Lufkin Counseling

Dr. Crystal Bonner, LPC-S

Itis essential to have a work-life balance to keep your stress reduced and improve your mental health. Part of having a work/life balance is making sure you understand the warning signs your body is signaling. Are you having difficulty sleeping? Are you noticing tightness in your shoulders or an increase in headaches? Do you find that you're overcommitted at work or home and bring those obligations between locations? Sometimes we must look at responsibilities and determine where changes can occur. These are just a few things that can help reduce your stressors. Try setting small goals at home and work so you can see the progress and can check items off your to-do list. Communicate your concerns and needs to those around you who can assist. Set up some time to unplug from your devices, and don't overcommit yourself. Remember to get support from trusted colleagues, friends, and family and seek professional assistance when needed.

When seeking professional guidance, our area has a great group of counselors that offer in-person and virtual sessions and can offer various scheduling options. When choosing a counselor, you should find someone you are comfortable with who specializes in your concerns, including children, couples, trauma, and perinatal mental health. Each counselor brings different backgrounds, training, and therapeutic modalities to the session. It takes time to build trust and isn't an overnight process. When choosing a counselor, ask questions. You are interviewing them to ensure they are a good fit for you and that you will make a good team for working towards your goals. We want to ensure you succeed, and finding the right person to help you along your journey is a critical part of the process.

Local Resources

• https://namitexas.org/nami-texas-of-nacogdoches/

• https://crcg.hhs.texas.gov/

• Non-profits that offer counseling to kids and adults

• Burke

• ADAC

• Family Crisis Center

• National suicide hotline

• 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

• Crisis Text Line

• Text "HELLO" to 741741

• Trevor Project-LGBTQ Suicide Help

• Text "START" to 678780

• 866-488-7386