Category Archives: Panic

Conquering the Midlife Haunts: Spooky Truths & Survival Tricks for Thriving

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As Halloween creeps up, it’s easy to get caught up in spooky stories and creepy costumes. But there’s one surprising reality that has nothing to do with Halloween: the midlife crisis. Like a ghost lurking in the shadows, this phase can sneak up on us, bringing intense self-reflection and unease. Suddenly, we’re haunted by questions about purpose, happiness, and “What comes next?” It’s enough to make anyone shiver! But here’s the treat: there are real ways to navigate and even thrive through this transformational time. So, let’s shed some light on the truths behind this phase and explore a few survival tricks to help you emerge stronger and more fulfilled.

The Ghosts of Midlife: Common Realities of a Midlife Crisis
A midlife crisis can arrive without warning, like a jump scare in a horror film. Women are just as likely as men to report distressful symptoms. For some, it’s triggered by the “empty nest” feeling when kids leave home; for others, it’s prompted by health changes or a career that suddenly feels stagnant. Not everyone experiences this temporary phase in life that typically occurs between the ages of 45-64. It can last several years and might look different depending on gender and life circumstances. Here are a few common, scary realities that some people experience:

  •  Existential Dread: Many face deep questions about their purpose, leading to feelings of sadness or regret over things not accomplished. This “haunting” feeling of “Is this all there is?” can be unnerving and hard to shake.
  •  Physical Changes: The physical changes that accompany midlife—like wrinkles, gray hair, or slower energy—can feel like the aging process is speeding up, which can lower self-esteem and confidence.
  • Relationship Shifts: Long-term relationships may start to feel stale, leading to feelings of loneliness or disconnection. For some, this period includes contemplating big changes, like divorce, which can feel like stepping into a whole new, uncertain life.
  • Career Stagnation: Work that once felt fulfilling may now seem dull or without meaning. People often feel trapped in their jobs, leading to a sense of regret for dreams left unpursued.

Tools for Surviving and Thriving Through Your Midlife Crisis
Unlike some Halloween thrillers, a midlife crisis doesn’t have to end with an unhappy ending. By adopting coping strategies and making intentional changes, you can break free from fear and build a satisfying, purposeful life. Here are some tools to help you thrive:

  • Embrace Mindfulness and Meditation: Practicing mindfulness helps you manage stress and quiet the noisy, negative thoughts that come with a midlife crisis. Start with short meditation sessions, focusing on breathing to calm your mind and embrace the present moment.
  • Set New, Attainable Goals: Whether it’s learning a new skill, taking up a hobby, or setting a fitness goal, having something to strive for can help replace feelings of stagnation with purpose. Think of this time as an opportunity to redefine yourself, instead of focusing on what you feel is “lost.”
  • Prioritize Physical Health: With age, it’s essential to keep your body in good shape. Exercise, eat nutritious food, and ensure you’re getting enough sleep. Physical wellness can improve your mood, energy levels, and mental clarity, making the challenges of midlife feel less daunting.
  •  Seek Support and Connection: Talking to a therapist or joining a support group can help you feel less alone in your journey. Sometimes, just knowing others are facing similar fears can be a comfort. Support systems can also offer valuable perspectives and coping strategies.
  • Reevaluate Your Relationships: This is the perfect time to reconnect with loved ones or, if necessary, set boundaries that make space for your own growth. Whether it’s deepening your bond with family or finding new friendships, strong relationships are key to navigating a midlife crisis.

Embrace Transformation, Not Fear
While a midlife crisis can feel like a Halloween horror show, it’s also a time of transformation. By facing these fears and using the tools above, you can come out of it feeling renewed and confident, ready to thrive in the next chapter of your life. Instead of seeing this time as something to fear, see it as an opportunity to reflect, reset, and rediscover yourself—because sometimes the scariest journeys lead to the most rewarding destinations.

Love, Money, and Mental Health: Navigating the Tricky Triangle

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You might be wondering what’s love got to do with money and mental health. Or if you’ve ever felt stressed about money and it caused conflict in your relationship, then you might know all too well. In the intricate dance of life, love, money, and mental health are deeply intertwined. It’s like a tricky triangle where each corner affects the other, and if one side is out of whack, the whole thing can feel like it’s collapsing.

