When You Grow, Not Everyone Applauds: Why Family and Friends May Struggle with Your Positive Changes

You’d think that making positive changes like eating better, setting boundaries, moving your body, or managing stress would be something everyone around you celebrates. But sometimes, instead of support, you’re met with resistance, jokes, subtle criticism, or even distance.

As a health psychologist, I’ve seen this reaction more times than I can count, and it often surprises people who are genuinely trying to improve their well-being. If you’ve felt misunderstood or unsupported in your growth, you’re not alone, and it’s not a sign that you’re doing anything wrong.

Health, Personal DevelopmentKelly Forys DonahueOctober 13, 2025self-care, growth, Behavior Change

Want Long-Term Success using GLP-1s for Weight Loss? Update Your Identity

Over the past few years, GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have transformed how many people manage weight and blood sugar. But while these medications can powerfully impact appetite and metabolism, they aren’t magic pills. Some people see profound, lasting results and others don’t. Why the difference?

HealthKelly Forys DonahueAugust 5, 2025health, weight loss

Community Connects us to Health

In an age of hyper-connectivity, it's surprising how many of us still feel isolated. We may have hundreds of digital “friends,” but fewer real-life connections we can call on when we’re in need and to celebrate the good times. As a health psychologist, I see a growing trend: people struggling with stress, fatigue, anxiety, and burnout—and while nutrition, sleep, and exercise matter deeply, one essential piece of the health puzzle is often missing: community.

Health, Self-CareKelly Forys DonahueJuly 22, 2025community, social, health

The Power of a Mindset Shift: A Free Tool to Transform Your Health

When it comes to improving your health, most people think of expensive supplements, gym memberships, or complicated wellness routines. But one of the most powerful tools for lasting change is completely free: your mindset. Your mindset is the lens through which you view your body, your habits, and your potential. And shifting that lens—even slightly—can dramatically change how you feel, what you do, and how your health evolves.

Kelly Forys DonahueJune 21, 2025

Health Is Wealth: The Psychological Link Between Well-Being and Financial Prosperity

When we hear the word "wealth," most of us immediately think of money—stocks, savings, real estate, or a high-paying job. But as a health psychologist, I’ve come to understand a deeper truth that often gets overlooked: your health is your first and most essential form of wealth.

Health, Goals, Personal DevelopmentKelly Forys DonahueMay 6, 2025health, wealth

Breaking Free from the Cycle of Health Anxiety

Most of us can relate to being concerned about our health from time to time. The problem arises when this worry about health becomes chronic and interferes with life. Health anxiety, sometimes called illness anxiety disorder, occurs when concerns about one’s health become overwhelming, persistent, and distressing. For those living with health anxiety, everyday bodily sensations can feel like alarming signs of serious illness, creating a cycle of fear, worry, and compulsive behaviors.

Love Yourself First: The Key to Healthy, Fulfilling Relationships

In my years as a health psychologist, I’ve seen a common pattern among individuals struggling in their relationships—whether romantic, familial, or platonic. They give endlessly, care deeply, and yet feel exhausted, unappreciated, or disconnected. When we explore further, a missing piece often emerges: self-love.

Health, Personal Development, Self-CareKelly Forys DonahueFebruary 11, 2025love, self-care, boundaries

How to Be Present During the Holidays: No Presents Required

he holidays are often a whirlwind of events, to-do lists, and expectations. Amid the hustle and bustle, it can be challenging to stay grounded and truly enjoy the season. Practicing presence—being fully engaged in the here and now—can help you savor the holidays more deeply. Here are some practical, FREE, ways to be present this holiday season.

Kelly Forys DonahueDecember 20, 2024holidays, mindfulness, mind-body

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