Thursday, December 31, 2015

Open Carry in #Texas is now LEGAL. I’ve been attacked by a man...



Open Carry in #Texas is now LEGAL.

I’ve been attacked by a man with a gun. It was bought legally. He had a concealed weapons license. He had U.S. infantry training. He also was deemed “unfit” to join both the Houston Police Department and the US Border Patrol. He was allowed to own a gun, but no longer fit to use it for work. One night he got angry, pinned me to the ground and put his gun to my head and screamed he’d kill me. Later, he threatened to come to my office and start shooting. He still holds his concealed weapons permit and can now carry in the open. Hope you don’t run across him. And you think because someone holds a concealed weapons license they must be mentally stable enough to handle a gun? Think again.


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Hello 2016! I have some new years resolutions I won’t bore you...



Hello 2016!

I have some new years resolutions I won’t bore you with. But my biggest hope for the new year is to learn from the mistakes of last year. I’ve been battling depression for fifteen years now. The medications are less and less effective, but I’m determined to find a better way. Like Thomas Edison said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”


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yourmajestyyy: 😍 So sweet 💗



yourmajestyyy:

😍

So sweet 💗


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By Exposing Himself To Fear, A Man Conquers It : Shots - Health News : NPR

The Fox Fur Nebula

'​Doll Hospital Journal' Is a Zine Made By and for People with Mental Health Issues

'​Doll Hospital Journal' Is a Zine Made By and for People with Mental Health Issues:

Last year, PHD student Bethany Rose Lamont started looking for an outlet through which she could convey her experiences with suicidal thoughts beyond “depressing, unsettling” tweets and personal essays. So she posted a question on Twitter asking whether there would be any interest in a zine focused on mental health issues, examined through a feminist-queer intersectional lens.


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Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Ah Eeee Achoo!

Is Anxiety Genetic?

Confucius say….



Confucius say….


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psychanddeath: Brain scans reflecting the emphatic importance...



psychanddeath:

Brain scans reflecting the emphatic importance of a mothers love on a child’s development.(Both are Brain scans of two three-year-old children). Brain of neglected child is much smaller than that of a normal three-year-old.

The child on the left will be probably be more intelligent and will more likely be able to empathise with others whilst the child on the right has a higher chance of being involved in drugs and violent crime -  The child on the right is also more likely to develop mental and other serious health problems.

Love is all you need - The Beatles


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Tuesday, December 29, 2015

micdotcom:Texas cuts funding for Planned Parenthood’s HIV...





micdotcom:

Texas cuts funding for Planned Parenthood’s HIV testing services

A Houston-based Planned Parenthood affiliate was recently informed that the Department of State Health Services would not be renewing a grant that funds HIV care and prevention services. Thousands could feel the consequences of this decision.

Really sad to hear this.


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"There is no point treating a depressed person as though she were just feeling sad, saying, ‘There..."

“There is no point treating a depressed person as though she were just feeling sad, saying, ‘There now, hang on, you’ll get over it.’ Sadness is more or less like a head cold- with patience, it passes. Depression is like cancer.”

- Barbara Kingsolver, The Bean Trees
(via wordsnquotes)

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I HATE hearing stuff like this when I’m going through...



I HATE hearing stuff like this when I’m going through something incredibly difficult, but its true. My pain today will allow me to help someone in the future. It has before, it will again. My friends that have also lost a baby have helped me tremendously over the past few weeks. And even though I’m not ready yet to face the world, maybe I will be tomorrow.


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Saturday, December 26, 2015

elloellenoh: liberalisnotadirtyword: Yes, I prefer Bernie Sanders. But if Hillary Clinton’s the...

elloellenoh:

liberalisnotadirtyword:

Yes, I prefer Bernie Sanders. But if Hillary Clinton’s the nominee, I’m voting for her. I will be damned if I live in a country with a President Cruz or President Trump.

Important to remember. We must vote. If you choose not to vote because you prefer Bernie over Hilary or vice versa, then it essentially becomes a vote for the Republican party. Please vote.

What they said!


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Tips for Coping with a Dreary Mood

Hiding from the world today



Hiding from the world today


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How I Beat The Christmas Blues: I skipped Christmas. My husband...



How I Beat The Christmas Blues:

I skipped Christmas. My husband and I checked into a hotel, treated ourselves to a nice dinner, and forgot the rest of the world. It was just what I needed. Just what we needed.

