Answering 5 Common Questions about Teen Depression

A report from the National Institute of Mental Health estimates that around 3.8 million adolescents ages twelve to seventeen have experienced at least one depressive episode. As cases of anxiety and depression increase, so do those of substance abuse and suicidal ideation.

Teen depression is a silent epidemic making its way across the country. Depression helplines are used to battle the depression epidemic sweeping across the nation. They aim to give individuals, adolescents, or otherwise, a space where they can unload some of their burdens and acquire the emotional support they need at the moment.

However, another way of combating this disorder is through knowledge. This article aims to answer some of the common questions that people have regarding teen depression.

What Causes Depression in Adolescents?

Many reasons indicate how a teenager might be depressed. For example, they can develop feelings of worthlessness and inadequacy over their grades or sexual orientation. Poor results in school, low status with peers, or dysfunctional family life can also affect a teen's emotions. 

Sometimes, environmental stress triggers depressive episodes. If a teen's sadness or sense of isolation does not go away when they spend time with friends and family or do the things they usually enjoy, they are likely experiencing depression.

What Are the Symptoms of Adolescent Depression?

Teens with depression may exhibit several of these symptoms below:

• Recurring feelings of sadness and emptiness

• Lethargy

• Lack of motivation

• Self-isolation, when they typically enjoy company

• Fatigue

• Apathy

• Frequent complaints of back pains, stomachaches, and headaches

• Difficulty concentrating when they are usually focused

• Difficulty making any decision

• Excessive or inappropriate feelings of guilt

• Forgetfulness

• Irresponsible behavior, such as constantly skipping class or consistent tardiness

• Loss of interest in their hobbies

• Obsession or lack of interest in food

• Preoccupation with dying and death

• Rebellious and belligerent behavior

• Constant feelings of sadness, anxiety, and hopelessness

• Insomnia or excessive daytime sleeping (hypersomnia)

• Sudden drop in grades

• Substance abuse, alcohol abuse, and promiscuity

• Feelings of helpless

• Unexplained crying

• Oversensitivity to rejection or failure

Can Teen Depression Be Linked to Genetics and Lineage?

There have been studies that link depression to genetic factors. However, the research is still in the early stages, and no conclusive result has been published yet. 

But reports have shown that cases of teen depression can be observed more frequently in families with a history of depression. However, these findings do not discount the potential influence of a teen’s environment on their mental well-being. 

How Is Adolescent Depression Diagnosed?

A test to specifically detect depression does not exist. Instead, health care professionals interview the teen and have them go through a series of psychological tests. Interviews and tests are also given to the teen’s family members, teachers, and peers. 

These procedures help healthcare professionals determine the existence or severity of depression in the adolescent. Depression management approaches also depend on these test results.

How Is Teen Depression Managed?

Depression is managed with a variety of different approaches, including medications and psychotherapy. Family therapy may also be used if family conflict is identified as a contributing factor to the adolescent’s depression. 

The adolescent will also need support from family or teachers when school or peers are found to be the root of the problem. In some cases, when severe depression makes it impossible for the patient to function in the outside world, hospitalization may be required.

Conclusion

Teen depression is a disorder that needs awareness and empathy. Learning about adolescent depression is one way of triumphing over this silent epidemic that threatens people’s mental well-being. The more you know about it, the better equipped you are to seek help for yourself or the people you love.

If you or anyone you love exhibits signs of depression, you can call a depression helpline, seek counseling, or attend therapy. But most importantly, remember that you are loved, and you are not alone.

Hope Seed Support Center is a respected counseling center in Houston. We offer compassionate therapy and counseling services to those in need. Whether you need a friend to talk to or require professional help, call us—we are here for you.

Is There Hope after Trauma: (7 Steps to Trauma Recovery)

After a terrible event, you may fear being miserable for the rest of your life. While regaining perfect happiness, and health may take some time, there are many things you can do to help yourself. Know that you will be okay and that you can make a full recovery.

A stressful event causes trauma. It occurs when you are emotionally or psychologically damaged, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Bereavement, abuse, a plane or automobile crash, a problematic relationship, or breakup are all examples of traumatic events.

7 Steps to Trauma Recovery

Experiencing trauma involves being astonished, disturbed, anxious, or otherwise overwhelmed by one of the occurrences above. Trauma is the body's and mind's reaction to the incident or experience. This leads to traumatic stress, affecting brain functions. For this reason, limiting trauma’s impact and adverse effects is crucial.

Here is a list of seven alternative trauma recovery approaches you may use:

1. Calm Your Mind and Body

By calming your mind and body, you are lessening the trauma symptoms. By regularly practicing meditation or prayer, you will be better prepared to handle any stressful or traumatic situation.

2. Set Aside Time for Emotional Release

To recover from trauma, you need first to express your feelings. This can be done through drawing, writing, journaling, talking to a trusted friend or family member, or other therapy. This is called emotional discharge and is an integral part of the trauma recovery process.

3. Don't Avoid or Overthink the Trauma

While a traumatic event may be hard to recall, do not avoid thinking about it. When you think about the trauma, it is your body's way of reliving it and processing it. While it may feel powerful, your mind and body will be able to better cope with the trauma by releasing it or discussing it.

4. By Avoiding People or Places That Remind You of the Trauma

You may want to avoid people or places that remind you of what happened, but you can learn about how to handle reminders. For example, you can use active coping to cope with trauma symptoms by allowing the memory of the trauma to come into your mind and then thinking of constructive ways to handle the situation.

5. By Continuing with Your Routine

While it may be difficult, you need to continue to do the things you enjoy. As long as they do not cause you more stress and trauma, you can continue to do your normal routine.

6. By Taking Care of Yourself

Practice self-care by having a healthy diet and getting enough rest. You can also try to exercise, which will help you feel better.

7. By Doing Something to Ease Your Pain

By easing your pain, you can better handle the pain and difficult emotions caused by your trauma. By doing something, you are allowing yourself to feel joy. For instance, spending time with a pet, listening to music, watching movies, having a massage, reading a book, being outside, eating out, or spending time with loved ones.

Is There Hope After Trauma?

We often associate trauma with car accidents and surviving through other potentially deadly injuries. However, trauma is much more than a singular physical encounter. Whenever someone cannot cope with the impact of any unpleasant or frightening experience, that is trauma. Sadly, trauma has become a part of many people's lives. 

It can be caused by childhood abuse or neglect, bullying, significant relationship issues, the loss of a family member or a friend, or a host of other traumatic events. As Proverbs 12:18 says, "Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing."

People's views about themselves, others, the universe, and God can be permanently skewed if their trauma is not properly addressed, with our minds and bodies affected in various ways.

The good news is that trauma is reversible. Often, trauma rehabilitation comes in stages, beginning with restoring your sense of security, a resolution of painful events, and reintegration into daily life. Don't be discouraged, even if your recovery takes time. There's always hope, even after trauma. 

At Hope Seed, we understand that trauma can be one of the most difficult experiences a person can ever go through. Our trauma certified counselors are standing by to provide compassionate, comprehensive, client-centered care. If you are going through a crisis, trauma, or having trouble with a past trauma, please contact us at 832-257-3778.

Stress and Anxiety: The Triggers and How to Manage Them

The stress and anxiety that we feel regularly can help us overcome challenges. Examples of everyday stress and anxiety include worrying about finding a job, feeling nervous before a big test, or being embarrassed in certain social situations. If we did not experience a small amount of stress regularly, we would not be motivated to do things that we need to do.