How Money Issues Impact Love
We all know money matters, but when it starts causing stress in a relationship, things can get messy. Here’s how:

• Communication Breakdown: Ever tried talking about money when you’re stressed? It’s tough. You might find yourself snapping at your partner or avoiding the conversation altogether. This can lead to misunderstandings and feelings of being disconnected.
• Trust Issues: If one person is hiding debts or making big purchases on the sly, trust can take a big hit. Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship, and financial secrecy can feel like a betrayal.
• Power Imbalance: When there’s a significant difference in earnings, it can create an awkward power dynamic. The person earning less might feel inadequate or resentful, which can lead to tension.

How Money Issues Affect Mental Health
Financial stress doesn’t just stay in your wallet; it seeps into your mind too. Here’s what can happen:

• Anxiety and Depression: Constantly worrying about bills and debt can make anxiety and depression worse. It’s hard to think about anything else when you’re stressing over money.
• Sleep Problems: Stressing over finances can keep you up at night. And we all know how we feel after a bad night’s sleep – groggy, irritable, and even more stressed.
• Low Self-Esteem: Struggling with money can make you feel like you’re not good enough. It’s tough to feel confident when you’re worried about making ends meet.

Tips for Overcoming Financial Challenges
Alright, enough of the doom and gloom. Let’s talk solutions. Here are some tips to help you and your partner manage financial stress and keep your mental health in check:

• Open Communication: It might be uncomfortable, but talking openly about money is crucial. Sit down together and discuss your financial goals, budget, and any worries you have. Being on the same page can make a huge difference.
• Seek Professional Help: Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Financial advisors can help you create a budget and manage debt, while therapists can provide strategies to cope with stress.
• Create a Budget: A budget is your best friend when it comes to managing money. It helps you see where your money is going and find ways to save. Plus, it’s a great tool for setting and achieving financial goals.
• Practice Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is key. Exercise, sleep, healthy eating, and mindfulness can all help reduce stress. When you feel good, you’re better equipped to handle financial challenges.
• Focus on the Positive: Try to stay positive and focus on what you can control. Celebrate small victories and be grateful for the things that money can’t buy, like love and companionship.

Navigating the tricky triangle of love, money, and mental health isn’t always easy, but it’s definitely doable. By tackling financial stress head-on and supporting each other, you can build a stronger, healthier relationship. Remember, financial issues are usually temporary, but the love and mental well-being you build together can last a lifetime. So, take a deep breath, communicate openly, and tackle those money challenges together. You’ve got this!

5 Tips For Managing Stress During The Holidays

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It’s the holiday season and traditionally this time of year is thought to be one of joy and celebration. However, for many people, it can also be a source of stress. Between shopping for gifts, attending parties, and dealing with family dynamics, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. However, there are things you can do to manage your stress during the holidays and make this time of year more enjoyable.

One of the most important things you can do to manage stress during the holidays is to set realistic expectations for yourself. This means not trying to do too much in too little time and being okay with saying no to invitations or tasks that are not a priority. It’s also important to be mindful of your budget and not overspend. Debt and financial concerns are major contributors to holiday stress.

Another key to managing stress during the holidays is to make time for self-care. This can include activities like exercising, meditating, or simply taking a few minutes to relax and unwind. It’s also important to get enough sleep, eat healthily, and make sure you have enough downtime to recharge.

One way to reduce stress during the holidays is to delegate tasks and responsibilities. This can be as simple as asking a family member to help with cooking or assigning tasks to different people when hosting a holiday party. It’s okay to ask for help and share the workload, especially during a busy time of year.

It’s also important to practice good communication during the holidays. If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed out, don’t be afraid to talk about it with a friend or family member. They may be able to offer support or suggestions for ways to manage your stress.

If you’re feeling particularly overwhelmed, it may be helpful to seek the guidance of a mental health professional. As a psychotherapist, I help my clients develop healthy coping strategies and provide support during stressful times.

Another way to manage stress during the holidays is to make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could be spending time with loved ones, participating in your favorite hobbies, listening to music, or simply taking a walk in nature. It’s important to prioritize activities that help you feel grounded and calm.

Finally, it’s important to remember that it’s okay to take a break from the holiday hustle and bustle. It’s okay to say no to a party or event if you need to, and it’s okay to spend some time alone if that’s what you need. Say yes to you! Taking care of yourself is crucial to managing stress during the holidays.

So remember, managing stress during the holidays is all about setting realistic expectations.

  • Practice Self-care
  • Delegate Tasks
  • Communicate Effectively
  • Seek Support if Needed
  • Make Time for Activities that Bring Joy and Relaxation

If you’re feeling overwhelmed this holiday season, try these tips to help you experience less stress and more comfort and joy at this time of year.

