A “winter funk” or “winter blues” is fairly common. I’ve read reports that say as many as 25% of Americans suffer winter blues, while around 5% suffer from the more severe seasonal affective disorder (SAD). We can differentiate SAD from winter blues; just because you feel down in the winter, doesn’t mean you have SAD.
December. No matter what you celebrate (or don’t celebrate), this time of year is a mixed bag. We have the opportunity to experience so many great things — parties, maybe a couple of days off work, a chance to catch up with friends and family, sparkly lights, snow (OK, this is a good thing to me, but I know not everyone loves it!), giving, COOKIES, and so much more. Despite that, many people feel stressed, sad, or overwhelmed. Not everyone can be with their family and friends and not everyone can afford all of *this.* The over-commercialization of just about everything this time of year is upsetting to lots of people. The list goes on and on for the good and not-so-good this time of year.
My previous post covered finding and selecting a therapist through making the first appointment. You’ve scheduled your first appointment -- now what? Chances are you have mixed emotions. Maybe you’re nervous? Anxious? Exited? Scared? All of these and more? This post should help demystify that first appointment.
Is this your first time considering therapy? First time you've started looking at therapist's websites? I bet you're wondering if you really need help or if there is anything or anyone that can help you. I bet you're also wondering how to decide on a therapist... and what that first appointment will be like. I hope this post helps.
There are a LOT of apps out there to help you on your therapeutic journey. While I am still happy to give my clients good old-fashioned paper, I find that most of us prefer to use our phones or tablets. Not only is that often preferred , but the processing we can do in the moment can be more beneficial than waiting to write things down. Here are a few apps that are reliable, easy-to-use, and come with a seal of approval from me and past clients!