As the days grow shorter and sunlight becomes less abundant, many people notice changes in their mood, energy, and motivation. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs in a seasonal pattern, most commonly during the fall and winter months.
Understanding seasonal affective disorder and learning effective coping strategies can help individuals maintain emotional wellness during these darker months.
Practicing gratitude is more than just saying “thank you”, it’s a powerful tool for enhancing emotional wellness and building resilience. Gratitude and mental health are closely connected, and taking the time to recognize and appreciate positive aspects of life can create lasting benefits for mood, stress management, and overall well-being. At Chenal Family Therapy, we believe that cultivating gratitude can be an essential component of a balanced and fulfilling life.
Adolescence is a challenging time for many young people, but LGBTQ youth often face additional stressors related to identity, acceptance, and social pressures. Supporting LGBTQ teens in their mental health journey is essential to helping them thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
By understanding the unique challenges LGBTQ youth face and providing compassionate guidance, caregivers and mental health professionals can make a meaningful difference.
Depression in men often goes unrecognized, in part because societal expectations can make it difficult for men to express vulnerability or seek help. While anyone can experience depression, understanding the unique signs of depression in men is essential for early intervention.
Men may display symptoms differently than women, and recognizing these early symptoms of depression can make a significant difference in outcomes. Early recognition can prevent depression from worsening and help men regain control over their emotional health before challenges impact relationships, work, or daily life.
Losing a pregnancy can feel like the world stops spinning. While the physical healing may be visible and monitored, the emotional journey is often quieter, more private, and far less acknowledged. At Chenal Family Therapy, we know how deeply miscarriage can impact a person’s emotional and mental well-being, often in ways that others may not see or fully understand.
If you’ve experienced pregnancy loss, it’s important to remember: your grief is valid. Your pain deserves support. And your mental health matters.
Career changes are more than a shift in job title or workplace, they often come with deep emotional experiences and identity questions. Whether it’s a voluntary decision or a transition brought on by external circumstances, career changes can feel destabilizing. At...
We often think of nutrition as something that only affects our physical health, energy levels, digestion, weight, but what we eat plays an equally important role in our emotional well-being. At Chenal Family Therapy, we believe in caring for the whole person. That...
Becoming a mother is one of the most profound transitions a woman can experience. It brings love, connection, and joy—but it can also bring exhaustion, anxiety, and an unexpected sense of isolation. At Chenal Family Therapy, we understand that this season of life is...
Retirement brings with it the promise of rest, freedom, and new beginnings. But for many, it also carries an unexpected challenge: loneliness. After years of structure, routine, and daily interaction, the quiet of retirement can feel more isolating than peaceful. At...
Life after military service can be complex. For many veterans, the transition to civilian life brings challenges that are both visible and invisible. Physical changes, emotional adjustments, and deep mental health concerns. At Chenal Family Therapy, we understand that...
Setting boundaries is an essential part of maintaining emotional well-being and fostering healthy relationships. Yet, many people struggle with feelings of guilt when they try to establish limits with others. Whether it's with family, friends, or colleagues, learning...
Starting therapy is a deeply personal decision, and finding the right type of therapy can feel overwhelming. With so many types of therapy available, understanding what each type offers can help you make an informed choice that aligns with your needs and goals....
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can feel overwhelming, leaving those who experience it caught in a cycle of fear, anxiety, and distress. The effects of trauma can linger, impacting daily life, relationships, and overall...
Adolescence is a time of growth, self-discovery, and change. But for many teens, it can also be a period of overwhelming emotions and mental health challenges. As a parent, caregiver, or loved one, watching a teen struggle can be heartbreaking, leaving you wondering...
Stress is an inevitable part of life, but when left unmanaged, it can take a toll on even the strongest relationships. Whether it stems from work pressures, financial concerns, or personal struggles, stress has a way of seeping...
Infidelity can be one of the most devastating experiences in a relationship, shaking the foundation of trust that holds a couple together. However, rebuilding trust after betrayal is possible with time, commitment, and the right approach. If you have committed the...
Arkansas, known as the “Natural State,” offers countless opportunities to connect with nature – and these experiences are more than just scenic. Studies show that spending time outside can significantly improve emotional well-being. Whether it’s hiking, fishing, or...
Co-parenting after divorce is rarely easy, but with the right approach, Arkansas parents can create a peaceful and stable environment for their children. Understanding how to navigate shared custody, manage emotions, and maintain open communication is key to success....
Youth mental health has become a growing concern in Arkansas schools. With rising rates of anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral challenges among students, districts across the state are working to strengthen their support systems. Arkansas schools are...
As Arkansas experienced rapid economic growth, many residents are navigating new challenges when it comes to balancing career ambitions and personal well-being. With more job opportunities, a surge in remote work, and booming industries across the state, stress levels...
The link between physical exercise and mental health is well-established, with research showing that regular movement benefits both the body and the mind. Exercise has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve mood, enhance cognitive function,...
Understanding the Challenges of Mental Health in Rural Communities Mental health in rural communities is a growing concern, with many individuals facing significant barriers to accessing care. From limited resources to social stigma, rural residents often struggle to...
Dealing with substance abuse in the family can be a deeply emotional and challenging experience. It often brings feelings of confusion, frustration, and even hopelessness. However, with the right approach, you can provide meaningful support to your loved one while...
Caring for an elderly loved one is an act of devotion and compassion, but it can also be a source of stress and emotional exhaustion. Whether you’re balancing work, family, and caregiving duties or navigating difficult decisions about your loved one’s health, managing...
