Tag: Mental Health

Why Intelligent People Are Drawn to Antiques — And 10 Other Surprising Home Habits

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11 Unusual Things People With High Intelligence Do In Their Homes

By Zayda Slabbekoorn | Written Oct 16, 2025

Even if you imagine the home of the most intelligent person you know as a tidy, incredibly organized, and sterile space, chances are you’re wrong. A study from the University of Minnesota actually argues that untidy, cluttered, and slightly chaotic living spaces are more indicative of intelligence than organization and cleanliness.

Of course, there are many other unusual things people with high intelligence do in their homes — all of which might be a bit of a surprise. From collecting eccentric vintage décor to keeping a physical calendar in the digital age, intelligent people are often drawn to cultivating their homes in a way that prompts mental stimulation. They want to be sparked with inspiration as they get ready for the day or drawn into a state of deep thought when relaxing on their couch — and their décor choices often reflect those desires.

Here are 11 unusual things people with high intelligence do in their homes

1. They keep a whiteboard or a physical calendar

Many studies suggest that physical calendars and brainstorming whiteboards support deeper thinking. They serve as visual reminders and open space for curiosity, intention, and learning to flourish through handwritten notes and prompts. Intelligent people often invest in these physical tools, even if they also use phone or digital versions. It gives them a way to track tasks, brainstorm, and remind themselves visually.

2. They rearrange their furniture often

Research indicates that people with high intelligence tend to be more prosocial, and making their home inviting for guests and conducive to connection is important. They frequently rearrange furniture or tweak spaces so conversations flow, social connection is enhanced, and people feel comfortable in their homes.

3. They keep a desk full of “controlled chaos”

A messy desk can facilitate curiosity and creativity, according to psychological research. Intelligent people often allow a certain amount of clutter in their creative zones — not out of neglect, but because it fuels inspiration. What may look chaotic to others is sometimes the perfect blend of stimulation and creative energy for them.

4. They scatter books and journals everywhere

Highly intelligent people tend to use free moments intentionally — reading, journaling, reflecting — rather than turning to passive entertainment. You’ll find books on nightstands, notebooks in kitchens, journals by the couch. These habits feed self-awareness, help process thoughts, and support reflection in daily life.

5. They are intentional about lighting

Lighting influences mood and mental health. Harsh, bright light can become overstimulating, while soft, warm light brings calm. Intelligent people are mindful of this — choosing bright or natural light for productivity, then switching to softer, ambient lighting when unwinding.

6. They use sticky notes for reminders

Because intelligent minds often make connections across many ideas, visual reminders like sticky notes become useful. Tasks, thoughts, or insights are jotted down and posted around the house: on mirrors, desks, doors. These external cues help track ideas and responsibilities.

7. They unwind in a dedicated space

Though many are social, intelligent people often highly value solitude. They create quiet, intentional places to relax — a reading nook, a small studio, even a corner in the garage. These spots offer refuge for reflection, calm, and mental rest.

8. They use cookbooks with recipes outside their comfort zone

Open-mindedness is a common trait among highly intelligent people. In the kitchen, that means experimenting: trying new cuisines, techniques, or unusual ingredients. Even if the result isn’t perfect, the process of exploration and learning is valued.

9. They learn how to fix random things

High intelligence often goes hand in hand with curiosity, resilience, and self-sufficiency. Many prefer to learn hands-on skills — repairing appliances, patching walls, or doing small maintenance — rather than immediately outsourcing work. The challenge stimulates growth.

10. They create spaces just for thinking

Even during downtime, intelligent minds crave stimulation. Many carve out places — a comfortable chair, a quiet corner, a small room — dedicated to thinking, reflecting, or dreaming. These spaces allow curiosity to flourish without distraction.

11. They collect unusual antiques

Rather than chasing trends, intelligent people often gravitate toward meaningful, unique, or vintage items. They appreciate the stories, history, and authenticity behind antiques and curiosities. Over time, their homes may fill with eclectic collections that spark thought and reflection.

Here is where the original article can be found: https://www.yourtango.com/self/unusual-things-people-with-high-intelligence-do-in-their-homes

Note: Awaiting permission to republish. If you wrote this article, please contact me, Angela Gentile.

