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Doing Things That Make You Happy

March 20 is International Day of Happiness, a global reminder that happiness is essential for your mental and emotional well-being. However, mental or behavioral health issues can make finding joy feel like an uphill battle. Depression, anxiety, trauma and substance use disorders can dull your ability to experience pleasure,...


What Is “Marijuana Schizophrenia”?

Marijuana use has become increasingly normalized nationwide in recent years – especially in California, where it is legal for medical and recreational purposes. But marijuana’s potency has increased, raising concerns about its impact on mental health. In particular, marijuana schizophrenia has drawn attention in recent years. Public awareness about the...


How Long Do Manic Episodes Last?

Mania is a defining symptom of bipolar disorder – an intense state of heightened energy, impulsivity and euphoria that can lead to risky behavior and long-term consequences. Despite the temporary sense of invincibility it provides, mania is a severe mental health condition that requires professional treatment. What Is a Manic...


Depressive Episode Symptoms

Depression is a severe illness that can affect every aspect of your life. One hallmark of this condition is depressive episodes, periods during which your symptoms intensify and make it difficult to function in daily life. While depression can feel hopeless, it often responds well to a combination of...


Emotion Regulation Skills in DBT

Serene Behavioral Health provides our clients with evidence-based therapies that empower them to regain control of their mental health and well-being. One of the most impactful approaches we offer is dialectical behavioral therapy, a treatment that equips people with tools to regulate their emotions and handle challenges more gracefully. What...


What Is Codependency?

January is National Codependency Awareness Month – a time to shed light on a behavioral pattern that often drives and exacerbates mental health and substance use disorders. Recognizing and addressing codependency is a vital step toward lifelong wellness. Overcoming an Unhealthy Dynamic Codependency involves an excessive reliance on another person to...


Schizophrenia Hallucinations

Schizophrenia is a complex and often misunderstood mental health disorder characterized by symptoms such as delusions and disorganized thinking. People with schizophrenia may experience vivid auditory, visual or sensory hallucinations – perceiving things that do not exist in reality. These experiences can be distressing and significantly impact daily functioning....


What Is a PTSD Attack?

While many people who survive traumatic experiences like natural disasters, sexual assault, car accidents or military service may initially struggle to cope, they often recover with time and self-care. However, for some, the effects of trauma are more long-lasting and significantly interfere with daily functioning. These people may develop...


Overcoming the Shame Spiral With Addiction

Confronting and managing feelings of shame and guilt is a crucial part of healing from substance abuse. These emotions can be a potential relapse trigger, especially in the sensitive time of early recovery. Here’s how you can work through these feelings and stay accountable for your goals. Understanding the Difference...


Is Insomnia a Mental Disorder?

Insomnia is a sleep disorder that affects millions worldwide. Though it is not a stand-alone mental health condition, it is a symptom and exacerbator of many psychological issues. The Effects of Insomnia Insomnia can profoundly impact your quality of life and ability to function normally. Those suffering from chronic sleep disturbances...