The holidays were particularly awful this year because I had a miscarriage a week before Christmas Day. I couldn’t bring myself to fake happiness at Christmas parties or spend hours cooking or even be around family at all. I needed space to grieve.


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10 Things I wish I’d known About Gaslighting

10 Things I wish I’d known About Gaslighting:

rapeculturerealities:

Gaslighting is the attempt of one person to overwrite another person’s reality. There’s a good chance that you now know more about gaslighting than most therapists. And that is really unfortunate, because if you have experienced gaslighting, it’s going to be really hard to untangle it yourself. Unfortunately, you may have to, and I want to tell you that you are not alone. Let me share my experience. Here are 10 things I wish I’d known at the beginning


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psych2go: If you like these posts, be sure to check out...





















psych2go:

If you like these posts, be sure to check out psych2go

This is so cool!


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"Don’t let it break you. No matter how difficult things seems right now, life will go on, and you..."

“Don’t let it break you. No matter how difficult things seems right now, life will go on, and you will survive.”

- OCC (via onlinecounsellingcollege)
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Morrissey, Bard of the Sorrowful



Morrissey, Bard of the Sorrowful


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Really trying hard to look on the bright side today. Got up...



Really trying hard to look on the bright side today. Got up early to get my hair done, it was an hour round trip, and the stylist didn’t bother to show up. Still grieving. Not sleeping well. Everything kinda sucks.

Seperating the Major Depressive Disorder from the grief is difficult. I find myself trying to snap out of this haze, but then I remember I lost a baby and grief is normal and a process that I should allow to run its course.

So I will stay in bed today and binge on Netflix. I won’t allow myself to feel guilty about it. This time, its ok to give in to the sadness.

I suppose the silver lining is that when I’m ready to start trying to conceive again I’ll be better at being healthy. Not that I wasn’t taking care of myself before, because I was being very health conscious. But I can be better at it. I have a goal and I can achieve it.


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Tuesday, December 22, 2015

Monday, December 21, 2015

"The soul’s joy lies in doing."

“The soul’s joy lies in doing.”

-

Percy Bysshe Shelley


When dealing with my own problems today, a friend called in a frenzy, crying, and upset. Helping her with her problem made mine go away for a bit, made me feel useful, and ultimately a little better about my own problems.


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Wednesday, December 16, 2015

"Most adult children of toxic parents grow up feeling tremendous confusion about what love means and..."

Most adult children of toxic parents grow up feeling tremendous confusion about what love means and how it’s supposed to feel. Their parents did extremely unloving things to them in the name of love. They came to understand love as something chaotic, dramatic, confusing, and often painful—something they had to give up their own dreams and desires for. Obviously, that’s not what love is all about.

Loving behavior doesn’t grind you down, keep you off balance, or create feelings of self-hatred. Love doesn’t hurt, it feels good. Loving behavior nourishes your emotional well-being. When someone is being loving to you, you feel accepted, cared for, valued, and respected. Genuine love creates feelings of warmth, pleasure, safety, stability, and inner peace.



- Susan Forward, Toxic Parents, p381 (via fromonesurvivortoanother)
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r/awww

Keep a Sleep Diary to Get a Better Night’s Sleep

Keep a Sleep Diary to Get a Better Night’s Sleep:

There’s nothing as restorative as a full night’s sleep, so when you’re not getting that, it can be the most aggravating problem to solve. To help figure it out, get a journal and keep a sleep diary. via Pocket

A lot of people don’t realize Insomnia is a mental health disorder. In fact, the only doctors that treat sleep problems are psychiatrists and cardiologists. My insomnia comes and goes but has been pretty brutal in the past. I went six days once without sleep, maybe a few short naps but couldn’t stay asleep, and I started having auditory hallucinations. I had to go to the ER and get an injection of diazepam to stop the insomnia cycle. If your lack of sleep is affecting your day to day life you should talk to a doctor.
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Study finds surprising links between bullying and eating disorders

Study finds surprising links between bullying and eating disorders:

Being bullied in childhood has been associated with increased risk for anxiety, depression and even eating disorders. But according to new research, it’s not only the victims who could be at risk psychologically, but also the bullies themselves. via Pocket


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Tuesday, December 15, 2015

Tips for Coping with an Awful Day

onlinecounsellingcollege:

1. Distract yourself. Let your mind wander and think about fun things you’ve planned; or watch a funny movie; or call up a friend.

2. Play your favourite music.

3. Try and balance out your terrible day by thinking of something that went really well (and maybe unexpectedly well) recently.

