Taking Care of Dad From the time we are little we look to our Dads to take care of us and keep us safe. They seem so big and strong and invisible. Even when they are not with us or are not able to take care of us we still hold on to the expectation…
The Importance of Family Connections
The Importance of Family Connections We all want to belong. Belonging is at the core of the human spirit. From birth we seek the connection to our parents, moving our heads and bodies for touch, sound and nurturing. Toddlers are looking for parents and other familiar persons for security as they venture out to explore…
Understanding Food and Security
Understanding Food and Security Food has many meanings through its preparing and intake for all people. It is essential for survival but also supports a sense of caring, connection and security. What we eat, how it is prepared, who we share it with all create an environment which feeds us physically and emotionally. Both are…
12 Healthy Snacks Kids Will Love
12 Healthy Snacks Kids Will Love By Alice Oglethorpe While adults can get through the day without many between-meal snacks, kids can’t. Children “can’t get all of the key nutrients they need with just breakfast, lunch and dinner,” says Melissa Halas-Liang, RDN, a nutritionist based in Los Angeles. “That’s why parents should think of snacking…
Fostering Well-Being through Connections
Fostering Well-Being through Connections Well- being is defined as living a good life with which one is satisfied. Connectedness is defined as a feeling of belonging to or having affinity with a particular person or group. Together they create a security and belonging, which goes to the core of our human needs. From the moment…
Who Takes Care of You?
Who Takes Care of You? Professionals in the “helping “professions are essential to the well-being and mental health of our society and we all expect them to be ready and able to help as needs arise. These professionals are found in the fields of law enforcement, fire/safety protection, medical, social services, counseling and spiritual development.…
When Your Baby Makes You Sad
When Your Baby Makes You Sad The time surrounding the birth of a new baby is supposed to be a joyous time for many families. The media portrays those first months with everything soft and new, pink and blue. However, for some, it just doesn’t seem very happy. Sometimes other stressors that come to young…
Tips for Professionals Working in Social Service Environments
Tips for Professionals Working in Social Service Environments When you work in the “Helping” professionals you are more susceptible to mental health challenges and need to take care of yourself. When we spend most of our time serving others we need to actively seek out others to help take care of us without feeling guilty…
The Many Faces of Healing
The Many Faces of Healing The definitions of healing include the following: To restore to health or soundness; cure; To set right; repair: To restore (a person) to spiritual wholeness. In our society we use the term “healing” in many context, most align with one of the official definitions. Physical Healing: Primarily we…
Helping a Friend in a Suicidal Crisis
Helping a Friend in a Suicidal Crisis The teen years are challenging as young people determine their own values and meaning in their lives. Often teens do not feel that they are understood, especially by adults. Both adult and societal expectations cause stress, anxiety and hopeless in teens which can lead to suicidal thoughts. Here…