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Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta

Men’s Mental Health Month

June 24, 2025 By Dominique Munday

men's mental health month

Men’s Mental Health Month: A Personal Reflection and a Call to Break the Silence

June is Men’s Mental Health Month, and it hits home for me more than ever this year. As someone who works in mental health, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply pain can hide behind a smile, a joke, or the phrase “I’m fine.” I’ve watched fathers, husbands, sons, and friends wrestle with depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-doubt in silence—because somewhere along the line, they were taught that real men don’t talk about their feelings.

The truth is, they do. And they must.

Statistics show that men are significantly less likely than women to seek mental health support. Yet they account for nearly 4 out of 5 suicide deaths in the U.S. (CDC, 2023). That’s not a coincidence—it’s a crisis.
This month is a chance to change the narrative. To say out loud that men’s mental health matters, and that there is strength—not weakness—in asking for help.

Whether you're the man who’s been silently carrying too much, or someone who loves him, here’s what I want you to know:
-You are not alone.
-You do not have to figure it all out by yourself.
-Therapy is not a last resort—it’s a powerful first step.

Where to Start: Mental Health Resources for Men
Therapy for Black Men (https://therapyforblackmen.org)
A directory and community focused on breaking the stigma in Black male communities.
HeadsUpGuys (https://headsupguys.org)
Offers tips, tools, and therapist directories specifically for men dealing with depression.
Movember (https://us.movember.com/mens-health/mental-health)
A leading movement supporting men’s health with a major focus on suicide prevention.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (Call or text 988) 24/7, free, and confidential support for people in distress.

What You Can Do This Month
-Check in with the men in your life—really check in. Go beyond “how are you?” and hold space for honesty.
-Encourage therapy and model vulnerability. Sometimes the best way to help is to lead by example.
-Share resources, raise awareness, and help normalize mental health conversations.

Men’s Mental Health Month is more than a campaign—it’s a life-saving movement. Let’s do more than just talk about it. Let’s live it.
Because real men feel, real men talk, and real men heal.

-Ta'Neja Rodgers, MSW, LCSW, Primary Therapist, Chief Operating Officer

 

Filed Under: Health Publications, Mental Health Tagged With: Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Georgia, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Georgia, eating disorder treatment duluth ga, Manna treatment, mens mental health, mental health, Mental Health Atlanta Ga, psychiatrist in atlanta, psychiatrist near me, teen mental health gwinnett county, trauma recovery

Post Watch Recovery

Post Watch Recovery: Peace in Mind

Post Watch Recovery

COMING SOON!

Manna Treatment would like to introduce our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for retired or active Military and First Responders (Police, Firefighters, EMT's, Paramedics, Nurses, Dispatchers) recovering from trauma and PTSD.

Whether you are newly struggling or have carried the weight of trauma for years, Post Watch Recovery: Peace in Mind offers a compassionate path forward. Let us walk beside you as you reclaim your calm, your strength, and your life.

Program Highlights:

  • 3 Days/Week, 3 Hours/Day
  • Includes Group Therapy, Individual/Family Therapy
  • Led by Licensed Trauma Therapists
  • Small, Supportive Group Setting
  • Confidential and Respectful Environment
  • All Insurances Accepted; Scholarships Available for Copays
  • In person and/or Virtual Attendance

 

LEARN MORE
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You’ve served. You’ve protected.

Now it’s time to heal.

If you have any questions, please call our office at (770) 495-9775.

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The Importance of Staying Hydrated

May 28, 2025 By Dominique Munday

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The Importance of Staying Hydrated

With summer just around the corner, it's more important than ever that we are hydrating our body with the right amount of fluid to keep us cool in the heat. But why exactly is staying hydrated important? How much water should I really be drinking? Can I only drink water to meet my fluid needs? Today we’ll be answering these questions and setting the record straight about hydration misconceptions!

Why Is Water So Important?

Water has a variety of essential functions in our body. Some of which include:

1) Regulation of Body Temperature - Water helps regulate body temperature through sweating and absorbing excess heat.

2) Nutrient and Oxygen Transport - Water helps carry the nutrients we eat and the oxygen we breathe to the necessary cells in our body.

3) Waste Removal - Water helps eliminate waste products through urination, sweating, and bowel movements.