Ways to Boost Your Mental Health Without Overhauling Your Life [Guest Post]

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Image via Pexels

By Sharon Wagner

When you think about mental health, what usually comes to mind? Therapy, maybe
medication, or yoga classes on a quiet Saturday morning? Sure—those matter. But your
brain and body crave more than just the standard checklist. Mental well-being doesn’t need
to be a whole new lifestyle. Sometimes, what helps most are subtle, unexpected
shifts—ones that trick your brain into feeling more alive, more grounded, or more at peace.

Plant Something With Your Hands

There’s a quiet kind of magic in dirt under your nails. Even a small container garden or a
few pots on your windowsill can trigger a reset. Science increasingly points to how
gardening calms anxiety by reducing cortisol, inviting rhythm into your routine, and
reconnecting your senses with the natural world. The act of nurturing something slow-
growing pulls you back into the present—no screens, no pressure, no performance. Just
breath, soil, and the steady hum of becoming.

Create With AI, Not Just Your Hands

Creativity doesn’t need to start with blank paper. Some of the most powerful
breakthroughs come from letting tools do the heavy lifting. With modern technology, AI
painting in visual arts lets anyone, regardless of training, visually express ideas, memories,
or moods in seconds. It’s not about becoming an artist—it’s about tapping into your own
emotional processing in a language that words don’t always reach.

Use These Mental Health Apps

You don’t need a complicated system to get started—just a phone and a few minutes. These
apps, widely used in Canada, are changing how people get access to support:

● PocketWell (Wellness Together Canada companion) — Backed by the federal
government, this app offers mood tracking, self-assessments, and direct access to
social workers or crisis responders—all in a private, judgment-free space.
● Fello — Designed to connect users with others who’ve lived through similar
struggles, offering real stories from peer-support users without the pressure of
formal therapy.
● MindShift CBT — Developed by Anxiety Canada, this app teaches evidence-based
coping skills rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy. You’ll find exercises for
reframing anxious thinking, managing panic, and building long-term tools.
● MindBeacon — This app pairs you with a licensed therapist who guides you
through a structured CBT program. Many Canadian health plans cover it, making
professional care more accessible without traditional barriers.
● Calm — Known worldwide but widely adopted in Canada, Calm offers guided
meditations, sleep stories, breathing exercises, and relaxing music. It’s designed to
lower stress, help you sleep, and make mindfulness part of your day.

Give Your Time to Someone Else

You’re stressed, overwhelmed, and stretched too thin. And strangely, that’s why this works.
One of the simplest shifts you can make is volunteering—an hour, a morning, nothing
extravagant. Studies show volunteering boosts life satisfaction by giving you purpose,
relational validation, and meaningful structure outside your personal grind. It reminds
your nervous system that it still knows how to connect—and care—without needing to be
fixed first.

Get Cold—On Purpose

The ice bath trend might feel performative on social media, but its benefits go deeper than
hype. Cold water immersion has become a mental health intervention in its own right.
Researchers explain how jumping into an ice bath can trigger neurological responses that
regulate mood, reduce cortisol, and even promote mental clarity. You don’t need a
tub—start with a cold shower burst. It’s discomfort that teaches your brain how to recover.

Try Virtual Reality Therapy

You don’t need to leave the house to confront your fears. Therapists are increasingly
integrating immersive therapy with virtual reality into treatment plans, especially for
trauma, phobias, and anxiety. The appeal is real: controlled, repeatable exposure in a safe
simulation. It builds desensitization with precision, helping you develop regulation tools
that transfer into real-world situations. Sometimes it takes another world to help you
handle this one.

You don’t need to “be better.” You need more options. Not every strategy will resonate, but
one might shift something. Try it. Small experiments lead to bigger change. And mental
health? It’s a mosaic, not a makeover.

Discover a wealth of knowledge and support with Angela G. Gentile’s insightful books and
resources—visit AngelaGGentile.com to explore her work and connect with a community
dedicated to well-being and caregiving.

Bio: Sharon Wagner pens her thoughts from her personal retreat in Wisconsin. She finds it deeply satisfying to share about a wide range of topics to people across the US and Canada.

