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YOU {R} NOT ALONE YOU HAVE A VOICE

Family & Communication: Learning to Listen Through the Storm

Every family argues. Every family disagrees. But what separates families that grow stronger from those that drift apart is one simple thing — communication. It’s easy to love people when everything’s peaceful, when opinions match, and no one’s feelings are bruised. The real test of love shows up in those tense, uncomfortable moments…

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Veterans Day: Showing Up Matters

Veterans Day looks simple from the outside—flags, parades, sales, “thank you for your service” posts. For a lot of veterans, it’s not that simple. It can be a day that stirs up pride and pain. Memories they don’t talk about. Faces they still see. Questions that never really got answers. If you’re a…

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Forgiveness Isn’t Weak – It’s Warfare

I went to Bible study last night and walked out realizing something big: forgiveness isn’t just a “nice” thing to do – it’s a fight. We read Mark 11:22–25, where Jesus says to pray, believe, receive… and forgive. If we don’t forgive, our prayers hit a wall. Not because God is mad, but…

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Verse of the Day: Don’t Give Up Doing Good

“So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” — Galatians 6:9 (NLT) Life has a way of testing our patience and faith. Sometimes it feels like we’re doing all the right things — staying…

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Self-Care: When You’re Trying Not to Disappear

There are days you don’t want to die, but you also don’t really want to be here. You’re breathing, but it feels like you’re fading. You’re not in crisis enough to call it an emergency… but you’re not okay either. This is for those days. Not a ten-step miracle cure. Just a handful…

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BOUNDARIES

There’s a certain kind of guilt that creeps in when you finally start saying no. It’s the kind that doesn’t come from doing something wrong—but from doing something right for the first time. That guilt you feel for setting boundaries isn’t a flaw in your character. It’s a wound. A wound that comes…

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A Boy Is Born, But a Man Is Built

A boy is born, but a man is built. Manhood isn’t something that just comes with age — it’s something that’s forged through pain, shaped by failure, and strengthened through every heartbreak, rejection, and loss you face along the way. Some people think turning eighteen or hitting thirty automatically makes you a man.…

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Healing Through EMDR

I’ve been doing EMDR therapy again for a couple of months now, and even though it’s still fairly recent, this isn’t my first time going through it. A few years ago, I spent almost a full year doing EMDR with a different therapist — and that experience planted the first real seeds of…

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Honesty and Self-Love — What It Means to Me

Honesty used to scare me. Not the kind where you tell someone the truth about what you did, but the kind where you have to look yourself in the mirror and face the truth about who you are. That kind of honesty hits different — it’s raw, it’s uncomfortable, and it doesn’t come…

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“Make the Most of Every Day”

Life is too short to spend in arguments or anger. God didn’t bless us with another day so we could waste it on things that steal our peace. Instead, we’re called to love one another, forgive quickly, and live with gratitude in our hearts. Count your blessings — even the ones that seem…

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Some People Are Just Human Medicine

By Josh Bridges You ever meet someone who just makes the world feel a little lighter? The kind of person who doesn’t have to say much — their presence alone feels like peace. That’s what I call human medicine. You spend an hour with them, and suddenly your heart doesn’t feel as heavy,…

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“They’ll Have to Heal from Me”

“Knowing my kids will have to heal from me because I was late healing myself… and I carry that deep in my chest.” That line stopped me cold. Because it’s real. It’s raw. And it’s me. As a parent in recovery, as someone who’s battled depression, addiction, and my own demons, I know…

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🙏 A Wake-Up Call from the Book of Amos

By Josh Bridges Today at church, we talked about the Book of Amos — and man, it hit home. Amos isn’t one of those books people talk about every Sunday, but it’s one that speaks straight to the heart. It’s a wake-up call, plain and simple. Amos was a prophet sent to warn…

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The Strength in Self-Awareness and Asking for Help

The Strength in Self-Awareness and Asking for Help By Josh Bridges | YouRnotaLone.Life There’s a moment in every person’s life when they have to look in the mirror and face what’s really going on inside. Not the version we show to the world — the one that smiles and says, “I’m fine.” I’m…

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Verse of the Day

Bible Verse of the Day: Isaiah 41:10 Published on October 30, 2025 “Fear not, for I am with you;be not dismayed, for I am your God;I will strengthen you, I will help you,I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”— Isaiah 41:10 (ESV) Reflection There are days when fear creeps in quietly…

