Category: Mental Health

This category comprises everything you need to know about your mental health and how to cruise in the pool of ideal health

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Programs

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Programs

chibueze uchegbu | July 2nd, 2022


There are different clinical mental health counseling programs you ought to know and today, we bring them directly to your screen.

The pervasive and damaging effects of untreated mental illness are becoming more widely known. At the same time, awareness that treatments are available to reduce and eliminate damage is spreading.

As a result, health care providers, government officials, citizen groups, and other organizations are banding together to promote mental health outreach and clinical mental health counselors are at the forefront of this.

Clinical mental health counseling refers to the services provided by trained professionals to clients who seek assistance in dealing with issues in their lives.

Personal problems or issues of a behavioral, emotional, marital, vocational, rehabilitative, educational, or life-stage nature, according to the American Psychological Association (APA), can be included.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Programs

Counseling services are further defined by the APA as assistance provided by professionals such as psychologists, licensed counselors, nurses, and social workers through government, mental health, or social service agencies.

Here are a few clinical mental health counseling Programs available:

1. Clinical Mental Health Counseling (M.S.) (St. cloud state university )

This is one of the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Programs designed to educate and prepare culturally diverse professional counselors to advance the profession through practice, advocacy, scholarship, research, leadership, and service.

The program emphasizes a reflective-practitioner model that combines intensive, supervised clinical experiences, research, evidence-based and creative resources, and current technology to work in a diverse global society.

Individuals, couples, and families are encouraged to achieve optimal personal, educational, and relational development through a holistic approach to counseling. They will teach you how to be a culturally competent, trauma-informed, and ethical counselor.

2. Clinical Mental Health Counseling Master’s Program ( THE UNIVERSITY OF UTAH)

The Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling specialty’s fundamental mission is to educate and train counselors who will promote the optimal functioning of individuals, families, groups, and communities.

Through self-reflection and constructive feedback, the course of study will support the acquisition of competency-based knowledge while also fostering professional and personal growth. The Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialty prepares students for entry-level counseling positions in community mental health and human service organizations.

This specialty is currently designed to meet the educational requirements for licensure as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in the state of Utah, as well as national standards for master’s level licensure in the majority of other jurisdictions across the country.

As a result, the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Specialty requires at least 60 credit hours over three years, with the final year culminating in a 1000-hour field-based internship.

3. Master of  Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.  (University of Wisconsin-Parkside)

This program is housed within the psychology department at the University of Wisconsin-Parkside and fulfills the pre-credential educational requirement for Wisconsin professional counselor licensure.

The 60-credit-hour counseling program assists students in developing the knowledge and skills required for clinical mental health counseling practice by adhering to the National Board of Certified Counselors’ core general counseling competencies (NBCC).

Low student/faculty ratios distinguish the program, providing students with opportunities for supervision, consultation, and mentorship. If students follow the recommended semester plan, they will be able to complete the program in two and a half years.

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The program incorporates CACREP (Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Programs) core standards into the curriculum and practice. Students complete 700 hours of counseling and related work in placement sites that correspond to their clinical interests and potential career paths.

Students gain skills and knowledge in areas such as assessment, diagnosis, intervention, advocacy, and evaluation in clinical mental health counseling.

Furthermore, students have the opportunity to collaborate with program faculty on research that is directly related to their future work as professional counselors.

4. Master of Arts in Counseling (University of Mary Hardin-Clinical Baylor)

The University of Mary Hardin-Clinical Baylor’s Mental Health Counseling track is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track has been accredited in accordance with the 2016 standards. This degree requires 60 hours of coursework.

If the student enrolls full-time year-round, it will take approximately seven semesters to complete the degree.

The Clinical Mental Health Counseling track’s mission is to prepare students for licensure and certification as knowledgeable and ethical professional counselors to meet the increasing demand for mental health services in a complex society with a diverse population by providing a curriculum that combines theory and concepts with skill development and meets the requirements set forth by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Professional Counselors and the Council on Accreditation of Counseling Programs.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling Jobs

A master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling can lead to a variety of career opportunities.  Individuals with the appropriate licensure and/or certification can work with a variety of clients with varying counsel needs. Here are a few jobs available to a clinical mental health counselor.

  1. Counselor at School

School counselors assist students with academic, emotional, and social needs in K-12 private and public institutions.

Typical job responsibilities include advising students on which classes to take, assisting them in choosing a career path, assisting them in selecting a college, assessing skills, discussing emotional issues, stress, or problems at home, resolving conflicts between students, and assisting students in overcoming social or behavioral problems.

A master’s degree in school counseling or a related field is required, as is a license to practice and, in some states, 1-2 years of teaching experience.

  1. Marriage and Family therapist

Marriage and family therapists work with individuals, couples, and families to assess and treat any mental, emotional, or relationship issues, especially those that cause stress.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a common treatment plan for patients; it is the process of addressing negative self-talk, thoughts, and behaviors and developing ways to replace them with positive ones; it also includes discussing healthy coping mechanisms and any important decisions the client must make. Marriage and family therapists usually work in private practice, so they must be licensed.

  1. Grief counselor

Grief counselors are licensed counselors who focus on grief and trauma. They assist patients in overcoming situations such as the loss of a loved one, the death of a pet, or the loss of a job. Empathy, communication, professionalism, sensitivity, and compassion are all important skills in this field.

  1. Counselor for Behavioral Disorders

Behavioral disorder counselors can work with individuals or in groups to help patients with disordered behaviors such as eating disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and so on.

They assist their patients in determining what causes their behavior, how to cope with it, and how to positively change their behavior, as well as educating the patient’s loved ones about their disorder and how to deal with it. Behavioral disorder counselors must also hold a master’s degree in a related field and hold a private practice license.

  1. Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance abuse counselors work with individuals and/or groups who are addicted to alcohol or drugs to help them develop healthy coping mechanisms for situations that may have led to addiction or could lead to relapse.

They may use programs such as the Alcoholics Anonymous 12-step program to assist the patient’s recovery, repair any broken relationships, and educate the patient’s loved ones on how to deal with their addiction.

Substance abuse counselors typically need a master’s degree in mental health counseling or a related field, as well as the ability to pass a state board exam in order to counsel patients privately.

  1. Rehabilitation Counselors

Rehabilitation counselors assist people with physical, mental, developmental, or emotional disabilities in overcoming or managing the physical, social, and psychological effects of disability so that they can live independently.

They can assist clients in locating resources such as medical care, career training, and legal aid, as well as adjusting to new limitations and discovering new strengths.

Individuals with a master’s degree in mental health counseling who have obtained a license to practice can provide counseling services to rehabilitation clients.

A final thought about the mental health counseling programs

Mental health counselors work with their clients to set goals and develop approaches to address emotional issues, strengthen coping and communication skills, boost self-esteem, encourage behavioral changes, and strive for improved mental well-being.

We all face difficulties in our lives. Counselors for mental health are frequently among the first resources available to people in need of emotional and psychological support. The most important qualities for a successful career as a mental health counselor are your strong sense of compassion and commitment to helping people.

You will need your own strong support system to ensure your well-being as you embark on this challenging and rewarding vocation.

Clients learn how to make informed and healthy decisions about themselves, their relationships, and their futures by addressing concerns with quality care from a mental health counselor.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How can I become a mental health counselor?

You could study counseling or psychotherapy at the diploma, degree, or postgraduate level. Some undergraduate programs combine counseling with other subjects such as psychology, sociology, or criminology. Look for a program that includes hands-on training and supervised placements.

  1. How much do mental health counselors earn in the United Kingdom?

Counselors’ starting salaries can vary greatly, but can range from £20,000 to £26,000. Counselors with experience can earn between £30,000 and £40,000 per year.

Some lead or specialist counseling positions, such as those in addiction, can pay more than this.

  1. How can I become a counselor without attending university?

Volunteering with organizations like Family Action will allow you to hone your counseling skills while also providing you with ongoing support from the organization.

In some cases, the agency may provide training in specialist counseling services, which can then be reimbursed through volunteer hours.

  1. Can I work as a counselor without a bachelor’s degree?

A counselor’s training consists of both theoretical and practical experience, but you do not need a degree to become one.

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Clinical mental health counseling

Clinical mental health counseling

chibueze uchegbu | July 2nd, 2022


There are national requirements for education, training, and clinical practice for the distinct profession of clinical mental health counseling.

Clinical mental health counselors work from a wellness perspective, which places an emphasis on moving away from distress, dysfunction, and mental disease and toward optimal human functioning in mind, body, and spirit.

Overview of clinical mental health counseling

When doing an assessment and providing treatment, counselors investigate all facets of a client’s environment since they see wellness and illness as developmental in nature.

In order to give their clients the most thorough care possible, counselors usually work in teams with other mental health specialists.

Clinical mental health counselors assess, treat, and follow up with patients suffering from a wide range of mental health issues.

A counselor may work with patients suffering from depression one day and children suffering from behavioral disorders the next.

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Clinical Mental Health Salary

As a mental health counselor, you’re not just preventing disease; you’re also promoting wellness,” says Eric Beeson, a clinical associate professor at Northwestern University and former president of the American Mental Health Counselors Association.

According to Beeson, mental health counselors’ approach to their work stems from training in “a wellness and human development framework.” Mental health counselors can work in a variety of settings. While some work in or start private practices, others provide community-based care.

The average annual salary for a clinical mental health counselor in the United States as of June 25, 2022, is $70,445 per year. If you need a quick pay estimator, that comes out to be about $33.87 per hour. This amounts to $5,870 a month or $1,355 per week.

