Behavioral Health
The Importance of Practicing Gratitude
Feeling thankful for what you have can improve your life in so many ways. We’re sharing some tips for learning the art of practicing gratitude.
The Benefits of ADHD Management Tools
Whether you respond better to digital resources like smartphone apps or materials like planners and sticky notes, ADHD management tools can help in a variety of ways.
8 Tools to Manage ADHD
By current estimates, more than 7 million children and more than 8 million adults in the United States have ADHD. Here are 8 tools to better manage ADHD for both adults and children.
Tips to Unwind from the Workday Without Alcohol
Alcohol is involved in cultural and social norms, including after-work decompression and socialization, but there are many ways to wind down after work and “chill out” that don’t involve alcohol.
What Do Signs and Symptoms of PTSD Look Like?
Trauma is an event or series of events that threaten your sense of safety or your life.
How to Deal with Social Anxiety
About 15 million Americans struggle with social anxiety disorder, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Learn how to overcome social anxiety.
Does Ginger Beer Have Alcohol?
Most commercially available and mass marketed ginger beers are simply ginger drinks or fermented ginger drinks without alcohol. Ginger beers that contain alcohol are labeled as alcoholic ginger beers.
How Long Does It Take the Body to Recover from Drinking
The long-term effects of alcohol use do not go away as soon as you stop drinking or alter your drinking habits. Some noticeable changes and markers of recovery may show up as soon as days or weeks after beginning abstinence from alcohol.
Why Tanning Beds Don’t Help with Seasonal Depression
Thinking about popping into a tanning bed to ward off the winter blues? Not so fast.
Get Outside in Nature This Winter: Why It’s Good for Your Mental Health
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you should stay cooped up inside. A little outside time can lead to big health benefits.
‘Alcohol is Not Your Friend:’ BCBSM Medical Director of Behavioral Health Digs into His Passion for Advocating Against Alcohol Abuse
Dr. William T. Beecroft has advocated against alcohol abuse for much of his 40-plus-year health care career. Here, he reflects and shares some candid thoughts.
8 Ways to Stop Holiday Stress Before It Starts
The holidays are as stressful as they are joyous. When it comes to shopping, traveling, decorating and family time, here are ways to mitigate the stress.
Metropolitan Bar + Kitchen Owner Proves You Don't Have to Drink to Run a Successful Bar
Seven years ago, Ashley Price decided to stop drinking. Now the owner of a popular bar in Detroit's West Village, Price is proving you don’t have to drink alcohol to run a successful bar.
More or Less Non-Alcoholic Store Brings Inclusivity to Grand Rapids Consumers
Whether you don't drink any alcohol or you want to go N/A for a certain upcoming occasion, More or Less in Grand Rapids has something for you. The store's owners built their brand with inclusivity in mind, and it's working.
Dry Bars are Rare in Michigan. But There’s One Inside This Oak Park Coffeehouse.
For Oak Park and Berkley locals, Oak Park Dry is quickly becoming a go-to spot for great music, great coffee and great N/A mixed drinks.
Jackson’s Zero Bar & Lounge Brings the Party to Michigan Events and Celebrations Without Alcohol
One had the dream, one had the drinks: the woman-owned Zero Bar & Lounge adds to the growing list of alcohol-free social options in Michigan.
What Does it Feel Like to Have a Panic Attack?
Contributor and mental health advocate Monica Drake shares her experience with panic attacks, and talks about the strategies that help her manage them.
Summer Solstice Meditation
A Summer Solstice meditation session might be just the thing to get your mind and body in sync for summer.
Men's Health Month: Men Have Body Image Issues Too
Men worry about their appearance more than you think. Learn how to improve body image and get rid of negative thoughts once and for all.
Absence of Proof Detroit Appeals to Detroit’s Sober Curious Crowd with Non-Alcoholic Events
Absence of Proof offers “a night off of drinking.” The NYC-based company is now in Detroit with pop-up hangout options for the sober curious.
How Resiliency Impacts Your Overall Health
Being resilient is about more than just your attitude. How well you handle the rollercoaster of life impacts your health.
Benefits of Spa Treatments for Stress Awareness Month
Relaxation is key to combating high stress levels. Spa treatments are a great way to reduce stress levels and achieve a level of relaxation.
