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Children are often labeled as highly resilient. While this is true to some extent, children can still be affected by changes in their routines. Whether a child is adapting to a new school, a new community, or simply a new schedule, it is important to understand how children can be impacted by change and what families and caretakers can do to help them ease into new transitions.
How Are Children Impacted by Changes in Their Environment?
A child’s world is smaller than the world of their adult counterparts. For this reason, their world can often be disproportionately disrupted by small changes in their environment, compared to adults. Unlike adults, children do not have the freedom and independence to make big changes in their environments. Instead, they are vulnerable to others introducing changes on their behalf. Many children also do not have the ability to reach out to familiar support systems when they feel untethered—they are less likely to be able to rely on peers for social support or seek out articles pertinent to their individual situation. Instead, children are more limited in their coping mechanisms and their ability to seek outside help when needed.
How Does Changing Schools Affect a Child?
Does changing schools affect a child? Yes—however, the specific impact and degree to which changing schools affects a child can vary greatly. The timing of a school change can also play a role in how greatly a child is affected by a school transition. For example, a kindergartener who moves to a new school for first grade and begins the new school year along with all their other classmates may have a different reaction to a school change than a high-schooler who changes schools in the middle of the school year and is the only one in their cohort experiencing this transition.
Changing schools can impact children in a number of ways:
A change in schools represents a change in their physical environment. A child must learn and adapt to a new building and a new way of navigating through that building, which may take some time. A new school also brings a change in a child’s expected authority figures—there are new teachers, aides, and support staff members to get to know, each with their own unique operating style. A change in schools can also represent a changing set of expectations for a child. For example, at a former school, they may have had a different length of passing periods, a different system for getting lunch in the cafeteria, or a different system for turning in homework. A different school means a new set of friends and social connections, which can greatly impact a child’s experience of school and their perception of their comfort with their environment. Socially, a new school provides a child with an opportunity to present themselves and their personal identity to others, which can feel both empowering and overwhelming. How Does Changing Communities Affect a Child?
Similar to changing schools, changing communities can affect a child, as well. Sometimes, a change in community is very intentional and deliberate, and families may have the ability to exercise precise control over where they are moving. In these situations, families may be able to lay the groundwork for change far in advance, helping children gradually adapt and warm up to the idea of an upcoming change in stages. However, in other circumstances, as in the case of military families facing a temporary or permanent change of station, a change in community is less foreseen or predictable.
Other Major Changes and How They Can Affect a Child
Outside of changing schools or communities, there are a number of other changes that can affect a child because they can alter a child’s routine. These changes can include:
A new sibling Divorce or separation of parents Changes to the everyday makeup of the household (i.e., an older sibling goes college, a parent goes back to full-time work outside the home, or a family member begins living in the household) Changing to a new room or bed A new activity that brings new expectations Even a change that may seem mundane to an adult, such as adopting a new pet, can affect a child due to a change in their routine. For example, if a family has a new puppy, a child may have a change in their sleep patterns (with more disruptions and earlier wake-up times) and a change in their responsibilities, both of which require time for adjustment.
Signs That a Child Is Having a Difficult Time With a Transition
Depending on the age of a child, they may not have the language skills to verbalize how they are feeling when their environment changes. So, the effects of a change may be more subtle than those in an adult. Families and caregivers can pay attention to certain cues that may indicate that a child is struggling with a recent change, including:
Becoming more withdrawn or more clingy Asking more questions than usual or shutting down when asked a question Showing signs of anxiety, such as chewing nails, tapping feet, fixating or ruminating on small challenges Changes in eating or sleeping patterns New behaviors that display a sense of trying to regain control over their environment, such as acting out or showing increased sensitivity While these above signs may indicate that a child is having difficulty with a change in their environment, it’s important to recognize that change is not universally bad. While transitions can be hard for children to navigate, with proper support and guidance, a transition can often lead a child to a more positive situation or environment. Having the experience of undergoing a change in their environment and successfully adjusting to it can also help increase a child’s self-esteem, priming them to confront future changes with more confidence.
Tips and Tricks for Helping Ease Children Through Life Transitions
Supporting children through life transitions can be intimidating. Many families wonder how to switch schools or communities in ways that won’t negatively impact their children. Fortunately, there are many transition strategies in child care that can help children and their families successfully navigate change.
Tip #1: Keep an Open Line of Communication
The most important strategy for helping children transition is allowing space for plenty of discussion about the change. Often, difficulty with transitions stems from how an initial transition was introduced: Did a child feel a sense of being blindsided? Or did they have an idea that a change may be on the horizon?
Parents can have introductory discussions to help children adjust to the idea of change in both formal and informal ways—by setting up specific times to discuss details and asking open-ended questions during random downtimes, such as while they are driving in the car. Parents can also reference the upcoming change in constructive, non-threatening ways. For example, they can talk about aspects of the upcoming change that excite them (i.e., “I’m so excited to be able to walk to the library from our new house!”), thereby modeling for their children how change can be framed in a positive light.
Tip #2: Pinpoint and Emphasize Age-Appropriate Constants
If a child is changing schools, parents can help identify and emphasize aspects of life that will remain constant. Working with children to identify the things in their schedule that will not change can help them feel like they are on more solid ground as they get their bearings. For example, if children have a favorite swim coach or piano teacher, parents can focus on how this person will continue to be in their lives without any changes. If a child is moving to a new community, the constant may be something like always sitting down for family dinner at the same time or watching cartoons on Saturday mornings.
Younger children who have special comfort items, such as stuffed animals or blankets, may become more attached to these constants during a transition, and parents can even introduce a new object or “friend” as a constant that will help provide additional comfort and support.
Tip #3: Engage Others To Help Ease the Transition
Parents can help their children transition to a new school or new environment by laying some groundwork in advance. Instead of sending a child off to their first day in a new school and crossing their fingers that the transition goes well, parents can help scaffold things by contacting a teacher or other supportive adult at the school in advance so they can provide special observation and support for their child. Parents can also reach out to other parents of future classmates to arrange for a small social gathering prior to their child’s first day so that children will have a familiar face or friend to help them navigate on day one.
Tip #4: Adopt a System for Tracking Progress
Recording their feelings about an upcoming transition can be a healthy outlet for older children to process their experiences and adapt to any change. Journaling or writing in a diary can also help children track their personal progress. Sometimes, it’s difficult to notice incremental improvement, but tracking their emotions over the course of time can help reinforce for a child that they are adjusting and adapting at their own pace.
Tip #5: Encourage Decision-Making
Oftentimes, children cannot be directly involved in big decisions, but they can benefit from being able to exert control over smaller decisions. For example, a child starting at a new school may not be able to choose the school, their teacher, or the start time of their first class, but they can very well choose their new backpack, lunch box, or first-day outfit. Similarly, they might not be able to pick their new town but they can choose which local takeout restaurant to try first or decide where to hang the posters in their room. Giving them control over smaller decisions can help them have more of a sense of control and self-efficacy.
Tip #6: Avoid Projections or Assumptions
Making self-referential remarks (such as “Oh, I remember how nervous I was when I had to start at a new school when I was a kid”) can help make children feel more comfortable opening up about their own struggles or concerns. However, families should be cautious about projecting too much of their own experience onto a child’s experience. Instead, it’s important to allow children to come to their own conclusions about how any given change is affecting them. Families may be surprised to learn that a childhood experience of their own that was very difficult is unexpectedly exciting to their child—or vice versa.
Tip #7: Seek Professional Guidance
Families who are looking for additional support to help their children through a life transition can consider professional support. Telemynd is an online resource that offers virtual appointments with licensed mental health professionals. Its secure platform and licensed therapists and prescribers are ready to give families the support they need, especially when experiencing a big life transition. Telemynd can provide services to people five years and up nationwide and accepts most insurance, including TRICARE.
Telemynd also has extensive experience working with families in the military community and is well-equipped to support their mental healthcare needs before, during, or after a PCS move, ensuring a smoother transition for all family members.
To learn more, contact us today.

As we all begin to draft our summer vacation plans and the allure of sunny days beckons us outdoors, the temptation to put therapy on hold becomes more pronounced. However, it is crucial to consider the profound benefits of continuing your therapy sessions during these warmer months. Here's why sticking with therapy through summer is vital for your mental and emotional health.
The Importance of Consistency in Therapy
First off, let's talk consistency. Therapy isn't typically a one-and-done deal; it's a journey. Just like watering a plant regularly helps it grow, consistent therapy sessions help nurture your mental and emotional growth. Skipping sessions disrupts that flow and can slow down the progress you've worked so hard to achieve.
Navigating Through Sunshine and Stress
Now, let's address the elephant in the room: summer isn't always sunshine and rainbows. Sure, there are beach days and BBQs, but there are also family gatherings, social pressures, and changes in routine that can stir up potential stress and anxiety. Your therapist is here to help you navigate those challenges, providing support and strategies to help you thrive, not just survive, through the season.
Building Resilience Through Real-Life Practice
Therapy isn't just about managing symptoms; it's about building resilience. By sticking with therapy through the summer, you have the chance to strengthen your coping skills in real-life situations. Whether it's dealing with family dynamics or managing social anxiety at parties, you can put what you've learned in therapy into practice and emerge stronger on the other side.
Protect Your Progress & Embrace Growth
You've come a long way on your healing journey, and the last thing you want is to take steps backward. Skipping therapy sessions increases the risk of slipping back into old patterns of thinking and behavior. By staying committed to therapy, you're investing in your future self and safeguarding the progress you've made.
Summer isn’t just a season to maintain your mental health status quo; it's a perfect time to push forward. With the help of your therapist, summer can be a season of exploration and setting new personal milestones. This period of growth is an investment in yourself that yields benefits well beyond the season’s end.
Prioritize Your Well-Being This Summer
Before you decide to replace therapy sessions with leisure activities, consider the long-term impact on your well-being. Your journey of healing and personal growth deserves attention all year round, regardless of the season.
We encourage you to book your summer sessions now and continue investing in your mental health. Contact our care team today to ensure your well-being remains a top priority in the coming months. Together, let’s make this summer a time of significant personal growth and resilience.
Therapy is not just about coping with life; it's about thriving in it. Let’s keep moving forward, together.
 

The Importance of Maternal Mental Health
The journey into motherhood is transformative, bringing joy and challenges, including significant mental health considerations. Maternal mental health is crucial for the well-being of both mothers and their families, yet it's often overshadowed by a focus on physical health. Recognizing this, Telemynd provides essential support to expecting, new, and current mothers, focusing on accessible and comprehensive mental health care personalized to your needs.
Understanding Maternal Mental Health
Maternal mental health encompasses a spectrum that includes conditions like prenatal anxiety and postpartum depression, among others. If left unaddressed, these issues can significantly impact the long-term well-being of both mother and child. Telemynd recognizes the critical need for early intervention and support, providing mothers with resources for understanding, healing, and resilience as they navigate these challenging terrains.
Tailored Support with Telemynd
Telemynd's approach is personalized, recognizing that every mother's experience is distinct. Our licensed mental health professionals have extensive experience working with the situations that impact new mothers. Additionally, Telemynd’s focus on mental health in the military community allows us to provide empathetic and informed care to this specific population of mothers. From handling emotional fluctuations to tackling the deep challenges of motherhood, our providers are dedicated to supporting each mother through their unique journey.
Ease of Access to Care
We prioritize making mental health care accessible and convenient for mothers, utilizing secure virtual platforms for consultations. This approach ensures that help is available when and where it's needed, removing barriers like scheduling conflicts or travel constraints, which are especially pertinent for mothers. To start your journey with Telemynd, click here.
Comprehensive Services for Mothers
Telemynd offers a wide range of mental health services, including therapy sessions, psychiatric evaluations, and medication management. Our services are designed to address the multifaceted aspects of mental health, supporting mothers in every step of their journey towards well-being.
Getting Started: A Streamlined Process
Scheduling an Appointment: Contact us through our website or call our care team to schedule your first appointment. Our friendly and compassionate team members will assist you through a hassle-free scheduling process. Matching with the Right Provider: We believe in the importance of a strong therapeutic relationship. Our personalized matching process ensures you're paired with a provider who understands your specific needs. Your Initial Consultation: Your first session is focused on establishing a connection and starting your personalized plan for care. Ongoing Support: We provide the flexibility to schedule follow-up appointments at your convenience, adapting to your evolving needs as you progress. Telemynd is also covered by TRICARE, ensuring that active-duty service members, veterans, and military dependents receive the support they need.
A New Era in Maternal Mental Health
Telemynd is committed to transforming mental health care for military families, ensuring that expecting and current mothers receive the compassionate, accessible, and tailored support they need. By addressing the distinctive challenges of military life and motherhood, we provide specialized care that makes us the ideal ally for military moms on their mental health journey. To learn more or to start your journey towards emotional wellness with Telemynd, visit our website or give us a call today at 866-991-2103. 

Mental health care is critical to maintaining overall wellness - just as important as caring for your physical health. And as we noted in a recent article, 1 in 5 of us live with mental health issues on a daily basis. As many as 30% of those with a mental health issue don’t seek treatment, and a common obstacle to that care is cost. 
The good news is that you can pay for some mental health treatments and services with your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or your Health Savings Account (HSA), to offset out-of-pocket expenses. This week’s article summarizes what mental health services qualify for coverage with FSA and HSA funds and how to use these accounts for mental health care. Be sure to click on the links included in this article, as we’ve referenced the original IRS and government sources for further information.
What’s the difference between an FSA and an HSA?
FSAs are an arrangement through your employer that lets you pay for many out-of-pocket medical expenses with tax-free dollars. You decide how much to put in an FSA, up to a limit set by your employer. Employers may make contributions to your FSA, but aren’t required to. 
An HSA is a type of savings account that lets you set aside money on a pre-tax basis to pay for qualified medical expenses. HSA funds generally may not be used to pay premiums. While you can use the funds in an HSA at any time to pay for qualified medical expenses, you may contribute to an HSA only if you have a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) — generally a health plan that only covers preventive services before the deductible. 
It may sound complicated - but FSAs and HSAs are often a win-win for many people, as they allow you to reduce your tax liability and pay for your mental health care expenses, using pre-tax funds.

Is mental health treatment eligible for HSA or FSA funds?
According to the IRS, mental health therapy and treatment that is deemed ‘medically necessary’ is eligible for reimbursement with an FSA or an HSA - things like psychiatric care, and treatment for drug or alcohol addiction. So therapy such as marriage or family counseling - that is not required for a medical or mental purpose - may not qualify. The actual wording from the IRS is this: “treatment provided by a psychologist or psychiatrist is eligible for FSA or HSA reimbursement if the purpose of the treatment is for medical care and not for the general improvement of mental health”. Sound a bit murky? The best thing to do is to speak with your your health insurance directly to understand how to approach the situation first. 
Regardless of the kind of health care services you are getting, an administrator may require you to get a ‘Letter of Medical Necessity’ in order to get coverage. This is a letter written by your doctor that verifies the services you are purchasing are for the diagnosis, treatment or prevention of a disease or medical condition.
Make the most of your HSA to cover mental health expenses
The IRS-approved list of mental health care expenses on which you can use your HSA includes services like psychologist visits (including online therapy), psychiatric care, alcoholism and drug treatment, and prescription drugs related to psychiatric care. You can pay for these with an HSA card or by getting reimbursed, but either way, always save your receipts. You’ll need these when you file your tax return each year. You can ask your health care provider for itemized receipts after each service, or a total record of all services at the end of the year.
If you have health insurance (and remember, it must be a High Deductible Health Plan in order to be allowed to contribute to an HSA), you can use your HSA funds for any qualified expense that’s not paid directly to the provider or for which you’re not reimbursed by your insurance company. This includes co-pays and expenses to meet your deductible, as well as any uncovered medical expense.
Using an FSA to cover mental health expenses
Eligible mental health care expenses for which you can use your FSA account include alcoholism and drug treatment, psychiatric care (including online therapy), and prescription drugs related to psychiatric care. You use your FSA by submitting a claim to the FSA (through your employer) with proof of the medical expense and a statement that it has not been covered by your plan. You will then receive reimbursement for your costs. In addition, according to the IRS, you can use FSA funds to pay deductibles and copayments, but not for insurance premiums.
In summary, understanding how to use FSAs and HSAs to help offset the cost of behavioral health may feel confusing or overwhelming - but it's worth digging into, as these accounts may save you money. For more help, you can ask your employer, an accountant, reference IRS Publication 969, or research online yourself. Here’s a good article that goes into more detail - in an understandable way - about the differences between HSAs and FSAs.