4) Joint Lubrication - Water lubricates and cushions joints, protecting them from damage.

5) Maintaining Blood Pressure – Drinking enough water ensures your blood volume, or amount of blood, is enough, which helps regulate your blood pressure.

6) Digestion - Water is essential for digestion, helping to move food through the digestive system and prevent constipation.

7) Cognitive Function – Proper hydration supports brain function and cognitive ability.

8) Skin Health - Water contributes to healthy skin by keeping it moist and lubricated.

What Is the Right Amount of Water to Drink?

I’m sure we’ve all heard the classic advice of drinking 8 glasses of water/day, and while this is a great place to start, it's important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to hydration. Several factors, such as your activity level, the climate of where you live, your individual health conditions, and whether or not you are pregnant or breastfeeding, impact your daily water needs.

Diet and wellness culture like to promote the idea that you can never drink enough water. However, this is not the case! Your kidneys are only able to process 4 cups of water per hour, so anything over this can place you are risk of water toxicity – a life-threatening condition.

Unfortunately, the symptoms of dehydration and overhydration are eerily similar, including headache, fatigue, and dizziness. While you may experience these symptoms and assume you are dehydrated, consider if you may actually be overhydrated before reaching for your water bottle. A good rule of thumb to determine if you are adequately hydrated is peeking in the toilet. If you are well hydrated, your pee will appear light yellow. Dark yellow pee typically means you are dehydrated, while clear pee can mean you are overhydrated.

What Contributes to My Fluid Intake Besides Water?

While drinking water is the best source of hydration, there are other ways to hydrate if water isn’t your jam. Teas, and specifically herbal teas, are great for hydrating and can make meeting your fluid needs more exciting! Most fruits and vegetables have a super high water content and can be a great tool to help you reach your fluid needs. Lastly, try adding fruits, such as lemons or raspberries, or flavors to your water to help boost its flavor. If you find yourself sweating frequently, consider adding an electrolyte packet to your drink!

Working With a Dietitian

Hopefully this blog post helped clear up any questions you had about hydration. If you are worried about the amount of water that you are drinking, and want to work on becoming more hydrated, consider working with a Dietitian who can help you create a plan based on your individual needs!

-Isa Porrazzo, Registered Dietitian

 

Filed Under: Health Publications, Mental Health, News & Upcoming Events Tagged With: Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Georgia, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Georgia, confirmation bias, eating disorder treatment duluth ga, Manna treatment, mental health, Mental Health Atlanta Ga, psychiatrist in atlanta, psychiatrist near me, staying hydrated, teen mental health gwinnett county, trauma recovery

Confirmation Bias

April 3, 2025 By Dominique Munday

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Confirmation Bias: “What is That?” 

Going into April celebrating April Fools Day is like experiencing biased confirmation.  People look to influence our thinking to match what they are saying to us, just to yell ”APRIL FOOLS”! 

Confirmation bias means we seek out information that supports/validates our preconceptions based on our current beliefs and reject any information that challenges those beliefs. 

 There are 3 types of Confirmation Biases: 

  1.  Biased search for information – We research information that supports our views, beliefs. (I love Google). 
  1. Biased Interpretations – We evaluate the data that supports our views differently than the data that challenges our views. (We lie to ourselves). 
  1. Biased Memories – We tend to be selective in how we remember experiences that are going to support our narratives. (Keeps stereotyping alive and thriving). 

Our biases are influenced by: 

Social Media Posts, Religious Practice, Family Patterns, Environment in which we live. 

Explore and Learn the implications of how you are impacted! 

“Confirmation bias is like a horse running a race with blinders on and slowing down just before the finish line assured that he is winning, just to come in second place.” JB 

What are your confirmation biased blind spots?

-Jania Bailey-Boyd, MS

 

Filed Under: Health Publications, Mental Health, News & Upcoming Events Tagged With: Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Georgia, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Georgia, confirmation bias, eating disorder treatment duluth ga, Manna treatment, mental health, Mental Health Atlanta Ga, psychiatrist in atlanta, psychiatrist near me, teen mental health gwinnett county, trauma recovery

Treatment for Eating Disorders, Trauma, & Mental Health Issues in Atlanta Georgia

Our Mission

Manna Scholarship Fund is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope and financial assistance to individuals who need scholarships to obtain the mental health treatment you need. We specialize in resolving the underlying trauma that often emerges in eating disorders, PTSD, Adolescent Mental Health, and other individual and family-based needs.

