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Elements of life as a game:
Rules: The laws of the universe and social norms serve as the game's rules. 
Challenges/Levels: Obstacles and difficulties are seen as challenges or levels to overcome and "level up". 
Goals: Personal goals and aspirations can be viewed as objectives to strive for. 
Successes/Failures: Achievements are seen as rewards, while failures are considered lessons to be learned from. 
Strategy and Choices: Players are encouraged to strategize, make choices, and take responsibility for their actions. 
Personalization: Individuals can create their own "win conditions" and "worlds" by deciding what winning looks like for them.

Elements of life as a game:
Rules: The laws of the universe and social norms serve as the game's rules. 
Challenges/Levels: Obstacles and difficulties are seen as challenges or levels to overcome and "level up". 
Goals: Personal goals and aspirations can be viewed as objectives to strive for. 
Successes/Failures: Achievements are seen as rewards, while failures are considered lessons to be learned from. 
Strategy and Choices: Players are encouraged to strategize, make choices, and take responsibility for their actions. 
Personalization: Individuals can create their own "win conditions" and "worlds" by deciding what winning looks like for them. 

This week we would like to highlight The Suicid Awareness Walk if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://facebook.com/events/s/-5th-annual-suicide-awareness-/1682013019336379/

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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To cope with financial stress, create a realistic budget and financial plan to gain control over your finances, build an emergency fund for unexpected events, and prioritize paying off debt. Address the emotional impact of stress through self-care, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management techniques like meditation. For more complex situations, seek support from a financial advisor or therapist and remember to communicate openly with supportive friends and family.
 
Practical Financial Strategies
Create a Budget and Financial Plan:
Outline your income and expenses to understand your financial situation and create a game plan to track spending and achieve goals. 
Build an Emergency Fund:
Set aside money for unexpected expenses, which provides peace of mind and prevents further financial difficulties. 
Tackle Debt:
Develop a strategy to pay down debt, focusing on prioritizing repayment to gain more control. 
Reduce Expenses:
Identify areas where you can cut back on non-essential spending to free up money. 
Find Ways to Increase Income:
Explore additional income streams or ways to boost your earnings to improve your financial situation. 

The vicious cycle: 
Financial stress leads to poor mental health (anxiety, depression), which reduces productivity and decision-making.
Reduced productivity and poor decision-making can worsen financial difficulties.
This, in turn, increases financial stress, creating a downward spiral.
How to break the cycle:
Acknowledge the problem:
Recognize that financial stress is a significant issue impacting your well-being. 
Seek support:
Talk to a trusted person or a healthcare professional about your financial worries and mental health. 
Stay engaged:
Continue to see friends, stay active, and maintain your daily routine to foster a sense of control. 

This week we would like to highlight Help Guide if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/stress/coping-with-financial-stress

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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As humans, we are wired to move toward pleasure and avoid pain. We do this in many ways, including through five main types of avoidance. Avoidance is a part of life. There are times when you avoid people, places, or things because you know already know how the situation will turn out (and it's not good)

We feel afraid of certain things (like inadequacy, looking bad, imperfection, disappointment, shame, embarrassment, failure), so we avoid them. When we avoid someone troubling or something difficult, we sometimes believe we can avoid the stress and anxiety associated with it.

Avoidance therapy, also known as avoidance conditioning, is a behavioral therapy technique that aims to reduce unwanted behaviors by associating them with unpleasant stimuli. It's a type of counterconditioning where a negative stimulus is paired with the undesirable behavior, with the goal of creating an aversion to that behavior. While it can be effective in the short term, it's often used in conjunction with other therapies and is not typically considered a standalone treatment. 
How Avoidance Therapy Works:
Pairing:
The core principle involves pairing the unwanted behavior with an unpleasant stimulus, such as a bad taste or a mild electric shock.
Aversion:
The goal is to create an aversion to the unwanted behavior, making it less likely to occur.
Counterconditioning:
This process aims to replace the positive association with the unwanted behavior with a negative one. 

This week we would like to highlight River Bank Therapy if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://www.riverbanktherapy.com/blog/5-tools-for-dealing-with-avoidance

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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Grief within yourself, also known as self-grief, is the process of mourning changes or losses within yourself, particularly after a significant trauma or loss that alters your identity or sense of self. It's a natural and necessary part of healing, allowing you to acknowledge and integrate these changes rather than suppressing them. 

Why is Self-Grief Important?

