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Parenting is one of the most rewarding journeys one can embark on, yet it comes with its set of challenges that evolve as your children grow. In the whirlwind of raising children from infancy through adolescence, it’s easy for parents to put their own needs last. However, practicing self-care is not just beneficial for you—it’s crucial for your family. Self-care enables you to recharge, handle stress more effectively, and model healthy habits for your children. Here’s how parents can incorporate self-care at different stages of their children’s lives.

The Early Years: Infancy to Toddlerhood

The early years are often marked by sleepless nights and constant demands for attention, leaving little time for self-care. However, small practices can make a big difference:

1. Find Community Support: Joining parent groups, online or in-person, can provide emotional support and practical advice from those in similar situations. There are a number of good parent groups in the Nashville-Franklin-Brentwood area that you can find by searching online.

2. Share the Load: If possible, share caregiving duties with your partner or family members. Openly discussing your needs with your support system is vital. It’s okay to ask for help to create pockets of time for self-care.

3. Embrace Short Breaks: Even 10 minutes of alone time for a cup of tea or a short walk can rejuvenate your spirits. It’s amazing how little bits of time build a greater sense of emotional margin.

Research Insight: A study by Cohen and Wills highlights the importance of social support in reducing stress, emphasizing that a strong support network is vital for parents navigating the early years. If you don’t have that, you may want to consider having a counselor or other professional support you and guide your steps in building that network.

The Middle Years: School Age

As children enter school, parents face new challenges like homework, extracurricular activities, and social dynamics. This stage offers more opportunities for self-care, but also new stresses.

1. Establish a Routine: A predictable routine can benefit the entire family, providing structure and reducing stress.

2. Set Aside Personal Time: With children in school, parents might find a bit more time for themselves. Use this time to engage in activities you enjoy or to simply rest.

3. Stay Active Together: Physical activity is a great stress reliever. Consider family walks, bike rides, or yoga sessions to stay active and spend quality time together. It’s one of the best things you can do for your body and your mind.

Adolescence: The Teenage Years

Parenting teenagers involves navigating independence, complex emotions, and significant developmental changes. This stage requires a different approach to self-care:

1. Maintain Open Communication: Keep the lines of communication open with your teenager. Active listening without judgment can help maintain a healthy relationship.

2. Prioritize Your Mental Health: The emotional rollercoaster of adolescence can be taxing. Don’t hesitate to seek professional support if you feel overwhelmed.

3. Cultivate Your Own Interests: As teenagers seek more independence, parents have more opportunities to rediscover their own interests and hobbies.

General Self-Care Tips for All Stages

1. Set Realistic Expectations: Remind yourself that no parent is perfect. Accepting that there will be good days and bad days can reduce unnecessary stress.

2. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness can help parents stay grounded and present. Even a few minutes a day can make a difference in your overall well-being.

3. Stay Connected with Your Partner: If you have a partner, maintaining a strong relationship is part of self-care. If not, identify the relationships you need to prioritize and nurture during these stressful parenting years. Regular check-ins and conversations can keep your connections strong.

Research Insight: A systematic review in the “Journal of Child and Family Studies” (Morelli et al., 2020) found that parental self-care is associated with positive parenting and better child outcomes, underscoring the importance of self-care across all stages of parenting. The conclusion was that self-care is a critical component of effective parenting. By addressing your own needs, you’re better equipped to meet the needs of your children, regardless of their age or stage. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

If you are a parent feeling overwhelmed by the demands of child-rearing who might benefit from the support of a wise and skillful professional, please reach out to Southeast Psych Nashville. Call 615-373-9955 to explore the options. With a team of outstanding therapists who work with individuals across the lifespan, we can help you make the best match to begin this next step. We hope to hear from you. You can explore in-person options if you are in the Nashville-Brentwood-Franklin area and we also offer remote sessions across the state.

The transition to caring for aging parents is a significant role reversal for many adult children. It’s a journey filled with emotional complexities, practical challenges, and deep fulfillment. Understanding how to effectively care for your aging parents, access the right services, and manage your own well-being is crucial in this phase of life.

Understanding Your Parent’s Needs

The first step is to assess the needs of your aging parents. This can range from medical care, emotional support, to assistance with daily activities. Each aging parent will have different needs based on their health, mobility, and cognitive status.

