Video Welcome From Debbie: Treating Depression, Anxiety, Divorce Recovery

2011-10-11 13-01-35.115

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Are You Ready to Make a Counseling Appointment?

My clients enjoy my luxurious, discreet counseling atmosphere in a beautiful cottage surrounded by trees and birds.  Unlike the average therapist who answers to insurance companies regarding your care, I have a specialized, fee-only practice for the discriminating adult who is looking for the highest standards in confidentiality (no insurance accepted) and expertise. I am an experienced, senior level therapist who offers a unique therapy experience, including articles, email support, and direct, practical suggestions.

I am very experienced in the divorce process, having taught classes for District Judges in counties all over Texas on this subject. If you are looking for divorce help, divorce counseling, and divorce support, my services are available with one phone call to 214-410-0435  or email to ddevine@DevineRelaxation.com .

If you need compassionate guidance to deal with your relationships with a mate, parents, or others–perhaps you are working on your marriage alone because your mate won’t come to counseling– or if you are struggling with anxiety, pain, sleep issues, or depression, please don’t wait. Call me today at 214-410-0435 or email me with your questions at ddevine@DevineRelaxation.com . Remember: your world changes when YOU change.

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Depression Counseling in Rockwall Texas

Could You Have Seasonal Affective Disorder?

1)      Increased desire to sleep

2)      Craving high-carbohydrate foods

3)      Sadness

4)      Decreased energy levels during short winter days

5)      Winter weight gain

Remedies  include: exercise, increasing your exposure to outdoor light (even on cloudy days), using bright lights inside, light therapy boxes, postponing ambitious resolutions until spring,  and other skills I can give you for coping.

The use of antidepressants among Americans has increased 400 percent since the late 1980s, yet less than a third of those taking a drug have seen a mental health professional in the last year.

Taking medication for anxiety or depression without concurrent” talk” therapy is merely masking the problem without a long term solution.

New Year’s Resolutions?

Maybe Not…

Winter’s short days and cold weather, coupled with post-holiday exhaustion, may mean this is not your best time to begin ambitious changes. Set very small goals in the beginning, and applaud your success as you go.

 

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Holiday Help: Counseling for Depression or Anxiety

 

Eight Ways to De-Stress the Holidays

1.       Turn off the news. Light candles and play music.

2.       Keep a “success list” every day. Notice what gets done, not what doesn’t.

3.       Focus on the things you like in your life. You’ll get more of them.

4.       Take a 20 minute walk. Natural light and exercise can improve mood.

5.       Take a short nap.

6.       Breathe in to a count of 4. Hold 4, then release, breathing out to a count of 4. Repeat often. This will help relieve anxiety and control panic attacks.

7.       Stay aware of the meaning the holidays have for you.

8.       Never miss a counseling appointment.

 

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Dealing with Holidays, Family, Depression and Anxiety

 

1. Remind yourself that people are under more pressure and are going to be harder to get along with on special days.

2. If you choose to speak up-and “rocking the boat” is NOT a bad thing—use an “I message.” Example: Mom, I feel hurt when you criticize my cooking.

3. Try to have those “I message” conversations privately and directly with the person who has offended you. Avoid the words “always” and “never.” After all, no one is ALWAYS guilty of something

4. Avoid being drawn into family triangles. A triangle is where people discuss another family member behind their back. It may feel good to be included, but it almost always comes back to haunt you later when you indulge in gossip. If someone attempts to draw you in, excuse yourself and invent an urgent gravy emergency.

5. If the dinner is at your house, you have the right to set all rules and boundaries, such as no alcohol,  no smoking inside, etc. Be polite but firm. The rules are always the choice of the host/hostess: the guest’s choice is whether or not to attend.

6. Get outside for a walk, or at least a deep breath of fresh air. Remind yourself that it’s only one day. Promise yourself a relaxing treat later (such as a hot bath, TV show, good book). This will help manage your depression or anxiety.

7. Try to look past the person’s irritating manner to the wounds that cause the actions. This does not mean you don’t speak up, it simply means you speak up calmly.

8. Thank your hostess profusely. You have no idea how much time and effort it takes unless you’ve done it yourself!

9. Spend some time being thankful and enjoying the people you love.

10. Never skip our appointments during the holiday season, no matter how busy you are. Like sleep and exercise, your sessions are essential to keeping you in balance and moving forward.

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