Coping with Anxiety During Pregnancy
Ah, pregnancy—a time of glowing skin, magical baby kicks, and… completely losing sleep over everything from "Will my baby like me?" to “Did I remember to unplug the curling iron?” If you’re feeling a bit nervous (or a lot), you’re certainly not alone. Pregnancy can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Sometimes, anxiety can creep in and settle down for a while. Let’s talk about it.
Is it the Baby Blues, or is it Postpartum Depression?
This guide breaks down the difference, helps you understand what’s typical, what’s not, and how to support yourself or a partner.
Overcoming Intrusive Thoughts in the Postpartum Journey
What is Postpartum OCD? Learn about postpartum OCD symptoms and how specialized therapy like ERP can help you find peace and confidence in your parenting journey. You are not alone.
Understanding Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Techniques
Anxiety is a natural human response to stress. It’s that feeling of fear or apprehension about what’s to come. For many of us, it shows up before a job interview or during a difficult conversation. But when these feelings become overwhelming, persistent, and interfere with your daily life, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder. It's a heavy burden to carry, but it is not a life sentence. Let’s gently unpack it together.
Understanding OCD: Breaking Down Myths and Realities
It can feel incredibly isolating when your own mind seems to work against you. If you are living with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), you might feel misunderstood by a world that often jokes about being "a little OCD" without grasping the true weight of the condition. You are not alone in this feeling, and what you are experiencing is real, valid, and deserving of compassion.
Learning to Sit with Uncomfortable Emotions
When a difficult feeling like sadness, anger, or fear washes over you, what is your first instinct? For many of us, it’s to push it away, distract ourselves, or find a quick fix. We live in a world that often encourages us to seek immediate comfort. But what if we tried something different? What if we allowed ourselves to simply be with the emotion, without judgment or the need to change it?
What Is Trauma? Understanding Its Hidden Impact on Your Life
If you've ever felt like your reactions don't match the situation, or wondered why certain experiences feel so overwhelming, understanding trauma might hold the key to making sense of it all. When we expand our definition of trauma beyond dramatic events, we begin to see how early attachment experiences, neglect, and emotional wounds can shape our nervous system in profound ways.
Understanding the Window of Tolerance
When life feels overwhelming—whether from stress, anxiety, or past trauma—it’s easy to feel either on edge or completely disconnected. One powerful concept I often use in therapy to help clients navigate these feelings is called the Window of Tolerance.
Disclaimer:
The content shared on this website and blog is meant to offer education, encouragement, and support—but it is not a substitute for professional medical, mental health, or therapeutic care. Everyone’s journey is unique, and it’s always best to consult with a qualified healthcare or mental health professional about your specific needs or concerns. Reading this blog or connecting through franciswellness.com does not create a therapeutic relationship. If you are in crisis or need immediate help, please reach out to your local emergency services or contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (U.S.) for free and confidential support 24/7.