1. Accessing the Right Services

Navigating healthcare and support services can be overwhelming. Here are a few steps to consider:

• Healthcare Management: Stay informed about their health conditions and medications. Ask for releases of information from your aging parent so you can communicate as needed with their healthcare providers. Attend doctor’s appointments or have another friend or family member attend to make sure the right questions are asked and information is properly recalled.
• Home Care Services: If your parents prefer to stay at home, consider home care services that provide assistance with daily activities. The range of cost for these services is very large, so do a thorough search for local options.
• Senior Living Communities: For parents needing more care, senior living communities or assisted living facilities can be an option. Again, quality and cost vary a lot, so you’ll need to consider all options. It’s best to start the process before the need is imminent so when the time comes, you already know the options.
• Legal and Financial Planning: Ensure that legal documents like wills, trusts, and medical directives are in place. Financial planning for long-term care is also crucial.

2. Responding to New Challenges

Aging brings about physical, mental, and emotional changes. Responding to these changes requires patience, empathy, and flexibility. Be prepared to adapt as their needs evolve, and maintain open communication to understand their preferences and concerns. Immerse yourself in books, podcasts, articles, and other resources that can help you understand and respond well.

3. Supporting Them Well

• Finding Social Connection: Regular interaction, whether in person or through technology, helps combat loneliness and isolation.
• Maintaining Independence: Encourage and facilitate as much independence as possible to uphold their sense of self-worth and dignity. This varies based on their own physical and cognitive limitations, of course.
• Involvement in Decisions: As much as possible, include them in decisions about their care and lifestyle to respect their autonomy and dignity. Sometimes decisions must be made that your aging parent might not want, but involve them as much as you can.

Coping with Burnout and Stress

Caring for aging parents while managing your own life can lead to caregiver burnout and stress. Here are ways to cope:

• Set Realistic Expectations: Accept that you cannot do everything. Recognize your limits and set realistic expectations for yourself and your parents.
• Seek Support: Build a support network of family, friends, and community services. Don’t hesitate to delegate tasks.
• Take Time for Yourself: Prioritize your own physical and emotional health and well-being. Engage in activities that you enjoy and that rejuvenate you.
• Professional Help: Consider seeking support from caregiver support groups or counseling, especially if you feel overwhelmed.

Seeking Professional Assistance

The journey of caring for aging parents is not one to walk alone. Professional help can be invaluable in managing this phase of life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the challenges of caring for aging parents, Southeast Psych Nashville is here to help. With a team of experienced licensed clinicians, they offer support and guidance for both caregivers and their aging parents. They understand the complexities involved in this role reversal and can provide the tools and support needed to navigate it. Contact Southeast Psych Nashville at 615-373-9955 to start your journey towards a balanced and fulfilling caregiving experience.

In conclusion, caring for aging parents is a multifaceted responsibility that requires compassion, patience, and practical planning. It’s hard and there are no easy answers., but by understanding their needs, accessing the right services, and taking care of your own well-being, you can make this journey a more manageable and rewarding experience. Remember, seeking professional help is a sign of strength, not weakness, in ensuring the best care for your parents and yourself.

Aging is a natural process that we all undergo, but it’s not just a biological journey. It carries profound psychological implications that can impact our mental and emotional well-being. Understanding the psychology of aging is crucial for both older individuals and their loved ones, as it helps in navigating this phase of life with grace and resilience.

The Changing Psychological Terrain

As we age, we experience a myriad of changes that extend beyond the physical. Our roles in society, our relationships, and our daily routines often undergo significant transformations. These changes can lead to a variety of psychological challenges.

1. Identity and Self-Perception

One of the most significant changes in aging is the shift in identity and self-perception. Retirement, for instance, may lead to questions like “Who am I without my career?” There’s also the aspect of bodily changes, which can affect one’s body image and self-esteem. Aging can affect one’s sense of purpose and self-acceptance.

2. Social Connections

As we age, our social networks can shrink due to factors like retirement, the loss of peers, or mobility issues. This can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are significant risk factors for mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Maintaining and building new social connections are essential for emotional support and fulfillment.

