Self-Care Begins With Self-Love

Absolutely, self-care and self-love are closely interconnected. Self-love involves having a positive and compassionate relationship with yourself, accepting yourself for who you are, and treating yourself with kindness and respect. When you genuinely love and value yourself, practicing self-care becomes a natural extension of that love.

Here's how self-love and self-care are connected:

  1. Mindset: Cultivating self-love involves nurturing positive thoughts about yourself and your worth. This mindset shift can lead you to prioritize self-care activities as a way to honor and care for yourself.

  2. Boundaries: When you love yourself, you're more likely to set healthy boundaries in various areas of your life. This includes saying no to things that drain your energy and yes to activities that uplift and nourish you.

  3. Prioritization: Loving yourself means recognizing your worth and deservingness. This recognition can motivate you to prioritize self-care as an essential part of your routine rather than treating it as an afterthought.

  4. Inner Dialogue: A self-loving attitude involves speaking to yourself with kindness and self-compassion. This positive self-talk can encourage you to engage in self-care activities that promote your well-being.

  5. Health and Well-Being: Practicing self-care, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle and managing stress, is a way of showing love to your body and mind. Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally is a form of self-respect and self-love.

  6. Emotional Resilience: Engaging in self-care activities can contribute to emotional well-being. When you love yourself, you're more likely to acknowledge and validate your feelings, which can lead to better emotional resilience.

  7. Growth and Exploration: Self-love encourages you to explore new activities, interests, and experiences that align with your values and passions. This can include trying out new forms of self-care that resonate with you.

Remember that self-love is a journey that takes time and effort. Practicing self-care can be a powerful way to nurture and reinforce that love, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Dr. Dan Davidson DC and Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, M.S.

Diane is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (
615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question.

Email:
Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Diane serves all of Tennessee and has an office in Murfreesboro.

Dr. Dan Davidson is a Chiropractor at The Back Resort in Salem Virginia.

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon
Help With Getting Past Guilt And Shame

Getting past feelings of guilt and shame is an important aspect of improving your mental health. These emotions can be challenging to navigate, but with the right strategies and support, you can work towards healing and self-acceptance. Here are some ways to seek mental health help for dealing with guilt and shame:

  1. Therapy/Counseling:

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic approaches can help you identify and challenge negative thought patterns related to guilt and shame.

    • A therapist can provide a safe space to explore the underlying causes of these emotions and develop coping strategies.

  2. Self-Compassion Practice:

    • Learn self-compassion techniques to treat yourself with kindness and understanding.

    • Replace self-criticism with self-compassionate self-talk and behaviors.

  3. Mindfulness Meditation:

    • Mindfulness practices can help you observe your emotions without judgment.

    • Mindfulness can reduce rumination and provide a sense of acceptance.

  4. Journaling:

    • Write about your feelings of guilt and shame, exploring the thoughts and memories associated with them.

    • Challenge distorted thoughts and replace them with more balanced perspectives.

  5. Group Therapy/Support Groups:

    • Participate in group therapy or support groups where you can share your experiences with others who can relate.

    • This can provide a sense of validation and reduce feelings of isolation.

  6. Express Emotions:

    • Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or therapist about your guilt and shame.

    • Expressing your emotions can help release pent-up feelings and provide perspective.

  7. Guilt vs. Shame Understanding:

    • Understand the distinction between guilt (feeling bad about a specific action) and shame (feeling bad about oneself as a whole).

    • This understanding can help you address each emotion appropriately.

  8. Forgiveness (Self and Others):

    • Work on forgiving yourself for past mistakes or actions that led to guilt.

    • Explore forgiveness toward others involved in the situations causing shame.

  9. Cultivate Self-Esteem:

    • Focus on building your self-esteem and self-worth through positive self-affirmations and self-validation.

  10. Behavioral Changes:

    • If guilt is related to certain behaviors, work on making amends or taking steps to change those behaviors.

    • Taking positive actions can help alleviate feelings of guilt.

  11. Focus on Growth:

    • Shift your perspective to view mistakes and failures as opportunities for growth and learning.

    • Celebrate your progress and efforts, regardless of outcomes.

  12. Seek Professional Help:

    • If guilt and shame are deeply ingrained or significantly affecting your daily life, consider seeking the guidance of a mental health professional.

Remember that healing from guilt and shame takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that seeking help is a sign of strength. With the right support, you can work towards letting go of these negative emotions and building a healthier and more compassionate relationship with yourself.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, M.S.

