Katie Blaha, PhD

03/09/2026

This article offers several guidelines for how to have developmentally appropriate, informative, and supportive conversations with children of all ages about upsetting world events.

"Children living through the latest war in the Middle East or seeing images of the conflict may need help making sense of events that many adults find unnerving. Exposure to war, even if it is indirect, can affect how kids think, feel and behave, according to mental health experts.

Child psychologists and development specialists encourage parents to check in with their children, make time for age-appropriate conversations and to correct misinformation without going into excessive detail.

“Sometimes adults think if they don’t talk about something that is difficult, than it doesn’t exist. But we know that’s not the reality in children’s lives,” said Rebecca Smith, the global head of child protection at Save the Children, an international aid and advocacy organization. “Ignoring or avoiding the topic of conflict can lead to children feeling lost, alone and scared. ... It is essential to have open and honest conversations with children to help them process what is happening.”"

Experts say adults can help children cope with the latest conflict in the Middle East by making time for conversations, validating their feelings and limiting exposure to frightening or inaccurate information.

03/05/2026

Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner Dr. Kojo Sarfo offers insights into how taking a slower, more intentional pace with everyday tasks can communicate back to our bodies and brains that we are safe, which in turn can play a part in helping us recover from anxiety and trauma.

15.3K likes, 305 comments. “If you grew up in a chaotic environment, you rush through things and make mistakes because you feel like you're in trouble”

01/16/2026

Parent coach Annaliese Erin offers great guidance on how to ensure you become and remain your child's go-to person when they're struggling.

4233 likes, 89 comments. “Motherhood Legacy 2026 - For mothers who choose to thrive in motherhood, be the person their child looks up to and become calm, competent and confident in motherhood. We start end of January. Join Mother’s who are changing the game, choosing happiness and learning the s...

01/16/2026

11/24/2025

Some moments don’t need to be fixed—they just need to be felt. 💛 Acknowledging “this is really hard” can be the most compassionate thing we do for ourselves. It’s a quiet act of courage and care.

What helps you stay present with yourself when life feels heavy?

11/23/2025

The holidays can trigger or exacerbate many psychological, emotional, and relational struggles, including comparing ourselves unkindly to others, struggling to maintain our boundaries, and feelings of jealousy, anxiety, sadness, and stress. ADAA offers guidance for how to cope with and protect against some of these experiences during the upcoming winter holidays.

It is easy to experience holiday season FOMO and imagine everyone else is out there celebrating with friends and family, delighting in their picture perfect moments while you are just getting through your days. Check out these action steps you can take to experience YOUR best life.

11/21/2025

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) offers strategies for mitigating anxiety and depression during the holiday season for ourselves, while traveling, and while parenting.

The holidays can be an exciting time filled with family, traditions and good food, but it can also be a time of intense stress, anxiety and depression. Read this blog for ways to help destress during the holidays.

11/04/2025

Mayor Scott has announced funding for various crucially needed services, including food, childcare, housing, utilities, and employment assistance, for Baltimore city residents to mitigate the effects of the ongoing government shutdown.

Mayor Brandon M. Scott has announced a $4.68 million investment by the City of Baltimore to support residents and federal workers impacted by the ongoing government shutdown.

11/04/2025

Baltimore, mark your calendars! 📅 Next month, MOHS joins local agencies and partners for the Pathway to Assistance and Transition from Homelessness (PATH) Community Fair (Nov. 14–15), a two-day event focused on connecting Baltimore residents experiencing homelessness with essential services, care, and support. 

Together, we’re building stronger pathways to stability. 💛

10/28/2025

With the possibility of a drastic reduction in food-providing benefits (including SNAP) in Maryland as of November 1st due to the government shutdown (linked news article with more information in the comments), please find Baltimore-area free fridges and pantries, as well as pet pantries, in the linked resources below.

The link can also connect people who want to start a free fridge or pantry in their community to guidance offered by the Bmore Community Fridge Network.

BCFN coordinates free food, meals, and resources for Baltimore community fridges

10/16/2025

Feeling anxious? You’re not alone. In a world filled with uncertainty, anxiety can feel overwhelming. But there’s a simple way to ground yourself when those feelings arise.

The Soles of the Feet practice can help you stay centered in the face of anxiety. By focusing on the sensations in your feet, you can anchor your attention, calm your mind, and reconnect with the present moment.

✨ Want to try it out? https://vist.ly/4aixf

10/16/2025

Your words have power, especially the ones you say to yourself. Talk a little nicer to yourself today. 💙 You're doing your best, and that is always enough.