Talking about mental health matters, and the words we use can have a huge impact. In a study from Emory University, researchers found 50 psychological and psychiatric terms to avoid because they are shown to be shame-inducing and stigmatizing. But what exactly is stigmatizing about the language we use, and how can we respectfully discuss mental health?
In recent years, the discourse surrounding therapy and mental health has made significant strides in reducing the associated stigma. This ongoing conversation plays a...
Each day, human beings experience a vast range of positive and negative emotions. However, when we feel we need to hide these emotions from...
Stress is common among people today. However prolonged and unresolved stress can lead us into a “Survival Mode” state of mind. It is important...
Naloxone can save lives. It’s a drug that can quickly reverse an overdose of opioids like heroin, fentanyl, oxycodone, and codeine. Naloxone works by...
Addiction is a disease that can consume every aspect of your life. It impacts you if you are actively trying to manage your addiction,...
After fighting with someone, there may be lingering resentment, tense silence, or awkwardness. It can be difficult to figure out what to say and...
Stress is something we all experience, which makes it difficult to recognize when what what you’re experiencing goes beyond stress. This is especially true...
The majority of us will experience trauma at some point in our lives. Whether that trauma stems from physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, it...
Childhood isn’t simply a stage of life that we pass through on our way to adulthood and leave behind when we become “mature.” Rather,...
It’s said that a smile can light up a room, but did you know certain circuits in your brain also “light up” when you...
You’re standing on the ledge of a scenic lookout point, safely protected by guardrails when—suddenly—the thought of tumbling over the rail pops into your...
Raising children is difficult and, unfortunately, many adults aren’t equipped with the emotional maturity needed to become effective parents. As a result, countless children...
Self-care routines and self-soothing activities that alleviate stress are essential for maintaining good mental health. An intense workout in the morning or relaxing bath...
While organizations like Autism Speaks and the Autism Society have helped shed new light on Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and its community, many myths...
Terms around gender and identity may seem complex on the surface, but they don’t have to be. Even a basic understanding of gender terminology...
Working from home has many benefits, but for those struggling with their mental health, it may present some unique challenges. At-home jobs can be...
Diet culture refers to the expectations we value and place on ourselves to look a certain way. This damages our mental and physical health...
An eating disorder can take a toll at any age. That’s why at Valley Oaks Health, we want to help you support your child...
Watching someone you care about struggle with an eating disorder can be painful. If you’re unsure how to support them throughout their recovery journey,...
When you reflect on your relationship with someone and realize something isn’t right, it’s a crushing feeling. Manipulation—even if it’s not obvious—can happen in...
Compliments, affection, gifts, and lots of time together can seem like green flags at the beginning of a relationship. However, they can quickly turn...
Attachment theory is a framework based on the research of psychologist John Bowlby. It describes four different approaches adults may take toward relationships: avoidant,...
Self-sabotage happens when someone participates in one or more behaviors that undermine their wellbeing and success. From procrastination to stress eating, self-sabotaging behaviors take...