Creative Ways to Reduce Your Stress and Improve Your Mindset [Guest Post]

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By Sharon Wagner

Reducing stress sounds like a monumental task, but thinking outside the box is often key. What you need is space—a pause long enough to let your thoughts and feelings take shape. Between DIY projects, journaling, painting, or just rearranging a room, there’s an invitation to process, reflect, and affirm who you are becoming. This article isn’t about mastering technique; it’s about giving form to your inner landscape. Let’s explore practical, soul-nourishing ways to do that.


Craft to Build Resilience


Creating something tangible with your hands trains your brain to stay curious and adaptive. Whether you’re knitting, building a wreath, or trying hand lettering, the process wires patience into your nervous system. Over time, these small acts of creation reinforce a growth mindset through arts and crafts—teaching you to pivot when mistakes happen, and to finish what you start. It’s not about perfection; it’s about endurance. That kind of psychological muscle pays off in every part of life. A hot glue gun might not seem like self-care, but don’t underestimate it.

Journaling for Insight


When thoughts spin too fast to write clearly, sketching them out can reveal things words can’t reach. If you haven’t tried it, visual journaling merges word and image to build a record of what you’re thinking, feeling, and shifting through. Some days, it’s watercolor and a date. Other days, it’s angry lines and a glued-down receipt. Each page becomes proof that your internal life deserves attention. You don’t need a narrative—just presence. The goal is not clarity, but contact.


Externalize with Digital Tools


Sometimes, your ideas and emotions are vivid but hard to express through traditional mediums. That’s where tech can help—not to replace your creativity, but to expand it. Using a free AI art generator online, you can turn phrases, moods, or even questions into visual pieces without picking up a brush. It’s not about “cheating” the creative process—it’s about meeting it from a new direction. When you see your thoughts rendered as shape and color, something clicks. It becomes real, and sharable if you choose.


Focus on Sensory Input


We often think of mindfulness as sitting still, eyes closed—but what if it looked like finger painting in silence, or hand-building a planter from clay? Practicing mindful creativity through presence practice helps redirect your attention from outcome to sensation. The feel of the brush, the sound of scissors, the quiet of choosing a palette—these are meditations in motion. You’re not multitasking or producing. You’re noticing. And that noticing is where ideas bloom from the inside out.


Use Creativity for Growth


Art is more than a hobby—it’s a compass when your identity feels in flux. Divorce, retirement, empty nesting, career changes—these are chapters without clear outlines. And that’s where creativity shines. You get to shape your narrative without needing to explain it. One powerful way to reset is to explore creativity as a tool for personal growth, giving your emotions form even when your plans are fuzzy. Think of it as planting a flag in the present moment. It marks the ground where you’re becoming.


Take a Moment to Reset


Looking for a speedy fix? Here’s a quick-hit list of simple 5–10 minute activities that relieve stress—no prep, no guilt, just a reset:


● Go for a brisk walk — even just around the block or indoors.
● Do a 5-minute meditation — focus on breath, sound, or a simple mantra.
● Jot down 3 thoughts in a journal — don’t filter, just write what’s in your head.
● Make a cup of tea mindfully — notice the warmth, aroma, and pace.
● Listen to one favorite song — no distractions, just pure listening.

● Water or repot a plant — engage with something living and low-stakes.
● Wash your hands slowly — tune into scent, temperature, and feel.
● Doodle or color freely — no goal, just motion and visual flow.
● Try a 5-senses scan — name one thing you can see, hear, smell, touch, and taste.
● Write a short thank-you note — to someone who comes to mind, no perfection
needed.

When stress is overwhelming, it can be challenging to find a way forward. What you need is space—to make, to explore, to affirm. Being creative is a great way to regain your voice and your composure. And every project, every messy attempt, every scribbled page is a message: I’m still here. I still get to choose how I show up in the world.


