Social Media Content on Mental Health

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a type of depression that occurs at the same time each year, typically during the fall and winter months when daylight hours are shorter. Common symptoms include low energy, difficulty concentrating, oversleeping, cravings for carbs, and a loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy. 

The exact cause of seasonal affective disorder isn’t fully understood, but it’s linked to reduced sunlight exposure. Less sunlight can disrupt your circadian rhythm, lower serotonin levels—the hormone that affects mood—and increase melatonin, which can make you feel sleepy and sluggish. 

Seasonal depression can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies and support, you can navigate winter more smoothly. Here are some strategies to guide you toward self-care and brightening even the darkest days. 

ASD is a developmental condition that affects how people communicate, socialize, and understand the world. It’s called a “spectrum” because every person with autism is different. Kids with ASD have so much potential. The key is figuring out how to support them in a way that works best for them.

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a way to help kids with autism learn new skills and reduce challenges. It focuses on teaching things like communication, social skills, or even everyday tasks like getting dressed or eating independently. It’s all about making life easier and more fun for them and their families.

When a child or adolescent is diagnosed with autism, it can affect the entire family in various ways. But family support is crucial! Studies have shown that children and adolescents with autism benefit greatly when family members are engaged and supportive.

If you’re a parent, sibling, or family member of someone on the spectrum, watch this. I’ll share practical tips and effective interventions to foster growth and connection.

People with autism often encounter unique challenges that can increase the risk of various mental health conditions, known as comorbidities, including anxiety, depression, OCD, tics, and other disorders. 

Recognizing these symptoms early is essential because untreated comorbid conditions can intensify the challenges of autism. However, with a supportive environment, therapy, and individualized coping strategies that address both autism and these additional conditions, individuals with autism can lead fulfilling lives.

Gender Dysphoria is when someone feels uncomfortable and distressed with the gender they were assigned at birth. Recent research has shown that these two things might be linked more often than we thought. In fact, about 11% of people with gender dysphoria also have autism traits. Autistic individuals are more likely to experience gender-related issues compared to the general population. https://kar.kent.ac.uk/95954/

These findings have important clinical implications that can enhance patient care in mental health services. By understanding the link between autism and gender dysphoria, clinicians can provide more informed and supportive care tailored to these overlapping experiences. Additionally, educating families about this connection can improve family support, reduce stigma, and foster a better understanding within the home environment.

You may have heard about ADHD mainly in the context of children, but did you know that it’s just as common in adults? In fact, many people with ADHD aren't diagnosed until later in life. 

In adults, ADHD symptoms may appear differently than in children. For example, rather than hyperactive behavior, adults may struggle with staying organized at work, meeting deadlines, or following through on projects, which can lead to misunderstandings or conflict at work. ADHD can also impact personal relationships, as difficulty with emotional regulation and communication can strain connections with partners, family, and friends.

ADHD doesn’t disappear with age, but with the right support—like medication, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and lifestyle adjustments—it’s possible to manage symptoms effectively.

ADHD and trauma are like two sides of the same coin, all tangled up together. They share some symptoms, and can actually feed off each other. 

When therapists are helping people with ADHD, they need to take a good look at any trauma that might be there too. It’s not just about giving meds or teaching new behaviors. They have to help with the emotional side of things—processing the trauma, learning how to cope, and addressing both ADHD and trauma together.

Struggling with ADHD? Check out Smart but Scattered, a guidebook for ADHD individuals by Peg Dawson and Richard Guare. This book offers some hands-on strategies to help you manage your daily tasks and live a fulfilled life.

Here is something that I want to say to those with ADHD. 

Always remember that compassion starts with you! Be gentle with yourself, giving you grace on tough days, celebrating your wins no matter how small they seem. You’ve got this!

While most of us are familiar with the idea of a single traumatic event, complex trauma is different. It happens when a person, often a child, is exposed to repeated traumatic experiences. This could be ongoing abuse, neglect, or living in a chaotic and unsafe environment.

As adults, the effects of complex trauma can show up in different ways. Some people might struggle with anxiety, depression, or feel disconnected from themselves. They may have difficulty trusting others or building healthy relationships, even though deep down, they long for connection. 

Recovery from complex trauma is a journey, and it takes time. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting the past—it means learning how to live fully in the present, free from the shadow of trauma.

As a therapist and busy mom, I know how challenging it can be to prioritize self-care. But taking care of ourselves isn’t just important—it’s essential, especially when we’re dedicated to helping others.

One way I stay at my best is by focusing on what I eat. I often talk about balance with my clients, and that includes balancing what goes on my plate! Exercise is another key part of my routine. Movement is a powerful way to manage stress, and even just a few minutes a day makes a difference—consistency is key!

Remember to prioritize yourself—eat well, move your body, and take time to recharge. When we care for ourselves, we’re better equipped to care for others.