Author name: Therapy Near Me Editorial Team

Written by: Therapy Near Me Editorial Team Clinically reviewed by: qualified members of the Therapy Near Me clinical team Last updated: 15/09/2025 This article is intended as general information only and does not replace personalised medical or mental health advice. Learn more about our Editorial Policy. The act of giving and receiving has been a subject of psychological research, particularly in understanding its impact on mental health and well-being. While receiving gifts or aid can boost feelings of support and well-being, giving can also have profound effects on the giver’s mental health. This article explores scientific findings on whether it’s better to give or receive for mental health. 1. The Benefits of Giving: Giving, whether in the form of charity, help, or gifts, is associated with increased mental health benefits. A study published in the Journal of Social Psychology found that people who commit acts of kindness have significantly lower levels of stress and improved mood compared to those who don’t (Buchanan & Bardi, 2010). Another research in the American Journal of Public Health observed that individuals who volunteer have a lower mortality rate, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer (Post, 2005). 2. The Psychology Behind Giving: Giving activates regions in the brain associated with pleasure, social connection, and trust, creating a “warm glow” effect. Neurochemicals like endorphins and oxytocin, which are related to happiness and bonding, are released during acts of giving, indicating a biological basis for the joy derived from giving (Moll et al., 2006). 3. Receiving and Mental Health: Receiving help, support, or gifts can also positively affect mental health by increasing feelings of social support and reducing stress and anxiety. It can reinforce social bonds and contribute to a positive self-image. However, the context and perception of receiving are crucial; if individuals feel too dependent or perceive inequality in the exchange, it can negatively impact mental health (Liang et al., 2001). 4. Balancing Giving and Receiving: The relationship between giving and receiving is most beneficial when it’s balanced. Reciprocal altruism, where there is a mutual exchange of benefits, has been shown to foster community cooperation and individual well-being (Trivers, 1971). Healthy relationships often involve a balance of giving and receiving, ensuring that both parties feel valued and supported. Conclusion: Both giving and receiving have their place in promoting mental health and well-being. While giving often leads to broader and more profound mental health benefits due to its impact on social connectivity, self-esteem, and activation of positive brain pathways, receiving is also important for feeling supported and valued. The key is finding a balance that fosters reciprocal support and nurtures mental health in a community context. References: Buchanan, K.E., & Bardi, A. (2010). Acts of kindness and acts of novelty affect life satisfaction. The Journal of Social Psychology. Post, S.G. (2005). Altruism, Happiness, and Health: It’s Good to Be Good. International Journal of Behavioral Medicine. Moll, J., et al. (2006). Human fronto–mesolimbic networks guide decisions about charitable donation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Liang, J., et al. (2001). The effects of providing and receiving emotional support on depressive symptoms. Journal of Health and Social Behavior. Trivers, R.L. (1971). The evolution of reciprocal altruism. The Quarterly Review of Biology. How to get in touch If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.

Written by: Therapy Near Me Editorial Team Clinically reviewed by: qualified members of the Therapy Near Me clinical team Last updated: 11/11/2025 This article is intended as general information only and does not replace personalised medical or mental health advice. Learn more about our Editorial Policy. Food cravings are an everyday experience for many, yet what lies beneath these urges is a complex interplay of psychological factors. Understanding the psychological roots behind why we crave certain foods can provide insights into our emotions, behaviors, and even strategies for healthier living. 1. Emotional Connections to Food: One of the primary psychological aspects influencing food cravings is the emotional connection we develop with certain foods. Comfort foods, typically high in sugar, fat, or both, often tie back to positive or comforting experiences. A study in the journal Eating Behaviors found that emotional eaters are more likely to experience food cravings and indulge in comfort eating (Van Strien, T., 2018). 2. Stress and Food Cravings: Stress significantly impacts food preferences and cravings. Cortisol, the stress hormone, has been linked to increased appetite and specific cravings, especially for sweet or fatty foods. Research published in the journal Physiology & Behavior notes that stress-related eating can lead to a preference for energy-dense foods, contributing to unhealthy eating patterns (Dallman, M.F., et al., 2003). 3. Sensory and Environmental Triggers: The sight, smell, or thought of food can trigger cravings. The brain associates sensory experiences with the pleasure of eating, particularly potent in environments where food is a focal point, such as parties or during holidays. A study in Appetite reported that visual cues significantly influence food cravings and consumption (Coelho, J.S., et al., 2013). 4. Hormonal Influences: Hormonal changes, particularly in women, play a crucial role in cravings. Fluctuations in hormones like estrogen and progesterone can affect appetite and cravings throughout the menstrual cycle. The Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics published findings indicating a peak in cravings for carbohydrates and fats during specific phases of the menstrual cycle (Dye, L., et al., 1995). 5. The Role of Memory and Learning: Past experiences and learned behaviors can dictate our food cravings. When we eat something enjoyable, the brain registers the pleasure, creating a memory loop that reignites the craving when a cue is encountered. A review in Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences highlights how memory and learning mechanisms are central to craving and food seeking behaviors (Boswell, R.G., & Kober, H., 2016). Conclusion: Food cravings are more than just a desire for taste; they are a complex psychological phenomenon influenced by emotional states, stress, environmental and sensory cues, hormonal fluctuations, and learned behaviors. Understanding these factors can help individuals develop more mindful eating habits and make healthier choices that align with their overall well-being. References: Van Strien, T. (2018). Causes of Emotional Eating and Matched Treatment of Obesity. Eating Behaviors. Dallman, M.F., et al. (2003). Chronic stress and obesity: A new view of “comfort food. Physiology & Behavior. Coelho, J.S., et al. (2013). Food Cravings and Aversion during Pregnancy: A Current Perspective. Appetite. Dye, L., et al. (1995). Menstrual cycle and appetite control: implications for weight regulation. Human Reproduction. Boswell, R.G., & Kober, H. (2016). Food cue reactivity and craving predict eating and weight gain: a meta-analytic review. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences. How to get in touch If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.

