Additional Speeches:
Click Here
Resilience Article:
https://thedrivemagazine.com/posts/three-ways-to-bounce-forward
Additional Articles:
Click Here
7 Psychology Talks on Resilience with Dr. Andrea Dinardo
Tag: Mental Health Education
New Virtual Experiences During COVID-19
Staying Hopeful
I wanted to share how I have been keeping hope alive in my heart and soul during COVID-19.
Specifically, by expanding my reach with new virtual experiences.
Beginning in the spring with my first “live” recorded internet event with Sam Piercell, a fitness entrepreneur, from Windsor, Ontario.
F45 "Live" Event: Community Resilience with Dr. Andrea Dinardo
Resilience Habits & Routines
Community members asked stress, wellness, and psychology questions in real time.
Throughout the resilience seminar, I also shared daily habits and thought patterns keeping me healthy during the pandemic.
Optimism, hope, and humour are key factors in health, happiness, and resilience.
Optimism Bootcamp The Drive Magazine
Sharing Our COVID Experiences
Since then, I have been interviewed virtually by:
- Dr. Katherin Garland on Mental Health Matters (watch: video interview).
- Candace Sampson on What She Said Radio (watch: video interview).
We discussed situational and pandemic anxiety, health and positive psychology, time and energy management, social media boundaries, resilience, and thriving under pressure.
2020 “Stretch” Goals
- GOAL: Stay Connected to each other in new and novel ways.
- HOW: Interactive LIVE “Q & A” conversations in real time.
- MEDIUM: ZOOM, INSTAGRAM, FACEBOOK, YOUTUBE.
Adapting to the New Normal
In the past, online interactions were “an extra” to everyday conversation.
Now “the virtual life” is a necessity for both our personal and professional lives.
An important and crucial way to stay connected to both our dreams and each other.
2020 is the World’s Classroom
PSYCHOLOGY TEACHING ONLINE - BEHIND THE SCENES: 1. What It's Like to Be a Professor During Global Pandemic 2. "Live" Online Psychology Class
Hope and Change
“Adapt or Die” may sound harsh.
But adaptation is truly what’s being asked of us in every area of our lives right now.
So I figure I might as well jump right in!
Because I would rather ride the wave, than have the wave ride me. 🌊
What’s Next?
VIRTUAL KEYNOTE: Healthy Workplace Awards
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Anxiety Relief Technique
FEAR is an illusion
5 Why’s Technique
The 5 Why’s is a simple and effective technique for understanding the source of our fears and cognitive distortions (irrational beliefs) one why at a time.
Exploring the Unconscious Mind
An analytic (below the surface) strategy originating in the psychoanalytic theories of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung.
Freud’s Iceberg Analogy : Click Here
Brief Instructions
- Write down on a sheet of paper something you beat yourself up for over and over again. (Related Post: Why Are We So Hard on Ourselves)
- State the anxiety provoking situation out loud.
- For example:
- Why is it so overwhelming for me to spend time with ________ ?
- Why do I repeatedly agree to do ___________ when I know it makes me uncomfortable?
- Ask Yourself Why in response to your question Five Times.
- Watch the psychology video below for a “live” example of this technique.
5 Why’s Technique on YouTube:
The goal is to discover the root source of what causes fear in a particular time, place, or situation.
With the ultimate intention of enhancing inner peace and understanding.
By differentiating what’s real from what’s not.
To Learn More
Watch my in-depth interview on situational anxiety with Dr. Katherin Garland: https://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=youtu.be&v=N7ttX6h_D8o
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Energy and Time Management
What we give energy to impacts everything.
Thoughts. Emotions. Actions. People.
Some drain. Others invigorate.
Awareness is the first step to enhancing vitality.
The goal is to identify the source of energy leaks and peaks.
Where to start?
My recent interview on FM 105.9 The Region was designed to help people become more conscious of what depletes their energy and what lifts them up.
