Why would this be? Over the last 10 years we have seen our country go to war; sending kids to Iraq, yes to defend our Country, but it is still someone's child and even entertaining the thought of never seeing your child again must be heart- wrenching. Since 2008, we have seen an economic decline, disaster, actually. People are losing their homes, jobs, downsizing, taking pay cuts and to handle it all, they are masking their true pain, anxiety, frustration and depression with excessive drinking, violence and a wide array of other self-destructive behaviors.

These life experiences are challenges that many people are experiencing. So, when does it go too far? It goes too far when the individual does not give themselves permission to experience and embrace the pain. It goes too far when they become embarrassed, ashamed because people see them in a certain way; rich, successful, happy marriage and functional. Sadly, they are dying inside. Or maybe they are overridden with pride that they would not even consider talking to someone. Talking to someone, a professional and/or even a friend to confide in helps release the emotions that are pinned inside, giving them room to mentally breathe and cope with life. When we speak to someone they can guide us on how to cope with the situation, handle stress and resolve crisis and conflict.

With demands, pressures, and responsibilities, people are experiencing more stress than ever before. In order to manage stress, we need to learn skills that can help us do just that. More people are recognizing the benefit of Integrative Medicine in helping them manage stress and cope with LIFE. The University California of San Diego established The Center for Mindfulness. Their focus is to integrate Mindful Based Stress Reduction which was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D. Mindful Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is recognized and practiced in medical institutions and is being used as the primary intervention for Mind/Body medicine. MBSR is used to manage stress, anxiety, depression, irritability, life transition, professional and academic demands, sleep disturbances, chronic pain and many other ailments and challenges. Mindfulness is a skill that teaches us how to live in the moment with complete awareness by focusing in on our breath and experiencing life with clarity and focus. Majority of us do not know how to breathe, so this helps you do just that.

Other practices include; laughter, eat healthy, get moving, managing energy by stepping away from projects and computers for a moment; taking a technology free day (keep phone on for emergencies). We are too inundated and accessible to others and it is unnecessary. Get more sleep. Sleep is essential for overall health and wellbeing. Without it, comes irritability, stress, anxiety and depression. In "Behind Happy Faces" by Ross Szabo writes , college kids are suffering from depression, anxiety and ideations of suicide because the lack of self care, and not getting enough sleep. If you are not getting enough sleep please practice some of the following; put your computer away 2 hours before bed-time, breathe, meditate, journal, light candles (Just make sure to blow them out before actually falling asleep), play soft music to name a few.

I could keep going on the importance of self-care and wellness. I do hope you received valuable information here. Should you need further information on this very important topic, please contact me at: tanya@tanyabrown.net

In Good Mental Health,
Coach T