Issuu

ireOn

of Contents

RESPECT the Generation Gap 12.The Fishing Tree 10.Teletherapy:Broader Reach

Glow Up & Reinvent Yourself 12. Double Article Teletherapy/ Spring 13. Sports Quotes & Motivation

14.FEATURE ARTICLE*Teen and Parent Stress ( inc.college prep)

19.Monthly Focus on Specific Mental Health Concerns: March/April

20.Believe in You

Special Interest / Beauty /Lifestyle

40. Vacation -safely see our new world

42. BeautyFX & Calmigo(Product & Info)

43. Parlour Beauty & Home Danielle

44. Spring Fashion & 2025 Nail Colors Bonus Pages

45. Recipe- April’s Fruit - Plum!

46. ASK Marcy…

47. Crisis • Cris Resources Pt 1 & Pt 2

49. In Memory Of/Messages of Support

50. Thank you for your support!

Grounded When Life Feels

31.The Coolest & Easiest Gifts Around

Reactivity:What it is, Managing it and the Triggers

35. Listen to Your Body 38, Captivating TV with Relatable Challenges and solutions

Editor-in-Chief, Content Director

M.Abramsky, LCSW

Showcase Your Work

Managing Editor

Interns Welcome : send resume, ideas & work to InspireAmind.net@protonmail.com

Photographers

interested in showing their talent are encouraged to apply by sending resume and sample ideas or work related to social /emotional issues and life fulfillment to InspireAmind.net re: InspireON Pictures InspireAmind.net@protonmail.com *interns welcome

Clients

Thank You.. You Are Simply The Best! Contributing Writers Who Inspire On

Danielle Amato • Stylist (Hair & Home Decor)

Tara Brennan • Author

Cheryl Conklin• Guest Author

Dhaliah Eckert• N.P. | Owner of Beauty FX

Rebecca Greene LCSW-R•Podcast Host•Best Selling Author, Professional Writer

Maryann Piazza • LCSW-R •Guest Author

Emelia Thygesen•LCMHC•Professional• Author

Corey Woodhouse•LPC • Professional Author

About Marcy Abramsky, LCSW

Services

Adults, Young Adults, Teens, Parents, Older Adults & Caregivers

Teletherapy, Coaching/ Motivation, Workshops, Consults Advocacy •Middle •HS •College •Moving Forward Method

Individuals, Family, Groups, Speaking Engagements

New York State�� InspireAmind.net Inspiring People One Mind at A Time InspireAmind

As an experienced licensed clinical social worker, it is my honor to assist you in exploring your core issues and move toward a healthy, fulfilling life. M..Abramsky

“I am truly moved by the people that have taught me about their lives.” https://www.inspireamind.net/

•InspireAmind• Inspiring People One Mind at A Time

Thank you for joining me in celebrating th of InspireAmind © Magazine. I aim to provide you with differ m guest writers, trending topics, and information on emotional health, style, leisure, school, work, parenting, and work-life balance. Bridging the generation gap by including important pieces on similarities and uncovering the unknowns is essential. Additional topics are welcome through the submission of blogs, articles, and suggestions by name! Send related inquiries anytime to inspireAmind.net@protonmail.com ↗ (inspireAmind.net@protonmail.com) with the subject: InspireOn © Magazine. Please enjoy what InspireOn © Magazine has to offer, and check out InspireAmind.net or AbramskylnspireAmindCoach.com for more information.

I continue to give 110% of myself to my clients and appreciate the therapeutic and motivational relationships I have with them and their businesses. I feel blessed to work independently, providing the standard of care that I believe people deserve. It is a gift to witness positive change and to hear my clients' responses as they achieve small victories!

There is nothing I would rather be doing than actively listening, counseling, coaching, educating, advocating, and facilitating the idea that challenges are opportunities while helping people feel inspired!

I hope this magazine serves to carry on my mantra in a world full of unknowns so that we strive to feel inspired and "InspireOn" each day. I look forward to your private messages regarding what you would like to see in future issues of the magazine and what you would like to contribute!

MarcyAbramskyisalicensedclinicalsocialworkerandNYSpermanentlycertified schoolsocialworker.ThroughouthertimeinschoolsinNYCandtheBronx,she managedcriticalcrisessuchasthe9/11terroristattacks,numerouschildabuse cases,andovertwelveyearswerealsodedicatedtoresearch,connectingwith doctorsandadvocatingforfamiliesonbehalfofherfather-in-lawatMemorial SloanKetteringCancerCenter.Thisprocessbenefitedherfamilyandclients.After over14yearsinthefield,sheobtainedapost-master'sdegreeinschooldistrict andbuildingadministration.Shecontinuedinbothanadministrativeand therapeuticcapacityforfourmoreyearsuntilitbecameclearthatthelevelof expertiseshehadacquiredcouldnotbeprovidedwithinasettingwhereherjob wasnotunderstood,andthe“redtape”begantostandinherway.

