Tag: mental-health
-
Working Through Shame
Shame can leave us feeling unworthy and disconnected, but healing is possible through self-discovery and compassion. In this article, Dr. Christine E. Dickson outlines strategies to work through shame—such as identifying its roots, practicing vulnerability, challenging shame-based beliefs, and embracing self-forgiveness—so you can reclaim your sense of worth and rebuild self-esteem.
-
The Zones of Regulation Framework for Children
Socioemotional challenges like ADHD, autism, and anxiety are common in children today. The Zones of Regulation, created by occupational therapist Leah Kuypers, is a simple color-coded framework that helps kids identify their feelings, manage emotions, and improve social skills. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, one key step is recognizing triggers — the people, places,…
-
Analyzing Yourself on the Middle Path
The middle path is a mindfulness-based approach that replaces black-and-white thinking with balance and flexibility. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, instead of swinging to extremes, we can consider multiple perspectives, weigh options, and use coping skills to both feel and manage emotions. Practicing mindful awareness helps us notice when we’re drifting to an extreme…
-
Overcoming the Impostor Syndrome
Imposter syndrome is a common but painful experience marked by self-doubt, perfectionism, and the fear of being exposed as a fraud. Even highly accomplished people often struggle silently with these feelings. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, imposter syndrome creates a cycle of anxiety, negative self-talk, and discounting achievements—but it is possible to break free.…
-
4 Ways to Cope with Panic Attacks
Panic attacks can feel overwhelming, but resisting or fighting the symptoms often makes them worse. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, the key is to face the sensations with compassion, accept what your body is doing, and allow the wave of panic to rise and fall naturally. With grounding strategies such as calming breath, mindful…
-
To-Do List for the Mind
Most of us rely on to-do lists to stay organized and productive, but what if we created a to-do list for the mind? As Dr. Christine E. Dickson discovered, using a to-do list app to write positive thoughts instead of tasks can help us value and practice them daily. By reading this list each morning,…
-
6 Steps to Staying Sane in the Conflict Zone
Conflict is an inevitable part of life, but learning how to manage it can protect our wellbeing. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, staying calm in the “conflict zone” is a skill we can develop. By avoiding triggers, not taking things personally, giving ourselves time-outs, practicing mindful breathing, talking through feelings, and keeping a sense…
-
How to Make a Shame Siren
Toxic shame convinces us that we are “not good enough” or “worthless,” fueling anxiety, depression, and destructive behaviors. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, the first step in healing is recognizing when we shame ourselves or allow others to shame us. Using tools like the “Shame Siren” and daily affirmations, we can externalize shame, reclaim…
-
7 Ways to Overcome Perfectionism
Perfectionism is one of the strongest drivers of anxiety, rooted in the belief that worth depends on achievements. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, perfectionism often leads to self-criticism, burnout, and low self-esteem—but it doesn’t have to. By recognizing unhealthy thinking styles, focusing on progress over flaws, setting realistic goals, and embracing pleasure in daily…
-
How to Take Hold of the Mind
Before we can calm the mind, we must first calm the body. Meditation—through simple practices like breathing, mindful walking, or body scans—creates the foundation for taking hold of our thoughts. As Dr. Christine E. Dickson explains, learning to step back and observe the mind as a “witness” helps us see thoughts as stories rather than…