Sober Curious Series: Spotlighting Michigan Dry Bars, Businesses and Social Networks
In 2023, AHM will dig deeper into Michigan’s sober curious movement. Dry bars, alcohol-free pop-ups, N/A products and mocktail menus are all on tap.
Managing Remote Work Stress
Stress can creep up on all of us, especially if we’re juggling working from home. Here’s how to better manage remote work stress.
What Does Sober Curious Mean?
If you’re thinking about cutting back on alcohol, the Sober Curious lifestyle could be for you.
Mindfulness-Based Techniques to Calm Kids’ Anxiety
About 7% of U.S. children between age 3 and 17 have diagnosed anxiety. Rates are rising, but mindfulness-based coping techniques can help.
Vitamin D May Help Prevent Dementia
Results from a new study that tracked thousands of people in the U.S. show regular vitamin D use may help prevent dementia.
Ways to Improve Your Mental Health
Feeling down or like you’re having too many bad days? Here are a few things you can do to improve your mental health.
Forming a Healthy Relationship with Food: West Michigan Dietitian Discusses Keys to Conquer an Eating Disorder
Finding “food freedom” should be a goal for anyone battling an eating disorder, according to an experienced dietician from West Michigan.
The Moment I Decided to Stop Being a Victim
Licensed therapist, NASM master trainer and integrative health expert Angela T. Moore shares her personal journey through trauma.
Disordered Eating vs. Feeding and Eating Disorders: Signs to Watch For
Learning the different types of eating disorders, as well as the signs of an eating problem, can help as a first step. Here’s what you need to know.
Best Exercises to Fight Off Anxiety and Depression
Are anxiety and depression putting a damper on your mood? Think about retooling your exercise routine to give yourself a feel-good boost.
Why You Should Try Self-Care Sunday
Setting aside an hour, a half-day or more to focus on activities that make you feel good, mentally and physically, is a trend worth trying.
Postpartum Depression: When to Seek Help
When it’s not the “baby blues,” certain symptoms following childbirth could be postpartum depression. Here’s how to tell the difference.
Mental Health Benefits of Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an important vitamin that helps you stay healthy both mentally and physically.
The Family Center of Michigan Helps Parents and Caregivers Find Resources
The Family Center offers information and connections to community-based resources for families of children with special health care needs.
The Science of Music and Mental Health: How to Put Together a Well-Being Playlist
Carefully and intentionally selecting and using your music can help you practice mindfulness and feel more in control of your feelings.
Health Benefits of Smiling
Smiling makes you feel better, science shows. Not feeling like grinning? Fake it until you feel better, doctors say.
How Food Can Boost Your Mental Health
What you eat can improve your mood and your overall brain health.
Why Binge Drinking Even Once a Week is Bad
If you make a habit out of binge drinking, you could expose yourself to these specific short and long-term health problems.
Trauma is Like a Sucker Punch to the Kidneys
Contributor Angela Moore shares a story of how she was sucker punched while kickboxing — and how it reminds her of how trauma impacts the body and mind.
How Horror Films Helped Me with My Anxiety
Contributor Monica Drake writes about how scary movies — along with mental health treatment — have helped counteract her anxiety.
Does Scream Therapy Really Work?
Whether you’re giving a rebel yell or participating in a group scream-in, what will scream therapy really do for your body?
How a ‘Mascot Mindfulness’ Series is Connecting Kids to Healthy Tips
Mascots for the Detroit Lions and Detroit Pistons are featured in these short segments aimed at helping kids learn about mindfulness and meditation.
Simple Tips for Getting Your Kids Reading Ready for School
If you feel like your kids were in the “summer slump” when it came to reading, here are tips to get them on track this school year.
5 Ways I Learned to Prioritize My Mental Health in College
I am currently a college senior and I have only recently learned how to prioritize my mental health.
Crisis Lifelines Make a Difference to Someone Considering Suicide
Contributor Monica Drake writes about how crisis lifelines can help someone experiencing suicidal thoughts.
Why Sharing Your Grief is Good for Your Mental Health
Elizabeth Sanders says sharing her grief in essays proved cathartic as she mourned the loss of her husband’s death at 34. It also helped her find love again.
