The Grouport Journal

Explore all things mental health. Check out some of our latest journals below.

How to Achieve a Sense of Belonging

Personal Growth

How to Achieve a Sense of Belonging

The core parts of who we are as individuals is crafted and molded by the experiences we had as a child, how our parents raised us, the environment in which we spent most of our time, and the friends we choose to surround ourselves with. In his book, The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom, Don Miguel Ruiz writes, “We are so well trained that we are our own domesticator. We are an autodomesticated animal.” He makes an excellent point. We are all predisposed and programmed to be

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Have Eating Disorder, Will Travel

Personal Growth

Have Eating Disorder, Will Travel

I just got home from Vegas. My husband and I trekked through the chilly Pittsburgh airport, triumphantly remembered where we parked our car, hit the road for home, and now I’m nestled comfortably on the couch in between two snoring dogs sans bra. I’ve only just posted “I’m happy to be in you, Pgh” on Facebook and people have messaged me about where we’re going next. Everybody loves to travel, right?‍‍Except me. Well, that is until recently. For most of my life I’ve harbored the very unpopular op

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Can Journaling Help My Mental Health?

Personal Growth

Can Journaling Help My Mental Health?

You might hear the words “personal journal” and immediately conjure an image of an angsty teen sitting in their room, scribbling away in a diary, lamenting about an unrequited crush or a failed test. However, if you're like me and you’ve carried on with the practice of journaling into adulthood, you know that sitting down to write in your journal can provide a much needed moment of clarity. Journaling allows me to organize my thoughts in the good times and can help me release some anxiety in the

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Understanding the ISTP Personality: The Virtuoso in Action

Personal Growth

Understanding the ISTP Personality: The Virtuoso in Action

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Is It Okay to Set Boundaries with Yourself?

Personal Growth

Is It Okay to Set Boundaries with Yourself?

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The Impact of Passivity on Choices: A Path to Stagnation or Clarity?

Personal Growth

The Impact of Passivity on Choices: A Path to Stagnation or Clarity?

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Embracing the Freedom of "I Don't Care Anymore"

Personal Growth

Embracing the Freedom of "I Don't Care Anymore"

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Understanding Central Route Persuasion: A Deep Dive into Effective Communication

Personal Growth

Understanding Central Route Persuasion: A Deep Dive into Effective Communication

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Understanding Common Personality Traits: What Are the Characteristics That Define Us?

Personal Growth

Understanding Common Personality Traits: What Are the Characteristics That Define Us?

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Confidently Assert: The Power of Assertiveness in Personal and Professional Life

Personal Growth

Confidently Assert: The Power of Assertiveness in Personal and Professional Life

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Understanding Emotions: The Power of an Emotions Chart

Personal Growth

Understanding Emotions: The Power of an Emotions Chart

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Love Yourself: The Key to True Happiness

Personal Growth

Love Yourself: The Key to True Happiness

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Developing Social Skills in Adults

Personal Growth

Developing Social Skills in Adults

While often associated with childhood development, social skills remain integral to adult life. They play a significant role in personal relationships, professional success, and overall well-being. However, developing these skills later in life can seem daunting to many. This article provides insights into how adults can effectively and confidently enhance their social skills.

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Empowering Connections: A Guide to Improving Social Skills

Personal Growth

Empowering Connections: A Guide to Improving Social Skills

Strong social skills are more than just a necessity in a world deeply rooted in human interactions—they're an asset. Effective communication and social abilities are fundamental to personal relationships, professional collaborations, or networking opportunities. This article delves into ways to enhance social skills, offering tips that can help create more meaningful, successful connections.

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In the Grip of Desolation: America's Most Depressed States

Depression

In the Grip of Desolation: America's Most Depressed States

Depression is a common yet serious mental health disorder that afflicts people all over the world, and the United States is no exception. Rates of depression vary widely across the fifty states due to several factors, including socioeconomic conditions, access to healthcare, and lifestyle differences. This article will explore the states in the U.S. where depression rates are reported to be the highest.

