Mind Matters Mental Health

How EMDR Helps Process Traumatic Memories

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 03:25:38 GMT

Traumatic memories can continue to affect a person's emotions, relationships, sleep, and daily life long after the original event has passed. For many people, these memories can feel overwhelming and difficult to move past. EMDR therapy is one treatment option that can help people process traumatic experiences more healthily. By helping the brain reprocess distressing memories, EMDR may reduce the emotional intensity connected to past events.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy , or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a structured form of psychotherapy designed to help people process traumatic memories. During treatment, the therapist guides the client through difficult experiences while using bilateral stimulation such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds. The goal of EMDR is to help the brain reprocess memories that may feel stuck. Over time, these memories often become less distressing and easier to manage.

How EMDR Works

Traumatic experiences can sometimes remain unprocessed in the brain, causing ongoing emotional distress, anxiety, fear, or negative beliefs. EMDR therapy helps reconnect these memories with healthier thoughts and emotions. While focusing on a distressing memory, the client follows the therapist's hand movements or another form of bilateral stimulation. This process may help the brain process the experience in a way that feels less overwhelming.

What Happens During a Session

EMDR sessions are structured and usually completed in phases. A therapist may begin by asking the client about their history, symptoms, and treatment goals. As treatment progresses, clients may focus on specific memories, thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations connected to the trauma. The therapist helps guide the person through these experiences in a safe and supportive environment.

Who Can Benefit From EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is most commonly used for people who have experienced trauma or post traumatic stress disorder. However, it may also be helpful for other emotional and mental health concerns.

Trauma and PTSD

EMDR is often used for people who have experienced:

Physical or emotional abuse
Car accidents
Violence or assault
Grief and loss
Childhood trauma
Natural disasters

These experiences can continue to affect daily life long after they happen, making it difficult to feel safe, calm, or emotionally balanced.

Anxiety and Other Mental Health Conditions

In addition to trauma, EMDR therapy may also help with:

Anxiety
Panic attacks
Depression
Phobias
Negative self beliefs
Stress related to difficult life events

For some people, unresolved memories may contribute to ongoing emotional challenges. EMDR may help reduce the distress connected to these experiences.

Adults, Teens, and Children

EMDR can be beneficial for adults, teenagers, and children when provided by a trained therapist. Treatment is often adjusted based on the person's age, experiences, and emotional needs.

Why EMDR Therapy Is Effective

Reduces Emotional Distress

One of the main benefits of EMDR therapy is that it can make traumatic memories feel less intense over time. People may still remember what happened, but the memory often causes less fear, sadness, or anxiety.

Supports Faster Progress

Some people find that EMDR helps them make progress more quickly than traditional talk therapy alone. While treatment timelines vary, EMDR can sometimes help people feel relief in fewer sessions.

Backed by Research

EMDR is widely recognized as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD. Many mental health organizations support its use because of the strong research showing that it can reduce trauma related symptoms.

Find a Healthier Way to Process Trauma

Traumatic memories can affect every part of a person's life, but the right treatment can make healing possible. EMDR therapy offers a structured way to process painful experiences and reduce the emotional distress connected to them. If you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, or difficult memories, contact Mind Matters Mental Health to find out whether EMDR therapy may be right for you.

Online Therapy Effectiveness Compared to In-Person Care

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 14:00:53 GMT

The demand for mental health support continues to grow, and online telehealth has become a widely adopted solution. With more people seeking accessible and flexible care, virtual therapy platforms are now a core part of modern mental health treatment. But an important question remains: is online telehealth as effective as traditional in-person therapy?

Research and clinical experience increasingly show that for many individuals, the answer is yes. When delivered appropriately, online therapy can provide comparable outcomes while improving access and convenience.

How Online Telehealth Works and Who It Helps

 Online telehealth refers to the delivery of mental health services via digital platforms. This includes video sessions, phone consultations, and secure messaging with licensed therapists.

Common types of therapy offered online include:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT
Talk therapy and counseling
Stress and anxiety management programs

This model of care is especially effective for treating:

Anxiety disorders
Depression
Mild to moderate stress-related conditions

One of the strongest advantages of online telehealth is accessibility. Individuals who may struggle to attend in-person sessions can now receive care from their homes.

Key benefits include:

Flexible scheduling that fits busy routines
Access to licensed professionals regardless of location
Increased privacy, which can reduce hesitation in seeking help

Because of these advantages, online therapy is particularly suitable for:

Working professionals with limited time
Parents managing household responsibilities
Individuals in remote or underserved areas

Effectiveness Compared to In-Person Therapy

A growing body of research confirms that online telehealth can be just as effective as in-person therapy for many mental health conditions.

Studies consistently show:

Comparable symptom reduction for anxiety and depression
Strong outcomes for online CBT programs
High levels of patient satisfaction and engagement

Patients using online telehealth often experience similar progress in emotional regulation, coping strategies, and overall well-being as those attending face-to-face sessions.

There are also unique advantages that can enhance outcomes:

Convenience leads to better session attendance
Reduced stigma encourages more people to seek help
Comfortable environments can improve openness during sessions

However, it is important to recognize limitations. Online therapy may not be the best fit for every situation.

Considerations include:

Severe psychiatric conditions may require in-person care
Crisis situations often need immediate, physical intervention
Technical issues, such as poor internet connectivity, can affect sessions

Overall, the effectiveness of online telehealth depends on matching the right type of care to the individual’s needs. Many providers now recommend a hybrid approach, combining online and in-person sessions when appropriate.

Choosing the Right Option and Getting Started with Mind Matters

Deciding between online telehealth and in-person therapy depends on your specific circumstances, preferences, and mental health needs.