Virtual Reality for Mental Health and Anxiety
Virtual reality exposure therapy helps you face your fears in a safe, no-stakes environment. Here’s what to know about this relatively new treatment method:
Signs of Depression in People Over 50
Knowing the signs and types of depression can help older adults get the treatment they need to feel better.
Angela T. Moore: Heal From a Place of Health, Not Hurt!
Angela Moore reflects on her journey to healing and how she overcame using her past as an excuse.
Feel Summertime Sadness? You’re Not Alone
Do you find yourself feeling blue during the summer? You may have summer seasonal mood disorder. Here are the signs and what you can do about it.
Why It’s Normal to be Exhausted at the End of the Day
Brain fatigue is real. It’s also a form of mental self-preservation after hours spent doing a lot of concentrating.
Hangover Anxiety: What to Know About ‘Hangxiety’
Thirst, a pounding headache and sensitivity to bright light are all signs of a hangover. Anxiety can be, too.
Self-Soothing Techniques to Stay Productive and Balanced
Chavonn Hussey writes about the self-soothing techniques that she has found have helped her maintain balance with work, life and mental health.
Anti-Anxiety Back to School Kit
For many kids, social anxiety is a large stressor when going back to school. Combat those uneasy feelings by creating an anti-anxiety back to school kit.
Monica Drake: Check in on Your Child’s Mental Health
Contributor Monica Drake writes about why it's so important to check in your child's mental health — and to get them help if they need it.
Nine Habits You Need to Adopt For Improved Mental Health
Your habits should help breed a healthier, smarter, and ultimately, happier you. Here are nine habits to work into your life to boost your mental health.
Youth Suicide Rates In LGBTQ+ Community Decrease Since Legalization of Gay Marriage
Contributor Monica Drake shares a personal story from a friend who came out as gay; and how the legalization of gay marriage affected his outlook.
How Does Trauma Impact the Body?
Acute, chronic and complex trauma can have damaging effects on the body if not treated. Therapy, lifestyle changes and a few other options can help.
What is Tapping? How is it Beneficial for Pain and Anxiety?
Related to acupressure, tapping is a way to create a mind-body connection to lower your stress level.
How Mental Health Care Changed My Life
Monica Drake, writer and mental health advocate, shares her mental health journey. “You are not alone in this. Millions of others, including me, are with you.”
How to Break the Cycle of Chronic Stress
Preventing and managing long-term stress can lower the risk for serious health conditions.
Understanding Binge Eating Disorders
Binge eating disorder is the most pervasive eating disorder in this country, yet most of it still remains hidden behind closed doors.
Why Random Acts of Kindness are Good for You
There’s a reason taking part in random acts of kindness makes us feel better, and why it’s good for us to do more of them.
Your Daily Guide to Practicing Self-Care
Self-care means engaging in little actions to improve your physical health and happiness. Here’s how to get started.
5 Tips for Making Resolutions Stick
New Year’s Day is the most popular time to kick off resolutions, but most don’t last. Find out how you can make yours a success.
Self-Care Tips During the Holidays
Setting aside time to do good things for yourself is the gift that keeps giving all season long.
Navigating Grief and Anxiety While Supporting Others Through Trauma
There’s no right or wrong way to react when exposed to a traumatic event. It may be difficult to put a name to our own feelings. And we may even feel completely numb – even in the face of extreme tragedy. Coping with our reactions is important, and is the first step to healing.
Help! I Feel Sad During the Holidays
While the holiday season is often a time for celebration and family gatherings, for many the holiday season is a time of sadness and despair.
How to Help Your Friends be Less Negative
Friends who are constantly negative can drain your energy and influence your mood. But there are approaches you can take to provide all parties with relief.
How to Talk to Your Boss About Taking a Mental Health Day
More companies are joining the conversation about mental wellness. So how do you talk to your boss about taking a mental health day?
How to Support Someone Suffering from Invisible Pain
Someone may look good, but not feel well. Here are ways to support people who struggle with invisible pain.
Why Fishing Works as Meditation
From the graceful arc of a cast to the slow drag of a line through water, here is why fishing as meditation might be your next stress-buster.
Why Birdwatching Brings More Happiness Than Money
Award-winning photographer Steve Jessmore found there’s truth in a new study that concluded that birdwatching brings more happiness than money.
