Summer is a time to relax and recharge, but it can also be a period where children and teens struggle to maintain balance. While it’s important for young people to have freedom from the rigid structure of school, too much unstructured time can lead to feelings of boredom, isolation, or even anxiety. According to social psychologist Jonathan Haidt, a balanced life includes opportunities for growth, both mentally and emotionally. Haidt’s research emphasizes the importance of pr

Anxiety is a natural and ancient part of your body’s survival system. It’s closely tied to the fight-or-flight response —the mechanism that kicks in during emergencies to keep you safe. At its core, anxiety acts as a warning signal, alerting you to potential danger. However, this system isn’t perfect. Sometimes, your brain misinterprets non-threatening situations—like a math test, a presentation, or even a date—as life-threatening. When that happens, anxiety can feel overwhel

Today I had my regular bi-weekly on-line conversation with a colleague. Usually there are 3 of us who meek regularly to talk about difficult cases. We also talk about kids, partners, hobbies, interesting articles or movies – pretty much everything becomes a learning experience as we seek to become better at our craft. I almost cancelled today because I was in a funk. It’s been raining for days on end, and I’d had an unpleasant conversation with my partner earlier that m

The transition to college marks a huge milestone—not just for students, but for their parents too. While your child is learning to navigate independence, regular communication with you can remain a powerful source of support. Research from Washington State University shows that students who maintain regular contact with their parents report lower stress levels, reduced anxiety and depression, and even fewer high-risk behaviors like excessive drinking. However, there’s a balan