AsaninternsupervisorforFordhamUniversityandaUBGraduateSchoolofSocial WorkAlumniMentorforover11years,Abramskyappreciateseverystepofthe career-buildingprocess.Sheservedasanadjunctandco-creatorand facilitator/clinicalsupervisorofafieldplacementprogramduringthepandemic fordisplacedgraduatestudentsandisolatedolderadults.Thispersonally impactedhergreatly,asshewasthedaughterofaparentwithAlzheimer’s.In combinationwithherinvolvementincoachingherdaughtersinatownyouth basketballleague,advocatingforseniorsandcaregiverswithassistedlivingand memorycarefacilities,andfacilitatingonlineparentgroupsforthegradesthat eachofherchildrenattendedkeepsherinvolvedjustenoughintheschool community.

TheRiseofInspireOn©

Afterwritingnumerousprogramsandrealizingthatbookscan’texpressallofthe topicsasthingscomeupinlifefasterthantheycanbecompleted,thismagazine seemedlikeabetterwaytoreachoutmorefrequently.Fromhertrademarkname, InspireAmind®...Inspiringpeopleonemindatatime

Perspectives Through The Generations

TheFishingTreewasawonderfulgiftIgrewupwith.Itwasaplacemy grandmotherwouldtakemetoself-reflectattheendofherstreet.Itwasona mainroadinherdevelopment,sopeoplewouldalwaysaskwhatweweredoing. Weusedtodothissomuchthatitwascomfortingformetocontinuewithmy ownchildrenuponherpassing.

Inasocietythathasbecomefilledwithscreens,thiswassomuchmorethana picture,AI,orevenagravesite.Tome,thiswasher—mybestfriendwholetme believewishesabsolutelycouldcometrue.Itbroughtmebacktothedaysbefore cellphones,9/11,andschoolshootingdrills.

Thedaysbeforethepandemicwhenwehidinclosetsandpretendedtobe princessesandracecardriversandplayedtogetherasifweweredoctorsor waitressestakingorders.Weplayedboardgamesandcouldhavefriendsover forhourswithoutresortingtophones,“snaps,”orTikTok.

TheFishingTreewasbuiltoncommunication(non-verbalorverbal),andmost importantly,itwasbuiltoncreativity,growth,andthefactthatyouwerenever ignored.Someonecaredaboutyourthoughts,dreams,andwishesandtookthe timeoutoftheirdaytoreflectwithyou.Ilovethatmygrandmothercouldpullmy creativemindoutandgetmetoenjoybeingwithherwithoutaphone,paper,or anythingwecouldhavepurchased.

Thisgoesalongwayinthedevelopmentofaperson.Whetherfriendsorfamily, findyourownwaytoacknowledgeoneanother.It’sagift.Willyoutakesomeone youknowtofishwithastickunderatreeforawish?

Inheri erations

Traversing the Gap Mutual Respect

Theunderstandingofrespectandhowitisacquiredorgivencandiffer significantlyamonggenerations.Thisvariationcanleadto misunderstandingsandpotentialdisputes.Forexample,youngerindividuals typicallyviewrespectassomethingthatneedstobeearned,insteadofbeing grantedautomatically.Incontrast,olderindividualsmaybelievethatrespect shouldbereadilygivenwithoutanyconditions.

Oldergenerationswerefrequentlybroughtupwiththebeliefthatrespect shouldbeautomaticallygrantedtoeldersandthoseinpositionsofauthority, regardlessofthesituation.

Meanwhile,youngergenerations,suchasGenZandMillennials,generally believethatrespectmustbecultivatedthroughone'sactionsand interactions.Theyseeitasareciprocalrelationship,whererespectisearned ratherthanjusthandedout.

MisunderstandingsandClashes:Thevaryingviewsonrespectcanleadto misunderstandingsandclashesindifferentenvironments,suchaswithin families,schools,andworkplaces.

ObstaclestoCommunication:Thegenerationalgapintheunderstandingof respectcanresultinobstaclestoeffectivecommunication,makingitdifficult tocultivatestrongrelationships.

TransformingSocialNorms:Asyoungergenerationsbecomemorevocaland assertive,thetraditionalviewsonrespectandauthorityareevolving,posing challengesforoldergenerationstoadjust.

