We consider the impact stress has on our mental health, offer support during ICE raids, and build a support system without a traditional family structure.
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Dear friends,
I’ve been thinking a lot about stress lately. Not just as a therapist, but as someone living through these times alongside all of you. The ongoing ICE raids here in Los Angeles have created an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. And then there’s the uncertainty around the future of our city, our country, and our planet. For so many of us, there’s a strong desire to help but we often feel powerless, and the stress can be overwhelming.
This month has felt especially heavy for me personally. A family friend was injured but too scared to go to the hospital because she’s undocumented. I found myself trying to help while feeling terrified that I couldn’t truly keep her safe. At the same time, I’ve been doing more caretaking at home, and the combination has left me feeling stretched thin in ways that are familiar but still difficult.
What I’ve noticed, both in my own life and in my work with clients, is how chronic stress like this doesn’t just stay contained. It can seep into everything. It can affect our sleep, our relationships, our ability to focus. And sometimes, without us even realizing it, that persistent stress can gradually shift into something that looks and feels like depression.
That’s what this month’s blog post explores: the connection between chronic stress and depression, and how we can recognize when stress is becoming something more serious. It feels especially relevant right now, when so many of us are carrying the weight of uncertainty about our economy, our democracy, and the safety of our communities.
If you’re feeling the weight of these times, if stress is becoming unmanageable, or if you’re noticing signs that your stress might be shifting into something deeper, we hope you reach out. You don’t have to wait until you’re in crisis to ask for support.
If you’re struggling, we see you. If you need help, we’re here. You can reach us by phone at (323) 388-5578 or by email at info@takeroottherapy.com.
With care,
Saba Harouni Lurie (she/her/hers)
On The Blog
Can Stress Cause Depression? 5 Ways To Prevent Depression
When I think about the early days of the pandemic in Los Angeles, I remember feeling overwhelmed and scared, but I think there was also a feeling of excitement. I may be rewriting history here — and I don’t want to downplay the real fear that I was experiencing (and the magnitude of how many people were dying)– but as the eternal optimist, I assumed…
How to Help
Volunteers Needed At Scribble
WE NEED VOLUNTEER HELP THIS MONTH . Please reach out to volunteer@scribblecommunity.
Scribble is a nonprofit counseling center and community events venue located in Highland Park, Los Angeles.
WHEN:
Contact Scribble For More Info
WHERE:
Scribble
5541 York Blvd
Los Angeles, California 90042
Where to donate, volunteer and get support during L.A. ICE raids
This article provides a list of groups offering supplies, services, volunteer opportunities, and more.
WHEN:
Contact Individual Organizations For More Info
WHERE:
Contact Individual Organizations For More Info
Community Events
Voices For Justice: A Poetry Fundraiser
5 poets. 1 goal. To create community and support those that help make LA great.
This free event is a chance to come together and heal our hearts with art. 100 percent of all money raised will benefit Immigrant Defenders Law Center, an organization helping immigrant families affected by the raids.
WHEN:
Sunday, July 27th
3 – 4 PM
WHERE:
The Last Bookstore Studio City
4437 Lankershim Boulevard
Los Angeles, CA 91602
RED HOT: Anti-ICE Comedy Benefit for LA Tenants Union
BUY TIX HERE
Ah, summer…the perfect time to melt some ice. Come watch your favorite standups and improvisers turn the heat up.
All profits from this show will be donated to the LA Tenants Union to support community defense against immigration raids, Know Your Rights trainings, eviction protection, and mutual aid.
WHEN:
Wednesday, July 30th
7:30 – 8:30 PM
WHERE:
The Elysian Theater
1944 Riverside Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90039
Featured Publications
How to Set Boundaries for Your Emotional Well-Being – And the Long-Term Benefits of Sticking to Them
featuring Saba Harouni Lurie
‘I Swapped Doomscrolling for Daily Affirmations—Here’s What Actually Changed in 7 Days’
featuring Saba Harouni Lurie