Book an Appointment

What we offer

Manna Treatment, a program under the Manna Scholarship Fund umbrella, is an Atlanta-based treatment program that provides services at the Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient, and Outpatient levels of care. Although we specialize in addressing the underlying Pain & Trauma Issues that underly Eating Disorders, Self-Injury, and other unhealthy coping behaviors, we also provide treatment for most other issues:

  • Trauma/PTSD
  • Adolescent Mental Health
  • Nutrition Counseling
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Family of Origin Issues
  • Mood Disorders
  • Psychiatric Evaluations
  • Medication Management
Learn More
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Our Comprehensive Services

 Outpatient Program (OP)

Manna Treatment provides outpatient treatment for most issues. We provide counseling for the following ages: children 6 and up, adolescents, and adults. We have outpatient therapists that provide counseling from a myriad of perspectives. We provide individual, family, and group therapy.

More Details

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

When someone is in need of a more intensive, structured outpatient treatment setting, they may find benefit from engaging in an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). This treatment option allows individuals to receive weekly group therapy (9-12 hours per week; 3-4 days, 3 hours per day), individual therapy (1x week), dietary therapy for the eating disorder programs (1x week), and psychiatric therapy (1-2 x month).

Our IOP programs:

  • Adolescent Mental Health
  • Eating Disorders
  • Trauma Recovery for Women (18+)
  • Family Wellness
  • PTSD Recovery for Veterans & First Responders (coming 2025)
More Details

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Our multidisciplinary team uses evidence-based interventions to treat the following eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and other disordered eating patterns. As treatment encourages you to become free from your eating patterns, we invite you to step into who you were meant to become. Our PHP is a prevention from going into a residential program or a step-down from one. We provide PHP Monday-Friday, 6 hours per day. It can be our Eating Disorder Program or a hybrid Eating Disorder/Trauma Recovery for Women.

More Details

Manna's Spiritual FoundationManna Fund is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope and financial assistance to individuals who need eating disorder treatment scholarships. To address the epidemic of eating disorders by providing prevention, education, research, and financial assistance for treatment to all qualified individuals through well-administered programs.

Manna's staff embraces Christianity as our core team foundation. Like Jesus, we encourage individuals who have differing faiths to participate in our programs. We do not force our Christian beliefs on anyone nor do we require clients to hold the same beliefs.  We believe that our faith creates a peaceful environment, thus giving you a different treatment process. Our primary goal with everyone is to help you heal from pain.

We are all about love, acceptance, and safety in recovery.

Get Started
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J.S

I completed the program last week. I just want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for starting Manna. Manna has changed my life. I was so far from even wanting a relationship with God again because of things that happened to me and now I realize how important my faith is in my healing journey. Thank you also for the great staff you have. They have all played a huge part in my recovery, and I’m thankful that I can continue seeing Dr. Lou and Kelsey."

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L.W

"It’s been a blessing finding Manna, not only that but the programs that they provide are incredible. I was in the Trauma Program, and I cannot tell you enough how much growth I’ve had. Every group in each program will teach you something. It’s an emotional journey and each and every therapist is so supportive and caring. You’ll truly feel that the light to your tunnel is getting closer. One very important thing that you have to know is that what YOU give is what YOU will receive. Healing may feel hard, but you can do had things!"

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D.D

"As the parent of a child with an eating disorder, one of the most notable elements of our Manna experience was the implementation of the Parent and Family IOP program…an intensive outpatient program specifically geared towards helping the parents and family members of Manna clients cope with their child’s eating disorder and guide them on how to best support them through their eating disorder and towards recovery.

Manna Fund is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope and financial assistance to individuals who need eating disorder treatment scholarships. To address the epidemic of eating disorders by providing prevention, education, research, and financial assistance for treatment to all qualified individuals through well-administered programs.Join us in making a difference today |

We invite you today to participate and support Manna Scholarship Fund as we continue to provide therapeutic services and scholarship funds for those in need. Through your kindness today, we can make an impact in our community.

