It has officially been one year since our world was flipped upside down as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Countries had to close their borders, businesses closed or drastically changed their hours or work protocols, and people everywhere began isolating themselves at home in efforts to control the spread of the virus. So much has happened since March of...[ read more ]
It's amazing how gracefully you've been carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. You make it look easy- but it's not. You've been dealt with so much; a pandemic, a family to take care of, bills to pay, a job you must show up at, and burnout because you've been stretching yourself thin trying to make everything work....[ read more ]
There are major circumstances that can happen to us, out of nowhere, that turn our world upside down and make it feel like our whole life is falling apart. Whether you are experiencing a divorce, a huge life change such as moving, a new job, loss of a friendship, a breakup, death of a loved one, or personal severe illness...[ read more ]
March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and as a chronic illness specialist and patient advocate, I believe it is important to talk about conditions that affect many, especially conditions that are rather common, yet not often discussed. I have been humbled by my experience meeting the brave and resilient women who are living with endometriosis. Endometriosis is a very painful condition-...[ read more ]
While every person with a chronic illness is different, and even two people who have the same condition can experience it very differently, many people do experience various changes in their lives. These changes can be frustrating, anxiety provoking, and confusing. Naturally, with such change, as well as unknowns, individuals with chronic illness can start to experience symptoms of anxiety....[ read more ]
A friend of mine injured his back a few weeks ago. He is unsure how, but it is likely an injury from the gym- one that has remained for weeks, resulting in constant pain. My phone lit up with a text from him- "So, chronic pain makes you crazy." Knowing I am a chronic pain/chronic illness specialist, he wasn't surprised...[ read more ]
Sometimes, it can all get to be too much. In today's fast paced, technology driven, sometimes disconnected world, it makes sense that we can feel overwhelmed. If you pair together a life stress (or two or three), with the demands of our jobs, taking care of family members, trying to care for ourselves, and the news and social media infiltrating...[ read more ]
It is a common misconception that anxiety is an obvious thing that anyone could see or tell they are feeling. Many times, someone may not realize they, their family member, or their child is experiencing anxiety when it is showing up as a physical symptom or an emotion that isn't outward, obvious panic. The good news is, no matter how anxiety...[ read more ]
"Depression is being colorblind and constantly told how colorful the world is." - Atticus Through my years being a therapist, I've had the honor of holding space with individuals who are experiencing depression. I've been a first- hand witness of the secret life of depression: how it looks different on everyone, the telltale signs it will show, the lies it tells,...[ read more ]
When you are diagnosed with an illness, it can be a scary, overwhelming, confusing time. You may find yourself feeling lost and lonely while you try to navigate a new world, with new habits, changes to your daily schedule, and things to consider, on top of symptoms that may be uncomfortable or debilitating. Here are 4 suggestions to consider while...[ read more ]
