According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, 40 million adults over the age of 18 suffer from an anxiety disorder. If you are one of them, you know how difficult your life can feel most days.When anxiety strikes, the world around us can become a sort of funhouse, only not that much fun. It’s important to be able to self-soothe in these instances. But how can you calm an anxiety attack subtly when you’re out in public? Breath WorkAs soon as you feel the anxiety coming on, focus ...read more
How to Practice Self-Compassion
Most of us from a young age are taught how to be kind, considerate and compassionate toward others. But rarely are we told to show the same consideration to ourselves. This becomes even more true for individuals brought up in abusive or unloving homes.What is Self-Compassion?Self-compassion is taken from Buddhist psychology and refers to how we can relate to the self with kindness. Self-compassion or self-love is NOT to be confused with arrogance or selfishness. In actuality, arrogance and ...read more
5 Interview Tips for Introverts
Having an important interview is nerve-wracking for just about everyone. But when you’re an introvert, interviews can feel almost unbearable.If you are an introvert and you have an important interview coming up, follow these tips to feel calm and in control.1. See it as an OpportunityAn introvert’s first reaction to the prospect of an interview is usually dread. This obviously sets a very bad tone for the actual event. See the interview as an opportunity to advance your career or positively ...read more
Five Polite Ways for Introverts to Leave a Party Early
Most people who are introverted have no desire to attend a party. For introverts, parties are torturous social affairs, putting you far out of your comfort zone and forcing you to interact with strangers. Unfortunately for the introvert, there are moments in life when you absolutely must attend a party. If for you, the best thing about a party is leaving it, here are five ways to make a quick exit.1. Tell The Host in AdvanceOne polite way to leave a party early is to make your excuse ahead of ...read more
5 Free Ways to Improve Your Mental Health
When we talk about our mental health, we're talking about much more than a clinical diagnosis. Your mental health also refers to your psychological well-being. Having a healthy psychological well-being means you're able to better manage your emotions as well as your mood. Every day presents its unique challenges, and a healthy mental state can help you take challenges in stride.1. Positive AffirmationsRepeating an affirmation can help you create a positive mental outlook that will be a driving ...read more
4 Ways Being Single Is Better for Your Mental Health
Being single can be difficult at times. Dating, or trying to get dates, can be frustrating and discouraging. Meeting new people can be fun, but you might long for a close, long-term relationship with one other person. If you find yourself staring longingly at couples holding hands, it may be time to re-evaluate, and learn to appreciate the many benefits of single life. While being single can sometimes make you feel sad and lonely, there are times when its more beneficial for your mental ...read more
3 Ways to Kindly Say “No” to Invites for Introverts
Life is challenging when you’re an introvert. What are simple interactions for many people can feel anxious and uncomfortable to you. The mere idea of taking part in certain social events can be exhausting and emotionally draining to an introvert.While some social functions, such as business meetings, cannot be missed, there are social gatherings that can be, and it is totally okay for you to say no. This may feel almost as uncomfortable to you as actually attending the party or event, but it’s ...read more
What Is An Extroverted-Introvert – And Are YOU One?
Are you one of those people who has never quite felt like an introvert but are definitely not an extrovert? Have you read descriptions of either personality and thought, “Mmmm, close, but not quite?” If so, you might be what is called an extroverted introvert (EI).Extroverted introverts, also called “outgoing introverts” or “social introverts” have qualities of both personalities. They are not entirely loners but don’t necessarily enjoy spending time with large groups of people.Most people are, ...read more
10 Signs You Might Be a “Highly Sensitive Person”
Are you a highly sensitive person (HSP)? If so, you’re not alone. It is estimated that roughly 15 to 20 percent of the population is highly sensitive. In fact, scientists now believe there is a gene behind this trait.But what does it mean to be highly sensitive? The HSP is generally defined as someone with “acute physical, mental, and emotional responses to external (social, environmental) or internal (intra-personal) stimuli.”The bad news is, being highly sensitive can make many “normal” life ...read more
How to Ask for Help in Times of Need
You probably remember a time in school or out shopping when you wanted to ask for help, but stopped yourself. You might have even had a prompt from the teacher: "Does anyone have any questions?" or from an associate "Is there something I can help you with?". Still, even when it's their job (or their joy) to help, you might hesitate.It can be even more difficult when you're going through difficult times and can really use another set of eyes or hands. If you're overwhelmed with work and home ...read more