Diane serves all of Tennessee and has an office in Murfreesboro, Tennessee.

Diane is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (
615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon at Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question.

Email:
Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Dr. Dan Davidson DC, Chiropractor at The Back Resort in Salem Virginia

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon
How To Improve Self-Care To Improve Self-Love

Improving self-esteem is a crucial step toward enhancing self-love. When you have a healthy self-esteem, you're more likely to value and appreciate yourself, leading to a stronger sense of self-love. Here are some strategies to help you improve self-esteem and cultivate self-love:

  1. Practice Self-Compassion:

    • Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a friend.

    • Replace self-criticism with self-compassion, especially during challenging moments.

  2. Challenge Negative Thoughts:

    • Identify and challenge negative self-talk and beliefs.

    • Replace negative thoughts with more realistic and positive perspectives.

  3. Set Realistic Goals:

    • Set achievable goals that align with your strengths and values.

    • Celebrate your successes and progress along the way.

  4. Acknowledge Achievements:

    • Reflect on your past accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem.

    • Acknowledge your efforts and the challenges you've overcome.

  5. Positive Affirmations:

    • Use positive affirmations to counteract self-doubt and reinforce positive beliefs about yourself.

  6. Practice Gratitude:

    • Regularly express gratitude for your qualities, experiences, and achievements.

    • Focus on what you appreciate about yourself.

  7. Limit Negative Comparisons:

    • Avoid comparing yourself to others, as this can undermine your self-esteem.

    • Focus on your own journey and growth.

  8. Healthy Self-Care:

    • Prioritize self-care activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being.

    • Taking care of yourself reinforces your sense of worth.

  9. Celebrate Self-Expression:

    • Engage in activities that allow you to express your creativity, interests, and passions.

    • Embrace your uniqueness and individuality.

  10. Surround Yourself with Positivity:

    • Surround yourself with supportive and positive people who uplift and encourage you.

  11. Embrace Mistakes as Learning Opportunities:

    • Shift your perspective on mistakes. Instead of viewing them as failures, see them as opportunities for growth and learning.

  12. Practice Self-Validation:

    • Develop self-esteem and self-worth independently of external validation.

    • Validate your own feelings, experiences, and accomplishments.

  13. Mindfulness and Self-Awareness:

    • Practice mindfulness to become more aware of your thoughts and emotions.

    • Mindfulness can help you detach from negative self-perceptions.

  14. Seek Professional Support:

    • If improving self-esteem feels challenging, consider seeking therapy or counseling to address underlying issues.

  15. Progress Over Perfection:

    • Shift your focus from seeking perfection to valuing progress and growth.

    • Embrace the journey of self-improvement.

Remember that improving self-esteem is a gradual process. Be patient with yourself and celebrate your small victories along the way. As you work on building a healthier self-esteem, you'll likely find that your capacity for self-love and self-acceptance naturally grows stronger.


Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, M.S.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (
615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon at Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question

Email:
Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Dr. Dan Davidson DC, Chiropractor at The Back Resort in Salem Virginia

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon
Drinking Water Helps Your Mood!

Stay Hydrated!

Drinking water and staying hydrated offers numerous benefits for physical and mental health. Here's how it can positively impact mental health:

1. **Enhances Brain Function**: Proper hydration is crucial for brain function. Dehydration can affect concentration, mood, and cognitive performance, potentially increasing stress levels.

2. **Mood Improvement**: There's evidence suggesting dehydration can negatively impact mood. Adequate water intake may help in maintaining a positive mood and reducing irritability.

3. **Reduces Risk of Depression and Anxiety** Studies have shown that drinking at least five glasses of water a day can help reduce the risk of depression or anxiety, maintaining good physical health, including hydration, is generally seen as beneficial for mental health.

4. **Releases Beneficial Hormones and Nutrients**: Hydration aids in the efficient delivery of nutrients and hormones throughout the body, including to the brain, which can influence the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood.

5. **Promotes Endorphin Release* Drinking water can stimulate the flow of nutrients and hormones that release feel good endorphins that are natural mood lifters.

6. **Detoxification**: Proper hydration aids in removing toxins from the body, which can improve overall wellbeing, potentially impacting mental health positively.

7. **Stress Reduction**: Chronic dehydration may lead to increased cortisol, a stress hormone. Staying hydrated might help in managing stress levels.

