Tips To Prevent Stress and Depression During the Holidays

The holiday season tends to bring on feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety. The National Center for Health Statistics indicates a 15% increase in the number of individuals who actively seek help for emotional disorders during the month of December. Experts attribute this sudden spike in stress to heightened seasonal demands including shopping for gifts, hosting parties, and reuniting with family. Instead of letting the holidays bring you down, follow a few simple steps to battle your stress triggers before they have a chance to snowball out of control.

• Accept Your Feelings
• Clear Your Mind and Just Breathe
• Take Some Time For Yourself
• If You Feel Lonely, Seek Out Support In The Community
• Create a Plan For Activities and Shopping Lists
• Stick To a Budget; Money Can't Buy Happiness.
• Accept Family and Friends As They Are
• Be Understanding If Others Get Upset or Distressed
• It's OK to Say No If You're Feeling Overwhelmed
• Hold On To Healthy Habits; Get Plenty of Sleep and Exercise
• Find New Ways To Celebrate Old Traditions
• Take Off The Pressure: The Holidays Don't Have To Be Perfect
• Seek Professional Help

Remember, here at Gateway Counseling Center, we're here to help you year-round. If you live in the Palm Beach area and are experiencing holiday blues, feel free to give us a call at 561-797-0631.

Grief and Loss; What To Expect When A Loved One Dies

In the event of a death in the family or even the disappearance of a parent in a child's daily life, in divorce, grief begins to set in. Other events that can trigger the highly personalized process (just to name a few) include the loss of a job, beloved pet, lifelong dream, the end of a relationship, and onset of a major illness in a loved one. It is vital not to fight the process, but to allow it to run its course and unfold in its own time.

You may recognize the "Stages of Grief" model from psychology class. The stages occur in no specific order, varying with each unique individual.

1. Denial

You struggle to believe what has just happened, and it doesn't yet seem real. If someone you love has died, you may expect them to walk through the door as though nothing has changed, even though you know they cannot.

2. Bargaining or Guilt

"If only I had..." "I wish I told them..." Common statements expressing regret about things left unsaid, undone, or that could have been done differently arise at this stage in the process, even if nothing could have been helped. You may feel guilty about feelings of relief after a long and difficult illness.

3. Acceptance & Sadness

Often the longest stage in the grief process, deep sadness is also the most universally experienced symptom of grief. During this time you may experience crying and emotional instability.

4. Anger

The loss doesn't seem fair, and someone has to be blamed for it. You may be angry with yourself, God, the doctors, or even the person who died for leaving you. Blaming someone or something for a heavy loss is the redirection sadness into anger.

5. Fear

Losing a loved one can incite a host of fears concerning your own mortality, facing life without that person, or new responsibilities you now face alone.

The most important factor in healing from loss is having the support of others. If your level of grief is more than your support system can assist with, get in touch with us to speak with one of our therapists.

Is Depression Becoming an Issue?

Is depression becoming an issue for you? Are you feeling down most or all of the time? It may be the right time to seek some counseling and reassurance from Gateway Counseling Center. We are located in Boynton Beach, Florida, and we specialize in helping people cope with depression issues. We would like to help you too!

Gateway Counseling Center is well known for helping people in their times of need. Emotional distress is a real factor for many people, and you are not alone if you feel that you may be depressed. Struggling withdepression is a serious battle, and we can help you identify some of the factors in your life that may need to change.

You’re not alone, and we are here to listen to what you have to say. Call Gateway Counseling Center today for a complimentary consultation. We are looking forward to your call! Our phone number is 561-797-0631.

Depression and Anxiety

Depression and Anxiety currently affect millions of American adults. These two conditions are relatively easily treatable, and it’s always good to get treated sooner than later. Those who wait to get treatment often wonder why they waited so long after they finally do! Gateway Counseling specializes in these two disorders, and it’s recommended to come in for a free consultation to discuss your concerns.

You do not have to needlessly suffer from depression or anxiety. Some cases of these conditions can be treated with psychotherapy alone. Sometimes, medication is necessary, and we can help you decide if it might be the right option for your treatment. Each case is specific, and we look forward to helping you on your journey to recovery.

Come in for a free consultation with Gateway Counseling. We are located in Boynton Beach, Florida. Our phone number is 561-797-0631, and you can visit our website to read more about depression and anxiety at: http://www.gatewaycounseling.com/services/depression-anxiety/. We are looking forward to meeting you soon!

Gateway Counseling Saved Our Marriage

When my husband and I started growing apart, we could feel the distance between us. After several years of marriage, we knew we needed to rekindle what we had lost. Gradually, we had begun arguing about non-issues. It felt as if there was trouble in paradise. It was his suggestion that we tried counseling. I was apprehensive at first, but soon realized that this was the best decision we had ever made.

