Neurodiversity is a concept that recognizes and respects the wide range of neurological differences present in individuals. When it comes to conditions like Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), embracing neurodiversity means recognizing the unique strengths and challenges that individuals with these conditions bring to our communities in Calgary, Alberta

Acknowledging Strengths

Rather than viewing ADD/ADHD solely through a deficit-based lens, it’s crucial to celebrate the strengths associated with these conditions. Individuals with ADD/ADHD often demonstrate exceptional creativity, hyperfocus, and out-of-the-box thinking. Their ability to think quickly, multitask, and adapt to change can be valuable assets in various settings, from the workplace to social interactions.

The Importance of Inclusivity

We foster a culture of inclusivity and understanding around neurodiversity is essential. By providing support and accommodations tailored to the needs of individuals with ADD/ADHD, we can create environments where they can thrive. This may include offering flexible work arrangements, providing tools for organization and time management, and promoting alternative learning methods in schools.

Embracing neurodiversity also involves challenging the stigma and misconceptions surrounding ADD/ADHD. Instead of viewing these conditions as disorders that need to be fixed or cured, we should recognize them as inherent aspects of a person’s identity. By promoting acceptance and understanding, we can help individuals with ADD/ADHD feel valued and empowered to reach their full potential.

Turn to the Professionals

Ultimately, embracing neurodiversity and celebrating the strengths of individuals with ADD/ADHD enriches our communities in Calgary, AB. By fostering an environment of acceptance, support, and celebration of differences, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

To learn more, contact Calgary Institute of Counseling. We look forward to working with you.

Mastering anger is a crucial skill for maintaining healthy relationships and overall well-being. As therapists, guiding individuals through effective anger management strategies is paramount. By understanding the roots of anger and implementing proven techniques, individuals can learn to manage their emotions constructively.

Recognizing Your Anger

It is important to recognize that anger is a normal emotion, but it’s how we express and deal with it that matters. Exploring the underlying triggers and patterns of anger through therapy can provide valuable insights. By identifying specific triggers and understanding the thoughts and beliefs that fuel anger, individuals can gain greater control over their emotional responses.

CBT and Managing Anger

One effective anger management technique is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on challenging and reframing negative thought patterns. By altering irrational beliefs and adopting healthier perspectives, individuals can change their emotional reactions to anger-provoking situations.

Lessening Stress

Relaxation and stress-reduction techniques can also help individuals manage anger in the moment. Deep breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness practices can all promote a sense of calm and control, reducing the intensity of anger reactions.

Communication is Key

Effective communication skills are also essential for mastering anger. Teaching assertiveness and conflict resolution techniques empowers individuals to express their needs and boundaries assertively, reducing the likelihood of anger escalating into conflict.

Turn to Professionals Who Can Help

Ultimately, mastering anger requires patience, self-awareness, and consistent practice. By working with a therapist and implementing these strategies, individuals can cultivate healthier ways of managing anger and experience greater peace and harmony in their lives.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects millions of individuals worldwide, impacting their ability to focus, organize, and regulate impulses. While medication is often the go-to treatment, holistic approaches offer a complementary avenue for managing ADHD symptoms.  

Embracing a holistic mindset means addressing the condition from multiple angles: mind, body, and therapy. At the Calgary Institute of Counselling, we work with clients in Calgary, Alberta, and help them find holistic approaches that work for them. 

Implementing Mindful Practices

Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, can significantly benefit individuals with ADHD. These techniques cultivate self-awareness, helping to improve attention span and impulse control. By training the mind to stay present, individuals can better manage distractions and enhance cognitive function. 

Physical Activity Can Help

Physical activity plays a crucial role in managing ADHD symptoms. Exercise releases endorphins, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of well-being and regulate mood. Engaging in regular physical activity can reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity while improving concentration and memory. 

The Benefits of Therapy

Therapy is another integral component of holistic ADHD management. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns, promoting healthier coping mechanisms and problem-solving skills. Additionally, therapy provides a safe space for individuals to explore underlying emotional issues and develop strategies for managing stress and anxiety. 

Finding What Works for You

Combining these holistic approaches offers a comprehensive ADHD management strategy that addresses the diverse needs of individuals with the condition. By nurturing the mind, caring for the body, and engaging in therapeutic interventions, individuals can better navigate the challenges of ADHD and lead fulfilling lives.  

To learn more about holistic approaches to managing ADD/ADHD symptoms, contact the professionals at the Calgary Institute of Counseling. We proudly work with clients in the Calgary, AB area.  

