Latest news with #therapists
Yahoo
6 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
These 6 Habits Will Transform Your Relationship With Your Grandkids
The grandparent-grandchild relationship can be filled with deep love, joy and connection. But these strong bonds don't just happen by accident — they require nurturing just like any other relationship. The majority of Americans — 69% — say it's very important for grandparents and grandkids to have a close relationship, according to a recent YouGov survey. However, nearly a quarter of respondents reported that their grandparents have been not very or not at all influential in their lives. If your relationship with your grandkids isn't as close as you'd like it to be, read on. Below, therapists share some of the most significant things grandparents can do to fortify the bond with their grandkids. Don't fall into the trap of sitting back and waiting for your grandchild to come to the adult here (or at least the more senior one) which means you have both 'the opportunity and responsibility to reach out by taking initiative to be part of that grandchild's life,' said Dallas marriage and family therapist Sarah Epstein. Show them you care by being proactive about building the relationship. 'That can look like attending the child's sports game, calling the grandchild when they come home from a trip or discussing shared movie and book interests,' Epstein said. 'Children want to feel like the adults in their life want to spend time with them. Grandparents have the powerful opportunity to show up as an adult that truly delights in their grandchild's life.' Taking time to get to know who your grandchild really is is one of the most impactful things you can do as their grandparent. It will help them 'feel heard, valued, and understood, creating a deep emotional connection between you,' said clinical geropsychologist Regina Koepp, founder of the Center for Mental Health & Aging. One way to start? Practice active listening. 'This means giving your grandchild your full attention, making eye contact and genuinely responding to what they're saying,' Koepp said. It's true that your grandkids are growing up in a world that's far different from the one you were raised in or even raised your children in, Epstein said. Approach these differences with a sense of curiosity and try to withhold judgment. 'The children's interests may seem strange, the trends may feel unfamiliar and the language hard to follow,' she said. 'Grandparents will build closeness with their grandchildren by showing up with curiosity rather than judgment.' That doesn't mean you need to be well-versed in every last detail of their favorite video game or able to rattle off the starting lineup of their favorite sports team. But being open-minded about their hobbies goes a long way. 'Children will pick up on being judged and create distance,' Epstein said. 'Those grandparents who can show some curiosity and engage their grandchild on their own terms will find that grandchild much more excited to spend time together.' Engaging in shared activities and experiences with your grandkids is a powerful way to strengthen the relationship, said Miami neuropsychologist Aldrich Chan told HuffPost. 'Whether it's playing games, going for walks, or pursuing common interests, these shared moments create lasting memories and provide opportunities for learning, laughter and connection,' he said. 'Engaging in activities that cater to the grandchild's age and interests shows that the grandparent values their time together and is invested in their happiness.' Plus, doing things your grandkid likes to do shows that you're not only willing to enter their world, but are interested in learning more about it, Koepp said. As a grandparent, you are a 'living link from the present to a family's past,' Koepp said. You can 'provide a sense of cultural heritage and familial history, connecting grandchildren with their ancestors and give them a sense of belonging and identity.' Sharing family stories — either your own or ones that have been passed down to you — with your grandkids can instill a sense of pride in them, teach them about their background and help them understand how they fit into this legacy, Koepp said. 'You can also do this by sharing and maintaining family traditions, whether for holidays, birthdays or meals on the weekend,' she said. 'Family traditions can provide grandchildren with cherished memories and a sense of belonging. These rituals, big or small, become a significant and comforting part of a child's life, creating lasting bonds and shared experiences that can be passed through the generations.' It's important to recognize and celebrate your grandchild's wins, no matter how big or small. It's a powerful way to show how proud and supportive you are, Chan said. 'Whether it's applauding academic accomplishments, sports achievements, artistic talents or personal growth, acknowledging and celebrating these moments can boost a grandchild's self-esteem and create cherished memories,' he said. You can also do this by attending recitals, games, shows and other events to show your support whenever possible. If you want a better relationship with your grandkids, don't forget to keep working on the relationship you have with your own kid (i.e. their parent). 'When grandparents and parents get along, family gatherings can occur more frequently, offering more opportunities for grandparents and grandchildren to bond,' Epstein said. 'Building a relationship with the parents also builds stronger multi-generational bonds that help families weather rough patches more effectively.' Your Mom May Feel Closer To Her Grandkids Than To You. Here's Why: Study Forget 'Grandma' And 'Grandpa' — These Are The Most Popular Names Kids Call Grandparents It's Not Just You: Making Friends After 60 Is Really Hard
Health Line
28-05-2025
- Business
- Health Line
Medicare Coverage for Parkinson's Disease
Medicare covers medications, therapies, and other services for treating Parkinson's disease and its symptoms. However, even with Medicare, you can expect some out-of-pocket costs. Parkinson's disease can come with a wide range of motor and nonmotor symptoms. The symptoms of this condition can be different for different people. Since it's a progressive disease, symptoms can change over time. Medicare covers a range of different treatments, medications, and services that you may need to manage Parkinson's disease throughout your life. Part C coverage and costs Part C, or Medicare Advantage, bundles hospital and medical insurance with prescription drug coverage (Part D). Costs vary depending on the plan and provider you choose. Each plan has a different premium, deductible, copayment, and coinsurance amount. Staying within your plan's 'network' of healthcare professionals, pharmacies, and other providers ensures you receive the maximum coverage at the lowest out-of-pocket cost. Once you pay your plan's out-of-pocket maximum, your plan will cover 100% of all Medicare-approved costs. Specifics vary by plan, but in 2025, the maximum out-of-pocket cost for covered services under a Part C plan is $9,350. Part D coverage and costs Part D covers prescription medications. The amount of coverage each plan provides depends on its formulary and tier system. A formulary is a list of medications the plan covers. Those medications are then divided into groups or tiers, typically based on cost. Ask your doctors what medications you'll need, then talk with your plan provider about your coverage to get an estimate of your copay or coinsurance costs. The information on this website may assist you in making personal decisions about insurance, but it is not intended to provide advice regarding the purchase or use of any insurance or insurance products. Healthline Media does not transact the business of insurance in any manner and is not licensed as an insurance company or producer in any U.S. jurisdiction. Healthline Media does not recommend or endorse any third parties that may transact the business of insurance.