Furthermore, the majority of Clinical Mental Health Counseling salaries currently range between $48,000 (25th percentile) and $84,500 (75th percentile), with top earners (90th percentile) making $117,000 annually across the United States, which reports annual salaries as high as $140,000 and as low as $24,500.

Clinical Mental Health Counseling typical salaries varied widely (by as much as $36,500), indicating there may be numerous prospects for promotion and higher income dependent on skill level, region, and years of experience because the average pay range for a clinical mental health counselor can vary substantially (by as much as $36,500).

Clinical Mental Health Counselling Online

A rewarding career as a certified professional counselor begins with a master’s in clinical mental health counseling.

You have a variety of specialized options, a strong job outlook, the flexibility to work virtually anywhere, good compensation, and the chance to contribute to the happiness and health of others in this line of work. Salary expectations for counselors with master’s degrees are higher than for those without.

A master’s degree is one of the requirements for licensing, which is required by every state in the U.S. for counselors working in private practice.  However, without the official training acquired through the advanced degree and licensing procedure, your practice and compensation opportunities are severely constrained.

Courses vary by program, but degree candidates can expect a mix of core and elective courses as well as a required internship.

Theories of counseling, ethics, and legal issues in counseling, couples, and family counseling, and mental health counseling practicum and/or internship are all common courses.

1. Mental Health Counseling Internship

Students can apply for their mental health counseling internship after completing all graduate coursework and meeting practicum requirements.

Learners must apply their counseling skills and provide services to patients in mental health settings.

2. Ethics and Legal Issues in Counseling

This foundational course provides an overview of the ethics and laws that most directly affect mental health counseling.

Enrollees can learn about child abuse assessment, mandatory reporting, and intervention techniques. This course promotes an understanding of mental health’s cultural, social, and psychological implications.

3. Couples and Family Counseling

Depending on the program, this course may be required or optional. Couples and family counseling classes teach students about the cultural, gender, and ethnicity dynamics that influence mental health. The theory is applied by students to improve, restore, and maintain family relationships.

4. Theories of Counseling

This foundational course examines counseling and psychotherapy theories. Students learn how to recognize issues and respond with evidence-based interventions.

Also, this course discusses how theories influence the treatment process through case studies.

Schools offering Clinical Mental Health Counselling online

Below, you will find some of the schools offering clinical mental health counseling courses;

  1. Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University provides two online Master of Arts in Counseling programs, one in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and one in School Counseling.

Whether students want to work with children or adults, in the public or private sector, Wake Forest prepares them to be compassionate community counselors and leaders.

  1. University of Louisiana – Monroe

The Master of Science in Counseling program at the University of Louisiana at Monroe prepares students for either clinical mental health counseling or school counseling.

Students in each track receive a high-quality education that will help them become innovative and compassionate counselors and mental health practitioners.

  1. Southern New Hampshire University

Students pursuing licensure as counselors can enroll in Southern New Hampshire University’s Master of Counseling Online program at any time. Students work with an experienced faculty to become experts in individual and group counseling, the ethics of mental healthcare, and other areas. On a rolling basis, applications are accepted.

The New England Commission on Higher Education has accredited Southern New Hampshire University. 

  1. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a three-year master’s degree that can be completed part-time and online.

Students receive a CACREP-accredited education, become licensed as mental healthcare professionals, and complete the knowledge required for future careers in this field. The Western Association of Schools and Colleges has accredited the Chicago School of Professional Psychology.

  1. North Carolina State University

The online Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from North Carolina State University provides an excellent education in patient care on a flexible schedule for working professionals.

Students can gain hands-on work experience through the program’s various internship opportunities, and they can customize their study concentrations.

Why You Should Pursue a Degree in Mental Health Counseling Online

For working students, online clinical mental health counseling programs provide affordability and flexibility.

Online programs also provide greater access to top schools without incurring relocation or commuting costs. Distance learners who are self-motivated and capable of pursuing their counseling goals on their own are ideal.

Earning an online counseling degree does not imply sacrificing academic merit; many online counseling programs are accredited by regional or national accrediting organizations.

Furthermore, much of the coursework in online programs is similar to that of traditional on-campus programs.

What are the Prices of Online Clinical Mental Health Counseling Programs?

The total cost of obtaining a master’s degree in mental health counseling varies depending on the school and program.

For the 2018-2019 school year, the National Center for Education Statistics reports that average graduate tuition ranges from $19,314 at public institutions to $25,929 at private institutions. Tuition rates can be influenced by a school’s reputation and whether it is public or private. Nonresident tuition rates may apply to students who attend school out of state.

Many online clinical mental health counseling programs, fortunately, offer flat-rate or in-state tuition options for all virtual students.

For the 2018-2019 school year, the National Center for Education Statistics reports that average graduate tuition ranges from $19,314 at public institutions to $25,929 at private institutions. Financial assistance may be available.

Conclusion on the Clinical Mental Health Counseling

Counselors who are licensed in mental health assist people with their emotional and behavioral needs.

A master’s degree in mental health counseling prepares compassionate students to professionally support, assess, and treat people suffering from mental illnesses.

To qualify for licensure and begin practicing professionally as a counselor, candidates must have at least a master’s degree.

Many online clinical mental health counseling programs offer the necessary coursework and skills to become a professional counselor. Accredited online programs also assist graduates in preparing for licensure exams.

Mental health counselors assist people in thriving. That can include guiding clients through difficult times. Giving them tools to help them achieve new levels of happiness, inner peace, and success is sometimes necessary.

Most counselors focus on one aspect of mental health. They may assist people who are dealing with relationship issues, substance abuse issues, trauma, or any of a variety of other issues.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs) about the clinical mental health counseling

  1. Can mental health professionals diagnose?

They have received training in conducting clinical interviews, psychological examinations, and testing to assess a person’s mental health. They can offer both individual and group therapy in addition to making diagnoses.

  1. Can a counselor diagnose PTSD?

PTSD can be identified by a medical professional with experience treating patients with mental diseases, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist.

An adult must experience all of the following for at least one month in order to be diagnosed with PTSD: at least one symptom that is recurring. at least one symptom of avoidance.

  1. What is the highest-paying job in mental health?

Patients with mental diseases receive pharmaceutical prescriptions from psychiatrists. The highest-paying careers for psychology majors are unquestionably those of psychiatrists. According to PayScale, the typical wage is $217,798.

  1. What’s the difference between a therapist and a counselor?

Therapists frequently offer the same guidance that counselors might in order to assist their patients in addressing similar concerns.

The fact that therapists frequently try to go further by assisting the patient in understanding the how and why of an issue marks a significant difference.

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Free Mental Health First Aid Course

Free Mental Health First Aid Course

chibueze uchegbu | June 29th, 2022


A training program called Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) trains participants how to recognize, comprehend, and assist someone who may be struggling with a mental health issue.

Although MHFA won’t prepare you to become a therapist, it will educate you on how to respond, reassure, and listen even in times of crisis, and perhaps even prevent a crisis from occurring. You’ll get the knowledge and confidence to contact and help someone while keeping yourself safe, as well as the ability to recognize the warning signs of mental illness.

Additionally, you’ll discover ways to enable someone to get the assistance they may require for healing or effective symptom control.

This could include self-help publications or websites, therapy services accessed through a general practitioner, a school or place of employment, online self-referral, and support.

Mental Health First Aid Certification Online

Below, you will find the mental health first aid certification online;

1. Youth Mental Health First Aid

The goal of Youth Mental Health First Aid is to provide parents, family members, caregivers, teachers, school staff, peers, neighbors, members of the health and human services industry, and other concerned citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist an adolescent (age 12–18) who is having difficulty with their mental health or addictions or is in crisis. The Youth Mental Health First Aid program is primarily intended for those who frequently work with children and adolescents.

This seminar discusses typical teenage growth, prevalent mental health issues for youth, and a 5-step action plan for helping adolescents in both crisis and non-crisis settings. Anxiety, depression, substance abuse, mental illnesses that can lead to psychosis, disruptive behavioral disorders (such as AD/HD), and eating disorders are among the subjects discussed.

Why Youth Mental Health Matters

  • One in five young people will struggle with their mental health at some point in their lives.
  • More children than those with cancer, diabetes, and AIDS combined, 17.1 million youth under the age of 18 have or have had a psychological disorder.
  • In the United States, 7.4% of kids contact a mental health professional in a given year.

How Youth Mental Health First Aid helps

  • educates adults on prevalent issues with mental health that affect young people.
  • decreases stigma.
  • teaches adults how to spot the warning signs and symptoms of adolescent substance use and mental health issues.
  • gives adults the knowledge and abilities to apply a 5-step action plan to assist a young person who may be experiencing a crisis or mental health issue, such as suicide.

2. Adult mental health First Aid

Anyone 18 years of age or older who wants to learn how to assist someone who could be going through a crisis or other issue linked to their mental health is welcome to enroll in the Adult Mental Health First Aid course.

Anxiety, sadness, psychosis, and addictions are among the subjects covered. Both English and Spanish are available for the adult course.

Participants in the course come from different backgrounds and fill a range of roles in the community, and the teachers may specialize in teaching the course to particular groups, like police officers or religious leaders. Look for icons for public safety, rural, higher education, and faith on instructor profiles.

Why Adult Mental Health Matters

  • In a single year, one in five American individuals will develop a mental health issue.
  • In America, about half of all individuals will battle a mental illness at some point in their lives.
  • Addiction will affect more than 20 million Americans aged 12 and older.