3. Cognitive Changes

While not everyone will experience cognitive decline, it’s a concern for many aging individuals. This can range from mild forgetfulness to more severe conditions like dementia. These changes can be frightening and frustrating, affecting one’s quality of life and independence.

4. Grief and Loss

Aging often brings about loss – loss of loved ones, loss of physical abilities, or even loss of independence. Coping with grief and loss is a critical aspect of the psychological journey in aging.

5. Anxiety and Depression

Older adults may experience increased levels of anxiety and depression. These could be related to health concerns, financial worries, or the fear of death and dying. It’s crucial to recognize and address these feelings early.

Strategies for Psychological Well-Being in Aging

1. Stay Engaged: Pursue hobbies, volunteer, or engage in community activities. Staying active and engaged helps maintain a sense of purpose and connection.

2. Foster Social Connections: Building and maintaining relationships are vital. This can be through family, friends, community groups, or online platforms.

3. Promote Mental Fitness: Engaging in mentally stimulating activities like puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill can help keep the mind sharp.

4. Physical Health: Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep significantly impact mental health.

5. Seek Support: Talking about your experiences and feelings with friends, family, or support groups can be incredibly beneficial.

Professional Help: A Pathway to Support

The journey of aging can be complex, and sometimes, professional support is needed to navigate its challenges. Psychological issues like depression, anxiety, grief, and cognitive concerns can significantly benefit from therapeutic intervention.

If you or a loved one is facing psychological challenges associated with aging, Southeast Psych Nashville offers compassionate and professional help. With our excellent team of exceptional licensed clinicians, we provide tailored support to help navigate the unique challenges of aging. To take a step toward enhanced well-being and support during this life stage for yourself or a loved one, call 615-373-9955 to get started.

Aging is not just a physical process but a deeply psychological one. Understanding and addressing the psychological issues that become more prominent with age is crucial. With the right strategies and support, aging can be a journey of growth, wisdom, and fulfillment.

In the dead of winter, many of us find the shorter days and colder temperatures affecting more than just our wardrobe choices. The winter months can be challenging for our emotional health, with the lack of sunlight and outdoor activities leading to feelings of lethargy, sadness, or even seasonal affective disorder. However, there are some easy but effective strategies to help maintain emotional well-being during these darker times.

Embrace the Light

One of the primary reasons for winter blues is the reduced exposure to natural sunlight, which can disrupt our circadian rhythms and lower serotonin levels, a key hormone that influences mood. To counteract this, try to maximize your exposure to natural light. Open your curtains during the day, sit near windows, or even consider a light therapy box that mimics natural outdoor light. These simple actions can uplift your mood.

Stay Active

Physical activity is a potent mood booster. The release of endorphins during exercise can alleviate feelings of depression and anxiety. In the winter, it might be tempting to hibernate, but maintaining an exercise routine is crucial. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session, or a workout at the gym, find an activity that suits you and stick to it.

Connect Socially

Isolation can exacerbate feelings of sadness and loneliness, especially during the winter. Staying connected with friends and family can provide emotional support and a sense of belonging. Plan regular meet-ups, join a club or a group with shared interests, or even connect virtually if the weather is too forbidding. The key is to maintain a social network that provides support and engagement. Also, some research suggests that simply greeting people and being greeted warmly can have some positive effect on our mood.

Nurture Your Mind

Engaging in activities that stimulate your mind can be incredibly beneficial. Reading, puzzles, crafts, or even learning a new skill can keep your mind active and prevent the doldrums that often accompany the winter months. Such activities not only provide a sense of accomplishment but also keep your brain engaged and active.

Eat Healthily

Diet plays a crucial role in how we feel. During winter, it’s easy to turn to comfort foods that are high in carbohydrates and sugar, but these can lead to energy crashes and mood swings. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and walnuts, are also known to improve mood and brain function.

Create a Cozy Environment

The Danish concept of ‘hygge’ – creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people – can be particularly soothing in winter. Refashion your living space a cozy sanctuary with warm blankets, soft lighting, and perhaps a favorite scented candle or even new art. This can create a sense of comfort and well-being.

Seek Professional Help

Sometimes, despite our best efforts, we may struggle to cope with the emotional challenges of winter. If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or depression persist, it might be time to seek professional help. A therapist can provide coping strategies tailored to your needs.