Written by: Therapy Near Me Editorial Team Clinically reviewed by: qualified members of the Therapy Near Me clinical team Last updated: 09/08/2025 This article is intended as general information only and does not replace personalised medical or mental health advice. Learn more about our Editorial Policy. Success is often attributed to intelligence, talent, and hard work. However, psychological research has uncovered a less obvious, yet critical trait common among successful individuals: grit. This article explores the concept of grit, its role in achieving success, and whether it is something you might possess. 1. Understanding Grit: Psychologist Angela Duckworth defines grit as passion and perseverance for long-term goals, a combination of determination and direction over time. It’s the ability to maintain effort and interest in projects that take months or even years to complete. Duckworth’s research, published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, suggests that grit is a significant predictor of success, often more so than talent or IQ (Duckworth, A.L., et al., 2007). 2. Grit and Academic Achievement: Grit has been linked to academic achievement. In a study published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, Duckworth found that students with higher levels of grit had better educational outcomes, even after controlling for other factors like intelligence and physical fitness (Duckworth, A.L., & Quinn, P.D., 2009). 3. Grit in the Workplace: Beyond academics, grit is crucial in the professional world. A paper in the Journal of Research in Personality demonstrates that individuals with higher levels of grit are more likely to persist in their careers and achieve long-term success (Eskreis-Winkler, L., et al., 2014). They are the ones who don’t give up in the face of failure and see challenges as opportunities to grow. 4. Developing Grit: Is grit innate, or can it be developed? Research suggests a bit of both. While some aspects of grit might be influenced by personality and upbringing, there are ways to cultivate grit. Strategies include setting long-term goals, embracing a growth mindset, and learning from failures instead of fearing them. Building a support network and finding what truly interests you can also foster persistence and passion. 5. The Downside of Grit: While grit is generally seen as positive, it’s important to recognize that excessive grit might lead to burnout or neglect of other life areas. Balancing grit with flexibility and self-compassion is crucial for overall well-being. Conclusion: Grit, the blend of passion and perseverance, is a defining trait of successful people across various domains. While it’s a powerful trait for achieving long-term goals, like any aspect of personality, it’s most beneficial when balanced with other factors like flexibility, rest, and social support. References: Duckworth, A.L., et al. (2007). Grit: Perseverance and Passion for Long-Term Goals. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Duckworth, A.L., & Quinn, P.D. (2009). Development and validation of the Short Grit Scale (GRIT–S). Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Eskreis-Winkler, L., et al. (2014). The grit effect: Predicting retention in the military, the workplace, school and marriage. Journal of Research in Personality. How to get in touch If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.

