Call for Consultation:
(650) 722-2766Be Well Outdoors
Norwegians have a concept called "friluftsliv" (pronounced free-lofts-liv). Translated, it means "open-air living", and describes how much they value spending time outdoors or in remote locations for overall well-being, mind and body. Norway doesn't always have beautiful weather, either. Summers can bring pouring rain. Winters are freezing cold and snowy. However, a common Norwegian expression explains, "There's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes." This concept is more than just an … [Read more...]
Family Caregivers
A caregiver is anyone who provides help to another person in need, such as an ill spouse or partner, a disabled child, or an aging relative. (Aging.com) According to Mental Health America, over 53 million Americans are unpaid caregivers to family members, friends, or neighbors, and nearly a third of all adult caregivers are caring for someone with a mental illness. Assisting a loved one can be rewarding, but long term caregiving can be both mentally and physically exhausting, … [Read more...]
Mental Illness
Nearly 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness in their lifetime, and 1 in 25 adults experience serious mental illness, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness ( NAMI). There are many misconceptions surrounding mental illness. The lack of understanding and support often keeps individuals from seeking out support and treatment, which can then lead to worsening mental health. However, a supportive social circle can improve the chances that an individual will seek out … [Read more...]
Distanced Connections
As we enter our 6th month of social-distancing and sheltering-in-place because of COVID-19, isolation and loneliness threaten our mental and physical health. Isolation and loneliness can increase cognitive decline and weaken mental health. They can also affect our physical health and overall wellbeing. In this current climate when physically stepping out of isolation is discouraged, we must find alternative ways to stay connected to friends and family. We've gathered a handful of ideas … [Read more...]
Loneliness Revisited
We discussed senior loneliness back in December as the holidays were upon us. Being alone becomes glaringly obvious when everyone around us is gathering with their circles and we may not have the community we once had. Loneliness can negatively impact physical and mental health. Aging adults may feel like a burden to younger loved ones, leading them to isolation. Their spouses/partners and acquaintances may no longer be mobile or healthy enough to visit. Or they may have passed away. Isolation … [Read more...]