If you or a loved one are in the Nashville-Brentwood-Franklin areas and are seeking support during this time, Southeast Psych Nashville offers an excellent team of licensed clinicians who are ready to help. Their compassionate approach and expertise can provide the support you need to navigate the winter months. Don’t hesitate to reach out and take the first step towards emotional well-being. Call 615-373-9955 to get started.

While the winter months can be tough on our emotional health, there are numerous strategies to help maintain a positive outlook. By embracing light, staying active, connecting socially, nurturing your mind, eating healthily, creating a cozy environment, and seeking professional help when needed, you can navigate the winter blues and emerge into spring with renewed energy and optimism.

There’s no doubt that mental health is trending online–and that’s a good thing. We are breaking free of the past stigmas and misconceptions and learning about this vital part of our lives and wellbeing. Great information and insights about mental health is being shared like never before in our history. From mental health influencers on Instagram to self-help podcasts, it’s easier than ever to get a wealth of psychological information online. But before you diagnose yourself based on a viral TikTok sound, let’s talk about how this stacks up to real therapy.

Yes, online resources offer valuable insights and relatable anecdotes. Some of the influencers are legitimate and knowledgeable. These posts and videos can spark curiosity and start conversations. But there’s a crucial difference between a self-help scroll and a therapy session – it’s like browsing travel photos versus actually stepping onto a plane. Online content, however well-meaning and even good, can’t replace the personalized guidance and genuine therapeutic relationship cultivated in a real-life setting.

Here’s why in-person therapy packs a punch that TikTok never can:

• 1. Tailored Support: Your struggles are unique, and your therapy should be, too. Online content, though broad in scope, can’t possibly address the nuanced complexities of your specific situation. A good therapist works alongside you, tailoring their approach to your individual needs, past experiences, and present challenges. Rather than self-diagnosing, which is highly problematic, a knowledgeable therapist can help you hone in on what is really going on and help you create a plan that works for you individually.
• 2. Beyond the Surface: Therapists are trained to see beneath the surface of words. They notice the flicker in your eyes, the shift in posture, the unspoken fears hidden behind a forced smile. These nonverbal cues, often invisible online, paint a richer picture of your inner world, leading to a more accurate understanding and effective treatment plan.
• 3. Real Relationship: Real connection thrives in physical presence. In-person sessions foster a safe and trusting space where you can truly be vulnerable, knowing your therapist is fully present and actively listening. This deepens the therapeutic bond, facilitating open communication and emotional release, both crucial for healing and growth. The research tells us that the “secret sauce” of what makes therapy effective is not just the model the therapist uses or the information they share, but the real connection they have with their clients. Real therapy is about connection and relationship.
• 4. Actionable Steps: A good therapist doesn’t just listen, they guide. They equip you with tools and strategies to navigate your challenges beyond the therapy room. In-person sessions provide opportunities for role-playing, practicing coping mechanisms, and receiving immediate feedback from your therapist, accelerating your progress.
• 5. A Commitment to Change: Scheduling regular appointments shows dedication to your well-being. In-person therapy creates a tangible commitment to investing in yourself, your mental health, and your future. This active participation strengthens your resolve and increases the likelihood of lasting change. You could get in shape without a personal trainer, but a good personal trainer can not only tailor a plan that works best for you, but can also serve as a motivator to act on the plan. The same is true for a good therapist.

If you’re in the Nashville-Brentwood-Franklin area of Middle Tennessee and are open to excellent in-person therapy (or tele-therapy), you’ve got a world-class option. Southeast Psych Nashville has assembled one of the strongest teams of licensed clinicians around. We work with clients of all ages and backgrounds, tackling a wide range of struggles. Taking the first step is simple – just call 615-373-9955. Remember, prioritizing your mental health isn’t just trendy, it’s transformative. We look forward to helping you experience how transformative real therapy can be at Southeast Psych Nashville. It’s a journey worth taking.

Infertility isn’t just a physical condition. It carries a weight of emotional complexities that can deeply affect a woman’s mental health and well-being. While we often focus on the statistics, indicating that about 1 in 8couples (or 12% of married women) have trouble getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy, the numbers rarely illuminate the full story.

