North Central Behavioral Health Systems has recently launched our Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program in Ottawa, aiming to provide comprehensive care for individuals coping with substance use disorders. This evidence-based treatment method integrates FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies.
From a Therapist / Stress Advice and Tips for the Holiday Season
Define stress: According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), stress is defined as the brain’s response to a demand.
Our Body’s Response to Stress: Each individual responds to stress differently. Some common responses include: digestive issues, headaches, feelings of sadness, feeling lethargic, irritability and difficulty sleeping.
From a Therapist / Stressed vs Dessert
Have you ever noticed that the word stressed spelled backwards spells desserts? Think of the last time you had a really good dessert. You slowed down, savored the flavor and enjoyed it.
In recognition of Mental Health Month, I am encouraging you to add a little dessert to your day as an effort to reduce stress. Not the high caloric type but the type that adds positive life skills to your every day life.
Here are some examples of what you can do:
From a Therapist / Healthy Living: How Our Lifestyles Impact Our Behavior
What comes to mind when you think of taking risks with your health – driving recklessly, or maybe abusing alcohol or illegal drugs? Those behaviors are very risky but many people have less dramatic behaviors that are just as dangerous in the long run. Tobacco use, unbalanced nutrition and a lack of physical activity are some of the key risk factors for the most common causes of death.
The top 10 causes of death include:
From a Therapist / Dealing with Situational Stress
There are certain strategies that an individual can use when faced with everyday stressful situations. One thing to keep in mind is that these situations are unavoidable and will appear often throughout one's day.From a Therapist / Dealing with Holiday Stress
Oftentimes the holidays will bring about a certain level of unwanted stress in our lives. If not dealt with in an effective and healthy way this stress and depression can often ruin our holidays and impact our health. Being realistic, planning ahead and seeking support from others can help ward off stress and depression.