ReciprocalRespect:Manyindividualsfromyoungergenerationscontendthat respectmustbeearned,andtheyaremorepronetowithholdingrespectif theyperceivealackofreciprocity.

THESENEEDTOBEPRESENT…TRAVERSINGTHEGAPMUTUALRESPECT hared Values Communication

Understanding Mutual Respe

Shared Values. Active Listening

Setting Boundaries

R R R

Treatment Areas of Expertise include:

Anxiety or Fears

Career Counseling

Pre-teen & Adolescent Issues

School/College/Work transitions

Chronic Pain or Illness

Elderly Persons Disorders

Life Coaching

Loss or Grief

Parenting

Self Esteem

Social Isolation

TeletherapyCreatesa BroaderReach

GeographicallyandTranscendsAge

Significant development in mental health care is the rise of teletherapy, which allows individuals to seek help from the comfort of their homes. This accessibility has been particularly beneficial for those who may not have had access to traditional therapy options due to geographical or personal constraints. Teletherapy provides a safe space for clients to engage with professionals, making mental health support more obtainable and less intimidating for many.

Additionally, educational institutions and workplaces are beginning to recognize the importance of mental health resources. Initiatives aimed at promoting mental wellness demonstrate a collective effort to prioritize mental health and foster supportive environments. This shift signifies a crucial step toward breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, ensuring that individuals feel empowered to seek help without fear of judgment

As we continue to navigate the complexities of modern life, it is essential to recognize that mental health is a shared concern that transcends age. Engaging in open dialogue, providing support, and advocating for mental health resources—including teletherapy—are vital in addressing this important topic, ultimately fostering a healthier society for all generations.

https://www.radionewshub.com/articles/newsupdates/Generation-Isolation-Study-suggestsyoung-people-do-notknowhowtounplug#:~:text=The%20study%20has%20 dubbed%20these,possibility%20for%20physical%20s ocial%20interactions.

EMBRACETHEPOSITIVITYTHATSPRING BRINGS,REGARDLESSOFYOURLOCATION, ANDALLOWYOURSELFTOATTAINSELFAWARENESS.FEELREVITALIZEDTHROUGHTHE RENEWALOFYOURENERGYBOTHATHOME ANDINYOURWORKPLACE.TAKE ADVANTAGEOFTHEEXTENDEDDAYLIGHT HOURS,PRESENTINGMORECHANCESTO APPRECIATETHEOUTDOORS.

SMILEASYOUSEETHERETURNOFVIVID COLORSINNATURE,WHICHCANBOOST YOURSPIRITS.PARTICIPATEINOUTDOOR ACTIVITIESLIKEGARDENING,HIKING,OR BIKINGTOCONNECTWITHTHE INVIGORATINGENVIRONMENT.

INDULGEYOURSENSESINTHESOUNDSOF THEWIND,BEACH,BIRDSANDTHESMELLOF FRESHAIR,GRASS,FLOWERS,POOLS, SALTWATERANDTHEFEELOFSAND,WIND, WARMTH,ALLOFWHICHCANIMPROVEYOUR MENTALWELLNESS.

ACKNOWLEDGETHEBENEFICIALEFFECTS THATBEINGINNATUREHASONMENTAL HEALTH,ESPECIALLYINALLEVIATING SYMPTOMSOFSEASONALAFFECTIVE DISORDER(SAD)THATSOMEMAY EXPERIENCEDURINGTHEWINTERMONTHS. FINALLY,VIEWSPRINGCLEANINGASA METHODTOREFRESHYOURSPACEAND MINDSET,LEADINGTOAMOREOPTIMISTIC PERSPECTIVEONLIFE.

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CallTo Action

Adolescent Stress

InspireOn : A Teens World

bullying discrimination inequality

Anger & Frustration Trauma.

Grief/ Death of a loved one Conflict in the family Low self-esteem/ self view Abuse/ Bullying. Adoption/ issues around being adopted. Substance abuse. Bullying/ persistent peer pressure.

Mental Health

Depression, ADHD, ODD, Anxiety, C-PTSD, and more than being the cause of anger issues in teens. Disorders and mental health issues can often be attributed to social skill issues, impulse control, and being able to control oneself.