The friendly staff at Gateway Counseling gave us an initial evaluation and saw that we were clearly fighting to save our marriage. They were very supportive of our love for each other, and they helped us confront some of the issues that were facing us. Sometimes, it’s good to have a third person to explain things when it becomes difficult to talk to each other.

We felt very comfortable at Gateway Counseling, and we would recommend it to anyone! You will know when the time comes for counseling. It could be what saves your marriage. If you’re ready, contact Gateway at 561-797-0631 for a consultation. You might thank yourself for the rest of your life!

Gateway Can Help

At Gateway Counseling Center, we look forward to helping you during your time of need. Sometimes, life can be quite overwhelming, and it’s good to speak with an experienced counselor. Here at Gateway, our primary goal is to make a positive impact on your life.

Many people choose counseling as a healthy way to cope with marriage and family issues, depression or anxiety, grief and loss, or to simply achieve overall brain wellness. Counseling can be helpful for adults and children alike, and our experienced staff will help you identify your disorder, and treat you accordingly.

Come to Gateway Counseling Center for a free consultation where we assess your presenting issue, inform you of how we would begin the process of assisting you, and determine your preliminary comfort level with your therapist. We are here to help, and your emotional wellness is our top priority.

Finding the Faith to Heal From Lost Relationships

American Psychiatrist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross identified five stages of grief-- denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Divorce or a failed relationship can bring with it emotions of grief and depression similar to the loss of a loved one through death, along with anger, guilt and a host of other unhealthy feelings. When these feelings become overwhelming at during the dissolution of a relationship--or if they are pervasive and persistent for more than a year--it can be helpful to get a qualified counselor to help get past these stages of mourning your lost union.

Sometimes blending counseling with other faith-renewing activities such as prayer, volunteering, meditation, or attending your church or place of worship can bring hope and the acceptance that is the final stage of grief.

When the cause of a marriage or relationship’s dissolution is infidelity, anger is especially prevalent but there can also be anger at perceived betrayal of the vows of “until death do we part,” especially if one spouse has been supportive to the point of suppressing their own development during many years of marriage. Counseling can help individuals learn to forgive both themselves and their partners, or at least come to terms in ways that bring greater peace.

We are a Christian-based counseling center and encourage each individual to examine spiritual issues and turn to their faith for healing.

Building Effective Communication with Your Partner

Some people seem to be naturally good communicators but effective communication can be a learned skill. Many of our day-to-day activities are working AGAINST building better communication skills. Texting and emails miss the natural timing of real, face-to-face conversations and social messaging like Facebook time is a poor substitute for actual face-time with friends and families. In addition, in most couples, both partners are working full-time jobs and can be burnt out by the time they get home.
 Here are some tips on improving your communication:

1) Listen! It’s easy to tune out when you have other things on your mind. Bring your full attention to the person who’s speaking. Give the speaker partner eye contact. Don’t interrupt. In most couples, there is a dominant speaker and a more quiet partner. Encourage a silent or reticent partner with head nods and short phases such as “mmnn,” “un huh,” and “tell me more.” Be sure you are allowing your partner to share with open-ended questions and asking about their opinions, preference and inquiring about their day. Remember, too, that some people need time to “decompress” and switch gears after the stressors of work. Know your partner and respect their needs.

2) Avoid generalizations like “You always…,” You never…,” etc., especially when in heated conversations. If you’re in the habit of making these sweeping assertions, try substituting phrases like “It feels like you are frequently…,” or “I’ve seen a trend that…”.

3) Check out the body language of your partner. Are they crossing their arms? Nodding in agreement, or looking above your head at something else instead? Are their brows knitted close together? This can mean upset, concern, or concentration. Don’t make assumptions, but instead ask your partner what they’re feeling f their reactions seem ambiguous.

4) Avoid defensiveness. Instead of making excuses or disowning your behavior, acknowledge when your actions may have hurt your partner, and explain your intent. Don’t be afraid to apologize. Contrary to popular sentiment, it enlarges the person who offers a sincere “I’m truly sorry if I have hurt you,” rather than making you weak.

5) Strengthen your relationship by frequently expressing appreciation for kindnesses or even everyday acts of contributing to the household functioning. Think of your relationship like a bank account, where every positive interaction is an investment in your happy future together.

Why Women Cheat...

A recent study shows that a considerable amount of women cheat for the thrill of the affair. Traditionally men have been viewed as being more likely to have an affair. However, the number of women engaged in affairs is steadily rising. This article lends a few background facts to the increase of affairs and how the internet is negatively influencing the trend of cyber affairs. If you or a loved one are suffering from the aftermath of a marital affair and seeking affair recovery counseling contact Gateway Counseling today.