The Triggers to Stress and Anxiety

Anxiety can be caused by stress, and stress can cause anxiety. Many triggers cause stress and anxiety, but the most common are:

• Lack of sleep

• Poor eating habits

• Being stressed out at work or school

• Lack of exercise

• Lack of control over situations

• Financial problems

• Divorce or death of a loved one

• Losing a job or failing in school

• Failing to meet commitments

• Family arguments

• Fear of a specific situation

• Being on edge

• Sudden changes

The body's natural reaction to stress produces chemicals that heighten our senses, including fight or flight sensations. When we face stressful situations that we cannot immediately escape from, levels of the chemicals adrenaline and cortisol increase in our bodies. These chemicals cause several reactions throughout the body and mind, most of which are designed to protect us from harm.

How to Manage Stress and Anxiety

Managing stress and anxiety involves learning how to deal with triggers that cause stress and anxiety. When we control the causes, we will easier manage stress and anxiety. For example, if we know that a big test is coming in a few days, we can study ahead of time and prepare ourselves. If we do not prepare because we don't know when the test will be given, we will not be as prepared and may experience stress and anxiety when we take the test.

1. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

Eating healthy meals and snacks throughout the day can give you the energy you need to get through stressful situations. A balanced diet will also help prevent fatigue, leading to stress and anxiety. If you are concerned that your diet does not provide you with all of the vitamins and nutrients you need, you might want to consider taking a multivitamin.

2. Exercise Regularly

Participating in aerobic exercise is a great way to release stress and anxiety; it keeps your mind and body healthy.

3. Take Time for Yourself

Taking time to relax and unwind can help relieve stress and anxiety. Try to schedule time for yourself every day.

4. Avoid Alcohol and Drugs

Alcohol and drugs have been shown to lead to more stress and anxiety. If you find yourself using either of these to relieve stress, you might seek help.

5. Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques such as yoga and deep muscle relaxation can help relieve stress and anxiety. Yoga, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help to reduce stress and anxiety.

Conclusion

Stress and anxiety are normal reactions to situations that we may feel powerless over. However, stress and anxiety that lingers and affects your daily life may signify a problem. It is essential to talk with a mental health professional if you are experiencing stress and anxiety concerning your day-to-day life. A professional can help you manage your stress and anxiety and help you identify issues that you may be dealing with.

Hope Seed Support Center is an organization that provides service to the community through counseling, nutritional therapy, and many other services. We believe that partnering with others who share our vision creates a healthier world, where every person has a chance to flourish and reach their potential through the power of Hope. If you’re looking for therapy counseling in Houston, TX, get in touch with us today!

We look forward to meeting you.

6 Simple Tips and Tricks to Help You Tame Your Temper

Does your blood pressure skyrocket when things don’t go your way? Are you prone to cursing to the moon and back when someone cuts you off in traffic? It’s perfectly normal to be angry at times. But uncontrolled anger can be detrimental to your health and your relationships.

Here are some tips and tricks that you can use to tame your temper.

1. Take a Few Deep Breaths

When you feel your heart racing, your fists clench, or your blood pressure rise, take a few deep breaths. Close your eyes. Think about your favorite place in the world. Imagine yourself there. This helps your body relax and releases the tension that is building up. 

Another thing you can do is count down from ten to one. This allows you to focus on something other than your anger and helps you regain composure.

2. Physically Remove Yourself from the Situation

When you feel yourself getting angry, it’s a good idea to take a time-out. Take a walk. Go to the bathroom. Take a shower. Go for a run. Do something physical.

Removing yourself from the situation takes away the trigger to your anger. The distance can also give you a small mental reprieve. This allows you to collect yourself, let the initial burst of emotion pass, and think.

3. Talk to Someone

Sometimes you just need to vent. Venting to someone can help you get your anger out and ease the stress and anxiety associated with the situation that is making you angry. Because there is a person to listen, you’re also more likely to listen and hear what the other person is saying.

Talk to someone you trust, like a significant other, family member, or a close friend. Complaining to your pet while stroking their fur will sometimes do the trick. But if you’re overwhelmed and think that no one in your life can help, consider seeking therapy counseling. Professional therapists can lend you an ear and aid you in navigating your emotions.

4. Exercise

Exercising is a great way to dissipate your anger. Workouts force you to focus on tasks that will expend your energy. It leaves no room for you to remember what triggered your anger. Additionally, exercise releases endorphins in your body. These hormones can edge out the stress hormones and leave you feeling better. Just remember to work out safely. 

5. Find an Outlet

Sometimes you get caught up in your anger that you don’t want to see other people or work out. In these cases, you need to get your anger out in a safe way.

You can scream into a pillow or punch a cushion. You can scrawl on a piece of paper until you fill a whole page. As long as your anger is expressed safely and healthily, you can feel better.

6. Write About It

Writing about your feelings in a journal or even a piece of paper is helpful in many ways. Firstly, it gives you an avenue to verbalize your anger. Secondly, it allows you to release stress, anxiety, and frustration. Lastly, it can give you an idea of the reasons for your anger and possible management solutions.

Ultimately, the best way to manage your anger is to know the cause and address it. Writing about your feelings can guide you on a fruitful introspective journey. It can also be beneficial to have these records in case you decide to go to a counseling center or on an online counseling session.

Conclusion

It’s perfectly normal to feel anger. But it’s also important to have control over your emotions. 

If you’re having trouble controlling your anger, there is no shame in needing professional help. Counselors, therapists, and psychologists can provide a safe space for you to figure things out. They will lend you a hand so that you can live a healthier and happier life.

Hope Seed Support Center is one of the best counseling centers in Houston, TX. We offer reliable in-person counseling, online counseling, community support, and more. When you need someone to listen or take your hand through difficult times, don’t hesitate to call us. We’re here for you.

The Uncommon and Unexpected Signs of Depression in Men

Depression is not the same as sadness or loneliness. It’s a mental health problem that people experience for a number of reasons. And just because a person seems fine doesn’t mean that he or she is not experiencing depression.

You’ll be surprised that a person, especially in boys and men, doesn’t look sad at all and sometimes, they can even mask their depression with a funny or happy personality, which is why it’s hard to detect this mental health problem.

Depression is a mental and clinical health problem, also called clinical depression or major depressive disorder, that is usually distinguished as feelings of despair, restlessness or sadness. Everyone has their own unique situation and shows different signs and symptoms. 

Depression affects about 7.1% of adults in the U.S.: women with the rate of 8.7% and men with about 5.3%. In men, depression is often characterized by aggressiveness, anger, and even melancholy. This is why male depression often goes unnoticed because people relate their symptoms to the concept of manliness.

Common and Unexpected Signs of Depression in Men

Men and women are different in terms of the signs of depression. This is because women are more open to talking about their emotions and their mental or physical problems, so most women with depression may appear sad. Unlike men, they often hide their emotions and their mental problems, so most men with depression may appear angry. This is why women with depression have a higher rate of suicidal attempts, but men are more likely to pursue suicide and die because of their more lethal ways and methods.

So if you think that a person has depression, then you should look out for these consistent signs for the next two weeks:

• Loss of interest in activities that you usually love

• Feelings of worthlessness

• Feelings of sadness

• Weight gain or loss

• Problem in concentrating

• Restlessness and fatigue

• Trouble sleeping or lethargy

• Suicidal thoughts and attempts

• Isolating oneself from family members and friends

For men, maybe your partner, family member, friend, husband, or even yourself, these are the signs that you should look out for:

• Risky behavior

• Anxiety and restlessness

• Finding alcohol or drugs

• Sexual performance and desire problems

• Irritability or anger

• Aggressiveness

• Headache, back pain, cramps, or any physical pain

• Irresponsibility toward family, work, and other commitments.