TO BE COMPLETED PRIOR TO HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR YEAR

Make a list of potential colleges you would like to attend (find your

Believe in Yourself

BELIEVE IN YOUR ABILITY TO STAY CALM IN ALL SITUATIONS

DEVELOP SKILLS TO FEEL CONFIDENT IN STAYING CENTERED THROUGH ANY EXPERIENCE. AFTER THE PANDEMIC, BUSINESS CLOSURES, AND COMMUNITY VIOLENCE

WE NEED TO CHANGE OUR VIEW OF EMERGENCIES. IF EMERGENCIES AREN’T WHAT THEY USED TO BE, THERE’S NO NEED TO GET WORKED UP. STAYING CALM DURING STRESS REQUIRES A REMINDER THAT “YOU'VE GOT THIS.”

BREATHING, EXERCISING, THINKING POSITIVELY, AND PROJECTING POSITIVITY TO OTHERS CAN HELP.

TIPS FOR MANAGING FEELINGS OF OVERWHELM:

1 ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR FEELINGS: ACCEPT YOUR FEELINGS INSTEAD OF IGNORING THEM.

2. TAKE A BREAK: STEP AWAY TO GAIN PERSPECTIVE AND CLEAR YOUR MIND.

3. PRIORITIZE TASKS: LIST AND PRIORITIZE TASKS, BREAKING LARGER ONES INTO SMALLER STEPS.

4 PRACTICE MINDFULNESS: USE TECHNIQUES LIKE MEDITATION OR DEEP BREATHING TO CALM YOUR MIND.

5. SEEK SUPPORT: REACH OUT TO FRIENDS, FAMILY, OR PROFESSIONALS FOR GUIDANCE.

6. SET BOUNDARIES: LEARN TO SAY NO TO AVOID OVERCOMMITTING.

7. FOCUS ON WHAT YOU CAN CONTROL: CONCENTRATE ON WHAT YOU CAN INFLUENCE AND LET THE REST GO.

8. TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF: ENSURE ADEQUATE REST, HEALTHY EATING, AND TIME FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY.

BELIEVE IN YOURSELF ⭐ BELIEVE IN YOUR ABILITY TO CONQUER OVERWHELM AND STRESS!

When Mom

Welcome t where, app heroes of t turn, and s little lonely, moms were we do ever

For those of us navigating this tricky phase, here are a few ways I m learning to cope, laugh it off, and remember that even when, “I’m doing everything wrong,” I’m still doing a whole lot right.

Dealing with the Eye Rolls

At this age, eye rolls become a language of their own. I used to get frustrated every time my tween gave me that special eye roll that says, “Oh mom, you just don’t get it.” Then I realized something: eye rolls mean they’re paying attention. They’re still hearing me, even if they act like they wish they didn’t. We can let our children know that we don’t appreciate them rolling their eyes at us. I wouldn’t make a huge deal of it as we don’t want to encourage it. We also want to make sure we aren’t modeling eye rolling behavior. Let’s be honest – I did it to my mom too. When you get upset, always remember that you aren’t alone in this and that my three children are all rolling their eyes at me too.

Tip: Instead of taking every eye roll personally, remind yourself that this is part of their development. They’re trying to find themselves, and eye rolls are just one way they’re asserting a bit of independence (even if it drives us nuts)

Remember, It’s Not Really About Us

When my teen tells me that “I don’t understand anything” or insists that, “I always make things worse,” it’s easy to feel hurt. I’ve learned that often, their frustration isn’t about me. It’s about the new pressures, emotions, and changes they’re going through. They’re navigating school, friends, and even hormones, and sometimes, I’m the safe person they can vent to.

Tip: Instead of taking their words to heart, try to listen without realcting. When they realize we’re here to listen, they might open up without the attitude

Rebecca Greene, LCSW-R

Pick Your Battles Wisely

There are days when I feel like everything I say gets met with resistance. It’s so easy to get caught up in correcting them. I’ve learned that choosing my battles saves both my sanity and theirs If my teen wants to wear mismatched clothes or blast a song I can barely understand, I let it go. It’s a small way for them to express themselves, and in the grand scheme of things, it’s harmless. My husband told me just yesterday not to get upset with everything that my daughter does. He told me to let some things go and he couldn’t be more right in his advice to me. It’s exhausting getting upset multiple times a day. I have to let a lot of it roll right off of me.

Tip: Ask yourself, “Is this really worth the battle?” If it’s not going to matter next week, next month, or next year, it might be worth letting it slide. Reserve your energy for the bigger moments when they really need guidance

Don’t Take the Embarrassment Personally

Apparently, moms are the most embarrassing creatures on the planet. We breathe wrong, wave wrong, and heaven forbid we dance in the kitchen. What’s funny is that just a few years ago, my kids thought I was hilarious and even cheered on my silly dance moves. Now I get the “Mom, stop it!” look.