How to Support Someone in Recovery
Letting people know you’re ready to help them is often the first step in supporting someone who is in recovery from substance abuse.
How to Reconnect with Family, Friends Once You’re Vaccinated
COVID-19 vaccinations have signaled the return of social freedom for many. Here are tips to safely reconnect with family and friends once you’re vaccinated.
How Getting Organized Affects Your Mental and Physical Health
Feel like your life is a whirlwind? Organization and your health are related.
Tips for Managing Stress When You’re at College
If you are heading off to college, read these tips about prioritizing your physical and mental health while away.
A New Approach to Dealing with Chronic Pain
Treating chronic pain shouldn't just focus on physical causes. You also need to look at psychological and social issues.
Mental Health Tips for Your Inner Athlete
You don’t have to be an Olympic star to see that your mental health can affect your sport. Here are some tips for your inner athlete.
How to Ease into an Office Routine in a Hybrid Workplace
Many employees have gone from offices to working remotely, and someday be back again. We have tips for easing into a hybrid office workplace.
4 Ways Grief Can Impact Your Mental and Physical Health
From depression to heartburn, there are lots of ways grieving a loss can impact your mental and physical health.
Ways to Help Your Kids Transition Back to School for In-Person Learning
After virtual classes, video lessons and hybrid learning, here’s how to help kids transition to in-person learning.
Pandemic, Pet’s Death Opens Floodgate of Emotional Pain
Grief from losing his dog tapped into pain LGBTQ+ activist Tommy Allen had experienced for decades. Exacerbated by the pandemic, this trauma led to depression.
Parents: It’s OK To Take Time for Yourself
Neglecting self-care can have serious effects on both your health and your ability to be a good parent. Here’s how to put yourself first sometimes.
A Simple Tool for Giving Mental Health First Aid
Learn how to help people in your life experiencing mental health problems.
Modeling Healthy Stress Responses to Your Children
If you routinely feel stressed out, the way you react and respond to stressors can either help or hurt the way your children process their own emotions.
Why Too Much Time on Social Media Can Hurt Teens’ Mental Health
Teens text, share photos and scroll endlessly. But too much time on social media may be harmful to your children’s mental health.
Tips for Discussing Mental Health with Children and Teens
While starting a conversation about mental health with children and teens might seem daunting, it doesn’t have to be.
A Guide to National Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Learn why and where to dispose of unused or expired prescription drugs this Drug Take Back Day.
How to Spot Warning Signs of Stress, Anxiety in Children
Kids are facing new challenges, just like the rest of us. So, it’s important to be aware of how they may be affected. Here are tips to spot the warning signs.
4 Steps to Take Your Stress Level Down
Stress can be sneaky. You may not even realize it’s rising until you feel overwhelmed.
Why Alternatives to Alcohol Are So Popular Right Now
From non-alcoholic craft beers to flavored coffee lattes, people are finding lots of tasty reasons to leave alcohol behind.
How Stress Does a Number on Your Mind and Body
Feeling stressed? Here’s what it’s doing to your physical and mental health.
Why It’s Important to Talk About Your Mental Health
Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, yet we approach them in very different ways.
Customize Nutritional Needs with Creative Cultural Cuisine
Many factors influence food choices, so there is no one-size-fits-all eating plan. Trying dishes from different cultures is one way to meet one’s dietary needs.
When Kids Cut: Understanding Self-Harm
Why do kids harm themselves? In many cases, it's a way to assert control during stressful circumstances. Find out signs to watch for and how to get help.
Building Children’s Self-Esteem to Last a Lifetime
How to develop a healthy self-worth and self-esteem in children that will lead to better mental health as an adult.
Why Valentine’s Day Is Good for Your Mental Health
Positive relationships have big health benefits. Here’s how you can use the holiday to celebrate friends and loved ones.
Guide to a Great Galentine’s Day
This February, don't forget to celebrate the women who make your life great, too.
ADHD Diagnosis Provided Freedom, Answers for Michigan Woman
As a child, Betsy Thompson didn't fit the mold for kids with ADHD. It was years later as an adult that she sought help and discovered she had the condition.
Fiscal Fitness: Simple Steps for Improving Financial Health
When people think about their health, they often consider physical and mental well-being, but an important third component is financial well-being.