The Best Way to Manage Election Anxiety? Control Your Controllables

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Studies are showing that this year’s election is triggering a higher level of anxiety in more people than ever before. Many people are worried that our Democracy is at stake and they fear that our health, safety, and future are at risk. The barrage of negative campaign ads and conspiracy theories, in addition to increased isolation due to COVID-19 and continued racial violence and injustice, have all heighten the fears of many Americans. Besides worry and excessive fear, many people are also experiencing trouble sleeping, increased or decreased appetite, sadness, irritability, muscle tension, avoidance, trouble concentrating, and feeling on edge. These are all symptoms related to anxiety, depression, and acute stress. So how do you manage these symptoms? What do you do when faced with uncertainty? What do you do when you feel out of control? The best thing to do is to identify the things within your control and practice them to the best of your ability. Here are just a few:

• Take Deep Mindful Breaths – Focusing on the breath and deeply inhaling and exhaling relaxes the body and mind. Relaxation plays an important role in helping to regulate our emotional responses. Start by taking a few slow deep breaths. Inhale deeply and hold for 2 counts then exhale fully. Inhale and allow your belly to extend like a balloon filling with air then exhale as if you are letting all the air out of the balloon. You can even say to yourself the healthy things you are inhaling (i.e. peace, joy, love…) and exhale things you are releasing (i.e. worry, fear, anger…). Incorporating gratitude with each breath is also a helpful tool.
• Exercise Your Right to Vote – Voting matters and the ability to vote is within your control. Many people fought, died, and bled for this right and it is one of the ways to let your voice be heard. Voting is a powerful tool for expressing your desires and asserting your feelings. Advocating for yourself and others can lead to a sense of empowerment that contributes to overall health and wellbeing.
• Take a Break from the News – There is nothing wrong with staying informed. However, news reports often capitalize on what will win the most attention to increase ratings. These reports are sometimes speculative and fixate on threats that can arouse our nervous system. In order to reduce anxiety, it’s important to separate facts from fiction and take control of what information you take in. It’s also important not to feast on a steady diet of news but to take breaks and maybe watch a comedy or just turn the TV and other devices off altogether.
• Manage Your Expectations – Our expectations play a big role in our emotional responses. It’s important to have realistic expectations and those that are not tied to a specific and uncontrollable outcome. For example, if you are expecting a clear winner on Election Day and that doesn’t happen, the tension of uncertainty is prolonged. However, if you don’t expect it you can engage in other calming activities and stay grounded in the present, taking each day as it comes.
• Practice Good Self-Care – Some people falsely think of self-care as a luxury when in actuality it is ESSENTIAL. If you do not take care of yourself, you burnout, your immune system is compromised and you are unable to function in a healthy way. There are simple ways to practice good self-care like taking breaks, getting adequate sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising, going for walks, talking with friends, or listening to nature sounds or your favorite music. It’s also important to speak kindly to yourself and show yourself compassion. Speak comforting words to yourself as you might to someone you care about. How you nourish yourself is self-care and it helps to have a plan that you implement regularly.

If you are having difficulty practicing healthy coping strategies and your symptoms persist and cause distress, please contact a health care professional to help get you on the path to peace and wellbeing.

How to Manage Your Fear

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Everyday there seems to be new reports of confirmed cases of COVID-19. As of this writing there were 247 reported cases in California, according to the CA Department of public health. Of these cases, the LA Times is now reporting 54 of them are in LA County and that number seems to be rising. Although these numbers are still lower in comparison to other parts of the world, it has raised serious concerns in our community. The World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic.

In response to this outbreak, schools are transitioning to online instruction, events are being cancelled, and people are self-quarantining and working from home in an effort to stop the spread of this virus. The term “social distancing” is trending and panic shopping as well as stockpiling are triggering shortages of common items.

Like many of you, I’ve felt a bit concerned too. Just a few days ago I went to the store looking for hand sanitizer and there was none to be found. The cashier told me that one person came in earlier and bought the whole shelf. I also went to several stores looking for toilet paper only to be greeted by empty shelves with no certainty of when they would be restocked. News reports are showing people fighting over these basic supplies and stocking up on water. Anxiety is often contagious. Fearful messages can spread panic like an uncovered cough or sneeze. When faced with all this social contagion it can be challenging to manage anxiety when so much seems out of our control and others are panicking on a daily basis. However, taking action in the following ways can help you maximize what is within your control and help calm some of your fears.