A health psychology practice that benefits mood, motivation, and productivity.
Because when we feel energized, we can do twice as much in half the time.
Rather than focusing on time, which is finite, I suggested to radio host Candace Sampson that we turn our attention to energy management, which in turn expands the amount of time we have.
Watch Interview:
What She Said Talk on FM 105.9 The Region
3 Energy Tips Shared:
| Tip #1: Debits and Credits (Energy Audit) Daily Tracking System of Who and What Depletes You |
| Tip #2: Put a Time Limit on Negativity (Stove Timer) Conscious awareness of how much time with friends and family is spent on complaining (draining) versus solutions (energizing). |
| Tip #3: Energy is Everywhere (Combat Boots Anchoring Exercise) Energetic grounding rituals before interacting online. |
| *All 3 tips described in detail in both a) the August 20 energy video above and b) the extended September 1 podcast interview below. |
Reflection Questions:
- How do you manage your energy throughout the day?
- Is energy something you consciously pay attention to?
- What is your energy level on a scale of 1-10 right now?
- What and who drains you?
- What and who energizes you?
Video of Blog Post: Click Here
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Situational Anxiety Interview
Mental Health Matters Interview
Situational Anxiety
This week, I speak with one of my dearest blogging friends, Dr. D!
We discuss all things anxiety. She explains the difference between anxiety disorder and situational anxiety.
Dr. Dinardo provides 3 strategies to help us cope with situational anxiety, especially because it may be heightened during the pandemic and times of racial unrest.
1. Video Format of Interview
Watch on YouTube.
2. Podcast Format of Interview
Available on SoundCloud and Apple Podcasts.
Reflection Questions
- What did you learn about situational versus clinical anxiety from our interview?
- Can you relate to the personal example of heightened situational anxiety shared by Dr. Garland? How so?
- Have you experienced increased situational anxiety since COVID-19? In what areas of your life?
- What techniques help you cope with unexpected stressors and challenges?
- Do you see failure as a positive or a negative? Why?
- How does fear, trepidation, and worry manifest physically in your body?
- What would you tell your younger self about stress and anxiety?
Watch Anxiety Video: Click Here
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IS THIS NORMAL? Temporary Emotions vs Mental Illness
The most common question people ask when they discover I’m a retired psychologist is – “Is This Normal?“
This question is a significant motivator for creating this psychology blog in the first place.
Because too often people suffer because of lack of understanding versus a diagnosable medical condition.
differential diagnosis · the process of differentiating between two or more conditions which share similar signs or symptoms.
Case Study
Two people present with similar symptoms (e.g., rapid heart beat, excessive worrying, difficulty concentrating) with vastly different causes.
On closer inspection
One person’s symptoms is caused by lack of sleep, excessive caffeine consumption, and a recent breakup.
While the other person’s symptoms is caused by a mental illness, as diagnosed by a registered psychologist, using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
One improves with time and lifestyle changes, while the other requires more intensive psychological intervention.
Education Empowers Everyone
This is why it’s my life mission to share psychology everywhere, all the time.
In the classroom. During podcasts. On YouTube. Radio. Television. Psychology articles, textbooks and blog posts. On the TEDx stage. Instagram . In between sets at F45 workouts.. and at the local coffee shop.
Psychology is my favourite subject after all.
Psychology Goals
To make DAILY mental health education accessible, sustainable, and easily APPLICABLE.
To eradicate misconceptions about normal versus abnormal functioning.
To help students develop positive coping techniques in fun, interactive, and uplifting ways.
To reduce stigma about mental illness.
Therapy versus Talking to Friends: What's the difference?
Especially when it comes to transitory states, emotions, and situations.
Sadness versus clinical depression.
Neatness versus obsessive compulsive disorder.
The topic of this week’s psychology video:
Is This Normal? Temporary Emotions versus Mental Illness
For example, distressing emotions often improve with rest, perspective, and time.
While mental illness requires more ongoing medical support and therapy to see improved functioning.