Building strong family relationships requires effort, understanding, and communication. One key skill that can transform family dynamics is emotional intelligence (EI). Emotional intelligence – the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions – plays a...
Creating a supportive and understanding environment for LGBTQ+ family members is crucial for their emotional well-being and overall mental health. For many individuals, coming out or expressing their identity can be accompanied by significant challenges, including...
Sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, yet millions struggle with getting enough quality rest. From difficulty falling asleep to waking up frequently during the night, sleep disorders can take a toll on physical, emotional, and mental health. But how...
The connection between nutrition and mental health is gaining recognition as researchers uncover the profound impact diet has on emotional well-being. What you eat not only affects your physical health but also plays a pivotal role in shaping your mood, energy levels,...
Burnout is more than just feeling tired; it’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. You may feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet daily demands. If you’re experiencing burnout, effective...
Life transitions – such as starting a new career, getting married, having children, experiencing a breakup, or even moving to a new city – can be exciting yet overwhelming. These significant changes often come with a complex mix of emotions, including stress, anxiety,...
Family therapy can be an invaluable recourse in the support of children's mental health. Family therapy is a form of talk therapy that focuses on the improvement of interfamilial relationships and behaviors. A strong family dynamic, full of people that care about...
Seasonal Affective Disorder, which can also be known as seasonal depression or SAD, is a condition that many people in Arkansas will experience in their lifetime. As the seasons change, some may experience significant changes in their moods. Seasonal Affective...
We’ve all been there. Life feels like it isn’t going our way, or maybe we just feel down in the dumps about ourselves and the things happening around us. It is easy to fall into a negative mindset sometimes, especially when life is in one of its hardest seasons....
At times, anger can make you feel like you’re not in control of your own life, and rather at the mercy of unpredictable and powerful emotions. Anger is a natural emotion, we all feel it from time to time. The emotion itself varies from what could be described as...
When life enters unprecedented territory, things start to feel a little… wild. For most people, losing or leaving their jobs can set their whole life off balance. Money may become tight, the job market is even tighter, and with the rising costs of living, being...
With rising costs of living, tight job markets, and unprecedented times, financial stress is amongst the top kinds of stress Americans are experiencing today. Money is needed to put clothes on our backs, food on our table, us and our children in school, and so much...
earn how social media can negatively impact mental health. Explore the effects of online interactions and discover strategies to maintain a healthy digital balance
Uncover the key goals in therapy and how they can help you achieve personal growth. Learn about setting and reaching meaningful objectives for mental health improvement.
“Discover why attending therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. Learn how seeking professional help can empower you and improve your mental well-being.
In our modern era, the flow of information is unending, with news updates available 24/7 through various media outlines and digital platforms. While this can keep us well-informed about global events, it also exposes us to a continuous stream of often negative and distressing news.
Grief, the emotional response to loss, is a natural human experience. While it’s often associated with the death of a loved one, grief can also arise from other significant losses like divorce, job termination, or a serious illness. The intensity and duration of grief...
Therapy can be a very powerful tool for personal growth and positive change. But like any worthwhile endeavor, you might benefit from having a clear direction in mind when undergoing therapy. This is where setting therapy goals comes in! What are therapy goals?...
Do you ever lie awake at night, replaying worries and stressors from your day? Do you wake up feeling exhausted? If so, you’re definitely not alone. Many people struggle with the frustrating combination of a racing mind and restless body when trying to sleep at night....
How many times per day do you hear the word “stress”? It’s a familiar word for most of us, used so often in so many different contexts that its true impact is sometimes dismissed. In reality, stress is far more than just the feeling of being overwhelmed. It’s a...
Relationships can be a complicated journey– and along this journey, couples inevitably face challenges that can strain their connection. Couples counseling might be a scary prospect to some, but it is in fact a reliable source of support, offering couples practical...
Life can often be overwhelming– we probably don’t have to tell you that! But when it does, seeking support is a commendable sign of strength, not weakness. Therapy offers a safe and constructive space for individuals who are feeling overwhelmed to find relief and gain...
Society and popular culture are increasingly recognizing the importance of mental health, and taking steps to break free from the shackles of stigma surrounding therapy. However, stigma surrounding mental health issues– and around seeking therapy– still exists....
Men face unique challenges when it comes to addressing their mental health. The world seems to emphasize the importance of stoicism and self-reliance for men, which means that the stigma surrounding mental health issues can be particularly pronounced for them. Despite...
Forgiveness is a challenging act, but it’s also profound– and it can make a big difference in the journey toward healing. While you aren’t obligated to forgive anyone or anything, it might be beneficial to understand the emotional and psychological benefits that...
Healing is a long journey. Self-love and self-compassion are two impactful parts of this journey that are too-often overlooked– but cultivating these qualities can contribute to overall wellbeing and emotional recovery, fostering a transformative journey toward...
Setting boundaries is an essential practice for maintaining emotional safety and wellbeing, especially after experiencing emotional abuse. Understanding the principles of healthy boundaries, and learning how to implement them, can help you regain control of your...
Most of us have experienced some kind of emotional trauma in our lives. This means that just about everyone can benefit from emotional healing; emotional healing is an essential aspect of overall wellbeing. It can help us address past wounds, manage stress, and foster...
SemiPrivatePractice, LLC is a peer-support coaching organization for therapy practices, founded by former CFT CEO Ken Clark, LMFT