#1 Get the facts – Resist getting caught up in rumors. There is a lot of misinformation circulating. It’s important to do your homework and make sure you are getting factual information through trusted sources and keeping this information in a healthy perspective. Holding on to what you know to be true, while also holding space for the unknown instead of speculating in fear, is key to maintaining a sense of balance and some peace. You may also want to talk to a trusted health professional to process your concerns. The Center for Disease Control offers up to date information on their website https://www.cdc.gov/ and so does the World Health Organization at https://www.who.int/

#2 Plan and prepare – Follow CDC recommendations by washing your hands frequently with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. Keep your hands and fingers away from your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible. Wipe door knobs, telephones and frequently used items and surfaces with sanitizing wipes. Avoid large crowds when possible and don’t go out if it’s not necessary. Drink water to stay hydrated and get adequate rest. If you are experiencing discomfort or difficulty with breathing, or are experiencing flu like symptoms seek medical attention. And if stocking up on food and water for 2-4 weeks eases your mind, then go ahead and do it! Make a plan for school closures and childcare. Having a plan and feeling prepared can help alleviate stress.

#3 Practice relaxation – When you feel anxious and stressed, your brain floods your nervous system with hormones and chemicals all designed to help you respond to a threat. This leads to a flight or fight emotional response that can be very useful in keeping you safe from actual danger. However, when that emotional response is fueled by social contagion, a fear of uncertainty and horror stories that we tell ourselves, it can go into overdrive and override our cognitive brain functioning. That’s were relaxation comes in. Practicing relaxation helps regulate our emotional responses by calming the emotional brain and nervous system to help reduce emotional reactivity and activate our cognitive brain. There are several ways to practice relaxation. Here are a few:

           • Deep breathing – Start by taking a few slow deep breaths. Inhale deeply and hold for 2 counts then exhale fully. Inhale and allow your belly to extend like a balloon filling with air then exhale as if you are letting all the air out of the balloon. You can even say to yourself the healthy things you are inhaling (i.e. peace, joy, love…) and exhale things you are releasing (i.e. worry, fear, anger…).
          • Meditation – People have varying ideas about meditation, however, there are many different ways to meditate that are not at all tied to any particular religious practice. Simply spending some quiet time in mindful reflection and awareness of our breath, our bodies and emotional state has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, lower blood pressure and control your emotions. Try it for at least 10 minutes a day. There are several meditation apps available to help guide this practice (i.e. Calm, Headspace etc.).
          • Grounding – This strategy helps to detach from emotional pain and keep you centered and feeling safe. In some ways it can be similar to meditation. There are 3 types of grounding. 1) Physical 2) Mental and 3) Emotional. You can practice physical grounding by jumping up and down, exercising or running cool or warm water on your hands. You can practice mental grounding by counting backwards from 100 to 2 by even numbers (i.e. 100, 98, 96…), solving puzzles or spending a few minutes identifying colors you see around you or sounds you hear. Emotional grounding can be practiced by looking at pictures that bring you joy, thinking of things that make you smile, playing with a pet or child.
          • Self-Care – Some people falsely think of self-care as a luxury when in actuality it is ESSENTIAL. If you do not take care of yourself, you burnout, your immune system is compromised and you are unable to function in a healthy way. There are simple ways to practice good self-care like taking breaks, getting adequate sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising, going for a walks or listening to nature sounds or your favorite music. It’s also important to speak kindly to yourself and show yourself compassion. Speak comforting words to yourself like you might to someone you care about. How you nourish yourself is self-care and it helps to have a plan that you implement regularly.
          • Gratitude – It’s easy to take simple things for granted sometimes. Keeping a gratitude journal can help you keep track of things that are good and for which you are grateful. Even when things seem bad, there is always something to be grateful for and something good. Even though our thoughts often overlap, it is very difficult to hold 2 opposing thoughts with the same focus at the same time. Therefore, the more you focus on gratitude the less likely you are to hold panic. Practicing gratitude daily helps you relax and slows the brains reactivity down by redirecting it towards more beneficial and peaceful thoughts.

The truth is that panicked and impulsive reactions can often be more problematic than the threat itself. Practicing these tools that are all within our control can help us navigate these turbulent times with a greater sense of calm to aid in making wise decisions. No one knows with all certainty what will happen in the future. But what we do know for sure is the sky is still blue, the sun is in the sky, and the earth is on its axis. We know there are experts and healthcare providers working hard on solutions. We have the ability to make choices and choose to follow CDC recommendations. We can choose to reframe our thoughts and use this as an opportunity to spend more time with our kids who may be home from school, or check up on the elderly.

We have the power to seek and speak truth, take positive actions and choose love and hope over fear. May you maximize all that is still good as we persevere through this human journey together.

Wishing you Wellness and Peace Always,
Lisa Locke, LMFT