Erratic. Volatile. Complicated. These are the unfortunate words that people often think of when they think of someone with a diagnosis of schizophrenia - which in turn has caused a stigma that has lead to fear and isolation for those most vulnerable. A movement has developed, made up of scientists, medical professionals, mental health advocates, and those with the diagnosis, to change the name. In this week’s article, we’ll look at the pros and cons of the name change proposition as well as explain what led to the idea in the first place.
What is Schizophrenia?
Schizophrenia is a brain disorder that affects less than 1% of the population. When it’s in its ‘active phase’, symptoms can include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, trouble with thinking, and lack of motivation. Research has shown that schizophrenia affects men and women fairly equally but may have an earlier onset in males. As with any illness, the severity, duration and frequency of symptoms can vary. The symptoms are why Dr. Eugen Bleuler named the disorder in 1908 - the term ‘schizophrenia’ derives from Greek words for “split mind” - because Dr. Bleuler thought the disease was characterized by a “splitting of psychological functions” where “the personality loses its unity.” But it turns out the condition was named erroneously.
Researchers believe that a number of genetic and environmental factors contribute to the cause of schizophrenia, as well, life stress may also play a role in the start of symptoms. But since multiple factors may contribute, scientists aren’t yet sure of the exact cause in each individual case.
Modern Treatment Means Symptoms are Very Manageable
While there is no cure for schizophrenia, the good news is that research has led to innovative and safe treatments which means most symptoms will greatly improve and the likelihood of  recurrence is diminished. A combination of pharmaceutical treatment and therapeutic treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy or supportive psychotherapy may reduce symptoms and enhance functioning. Additional treatments are aimed at reducing stress, supporting employment, and improving social skills.
Yet a Stigma Still Exists
So even while treatment helps dissipate symptoms, the complexity of schizophrenia may help explain why there are misconceptions about the disease. Contrary to what Dr. Bleuler thought when he named the disease over one hundred years ago, schizophrenia does not result in split personalities or multiple personalities. Most people with schizophrenia are no more dangerous than people in the general population. However, you’d never know this based on how people with the diagnosis are portrayed in TV, film, and other media. And as with most stigmas around mental health issues, stigmas perpetuate fear, make “others” out of those with the diagnosis, and in turn encourage isolation - all of which worsen the lives of already vulnerable individuals. Research has found that “public, anticipated, and self-stigma decrease healthcare seeking and treatment adherence, and create barriers to pursuing independent living” for those living with the condition..
Would a Name Change Help Reduce the Stigma?
This is how the idea of renaming schizophrenia came about. Said a recent New York Times article, "The idea is that replacing the term ‘schizophrenia’ with something less frightening and more descriptive will not only change how the public perceives people with the diagnosis but also how people with the diagnosis see themselves." Japan and South Korea have already changed the name to “Integration Disorder '', which is the term for which many in the re-naming movement are advocating.
Most of the mental health community is behind the name change. A survey by the World Psychiatric Association showed that approximately half of mental health professionals around the world believe schizophrenia needs a new label, and over half believe the term is stigmatizing. Another 2021 poll found that 74% of stakeholders (mental health professionals, family members, researchers, government officials, and more) found the name stigmatizing and favored a name change.
In the Meantime, How Can We Help Reduce the Stigma?
Regardless of where you stand on the name change, the most important thing is to understand that schizophrenia is a physical disease of the brain - and like other medical diseases - it is treatable today. Much research has been done on how to reduce the stigma around this diagnosis, and that research has found that if we commit to educating society about schizophrenia, promote accurate representations of schizophrenia, and prioritize advocacy, we may help reduce the stigma.
Sources
The New York Times: ‘Schizophrenia’ Still Carries a Stigma. Will Changing the Name Help?
American Psychiatric Association: What is Schizophrenia?
National Alliance for Mental Illness: The Consequences of Stigma Surrounding Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia Bulletin: Reducing Stigma Toward Individuals With Schizophrenia Using a Brief Video: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Young Adults

When someone makes the critical decision to start therapy, it can provoke a great deal of nervousness—beyond the underlying anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues that are prompting them to seek therapy in the first place. This is especially true if they've never been in a setting where they've been expected to focus solely on themselves and the sensitive aspects of their lives for a fixed period of time.
As a new therapy client, preparation is key to help calm the nerves. Here are the top six tips for how to prepare for a first therapy session.
1. Have a Quick Reference for Health-Related Information
Psychological and physical health are intricately connected, and during a first therapy session, it'll be important to come prepared to discuss health history details. People should make sure to have a readily accessible list of the medications they are currently taking, including supplements. This can be especially helpful if a person would like to start a new medication in conjunction with their first therapy session.
Beyond current medications, being prepared with a list of medications one has taken in the past can be helpful, especially if certain medications caused adverse side effects or were otherwise ineffective. Be ready to discuss other health conditions, too, as many medical conditions can influence mental health or stress levels—including endocrine conditions (such as thyroid disorders), chronic pain syndromes, or chronic illnesses.
Having these health details written down in a single place can serve as a handy reference and reduce stress during a first therapy session.
2. Think About the Functional Goals of Therapy
Often when starting therapy, the broad goal is to feel better overall. While this is certainly a realistic and achievable goal, it can be helpful to break this goal down into smaller pieces. This way, it's easier to assess progress during a therapeutic journey. Before a first therapy session, people need to take some time to reflect on what they're looking to get out of therapy.
If a person is experiencing depression and hoping that therapy will help their condition improve, they should reflect on the most challenging aspects of their current condition. For example, depression-related sleep challenges are very common. If sleep has been difficult, a goal of therapy could be to increase the number of nights per week that they get quality, uninterrupted sleep. Or, if a person is experiencing tearfulness with their depression, a practical goal of therapy would be to see a reduction in crying episodes per week. Tracking these symptoms can help a person measure the impact of their therapy and make sure they're recognizing improvement in their condition. It's important to ask one's therapist during a first therapy session about how they view and measure progress, as well.
3. Prepare First Therapy Session Questions
Thinking too much about a first therapy session can make it difficult to open up and start a conversation and relationship with one's new therapist. However, going into a first therapy session with a completely blank slate can also make it difficult to know where to start. It can help to prepare a few questions to ask during the first therapy session. Examples include:
What to expect from therapy? What is the therapist's counseling style? How do practical issues like billing work? A good way to come up with questions is for people to think about what details about the first session are nagging at them the most—and then reframe those as a question. For example, if a person is worried about what they should be doing during a therapy session (i.e., should they be sitting at their computer desk, or is it okay for them to be lying on their couch), they should simply ask. Or, if a person is concerned about the billing or financing aspect of a session, they should feel free to get those questions out in the open as well.
4. Focus on Creating a Supportive Environment for the Session
Virtual mental health counseling sessions can help people fit therapy into their busy lives in a way that was never possible before. However, people need to think about where in their living space they will want a session to occur. Being strategic about this can ensure that a first therapy session is as productive and beneficial as possible. Some factors to consider include the following:
Selecting what to wear. Choosing comfortable clothing can be a great way to feel at ease during a therapy session. People shouldn't worry about dressing to make an impression or to appear professional. Instead, they should wear clothing that makes them feel as relaxed as possible. Choosing where to have the session. If possible, people should choose to have a first therapy session in an area of their home where they're free from mental distractions. If having a therapy session in the kitchen means staring at a to-do list on the fridge, or a sink full of dishes, this can introduce more stress into the session. Instead, choose a peaceful, meditative space with as few distractions as possible. Ensuring that this is free from disruption (i.e., by locking the door to prevent roommates from wandering in) can also help one feel more comfortable during a first session. Being intentional about the physical space and nearby items. Once a person has chosen what to wear and where to set up their device for a first therapy session, it can also help to have a few items nearby to make the setting as calm and supportive as possible. Think about keeping a candle, a favorite scent, a comfort item, a framed picture, or a cozy blanket nearby. Practical items, like a box of tissues, may be helpful to have on hand, too. 5. Think Ahead of Time About Conversation Starters or Jumping Off Points
One of the most intimidating aspects of a first therapy session may be the initial ice breaker or conversation starter that answers the question: "What brings you here today?" This question can feel so big that it becomes difficult to answer or even to know how to start answering. However, instead of thinking of a first therapy session as this giant, inaugural jump into a new frontier, it's helpful to realize that each therapy session is simply a resource for whatever a person may be needed at the moment.
Here are some potential topics for jumping-off points people can use when it comes to talking to their therapist during a first therapy session:
When was a period in their life, or a specific moment, that they felt truly happy or joyful? What factors contributed to that moment—who was there, and what was the context? Comparing that moment to the present moment, what factors are different or the same? When was a period in their life that they felt the lowest, and what factors contributed to this? How quickly did they come out of this lowest moment, or what feelings or emotions are residual from this moment and continuing into the present day? What relationships in the past have they considered to be the most nourishing and constructive? On the flip side, what relationships in the past have been the most toxic or difficult? What present hardship or situation would they want to change first if they could? What worries them the most about the future? What are they hoping will happen in the future? What small, annoying thing happened yesterday? What choice did they make recently that they regret? 6. Congratulate Oneself on the Reality of a First Therapy Session
It takes a lot of courage to be vulnerable and to go through the process of seeking therapy and showing up to a first session. A final tip for preparing for a first therapy session is simply acknowledging the groundwork that a person has laid to get themselves into the position of attending a first therapy session.
Showing up for oneself is often more than half the battle, as practicing true self-care takes enormous bravery. Before a first therapy session, people should take a moment to pat themselves on the back for taking this big, important next step forward.
How to Learn More About First Therapy Sessions
The above tips about how to prepare for therapy consultation can make it easier to leap into this rewarding journey. At Telemynd, our mental health professionals view therapy sessions as a resource for clients, and each session can serve whatever purpose is needed at the moment. Telemynd providers understand the dynamics that go into embarking upon a therapeutic journey, and they excel at easing clients into a first session. For more information about Telemynd's personalized approach to therapy, contact us to get started with an appointment today.
 

In May 2023, Fort Benning in Georgia will be renamed Fort Moore in honor of General Harold (Hal) Moore and his wife, Julia (Julie) Moore. General Moore was a decorated veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars. Mrs. Moore grew up in a military family, married an officer, and became a military parent when two of her sons chose to serve. She was widely recognized for her work supporting military families.
For Reuben Dickenson, the Vice President of Strategic Partnerships at Telemynd, this change is close to his heart: He knows the Moore family personally. Dickenson, a veteran, is volunteering to help plan the official renaming ceremony scheduled to take place on May 11, 2023.
The Fort Benning Name Change
The push for Fort Benning's new name was initiated in 2021 when the Department of Defense followed a Congressional order to rename military sites named after Confederate personnel. Fort Benning was named for Georgia native Henry Benning, who served in the Confederate Army, though he never served in the United States military. The Naming Commission solicited proposals for a Forte Benning name change and other facilities and considered them throughout 2022.
The Moores' five children were instrumental in proposing the name change for the Georgia Army base. Fort Benning has special significance for the family. They lived on the base during the General's service during the Vietnam War. Later, their son David was stationed at Fort Benning during his own Army service, and he currently works there as a civilian employee. Both General and Mrs. Moore are buried in the Fort Banning Post Cemetery. They were laid to rest there because General Moore wanted to be surrounded by the troops he led in Vietnam.
The Moore family was adamant that the name change reflects the contributions of both Julia and Hal. In an interview with Stars and Stripes, David remarked, "We felt that by nominating them both it creates the opportunity for the Army to honor something bigger than just a name — to honor the Army family."
About Hal Moore
Hal Moore was a West Point graduate who went on to serve on active duty for 32 years. His early service included time in Japan following World War II, where he trained in the airborne jump school in Tokyo. He was given command of a heavy mortar company in combat during the Korean War, where he earned two Bronze Star Medals for Valor.
After the Korean War, Moore returned to the United States, where he taught at West Point, and underwent additional training before reporting to Fort Banning to command a division that would become the 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, and 1st Cavalry Division. He was deployed to Vietnam, where he led troops in the Battle of Ia Drang, the first major battle of the war. Vastly outnumbered, Moore and his troops spent three days surrounded by the People's Army of Vietnam (PAVN) forces. The American troops suffered heavy casualties but eventually drove the PAVN forces off, thanks to artillery action and air support.
He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for extraordinary heroism at Ia Drang, another Bronze Star Medal for Valor, and individual awards of the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm. Moore's leadership earned him the nickname "the General Patton of Vietnam."
After Vietnam, Moore assumed command of the 7th Infantry Division in Korea, followed by command of the Training Center at Fort Ord, CA. There he addressed racial unrest among service members to improve unit cohesion. In 1974, Hal served as the DCSPER, where he focused on rebuilding the NCO Corps.
He later wrote a successful memoir of his experience in Vietnam called "We Were Soldiers Once…And Young." It was adapted as the movie "We Were Soldiers," starring Mel Gibson.
Hal Moore and his co-author Joe Galloway used the profits from the book to establish the Ia Drang Scholarship Fund. The fund offers scholarship money to descendants of dead or surviving veterans of Ia Drang battles. The fund has distributed $1,823,519 to 322 recipients.
About Julia Moore
Julia Moore, known as Julie, was born on an Army base in 1929. Her father was a colonel, and she grew up as part of a military family. She met Hal Moore at Fort Bragg in North Carolina, where they married and had their first of five children. A lifelong Red Cross volunteer, Julia Moore was also an active part of the social and community life of every duty station. The family moved 28 times over 32 years, but Julie always made connections in each new community. She often hosted gatherings for other Army wives and made sure families got the support they needed. She was active in Army Community Service, including Officer and NCO Wives' Clubs, Advisory Councils, Post Thrift Shops, daycare centers, and Boy and Girl Scout troops.
When her husband was deployed to Vietnam, she learned that death notifications were being delivered by cab drivers hired to drop telegrams off with military spouses. Horrified, she took steps to learn where the notifications were being sent so she could be there when families learned of their loss. She ensured they had a compassionate person with them at their most difficult moment. That experience led her to advocate for better notification procedures, going to the Pentagon to make her case. Thanks to her efforts, an officer and a chaplain are always present when a family learns of a service member's death.
In 2005, the military created the Julia C. Moore Award. The annual award is given to civilian spouses who demonstrate outstanding "contributions to the health and welfare of the Army Family."
The Moore Family Overjoyed
When the Naming Commission announced the decision to rename Fort Benning after the Moores, they explained that the couple exemplified the life experience of military families: "Their story is representative of millions of other military families throughout our history, who have often endured many travels and movements, putting the nation's needs ahead of their personal preferences. If it's a truism that families serve right alongside their service members, the Moore family lived that experience to the fullest. Their stories exceptionally exemplify the service of modern military families."
Steve Moore, the Moores' second son who retired from the Army as a Lieutenant Colonel, told Stars and Stripes how he felt when he learned his parents would be honored this way. "I just broke down," he said. "And the reason I felt that deep emotion was I knew what [my parents] had gone through and overcome in a life of service to the nation.… And so, I said to myself through the tears, 'Finally, the Army is going to recognize what service in a military family has always been.'"
Military Families and Telemynd
Reuben Dickenson, Telemynd's Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, is delighted about the honor bestowed on the Moore family. A West Point graduate and Army veteran himself, Reuben is a friend of the Moore family and supported the proposal to rename the base in their honor. He is looking forward to the official naming ceremony.
"Julia Moore understood the strains that military families face. The life of military service is rewarding, but it is also a challenge. The spouses and children of active duty service members have unique mental health needs," Reuben commented. "Julia understood that from her own experience. She lived a life of compassion and service to her fellow family members. I believe I am following her example at Telemynd, where we try to bring that spirit to the care we offer military members and their families."
To learn more about the process of renaming the future Fort Moore, you can visit "Fort Moore: Recognizing the Contributions of the Military Spouse and Family," a website about the Moore family and the proposal to rename the base.
The official ceremony is scheduled for May 11, 2023. It will be held in Doughboy Stadium on the base. More details about the ceremony and Fort Benning news and updates will be available closer to the event date.

