by Sara Hart | Nov 25, 2020 | Blog
Remaining thankful amid growing stressors in a year like 2020 can feel like you are swimming upstream – we understand. Among racial unrest, high unemployment, catastrophic weather, a stressful election season and a pandemic, tensions were high this year. Did you know that being mindful and showing gratitude in times of stress and disaster has scientifically proven to help your mental and physical health? 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. Here’s how to get started!
Remember the difficult times
Although this may seem counterintuitive, there’s a helpful thought process behind it. Think back to tough times in your life. Then, remember that you are still here. You’ve made it through stressful events, but here you stand – on the other side of it all. You’re stronger than you think.
Reframe your situation
While it’s important to remember that we shouldn’t ignore or deny pain during difficult times, we can reframe the way we approach the way we view situations. A new, fresh perspective on various aspects of life can jolt us into a better mindset. You might not be in charge …
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 | Nov 8, 2017 | Blog
The holiday season can bring a mix of emotions to those dealing with addiction. Whether you’re battling anxiety over having to socialize without drugs or alcohol; depression over thoughts of a loved one you’ve recently lost; or discomfort about having to explain your sobriety to friends and family, don’t be discouraged – you aren’t alone! Here are a few tips to help minimize triggers and thoughts of relapse throughout the holiday months.
Have a plan
It’s important to prepare yourself for certain situations so you aren’t caught off guard in the moment. For example, if you know you’ll feel uncomfortable without a drink in your hand, come up with a list of non-alcoholic options you could order. If you know you’ll want to leave early, it might be best to take your own car to the function or ask another sober friend to be on-call to pick you up. If you think you’re going to be asked about your sobriety, be ready to address it in a way that you’re most comfortable. If you prefer not to bring it up, use excuses such as, “I’m trying to go on a run in the morning” or “I’m on a cleanse.” Or, …
