ABC of Mental Health

Hello! Welcome to another edition of the ABC of Mental Health, your partner in the journey to better mental health — one newsletter at a time. This week’s theme is managing insecurities. We bring it to your inbox this Thursday to make your Thursday a little therapeutic! 

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One relevant recommendation:

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT focuses on accepting negative thoughts and feelings without judgment while committing to actions aligned with one's values. It encourages individuals to develop psychological flexibility, allowing them to move forward despite insecurity or discomfort. ACT also emphasizes mindfulness and self-awareness, which can aid in managing and reducing feelings of insecurity over time.

Two quotes on Managing Insecurities:

Goldie Hawn is an American actress, producer, and singer who gained prominence in the 1960s, had this to say about overcoming her own insecurities:

"The only thing that could ever make you happy is being happy with who you are, and not who people think you are.”

Nelson Mandela, in his famous ‘A long walk to Freedom’, mentions:

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall."

Three TherapyShorts from TST ^{(on managing insecurities)}

1. Practice Self-Compassion: Self-compassion involves treating oneself with kindness, understanding, and acceptance, especially during moments of insecurity. Instead of harsh self-criticism or comparison to others, practice self-compassion by acknowledging your feelings without judgment. Treat yourself as you would a close friend, offering words of encouragement and reassurance. Recognize that insecurity is a common human experience and that it's okay to feel vulnerable at times. By cultivating self-compassion, you can build resilience and inner strength, reducing the impact of insecurity on your well-being and self-esteem.

2. Challenge Negative Thoughts: Insecurity often stems from negative self-talk and distorted perceptions of oneself. Challenge these negative thoughts by questioning their validity and exploring alternative perspectives. Ask yourself for evidence that supports or refutes your insecurities, and consider how you would advise a friend in a similar situation. Replace negative thoughts with more balanced and realistic ones, focusing on your strengths, accomplishments, and potential for growth. By actively challenging negative thought patterns, you can reframe your mindset and cultivate a more positive self-image over time.

3. Take Incremental Steps Outside Your Comfort Zone: Overcoming insecurity often requires stepping outside your comfort zone and facing your fears. Start by setting small, achievable goals that push you slightly beyond your current limitations. Whether it's initiating a conversation with someone new, trying a new activity, or speaking up in a group setting, each step outside your comfort zone builds confidence and resilience. Embrace discomfort as a natural part of growth and learning, and celebrate your progress along the way. By gradually expanding your comfort zone, you can build confidence and overcome insecurity fearfully.

Love and light,

The Social Therapist

PS: AAAHHH

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