Courtesy links:
One free AI art generator online: https://www.adobe.com/products/firefly/features/ai-art-generator.html
A free online list of ten more creative activities to reduce stress:
https://smartschoolsusa.org/blog/10-ways-to-use-creativity-for-healing-and-personal-growth

References:
● https://azenera.com/en-us/blogs/inspiration/arts-and-crafts-how-creativity-enhances-your-life-and-wellbeing
● https://psychcentral.com/health/mindful-moment-creative-self-expression
● https://www.rmcad.edu/blog/expressive-journeys-understanding-art-journaling
● https://smartschoolsusa.org/blog/10-ways-to-use-creativity-for-healing-and-personal-growth

Bio: Sharon Wagner pens her thoughts from her personal retreat in Wisconsin. She finds it deeply satisfying to share about a wide range of topics to people across the US and Canada.

We Must Be Doing Something Right: The Rate of Newly Diagnosed Alzheimer’s is Dropping in Canadians 65+

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I am very interested in helping older people, especially those who are caregivers to those who have Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. Two of my books are written specifically on this topic. January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month here is Canada, and I was pleased to see this statement from the Minister of Health which I felt was important enough to share here (I bolded a section for emphasis!). I found there is a lot of valuable information, plus the good news that we are doing something right! It also includes steps we can take to help reduce our risks.

Way to go Canada!

Angela G. Gentile, MSW, RSW

Link to purchase my latest book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/4PDKnBj

Message from the Minister of Health – Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

From: Public Health Agency of Canada

January 3, 2024 | Ottawa, ON | Public Health Agency of Canada

January is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Almost half a million people in Canada live with dementia, impacting not only themselves, but their loved ones and caregivers as well.

While the risk of dementia increases with age, it is not an inevitable part of aging. In fact, the rate of newly diagnosed cases in Canadians aged 65 and over has been dropping for the last several years.

This is why the Government of Canada has been investing in the implementation of Canada’s national dementia strategy – A Dementia Strategy for Canada: Together We Aspire. It focuses on the areas of research, surveillance, awareness initiatives (including a national public education campaign), community-based projects and guidance.

Implementing the national strategy is a joint effort by a wide range of organizations across Canada, including provincial and territorial governments, academic institutions, non-governmental organizations, and health and social care providers. Over the past five years, the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has funded more than 70 dementia projects through organizations such as these across the country. A number of these projects were featured in the 2023 Report to Parliament on the national dementia strategy.

Targeted research is needed to better understand cognitive impairment in the aging brain, which is one of the reasons why the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) launched the Brain Health and Cognitive Impairment in Aging (BHCIA) Research Initiative in March 2023. This initiative encompasses a number of aspects including the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging and the Dementia Research and Innovation Funders Alliance (launched in November 2023) and several new funding opportunities.

It has been estimated that 12 risk factors that can often be managed and reduced could explain 40% of cases of dementia globally. This highlights the importance of raising awareness about these factors which include physical inactivity, smoking, obesity and chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes.

This January, for Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, I encourage you and your family to visit Dementia: Risk factors and prevention – Canada.ca to learn more about dementia risk reduction. Choose one habit that you can change or improve such as being more physically active, socializing regularly, or having a healthier, more balanced diet. Engaging in these healthy behaviours can help reduce the risk of dementia and delay the onset of symptoms, thereby improving your quality of life as you age.

We can all help improve the quality of life of those living with dementia. For more about how to reduce dementia-related stigma and communicate in a supportive way with people living with dementia, visit Dementia: Tips on how you can help – Canada.ca.

As more of us take these actions, we’ll reduce the impact of dementia on Canadians.

The Honourable Mark Holland

Contacts

Christopher Aoun
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Mark Holland
Minister of Health
613-291-4176

Media Relations
Public Health Agency of Canada 613-957-2983
media@hc-sc.gc.ca

Source: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/news/2024/01/message-from-the-minister-of-health—alzheimers-awareness-month.html#

An Encouraging and Supportive Time-Out By and For the Caregiver

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Today’s guest post is by Brent Hoag. Reprinted with permission. Originally published on Facebook.

*****

A BOND
A PLEDGE
A COMMITMENT
LOVE

A husband caring for his wife
A wife caring for her husband
A daughter &/or son caring for their mother &/or father
A grandchild caring for their grandfather &/or grandmother
A relative caring for someone related to them
A friend caring for a friend
A partner caring for a partner
A human being caring for a stranger
A human being caring for someone they know
Human beings caring for human beings who are vulnerable and in need

I just read for 90 minutes various Posts & Comments in a few support groups that were written by a cross section & diversity of members/caregivers. I don’t often do this for a number of reasons. I was overwhelmed yet again at the pain, despair, grief, and anxiety and so much more that we share in common. And the sadness, oh the sadness in our lives & hearts.