4. Try and squeeze in time for exercise. The endorphins this releases will help to lift your mood.

5. Don’t isolate yourself. Research shows that we generally feel better if we spend time with others, rather than retreating and being on our own.

6. Try to maintain perspective. Ask yourself, “How much will this matter - a week, month or year from now?”

7. Try journaling. Many people find that just writing things down helps to drain away the negativity.

8. Go to bed early and try to fall asleep … And remember that tomorrow is another day.


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"The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury."

“The best revenge is to be unlike him who performed the injury.”

- Marcus Aurelius (via onlinecounsellingcollege)

I will not repeat other’s hurtful mistakes


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Reduce Your Stress First Before You Start Building Better Habits

Reduce Your Stress First Before You Start Building Better Habits:

Your bad habits make you stressed. That sucks. What’s worse, is the more stressed you are, the harder it is to make new habits. It might be better to deal with your stress levels first. via Pocket


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@ people dealing with mental illness

phan-phanwho:

I know the Christmas time is a good time to spend money on people and show people you appreciate them, but your mental health is more important. 

The Beatles said “you can’t buy me love”. So this year, I’m sending out really awesome holiday cards instead of spending money to show I care.


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App Recommendation Submission

mental-health-advice:

Hey! I just thought it’s a nice idea to mention that there’s an app called “Vent.” People are able to vent and the community is really supporting there. Some of your followers might like using the app. 💕 😊

Hey love,

Thank you so much for sending this in.  It means a lot that our followers are willing to send stuff like this in.  You can find it for free on iTunes here and free on the Google Play store here.  Feel free to message us any time.  Best of wishes!!!!!!

-Ashlynn


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Mental Health Tips

onlinecounsellingcollege:

· Daydream – Close your eyes and imagine yourself in a dream location. Breathe slowly and deeply. Whether it’s a beach, a mountaintop, a hushed forest or a favourite room from your past, let the comforting environment wrap you in a sensation of peace and tranquility.

· “Collect” positive emotional moments – Make it a point to recall times when you have experienced pleasure, comfort, tenderness, confidence, or other positive emotions.

· Learn ways to cope with negative thoughts – Negative thoughts can be insistent and loud. Learn to interrupt them. Don’t try to block them (that never works), but don’t let them take over. Try distracting yourself or comforting yourself, if you can’t solve the problem right away.

· Do one thing at a time – For example, when you are out for a walk or spending time with friends, turn off your cell phone and stop making that mental “to do” list. Take in all the sights, sounds and smells you encounter.

· Exercise – Regular physical activity improves psychological well-being and can reduce depression and anxiety. Joining an exercise group or a gym can also reduce loneliness, since it connects you with a new set of people sharing a common goal.

· Enjoy hobbies – Taking up a hobby brings balance to your life by allowing you to do something you enjoy because you want to do it, free of the pressure of everyday tasks. It also keeps your brain active.

· Set personal goals – Goals don’t have to be ambitious. You might decide to finish that book you started three years ago; to take a walk around the block every day; to learn to knit or play bridge; to call your friends instead of waiting for the phone to ring. Whatever goal you set, reaching it will build confidence and a sense of satisfaction.

· Keep a journal (or even talk to the wall!) – Expressing yourself after a stressful day can help you gain perspective, release tension and even boost your body’s resistance to illness.

· Share humour – Life often gets too serious, so when you hear or see something that makes you smile or laugh, share it with someone you know. A little humour can go a long way to keeping us mentally fit!

· Volunteer – Volunteering is called the “win-win” activity because helping others makes us feel good about ourselves. At the same time, it widens our social network, provides us with new learning experiences and can bring balance to our lives.

· Treat yourself well – Cook yourself a good meal. Have a bubble bath. See a movie. Call a friend or relative you haven’t talked to in ages. Sit on a park bench and breathe in the fragrance of flowers and grass. Whatever it is, do it just for you.

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Don’t know what my problem is today, but my motivation is...



Don’t know what my problem is today, but my motivation is zero. Woke up at a decent time, but went back to sleep until noon. I’ve been laying in bed reading the news on reddit. Nothing is particularly bothering me. So why can’t I get it together? Wish I knew.

Lately, I’ve been using Cognitive Behavior Therapy to overcome my anxiety and mood. But you have to be aware of what’s affecting you to be successful at changing your thinking towards it. I just feel blasé about everything in general. I’m not sure how to fix my frame of mind today. I’m open to suggestions.