Kinds of Depression Common in Men

There is a wide range of kinds of depression among people. But for men, here are the kinds of depression that are commonly present in men.

1. Psychotic Depression

Psychotic depression is a severe kind of depression that is characterized by hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that do not exist) or delusions (false beliefs).

2. Major Depression

Major depression is a usual type of depression that is characterized by a loss of interest in friends, family members, and activities. Men who have this type of depression often have a dark mood and can experience severe signs that can greatly affect one’s ability to work, sleep, eat, and live life normally.

3. Seasonal Affective Disorder

The seasonal affective disorder usually affects men during winter, where there is less vegetation and less natural light. Men with this type of depression usually eat more, gain weight, sleep more, and detach themselves from people, even their families and friends.

4. Persistent Depressive Disorder

Persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia, is a very persistent type of depression that can last for over two years and may be accompanied by episodes of less severe symptoms and episodes of major depression.

5. Minor Depression

Minor depression is characterized by signs and symptoms that are similar to persistent depressive disorder and major depression, but they happen for a shorter time and are less severe than the other types of depression.

Conclusion

Depression is a mental health problem that a lot of people have, not just for women, but even for men. The symptoms of depression in men usually go unnoticed because people usually relate their symptoms to the concept of manliness. And because men don’t usually talk about their emotional, mental and physical problems, it has become more and more alarming for men as they are more likely prone to death from suicide, unlike women.

Hope Seed Support Center is an organization that provides service to the community through counseling in Houston, nutritional therapy, and many other services. Let’s help you get through depression. Schedule an appointment today.

Signs You Should See a Marriage Counselor as Partners

Staying in a long-term, committed relationship is one of the most difficult things human beings demand of themselves. If your marriage is struggling, marriage counseling may be your only hope of moving forward as a couple. Marriage counseling can help you identify issues and work with your partner to solsve them.

Here are signs you should see a marriage counselor and why it helps:

1. You Constantly Fight about the Same Issues

People often think that fighting is the best way to solve problems, and many couples never see a therapist because they believe they are fighting enough. The problem is that you two might be fighting about the same things over and over but never getting anywhere. Marriage counseling can help you identify unnecessary arguments and help you move past them so you can get to the real problems.

2. You Don't Respect, Understand, or Agree with Each Other

It's not uncommon for partners to feel like they're on entirely different pages. This lack of agreement can lead to resentment and distrust, and these issues are not easy to resolve without professional help. Marriage counseling can help you identify your differences and strengthen your partnership.

3. You Have a Negative View of the Past

You and your partner might have had a great relationship in your past, but one of you might have a negative view of that time. This can lead to resentment and pain, and it might make you feel like your relationship can never be the same again. Marriage counseling can help you come to terms with the past and move forward with your partner.

4. You Feel Disconnected

When you're in a committed relationship, you should feel connected to your partner. If you and your partner are struggling to feel connected on a deeper level, you might have a problem with communication. Communication problems often lead to feelings of disconnection, and studies have shown that couples often feel disconnected even if they think they're communicating well.

5. You Feel Like You're in Your Own Marriage

"No, I think that's a good idea." "No, I like that painting better than the one we picked out." "No, I don't like that movie." If you and your partner have stopped collaborating and started butting heads about everything, this is a sign you should get counseling. It's not healthy for your marriage to feel like a competition. Marriage counseling can help you understand each other's wants and needs, so you can negotiate and reach mutually beneficial decisions.

6. You Don't Feel Like You're a Team

Relationships are hard work, and you need to be working together as a team to weather the bad times and enjoy the good times. If you and your partner have stopped communicating, stopped listening to each other, and stopped working as a team, it's time for marriage counseling.

7. You Don't Feel Like You're a Couple

If you're not interested in each other and your relationship feels like two friends who live in the same house, then you might want to consider marriage counseling. Marriage counseling can help you turn your relationship around and start to feel like you're a married couple again.

Conclusion

If you think that marriage counseling might be the right choice for you and your partner, talk to your partner about it and see if they're interested. If you both agree that you need outside help, consider looking into a therapist. Therapists can offer you individual sessions with your partner, or you can sign up for couple's counseling.

Hope Seed Support Center is an organization that provides service to the community through counseling, nutritional therapy, and many others. No matter what your need or circumstance is, we offer the highest level of care possible so that you can live healthier, happier, and whole. We would be honored to help you cope and regain the balance and strength you need. If you’re looking for counseling services in Houston, TX, get in touch with us today! We look forward to meeting you.

Symptoms of Child Depression Parents Need to Look Out For

Depression, unfortunately, affects millions of people across the world. And children are sadly not exempt from it. So, it’s important, as parents, to be able to identify the symptoms of childhood depression to help your child get the help they need.

However, the problem with depression in children is that the symptoms may be different than those observed in adults. Normally, depression is characterized by low mood and loss of pleasure. However, in children, depression can manifest in different ways. So, here are some symptoms parents can look out for when they suspect their child is depressed.

Consistent Feelings of Sadness

It’s normal to feel sad. Everybody feels sad at some point in their life. But just because your child is sad doesn’t automatically mean they are depressed.

The difference is when their sadness doesn’t seem to go away. A child can feel sad for a few days without it being a problem, especially if something has triggered that sadness. However, when their sadness doesn’t seem to disappear or at least improve, it could be a sign of childhood depression.

They may feel sad about their life or their future. Or maybe they aren’t even able to identify the cause of their sadness. They just know that they feel sad. And sometimes, this can result in frequent crying without any obvious reason. If these feelings of sadness do not seem to go away or improve in two weeks, it may be best to see a mental health professional.

Lost of Interest 

Kids are often so enthralled by the things they find interest in. So, if they suddenly lose interest in things they once loved, it may be a cause for concern. 

Now, it can be different when your child suddenly declares they’re no longer interested in something and then jumps onto the next toy or activity that has caught their eye. This behavior in children is normal. But when they don’t seem interested in anything at all, it could be a sign your child is depressed. To bring back joy into your child’s life, it’s best to seek help from the right professionals.

Withdrawal from Family and Friends

When kids hit puberty, it’s natural for them to spend less time with their families and more time with their peers. But when they’re withdrawn from both family and friends, it could have something to do with depression. Perhaps they have a hard time making friends or are feeling misunderstood. If your child has trouble making meaningful connections, it would be best to contact a mental health therapist to help you out.

Academic Decline

If your child typically performs well at school but then suddenly doesn’t, it could be a sign of childhood depression. Now, it’s normal for kids to struggle a bit in school, especially when they move up a grade. But when the decline is so sudden, it can be really concerning. If your child has been skipping school, failing to submit homework, has trouble paying attention, or just failing to do any schoolwork, it would be best to seek mental health services for your child.

Final Thoughts

Childhood depression is a big issue parents need to understand. And sometimes, these symptoms can be wrongly shrugged off as a child simply acting out instead of a cry for help. But with the proper help, children with depression will know how to better cope with their condition and live a more joyful life.

Give your child the help they need from Hope Seed Support Center. We are an organization that provides mental health services to the community through counseling, nutritional therapy, and more. Our dedication to excellence and benevolence is what drives us to provide comprehensive, client-centered care. We are committed to meeting the needs of children, teens, adults, businesses, schools, and churches. Schedule an appointment now!

How to Let Your Friends & Family Know You Are There for Them

Sometimes, most of us don’t know how to show and tell our family and friends that we are always there for them. As you know, being there for someone is the best help you can give to let them feel that they are not alone dealing with any kind of mental battle they are currently facing. 