Online telehealth may be the right choice if you:

Prefer convenience and flexible scheduling
Are you managing mild to moderate mental health concerns
Feel more comfortable receiving care from home

In-person therapy may be better if you:

Require intensive or closely monitored care
Are dealing with complex or severe conditions
Benefit from physical presence and structured environments

The key is to choose a format that supports consistency and engagement, as these are critical factors in successful therapy outcomes.

If you are considering starting your mental health journey, Mind Matters offers a reliable and accessible solution through online telehealth . With licensed therapists, secure platforms, and flexible scheduling, you can receive professional support tailored to your needs.

Taking the first step can feel challenging, but the right support makes a difference. Book an Appointment with Mind Matters today and experience how online telehealth can help you build a healthier, more balanced life.

Anxiety That Shows Up as Physical Symptoms

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 03:39:28 GMT

Anxiety is commonly associated with worry or panic, but many people experience it primarily in their bodies. Physical discomfort may appear before someone even realizes they are anxious. Understanding this pattern helps clarify why symptoms persist even when medical tests are normal.

Anxiety can activate the body’s stress response even in the absence of immediate danger. When this happens repeatedly, physical symptoms become chronic rather than temporary.

Somatic anxiety refers to anxiety expressed through bodily sensations rather than obvious emotional distress.
The autonomic nervous system connects the brain and the body through stress-signaling pathways.
The fight-or-flight response increases heart rate, muscle tension, and breathing rate.
Stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline affect digestion, sleep, and immune function.
Physical symptoms caused by anxiety are real and measurable, not imagined.

Recognizing the mind-body connection reduces confusion and creates a foundation for targeted treatment.

Common Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety can affect multiple body systems at the same time. While symptoms vary between individuals, several physical patterns are especially common. Chest pain, fatigue, and digestive problems frequently lead people to seek medical evaluation before anxiety is identified as the underlying cause.

Chest Pain and Cardiovascular Symptoms

Cardiovascular symptoms are often the most alarming because they mimic serious medical conditions. Anxiety directly affects heart rate, breathing patterns, and muscle tension.

Tightness, pressure, or sharp pain in the chest wall.
Rapid heartbeat or heart palpitations.
Shortness of breath or difficulty taking a full breath.
Dizziness or tingling in the hands due to hyperventilation.
Increased awareness of normal heart rhythms.

Adrenaline increases cardiac output and blood pressure. Muscle contraction in the chest can create pain that feels cardiac in nature. Although new or severe chest pain should always be medically evaluated, recurring symptoms with normal findings are frequently linked to anxiety-driven nervous system activation.

Chronic Fatigue and Muscle Tension

Anxiety keeps the body in a prolonged state of alertness. Even when someone appears calm, their physiology may remain activated. Over time, this leads to depletion.

Persistent tiredness despite adequate time in bed.
Difficulty falling or staying asleep due to racing thoughts.
Jaw clenching, shoulder tightness, or neck stiffness.
Tension headaches or generalized body aches.
Feeling physically exhausted but mentally restless.

Chronic stress consumes energy reserves and disrupts sleep architecture. Elevated nighttime cortisol can prevent deep restorative sleep. Muscle tension becomes habitual, contributing to ongoing discomfort and fatigue.

Digestive Issues and the Gut-Brain Connection

The digestive system is highly responsive to stress signals. Communication between the brain and gut occurs through neural and hormonal pathways.

Nausea or upset stomach during stressful events.
Bloating, cramping, or irregular bowel movements.
Diarrhea or constipation triggered by anxiety.
Reduced appetite or stress-related overeating.
Increased stomach acid is contributing to discomfort.

Stress hormones slow or disrupt digestion. Blood flow is redirected away from the gastrointestinal tract during fight or flight activation. Over time, this can create persistent digestive instability that fluctuates with stress levels.

Why Anxiety Manifests in the Body

Physical anxiety symptoms are not random. They result from predictable physiological processes. Understanding these mechanisms reduces fear and supports more effective intervention.

The Nervous System’s Role

The sympathetic nervous system prepares the body to respond to a threat. When activated too frequently, it alters baseline functioning.

Adrenaline increases heart rate and respiratory rate.
Cortisol affects blood sugar regulation and energy levels.
Muscles contract in preparation for action.
Digestion slows as energy is redirected.
Sensitivity to bodily sensations increases.

Repeated activation can lead to somatic amplification, in which normal sensations feel intense or threatening.

Unprocessed Stress and Emotional Suppression

Not all anxiety is consciously acknowledged. Some individuals suppress stress in order to maintain productivity or stability.

Chronic stress accumulates without emotional processing.
Trauma can sensitize the nervous system to perceived threat.
High-functioning anxiety may mask internal physiological activation.
Cultural or personal beliefs may discourage emotional expression.

When stress is not processed cognitively, it may surface physically.

The Anxiety Symptom Feedback Loop

Physical symptoms often trigger additional worry, which increases physiological arousal.

Chest discomfort may trigger fear of illness.
Digestive discomfort may prompt repeated body checking.
Fatigue may lead to frustration and increased stress.
Increased worry heightens adrenaline release.
Heightened adrenaline intensifies symptoms.

Breaking this cycle requires addressing both thoughts and nervous system regulation.

Finding Relief and Next Steps with Mind Matters

Physical anxiety symptoms can be reduced by calming the nervous system and addressing cognitive patterns that maintain stress. Effective treatment targets both physiological and psychological components.

Practical Regulation Strategies

Consistent daily regulation supports nervous system stability.

Diaphragmatic breathing to reduce heart rate.
Progressive muscle relaxation to release stored tension.
Grounding exercises to shift attention externally.
Structured sleep routines to improve restorative rest.
Gentle movement, such as walking or stretching.

When to Seek Professional Support

Professional care may be appropriate when symptoms interfere with daily functioning.