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"I haven’t lost any friends; I’ve just discovered who my true friends are."

“I haven’t lost any friends; I’ve just discovered who my true friends are.”

- Unknown (via onlinecounsellingcollege)
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4 Signs Someone Is Insecure

4 Signs Someone Is Insecure:

Being able to detect insecurity in the people around you can help you shake off the self-doubts that some people seem to enjoy fostering in you. Taking the high road, and not giving in to these self-doubts, may also help you foster feelings of fulfillment both in yourself, and in the insecure people you know and care about.


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How to Keep Your Head Up in the Constant Stream of Bad News

How to Keep Your Head Up in the Constant Stream of Bad News:

Doing your best to stay up with current events can often feel like drowning in a torrent of never ending bad news. With information coming at you in every direction, it’s easy to get burned out. via Pocket


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Monday, December 14, 2015

NYC To Teens: TXT ME With Mental Health Worries: Health News : NPR

NYC To Teens: TXT ME With Mental Health Worries: Health News : NPR:

The majority of teenagers with mental health issues don’t get help. But maybe if help were just a text message away — they wouldn’t be so hesitant to reach out.

That’s the thinking behind NYC Teen Text, a pilot program at 10 New York public high schools that allows teens to get help with mental health issues by text.


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"Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal."

“Nobody realizes that some people expend tremendous energy merely to be normal.”

- Albert Camus (via wordsnquotes)
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A Social Network Designed to Combat Depression | WIRED

A Social Network Designed to Combat Depression | WIRED
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extramadness: More quotes here



extramadness:

More quotes here


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7 Methods I Use to Cope With Seasonal Depression | xoNECOLE

7 Methods I Use to Cope With Seasonal Depression | xoNECOLE
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41 Awesome Mental Health Resources When You Can’t Afford A Therapist

euo:

mentalillnessmouse:

Note: Resources are listed alphabetically by type.

Mental Health Apps

1. ACT Coach

ACT Coach teaches users how to tolerate negative thoughts and feelings by virtually guiding them through awareness exercises and giving tips on how to ditch self-doubt. With an extra focus on mindfulness, this app also provides a log to track your progress. (Free; iOS)

2. AETAS

Designed by therapist Rosemary Sword, this app uses Time Perspective Therapy, a method developed to unglue us from unhelpful or obsessive thoughts.

Chockfull of visual aids to encourage relaxation and self-soothing, AETAS also arms users with a time perspective inventory that helps them understand how they view the past, present and future will either help or hinder their happiness. ($4.99; iOS)

3. Breathe2Relax

Sometimes, all we need to de-stress is take a few deep breaths.

Created by the National Center for Telehealth and Technology, this app teaches users how to do diaphragmatic breathing. Features include educational videos on the stress response, logs to record stress levels and customizable guided breathing sessions. (Free; iOS and Android)

4. DBT Diary Card and Skills Coach

This app works as a daily mood and thought diary. But it also has a coaching module that gives tips on sticky emotional situations, like how to ask for what you need without drama or how to successfully resolve conflict.

And users get positive reinforcement when they’re consistent with their entries. The app also includes a super helpful DBT reference section for more info on coping skills — all backed by research. ($4.99; iOS)

5. Depression CBT Self-Help Guide

Need help managing the blues? Monitor dips in your mood, learn about clinical depression and treatments, try guided relaxation techniques and learn strategies to challenge negative thinking with this app. It’s all just a few taps and swipes away. (Free; Android)

6. eCBT calm

Implementing some of the many strategies of cognitive behavioral therapy, this app helps users assess their stress levels, practice mindfulness and relaxation skills, and connect their thoughts to feelings and behaviors.

The end result is more calm in your everyday life and more awareness of your actions and emotions. ($0.99; iOS)

7. Happify

Want to kick negative thoughts, nix worry and dial down stress? The array of engaging games, activity suggestions and gratitude prompts makes Happify a useful shortcut to a good mood.

Designed with input from 18 health and happiness experts, Happify’s positive mood-training program is psychologist approved. Even cooler? Its website links to bonus videos that are sure to make you smile. (Free; iOS)

8. How Are You

Tracking your moods can help you fight the blues and teach you to tune into positive things. That’s the premise behind this app.

