By Laura Dziuba, MSW, RSW
Do you catch yourself thinking negative, critical thoughts about your appearance, skills, relationships, parenting style or job, or just generally find like you don’t feel good enough? You’re not alone! Many people struggle with these thoughts on a daily basis and it can be draining. Over time, these messages that we tell ourselves can start to impact both our physical and mental health, and can lead to issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, difficulty in relationships, sexual difficulties, over- or under-eating, substance use, weight loss/gain, headaches, stomach problems, chronic fatigue and insomnia. Perhaps sometimes you engage in ‘quick fixes’, such as like emotional eating, sleeping a lot, or having a few glasses of wine at the end of the day, to try to ignore these negative thoughts, but usually these strategies aren’t healthy long-term solutions. Wouldn’t it be amazing if you could learn to think positively about yourself and to extend the same compassion you give to your friends and family to yourself?
Research shows that in comparison to those who are self-critical, people who value and practice self-compassion are healthier, happier, more productive people. One of the ways I work with people in individual counselling sessions is by helping them learn to identify and change the critical thoughts they have about themselves, and part of that process involves learning to be more self-compassionate. For some, self-compassion is foreign, and can seem almost indulgent, but it takes practice and patience. I’ve had the privilege and honour to be a part of some amazing journeys to healing and wellness as people that I’ve worked with have learned to be kind to themselves and make themselves a priority. It is my fundamental belief that health and happiness is an inherent part of life, not something that need to be earned. You deserve to live a happy life, one where you feel good about who you are as a person.
I’m so excited about joining the Sage team because I genuinely believe in the power of talk therapy as an aspect of a holistic approach to wellness. I look forward to the opportunity to work with all of you!
I’m currently accepting new clients on Wednesday evenings. If you’re interested in setting up an appointment, please contact the front desk or book online at https://thesageclinic.janeapp.com/laura
References
Neff, Kristin. Self-Compassion: The Proven Power of Being Kind to Yourself. Print.