Does the Winter Gloom Make You SAD? Here’s How to Treat it
Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that is believed to be triggered by changes in the amount of daylight during certain seasons.
Why Positive Affirmations are a Healthy Way to Begin 2021
These bite-sized mantras have risen in popularity. See what they can do for your mind and body in 2021.
31 Days of Positive Affirmations to Ring in the New Year
If you want to start the new year with a dose of optimism, try selecting a daily affirmation.
Mental Health Resolutions to Focus On in 2021
Is taking care of your mental health on the top of your New Year’s resolutions list? It should be. Here are some ways to put that in motion.
On Your Phone Too Much? Here’s How to Set Realistic Tech Limits
If one of your health goals is to cut back on the amount of time you spend on your phone, having a concrete plan with achievable goals will help you succeed.
Dos and Don’ts for Managing Relationship Stress
Whether you're bickering about politics, homeschooling or dirty dishes, these tips will help you have healthy, constructive conversations.
How to Manage Holiday Stress with Mindfulness
Mindfulness can make a difference during the holidays when dealing with stressful situations heightened by COVID-19, financial worries and other issues.
5 Ways a Journal Can Help You Feel Happier
Using a journal can help you solve problems effectively, reduce stress and anxiety and cope with emotional traumas, including grief and loss.
Checking In On the Mental Health of Older Loved Ones
Seniors staying safe by staying at home have lost normal social connections, increasing their risk for isolation and depression. Listen for warning signs.
Why Spending on Experiences Can Lead to Greater Happiness
Can the way we spend money contribute to happiness? Find out how spending money on experiences rather than material "things" might lead to more satisfaction.
How to Prepare Kids for a Different Kind of Holiday
Holidays will be different for many families this year. Helping children understand why and picking new ways to make them festive will make the difference.
What the Pandemic Taught Us: Finding the Positive in a Tumultuous Year
This year has been tough, but there have been lessons to carry forward. As we look ahead to 2021, take a second to pause and reflect on the good from 2020.
Don’t be SAD this Winter: Exercise to Fight the Winter Blues
When you’re experiencing the winter blues, exercise is probably the last thing you want to do, but research shows it can help improve your mood.
Talking About Your Family’s Mental Health History
Finding out which mental health disorders could be in your family tree might take a little detective work but can be valuable information for your own health.
Talking to Kids About the Dangers of Drinking and Drugged Driving
Many children learn about alcohol and drugs a lot earlier than parents anticipate so having conversations about drinking and drugged driving is important.
4 Ways to Keep Anxiety Out of Your Holiday Planning
COVID-19 is putting a twist in holiday plans this year. But a little prep work ahead of time will make this year’s celebrations smoother.
5 Healthy Ways to Handle Post-Election Emotions
Have a lot of feelings dealing with the election? Here’s how to handle those emotions in a healthy way.
The Importance of Kids Keeping Up with Friends During the Pandemic
Connections to friends are important for children’s development and mental health.
Managing COVID-19 Disappointments for Kids
Many children may be feeling disappointed with their current experience. There are ways to help guide children through their emotions.
UMatter: Helping Teens Connect During a Pandemic
A recent survey showed that most teens have struggled with mental health issues during the pandemic. A Michigan-based organization is helping them connect.
Seven Signs Your Child Might be the Victim of Bullying
Here are some important signs to see if your child is the victim of bullying.
How to Protect Kids from Cyberbullying
Do you think your child could be a victim of cyberbullying? Here’s what you can do.
Real Men Have Feelings
A long history of stereotypes present men as either emotionless or weak when they do express emotions. It's time for these stereotypes to change.
Do You Have Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
Noticing a persistent, excessive, and unrealistic worry about everyday things lately? Read on to see if you meet the criteria for Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
The Suicide Warning Signs You Need to Know About
September is Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. If you or someone you know has been showing signs of self-harm, here’s how you can help.
Staying Positive in the Face of Negative Headlines
Overwhelming news stories and stats can quickly put us in a funk. Finding joy in the everyday can help.
Grief in the Digital Age: What to Say and Do
It’s hard to know what to say to or do for a grieving family member or friend—especially in the digital era.
