Mary Jo Rapini, LPC - Articles

Articles by Mary Jo

Relationships, Parenting, and Emotional Wellness

A Mental Health Regimen for Stressful Times

A Mental Health Regimen for Stressful Times

Since the pandemic began, many have experienced severe stress, irritability, anger, and anxiety. Your newsfeed may be more negative than in the past, and you miss quality time with your friends and family without masking up, social distancing, and elbow taps. One of the most important coping mechanisms is fostering a healthy mindset. Often when it comes to healthy coping, we begin too late. We underestimate the duration and grow weary in the middle of chaos. Just as your body

5 Common Relationship Killers

5 Common Relationship Killers

Humans have changed and grown in numerous areas, but one area where we have remained very much the same is in our intimate relationships. We get stuck in routines or on autopilot, forgetting to nurture our relationship or choosing to shove issues under the rug. When you disregard how your partner feels or their opinions, you get stuck in your narrow perspective. Reaching out to your partner for help when you get “tunnel-vision” is crucial, but many of us do not. Too often we

Tips to Survive Political Distress with Family and Friends

Tips to Survive Political Distress with Family and Friends

If you find yourself regularly fighting with friends or family members over politics, the pandemic, or concerns about our country, you're not alone. What’s happening in the nation is causing bitter feelings as political division is taking it’s toll on friendships and families. It may feel easier to hang out with people who think like you, but when you surround yourself with only like-minded people, you’re missing out on personal growth that allows you to learn empathy and com

6 Mental Health Hacks the Pandemic Taught Us

6 Mental Health Hacks the Pandemic Taught Us

If you’re like many, you may be experiencing déjà vu with the beginning of 2021. It’s a new year, but we’re still dealing with the effects of the pandemic. Fears of getting sick, job loss, and political uncertainty haven’t gone away. Although things are looking similar to the year we left behind, we’re in a different place emotionally. The constant changing of the pandemic has forced us to try new things, change our mindset, and become more flexible. Along with constant chang

Practicing Peace in an Unpredictable World

Practicing Peace in an Unpredictable World

Most people are creatures of habits or routines. We make plans and when things go accordingly, we develop a sense of control. This helps us feel certain and secure about others and ourselves. However, the truth about life is we don’t have control. Life is good at throwing curveballs, leaving us feeling confused, anxious, and stressed. Many Americans feel more uncertain by the year; injustices, riots, natural disasters, the pandemic, and an unstable presidency are creating uph

Relationship Resolutions to Revive 2021

Relationship Resolutions to Revive 2021

Few were sad to say goodbye to 2020, and with the New Year, everyone is focused on making 2021 better. Many couples are now struggling with increased conflict and stress, leading to poor communication and isolation. Writing resolutions for your relationship can keep things interesting and romantic. Here are resolution suggestions to help you get started and make 2021 the best year for you and your partner: 1. Discuss your relationship vision and list goals for the future. You

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