As a friend or a family member, the best thing you can do is always check in on them. To make it easy for you, we are here to give you some tips on how you can let them know that you are there whenever they need you. Keep on reading to find out how. 

1. Casually Ask What’s Going on With Them

Not all people dealing with mental battles automatically open up to someone. They don’t reach out because they tend to self-isolate. So, as a friend or a family member, you should be the one reaching out to them. Stay in touch and casually ask what’s going on with them. Be interested in knowing how they are doing. This way, they will be reminded that they are self-isolating and, over time, can cause distress. 

However, when you ask them, always keep the connection as normal and supportive as possible so they won’t feel pressured or anxious. Check-in with your friend or family member every few days and reach out without implying something is wrong.      

2. Offer Them to Video Chat

Let’s say your friend or family members are not open about how they are doing or coping. In that case, try to ask them if you can video chat. Seeing them on screen is a fantastic way to check-in and assess if they’re doing okay emotionally, mentally, and physically. 

Sometimes, texting or chatting with them is not enough. Some people tend to lie, saying they are okay, but actually, they’re not. But with video chat, they will have a hard time faking a deteriorating mental state, so it’s one best way to help them out. You can also set up a group video call with other friends or family so that you can divert their focus into a cheerful event rather than dwelling on their mental health battles. 

3. Make Them Feel That You Love Talking to Them

If you’ve noticed that they don’t like to be frequently checked on, make the conversation about you. Don’t make your friends or family members feel that you’re checking in; instead, phrase your words as if it’s you who needs them. This way, you will make them feel valued and supported. They may realize that they have a purpose in life, making them

 keep going. 

4. Invite Them Into a Relaxing Activity

Another way to make them feel that they’re not alone is to invite them to various activities. Do something together, like meditation, exercise, or simply watch a movie. This way, you can divert their attention to the activity instead of thinking about their problems in life. Inviting them into doing something together is also a language to let them know you are there for them. 

Conclusion

Letting your friend or family member know that you are there for them is already more than enough to help them cope with their mental health battles. It’s important not to make them feel alone, especially at times when they self-isolate. So, be proactive and follow our tips to let them know you are there for them whenever possible. 

If you need help with your friend or family member facing a mental health battle, contact Hope Seed Support Center. We are a counseling center in Houston providing services to the community through counseling, nutritional therapy, and more. Get in touch with us today!  

Symptoms of Anxiety with a High Functional Ability

High-functioning anxiety is a catch-all phrase that refers to persons who suffer from anxiety but believe they are doing quite well in many parts of their lives, including work. But it is a mental health disorder that is not widely recognized. People who suffer from this type of anxiety might confront a variety of challenges.

Recognizing High-Functioning Anxiety

Someone with a high level of functional anxiety may seem to be the epitome of achievement. You may be the first to arrive at work well-dressed and with your hair properly groomed. The reality is that behind the beautiful appearance, you're dealing with an ongoing whirlpool of tension. It's possible that anxiety, fear of failure, and failing others were the factors that propelled you to success.

If you have high-functioning anxiety, here's a glimpse at what you could feel or how others might see you.

Potential Beneficial Symptoms

You may reflect high-functioning anxiety in the results and accomplishments that you and others witness. On the surface, you may seem to succeed in your job and life, but this may not be the case if you just assess yourself based on your accomplishments.

People with high-functioning anxiety have outgoing personalities and are timely, proactive, and organized. The finest qualities are loyalty, enthusiasm, and a constant desire to succeed at the highest level. They're all neat, energetic, and helpful, exuding a calm and collected demeanor.

Potential Harmful Symptoms

Others may interpret high-functioning anxiety as "cute" or just a part of your personality, yet these characteristics are driven by underlying anxiety. A struggle typically lurks underneath the veneer of accomplishment in the case of high functioning anxiety. 

Your anxiousness about your achievement will surely surface. Other internal traits of high functioning anxiety may go unnoticed by others, even though they give you a lot of stress.

The Challenge of Anxiety Limiting Your Life

A high-functioning individual is seen as an overachiever by many. That's a misconception since it doesn't consider the amount of effort it takes to attain that degree of achievement. People may not know what you're going through and that you suffer from anxiety daily.

Even if you don't admit it, you know that your worry is limiting your life. Even if you can do the most basic chores, you may feel that your options in life are restricted. You're more inclined to engage in activities that soothe your mind than those that challenge you.

It is common for people with high-functioning anxiety to project a fake persona to the outside world and avoid revealing their genuine sentiments to anybody. Your sentiments are bottled up inside of you, and you have a plan to deal with them at a later time.

Conclusion 

People who are battling with any kind of anxiety, including high-functioning versions, may get treatment. However, if you're suffering from high-functioning anxiety, you may have various reasons for not getting treatment. 

Some may see this as a double-edged sword, as they do not want to lose the beneficial effect of concern on their accomplishments. Some may think that their job would decline if they aren't always compelled to work hard out of fear. Some individuals may ignore the signs because they seem to be successful in their area of expertise and hence do not want assistance.

If you need online counseling services, turn to Hope Seed Support Center. We offer counseling, nutritional treatment, community support, and a variety of additional services to people of all ages. Please do not hesitate to contact us and let us help you overcome anxiety.

Understanding Anxiety and Its Relationship with Breathing

If you suffer from anxiety, you must be aware of the symptoms. You may feel trembling or sweating as your mind experiences stress. Your heart can race or feel like it's about to burst from your chest. Because of anxiety, it can even be difficult to fall asleep or wake up during the night.

Anxiety can range from mild to incapacitating. While this condition comes with a myriad of symptoms, one of the most worrisome is its ability to disturb your normal breathing patterns. Read on to discover more about anxiety and your breathing.

Anxiety's Influence on Your Breathing

Your sympathetic nervous system is wired to react quickly to stress, such as fear and anxiety. These trigger a rapid hormonal and physical response—a system of self-defense—preparing you to flee or fight. In short, when you are anxious or irritated, your body responds chemically and physiologically.

Hyperventilation and the Nervous System

It is possible that you are using your diaphragm while you are calm or not concentrating on your breathing. However, as stress hormones cause adrenaline rushes, quicker heartbeats, elevated blood pressure, and shallower respiration, changes happen at dizzying speeds. You might miss that your lungs are changing or growing in size. This form of upper airway breathing can cause hyperventilation in non-strengthening situations.

Excessive Oxygen Causes Hyperventilation

Hyperventilation can make it seem like you are not getting enough air, but the reality is that you are actually over-breathing. Your body is consuming an abnormally large amount of oxygen and emitting an abnormally large amount of carbon dioxide. You're still out of breath, no matter how hard you try.

In this case, you must take quick, loud breaths. You may feel as though you are being choked, suffocated, or smothered. If you've ever had hyperventilation, you're already familiar with the symptoms of too much oxygen and carbon dioxide, such as dizziness, breathlessness, nausea, confusion, and tingling sensations in the lips, hands, or feet.

Excessive Air Could Be Harmful

Large yet rapid air intakes usually do more harm than good. As such, shortness of breath could be terrifying and may amplify your anxiety when you are unable to inhale enough air into your lungs. Certain people who are having a panic attack mistake it for a heart attack, resulting in heightened dread and breathing difficulties.

Calming of the Parasympathetic Nervous System

Anxiety can cause you to start breathing through your lips even if you are not hyperventilating. Mouth breathing is a common emergency response technique.

Increasing the activity of your parasympathetic nervous system helps to reduce the sympathetic reaction, heart rate, and difficulty breathing. The parasympathetic nervous system reaction lowers your heart rate, blood pressure, and muscular tension, as well as returning your breathing to a pre-alert, calm condition.

