I. I am not perfect and I will not stress by trying to be. Think of how many things don’t get done in this world simply because people are waiting for the perfect time, place and circumstance. Waiting for perfection causes more stress. The real world doesn’t reward perfectionists. It rewards people who get things [...]
Below you will find helpful suggestions to consider when looking for mental health counseling services. Keep in mind that not every counselor will be a good fit for you, so be patient when searching for someone that fits all your criteria. Remember, if you don’t feel comfortable with your counselor, keep looking. A counselor that [...]
Irritable or angry mood – irritability, rather than sadness, is often the predominant mood in depressed teens. A depressed teenager may be grumpy, hostile, easily frustrated, or prone to angry outbursts. Unexplained aches and pains – Depressed teens frequently complain about physical ailments such as headaches or stomachaches. If a thorough physical exam does not [...]
It is estimated that 8 million Americans have some type of eating disorder and nearly half of Americans know someone with an eating disorder. Eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of all mental illnesses. While these statistics are alarming, there is help and hope for both those personally struggling with an eating disorder [...]
An alarming and increasing number of teenagers attempt and succeed at suicide. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), suicide is the third leading cause of death for 15 to 24-year-olds. For the overwhelming majority of suicidal teens, depression or another psychological disorder plays a primary role. In depressed teens who also [...]
Summer wanes and the fall season may remind us of sweaters, football, cozy time indoors or quiet reading by the fire. For some the consecutive days of gray skies can mean other types of changes. Most people living in our geographic region are affected by some seasonal changes in feelings of well being and behaviors [...]
Since entering the world of professional writing, I’ve learned the value of a good editor. I have two who do a wonderful job maximizing the power and reach of my writing. Both are more knowledgeable about the “world” of professional writing than I, so if I’m wise, I’ll listen to their counsel. They get the [...]
After giving birth, it may be hard to distinguish between the “baby blues” and a more serious postpartum mood disorder. Many postpartum mood disorders go untreated because doctors and family members are unaware of the signs and symptoms of the disorder. Below you will find several characteristics to help you distinguish between the baby blues [...]
It is good to have some healthy, loving and playful competition between husband and wife. This kind of completion can help maintain and strengthen the couple’s bond with one another, by increasing motivation, quality time, love, respect, and friendship, just to name a few. The problem comes when this healthy competition turns into a “winner [...]
Are you feeling a bit wrung out? Running from one thing to the next? Seems like there’s no time to think? Maybe you’re even exhibiting stress symptoms… poor concentration, aches and pains, a short fuse, relying too much on your favorite “crutch” (alcohol, food, cigarettes, etc.) How much longer are you going to keep us [...]