Many people turn to alcohol to relieve anxiety during stressful times, which can include social situations. While alcohol temporarily relieves anxiety symptoms, its effects are more harmful than good in the long run. What begins as a temporary coping mechanism can disrupt brain chemistry, worsen anxiety symptoms, and lead to the development of alcohol use […]
How Alcohol Can Have A Major Impact on Anxiety Read More »
Few people make it through life without experiencing some form of trauma. Yet, trauma remains widely misunderstood. While trauma can be defined, it is complex. What you may view as traumatic may not affect another person, and vice versa. The symptoms of trauma may appear immediately or at any time later. Further, many people living
Addressing and Overcoming Emotional Trauma Read More »
Historically, people relied on living in groups for basic survival. Today, our need for social interaction is ingrained in our DNA. While we strive for independence, we are wired for connections with others. Our relationships fulfill our need to belong, provide emotional support, and contribute to our growth and well-being. However, we can still find
Recognizing Emotional Dependency and How to Deal with It Read More »
People are social beings who rely on connections with others for many reasons. Healthy relationships with friends and family support our natural desire to belong, allow us to give and receive support, reinforce our identity, and help us better understand ourselves and others. Social isolation is common among people experiencing mental health challenges and is
Isolation and Mental Health Read More »
You’ve likely either said or heard someone say, “I need a drink.” From the way it’s portrayed on television to social media, Americans see alcohol use as a normal and often important part of everyday life. The pervasiveness and general acceptance of alcohol consumption allow us to minimize just how dangerous it can actually be.
The Connection Between Alcohol and Mood Swings Read More »
Most people tend to focus on their physical health when thinking about health. However, good mental health is an essential component of overall well-being. In fact, mental health can directly influence physical health and vice versa. Furthermore, emotional health is a critical building block of mental health. If you or someone you love struggles with
The Difference Between Mental and Emotional Health Read More »
Cocaine is a potent central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that peaked in popularity during the 1980s, known as the “cocaine boom.” While cocaine use has significantly decreased since the ‘80s, it remains among the most commonly abused drugs within the U.S. and throughout the world. Cocaine is typically cut with a variety of substances, from
Cocaine and Its Impact on the Brain Read More »
Mental health and self-esteem are closely linked and interdependent. Self-esteem influences how individuals perceive themselves, their abilities, and their worth. Mental health influences thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. People with higher self-esteem tend to have better mental health and vice versa. Most individuals struggling with addiction and mental health also struggle with self-perception. They often feel
Helpful Tips on How to Improve Self-Esteem Read More »
Trauma includes the emotional, psychological, and physical responses resulting from exposure to a distressing event or series of events. Most people will experience trauma at some point. Typically, the brain processes a traumatic event in due time, and the impacts naturally resolve. Still, for millions of people, trauma can remain unresolved and have significant implications
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We all experience periods of sadness from time to time. Still, if you experience prolonged sadness accompanied by feelings of irritability, fatigue, helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness, you may be experiencing depression. Clinical depression is common throughout the world, and women are about 50% more likely to experience it than men.1 At Hill Country, we understand
Talking About Women’s Mental Health Read More »