But, as a bonus, it also allows you to compare your mood with worldwide averages, see which emotions you feel the most and export your mood tracking data so you can share it with a mental health professional or trusted friend. ($9.99-$12.99; iOS and Android)

9. MindShift

This straightforward stress management tool helps users re-think what’s stressing them out through a variety of on-screen prompts.

At the same time, the app encourages new ways to take charge of anxiety and tune into body signals. (Free; iOS and Android)

10. Operation Reach Out

This mood tracker and resource locator was designed by Emory University researchers to aid in suicide prevention.

The setup is simple: Users create a personal profile that includes emergency contact information, current medications, safety plans and reminders for appointments or medications.

Plus, the app uses GPS to locate mental health care services nearby, should any user enter crisis mode. (Free; iOS and Android)

11. PTSD Coach

If you suffer from PTSD symptoms, this 24-hour tool that’s linked directly with support services is a valuable thing to download.

Available as an app or on the Web, PTSD Coach lets users select the specific issue they want to deal with (from anxiety and anger to insomnia and alienation), and then gives them guidance on how to lift their mood, shift their mindset and reduce stress. (Free; iOS and Android)

12. Quit It

If you’re a smoker, you probably already know all about the nasty health consequences. But that probably doesn’t stop you from lighting up.

This app’s approach is different. It shows you the hit your wallet takes every time you get another pack. Even better: Quit It calculates how much money you save each time you don’t smoke.

Think of it as extra financial incentive to kick nicotine and tobacco (and save for something far better!). ($1.99; iOS)

13. Quit Pro

Think of this as a fitness tracker for your smoking habit. By monitoring your cravings over time, the places you puff the most, the triggers that lead you to light up and the money you save by resisting a cigarette, this comprehensive app is a much better thing to have in your back pocket than a pack of smokes. (Free; iOS and Android)

14. SAM

How do you know what’s pushing you over the edge and reel yourself back in? SAM’s approach is to monitor anxious thoughts, track behavior over time and use guided self-help exercises to discourage stress.

SAM takes it to the next level by offering a “Social Cloud” feature that allows users to confidentially share their progress with an online community for added support. (Free; iOS and Android)

15. Step Away

A study funded by the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found this pro-sobriety app helped reduce heavy drinking among users by 60 percent.

Step Away offers tips on maintaining sobriety, encouragement and strategies to avoid drinking during stressful times. You’ll also be able to plug in your top drinking triggers to prepare yourself before facing down any tricky situation. (Free; iOS)

16. Stop, Breathe, Think!

Got five minutes? That’s enough time to cultivate mindfulness, which can improve your mood, lower stress and help you feel more compassion toward yourself and the world.

Skeptical? Well, consider that mindfulness and happiness tend to go hand-in-hand. And as added incentive, this app can also improve your focus. (Free; iOS and Android)

17. Stop Drinking

Relying on the powers of relaxation, visualization and positive suggestions, this pro-sobriety app has the goal of calming your mind and getting it to a less stressed place — where you’ll be less likely to crave a drink.

Take advantage of the reminder feature that gives periodic chimes to prompt you to breathe and focus on the good throughout the day. ($2.99; iOS and Android)

18. Stress and Anxiety Companion

Sure, we know that releasing negative thoughts, practicing relaxation techniques and engaging in mindful awareness is good for our wellbeing. But that doesn’t mean we actually do it.

This app can help make the process a lot easier by guiding you through proven techniques to reduce those off-kilter thoughts and emotions while cultivating a much more present mindset.

Additional features allow you to identify anxiety triggers to make sure they don’t catch you off-guard. ($4.99; iOS)

19. Talkspace

Bet you didn’t think you could chat with a therapist for just $25 a week. Well, Talkspace makes that possible.

For that low fee, you can text message with a trained professional every day of the week, as many times as you want. They also offer services for individuals and couples. Oh, and the best part? You can do it from your couch. ($25/month; iOS and Android)

20. Worry Watch

We all get anxious only to realize later our anxieties were overblown or irrational. The idea behind Worry Watch is to nip these moments in the bud.

This app enables users to track what kickstarts their anxiety, note trends in their feelings, observe when the outcomes were harmless and keep tabs on insights to stop future freakouts.

To lower your anxiety even further, Worry Watch is password protected, so whatever you divulge in the diary feature is safe and sound. ($1.99; iOS)

Websites, Online Support and Forums

21. Body Dysmorphic Disorder Foundation

People with Body Dysmorphic Disorder have a damaging preoccupation with their appearance and an obsessive focus on their physical flaws. If that sounds familiar, you might find some relief on the BDD Foundation’s website.

