Kellevision

When Childhood Bipolar Disorder - Isn't

I really have a problem with the recent surge in diagnosing children with Bipolar Disorder.  The children I see with this diagnosis are often the victims of serious issues at home, issues which may even include abuse.  Some struggle with PTSD and the mood swings which are inherent in a traumatized individual are attributed to "Bipolar Disorder" and medicated. 

Take Two Yoga Classes and Call me in the Morning

I'm reading the August 2009 edition (yes I am a little bit behind in my reading) of Yoga Journal and I am reminded once again of all the benefits yoga has to offer in one's struggle for peace of mind and mental health.

... and Private Murphy Smiled

Private Murphy smiled.  His drill instructor saw the smile and marched over to him, screaming, "What are you smiling about Private Murphy?!!!" 

How to Deal with Trauma Nightmares

One of the most distressing symptoms of trauma can be the nightmares it evokes.  They attack when you are peacefully asleep and off guard.  Not being able to get a good night's rest can seriously compromise your mental health and make other trauma symptoms worse.  If they persist you may even develop a fear of going to sleep. 

On Being Defensive

"People don't get defensive unless they have something to defend."

Maintaining the Cycle of Abuse

People who were abused in their families of origin may practice the same abusive behavior towards themselves.  They may also pass it on to their children.  This creates a sick, and sometimes fatal, cycle of abuse that repeats itself generation after generation.

Joshua Taber: An American Soldier who Waterboarded his 4 Year Old Daughter

This is a sad story, but we should have seen it coming.  This is the price we pay for war.  Why don't we ever learn that?

Trauma and Numbing

Survivors of trauma, especially childhood abuse, often use numbing as a technique for dealing with strong or painful emotions.

The Last Face He Saw

Jim* tenderly, patiently cared for his father as he lay dying.  Day after day, when everyone else turned their backs, Jim was there.  And when his father's last breath came, Jim's was the last face he saw.  That's what Jim wanted, because...

Military Structure and the Chaotic Family

Working in a homeless shelter, I work with a lot of clients who came from very dysfunctional and chaotic family systems.  One man grew up in such a family and overcame it by joining the military.  How did that help?