However, in complete candor, I felt such a sudden unexpected pride because of what each of you, & we collectively, are doing. I honestly felt such a sense of pride to be associated with you even though we have never met. I empathize. I cannot overstate the importance of our being able to relate to, & rely upon, one another as caregivers.

This is about feeling privileged & honored about being in a group of people who notwithstanding our sadness, frustrations, challenges, & yes again the exhaustion, are caring for another human being who is so vulnerable. You have not only endured & coped but you have risen above and persevered in spite of daunting challenges in order to care for another human being. You are pushing through an incredible amount of sadness & difficulty in order to care for another human being. You are trying to afford them some peace, comfort, dignity, respect, & level of care that they so desperately need.

Your own selflessness & sense of responsibility & compassion for another human being is making a difference in their journey. We don’t expect or want recognition or applause. That’s not why we are doing this. Why we do it is so personal & can be simple or profound. However, here we are.

Love for another human being is often the most powerful & compelling element that each of us feel and have in our hearts. We then care, share & support.

Tonight I read & read. There are so many of us & we are such a diverse group of people who are at very different places in our journeys with our loved ones. And yet here we are under one “bubble” sharing, empathizing, & supporting.

No cheerleaders, no bands, no celebrations, no speeches, no oscars, no victory laps. However there is something that I want to share with you caregiver to caregiver. We’re “doing it”. We’ll get through this. I understand only too well your sense of humility but now & then we need help to get back up & to carry on & some deserving recognition & praise can give us the ability & required strength. And yet in our very special group of human beings not only are we selflessly caring for another human being but we are lending assistance to one another as caregivers.

You, your steadfast dedication, your ongoing sacrifices, your compassion, your perseverance, your doing the best that you can, and yes your love are a bond that we share. Whoever you are & whatever your connection with the person that you are caring for, I just want you to know how sad it was for me to read so many of your posts/comments but how much of a sense of pride & honour it allowed me to feel during such dark times. Thank you for that.

You are pretty remarkable even though you likely don’t feel that way. Most of us don’t. However, I hope that in some way when you hear it from a fellow caregiver that it resonates with you & that you can carry some of this in your hearts & minds in going forward.

I have sometimes been criticized for my Posts being too long. Caregiving & the challenges that Alzheimer’s/Dementia presents doesn’t often have a short version when it comes to supporting, sharing, & feeling for a fellow human being. In this Post, I could have simply written “I’m proud of you & honored to be associated with you”. However, in my opinion the topic/message was too important to abbreviate, condense, or underemphasize. You deserved so much more than that.

It’s bittersweet for all of us, but I wanted to take a rare “time out” to acknowledge you for what you are doing.

It’s tough. It’s almost impossible at times, but here we are caring as best as we can for a fellow human being. I will never take that for granted & even though it is a long Post it is one of the rare one’s where a caregiver reminds other caregivers just how remarkable they are.

Who knows, when times are especially low, sad, & challenging perhaps you will allow yourself a “time out” to re-read this as a source of encouragement, support, etc. After all, that is one of the reasons why I wrote this, one caregiver to another caregiver. 💜

Unveiling the Hidden Solution: Brainspotting – The Breakthrough Quick Fix for Mental Health!

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When Talk Therapy Falls Short, Discover the Astonishing Power of Brainspotting to Transform Your Life!

Are you tired of endless talk therapy sessions that leave you feeling stuck and frustrated? Frustrated with circular discussions that get you nowhere? What if I told you there’s a groundbreaking technique that can offer a rapid and effective solution for your mental health concerns? A method that can be done in person or virtually online?

Brace yourself for the rise of Brainspotting – a cutting-edge approach that’s taking the therapeutic world by storm. In this article, I uncover the secrets behind this little-known yet astonishingly effective therapy, designed to help you find healing when nothing else seems to work!