My hope is that mental health education becomes paramount in both the classroom and the doctor’s office.
An ongoing conversation about what’s healthy versus what’s not.
So that people don’t automatically assume they’re mentally ill simply because they’re having a bad day.
More Resources Coming Soon!
Host Dr. Kathy Garland
SITUATIONAL ANXIETY with Dr. Dinardo
Live Interview
Airing July 31, 2020!
Stay Tuned for Dr. Garland’s Video & Podcast!
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What Trauma Taught Me About Happiness
Is it possible to feel joy in the face of adversity?
Strength during the lowest of lows?
Creativity in the midst of destruction?
Peace in difficulty?
Vibrancy during cancer?
Happiness during COVID-19?
In the video below, I share some personal examples from my own upbringing on how my parents found strength and contentment during even the darkest of times.
Your Thoughts:
Can trauma and happiness coexist?
I’d love to hear your ideas, theories, and personal stories.
Video of Post → Click Here
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What has COVID-19 awakened in you?
How is everyone doing?
How are you coping with our universal global event?
How has your perception of yourself and the world evolved?
How has COVID-19 transformed you?
What is the higher purpose in all of this?
I Am Waking Up
After socially distancing and working full-time from home as a psychology professor (now online), I had never felt more appreciative and grateful for all the simple joys in my life.
In this video created for Windsor Updates I share how our family is thriving instead of merely surviving the COVID-19 crisis.
Including counting our blessings like never before.
Community Resilience
In the next video I share pandemic resilience techniques with our local Windsor Essex community.
An interactive virtual experience hosted by F45 fitness studio owner Samantha Piercell:
Your Turn
What has COVID-19 awakened in you?
Video of Post: Click Here
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Ambitious Mama Podcast: Thriving Under Pressure & Posttraumatic Growth
Podcast Details & Show Notes
I was recently interviewed by wellness entrepreneur Christa Realba for her Ambitious Mama Podcast Series.
During the podcast, Christa and I discussed how posttraumatic growth and thriving under pressure are possible for all of us.
In different gradients, and at different times for sure. Depending on where you are on your journey.
We also discussed how we all have pain and adversity. It’s universal to all of us.
The key is to not get stuck in the challenge and let pain become your identity.
Instead, with support, encouragement, and the right set of resilience skills (this is what I teach), we all have the capacity to grow from difficulty.
To learn from it. To rise up and begin again when the time is right.
In addition to the podcast, resilience is discussed in more detail in my TEDx Talk and on my Psychology Blog, both called “Thriving Under Pressure”: https://DrAndreaDinardo.com
Listen to Podcast
- Apple iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/thriving-under-pressure-with-dr-andrea-dinardo/id1482282864?i=1000464930886
- Anchor FM: https://anchor.fm/ambitiousmama/episodes/Thriving-Under-Pressure-with-Dr–Andrea-Dinardo-ealagi
- Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/ambitious-mama/e/67169349
Your Turn
Do you believe thriving under pressure + posttraumatic growth are possible for all of us? Why or why not? Tune into my latest podcast interview and let me know what you think!
Related Post: Teaching Resilience at School
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Psychology on YouTube
My number one intention for becoming a psychologist and psychology professor has always been to help people live a better life, no matter their life circumstances. And since there are only so many hours in a day, I’m always looking for new ways to reach and teach as many people as I can. All at once, if possible.
Which is why I created a Psychology Tips Playlist on my YouTube Channel that I contribute to often.
Psychology Thought for the Day
The purpose of my psychology YouTube Channel is to share key lessons from my three hour psychology lessons in as little as three to five minutes.
Giving people far and wide access to virtual classes, especially those who don’t have the money or means to an undergraduate education. I know how busy everyone is. And I love a good challenge! I also include videos of psychology interviews, workshops, and keynote speeches.
My Hope Is to Share Psychology With The World
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Positive psychology on campus
What is Positive Psychology?
