Navigating Thanksgiving Gatherings with DBT Skills: Building Stronger Connections

Navigating Thanksgiving Gatherings with DBT Skills: Building Stronger Connections

Thanksgiving is a time to come together with loved ones, share gratitude, and make lasting memories. But let’s face it—holiday gatherings aren’t always picture-perfect. Whether you’re reconnecting with distant relatives, handling unsolicited advice, or navigating sensitive conversations, the season can come with its challenges.

That’s where Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, like GIVE and FAST, can help. These practical techniques are designed to strengthen relationships, maintain self-respect, and foster meaningful interactions, even in tricky situations. By approaching Thanksgiving with kindness, curiosity, and authenticity, you can turn potential stressors into opportunities for connection and joy.

Curious how these skills can transform your holiday? Read on to learn how to make this Thanksgiving your most fulfilling one yet!

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Tools for Successfully Managing ADHD as an Adult
Sam Ellis Sam Ellis

Tools for Successfully Managing ADHD as an Adult

Managing ADHD as an adult can be challenging, especially with responsibilities in work, relationships, and personal life. However, with the right strategies and tools, you can stay organized, improve focus, and manage ADHD-related stress. Here’s a look at some of the most effective tools and approaches to help adults with ADHD succeed.

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Tools for Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in Fall and Winter
Sam Ellis Sam Ellis

Tools for Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) in Fall and Winter

As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, many people start to feel a shift in their mood. For some, this is more than just the "winter blues"—it’s a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This form of depression occurs during the fall and winter months and can significantly impact daily life. The good news is that there are strategies, informed by Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and other therapeutic practices, to help manage symptoms and improve well-being through the colder months.

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Recognizing Depression in Adolescents: What to Look For and How to Help
Depression, Adolescents Sam Ellis Depression, Adolescents Sam Ellis

Recognizing Depression in Adolescents: What to Look For and How to Help

Adolescent depression can be difficult to recognize as it often presents with irritability, withdrawal from social activities, changes in sleep or appetite, and risky behaviors like substance abuse. Unlike typical teenage mood swings, depression symptoms persist for weeks, impacting daily life and relationships. Early intervention, such as therapy or counseling, is crucial to help teens manage their emotions and improve their mental health. If your teen shows signs of depression, consulting a healthcare provider for a professional evaluation is essential​

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How to Spot Postpartum Depression and How Psychiatric Intervention Can Help Manage It
Sam Ellis Sam Ellis

How to Spot Postpartum Depression and How Psychiatric Intervention Can Help Manage It

Bringing a new baby into the world can be a joyous time, but for many mothers, it can also be overwhelming and emotionally challenging. It's natural to feel a range of emotions after childbirth, but when sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness persist, it could be a sign of postpartum depression (PPD). Understanding how to spot the signs of PPD and knowing how psychiatric interventions can help manage it are essential steps in ensuring a healthy recovery for both mother and baby.

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Examples & Strategies for Setting Boundaries in Different Circumstances
Sam Ellis Sam Ellis

Examples & Strategies for Setting Boundaries in Different Circumstances

The DEAR MAN strategy is a powerful tool for effectively communicating your needs while maintaining healthy relationships. Whether you’re setting boundaries at work, expressing your feelings in a personal relationship, or advocating for yourself in a difficult situation, this technique helps you remain assertive and clear. By using DEAR MAN, you can navigate challenging conversations with confidence and increase the likelihood of getting your needs met. Practicing this skill regularly can enhance your interpersonal effectiveness and create more balanced, respectful interactions.

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Harnessing the Power of Light Therapy to Improve Mental Health
Sam Ellis Sam Ellis

Harnessing the Power of Light Therapy to Improve Mental Health

Light therapy is an effective and non-invasive treatment option for mental health conditions, particularly depression. With over 100 clinical trials supporting its efficacy, it has become a standard approach to managing seasonal and non-seasonal depression. This article explores the benefits of light therapy, how it works, and its role in managing various mood disorders.

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Exercises To Calm Your Anxious Thoughts
Sam Ellis Sam Ellis

Exercises To Calm Your Anxious Thoughts

Anxiety can feel overwhelming, with racing thoughts and a restless body, but exercise offers a powerful, natural solution to bring calm and balance. Whether it’s a gentle yoga routine, a brisk walk, or an intense cardio session, physical activity has been shown to ease anxiety symptoms, improve mood, and promote overall mental well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind how exercise helps manage anxiety and offer practical tips for incorporating movement into your routine for better mental health.

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