Resources for better understanding the problem, seeking treatment and spreading the word about the disorder are all laid out here.

22. Center for Complicated Grief

Hosted by the Center for Complicated Grief, this long list of resources gives people a ton of alternative outlets, social support groups and organizations to connect with when healing from the loss of a loved one.

23. CenterLink: The Community of LGBT Centers

Founded in 1994 as an alliance to promote and maintain LGBTQ community centers, CenterLink’s helpful services have now moved online.

Check out all they have to offer — from links to health centers across the US to advocacy groups and educational services.

24. GLBT National Help Center

A great resource for folks identifying all across the LGBTQ spectrum, this site includes information on everything from support to education to community organizing.

One of the center’s best resources is its online volunteer-run chat room. All chats are confidential (read: no transcripts or recordings are saved). Chats are open 1 pm to 9 pm PST during the week and between 9 am and 2 pm PST on weekends.

25. Healing From BPD

For anyone with borderline personality disorder, this peer-run chat is the perfect online space to ask questions about BPD and its treatment, especially considering that mental health professionals often chime in.

It’s also a place to share experiences, discuss progress and challenges, and potentially make some new friends who get where you’re coming from because they’re right there with you.

26. IMAlive

If you’re in a place where picking up the phone seems too daunting, you can still access support through IMAlive’s virtual crisis chat.

Staffed by a network of trained and supervised peer volunteers around the country, IMAlive’s goal is to empower individuals in despair, address their situations and help them navigate the darkest and most difficult emotional times.

27. International OCD Foundation

An invaluable space for those struggling with obsessive compulsive disorder, this site has many links, resources and opportunities to get involved in the ongoing fight to preserve mental health.

Find help, learn more about the illness and even apply for grants here.

28. MentalHealth.gov

The main goal of this government-sponsored resource is to educate as many people as possible about the realities of mental illness in America while offering resources to those seeking help.

Consider this your go-to site for a rundown on what mental health disorders look like. It also includes information on how to get help, support someone you love, or start a dialog about mental health in your community.

29. National Alliance on Mental Illness

From education about mental illness to updates on insurance coverage, NAMI offers a slew of resources. People who want to get informed about the workings of the mind and our government’s recognition of mood and behavioral disorders will get the full scoop here.

But arguably the most helpful resource is the heart-wrenching and hopeful personal stories from individuals across the country sharing their accounts of living with mental illness.

30. National Center for Victims of Crime

This impeccable resource enables victims of all types of crimes (think: bullying, physical abuse, stalking and even terrorism) to secure the specific type of help they need.

Individuals in need can plug in their desired assistance, from case advocacy to counseling, along with their state and county for immediate, local help ASAP.

31. National Eating Disorder Association of America

A pioneer in the education and treatment for eating disorders, NEDA extends a wide range of support services, learning tools and opportunities to advocate on behalf of those with an eating disorder.

You can also get involved with the association’s sister program, Proud2BMe, and join a community geared toward promoting a healthier relationship with food and weight.

32. National Institute of Mental Health

One of the most comprehensive and trusted sources for information about mental illness, the National Institute of Mental Health’s site is packed with educational tools designed to promote awareness and provide funding for research.

It serves as a hub on a variety of topics: the latest news on a range of disorders, updates on new treatments and reports on insurance coverage. And, yes, you can also search for support via NIMH’s site as well.

33. OK2Talk

Designed for teens and young adults with mental illness, this site offers an online outlet for people to come forward with their own stories, find support and discuss the diagnoses they may have received.

OK2Talk comes with plenty of motivational posts and mantras as well. One quick look at the site will tip you off that, whatever you’re struggling with, you’re most certainly not alone.

34. Stalking Resource Center

You probably already know stalking is an extremely serious issue. But you may not know what type of help to seek if you or someone you know is a victim. Here’s where the Stalking Resource Center can help.

They present a number of options for anyone struggling with endless unwanted attention or obsessive behavior. From a brochure explaining what stalking is (and how to tell if you’re being followed) to tips on developing a safety plan, this site should be the first stop for anyone in need of assistance.

35. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

This government-sponsored resource is chockfull of data, research insights, grants and educational tools about substance dependencies and mood or behavioral issues. SAMHSA also offers many resources for people suffering from these issues.

