October Newsletter

Emotional Masks VS Halloween Masks
Masks & Mental Health

Halloween is the season of costumes and disguises, but many of us wear “masks” long after the holiday ends. You may be wondering, “What’s an emotional mask?” An emotional mask is the appearance of everything being well with us, while struggling silently.

If this sounds familiar, here are some things to look out for:

• Hiding your true feelings

• Putting on a brave face rather than being honest

• Minimizing your emotions

Unlike a Halloween mask, these emotional masks can become heavy over time. Therapy provides a safe space to gently let go and explore your true self authentically, vulnerably, and without judgment.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps us notice the “masks” of anxious thoughts, negative self-talk, or unhelpful habits and gently replace them with healthier ways of thinking and being.

This October, as you see costumes and masks all around, take a moment to ask yourself: What mask am I ready to set down?

How Therapists Use CBT in Practice

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective and evidence-based tools therapists use to help clients improve their well-being. Here’s how it works:

Calms Anxiety
CBT teaches you to challenge “what if” thoughts and use coping skills so worries feel less overwhelming.

Lifts Low Mood
It helps shift negative self-talk, build healthier routines, and bring more joy into daily life.

Builds Better Habits
CBT offers tools to break cycles, such as overthinking, stress-eating, or procrastination, and replace them with healthier patterns.

Just as Halloween masks come off at the end of the night, emotional masks don’t have to be worn forever. If you find yourself hiding behind a brave face or minimizing your struggles, consider what it might feel like to set that weight down. With the guidance of a therapist and the support of tools like CBT, you can begin to live more openly—without disguises, without judgment, and with greater peace of mind. This season, give yourself permission to be real, to be seen, and to heal.