September, which marks the fall shift from longer days to longer evenings (or the opposite for those in the Southern Hemisphere), conjures a shift in cycles, pace, and priorities. For some, this change is welcomed after a long summer of events, socializing, childcare, or work. For others, it can be daunting, as colder, darker days remind us of the struggles of winters gone by, such as higher bills and worries about mental health.
September marks Suicide Prevention Month, an opportunity to bring attention to the rising rate of suicide in the US, mourn the loss of those who have lost their lives to suicide, and extend a hand to the families so deeply affected by their loved ones’ passing. This month is also an opportunity to break the stigma with respect to mental health, substance use, and suicide that remains too prevalent in the US.
Many people are unable to talk about the issues they are facing for fear of judgment and wide-ranging repercussions in their social, educational, and employment spheres. The stigma around mental health care can discourage individuals from seeking treatment. This month and beyond, let us all renew our commitment to this very important task and help ensure that people in our communities have access to the support and connection they need.
If you or anyone you know ever feels lost and alone, any time of the day or night, you can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.
Monthly Blog Round-Up
The following is a round-up of our monthly blogs in case you missed any on our social media pages.
Growing up with a narcissistic parent can have profound and lasting effects on a child's emotional and psychological well-being. Such parents often prioritize their own needs and desires, leaving their children feeling neglected and unimportant.
Children may develop low self esteem, seek constant validation, or struggle with self-worth issues. They may become overly self-reliant or overly dependent as they navigate this tumultuous environment marked by unpredictable mood swings and emotional manipulation.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is an anxiety disorder that is closely linked with body image and self esteem. Previously known as dysmorphophobia, BDD causes an intense preoccupation with perceived aesthetic flaws or physical defects, which are often associated with the face, skin, hair, or weight.
Individuals with BDD become intensely focused on these perceived flaws, which are often minimal or non-existent. Many people with BDD will view their bodies in a “distorted” manner, where they view features or perceive size differently from reality.
This week is Suicide Prevention Week, an opportunity to bring attention to and examine the rising rate of suicide in the US. Suicide can be a difficult topic to discuss. For many, it is a raw and upsetting subject that evokes memories of thoughts or events they would rather leave in the past.
How each person interacts with discussions and campaigns around suicide is personal and should be respected. Here, we will explore the rise of suicide in the US, the stigma surrounding it, and the process of recovering from a suicide attempt.
Dual diagnosis, also known as co-occurring disorders, is a situation where an individual experiences two or more distinct medical or psychological conditions simultaneously. It often refers to the coexistence of a substance use disorder alongside a mental health disorder.
This co-occurrence can complicate diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, as the two conditions often interact with and influence each other. For example, substance abuse can exacerbate symptoms of a mental health disorder, while mental health issues can contribute to substance misuse as a way of self-medicating.