The Independent
15-05-2025
- Health
- The Independent
How to tell if your workplace is toxic, and what to do about it
Toxic workplaces are characterised by persistent, pervasive negative behaviours, not just occasional disagreements, experts say. Signs of a toxic workplace include lack of trust, fear of speaking up, screaming, and passive-aggressive behaviours like sarcasm and exclusion. Experts recommend talking to trusted individuals or therapists can help process experiences and develop coping strategies. Documenting negative interactions can be helpful if HR becomes involved or to avoid gaslighting. If leaving isn't feasible, experts advise exploring options like limiting interaction, changing roles, or setting deadlines for improvement. Ultimately, finding a new job may be the best solution in extreme cases.
Yahoo
11-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
There Are 4 Types Of Introverts. Which One Are You?
Ah, yes, that moment when you finally get home and can just relax. Changing into PJs and doing whatever you want to do — by yourself — hits different, doesn't it? If you're a homebody or enjoy quiet, personal time, you're probably an introvert. In other words, you 'recharge' by spending time alone (or in small groups with close loved ones) and prefer those settings. Even more interesting — perhaps especially for fellow personality test lovers — there are four types of introverts: social introverts, thinking introverts, anxious introverts and restrained introverts. Ahead, therapists dive deeper into what each type looks like and their suggestions for embracing it: Rhea Freeman, a business coach, mentor and author of 'You've Got This,' does a lot of public speaking and has even been on the radio and TV. And yes: She's also an introvert. 'When we think 'introvert,' we often think of someone who's shy in social situations, but that's not me,' she said. For social introverts, the 'introvert' part is more about preferring smaller groups and people you know. 'I'm OK with large-ish groups but I find it a lot, particularly if I don't know the people as I'm never quite sure what to do,' she said. 'If it's with people I know, I'm fine, or if I have a job to do, I'm fine, but socially is a bit different.' Avoiding big events is her instinct, she continued, but she's been trying to push herself to embrace those opportunities more. According to therapists, signs of social introversion include: Preferring small gatherings with close friends or one-on-one conversations Enjoying solitary activities and not feeling lonely when you're hanging out by yourself Feeling drained after extended social interactions, or needing time to recharge after, even when you had fun Preferring to communicate via text or online Ultimately, lean into your social introversion. 'I recommend social introverts engage in small gatherings where they can connect with a few people at a time, and schedule downtime afterward to recharge,' said Monica Cwynar, a licensed clinical social worker with Thriveworks in Pittsburgh who specializes in relationships, trauma and coping skills. Amelia Kelley, a trauma-informed therapist, author, podcaster and researcher, said that setting clear expectations with loved ones can be helpful, keeping them in the loop and helping them understand. Having that conversation and giving yourself the grace to embrace your needs can help you avoid resenting your interactions and loved ones, she explained. That conversation may feel uncomfortable, but that doesn't mean you did anything 'wrong.' 'Don't let societal pressure make you feel like solitude is a flaw — it's a strength,' said Caitlin Slavens, a psychologist and clinical director of Couples to Cradles. In short, knowing and honoring your boundaries is key. 'It's OK to say 'no' to events that feel draining,' said Kristin Anderson, founder of Madison Square Psychotherapy and a licensed psychotherapist who supports introverted clients. 'Plan downtime after socializing, and lean into the relationships that nourish you.' Fiona Fletcher Reid, a 38-year-old Scot and podcast host of 'Sunflowers and Stars,' is a thinking introvert. She said she thrives when she's left to her thoughts. Daydreaming and thinking keep her from feeling overwhelmed or depressed. 'I feel most 'me' when I'm reading nonfiction, learning about topics I'm interested in, like mental health or spirituality,' she said. So, she deliberately finds pockets of time for deep thinking and getting creative with tarot cards. 'It's a simple daily habit to pull a tarot card, but it triggers a moment of introspection that can have a really positive impact on the rest of my day,' she said. Signs of thinking introversion, according to therapists, include: Frequently daydreaming or fantasizing Engaging in deep reflection Being highly introspective and self-aware Enjoying solitary activities that are creative or engage the mind, like writing, painting or puzzles Finding yourself lost in thought during conversations Feeling overwhelmed in fast-paced discussions A happy medium is key. Cwynar recommended thinking introverts 'find a balance by allowing for social interaction that does not compromise their need for solitude.' That might look like going on a trip with a couple of friends and scheduling independent time. Or, Kelley suggested scheduling creative and reflective activities, practicing mindfulness and sharing your insights with others. Slavens emphasized that those habits have value. Introspection can fuel creative and personal growth, she said, as well as help you organize your thoughts. She urged people to not apologize for needing 'mental space.' Anderson agreed. 