I’ve come to realize that their embarrassment doesn’t mean they love me any less and that it’s just part of growing up.

Tip: Don’t let their embarrassment stop you from being yourself Keep being silly, keep showing affection, and know that deep down, they love it (even if they’d never admit it out loud). Be true to who you are and don’t let your kids stifle you.

Show You’re Listening (Even When They Say You Don’t Get It)There are times when my teen will say, “Mom, you just don’t understand!” It used to make me feel defeated, but now, I try a different approach. I’ll tell them, “You’re right, I don’t understand everything. I want to understand.” By admitting that I might not know exactly how they feel, I’m giving them space to express themselves without feeling like I’m trying to fix or control their emotions.

My daughter has told me a few times that she just wants me to listen. She is not looking for me to give her advice or fix anything. She just wants to feel heard. I know that she thinks that I don’t understand, and I also know that she sees me listening and trying to understand. Tip: Validate their feelings by acknowledging that growing up is hard. Even if we do understand what they’re going through, sometimes they just need to know that it’s okay to feel how they feel.

Rebecca Greene, LCSW-R

Give Them Space (Be Ready to Step In)

One of the hardest parts of parenting tweens and teens is finding the balance between giving them independence and staying connected. They might act like they don’t need us, but there are moments when they do – even if they’re too proud to ask for it. I’m learning to give them space, but always with the reassurance that I’m here, whenever they need me. My daughter brushed me off most of yesterday. When I came home from my meeting, she came running up to me wanting to talk to me. I never know what to expect. They keep me on my toes. Happy to give them space and happy to be there for them. Sometimes I feel like my head is spinning You never know what is coming your way with tweens and teens Be ready and be flexible with them.

Tip: Respect their privacy and autonomy and make it clear that you’re always available to listen or lend a hand. It might feel like they’re pushing us away, but they need to know we’re nearby.

Hold Onto the Humor

Sometimes, the best way to cope with the tween and teen years is simply to laugh. Between the mood swings, the wardrobe choices, and the, “I know more than you” attitude, there’s a lot of comedy if we choose to see it I try to remind myself to laugh at the silly stuff because one day, we’ll look back and miss these quirky teenage moments. We can be in the middle of an argument and my daughter and I will just start to laugh. It is a great way to interrupt the intensity. Or I will start dancing or singing to make my kids laugh.

Tip: Find ways to keep humor alive. Laugh with them, not at them, and find the fun in these crazy years. It’s one of the best ways to keep the connection alive, even when things feel tense.

Keep Perspective (This, Too, Shall Pass)

When the days feel long and I feel like I’m “doing everything wrong,” I remind myself that this phase is temporary. They’ll grow out of the eye rolls, the attitude, and the teenage angst, and there will come a time when they’ll look back and thank us for all the ways we were there.

For all my fellow 7th grade parents – 7th grade was tough! Holy hormones! Get through this year and I personally saw both of my kids get easier in 8th grade. I am hoping for this a third time too!

Tip: When things feel overwhelming, remember that every stage of parenting has its challenges. You survived the sleepless nights and the toddler tantrums, and you’ll survive this too.

At the end of the day, I’ve learned that even when I feel like the least favorite person in their world, the best thing I can do is stay steady. Tweens and teens are still kids who need structure, love, and reassurance, even if they pretend they don’t. Being a consistent, reliable presence in their lives – no matter how they’re feeling that day – is one of the most important gifts we can give to them.

Tip: Show love in small, simple ways. Leave a note in their lunch, give them a quick hug when they’re having a rough day, and remind them that no matter what, you’re there for them.

Cherish the Moments When You Do Get It Right

Every now and then, amidst the sighs and eye rolls, there are glimpses of those moments when you get it right When they come to you for advice, or even just a little comfort, it’s a reminder that they still need us, even if they’re too cool to say so. I hold onto those moments. I remind myself that even when I feel like I’m doing everything wrong, I’m still doing so much right.

Being a mom of tweens and teens isn’t always easy. In fact, it’s not easy a lot of the time. I remember that they are being developmentally appropriate. This is how tweens and teens are supposed to act and how they begin to learn to have some independence from us. We may not get everything right, but we’re showing up, loving them fiercely, and guiding them the best we can In the end, that’s more than enough Always remember that you aren’t alone in your parenting journey. If you are going through something hard, I can promise that there is another mom struggling with a similar challenge. I know that is comforting to me. I hope that you can take something away from this to make your parenting journey a little easier.

