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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The Power of Affirmations: A Guide for 2023

Mental Health

The Power of Affirmations: A Guide for 2023

As we embrace 2023, many seek tools and techniques to harness positivity and inspire personal growth. One such tool is the practice of affirmations. Affirmations are positive statements that can help you challenge and overcome self-sabotaging and negative thoughts. They can help motivate us, keep our minds focused on our goals, and impact our subconscious mind to influence our behavior, habits, and actions.

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Navigating Complex PTSD Triggers in Relationships

Relationship Issues

Navigating Complex PTSD Triggers in Relationships

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a mental health condition often experienced by individuals who have endured long-term trauma. Within intimate relationships, individuals with C-PTSD can encounter unique challenges, as certain dynamics or interactions can inadvertently act as triggers. This article explores these triggers and offers guidance on managing them effectively.

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Dynamics of Being Needed vs. Being Wanted: A Deep Dive into Relationships

Relationship Issues

Dynamics of Being Needed vs. Being Wanted: A Deep Dive into Relationships

In personal or professional relationships, the feelings of being needed and wanted often surface. These feelings, albeit similar, bear significantly different implications for the individuals involved and the relationship as a whole. This article will explore the dynamics of being needed versus being wanted, providing insights into their impact on relationships.

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Narcissism and Guilt: An Intricate Psychological Landscape

Mental Health

Narcissism and Guilt: An Intricate Psychological Landscape

The concept of narcissism often raises questions about the emotional spectrum of those who exhibit this personality trait. One question often asked is whether narcissists feel guilt, a complex emotion indicating remorse or self-reproach. This article aims to explore the relationship between narcissism and guilt, offering insights into the psychological workings of narcissists.

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Passive Aggressiveness Unmasked: Common Examples in Relationships

Relationship Issues

Passive Aggressiveness Unmasked: Common Examples in Relationships

Navigating the dynamics of relationships can often be complex, and one particularly challenging aspect is dealing with passive-aggressive behavior. This behavior manifests subtly, making it hard to recognize or address. By gaining a deeper understanding of this behavioral pattern, we can identify its presence and take steps to manage it effectively.

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A Look at Goldfield Syndrome

Mental Health

A Look at Goldfield Syndrome

The field of psychology has identified and explored numerous cognitive disorders, each with its unique characteristics and impacts on an individual's life. Although lesser-known and not scientifically recognized, Goldfield Syndrome is often referred to in popular culture, creating intrigue and raising questions about its origins, nature, and effects.

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Understanding the Power of Bromance: A Dive into its Benefits

Relationship Issues

Understanding the Power of Bromance: A Dive into its Benefits

"Bromance" is a colloquial term that describes a close, emotionally intense, non-sexual bond between two men. Such relationships have been recognized for their potential to enhance emotional well-being and provide unique support structures. This article will delve into the many benefits that a bromance can offer.

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Decoding Emotional Inhibition: 6 Crucial Signs

DBT

Decoding Emotional Inhibition: 6 Crucial Signs

Emotional inhibition, or the suppression of feelings, can be an individual's defense mechanism to avoid discomfort or pain. However, consistent suppression can lead to unhealthy consequences. Understanding the signs of emotional inhibition is the first step to addressing it and fostering healthier emotional expression.

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Is Your Life Spiraling Out of Control? Signs, Causes, and Remedies

Mental Health

Is Your Life Spiraling Out of Control? Signs, Causes, and Remedies

At times, life is spiraling out of control. Such periods can be overwhelmingly challenging, marked by confusion, loss of direction, and emotional distress. Understanding the signs, causes, and potential solutions can equip individuals to regain their footing and restore balance.

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Addiction to Narcissism: A Closer Look

Mental Health

Addiction to Narcissism: A Closer Look

The concept of narcissism has been a focal point in psychology for decades, with its potential for harm extending to both the narcissist and the people around them. In particular, the addictive aspect of narcissism presents a unique perspective on this phenomenon, explaining the cyclic, seemingly unbreakable connections formed with narcissistic individuals.