Behind these statistics are individuals and couples enduring a rollercoaster of hope and disappointment, often accompanied by feelings of inadequacy, guilt, and isolation. For many women, infertility can trigger profound feelings of loss, impacting their identity and relationships. The societal expectations and cultural pressures surrounding motherhood can exacerbate these emotions, leading to chronic stress, anxiety, and in some cases, depression.

The journey through infertility is intensely personal, and each woman’s experience is unique. However, common threads of emotional distress include grieving the anticipated future that involves a child, coping with the uncertainties and the invasive nature of fertility treatments, and managing the strain it can place on personal relationships. The silent sorrow of infertility can also lead to social isolation, as friends and family may unknowingly contribute to the pain with insensitive comments or by simply not understanding the emotional toll it takes.

Amidst the struggle, support and understanding can light the way toward healing. Therapy and counseling are vital for many women as they navigate the complexities of infertility, providing a space to process emotions, develop coping strategies, and strengthen relationships affected by the strain of fertility challenges.

Recognizing the profound impact of infertility, Southeast Psych Nashville is proud to introduce our new Perinatal and Postpartum Program. This initiative is specially designed to provide support and therapeutic care to women on this challenging journey. Pioneered and led by the gifted therapists Amy Ferrell and Jackie Juarez, the program offers hope, practical guidance, and a supportive community for those grappling with the emotional fallout of infertility.

If you or someone you know is struggling with the emotional aspects of infertility, it’s important to remember that you are not alone. Amy Ferrell, LPC-MHSP, and Jackie Juarez, LPC-MHSP, are now accepting referrals through Southeast Psych’s Perinatal and Postpartum Program. You can reach them at 615-373-9955. Call today to begin your process of moving toward greater health and healing. Your journey towards support and healing is just a phone call away.

Dr. Cameron Gordon is that rare blend of your favorite professor and your best therapist. Often, professors, even the most engaging ones, don’t pursue clinical work, preferring instead to work on their teaching, research, and writing. Dr. Gordon loves both and has built his stellar career around being an extraordinary teacher and educator while also being a wise and highly effective therapist.

Dr. Cameron has a strong reputation as a professor and in the scientific community. His students love him and there’s no mystery as to why. He is not only smart and an outstanding communicator, he’s also warm, funny, engaging, and down to earth. As a researcher, he is known for his work on mindfulness practices and building healthy relationships. He has served on the Editorial Board for the Journal of Family Psychology for over a decade and he’s a Past President of the Couples Research and Therapy Special Interest Group at the Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies.

As a therapist, he brings that knowledge and expertise and integrates it with his engaging style to make him one of the most effective therapists we know. His client satisfaction ratings and comments are always off-the-chart and he’s a clinician that our referring professionals know will always bring his A game.

We asked him a few questions about how he got into this field and who he loves to see in therapy.

I’m always curious to know why people chose to go into this field. Why did you decide to be a therapist?

I have always had a deep respect for the strength that people demonstrate when they face challenges. I also know that hardship is a tremendous opportunity for growth, and I get excited to join people in the process of developing ways to succeed!

I know you are good at a wide range of issues, but what are your areas of specialty?

Doing therapy for over twenty years has taught me that people are often much stronger than they believe they are, so I like to work in ways that help them reclaim and strengthen their confidence and perseverance. I often use principles of Positive Psychology, Mindfulness Meditation, and Strengths-Based Treatment for disorders such as Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, OCD, Relationship Challenges, etc., to help clients utilize the hardships they face in a way that enables them to build a stronger, more enduring, and more peaceful path forward.

What clients do you see?

I love working with all types of adult clients ages 18 to 118 who are seeking ways to overcome hardship, or are simply looking to enrich the ways they work, live, and play so that they can get the most out of life!

I’m honestly hoping you get to see a bunch of 118-year-olds! We’ve built our practice around having fun and being playful. So much of mental health work is heavy, so we’ve tried to take the position that we take our work seriously but not ourselves. I know you have a great sense of humor and are extremely curious. Tell us some fun things about you.