Laughing, Learning and Loving my tween and teens, Rebecca Greene, LCSW-R

Check out my link tree: www.Linktr.ee/whinypaluzamom

Whinypaluza Mom Group:

If you are looking for a supportive community, come join the free Whinypaluza Mom Facebook group. I created this as I wanted us to have a place where we can talk about tips, strengths and challenges we are having. It is another step I took to help everyone to know that you are not alone. There is still time to join the November thankful challenge. Jump in and join the group and bring a friend with you! I love to give away prizes. This group is private so please find me on Facebook at Whinypaluza or Rebecca Greene and message me to ask for an invite. I’m also on Instagram @becgreene5 and @whinypaluza mom. I am also on Tik tok @whinypaluzamom. he Whinypaluza Schedule: Whinypaluza Wednesdays: My weekly blog comes out every Wednesday. I am always open to your topic requests. A new Vlog (video blog) also comes out every Wednesday night on Facebook and You Tube live at 9:00 PM Eastern time to discuss the blog. If you would rather listen to a podcast than watch a Vlog, you can wait for the following Wednesday and the Vlog is released on my Podcast. Family Fridays: Every Friday morning a new Podcast is released. Most of my episodes on Fridays are me discussing parenting and marriage with experts on the topic. If you would rather watch the Podcast instead of listen, you can watch it on You Tube. If you would like to be on my Podcast or know someone who would like to please message me on Facebook or Instagram or at whinypaluzamom@gmai

Corey Woodhouse, LPC

www.coreywoodhouse.com

Spring Renewal: Balancing Support, Boundaries, and Self-Care

As winter gives way to spring, many of us notice an uptick in responsibilities and social engagements. The shift can be exciting more sunlight and warmer weather often spark renewed enthusiasm but it can also heighten our sense of obligation. During this busy season, it’s easy to pour out our energy for others and forget to replenish our own reserves Below are a few thoughts on distinguishing supportive from enabling behaviors, setting and upholding healthy boundaries, and breaking daunting tasks into manageable pieces all of which can help protect our mental and emotional well-being as life gets busier.

Understanding Supportive vs. Enabling Behaviors

Supportive Behaviors

● Encourage Growth: True support empowers others to find their own solutions. Sometimes this involves listening without judgment or offering empathy rather than instantly solving the problem.

● Promote Independence: If someone struggles, supportive help might be guiding them to resources or brainstorming strategies with them. This allows them to learn and grow instead of becoming dependent.

● Respect Personal Limits: Supporting doesn’t mean sacrificing your own well-being. Genuine support acknowledges that you have boundaries too, and no one expects (or should expect) you to deplete yourself in the process.

Enabling Behaviors

● Foster Dependency: Enabling often looks like taking over someone else’s responsibilities, which can inhibit their ability to solve problems on their own.

● Ignore Consequences: When we enable, we might protect someone from the natural results of their actions. While the intention can be kind, it can also perpetuate harmful cycles.

● Erode Your Own Energy: Constantly stepping in to fix issues for others can drain you. Over time, this leads to burnout and even resentment—neither of which benefits any relationship in the long run.

Establishing Healthy Boundaries

Healthy boundaries are like invisible lines that protect our mental, emotional, and sometimes physical well-being. They help us navigate relationships and tasks in a way that feels balanced rather than draining.

1. Identify Your Limits: Recognize what you can and cannot do physically, emotionally, and financially. You can’t be everywhere at once, and that’s okay.

2. Communicate Clearly: Whether at work or in personal relationships, kindly but firmly let people know what you’re able to offer. For example, saying something like, “I can talk for about 15 minutes now, but after that I need to finish a project,” helps set expectations.

3. Practice Consistency: Once you set a boundary, do your best to uphold it. Going back on what you’ve said can confuse others and undermine the boundary you’re trying to establish.

Compartmentalizing Big Tasks When Feeling Overwhelmed

Even with boundaries and supportive relationships, life can still feel like an oncoming storm of to-do items. Breaking large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps can ease the pressure and keep you motivated.

● Divide and Conquer: Take a big project and split it into segments Focus on one piece at a time instead of getting lost in the enormity of the entire endeavor.

● Celebrate Milestones: Whether it’s writing the first page of a report or finishing half of your spring cleaning, pause to acknowledge each chunk you’ve completed. Small victories can fuel your momentum.

● Schedule Mini-Breaks: Sometimes, all you need is a few minutes of rest—maybe a brief walk or a quick stretch to recharge before tackling the next step.