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Coming Back Strong

Why I’m Blogging Again It’s been a while since I sat down at the computer and poured my thoughts out for the world to see. For a long time, I wasn’t sure if I’d ever do it again. Life has a way of pulling us in different directions — sometimes toward the light,…

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Spread Love, Not Hate: A Call to Embrace Compassion

In a world filled with diverse perspectives and experiences, it’s crucial to recognize the power we hold in choosing our attitudes and actions. Instead of succumbing to negativity and animosity, let’s make a conscious decision to spread love, not hate. This blog delves into the importance of embracing compassion and understanding, fostering a…

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“Exploring Perspectives: Religion, Atheism, and Agnosticism”

Religion has been a cornerstone of human existence, shaping cultures, societies, and individual lives. As a Christian, I find immense value in my faith, but it’s essential to recognize that the world is diverse, and people hold varying beliefs, including atheism and agnosticism. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why some individuals…

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Empowering Change: Breaking the Cycle with Parenting Classes and Family Therapy

Destructive parenting, marked by harmful behaviors like abuse or neglect, can deeply impact a child’s well-being, influencing their self-esteem and ability to form healthy relationships. However, there’s hope and help available. Parenting classes are a beacon of positivity, equipping parents with valuable skills and insights. These classes promote effective communication, positive discipline, and…

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Navigating the 2024 Election: My Choice to Vote for Trump

As we approach the 2024 election, the political landscape is once again at the forefront of national discussions. It’s a time for individuals to reflect on their values, beliefs, and the qualities they seek in a leader. In this blog, we’ll explore my thoughts on why I’ve chosen to cast my vote for…

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“The Road to Recovery: Understanding the Importance of Rehab for Drugs and Alcohol”

Embarking on the journey to recovery from drug and alcohol addiction is a courageous and transformative process. Rehab plays a pivotal role in providing individuals with the tools and support needed to overcome substance abuse. In this blog, we’ll delve into the significance of rehab, explore the various types of rehabilitation programs available,…

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Balancing Act: Navigating Everyday Life with Bipolar Disorder

Living with bipolar disorder can present unique challenges, but with the right strategies and support, individuals can manage their condition effectively. Here are some helpful tips for everyday life with bipolar disorder: Remember that bipolar disorder is a manageable condition, and with the right combination of treatment, support, and self-care, individuals can lead…

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“Unlocking Healing: The Intensity of EMDR Therapy”

In the realm of mental health, a revolutionary approach has emerged, promising profound healing and transformative change for those grappling with the aftermath of trauma. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has steadily gained recognition as an intense and effective method for processing and overcoming the haunting effects of traumatic experiences. This…

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Understanding Suicide: A Global Concern

Suicide is a global public health issue with far-reaching consequences that demand our attention. According to World Health Organization (WHO) statistics, approximately 800,000 people die by suicide every year, making it a leading cause of death worldwide. These numbers underscore the urgent need for collective efforts to address the complexities of mental health.Warning…

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Embracing a Holistic Approach to Mental Well-Being

Self-care practices are fundamental pillars in fostering mental health. Introducing techniques such as mindfulness, exercise, and maintaining healthy sleep habits can empower individuals to manage stress and enhance overall well-being. Equally significant is the role of nutrition in mental health, as a balanced diet provides essential nutrients that contribute to cognitive function and…

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Understanding Depression: Unraveling the Layers

Depression, a multifaceted mental health condition, requires a nuanced exploration of its clinical definition. Clinically, depression is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. Distinguishing between everyday sadness and clinical depression is crucial, as the latter involves pervasive and prolonged symptoms that significantly…

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Understanding Depression: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

People around the world suffer from depression, which is a serious illness. It can be a debilitating condition that impacts every aspect of one’s life. Depression is more than just feeling sad or down; it is a persistent feeling of hopelessness, sadness, and despair that can lead to losing interest in once-enjoyable activities.…

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Breaking Down Mental Health Stigma: A Patient-Centered Approach for Effective Treatment

Mental health stigma can be a real obstacle for those seeking help, leading to discrimination and mistreatment. But, no worries, mental health professionals can work to break down these barriers by putting patients’ needs first, using evidence-based treatments, and respecting patient rights and privacy. By taking a patient-centered approach, mental health professionals can…