• Authenticity: Mourning for your past self allows you to move forward authentically and integrate changes into your identity.
• Healing: Ignoring self-grief can hinder healing, while acknowledging it allows you to process emotions and adapt to new circumstances.
• Self-Compassion: Self-grief allows you to extend compassion to the parts of yourself that have been hurt or changed, fostering self-love and acceptance. 

Navigating Self-Grief:

• Acknowledge and Allow: Accept that it's okay to grieve for the past and that it's a normal part of healing. 
• Seek Support: Connect with friends, family, or a therapist for support during this process. 
• Practice Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with kindness and understanding, recognizing that you are doing your best to navigate these changes. 
• Engage in Self-Care: Prioritize activities that bring you comfort and joy, and nurture your physical and mental well-being. 

This week we would like to highlight Grief in Common if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://blog.griefincommon.com/self-esteem-grief-the-hidden-loss/

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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There’s a theory that says that because humans were once heavily dependent on one another for survival, our brains are wired to sense fear when we’re at risk of being “on the outs” with society. Centuries ago, it was a literal threat to be ostracized from the tribe.  Being banished from the group meant we’d be on our own and vulnerable to attack by predators, and less successful at hunting the food we’d need to survive. While it’s unlikely that being disapproved of by your friends or family would result in death today, this theory says we were created with an internal warning system that hasn’t evolved along with the rest of our brain and thinking, so we continue to be overly sensitive to the approval of others.

We Were Made For Relationship
I’m not so sure that humans just “evolved” in order to survive as a species, but I do believe that our Creator made us with brains that are capable of adapting as the universe evolves. And I for sure believe that we were created for relationship. 

Here are some key questions you can ask yourself to help you to stand in confidence rather than fear.

What am I really afraid of here?
What’s at stake? How does what they think impact me?
Do I value this person’s opinion?
Do I value his/her values? Do their values match mine?
Are there areas of my life where it’s okay to not see eye-to-eye with this person?
Can I give this person the grace and freedom to think differently than me?

It can also be helpful to remind yourself that you have options. You can:

Agree to disagree
Explain your thought process or how you arrived at your decision/conclusion
Decline to explain your reasoning
Ask to change the conversation to a different topic
End the conversation completely
Create distance (either temporarily or permanently)
“Let them” be wrong about you

This week we would like to highlight APA if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/stigma-and-discrimination

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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Starting a new school in 6th grade, which is typically the first year of middle school, can be a big transition for a child. It's important to be prepared for the emotional and practical aspects of this change. 

Address Emotional Concerns:
Acknowledge anxiety:
It's normal for children to feel anxious about starting a new school. Validate their feelings and offer support. 
Open communication:
Encourage your child to share their thoughts and feelings about the transition. Listen actively and address their concerns. 
Prepare for social challenges:
Middle school can be a time of social adjustment. Help your child identify strategies for making new friends and navigating social situations, says Edutopia. 
Seek professional help if needed:
If your child is struggling with anxiety or other emotional challenges, consider seeking support from a counselor or therapist. 

First Day and Beyond:
Be present and supportive: On the first day, offer words of encouragement and reassurance. 
Listen to their experiences: After school, ask about their day and how they are feeling. 
Celebrate successes: Acknowledge and celebrate your child's accomplishments, both big and small. 
Stay involved: Continue to communicate with teachers, participate in school events, and support your child's academic and social growth

This week we would like to highlight Edutopia if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://www.edutopia.org/article/7-ways-help-kids-start-middle-school-when-theyre-rarely-building/

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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Here's a breakdown of what a follow-through plan entails:
1. Goal Setting and Planning:
Define clear and achievable goals: Ensure goals are realistic and well-defined to avoid discouragement and facilitate progress tracking
Break down goals into smaller, manageable steps: This makes the overall objective less daunting and provides a sense of accomplishment with each completed step. 
Create a detailed action plan: Outline specific tasks, timelines, and resources needed for each step. 
2. Execution and Monitoring: Prioritize tasks: Identify the most important tasks and focus on completing them first. 
Stay organized: Utilize tools like calendars, to-do lists, and project management software to track progress and stay on schedule. 
Be proactive: Address potential roadblocks and challenges before they derail the plan. 
Regularly monitor progress: Track accomplishments, identify areas where adjustments are needed, and make necessary changes to the plan. 
3. Maintaining Momentum and Motivation: Practice self-compassion:
Be kind to yourself when facing setbacks and don't get discouraged by minor deviations from the plan, according to Happify. 
Seek support: Connect with others who can offer encouragement and accountability. 
Celebrate small wins: Acknowledge and appreciate progress to stay motivated and build confidence. 
Stay flexible: Be willing to adapt the plan as needed based on changing circumstances and new information. 
4. Importance of Follow Through: Achieving goals: Consistent follow-through is essential for turning plans into reality and achieving desired outcomes. 
Building trust and credibility: Following through on commitments demonstrates reliability and strengthens relationships with clients, colleagues, and others. 

