Reality TV shows often reveal raw human emotions and behaviors in high-pressure situations. These unscripted moments provide a unique window into how people protect themselves emotionally when faced with conflict, stress, or criticism. One way to understand these behaviors is through the concept of defense mechanisms. These are unconscious psychological strategies people use to cope with reality and maintain their self-image. By examining popular reality TV scenarios, we can

Self-awareness is often praised as a key to personal growth and success. It helps us understand our strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. But what happens when self-awareness turns into self-sabotage? When the very insight meant to empower us instead holds us back? This post explores how self-awareness can sometimes cross into harmful territory and offers practical ways to keep it constructive. A journal open with notes and pen ready for writing What Self-Awareness Really M

Stress can leave your nervous system feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. After a long day filled with tension, your body and mind need time to recover and regain balance. Learning how to calm your nervous system is essential for maintaining overall health and improving your ability to handle future stress. This post shares practical, easy-to-follow strategies to help you relax and restore calm after a demanding day. Understand How Stress Affects Your Nervous System When you ex

Anger is a natural emotion everyone experiences. It can signal when something feels wrong or unfair. But when anger grows too strong or lasts too long, it can harm relationships, health, and well-being. Learning healthy ways to manage anger helps keep it under control and prevents it from causing damage. This post explores practical strategies to handle anger constructively and improve emotional balance. A calm garden bench inviting relaxation Understanding Anger and Its Impa

Sleep is often seen as a simple daily routine, but its effects on the brain and emotions run much deeper. When you skip sleep or get poor-quality rest, your brain struggles to perform essential tasks. This can lead to problems with memory, decision-making, and emotional balance. Understanding how sleep influences your brain and feelings can help you make better choices for your health and happiness. A calm bedroom environment promoting restful sleep and emotional balance How

Conflict avoidance often seems like the easiest path. Many people shy away from disagreements to keep peace or avoid discomfort. Yet, avoiding conflict can carry serious psychological costs that affect mental health, relationships, and personal growth. Understanding these hidden costs helps us recognize why facing conflict, though challenging, is essential for well-being. Reflective moment on a park bench Why People Avoid Conflict People avoid conflict for various reasons. Fe

Overthinking can feel like a trap. You replay conversations, worry about future events, and analyze every detail until your mind feels exhausted. Yet, this mental loop is not just a bad habit. It’s your brain’s way of trying to keep you safe. Understanding why your brain overthinks can help you break free from this cycle and regain control. A person overwhelmed by thoughts in a quiet park Why Overthinking Happens Your brain is wired to protect you from danger. When it senses

Change often stirs up a mix of excitement and anxiety. Even when we want to improve our lives or try something new, the feeling of stepping into the unknown can be unsettling. This fear is common and natural, but understanding why it happens can help us face change with more confidence and less stress. A winding forest path fading into mist, symbolizing uncertainty and new beginnings Why Change Feels Scary Change means leaving behind what is familiar. Our brains are wired to

Sleep problems have become increasingly common, and many people struggle to get a restful night. One factor that often gets overlooked is the role of social media use. Spending time on social platforms before bed can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. This post explores how social media impacts sleep quality and offers practical tips to improve your nightly rest. Smartphone screen illuminating a dark bedroom at night How Social Media Interferes with S

Mental health affects every aspect of life, from how we think and feel to how we handle stress and relate to others. While many factors influence mental health, nutrition plays a crucial role that often goes unnoticed. What we eat can shape our mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being in powerful ways. Understanding this connection helps us make better choices that support both body and mind. A balanced meal with vegetables and nuts supporting mental health How Nutrit

Please join us in celebrating Brigitte as she celebrates one year with Thrive Therapy. With a background in psychology and over a decade of experience, Brigitte offers compassionate support for those facing substance use, stress, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. This anniversary is more than a celebration; it’s a reflection of the positive impact she has made in the community & with the individuals she has worked with. A Supportive Approach Rooted in Equality and Sa

Social media has transformed the way people interact, but is it truly changing the quality and nature of our connections? Many argue that while social media offers new ways to stay in touch, it also reshapes how we build and maintain relationships. This post explores how social media influences our social lives, both positively and negatively, and what that means for the future of human connection. How Social Media Expands Our Networks Social media platforms allow people to c

This week, we’re proud to celebrate Nurse Practitioner (NP) Week, a time to recognize the knowledge, compassion, and dedication NPs bring to healthcare every day. At Thrive Therapy, we’re especially grateful for our own Nurse Practitioners, Michelle and Shelly , who bring their expertise and heart to every patient interaction. Their work in psychiatry, women’s health, and gender care reflects the very best of what it means to be an NP, leading with empathy, grounding care in

Effective communication lies at the heart of strong relationships in our personal, family, and workplace lives. Despite its importance, many individuals often ignore communication skills until conflicts arise. Whether you want to strengthen existing relationships or improve everyday interactions, therapy can be a transformative tool. This post explores how therapy can enhance your communication skills for deeper connections and better understanding. Understanding Communicatio

In our fast-paced digital world, scrolling through social media feeds or endless articles has become a staple pastime. With the constant influx of information, the act of scrolling can feel almost mesmerizing. But why does this behavior draw us in so deeply? The answer lies in a fascinating blend of psychology and neuroscience, particularly a concept known as the "dopamine loop." Understanding Dopamine Dopamine, a neurotransmitter in our brain, plays a vital role in the rewar

In our busy lives, many of us struggle with feelings of worry and tension. Stress and anxiety often seem similar, but they are different experiences. Knowing how they differ helps us manage our feelings better and seek the right support when necessary. What is Stress? Stress is our body's reaction to challenges or demands from our environment. It can come from work deadlines, family obligations, or major life changes, such as moving to a new city. When we face stress, our bod

Burnout has become a buzzword in recent years, especially as our daily lives become busier and more demanding. More and more people are experiencing feelings of exhaustion, stress, and detachment from what they once enjoyed. By understanding why burnout happens and discovering practical ways to recover, you can find your passion and energy again. What is Burnout? Burnout is an overwhelming state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It ofte

In recent years, the concept of attachment styles has gained significant popularity in psychology and self-help circles. As more...

In today's fast-paced digital world, social media is not just a pastime; it has become a thread that weaves through almost every aspect...

WHO’s Most Recent Statement The World Health Organization recently reviewed the research on acetaminophen (paracetamol) use in pregnancy...