Tap Into the Power of Giving Thanks

As I write this, during the Thanksgiving season, I’m reminded of many of the wonderful things I’m grateful for in my life: family, health, friends, a safe and comfortable home, a satisfying career, and the privilege of living in a free country. As I reflect on these things, I can’t help but feel a little more happy and blessed. (I’m also very grateful for the homemade mashed potatoes and gravy at the Thanksgiving dinner table!) Even when it’s not Thanksgiving …

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When Recovery Hurts

I’ve written a lot about recovery from mental illness and addiction on this blog and in many other forums. I’ve described what recovery is and what it isn’t, and how to develop your own personal recovery plan to achieve your goals. It’s also worth repeating that one of my favorite definitions of recovery is “a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.” (SAMHSA) I’ve featured dozens …

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Recovery After a Suicide Attempt: ‘A Journey Toward Health and Hope’

Perhaps you (or someone you care about) have had such significant distress, depression or hopelessness that you attempted to end your life by suicide. However, if you’re reading this, I’m so glad you made it through that incredibly difficult experience. Often there is little support for suicide attempt survivors, so I’m always looking out for helpful resources. Not long ago, I came across a free publication called “A Journey Toward Health and Hope: Your Handbook to Recovery After a Suicide …

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What’s In Your ‘Hope Box’?

A common approach used to treat people who are depressed and thinking about suicide is to help them identify and remember several reasons for hope and to keep living. One specific intervention often used in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to cultivate hope is to create a “hope box” (also known as a “crisis kit”), a collection of various items that remind the depressed person that their life is meaningful and worth living. A hope box is made by getting a box, envelope, …

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7 Points of Hope to Reclaim Your Life from Mental Illness

If you or someone you care about has been affected by mental health concerns, trauma, mental illness, or addiction: …you may feel hopeless, overwhelmed, and exhausted. …you may not fully understand what you are going through. …you may think life is unfair or that you are being punished. …you may believe it’s all your fault or blame someone else for your difficulties. …you may withdraw from others and keep your struggles a secret. …you may be afraid or ashamed to …

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