Nourish hope, mend the heart, Your donation plays a part. In the battle, strong and tough, Every gift, a leap enough.

Manna Fund is a 501c(3) non-profit organization dedicated to providing hope and financial assistance to individuals who need eating disorder treatment scholarships. To address the epidemic of eating disorders by providing prevention, education, research, and financial assistance for treatment to all qualified individuals through well-administered programs.Become a partner |

Manna Fund strives to place our recipients in qualified treatment programs, and will continue to work with many of the programs listed as a part of the REDC. They have created standards for residential care, and Manna Fund also has a "credentialing process" by which we incorporate new treatment facilities into our network.

We are also incorporating a yearly re-credentialing process for each treatment center in order to ensure up-to-date information.

Donate Here

Find Us:

Manna Fund, Inc -
3305 Breckinridge Blvd #116,
Duluth, GA 30096

If you have questions, please feel free to contact us at our office number: (770) 495-9775

Our admin team will be able to answer your questions as soon as possible. It is also necessary to call and cancel appointments per the usual 48-hour cancellation policy. Again, because we are attempting to prevent issues by moving to virtual therapy sessions, we anticipate that you will be more inclined to keep your scheduled appointment.

Feel free to also:  EMAIL US

Explore our blog!

men's mental health month

Men’s Mental Health Month

By Dominique Munday | June 24, 2025
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The Importance of Staying Hydrated

By Dominique Munday | May 28, 2025
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Confirmation Bias

By Dominique Munday | April 3, 2025
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I AM Who I AM

By Dominique Munday | March 11, 2025
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Setting Realistic Goals for Your Mental Health in the New Year

By Dominique Munday | January 27, 2025
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The Intersection of Mental Health and Social Justice – What Are The Impacts?

By Dominique Munday | November 26, 2024
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Mental Hygiene: Nourishing Your Mind As You Nourish Your Body

By Dominique Munday | October 28, 2024
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Nutrition: Back to Basics

By Dominique Munday | September 26, 2024
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Busting Diet Culture Myths

By Dominique Munday | August 28, 2024
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Endurance in The Face of Suffering

By Dominique Munday | July 25, 2024
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Managing Stress and Food

By Dominique Munday | June 28, 2024
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Navigating Adolescence: A Guide to Mental Health

By Dominique Munday | May 28, 2024
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Unleashing Healing: The Therapeutic Power of Dogs in Counseling

By Dominique Munday | May 1, 2024
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Body Image and Self-Worth

By Dominique Munday | March 22, 2024
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What Does God Have to Do With Recovery?

By Dominique Munday | February 28, 2024
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My Extraordinary Journey as an Intern in the World of Clinical Therapy

By Dominique Munday | February 19, 2024
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Embracing Mental Wellness

By Dominique Munday | January 24, 2024
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Coping When We Struggle With The Holidays

By Dominique Munday | December 27, 2023
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Understanding Athletes Eating Habits and Mental Health

By Dominique Munday | November 30, 2023
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Understanding Trauma

By Dominique Munday | October 26, 2023

I AM Who I AM

March 11, 2025 By Dominique Munday

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I AM Who I AM

“I AM OLGA!”

The bouncing blonde woman, dressed in a 150-year-old Ukrainian outfit, beamed as she introduced herself in her Ukrainian accent.

“Yes, you are!” I replied, smiling back.

She was adorable—radiating joy, eager to share her story of how she was supporting her family back home. Olga was a beautiful example of someone embracing her true essence, allowing it to shine through her words and presence.

What would it be like to fully embody and radiate our internal essence? To be so joyful about who we are that we literally light up a room?

What if our “I am” was filled with excitement, exuberance, and a deep, life-giving joy?

How would that change how we feel inside? What would we be doing?

Hopefully, at some point in your life, you’ve experienced that feeling. Maybe in the past, maybe even today. If the parents, leaders, coaches, and mentors of the world are doing their jobs, they encourage us to learn, grow, and embrace both our successes and our flaws.

I believe one of the most intimate things God ever said was, “I AM who I AM.” (Exodus 3:14)

When I researched the Hebrew meaning of this phrase, I found that it expresses God’s eternal existence—He is who He says He is. He exists. He be. Yesterday, today, and tomorrow. A continuous state of being.

