Anxiety and Summer Camp- what parents can do and say (and not do/say) to prepare their kids for a great camp experience

The dating experience can so quickly turn from an exciting rush to a discouraging source of pain. What can initially seem fun, freeing and rewarding can often become a huge source of insecurity. Sometimes it is the amount of time it takes. "What if I am the problem?" Other times, the dating pool can be…less than desirable. "Maybe my standards are too high and I just need to deal with it." These thoughts are not uncommon but I do believe they are mistaken. I often hear that dating in our modern culture results in people either compromising their standards or becoming jaded and hurt over and over. What if there was an approach that could result in feeling confident, healthy, and valued, despite the outcome of your next match or date? What if your overall dating experience was more based on your decisions rather than the 'yes or no' of someone else?

You’ve dreamed of taking your new baby to the beach or pool, both of you dressed in cute swimsuits, or of strolling around your town with friends and iced coffee. But now that your first summer is approaching with your baby, you feel… scared? Isolated? All of a sudden aware of the risks of heat exhaustion or dehydration and of your postpartum body?

When we think about OCD, we often think about the stereotypical person who is a perfectionist, has a color-coded closet, and is easily annoyed if something is out of place. I often hear "I'm so OCD" but people often misunderstand that just because you are tidy doesn't mean you have OCD. If it was that minimal, those of us who had it would be relieved!

It's finally that time of year again – no more homework, just endless days of sun-soaked fun with friends or family getaways! Sounds like paradise, doesn't it? But hold on a sec... let's talk about the downside of all that freedom. Kids are on summer break but their mental health never takes a break. Without some structure, our kiddos might start feeling lost or bored. Let's make sure this summer is unforgettable for all the right reasons by keeping things organized, supportive, and exciting!

“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to Me. Get away with Me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with Me and work with Me - watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with Me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” Mathew 11:28-30 MSG

How might our beloved four-legged friends enhance the therapy process? Well, research shows there are quite a lot of benefits to having dogs around during therapy…

You’re feeling like you want to make changes in your life. Perhaps a loved one, a colleague or even your children said your behavior and emotions are showing up different than in the past. Finally, you decide it’s time for therapy. As you start checking into it, you see everything from large companies to boutique services but have no idea what’s best for you.