Ongoing chest pain, fatigue, or digestive issues without a medical explanation.
Repeated medical evaluations with normal findings.
Panic attacks or persistent health-related fears.
Sleep disruption that affects performance or mood.

Evidence-based treatments such as medication, cognitive behavioral therapy and somatic-focused interventions help retrain stress responses and reduce symptom intensity.

Anxiety that shows up in the body is treatable. At Mind Matters, we provide structured, personalized care designed to address both the mental and physical dimensions of anxiety. If you are experiencing persistent physical symptoms related to stress, contact Mind Matters to schedule a consultation and begin a targeted plan for recovery.

Navigating Anxiety and Depression in Athletes

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 13:29:07 GMT

Peak physical health is essential for young athletes. However, many can overlook the importance of maintaining young athletes’ mental health. Collegiate athletes face significant pressure to excel both on the field and in the classroom. Many may struggle to find balance, which can contribute to youth athletics with depression and anxiety. At Mind Matters , we offer compassionate care and whole-person mental health treatment for athletes with anxiety and depression to stay at the top of their game.

What Are the Causes: Athletes With Anxiety and Depression

Earning a spot in college athletics is highly competitive. Only a small percentage of high school athletes, approximately 6%, have the opportunity to play in college , and the pressure of meeting performance expectations may feel overwhelming for students. Young athletes are particularly vulnerable to burnout, jeopardizing their academic and athletic futures. Sustaining an injury, especially one that prevents play for an extended period of time, can send an athlete into depression.

Collegiate sports require a considerable amount of a student’s time, which can cause feelings of isolation from peers who aren’t on the team. Athletes often miss out on developing different types of relationships and exploring opportunities for new experiences, alienating them from roommates and classmates.

Depression and Anxiety Treatment for Athletes

Talk therapy and psychiatric medication offer the best treatment outcomes for athletes with mood disturbances. Mindfulness and breathing exercises are tools that athletes can use outside of therapy sessions to calm anxiety and intrusive thoughts . Working with a therapist can help athletes learn to challenge negative thoughts by reframing them in a more positive light.

Psychiatric medications can make working through depression more manageable. SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) provide dual anxiety and depression treatments. Beta blockers help reduce the physiological symptoms of anxiety, including:

Sweating.
Shaking.
Increasing heart rate.

Where Does the Time Go as a Young Athlete?

We all have 24 hours in a day, but for many young athletes, that may not feel like enough. According to the policy of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) , athletes can practice and complete individual training between 28 and 33 hours weekly, depending on their school’s division.

Additionally, collegiate athletes must take their school’s minimum course credits per semester and maintain a GPA of 2.3 or higher. The average time spent studying is two to three hours per credit, thus consuming another 24 to 36 hours of a young athlete's week. Time management skills are vital for athletes to incorporate essential tasks, social activities, and downtime during the week.

Meet Josh Hilton, PMHNP-BC

As a board-certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, Josh Hilton, PMHNP-BC , specializes in care for student athletes and diagnoses and treats various psychiatric conditions , including depression and anxiety. He utilizes specialized screening tools to identify students' needs accurately and recommends treatments that don’t jeopardize their standing with national sports organizations.

Young Athletes and the Pressure, Anxiety, and Depression They Face

Josh believes “athletes experience physical, mental, and social challenges that many non-athletes do not face; this can increase the athlete’s risk of unrecognized mental illness and potential decreased quality of life in the long run.” He goes on to say that “athletes’ lives are challenging due to increased schedule demands related to training and competition, enhanced academic pressures, heightened social expectations, and the intense pressures of competition. Adding to these pressures is the ongoing and prevalent social stigma that surrounds mental illness; thus, decreasing the likelihood that the athlete will be willing to discuss any potential signs of mental illness.”

His experience treating athletes allows him to offer personalized treatment approaches, highlighting the importance of a healthy body, mind, and spirit. Working with Josh can help young athletes reach their goals without sacrificing friendships, grades, or mental health.

Find Athlete Mental Health Providers Near Columbus, OH at Mind Matters

Depression and anxiety are obstacles that our providers can help you overcome. At Mind Matters, we offer modern-day solutions and empathetic care that help build clients’ confidence and ability to succeed. Our team truly believes in the whole-person behavioral health approach to caring for mental health.

Call (614) 545-9773 or schedule an appointment online to help athletes with anxiety and depression. Mind Matters is located near Columbus, OH. We provide therapy services in Columbus, Dublin, Hilliard, Powell, Worthington, Galloway, Grove City, Bexley, Grandview Heights, Clintonville, Upper Arlington, and Franklinton, OH. Our team also provides telehealth appointments to the entire state of Ohio.

Managing PTSD & Depression in Trauma-Exposed Professionals

Fri, 19 Sep 2025 19:42:04 GMT

Even when you have the worst possible day at work, odds are you move past it within a few days. Those in trauma-exposed professions frequently develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression that don’t improve without treatment, creating challenges in their personal and professional lives.

At Mind Matters, we believe in the whole-person behavioral health approach, which includes talk therapy and psychiatry services. We offer various treatment styles, including trauma-focused therapy (TFT) , to help you regain control of your life.

The Most Trauma-Exposed Professions

Trauma can develop from direct exposure to experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Secondary trauma results from exposure to details of others’ traumatic experiences. The accumulation of stress, grief, and feelings of responsibility can cause trauma over time.

Often, professionals in the following fields experience the highest amount of trauma:

Active-Duty Military.
Veterans.
Firefighters.
Healthcare, including physical and psychiatric.
Ambulance Personnel.
Law Enforcement.

What is High-Functioning Depression?

