My husband once said to me, “Grief is a like a heavy backpack you never take off.  You just get stronger to carry it every day.” He knew this reality all too well, as he had lost his older brother in an explosion in Iraq in 2006 that took not only Jared, but 2 other men as well.  For me, his words poured over me with aching and as a salve, because I knew he knew the pain I felt after losing my father to his 23 year battle with cancer. For each of us that has walked the road of grief, it is never something we sign up for, but in this life, it seems inevitable.  So much in western society encourages us to run away from the hard and the challenging.  Suffering is not sexy and we are sold a lie that we can avoid it.  However, as hard as we might try, suffering and grief will impact everyone in some way, shape or form.  In my life, I have found that those who have walked the road of suffering and choose to vulnerably share their stories, offer a depth and richness to life, that is so often lost in our flashy, highlight reel, social media culture.

This article explores the joys that this time of year may bring as well as the challenges new couples face, why the gift-giving issue brings tension, and how new couples can manage stress during the holidays.

The holiday season is often associated with joy, togetherness, and celebration. However, for children dealing with grief and loss, this time of year can be difficult and confusing. Memories of loved ones who have passed, family traditions that feel incomplete, the absence of a parent due to separation or divorce, or witnessing grief experienced by others can create feelings of sadness and isolation. Children may also still experience some of the excitement of the holidays despite their grief, leading to further confusion or even guilt or shame. Helping them to navigate the complexity of grief during the holidays requires sensitivity, patience, and understanding.

The holiday season often conjures images of cozy family gatherings, joyful celebrations, and heartfelt traditions. But for many, the holidays are fraught with stress and emotional challenges, especially when family dynamics or past trauma come into play. If this resonates with you, you’re not alone. Learning to navigate the season with compassion for yourself can make a significant difference. Here’s how to cope with holiday stress and trauma responses around family.

Family get-togethers during the holidays can be a great time to catch up, celebrate, and relax. But when personal values and beliefs clash with family members, it can be very stressful. This can be particularly challenging for second-generation Americans or those whose values have evolved differently from their family’s traditions. If you feel torn between honoring your family’s customs and staying true to your beliefs, you’re not alone. With some preparation and self-compassion, I hope these tips help you navigate the holidays a little smoother. And remember, these differences don’t diminish the importance of family.

Navigating a new relationship around the holidays can be both exciting and a little tricky. On the one hand, it’s a time filled with joy, warmth, and shared experiences, but on the other hand, it can bring up expectations and pressures, especially when you're still getting to know each other.

This article explores the joys that this time of year may bring as well as the challenges new couples face, why the gift-giving issue brings tension, and how new couples can manage stress during the holidays.

In recent years, mental health awareness has soared, breaking down the stigma that once surrounded therapy. Even with more open conversations, though, many people still wonder if therapy is "right" for them. If you've ever questioned whether therapy might be beneficial for you, know that you're not alone. Therapy is often portrayed as a solution for severe mental health issues, but in reality, it can help with a broad spectrum of concerns, from daily stress to deeper personal struggles.

The holiday season can be a time of celebration, belonging, and joy. Family get-togethers, classic movies, religious meaning, baking cookies, decorating... the traditions could go on and on. But the holidays can also be a time of added stress, sadness, or, at best, feel bittersweet. It can remind us of loved ones who have passed away. It can highlight current strained relationships or stir up feelings of loneliness. Visiting distant family or attending work parties can bring on intense anxiety. If you relate more to the latter, you’re not alone. A 2023 survey shows that 73% of people feel moderate to high stress during the holidays, and 64% say it’s more stressful than during tax season. The season can feel overwhelming, but we can use several practical strategies to navigate the season while taking care of our well-being.

Parenting is never easy, and parenting a teenager is something else, entirely. Maybe this is all new, and you and your teen are walking through it for the first time together. Maybe you’re a seasoned veteran, but this time, for some reason, it’s different.