How Adult Mental Health First Aid Can Help

  • Addresses issues with common mental health that adults face.
  • Decreases stigma.
  • Teaches techniques so that loved ones, friends, and peers can spot the indicators of mental health or substance use issues and provide help.
  • Provides self-help tips for maintaining mental health.

3. Teen mental health First Aid

Many teenagers lack adequate mental health literacy, stigmatizing views toward those who suffer from mental illness, and the ability to provide peers with the best Mental Health First Aid.

Training could help to enhance these, enabling better social support and boosting appropriate help-seeking among teenagers with newly developing mental health issues. A new project of Mental Health First Aid International, teen Mental Health First Aid (teen MHFA), is a 3-hour, 75-minute classroom-based training course for teenagers between the ages of 10 and 15.

High school students in years 10 through 12 and in years 7-9 are taught how to provide their peers mental health first aid in the Teen MHFA Course. Research showing that young people prefer to share difficulties with peers led to the development of the course.

The course material is based on research done to identify the most effective steps a young person may take to support a peer who is experiencing mental health issues.

What the program includes

Students are taught the Teen MHFA Action Plan as well as details regarding various mental health issues, young people’s mental health crises, and the connection between ideas, feelings, and actions.

The following emerging mental health issues are covered:

  • Anxiety conditions
  • Depressive illnesses
  • disorders of eating
  • problems caused by drug and alcohol use
  • Psychotic illnesses

Cases involving mental health crises are covered such as:

  • Suicidal ideas and actions
  • Self-harm that is not suicide (sometimes called deliberate self-harm)
  • being really drunk or high on drugs or booze
  • abuse or harassment

Assessments of the Teen MHFA course have revealed:

  • A GROWTH IN CONFIDENCE: Students’ confidence to assist a peer with a mental health issue has grown.
  • DIMINISHMENT OF STIGMA: decreased stigmatization of those with mental health issues
  • GROWING NEED FOR HELP SEEKING SKILLS: increased desire to get treatment for a mental health issue
  • IMPROVED SKILLS IN SUICIDE PREVENTION: increased awareness of the signs of a peer at risk of suicide and superior first aid knowledge

What You learn from the courses

The instruction shows you how to:

  • Teach the Mental Health First Aid course, which includes the 5-step ALGEE Action Plan, options for self-help and therapy that are supported by science, and statistics on prevalence.
  • Display the program according closely to the validated core model.
  • Use a variety of adult learning approaches with the application.
  • Adapt your presentations to different learning contexts and audiences.
  • Population-focused material is included in module-specific courses.

Online format for the training

  • Before the first day of instruction, participants will complete prework that will take them about 8 hours to complete. An online course that walks you through a number of MHFA modeling videos is part of the pre-work. This is a self-paced assignment that you can finish before the course at your convenience. As soon as you have completed your registration for the course, you will have access.
  • Once their registration has been confirmed, participants will order the essential materials for the course. The cost of the course materials will not increase.
  • The three days of the online course run from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. The MHFA National Trainers are teaching this live, interactive course. Once your registration has been verified, a complete agenda will be made available.
  • After the live training, participants have about two hours of post-work to complete. The post-work contains virtual teaching hints and a platform overview with a quick test. A certificate and full instructor qualifications won’t be given to the candidate until all post-work has been finished.

IT Requirements for Virtual Training

  1. Computer: A Windows, Apple, or Android tablet, or an iOS, Android, or Windows desktop or laptop. Chromebook is not advised for the live training sessions due to compatibility difficulties with Zoom.
  2. speakers and microphone for computers

Due to its limitations, joining via the Zoom mobile app is not permitted. You can utilize your phone’s dial-in feature to access audio if your computer lacks a microphone and speakers.

  1. HD webcam, internal or external
  2. Internet accessibility

Zoom is usually used to host the course. For individuals who are not familiar with the platform, a how-to manual is always provided.

All participants may not receive certification. Participants must finish the entire online course, be present for the entire training, deliver the presentation satisfactorily, and pass a written exam in order to be certified.

Conclusion on the Free Mental Health First Aid Course

We all have physical and mental health, just like everyone else. People from all walks of life are susceptible to mental illness, which can strike at any time.

Even while things are getting better, the stigma surrounding mental illness still lingers. As a culture, we frequently lack the knowledge necessary to properly care for our mental health.

This implies that people might not know where to turn for help with their own mental health or how to support a friend, family member, or work colleague who is struggling with a mental health issue.

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Dialectical thinking

Dialectical thinking

chibueze uchegbu | June 9th, 2022


Dialectical thinking allows you to examine a situation from multiple angles in order to get closer to the truth, no matter how messy or complicated that truth may be.

We may label some things as “bad” and others as “good,” or regard some people as “right” and others as “wrong.” We may feel compelled to choose between ‘this way’ and ‘that way.’

The truth is that life is far more nuanced than that. And this is where dialectical reasoning comes into play.

Dialectical thinking has educational values that have largely gone unnoticed by researchers and educators.

What is Dialectical thinking?

As the name implies, dialectical refers to the balance of opposing forces. Marsha Linehan defines dialectical as a synthesis or integration of opposites, which can be translated as two or more harmful things being true at the same time.

Individuals are accustomed to thinking about things in a straightforward manner. Some refer to it as “Black and White” thinking. We either react to something or do things in one of two ways. We can feel Sad or Happy, Lively or Depressed, Strong or Weak, and so on.

Dialectical thinking encourages us to look beyond one-sided perspectives. The ground options may appear to be far apart, but they can combine to provide the best solution. To compare and contrast options, dialectical thinking employs the word “AND” rather than the word “BUT.”

It enables you to accept two seemingly contradictory ideas as part of the same truth. Because you are not forcing yourself to ignore conflicting feelings or ideas, you can remain open-minded and curious.

Dialectical thinking is a type of analytical reasoning that seeks knowledge and truth whenever there are questions or conflicts. One impediment to its use is that it is easily abused; most modern applications of the dialectical paradigm known as the “Socratic Method” are essentially dialectical thinking abuses.

Students are taught in an explicit teaching model, through direct example (and non-example), that seemingly opposing views of reality can be reconciled into meaning more reasonable than either of the seemingly opposing views. Dialectical thinking is defined as seeing things from various angles.

A fundamental principle of dialectical thinking is that everything is made up of opposites and that in order to fully comprehend something, we must first comprehend its polar opposite.

Benefits of Dialectical Thinking

When you start thinking dialectically, you start acting dialectically, which can be a game-changer. The following are a few of the advantages of dialectic thinking.

  • You start to see the big picture, which allows you to plan ahead of time and make more informed decisions.
  • You become more adaptable and resilient as a result.
  • You become more emphatic with others and with yourself.
  • It will be easier for you to practice nonviolent communication and improve your listening skills, which will improve your relationships even more.
  • You become more responsive rather than reactive.
  • You gain more control over your thoughts and emotions. This aids in the development of emotional intelligence.
  • Your conscious mind develops, as do your cognitive abilities. You will also become more self-conscious.
  • You begin to think outside the box as you realize there are multiple solutions to a problem. This also contributes to your creativity.
  • You begin to concentrate on the solutions rather than the problem.
  • Instead of clinging to rigid beliefs and ideas, you become open to learning and growing.
  • Instead of blaming others, you begin to take responsibility for your own life. This is the foundation of personal development.
  • Because you are not thinking or acting in extremes, you bring more balance and wisdom into your life.
  • It aids in the balancing of thoughts. It also helps you avoid being a one-sided thinker.
  • It allows for new ideas.
  • Furthermore, it prevents incorrect conclusions.
  • It aids in the discovery of ideas, thoughts, and conclusions that make life easier.
  • It reduces the risk of becoming overly emotional

Examples of Dialectical Thinking

As stated earlier, dialectical thinking entails weighing two opposing conclusions. Love and hate are two excellent examples of this. We’ve all heard stories about people who got engaged and married to people they despise.

They initially despise the person, but persistent thinking and balancing thoughts disproved some of their assumptions about that person.

Moving on and becoming depressed is another example. We are all aware that depression exists, but it is not the best option for them.

They may be depressed, and it may appear that everything has been done, but there is always a way out. There are numerous examples of dialectical thinking, a few are further mentioned below.

  1. I am strong… but also vulnerable.
  2. You can be afraid… and courageous all at the same time.
  3. You feel like you can’t go on… but you do.
  4. You can be intelligent while also lacking self-awareness.
  5. I want to change… but I’m afraid to.
  6. You are pleased with yourself… but want to improve.
  7. I’m doing my best… and I need to try harder.
  8. I am capable… but I require assistance.
  9. You appreciate the finer things in life… and do not take the little things for granted.
  10. I can love someone while also hurting them.
  11. I adore my partner… and I betrayed them.
  12. I despise what someone did to me… but I still love them.
  13. I am furious with you… and I will treat you with dignity.
  14. You can care deeply about someone… and still not want them in your life.
  15. You are pleased for someone… and envious of them.
  16. I am delighted for you… but sad for myself.
  17. You can be sorry for something and not be sorry for it.
  18. I respect and accept the opinions of others… but I also have my own beliefs.
  19. You can accept someone while also disagreeing with them.
  20. I disagree with you… but I understand your point of view.
  21. You want to be sober… but also get drunk/high.
  22. You have strong cravings… but you don’t want to get drunk/high.
  23. I had a bad childhood… but I can live a happy life.
  24. What happened was not okay… but you can learn from it and move on.
  25. I did not cause all of my problems… and I must resolve them.

How can one practice Dialectical Thinking in your daily life?

Understand dialectical thinking thoroughly: You cannot do what you do not understand. The most important thing to remember is that you must understand what it means. You may not know everything there is to know about it, but you must not be a complete novice.