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Reflections of Life: A Glimpse into My Journey

Hey everyone, my name is Joshua Bridges I am 40 years old, and I’m excited to share a bit about myself on this blog. I currently live in Lima, Ohio and I’m in my last year and a half of school at Colorado Technical University, where I’m pursuing my Bachelor of Science in…

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Essential Tips for Taking Care of Your Mental Health

Taking care of your mental health is incredibly important, as it can have a significant impact on your overall well-being. There are many different factors that can affect your mental health, such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, and more. It’s important to be aware of these factors and to take steps to manage…

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The Climb

A long time ago, in a small village at the foot of a mighty mountain, there lived a boy named Adam. The people in the village believed that their fate was predetermined by destiny, and they could do nothing to change their course of life. However, Adam was different from the rest. He…

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The Impact of Sexual Assault: Understanding the Physical, Emotional, and Stigma-Related Effects on Survivors and Their Families

Sexual assault is a traumatic experience that can have devastating effects on both the individual who experiences it and their family. The immediate aftermath of sexual assault can include physical injuries, emotional distress, and psychological trauma. Victims may experience feelings of shame, guilt, and fear, as well as difficulty sleeping, eating, and functioning…

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October Domestic Violence and ADHD Awareness Month

October is a very significant month as it brings to light two critical issues that have a significant impact on millions of people worldwide. These are Domestic Violence and ADHD. It is a time to raise awareness and educate people about these important topics. This month presents us with an opportunity to show…

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June 2023 National PTSD Awareness Month

As we enter the month of June, we take the opportunity to come together and highlight the importance of addressing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Various traumatic events, including exposure to war, physical, sexual, or verbal assault, and accidents, can trigger this debilitating condition. The symptoms of PTSD are numerous and can include depression,…

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A/D/D/I/C/T/I/O/N

Dealing with addiction can be incredibly challenging, and knowing where to turn for help can be difficult. It’s essential to remember that addiction is a severe illness and not a reflection of someone’s character or strength. Showing your loved one compassion and support is crucial, but it’s also essential to prioritize your well-being…

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PTSD AND ITS EFFECT ON THE BRAIN

Post-traumatic stress disorder, commonly referred to as PTSD, is a severe mental health condition that can significantly impact an individual’s brain. This disorder can arise from exposure to or witnessing a traumatic event, such as military combat, physical or sexual assault, or a natural disaster. Those who have PTSD may experience symptoms such…

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My Dearest Mother

I hope this letter finds you well and that you are enjoying this special day dedicated to you. I wanted to take this opportunity to express just how much you mean to me and how grateful I am for all you have done for me throughout my life. You have been my rock,…

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Its OK Not To Be OK

Feeling not okay sometimes is an entirely normal experience that everyone goes through. Life’s challenges can be overwhelming, and it’s crucial to practice self-compassion by allowing yourself to feel your emotions. It’s okay not to have all the answers; when you need help, feel free to ask for it. Remember to prioritize your…

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I don’t think I’m enough…

It’s understandable to feel that way sometimes, but it’s important to remember that you are worthy and capable. Don’t be too hard on yourself; try to focus on your strengths and accomplishments. It’s okay to ask for help and support when needed and to prioritize self-care and self-improvement. You are enough, and with…

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Daily Reflections May 8th

All of A.A.’s Twelve Steps ask us to go contrary to our natural desires . . . they all deflate our egos. When it comes to ego deflation, few Steps are harder to take than Five. But scarcely any Step is more necessary to longtime sobriety and peace of mind than this one.…

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The War Within

Amidst all the chaos and confusion, our minds can feel like a battleground. But we must remember that we are warriors in this fight, and our strength will carry us through. Though it may seem like a daily struggle, we can overcome any obstacle with patience and perseverance and rise above the darkness…

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   Advocacy 2023

As a mental health advocate in 2023, my main goal is to help people achieve a sense of balance and well-being in their daily lives. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and caring for our minds is crucial for overall health and happiness.   I want to work with individuals…

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The World According To Mr. Rogers

I believe it’s a fact of life that what we have is less important than what we make out of what we have. The same holds true for families: It’s not how many people there are in a family that counts, but rather the feelings among the people who are there. -Fred Rogers…

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May {Mental Health Awareness Month}

