Maternal mortality rates, nationwide and at the state level, have received increased attention recently—and with good reason. All pregnant women deserve safe, healthy deliveries. Access to high-quality, compassionate, prenatal and postpartum care is crucial. Equally important, and perhaps less known, is another alarming statistic: pregnant and postpartum women are more likely to be victims of […]
Every night around 10:30, my body decides it’s bedtime. Doesn’t matter what I’m doing—TikTok, texting, or finishing homework—my eyelids get heavy and I think, “Finally, sleep.” But my brain? Oh no. My brain thinks it’s time for a pep rally. Suddenly my thoughts start racing: “Did you study enough for that math test?” “Why did […]
“One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth. Growth must be chosen again and again; Fear must be overcome again and again.” Abraham Maslow You tell yourself, This is it. Starting now, I’m going to be different. And maybe for a day, or even a week, you are. You skip the […]
June is the Month to Celebrate Fathers June is the month we like to highlight the importance of Fatherhood – a role that is sometimes dismissed, ignored, or forgotten. However, studies show the involvement of a father can: Improve emotional, academic, and social outcomes for children Increase the likelihood that their children will attend college […]
Author: Jennifer Burch, LPC The True Strength of Mothers As a mental health professional, I have seen the strength of mothers and the countless happy moments they experience, even during tough times. From sleepless nights and endless responsibilities to balancing work and family, the never-ending tasks can take a toll. It’s okay to feel […]
Author: Birthright St. Charles Counselor We’ve Heard This Before Our counselors have heard it many times before: “I want to have kids, but not with him. I can’t believe I let him get me pregnant. I don’t want to be tied to him my whole life.” Unintended pregnancies happen in a multitude of contexts. Sometimes, […]
By: Jami McDermott, Outreach Coordinator Feeling drained, exhausted, and utterly spent? Do you wake up in the morning with a heavy heart, dreading the day ahead, feeling like you just can’t muster the energy to face it? You’re not alone. Many of us grapple with overwhelming life events—whether unexpected challenges like unplanned pregnancies, health issues, […]
By: Jami McDermott Ever pick up your phone to check the time and end up watching cat videos for an hour? Or meant to send a quick email but somehow ended up shopping for a hoodie you absolutely do not need? Yep, distractions may be stealing your life. According to Reviews.org, it has become a daily […]
By: Sheri Petruso We struggled with the heartache of not having that special someone to celebrate and romanticize with, so we filled the gap with Galentine’s Day. This was meant to make everything better by ditching the idea and focus of the significant other and instead highlighting “girl power” and “sisterhood”. However, since COVID, we […]
By: Jami McDermott The holiday season, while traditionally associated with joy and celebration, can present unique challenges to our well-being. Here’s how to maintain balance during this time of year: Healthy Holiday Eating: Simple Ways to Nourish Your Body Mindful Food Choices: Instead of restrictive diets, focus on balanced options. Choose whole foods with simple […]