When it comes to depression , it has many faces. Some people with depression struggle to get out of bed, while others conceal their symptoms and continue with life as usual. High-functioning depression is not an official condition in the DSM-5, but psychiatric providers recognize it as a distinct type of depression.

Untreated high-functioning depression can increase the risk of chronic health issues and relationship struggles. Those experiencing it may not notice the symptoms or avoid acknowledgment to maintain their outward persona.

The stigma and judgment of psychiatric illness can also push individuals away from seeking the treatment they need.

What Are Some PTSD Symptoms?

PTSD can be a debilitating condition that puts a barrier between you and the life you enjoy. Everyone experiences this condition uniquely, but the following PTSD symptoms can help you recognize it:

Experiencing event flashbacks.
Having intrusive thoughts .
Avoiding things that remind you of the trauma.
Feelings of hypervigilance.
Persisting negative emotions, like guilt, fear, or anger.
Experiencing positive emotions is difficult.

How to Treat Depression and PTSD

Talk therapy is highly beneficial as a depression treatment. Working with a therapist can help to reframe negative thinking patterns and develop positive self-talk. Combining psychiatric medications, such as SSRIs and short-term use of benzodiazepines, with talk therapy can provide the best outcomes.

Trauma-focused therapy enlists various approaches to ease PTSD symptoms. In addition to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), many do well with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR ) as PTSD treatment. Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) empowers trauma-exposed professionals to challenge distressing thought patterns and replace them with healthier perspectives.

As with depression, using psychiatric services and therapeutic support simultaneously is often the most helpful approach.

Meet Jennifer Moore, LPCC-S, of Mind Matters

Jennifer Moore, LPCC-S , specializes in CBT and depression, which is helpful for those in trauma-exposed fields seeking treatment. She provides therapeutic support to help her clients process and overcome the impact of trauma. Her person-centered approach allows you to take an active role in defining the journey that best serves you.

Jennifer uses CBT and goal-setting to help you identify and explore unrecognized strengths. She believes that challenges along the way are opportunities for personal growth, and a therapeutic relationship is most beneficial when built on feelings of safety and trust.

Creating a Supportive Workplace for Trauma-Exposed Professions

While you can’t eliminate trauma exposure in many professions, you can support personnel at all levels. Here are some strategies and tools to lessen the impact of trauma in any field:

Educate all team members on recognizing the signs of depression and PTSD, and the importance of understanding and exercising empathy.
Encourage open communication and check in on team members who might be struggling.
Normalize requesting support and make resources readily available.
Encourage work-life balance and self-care with suggestions on how to do so.

Manage PTSD and Depression with the Best Therapists in Columbus, OH

Trauma-exposed professions are vital to society, so providing those fields with appropriate psychiatric care is also essential. The Mind Matters providers are empathetic and help increase clients' confidence in their ability to overcome challenges.

Call (614) 545-9773 or schedule an appointment online to begin PTSD and depression treatment. Mind Matters is located near Columbus, OH. We provide therapy services in Columbus, Dublin, Hilliard, Powell, Worthington, Galloway, Grove City, Bexley, Grandview Heights, Clintonville, Upper Arlington, and Franklinton, OH. Our team also provides telehealth appointments to the entire state of Ohio.

How Anxiety Affects Relationships & Goals

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 15:40:09 GMT

Healthy relationships and realistic goals are crucial for overall happiness, but anxiety throws a wrench into the gears of both. Give yourself permission to start healing and enjoy life with help from the providers at Mind Matters .

What is Anxiety?

Anxiety isn’t an inherently negative emotion. It gives individuals the innate ability to prepare for a dangerous situation, making them more alert and focused. Unfortunately, many experience general fear, worry, and catastrophizing situations when it doesn’t align with the problem.

Some physical signs of anxiety include:

Rapid heartbeat.
Muscle tension.
Sweating.

Other signs of anxiety can also cause you to feel restless, irritable, and hypervigilance t .

What Are Anxiety Attacks?

Anxiety attacks, also known as panic attacks, differ from general anxiety, but they are related. When you experience an anxiety attack, it’s a sudden, strong, and short episode of intense feelings like you’re losing control and other physical symptoms, like dizziness and difficulty breathing.

Your Goals and Anxiety

Goals help you find direction in life and promote well-being. Setting a goal also enables you to hold yourself accountable for your actions and enjoy the tasks of reaching it more. Any goal is essential, whether it’s to walk around the block or pursue higher education.

However, untreated anxiety can interfere with every goal you have. Self-doubt may cause you to procrastinate or avoid taking action to reach a goal. Severe anxiety shifts your mind into short-term thinking rather than being able to see the bigger picture, making a goal seem impossible to achieve.

Your Relationships and Anxiety

Anxiety disorders can make pursuing romantic and platonic relationships difficult. It also places strain on your existing relationships. Anxiety often causes individuals to isolate themselves from others, which makes developing and maintaining relationships more challenging.

Effective communication can feel difficult due to negative self-talk that causes you to overthink every situation. Some people need frequent reassurance; others may perceive them as too needy or clingy. Irritability is usually a factor in relationship difficulties, as well.

Psychiatric Medication Management for Anxiety

Psychiatric medication management is a valuable tool for anxiety treatment. There are many types of anti-anxiety medication, with the following being the most common:

SSRIs: Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that affects mood regulation and gives individuals a feeling of happiness. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) delay reabsorption, increasing the availability in the brain.
SNRIs: Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) target both neurotransmitters. Norepinephrine is responsible for feeling alert and is a primary factor in your stress response, aka “fight or flight.”
Benzodiazepines: Benzodiazepines are a fast-acting sedative that reduces physical symptoms of anxiety and promotes relaxation within half an hour. They have potential for abuse, so psychiatry providers generally prescribe them for a short time or take them as needed for severe anxiety attacks.
Off-Label Anxiolytics: All medications that reduce anxiety are anxiolytics. Some are FDA-approved to treat other issues, like high blood pressure, but the action of the drug also lessens anxiety.