When women cheat, it’s often considered a scandal, and never has cheating been as easy as it is now, when finding a willing partner is a click or a phone tap away. But what drives women to cheat? And do they stray as much and for the same reasons as men? Katherine, whose name has been changed, said she and her husband were married for 14 years. After undergoing major weight loss and multiple plastic surgeries, she began looking for excitement outside of what she said was a stale marriage and turned to AshleyMadison.com, the notorious dating website for “casual encounters.” “I was feeling very lonely one night,” Katherine said. “I was bored, on my phone in the parking lot, sitting in my car, pulled up AshleyMadison, and decided to open my first profile to see what would happen.” 

— Rebecca Jarvis

Boynton Beach Affair Recovery Center

Our Boynton Beach affair recovery center specializes in marriage counseling and affair recovery treatment. The affair recovery counselors at Gateway Counseling take special care in approaching the complex subject of marital affairs. For many couples this process can be challenging and difficult. Navigating the emotional and psychological affects of an affair requires a heightened level of sensitivity and discretion. Our counselors are highly-qualified to walk you through this arduous time. If you're in need of professional help regarding your marriage contact our affair recovery center at 561-797-0631.

Christian Couples Counseling

At Gateway Counseling Center our robust offering of services includes Christian couples counseling. Our practice is both faith-based and clinically professional. A large portion of our clients seek out our support programs because of our infusion of christian principles and intervention in to their counseling treatments. 

"We inform our clients we are Christians and this will influence how we interact with them, such as by viewing them as a person of intrinsic worth and value and believing their life has meaning and purpose."
-Gateway Counseling Center

If you or a loved one are in need of christian couples counseling our expert and highly certified counselors can help. Call our counseling center today for more information, (561) 797-0631.

Discover Hope Again: Depression Counseling

Mood disorders are among the most treatable symptoms for depression counseling. Depression counseling should be strongly considered  if you or a loved one are experiencing five or more of the following symptoms for a major portion of your day for longer than two weeks:

• Overwhelming sadness
• Loss of interest in usual activities
• Weight loss or gain
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Fatigue or low energy
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Trouble concentrating
• Irritability
• Thoughts of suicide

Remember that depression is a treatable illness. Our expert counseling staff is highly trained in the best clinical treatments for major depression. You don't have to face this alone. Feelings of grief and sadness are natural responses to tragic events in life, however,  if you or a loved one strongly identify with the symptoms listed above you may be suffering from a major depression disorder. Our counseling center is here to help you walk through your journey to recovery. Contact us today and discover hope again.

Understanding Bipolar Disorder

 

 Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder is a chronic condition that causes persistent and severe irritability. What may be perceived as a tantrum or temporary crankiness can actually be a serious condition. The guidelines for this disorder were created in an effort to replace childhood bipolar disorder. If you have gone the entirety of your life with undiagnosed bipolar disorder, it can be severely difficult to determine if you have this specific condition. Dealing with bipolar symptoms can be really intimidating and scary, and you should not go through this alone.
      During manic episodes, symptoms can include the following:
           - No need for sleep
           - Impulsive behavior and fast speech
           - Decreased appetite
           - Lack of concentration
           - Heightened irritability
           - Weight loss
           - Inflated sense of self-importance
  Those are examples of what can occur during a manic phase, and the symptoms for a depressed phase has a list that is opposite in action. A depressed phase usually includes feelings of sadness, loss of interest in everyday activities, low self-esteem and negative thoughts. If you or someone close to you is displaying any of these symptoms, contact an experienced counselor today.

How To Tell If Your Relationship Is In Trouble

Each relationship experiences some level of conflict at some point, it is inevitable. How do you know when that conflict is serious? Do you know when it is time for therapy? Read the article below for an exploration on how to tell if your relationship is in trouble.

Many couples will feverously plan a trip or schedule a date night. Unfortunately a couple who has reached the level where they think they have “fallen out of love” (whatever that means!) is likely to find that date night commitments all too frequently lose their fervor. The memories of a crucial romantic vacation will have faded within a month of the couple’s return to the reality of career, home, and family. They return to the demands of parenting or career challenges and find themselves once again on the treadmill of life. “Date night” – or romantic getaways – usually prove to be only a small band aid for big crises.

— Read More At Psyhcentral.com

Ways To Help Loved Ones With Depression

Depression can cause a sudden change of behavior, and this can be unsettling for an outsider, especially for someone with limited experience in this department. You may have the first instinct to stay away from a person who is displaying symptoms, but resist this instinct and press on. This in-depth article explains exactly how to deal with a loved one who suffers from depression.

