Losing a loved one can be heart-wrenching, and the same is true when we lose a beloved pet. I know because I’ve experienced the loss of cherished animals that were with me, generally from the time they were babies until they took their last breaths. The death of my Shetland Sheepdog, Cody, stands out the most. At nearly 13 years...
Have you ever found yourself repeating the same patterns in relationships, work, or personal life, despite your best efforts to change? The answer might lie in understanding maladaptive schemas, which are deeply rooted patterns and beliefs that influence how we perceive the world and ourselves. We'll look at what maladaptive schemas are, how they develop, and how they affect our...
Every year on August 12, the world comes together to celebrate International Youth Day (IYD). Established by the United Nations in 1999, the first IYD was celebrated on August 12, 2000. This day provides an opportunity for governments, organisations, and individuals to highlight and address the concerns affecting young people worldwide. Over the years, IYD has seen various youth organisations,...
The school holidays are upon us, and while they provide a needed break from the daily grind of school routines, they can also pose unique challenges for parents. On the other hand, it can be a time of stress as parents try to keep the kids entertained, to managing sibling rivalries, accommodating the needs of neurodivergent children, whilst trying to...
Despite its undeniable importance, discussing mental health often invokes discomfort and apprehension in our society. Why is it that something so fundamental to our existence remains shrouded in stigma and misunderstanding? Conversations surrounding emotional well-being are frequently dismissed or avoided, perpetuating a culture of silence, shame and misunderstanding. These barriers not only impede open dialogue but also deter individuals from...
Parenting is undoubtedly one of life's most rewarding experiences, but it also presents unique challenges that can test even the most composed individuals. From managing toddler tantrums to navigating the complexities of adolescent rebellion, there are numerous situations that can push parents to their limits, making it tempting to resort to yelling or harsh language. Yelling is a subject that...
For those on the autism spectrum and with other neurological differences, the world can often be an intense sensory experience. Everyday sights, sounds, smells, textures and tastes that may go unnoticed by neurotypical individuals can be amplified and overwhelming for neurodivergent people. This sensory overload can lead to meltdowns, shutdowns, and a desperate need to stim (self-stimulatory behaviour) to regain...
Going back to school can be stressful for everyone in the family. New faces, new rooms, new teachers, etc. For some children and teens (and adults too!), change can be incredibly difficult to move through. Sometimes it can be useful to sit down with your child or teen and discuss what might feel scary or difficult about returning to school and figuring...
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder that can significantly impact a person's ability to regulate behaviour and attention. One of the core deficits associated with ADHD is impaired executive functioning. As we discussed in a previous post on neurodiversity and executive functioning, executive functions are cognitive processes that help us with planning, organisation, managing time, paying...
We know that the holiday season is typically associated with joy and happiness. However, for many individuals, it can also bring about mental distress, including stress. According to Ellen Braaten, PhD, the holidays can be a mix of joy and stress. Festive holidays aren't happy or healthy for everyone. For some people, they mean long to-do lists, family tension or...
