Mental Health and the Urban Stress of Living in Chicago

City life in Chicago offers opportunity, culture, and energy. But it also hides something less visible: the weight of constant stress. From rent spikes to job instability, Chicagoans often find themselves juggling more than just the daily commute. Behind the bustle lies an invisible load—one that can chip away at mental health. This post explores how cost of living, housing insecurity, and neighborhood challenges intersect with mental well-being in Chicago. We’ll break down the research, show how these stressors manifest, and point to ways residents are building resilience.

StressMaddie DeVarSeptember 21, 2025Rogers Park Counselorsstress

Recognizing Secondary Trauma in Caregivers

Caring for those who have experienced trauma is both a privilege and a heavy responsibility. Whether it is a counselor supporting clients, a nurse on the frontlines of medical crises, or a family member helping a loved one heal, caregivers often pour themselves into the work of holding another’s pain. Yet in the process, many neglect their own emotional well-being.

Stress, TraumaMaddie DeVarSeptember 12, 2025Rogers Park CounselorsVicarious Trauma, caregiver fatigue