What Are the Benefits of Using Anxiety Therapy and Medication?

Combining talk therapy with psychiatric medicine can improve outcomes for those with problematic anxiety. Medication can lessen the severity of anxiety, while therapy helps you process the underlying issues that contribute to it.

Think about your hands – one hand can perform most tasks without difficulty, but when you use both, you can hold more and move larger items.

Find Anxiety Treatment Near Columbus, OH With Mind Matters

Anxiety can feel debilitating, but it doesn’t have to be. The providers at Mind Matters will help you navigate the puzzle of anxiety with therapy and psychiatric medicine. Our team truly believes in the whole-person behavioral health approach to help you thrive. Seeking psychiatric services early on can help prevent your anxiety from taking over your life.

Call (614) 545-9773 or schedule an appointment online if you’re experiencing signs of anxiety. Mind Matters is located near Columbus, OH. We provide therapy services in Columbus, Dublin, Hilliard, Powell, Worthington, Galloway, Grove City, Bexley, Grandview Heights, Clintonville, Upper Arlington, and Franklinton, OH. Our team also provides telehealth appointments to the entire state of Ohio.

How to Deal with Disappointment in Healthy Ways

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 13:48:55 GMT

When expectations and reality don’t align, disappointment results. Everyone experiences disappointment, but how you deal with it affects how quickly you bounce back and handle similar situations in the future. Our expert team of Mind Matters therapists created this guide to share what you need to know about how to deal with disappointment in healthy ways.

Physical and Psychological Effects of Disappointment

Disappointment is a mix of unsavory feelings, including frustration, anger, and sadness. These emotions may cause physical symptoms, such as:

Headaches.
Fatigue.
Upset stomach.
Muscle tension.

The psychological impact is often more far-reaching. You may have less motivation to try new activities, work towards goals, and hesitate to make important decisions. Continuous disappointment can cause a negative self-view and pessimism about the world around you, making it vital to learn how to cope healthily.

Positive Coping Skills for Disappointment

The first step to navigating an uncomfortable emotion is to acknowledge it. Denying or avoiding disappointment will not resolve it and will usually make you feel worse. Be kind to yourself while processing the experience by using positive self-talk. Berating yourself will not change the situation and will prevent you from working through it. Take time to reflect on your disappointment and use it as a learning experience for the future.

Helping Kids and Teens Recover from Disappointment

Children and teenagers are likely more susceptible to disappointment because of the developmental stages they’re still going through. As a result, they can experience more intense emotions in situations. Watching your child struggle feels difficult; however, guiding them through the experience is crucial rather than trying to fix the issue for them.

Encourage your child or teen to discuss their disappointment while empathizing and validating their emotions. You can model resilience by sharing your stories about overcoming unmet expectations. If your teen uses the word “might” instead of “always” or “never,” they can learn to set realistic expectations. An all-or-nothing mindset can heighten your child's pressure to succeed.

Additionally, you can emphasize the importance of relying on a support system of friends and family when they’re struggling. This sense of community and connection with others can give kids the confidence to risk disappointment because they know they won’t have to face it alone.

Work Through Disappointment with Mind Matters

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you can’t work through an issue alone. If you’re dwelling on your disappointment or feeling depressed and anxious, therapy can help. Our Mind Matters clinicians lead sessions with empathy and compassion. We will meet you where you are on your mental health journey.

In addition to our on-site services, we provide telehealth appointments to make therapy accessible to everyone. We believe that it truly is mind over matter, and with the help of our team, you can overcome whatever you’re going through.

Find Therapy and Telehealth Care Near Columbus, OH

To feel more confident in your ability to handle disappointment healthily in the future, contact our team. The Mind Matters clinicians will develop a treatment strategy that meets your needs and provides modern-day solutions for modern-day life.

Call (614) 545-9773 or schedule an appointment online. Mind Matters is located near Columbus, Ohio. We provide therapy services in Columbus, Dublin, Hilliard, Powell, Worthington, Galloway, Grove City, Bexley, Grandview Heights, Clintonville, Upper Arlington, and Franklinton, Ohio.

Understanding the Differences Between ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorder

Tue, 06 May 2025 14:39:51 GMT

As assessments and treatments become more accessible, you’re likely to hear more about Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than in the past. Understanding the differences between the disorders is essential to providing the most effective treatment for individuals. Our clinicians at Mind Matters have a thorough understanding of ADHD and autism and can help your child overcome the associated obstacles.

What Are the Differences Between ADHD and Austism?

Breaking down the difference between ADHD and autism can feel complex because, while they’re distinct behavioral disorders , they also share many traits.

The primary differences between the two are apparent in executive functioning, social skills, and sensory processing.

Executive functions

Executive functions are brain processes that control imperatives such as:

Planning.
Organizing.
Initiating tasks.
Working memory.

Often, children with ADHD have difficulties with sustained attention and the ability to hold information or instructions in their minds while doing a task.

Autism tends to cause a lack of cognitive flexibility, which makes it hard to switch between tasks, and an inability to break large projects down into more manageable steps.

Social skILLS

Mastering social skills can be complex for all kids and even adults, but an ADHD or autism diagnosis presents particular challenges. Those with ADHD may have trouble focusing on conversations and want to talk over others instead of participating when appropriate.

Autism can cause individuals to have difficulty making eye contact and understanding conversational concepts like sarcasm and irony. ASD can also make it challenging for adults and children to initiate and maintain talking with peers and put their thoughts and feelings into words.

sENSORY PROCESSING

The human brain must process all the information it receives from the senses. Those on the autism spectrum often react intensely to sound, touch, taste, and visual stimuli. For example, when experiencing sensory overload, a child with autism may regulate themselves with stimming behaviors, like rocking or hand flapping.

