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Self-care

The Connection Between Creativity and Mental Health

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Discover how creative activities like art, music, and writing can improve mental health and reduce stress. In recent years, research has increasingly demonstrated the powerful link between creative activities and improved emotional well-being. Whether it’s painting, writing, music, or other forms of artistic expression, engaging in creative activities can serve as a therapeutic tool for managing stress, improving mood, and enhancing overall mental health. Let’s explore how creative practices can support mental wellness, provide an overview of art therapy, and highlight recent research on the benefits of creative outlets for mental health: Creativity as a Tool for Mental Health Mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders, can often feel isolating. Yet, many creative activities—whether solo or communal—allow individuals to express emotions that are sometimes difficult to verbalize. Engaging in artistic endeavors can …

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The Science Behind Gratitude and Happiness

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry In today’s fast-paced world, the pursuit of happiness often feels elusive amidst the constant demands of work, family, and life’s challenges. However, research has shown that a simple, yet powerful, practice—gratitude—can significantly improve mental health and happiness. By focusing on the positive aspects of life, we can enhance our well-being and foster greater emotional resilience. This article explores the science behind gratitude and how it can bring lasting positive change to individuals, especially in areas like Los Angeles, California, where the stressors of urban life can sometimes take a toll on emotional well-being. What Is Gratitude? Gratitude is the practice of recognizing and appreciating the good things in life. It involves acknowledging both big and small blessings, from supportive relationships to the simple pleasures of a beautiful day. While expressing thanks might seem like …

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The Link Between Stress and Sleep

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Medically Reviewed by Mark Hrymoc, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, double-board certified in General & Addiction Psychiatry Stress and sleep are intertwined in an unfortunate feedback loop – depending on how you look at it. When stress levels rise, sleep tends to suffer, and poor sleep, in turn, can exacerbate stress – when you are able to reduce stress, sleep tends to improve, and in turn, stress is further reduced.  Understanding the relationship between stress and sleep is crucial for breaking a negative cycle and improving overall well-being. Research from the past five years sheds light on how stress impacts sleep quality and offers practical strategies for improving rest. Here’s more about the connection between stress and sleep, the consequences of sleep deprivation, and evidence-based tips to manage stress and improve sleep: How Stress Affects Sleep Stress activates the body’s “fight or flight” response, which is controlled by the autonomic nervous …

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Stress Awareness Month 2024

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By Ashley Barnes, M.S. What is Stress Awareness Month? Stress Awareness Month has been recognized during the month of April since 1992; it spreads awareness of the ways in which stress impacts our mental and physical health as well as urges us to find healthy ways to manage our own stress. What is stress and how does it impact us? What exactly is stress? According to the American Psychological Association, stress is defined as “the physiological or psychological response to internal or external stressors. Stress involves changes affecting nearly every system of the body, influencing how people feel and behave” (2024). In other words, stress is our own response to stimuli (stressors). Stress can be acute (responses to short term stressors) or chronic (response to ongoing, long term stressors), and not all stress is bad. Some stress can help us better navigate situations such as job interviews or help us …

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Sleep Awareness Week 2024

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By Ashley Barnes, M.S.   What is Sleep Awareness Week? Sleep Awareness Week was launched in 1998 and is the National Sleep Foundation’s public education campaign with the aim to spread awareness about the importance of sleep as it relates to physical and mental health. This year, Sleep Awareness week will be March 10th through March 16th. Prepare your pillows and blankets! The Importance of Sleep. Many of us don’t recognize the importance of sleep until we discover the difficulties we face when we are sleep deprived. We may not acquire enough sleep due to staying up late cramming for an exam, staying up late to finish work, or struggling with sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea. Lack of sleep tampers with our mood, memory, and health in very impactful ways.  In terms of mood and mental health, studies have discovered that lack of sleep induces heightened levels …

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