Sometimes, new military spouses don’t know what to expect from military life. They often have to rely on the information from their service member, which is sometimes frustratingly limited or, worse, full of confusing acronyms.
Fortunately, many incredible resources are available, whether you’re a military wife or husband.
Numerous charities, national organizations, and programs on base strive to make military life a little easier. From deployment support programs that strengthen a military marriage to online mental health offerings, there are different benefits military families can take advantage of.
Military Spouse Benefits on Base
Whether a military family chooses to live on base or off base, many spouse resources are available.
1. Relief Programs
Every branch has its own Relief Program or Aid Society to provide emergency relief through interest-free loans. If a military spouse has an unexpected bill for car repairs or a broken appliance, this is a great resource. Army Emergency Relief, the Air Force Aid Society, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society, and Coast Guard Mutual Assistance have offices on their respective military installations.
Note that the service member must apply in person for a loan because it will be slowly deducted from their future paychecks.
2. Family Center
Most military installations have a Family Center or Readiness Center with multiple programs that support local military families. They know the challenges military families face, so they provide orientation classes for those new to the base, which is a great resource when you have just moved to a new installation. Family Centers also teach new parent classes, offer resume writing support, advise on financial aid for college, and much more. Some support special events and guest speakers throughout the year. Stop by a Family Center for a full list of their local resources.
Military Spouse Resources for Deployments
Deployments can be a stressful challenge for military families and exhausting for any military wife or husband. These military spouse resources make life a little more bearable during deployments.
3. Care Package Kits From USPS
When a service member is deployed, they’ll want care packages with their favorite snacks, any essential toiletries they need, and photos or reminders of home. The good news is that deployment addresses use an APO address, so military spouses won’t pay for international shipping.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) sells flat-rate boxes that cost a steady shipping fee, no matter how much is packed inside the box. Here’s a great benefit: The USPS will send a free care package kit to military families. It includes multiple sizes of flat-rate boxes, plus packaging tape, shipping labels, and customs forms. Order through their website to get the kit delivered for free.
4. GreenCare for Troops
Yard work can be a struggle when the service member is away. Luckily, volunteers around the country want to help military families with lawn care, leaf removal, and clearing snow during deployments. The GreenCare for Troops program connects a military wife or husband with local volunteers who do their yard work for free! Taking just one task off a military spouse’s shoulders can be an incredible military spouse benefit during deployment.
5. Build-a-Sign
At the end of deployment, many military spouses love to celebrate by decorating their house or yard with a welcome home banner. Build-a-Sign provides free customizable canvas banners to military families. These are high-quality, durable banners that celebrate homecoming in any weather. Military families can choose from several designs to welcome their hero home in style and add photos or names to personalize their banners.
Military Spouse Resources for a PCS
Some military families move often, while others only experience a few PCS moves. Either way, receiving PCS orders is one of the biggest challenges military families face because they must make a plan to relocate the entire household to a new location — sometimes on the other side of the world! These military spouse benefits help families make the most of PCS season.
6. PCSgrades
When a service member comes home with PCS orders, the military wife or husband usually starts frantically searching online for everything they can learn about the new location. It’s difficult to figure out housing, schools, and local information on short notice! PCSgrades has Area Guides with details about 100 duty stations, including BAH rates, housing options, schools, and more. If a military family is buying or selling a home when they move, PCSgrades can connect them with a military-friendly real estate agent in the local area. Since military families often need to buy a home from a distance or in a hurry, it’s comforting to work with real estate agents who understand the challenges of PCS moves and know how to navigate the VA home loan.
7. School Liaison Officer
For military families with school-aged children, PCS moves bring a new set of challenges. It can feel exhausting trying to learn about school zones near the next military base while also searching for homes and trying to transfer student records. A school liaison officer, or SLO, helps military families moving into the area so they are informed of their school options. The SLO can also help transfer records, register EFMP children, or reinstate any special IEP that needs to be continued at the new school.
8. ASYMCA
Military families who live off-base may consider paying high rates for membership at a local gym. Instead, they should check with the ASYMCA to see if there is a YMCA location nearby. The ASYMCA offers military discounts at locations across the country. Their on-site childcare can be used for up to two hours daily, which is a great benefit that can enable spouses to exercise, get work done, or just relax away from the kids for a while. There are additional programs for military spouses and services for military kids from ASYMCA centers around the country.
Military Spouse Benefits for Education and Employment
In a military marriage, the service member’s career often determines where the family lives and how often they move. This can make it difficult for a wife or husband to maintain a career during the frequent changes of military life. The following resources address the education and employment challenges military families face.
9. Military Spouse Preference
The Department of Defense civilian jobs have a special category for military spouses to assist them in their job search and career opportunities. They will have additional “points” added to their application, so military spouses who meet all job qualifications are selected for interviews over other candidates. When looking for work on USAJobs, search the category for military spouses to see the hiring preference details.
10. G.I. Bill
Most service members earn the G.I. Bill to cover the cost of college tuition. The service member may transfer this benefit to their spouse or children (under specific conditions), allowing them to get several years free at colleges across the country. The G.I. Bill covers tuition and books and will also provide a housing fee for the service member. If the service member isn’t planning to attend a four-year college, they can share the benefit so the military spouse can get financial aid toward a college or professional certificate that will help them advance their career.
11. LinkedIn Premium
LinkedIn provides one free year of LinkedIn Premium to active duty members, veterans, and military spouses. This is a great resource for anyone looking for a job or trying to build their professional network. The Premium plan includes numerous educational videos and certificate programs, plus enhanced insights to job postings.
Military Spouse Benefits for Mental Health
Military families often undergo constant change and uncertainty, which can lead to increased feelings of stress or depression. It can be difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle and strong connections with loved ones near and far. The following military spouse resources support mental health needs.
12. Military OneSource Counseling
Military spouses who want to talk to a counselor about the stresses and challenges of military life qualify for 12 free non-medical counseling sessions through Military OneSource. They can request a counselor through the website and be connected to one that same day. Sessions can be in person, over the phone, or via video chat. Military OneSource counselors cannot diagnose conditions or prescribe medicine, but they can offer great strategies to work through challenges like deployments, help with adjusting after a PCS move, tips for raising military children at different ages, and marriage counseling.
13. Telemynd
For those seeking mental health care, Telemynd is a great option. They have a national network of licensed therapists and prescribers who provide TRICARE-covered mental health services. Telemynd therapists and prescribers do not require a referral or authorization for TRICARE Prime active duty families, so it’s easy to access and get started. They offer virtual sessions with secure video chat, so spouses and children can get the care they need, no matter where they are stationed. It’s convenient to connect with a professional virtually, especially if they have children at home or can’t drive themselves to appointments.
You can easily book an appointment today on their website.

Understanding veterans’ mental health statistics and their mental health risks is essential to helping them get the care they need. Veterans’ suicide prevention begins with knowledge and information about the challenges they are facing. They do an important service for the country and deserve the assistance required to face their struggles head-on. Many resources are available to help in times of crisis.
Understanding Who Veterans Are
The latest data from 2021 reveals there are approximately 16.5 million military veterans in the United States. Although there are currently more male veterans, the number of females enlisting in the military is rising. There are 1.7 million female veterans in the United States. In 2021, 231,741 women were in active-duty force, and 171,000 women were in the National Guard. This made up 17.3% and 21.4%, respectively.
The age breakdown of the veteran population is estimated as follows:
Ages 18 to 34 years comprise 8.2%. Ages 35 to 54 years comprise 24.0%. Ages 55 to 64 years comprise 18.6%. Ages 65 to 74 years comprise 24.8%. Ages 75 and over comprise 24.4%. Risks Veterans Face When Coming Home
Due to the nature of their service, veterans face various risk factors when returning home from service or getting discharged from their duties. These risk factors contribute to poor outcomes for many of the men and women who’ve served the country.
Physical Injury
Men and women in the military are at an increased risk for physical injury. These may include wounds from being in a battle, vehicle accidents, sprains, and strains, hearing loss or tinnitus, head injuries, and chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP).
A total of 30% of veterans have some disability.
Trauma
Many veterans endure significant trauma after going through combat. Even if they may not engage in warfare themselves, seeing others get killed, maimed, or injured could lead to a traumatized response.
Also, during times of stress and danger, the body commonly experiences a surge of heightened adrenaline and a fight or flight response.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is more common among veterans than the general population. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, approximately 7% will experience PTSD.
Vets with PTSD may experience symptoms such as:
Avoidance of things that trigger memories about the event Hopeless feelings about life and the future Difficulty with memory Intrusive memories and dreams Irritability or angry outbursts Unemployment and Poverty
Veterans have long been at a higher risk for poverty and homelessness. If a vet is struggling with PTSD or another mental health disorder, it makes it challenging to hold down a job. It’s also challenging to keep up with a full-time job if medical conditions hinder a vet’s ability to perform. These factors can lead to homelessness.
Veterans Mental Health Statistics
Aside from PTSD, as mentioned above, many experience an array of other mental health issues. The National Institute of Health (NIH) research reveals that one-third of veterans have at least one mental health disorder diagnosis, and 41% have either mental health or a behavioral adjustment disorder.
Mental Health Disorders
Mental health disorders may range in intensity, but even in mild cases can affect the person’s ability to manage life effectively. For example, researchers from the VA New England MIRECC and the Yale School of Medicine conducted a study with veterans experiencing anxiety and PTSD which found that they had a much higher rate of homelessness than the general veteran population.
PTSD is also linked to higher rates of suicidal thoughts and impulses, making this mental health condition a significant risk. Compared to the general U.S. population, veteran suicides are higher by 57.3%. The total number that committed suicide in 2020 was 6,146.
However, the suicide rate among veterans is slowly decreasing. According to the most recent VA report, there were 343 fewer veteran suicides in 2020 than there were in 2019.
Only through the continued work of the VA and qualified mental health professionals can they receive the proper treatment and counseling to help them cope and bring down these statistics even further.
Substance Use Disorders
Misusing drugs or alcohol is a common method of escape for many people. Since substances provide a temporary feeling of euphoria, veterans may use them to numb the feelings and memories of combat. However, the risk for addiction is high when using illicit substances.
Approximately one-fourth of them struggle with illicit drugs, and 80% battle alcohol misuse. One in 10 veterans has been diagnosed with a substance use disorder, which is higher than the general population. Between substance misuse and mental health disorders, veterans are likely to have one or the other condition.
Some dealing with untreated mental health problems or suffering from PTSD may turn to drugs or alcohol as a “quick fix” to the problem. Yet, it ends up being an additional problem in the end. When someone has a mental health condition like PTSD combined with substance abuse, they need treatment for a dual-diagnosis disorder. This requires therapy for veterans that addresses the underlying problem and detox in some cases.
Resources for Veterans in Need
Veterans don’t have to suffer from a mental health disorder in silence. The VA is committed to veterans’ suicide prevention and providing care for mental health issues.
The Veterans Affairs mental health services department has made mental health a top priority and recently implemented the National Strategy For Preventing Veteran Suicide and Reducing Military and Veteran Suicide programs. These programs provide a roadmap for assisting those at risk for suicide, whether they have benefits or not.
They also have expanded their benefits to include those who are not currently enrolled but experiencing a crisis. Now, they can seek care at no cost if they are dealing with suicidal thoughts or amid a crisis, allowing access to up to 9 million more veterans.
In some cases, an individual may be able to go to any VA or non-VA healthcare facility for emergency healthcare at no cost. This may include inpatient or crisis residential care for some time up to 30 days. Outpatient care may be covered for up to 90 days.
Another way the Veterans’ Affairs mental health services department is working to help with mental illness is to leverage community providers to provide therapy. They would just need to get approval and a referral from the VA. Then they can schedule an appointment with a mental health provider, such as Telemynd, which provides telehealth and telemedicine care.
Keep in mind that if you are having a crisis, you should reach out to emergency helplines or call 911 right away. Many helplines are available, such as the veteran crisis line at 1-800-273-8255 and the veterans’ suicide hotline by dialing 988. These hotlines are available 24/7.
How to Access Veteran Mental Health Care
Veterans should be proactive in their mental health care. In other words, at the first sign of a problem, reach out to the resources available Often, telehealth is a great way to begin the journey, as you can access compassionate, licensed, and experienced mental health care from the comfort of your own home. You can even get a prescription using telehealth services through the VA referral.
Start this process by consulting with your VA physician and telling them about your mental health concerns. They can give you the referral necessary to seek mental health care and have your VA benefits cover the cost.
If you lack VA benefits but are experiencing mental health challenges, you are likely covered under the new initiatives mentioned above. Reach out to VA.gov to get the referral necessary for your covered care. You must specifically ask for authorization to seek treatment at Telemynd. Once you receive the authorization, you can contact us directly for an appointment.

