Mary Duran Mary Duran

How to Support Loved Ones Who Struggle with Substance Use During the Holidays

The holiday season is full of celebrations, gatherings, and traditions. Still, for those struggling with substance use, it can be a particularly challenging time. As a loved one, you may feel unsure about providing meaningful support without overstepping boundaries or compromising your well-being. The good news is that there are effective ways to show care and encouragement while fostering an environment that prioritizes recovery and connection.

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Mary Duran Mary Duran

Navigating Holiday Triggers: Strategies to Stay Substance-Free During Festive Gatherings

The holiday season can be a joyous time of connection and celebration. Still, for those committed to staying substance-free, it can also present unique challenges. Triggers such as social pressure, emotional stress, and the availability of substances at gatherings can make the season feel overwhelming. However, with the right strategies, navigating these challenges and enjoying the holidays is possible while staying true to your recovery goals.

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Mary Duran Mary Duran

The Power of Self-Compassion: 5 Practical Steps to Be Kinder to Yourself

In a world where self-criticism often feels like second nature, self-compassion can be a refreshing and transformative practice. Self-compassion isn't about ignoring your mistakes or struggles; instead, it's treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Embracing self-compassion can benefit your emotional well-being, helping you face challenges with resilience, reduce harsh self-criticism, and cultivate a more profound sense of self-worth.

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Mary Duran Mary Duran

Navigating Identity Struggles in Your 20s with Borderline Personality Disorder: Building a Stronger Sense of Self

Your 20s can be a time of profound self-discovery. Still, for those with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), this journey can feel incredibly challenging. BPD often brings fluctuating self-perceptions, a tendency to rely on external validation, and intense emotional shifts that make solidifying an identity difficult. Understanding how BPD affects self-image and taking small, purposeful steps toward building a stable sense of self can bring clarity and confidence.

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Mary Duran Mary Duran

Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder: Symptoms, Challenges, and Hope

Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) is a complex mental health condition that affects many individuals worldwide. BPD is characterized by emotional instability, impulsive behaviors, and challenges in forming and maintaining relationships. In this post, we'll take a deep dive into BPD, its symptoms, the challenges faced by those diagnosed, and the hope that therapy brings for healing and recovery.

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Mary Duran Mary Duran

The Role of Therapy in College: Supporting Mental Health and Academic Success

College is a period of growth and self-discovery, but it can also come with stress, anxiety, and emotional difficulties. Balancing academic demands, social life, and newfound independence can take a toll on many students' mental health. Therapy offers valuable support in navigating these challenges, helping to enhance well-being and boost academic performance. Let’s dive into how therapy can support mental health during college and why seeking help is so important.

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Mary Duran Mary Duran

Substance Use Disorder and College: Staying Safe and Making Healthy Choices

The college experience is often filled with excitement, new friendships, and growth opportunities. However, it’s also a time when the world of alcohol and drug use is introduced to many students, often under the influence of social pressures and a desire to fit in. While experimentation can seem harmless, substance use in college can lead to severe consequences, including impaired academic performance, mental health issues, and the development of substance use disorders. This blog post aims to highlight the risks associated with substance use in college and provide advice on making informed and healthy choices.

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Mary Duran Mary Duran

Managing Back-to-College Anxiety: Strategies for a Smooth Transition

As college students prepare to return to campus, the excitement of a new semester often mixes with feelings of anxiety. Whether you're a freshman or returning for another year, the transition back to college can be overwhelming. It's normal to feel anxious, but with the right strategies, you can manage these feelings and set yourself up for a successful semester.

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