“While traditional psychology focused its attention on pathology and problems, in the relatively new field of positive psychology, researchers strive to explore and understand the strengths of individuals and communities that contribute to their flourishing.” Source: Psychology Guide
Strengths first.
I am passionate about what positive psychology can do for students and educators in and out of the classroom. By first focusing on what is right, before examining what is wrong, students are motivated to move beyond, and in some cases, be transformed by their current limitations, history, and circumstances.
Link to: VIA Character Strengths Inventory
Balance is key.
Positive psychology is not about being happy and successful all the time. Instead, happiness is aspirational like a delicious meal at a 5 star restaurant. Wonderful but not to be expected, at every meal, all the time. (Otherwise, we set ourselves up for disappointment on the Kraft Dinner days.)
Instead, the field of positive psychology helps bring out the best in us. In a balanced way. The ebb and flow of life. Negativity is to be expected. The question is – how long do you stay there.
Safe uplifting atmosphere.
As a professor, I believe it is paramount to create a safe and uplifting atmosphere in the classroom. A secure and consistent milieu where students know what to expect class to class, week to week, semester to semester. A place where students are encouraged to build upon their existing strengths, while feeling supported enough to share their current struggles.
Link to: Broaden & Build Theory of Positive Emotion
As I teach mostly nursing students, it is critical that I practice what I teach in and out of the classroom. Nursing students will also be responsible for creating an encouraging and safe space for their clients one day.
The yellow t-shirts are from the Yellow Umbrella Project, an Ontario wide college campaign for battling the stigma of mental illness on campus.
Positive psychology and student empowerment.
My highest goal is to work with young Canadians in a way that empowers and encourages them to become the best version of themselves. Cultivating success in a way that is unique to them. I believe that interactive lectures combined with warmth and real-life stories is the best approach for achieving this goal.
Link to: Positive Psychology Interview
The photo below is from a leadership conference for college students where I discussed the connection between optimism and student success.
Celebrating students every chance I get.
Ultimately, I hope to remind students of their gifts. While encouraging them to embrace their challenges. For we are the sum total of all that is powerful and vulnerable – within and around us. And it’s this extraordinary combination of strong and weak, good and bad, light and dark, that makes our world and our classrooms such a fascinating place to live and thrive.
Repost from July 5 2017
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Radio Interview: Is Social Media Bad for Mental Health?
“Live” from the studio📻
Your Input Please
I would love your questions and reflections on the topic of social media and well-being for my upcoming July 7 SUNDAY MORNING LIVE interview with host April Anderson on AM800 CKLW iHeart Radio. We will also be discussing thriving under pressure and why failure is good for us.
To watch video — click here
RADIO INTERVIEW OBJECTIVES
The goal of the interview is to give listeners the tools to enjoy the benefits of social media without sacrificing mental health and wellness.
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
What comes to mind when you think about social media? What’s your experience? The pros. The cons. The unexpected.
MY HOPE IS TO INCLUDE YOUR IDEAS IN THE JULY 7 RADIO INTERVIEW
For example:
1. How does your phone and/or social media affect your mental health?
2. Your relationships?
3. Your mood?
4. Your memory?
5. Your self-esteem?
Please share in comments below.
JULY 7 INTERVIEW IS NOW AVAILABLE!
Listen Here: Social Media & Mental 📻☀️
https://omny.fm/shows/am-800-cklw/april-anderson-talks-to-dr-andrea-dinardo
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Mental Health Awareness & Education
In Celebration of Mental Health Awareness Month in Canada
In this video, I share an overview of my latest psychology article in The Drive Magazine (May, Issue 121). An issue devoted entirely to mental health awareness, treatment, and prevention. With the ultimate goal of ending the stigma of mental illness.
Instead of thinking of mental health as a burden to be shouldered, imagine it as an opportunity to experience peace and joy. In the same way that we make time for our physical needs (eating and sleeping) we must devote attention to our psychological needs.