If that’s true, then one of the most powerful and intimate statements we can utter begins with “I am.”

How we finish that phrase shapes who we are. It influences how we feel, how we live, and ultimately, who we become.

We use “I am” in two key ways:

1. In relation to others – “I am… your teacher. A mother. His friend.” These statements define our roles in the lives of those around us. They carry meaning, power, and nuance depending on how we interpret ourselves in those relationships.

2. In relation to ourselves – “I am… sad. Thoughtful. Safe. Loved.” These statements reveal our internal world. Whether spoken aloud or expressed

through tone, facial expressions, or behavior, they communicate how we perceive ourselves in that moment.

Every time we complete the phrase “I am,” we shape our reality. Each thought influences the next, setting the course for our lives.

So, be mindful of what you say—especially to yourself. Your brain doesn’t always distinguish between words spoken by others and the thoughts you generate internally.

Remember, God created the heavens and the earth with just His words. He spoke, and it came to be.

What if the same creative power exists within us?

He also created you—uniquely, wonderfully, intentionally. So live like the masterpiece you are. Speak blessings over yourself. Be the only you that exists—imperfect, undeniable, amazing.

You.

-Dr. Genie Burnett, Psy.D, CEDS-S; CEO and Clinical Director

Filed Under: Health Publications, Mental Health Tagged With: Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Georgia, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Georgia, eating disorder treatment duluth ga, mental health, Mental Health Atlanta Ga, psychiatrist in atlanta, psychiatrist near me, teen mental health gwinnett county, trauma recovery

Setting Realistic Goals for Your Mental Health in the New Year

January 27, 2025 By Dominique Munday

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Setting Realistic Goals for Your Mental Health in the New Year

The new year is a time filled with promise, reflection, and the opportunity to start fresh. Many of us set resolutions in January, but often, those resolutions focus solely on physical health, professional success, or achieving ambitious milestones. While those are important, prioritizing your mental health is equally vital. Setting realistic goals for your mental well-being can help you navigate life with greater resilience, balance, and joy. Here are some encouraging tips to get you started:

1. Start Small and Be Specific

One of the main reasons resolutions fall short is that they’re too broad or unrealistic. Instead of saying, “I want to be less stressed this year,” set a specific and manageable goal, like “I will dedicate 10 minutes each day to mindful breathing or meditation.” Small, actionable steps are easier to maintain and lead to lasting habits over time.

2. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Perfectionism can be a roadblock to mental wellness. This year, let go of the idea that you need to be flawless. Instead, celebrate progress—even the small victories. If you’re working on being more mindful but miss a day, that’s okay. Each new day is another opportunity to try again.

3. Incorporate Rest into Your Goals

We often undervalue rest, even though it’s essential for mental health. Make a conscious effort to incorporate rest into your daily or weekly routine. This might mean committing to going to bed earlier, taking regular screen breaks, or setting boundaries around your time to prevent burnout. Remember, rest is productive, too.

4. Practice Gratitude Daily

Cultivating gratitude is a powerful way to improve mental well-being. Commit to writing down three things you’re grateful for each day, whether it’s a warm cup of coffee, a kind word from a friend, or a small personal victory. Focusing on gratitude can shift your mindset and help you find joy even in challenging times.

5. Seek Support When Needed

One of the most courageous mental health goals you can set is to ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s reaching out to a friend, joining a support group, or seeking professional therapy, know that it’s okay to lean on others. You’re not alone, and support can make a world of difference.

6. Limit Comparisons

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to compare ourselves to others. This year, make it a goal to focus on your own journey and growth. Remind yourself that everyone’s path is unique, and what works for someone else might not work for you—and that’s okay.

7. Celebrate Milestones Along the Way

Achieving mental health goals doesn’t always happen overnight. Take time to acknowledge your efforts and celebrate milestones, no matter how small they might seem. Each step forward is a testament to your dedication and growth.

8. Stay Flexible and Adapt

Life is unpredictable, and your goals may need to shift as circumstances change. Be gentle with yourself and allow for flexibility. Adjusting your goals isn’t a failure; it’s a sign of resilience and self-awareness.