The Therapy Revolution: Brainspotting is revolutionizing the way we tackle mental health challenges. Developed by Dr. David Grand, this innovative technique bypasses the limitations of mere conversation and dives straight into the depths of your subconscious mind, where true transformation takes place. Enhance your traditional talk therapy sessions by augmenting it with powerful, focused, Brainspotting sessions. 

When Talk Therapy Hits a Wall: Have you reached a plateau or do you feel stalled in your talk therapy journey? Fear not! Brainspotting offers a lifeline when traditional therapy approaches fail to deliver the desired results. By targeting the brain’s emotional centre and encapsulated memories, Brainspotting processes and releases deep-seated trauma and emotional blocks that may have eluded talk therapy’s grasp.

The Rise of Brainspotting: While Brainspotting may not be a household name yet, it’s rapidly gaining popularity as the go-to quick fix for mental health concerns. As word spreads about its astounding efficacy, more and more individuals are flocking to trained Brainspotting therapists, eager to experience the life-changing benefits for themselves.

The Science Behind the Magic: Brainspotting works by tapping into the brain’s natural ability to heal itself. By focusing your gaze on specific “brainspots” linked to unresolved trauma, cognitive blocks, or emotional distress, Brainspotting therapy activates the brain’s innate healing mechanisms. It’s like hitting the reset button on your mind, paving the way for rapid and lasting transformation. There is still a lot we don’t know, and the science is evolving. What we do know is “Where we look affects how we feel.”

A Game-Changer for Most People: Are you skeptical about yet another “miracle” therapy? Rest assured, Brainspotting has been proven effective for a wide range of mental health issues. Whether you’re battling anxiety, fear, depression, grief, shame, past trauma, or even performance blocks, this revolutionary technique has shown remarkable success rates for most individuals, opening doors to a brighter and happier future. It has been effective with all ages, including children. 

Rapid Results, Lasting Change: The best part? Brainspotting is not a long, drawn-out process. Unlike traditional therapy that may span years, Brainspotting can yield significant breakthroughs in just a handful of sessions. Experience profound shifts in your emotional well-being and witness the transformational power of this accelerated therapeutic modality.

If you’ve been searching for that elusive quick fix for your mental health struggles, look no further than Brainspotting. With its rising popularity and proven effectiveness, this revolutionary technique is redefining the therapeutic landscape. Enhance the benefits of counselling by embracing the power of Brainspotting to unlock your true potential, heal your deepest wounds, and embark on a path of profound personal growth. Don’t miss out on this life-altering opportunity – discover Brainspotting today!

Angela G. Gentile, MSW, RSW

Trained in Brainspotting, Phase 1

Written with the help of ChatGPT

What To Do When You Feel Bored

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Woman playing guitar, Canva Text to Image

When you feel bored, there are several activities you can consider to help alleviate boredom and make the most of your time. Most you can do on your own, some require a willing participant. Here are some suggestions (a few overlap!):

1. Pursue a hobby: Engage in activities that you enjoy and are passionate about. It could be painting, playing a musical instrument, crafts, making jewelry, writing, photography, gardening, or any other hobby that interests you.

2. Read a book: Pick up a book that you’ve been meaning to read or explore different genres to discover new authors and stories. Reading not only entertains but also expands your knowledge and imagination.

3. Exercise or engage in physical activity: Physical exercise is a great way to combat boredom while improving your health and well-being. Go for a walk, run, cycle, or try out a new yoga or workout routine.

4. Learn something new: Use your free time to acquire new skills or knowledge. You can explore online courses, tutorials, or educational platforms to learn about a subject you’re interested in, such as cooking, brain health, coding, photography, or a foreign language.

5. Engage in creative activities: Get creative by drawing, painting, writing stories or poems, crafting, or working on DIY projects. Expressing your creativity can be fulfilling and help pass the time in an enjoyable way.

Older man riding a bicycle, Canva Text to Image

6. Connect with others: Reach out to friends or family members, either in person or through a phone call or video chat. Go shopping and speak to other shoppers or store employees. Engaging in conversations and social interactions can help alleviate boredom and foster connections.

7. Explore new music, movies, or TV shows: Discover new artists, genres, or movies and TV shows that you haven’t explored before. You can use streaming platforms or online recommendations to find content that suits your interests.

8. Organize and declutter: Use the opportunity to tidy up your living space, organize your belongings, or declutter areas that need attention. It can be a productive way to spend your time and create a more organized environment.

9. Play games or solve puzzles: Engage in activities that challenge your mind, such as solving puzzles, playing board games, or trying out online games. They can be entertaining and mentally stimulating.

10. Volunteer or help others: Look for opportunities to contribute to your community or help others in need. Volunteer at a local charity, participate in community events, or assist friends or neighbors with tasks they may need help with.

Remember, the key is to find activities that align with your interests and bring you joy. Experiment with different options to discover what engages you the most and helps alleviate your boredom.

What other suggestions do you have?

Angela G. Gentile, MSW, RSW

Written with the help of ChatGPT

Addictions Counsellor Amber – Helping People Break Free From Their Addictions

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Addictions Counsellor Amber

Amber Dittberner is an addictions counsellor in Winnipeg, Manitoba. She is known as “Addictions Counsellor Amber.” Her main focus is on counselling people with addictions, however she also helps with other issues such as anxiety and depression.

After achieving sobriety in 2011, Amber decided to focus on improving the lives of those living with problematic substance use by providing tools for assessment, goal-setting, strategies, education, and talk therapy. She supports accountability and offers Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help pave the road to recovery. As a recovered alcoholic herself, she states, “Helping others is so important both for myself and because I want others to break free from their addictions, too.”

I love helping others and seeing the changes that can be made in rebuilding a life that is sober and enjoyable!

– Amber Dittberner

Amber says, “Alcohol Should Be Banned” – View her popular YouTube video to hear her talk about why it should be banned.

Amber is a member and is on the board of the Manitoba Chapter of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association. She obtained her Applied Counselling Certificate specializing in addictions from the University of Manitoba.

Amber’s majority of clients are adult men and women, ranging from ages 21-50. She sees clients both in-person and virtually. Amber states, “Addiction affects those of all walks of life. There is still a stigma against addicts that needs to change. I try to help many though my social media posts by creating awareness. Lots of young people reach out looking for guidance.”

Addiction Counsellor Amber’s Office

People choose to see Amber because she has lived life experience. This can mean a lot to those struggling with an addiction to see someone who has the counselling education as well as having had the experience of struggling with addiction, recovery, and is living a sober life now. Amber provides the hope and strength needed during tough times.

Amber is dedicated to help people through their recovery journey. She is currently accepting new clients and would love to hear from you.

Where to reach Amber Dittberner:

Website: Addictions Counsellor Amber

Instagram: addictions.counsellor.amber

Facebook: Addictions Counsellor Amber

TikTok: addictionscounseloramber

YouTube: addictionscounselloramber

Angela G. Gentile, MSW, RSW

How to Journal and the Benefits of Journaling

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Journaling is a practice that has been around for centuries and has been used by many individuals as a way to reflect, plan, and process their thoughts and emotions. Writing down your thoughts and experiences in a journal can be a therapeutic and enlightening experience that can lead to a number of benefits. I have been journaling for as long as I can remember. It all started with my tiny daily diaries when I was about 10 years old. I often recommend journaling to my clients as a way to help them process and move forward with issues they are struggling with. In this article, we will explore how to journal and the many benefits that can come from incorporating this practice into your daily routine.

How to Journal

The beauty of journaling is that there is no right or wrong way to do it. Journaling can take many different forms, and it’s up to you to decide what works best for you. Some people prefer to write in a physical notebook or journal, while others prefer to use a digital platform. Our mobile phones have a “Notes” feature that many of us use to record our thoughts, feelings, and other ideas as they come to us. There are also different types of journaling, including daily journaling, gratitude journaling, and goal-setting journaling.

To get started with journaling, simply set aside some time each day to reflect and write down your thoughts. Some people find it helpful to write in the morning as a way to start their day, while others prefer to journal at night as a way to wind down and reflect on the day’s events. You can also choose to write in your journal as often as you like, whether that’s daily, weekly, or on an as-needed basis.

When you sit down to journal, it’s important to be open and honest with yourself. Write down whatever comes to mind, without judgment or criticism. Remember that your journal is a safe space where you can express yourself freely and without fear of judgment. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling. Just let the ideas flow from your head and heart to paper or keyboard. If your writing contains sensitive and private information ensure you can maintain privacy and keep your writing safely stored away from the eyes of others.

The Benefits of Journaling

1.Reduces Stress and Anxiety

One of the biggest benefits of journaling is that it can help to reduce stress and anxiety. By writing down your thoughts and emotions, you can process and release them in a healthy way. This can help to reduce the physical and emotional symptoms of stress and anxiety, such as headaches, fatigue, and mood swings. You may discover something you never realized you were concerned about before providing insight into how you can reduce your feelings of stress and worry. Expressing yourself on paper (or via a digital platform) may help you discover hidden or buried feelings. This gives you an opportunity to release whatever it is that you are holding on to.

2. Improves Mental Health

Journaling has been shown to be an effective tool in improving mental health. Studies have found that journaling can help to improve mood, reduce symptoms of depression, and increase self-awareness. By writing down your thoughts and feelings, you can gain a better understanding of yourself and your emotions. You can get to know yourself in a way you never did before by letting your thoughts flow freely without judgement. Negative self-talk may be expressed outwardly and this gives you an opportunity to challenge these negative thoughts and turn it around.

3. Increases Creativity

Journaling can also be a great way to boost creativity. By giving yourself the space to write freely, without judgment or criticism, you can tap into your inner creativity and come up with new ideas and solutions.

4. Enhances Memory and Learning

Writing down your thoughts and experiences in a journal can also help to enhance your memory and learning. By reflecting on your experiences and writing down what you’ve learned, you can better internalize and remember the information.

5. Helps with Goal-Setting

Journaling can be a helpful tool in goal-setting. By writing down your goals and tracking your progress, you can hold yourself accountable and stay motivated to achieve your goals.

6. Helps Shift a Negative Pessimistic Outlook

Writing down things you are grateful for can help shift a negative thinking pattern. I often recommend a Joy Journal or Gratitude Journal to my clients. Whenever we are feeling trapped in a negative-thinking cycle, it is often helpful to focus on the things we are grateful for. Write down at least three things that bring you joy or things you are grateful for on a daily basis. It could be in the beginning of the day or at the end of the day. The simple things count too! For example, “I am grateful for my pillow.” Or, “I appreciate my partner for all they do.” Within a few days this habit will help improve your negative attitude.

In conclusion, journaling is a powerful tool that can help to improve your mental and emotional well-being. By taking the time to reflect and write down your thoughts and experiences, you can reduce stress and anxiety, improve your mood, boost creativity, enhance memory and learning, and achieve your goals. So why not give journaling a try and see how it can benefit you?

Angela G. Gentile, MSW, RSW

Written with the help of ChatGPT

More information on How to Start a Journaling Practice from Psychology Today.

Stressed Out? Consider Counselling and Speak to a Therapist

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Stress is a normal part of life and can be caused by a wide range of factors such as work, relationships, financial problems, aging, caregiving, and health issues. While some level of stress can be helpful in motivating people to take action and find solutions, chronic stress can have a negative impact on a person’s mental and physical health.

People may seek counselling for stress because it provides a safe and supportive environment to explore and understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours related to stress. A therapist can help individuals identify the root cause of their stress, develop coping strategies to manage it, and learn relaxation techniques to reduce symptoms of stress.

Therapy can also provide an opportunity for people to process their experiences, address past traumas or negative life events that may be contributing to their stress levels, and develop a better understanding of their emotions and thoughts.

In addition, counselling can also help individuals with stress-related conditions such as anxiety, depression, and burnout. By working with a therapist, people can gain a deeper understanding of their patterns of behavior and thought, and develop a more holistic approach to managing stress.

Overall, therapy for stress can provide people with the tools and support they need to manage and reduce stress levels, and improve their overall mental and physical well-being.

Check out my Psychology Today profile for up-to-date information on my counselling services.

Angela G. Gentile, MSW, RSW

Made with the help of ChatGPT.