Mental Health Hotline Articles

Addressing Jealousy in Therapy
Jealousy — not to be confused with envy — rears its head when we think something we value is going to be taken away. Envy is wanting what someone else has, but jealousy is usually related to intangibles. You don’t feel jealous about a vacation someone is going on, but

Recognizing Projection as a Defense Mechanism
Developed over 100 years ago, the concept of defense mechanisms is one of Sigmund Freud’s most useful psychoanalytical theories. He suggested that people use defense mechanisms — repression, projection, regression and reaction formation — to protect themselves from uncomfortable feelings, such as guilt, shame and anxiety. While psychologists have since

How to Recognize Self-Sabotage
Have you ever felt the whole world was working against you but couldn’t pinpoint exactly whom to blame? Well, perhaps it’s not the world; it’s you. Almost everyone self-sabotages to some degree, even if it’s something as small as procrastinating on an important task. But when you self-sabotage on a

Conflict Resolution Therapies
Conflict between individuals is a normal part of life. While most people don’t find it too difficult to talk through differences and reach common ground, those struggling with mental health or a substance abuse disorder may not be able to reach an agreement on their own. This is where conflict

The Stress of Parenting on Mental Health
Parenting is one of the hardest and most important jobs in life. Studies have shown a third of parents experience high levels of regular stress compared to just 20% of other adults. Whether it’s chauffeuring children to and from extracurricular activities or enduring sleepless nights with a new baby, parents

The Impact of Toxic Relationships on Your Mental Health
If you experience heightened feelings of anxiety or stress around a certain loved one, you may be in a toxic relationship. A toxic relationship is any relationship affecting your mental health, self-esteem or overall well-being, whether it’s with a family member, a friend or a romantic partner. These relationships can