It's important to note that while hydration is a component of overall health, it is not a standalone treatment for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. These conditions are complex and require comprehensive approaches including medical, psychological, and lifestyle interventions. Drinking water and staying hydrated is just one aspect of a holistic approach to mental health care.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, M.S.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (
615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon at Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question

Email:
Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Dr. Dan Davidson DC, Chiropractor at The Back Resort in Salem Virginia

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon
Criteria For Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various aspects of life. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), outlines specific criteria that must be met for the diagnosis of GAD. To be diagnosed with GAD, an individual must experience excessive anxiety and worry about a variety of events or situations for a majority of days over a six-month period. Additionally, the following criteria must be met:

  1. Excessive Worry: The person experiences excessive and uncontrollable worry about various life circumstances, such as work, health, family, finances, or other situations. The worry is difficult to control and often feels overwhelming.

  2. Physical Symptoms: The person experiences at least three of the following physical symptoms on most days during the same six-month period:

    • Restlessness or feeling on edge

    • Fatigue or easily becoming tired

    • Difficulty concentrating or mind going blank

    • Irritability

    • Muscle tension

    • Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or having restless sleep)

  3. Functional Impairment: The excessive worry and physical symptoms cause significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

  4. Not Attributable to Another Condition: The symptoms cannot be better explained by the effects of a substance (such as drugs or medications) or another medical condition (such as hyperthyroidism).

  5. Not Due to Other Mental Disorders: The excessive worry is not better explained by another mental disorder, such as panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.

It's important to note that GAD is a clinical diagnosis made by a qualified mental health professional based on a comprehensive assessment of the individual's symptoms, history, and functioning. Other conditions with similar symptoms, such as other anxiety disorders or medical conditions, should be ruled out during the assessment process.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of GAD, it's recommended to seek help from a mental health professional. Treatment options for GAD often include psychotherapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy), medication, or a combination of both, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the individual's preferences.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, M.S.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (
615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon at Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question

Email:
Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Dr. Dan Davidson DC, Chiropractor at The Back Resort in Salem Virginia

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon
Ways To Stop Comparing Yourself To Others

Stopping the habit of comparing yourself to others can greatly contribute to improving your self-esteem and overall well-being. Here are some strategies to help you break free from the cycle of comparison:

  1. Practice Self-Awareness:

    • Recognize when you're comparing yourself to others. Be mindful of your thoughts and feelings in various situations.

  2. Cultivate Gratitude:

    • Focus on what you have and the things you're grateful for in your own life.

    • Regularly remind yourself of your accomplishments and blessings.

  3. Embrace Your Uniqueness:

    • Recognize that everyone has their own journey, strengths, and weaknesses.

    • Celebrate your individuality and what makes you unique.

  4. Set Personal Goals:

    • Shift your focus from external benchmarks to personal goals and growth.

    • Measure your progress based on your own achievements rather than comparing to others.

  5. Limit Social Media Exposure:

    • Reduce the amount of time you spend on social media platforms that trigger comparison.

    • Unfollow accounts that consistently make you feel inadequate or envious.

  6. Practice Self-Compassion:

    • Treat yourself with kindness and understanding when you catch yourself comparing.

    • Remind yourself that it's natural to have these feelings but that you can choose to respond differently.

  7. Shift Your Perspective:

    • Instead of feeling threatened by others' successes, view them as sources of inspiration and motivation.

  8. Practice Mindfulness:

    • Engage in mindfulness techniques to stay present and avoid getting lost in comparison.

    • Focus on the current moment and your own experiences.

  9. Celebrate Others' Success:

    • Cultivate a mindset of abundance and genuinely celebrate the achievements of others.

    • Recognize that someone else's success doesn't diminish your own potential.

  10. Focus on Self-Improvement:

    • Direct your energy toward personal growth and self-improvement.

    • Continuously strive to become the best version of yourself.

  11. Practice Positive Affirmations:

    • Use positive affirmations to counteract negative thoughts and comparisons.

    • Remind yourself of your worth and capabilities.

  12. Engage in Activities You Love:

    • Participate in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

    • When you're focused on your passions, you're less likely to compare yourself to others.

  13. Seek Support:

    • Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings of comparison.

    • Sharing your thoughts can provide perspective and support.

Remember that breaking the habit of comparing yourself to others takes time and consistent effort. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that it's a journey toward building a healthier self-esteem and a more positive outlook on your own life.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, M.S.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (
615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon at Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question

Email:
Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

Follow my face book page, IG and Tic Toc for further inspiration!

