Blog posts, news articles, and other resources from The Center • A Place of HOPE
There is a severe health epidemic happening in America: the widespread epidemic of chronic stress. In the American Psychological Association’s 2023 report, around 25% of Americans rated their stress levels as eight or above on a scale of one to ten[1]. We tend to try to dismiss or ignore stress;...
This article is a comprehensive guide to identifying and breaking free from trauma bonds. As well as helping individuals to recognize the signs of a trauma bond in their relationships, the article covers the psychological dynamics at play. It offers guidance on seeking professional help, establishing healthy boundaries, and nurturing...
Burnout is so pervasive in American society today that it’s almost normalized. Three in 5 U.S. employees report burnout, which is even higher in certain professions[1]. Stress and burnout are often dismissed as natural parts of working life, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Although burnout is very...
In the hustle and bustle of modern life, we’re all affected by stress to some degree. But gender inequalities in responsibilities and privileges can make stress feel even more unbearable for women – and it should come as no surprise women are much more likely to live under high stress...
This article defines and explains the concept of 'trauma dumping' - the act of unloading one's traumatic experiences onto others without consent or awareness. It also provides advice on how to handle situations where someone is trauma dumping, both as the sharer and the listener, while maintaining healthy boundaries. What...
This article explains what a trauma bond is, highlighting its characteristics and how it differs from healthy emotional attachments. It delves into the psychological underpinnings of trauma bonds, such as the cycle of abuse and intermittent reinforcement, and discusses why these bonds can be so powerful and hard to break....
Seattle’s winters are known to be dark and rainy. The days are short and gloomy, and many people find their mood negatively impacted. You could even develop depression symptoms that go away when the sun returns in the summer. But did you know the darkness of the winter months could...
Transitions and change mark life. Life transitions, such as changes in living situation, career, or relationship status, are inherently accompanied by uncertainty and stress. And while transitions are a standard part of life, for those living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), they can become intense triggers for worsening symptoms. If you’re...
The impact of traumatic experiences in life can be far-reaching. Unresolved traumatic experiences can manifest in our most intimate relationships, leading to trust issues, sexual dysfunction, or aversion. These can then be further complicated by online infidelity or addiction to online pornography - often a result of the earlier trauma....
Do you ever have nightmares about the Covid-19 pandemic? Or do intrusive thoughts or memories pop up that make it difficult to function? Have you been having difficulty concentrating in the past few years? If so, you may be dealing with pandemic-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Several years into the...
The power of nature and gardening as a therapeutic practice can be transformative for those who have experienced trauma. This article will delve into the profound benefits of gardening, focusing on grounding, mindfulness, and nurturing life. It will also explore the science behind why it's such a transformative practice for...
Healing Spaces: Creating Environments That Facilitate Trauma Recovery This article explores how designing and creating a physical environment, like a calming and safe living space, can support trauma recovery. Elements such as color psychology, space optimization, and including elements of nature for a healing ambience are all discussed, as is...
This article discusses the interplay between trauma and substance abuse, exploring how one can exacerbate the other and offering guidance on holistic approaches to treatment that address both issues simultaneously. What is trauma? Trauma is a psychological and emotional response to a distressing or disturbing event or series of events...
What is the connection between the gut and mental health conditions like anxiety? This article gives an insight into how the gut-brain axis can influence anxiety levels and mental well-being and how improving gut health has the potential to alleviate symptoms. The mind-gut connection Increasingly, researchers have been exploring the...
Suppose you’re one of the millions of people who live with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In that case, you already know how difficult it can make your everyday life. The unique challenges of living with OCD often extend into the workplace, and many people say their OCD symptoms are even worse...
Processing trauma is a complex and deeply personal journey, often marked by emotional distress and a range of psychological challenges. In this context, mindfulness practices offer a profound and invaluable resource for those seeking healing and recovery. In this article, we will explore why mindfulness practices can be profoundly helpful...
In the wake of unprecedented global events, remote work has shifted to become much more ‘normal’. Far removed from the traditional office setting, the virtual realm has opened new doors of flexibility and adaptability. While the advantages of remote work are huge, it’s important to consider the mental health implications....
As with all transitions from one life stage to the next, menopause can impact mental health in a variety of ways. This article looks at how hormonal changes during menopause can influence mood and mental health, as well as outlining some of the treatment options available. What is menopause? Menopause...
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The whole person approach to treatment integrates all aspects of a person’s life: