In the ever-evolving landscape of health and wellness, the term "allostatic load" is gaining prominence. At its core, allostatic load refers to the physiological consequences of chronic exposure to fluctuating or heightened neural or neuroendocrine responses, primarily arising from stress. To put it simply, it's the wear and tear on our bodies due to chronic stress. In this article, we will unpack the significance of allostatic load, its various types, and their implications on overall health.
Managing Anxiety
If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety (uncontrollable excessive worry, lack of concentration, tiredness, irritability, somatic issues, sleep disturbance, and/or antsy reactions), and you feel guilt/shame from such symptoms, this blog is for you. Dushyanthi Niyangoda, former graduate student intern at Space Between Counseling Services, explores the origins of anxiety and provides readers with useful ways to manage their symptoms and set goals to overcome it. The blog also links to mindfulness and meditation videos.
The Impact of Mental Health on Hygiene Struggles
Whether it’s doing dishes in a timely manner or showering regularly—there is a lot of shame around not being able to keep up with your hygiene. Hygiene is a moralized topic in our society—meaning we often view those who struggle with hygiene as less than or failing in some way. This post by Abby Smith, LGPC, explores how these judgments fail to recognize the impact of mental health on hygiene.