By Jasmine Gonzalez, M.S., NCC, LPC-Intern

“It is in the uncomfortable places where we grow.” I can still hear the voice of my yoga instructor and one of my dearest friends echoing throughout the room one evening during class. I remember thinking to myself:  In such a cerebral world, where our thoughts wander aimlessly back and forth from the sorrows of the past to the worries of the future, what in the WORLD could be more uncomfortable than remaining in the present moment?

How can mindfulness help with anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are one of the most common disorders diagnosed in the United States roughly affecting 40 million adults in the U.S. Anxiety results from natural responses, but like all things, it can become debilitating in excess.

So, what is mindfulness and how can it help? In short, mindfulness is the act of being fully engaged in the present moment. Leading expert in the field Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn is credited

If you’re concerned that you or someone you know has an addiction, it can be difficult to know for sure.  There is an assessment that can be helpful to make this determination.  It’s relevant to both substance and behavioral addictions. Just apply the three C’s:

Craving – the person has an intense, abnormal need to use their substance of choice or conduct the unhealthy behavior.  It’s as if the person cannot do without it.

Compulsion – the person has an irresistible, repetitive urge to use or behave, especially against one’s wishes.  The person is not in control and cannot resist.

Continued use despite the negative consequences –  addiction has many serious negative consequences. It can cause loss of job, broken relationships, financial distress, and legal problems.  The person continues to use or behave despite these negative consequences.

If you suspect an addiction is present, it’s critical that help is received as soon as possible.  Contact an addiction specialist