36. Trevor Space

Are you a young person seeking support for an identity that falls along the LGBTQ spectrum? This site, an endeavor sponsored by the Trevor Project, is an excellent safe haven to connect to other young gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans* or queer people.

You’ll also pick up news about LGBTQ issues and get tips for joining in the community, wherever you live.

Hotlines and Call Centers

37. Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center: 1-888-694-2273

If you’ve been diagnosed with borderline personality disorder — or you have a hunch you or a loved one may be displaying symptoms of BPD — the social workers staffing the Borderline Personality Disorder Resource Center’s hotline can arm you with all the information you need about local resources and provide immediate over-the-phone counseling.

38. National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255

With the primary aim of keeping you going even in the darkest of times, this suicide prevention hotline is available 24/7 to offer a compassionate ear — no matter what you’re dealing with.

Pour your heart out to a skilled staffer without fear of being judged, and if you’d like referrals to local mental health care services after your call, hotline representatives can set you up.

39. Disaster Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990

If you’ve recently been the victim of a disaster (whether caused by nature or man), this is your go-to contact for all things related to counseling and relief. The trained counselors staffing the Disaster Distress Hotline provide help to those suffering in the wake of hurricanes, floods, wildfires, droughts and earthquakes as well as incidences of mass violence or health epidemics (like the Ebola crisis).

The call center is also open to friends and family members of victims. An alternative way to connect is to text “TalkWithUs” to 66746.

40. GLBT National Help Line: 1-888-843-4564

Need to talk to someone who gets it when it comes to coming out, being bullied for your sexual orientation, or navigating same-sex relationships? Look no further than the GLBT National Help Line, run by peers and allies of the LGBTQ community.

This hotline is ready to hear your concerns and can connect you to the GLBT National Help Center’s massive list of resources for LGBTQ-friendly services and organizations near you.

41. GLBT National Help Center for Youth: 1-800-246-7743

If you’re under 21 and looking to speak with a peer counselor who really understands issues related to gender or sexual identity, this is the number to call. Similar to the national help line, this version for youth lets young LGBTQ-identified individuals dial in to talk about hardships faced in their day-to-day lives.

Callers can also access a ton of resources to help bolster them well into their 20s and beyond.

YOOOOOOOO


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"The only thing I’m committed to right now is bettering myself."

“The only thing I’m committed to right now is bettering myself.”

- (via deeplifequotes)
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"The greatest way to live with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be."

“The greatest way to live with honor in this world is to be what we pretend to be.”

- Socrates
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Sunday, December 13, 2015

Please Share

I intended this blog to be about dealing with my depression and PTSD. But there is SO much talk about guns right now and they are the reason I have PTSD to begin with.

HOW MANY OF YOU HAVE **PERSONALLY** BEEN ATTACKED AND HAD SOMEONE PUT A GUN TO YOUR HEAD AND THREATEN TO PULL THE TRIGGER?

HOW MANY OF YOU?

I have.

The gun was purchased legally. My attacker was ex-army. He was judged to be mentally unfit to join the Houston Police Department and the US Border Patrol but deemed fit to own a firearm. When informed there would be a restraining order against him he threatened to come to my office and start shooting. Thankfully, that was the one promise he didn’t keep. I had to quit a job I loved and move 300 miles to get away from him.

This “man” is still out there. In Texas. I hope you never come across him.

PLEASE, tell me again why open carry in Texas is a good idea. Tell me again why better screening processes and longer waiting periods for purchasing firearms isn’t a good idea.

Eight years later, I still have panic attacks related to this event. I’m lucky to be alive. I fear that as a result of this pro-gun agenda, many will not be so lucky. And no, had I been armed I would not have been able to keep him from doing what he did. Had I been armed he wouldn’t have hesitated to pull the trigger.


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Saturday, December 12, 2015

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How to Answer the Awkward, Private Questions Your Family Always Asks

How to Answer the Awkward, Private Questions Your Family Always Asks:

Because no one knows how to put their foot in it like family


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Friday, December 11, 2015

"Care about people’s approval and you become their prisoner."

“Care about people’s approval and you become their prisoner.”

- Lao Tzu
(via fuckyeahyoga)

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"I’ve never met a strong person with an easy past."

“I’ve never met a strong person with an easy past.”

- Unknown
(via fyp-philosophy)

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"I’m not afraid of my truth anymore, and I will not omit pieces of myself to make you more..."

“I’m not afraid of my truth anymore, and I will not omit pieces of myself to make you more comfortable.”