Be open to new ideas: Dialectical thinking does not accept a conclusion as absolute and final. It delves deeper into the subject to determine whether there are any gaps in what is known about the overall situation.

Create a compromise (Synthesis) between acceptance and change: Finding the right balance between acceptance and growth is critical in dialectical thinking. You have to be ready to learn new things, you must be willing to unlearn some things. Dialectical thinking requires striking a balance between change and acceptance.

Use dialectical thinking in your daily activities: You must practice dialectical thinking before you can mature into one. You must not jump to conclusions without first balancing both of your conflicting decisions.

Observing your thoughts is one of the simplest ways to develop dialectic thinking. In other words, begin to examine your thoughts, beliefs, assumptions, ideas, and perceptions through the eyes of a third party. When you do this, you are essentially engaging your conscious mind in order to question your unconscious thoughts and beliefs.

Observing your thoughts in this manner will be difficult at first. So the best approach is to begin slowly. Begin by analyzing one rigid belief you have in your mind and attempting to see it from a different angle. The more you practice this, the easier it will be to switch to dialectic thinking into second nature. Meditation and mindfulness can both be extremely beneficial tools for personal development.

A final thought

How can someone want to be a mother but not have children? It’s natural to have conflicting emotions about a situation. And, with dialectical thinking, you don’t have to pick one and ignore the others.

You can hold both at the same time. This can help us be more open-minded because we don’t feel as compelled to defend our positions as vehemently.

Instead, we listen to other people’s ideas with interest to see if they help us develop our own. We will broaden our minds and improve our lives if we stop trying to ‘be right’ or ‘win,’ and instead welcome new perspectives into our lives.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • In DBT, what is dialectical thinking?

DBT’s “D” stanThreeds for dialectic. A dialectic is based on the idea that everything is made up of opposites and that change occurs when opposing ends communicate.  assumptions are made during the process: Everything is interconnected. Change is both constant and unavoidable.

  • In psychology, what is dialectic?

In general, any examination of the truth of ideas through the juxtaposition of opposing or contradictory viewpoints. 2. the Socratic conversational mode of argument in which knowledge is sought through a process of question and answer

  • How do you interpret dialectical thinking?

Dialectical thinking is defined as seeing things from various angles. Everything is composed, according to a fundamental principle of dialectical thinking.

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best Psychiatric Hospitals in Delaware

Best Psychiatric Hospitals in Delaware

chibueze uchegbu | June 9th, 2022


There are different psychiatric hospitals in Delaware. These hospitals or wards specialize in the treatment of serious mental disorders such as clinical depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder.

Mental hospitals, mental health units, mental asylums, and simply asylums are other names for them.

The size and grading of psychiatric hospitals vary greatly. Some hospitals may only provide short-term or outpatient therapy to low-risk patients, others, on the other hand, may provide temporary or permanent care to residents who require routine assistance, or treatment as a result of a psychological disorder.

Psychiatric hospitals in Delaware

Here is a list of the top psychiatric hospitals in Delaware;

  •  MeadowWood Behavioral Health Hospital

MeadowWood Behavioral Health provides multiple levels of care for adolescents, adults, and seniors, including inpatient, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programming. They are the area’s most dependable provider of mental health and substance abuse treatment in New Castle, Delaware.

This is a 120-bed psychiatric and addiction treatment facility on 11 private acres in New Castle, Delaware. We are the area’s leading provider of adolescent, adult, and geriatric mental health and substance abuse treatment services.

We provide a safe and comfortable environment for patients to leave the stress of the outside world behind and focus solely on their recovery as a psychiatric and addiction detox treatment facility. Their entire staff is dedicated to providing compassionate and comprehensive care to all individuals seeking a better quality of life.

They coordinate individualized psychiatric treatment plans and safe detox programs with healthcare providers, family members, and other community support as trained behavioral health professionals.

Their physician-led team of behavioral health clinical professionals treats each person as an individual, not as a member of a group. They treat the entire person, not just the symptoms that are bothering their patients.

Furthermore, they believe that by maintaining open communication between clinical team members, their patients, and their families, they can provide exceptional customer service while keeping the focus on their patients in assisting them in achieving a long-term, successful recovery. MeadowWood is dedicated to providing caring and professional treatment to adolescents, adults, and older adults (seniors) suffering from psychiatric illnesses and alcohol and/or drug addiction.

Contact: +1 888-915-1521

Address: 575 S Dupont Hwy, New Castle, DE 19720, United States

  •  SUN Behavioral Delaware

SUN Behavioral Delaware is a psychiatric hospital with 90 beds in Sussex County, Delaware. For those suffering from mental illness or substance use disorders, the hospital offers a full continuum of specialized care, including inpatient and day hospital services.

It has programs for children, adolescents, adults, and the elderly. SUN Behavioral Health’s mission is to work with communities to meet the unmet needs of people suffering from mental illness and substance use disorders. They Promote a healing environment by ensuring safety. Teamwork entails maintaining a positive attitude and dedication to others.

They strive to maintain Integrity – doing the right thing even when no one is looking, they have Compassion,  communicating hope in everything they do. Their Values reflect the behaviors that their employees identified as critical to providing best-in-class services. A company-wide nomination process resulted in the formation of their Values Committee, which consisted of fifteen people from three of their hospitals and led the process of developing SUN’s values. T

heir four Values are at the heart of everything they do. Each value reflects the behaviors they expect of themselves on behalf of their patients, their loved ones, and each other.

Contact: +1 302-207-9176

Address: 21655 Biden Ave, Georgetown, DE 19947, United States

  •  Dover Behavioral Health System

Dover Behavioral Health System provides a healing environment that provides patients with a sense of security and confidentiality. Dover Behavioral Health System, dedicated to excellence, is accredited by The Joint Commission and provides psychiatric (mental health) treatment to children, adolescents, and adults, as well as substance use (drug and alcohol) treatment services to adults. Inpatient care monitors and treats patients around the clock, seven days a week.

Outpatient and partial hospitalization services are available five days a week. Care is delivered in accordance with an established code of ethics and strict adherence to patient rights.

Its mission is to provide “caring, consistent, and collaborative” healthcare to its communities in Delaware and beyond. Service excellence is the standard by which they carry out their operations.

Their social services department is made up of Master’s level and Licensed Clinical Social Workers. At their treatment facility, they recognize and address the unique needs of their patients and their families. Every day, they work hard to create individualized treatment plans that provide considerate and ethical care to every patient.

Dover Behavioral Health System develops and implements its treatment programs in a multidisciplinary manner, using “best practices” as a guide for assessing, treating, and caring for its patients.

They urge their team, their families, and the community to make treatment options more accessible. They also collaborate closely with community healthcare professionals, whose insight, capabilities, and experience may aid in the development of a continuum of care that benefits the patients they serve.

Contact: +1 302-741-0140

Address: 725 Horsepond Rd, Dover, DE 19901, United States

  •  Christiana Psychiatric Services

The Department of Psychiatry at ChristianaCare provides an acute-care program that includes intensive diagnostic evaluations and intensive short-term treatment for people experiencing emotional and behavioral crises. Furthermore, because physical illnesses frequently exacerbate psychiatric disorders, they provide comprehensive and coordinated medical, neurological, and psychiatric assessments and treatment that is backed by ChristianaCare.

Patients who are admitted to their acute care service work closely with their interdisciplinary team of compassionate, highly skilled professionals, which includes psychiatrists, nurses, social workers, psychologists, therapists, addiction specialists, and counselors. Following an assessment, they create a treatment plan that is tailored to the patient’s specific needs.

Individual psychotherapy, educational groups, family assessments, educational sessions for individuals and families, and medication are all part of this.

They also provide an alternative track for patients suffering from addictive disorders and for older adults suffering from psychiatric issues. Their team’s goal is to quickly stabilize symptoms in a safe and secure therapeutic setting before assisting with a smooth transition to outpatient care.

Contact: +1 302-454-9900

Address: 4745 Ogletown Stanton Rd, Newark, DE 19713, United States

  •  Bancroft Behavioral Health, Inc

Bancroft Behavioral Health Inc specializes in the treatment of behavioral disorders in children, adolescents, and adults, as well as mood and depressive disorders, attention deficits, anxiety, anger, school refusal, and developmental disorders.

Their approach is personalized for each individual. When it comes to medication management, they use gold standard treatment approaches and adhere to the best treatment practices, which are supported by strong clinical evidence for safe – effective treatment.

Your primary care provider and/or therapist will be involved in Bancroft Behavioral Health, Inc collaborative approach. They believe that while medication can help with some issues, it should not be the only step in treatment. Historical research shows that combining talk therapy and medication produces the best treatment outcomes.

They can advise you on medication options and help you find a skilled, intuitive, and specialized therapist for you or your child. Dr. Bradley Why received the Delaware Today Excellence in Nursing award in 2018, 2020, and 2022, and was named the Top Doctor of Nursing in Psychiatry again in 2022. Dr. Why was chosen by his peers for this award and was one of only a few “Top Nurses” in Delaware.

Furthermore, Dr. Why also holds a Doctor of Nursing Practice and is ANA Board Certified in Child, Adolescent, and Adult Psychiatry. He has over 25 years of mental health experience working with children’s behavioral disorders, developmental disorders, adult mental health, and serious mental illness. He earned his master’s and doctorate degrees from the University of Virginia and Duke University, respectively. He has worked in a variety of psychiatric settings in Delaware and received advanced training at Western State Hospital in Staunton, Virginia.