Whenever one of my kids gets sick or injured, I start in with a series of questions: Where does it hurt? How long have you felt bad? Does anything make it worse (besides school)? Does anything make it better (besides ice-cream)? Just by asking a few basic questions, I can usually get enough information to determine a plan of action.

— Read More At Psychcentral.com

Reduced Sleep From PTSD Results In Lower Physical Activity

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, can cause a disturbance in sleep patterns, which in turn leads to reduced physical activity. This development was found during a recent study, and lowered physical activity can affect other areas of one's life in a negative way. Read more about this study below...

“This study adds to the literature that shows that better sleep leads to healthier levels of exercise, and previous research has shown that better sleep leads to healthier food choices,” said American Academy of Sleep Medicine President Dr. Timothy Morgenthaler. “It is clear that healthy sleep is an essential ingredient in the recipe for a healthy life.”

— Read More At Psychcentral.com

Exercise Shown To Help Those With Social Anxiety

Social anxiety can be a very frustrating thing to endure, especially when all you want to do is make the people around you happy. Once you start feeling the anxiety build up, the only thing that you want to do is escape, alone. A recent study showed that exercise can help ease the tension of social anxiety. Read more about this below...

“We wanted to examine whether people would perceive their environment as less threatening after engaging in physical exercise or after doing a relaxation technique that is similar to the breathing exercises in yoga (called progressive muscle relaxation),” Heenan said. “We found that people who either walked or jogged on a treadmill for 10 minutes perceived these ambiguous figures as facing towards them (the observer) less often than those who simply stood on the treadmill.

— Read More At Psychcentral.com

Mental Hospital In Oregon Tries To Reunite Remains With Family Members

Mental health used to be a murky topic, often avoided or mistreated due to lack of understanding. In Salem, Oregon, a mental health hospital that was used in the filming of "One Flew Over A Cuckoo's Nest" housed the remains of its patients for years. The ashes were kept in urns for thousands of patients, and the hospital has been trying to reunite people with their loved ones for a long time. Read more about this below...

"No one wants to be laid to rest without some kind of acknowledgement that they were here, that they contributed, that they lived," said state Senate President Peter Courtney, who led a successful effort to replace the hospital and build the memorial.

— See More At Huffington Post

Understanding Depression

 Feeling depressed for a day or week is an entirely different scenario compared to clinical depression, and sometimes people who suffer from this every day do not get the attention they need. Because of certain literature or music portraying the helplessness that accompanies certain situations, some feel that depression is situation-based or seasonal. While this can be the case for certain people, others suffer from serious clinical depression.

How can you tell the difference between situation-based depression and clinical? It is very difficult to differentiate between the two, but some symptoms include:

-          Feeling irritated or sad every day, regardless of the scene

-          A marked lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed

-          Noticeable weight gain or weight loss

-          Insomnia every day

-          Chronic fatigue

-          Unexplained guilt or anger toward loved ones

-          Inability to concentrate

-          Feelings of worthlessness

-          Thoughts of death on a daily basis

If you feel like any of these symptoms are taking over your life, contact an experienced therapist today. Talking to someone who has a background in dealing with depression alternatively can make all the difference in your recovery.

Questions You Should Ask Yourself To Help With Anxiety And Depression

When battling anxiety or depression it can be a common occurence to wonder what is wrong with you, or what is missing from your life. Asking the same questions every time you experience an episode is only going to perpetuate the feeling of hopelessness and despair.It can help to change the question you ask yourself, and this article explores that option.

Whereas we might not know the exact reasons that a 16-year-old boy is plagued with intrusive thoughts of his perfectly healthy mother dying unless he performs repetitive washing and checking rituals, we know why the fear persists. The very act of giving into the fear by performing these compulsions combined with his mother being alive serve to validate the obsessions. This knowledge can help a therapist to develop a treatment approach that weakens this loop.

— Read More At Huffington Post

What Three Weeks Can Teach You About Despair

Sometimes reading about other cultures can open our minds to alternate forms of recovering from a loss. In Judaism, there is a period of time known as Three Weeks, and it is a time to mourn destruction and express sorrow. This can teach a person to move on from grief, and shows one how to view a loss as a new beginning. The article below will explain this period of time and how it can help you start over.

We all know that whatever we focus on, direct more of our energy towards, tends to manifest more and more in our lives. While it is absolutely true that painful feelings may need to be addressed, talked through, worked out, it is also very important to focus on positive aspects of your life as well as positive aspects of your person.

— See More At Psychcentral.com