Teaching is one of the most important professions, especially when it comes to shaping the future. Supporting teachers is critical for ensuring productive communities nationwide, as well as globally. However, teachers face a disproportionate number of professional stressors, which can lead to decreased mental health. Read on for a deep dive into teacher mental health and strategies to help teachers prioritize their mental wellness.
What Factors Are Behind the Decline in Teachers’ Mental Well-Being?
Compared to adults in other full-time professions, teachers report higher rates of anxiety, depression, and burnout. Prior to the pandemic, teachers were burdened with many constraints, including increasing class sizes, lack of resources and funding, safety concerns, and longer work hours. However, the COVID-19 pandemic introduced a whole new host of stressors for teachers. Fears about physical health, personal well-being, and the well-being of students have only increased the psychological burden on educators. In the post-pandemic era, numerous studies reveal that teachers experience significant job-related stress, which can often lead to mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
What Do Statistics Say About Teacher Mental Health?
A recent survey of teachers and principals conducted by RAND Corporation showed that almost 75 percent of teachers and 85 percent of principals faced frequent on-the-job stressors, compared to only 33 percent of working adults. More than half of the teachers surveyed reported feeling burned out.
Other RAND survey statistics showed that:
26 percent of teachers sometimes or often feared for their physical safety at school 23 percent of teachers reported that they were likely to leave their jobs by the end of the school year 25 percent of teachers noted that they either did not know if their job provided mental health support or that there was no mental health support available to them at work More troubling still, recent research in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health showed rates of anxiety symptoms among teachers ranging from 38 to 41 percent and depression symptoms as high as 77 percent.
Expert Strategies for Improving Teacher Well-Being
While taking back control of mental wellness can seem intimidating, especially with the numerous challenges facing the education profession, several tips and tricks can help teachers stay above water and continue to enjoy the critical contributions they make to the profession and society at large.
Tip #1: Prioritize Self Care
Teachers are often “helpers” to a fault, meaning that they prioritize the needs of everyone in their orbit before turning to address their own needs. The first step to re-prioritizing one’s mental well-being is recognizing a tendency to defer one’s needs. After acknowledging that underlying trait, teachers can begin to take steps toward putting a greater emphasis on their well-being. Self-care looks a little different for every teacher. These are common self-care activities that many teachers find helpful.
Routine exercise Focusing on nutritious foods Improving sleep hygiene Taking scheduled and unscheduled time off Spending time with sources of positivity, whether family, friends, or pets Engaging with nature Routine spa appointments, massages, facials, or other body-focused therapies Experts at Mental Health America recommend that teachers physically write self-care activities into their schedules or onto their personal calendars in order to safeguard these activities and limit deferrals or excuse-making.
Tip #2: Set Healthy Boundaries
Teachers are altruists at heart, devoting themselves to the education and promotion of others. As such, they often have a difficult time saying “no” and end up taking on more responsibilities and tasks than they truly desire.
Teachers can refocus on their mental health and reduce their sense of being overburdened by setting healthy boundaries and working to maintain them. This means saying “no” despite the fact that it might cause them discomfort in the moment. Playing defense is crucial to controlling one’s time and schedule and, therefore, feeling agency in one’s own life.
To help teachers set healthy boundaries, one expert on maintaining resilience in education suggests the following habits:
Sticking to specific grading times instead of letting work bleed into personal time Scheduling set office hours to help students in order to protect personal time Making no exceptions to the boundaries that are set Enforcing personal breaks that cannot involve work Considering each day a fresh opportunity instead of wallowing or letting emotions carry over from previous days that were challenging Tip #3: Find Social Connection
The power of social connection is real. Staying connected with others in a similar situation can often be particularly therapeutic, as long as it’s done intentionally and does not dissolve into pure commiseration. Experts at Mental Health America suggest that in order to protect their mental health, teachers should routinely check in on one another. This can allow them to express and share their own vulnerabilities, which can go a long way in combatting feelings of isolation. Establishing a group of fellow teachers who can regularly come together to vent and praise each other can help buffer the daily stress of the job.
Tip #4: Deliberately Pursue an Activity Outside of Teaching
Teaching is the ultimate example of a career that “follows one home,” and this is often because teachers are highly dedicated to their jobs and to the well-being of their students. However, allowing the job to bleed into one’s personal life can be detrimental to mental health. One way that teachers can avoid the temptation to fixate on work at home is to deliberately pick up an extracurricular hobby or activity. This can help teachers keep things in perspective, which is an important element of teacher mental health, according to the Mental Health Foundation.
Tip #5: Lean Into Mental Health Support Channels
Focusing on mental health can sometimes feel like one more task for busy teachers who are already experiencing job-related stress and burnout. However, professional mental health support can be an amazing addition to the tips listed above. Teachers who seek professional support can benefit from tailored mental health plans with trained counselors to talk to in a confidential setting.
Telemynd is an online resource that offers virtual appointments with licensed mental health professionals. Telemynd is included in many benefits programs, and it allows teachers and other busy professionals the ability to schedule appointments anytime, anywhere. Its secure platform and licensed therapists and prescribers are ready to give teachers the support they need to keep doing what they love. To learn more, contact us today.

Visualizing success is a powerful tool, and crafting a vision board is a creative way to manifest your goals. In this step-by-step guide, we'll explore why vision boards work, provide materials and preparation tips, and offer insights on doing it solo or with a group.
Why Vision Boards Work
Unlocking the Power of Visualization: Understand the impact of visualizing goals on the subconscious mind and how it influences positive thinking. Testimonials from Celebrities: Dive into success stories from celebrities who credit vision boards for their achievements, such as Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, and John Assaraf. Getting Started: Materials and Preparation
Materials Needed:
Poster board Magazines Scissors Glue Markers Digital Option: For a modern twist, consider using digital tools like Canva or Pinterest to create a virtual vision board. These platforms offer a wide range of images and customization options.
Setting the Right Mindset: Choose a quiet and comfortable space for your creative process. Set the right mindset by reflecting on the positive changes you wish to manifest.
Reflecting on Your Goals
Self-Reflection:
Consider short-term and long-term goals across various aspects of life. Identify key areas such as career, relationships, personal development, and health. Tips for Solo Vision Boarding:
Collect images and words that deeply resonate with your aspirations. Arrange and glue items strategically to create a cohesive narrative. Personalize your vision board with meaningful touches and embellishments. Regularly revisit and reflect on your vision board to stay aligned with your goals. Group Vision Boarding
Benefits of Group Vision Boarding:
Share goals and aspirations with others for mutual inspiration. Organize a vision board party to create a collaborative and supportive atmosphere. Hosting a Successful Event:
Provide a variety of materials and resources. Encourage participants to share their visions and goals. Foster an environment of encouragement and celebration. Bringing Your Vision Board to Life
Daily Integration Strategies:
Place your vision board in a visible location to reinforce your goals. Regularly revisit and update your goals as circumstances change. Use affirmations and visualization techniques to strengthen your commitment. Troubleshooting and Adjusting Goals
Common Challenges:
Address challenges in goal-setting, such as procrastination or self-doubt. Emphasize the importance of flexibility and resilience in adapting goals to changing circumstances. Embark on the new year with a clear vision and a positive mindset. Share your vision board experiences and goals with our community, and let's inspire each other to manifest success in 2024.

Is it possible for someone to improve their mental health and well-being through positive thoughts and talk therapy? The science of positive psychology claims it is not only possible, but also an avenue for mental health care to combat depression and loneliness.
This article will explore the main positive psychology principles, the benefits of positive psychology for those who practice it, and how to use positive psychology coaching as a mental health resource. After exploring the history and science behind it, keep reading for the best books on positive psychology and inspirational psychology quotes.
What Is Positive Psychology?
The biggest goal of positive psychology is to teach someone to shift their perspective, which empowers them to improve their quality of life.
Unlike traditional psychology, which focuses on a patient’s weaknesses and mental illness, positive psychology’s focus is on the strengths that allow a patient to build a satisfying, meaningful life. By learning more about positive experiences and traits like gratitude or resilience, people can improve their own happiness, well-being, and self-confidence.
Positive psychology is a relatively new branch of psychology, established in 2000. Martin Seligman, a researcher with a background in psychology, had spent decades studying depression and the link between feelings of sadness and helplessness. He found that patients who learned to build positive character traits could also learn optimism and resilience to improve their overall mental health.
Seligman felt that traditional psychology had placed too much emphasis on healing damage and not enough effort on building human strengths. Seligman believed the field of positive psychology could correct the imbalance with a focus on helping people find fulfillment in creativity, engaging in meaningful pursuits, facing adversity, and relating to others.
In 1998, Seligman was elected president of the American Psychological Association. He added positive psychology as a new subfield to focus on the life-giving aspects of psychology. In 2000, Seligman published the foundational paper of positive psychology with Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, another psychologist known for developing the concept of “flow.”
Positive psychology is not meant to replace traditional psychology. Instead, it complements traditional psychology by focusing on “what is going right with an individual” to build positive well-being.
What Are Positive Psychology Principles?
Positive psychology is a “soft science” based on evidence-based theories developed from research such as surveys, animal experiments, brain imaging, and case studies. The predominant theory is the observation that developing strong social relationships, personal character traits, and overall happiness can act as a buffer for life’s setbacks.
Positive psychology promotes the theory that well-being can not only be defined and measured in humans, but it can also be taught. Through positive psychology principles, people can learn to improve their physical and mental well-being.
Some of the important theories and principles of positive psychology are:
To live a “good life,” feelings of satisfaction and well-being are more important than feelings of temporary pleasure. A “good day” usually has three main characteristics: feelings of competence, autonomy, and a connection to others. Work and relationships matter in terms of making life worth living because they give people a sense of meaning. Money cannot buy happiness, but helping other people or volunteering almost always leads to feelings of happiness. Based on these theories, Seligman proposed five different building blocks of well-being, which are now referred to as the PERMA model. These include:
Positive emotions Engagement (with a project or hobby) Relationships Meaning Accomplishment or achievement Patients using positive psychology coaching can learn to develop their own character traits and strengthen these five core areas. Positive psychology demonstrates how people can live meaningful and fulfilling lives by enhancing their everyday experiences.
What Is “Flow” in Positive Psychology Principles?
The concept of “flow,” mentioned above, is another positive psychology principle. Csikszentmihalyi coined this term after observing artists, writers, and athletes who seemed to lose themselves in their work during creative experiences. The state of flow occurs when someone has a high challenge and an equally high skill level.
Because entering flow is a rewarding and enjoyable experience, it is linked to happiness and overall well-being. This aspect of positive psychology encourages people to identify their strengths and develop areas of interest where they can find meaning and satisfaction. It is similar to the principle of engagement from the PERMA model.
Benefits of Positive Psychology
Practicing positive psychology regularly enables someone to boost their social and emotional well-being. It leads people to explore their own character strengths so they are better equipped to face challenging situations.
The human brain has a natural tendency to remember frustration and difficulties more than success. This “negativity bias” benefited Stone Age man when there were daily dangers to avoid, but it is less practical for modern man’s success. Positive psychology principles help people reframe the way they look at life, fight pessimism, focus on strengths, and cultivate gratitude.
Building a sense of meaning and purpose in life can have a wide range of positive outcomes for those practicing positive psychology. Research demonstrates that older adults who feel their life has meaning and purpose experience higher levels of physical health and mental well-being. Those who felt their lives were meaningful tended to have stronger relationships and more involvement in social activities, so they were less likely to be lonely.
While many things can contribute to healthy relationships, feelings of connection, and a resilient character, it’s clear that the practice of positive psychology contributes to overall wellness — both physical and mental health.
Common Misconceptions of Positive Psychology
Some people think positive psychology is too simple because it focuses on positive experiences but ignores negative emotions and serious conditions like depression or anxiety. It can be viewed as overly optimistic, unrealistically promoting constant happiness. Positive psychology is also misconceived as neglecting individual differences, ignoring the importance of negative experiences, and focusing solely on individual happiness.
In reality, positive psychology promotes a balanced perspective that acknowledges both the positive and negative and tailors interventions and therapeutic strategies to the individual based on their specific profile. It is a partner to more traditional therapeutic models of psychology. Instead of diminishing alternative methods of managing symptoms, it enhances them. Positive psychology seeks a balanced life in which an individual is equipped to handle the inevitable difficulties that are part of human existence.
Goals of Positive Psychology Coaching
For those who want to experience the benefits of positive psychology, the best method is through coaching or talk therapy. With this mental health resource, a client meets regularly with a therapist trained in positive psychology principles.
The goal of positive psychology coaching is to improve a client’s quality of life by helping them identify their own strengths, giving them a sense of hope, and teaching them how to nurture feelings like gratitude, happiness, and optimism.
Through coaching, clients will set goals that challenge them to build positive relationships, find connections to others, and develop their own talents.
How to Use Positive Psychology in Your Daily Routines
Since positive psychology focuses on building individual strengths instead of treating weaknesses, it’s accessible for most people to practice at home. Positive psychology embraces the principle that people can change and improve.
When someone tries new experiences, sets goals, and looks for opportunities that play to their strengths, they are practicing positive psychology. Exploring activities that create flow moments will improve mood. Making efforts to slow down and savor pleasure can become part of their daily routine.
One easy way to practice positive psychology at home is to do gratitude exercises. By focusing on a few things every day that they are grateful for, an individual trains their brain to focus on positive memories and increase their happiness.
Some people do this with a gratitude journal, with prompts to help them focus on positive things in life. Other people do this through daily practices of meditation or prayer. The method of practice is not as important as the overall goal of learning to improve well-being by practicing gratitude.
Another method of practicing positive psychology is called the experience sampling method, or ESM. This is a type of mindfulness exercise to help lower stress levels and rewire the brain. Using a timer throughout the day, a client is encouraged to pause when they receive the alert, then write down what they are doing, thinking, and feeling. Practicing ESM helps people realize how much of their day is filled with small, positive moments.
Positive psychology is accessible to most individuals and can be an effective part of behavioral health care to support individuals in becoming happier, more resilient, and better able to handle life’s challenges.
Positive Psychology Quotes
“Positive psychology is the scientific study of human strengths and virtues.” – Martin Seligman
“A joyful life is an individual creation that cannot be copied from a recipe.” – Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
“…positive psychology is not to be confused with untested self-help, footless affirmation, or secular religion — no matter how good these may make us feel.” – Christopher Peterson
“Positive psychology is the scientific and applied approach to uncovering people’s strengths and promoting their positive functioning.” – Hugo Alberts
“Flourishing is the product of the pursuit and engagement of an authentic life that brings inner joy and happiness through meeting goals, being connected with life passions, and relishing in accomplishments through the peaks and valleys of life.” – Dr. Lynn Soots
“The difference between misery and happiness depends on what we do with our attention.” – Sharon Salzberg
Best Positive Psychology Books
Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life by Martin Seligman
Flourish (A Visionary New Understanding of Happiness and Well-Being) by Martin Seligman
Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi
Positive Psychology in a Nutshell: The Science of Happiness by Ilona Boniwell
Character Strengths and Virtues: A Handbook and Classification by Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman

World Mental Health Day, observed on October 10th each year, is a critical moment to raise awareness about mental health issues, reduce stigma, and promote overall well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of World Mental Health Day, take a closer look at the current state of mental health, discuss practical ways to take care of your mental health, offer tips on supporting others, and provide valuable resources, including Telemynd, to help you on your mental health journey.
The Significance of World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is a global event recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) to emphasize the importance of mental health and foster discussions around it. Here's why it matters:
Destigmatizing Mental Health: One of the primary goals of this day is to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health. Stigmatization often prevents people from seeking help, which can have dire consequences. By discussing mental health openly, we can break down these barriers.
Promoting Awareness: World Mental Health Day raises awareness about the many mental health issues that individuals face, from anxiety and depression to more severe conditions like schizophrenia. Understanding these issues helps build empathy and support networks.
Encouraging Action: The day encourages individuals, communities, and organizations to take concrete steps towards improving mental health. These actions can range from self-care to advocating for mental health policy changes.
The State of Mental Health Today
To truly appreciate the significance of World Mental Health Day, it's crucial to delve deeper into the current state of mental health worldwide. The statistics and trends below shed light on the scale of the issue and its far-reaching consequences:
Prevalence of Mental Health Issues
Depression and Anxiety: Depression and anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), depression affects approximately 280 million people worldwide, while over 300 million suffer from anxiety disorders. These conditions can be debilitating, affecting every aspect of a person's life, from their relationships to their ability to work and enjoy life. Substance Abuse: Substance abuse affects over 270 million people worldwide, and often co-occurs with mental health issues. Individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, or other mental disorders may turn to drugs or alcohol as a means of self-medication. This dual diagnosis makes treatment more complex and underscores the importance of addressing mental health holistically. Eating Disorders: Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder also take a heavy toll on mental well-being. About 70 million people internationally live with this condition that not only harms physical health but also have severe psychological and emotional consequences. Impact on Productivity
Economic Burden: The economic toll of untreated mental illness is staggering. The World Economic Forum estimates that mental health conditions will cost the global economy $16 trillion by 2030. A significant portion of this cost comes from lost productivity as individuals with untreated mental health issues struggle to perform at their best in their professional lives. Workplace Challenges: Mental health challenges often manifest in the workplace, leading to decreased productivity, frequent absences, and a higher turnover rate. Employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health support programs to retain talent and maintain a healthy, thriving workforce. The Stigma Factor
Barriers to Seeking Help: Stigma remains a formidable obstacle to seeking mental health treatment. Many individuals hesitate to reach out to professionals or disclose their mental health struggles to friends and family due to fear of judgment, discrimination, or potential social consequences. This stigma perpetuates silence and suffering. Gender and Cultural Disparities: Gender and cultural factors also play a role in the stigma surrounding mental health. In some cultures, discussing mental health is particularly challenging, and gender norms can restrict individuals from seeking help when they need it. Breaking down these barriers is essential for global mental health improvement. Pandemic Effects
Increased Mental Health Issues: The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated existing mental health challenges and created new ones. The stress of living through a global health crisis, coupled with isolation, economic uncertainties, and grief over lost loved ones, has led to a surge in mental health issues. Studies report rising rates of depression, anxiety, and loneliness worldwide. Healthcare System Strain: The pandemic has strained healthcare systems globally, affecting mental health services as well. Many individuals faced difficulties accessing therapy or counseling due to lockdowns and overwhelmed healthcare facilities. Telehealth services like Telemynd have become crucial for maintaining mental health support during these challenging times. Taking Care of Your Mental Health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Here are practical steps you can take to nurture it:
Practice Self-Care
Prioritize self-care routines that work for you, such as meditation, exercise, journaling, or spending time in nature. Get enough sleep, maintain a balanced diet, and limit alcohol and caffeine consumption. Connect with Others
Build a strong support network of friends and family. Social connections can provide emotional support during difficult times. Reach out and talk to someone when you're struggling. Sharing your feelings can alleviate stress and anxiety. Manage Stress
Learn stress management techniques like deep breathing exercises, mindfulness, or progressive muscle relaxation. Set boundaries and avoid overextending yourself with commitments. Seek Professional Help
Don't hesitate to reach out to mental health professionals when needed. Therapy, counseling, and medication can be effective treatments. Telemynd, a telehealth service, offers convenient access to licensed mental health providers through online sessions. How to Support Others
Supporting someone with a mental health issue requires empathy and understanding. Here's how you can help:
Educate Yourself: Learn about the specific mental health condition the person is facing to better understand their experiences and needs. Be a Good Listener: Encourage open and non-judgmental conversations. Let them express their feelings without interruption. Offer Practical Support: Assist with daily tasks or chores, when necessary, especially during challenging periods. Also simply remind them periodically that you’re there to help when they need support. Encourage Professional Help: If the person is struggling, encourage them to seek professional assistance, such as therapy or counseling. Resources and Support
Access to resources is crucial for mental health support. Telemynd is a leading telehealth service that connects individuals with licensed mental health professionals through secure online sessions. Telemynd offers a convenient and confidential way to receive therapy and counseling, eliminating scheduling, transportation, and geographical barriers.
The platform provides access to a wide range of mental health professionals, allowing you to find the right match for your needs. With the flexibility of online sessions, it's easier to fit therapy into your routine, and Telemynd prioritizes your privacy and security, ensuring a safe space for your therapy sessions.
In addition to Telemynd, there are numerous helplines, support groups, and online resources available for mental health support. Organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and Mental Health America (MHA) offer valuable information and assistance.
Conclusion
World Mental Health Day serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health and the need to support those who may be struggling. By understanding the state of mental health today, practicing self-care, and offering support to others, we can contribute to a world where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical health. Don't hesitate to utilize resources like Telemynd to embark on your journey towards improved mental well-being. Together, we can break down the barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help and create a more compassionate and understanding society.

