Blog

Insights for mind, body & soul

Articles, reflections, and practical wisdom from Dr. Dwan Reed to support your mental health and wellness journey.

Fierce Self-Care

Have you ever owned something you took excellent care of, like an heirloom, a favorite sweater, an automobile, or a beloved pet? When we cherish something, we pay attention to its needs and avoid doing things that could harm it...

Relationships

Self-Esteem and Dating

I doubt your parents ever told you to choose a spouse with good self-esteem. They may have advised you to find someone who is kind, hardworking, has a lovely family — but they probably didn't mention the importance of self-esteem...

Growth

Let's Fail!

Failure is an inevitable part of life. It can be discouraging and demotivating, but it can also be the stepping stone to success. Failure teaches us valuable lessons, allowing us to learn from our mistakes and improve ourselves...

Self-Esteem

Tips to Overcome Your Inner Critic

One awesome strategy to help battle your inner critic is to challenge its negative thoughts. Whenever your inner critic tells you that you're not good enough, ask yourself what evidence supports that claim...

Self-Esteem

What is Self-Esteem?

Self-esteem is a term used to describe an individual's perception of themselves. It is a combination of their positive and realistic evaluation of their abilities, worth, and potential...

Reflection

Dead Bugs

"Look at the beautiful bluebonnets," I said, pointing at the vibrant patches along the freeway. My son, Noah, said, "Mommy, I can't see them through your dirty windshield..."

Spirituality

A Prayer in the Life of a Preacher's Wife

The following article appears in Guideposts' True Stories of Extraordinary Answers to Prayer – Unexpected Answers. When I listened to our tone-deaf song leader screech "Amazing Grace..."

Reflection

Thank God for Ugly Feet

There are two situations in life when strangers tend to bare their souls — when you're sitting next to them on an airplane and when they see you wearing a black orthopedic boot...

Spirituality

Surviving Spiritual Storm Season

"Have you been watching the news?" asked my husband, Thomas. "No, I'm unpacking." "Well, there's a hurricane heading this way," he said. "You're joking," I laughed...

Reflection

"Three Things I Learned in Prison"

I've learned a lot from my time behind bars. No, not as an inmate — as a volunteer. For the past three years, I've worked with VIPS (Volunteers in the Prison System)...

Coping Skills

A Spice Rack of Coping Skills

During my first year of marriage, I accidentally set the stove on fire. I didn't realize that wet fish and boiling grease don't mix. Although I still don't have the Mind of a Chef, I no longer burn vittles...