Relaxation Through Deliberate Nose Breathing

Excessive air intake through the mouth can help to restore a calm breathing pattern. Nasal inhalation activates the parasympathetic nervous system and sends a message to the brain to alter respiratory patterns. Then, your brain will suppress the alert if you gently breathe.

Your Natural Breathing Pattern

Inhale gently through your nose, then exhale naturally. Natural nasal breathing, which you should practice throughout the day, can help to quiet your body’s “alarms.” This action should help you regain your composure and can be used to help you relax during panic or anxiety episodes.

Conclusion

Anxiety, fear, and worry may make breathing difficult. Fortunately, you can reduce its respiratory effects by regulating your own physical and mental response. Relaxation, relief from worry, and improved breathing can all be obtained by inhaling via the nose.

Consider consulting a professional counselor or therapist if you need additional help ending the anxiety loop. Professional counseling is one of the most effective methods for dealing with an anxiety illness. 

Hope Seed Support Center counseling center in Houston Offers counseling services to treat depression, anxiety, grief, sadness, and suicidal thoughts. If you need assistance, we are glad to help you achieve balanced mental health. Give us a call to find out more!

A Guide on How You Can Manage and Stop Your Panic Attacks

Panic attacks are one of the most challenging situations to handle and experience. It’s a feeling you wouldn’t wish on anyone because it can really eat up the mind, heart, and overall health. If you always have that intense, unreasonable feelings of fear and anxiety, this article can help you address them.

You won’t have to suffer from experiencing a fast heartbeat, heavy breathing, and intense sweating all the time. Here, you will learn how to manage your panic attacks. 

Let’s get started!

1. Engage Yourself in Counseling

One of the most effective ways to manage your panic attacks is to seek counseling. In counseling, you can learn how to manage your symptoms better using your own thought processes. It can help you change the way you see challenging or frightening situations so that you will not fear them. You can also learn how to approach these challenges when they arise so that you will not have to deal with panic attacks. 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most common counseling you can try. You can have it alone, in groups, online, or face-to-face. The choice is really up to you. What’s important is to choose where you’re most comfortable so that it can be more effective. 

2. Take Prescribed Medications

Anti-anxiety medications can help you manage and stop panic attacks. Some doctors may recommend you to take Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), a drug that can treat the symptoms of panic when they occur. However, note that this drug will not treat your underlying anxiety disorder, so be careful because it can lead to dependence. 

Also, before taking any medication, make sure that your doctor prescribed it. Take the proper dosage and the right drug to avoid dependency cases. 

3. Practice Deep Breathing

According to a study, 40 people who joined in a deep or diaphragmatic breathing therapy and practiced deep breathing had improvements in their attention levels and emotional well-being. This study only shows that deep breathing can help reduce symptoms of panic during your attacks. 

If you ever feel that your heart is racing, your breathing becomes faster, and you’re sweating, focus on taking deep breaths in and out through your mouth. Feel the air that slowly fills your chest and belly, and when it slowly leaves them again. Breathe in for a count of four, hold your breath for a second, and then breathe out for a count of four. This technique can help you to feel calm and stop the symptoms of panic attacks. 

4. Teach Yourself That What You’re Experiencing Is Just a Panic Attack

Teaching yourself that you’re only having a panic attack instead of a heart attack is a great way to manage your episodes. This technique can help you calm down because you can remind yourself that what you’re feeling is only temporary, it will pass, and you will be okay. Mind over matter really matters when you have panic attacks. So, don’t make the situation worse and think that you’re going to be okay. 

Conclusion

Don’t lose hope if you constantly experience panic attacks. There are ways to manage them when they happen. You just have to help yourself by taking the first step. Remember, panic attacks are something you shouldn’t ignore because they may take a toll on your health. Seek help right away once you experience an episode so that you will not have to suffer from mental and physical complications. 

If you’re looking for a counseling center in Houston, you’ve come to the right place! Hope Seed Support Center is an organization that provides service to the community through counseling, nutritional therapy, and many other services. Schedule an appointment with us today!

Anxiety Breathing Symptoms and How You Can Stop Them

Can you feel your heart racing, palms sweating, and stomach tightening? Do you feel dizzy, struggling to breathe or breaking out in a cold sweat when faced with certain situations? Then you may be experiencing symptoms of anxiety.

Anxiety is a powerful force that can affect many aspects of your life. One of the more difficult parts for some people to deal with is anxiety breathing symptoms, which is often caused by hyperventilation. If you're constantly feeling breathless or have difficulty catching your breath, it's time to take action and learn how you can stop them! 

The root of these may be traced back to one thing: breathing patterns. Our bodies are equipped with complex systems for managing stress levels on their own accord, but sometimes they need our help too. 

Why Anxiety Changes Your Breathing

Your body is hard-wired to any response to stress because of the sympathetic branch of your autonomic nervous system.

When you feel anxious or scared, a sequence of hormonal changes occur which lead to physical changes that prepare your body to fight or flee. It is your body’s natural way to protect yourself against any danger. So every time you feel stressed or anxious, your body does the same thing: release the same chemical and make a flee or fight response.

1. Hyperventilation Triggered by Stress Hormone

Notice that when you are calm, peaceful, and relaxed, you breathe properly and slowly from your lower lungs. But when you are stressed or even anxious, adrenaline kicks in causing faster heartbeat and breathing as well as higher blood pressure. When this happens, your airways open wider. This type of upper airway breathing causes you to hyperventilate.

2. Hyperventilation Due to Too Much Oxygen

Too much oxygen intake can also trigger hyperventilation. When you panic and breathe excessively, you may feel that you cannot get enough air, but in reality, you are overbreathing. 

Hyperventilation due to too much oxygen also happens when you overthink about your breathing. Being too conscious about the way you breathe and even trying to control it can cause you to overcompensate your breathing and take in too much air. 

Quickly taking deep breaths is counterproductive. It may signal your brain to expect conflict and lead to increased feelings of anxiety.

How to Feel Calm 

Anxiety can affect your breathing even if you’re not hyperventilating. When you’re stressed, you breathe through your mouth instead of your nose.

What you can do is calm yourself down, activating your parasympathetic nervous system.

The parasympathetic nervous system responds like an emergency brake so you can slow down your heart rate, decrease muscle tension, lower your blood pressure, and normalize your breathing to a calm state.

Here are the ways to do this:

1. Breathe Through Your Nose

When you breathe in your nose and resist, the urge to breathe into your mouth can help you be more calm and restore your normal breathing pattern. When you do this, you activate the parasympathetic nervous system as changing your breathing pattern sends a powerful signal to your brain, calling off the alarm.

2. Reestablish Your Normal Breathing Pattern

Gently inhale through your nose and slowly exhale naturally. You’ll notice that your stomach will rise and fall, not your shoulders. Breathing naturally through your nose will help you keep the alarms from sounding off.

Conclusion

When you are experiencing feelings of anxiety, it may affect your breathing. But by establishing calm in your breathing patterns, you will turn off the switch that leads to anxiety attacks and other symptoms.

Hope Seed Support Center is an organization dedicated to providing mental health and support to the community. We offer nutritional therapy and counseling in Houston. Reach out to us today and let us help you overcome anxiety. 

Explaining the Mysterious Link Between Weight and Depression

People suffering from depression or anxiety may gain or lose weight due to their illnesses or the drugs used to treat them. Stress eating, poor dietary choices, and a sedentary lifestyle have been associated with depression, anxiety, and vice-versa. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 43% of individuals with depression are obese. 