9. Be Kind to Yourself

Above all, practice self-compassion. Speak to yourself the way you would to a dear friend. If you have an off day or week, remind yourself that it’s part of being human. Your mental health journey is not linear, and that’s perfectly normal.

10. It's Ok to Say No

For many of us, saying "no" can feel uncomfortable or even selfish. However, learning to set boundaries is an essential part of protecting your mental health. This year, practice saying no to commitments or requests that drain your energy or don’t align with your priorities. Start small—decline a minor obligation and observe how it feels. Remember, every time you say no to something that doesn’t serve you, you’re saying yes to yourself and your well-being.

A New Year, A New Opportunity

The start of a new year is a beautiful opportunity to refocus on what truly matters: your well-being. By setting realistic mental health goals, you’re giving yourself the gift of care, growth, and resilience. Remember, it’s not about achieving perfection but about nurturing yourself and creating a life that supports your mental wellness.

Here’s to a year filled with small steps, big progress, and a healthier, happier you!

-Dominique Munday, Marketing

Filed Under: Mental Health Tagged With: Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Georgia, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Binge Eating Disorder Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Eating Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, mental health, Mental Health Atlanta Ga

The Intersection of Mental Health and Social Justice – What Are The Impacts?

November 26, 2024 By Dominique Munday

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Social justice and its systematic impacts/inequalities are aspects that affect mental health and access to care. Mental health is not just an individual issue; it is deeply intertwined with social, economic, and political structures. Factors such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation can profoundly influence mental health experiences. Here’s how these intersections play out:

1. Communities of color often face higher rates of mental health disorders, emphasized by systemic racism and discrimination. Access to culturally competent care is often limited, leading to untreated conditions and worsening mental health outcomes.

2. Gender-based violence, discrimination, and societal expectations can significantly impact mental health. The stigma around mental health can prevent individuals from seeking help, leaving them to cope with their struggles alone.

3. Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds may lack access to mental health resources, facing obstacles such as cost, lack of insurance, and insufficient local services. Financial stress itself is a significant contributor to mental health issues.

It is important to become self-aware of how the intersections of your identities are impacted by systems and past experiences. Often times therapy can be a great way to gain insights on your personal impacts and areas of privilege vs oppression. Although it may prove to be difficult for individuals to change the systems that result in oppression and lack of access to care by themselves, there are few ways they can make an effort to contribute to methods of change.

Join a social justice movement! After becoming aware of systematic impacts on your identity, find a movement that you feel passionate about and get connected or find ways to donate/support causes that are important to you.

Educate yourself about mental health stigmas! Make an effort to help challenge the stigma surrounding mental health by engaging in open conversations and reducing barriers to seeking help as you share your own experiences and thoughts.

Explore Diverse Communities! Social justice initiatives often create supportive networks that foster community resilience and collective healing. These networks can provide essential resources and support for individuals facing mental health challenges.

Impactful change starts on an individual level. Tune in with yourself to unpack the complexities of your identity- you can start today!

 

-Zemirah Griffin, Primary Therapist

Filed Under: Mental Health, Health Publications Tagged With: Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Georgia, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Christian Eating Disorder, mental health and social justice, Mental Health Atlanta Ga, Mental Health Treatment

Mental Hygiene: Nourishing Your Mind As You Nourish Your Body

October 28, 2024 By Dominique Munday

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In western culture, we often prioritize physical health while neglecting an equally vital aspect of our well-being: mental hygiene. Just as we practice personal hygiene to keep our bodies healthy, we must also engage in habits that nurture our mental health. For many, it may prove to be beneficial if they frequent mental health providers just as much as they frequent medical/physical health providers. Let's take a deeper dive into what mental hygiene is and how you can incorporate it into your daily life.

What is Mental Hygiene?
Mental hygiene can be referred to as "the practices and habits that promote mental well-being and emotional resilience". It involves maintaining a healthy mental state through self-care, mindfulness, positive thinking, and often times mental health treatment/therapy! By prioritizing mental hygiene, we can reduce stress, improve our mood, and enhance our overall quality of life.

