Alisa Hafkin, LCSW

11/20/2025

Everyone makes mistakes, but dwelling on them can keep you stuck in regret, while learning from them can help you grow. Recognize your feelings, forgive yourself, and focus on what you can do differently in the future instead of getting lost in “what ifs.” Treat yourself kindly and do things that lift your mood so you can move on and find peace.

Feeling stuck in regret? Discover how self-compassion and intentional steps can help you find hope, healing, and lasting peace.

11/11/2025

Now that daylight savings time has ended for the year, you may notice your routine and sleep feel off, which can leave you tired and moody. The lack of sunlight during the day can also make some people feel more down or low-energy. It’s pretty normal to feel a shift in your mood, but getting outside for light, sticking to a routine, and taking care of your sleep can help you adjust.

Abandoning the twice-per-year switch to and from daylight saving time could greatly reduce strokes and obesity cases, a new study finds.

11/05/2025

The food we eat can shape the way we feel and think. Good nutrition supports clearer thinking, steadier moods, and better mental health. When we nourish our bodies with wholesome meals, our minds tend to feel calmer and more focused. Over time, small changes in what we eat can bring real relief and help us feel more balanced inside and out.

Nutrition fuels our brains as well as our bodies so we should choose brain-healthy food in order to keep our brains in optimal working order.

10/29/2025

Dealing with depression can feel really heavy, but there are things you can do to make it more manageable. Activities like walking, exploring a new hobby, and spending time with supportive people can help improve your mood. Speaking with a therapist can also provide valuable guidance and support as you work through difficult emotions.
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/how-to-fight-depression -vs-tomorrow

Small steps, like taking out the trash, may help you feel more in control. Here’s how to incorporate them in a way that works for you.

10/20/2025

Male infertility isn’t often discussed, but it can have a significant impact on a man's mental and emotional well-being. Many men have been taught to stay strong and keep their feelings to themselves, which can make reaching out for support feel difficult. Working with a therapist during this challenging time can help you process your emotions and navigate infertility in a healthier way.

20-30% of all infertility in couples can be attributed to male infertility, and men contribute to infertility in about half of all cases.

10/16/2025

It’s easy to feel drained when you’re always looking after someone else, which is why caregiver burnout is quite common. If you don’t take care of yourself, it can weigh on your health and mood pretty heavily. Make sure you take breaks, ask for help when you need it, and do little things that recharge you.

Caregiving is rewarding and also can be overwhelming. Learn from Lyra how to spot burnout and reclaim your well-being.

10/08/2025

Sleep is essential for supporting good mental health, yet struggling with mental health can make it hard to get a restful night’s sleep. This cycle can take a serious toll on your well-being. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to reclaim your sleep. I’ve outlined some of those activities in my blog.

Trying to fall asleep when your mind is racing can be very difficult.  When you are dealing with problems in your life and you finally lie down in bed, your mind may drift towards those things that are causing you … Continue reading →

09/30/2025

Work can impact your mental health in both positive and negative ways, influencing everything from stress and anxiety to a sense of purpose and social connection. By recognizing warning signs and taking practical steps such as staying organized, practicing self-care, and seeking support, you can protect your well-being. Working with a therapist can also be a helpful way to develop strategies for managing stress and maintaining mental health.
https://www.priorygroup.com/mental-health/mental-health-at-work

Priory aspires to deliver the highest quality of care across our range of services, which includes drug and alcohol addiction treatment and mental healthcare.

09/25/2025

Conflicts over money are common in marriage and often come from differences in personality, upbringing, or financial priorities. Honest conversations about attitudes toward spending and saving can help couples understand each other and prevent negative feelings from building. By planning together, setting a budget, and seeking guidance from a therapist, couples can manage money more effectively and strengthen their relationship.

There are effective ways to resolve money conflicts in a marriage and bring you and your partner into alignment around spending and saving.

09/17/2025

Hope isn’t just wishful thinking but something you actively work toward. It is about taking action, setting goals, and staying flexible even when life throws you curveballs. Small wins, community support, and reflecting on what you have already accomplished can keep hope alive and make it easier to stay motivated and keep growing through tough times.
https://www.apa.org/monitor/2024/01/trends-hope-greater-meaning-life

09/08/2025

Welcoming a baby changes everything, not just for mothers, but for fathers, too. New dads often face financial worries, sleepless nights, and the challenge of building a strong bond with their child, all while adjusting to a new family dynamic. Taking time to share your feelings, seek support, and prioritize your well-being can help you show up as the best version of yourself for your family.

New fathers have many new responsibilities and emotions to deal with, which can lead to confusion, irritability, anxiety, or depression.

08/28/2025

Whether you prefer a companion that has scales or fur, having a pet can support your emotional well-being. Caring for a pet can provide a sense of purpose and routine, which helps improve mood and reduce stress. This special bond can be a source of comfort and happiness through life’s ups and downs.

Caring for a dog, cat, or other pet can help to ease loneliness, relieve stress, anxiety, and depression, and provide unconditional love.