Alternatively, a kid with ADHD usually seeks sensory input through fidgeting or other movements and has difficulty filtering critical sensory information, such as a teacher talking, from mundane events, like others walking in the hallway.

3 Types of ADHD

Mental health and neurological disorders are rarely black and white, which is also true for ADHD. There’s no single way to diagnose ADHD, so clinicians use a combination of evaluations, observation, and conversations with parents, caregivers, and teachers to help diagnose.

An ADHD diagnosis must also meet criteria listed in the most up-to-date edition of the DSM or Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, including severity of symptoms, an onset at 12 or younger, and significant impairment in the child’s life. Let’s explore the three common types of ADHD:

Inattentive ADHD

The symptoms of inattentive ADHD can include:

Experiencing difficulty paying attention and keeping focus.
Being forgetful.
Having challenges with organization.

Inattentive ADHD can be challenging to spot because the outward symptoms can be subtle.

Hyperactive/impulsive ADHD

This type of ADHD displays the classic, stereotypical symptoms of the disorder, including:

Interrupting others.
Having difficulty staying in a seat or waiting in line.
Feeling like you always need to be moving.

Children with hyperactive/impulsive ADHD frequently receive discipline for misbehavior despite an inability to control these actions.

Combined ADHD

Combined ADHD is the most common of the three types and is a mix of symptoms from inattentive and hyperactive/impulsive ADHD.

Kids with combined ADHD may frequently daydream or “zone out,” be restless, and display impulsivity.

The Strengths of ADHD and Austism

An ADHD or autism diagnosis isn’t the terrible outcome many believe it can be. Individuals with ADHD and/or autism have strengths in areas that most others don’t.

These characteristics vary between individuals, but in general, you can expect traits such as:

ADHD Strengths

A few strengths of ADHD include:

Hyper-focusing.
Creativity.
Rapid information processing.
Passion.
Resilience.

Austism Strengths

Some autism strengths are as follows:

Exceptional memorization skills.
Attention to detail and pattern recognition.
Honest with a strong sense of right and wrong.
Direct communication style.

The Importance of Individualized Treatment Plans

Therapeutic interventions are almost always more successful if they’re individualized . A personalized treatment plan will identify and address your child's unique needs and maximize their strengths. One-on-one behavioral therapy generally leads to more positive outcomes.

Find Children's Behavioral Therapy in Columbus, OH

Are you seeking a confident, compassionate approach to therapy for your child with ADHD or autism? Mind Matters has children’s medication management services coming soon, including stimulants for those with ADHD. Call (614) 545-9773 or schedule an appointment online. Our clinicians emphasize accessibility, empathy, building confidence, and using modern-day solutions for all treatments.

Mind Matters is located near Columbus, Ohio. We provide therapy services in Columbus, Dublin, Hilliard, Powell, Worthington, Galloway, Grove City, Bexley, Grandview Heights, Clintonville, Upper Arlington, and Franklinton, Ohio.

Navigating Anger Management Therapy

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:40:41 GMT

Despite having a reputation for being an undesirable emotion, anger in response to feeling betrayed, threatened, or wronged by an individual can be a catalyst for you to change a toxic situation. However, anger is a compelling emotion that can be challenging to control, which is where anger management therapy can help change your life for the better.

If mismanaged anger negatively impacts your life, Mind Matters can help with anger management near Columbus, OH, where we can help you regain control by identifying your triggers and establishing healthy coping techniques.

What Are the Physiological and Psychological Effects of Anger?

Your mental and physical health are inextricably intertwined. When you’re angry, you experience a higher heart rate, muscle tension, and sweating from hormones preparing you to defend yourself against a perceived threat. Over time, frequent episodes of anger can cause issues such as:

Hypertension.
Cardiovascular problems.
Digestive issues.

Uncontrolled anger also has psychological effects. It impairs your decision-making ability and can lead to unwanted feelings of guilt, embarrassment, and depression. Problematic anger may also cause problems at work and damage relationships.

How is Anger Diagnosed in Therapy?

Mental health professionals diagnose anger through a comprehensive evaluation in therapy. Typical signs in the assessment of unhealthy anger include:

Having a short temper.
Finding it difficult to return to a calm state after becoming angry.
Displaying inappropriate reactions, such as yelling, damaging property, or being physically aggressive.

Anger is a secondary emotion because it’s often a reaction to other emotions, such as sadness or fear. Many believe sadness or fear makes them appear vulnerable or weak, whereas anger can instill fear in others. Working with a trained professional helps you determine the underlying causes of your anger and strengthens healthy coping skills.

Practicing Anger Management Therapy at Home

All types of therapy are more effective when you consistently practice the skills you learn during sessions with a therapist. There are several ways to work on anger management at home, but these are three of our favorites:

Breathing Exercises : Breathing techniques help balance your nervous system and redirect your mind from feeling angry. Breathing in deeply through the nose, holding it for five to ten seconds, and exhaling slowly out the mouth has a calming effect that reduces the physiological hallmarks of anger.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation : This exercise allows you to focus on feeling tension and relaxation of muscles throughout your body. Begin by tightly tensing your toes and notice the difference in sensation when you relax them, and then continue this process with other muscles, including your legs, arms, hands, and shoulders, to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety .
Assertive Communication Skills : Effective communication can offset the effects of anger while interacting with other individuals. Anger and frustration are inevitable when you feel your voice and opinions go unheard by others, which means assertive communication allows you to share your feelings and boundaries without dismissing others.

