emotional turmoil, known as eco grief, is becoming increasingly common.
Read MorePostpartum depression (PPD) is a significant mental health condition affecting approximately 10-20% of new mothers, surpassing the common "baby blues" which affect up to 80% of women postpartum and include temporary mood swings, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. PPD, however, is more intense and long-lasting, impacting a mother's ability to care for her newborn and herself.
Read MoreSuperstition in sports is a fascinating phenomenon that extends far beyond mere habit. For many athletes, these rituals and traditions serve as psychological anchors, helping them feel in control in a world where outcomes are often unpredictable. At the heart of superstition lies a fundamental human desire for control. In high-stakes environments where outcomes are uncertain, people turn to rituals and traditions to create a semblance of order. This behavior is rooted in a psychological concept known as "illusory control," where individuals believe their actions can influence outcomes that are actually determined by chance.
Read MoreAs we welcome June and the warm sunshine, please join us in celebrating the National Indigenous History Month. Celebrating the rich and vibrant history and culture of the Indigenous peoples of Canada is imperative to recognize the strength, resilience, and contributions that they have previously made, and continue to make to create the beautiful land we call home here in Canada.
Read MoreSports fandom is a fascinating phenomenon that grips millions of people around the world. Whether it's the roar of the crowd in a packed stadium or the quiet intensity of watching alone at home, sports have a unique ability to evoke strong emotions in fans. Nowhere is this more evident than in the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs, where the dedication of Edmonton Oilers fans will be on full display.
Read MoreEven after an Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) session ends, your brain continues its transformative work. ART helps rescript traumatic memories into more positive versions through a process called "positization." This is facilitated by a mechanism known as "reconsolidation," where the brain changes how memories are stored, forming new, healthier beliefs and perspectives. This is often referred to as "rescripting" in the scientific community.
Read MoreTrauma can leave deep scars on the psyche, affecting individuals in myriad ways, from intrusive thoughts and flashbacks to anxiety and depression. Yet, amidst the shadows of trauma, there exists a beacon of hope: the combined power of group therapy and yoga. Individually potent, these modalities become even more impactful when integrated, offering a holistic approach to healing that addresses the mind, body, and spirit. In this article, we'll delve into the benefits of combining group therapy with yoga and how they work synergistically to alleviate symptoms associated with trauma.
Read MoreModern research continuously delves into the intricate link between mental and physical health, exploring how emotional states impact our well-being and gene expressions. Meanwhile, TCM has understood this connection for thousands of years, correlating emotions with specific organs and acknowledging their influence on physical health.
Read MoreWinter in Alberta brings with it a unique set of challenges that can leave even the hardiest of us feeling drained and demotivated. As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, many Albertans find themselves grappling with winter burnout. Let's explore some common symptoms and effective strategies for mitigating the effects of this seasonal phenomenon.
Read MoreAs the cold winter months gradually give way to the blossoms of spring, there's more to celebrate than just the warming weather and the vibrant colors returning to the world. For many individuals, the arrival of spring signifies a welcome relief from the grips of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that typically occurs during the darker, colder months of the year.
Read MoreNo matter how much therapy you are able to access, or how adjusted and neurotypical you are, sometimes the only thing that will make it better is just a sobbing, snotty, ugly cry. Whether it is a 'head-under-the-cover-hiding-from-the-world' cry or a good old-fashioned 'parking-lot-with-a-burger' sob, there is nothing quite like the catharsis of a good tear-fest.
Read MoreIn an era where the world is at our fingertips, social media has become an integral part of daily life for billions of people. From endless feeds of curated content to captivating stories that beckon our attention, the allure of scrolling is undeniable. However, beneath the surface lies a darker reality – the detrimental impact of excessive scrolling on our mental health. In this article, we'll dive into the phenomenon of "doom scrolling" and explore how constant engagement with social media can take a toll on our well-being.
Read More