In the three years since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown policies, there has been a dramatic uptick in mental health concerns among kindergarten through 12th-grade students. According to the Children's Hospital Association, during the height of the pandemic in 2020, the number of children visiting the emergency room for mental health rose dramatically. By 2021, U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy issued an advisory declaring a mental health crisis for American children. The report noted that “an alarming number” of young people struggle with “feelings of helplessness, depression, and thoughts of suicide.”
In the ensuing years, school districts have looked for novel ways to support students in need. Many states have prioritized hiring counselors and school psychologists or offering social-emotional curricula designed to raise awareness of mental health concerns. A few states have started allowing students to take excused absences to manage mental and behavioral health concerns.
The Value of Mental Health Days
Students with ongoing mental health struggles often need time during the school day to get the care they need. Appointments with providers may overlap with school hours and lead to absences. Students adjusting to medication changes or managing periods of mental health crisis may not be well enough to attend school.
Excused absences allow students undergoing mental health treatment to take the time they need without concern about truancy violations or having to repeat a grade. Furthermore, a policy of excusing absences for mental health ensures that students can get support from teachers as they make up missed work.
Many students who don’t have diagnosed mental health conditions experience periods of mental distress or emotional fatigue. In an interview with the Washington Post, Barb Solish, director of Youth and Young Adult Initiatives for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), noted that an excused day off is beneficial to those students as well.
“When students are feeling physically unwell, there is a universal understanding that they should stay home and they should take time to feel better,” Solish said. “School policies that recognize mental health as an acceptable reason for absence can help students take the time they need to care for themselves and restore their health. Practically speaking, if you have a fever, you’re not paying attention in class, right? You’re not learning the lesson. If you’re feeling overwhelming anxiety, you’re not learning either.”
What States Allow Mental Health Days in School?
As of summer 2023, 12 states have passed laws explicitly excusing school absences for mental health reasons. The specifics of the laws vary, with some states requiring a written excuse from a mental health care provider and other states asking only that students and parents explain the reason for their absence. Some states limit the number of days students can be absent for mental health care.
Arizona: As of 2021, students in Arizona are allowed to take mental health days off from school, though each school district can set its own policies. California: In 2021, California enacted a law that allows students to miss school due to mental or behavioral health concerns. In addition, all public schools must include mental health content in their health education curriculum. Colorado: In 2020, Colorado passed a bill allowing students to take mental health days and requiring school district attendance requirements to include a policy for excused absences for behavioral health concerns. Connecticut: In 2021, Connecticut passed a law permitting all students to take two non-consecutive mental health wellness days per year. Illinois: Starting in 2022, Illinois public schools must allow students to take up to five mental health days per year and treat them as excused absences. Students and parents will need to explicitly state that they are using a mental health day absence when they call into their school. Kentucky: In 2022, Kentucky passed a law making days off from school for reasons related to mental health excused absences. Maine: In 2020, Maine enacted a bill that would allow students to take days off school for mental and behavioral health reasons. Nevada: In 2021, Nevada passed a law allowing students aged 7-18 to miss a day of school for mental health reasons with a written note from a mental healthcare provider. Oregon: In 2019, Oregon passed a law allowing students to take up to five days off school within a three-month period, including days for mental health or physical illness. Utah: In 2021, Utah adopted a law making mental or behavioral health an excused absence. Virginia: In 2019, Virginia passed a law allowing students to use mental health as a valid excuse for absence. Washington: In 2022, the state of Washington enacted a new law that will allow students to use mental or behavioral health reasons as a valid excuse for an absence. A handful of other state legislatures have proposed laws to revise state absence policy to include excused absence for mental health concerns. Since 2019, lawmakers in New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio, New Jersey, and Delaware have tried to pass legislation in support of excused mental health days, but the bills were unsuccessful. It is not clear if lawmakers will try again in the future.
States With No Official Policy on Mental Health Days
The majority of states have no official guidance about mental health-related absences. That doesn’t mean students can’t take time out of school to care for their mental health, however. Even in states where there aren’t laws on the books, individual school districts may have policies that accommodate students who need time for mental health care.
For example, Maryland failed to pass a law about excused absence for mental health reasons. However, the New York Times reports that Montgomery County, home to the largest district in the state, implemented a policy of excusing absences taken for “student illness and well-being” beginning in 2021.
Adults should contact school administrators to find out the attendance policies for their school district and discuss how to arrange for the time their child needs for mental health care.
What Counts as a Mental Health Day?
Lawmakers have worked to balance the pros and cons of mental health days for students. Some of the laws protecting time off for mental health reasons are meant as a way for students to access professional mental health care. California’s law was written to “ensure that student absences for behavioral health concerns will be treated the same as excused absences for physical health concerns.” The law’s advocates hope that allowing students to miss school for mental health reasons will reduce barriers to getting the care they need.
In contrast, Connecticut supports mental wellness days for students who may not have ongoing mental health concerns. The law allows time for kids who need a break to recharge. “The idea behind providing two mental wellness days is first to support self-care and help create good mental wellness habits early in life,” said state Rep. Liz Linehan, co-chair of the Committee on Children. “Secondly, by classifying mental health days, we reduce the stigma of mental health concerns and give our kids a way to talk to the adults in their lives about their struggles.”
In Illinois, schools are required to follow up with parents when students take more than one day off for mental health reasons. This gives school counselors an opportunity to offer support if the student needs it. Schools can refer students for counseling or work with parents to open a dialog with their students about what they need.
Changing Policy in Your State
If your home state doesn’t offer excused absences for students to seek mental health treatment, you can advocate for change. Residents can contact state lawmakers directly to tell them why students should have mental health days. Most lawmakers post their contact information on their official websites. In addition, residents can reach out to state and local boards of education to ask for better policies around student mental health.
Local and state-level education groups like the PTA often have committees that advocate for state policy changes that benefit students. Joining your school’s PTA and speaking to leadership is a good way to connect with others working to support students. In addition, organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) advocate at the state and local levels. You can get on their email list to receive alerts about opportunities to advocate for student mental health.
In the short term, adults caring for children with mental health concerns can talk to teachers, counselors, and school administrators about accommodating the child’s need for care. There may be local resources available to assist you.

As the school year gets going, kids will be coming home with homework. Whether they need to do the assigned reading, complete worksheets, or finish an assignment online, they will need a space to get their work done. Giving kids a well-organized, pleasant space for studying, as well as time and support, will ensure they can do their best work.
Parents can help their kids establish good study habits by planning ahead and setting up a workspace and routines for getting homework done.
Workspace for Studying
Giving children a designated space for schoolwork is beneficial. Having a space that is already cleared off and set up for homework allows them to get started without fussing with cleaning and organizing before they can work. If homework space needs to do double-duty as a dining table or living space, set up bins or other containers to hold homework materials. That way, students can pull out a single container to get started rather than hunting down everything they need from other areas of the home.
Make sure kids have enough space for their materials, including a laptop or Chromebook. Set homework space near an electrical outlet so they can easily plug in their computer if they need to. Adjustable lighting, such as multiple desk lamps or overhead lights with a dimmer switch, can help them see to work and prevent glare on a monitor screen.
A workspace should be comfortable — but not so comfortable that it’s easy to doze off. Teens might prefer to work on their bed, but that can be distracting and lead to misplaced papers or books. Younger kids may need furniture that’s the right size for their smaller bodies. Child-sized chairs, tables, and desks can make it more comfortable to sit and focus on work.
Décor to Enhance Learning
In addition to making sure the homework space has adequate lighting and plenty of elbow room, giving the space pleasant touches can be useful as well. Well-thought-out décor can improve mood and help kids enjoy being in their study space.
Color psychology explains how color choices can set the mood for a workspace. Bright, light colors like pale blues and greens have a calming effect. Highly saturated colors like emerald green or royal blue may feel energizing. Warm colors like reds and oranges make rooms feel warmer, even if they are the same temperature as the rest of the building. Choose paint and furniture colors that enhance a student’s mood as well as suit their preferences.
Adding art or other wall décor can make a space more interesting. Parents should be thoughtful about what decorations they add to a homework space. One study showed that young students in a classroom with bold décor didn’t perform as well as students in an undecorated classroom. Select art that is pleasant but not distracting.
Plants and flowers are another element that can enhance a study space. Research shows that plants improve concentration and memory. Plants in a workspace can also reduce stress. In addition, plants are natural filters, and they can improve indoor air quality.
Minimizing Distractions
Many students, especially teens, try to study with a lot going on around them. Kids may have music or TV on in the background. They might have their phone nearby so they can see messages coming in. These distractions can affect their ability to learn.
A study from 2006 found that people who try to learn new information in a distraction-rich environment learned less efficiently. Distractions affect how the brain stores information. While students may be able to take in new information despite distractions, they may not be able to recall it as easily as if they learned it without distractions.
Distractions also lead to poor time management. Answering texts, taking calls, scrolling social media, and clicking links to videos can all take time away from homework. Wasting time on distractions can lead kids to stay up later to finish homework or not finish assignments before the due date.
That’s not to say kids need to do homework in a silent room with no interruptions. Playing music while studying can be beneficial because music improves mood. For most people, instrumental music is best for studying because music with lyrics can be distracting and reduce reading comprehension.
Some students work well when studying with a group of friends or classmates. It’s important for parents and students to honestly assess homework habits, figure out what is helpful, and eliminate negative distractions.
Establishing a Routine
Setting a basic routine for homework can give kids a solid framework for getting their work done. Set up expectations for what time kids should plan to do school work, how many breaks they can take, and what they’re allowed to do with free time before and after school work.
A routine doesn’t have to be the same every day. Busy schedules mean that on some days, kids will need to do homework after dinner, while on other days, they can get started right after school. It can be helpful to have a written schedule that lists activities, family events, and homework times so students know when they need to study each day.
Parents and caregivers can add deadlines and test dates to the schedule. Asking kids to look ahead at upcoming schoolwork demands helps them manage workflow. They can prioritize projects with earlier due dates and set time aside to review for upcoming tests. Parents can check in on their progress and encourage them to stay on track to meet deadlines.
A routine also means parents know when they should be available to help with homework. Adults don’t necessarily have to be in the same room as their kids, but kids should be able to come and ask them for assistance. Adults should also try to avoid activities such as work or important calls that can’t be interrupted during homework time.
The homework routine should also include reasonable breaks. Let kids know they can stand up and move, get a drink, or spend a little time with a family pet. Study breaks are helpful for students of all ages.
Positive Study Breaks
Marathon study sessions with no breaks aren’t good habits for students. Taking breaks for physical activity or a snack is beneficial for the learning process. Research shows that breaks for physical movement improve learning.
Mindfulness techniques for calming the mind and body are also helpful as a study skill. A 2019 study showed that using mindfulness to manage academic stress helped students stay focused and engaged so they could stay on track academically. Tactics such as breathing exercises or focusing on an object to calm the mind can give students a tool for settling their thoughts and refocusing their attention.
Other activities can provide a helpful break from studying and give students an opportunity to use self-care to manage academic stress. Purposeful study breaks can include activities such as:
Time in nature Listening to music Spending time with pets Stretching exercises A short phone call or meet-up with friends Taking a walk Taking a relaxing bath or shower Meditation Many teens may want to hop on their phones when they take a study break. Research shows that using social media to relax while studying isn’t actually helpful. In fact, it may be detrimental to studying. Participants in a 2019 study who took a phone break while doing school work took 19% longer to complete the assignment and solved 22% fewer problems than participants who did not use their phones during breaks. Adults may want to encourage teens to find a different way to relax during homework time.
Getting Extra Help
For some students, an ideal study environment and common sense organization tactics are only the start of academic success. Kids with certain learning differences may need additional assistance managing schoolwork. Parents who have concerns about persistent homework issues or poor grades can talk to teachers and counselors about getting extra help for their students.
Extra help may include assessments and support for learning disorders such as ADHD or dyslexia. For other students, tutoring in challenging subjects can aid them in grasping the subject matter. This may require changes to the study routine or doing homework at the tutor’s office instead of at home. Families can adjust their existing routines and expectations to meet these new needs.
Good study habits will help kids succeed in school, from elementary school through higher education. Giving them a firm foundation of skills for independent learning is a great way to ease their path in school. These same skills can carry over into the workplace and help them achieve lifelong success.

