James Matter MFT

So many people continue to experience anxiety that I have summarized a few of my oft-repeated responses on dealing with it. Many of them also apply to managing negative moods in general. When in doubt, get professional treatment. Here’s one place to look Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator for resources in the U.S. Here are some basic tips for managing anxiety:... https://jamesmatter.wordpress.com//20/anxiety-management-/

I've been offline because, quite frankly, I've been engaging in as much self-care as needed, and posting here has taken a back seat. But that brings me back to some suggestions that I've made many times over the years to other people. One of them is this-- taking care of yourself isn't selfish. If you end up collapsing because you are over-tired and exhausted from caring for others, not only do you become unavailable to care for others, but someone has to care for you.... https://jamesmatter.wordpress.com//it-can-be-difficult-i-/

So, did that get your attention? What's a therapist doing telling people to ignore their feelings? Aren't we, the therapists, supposed to help people get in touch with their feelings? Not necessarily. This is going to be a relatively short post, and it won't be as linked to studies, etc. as I normally like. But it came to my attention when I saw an online article titled "motivation is overrated." Going back and doing a web search to find it, there are too many hits for me to search for the original, so I can't link to it quickly.... https://jamesmatter.wordpress.com//29/ignore-your-feelings/

It's been a while. Like many Americans, I've been watching the news and riding the roller coaster. But something happened earlier today that brought me back to a kind of everyday mindfulness, which my Midwestern forebearers would have probably called "paying attention" or "keeping your mind on what you're doing." This fits in more with what many current writers have called "secular mindfulness," something taken from Buddhism but not connected to Buddhist doctrines, dogmas, etc.... https://jamesmatter.wordpress.com//11/15/more-on-mindfuln/

I just have to share this, even though it's far from new content and completely off topic for this blog. In a time of radical wealth inequality, there is a billionaire who has given away an eight billion dollar fortune. At a time when not just income inequality but wealth inequality are hot topics, It's inspirational to hear of someone who didn't use their money to found yet another plutocratic, oligarchic dynasty. [ 50 more words ] https://jamesmatter.wordpress.com//an-inspirational-moment/