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Global Mood: A Look at the Most Depressed Countries

Depression

Global Mood: A Look at the Most Depressed Countries

Depression is a global health concern that affects people regardless of geographical boundaries. However, certain countries report higher rates of depression than others. This article explores some of the most depressed countries globally and delves into possible contributing factors.

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The Day-to-Day Journey: Living with Depression

Depression

The Day-to-Day Journey: Living with Depression

Living with depression can feel like navigating through a constant fog. It often distorts the lens through which we perceive ourselves and the world around us. But remember, depression is a medical condition, not a personal flaw or a sign of weakness. This article explores what it's like to live with depression and suggests strategies that might help manage its symptoms.

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Supporting Your Spouse Through Depression: An Empathetic Approach

Depression

Supporting Your Spouse Through Depression: An Empathetic Approach

Depression is a complex mental health condition that can challenge the dynamics of a relationship. When your spouse is struggling with depression, it can be difficult to know how to provide the right kind of support. However, understanding the nature of the disorder, demonstrating patience, and encouraging professional help can go a long way in offering the support they need.

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Dysthymia and Major Depression: A Comparative Look at Two Mood Disorders

Depression

Dysthymia and Major Depression: A Comparative Look at Two Mood Disorders

Depression is a common term used to describe a range of mood disorders, but it's crucial to note that not all depressive disorders are alike. Two common types are Dysthymia, also known as Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD), and Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). While both are characterized by prolonged periods of low mood, they differ in severity, duration, and the specific symptoms experienced. This article provides an in-depth exploration of Dysthymia and Major Depression, detailing their differences and similarities.

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Depressive Psychosis: A Deep Dive Into a Complex Condition

Depression

Depressive Psychosis: A Deep Dive Into a Complex Condition

Depressive psychosis, also known as psychotic depression, is a severe form of depression that involves symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations or delusions. This condition, which affects roughly 1 in 4 people with clinical depression, can be particularly debilitating and requires specific treatments. This article explores the unique nature of depressive psychosis, the symptoms, and the available treatment strategies.

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Understanding the Role of Depression Helplines

Depression

Understanding the Role of Depression Helplines

In the battle against depression, the voice at the end of the line could make all the difference. Depression helplines, available around the clock, are designed to provide instant emotional support, professional advice, and a compassionate ear to those in need. This article aims to shed light on the vital role these helplines play and how they operate to help individuals navigate through their darkest hours.

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Understanding Depression During Menstruation

Depression

Understanding Depression During Menstruation

Depression is a common mood disorder affecting millions of people globally. Women, in particular, may experience a unique form of depression linked to their menstrual cycle. This article explores depression during menstruation, shedding light on its causes, symptoms, and possible treatment methods.

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Understanding Depression: A Deep Dive into the Life of a Depressed Person

Depression

Understanding Depression: A Deep Dive into the Life of a Depressed Person

Depression is more than just a bad day or a temporary bout of sadness. It's a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Life for a person struggling with depression can be extremely challenging, filled with pervasive feelings of sadness, apathy, and, in some cases, a significant impairment in daily functioning. This article aims to explore the reality of living with depression, to increase understanding and empathy, and to offer insights on how to support those affected.

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Identifying Chronic Depression: An In-depth Look at the Symptoms

Depression

Identifying Chronic Depression: An In-depth Look at the Symptoms

Chronic depression, also known as dysthymia or persistent depressive disorder, is a long-term form of depression. It's characterized by a prolonged period of depressive symptoms that may not be as severe as major depression but can still cause significant distress and affect daily functioning. In this article, we explore the signs and symptoms of chronic depression, aiming to provide a clearer understanding of this often misunderstood condition.

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The Intersection of Brain Fog and Depression

Depression

The Intersection of Brain Fog and Depression

Brain fog and depression are two conditions that often intersect, leading to a state of mental confusion and emotional distress. This article delves into the phenomenon of brain fog as a symptom of depression, explaining what it is, its relation to depression, and potential coping strategies.