'Make space for your imagination and realize it's a gift,' she said. 'Don't be afraid to share your ideas with others — they often will appreciate them more than you realize.' Rachel MacPherson, a 39-year-old Canadian personal trainer and writer, said she leaves social situations feeling drained, beating herself up and analyzing everything she said. As a result, she struggles to go to social events in the first place. 'What that looks like is spending the hours leading up to the event convincing myself I should go, worrying about the interactions and feeling as though I could find a reason to back out,' she explained. She's found a way to handle it, though. 'I've learned to manage this by telling myself that once I'm there, I'll have a ton of fun, which is pretty much always the case.' According to therapists, signs of anxious introversion include: Feeling nervous or self-conscious before or during social events Avoiding or dreading social interactions (especially unfamiliar ones) due to a fear of embarrassment or judgment Overanalyzing past social encounters, or replaying social interactions in your head Feeling more comfortable in familiar environments or with trusted people Hesitating to approach new people Cwynar encouraged gradually exposing yourself to social situations. Maybe you go to an event but don't stay for long, bring a friend with you or find a smaller hangout. 'Finding safe spaces or supportive individuals can empower them to engage socially at their own pace,' she said. Seeking support from a therapist is helpful, too. Kelley said therapists can help address anxious thoughts and feelings, practice talking to others, and share self-compassion skills to help you challenge negative self-talk. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may be particularly useful for the latter, according to Slavens and Anderson. It helps you reframe your thoughts, leading to more positive emotions and helpful behaviors. On that note, Slavens shared one way to reframe a thought: 'Your brain is just trying to protect you, even if it overdoes it sometimes.' Anderson shared another helpful reminder: 'It's OK to feel nervous, but remind yourself that you're not being judged as harshly as you might think.' Erin Mantz, vice president of marketing at Zeno Group and the founder of Gen X Girls Grow Up, is a restrained introvert (also known as an inhibited introvert). 'The first word that comes to mind is exhausting,' she said. 'The reality is that restrained introverts have to force themselves to walk in unnatural territories every day — at work and even play … If there is a sudden or unexpected change in a plan to go out socially, I need time to mentally prepare.' In those settings, she processes her thoughts more than she expresses them verbally; she'll only share her thoughts if someone directly asks for them. Signs of restrained introversion, according to therapists, include: Preferring to observe groups, especially before participating in them Needing time to feel comfortable in a new group, or taking time to 'warm up' to people Disliking the feeling of being 'put on the spot' Being reserved in group settings Taking time to make decisions and respond to questions Acting or responding carefully and methodically, preferring to think before you act Valuing deliberate routines and predictability Feeling markedly more relaxed after social interactions end Preferring planned events over last-minute invitations If that sounds familiar, Anderson encouraged you to take situations at your own pace, embracing the beauty of thoughtful living. 'Your pace is just as valid as anyone else's,' Slavens agreed. 'Surround yourself with people who appreciate your thoughtfulness and don't push you into quick decisions.' Then, when you're ready, Cwynar encouraged gently challenging yourself to engage more. She suggested recognizing the value of your thoughtful contributions first to help build that confidence. At the same time, listen to your gut. 'Being cautious is also a form of being intentional, so when used the right way, it can be a strength,' Kelley added. She encouraged communicating your needs and engaging in self-confidence-boosting activities. The idea of communicating your needs may be scary — and that doesn't mean it won't go well. To help you feel more comfortable, Cwynar suggested having the conversation in a setting that makes you feel most at ease, like writing it down and handing it to the person or having the discussion one person at a time. If you feel self-conscious about being an introvert, you're not the only one. At the same time, try to not forget or belittle the value you offer. Being an introvert, an extrovert, an ambivert — none is better than the other. All these personality traits have strengths and beautiful characteristics. And embracing that can help you contribute more meaningfully, according to Kelley. More specifically, therapists agree that introverts' deep strengths include deep thinking, listening skills, thoughtful reflection, empathy, creativity, the ability to form meaningful connections and even leadership. Cwynar will be the first to tell you that the world needs that. 'You don't need to be the loudest in the room to make an impact,' Slavens added. Anderson agreed. 'In a society that sometimes feels like a race to be the loudest or the busiest, introverts remind of the power of stillness and depth.' There Are 3 Types Of Perfectionism. Which Category Are You? I'm An Introvert Who Spent Years Trying To Make Friends. With 1 Change, I Suddenly Had Dozens. 19 Things Introverts Wish Their Bosses Knew
