A few years ago, I made a new friend. For the purpose of this blog and with his permission, I will refer to him as Eddie. Eddie and I became friends over many shared interests. After spending time together, I started to notice a few peculiar behaviors, such as always taking a particularly long time... Continue Reading →
A Mass Shooting in My Hometown and Mental Health
If you were to google "Mass Shooting Aurora, IL", my hometown will pop up on the screen. This isn't just another mass shooting, it happened in my hometown. Five people were killed during the incident -- six if you include the gunman, and five officers who were injured during this tragic and horrific event that... Continue Reading →
A Few Essential Oils Specific to Mental Health
In recent years there has been a surge in interest over essential oils. The three main methods of use are inhalation, topical application, and ingestion. Inhaling can be performed by smelling the oil directly from the bottle or mixing a few drops with distilled water in an appropriate diffuser. Applying oils to the skin must... Continue Reading →
Healthy Body, Healthy Mind
Around this time of year when the weather is cold and icky, one should think about their immune health as well as their mental health. Taking steps to keep your immune system healthy and your mental stress at bay can help reduce the chances of you falling ill. No one... Continue Reading →
What it’s Like to Contact the Crisis Text Line
I have been volunteering with the Crisis Text Line since the beginning of November, I did all my training in October, and I have been loving the experience. The training was incredibly helpful, but I was still nervous about that first conversation with a texter. Although I was anxious, I knew exactly how to talk... Continue Reading →
So your doctor says you are low on Vitamin D…..4 Ways to Get Vitamin D in the Winter
Winter is hitting us and it is FREEZING outside! Along with the snow, there seems to be a lack of sunshine and Vitamin D filling us with joy, leaving somoe of us feeling unmotivated, tired, and sad. Without the sun pouring the warmth and energy we thrive on in the summer, what can we do... Continue Reading →
Reset With A Good Night’s Rest
One of the best feelings in the world is waking up from a quality sleep. Whether it’s a deep sleep through the night or a power nap to rejuvenate you in the middle of the day, nothing resets you quite like a good quality rest. However, with all the hustle and bustle... Continue Reading →
A Grateful Goodbye: Reflections of an Intern
As we bid 2018 goodbye, my time as an Olive Branch Counseling Associates Intern is also coming to an end. Looking back on the previous year, I see that my time spent here has been such a large part of it. So much of my life has changed... Continue Reading →
Stay Hydrated My Friends!
When it comes to making healthy changes in one’s life, the task can seem daunting when taken on all at once. When small changes are implemented here and there, it can make a world of difference and it can seem less overwhelming. Also, you may have a better chance... Continue Reading →