In today's fast-paced world, communication has taken on various forms, from social media posts to instant messaging. However, the essence of truly connecting with others often lies in something more fundamental: active listening. Active listening is a powerful skill that not only strengthens relationships but also promotes understanding and empathy. In this blog, we will delve into why active listening is important, when to use it, and offer valuable tips on how to integrate it into all aspects of your life.
The Importance of Active Listening
Active listening goes beyond merely hearing words; it involves engaging fully with the speaker's thoughts, emotions, and intentions. It demonstrates respect, validates the speaker's feelings, and fosters a deeper level of connection. Here are some key reasons why active listening is crucial:
Enhances Relationships: At the core of every strong relationship lies effective communication, and active listening is a foundational component of this. When you actively listen, you show others that you value their opinions and care about their experiences. This builds trust and strengthens the bond between individuals. Promotes Understanding: Listening actively allows you to gain a comprehensive understanding of the speaker's perspective. This understanding is crucial for resolving conflicts, making informed decisions, and collaborating effectively. Fosters Empathy: Empathy, the ability to understand and share another person's feelings, is nurtured through active listening. When you engage with someone's words and emotions, you step into their shoes and experience the world from their vantage point. Reduces Misunderstandings: Misunderstandings often arise due to misinterpretations or incomplete information. Active listening minimizes these occurrences by ensuring that both parties are on the same page. When you actively listen, you can clarify any points of confusion and ensure that the intended message is accurately received. Enhances Personal Growth: Active listening is not only about hearing others but also about self-awareness. As you practice this skill, you become more attuned to your own biases, assumptions, and listening habits. Tips for Practicing Active Listening
Mastering active listening requires intention and practice. Here are some valuable tips to help you become a more adept active listener:
Give Your Full Attention: When someone is speaking, give them your undivided attention. Put away distractions like phones or other devices and maintain eye contact. This not only shows respect but also enables you to pick up on nonverbal cues. Avoid Interrupting: Interrupting the speaker can convey a lack of interest or impatience. Allow the speaker to express themselves fully before offering your thoughts. This not only demonstrates respect but also ensures that you understand their message completely. Show Nonverbal Cues: Your body language plays a significant role in active listening. Nodding, smiling, and using facial expressions that match the speaker's emotions show that you are engaged and empathetic. Reflect and Clarify: Periodically summarize or paraphrase the speaker's points to ensure you understand correctly. This gives them a chance to correct any misconceptions and confirms that you are actively processing their message. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage deeper conversation by asking open-ended questions that can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." This invites the speaker to elaborate and share more of their thoughts and feelings. Manage Your Internal Dialogue: While the speaker is talking, it's natural for your mind to formulate responses. However, try to minimize this internal dialogue during their speaking time. This allows you to be fully present and engaged in what they are saying. Practice Empathy: Put yourself in the speaker's shoes and try to understand their emotions and experiences. This helps you connect with them on a deeper level and respond in a more empathetic manner. Avoid Judgments and Assumptions: Keep an open mind and refrain from making judgments or assumptions about the speaker's words. Everyone's experiences and perspectives are unique, so approach each conversation with curiosity and an eagerness to learn. Integrating Active Listening into All Aspects of Your Life
Enhance Professional Communication:
In the realm of professional pursuits, actively listening to colleagues, clients, and superiors can foster effective collaborations and cultivate a workplace culture of respect and understanding. Active listening enables one to grasp intricate details, glean valuable insights, and make informed decisions. Furthermore, by demonstrating a genuine interest in the perspectives of others, professionals can build rapport, strengthen team dynamics, and position themselves as reliable and empathetic leaders
Relationships With a Partner
Within the realm of romantic relationships, active listening becomes a heartfelt bridge that deepens connections between partners. By genuinely absorbing each other's words, emotions, and desires, couples demonstrate a commitment to understanding one another. This level of attentive engagement fosters an environment where both partners feel heard, valued, and supported. Through active listening, couples can navigate challenges more effectively, celebrate triumphs more intimately, and sustain a sense of emotional intimacy.
Parent Child Relationships
Active listening serves as a cornerstone in nurturing strong bonds between parents and children. When parents actively listen to their children's thoughts, concerns, and stories, they demonstrate that their feelings and experiences matter. This open and empathetic communication builds a foundation of trust, allowing children to feel valued and understood. Active listening not only enhances the parent-child relationship but also instills in children the importance of respectful communication, empathy, and emotional expression, leading to a lifetime of healthier interactions.
In Conclusion
Active listening is a timeless skill that holds the power to transform your relationships, enrich your understanding of others, and foster a deeper connection with the world around you. By prioritizing active listening and integrating it into all aspects of your life, you not only become a better communicator but also a more empathetic and well-rounded individual. So, the next time someone speaks, remember that your attentive ear has the potential to create ripples of positive change.
 

In today's fast-paced world, the act of journaling often remains neglected, despite its potential to offer solace and self-expression. While its popularity might have waned with adulthood, revisiting journaling can yield profound benefits for emotional release and self-care. Whether you consider yourself a proficient writer or not, the practice can become a valuable tool for navigating life's challenges.
Rediscovering the Power of Writing
While the thought of journaling might seem like an extra burden after a long day, it's important to recognize that it's far from being as mentally taxing as composing work emails. The simple act of reflective writing has been extensively explored by researchers and mental health experts. Their findings highlight its potential to enhance mental calmness, self-awareness, self-expression, and even physical well-being. In this exploration, we'll delve into the world of journaling for self-care and learn how it seamlessly intertwines with mindfulness practices.
The Essence of Journaling
Despite technological advancements, the art of journaling persists as an ancient tradition that transcends typewriters, keyboards, and smartphones. It's about capturing thoughts and emotions through written words, creating a private realm for self-expression. Unlike work-related tasks or social media updates, journaling is a personal endeavor intended solely for the writer's benefit—a medium for recording thoughts and current emotional states.
In a world bombarded with news and social media updates, journaling might appear outdated. However, scientific research underscores the powerful impact of deliberate journaling on both mental and physical health.
Healing through Words
Beneath the surface, journaling's benefits extend to physical well-being. Studies have delved into the effects of expressive writing on individuals with high blood pressure. Remarkably, blood pressure levels significantly dropped after participants engaged in writing therapy for four months. Similarly, parents dealing with emotionally or behaviorally challenged teenagers experienced reduced blood pressure after practicing self-care journaling for six weeks.
The intricate interplay between mental and physical well-being is evident in deeper investigations. Journaling has emerged as a potent therapeutic tool for individuals grappling with mental health conditions. From heightened emotional management to improved well-being and daily functionality, its healing impact is undeniable. Research reveals that just a month of consistent journaling can lead to decreased depression and anxiety symptoms, coupled with increased resilience. Intriguingly, it's even being explored as a formal treatment for individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder, often complementing other therapeutic methods.
Unveiling the Benefits of Journaling for Self-Care
The realm of journaling offers numerous advantages:
A Refuge for Emotions: Your journal becomes a sanctuary for all emotions, providing an outlet for emotional release. Journey to Self-Discovery: Engage in self-exploration, nurturing personal growth and self-awareness. Navigating Emotions: Journaling helps process intricate emotions, fostering emotional regulation. Pathway to Well-being: Through introspection and expression, it contributes to holistic wellness. For many, opening a journal and putting pen to paper becomes akin to meditation—a serene space for contemplation.
Starting Your Journaling Journey
Initiating your journaling journey is simpler than it appears. It requires taking that first step—pick up a pen or open a document and let your thoughts flow. While the blank page might feel intimidating, the key is to begin the process.
Integrating Journaling into Your Self-Care Routine
Cultivating any new habit demands effort, and journaling is no exception. True benefits emerge through consistent practice, fueled by a touch of self-discipline. Achieve success with these tips:
Curate Your Environment: Choose a serene setting devoid of distractions, creating an ambiance conducive to reflection. Consider incorporating calming elements like aromatherapy or soft music. Master the Timing: Opt for moments of mental clarity, possibly at the start or end of the day. Avoid fitting it between tasks to ensure genuine engagement in self-reflection. Frequency Matters: Commence with a structured routine, transitioning to intuitive, need-based sessions as journaling becomes a habit. With persistence, journaling becomes seamlessly woven into your life, offering mental health benefits within arm's reach.
Prompts to Ignite Inner Dialogue
Harness the potential of expressive writing therapy using these prompts:
Gratitude in the Present: Reflect on today's positives and events. Confronting Challenges: Explore current life hurdles and emotions. Anticipating the Future: Set goals for the week ahead, envisioning your journey. Influential Moments: Recall your best and worst days, delving into their significance. Childhood Reverie: Unearth a childhood memory that shaped you. Limitless Possibilities: Imagine a day without constraints—how would you spend it? Futuristic Visions: Where do you envision yourself in five years? These prompts serve as guideposts, unveiling treasures within your mind and heart.
Writing the Next Chapter of Self-Growth
In conclusion, the merits of journaling for self-care extend beyond immediate relief. Its impact resonates through physical health enhancement, stress reduction, and well-informed decision-making. This introspective journey lays the foundation for personal growth and enlightenment—an avenue to harness your potential. Step into the realm of journaling for emotional release and self-discovery, and let your transformative writing journey unfold.

Beyond the frenzy of school supply shopping, lies a more crucial task on the back-to-school agenda for parents – helping their children manage the stress that often accompanies this transition. As the school year brings forth new teachers, friends, and expectations, it's important for parents to play a pivotal role in establishing routines and nurturing a positive mindset that can help children tackle change confidently. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into practical strategies that empower parents to support their kids' emotional well-being during the back-to-school period.
Reducing Back-to-School Anxiety Through Routines
The shift from summer's carefree days to structured school routines can trigger anxiety in children. Establishing a new routine can help ease this transition by providing predictability and a sense of control. Here’s how parents can guide their children in crafting an effective routine:
Step 1: Crafting a Realistic Schedule Parents should work backward from fixed constraints, like school start times, to build a routine. Allot extra time to account for learning curves and unforeseen delays, ensuring a stress-free start to the day.
Step 2: Involving Children in the Process Foster a sense of ownership by involving children in the routine creation process. Encourage them to participate in decisions, such as choosing an alarm tone or a morning activity, instilling a sense of empowerment.
Step 3: Preparing Through Practice Parents can ease children into the new routine gradually by adjusting sleep schedules and practicing the routine in the weeks leading up to school. Conduct a "practice morning" to allow kids to visualize and adjust to the changes.
Step 4: Embracing Flexibility Accept that unexpected factors may influence the routine. Flexibility is key in adapting to unforeseen circumstances, allowing both parents and children to feel more empowered.
Supporting Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Beyond routines, providing mental and emotional support is paramount for a successful transition. Parents can take several steps to help children cope with back-to-school stress:
Open Communication: Establish an "open door" policy where children feel comfortable sharing their concerns. Active listening can go a long way in managing anxieties effectively. Creative Outlets: Encourage children to express their emotions through journaling, art, or other creative avenues, offering alternative channels for communication. Trusted Support System: Inform children about other supportive adults they can turn to, such as family members or caregivers, giving them multiple outlets to address their worries. Positive Mindset: Foster enthusiasm and a positive outlook about the new school year to help children approach change with optimism. Additional Support
For children facing heightened back-to-school anxiety, seeking professional help is a viable option. Telemynd offers a range of expert mental health services, including licensed psychiatrists and therapists who can provided personalized support tailored to children's needs.
Empowering children during the back-to-school transition involves more than just checking off school supply lists. By creating effective routines, fostering open communication, and supporting mental well-being, parents lay a strong foundation for their children's emotional resilience. This comprehensive guide equips parents with practical tools to guide their kids through the journey of change, ensuring a confident and successful start to the new school year.

Veterans fight for our country and dedicate their lives to keeping people safe. Their brave and selfless acts should never go unnoticed. Even after returning home, some veterans continue to advocate for the people. Spending time on the front lines can come with many battles, whether with physical or mental health. Many veterans return home lacking tools and resources to readjust to everyday life.
Plenty of companies support veterans' causes, but special recognition goes to veteran-run ones. Veteran-run small businesses continue to help other veterans every day. Many provide employment opportunities, donate to veteran causes, and support veterans in need.
Shop These 10 Veteran-Owned Small Businesses
These 10 veteran-owned businesses are doing just that. From donating products to giving back a percentage of sales to military causes, the following businesses focus on serving the community.
1. Boldfoot Socks
Boldfoot Socks aims to show the true meaning of “American-made.” With a unique variety of socks ranging from patriotic to argyle, Boldfoot Socks has something for everyone. And with an incredible cause. Boldfoot Socks donates 5% of each sale to veterans and the U.S. military to improve health services, help with jobs, and reduce homelessness.
Boldfoot Socks goes the extra mile in customer service, granting three-month sock insurance to replace socks with rips, tears, or holes without question. Every pair of socks is sourced from American-manufactured products and materials with a distinct message. Boldfoot Socks exemplifies what it means to be American-made, striving to repay those who risk their lives to defend our country.
2. Gatorz Eyewear
Launched in 1989, Gatorz Eyewear turned a passion for motorcycles into a sunglasses empire. Backed by the U.S. Navy SEALs Foundation, Gatorz Eyewear withstands high speeds, whether on the battlefield or freefalling from the sky. After passing the ultimate performance test, Gatorz Eyewear is the preferred choice of the U.S. Navy SEALs. Each pair of sunglasses is crafted from billet aluminum, with a sleek look that’s equally durable.
When it comes to giving back, Gatorz Eyewear fights just as hard. Along with the U.S. Navy SEALs, Gatorz is a proud supporter of the Green Beret and Global SOF Foundation. Veterans, military, and first responder personnel can also receive a special discount for their service.
3. Frag Out Flavor
An American patriotic celebration just isn’t complete without a barbecue. Combat veteran Patrick Flynn knows this too well. Founded in 2017, Frag Out Flavor boasts exciting flavors to spice up your next cookout. From Honey BBQ to Mango Habenero blends, these best-selling spices support a bigger mission.
Your next BBQ will boast exciting flavors while supporting a larger mission. Purchasing Frag Out Flavor products means sharing the flavor with deployed veteran troops. Frag Out Flavor donates to the veteran community while supporting those who defend our country with every sale.
4. 4Freedom Apparel
Honoring heroes with USA-made clothing, hats, and accessories, 4Freedom Apparel takes pride in giving back to veterans. Owned and operated by military couple Jonathan and Shari, each piece of 4Freedom Apparel gear stylishly boasts the American flag. 4Freedom Apparel is for those who are proud to be American and want to represent their dedication to those who gave their lives to fight for the U.S.
A proud supporter of multiple foundations that give back, like the Wingman Foundation, Vets 4 Vets, and K9s For Warriors, 4Freedom Apparel donates a portion of its sales to help support each cause.
5. Nine Line Apparel
A lifestyle brand founded by Patriots for Patriots, Nine Line Apparel strives to start conversions between those who have served and people who support them. “Nine Line” is an emergency call used during combat. It’s often the difference between life and death for the many severely wounded soldiers. Nine Line Apparel creates patriotic accessories and clothing for men, women, and kids, inspiring unity and camaraderie for Americans nationwide.
With an emphasis on dedicated support, Nine Line Apparel raises awareness for military and first responder charities, along with disaster relief, veteran initiatives, and more through the Nine Line Foundation.
6. Snap-On Tools
One hundred years of advertising has made Snap-on Tools a legend in the tool sales industry. Developed in 1920, Snap-on Tools started with “five unique handles and ten sockets.” Today, this company sells directly to professional technicians, with 80% of its products manufactured in the U.S.
Snap-on is a proud partner of the Honor Flight Network, an organization that raises funds to fly WWII veterans to Washington, D.C. to see their memorial. Since the program's beginning in 2013, Snap-on has sent over 700 veterans, guardians, and family members to experience this once-in-a-lifetime moment.
7. Boss Dog
Boss Dog pays homage to the essential role dogs play in the military and our daily lives. With nothing less than the best, this award-winning line of top-quality dog treats gives canine companions the nutrients they need. From Boss PROBALLS with probiotics to freeze-dried, complete meals, ingredients like raw goat’s milk, taurine, DHA, and Greek yogurt show your dog they are indeed a boss. Boss Dog also sells several durable accessories for your best friend, like harnesses, leashes, and collars.
With every sale, Boss Dog works to give the best to our heroes. The company sponsors and supports vet and military charities like Heroes for Healthcare, Victory Service Dogs, Folds of Honor, Pets for Vets, and Trails of Purpose.
8. Bravo Sierra
Developed within the U.S. military community in 2018, Bravo Sierra brings high-performance personal care to people nationwide. Bravo Sierra only uses clean, skin-friendly ingredients that smell great even in the most demanding conditions. From aluminum-free deodorant to sunscreen, these 100% American-made products serve a higher purpose than just keeping civilians fresh.
With 40% of its founding team and 30% of all current employees made up of veterans, Bravo Sierra works to provide opportunities for vets in need. The company also donates 5% of all sales to the Morale Welfare and Recreation (MWR) program and provides a 15% discount on Bravo Sierra products for all active duty, veterans, and military family members.
9. Oscar Mike
Oscar Mike goes above and beyond to support veterans. Its products aren’t just American-made, from production to stocking and shipping. Oscar Mike also donates 100% of its apparel profits to help veterans in need. With a wide range of apparel and accessories like T-shirts, hoodies, and canteens, the Oscar Mike Foundation supports injured Vets who need to stay active.
This mission hits home for the founders, a group of injured vets dedicated to creating a space where vets can continue a competitive lifestyle after injury. Focused on creating camaraderie and spaces for injured vets, Oscar Mike has raised over $2.5 million in funds to build a new adaptive sports facility. Oscar Mike bands together to stay active, even competing in Spartan races across the nation.
10. Hero Soap Company
Hero Soap Company is a veteran-owned body wash and bar soap company with most ingredients sourced in the U.S. With captivating, natural scents from cedarwood to lavender, these handmade soaps keep civilians and veterans clean and smelling fresh.
Hero Soap company donates a portion of every sale to charities that support active military, veterans, and first responders, including the 14th Hour Foundation, Operation Finally Home, Gary Sinise Foundation, and Operation Interdependence. It's donated over 1,200 bars to deployed troops and prides itself on being the most American company in the USA.
Support a Veteran Small Business
Giving back is a wonderful feeling. So why not give back to the people who have sacrificed a huge part of their lives for this country? People can support small businesses with every purchase from a veteran-owned business and help provide resources.