Protecting Your Energy for a Vibrant

Season

When spring arrives, it’s natural to want to jump into every opportunity the sunnier days present. But if you don’t hold onto some of that newfound energy for yourself, you may wind up feeling drained.

● Mind Your Self-Talk: If you find yourself saying yes to everything out of guilt or habit, pause and evaluate whether it’s truly in your best interest (and the other person’s) to take on more.

● Lean on Supportive Circles: Surround yourself with people who respect your boundaries and want to see you thrive. Equally important is showing respect for their boundaries in return

● Revisit and Adjust: Boundaries, priorities, and your own ability to handle stress can evolve. Reassess and tweak your approach as you go. By distinguishing supportive behaviors from enabling ones, creating healthy boundaries, and breaking tasks into smaller steps, you can navigate the busier season without sacrificing your well-being. The result? You’ll have the energy and emotional capacity to appreciate the joys of spring longer days, blooming flowers, and the refreshing sense of possibility that arrives with the change of season.

By Tara Brennan

Image on Freepik

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EMOTIONAL REACTIVITY:

WHAT IT IS AND HOW TO MANAGE IT

TRIGGERS: BLAME VS. SELF-RESPONSIBILITY

BY MARYANN PIAZZA LCSW-R

Listen To Your Body

Family Vacation -

Safely See Our Strange New World

Picture in article by Emily Wenstrom

LTKSHOWSAMAZON SPRINGAFFORDABLE OUTFITS!

BY M.ABRAMSKY

LTKSHOWS MIAMIMOMSTYLE DRESSES

AMAZON!

LTKSHOWSTHE STYLESPOTTERSPRING DRESSES

ME WE NEED A CLOSET CLEAN OUT, A TIME WE TRADITIONALLY FEEL NALLY AS THE WEATHER BRIGHTENS UP! ALLOWING OURSELVES TO TIVE IS SUPER IMPORTANT … SO A FEW NEW PIECES IN YOUR WARDROBE COULDNT HURT!

IIT HAS NEVER BEEN MORE SIMPLE TO SHOP OINLINE AND GET SAME DAY PICK UP, DELIVERY OR TO GET OUT AND FEEL MOTIVATED TO GET OUT BY YOURSELF OR WITH SOMEONE ELSE TO WALK AND FIND SALES IN PERSON!

REMEMBER THAT HAVING SOMETHING YOU FEEL GOOD IN WILL MAKE IT EASIER TO SAY “YES” TO THAT NEXT EVENT YOU GET AN. INVITE FOR. ENJOY SPRING �� HOT NEW NAIL DESIGNS TOO* ( AS SEEN IIN PINTEREST.

April Recipe

MOCKTAILS:

2 plums, cut in halves with skin on 2 cups fresh water

½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (That's about 3-4 lemons!)

½ cup Agave syrup

OPTIONAL TOPPINGS: Crushed ice

1 Plum, sliced with skin on Rosemary leaves, optional Lemon wedges

INSTRUCTIONS

In a bowl, add together the halved plums and lemon juice, mulling (crushing) everything until fruit are fully broke down. Add in the water and Agave and stir until combined. Set aside.

To serve: Add crushed ice to a glass, fill the glass with the plum lemonade about ¾ full, then add in the sliced plums and lemons, and rosemary leaves inside the glasses as garnish, if desired. Repeat for every serving.

Sip and Enjoy!

https://www.orchidsandsweettea.com/plumlemonade/#wprm-recipe-container-23206

CrisisHelplines

Incaseyouneedimmediatehelp:Ifeveryouarefeelinghopeless,suicidal,or simplyinneedofspeakingwithsomeone,therearenumerousfreeand anonymoushotlineswithtrainedoperatorsavailable. SuicidePrevention/DepressionSupport

US:Hopeline(SuicidePrevention):1-800-SUICIDE(1-800-784-2433)

A SHORT INTRO OR KICKER OF THE ARTICLE WILL GO HERE. THIS PART ACTS AS A BRIDGE BETWEEN THE HEADLINE AND THE ARTICLE ITSELF.

