Next Step Blog
We’re committed to delivering outstanding mental healthcare. Period.
Here at Next Step, we’re extremely passionate about helping you live a better life! Mental health is important for every person at every stage of life.
That’s why we work hard to create courses, videos, books, and other resources to encourage you to take the Next Step toward positive mental health. But if you’re struggling or going through a crisis, asking for professional help is a great idea – and you can do it now! In the meantime, if you read through our blog, you might be pleasantly surprised by the guidance, tips, and strategies from our providers. After all, one step in the right direction is a step in the right direction.
10 Signs of Hypomania
Individuals with bipolar 1 disorder may experience mania, while individuals diagnosed with bipolar 2 disorder are more likely to experience hypomania. Hypomania is typically more mild than mania and doesn’t last as long as manic episodes.
Both hypomania and mania are periods of excited behavior that can have a significant impact on your daily life. If you suspect you have hypomania or...
Learn More
2 Likes
Learn about Seasonal Affective Disorder
Fall is just around the corner. While the thought of pumpkins and cozy sweaters might be exciting to some people, the thought of less sunshine and colder weather is less-than-thrilling for others.
For some people, saying goodbye to summer can trigger seasonal affective disorder (SAD), a type of depression that’s linked to changes in the seasons.
But how do you know if you just happen to...
Learn More
Social Anxiety in a Post-Pandemic World
The pandemic has been a bit of a double-edged sword for persons who struggle with social anxiety. The reduced need to engage in face-to-face interactions with others has been a welcome break for those who find these engagements stressful and anxiety-provoking. The comfort of staying at home has been a welcome respite.
However, as the world opens back up many companies are now requiring...
Learn More
Navigating Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in a Post-Pandemic World
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) affects the brain and behavior and is actually very common. Persons with OCD can have obsessions or compulsions.
Learn More
How Does Sunlight Improve Your Mental Health?
Do you ever notice how sometimes it just feels good to bask in the sun? Imagine laying on the beach and getting lost in a good book, or simply sitting on your porch soaking up the sun rays. What is it about sunlight that makes you feel lighter? (Pun intended.) The answer is that the sunlight has an impact on your mental health, and in this blog, we’re going to uncover that link....
Learn More
8 Risk Factors of Depression
Risk factors for diseases are the things that increase the likelihood that you’ll get the disease or condition. Risk factors don’t guarantee you’ll develop the condition, but they do raise your risk. For example, inactivity is a risk factor for heart disease. Leading a sedentary lifestyle doesn’t mean you’ll 100% develop heart disease, but it does increase your...
Learn More
Teen Depression: Signs to Look For & How to Help
Teenage depression isn’t just “a mood swing” or sadness. Depression is a serious mental health condition that can affect teenagers and adults alike. Teen depression can impact your teenager’s mental wellness, physical health, academic performance, and relationships with friends and family.
Here at Next Step 2 Mental Health, our compassionate providers are experienced...
Learn More
32 Ways to Help Someone with Depression (When They Don’t Want to Talk about It)
Depression can be debilitating, and if it’s your child or spouse or friend battling depression, you might wonder how you can help them. Even if your loved one doesn’t want to talk about it (which can be common), there are still ways you can be present and supportive.
Reminder: If you or a loved one are battling depression—or even suspect you might be— our compassionate team here...
Learn More
Fear and Phobia: What’s the Difference?
A phobia is an aberrant or extreme fear of something. In some cases, the fear is so intense that it interrupts normal activities.
Learn More
1 Like
Bipolar Disorder Q&A
Bipolar disorder – formerly called manic depression – is a mental health disorder characterized by shifts in mood, energy levels, and concentration. These shifts can cause people with bipolar disorder to experience mood episodes. During mood episodes, a person might experience sudden changes in sleep and activity levels. Bipolar disorder can seriously affect a person’s ability to manage...
Learn More