a metaphor for putting on a happy face when you are actually depressed

What Is Smiling Depression?

If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, know that help is available. Dial 988 to reach The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline 24/7 for immediate support.   Living with smiling depression can be an isolating experience, as individuals often mask their internal struggles with a cheerful exterior. This facade makes it difficult for others to recognize…

self love and positive affirmations help a woman stay focused in recovery

The Importance of Self-Love and Positive Affirmations

Many struggling with substance abuse and mental health issues find themselves confronted with a self-deprecating, self-doubting inner voice. This can cause individuals to experience negative emotions and encourage unhealthy mental states, making self-love a challenge. Overcoming these struggles and healing means overcoming negative thought patterns through positive affirmations, humility, and trust in something greater. It…

a man struggles to cope with depression during the holidays

How to Handle Depression During the Holidays

While the holiday season is viewed by most as a time of happiness and celebration, it can also be an emotionally charged time that challenges coping skills. Even those who love the holidays can succumb to feeling stressed, anxious, exhausted, and overwhelmed. The holiday season can exacerbate symptoms for people who already struggle with mental…

flowers coming out of a wooden head cutout to show mental health awareness month

The Importance of Mental Health Awareness Month

May has been recognized as Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States since 1949. This effort’s main goals are to educate the public about the wide-reaching impacts of mental illness and reduce the stigma associated with it. Organizations work together to advocate for policies that support those who have mental illness and highlight the…

a person leans against a window wondering what are suicidal thoughts

Suicidal Thoughts: What They Are and How You Should Respond

Suicide, the act of intentionally taking one’s own life, is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, and claims nearly 47,000 lives annually. The rates of attempted suicide, harming oneself with the intent to die but not dying, are even higher. Suicide affects all…

a person with headphones engaging in music therapy for depression

How Can Music Therapy Help with Depression

Music has powerful mental effects and can quickly impact a person’s mood. A music therapy program uses the inherent mood-enhancing properties of music to help improve mental health and overall well-being. The psychological effects of music are powerful and far-reaching. Music therapy is essential to comprehensive mental health treatment for many mental health disorders, including depression. Harmony…

a patient talks to a therapist during manic depression treatment

Quality Treatment for Manic Depression

Manic depression is the former term for bipolar disorder. The change was made in 1980 in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), the industry standard for diagnosing mental health disorders. Manic depression was initially used to refer to any mental illnesses centered on mood or emotional problems. The…

a group of people participate in a mood disorder treatment center florida

Finding a Mood Disorder Treatment Center in Florida

Mood disorders are a serious mental health issue that can significantly impact an individual’s daily life. When left untreated, they can lead to severe emotional distress and even self-harm. Therefore, seeking professional help from a mood disorder treatment center in Florida is crucial for individuals struggling with these conditions. There are various types of mood…

a person looks sad while in bed under a blanket wondering how is depression diagnosed

How Is Depression Diagnosed?

Depression symptoms can vary significantly from person to person, making it difficult to diagnose. However, by understanding the common methods used in diagnosing depression, individuals can better recognize their own symptoms and seek proper treatment. If you are asking, “How is depression diagnosed?” or “How is clinical depression diagnosed?” you are already on the path…

a person gets a blood pressure reading during an intensive outpatient program for depression

Finding an Intensive Outpatient Program for Depression

An intensive outpatient program for depression represents a comprehensive, structured approach to mental health care designed to provide a high level of support without the need for hospitalization. This form of treatment allows individuals to continue living at home and maintain certain daily responsibilities while receiving the care and therapy they need. With a focus…