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6 Engaging Strategies to Boost Brain Health

Mental Health

6 Engaging Strategies to Boost Brain Health

The human brain is a powerful organ responsible for every thought, decision, and action we make. Engaging and stimulating our brain can enhance cognitive function, foster creativity, and contribute to overall mental wellness. The following article outlines six effective ways to engage your brain and improve cognitive vitality.

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Trauma Reenactment in Intimate Relationships

Relationship Issues

Trauma Reenactment in Intimate Relationships

Trauma reenactment is a complex psychological phenomenon that is prevalent yet often misunderstood in intimate relationships. Unresolved trauma can lead individuals to unconsciously recreate scenarios reminiscent of their past traumatic experiences in their current relationships. Understanding this phenomenon and the dynamics involved can be crucial in breaking these repetitive cycles and promoting healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

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Understanding Collateral Damage in Relationships: Causes, Consequences, and Coping

Relationship Issues

Understanding Collateral Damage in Relationships: Causes, Consequences, and Coping

Collateral damage, a term originally coined in military contexts, has been applied in personal relationships. It represents the unintended negative consequences that affect individuals indirectly involved in an action or event. In the context of relationships, collateral damage could refer to the impact of a relationship's problems on the people around the couple, such as children, family, or friends. It's a complex and emotional issue that deserves attention and understanding.

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Becoming a Cycle Breaker: Transformation Through Self-Awareness

Mental Health

Becoming a Cycle Breaker: Transformation Through Self-Awareness

A cycle breaker is a term often used in psychology and self-improvement contexts. It refers to someone who identifies and changes negative patterns, behaviors, or traditions within their family or relationships. This change can break the cycle for future generations, creating a new, healthier norm. Let's delve into the world of cycle breakers to understand their role, the process of becoming one, and the impact they can have on society.

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The Eternal Debate in Psychology: Nature vs. Nurture

Personal Growth

The Eternal Debate in Psychology: Nature vs. Nurture

When shaping our behavior and personality, what plays a more significant role, our genes (nature) or our environment (nurture)? This question has been at the heart of psychology for many decades, triggering an ongoing debate known as the "nature versus nurture" debate. This article delves into the core of this age-old debate, exploring both sides of the argument and the modern perspective on this dichotomy.

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An In-Depth Look into Generalized Anxiety Disorder

Anxiety

An In-Depth Look into Generalized Anxiety Disorder

While everyone occasionally feels anxious, persistent, excessive anxiety could be a sign of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). It affects millions worldwide; GAD is characterized by chronic anxiety, exaggerated worry, and tension, even when there seems to be little to provoke it. This article comprehensively explains this disorder, its symptoms, causes, and available treatments.

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Navigating the Path to Tranquility: Strategies to Stop Anxiety

Anxiety

Navigating the Path to Tranquility: Strategies to Stop Anxiety

Anxiety is a common experience that everyone encounters at different points in life. However, when anxiety becomes a frequent companion, it can severely impact an individual's quality of life. It's important to understand that anxiety cannot be entirely eradicated but can be managed effectively. This article explores strategies that help reduce anxiety and restore tranquility.

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Immediate Relief from Anxiety: Strategies and Techniques

Anxiety

Immediate Relief from Anxiety: Strategies and Techniques

Anxiety can be a debilitating experience, often striking without warning and leaving individuals feeling overwhelmed and out of control. While seeking professional help for chronic anxiety is crucial, there are also effective strategies to reduce anxiety immediately. This article will discuss various techniques to help manage anxiety at the moment.

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Understanding the Experience of Anxiety: What Does it Feel Like?

Anxiety

Understanding the Experience of Anxiety: What Does it Feel Like?

Anxiety is a common human experience, yet it is also highly individual and can vary significantly from person to person. While some may associate anxiety with a vague sense of unease or worry, it can manifest as a diverse range of physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms. This article delves into what anxiety can feel like and how it can affect individuals daily.

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The Causes of Anxiety: An In-Depth Look

Anxiety

The Causes of Anxiety: An In-Depth Look

Anxiety is a prevalent condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. It is characterized by feelings of worry, fear, and apprehension that can interfere with one's daily activities. While anxiety is a normal part of life, it becomes a disorder when these feelings are persistent, excessive, or difficult to control. This article provides a comprehensive understanding of the various factors that contribute to the development of anxiety.

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