Possible Scientific Explanation of Depression's Link to Weight

It's unclear how this vicious spiral begins, but it's undeniable that obesity and depression are related.

For years, scientists were cautious about linking the two, but anecdotal stories slowly gave way to reliable scientific evidence as more and more research studies were conducted. Obesity is now generally established to raise your risk of depression and vice versa.

Weight Loss and Depression Treatment

Many doctors use a multi-pronged strategy to treat these disorders. In addition to treating the diagnosed ailment, many treatment programs incorporate preventative steps to lower your chance of developing commonly associated conditions like heart disease and Diabetes Mellitus.

The objective is to address the physical and mental requirements of each disease.

Depression treatment frequently includes a combination of therapies, such as therapy and antidepressants, and exercise and dietary adjustments. Changes in lifestyle, such as walking and eating more fruits and vegetables, can assist patients in regaining their average weight.

Patients who use antidepressants do not need to gain weight. Weight gain, on the other hand, is a probable adverse effect of several antidepressants. TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation) is a medication-free, noninvasive therapy that relieves depression symptoms without the side effects of antidepressants for individuals searching for an alternative to antidepressants. 

Obesity and depression prevention techniques differ, but some overlap. You can lower your chance of either ailment by doing the following:

• maintain an active lifestyle

• talk to someone

• stick to your treatment plans.

How Do You Determine if Treatment is Helping or Not

Extreme adjustments might exacerbate an already difficult situation. That is why you must seek the advice of knowledgeable health professionals as you embark on this adventure.

Sudden, drastic changes might exacerbate difficulties. They may also increase your chances of failure, reducing your efforts to scratch and worsening your issues. 

If you suffer any of the following red flag symptoms or side effects, make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your treatment options:

• loss of all interest or pleasure in usually enjoyed activities 

• unable to leave your house or bed 

• abnormal sleeping pattern changes

• weight increase due to exhaustion

Conclusion

Getting a diagnosis and starting therapy can be challenging when you can't even get out of bed. Fortunately, you don't have to do it all alone.

Family, friends, and other support groups aside, your doctor is someone you can confide completely, knowing they'll have your best interests in mind every time. They will collaborate with you to figure out the best solutions for your specific needs, help you establish a better lifestyle, and help you become more accountable for your decisions. Positive changes and relief are within your reach, but it'll take time, dedication, and patience. 

Hope Seed Support Center provides support services to the community through counseling, nutritional therapy, and many more. We also provided crisis care services 24/7 for people with urgent needs. Don't hesitate to schedule an appointment in our counseling center in Houston today.

How to Understand and Overcome the Three Types of Trauma

Trauma is the natural response of a person to a disturbing experience. And research has shown that approximately 60 percent of adults experienced disturbing experiences such as abuse or severe family issues in their childhood. A mental health therapist can classify these experiences into three types of trauma.

There are various types and subtypes of trauma that affect a person differently. They are acute trauma, chronic trauma, and complex trauma. This article will be focusing on all of them, including the necessary subtypes.

Read on to know more about the three types and subtypes of trauma.

1. Acute Trauma

A traumatic event that happened only once in your life is called Acute trauma. The disturbing experience is specific and defined with a beginning, middle, and end.

Acute trauma may include experiences from a car accident, physical altercation, serious injury, natural disaster, sexual assault or rape, and witnessing a violent event.

People vary from one another. That is why they may react differently to specific circumstances. Some might have symptoms immediately after the event. Others may experience the symptoms months or weeks after the incident. And a portion of them may not have any response at all over an acute traumatic event.

All response for this type of trauma is normal, but if the symptoms are unprocessed, the person may experience a post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

2. Chronic Trauma

Chronic trauma is a result of ongoing and prolonged abuse. This type of trauma may continue for an extended period. It may occur for several weeks, months, or even years. Chronic trauma typically happens within a relationship. Below are some of the subtypes of chronic trauma.

• 1. Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)

Intimate partner violence is all about the abuse that occurs within a romantic relationship. IPV can be financial, physical, or sexual abuse. Here, there is a frequent manipulation of the perpetrator over the victim, and they use different strategies to maintain the relationship. 

Most of the victims will have to think of leaving the relationship many times but often stay instead. Mostly, the victims' reasons for remaining in the relationship are lack of resources due to having them withheld by the abusive partner, fear of abusive repercussions, and so on. 

• Bullying

Bullying is one of the subtypes of chronic trauma. It is incorrect to believe that it only occurs in childhood because adults experience it too, especially in their workplace. Bullying can be mental and physical, and it can affect a person’s self-worth and self-esteem.

3. Complex Trauma

This type of trauma is a result of an event that resulted in long-term physical or emotional symptoms. Complex trauma can be the most serious of all three classifications as it can affect the overall well-being of a person. And if the victim is a child, there is a high chance of developing severe psychological distress.

Final Thoughts

All types of trauma can result in much worse conditions. It will not bring any good if you choose to keep it to yourself. You are not alone—help is available. If you are struggling with trauma, don’t be afraid to seek professional treatment.

If you need mental health services, schedule an appointment here at the Hope Seed Support Center. We are a counseling center in Houston that offers physical and virtual therapy sessions for people who have trouble managing addiction, anger, grief, behavioral issues, PTSD, trauma, and other concerns. Drop a call or an email to learn more.

Tips for Recognizing and Managing Anxiety in Children

Anxiety is upsetting for adults dealing with it, so one can surmise how much more intense it can be for children. At this age, children are still learning their way through the world and developing how they respond to external triggers.

It’s at this point that parents or any guardians need to step in and help children manage their emotions and reactions. While feelings of anxiousness are a natural part of life, this is highly dependent on the situation. It can develop into something deeper and turn into a chronic issue that negatively affects the child’s lifestyle and well-being. 

It’s important to know the difference between “regular anxiety” and an anxiety disorder so you can seek out proper counseling services. Here, we differentiate the two and break down healthy ways to manage both.

What’s The Difference?

Anxiety happens to everybody at some point in their lives. Whether it’s about a mistake or a big event coming up, the feeling of anxiousness is natural and can be dealt with at the moment.

An anxiety disorder presents itself more severely and has a tendency to affect the individual more often. Unlike normal anxiety, your child will experience bouts more frequently and even chronically. On top of that, it will result in coping mechanisms like avoidance and ticks. 

You should note that anxiety disorders can develop as a combination of both nature and nurture. Some genetics play a part in their tendencies, but what they see around them will be the clincher. 

Signs of an Anxiety Disorder in Children

There are different types of anxiety disorders that your child can experience. Detecting the signs can help you pinpoint which one your child is experiencing.

• What general symptoms manifest will depend on their age. Very young children may start doing tantrums, self-soothing, and regressing to bedwetting and excessive clinginess. 

• They may develop obsessive habits such as asking for validation or following a strictly regimented routine. 

• A heightened awareness over every risk and change around them may happen. In turn, they may also become more reclusive.

• If your child gets panic attacks, they may have a panic disorder. This can also be triggered by severe phobias and hyperfixations. 

• Separation anxiety can be so severe that they can’t handle not having their parental figures or certain attachments around them. Not wanting to sleep alone can be a sign of this, too.

• They may worry too much over everything and feel self-conscious to a point where they feel like people dislike them or judge their every move. 

• They may develop compulsions that they believe are necessary to keep everything safe and in order. Watch for any rituals that they tie to their moods and how it affects their daily routine.

Tips to Manage Childhood Anxiety

• Make sure you have open communication in your household, so your child feels safe to reach out. Talk to them from a place of care and support, so they don’t feel like they are being reprimanded for their behavior. 

