Almost all of us can relate to the enjoyment that comes with buying something new, getting a good deal, and keeping something sentimental, but when does our relationship with our possessions become problematic? Hoarding Disorder is characterized by a persistent difficulty with discarding or parting with possessions regardless of their value, a perceived need to […]

Social connection is a basic human need, just like eating food, drinking water, and getting sleep. Our brains are biologically wired for social connection and an abundance of research shows that isolation and loneliness are detrimental to our mental well-being and physical health. Yet for some people, socializing induces fear, anxiety, worry, and sometimes even […]

I love learning things at the Minnesota State Fair! This year I learned about recycling textiles from a display in the Eco Building. It read that clean, worn-out clothes with missing buttons, holes or small stains CAN be donated to Goodwill and the Salvation Army. These items are recycled into rags, wiping cloths, insulation, carpet […]

Stress is a normal part of life and stress at a manageable level can even be helpful in mobilizing a response to solve a current problem. Yet some people experience excessive amounts of stress that exceeds the individuals’ range of resilience, overwhelms the nervous system, and becomes disordered. Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, is characterized […]

My only child is moving across the country for his first year of college. My husband and I are excited for him but have some trepidation about what we will do with our time. No matter how much we spoil our dogs, we won’t go to their baseball games, they won’t call us when they […]

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, or OCD, is a commonly misunderstood mental health disorder. You may have heard the phrase “I’m a little OCD” used as a way to describe someone who likes things to be a certain way, done in a certain order, or who is organized and cleanly. While phrases like this are not typically […]

I recently moved my home office from a traditional space on the first floor to the guest bedroom upstairs. My husband started a new job working from home and we have an old, needy, labrador that can’t manage the stairs and cries when left alone. Thus, to avoid 8 hours of canine cries, whimpers, and […]

As the summer sun starts to blaze, our pets need extra care to stay cool and comfortable. Beyond keeping them safe from the heat, summer is also a fantastic time to help your furry friends connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Here are a few tips: 1. Provide Ample Shade and Fresh Water […]

Written By: Jayme Kolbo, MA, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, founder of OCD & Anxiety Wellness Collective Sadness and grief are a normal part of the human experience. Depression, or Major Depressive Disorder, differs from sadness and grief in the frequency, intensity, duration, and functional impairment it causes. It is one of the most common mental […]

Looking for your next literary adventure? Look no further! The Friends of the Hennepin County Library has curated an exceptional reading list that promises to delight book lovers of all ages and interests. From captivating novels to thought-provoking non-fiction, there’s something for everyone on this meticulously crafted selection.

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding solace and tranquility can sometimes seem like an impossible task. However, nestled within the pages of a book lies a sanctuary for the mind—a place where worries fade, imagination soars, and mental well-being flourishes. In this blog post, we’ll explore the profound benefits of reading for […]

As the sun’s warm embrace envelops us and nature flourishes in its full glory, summer presents itself as a season of boundless possibilities and vibrant experiences. However, amidst the allure of vacations and outdoor adventures, it’s crucial to prioritize mental health awareness. This blog post dives into the intersection of summer, joy, and mental well-being, […]