Ha ha ha, yes, people sometimes look at the things I like to do for fun and wonder whether I am some kind of masochist! But really, I just relish the opportunity to embrace the full complexity of life. So, in addition to enjoying an evening on the couch watching a movie with my family, I also make time to experience things that entail a healthy dose of both beauty and hardship, just like life! Whether it is high altitude mountaineering, taking a cold plunge in the ocean in the wintertime, or simply parenting my children – I try to make the most of every opportunity to learn, grow, endure, challenge myself, and have fun along the way!

The good news is Dr. Gordon is accepting new referrals. He works via tele-health, which is often great for busy parents, professionals, and couples. If you’d like to schedule a time with him, you can call 615-373-9955 to get started. If you want to know a little bit more, he also offers free 15-minute meet-and-greets so you can get a sense of his style and find out if he might be a good fit for you. At Southeast Psych Nashville, we are thrilled Dr. Cameron is part of our clinical team. He is a great example of our commitment to clinical excellence.

When it comes to the emotional and mental well-being of your child, finding the right therapist can feel like a monumental task. The journey might feel overwhelming, but asking the right questions can significantly narrow down the choices and help you find a therapist who will meet your child’s needs. Here are three pivotal questions to consider as you embark on this crucial journey:

• 1. What is Your Experience and Expertise in Working with Children? Children and adults experience and express emotions differently. It’s imperative to find a therapist who has extensive experience and a solid understanding of child psychology. They should be adept at engaging with children and making them feel comfortable. Furthermore, inquire about their expertise in dealing with the specific concerns or challenges your child is facing.
• 2. How Will You Include Me in My Child’s Therapy Process? Parental involvement is often a crucial component of a child’s therapy process. A good therapist will recognize the importance of working together with parents. Ask prospective therapists how they plan to include you in the therapy process. Will they provide regular updates? Will there be parent-child sessions, or will they offer guidance on how you can support your child’s mental health journey at home?
• 3. What Approaches and Techniques Do You Use in Therapy? Therapeutic approaches vary widely, and it’s essential to find a therapist whose methods align with your child’s needs and your family values. Whether it’s cognitive-behavioral therapy, play therapy, or family therapy, understanding the techniques a therapist uses will give you insight into what your child’s therapy experience will be like. Feel free to ask questions about the therapist’s approach, as well as what evidence they have that this approach works for the unique challenges facing your child or teen.

Southeast Psych Nashville has an outstanding team of extraordinary therapists who specialize in working with children, teens, and their families. They offer a nurturing and supportive environment where your child can explore and address their emotions and challenges. With their extensive experience, the therapists at Southeast Psych Nashville are adept at tailoring their approach to meet the unique needs of each child and family they work with.

Getting started on the path to finding the right therapist for your child is just a phone call away. Reach out to Southeast Psych Nashville at 615-373-9955 to make an appointment. Our supportive team is ready to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process of starting therapy. Your child’s mental health is invaluable, and finding the right support can make all the difference in their lives.

Life, with all its ups and downs, often challenges us deeply. While some problems are part of the human experience and tend to resolve with time, others may linger, affecting our quality of life. Discerning between the two can be tricky, but knowing the difference is crucial for our overall well-being. Here’s a guide to help you navigate this gray area and decide whether seeking a therapist might be a beneficial step.

Questions to Contemplate:

Begin by reflecting on the nature and duration of the issue at hand. Some questions to consider include:

• How long has this issue been bothering me?
• Is it affecting my relationships, work, or daily routine?
• Have I been feeling persistently sad, anxious, or overwhelmed?
• Are my coping mechanisms healthy or potentially harmful?
• Do I feel like I am near my max or breaking point?
• Have I tried ways to deal with it or cope that just have not helped enough?

Normal Life Problems vs. Prolonged Struggles:

It’s normal to feel down or anxious during challenging times, and these feelings often dissipate as situations improve. However, if these emotions persist or intensify over time, it might be indicative of a deeper issue that could benefit from professional intervention. For example, it might be normal to feel deep grief after a breakup or loss, but if this gets worse over time or begins to interfere with your ability to cope and function well, it may require an outside guide.

Feedback from Trusted Individuals:

Sometimes, insights from close friends or family members can provide a different perspective. They might have noticed changes in your behavior or mood that you haven’t. Their observations can be valuable in understanding the extent of the issue. Often loved ones are a great source of feedback during these times when you may not be able to see your situation clearly or objectively.

