Author Archives: Meg Duke, LCSW-S, ADHD-CCSP, LCDC

In the fast-paced world we live in, the role of a stay-at-home parent is often misunderstood and underestimated. The common misconception is that staying at home means taking it easy, lounging around, and having a leisurely day. However, the reality is quite the opposite. Being a stay-at-home parent is a demanding and often underappreciated jobContinue reading “The Invisible Labor: Debunking Myths About Stay-at-Home Parents”

In the fast-paced, interconnected world we live in, finding balance and maintaining mental well-being can often feel like a daunting task. However, a crucial aspect of cultivating a healthy and fulfilling life lies in the art of creating and holding healthy boundaries. These boundaries not only serve as a shield to protect our mental andContinue reading “Nurturing Well-Being: The Power of Healthy Boundaries and Authenticity”

Reality check: If achieving our dreams were a walk in the park, we’d all be living them by now. But here’s the beauty in the struggle – it’s the refining fire that molds us into the strong, confident, still-flawed-but-working-on-it beings we’re meant to become. Embrace the journey, learn from the setbacks, and let perseverance beContinue reading “If it were that easy…”

As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of festive activities, family gatherings, and social obligations. While this time of year is often associated with joy and celebration, it can also bring about stress and a sense of overwhelm. In the midst of the hustle and bustle, itContinue reading “Embracing Authenticity and Guarding Your Peace: Navigating Boundaries During the Holiday Season”

A little guest room yoga – morning slow flow. Thanks, @rossrayburnyoga! I share this because, peep that lack of flexibility in that right hip. Rarely do we start out very good at anything, let alone experts. In a yoga competition sense, I suck at yoga. But I showed up and tried, and I’m intentional about workingContinue reading “Find Beauty in the Suck”

In the complex landscape of our world, where geopolitical tensions and religious differences often overshadow our shared humanity, it becomes essential to reflect on the values that bind us as people. While I am by no means a geopolitical or religious scholar, I firmly believe no Higher Power esteems a piece of land more thanContinue reading “Embracing Our Shared Humanity: A Call for Compassion in the Midst of Differences”

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s natural for our thoughts to gravitate towards gratitude. The season of giving thanks often nudges us to reflect on the positives in our lives, but there’s a fine distinction between genuine gratitude and toxic positivity that’s essential to recognize. Gratitude: The Authentic Embrace of Appreciation At its core, gratitude is aContinue reading “Toeing the Line Between Gratitude and Toxic Positivity: Navigating Thanksgiving Season Mindfully”

In a world filled with complex problems and seemingly insurmountable challenges, it’s easy to feel helpless. We often wonder if our individual voices can make a difference in the face of such overwhelming issues. But the truth is, every voice matters, and reaching out to your lawmakers can be a powerful way to effect positiveContinue reading “The Power of Your Voice”

As the seasons change and the days grow shorter, many of us experience fluctuations in our mood and energy levels. For some, this transition can trigger a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a type of depression that occurs seasonally, most commonly during the fall and winter months when sunlight is scarce,Continue reading “Battling Seasonal Affective Disorder: A Ray of Hope”

Life is a tapestry woven with a multitude of emotions. We often think of our feelings as distinct and separate, but the truth is, emotions are complex and multifaceted. It’s entirely possible to experience two seemingly contradictory emotions simultaneously. One of the most significant misconceptions is that feeling happiness during times of grief and sadnessContinue reading “Embracing Complex Emotions: Learning to be Okay with Happiness Amidst Grief and Sadness”