Manage Anger Effectively With Mind Matters

When you’re unable to manage your anger, seeking therapy can help minimize the psychological and physiological effects. At Mind Matters, we treat individuals and couples in our office or via convenient telehealth appointments, including anger management therapy. Our team is confident you can overcome challenges with healthy coping mechanisms and useful tools.

Find Anger Management Therapy Near Columbus, OH

Request an appointment for anger management near Columbus, OH, at Mind Matters today. With us, you can meet a clinician who will tailor therapeutic plans and goals to suit your needs and schedule best. We believe that every mind matters and offer modern-day solutions that align with your busy life.

Mind Matters is located in Columbus, Ohio. We provide therapy services to our neighbors near Columbus, Dublin, Hilliard, Powell, Worthington, Galloway, Grove City, Bexley, Grandview Heights, Clintonville, Upper Arlington, and Franklinton, Ohio.

A Parent’s Guide to Counseling for Teenagers

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 18:02:50 GMT

For many, the teenage years can feel awkward and challenging. However, these feelings can go beyond typical growing pains for some. Even if it seems your teen has nothing to be anxious or depressed about, it’s vital to remember that most teenagers don’t share everything with their guardians.

Addressing mental health concerns is an essential way to prevent them from becoming a significant obstacle, and that’s why the therapists at Mind Matters are here to help. Our expert team has compiled a guide for parents for counseling teenagers.

Do You Need Counseling for Teenagers Near Columbus, OH?

Navigating the changes in their body, identity, and social experiences is stressful. While it’s common for teenagers to be more temperamental, how can you tell if it’s typical behavior or something deeper?

Everyone is unique, but these are some signs to watch for if you think your teen may benefit from seeing a teenage therapist near Columbus, OH:

Changes in their eating or sleeping patterns.
Decreases in grades and academic performances.
Loses interest interests, like hobbies, extracurricular activities, or seeing friends.
Marks of self-harm, takes unnecessary risks, or has a preoccupation with death.
Changes in life, such as the death of a loved one, a parental divorce, or changing schools.

Reasons to Consider Counseling for Teens

A teen therapist’s office is a safe place for teens to discuss their feelings without fear of judgment. These honest discussions are essential for helping teenagers learn healthy coping skills to navigate complex emotional and social situations.

Mastering these techniques can build their confidence and self-esteem, which is necessary for forming their identity into adulthood. Therapy can also teach conflict resolution strategies that your teen can practice at home.

Misconceptions About Therapy for Teenagers

Mental health issues have a stigma surrounding them, making it difficult for many individuals to seek treatment. These stigmas can be especially true for parents of teenagers who don’t want to make them feel like they’re not normal or different from their peers.

Here are some common myths surrounding therapy for teenagers and the truths that debunk them:

Myth: Once a teenager begins therapy, they’ll always need it.

Truth: Individuals may require therapy at several different points in their lives, or they may only attend for a period of time. Teenagers can benefit from several therapy sessions and only have check-ins a few times a year.

Myth: Therapy is only for individuals with severe mental illness.

Truth: Many individuals who attend therapy may experience some or no mental illness at all. Therapy can help individuals set goals, have someone listen to them, or establish healthy coping skills to use during challenging times.

Myth: You look like a bad parent if your teenager needs counseling.

Truth: Recognizing that your child needs help and providing assistance shows that you’re a loving, caring parent with your teen’s best interest in mind.

Myth: Mental health struggles will dissipate as teens get older, so they don’t need therapy.

Truth: The opposite is true. Without treatment, anxiety and depression can get significantly worse and negatively impact your teenager’s life.

Why Choose Mind Matters for Teenage Counseling

When your teenager needs therapy, you want to begin as quickly as possible with one-on-one or even group sessions. Mind Matters has no waitlist for new clients and offers convenient telehealth visits.

Our professional clinicians provide compassionate care and a personalized approach for your teen. Mind Matters understands the importance of empathy, confidence-building, and meeting your teenager’s needs with modern-day solutions.

Find a Teenage Therapist Near Columbus, OH

If you have concerns regarding your teen’s mental health, Mind Matters can help. Call (614) 545-9773 or schedule an appointment online.

How to Stop Intrusive Thoughts & Manage Anxiety

Thu, 19 Dec 2024 14:56:17 GMT

If you’ve experienced uncomfortable thoughts, know that you’re not alone. Many individuals experience involuntary, uncomfortable thoughts or impulses sometimes. When an idea or urge repeatedly comes to mind despite you not wanting it to, it’s an intrusive thought. You may feel defenseless against these mental images or feelings, but your mind is mighty, and Mind Matters can help you learn how to stop intrusive thoughts.

Common Types of Intrusive Thoughts

Intrusive thoughts often cause guilt or shame, but it’s crucial to remember that they’re just thoughts and, perhaps most importantly, they aren’t your subconscious desires. Every person’s mind is unique, but some types of intrusive thoughts are more common than others across various populations.

Most often, individuals mention intrusive thoughts such as:

Violent acts against others or yourself.
Sexual acts or situations that you wouldn’t want to engage in.
Beliefs you may lose jobs, friends, or partners.
Worries about humiliating yourself in front of others by doing something inappropriate.
Fears about your health, including developing an illness or catching germs from others.

The Connection Between Intrusive Thoughts and Anxiety

There’s a cyclical connection between intrusive thoughts and anxiety . When you're anxious, your brain creates hyperactive brainwaves and disrupts your emotional processing center, making you more likely to focus on distressing or negative thoughts.

The intrusive thoughts, in turn, increase your anxiety, so learning to manage both is essential for your mental health.

How to Manage Intrusive Thoughts

Understandably, you may think that consciously forcing them out of your mind will reduce intrusive thoughts; the opposite is true. Focusing on the unwanted mental images will strengthen them and lead you into the anxiety and intrusive thoughts cycle. It’s also helpful to avoid engaging with these thoughts and resist the urge to figure out what they might mean.

