Carrie Steckl
I'm a writer.
I have a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from Indiana University and specialize in writing about mental health, caregiving, and dementia.
cmsschicago.org
To Age with Joy, Be True to Yourself
Did you know that sociologists have suggested several theories about how people “should” grow older in society? Learn about three of these theories, and how Shakespeare had the right idea all those years ago.
Mental Help Net
Clinical Trials in Mental Health: The Basics
If you experience mental health challenges or are caring for someone who does, you may or may not have heard of a kind of research called a clinical trial. Here are some basic answers about clinical trials and steps to finding one if this kind of research interests you.
Mental Help Net
Multidimensional Wellness: Powerful Concept and Practical Tool
The theory of multidimensional wellness purports that well-being depends on balancing and enhancing many interdependent aspects of life. Learn about the seven dimensions of wellness and how to use this model as a practical tool.
alz.org
Caregiver Facts and Figures: A Bittersweet Reality
Almost eight years at the Alzheimer’s Association — five at the Utah Chapter and close to three at the National Office right here in Chicago — left equally enduring imprints on my mind and heart. It is because of these imprints that I took great interest in the Alzheimer’s Association’s release of its annual Alzheimer's Disease Facts and Figures Report.
Mental Help Net
The Cascade Effect of Emotional Stress
A recent study suggests that when we are feeling emotionally stressed, it impacts multiple dimensions of our well-being. Learn how to manage this cascade and return to a sense of equilibrium.
Mental Help Net
Empathy: It’s About Happiness, Too
When you hear the word empathy, what comes to mind? Understanding another’s pain? Providing a shoulder to lean on? Learn what empathy is, how to cultivate it, and how being empathic can bring you happiness.
Mental Help Net
Five Ways to Escape the Cycle of Rumination
While self-focus can help us understand ourselves better and lead to growth and positive change, rumination is self-focus gone bad. Fortunately, there are things we can do to address our ruminating thoughts and even reshape them into healthy self-focus.