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Life in Phases

At Phases Virginia, we provide insightful and accessible information on all mental health topics. From understanding conditions to practical self-care tips, our blog empowers you with the knowledge to support your mental health.

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You’re Getting Everything Done. Why Don’t You Feel Better?

You’re managing work, family, and responsibilities, yet internally you feel anxious, numb, or exhausted. High-functioning anxiety and depression often go unnoticed because life still looks “fine.” This post explains why functioning doesn’t always mean feeling well — and when therapy can help.

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Family Stress During the Holidays: Setting Boundaries That Protect Your Mental Health

The holidays can be joyful, but they can also stir up stress, expectations, and old family patterns. Whether it’s pressure to host, navigating critical relatives, or balancing everyone’s needs, family stress is real. This article from Phases Virginia explores why holiday stress peaks, what healthy boundaries look like, and how to communicate them effectively. You’ll find therapist-approved scripts, practical coping strategies, and research-backed insights to help you stay calm and connected—without losing yourself in the process.

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Is It Stress or Depression? How to Tell the Difference and When to Get Help

Many young adults and professionals look fine on the outside while quietly struggling inside. Depression can steal joy, drain energy, and make life feel heavy even when you are doing everything “right.” You do not need to wait until things fall apart to get support. This guide helps you understand the difference between stress and depression and reminds you that reaching out for help is an act of strength, not weakness.

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Anxiety & Overwhelm

Anxiety doesn’t always look like panic attacks or constant fear. For many women, it shows up quietly — in overthinking, exhaustion, and the pressure to hold everything together. This post explores why anxiety looks different in women, how perfectionism keeps the cycle going, and what evidence-based therapy can do to help you feel calm, capable, and in control again.s

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How to Cope with Academic Pressure in Middle School, High School, and College

School can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming—for kids and parents alike. From middle school transitions to high school homework and college deadlines, academic pressure shows up in every stage of a student’s journey. Research shows that more than half of students report feeling stressed every day, and for some, that stress turns into anxiety or burnout. The good news? There are practical ways to help your child cope—and therapy can give them extra support when school stress feels like too much.

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