• Maintain healthy habits that can help your child emulate better behaviors as they grow up.

• Seek out counseling services to assess your child’s condition and set a therapeutic routine to manage their symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Anxiety is not something that should be ignored, especially during a child’s crucial developmental stages. Thankfully, there are ways to manage and help children grow and develop healthy behaviors. The important thing to do is support your child and make sure you catch the signs so you can help them.

For any individual in need of online counseling services, Hope Seed Support Center provides counseling, nutritional therapy, community support, and other services for any age. Feel free to reach out so we can help.

How to Help Your Teens Develop Better Emotional Intelligence

One day, your kid will become a teenager. Major changes will happen to them physically, mentally, and emotionally. Sometimes we are preoccupied with so many things in life that we may fail to adjust to our kids growing up. It is at this point where they need our understanding more than ever.

It may be hard for them to express themselves during this phase. It is a good opportunity to help them develop emotional intelligence by helping them understand themselves and deal with their feelings better.

Developing Your Teen’s Emotional Intelligence

Your teenager will go through a difficult phase. Not only are they going through changes, but they also have bigger challenges ahead. Obligations at school, peer pressure, bad influences, and many other issues can contribute to the confusion. They may need counseling services for better support.

One of the first things you need to strengthen in your kids is their emotional intelligence. They’ll gradually learn to control their emotions better and deal with an increasingly difficult world. If you do this right, they’ll end up as well-balanced adults who will figure out how this world works on their own terms.

If you feel any brewing conflict or resistance, it’s just natural. Be patient and understanding, and come from a perspective of love—always. They are not that emotionally developed yet to deal with increasingly difficult transitions.

Help them deal with their anger and other emotions and let them express them freely. Let them understand that it’s okay to feel different emotions, but that they are responsible for how they handle those feelings. 

Get Through Things Together

Connect with your kids and listen to them, but respect their boundaries as well. Don’t give them that usual “when I was your age” spiel. Your era was a different period. While many of the things you did to deal with life were helpful, it might not be the case with your kids. Help them understand that emotions are valid, and there are healthy ways to deal with them.

Some great activities together will help you understand how they respond emotionally. It is a great opportunity to learn about their thought processes. You may notice this in the books, music, movies, video games, or pop culture icons they identify with. It’s not a major concern for you; it is a sign of how they express themselves when they can’t do it directly. Always come from a non-judgmental position and offer unconditional support.

Listen to how they explain their hobbies and ask about their interests. When they show you lyrics that they like, let them discuss it freely. It’s the same when watching their favorite shows or their choice of video games. Game with them, and be their steady emotional support. Sometimes, all they need is understanding. They’ll learn to process emotions properly to become happier, healthier teenagers.

And if things get rough, don’t ever hesitate to seek the help of a mental health counselor.

Final Notes

Your teenager may go through issues of expressing and dealing with emotions as they grow up. It’s important to help them with this difficult transition by being more understanding. Observe how they deal emotionally with the world and help them respond accordingly. It’s the more natural way they can develop emotional intelligence.

Hope Seed Support Center can help kids with minor to serious emotional issues. Whatever the causes, we approach them with love and understanding to help them learn about themselves with appropriate counseling services in the Houston, TX area. Call us for any help needed. We are always here for you.

How Therapy Can Guide You Through Major Life Changes

People crave change and resist it all at the same time; this is because change can be scary, especially since you're letting go of control. Control makes up a majority of our lives—we schedule calls, appointments, plan vacations and even make a list of essentials we need at the grocery. 

For some, the first thing they do when they wake up is write down their daily to-do list. However, when we're faced with changes in the flow of our lives—big or small —it will surely impact how we live. Needless to say, even if we're faced with positive changes in our lives, it can still bring some stress, especially when we're going through transitions. 

Since change can be quite heavy to carry, many experiencing life changes may have trouble adjusting. That's why seeking therapy counseling is crucial to help individuals respond better to change and manage the rollercoaster of emotions that come with it. 

The Different Major Life Adjustments

There's no way of putting it—changes, big or small, can greatly impact your life. Whether you're dealing with an optimistic transition or you were faced with an unprecedented change, it may seem like nothing to others, but the turbulence you feel is entirely valid. 

Major transitions will come with their own triggers and stressors, depending on the area of your life that it's affecting. For your social life, you could be moving to an unfamiliar city, you've recently let go of a friend, or you've broken up with a partner. 

For things related to family, you may be dealing with a family dispute or a loss of a loved one. With your finances, this could be losing a job, drowning in debt, or simply not knowing how to manage your finances. 

Why Do Major Life Changes Affect Us Deeply?

Big changes affect our mental health because of how our brain functions—it stimulates conflict receptors in our brain, which causes brain chaos, triggering stress for people. 

These transitions affect our mental health based on our personality. So if you're looking for excitement, change can be much easier to digest, and those who like a more linear approach in life can find dealing with changes pretty stressful.

With that, many people have different ways of coping with major life changes, even if you're pretty optimistic. That's why if you find yourself struggling to put pieces together and understand your emotions, it's best to get therapy counseling to help you navigate these unfamiliar waters. 

Can People Get Depressed When Going Through Major Life Changes?

When we're stressed, our capacity to logically process data gets affected. When this happens, we look at the situation in a negative light, pushing us into a depressive cycle and building a false consciousness of our situation. 

Most people who transition through major changes tend to put a lot of pressure on themselves and struggle to see the brighter side of the situation, especially when the change was unanticipated. In that sense, many start to feel hopeless and depressed. 

The Bottom Line: Seeking Support Through Therapy Can Help You Navigate Through the Major Changes in Your Life

Change is necessary—even when we don't welcome it; it's pretty much the only constant thing in our lives. However, whenever there is change, a new wave of opportunities and possibilities arise, even when, at the moment, you may be feeling stressed. 

If you notice that this is affecting your emotional health, it's crucial that you seek support through therapy counseling to help adjust and move through these big life changes. With professional support, you'll learn how to brace for changes and be prepared to face them, and welcome growth. 

How Can We Help You?

Are you thinking of getting therapy counseling to help you ride through the changes in your life? If so, we're here to help. 

Hope Seed Support Center is an organization that provides counseling, nutritional therapy, and other services. You'll feel a sense of community with us while finding your way through life with the proper guidance. 

Learn more about how we can help you today!

For Parents: Ways You Can Support Your Child’s Mental Health

No parent would want their child to suffer from mental health issues. But, no matter how much you don’t like it, mental health problems may still develop in your child. While you can’t stop it, you can still do something to make your child feel better and stronger throughout the process of dealing with difficult situations. You just need to do what you do best: be a parent. 

We know that it’s hard to do the battle alone. So, we are here to help you with how you can support your child’s mental health. Read on to learn different ways you can do it. 

1. Teach Them Healthy Coping Skills

There are different healthy coping skills you can teach your child whenever they are dealing with difficult emotions. You can show it to them by doing it yourself or talk to them through doing it on their own. You can introduce healthy coping skills like deep breathing; making art such as painting, doodling, and coloring; using stress balls; or even walking. These coping skills will help them manage their emotions well without hurting themselves. 

2. Always Observe Their Behavior If There Are Any Changes

As a parent, you should always watch out if your child is showing any behavioral changes because this may be a sign that they are dealing with something that they are not telling you. Be proactive because you need to be there for them since they don’t know how to process the situation on their own. Once you notice that your child has become more withdrawn from their friends, family, or routine, ask them how they feel and let them know that they can always count on you whatever it is they are going through. 

