Explore our blog for insightful articles, personal reflections and ideas on topics that you may care about and that we are hoping will be thought provoking.
The rise and development of AI in society raises important concerns when it comes to children's cognitive, emotional, and social development; the influx of AI integration is becoming reflected in parenting norms, mainstream media and literature, as well as schools and education systems. We may not see child development the same way again, so it is important we stay ahead of the curve and make intentional decisions about how we want our children to experience AI in their lifetime while we are raising them --- especially while they are very young.
As the year draws to a close and 2026 is about to begin, many of us find ourselves standing at a familiar crossroads: reflecting on what has happened to us, and beginning to envision what we want to come next. For individuals navigating mental health challenges, this season of transition presents a meaningful opportunity to approach change with compassion instead of expectation, regret, self-hate, and negativity.
Across cultures, religions, and communities, December is a month rich with ritual, meaning, and opportunities for connection. While the dominant cultural narrative often emphasizes Christmas, the broader picture is far more diverse. People around the world mark this month with celebrations of light, reflection, resilience, renewal, and community.
In the mental health world, during the winter time, we are apt to discuss those who suffer through the holiday season because it highlights prolonged seasons of isolation in their lives, prompting grief, regret, and depression. In the US, we look at the months of November, December, and January as a time of gathering for a myriad of holidays.
As Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools become woven into the fabric of daily life, an undercurrent of emotional fatigue is rising. Many people report feeling less inspired, less capable, or strangely disconnected from their own creativity. Beneath the excitement, a quieter cultural sentiment is forming: devaluation of the human spirit.
Social isolation and the use of AI are growing at similar rates, so it makes one start to wonder about how the two could be connected. People who fear connection or conflict might find solace in utilizing this space to help support their communication, but there can also be costs to this. As our communication experiences with AI become more curated, unconditionally responsive, servicing, and “intelligent,” we may unknowingly become less and less comfortable with the discomfort of real social engagement. It's a subtle shift.
In a world where nearly every aspect of our lives has gone digital—our friendships, work, entertainment, and even therapy—it’s easy to believe we’ve never been more connected. We can message anyone, anywhere, at any time. We can share photos, celebrate milestones, and express empathy with a tap of an emoji. Yet many people report feeling lonelier, more misunderstood, and emotionally isolated than ever before.
Have you noticed how quickly society’s technology use evolves? In just a few short years, artificial intelligence has gone from something we hear about in the news to a daily companion. We ask AI to help us brainstorm ideas, edit our emails, or even talk through personal dilemmas. For many, AI offers a sense of efficiency — I know I often utilize this tool in my own work. But for others, AI offers an eerie sense of understanding and comfort — the same way a friend or family member would.
One of the most powerful psychological concepts influencing our lives often works quietly in the background: locus of control. It refers to the degree to which people believe they have control over the events that affect them. While it may sound like an abstract idea, locus of control influences our motivation, our resilience, our relationships, and even our mental health outcomes.
In this article, we’ll explore what locus of control means, why it matters, and how individuals can develop a healthier sense of agency without tipping into blame or helplessness.