The Healing Exchange

Mental Health Matters Dr. Shirley Huisman, MSW, LISW-CP/S, PhD Owner/Therapist at Oasis Therapy Services February 2nd, 2026 Our knowledge of human behavior is expanding all the time.  Science helps expand and clarify what we know at any given time and often leads us forward in building new knowledge. At other times, it can appear that research findings are proclaiming the obvious, what most people find to be common sense. I recall my dad reading about research findings verif

Mental Health Matters Dr. Shirley Huisman, MSW, LISW-CP/S, PhD Owner/Therapist at Oasis Therapy Services January 26th, 2026 Some human experiences are pretty much universal. We all share some basic similarities, such as the need for food, rest, and connections with other humans, for instance. My friends in the 12-step community have a helpful acronym.  The acronym is HALT. Don’t let yourself get too hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. Any one of these is a threat to one’s recove

Mental Health Matters Dr. Shirley Huisman, MSW, LISW-CP/S, PhD Owner/Therapist at Oasis Therapy Services January 19th, 2026 By publication, most readers will have made New Year's resolutions and already have given up on them. While this can be disappointing, it is a common human experience. This got me thinking about the history of making resolutions at this time of year. Where did this practice come from? How did it become a “thing”?  Multiple sources indicate that the pract

Mental Health Matters

Mental Health. Matters

Mental Health Matters

Change is constant—sometimes a sudden rush, other times a slow shift—but always inevitable. Whether it’s a job change, a move, or personal growth, it can stir both excitement and anxiety. Understanding the emotional stages of change—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—helps us navigate transitions with resilience. By acknowledging feelings, seeking support, and focusing on what we can control, we grow stronger and more adaptable through life’s changes.

In today’s demanding work culture, mental health is vital to both employee well-being and organizational success. Supporting it isn’t just compassionate—it’s strategic. When workplaces promote flexibility, open dialogue, and access to resources, employees become more engaged, creative, and loyal. Prioritizing mental health builds stronger teams, boosts productivity, and creates lasting success for both individuals and organizations.

Finding balance in a busy world takes intention and practice. Setting healthy boundaries, prioritizing self-care, managing time wisely, and seeking support all help create steadiness when life feels overwhelming. Mindfulness, gratitude, and open communication strengthen relationships and restore focus. While balance looks different for everyone, consistently nurturing these habits can lead to greater fulfillment, peace, and resilience in daily life.

As school and activities ramp up, life can quickly feel like a nonstop race. Busy schedules, constant commitments, and tight routines can lead to chronic stress, burnout, and even depression if balance slips away. Our bodies often signal when we’ve pushed too far—through fatigue, tension, or irritability. Recognizing those signs early allows us to reset, prioritize rest, and protect our mental health. Balance isn’t a luxury—it’s essential for a healthy, sustainable life.

Welcoming a new baby is both miraculous and demanding. While birth brings immense joy, it also introduces exhaustion, adjustment, and unexpected emotions. Many new parents experience postpartum depression or anxiety—common, treatable conditions that deserve compassion and care. Support, honest conversations, and practical help from loved ones can make all the difference. Parenthood takes a village, and showing up for one another is one of love’s most powerful expressions.

Mental health myths persist because understanding remains low. Conditions like depression or anxiety aren’t caused by personal failure—they’re complex interactions of genetics, biology, and environment. Children, too, can experience mental illness; half of all cases begin by age 14. Early recognition and treatment save lives and foster long-term wellness. By increasing awareness, seeking help early, and challenging stigma, we can build a more informed and compassionate societ