consumerism, mental health, mindfulness, recovery, relationships, resilience, self-care, societal norms, therapy, treat culture, wellness

Understanding Treat Culture: Insights from a Therapist’s Perspective

The term “treat culture” has become increasingly prevalent, reflecting a societal phenomenon where indulgence in treats, comforts, and instant gratification is widespread. Treat culture permeates various aspects of modern life, from binge-watching television shows to indulging in sugary snacks.  As therapists, understanding the implications of treat culture is crucial, as it influences individuals’ mental and ...

Viena Abdon

A woman eating ice cream.

6 Reasons Why Divorce Is Not the Best Solution

Marriages have ups and downs, and almost every couple has thought about divorce at least once. In the U.S., the rate is about 40-50 percent for first marriages and 60-70 percent for second marriages. The numbers aren’t very different across many countries worldwide. Of course, there are valid grounds for divorcing, such as infidelity, physical ...

Nathan Machoka

Marriage versus Divorce written on paper arrows.

How Should You Love Someone With Different Political Views?

Maintaining a loving and healthy relationship with someone with different political views might be challenging. However, it’s essential to understand that conflicting viewpoints don’t always mean a relationship is doomed.  This article will explore practical tips on loving someone with different political views without letting those differences tear you apart. Establish open and honest communications ...

Viena Abdon

U.S. politics.

8 Profound Lessons to Draw From the Biggest Kindness Study

In 2021, in partnership with BBC Radio, the School of Psychology at the University of Sussex conducted the most extensive study on kindness, dubbed “The Kindness Test.” About 60,000 people aged 19-44 from 144 countries participated in this study. The researchers wanted to know the most common acts of being kind, the relationship between being ...

Nathan Machoka

Lending a helping hand.

Why Cheating Is Not Empowering

In the past, when you heard that someone had cheated, your suspicions went straight to the man. But today, that has changed. According to a survey, the number of women who admit to having an affair has risen by 40 percent since 1990. Is this a positive thing? Does it show that women are now ...

Nathan Machoka

Having an affair.

Phrases to Avoid During an Argument

Arguments in a relationship are never pretty, and most of us would do anything to avoid them. However, handling your relationship conflicts can determine how your partner feels about you going forward. In romantic relationships, like in professional ones, you must learn to disagree. Your words can erode trust, heighten tension, stir negative emotions, or ...

Nathan Machoka

Man and woman in a heated argument.

7 Practical Tips for Conflict Resolution in Marriage

Every marriage has its conflicts. After all, you are two people with different backgrounds, different approaches to life, and different reactions to disagreements.  But even though conflicts are inevitable in marriage, how you handle them determines the longevity of your relationship. Developing healthy conflict resolution skills fosters a resilient bond and establishes a blueprint for ...

Nathan Machoka

Happy mature couple walking arm in arm through the park.

Healthy Boundaries: The Foundation of Happiness and Emotional Well-Being

Maintaining healthy boundaries is the blueprint for a fulfilling life. Boundaries aren’t obstacles; they are essential guidelines that protect your well-being, define your personal space, and ensure mutual respect in your interactions and relationships. We all have our no-nos in life, and when these limits are crossed, it leads to emotional exhaustion, less happiness, and ...

Nathan Machoka

Young man and woman sitting together while watching boats in the harbor.