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon
Mindfulness Techniques To Help With Anxiety

Mindfulness can be an effective technique for managing anxiety. Here are some mindfulness techniques you can try:

  1. Breathing exercises: Focusing on your breath can help calm your mind and reduce anxiety. Try taking slow, deep breaths, and pay attention to the sensation of the breath moving in and out of your body.

  2. Body scan meditation: This involves slowly and deliberately scanning through your body, paying attention to any sensations you feel. This can help you become more aware of your body and relax any tension.

  3. Mindful observation: Take a few moments to observe your surroundings, paying attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you. This can help you stay present and focused in the moment.

  4. Progressive muscle relaxation: This involves tensing and then relaxing each muscle group in your body, starting from your feet and working your way up to your head. This can help you release any physical tension and relax your body.

  5. Mindful walking: Take a slow, deliberate walk and focus on the sensation of your feet touching the ground. Pay attention to your surroundings and any sensations in your body.

Remember, mindfulness takes practice, so don't get discouraged if it doesn't work right away. The more you practice, the easier it will become to incorporate mindfulness into your daily life and manage your anxiety.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, M.S.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon at Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question

Email: Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

Follow my face book page, IG and Tic Toc for further inspiration!

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon
Symptoms of Depression

Depression can manifest itself in a variety of ways, and symptoms can vary from person to person. However, some common symptoms of depression include:

  1. Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness.

  2. Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable.

  3. Fatigue or loss of energy.

  4. Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much.

  5. Changes in appetite or weight.

  6. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.

  7. Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.

  8. Thoughts of death or suicide.

  9. Restlessness or irritability.

  10. Physical symptoms such as headaches, body aches, or digestive problems.

If you are experiencing several of these symptoms for a period of two weeks or more, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional. Depression is a treatable condition, and there are many effective treatments available.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, ASDCS, CMHIMP, NCC, M.S.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon at Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question

Email: Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

Follow my face book page, IG and Tic Toc for further inspiration!

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!

YOU MATTER!

Diane Gammon
Understanding Autism

Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate, interact socially, and behave appropriately in social situations. The severity of symptoms can vary widely, and the condition is referred to as a spectrum disorder because individuals with ASD can display a range of symptoms and behaviors.

Some common signs of ASD include difficulties with social interaction, communication challenges, repetitive behaviors, and a strong need for routine and predictability. These symptoms typically appear in early childhood, but the diagnosis can be made at any age.

The exact causes of autism are not yet fully understood, but research suggests that a combination of genetic and environmental factors play a role. Some risk factors that have been identified include advanced parental age, certain genetic mutations, and exposure to environmental toxins.

There is no cure for autism, but early diagnosis and intervention can help manage symptoms and improve outcomes. Treatment typically involves a combination of therapies such as behavioral therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy, as well as medication in some cases.

It is important to note that individuals with autism are not defined solely by their diagnosis, and that they have unique strengths and abilities. With appropriate support and accommodations, many people with autism can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP ASDCS NCC, M.S.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text (615-556-8406) or Email Diane Gammon at Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question

Email: Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

Follow my face book page, IG and Tic Toc for further inspiration!

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon
What Is Social Anxiety?

Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, is a type of anxiety disorder that involves intense fear or discomfort in social situations. People with social anxiety may feel self-conscious, judged, or embarrassed when they are in situations where they have to interact with others, such as speaking in public, meeting new people, attending parties, or eating in public. They may also worry excessively before and after these events, which can interfere with their daily lives.

Social anxiety is a common mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can be debilitating and can have a significant impact on a person's personal and professional life if left untreated. However, there are effective treatments available, such as therapy and medication, that can help people manage their symptoms and lead a fulfilling life.

Call or text 988 for the Suicide Prevention Hotline for Immediate Help.

Diane Gammon LPC-MHSP, CMHIMP, ASDCS, NCC, M.S.

Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider (TN; #4895) National Board Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (#888025), Certified Integrated Medicine Nutritional Mental Health Professional and Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist

Call, Text or Email Diane Gammon to schedule an In-Person or Telehealth Secure (HIPPA Compliant) Video Counseling Session or to ask a question

615-556-8406

Email: Diane@LivingWithHopeCounseling.com

Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only to share various health topics to encourage and inspire healthy living. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider before undertaking a new health care regimen and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website/ blog.

Follow my face book page, IG and Tic Toc for further inspiration!

CLICK HERE For Living With Hope Counseling Facebook Page AND "LIKE" IT!

YOUR LIFE MATTERS!

Diane Gammon