HOT TOPICS

CORE BELIEFS

Our beliefs can stop us in our tracks.

We all have basic unconscious assumptions about ourselves and our value in the world.
These beliefs generally center on our worthiness, abilities, safety, sense of belonging and respect. They shape how we see others and what we feel about ourselves in terms of perceptions. They are our internal self-talk, or, automatic thoughts, which are immediate and elicit strong responses. They can include rules, attitudes, and feelings. For many people beliefs are positive and loving. Oftentimes they can be limiting. Beliefs show up as statements such as “I am…”

Life issues are related to these beliefs which are often referred to as core beliefs . These issues revolve around success, love, belonging, self-worth, control, security, and reality. When these beliefs are negative, or painful, we tend to believe the worst of ourselves, as in “I am unlovable, I am stupid, I am a failure, or imperfect,” and unfortunately, "Not good enough.” Core beliefs are reinforced usually by our own self-talk and we tend to filter incoming information to fit the core belief even if it not true. For instance, if someone tells us we did a good job we often turn it into self-talk where we don’t believe it, thereby discounting ourselves.

Holding onto negative core beliefs affects moods, relationships, ability to succeed, and overall functioning. It takes effort to change these beliefs, and it usually involves more than merely thinking positively as these beliefs are fundamental to your self-image. Changing and letting go of negative beliefs can change your life by freeing up what has been holding you back from being and doing what you want for yourself, including relief from old behaviors and feelings to opening doors to new and different experiences in all aspects of your life.

LET’S TALK ABOUT IT: SUICIDE

Myth : People who talk about killing themselves rarely commit suicide.
Fact: Most people who commit suicide have given some verbal warnings of their intentions.

Suicide is in the news: We read of celebrities who take their lives and wonder how and why? They have so much money, prestige, and fame--Success. But are they happy? The pressure of certain lifestyles is immense. The Centers for Disease Control has recently reported that suicide rates have increased and it is not just from mental illness. There are many factors which contribute to suicide including: trauma/PTSD, depression, relationship problems, substance abuse, a recent crisis, work problems, or financial or legal stress.

Warning Signs

Feeling like a burden;
Being isolated;
Increased anxiety;
Feeling trapped or being in unbearable pain (physical and emotional);
Looking for a way out, through lethal means;
Increased anger or rage;
Hopelessness;
Sleeping too little or too much;
Talking, thinking about wanting to die;
Making plans for suicide.

If you, or someone you know is, or you suspect to be suicidal, please get them help immediately.

What Can Be Done?
Many things. You have options . Talk to family, friends, or clergy. Isolating does not help. Knowing someone cares can just be the thread that keeps things together. Counseling provides an opportunity to discuss your situation and emotions in a safe, caring environment where you can learn coping and problems-solving skills; gain access to tools and resources, and to help you through the hard stuff. With on-going care for prevention and safety, you don’t have to be alone and can build your life into what you want for yourself.

HELP

For immediate assistance, call 911 .

Minnesota offers a 24/7 crisis service.

In the Metro: Call: **CRISIS 274747 )

TEXT: MN to 741741

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-8255 (TALK)

Then make an appointment with a therapist.

FOR AN APPOINTMENT, email me directly:

[email protected]

Please call 715-410-9023

Helpful Forms

Click here to view and print forms for your appointment

Click Here