This week we would like to highlight Prevention if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://www.prevention.com/life/a28543562/ask-a-therapist-cancel-plans-late-minute/

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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Guessing in relationships, also known as mind-reading or expecting your partner to know your thoughts, can lead to misunderstandings and conflict. It's crucial to communicate directly and openly to build a healthy, fulfilling connection. 

Why Guessing is Problematic:

Unrealistic Expectations:
Assuming your partner should automatically understand your needs and feelings without you expressing them creates unrealistic expectations and pressure. 
Misinterpretations:
Without clear communication, your interpretations of your partner's actions or words can be inaccurate, leading to hurt feelings or unnecessary conflict. 
Escalating Problems:
Guessing can lead to assumptions and negative interpretations of situations, potentially escalating minor issues into major problems

Benefits of Eliminating Guesswork:
Stronger Connection:
Open communication builds trust and intimacy, fostering a stronger bond between partners. 
Reduced Conflict:
Clear communication helps prevent misunderstandings and reduces the likelihood of unnecessary arguments. 
Greater Understanding:
When you communicate openly, you gain a deeper understanding of your partner's perspective and needs. 
Increased Fulfillment:
Knowing that you can rely on open communication can lead to a more satisfying and fulfilling relationship. 
By actively working on communication and eliminating guesswork, you can create a relationship where both partners feel understood, respected, and supported. 

This week we would like to highlight Baely if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://www.thebaelyapp.com/post/removing-the-guesswork-from-your-relationship

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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A role model is someone who is worthy of imitation — like your beloved teacher or a well-behaved celebrity. Just as a model is something that represents an inspirational ideal, a role model is someone who inspires others to imitate his or her good behavior.

Good role models typically exhibit the following personality traits or qualities: self-awareness, positivity, humility, empathy, professionalism, and integrity.

1. Ability to Overcome Adversity- Having a positive role model can be especially crucial when you experience adversity. During periods of difficulty, having a role model who has experienced similar situations can be helpful. 
2. Desire to Help Others - A good role model has a desire to help others succeed in life. Building a sense of community uplifts others and creates onramps to success for generations to follow. 
3. Life Experience - Your life experiences shape your perspective of the world and critical issues. Role models should encourage you to consider different perspectives and provide guidance. Whether in business, politics or academia, finding a mentor can make a big difference. 

4. Ability to Inspire - Being able to inspire people to action is a great quality to look for in a role model. Inspirational leaders encourage positive behavior and appeal to people’s desire to have a positive impact on their communities.
5. Emotional Intelligence - Finding positive ways to express your emotions can help you succeed. A good role model should have emotional intelligence and be able to navigate challenging situations without resorting to negative behavior. This includes having self-awareness, empathy, an understanding of social cues and the ability to actively listen.
6. Authenticity- Being a good role model requires authenticity and transparency. It is important for leaders to be genuine with the people who follow them because it forms the basis of trust. 

This week we would like to highlight Academy of Achievements if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://achievement.org/find-my-role-model/

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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The phrase "to love is to will the good of the other" is a quote attributed to St. Thomas Aquinas. It means that love, at its core, involves a desire and intention to act for the benefit of another person, rather than for one's own self-interest. This concept emphasizes a selfless and active form of love, where one actively seeks the well-being of the loved one. 
Here's a more detailed explanation:

Beyond Feelings:
Love goes beyond mere emotional affection. It highlights the volitional aspect of love, meaning it's about choosing to act in ways that are beneficial for the other person. 

Active Pursuit of the Other's Good:
It's not just wishing well for someone; it's actively seeking to promote their well-being, even if it requires sacrifice or effort on your part. 

Selflessness:
This definition emphasizes a selfless love that puts the needs and desires of the other person first. 

Examples:
This could manifest in various ways, such as offering support, providing encouragement, speaking the truth with kindness, or even making sacrifices to help someone achieve their goals. 

Contrast with Self-Interest:
It contrasts with actions motivated solely by self-interest or personal gain. 

This week we would like to highlight The Mental Health Coalition if you would like to learn more or donate click the link below https://www.thementalhealthcoalition.org/reclaim-your-roots/

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The 988 Lifeline
988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services. (Please note, the previous 1-800-273-TALK (8255) number will continue to function indefinitely.) https://988lifeline.org/

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