Dr. Why provides expert psychiatric evaluation, diagnosis, and medication management for children, adolescents, and adults. He takes a client-centered approach, believes in alternative therapies, proper nutrition, and exercise, and acts as a treatment navigator.

Contact: +1 302-502-3255

Address: 1601 Milltown Rd Suite 12, Wilmington, DE 19808, United States

Conclusion on the Psychiatric Hospitals in Delaware

There are various types of modern psychiatric hospitals, but all of them house people suffering from mental illnesses of varying severity. Long-term mental health facilities, formerly known as asylums or mental hospitals, have traditionally cared for psychiatric patients.

Today, the majority of large general hospitals have a psychiatric unit, and many patients can live their lives as regular members of the community.

There are still facilities dedicated to the treatment of mental illnesses. Many people with chronic mental illnesses have had their hospital stays cut short due to advances in medication and increased public understanding.

Patients are encouraged to participate in activities and programs offered at the facility. They may be encouraged to return to the community, starting with home visits, or they may be placed in assisted-living or group homes.

Every effort is now being made to integrate the patient into the community through the use of appropriate medication and support services. Even those who require custodial care are no longer cut off from their relatives and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Psychiatric Hospitals in Delaware

Below, you will find the top Psychiatric Hospitals in Delaware;

  1. What takes place in psychiatric hospitals?

You will have a meeting in which at least one psychiatrist, a nurse, and possibly a psychologist will be present. They will examine you, ask you questions, and devise a treatment plan. They may also provide you with a diagnosis.

  1. Can one use their phone in a psychiatric hospital?

Patients should be allowed to use mobile phones in hospitals, including on wards if the local risk assessment indicates that such use does not pose a material threat to the safety, privacy, or dignity of patients or others. The NHS Constitution states that patients have the right to confidentiality.

  1. What do they wear in a psychiatric hospital?

See-through clothing, high heels, revealing garments, and visible underwear are all prohibited in almost all psychiatric units.

Clothing policies differ from one facility to the next. Patients on some units are required to wear pajamas, robes, and slippers provided by the facility.

  1. Is the straight jacket still in use?

Myth #1: Straitjackets are still used to restrain psychiatric patients. The Facts: The use of straitjackets in psychiatric facilities in the United States was long ago discontinued.

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How to Deal With Paranoia and Anxiety

How to Deal With Paranoia and Anxiety?

chibueze uchegbu | June 6th, 2022


Paranoia is the feeling in which people think that they are threatened in some way, like someone is watching them or acting against them, even though no proof exists to make it true. It occurs to plenty of people at some point.

Even when such people know that their concerns are not based in reality, such feelings can be troubling if they take place too often.

Clinical paranoia is the most severe. It is an uncommon mental disorder in which a person thinks that others are lying, unfair, or continuously trying to harm him when no proof is available. A paranoid person does not think he is so because he feels sure his thoughts are true.

Symptoms of Paranoia

  • Being hostile, defensive, and aggressive
  • A person considers himself always right
  • Having trouble relaxing or calming
  • Getting easily offended
  • Not being able to forgive, compromise, or accept criticism
  • Feeling difficulty believing or confiding in other people
  • Finding out hidden meanings in someone’s normal behavior

Anxiety Vs. Paranoid Thoughts

Anxiety and paranoia are not similar things. Those people with paranoia have a mistrust of others or unfounded suspicion.

On the other hand, people with anxiety have a more natural feeling of being in trouble or danger, which is not always due to a specific cause. A person can have both paranoia and anxiety. Paranoia can also cause anxiety and vice versa.

It is natural to be anxious sometimes if someone is going through a tough time, such as losing a job or a breakup. Whenever a person is present among large groups of people, he may think that others will judge what he says or how he dresses or behaves. When he walks into a party by himself and thinks, others wonder why he is alone.

Some people call this type of person paranoid, but we all have felt like this from time to time. Just because someone is worried that people might be talking about or criticizing him doesn’t mean he has a mental illness. Clinical paranoia occurs when a person is 100% convinced of it, even when, in reality, facts prove that it is not correct.

If a person feels worried that his thoughts are paranoid, maybe he has some anxiety issues rather than paranoia. If the anxiety is not due to anything serious and it never tends to get better or go away, he may need to talk to a psychiatrist about it. Symptoms of panic and anxiety that exist for an extended period or get in the path of a person’s daily life can be the signs of an anxiety disorder. Symptoms of paranoia can be more severe.

Best Ways to Deal With Paranoia or Anxiety

See below;

Try to get enough sleep:

Lack of sleep or poor sleep quality for a longer period may be the reasons behind many mental disorders, including anxiety and paranoia.

Sleep is a crucial factor in providing a person with the energy to deal with complicated feelings and experiences.

Think about your diet:

Eating regularly and keeping blood pressure and sugar levels stable can lift your mood and enhance your energy levels.

Eat a balanced diet rich in all necessary vitamins and minerals to improve physical and mental health.

Try to keep yourself fit:

Regular exercise is a perfect solution to all health problems. You can perform some yoga, meditation, or workouts to keep your mental problems away. These types of activities are helpful to cure an affected person and bring him back to everyday life.

Take your medication regularly as prescribed:

Talk to your psychiatrist regarding what you can do if you feel a side effect. 75 to 85 percent of individuals suffering from paranoia or anxiety need long-term medication. A person can minimize or stop side effects by changing the timing, dosage, or other changes.

Use a friend to test your reality when out in public:

Tell a family member or friend to keep a check on you when you are out in public. If you are out in public on your own and talking with another individual, ask yourself if there is an alternative reason behind anything that happened or if the person acted a particular way.

It includes dialectic thinking and makes you accept what is going on while simultaneously altering your perception of the event.

Get therapy under expert supervision:

Experts often recommend that people with paranoia take psychotherapy. Numerous types of psychotherapy are available.

Among them, cognitive behavioral therapy is popular to cure symptoms of paranoia. So, those who suffer from severe paranoia should undergo CBT under the guidance of an expert.

How Does Delta 10 Vape Juice Help to Deal with Anxiety or Paranoia?

Many cannabinoid users switch to Delta 10 THC due to its beneficial effects. It is a natural cannabinoid having half potency of THC.

Delta 10 THC produces a psychoactive experience, but most users have reported reduced feelings of paranoia, anxiety, and fear. Users also found this compound to be more relaxing and calming. It is an excellent alternative to other cannabinoids.

Delta 10 binds with CB1 and CB2 receptors of the body and delivers a more body-first effect that produces numerous medicinal benefits. It helps to uplift moods and improves focus. The consumers feel a clear-headed, milder, and cerebral buzz while using Delta 10 vape juice. Usage of such vape juice allows users to experience long-lasting impacts through fast and efficient absorption. This compound is considered legal in most areas throughout the US.

Vape juice provides a safer, healthier, and more sustainable solution with convenience. It is easy to use, portable and has several customizations. Using vape carts with vape juices is considered a user-friendly and efficient consumption method.

Final Thoughts

People may become paranoid about numerous things and for different reasons. Plenty of ways are available to cure paranoia, such as through therapy and medications.

However, treatment may not be easy for some people because those who are paranoid may distrust their therapists or doctors and even refuse the medicines that the doctors have prescribed to them.

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Careers To Contribute To Mental Health

Best Careers To Contribute To Mental Health

chibueze uchegbu | May 18th, 2022


Do you wish to contribute to a healthy mental world? worry no more. Today we bring to you the Careers To Contribute To Mental Health.

Mental health is as important as physical health. Studies show that a mentally healthy person has sound physical health as well.

Furthermore, Mental health refers to a person’s psychological, social, emotional, and behavioral well-being. It shows how a person behaves, reacts, makes choices, adds to society, manages anger and stress, etc.

Importance of Mental Health Today

Nowadays, much importance is laid upon taking care of one’s mental health more than ever before. In the past, there were many cultural, social, and superstitious hindrances in the way of getting assistance regarding mental health issues, but in today’s age, the stigma has been somewhat reduced, though not completely.

People require more and more professionals in the mental health industry, so it is viable to have a career in the mental health field. This field is extremely wide, with a lot of career options.

If you want to have a career in mental health, you must have compassion, patience, excellent verbal communication, listening, decision-making, and critical thinking skills.

You also need a degree, diploma, or certificate to serve in this field. Here are ten careers that you can consider and see what degree or training is required if you want to pursue that career path.

  • Psychiatrist

Psychiatrists are medical professionals who diagnose psychiatric and emotional disorders and also treat patients to prevent those issues.

Psychiatrists also prescribe medication. To become a psychiatrist, you need a doctorate degree, along with a residency program and a license to practice. 

  • Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

Psychiatric nurse practitioners provide care and assistance to those who are diagnosed with mental health issues; they specialize in mental and psychiatry health and behavioral therapy.

They help and guide families of patients on how they should approach and cope with the patient. To know how to become a psychiatric nurse practitioner, proper education and training are required. A doctorate or master’s degree in nursing practice is the requirement for this career, along with a state-issued license.

  • Art Therapist

Art therapists help people with mental health issues by utilizing psychotherapy and art skills together. Art therapists help patients express their stress, traumas, and feeling through art and creativity.

They work with children with disabilities as well. To become an art therapist, you will have to acquire a master’s degree in the field. 

  • Psychologist

Psychologists help people regarding their mental health issues, emotional problems, or traumas through talk therapy. Or, they can work in a hospital as clinical psychologists.

They help people with their illnesses, crises, or injuries. Psychologists treat people in different ways which match the client’s needs.