Online Screenings and Self-Assessments:

While not a substitute for professional diagnosis, online mental health screenings and self-assessments can provide a preliminary understanding of your emotional state. There are some depression and anxiety screening instruments, for example, that give you a sense of what range of concern you might be in. We’re not endorsing any of them in particular, but some may be another helpful source of information. If you do seek these out, make sure you are going to a reputable site run by true professionals and not an untrained person’s site or blog.

Consider a Consultation:

If in doubt, scheduling a consultation with a therapist can provide clarity. A therapist can help assess whether the issues you are facing require therapy and guide you on the next steps.

Seeking therapy is a personal and significant decision. It’s a step towards self-awareness, healing, and growth. Every individual’s journey is unique, and what matters most is finding the right support when needed.

If you are in the Nashville-Brentwood-Franklin area of Middle Tennessee and are contemplating seeking therapy, Southeast Psych Nashville is here to assist you on this journey. Our excellent therapists are skilled in working with a diverse range of issues and are committed to providing a supportive and nurturing environment. Give us a call at 615-373-9955 to get started. We’d love to accompany you on your path towards understanding, resilience, and well-being. Your mental health is a priceless asset, and our dedicated team at Southeast Psych Nashville would be honored to support you.

Jonathan Haidt is one of our favorite psychologists at Southeast Psych Nashville. His more recent books, “The Coddling of the American Mind” and “The Righteous Mind” are modern classics. It’s time to revisit one of his earlier works. In “The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom”, social psychologist Jonathan Haidt embarks on a quest to dissect the nature of human happiness, drawing bridges between ancient wisdom and modern scientific insights. This book is not just a casual read but an intellectually stimulating journey that unveils the essence of happiness and how one can attain it in today’s complex world. Here are some of the pivotal discussions and insights from the book that make it a must-read for those on the quest for a fulfilling life:

Synthesis of Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science

Haidt brilliantly synthesizes ancient philosophical, religious, and theoretical texts with recent scientific discoveries. He explores various paths to happiness and examines them through the lens of modern research, proposing a revised ‘Happiness Hypothesis.” The book delves into various philosophical and religious traditions, from Buddhism to the ideas of thinkers like Plato, Nietzsche, and Freud, aligning them with modern psychological theories and neurological findings.

The Dual Systems of the Mind

A significant highlight of the book is the metaphor of the mind as divided into two main parts, which Haidt uses to explain happiness in different contexts. He likens the conscious mind to a rider and the unconscious mind to an elephant, illustrating the interaction between the reasoned and automatic processes of the mind. This metaphor serves as a basis to explore how happiness can be pursued through both intellectual and emotional channels. For therapists, this is often a powerful metaphor that we use to talk about the interplay between the rational and emotional parts of our brains.

Beyond Pop Psychology

Haidt criticizes the overemphasis on conscious thought and self-awareness in pop psychology, arguing that lasting happiness comes from engaging the emotional and unconscious parts of our minds. He suggests that cultivating habits like daily meditation and mindfulness practice can be more effective in promoting happiness and well-being than mere intellectual insights.

Practical Applications of Positive Psychology

“The Happiness Hypothesis” also guides readers on how to apply the principles of positive psychology to achieve greater happiness. It offers interpretations of cultural and societal phenomena, insights into romantic relationships, and discusses how narrow Western concepts of virtue and morality might be hindering our happiness and well-being.

Why Should You Read “The Happiness Hypothesis”?

Jonathan Haidt’s masterpiece is a well-reviewed, scientifically sound, and engaging book that reads like a novel while offering genuine moral and practical insights. It serves as both intellectual nourishment and a practical guide for those seeking to understand the complex nature of happiness and how to attain it amidst life’s challenges. Through a rich blend of ancient wisdom and modern science, Haidt provides readers with a robust framework to explore happiness in a nuanced and informed manner. This book is not just an exploration of positive psychology, but a beacon of understanding that illuminates the path toward personal fulfillment and a meaningful life.

If any of our expert therapists at Southeast Psych Nashville can help you or your loved one move toward a more meaningful and fulfilling life or overcome obstacles that threaten your progress, we’d love to hear from you. Call 615-373-9955 to get started today.