Menderist contributors share how they overcame health issues, whether involving mental or physical challenges.
Special Issues: Family Mental Health, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Memorable Gift, Teacher/Educator, Year in Review
A parent looks back on a son’s experience with severe anxiety, and the actions that helped the most in improving his mental health.
“The promising start to the high school year came to an abrupt end, and my son struggled with his health, then fell into a debilitating depression. Meanwhile, our family scrambled to figure out how to help….”
A parent of a teenager with severe mental health issues shares steps that are helping manage fear and anxiety affecting the rest of the family.
“How will I manage the impact of one child’s severe mental health issues on our family? My challenge has been to address that issue as our household has dealt with my daughter’s challenges….”
A parent of children with complex physical and mental health challenges describes lessons learned in helping family navigate issues.
“Several of our children have complex issues, including chronic pain …(but) while there have been many struggles, I’ve also found many ways to nurture my children’s mental health….”
Menderist outlines frequently recommended ways to find a mental health therapist in the U.S. and Canada – and lists other options that link to a wider range of help.
“It can be challenging to find someone in your area who is accepting new clients: the demand for therapists, particularly psychiatrists, is high. For this reason, Menderist is listing both traditional mental health organizations and other sources….”
A writer draws on her experience of moving to another part of the country and outlines three innovative strategies she uses to handle challenging situations.
“I live in the middle of the prairie states. This means that weather changes fast and can have life-altering consequences ….”
An educator shares how she’s improving her mental health using strategies for dealing with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
“As I entered middle age, my mind and body changed — and my stress relievers no longer served their intended purpose ….”
A researcher and mother of six looks back on the year’s upsides and downsides, and describes the approach that’s significantly improved her focus on what’s most important.
“When I look back over all that has happened in 2023, things seem a bit overwhelming….”
A software designer describes the difficulties of dealing with insomnia and shares the simple approach he’s taken to combat the problem.
“As we get older, our sleep patterns change. I’m in my 60s, and for the past year I’ve been dealing with insomnia ….”
An educator who’s come through a difficult year shares the philosophy that’s helped him navigate challenges.
“Far too often I find myself driving to and from work in absolute silence, choosing to take a slightly longer route just to increase my solitude ….”
A writer and publisher describes the most effective small changes she’s made over 2023 to improve her family and personal life.
“On some days, it’s a challenge to feel optimistic. Daily life often has difficulties, and news reports about local and worldwide problems can feel overwhelming ….”
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Every few weeks, people share encouraging essays, anecdotes, and stories about moments that turned their day around.