  • Social Worker

Social workers help communities and individuals to improve their abilities of social functioning. They help people overcome challenges of mental and physical illnesses, abuse, poverty, addiction, disability, unemployment, trauma, discrimination, and loss. They usually require a master’s degree.

  • Substance Abuse Nurse

A substance abuse nurse deals with addicts. They help clients safely manage their pain, comfort the families of the patient, and guide why substance addiction is dangerous and how to prevent it. To become a substance abuse nurse, you will require an associate degree.

  • Marriage and Family Therapist

Such a therapist assists couples, families, or individuals regarding their relationships. They help clients to manage, deal with and overcome the challenges in their relationships. To become a marriage and mental health therapist, a master’s degree is vital.

  • Special Education Teachers

Special education teachers provide education to students who suffer from different disabilities. This way, they help and educate vulnerable children with mental challenges.

To become a special education teacher, you will need a bachelor’s degree and training in special education.

  • Psychiatric Technician

A psychiatric technician keeps track of patients’ progress, listens to their problems, assists them, keeps track of their medication, leads them for checkups and activities, helps in discharging or admitting clients, etc. An associate’s degree or career certification is necessary to become a psychiatric technician. 

  • Aviation Psychologist

Aviation psychologists make sure that the mental state of flight crews and pilots is right for flight safety.

They help select and train pilots, check cabin safety, and train flight crews on how they can help passengers who have anxiety. You will need a master’s degree for this career, but some companies might demand a doctoral degree.

With the world’s increasing realization of the importance of mental health, the demand for mental health professionals is also increasing.

The careers in this field can be challenging but also fulfilling and rewarding. Suppose you want to work as a mental health professional.

In that case, you can choose from a variety of career options such as a psychiatrist, psychiatric nurse practitioner, art therapist, psychologist, social worker, substance abuse nurse, special education teacher, marriage and family therapist, psychiatric technician, and aviation psychologist. These careers can put you in a space where you can help change people’s lives daily.

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caregiver for your loved one with dementia

Choosing the best caregiver for your loved one with dementia

chibueze uchegbu | May 2nd, 2022


There are different factors to consider when choosing a caregiver for your loved one with dementia.

Good and proper care should ensure that it meets the basic needs and safety for a person suffering from dementia, and also provide an environment that will make the patient feel independent and secure.

That said, good care also means finding a good caregiver who can determine the health needs of anyone suffering from dementia, apart from several other factors like mobility and more importantly, the use of the bathroom.

Choosing caregiver for your loved one with dementia

Before you choose, ask yourself:

  • Whether the affected person actually needs specialised care?
  • Is the person with dementia safe? If he requires 24×7 supervision or not.
  • Is the person with dementia socially active? Is spending time with other people beneficial?

Ask for referrals

Once you know exactly what type of care is needed, start contacting providers or ask others for referrals.

Some good places, to begin with, could be your doctor, your local senior care center, your online Community Resource Finder, or other caregivers and people who used them in the past.

After you have narrowed down the list of probables, call them and explain your requirements. Ask for details regarding qualifications, hours of availability, fees, and types of services rendered.

The more data you are able to gather on the phone, the easier it will be to identify the best provider for you.

When calling a caregiver, have all the information about the person living with Alzheimer’s disease ready.

This should include:

  • Name of the patient
  • Name and telephone number of the person’s doctor.
  • Health and care needs.
  • Insurance coverage.

Start the screening process

The next important step after you have got all the referrals and made a list of possible candidates is to begin the process of screening.

Your care provider should gain your trust by properly interacting with the dementia patient. When you conduct a caregiver interview, keep a list of questions to ask. Here are some suggestions to get you on the right track:

  • Will your chosen caregiver be able to offer all the specific services the dementia sufferer will need?
  • Create and review care plans of the family and the person with dementia, and if they can be involved in the patient’s treatment.
  • Verify credentials to check if the caregiver is experienced and trained enough with working with someone with dementia.
  • Ask for backups, should your chosen caregiver fall sick or quits all of a sudden.
  • Contact at least three families of affected persons and ask them about the care given and concerns if any, they faced with the chosen caregiver.
  • Make a physical visit, arrange a meeting with the staff and spend time looking around to see the environment they are working in. Check if the caregiver can come home to meet the patient and see if they can interact well with each other.
  • The health of the dementia sufferer may change, prompting a need to change the provider. Since this can cause temporary behavioural changes, make sure you have a stand-by in place.

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Online Mental Health Courses

Best 16 Online Mental Health Courses

chibueze uchegbu | April 30th, 2022


You’ll find various free online mental health courses in this post that you can enroll in right now using your smartphone or laptop.

From the comfort of your own home, you’ll be studying mental health at leading universities, colleges, and other institutions across the world.

The value of an individual’s mental wellness cannot be overstated. Individuals who are mentally and physically well are extremely productive; yet, the same cannot be said for those who are not.

Your well-being is analyzed and taken into account before you are hired by any firm, and you are hired if your well-being is satisfactory to HR.

Why Take a Mental Health Course Online?

Online education has several advantages, but the most important is its flexibility and convenience, as well as the fact that online courses are often cheaper or even free, as in this case.

This implies you can learn a trade or get a degree without interrupting your current activities by studying online.

So, if you work for a firm, own a business, or are pursuing a degree at a traditional institution. You can still take advantage of online learning opportunities, such as the free online mental health courses featured in this article.

What is a Mental Health Course?

Mental health courses are psychology classes that teach people about mental health problems, how to solve them, and how to apply what they’ve learned in a real-world setting.

Top Free Online Mental Health Courses

The 16 free online mental health courses listed below will provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to become an effective mental health worker.

  1. Diploma in Mental Health

A mental health diploma can help you get a career as a mental health support worker in any company, and you’re studying it for free this time.

You may get useful methods to solve mental health difficulties in no time thanks to the internet and Alison, an online learning platform that is offering this course.

By taking this course, you will obtain a greater understanding of all types of mental diseases, how to recognize signs, and how to treat those who are impacted. You’ll also learn how to take care of your own health and the health of others around you.

Enroll Here. 

  1. Beating Depression

This is another of Alison’s free online mental health courses, and it teaches students how to overcome depression. You can use it in your own life or for others who are suffering from depression and need help in overcoming it.

You’ll have every essential skill you’ll need to overcome depression. This involves learning about the physical and psychological aspects of depression, depression facts and statistics, depression misconceptions, and medical therapies for depression, among other things

  1. Supporting Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities and Mental Illness

You’ll need to learn how to deal with persons with intellectual disabilities as well as mental diseases if you want to be a psychologist or a mental health practitioner. To do so, you’ll look at the four guiding principles of support work, as well as how clients’ and communities’ strengths and resources are used in the care process.

This is one of the best free online courses for establishing yourself as a mental health expert in the health business.

  1. Psychological First Aid

Psychological First Aid is a course taught by Johns Hopkins University on Coursera, and it is one of the university’s many free online mental health courses. In an emergency, the training teaches students how to administer mental first aid to people.

The RAPID method is used to administer first aid: reflective listening, needs assessment, prioritization, intervention, and disposition. Which you can use in any public health context while simultaneously honing your psychology skills.

Enroll Here.

  1. De-Mystifying Mindfulness

Although it was frowned upon as a mystical practice in those days, meditation, mindfulness, and contemplation were employed in the past to heal the mind.

It’s back now, and it’s firmly established in the medical field, particularly in psychology and neuroscience.

Psychologists use mindfulness to treat a variety of therapeutic procedures as well as to promote wellbeing and pleasure.

  1. The Arts and Science of Relationship: Understanding Human Needs

This is one of the University of Toronto’s free online mental health courses, which is given through Coursera.

In the domains of social work and health care, you’ll be introduced to a variety of topics that are relevant to everyday relationships.

You will develop abilities in psychology, assertiveness, communication, and building great relationships with those around you by the end of this course.

  1. Mental Health and Nutrition

Individuals’ mental health is influenced by their diet, therefore knowing what foods to eat to improve wellness is an essential topic to research. If you are already a health professional who works with people who have mental health concerns, you can participate in this course.

You can also sign up if you’re having anxiety, tension, or a bad mood. You’ll discover how to eat the appropriate foods and get the right nourishment to help you tackle these problems. The course is one of the University of Canterbury’s free online mental health courses, available through edX.

Enroll Here.

  1. Managing Study, Stress and Mental Health at University

This course is for university students; conventional school brings a lot of stress, and there have been many cases where it has harmed students’ mental health.

This course will give you the skills, information, and awareness to detect, identify, and respond to mental health difficulties in yourself and others, and will serve as a stress reliever.

It is one of Curtin University’s free online mental health courses, which is distributed via edX.

  1. Mindfulness for Wellbeing and Peak Performance

Is your daily productivity lacking inefficiency? Or are you overstressed at work and it is affecting your performance? Then this course is for you.

In this course provided by Monash University, you will learn effective mindfulness techniques to reduce stress and enhance your wellbeing or performance either at work or school.

The course is one of the free online mental health courses offered online by FutureLearn, and you can also implement the techniques for the people around you suffering the same mental challenges. You can enroll here.

  1. Youth Mental Health

Teenagers have a lot of pressure as they grow up, and anxiety disorder is one of them. Of course, they require assistance. Enroll in this case to improve your health-care abilities and learn how to support young individuals with anxiety issues.

You should also enroll in this course if you are a teacher seeking a strategy to help young people overcome their anxiety concerns.

This course will teach you how to spot teenagers who have anxiety issues and how to help them get better. 