Coping Tips for Starting School with Uncertainty
Back-to-school is very different this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you're struggling with the uncertainty, these coping tips might help.
5 Ways to Unwind On National Relaxation Day
Manage your stress better with these 5 tips on how to unwind and relax.
Do You Have a Coach in Your Life?
You might be years removed from playing organized sports but life coaches can often play a valuable role in helping you reach life goals.
Target All Five Senses to Feel Super Creative at Work
A few tweaks to your workspace can make 9-to-5 your most creative and productive time of the day.
The Health Benefits of Close Friendships
Research points to a variety of ways friendships benefit our well-being. It might be time to give your bestie a call!
When Happiness is Hard: The Facts About Summertime Depression
The song goes “Summertime and the living is easy.” But for some, that’s not always the case.
Using Your 5 Senses to Calm Anxiety
Use your senses of sight, touch, hearing, smell and taste to center your mind when you're feeling anxious. Try this mindfulness technique to overcome worries.
How You Can Help #EndTheStigma of Mental Health Conditions
People with mental health issues often stay silent due to feelings of shame. Here’s how to help overcome that stigma.
Get Grounded: How To Reconnect with the Earth Through Yoga
Those who believe in the science of grounding support connecting individual bioelectromagnetic fields with the earth’s electromagnetic field.
The Importance of Dads and Other Adults in Modeling Healthy Emotions for Boys
Trying to raise boys fully able to express their emotions in healthy ways? These tips can help.
How Yoga Breathing Can Reduce Your Stress Level
Stress is usually part of your daily routine. However, incorporating yoga and different types of breathing into your daily routine can help lower your stress.
Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Many people who have experienced a traumatic event may not recognize that they have PTSD. By increasing awareness, more people will feel empowered to seek help.
No More Body Shaming: 5 Ways to Love Yourself and Others
Every time you think something mean about your own body or someone else’s, you are hurting your own happiness. Here’s how to stop.
Finding New Purpose in Life as We Age
It’s important for older adults to seek meaningful ways to stay engaged for their mental health. These research-backed ideas can help seniors find purpose.
Dispelling the Top 4 Myths About Talking to a Therapist
Therapy can be beneficial for anyone who feels they need a listening ear while they work through something going on in their lives.
The Bright Side: Add Some Positivity to Your Social Feed
Is your social scrolling bringing you down? Add some positivity to your feed with these fun and positive accounts to follow.
Relax Your Mind with These Popular Meditation Styles
There are many different types of meditation and the key is to explore the various styles until you find one that suits you best.
Pandemic Parenting: It’s Not Perfect and That’s Okay
The struggle is real. Author Brianna Neace shares her take on parenting through a pandemic - the good, the messy and a healthy dose of grace and understanding.
The Importance of Speaking Up About Your Mental Health Struggles
Professional athlete Kevin Love shares his mental health struggles, here’s why it’s important to be vocal about your own experiences
Caregiving During Coronavirus
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, caregivers are finding new ways to navigate their daily responsibilities.
How Much is Too Much When it Comes to Alcohol?
Do you have questions about your drinking habits? Read these tips from New Directions Behavioral Health to understand the signs of problem drinking behavior.
5 Ways to Socially Connect with People You Can’t See in Person
Long distance living can be tough. Here are five ways to stay connected during times of isolation.
In a Rut? 12 Ways to Move Forward with Positivity
From creative outlets to health and wellness changes, there are plenty of ways to work on yourself. Here are our favorite ideas.
Coping as Sumi’s Caregiver
KC Mehta, like many caregivers, faces isolation and loneliness because of the all-consuming nature of the work he does to care for his wife Sumi.
One Year Without Caffeine: How it Affected My Mental Health
Meet David. Last year he quit a decades-long caffeine habit cold turkey.
7 Surprising Ways to Fight Seasonal Affective Disorder
Are these winter months getting you down? These tips will help you relieve seasonal affective disorder symptoms.
Helping Kids Navigate Academic Stress
The drive to succeed academically may be good to an extent, but it can also lead to an insatiable desire for perfection where a B can be devastating.
Practice a Little Self-Compassion this Month
Self-compassion doesn’t depend on meeting certain ideals or reaching possibly unrealistic goals. It comes from caring for yourself as you are.