One Reason Why Mindfulness Works

Mindfulness refers to the practice of focusing on the present moment and taking a non-judgmental stance. Numerous research studies have documented the benefits of mindfulness, including improved self-compassion, acceptance, lower stress, and reduced symptoms of mental illness. A recent study  examined why exactly mindfulness might be so effective. Researchers proposed that mindfulness is effective because it…

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Effective for Treatment of Panic Disorder

Weill Cornell Medical College study finds that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a structured therapy that focuses on changing maladaptive thoughts, emotions and behaviors, is the most effective treatment for panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. Researchers compared three therapies among about 200 patients diagnosed with panic disorder: cognitive behavioral therapy; panic-focused psychodynamic psychotherapy, a treatment that…

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5 Stages of Grief and Loss

Grief is common after a death of a loved one, relationship break-up, loss of a job, or withdrawal from substances. Grieving is an essential and universal process that helps us process our emotions and accept life changes. When faced with a loss, people tend to go through common stages. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross identified five stages of…

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Recent Findings on Pathological Gambling

Despite the risks associated with gambling, many individuals who are addicted to gambling are drawn to the potential windfall. Yet, statistically, we know that over time, losses exceed wins. Some research suggests that cognitive distortions contribute to the development and maintenance of pathological gambling. Cognitive distortions are irrational thought patterns that precipitate negative emotional states and maladaptive…

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May is Mental Health Month

When we think about medical diseases, such as cancer, hypertension or diabetes, we are much more prone to seek treatment immediately. When we experience dizziness or fatigue, for example, we look to immediately reverse these symptoms by seeking medical treatment. Put simply, we typically don’t ignore the early signs of disease. So, why aren’t most individuals doing…

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Nine Truths About Eating Disorders

  The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) released the “Nine Truths About Eating Disorders” to address common misconceptions about eating disorders. These Nine Truths were developed by experts in the field and address facts about the eating disorder treatment and how eating disorders are thought to develop. There continues to be a stigma associated with eating disorders,…

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