The Fight-or-Flight Response: A Chemical Chain Reaction At the heart of anxiety is the autonomic nervous system, particularly the sympathetic nervous system, which controls involuntary reactions to stress. When the brain perceives a threat, the amygdala—the part of the brain responsible for processing emotions—sends a distress signal to the hypothalamus. This, in turn, activates the… Continue reading
What Is Sound Sensitivity in ADHD? Many people with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) experience heightened sensitivity to sounds. Everyday noises that others barely notice—such as a ticking clock, background conversations, or a distant siren—can feel overwhelming. Sound sensitivity in ADHD, often referred to as hyperacusis or auditory hypersensitivity, can make daily life more challenging for individuals… Continue reading
Specific phobias are strong, overwhelming fears of certain objects or situations. These fears can disrupt everyday life, but with proper treatment, it is possible to overcome them—even to the point where the fear response is completely extinguished. In this article, we explain what specific phobias are, detail the DSM-5 subtypes, and discuss treatment options that… Continue reading
Orthorexia is a term used to describe an unhealthy obsession with eating foods that one considers to be healthy. While it may initially seem like a positive pursuit—striving for better nutrition—it can have serious consequences for both physical and mental well-being. Unlike other eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia, orthorexia focuses more on the… Continue reading
Facing a serious health condition can be one of the most challenging experiences in life. Whether it’s a chronic illness, a life-altering diagnosis, or a sudden health crisis, the emotional and psychological toll can be overwhelming. While medical treatments focus on physical healing, therapy can play a crucial role in addressing the mental and emotional… Continue reading
In therapy, the connection between a client and their therapist often plays an important role in the success of the therapeutic process. This bond, commonly referred to as the therapeutic relationship, serves as the foundation for creating a safe and supportive space where change can take place. What is the Therapeutic Relationship? The therapeutic relationship… Continue reading
Guilt is a natural emotion that arises when we feel we’ve done something wrong or failed to meet our own or others’ expectations. While it can sometimes motivate us to make amends or improve, excessive guilt can take a toll on our mental health, and taking control of guilt becomes an important topic for many…. Continue reading
Starting therapy can feel like a big step, and it’s natural to have questions before diving in. Whether you’re seeking counseling for personal growth, mental health support, or dealing with a specific challenge, asking the right questions beforehand can help you feel more confident and prepared. Here’s a guide to what you might want to… Continue reading
Overthinking is something many of us experience from time to time. It’s that cycle of worrying about a decision or replaying past events in our minds. While some reflection is healthy, overthinking can become a habit that affects our mental health, making us feel anxious, stressed, and overwhelmed. What Is Overthinking? Overthinking is when we… Continue reading
The cognitive triad is a fundamental concept in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), a widely-used approach to treating mental health issues like depression and anxiety. This concept was developed by psychiatrist Aaron Beck in the 1960s. It serves as a framework for understanding how our thoughts can affect our emotions and behaviours. The cognitive triad refers… Continue reading