In the intricate landscape of the mind, anxiety can often feel like navigating a maze with no exit. The Calgary Institute of Counselling is here to guide you through the twists and turns, offering understanding and support to conquer the overwhelming challenges of anxiety through therapy.

Understanding Anxiety

A complex and pervasive mental health issue, anxiety can manifest in various forms, impacting individuals both mentally and physically. It’s a maze where worry, fear, and uncertainty may seem impossible to escape. Our services at the Calgary Institute of Counselling are tailored to unravel the complexities of anxiety, helping you achieve peace of mind.

Anxiety can also manifest in physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, and racing thoughts. It can be relentless, affecting our daily lives and hindering our pursuit of happiness. Our therapists comprehend the nuances of anxiety, providing a safe space for individuals to unpack their emotions and explore the root causes of their distress.

Conquering Anxiety Through Therapy

At our institute, we believe in the transformative power of therapy to conquer anxiety. Our dedicated therapists employ a variety of evidence-based techniques, offering personalized strategies to manage symptoms and build resilience. Through therapy, individuals gain valuable insights into their thought patterns, learning to navigate the maze of anxiety with newfound clarity.

Taking the First Step

Conquering anxiety is a journey, and the first step is acknowledging the need for support. The Calgary Institute of Counselling invites you to embark on this journey. Together, we can navigate the maze towards a future filled with peace, confidence, and certainty. Contact us to get started.

Living with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) can pose unique challenges, not just for the individual but also for their loved ones. Navigating relationships when impacted by ADD/ADHD requires a thoughtful and understanding approach, particularly in the realms of communication and connection.

The Communication Challenge

Individuals with ADD/ADHD often grapple with difficulties in maintaining focus, following through on tasks, and organizing thoughts—all of which can affect communication. It’s crucial for both partners to cultivate patience and empathy. Try to encourage open dialogue, allowing the person with ADD/ADHD to express their thoughts without judgment. Also, work on establishing clear and concise communication strategies, such as using visual cues or breaking down information into smaller parts, as this can enhance understanding.

Connection Amidst Distractions

ADD/ADHD can contribute to moments of distraction and impulsivity, impacting the quality of connection in relationships. Engaging in activities that promote connection, such as shared hobbies or regular quality time, becomes vital. Establishing routines and using reminders can help create a sense of stability and predictability, fostering a deeper emotional connection.

Seeking Professional Guidance

Navigating the complexities of relationships impacted by ADD/ADHD may benefit from professional guidance. A skilled therapist, experienced in working with individuals and couples dealing with ADD/ADHD, can offer valuable insights and coping strategies.

These sessions provide a safe space for both partners to express their concerns, learn effective communication techniques, and develop strategies for navigating the unique dynamics of their relationship.

Contact Us to Learn More

Building and maintaining strong relationships when impacted by ADD/ADHD involves fostering understanding, patience, and open communication. By acknowledging the challenges and proactively seeking solutions, couples can strengthen their connection and build a resilient foundation for a fulfilling relationship. For more information, contact the Calgary Institute of Counselling.

Eating disorders are often associated with teenagers and adolescents. But many adults struggle with this same issue.

What are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are mental health issues that involve unhealthy or obsessive eating habits. Some of the most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder.

Anyone can develop an eating disorder at any point in their life, though a disproportionate number of those diagnosed are young females. Researchers have found there are often biological factors involved in developing an eating disorder, as well as social and interpersonal pressures. Many men and women develop eating disorders as a response to culturally mediated body image concerns. 

Eating Disorders and Physical Health

If not treated, eating disorders can and do often lead to poor physical health. Here are just some of the physical symptoms that commonly occur in people with eating disorders:

  • Drastic changes in weight (either increase or decrease)
  • Hair loss
  • Dizzy spells and fainting
  • Feeling cold
  • Stained or discolored teeth (from purging)
  • GI upsets like stomach aches and cramping
  • Dehydration
  • Nutritional deficiencies

It’s important to mention that while these symptoms are common, not everyone will present with them. Eating disorders and their physical and emotional effects will look different for each individual.

Treatment Options

Eating disorders can be very stressful for the person and their loved ones. In some cases, they can even be life-threatening.

There are a few different treatment options for those suffering from an eating disorder:

Speaking with a Trained Therapist

A therapist trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help a patient uncover the emotional reasons beneath the affliction and help them to adapt their behavior.

Medications

Medications may be needed to help treat any anxiety and depression that often coexists with an eating disorder.

Work with a Nutritionist

It is often advised that people with eating disorders work with a nutritionist to relearn proper eating habits and the importance of getting the right amount of nutrients each day.

If you or someone you love is living with an eating disorder, it is important that you get some help. With the right treatment plan, life can become healthy once again.