3. Make Your Child Feel Comfortable in Communicating with You

Sometimes, a child doesn’t open up to their parents because they are not comfortable enough to share their feelings. So, they tend to keep their problems on their own since they also think that their parents will not understand them. As much as possible, avoid making your child feel this way. Open and honest communication is essential so that you can support them with their mental health. Let them know that they can approach you with any issue anytime, and make them feel comfortable by listening carefully without any judgment. 

4. Give Them Compliments and Encouragement from Time to Time

A way to support your child’s mental health is by letting them know that they are worthy, loved, and enough. You can make them feel that way by giving them compliments and encouragement from time to time. If you give them praise or positive feedback, especially when they’ve done something well, they can build their confidence and pride. But, if they’ve done something wrong, encourage them and make them feel that it’s okay to make mistakes so they won’t feel down or unworthy. 

Conclusion

In general, you can support your child’s mental health by making them feel that you are always there for them. Hopefully, these tips can help you show your child that they have a parent who is willing to listen, support, and do everything to make them feel better. What’s important is that they won’t feel alone when facing the battle. Listen to your child’s needs, and don’t hesitate to ask for professional’s help whenever you think it’s already needed. 

Do you need help with your child’s mental health condition? Hope Seed Support Center offers counseling services in Houston to address depression, anxiety, grief, sadness, and suicidal thoughts. We are here to help you support your child’s mental health. Schedule an appointment with us today! 

Unresolved Trauma: How Your Childhood Experiences Affect You as an Adult

Society places extra emphasis on a good childhood, and for very good reasons. What you experience in your first few years impacts you for the rest of your life, forming how you perceive the world and others around you. If you’ve experienced traumatic events as a child, you may be surprised to find the effects still manifesting themselves several decades later, when you’re well into adulthood.

The truth is that childhood trauma, when unresolved, can wreak havoc on your adult life. It can affect how you choose happiness, approach relationships, or pursue your ambition. It can be challenging to start healing, especially when you don’t know where to begin. 

What is Unresolved Trauma?

Unresolved psychological trauma manifests as a disruptive emotional response to a tragic or otherwise horrible event or experience. It can present as a wide array of mental and physical symptoms, such as anxiety attacks, feelings of shame, flashbacks, dissociation, sleep issues, addiction, chronic depression, uncontrollable anger, and irrational fears. Even though you may have subconsciously pushed away the memories of the terrible event, they’re still present in your life through your symptoms, lack of self-esteem, and relationship struggles.

Traumatized children often feel like they must resolve their issues by themselves. Still, the reality is that they usually do not have even half the tools needed to heal from their experiences. That’s why it’s best to work with a mental health therapist who knows how to unpack their perceptions and correct the faulty ones. Otherwise, childhood trauma stays unresolved, which will resurface as emotional upheaval that can upend adult lives.

What Creates Trauma in Childhood?

Until resolved, trauma passes on from one person to the other. Traumatized adults unintentionally and sometimes subconsciously traumatize children, who then repeat the cycle. The trauma sometimes has apparent causes, like physical or sexual abuse, but many adults don’t realize they have more subtle kinds of trauma.

For instance, if they were neglected as a child or lost their parent, the experiences likely impacted them for the worse. Going through a severe childhood illness, working with a disability, having too many siblings, or emotionally unavailable or anxious parents contribute to traumatized experiences. 

How Does Unresolved Trauma Affect You as an Adult?

Unresolved trauma is guaranteed to emerge and impact your adult life at some point. If you’ve forced yourself to “leave the past in the past,” you’ll be more likely to carry the suffering you experienced as a child. If you haven’t had enough help or the proper counseling services to heal from your trauma, the symptoms will start to manifest when you feel emotionally distressed. Sometimes, the trigger can be innocuous and straightforward, but it is enough to remind you of what happened in your childhood, causing you to spiral. 

The great news is that childhood trauma can be healed by seeking help from trained, certified therapists. You’ll need to work with a mental health professional who is well-versed in the effects of childhood experiences on adult life, especially terrible and traumatic ones. You’ll have to build trust in a safe therapeutic space to feel assured enough to unveil your emotions and work at your own pace, never feeling like you must rush through your healing. By working with someone with a kind, empathetic response, you’ll feel safe and seen, giving you the courage you need to work through your trauma.

Conclusion

Childhood trauma can affect every aspect of your life when left unaddressed. Fortunately, when treated, it can vastly improve your life. By breaking the cycle, understanding your psychological triggers, and working with a therapist to understand your unresolved trauma, you can begin an incredible healing journey that will help you navigate your adult life more confidently.

Hope Seed Support Center has the best therapists in Houston to help you address your unresolved trauma and other mental health issues. We provide service to the community through counseling, nutritional therapy, and many more. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.

Understanding Depression and How You Can Give Support

Depression is a very real condition that affects millions of individuals of all ages and backgrounds. It interferes with daily living, causing tremendous agony and impacting individuals who are suffering from it and everyone around them.

If you think some people you love may be affected by depression, you may be feeling powerless, frustrated, angry, fearful, guilty, and sad. All of these emotions are natural. It is challenging to deal with the despair of a friend or family member. It is important that you understand what depression entails so that you can also know how to properly give support to someone suffering from it. 

Depression Physical Symptoms: Know the Warning Signs

An individual suffering from depression may have the following symptoms:

• feeling exhausted most of the time

• feeling ill and 'run down' 

• regular headaches, 

• stomach or muscular pains 

• churning gut sleep issues

• loss or change of appetite

• significant weight loss or gain

Inside the Mind of a Depressed Person

Because depression symptoms differ from person to person, the ones listed above may not present concurrently in a depressed individual. Some people attempt to hide these symptoms to keep their loved ones from becoming concerned. Others pretend to be happy because they do not want to be perceived as weak or vulnerable. The best way to overcome this is to see a therapist or take them to a mental health expert for a proper diagnosis and counseling.

Depression Thoughts

A depressed individual may have intrusive thoughts such as:

• 'I am a failure.'

• 'It's all my fault.'

• 'Nothing ever goes right for me.'

• 'I have no value.'

• 'In my life, there is nothing nice.'

• 'Things will never change,' 

• 'Life isn't worth living.'

• 'People would be better off without me,' 

While no two people's experiences are the same, when they suffer a significant depressive episode, the world appears and feels dreadful and hopeless. As a famous quote aptly explains, "Depression is like drowning, except everyone around you is breathing."

If You or Someone You Love Suffers From Depression

If you or someone you care about is exhibiting symptoms of depression, you may be unsure of what measures to take. You can start by studying more about depression, including symptoms, treatment, misconceptions, misunderstandings, and stigma. This gives you a better view of what to expect and helps you be a more educated patient or caregiver.

It's also a good decision to schedule an appointment with a primary care physician to perform a physical exam and order any necessary blood tests to rule out any medical problems that resemble depression. The primary care physician can also recommend you to a mental health specialist to better address your needs.

Conclusion

Depression makes no distinctions. It can have an impact on both the affluent and the poor. It can affect both physically healthy people and those suffering from diseases. Depression doesn't care what you do for a living. 

It may harm anyone, regardless of their socioeconomic level. One of the essential things to remember when interacting with people suffering from depression is that they are frightened of being judged. 

Depression, most of the time, makes a person feel powerless. Fighting depression is complex, and one method to overcome it is to surround yourself with a supportive and loving group of people.

Hope Seed Support center is an organization that can help you overcome your mental struggles through counseling, nutritional therapy, and many other services. We also provide crisis care services around the clock. Schedule an appointment in our counseling center in Houston today.