- Alex Elle (via wnq-anonymous)
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"Success is going from one failure to another without loss of enthusiasm."

“Success is going from one failure to another without loss of enthusiasm.”

-

Winston Churchill


I had a conversation with my aunt recently about what I was dealing with in therapy. I have one brother and two cousins and we are all very close in age although, I am the oldest. My brother is a successful chef, one cousin is a very impressive landscape architect, and the other cousin is a music prodigy and teaches piano.

I’m very proud of them, but I find myself comparing their success to my lack thereof and I get depressed and frustrated about it. I know I shouldn’t. I know we all have different paths and different obstacles to overcome.

My aunt told me that I was a success. Not all success is measured by how great your paycheck is, or how many awards you win, or how quick success is achieved. She told me that I had a successful marriage, that I was successful at taking care of my family, that I genuinely cared about others and I had a great gift of passion. I had failed to look at the bigger picture and had a very narrow view of what success really meant.

Keeping this new perception of success in mind, I continue to chip away at having my ultimate career. Slowly, perhaps, but I make an effort everyday. Especially after I fail. With creativity I can solve any problem. With enthusiasm I will not quit.


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Kindness In Action

Kindness In Action :

Its getting cold out there. This is the second news story I’ve read about distributing care packages for the homeless. A couple of protein bars, and travel size toiletries like deodorant, hand sanitizer, talcum powder, tissues and shampoo can really help. Also, clean socks and underwear and gloves. You can get all these items at the dollar store!


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Thursday, December 10, 2015

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali criticises Donald Trump

Boxing legend Muhammad Ali criticises Donald Trump :

Without naming Mr Trump, Mr. Ali said that Muslims “have to standup to those who use Islam to advance their own personal agenda”.


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Madonna performs impromptu Paris gig

Madonna performs impromptu Paris gig:

in tribute to the victims of the 13 November attacks.

She began by singing Ghosttown and then moved on to John Lennon’s Imagine and her classic track Like A Prayer.


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Common Defense Mechanisms

onlinecounsellingcollege:

Defense mechanisms are unconscious psychological strategies that help us to cope with reality whilst also preserving our self esteem. Normal, healthy people use them regularly. However, some unhealthy defenses include:

1. Acting out: This is directly expressing an unconscious impulse without realising what is driving the behaviour.
2. Fantasy: This is retreating to a fantasy world to escape, or resolve, conflicts we are battling with.
3. Idealization: This is unconsciously choosing to see another person as being more ideal or perfect than they really are.
4. Passive aggression: This is expressing our anger indirectly, for example, through being late or doing something that “inadvertently” destroys another’s plans.
5. Projection: This is attributing our own unacknowledged, and unacceptable, thoughts and emotions onto someone else.
6. Somatization: This is translating negative thoughts and feelings into physical symptoms. For example, suffering from migraines when you’re dealing with a difficult relationship.
7. Denial: This is refusing to accept reality because it is too painful or threatening.
8. Regression: This is temporarily reverting to an earlier stage of development to avoid handling problems and concerns in a more appropriate and adult way.
9. Distortion: This is totally reshaping your picture of reality so it’s now consistent with your internal needs.
10. Splitting: This is a primitive defence where the negative and positive aspects are split off – and there’s no integration of these parts at all. For example, the person may view others as being either completely good or completely evil, rather than a mixture of good and bad traits.


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"He who is brave is free."

“He who is brave is free.”

- Seneca
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Wednesday, December 9, 2015

goodbyesocialconstructs: I agree that the stigma around mental illness needs to be erased but...

goodbyesocialconstructs:

I agree that the stigma around mental illness needs to be erased but honestly I think that a bigger priority should be actually expanding access to mental health services.

Because oftentimes even when people are strong enough to ask for help, they are not able to get it. This is especially true for low income folks.

Even if we didn’t have stigma around mental illness and everyone was comfortable openly identifying as having depression, PTSD, etc., what good is it if there is no help out there for them?

I’m sick of seeing all of these organizations and people making feel good posts about “suicide hotlines” and shit, like yes those are really good and helpful, but we also need long term solutions like funding and access to long term therapy for people, solutions that don’t just focus on the moment of crisis but actually comprehensively help people.


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extramadness: More quotes here I have to remind myself of this...



extramadness:

More quotes here

I have to remind myself of this ALL THE TIME!


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extramadness: More inspiring quotes here We are always...



extramadness:

More inspiring quotes here

We are always evolving!


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