US:SuicideHotline:1-800-273-Talk(1-800-8255)

UK:Samaritans(Nat’landlocal):08457909090orjo@samaritans.org

CAN:SuicidePreventionCanada

AUS:LifelineAustraliaHelpline131114 SubstanceAbuse/Alcoholism

US:NationalDrugInformationTreatmentandReferralHotline: 1-800-662-HELP(4357)

US:AlcoholAbuseandCrisisIntervention:1-800-234-0246

US:NationalCocaineHotline:1-800-COCAINE(262-2463)

US:Al-Anon/AlateenHotline(forfriendsandfamily)1-800-344-2666

UK:Drinkline:Nat’l.AlcoholismHelpline:08009178282

AUS:Drug&AlcoholHelpline1800198024

CAN:Drug&AlcoholHelpline1-800-565-8603

Rape,Abuse&DomesticViolence

US:Childhelp(ChildAbuse):1-800-4ACHILD(1-800-422-4453)

US:Nat’l.DomesticViolenceHotline:1-800-799-SAFE(7233)

US:RAINNNat’l.SexualAssaultHotline:1-800-656-HOPE(4673)

US:Nat’l.CenteronElderAbuse:1-800-677-1116

US:NationalRunawaySwitchboard:1-800-621-4000

UK:Women’sAidDomesticViolenceHelpline:08082000247 Gay/LesbianIssues

MAKE

US:GLBTNationalHelpCenter1-888-843-4564

COLORS WORK forYou

UK:Galop–LGBTAbuseHelpline08009995428

CAN:PFLAGCanadaHelpline1-888-530-6777

AUS:QLIFEAustraliaHelpline1800184527

Pregnancy/SexualHealth

US:PlannedParenthood:1-800-230-PLAN(7526)

US:Nat’l.STDHotline:1-800-227-8922

US:NationalAIDSHotline:1-800-342-AIDS(2437)

US:TheTeenAIDSHotline:1-800-440-TEEN(8336)

MedicalEmergencies

US:Nat’l.PoisonHelp:1-800-222-1222

ULifeline–Adirectoryofresourcesavailableforcollegestudents—takeaselfassessmenttest;orfindyourcollegepsychservicescenter.

AlcoholicsAnonymous(AA)–AlcoholicsAnonymousisaninformalmeeting societyforrecoveringalcoholicswhoseprimarypurposeistostaysoberand helpotheralcoholicsachievesobriety.

NarcoticsAnonymous(NA)–NarcoticsAnonymoussimilartoAA,isan international,community-basedassociationofrecoveringaddicts.

Self-MutilatorsAnonymous–Acommunity-basedassociationforindividuals strugglingwithself-mutilation.

INFORMATIONALRESOURCES

A SHORT INTRO OR KICKER OF THE ARTICLE WILL GO HERE. THIS PART ACTS AS A BRIDGE BETWEEN THE HEADLINE AND THE ARTICLE ITSELF.

NationalInstituteofMentalHealth–Extensiveinformationonavarietyof mentalhealthtopics.

NationalInstituteofHealth–Extensiveinformationonallhealthrelatedtopics. MedlinePlus–Extensiveinformationofdifferentdrugsandtreatmentoptions. Ifyouthinkyouhaveamedicalemergencypleasecallyourdoctoror911 immediately.

ifyouneedadditionalresourcesgotohttps://www.inspireamind.net/resources/ theseareonthewebsite!

Addiction&Recovery

AlcoholicsAnonymous

NarcoticsAnonymous

SubstanceAbuse&MentalHealthServicesAdministration

Anxiety&ObsessiveCompulsiveDisorders

ObsessiveCompulsiveFoundation

AnxietyBrain&BehaviorFoundation

Anxiety&DepressionAssociation

Depression,Suicide&ChronicFatigue

NASD:UnderstandingDepression

Anxiety&DepressionAssociation

WhatisChronicFatigueSyndrome?

SuicideAwarenessVoicesofEducation

Suicide:ReadThisFirst TherapistAssociations

AmericanAcademyofChild&AdolescentPsychiatry

AmericanAssociationforMarriageandFamilyTherapy

AmericanDieteticAssociation

AmericanCounselingAssociation

AmericanPsychiatricAssociation

AmericanPsychologicalAssociation

AmericanPsychologicalSociety

MAKE COLORS WORK forYou

CanadianMentalHealthAssociation

NationalInstituteofMentalHealth

NationalMentalHealthAssociation

Abramsky,Mark•February2023

•Aspecialtributetoaremarkableman abrother,husband,father,andawell-knownfigure inhiscommunity.Withauniqueblendofintensehumoranddeeploveforhisfamily,hewill alwaysberememberedasourTitaniumman. Love..allofus!

Rosen,Sherrill•March 2023

•Aheartfelttributetoawife,mother&grandmotherwhowillalwaysberememberedforherstrength, advocacy,andbeauty,bothinsideandout Memory•yourlovingfamily

name•Date's•SpecialMemory•Signoff PleasesendtoInspireAmind.netandaddinre:InMemory/MAG( Subject)withmessageandInformation.Thankyou.

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