Using Mindfulness to Manage Intrusive Thoughts and Anxiety

Mindfulness is a helpful technique for controlling intrusive thoughts. It’s a practice that draws your attention to the present and makes you aware of your thoughts and feelings without judging them. Focusing on your breathing or a spot on the floor allows various thoughts to come and go without getting upset by any specific one. If you find your attention is wandering to unwanted thoughts, gently redirect your focus to your mindfulness exercise.

Several studies have shown that mindfulness improves psychological well-being and regulates emotions, behaviors, and emotional reactivity. The benefits of mindfulness directly affect one's ability to reduce feelings of anxiety.

Manage Intrusive Thoughts and Anxiety with Therapy

If intrusive thoughts occur frequently enough to disrupt your daily life or cause you to spend a significant amount of time and mental energy trying to eliminate them, a therapist can help.

At Mind Matters, we offer one-on-one and marriage and couple counseling and convenient telehealth visits. Our therapists meet you where you are and help you realize your mind’s potential. We have modern-day solutions to accommodate modern-day needs without the hassle of a waitlist, so you can begin improving your mental health immediately, especially during the holidays .

Find an Anxiety Counselor in Columbus, OH

Are you ready to stop letting intrusive thoughts and anxiety control your life? Please request an appointment with our anxiety counselors in Columbus, Ohio, with Mind Matters. With us, you can find a clinician who will create a personalized plan to help you meet your specific goals, including how to stop intrusive thoughts.

Our team firmly believes in empathizing, instilling confidence, and offering modern-day solutions that are effective and relevant to daily life. Mind Matters is located near Columbus, Ohio, and we provide therapy services to those near Columbus, Dublin, Hilliard, Powell, Worthington, Galloway, Grove City, Bexley, Grandview Heights, Clintonville, Upper Arlington, or Franklinton, Ohio.

5 Mindful Tips for Managing Holiday Stress

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 19:06:40 GMT

The holidays are often a fun and exciting time with your loved ones, but they can also get quite stressful sometimes. Prioritizing your mental health during this festive time is essential, and mindful practices make it more manageable. The Mind Matters clinicians share some easy tips to help you control your holiday stress and make the season easier.

What are Some Common Holiday Stressors?

There are several factors that can cause you to feel stressed during the holiday season. Some common stressors you might experience include:

Social anxiety

Not everyone aspires to be the life of the party. If you experience social anxiety , you may feel like everyone is looking at you and have difficulty making eye contact with others. This type of anxiety can make it difficult to enjoy time with your friends and family.

Rehearsing topics of conversation or how you’ll introduce yourself before an event can help. Additionally, if you have a friend or family member you feel most comfortable around. They can be your social buddy and help relieve some of your stress.

Grief

The holiday season often reminds us of loved ones who are no longer with us, leading to heightened feelings of grief . While you have no obligation to celebrate, we recommend staying in contact with your support system to help you navigate this time and reduce some feelings of loneliness and depression.

It’s also vital to continue to care for yourself, such as going for walks, eating nourishing meals, and getting enough quality sleep.

5 Helpful Tips for Managing Your Holiday Stress

Here are a few tips and techniques for stress management you can try this holiday season:

1. Try deep breathing

Breathing exercises are an excellent way to reduce physiological stress and shift focus from what makes you anxious.

We recommend the 4-7-8 method:

Inhale through your nose for four seconds.
Hold it for seven seconds.
Exhale through your mouth for eight seconds.

2. practice gratitude

It’s easy to get caught up in the shopping and gift-giving, but taking a couple of minutes at the end of the day to write down something you’re grateful for allows you to recognize the things in your life that don’t have a price tag.

3. Establish firm boundaries

Before the hustle and bustle begins, decide what events you’ll attend and who you’ll choose to spend time with. The holiday season may make you feel required to be around those you have strained relationships with, but you don’t have to.

Remember that you’re not responsible for how others react to your boundaries and that saying “No.” is always a valid choice. However, if you have little control over the matter, it’s helpful to keep your distance from those who cause you stress and keep your interactions with them to a minimum.

4. Reframe negative thinking

We’re often our worst enemy, and breaking away from cycles of negative thinking feels challenging. When you find yourself thinking the worst, acknowledge the thought and ask yourself if it’s accurate. Negative thoughts happen, but it’s important to distinguish between your feelings and what’s presently occurring around you.

Another way to ground yourself and block out negative thoughts is to notice what’s happening. For example, what can you hear, see, taste, smell, and touch? This technique can help you slow down your thoughts and bring you back into your body rather than your mind.

5. Schedule self-care

Many people can forget to care for themselves during the holidays, especially busy individuals and parents of young children. Ensure you’re getting ample rest and make mindful food choices. Indulging on a few cookies and sweet holiday treats is a must during the holidays, but binging on too many sugary treats will make you feel sluggish and increase your stress level.

It’s also vital to make time for activities and hobbies you enjoy, even if they aren’t holiday-related, like reading, watching your favorite comfort show or movie, or crocheting.

Seeking Stress Management and Therapy During the Holidays

When you don’t think you can handle stress management alone this time of year, we’re here to help. We care about you because your Mind Matters to us. We offer telehealth visits, and unlike many other mental health providers, we don’t have a waitlist for new clients.

You can rely on our therapists to listen and help while providing empathy and building your confidence to tackle obstacles now and in the future on your mental health journey. We believe in offering modern-day solutions to meet your modern-day needs.

Find Therapy and Telehealth Services Near Columbus, Ohio

Which of these mindful tips will benefit you the most? Mind Matters offers accessible care and compassionate clinicians who personalize therapeutic approaches to meet your needs.