SOURCES:

Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) often face unique challenges in their personal and professional lives. At the Calgary Institute of Counselling, our dedicated ADD/ADHD therapists understand these challenges and are committed to empowering individuals on their journey towards resilience and success.

Tailored Support for Those with ADD/ADHD

Living with ADD/ADHD can present hurdles in concentration, organization, and emotional regulation. Our specialized therapists provide a supportive environment where adults can explore strategies to navigate these challenges effectively.

Our ADD/ADHD therapists recognize the diverse ways these conditions manifest in adults. Through a personalized approach, we tailor therapy sessions to address specific concerns, fostering self-discovery and equipping individuals with tools to enhance focus and productivity.

The Comprehensive Strategies We Provide

Whether dealing with work-related stress, relationship challenges, or emotional struggles, our therapists integrate evidence-based techniques to empower adults with ADD/ADHD. We aim to build resilience and promote success by addressing the unique aspects of neurodiversity and supporting individuals in creating fulfilling and balanced lives.

Begin Your Journey to Success

Embarking on a journey towards resilience and success starts with contacting us for a free 20-minute consultation with the ADD/ADHD therapists at the Calgary Institute of Counselling. We are dedicated to providing guidance, support, and therapy that recognizes the strengths within neurodiversity, fostering a path to personal and professional accomplishments. Our team believes that resilience and success are attainable for every individual, regardless of their neurodivergent journey.

The old saying goes, “Into every life a little rain must fall.” Stress is like rain. A little of it can be a good thing. But too much can cause havoc and devastation.

Our bodies are designed to handle a little bit of acute or sudden stress. But when stress is prolonged or becomes chronic, it can have devastating consequences to our health.

Here are just some of the ways stress can negatively impact your body:

Respiratory Issues

Prolonged stress can lead to respiratory issues such as shortness of breath. Individuals who do not have an underlying respiratory disease may not be very impacted. But for those with pre-existing conditions such as COPD and asthma, stress can dangerously exacerbate the situation.

Heart Health

When we’re stressed we are in fight or flight mode. This causes our heart to beat faster and our blood vessels to dilate. In short-term scenarios, these physical manifestations help get us out of danger.

But for prolonged periods, this can put a lot of stress on our heart and blood vessels, potentially leading to a heart attack or stroke.

Gut Health

Did you know that 80% of your immune system is located in your gut? It’s incredibly important to ensure your gut is healthy!

But chronic stress can wreak havoc on your gut as it changes the beneficial gut bacteria. And a change in this bacteria can negatively impact your mood. And when you’re already feeling stressed, the last thing you need is to also feel depressed.

Sexual Health

Both the male and female reproductive systems are influenced by the nervous system. When we are stressed, our sexual hormones can get out of balance and we can lose sexual desire. Men may find it hard to achieve and maintain an erection. Stress can also make it hard to conceive and affect a woman’s menstrual cycle.

As you can see, stress can really impact your physical health in a negative way. While we can’t stop the rain from falling or stress from entering our lives, we can practice healthy stress management. That means eating right, getting enough exercise, and quality sleep each night.

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When we speak about human behavior or ways of being in the world, we have traditionally described someone as having normal behavior or abnormal behavior. Recently, mental health experts have begun to look at things in a broader, more inclusive scope.

What Does Neurodivergent Mean?

Neurodivergent is a term used to describe someone who either behaves in a specific way or processes information in a specific way that differs from cultural norms. It is an important shift in the mental health community because it allows clinicians to discuss diagnoses, such as autism, in a way that doesn’t portray the diagnoses as an illness or problem to be dealt with. In addition to autism, there are other diagnoses that may be considered a form of neurodivergence such as ADHD, any learning disability, dyslexia, and Tourette’s syndrome.

Benefits of Neurodiversity

Much of the world has embraced cultural diversity. We have been taught that diversity is our greatest strength. Well, people are finally starting to realize that this concept goes beyond just cultural diversity and should extend to the diversity of thought and being as well. Neurodiversity can actually be beneficial to society because different ways of thinking and looking at the world bring different perspectives and insights to the table.

Temple Grandin is a perfect example. Temple is autistic and it is her very unique perspective and way of thinking that allowed her to revolutionize the practices for the humane handling of livestock.

Instead of stigmatizing children who have been diagnosed with a “mental handicap,” we must encourage them to embrace their differences and share their unique insights and perspectives with the world.

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When you think about it, modern women are really like superheroes. Not only are they obtaining college degrees and climbing corporate ladders, they’re doing so while also raising families. They may also find themselves taking care of aging parents at the same time.

