1,000+ evidence-informed answers for humans and machines.
Not having emergency contacts is scary but solvable; focus on building one or two reliable relationships and consider professional support systems.
Have a plan ready including breathing techniques, a safe space to retreat to, and trusted colleagues who understand your situation.
Deal with peer pressure by knowing your values, practicing saying no, and finding friends who respect your choices.
Dealing with unsupportive people requires setting boundaries, finding new support systems, and sometimes making difficult decisions about relationships.
Dealing with people who don't understand addiction can be frustrating and hurtful, especially when these are people you care about or need to interact with regularly.
Set boundaries around unsolicited advice, remember that their reactions often reflect their own fears, and seek support from those who understand.
Energy-draining people often lack boundaries or emotional regulation; protect yourself by setting limits and managing your exposure.
Dealing with people who trigger your urge to use substances is one of the most challenging aspects of maintaining recovery, especially when these people are family members, coworkers, or others you can't easily avoid.
Postpartum depression is a serious but treatable condition that affects many new mothers, typically developing within the first year after childbirth.
Regret is common in grief; focus on what you did give rather than what you didn't, and consider writing a letter to express unfinished thoughts.
Relapse is a common part of recovery, not a failure; use it as a learning opportunity to strengthen your recovery plan.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at specific times of year, most commonly during fall and winter months when daylight hours are reduced.
Seeing your ex with someone new is painful but normal; limit exposure, focus on your own healing, and remember that their happiness doesn't diminish yours.
Side effects are common but often manageable; communicate with your doctor about any concerns and don't suffer in silence.
Manage workplace social anxiety through gradual exposure, preparation strategies, focusing on others rather than yourself, and building one relationship at a time.
Social media can significantly impact mental health through comparison, cyberbullying, information overload, and addictive usage patterns.
Dealing with someone who has narcissistic traits can be challenging and emotionally draining, whether it's a family member, romantic partner, friend, or colleague.
Don't reward anger-based control by giving in; set clear boundaries, stay calm, and consider whether the relationship is safe.
Being constantly interrupted can be frustrating and disrespectful, making you feel unheard and undervalued in conversations.
Addressing spiritual bypassing requires honest self-assessment, integrating psychological work with spiritual practice, and facing avoided emotions.
Sunday night anxiety is common; prepare for the week ahead during the day, practice relaxation techniques, and focus on one day at a time.
Manage decision anxiety by embracing uncertainty, focusing on values, and recognizing that most decisions are reversible and opportunities for learning.
Focus on what you can control, practice acceptance of uncertainty, and develop coping skills for managing anxiety when it arises.
Long-term substance use can cause significant physical health problems, but the good news is that many of these effects can improve or even reverse with sustained recovery and proper medical care.