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of mental health and its impact on our overall well-being. It’s a time to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote resources for those struggling with mental health challenges. This month encourages us to prioritize self-care, seek needed support, and advocate for…

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Why It’s Important to Talk About Mental Health in the Workplace

Discussing mental health in the workplace is crucial since it dramatically impacts our lives. For example, when employees experience stress or anxiety, it can significantly affect their productivity, creativity, and job satisfaction. In contrast, addressing mental health concerns in the workplace creates an environment that is positive, supportive, and empowering for employees. Addressing…

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The Connection Between Exercise and Mental Health

I try to be more health-conscious in my life, and I’ve always been intrigued by the correlation between exercise and mental health. Through my personal experience, I have realized that regular exercise helps me maintain my physical health and positively impacts my mental well-being. Extensive research has shown that exercise can significantly reduce…

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Twenty-Four Hours a Day Thursday, March 23

Thought for the DayStrength comes from the fellowship you find when you come into A.A. Just being with men and women who have found the way out gives you a feeling of security. You listen to the speakers, you talk with other members, and you absorb the atmosphere of confidence and hope that…

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Twenty-Four Hours a Day Monday Mar 20

Thought for the Day When we were drinking, we used to worry about the future. Worry is terrible mental punishment. What’s going to become of me? Where will I end up? In the gutter or the sanitarium? We can see ourselves slipping, getting worse and worse, and we wonder what the finish will…

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Twenty-Four Hours a Day Friday Mar 17

AAA Thought for the Day A.A. also helps us to hang onto sobriety. By having regular meetings so that we can associate with other alcoholics who have come through that same door in the wall, by encouraging us to tell the story of our own sad experiences with alcohol, and by showing us…

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MARCH 17TH – FOOD FOR THOUGHT

“Feeling defeated can work for the best or the worst. The good thing is you can choose to learn from your mistakes and move forward. Or you can wallow in self-pity.” ―Joshua Bridges “You don’t have to be our worst case, to be a worthy case.” ― Courtney Summers “I have not failed.…

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THE WORLD ACCORDING TO MISTER ROGERS

Most of us, I believe, admire strength. It’s something we tend to respect in others, desire for ourselves, and wish for our children. Sometimes, though, I wonder if we confuse strength with other words-like, like aggression and even violence. Real strength is neither male nor female, but it is, quite simply, one of…

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Start Taking Care Of You

It can be tough to do everyday things when dealing with mental health. Just getting out of bed can be a struggle. It is essential to set a schedule for your day. Start getting up every day at the same time. Make your bed before doing anything. Making your bed will give you…

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Perceived threat, PTSD and the vagus nerve

The new study, published by researchers at UC San Diego in the journal, Brain Stimulation, has investigated the effect that the nervous system might have on mechanisms of PTSD and trauma in the brain by practicing ‘non-invasive stimulation’ of the vagus nerve in participants who then had a series of brain scans via…

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Understanding Drug Use and Addiction DrugFacts

Many people don’t understand why or how other people become addicted to drugs. They may mistakenly think that those who use drugs lack moral principles or willpower and that they could stop their drug use simply by choosing to. In reality, drug addiction is a complex disease, and quitting usually takes more than…

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The World According to Mister Rogers

Some days, doing “the best we can” may still fall short of what we would like to be able to do, but life isn’t perfect-on any front-and doing what we can with what we have is the most we should expect of ourselves or anyone else. -Fred Rogers TO LEAVE A COMMENT SCROLL…

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December 27th FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Without even the tiniest expressions of love, you can’t sustain the larger ones. So, dust off your ‘thank yous’ and appreciate the love in your life that is your life. -Byron Jamal The hardest thing to do sometimes is love from a distance. -Joshua Bridges Perfection is what you’re striving for, but perfection…

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Major Depression

What is depression? Depression is a serious mood disorder that affects your whole body including your mood and thoughts. It touches every part of your life. It’s important to know that depression is not a weakness or character flaw. It’s a chemical imbalance in your brain that needs to be treated. If you…

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8 Depression Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

To help you recognize depression that warrants concern, whether in yourself or a loved one, here are eight depression symptoms — some of which you might even find surprising — that you shouldn’t ignore. Trouble sleeping Although depression can sap energy and motivation during the day, a person may often lie awake at night,…

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