Excerpt from The Drive Magazine, Issue 121, pages 58-60.
Building a mental health reserve
In the psychology article and in the video below, I discuss the importance of daily self-care as a preventative and restorative health strategy using the PERMA Model of Well-Being.
In the same way we save money to buy our dream home, it is critical that we contribute daily to our mental health bank account. Health is wealth after all!
Everything little bit counts. Everything adds up. Spa coffee dates especially. ☕️💗
Read Magazine Article ⇒ Click Here Well-Being Workshop ⇒ Click Here
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Lemon Soul Podcast: Thriving Under Pressure
The Psychology of Wellness
I recently had the opportunity to be interviewed on the Lemon Soul Podcast by an engaging and bright young woman named Sierra Parr.
It was one of the most rewarding projects I have worked on and I hope you find the same value in listening to the podcast as I had co-creating it with Ms. Parr.
What is a Lemon Soul? 🍋
A lemon soul is someone who has been sweetened by the sour parts of life. Resulting in the most beautiful soul of all – “The Lemon Soul”.
The Lemon Soul Experience 🍋
Sierra’s podcast questions are timely, thought-provoking, and well-organized.
With equal parts practicality, spirituality, and science. Wrapped up in a captivating and compassionate interview style.
So much so, that I revealed parts of my life that I have never shared publicly before.
Take a listen and let me know what resonates with you!
Lemon Soul Podcast: Episode 15
Tap on Image Below and Press Play
Thriving Under Pressure: Psychology of Mental Wellness
Listen on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/podcast/lemon-soul/id1386504193?mt=2&i=1000432857445
SHOW NOTES FROM LEMON SOUL PODCAST 🍋
Very honoured to sit down with Dr. Andrea Dinardo this week and divulge all my lemon soul questions with her. A true testament to her work as a psychologist and now psychology professor, this episode is FULL of good advice! With a deeper insight into many of our mental health struggles and the science behind how our brain is working. Furthermore diving into Dr. Dinardo’s personal life as she uncovers her fundamental inspiration for everything she does in life, her sister.
Topics covered on the podcast:
From psychologist to psychology professor!
How to motivate students!
Why connection is important.
Compassion fatigue
The givers & the takers
Setting boundaries for others and ourselves.
Thriving Under Pressure!
Failure as Feedback!
Are we socialized to care?
How to train your brain
Challenge, Control, & Commitment
Honour your pain!
B r e a t h i n g s p a c e !
The universe box
Claiming your prize
GET MOVING!
I hope this podcast interview inspires you to take the road less traveled this week.
The one you have been waiting to take for days, months, perhaps years.
If not now, when?
Listen Here: Lemon Soul Podcast
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It’s ok not to be ok.
As a positive psychologist, I often write about the bright side of life. Including harnessing strengths, enhancing motivation, and flourishing in the wake of adversity.
Not the whole picture
While strengths are vital to realizing one’s full potential – it’s not the whole picture when it comes to living a balanced life.
Embrace the downside
We must also create a safe place to welcome the parts of ourselves (and our life) that weigh us down and cause us despair.
In doing so, we soften the grip of its pain. Whether it be suffering from years gone by or a hardship in current time.
Give pain room to breathe.
Give disappointments, conflicts, and lost dreams room to breathe.
You are not inadequate because you have depression. You are not unworthy because you’re divorced. You are not unloveable because you have anxiety. You are not undesirable because you’re unemployed. You are not undeserving because you’re broke.
You’re perfect just the way you are
Life ebbs and flows, comes and goes. Like the waves on the ocean shore. You are forever. Your potential grows. It’s ok not to be ok. What comes – also goes.
Welcome it all.
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5 Positive Ways to Embrace Change
“The only way to make sense out of change is to plunge into it, move with it, and join the dance.”
Need help embracing change but don’t know where to start? In my interview on CBC-TV I share 5 positive ways to embrace change using the principles of positive psychology.