There’s a lot to be stressed about these days - whether it’s news headlines, endless to-do lists, or worry about money and bills. But for some, stress and worry can be so prevalent that it starts to interfere with our ability to function. In this case, we might consult a clinical professional and try talk therapy or medication. In addition, there’s another technique that has gained popularity in recent years to deal effectively with anxiety and depression, called EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), also known as "tapping."
EFT Tapping is a research-based intervention that combines cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) techniques, such as awareness building and reframing of interpretation, with the stimulation of acupressure points on the face and body by literally tapping on them. In our continuing series on treatment modalities, we’ve provided an overview of EFT Tapping here: how it works, some of the research behind it, and who can benefit from it.
What is EFT Tapping?
EFT Tapping helps tune in to the negative patterns we form around anxious thoughts or troubling memories, by physically tapping with our fingers on identified acupressure points while at the same time focusing on those thoughts and emotions. According to experts, focusing on a negative thought while simultaneously tapping on acupressure points sends a calming signal to the brain, allowing us to acknowledge the stress while calming the body. Think of it as having similar (but noninvasive) effects as acupuncture. 
EFT Tapping is facilitated by an experienced, certified EFT practitioner in a therapy session, with the ultimate goal of shifting limiting thought processes, resolving past traumas, and promoting healing around emotional issues that may be holding us back.
How does EFT Tapping work?
EFT Tapping can rewire the brain. From research, it is understood that tapping on specific pressure points can result in a calming effect on the amygdala (the stress center of the brain) and the hippocampus (the memory center), both of which play a role in the unconscious process we use to determine if something is a threat or not, and therefore whether our “fight or flight” response should kick in. Indeed, studies at Harvard Medical School have shown that by stimulating the body’s acupressure points you can significantly reduce activity in the amygdala. Therefore, EFT Tapping works to effectively rewire the brain; to interrupt and change neural pathways so that you want to do the things that are going to improve your life and make you feel better. 
Research shows EFT Tapping is effective in treating multiple mental health disorders
Multiple studies have been done to determine the effectiveness of EFT Tapping for different mental health issues. Here are just a few:
Reducing cortisol levels. One study measured changes in cortisol (the primary stress hormone) levels and other psychological distress symptoms after a single hour-long intervention of EFT Tapping and found it reduced those distress symptoms by 24%.
Decreasing anxiety. Another study looked at the length of time needed before different therapeutic interventions took effect in patients with anxiety, and found that only three EFT Tapping sessions were needed before study participants’ anxiety was reduced. That same study showed that after a year, those reductions in anxiety were maintained by 78% of participants.
Treating depression. In a study exploring EFT Tapping for depression, researchers found that a weighted mean reduction in depression symptoms was 41% after using EFT.
Reducing symptoms of PTSD. Another study using EFT Tapping to treat PTSD in veterans found that 60% of participants no longer met clinical PTSD criteria after three EFT Tapping sessions and 86% no longer met the criteria after six sessions.
Other studies have shown the effectiveness of EFT Tapping even beyond reducing anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms. For example, it can help minimize food cravings and aid in weight loss, or reduce fears around events like public speaking, test-taking, and even childbirth. 
If you or a loved one are living with mental health issues such as Anxiety, Depression, or PTSD, consider EFT Tapping
Like other treatment modalities, therapists can be trained and certified in EFT Tapping. Certification requires a specific number of hours in the classroom and in clinical practice. Many behavioral health specialists offer EFT Tapping therapy; look for one that is experienced and certified.
Many of Telemynd’s clinicians specialize in EFT tapping. If you’re a client, request an appointment online or call our live support for assistance in scheduling care today! If you’re a behavioral health provider looking to join our network, see all the benefits and learn how to apply here.
Sources
Journal of Evidence-Based Integrated Medicine
EFT International
Journal of Nervous & Mental Disease
Journal of Nervous & Mental Disease
Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing

With their unusual schedules and extreme exposure to public scrutiny, it’s not surprising that many celebrities have mental health conditions. Thankfully, celebrities talking about mental health challenges and solutions can pull back a curtain on conditions often considered private or taboo.
Decades ago, seeking medication or treatment for a mental health disorder could be viewed as a career-ending decision. Now, with the help of numerous celebrity mental health advocates, Hollywood and many other industries are beginning to destigmatize mental health. From Selena Gomez’s mental health documentary to Lady Gaga’s PTSD discussions and Jim Carrey’s mental illness honesty, celebrities are removing the stigma of mental health topics.
Now, anyone suffering from conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD, or PTSD can find a celebrity who has faced a similar challenge and found a way to work through it. When celebrities promote mental health awareness, fans of those actors and performers will realize they aren’t alone. Destigmatizing mental health means people can openly discuss and learn about the resources available to support someone through a mental health disorder.
The following people have been outspoken about their own challenges and have become celebrity mental health advocates.
Selena Gomez Battled Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and Depression
In 2016, during her Revival tour, actress and singer Selena Gomez began hearing voices and suffering from paranoia. After years of suffering from depression, periods of mania, and suicidal thoughts, she finally checked into a mental health hospital and was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Since then, Selena Gomez has become one of the more prominent celebrities talking about mental health. Her recent mental health documentary, Selena Gomez: My Mind and Me, explored her bipolar diagnosis and how living with mental illness has impacted her life.
In 2022, Gomez launched the “Your Words Matter” campaign to help destigmatize mental health treatment. As part of the campaign, she encouraged people to consider the ways they refer to mental health conditions and diagnoses. Using people-first language can remove some of the negative stigma from seeking treatment for mental health. For example, it’s better to refer to someone as “a person with bipolar disorder” rather than “a bipolar person.” Language can empower those who are seeking help to improve mental wellness.
The recent campaign isn’t the first time Gomez has spoken up in support of mental health awareness. In 2021, for Mental Health Awareness Month, Gomez launched a campaign called Mental Health 101. In 2020, she established her mental wellness website, WonderMind, where she shared her own bipolar diagnosis. In 2019, she won the McClean Award for mental health advocacy.
Gomez treats her bipolar disorder and depression with medication and cognitive behavioral therapy. She informs those following her story that her illness isn’t over, and it never will be. Mental health is something she will continue to work on for life. Gomez wants others, particularly teens and young people, to know that education and research are important tools for mental wellness.
Her honesty about her own struggles has made Gomez one of the most relatable celebrity mental health advocates.
Lady Gaga Raises Awareness of PTSD and Trauma Therapy
Many people associate the term PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) with service members who have been scarred from combat experiences. However, performer Lady Gaga is on a mission to help people understand that PTSD is a mental illness, which can affect anyone who has been through a traumatizing event.
In Lady Gaga’s case, her PTSD resulted from being raped repeatedly when she was 19 years old. She made her PTSD diagnosis public in 2016. In a 2020 interview with Oprah, Lady Gaga explained:
“I developed PTSD as a result of being raped and also not processing that trauma … I never dealt with it, and then all of a sudden, I started to experience this incredible intense pain throughout my entire body that mimicked the illness I felt after I was raped.”
PTSD is an extreme form of stress that usually results from specific traumatic events. It can cause flashbacks, sleeplessness, anger, depression, and physical pain. For Lady Gaga, the pain of unprocessed trauma became fibromyalgia that gave her "head-to-toe pain."
While PTSD can be a frightening mental health diagnosis, the good news is that it can be treated with therapy and anti-anxiety medication. In cases of sexual assault or abuse, there is no timeline for recovery. So even if someone is suffering from a childhood event, they will still find support and can take steps toward mental wellness if they go through therapy as an adult.
Lady Gaga reminds her listeners that mental health is a medical condition and should be treated that way. In a letter to fans of her Born This Way foundation, Lay Gaga writes, “No one’s invisible pain should go unnoticed … I am continuing to learn how to transcend this because I know I can. If you relate to what I am sharing, please know that you can too.”
Daniel Radcliffe Discusses OCD and the Value of Therapy
Before becoming a childhood star in the Harry Potter movies at age 11, actor Daniel Radcliffe suffered from compulsions to repeat activities like flipping a light switch or re-stating his own words. Beginning at age 5, he was diagnosed with OCD, or obsessive compulsive disorder. There were times when it took him 5 minutes to turn off a light. He needed to hear his own words repeated after he said them, so he learned to repeat them in his mind or under his breath.
While these challenges have caused him many internal struggles, they have not held Radcliffe back from external success. In a 2020 interview, Radcliffe said the most important thing he did to cope with his disorder was going to therapy.
“I would encourage everyone to undergo therapy. It doesn’t mean you’re insane or weak.”
The more Radcliffe speaks out about his own struggles with OCD, the more he is destigmatizing mental health treatment. Radcliffe is one of the most recognized celebrities talking about mental health, and his experience inspires others to get the support they need.
Jim Carrey Challenges Depression
Actor Jim Carrey is best known for his comedic roles, where he uses exaggerated facial features to make his audience laugh. But the person behind these humorous characters is someone who has struggled with sadness and depression ever since childhood.
Carrey grew up in a stressful environment. His father was often unemployed, and his mother was frequently unwell. Comedy and acting became an escape for Carrey after he dropped out of high school to earn money. He has talked openly about his depression since 2009.
Jim Carrey’s mental illness perspective is unique. He views depression as the result of people pretending to be someone they are not. When someone’s mind can no longer play the “character or avatar” they are trying to be, the mind rebels by going into depression mode.
In a video interview, Carrey quotes author and spiritual healer Jeff Foster, who says the word “depressed” could be described as “deep rest.” When the mind and body need a deep rest from the work of pretending to be more satisfied than they are, depression settles in.
Depression is a mental illness where someone feels extremely sad and disinterested for more than a few weeks at a time. Depression is an extremely common mental disorder, but it can be treated successfully with medication and therapy.
Carrey uses medication to manage his depression. But he also mentions how important it is for people to give themselves a “fighting chance” to battle depression by eating healthy food, exercising, getting enough sleep, spending time in the sunlight, and surrounding themselves with support.
Jonah Hill Documents Treatment for Anxiety Attacks
Sometimes, celebrities battling mental disorders are the best advocates for destigmatizing mental illness. This is the case with actor and director Jonah Hill, who recently made the Netflix film Stutz to share the mental health advice and strategies of his therapist, Dr. Phil Stutz.
But because of Hill’s 20-year struggle with anxiety, which is made worse through media appearances, Hill didn't make any public appearances to promote the film. In a letter to fans, Hill wrote:
“I’m hoping to make it more normal for people to talk and act on this stuff [mental wellness] so they can take steps toward feeling better and so that the people in their lives might understand their conditions more clearly.”
Anxiety is a mental disorder where someone suffers from feelings of worry, anxiety, or fear that are powerful enough to disrupt their daily activities. There are many symptoms of anxiety, but attacks may include feelings of impending doom, rapid breathing, sweating or trembling, and difficulty concentrating.
Hill’s documentary Stutz has a powerful message for anyone suffering from anxiety. He made the film to share the tools that helped him in his battle with anxiety and panic attacks. In the film, Dr. Stutz gives this advice to viewers:
“You can’t move forward without being vulnerable. Vulnerability is connection to the rest of the world. Take action, no matter how frightened you are. If you can teach somebody that, they can change their whole life.”
Celebrities with mental health conditions have a choice to treat their disorders in private or share their pain with the world. Everyone benefits from celebrities talking about mental health because it normalizes the need for medication or therapy and lets people know that mental health resources exist.
Celebrity mental health advocates like Selena Gomez, Lady Gaga, Daniel Radcliffe, Jim Carrey, and Jonah Hill help destigmatize mental health conditions. Fans who may be struggling with mental health can view their documentaries and read their stories to learn they aren’t alone. These celebrity mental health advocates are slowly changing perceptions about mental health stigmas.
Anyone who needs mental health care should not hesitate to seek support. There are many professionals willing to offer advice, support, and therapy that can improve lives. Begin by visiting Telemynd to connect with quality health care providers from the comfort of home.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, an opportunity for individuals, families, and communities to reflect on the value of accepting and addressing mental health conditions. Telemynd believes that all people, no matter their age, gender, work history, or income level, should have access to appropriate mental health care. Moreover, Telemynd is committed to destigmatizing mental health care for civilians, service members, veterans, and their families.
The Stigma Around Mental Health Care
Mental illness is incredibly common. A total of 22% of American adults experience mental illness each year, as do 16% of American children and teens. Getting treatment for mental health conditions is beneficial and effective for most people.
Despite this, only about half of people with mental illness receive treatment for their conditions. This may be due to a lack of access to mental health services or worries about how to afford treatment. Another barrier to receiving care is the fear of stigma attached to mental health disorders.
The American Psychiatric Association identifies three types of stigma relating to mental health conditions and mental health treatment:
Public stigma: Negative or discriminatory attitudes that other people hold about mental illness. Self-stigma: Negative attitudes and internalized shame that people with mental illness have about themselves and their condition. Institutional stigma: Policies from government and private organizations that limit opportunities for people with mental illness. This can include issues such as inadequate funding for research on mental illness and treatment or lack of mental health services compared to services for other types of healthcare. The stigma surrounding mental health care can especially affect groups such as active service members and veterans. Nearly 25% of active duty service members report mental health symptoms. Many avoid seeking care out of concern about what it will do to their careers. The armed forces have tried to address the military mental health stigma by ensuring that getting appropriate care will not affect military careers or security clearance.
In recent years, there have been efforts to break the stigma of mental illness and treatment for mental health conditions. Health insurance companies are now required to cover mental health services so people can access treatment more readily. Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) that help individuals access mental health care when they need it. In addition, discussions of mental health have become more public and widely accepted.
Mental Health Awareness Month 2023: Destigmatizing Mental Health Care
One of the primary goals for Mental Health Awareness Month in 2023 is to break the stigma of mental health and get treatment for mental health conditions. In recent years, celebrities and brands have joined mental health advocates to openly discuss mental health issues and change public perception of mental illness. These efforts are creating a culture of openness and community among people coping with mental health conditions. It helps set a precedent for talking honestly about mental health and shows a path forward for treatment.
TikTok: Social media platform TikTok launched a Mental Health Awareness hub to highlight videos and creators addressing mental health topics and support organizations dedicated to raising awareness about mental health. MLB: Major League Baseball teams have worn green ribbons for Mental Health Awareness Month. Some teams have posted content discussing mental health treatment, with players opening up about their experiences with getting help when they need it. Celebrities: Guns’N’Roses bassist Duff McKagan released a song for Mental Health Awareness Month called “This Is The Song.” He shared his struggles with panic disorders alongside the release. In May 2023, Jason Sudeikis and the cast of the show Ted Lasso visited the White House for a live-streamed conversation about mental health. Singer Demi Lovato has been candid about seeking treatment for bipolar disorder and addiction. British Royal Prince Harry openly discusses his experience with PTSD and how therapy improved his mental health and his marriage, urging others to be open about their own mental health. On Price Harry’s docuseries about mental health, The Me You Can’t See, musician Lady Gaga opened up about her own struggles with PTSD. Social media campaigns: Mental health advocacy groups like the National Alliance on Mental Illness encourage supporters to use social media to normalize discussions about mental health. The organization provides sample social media posts such as “Mental health affects ALL of us. Help us get the word out and start the conversation today! Visit: nami.org/mhm #MoreThanEnough @NAMICommunicate” to build awareness and direct people to resources for getting the help they need. Changing Trends in Acceptance of Mental Health Treatment
The trend toward candid discussions of mental health and mental health treatment has affected how people respond to mental health concerns. In recent years, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has reported steady increases in the number of people seeking mental health care for any type of mental health condition. In 2015, 34.2 million adults aged 18 or older sought treatment for mental health conditions. By 2020, more than 41 million Americans received either inpatient or outpatient counseling or received a prescription to manage a mental health condition.
The changes are affecting groups of people who typically have not been as open to treating mental illness. Historically, men have been less likely to seek out mental health resources. That is changing as treatment becomes more widely accepted. SAMHSA reports an 11% increase in the number of men getting mental health treatment from 2008 to 2019.
The COVID-19 pandemic was another factor in rolling back stigmas about mental health treatment. Fears about illness, stress from changes to work and family life, and the effects of social isolation negatively affected millions of people. The need for help seemed to overcome any concerns about the stigma attached to getting help, and more people sought out treatment in 2020 and 2021. Mental health care providers reported dramatic increases in requests for treatment. Even now, after the worst of the crisis, mental health care providers say they continue to receive calls from prospective patients asking for help with mental health conditions.
Taking Care of Mental Health
Even without fear of stigma, mental health is a complicated issue. People with mental health conditions and their loved ones may struggle to know what will help and how to access care.
Because mental health encompasses a broad range of conditions, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment plan. Some conditions, such as bipolar disorder or depression, are linked to chemical imbalances, so medication is a primary treatment, alongside talk therapy and other supports. Conditions like PTSD occur in the wake of traumatic experiences, so treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy or working with a service animal may be effective. Some types of mental health conditions are temporary and resolve after treatment; others are lifelong and require continual or intermittent treatment.
Foundational steps can set up success in managing all kinds of mental health conditions. These steps can help people with mental health conditions as well as the people who care about them.
Connect with loved ones: For many people, mental illness can be isolating, so having people to turn to can make it easier to get help and emotional support. Talking to trusted relatives, friends, or colleagues about mental health conditions is a way to gather support. Seek peer support: Talking to others who are experiencing similar mental health struggles can be helpful and affirming. Both people struggling with their mental health and those who care for them can benefit from peer support groups. Identify resources for professional help: Take the time to learn about available mental health services and engage them when necessary. This can include current or former therapists, primary care providers, mental health hotlines, or other resources. Plan out solutions in advance: Knowing what activities soothe mental health symptoms is valuable. Have a set of go-to solutions, such as taking a walk, calling a friend, listening to music, or engaging with nature. Using simple, effective options in the moment can help keep symptoms from escalating. Telemynd Can Help
Telemynd is committed to ensuring access to comprehensive mental health solutions, without barriers. Our providers work to offer care that is appropriate, supportive, and free of judgment or stigma. Our telehealth platform is designed to broaden access to mental health services and remove obstacles to getting care.
Telemynd’s online platform works by matching people with the behavioral health specialists best suited to support them. We have a national network of therapists and prescribers who can address a wide range of mental health needs. In addition, Telemynd providers offer TRICARE-covered mental health services so that military members and their families have access to excellent mental healthcare.
All Telemynd services are conducted via secure video services. Access to mental health care at home offers a greater sense of privacy than having to take time off work or away from family for in-person appointments during business hours. People accessing virtual mental health services may feel less likely to be questioned or judged for seeking care. Virtual behavioral health services also help overcome institutional barriers to care, such as a lack of local providers, transportation issues, or limited office hours.
If you’d like to request an appointment or have any questions, feel free to reach out to the care team at 866-991-2103 or visit telemynd.com