While some women are able to manage juggling all of these big responsibilities, many women, over time, will experience burnout and mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.

A Gold Medal for Prioritizing Mental Health

Last summer, the world held its collective breath as gymnast Simone Biles made the heartbreaking decision to withdraw from the Olympic finals. She was very transparent, announcing her decision was a result of making her mental health a priority. 

This was a real act of bravery and her decision shone a light on the importance of protecting the mental health of world-class athletes. 

But the reality is, protecting your health is important for all women, no matter your career choice. From professional athletes to CEOs and every career woman in between, it is vitally important to prioritize their mental health.

How Career Women Can Cultivate Good Mental Health

The following are some ways professional women can protect their mental health from the burdens of careers and family life:

Accept and Expect Imperfections

No matter how hard you try, you’ll never get everything perfect 100% of the time, and that’s okay. Recognize your own humanity and give yourself a break.

Find Support

As you continue to try and be there for everyone else, it’s important that you find people and things to lean on. This can mean family, friends, your faith, or a personal exercise routine. 

Make Time for Yourself

It’s important to step back from the daily grind every once in a while to just rest and relax. The more you take the time to recharge your battery, the more able you’ll be to juggle the responsibilities of your life.

Talk with Someone

Sometimes it’s easier to speak with someone outside of your social or familial network. Talking with a therapist can really help you gain perspective on your life and your abilities. He or she can also give you strategies to navigate the stressful situations in your life.

If you’d like to speak with someone and explore treatment options, please get in touch with me.

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You know you got your hairline from your Dad’s side of the family and your eye color from your mom. You know diabetes runs in your family, as does heart disease and Parkinson’s.

But do you know that many families also pass down trauma to their loved ones? It’s not just our physical makeup and risk of disease that we inherit from our family, it is also the emotional wounds as well.

What is Transgenerational Trauma?

Before you were born you were in your mother’s womb and very susceptible to her emotions. As your mother felt joy, her body released hormones that made you feel joy.

When she felt sad, scared, or angry, her body released hormones that made her experience these same emotions.

Eventually, you were born and raised in a house that may not always be happy or harmonious. Your parents may have been emotionally distant or even abusive because they may have been brought up by parents who had their own reasons for being emotionally absent or abusive.

Many families have unresolved trauma that works its way through one generation to the next. Those families who have dealt with addiction, depression, anxiety, terror, racism, and the like, often continue to pass on negative emotions, poor behaviors, low self-esteem, and maladaptive coping strategies. These not only lead to a painful and hard life, but they can also lead to chronic health conditions.

It Can Stop With You!

If you have a history of family conflict or trauma, you can be the individual who puts an end to the cycle. You can be the one who begins a new cycle, one of passing down loving communication and positive self-images. 

Of course, it will take work on your part to overcome the pain of your family history. That’s why it’s a good idea to work with a mental health professional who can offer you the right tools and coping strategies that you can then pass down to your own children.

If you’re interested in exploring therapy, please get in touch with me! I’d love to help you end the cycle of trauma in your family.

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Emotional abuse is not as easy to spot as physical abuse, but oftentimes its effects can be just as traumatic. Emotional abuse can involve a wide range of tactics, including gaslighting, shaming and manipulation. All of these are intended to leave the victim feeling confused, powerless and hopeless.

Typically people suffer from long-term or short-term emotional abuse, and depending on the length of time, there can be varying mental health effects.

Long-term emotional abuse happens over many years. Examples are a child growing up in a home with an alcoholic parent or a sibling with anger issues. Someone may find themselves in a marriage with a narcissistic partner.

Short-term emotional abuse can result from a nasty exchange with a stranger or micro-interactions with colleagues or neighbors.

The following are some short-term and long-term effects of emotional abuse:

Short-Term Effects

  • Isolation or a sense of deep loneliness 
  • Self-doubt
  • Shame
  • Confusion
  • Low self-esteem
  • Anxiety connected with social interactions
  • Feelings of powerlessness

Long-term Effects

  • Neuroticism, or the tendency toward a depressed mood or negative emotions like anger
  • Chronic stress
  • Physical health issues like muscle tension and shortness of breath
  • Attachment issues
  • Apathy
  • Eating disorders
  • PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) or CPTSD (chronic post-traumatic stress disorder)

You Can Heal from Emotional Abuse

With time, patience and plenty of self-compassion, it is very possible to heal from the trauma of emotional abuse. Working with a mental health professional who has been trained specifically to help people who have been the victim of emotional abuse is a great starting point.

If you’d like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me.

SOURCES:

https://psychcentral.com/health/effects-of-emotional-abuse
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/327080