Written by: Therapy Near Me Editorial Team Clinically reviewed by: qualified members of the Therapy Near Me clinical team Last updated: 05/11/2025 This article is intended as general information only and does not replace personalised medical or mental health advice. Learn more about our Editorial Policy. Advancing in your career involves more than just hard work and dedication. Understanding and utilizing psychological principles can give you an edge in the workplace. From improving communication to enhancing leadership, psychological strategies can be powerful tools. This article explores how to use these tricks ethically and effectively to boost your career. 1. Setting and Achieving Goals: One of the fundamental psychological tricks for career advancement is effective goal setting. The Theory of Goal Setting by Locke and Latham (1990) suggests that setting specific and challenging goals leads to higher performance. By articulating clear, measurable, and time-bound goals, you can focus your efforts and motivate yourself to achieve them. 2. Harness the Power of Positive Thinking: Positive psychology can significantly impact your career. A positive mindset not only improves your own performance but also positively affects those around you. Research by Fredrickson (2001) on the broaden-and-build theory shows that positive emotions broaden your sense of possibility and open your mind to more options. Cultivating positivity can lead to better problem-solving, decision-making, and interpersonal relationships. 3. Understand and Utilise Body Language: Nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in the workplace. According to Mehrabian’s communication model, 55% of communication is nonverbal. Being aware of your body language and understanding others’ can improve your communication skills, make you more persuasive, and help you build rapport with colleagues and superiors (Mehrabian, A., 1971). 4. Leverage the Principle of Reciprocity: The principle of reciprocity is a powerful tool in building professional relationships. Cialdini (2001) describes how individuals tend to return favors and treat others as they’ve been treated. By being helpful and supportive to your colleagues, you’re more likely to receive assistance and opportunities in return. 5. Master the Art of Persuasion: Understanding what motivates others and how to influence them is key to negotiation and leadership. Cialdini’s six principles of persuasion, including commitment and consistency, scarcity, authority, liking, social proof, and reciprocity, can be ethically applied to persuade and lead effectively in the workplace (Cialdini, R.B., 1984). 6. Practice Emotional Intelligence: Emotional intelligence (EI) is crucial for career success. High EI helps manage stress, lead effectively, and collaborate with others. Goleman (1995) emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and its components: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skill. Improving your EI can lead to better job performance and advancement. Conclusion: Psychological strategies can be significant assets in your career development. By setting clear goals, maintaining a positive attitude, understanding nonverbal cues, leveraging reciprocity, persuading effectively, and cultivating emotional intelligence, you can enhance your professional growth. Remember, these strategies should be used ethically and in ways that foster healthy workplace relationships and personal development. References: Locke, E.A., & Latham, G.P. (1990). A Theory of Goal Setting & Task Performance. Prentice-Hall, Inc. Fredrickson, B.L. (2001). The role of positive emotions in positive psychology. American Psychologist. Mehrabian, A. (1971). Silent Messages. Wadsworth. Cialdini, R.B. (2001). Influence: Science and Practice. Allyn & Bacon. Goleman, D. (1995). Emotional Intelligence. Bantam Books. How to get in touch If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.

Written by: Therapy Near Me Editorial Team Clinically reviewed by: qualified members of the Therapy Near Me clinical team Last updated: 02/10/2025 This article is intended as general information only and does not replace personalised medical or mental health advice. Learn more about our Editorial Policy. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. While autism can be diagnosed at any age, symptoms generally appear in the first two years of life. Understanding the signs can help parents and caregivers seek early intervention, which is crucial for the best outcomes. This article discusses common signs of autism in children and the process of obtaining a diagnosis, referencing scientific sources. 1. Recognizing the Signs of Autism: Autism manifests differently in each child, but there are common signs parents can look out for: Social Challenges: Children with autism might struggle with understanding social cues, making eye contact, or developing peer relationships. They may not respond to their names or appear indifferent to social engagements (Lord, C., et al., 2020). Communication Difficulties: Delayed speech development or not speaking at all are common signs. Children with autism might also repeat phrases (echolalia) or use language in unusual ways. Some may not use gestures, like pointing or waving, to communicate (Wodka, E.L., et al., 2013). Repetitive Behaviors: Engaging in repetitive behaviors, such as rocking, spinning, or hand-flapping, or fixating intensely on specific objects or topics is common among children with autism. They may also insist on sameness and routine and show distress over small changes (Leekam, S.R., et al., 2011). 2. The Importance of Early Detection: Early detection and intervention are critical in helping children with autism reach their full potential. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends autism screening for all children at 18 and 24 months. Early intervention services can significantly improve a child’s development and long-term outcomes (Dawson, G., et al., 2010). 3. Seeking a Diagnosis: If you suspect your child might have autism: Consult a Professional: Talk to your child’s pediatrician or a developmental specialist. They can guide you through the screening and diagnostic process. Comprehensive Evaluation: Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive evaluation that includes observing the child and talking to parents about the child’s behavior and development. It may also include hearing, speech, and language tests (Hyman, S.L., et al., 2020). Multidisciplinary Approach: A team of specialists, including psychologists, neurologists, and speech therapists, may be involved in the assessment to ensure a thorough evaluation. 4. Support After Diagnosis: Receiving an autism diagnosis can be overwhelming for families. Support is available, and treatment plans are tailored to each child’s unique needs. Early intervention programs, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral approaches are common components of treatment. Connecting with local autism groups can provide valuable support and resources (Zwaigenbaum, L., et al., 2015). Conclusion: If you suspect your child might have autism, observing and noting their behavior, seeking professional advice, and pursuing a comprehensive evaluation are crucial steps. Early diagnosis and intervention can make a significant difference in the life of a child with autism and their family. Take a quick self assessment References: Lord, C., et al. (2020). Autism spectrum disorder. Nature Reviews Disease Primers. Wodka, E.L., et al. (2013). Predictors of phrase and fluent speech in children with autism and severe language delay. Pediatrics. Leekam, S.R., et al. (2011). Repetitive behaviours and play in typically developing children and children with autism spectrum disorders. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. Dawson, G., et al. (2010). Early behavioral intervention is associated with normalized brain activity in young children with autism. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. Hyman, S.L., et al. (2020). Identification, Evaluation, and Management of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder. Pediatrics. Zwaigenbaum, L., et al. (2015). Early Intervention for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder Under 3 Years of Age: Recommendations for Practice and Research. Pediatrics. How to get in touch If you or your patient/NDIS clients need immediate mental healthcare assistance, feel free to get in contact with us on 1800 NEAR ME – admin@therapynearme.com.au.