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Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression: The Differences

Depression

Baby Blues and Postpartum Depression: The Differences

The arrival of a new baby is a time of joy, but it's also a period of adjustment and hormonal changes, which can bring about mood swings and emotional sensitivity. For many women, feelings of sadness and anxiety that emerge shortly after childbirth can be quite confusing. It's important to differentiate between the "baby blues", a relatively common and transient emotional state, and postpartum depression, a more severe and persistent mental health disorder. This article aims to shed light on the differences between the two, aiding new mothers in identifying and seeking appropriate help if needed.

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Apathy and Depression: The Invisible Connection

Depression

Apathy and Depression: The Invisible Connection

Apathy and depression are two intertwined emotional states that often present together. The coexistence of these two psychological conditions can significantly influence an individual's mental health, hindering their ability to enjoy and engage in daily activities. This article delves into the correlation between apathy and depression, signs and symptoms, and therapeutic strategies for managing this dual condition.

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Therapist for Depression: A Guiding Light in the Dark

Depression

Therapist for Depression: A Guiding Light in the Dark

Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects millions worldwide. It can lead to severe emotional and physical complications if left untreated. However, with the right help and support, it can be managed effectively, allowing individuals to lead fulfilling lives. One of the most effective methods to combat depression is therapy with a trained mental health professional. This article will delve into the role of therapists in managing depression, different therapeutic approaches, and how to find the right therapist.

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Serotonin and Depression: An Intricate Connection

Depression

Serotonin and Depression: An Intricate Connection

Serotonin is a crucial neurotransmitter that plays a significant role in numerous functions in the body, including mood regulation, digestion, sleep, and more. It is often dubbed the "feel-good" neurotransmitter because of its impact on feelings of well-being and happiness. In the context of mental health, serotonin's role is particularly important, with many researchers connecting serotonin levels to depression.

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An In-Depth Look at the Risk Factors for Depression

Depression

An In-Depth Look at the Risk Factors for Depression

Depression is a pervasive mental health disorder that affects millions of people globally. It's characterized by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. However, the reasons behind why some individuals are more susceptible to depression than others remain less clear. Several factors may increase the likelihood of developing depression, including biological, psychological, and environmental elements. This article delves into the different risk factors associated with depression.

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Navigating the Storm: An Insight into Relationship Depression

Depression

Navigating the Storm: An Insight into Relationship Depression

Relationship depression, a specific type of depression triggered by problems in a romantic relationship, often goes unnoticed or misunderstood. It can stem from issues such as lack of connection, feeling trapped, or frequent conflicts. This article aims to shed light on relationship depression, its causes, symptoms, and effective strategies to manage it.

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Breaking Through the Darkness: A Deeper Look into Postnatal Depression

Depression

Breaking Through the Darkness: A Deeper Look into Postnatal Depression

Postnatal depression is a significant public health issue affecting many women globally during the months following childbirth. This condition not only impacts the mother's health and well-being but can also have a profound effect on the baby and the entire family. This article delves into the world of postnatal depression, highlighting its symptoms, causes, and potential treatment strategies.

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Shining Light on the Shadows: Unpacking Peripartum Depression

Depression

Shining Light on the Shadows: Unpacking Peripartum Depression

Peripartum depression is a type of mood disorder that affects women during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Often overlooked and misunderstood, this condition can have profound impacts on the well-being of both mother and child. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of peripartum depression, its causes, symptoms, and possible treatments.

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Exploring the Depths: Understanding the Pathophysiology of Depression

Depression

Exploring the Depths: Understanding the Pathophysiology of Depression

Depression, clinically known as major depressive disorder, is one of the most prevalent mental health disorders worldwide. It affects millions of individuals and can lead to considerable disability and distress. Understanding the pathophysiology of depression—the biological mechanisms that underlie this disorder—is crucial for developing effective treatments. This article takes a deep dive into the complex interplay of biological factors that contribute to depression.

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