  1. Addressing Postnatal Depression as a Healthcare Professional

Women experience sadness, anxiety problems, and mood swings while pregnant, which is harmful to their mental health and need assistance. You will learn how to provide excellent support to new and expecting parents in this course.

You’ll learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of postnatal depression, as well as how to help afflicted parents improve their mental health and well-being.

The University of Exeter offers the curriculum, which is provided online by FutureLearn.

  1. Awareness of Mental Health Problems

This course offers free certifications in mental health awareness and comprehension of a variety of mental health issues.

Individuals with this ability and knowledge are in great demand in the United Kingdom, and you may reassure your present or potential employer that you are knowledgeable in this subject.

StriveTraining offers the course online, and it takes an average of 5-10 weeks to finish.

Enroll Here.

  1. Dementia Care

Dementia is becoming more widespread among the elderly, and they require competent care. However, few people have the necessary skills to care for them.

You can participate in this Dementia Care course to understand the key principles for supporting and caring for people with dementia in the most effective way possible.

The course is offered online by Vision2learn and is completely free. It takes 16 weeks to complete and includes a certificate at the end. 

  1. General Psychiatric Management for BPD

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a type of mental illness marked by mood swings, unpredictable conduct, and strained relationships.

This course is one of the free online mental health courses given by Harvard Medical School, and it teaches health professionals how to recognize and treat people with BPD.

Enroll Here.

  1. Positive Psychiatry and Mental Health

Positive Psychiatry and Mental Health is one of the free online mental health courses given by Coursera and presented by the University of Sydney.

The course covers a variety of topics related to mental health, including the primary categories of mental diseases, their causes, treatments, and how to get help and support.

  1. Caring for Vulnerable Children

Enrolling in this course will give you an understanding of what it’s like to look after vulnerable children. This course is for you if you enjoy working with children or if you work in an environment where there are many children.

The course delves into a variety of child development and parenting strategies that can aid in the care of children who have mental health difficulties.

A final thought on the Online Mental Health Courses

Many people are afflicted with one or more ailments, with mental illnesses being one of the most common.

And most people aren’t aware of this until it’s too late, which leads to their demise; the subject of mental illness isn’t addressed enough, and there isn’t enough knowledge about it.

Break the link in the chain. Take one or more of these free online courses to learn more about your mental health and the mental health of people around you at home, at work, or at school. Because these courses are available online, they will not interfere with your regular life; you can study while working or attending school.

Some of the courses listed here include a completion certificate, and while some of the certifications are free, others are not.

FAQs about Online Mental Health Courses

What is the best mental health course? Below are some of the best online mental health courses.

  • Mental Health in the Workplace (EdApp)
  • Living a Resilient Life (EdApp)
  • Mental Medicine (EdApp)
  • ‘Talk to me’ – Improving mental health and suicide prevention in young adults (edX)
  • Mind Control – Managing your Mental Health During Covid-19 (Coursera)
  • Health and Wellbeing (EdApp)

How do you become a mental health counselor?

How to Become a Mental Health Counselor: A Step-by-Step Guide

  • Acquire a bachelor’s degree.
  • Get a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling.
  • Pass Your Licensing Exams
  • Apply for licensure after completing the supervised clinical experience.
  • Additional Mental Health Counseling Certifications should be sought.
  • Maintain your license as a mental health counselor.

What is the difference between psychologists and mental health counselors? Psychologists are more focused on evaluation within the field and provide interventions for clients with specific disorders through diagnostic test administration, consultation with healthcare professionals, and research, whereas counselors are more focused on general therapy that may apply psychologists’ research.

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addiction treatment centers in Calgary

List of addiction treatment centers in Calgary

chibueze uchegbu | April 20th, 2022


The availability of several addiction treatment centers in Calgary has enabled individuals to be able to have access to world-class treatment and ensure that they can get the treatment they need.

The previous shame in substance addiction is being replaced with the attention to healthcare treatment by sensitizing the importance and use of treatment centers all around the world.

Treatment centers offer an opportunity for addicts to seek treatment, therefore, having fewer chances to relapse or fall back into old behaviors.

How to choose the right addiction treatment centers in Calgary

When looking for the right rehab center in Calgary, there are a few things you should consider to ensure you choose the best possible services and get the best treatment center available.

Finding the right addiction center is crucial in being able to identify different components and amenities in each center, which will help an individual, heal and get the required treatment they need.

  • Licensing and certification

All detox and residential addiction centers are required to have proper certification and licensing under the Mental Health Services Protection Act. Most centers are required by law to display their licensing certificate on their site for potential clients to check when viewing their site.

  • Accessibility

The right addiction center needs to be easily accessible. It is paramount to consider one which is within your area to save on logistics costs especially if it’s outpatient services.

Treatment centers that are far from your local area of residence may also cost considerably more on services.

  • Discrete

Addiction treatment centers should also be discreet and private. This ensures that the patient can focus on the recovery process without any distractions. Private centers offer discreetness and ensure the patient is able to have their personal space devoid of the constant hustle available in public centers.

  • Length of treatment

One should also consider the duration of the treatment when choosing a treatment facility. Milder addiction cases require a shorter cycle, with most treatment centers providing a minimum of thirty days. However, others can expand to a 90-day cycle, and more if the addiction was severe.

  • Type of treatment center

The type of treatment center hugely affects the addiction center you might choose to go with. Different centers have different amenities and cost plans that are designed to target specific individuals who can incorporate them into their budgets.

For instance, public treatment centers are state-owned and offer treatment services to individuals based on the standard time frame of thirty days. Due to the backlog in registration and high demand, individuals with severe cases are often discharged faster before they can have full round treatment.

Private treatment centers offer customized treatment plans designed to suit each individual. There are also additional amenities that offer luxurious and more comfortable stays. However, you should consider your budget and costs when choosing private centers.

Addiction treatment centers in Calgary

Calgary is home to various licensed addiction centers, which offer specialized and professional services to their patients.

With diverse teams of medical experts available, these centers are equipped with the necessary tools and materials to enable a seamless and successful treatment experience.

Below Are Some Addiction Treatment Centers Found In Calgary:

  1. Inspire Change Wellness

This is a men-only rehab center that aims to help patients move from the detox program to long-term treatment facilities. The detox program is a requirement for patients seeking to enroll in the center and only after completion is they able to get into the transitional program. This program gives the patient a transitional bed as they await enrollment from a long-term facility.

  1. Fresh Start Recovery Center

This recovery helps individuals and families have a fresh start in addiction recovery by providing treatment in the best professional way possible.

Having accreditation from Accreditation Canada, Fresh Start recovery aims in providing community, continued recovery, and housing.

A community approach is essential in ensuring that the patient can have an all-rounded approach to adapting to life after treatment.

  1. Sunrise Healing Lodge Society

Sunrise Healing Lodge specialized in using the 12 step program to help patients go through the treatment process seamlessly while incorporating cultural needs and spirituality.

This society offers both inpatient and outpatient facilities to prospective clients. The center aims in incorporating medical and holistic treatments to all patients of different backgrounds and identities.

  1. Recovery Acres Calgary Society

This treatment facility offers treatment options in residential treatment. Having a gender-specific model in place, both men and women have different housing facilities which aim in making them comfortable and able to accomplish their treatment needs.

The center is open to binary individuals who enroll at whichever center they feel they resonate with.

  1. Calgary Dream Center

Calgary Dream Center is an avenue for individuals who battle homelessness and addiction. The site aims to provide individuals with the necessary tools and information to start their journey toward recovery. By providing housing facilities to both men and women struggling with addiction, the center offers professional counseling that aims to change your life for the better.

  1. Renfrew Recovery Center

This center is part of Alberta Health Services and aims to offer inpatient treatment to individuals battling drug and substance addiction.

This center offers short-term options to patients seeking detox and counseling services for addiction treatment.

  1. Simon House Recovery Center

This center specializes in long-term recovery using treatment options such as the 12-step program, and multi-disciplinary techniques and practices that ensure the journey towards recovery embrace compassion and empathy.

Residential treatment and therapy are available in Simon House and offer medically assisted treatment to individuals who have an opioid dependency.

Last but not least

Addiction treatment in Canada can be a seamless process that ensures the patient can get professional and prompt treatment with the best physicians and professionals around.

When looking for the ideal treatment center in Calgary, the best place to begin is by checking out a directory that lists accredited and licensed centers.

For instance, Canada Drug Rehab Directory offers such choices from treatment to intervention.

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How Delta 8 Helps In Reducing Mental Strain

How Delta 8 Helps In Reducing Mental Strain?

chibueze uchegbu | March 30th, 2022


In today’s post, we will unravel How Delta 8 Helps In Reducing Mental Strain. To deal with the ever-increasing difficulty of our days, we increasingly travel about in search of answers.

As a result of a worldwide epidemic, we feel even more disoriented than before. There are a few items on the market that may be able to assist us in getting away from here.

They contain Delta 8 THC and other cannabis products. Aside from herbs making these, recreational items may also be considered natural because of their high quality.

Things were a little different then, however. Quality was not a concern in the production of ancient leisure products.

The majority of individuals attempted to compensate for low quality by increasing the amount of work they produced.

There has never been another moment in history quite like this one. There are a few products available on the market that may be able to aid us in our efforts to get away from this place.

Delta 8 products, for example, are well-known for their exceptional quality and broad range of applications. We will explain Delta-8 and the commodities related in further detail.

All Your queries regarding Delta-8 are the subject of discussion in this article. There are a few products available on the market that may be able to aid us in our efforts to get away from this place. Products such as Delta 8 THC are also part of this classification.

