by Sara Hart | Mar 25, 2020 | Blog
As a society, we’re experiencing truly unprecedented times together. With the outbreak of the coronavirus (COVID-19), our normal daily schedules have been completely altered. Social distancing may be our best way to prevent further spreading of COVID-19, but we realize that at times, this can be a difficult process. South Bay wants to encourage you to take some time and find ways to best cope with stress and anxiety while practicing social distancing. Below we’ve outlined ways you can continue to care for your mental health during isolation.
Take a short break from the news
We understand that paying attention to news updates is more important than ever at this time, and you should stay informed. However, we encourage you to take some time away from your television, computer or phone screen each day. Listening to news cycles and scrolling through social media for long amounts of time can be upsetting and unhealthy. Read a book, try a new recipe or take on a new project at home to pass the time.
Take care of your body
Take breaks throughout the day to go on a walk or exercise in your home. When you begin experiencing feelings of stress or …
by Sara Hart | Feb 26, 2020 | Blog
When tragedy strikes, we stop to reflect on life and the realization that any moment could be your last day to spend time with a loved one or family member. Coping with the loss of someone or something you love and admire is one of life’s biggest struggles, but everyone deals with feelings of grief in different ways – and that’s completely normal. Below, we break down a few common myths surrounding the grieving process.
Myth #1 – If you don’t cry, you’re heartless.
Although crying is a recognizable sign of sadness, it’s certainly not the only one. People express pain in many different ways, and just because you don’t outwardly show it, doesn’t mean you feel nothing. It is valid to express your emotions in whatever way you see beneficial for you throughout the grieving process.
Myth #2 – The pain will go away if you ignore it.
Choosing to avoid emotional pain could only allow it to fester and become worse. For true healing to take place, try confronting your pain and proactively dealing with it. Consider talking through your emotions with a clinician, family member or friend if you feel that the burden is too heavy to …
by Sara Hart | Jan 13, 2020 | Blog
As we begin a new year and a new decade, we encourage you to establish healthy coping mechanisms that you can use to ease the stress of the daily struggles life throws at you. If you haven’t given meditation a try, we strongly suggest it! Many first-time meditators find it difficult to focus and find it strange to sit in silence. However, with a little practice, meditation is a wonderful way to calm your mind and to feel at ease. Below, we offer a few tips on how to get started.
Step #1 – Find a quiet space
First, find a quiet area in your home, office, car or wherever you’re comfortable. If a completely silent atmosphere is uncomfortable for you, play meditation music on your phone or turn on a white noise machine. Before beginning, it may be beneficial to set an alarm on your phone to avoid having to check the clock.
Step #2 – Focus on your body and breathing
Close your eyes and take two deep breaths to begin. It’s important to mentally scan your body for areas of comfort, discomfort and tension. While doing so, take deep breaths in and out – familiarize yourself with …
by Sara Hart | Nov 25, 2019 | Blog
The holiday season can bring a mix of emotions to those battling mental health challenges. However, if you choose to reframe the way you look at and respond to certain situations, you might find that you feel recharged and rejuvenated. We encourage you to choose gratitude this holiday season, as allowing yourself to have a grateful mind can positively impact your mental health and well-being. Let us explain!
Gratitude can boost your relationships.
Expressing your appreciation for the relationships you’ve cultivated will make a difference in both your life and theirs. If this makes you feel a little uncomfortable, just remember – chances are they need to hear it more than you know. Text them. Call them. Direct message them. Email them. Visit them in person. The way in which you show your gratitude for others doesn’t matter – just make sure you’ve made it known. Your message of thanks can be as detailed or as brief as you want it to be. A little gratitude can go a long way.
Gratitude can enhance your self-esteem.
Think about how empowered you’ll feel if you stop comparing and begin appreciating. Everyone is following their own path, and grateful people are …
by Sara Hart | Oct 16, 2019 | Blog
For some, the thought of attending a counseling session isn’t easy. In fact, it can feel terrifying. It’s because there’s a stigma placed on mental health – a common misconception that seeing a clinician means there’s something “wrong” with you. We disagree. Asking for help indicates you are taking control of your life and of your mental health. While this can be scary, the things that often scare us are great opportunities for us to step up and grow. You may find that facing your fears will prove to be empowering, rather than petrifying.
Need a little more reassurance? Below, a few South Bay clients share how counseling sessions with our clinicians have impacted their lives.
“I have been attending South Bay for four months. South Bay has helped me regain my morals and values again. It has helped me to build upon my spiritual, physical and mental health. I was at a point where I was lacking in my life, and I needed South Bay. They were right there when I called. Just be open and honest with yourself while you’re here. Work on the issues you need to work on. Allow yourself the opportunity for the staff …