Practices for Mental Hygiene 

Mindfulness and Meditation: Allocate a few minutes a day to engage in mindfulness or meditation. This can help ground you, improve focus, and promote a sense of calm.
Connect With Others: While moments of being alone can be helpful and necessary, it is important to foster healthy relationships and connections with other people. Sometimes a small hug or a quick high five can end up being the highlight of one's day.
Engage in Physical Activity: Exercise can be a useful tool for mental health. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga, or dancing, physical activity releases endorphins that boost mood and reduce stress.
Connect with Nature: Spending time outdoors can have a rejuvenating effect on our minds. Nature has a calming influence and can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety.
Practice Gratitude: Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your focus from negativity to positivity, enhancing your overall outlook on life.
Establish Healthy Routines: Create a daily routine that includes time for self-care, hobbies, and relaxation. Consistency can provide a sense of stability and control in our lives.
Seek Professional Help: If you’re struggling with your mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy can provide valuable tools and support for maintaining mental hygiene.

Conclusion
Just as we brush our teeth, wash our hands, and visit our primary care doctor to maintain physical health, we must also take intentional steps to care for our mental well-being. By adopting practices of mental hygiene, we can cultivate a healthier, more fulfilling life. Remember, taking care of your mind is just as important as taking care of your body. A healthy mind leads to a happier, more vibrant life. So, start today—you and your mental health deserve it!

-Zemirah Griffin, Primary Therapist

Filed Under: Health Publications, Mental Health, News & Upcoming Events Tagged With: Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Georgia, Binge Eating Disorder Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, mental health, Mental Health Atlanta Ga, Mental Health Treatment

Busting Diet Culture Myths

August 28, 2024 By Dominique Munday

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Busting Diet Culture Myths - Part 1

Diet culture is strong, prevalent, and thrives on the principle of scaring us into following specific rules or buying specific products in order to lose weight. Today, we’re going to bust some common diet culture myths, so you are better able to challenge disordered eating thoughts.

Myth #1: Eating after a certain time will make you gain weight

The body is equipped to metabolize food 24 hours of the day, 7 days a week! It simply cannot tell the difference between minutes or hours. This means our bodies have the ability to digest and absorb food, even late at night. There is no evidence to support the idea that eating late at night is unhealthy, nor that what you eat will automatically be stored as fat. This myth may have originated from other factors, like people tending to eat more late at night if they haven’t eaten enough during the day, or if food is used to cope with stress or boredom.

Myth #2: BMI determines health, or that thinness = health

Body Mass Index (BMI) was created by an astronomer and mathematician in the 1830s, with the original intention of being used as a census tool to identify typical sizes of a population. The majority of this data was drawn from upper-class, white men in the Netherlands. BMI solely compares one’s weight to height ratio and doesn’t take into consideration the complexities of determining one’s health status, such as age, sex, activity level, sleeping habits, or lean body mass. It’s of further note that significant conflicts of interest have been identified in the development of BMI target ranges. Due to these factors, BMI is generally understood to be a poor metric for measuring health. In fact, using BMI and weight status in this way can deter patients from receiving the medical care they need for fear of being shamed for their weight.

Myth #3: 2,000 calories is the amount of calories most people need

The idea of eating 2,000 calories/day began in the 1990s in an attempt by the FDA to simplify nutrition facts labels. This benchmark number was determined based on self-reported surveys of the general public’s typical intake. The problem with this data, and self-reported data in general, is people are known to under-report how much they’ve eaten. The survey results actually indicated an average of more than 2,000 calories/day, but the simplicity of an even 2,000 lead to this number be chosen instead. In reality, there is no one ideal number of calories. Needs will vary from person-to-person and even day-to-day.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, there is no secret formula or set of rules for leading a healthy lifestyle. Rather, it should be individualized, with options that are sustainable and enjoyable for each person. Our bodies are great at communicating with us. They should be honored and listened to, rather than trying to force them into following a set of rules society says is “right.”

-Rachel Orton, MS, RD, LD

Keep an eye out for Part 2 of "Busting Diet Culture Myths" coming soon! We’ll explore more of the harmful misconceptions diet culture spreads and offer tips on safeguarding your mental and physical well-being.

Filed Under: Mental Health, Health Publications Tagged With: Anorexia Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Anorexia Nervosa Disorder Treatment In Georgia, Binge Eating Disorder Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, busting diet myths, Christian Eating Disorder, eating disorder recovery, Eating Disorder Treatment In Atlanta, Mental Health Atlanta Ga

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