[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The end-of-year holidays can bring a set of stressors that carry over into the new year. An often neglected resolution is to look inside and become in tune with one’s needs and wants. Melinda Simon, Psy. D. and Brian Wissink, LPC, owner and manager partner respectively of Delta-Waverly Psychological Associates, were asked what steps individuals could take to be mentally-fit:
Brian: Daily meditation is the best way to sustain a sense of being grounded and feeling calm inside. Preferably twice a day for 10-20 minutes. Clear your mind of all intrusive thoughts, and concentrate on your breath. Live in the present.
Melinda: The letdown often begins before the holidays, Many people do not experience the holidays the way ‘we are supposed to’, all gladness and joy. holidays can highlight financial stress, family discord or grief and loss. target the ‘holiday blues’ with plans to have fun and feel mentally nourished. Plan as carefully for after-the holidays as you do for the actual celebration days. Having a game plan for taking care of you overcomes the feeling of ‘What now?’
Brian: Negative self-talk is almost always an automatic reaction to something in our environment. everyone must actively work to become aware of when they use negative self talk. Replace personal criticism with a positive affirmation that clearly reflects your well intentioned inner self.
Melinda: Many people resort to ‘white lies’ about their busyness. it’s important to be brutally honest about what you say ‘yes’ to. taking on an extra task or invitation to please someone usually ends up in regrets. if it’s an invitation, thank the person for the invite, let them know you’d like to come, but you have too much on your plate. We worry so much about hurting others’ feelings. The reality is people are very resilient and will understand your absence.
Brian: Yes, mindfulness is key. Take time to think about taking on an extra project or going to an event you dread. Ask yourself if you’ve thought through whether taking on a commitment will satisfy your needs and wants. it’s not being selfish to take care of yourself. When you decide what to do, commit to not regretting your decision.
Melinda: There are times when it helps to talk through your feelings in confidence with an objective psychologist, social worker or psychiatrist. The most obvious instance where help is warranted is if one is feeling suicidal. Other instances might be the loss of a loved one, divorce, job loss, heightened anxiety, and significant loss of energy, motivation, anger or irritability.
Brian: Asking for help can feel daunting. Many construe therapy as a personal failure or sign of weakness. It can help to view therapy as an avenue to wellness and enhancing your quality of life.
Melinda: Good mental health includes moderation in most areas of life. Keep your life in balance with work, exercise, adequate sleep, time with family and friends, pursuing a hobby and setting aside a time daily to be in touch with yourself. Don’t be intimidated by your emotions. Acknowledge them. Accept them. Express them. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1482947390251{background-color: #006b5e !important;}”]ABOUT DELTA-WAVERLY PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCIATES: More than 20 therapists see clients, including children. Clients seek help for depression, marital and couples counseling, parenting and family matters, grief and loss, post-traumatic stress disorder, childhood trauma, anger management, sexual dysfunction, adult attention deficit disorder and compulsive or impulsive behaviors.
Melinda Simon, Psy.D. has been a psychotherapist for over 25 years and uses a mix of cognitive/ behavioral, interpersonal and eclectic approaches to help clients resolve life stressors. Brian Wissink, LPC, also has more than 25 years’ experience, taking a Rogerian approach that explores changing perceptions in viewing problematic issues.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]