When looking for these things or learning more about them, here is the best location to start your search. You may search for a top-shelf premium delta-8 THC flower. It seems that others throughout the globe are beginning to notice this trend as well.

What Is Delta-8?

The production of Delta requires Hemp. This plant was originally native to Asia but has now spread worldwide. Many people refer to the Hemp plant as the Cannabis plant. The plant is taller than 1 meter.

A 45-day growth cycle and more than 10 hours of sunshine each day are typical for this plant’s needs.

One obtains the Hemp extract from the plant’s leaves. Delta-9 is the product of physical reactions on this molecule.

Another THC derivative, Delta-9, is potent but of poor quality. Because of the high yield %, it is an easily accessible option. It’s a great starter product for newcomers. More experienced users need something more powerful.

The Delta-8 e-juice is a well-liked product among advanced vapers. The quality of Delta-8 exceeds that of other THC products.

The Hemp extract is the most beneficial since it contains the smallest amount. It also has a crucial impact on the user compared to the other THC medications available today. The high concentration of THC in this strain is the primary contributing factor.

Consequently, it’s a very pricey marijuana-based product. It’s worth it for many people because of the superb quality. 

The Woe And Effect Of Mental Strain On Humans

The hypothalamus, a minute control tower in your brain, orders stress chemicals to take over. These stress chemicals stimulate the body’s “fight or flight” response.

Your heart beats faster, your lungs fill with air, and your muscles tense. This reaction prepares you to respond rapidly in an emergency. However, chronic stress might jeopardize your health.

Everyone feels stressed at times. Life events such as war or losing a loved one may cause stress. Stress may be helpful to your health in short-term scenarios.

It can help you deal with challenging problems. It causes your body to release chemicals that raise your heart and breathing rates and prepare your muscles to react.

People suffering from stress and anxiety are becoming an increasingly widespread issue today. Even though the area is still in its infancy, much research is going on.

The researchers investigate the effects of the immunological and neurological systems on the psychological repercussions of stress.

Researchers in the discipline of psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) look at how people’s mental and emotional health is affected by the way their immune systems and neurological systems communicate with one another and interact with their environment.

According to PNI research, chronic stress may cause or aggravate mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, bipolar disorder, cognitive (thinking) difficulties, personality changes, and problem behaviors, among other things.

How Does Delta -8 Help?

Delta-8 can help the user in many ways, and some of them are below-

  • Typical Stress

We can consider the complications in mind as a category of stress. Clinical investigations are now underway to examine the impact of high pressure on people. Coronavirus pandemic has worsened the situation.

You will feel more stress if there is a constant bombardment of violent images. Worse, stress may harm your physical and emotional well-being in unanticipated ways. Procrastination, which is detrimental to your mental well-being, may be exacerbated.

A high-THC hemp extract may help you relax and decrease stress by promoting a calming effect on the mind. Instantly, Delta-8’s Hemp extract calms your nervous system by interacting with your brain’s neural cells. 

  • Anxiety

Chronic anxiety is the effect of prolonged stress. Anxiety sufferers know how difficult life can be when even the simplest things cause them tension.

It’s hard to go through the day without feeling overwhelmed. You may also have insomnia or even depression as a result of this.

Even if you don’t feel completely relieved of your anxiety, you may notice a decrease in the intensity of your symptoms. There is a possibility that the power of Delta 8 to slow metabolism and relax us will be helpful in such situations.

  • Lifestyle

For both physical and emotional illnesses, Delta-8 products are the finest choice. They may alleviate discomfort in the consumer’s muscles.

It also helps reduce muscular and backaches due to its anti-inflammatory qualities. Many experts believe it may assist with a variety of different diseases.

You can alleviate pain, weakness, nausea, and vomiting by using this supplement. When it comes to food and drink, it’s a one-stop-shop for all your needs.

The benefits of a healthy lifestyle and a happy outlook may be achievable by regular use. If used at the recommended dosage, the excellent quality assures that there are no adverse side effects. Due to the product’s high THC level, it stands out from the rest of the competition. Delta-8 thereby contributes to a more fulfilling living.

Conclusion

To sum up, Delta 8 is a good product that has the potential to appeal to a broad audience because of its wide variety of advantages. Its popularity may increase even more with additional studies and investigations.

In terms of legality, the United States has made it a federally legal substance for human use and research.

Various states, on the other hand, approach it in different ways. Like New York and Alaska, some states have even declared it illegal. Therefore, you must verify the legal requirements in your region before making a purchase.

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Know About Relapse Prevention

All There Is To Know About Relapse Prevention

chibueze uchegbu | March 16th, 2022


It’s no news that the relapse rate for people recovering from drug and alcohol addiction is extremely high.

Some reports estimate that up to 60% of people who are in recovery will fall back into active addiction and will start using drugs and alcohol again. With statistics like this, recovery is clearly a complex, challenging endeavour.

The key to being successful in recovery from addiction is developing and following a solid relapse prevention plan.

It’s important to recognize that relapse is a normal and predictable part of the recovery process. But knowing this doesn’t make it any easier to deal with when you’re faced with the symptoms of a relapse. There is a lot to know about relapse prevention, including how it happens and how to handle it.

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Introduction to Addiction

Addiction, just like any other disorder, is influenced by a variety of factors. The process of transition to dependence, and later to addiction, occurs in response to several variables that change and adapt during each individual’s life, including physical, psychological, familial and social elements.

An individual’s genetic makeup also plays a key role in determining their response to drugs and alcohol.

Some individuals are more susceptible than others to developing an addiction, and some may be born with a genetic disposition that makes them less resilient to substance-related harm. Even for people with a predisposition for substance abuse, life experiences can alter this predisposition and play a major role in addiction recovery.

Some of these experiences include the social and psychological changes that occur after a traumatic event.

The biological processes that may play a role in addiction are complex. Addiction cycles are created when the brain develops a compulsive addiction to drugs and alcohol, and then the user continues to self-medicate, which can create even more problems, including relapses of the original addiction.

Identifying Signs of Addiction

Addiction isn’t something that people often recognize right away. As a result, it’s difficult to know if a loved one is addicted to drugs or alcohol.

Many of the warning signs of addiction can seem fairly innocuous at first. For example, it might be easy to dismiss changes in sleep patterns, poor physical appearance, mood swings and memory lapses, as temporary effects of life stresses or simply a lack of personal care.

But it’s important to look for the subtle changes in the behaviours of family members, friends and loved ones that may be a result of addiction. Some of these changes include:

  • Frequent and dramatic mood changes
  • Difficulty following through with responsibilities
  • Continued socializing with drug users or frequent changes in friends or both
  • Decreased interests in hobbies, leisure activities and family time
  • Lack of impulse control
  • Perpetual lying, stealing or criminal activities
  • Inability to admit or ask for help
  • Loss of jobs or poor school performance

Awareness and Understanding of Relapse

A basic understanding of relapse prevention can help people in recovery from addiction avoid the relapse trap.

While addiction is an incredibly complex issue and people don’t develop a dependency on one substance without the need for a variety of factors to come together, relapse prevention still has a lot in common.

Relapse prevention depends on an individual’s ability to recognize signs of relapse and react appropriately.

The more prepared the person is, the more likely they are to regain control and overcome their symptoms of addiction. In the same vein, knowing what triggers relapse is essential to a successful relapse prevention plan.

Substance abuse victims should note the situations that cause them to lose control and succumb to the urge to use drugs and alcohol.

Identifying Relapse Triggers

When victims get into recovery, they need to become more self-aware and take responsibility for their actions.

A self-monitoring tool is essential to understanding and preventing relapses. One way to identify and prevent relapses is to write a list of all the situations that trigger the urge to use drugs or alcohol. Some examples of relapse triggers may include:

  • Stress and anxiety
  • Emotional triggers like anger, loneliness, fear, sadness, and the like
  • Physical triggers, like hunger, fatigue or the arrival of withdrawal symptoms
  • Specific people (unhealthy companionship)
  • High-risk places and situations
  • Unrealistic expectations

These are just some of the most common triggers. It’s also important to remember that triggers often present themselves unexpectedly and can be hard to predict. It’s best to prepare yourself as best as you can.

How to Handle a Relapse

Rehab centres help addicts recover by teaching them skills they can use to resist urges and live happy, healthy and drug-free lives.

They offer relapse prevention and education classes to help addicts better understand the risk factors involved with drugs and alcoholism and how to deal with them.

It is not uncommon for patients to return to these centres periodically to repeat these classes, especially after relapse. Some other ways to handle this condition are:

  • Having a support system, whether it’s a sponsor or group
  • Finding a hobby or purpose to focus on instead of drugs and alcohol
  • Focusing on one’s well-being, including proper nutrition, exercise and sleep
  • Finding ways to relax and de-stress
  • Treating underlying conditions or mental health issues
  • Working closely with a doctor to identify potential triggers, especially during withdrawal

Despite the stigma, relapses don’t have to become a never-ending cycle. Likewise, the prevention of relapse doesn’t end with the substance abuse victims returning to society.

It’s a lifelong commitment. As patients make their way back into society, they may face new and different challenges. If a relapse occurs or a plan doesn’t work as expected, there’s no need to panic.

Conclusion

Addiction is a difficult problem to overcome, as is recovery. However, with the proper tools and support, people can regain control over their lives.

Knowing more about the triggers of a relapse can help addicts regain control and avoid the urge to use drugs and alcohol.

It’s also worth noting that relapse is not synonymous with failure. It’s only part of the recovery process and it’s likely that the patient may learn some valuable lessons from the experience.

The good news is that with some careful planning and dedication, such an individual can get back on track and continue the road to sobriety.

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