Summer is upon us and many of us are anticipating a return to travel. Whether staying stateside or going overseas, travel conjures up images of exciting new places, beautiful or unusual sights, visiting with family or friends, and in general, lots of relaxation and fun. But for many people, travel can also create feelings of discomfort and worry — a sensation psychologists refer to as "travel anxiety." If this describes you, you are not alone: feeling anxious about travel - before and during a trip - is very common.
And of course, if you have a mental health diagnosis, you’ll want to check with your medical professional before your trip as they can make sure you are up-to-date on prescriptions, and even provide travel advice for your condition. In addition, this article offers 8 ways to cope with travel anxiety, from giving yourself extra time for transportation transitions to packing a calming item or book that provides comfort during stressful situations. Hopefully these suggestions will help reduce the anxiety and allow you to enjoy the journey! 
Alleviate potential anxiety before you go
Experts suggest you start by thinking in advance about what situations on the trip might cause anxiety, recognize when your anxiety may be disproportionate, then challenge it with facts and planning. It’s a good idea for any traveler to do upfront research to make sure destinations and activities are safe. But if your fears about possible disaster get in the way of fully enjoying your experience, your anxieties may be at least partially unfounded. It may help to look at statistics to see how rare certain scary events really are. You can also find out in advance where to go or who to call if you do have an emergency. Often these upfront methods can provide a better sense of control and therefore alleviate some of the advance anxiety.
Other Tips for coping with travel anxiety during your trip
Build in extra time. This probably goes without saying. Almost every form of transportation - plane, train, even car rental - will almost certainly experience delays, lines, or schedule changes - causing even the most patient among us to feel overwhelmed. It makes sense to allow for extra time for each, as well as to plan what you’ll do in case of delays (bring a book, load up a movie on your phone, etc.), and learn to accept - rather than fight - these common inconveniences. Keep important documents handy. To reduce freak-outs at the airport or at border crossings, always keep your passport and ID in the exact same holder or bag while you travel (as well as in the same spot at home when not traveling!). Make paper copies of important documents just in case. Consider printing out copies of maps or have an up-to-date, hard copy guidebook in case GPS doesn’t work. Establish a routine that sets the tone for your trip. Familiarize yourself with your surroundings, and if you can, integrate activities that you’re used to doing at home (e.g., getting coffee at a local coffee shop each morning, reading before bed, etc.) to bring a sense of comfort and routine. Practice relaxing breathing exercises. Use these in traffic, in security lines, and whenever necessary. Also integrate physical activity like walking and stretching to relieve stress. Get the appropriate amount of sleep, eat a healthy diet, and stay hydrated.  Try to stay positive — or at least neutral. Frustrating or disappointing situations are bound to happen while traveling. However, your attitude may make a difference. Boston University clinical psychologist and phobia expert, Dr. Todd Farchione, says,  “A lot of times, by pulling from a mindfulness and acceptance-based approach, you can go into a situation in a way where you’re not judging it so negatively… To be calm, you have to act calm.” Know your mental and physical limits. Regularly reassess your original plans and change them to minimize stress levels. Let your fellow travelers know in advance that you will be prioritizing your mental health and that there may be activities along the way that you may not partake in. Finally, give yourself time on the back end of a trip. If possible, plan an extra day or two off after you return, to mentally and physically recover from your trip. This will help you get back into your daily routine with less stress. If you are still facing travel anxiety after trying these stress-reducing tips, a qualified mental health professional can help you work on further coping strategies for dealing with travel anxiety, or help you consider whether medication can help fulfill your wanderlust with as little stress as possible.
Sources
International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers (IAMAT): Travel and Anxiety
Conde Nast Traveler: What Does Travel Anxiety Look Like?
CDC: Mental Health and Travel

As the 2022 Olympics and Paralympics wind down in Beijing and athletes return home, the glow of their accomplishments is sure to last for a while. But what happens after the glow dies down - after the hometown celebrations, victory parties, and media interviews subside? Holly Brooks, a well-known therapist to Olympic athletes, says, "A lot of athletes fall into a deep depression after the Olympics… (They) need a lot of support, a lot of people reminding them of their worth beyond just their athletic achievements and results."
In this article, we look at the mental health issues that returning Olympians often face, and what can be done to address this.
Post-competition mental health issues are not uncommon
It is estimated that one-third of elite athletes around the world experience symptoms of depression or anxiety. In recent years, athletes like Simone Biles, Chloe Kim, and Michael Phelps have helped raise awareness and normalize mental health issues by talking openly about their own anxiety and depression. At the same time, the number of research studies around this topic has increased - confirming the high incidence of mental health issues in this group.
Studies have found there are several reasons that athletes may experience post-competition depression. Some athletes are dealing with disappointment over performances that didn't seem to measure up. But even for those who walk away with gold, that post-competition, somewhat “lost” feeling of “what do I focus all my energy and attention on now?” can loom large. One athlete said, “When you get home it’s really lonely… It’s quite depressing, and it is a little bit overwhelming, starting from square one again.”
Sports psychologist and director of the Performance Psychology Center at the University of Michigan, Scott Goldman, explains it this way: “This ninety-mile-per-hour ride comes to a screeching halt the second the Olympics are over. …This emotional drop is not that different from the drops we all feel after major milestones, such as getting married or giving birth…. But in the case of Olympic athletes, some find themselves at such a loss they can’t stop the slide—and wind up in clinical depression.”
What can be done to address mental health issues faced by athletes?
Some experts suggest that athletes should have a plan in place for what to do after the excitement of the competition ends - from going on vacation to beginning a degree, a new job, or even a new athletic season. The key may be in an athlete’s willingness to build and maintain an identity off the playing field - and this may be where these other life goals come in.
Support is also critical: The U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee formed a mental health task force in 2020 and among other things, made sure Olympic athletes now have access to a dedicated team of counselors and other mental health resources, such as wellness and meditation apps and support groups - during and after the games.
One athlete summarized the challenge this way: "People are finally recognizing that these athletes are not superhuman robots like everyone thinks they are. It's like, 'Oh they're a normal person who has their own mental health issues.'" 
If you or a loved one need help with mental health issues, consider contacting a qualified telebehavioral health professional
If you’re a client, request an appointment online or call our live support for assistance in scheduling care today. Our mental health professionals are trained in multiple mental health disorders and have experience treating them via online appointments - from the convenience and privacy of your home or wherever works for you. If you’re a behavioral health provider looking to join our network, see all the benefits and learn how to apply here.
Sources
NPR
Frontiers in Psychology
British Journal of Sports Medicine

Back-to-school can be a time of heightened stress and excitement for kids in normal years, but this year, add in increased health worries and new routines associated with the covid-19 pandemic, and the level of ‘back-to-school anxiety’ is higher than ever. In fact, at Telemynd, we’ve recently seen an uptick in requests for mental health visits for kids and adolescents. So, with families in mind, this article will look at the reasons why back-to-school may cause extra anxiety this year and some actionable ways to address it. 
The number of mental health issues in young people has increased in the pandemic
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (Pediatrics) found that the number of young people struggling with mental health issues has likely doubled compared to pre-pandemic levels. The study found that 1 in 4 kids are experiencing elevated symptoms of depression and 1 in 5 have higher levels of anxiety. A CDC study found that in 2020, emergency room mental health visits increased 31% for kids ages 12 to 17, and 24% for ages 5 to 11, compared to the same period the prior year.
And it's no wonder. For many young people, the pandemic has increased worries about sickness, family finances, separation from friends, disruption in routine – even coping with grief from loss. A year of remote learning, although necessary for safety, may have taken an emotional toll on many – some may have fallen behind in their studies, or suffered from lack of academic support. 
Back-to-school transitions will be harder this year
Most mental health specialists agree that, in general, kids are realizing that the world is not as safe as we all thought it was – and that increases anxiety. Dr. Jennifer Louie, a clinical psychologist at the Child Mind Institute, says, “There’s just anxiety in the air, and I think kids feel that. They are wondering: Are we sure it’s safe to go back (to school)? And are other people safe? And is it safe to touch this?”
To be sure, some kids have enjoyed homeschooling and spending more time with family. But for those who are predisposed to anxiety, depression, or other mental health issues, transitioning back to classroom learning this Fall may be harder than ever.
How to help kids deal with back-to-school anxiety
For parents and caretakers, it may feel complicated – on the one hand you want to reassure them that it’s safe to go back to school in-person, while also encouraging them to be cautious, and preparing them to be flexible if rules or situations change. 
Here are 5 ways to address additional back-to-school anxiety:
Emphasize safety measures. Talk about how schools have done months of planning to minimize risk and keep everyone safe — and how kids can do their part by following the rules. It's fine to explain that we can never be 100% sure everyone will stay healthy, but that there are measures in place to try to ensure best possible outcomes if people get sick. 
Validate their feelings. Validate any worries by acknowledging that, like any new activity, going back to school can be hard, but with time, it will get easier. For younger kids, praise ‘brave’ behaviors, e.g., “I love how willing you were to take the bus this morning.” Make sure they know they aren’t alone - that teachers and administrators are watching out for them and that you’ll deal with any safety and health issues together.
Have a routine. Making sure that your child has a predictable school morning routine can help everyone feel more secure. Try to do things at the same time, the same way every day. And practice problem-solving if issues come up; for example, if they worry they can’t find their way around school, help them think through who to ask for help.
Make sure they get enough sleep and good nutrition. The shift from summer to school-year wake-up times can be challenging for a lot of kids, but lack of sleep can make them more vulnerable to anxiety. To deal with this, consider leaving TV, phone, or laptop outside the bedroom at night. And have lots of healthy snacks and lunch material in the house to ward-off unhealthy eating (which also contributes to stress).
Observe your child's behavior. Watch for signs of depression or anxiety, for example, becoming more withdrawn, angry, or having trouble concentrating. Also watch for physical changes like abdominal or other physical pain - which also can be warning signs. Be sure to regularly and directly ask them how they're feeling. It is also not uncommon for kids who struggle with anxiety and depression to “hold it together” during the school day and have a “meltdown” when they arrive home to release some of the pent up feelings they have kept inside while in school. It is important for parents to be prepared for this type of response and to create space for their child to decompress when they arrive home before trying to engage them about their day. Understanding “why” your child may be acting in a way that is unlike them is the first step in recognizing the signs that they may be struggling with a mental health issue.  
When to seek additional help
If you see any of the warning signs mentioned above (and see more here), or if a young person’s worries about school start to interfere with their ability and willingness to attend school or participate in normal activities, like sports, or socializing with peers, consider consulting a licensed behavioral health professional. In some cases, kids may be resisting going back to school because last year’s learning at home “felt” easier than going to school (e.g., kids with a lot of social anxiety, or those with learning disorders may have had an easier time when they could work at their own pace). Mental health professionals can sort out real anxiety and depression symptoms, and provide recommendations to help.
If a young person in your life is showing signs of heightened back-to-school anxiety, consider contacting a mental health professional
With the right mental health support, kids can adjust to school this Fall, make new friends, learn new things, and thrive. If you’re a client, request an appointment online or call our live support for assistance in scheduling care today! If you’re a behavioral health provider looking to join our network, see all the benefits and learn how to apply here.

Sources
Harvard Medical School
Centers for Disease Control (CDC)
Behavior Analysis in Practice
JAMA Pediatrics