Kellevision

Psychiatric Medications as a "Crutch"

Throughout the years I have worked with several clients who were criticized or rebuked by family members or Alcoholics Anonymous sponsors for using psychiatric medications as a "crutch".  Yes.... and?

Anxiety: Nature vs. Nurture

The New York Times has a wonderful article on anxiety, "Understanding the Anxious Mind" which seems to suggest that we are born with an anxious temperament.  Personally, I wonder.

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.

A Culture of Victimhood and the Rise of Depression

Is it just me, or does everyone seem to be a victim these days?  Even White males are now claiming to be persecuted.  The problem with having a victim mentality is that it fosters depression.  Is it any wonder that depression rates are skyrocketing?

The Therapist is Having a Panic Attack!

Yes, therapists have issues too.  Anxiety was never mine until a few years ago.  Prior to that I could intellectuallly understand that people said they were experiencing anxiety and panic, but I couldn't fully appreciate how bad it felt, until I had my own.

Trauma and Numbing

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

Are We Thinking Beings Which Feel or Feeling Beings Which Think?

It seems most Americans like to think of themselves as thinking beings who happen to feel.  But research into the human brain shows that we are instead feeling beings who are able to think.  I believe our failure to recognize this causes untold frustration and the current epidemic of people being diagnosed with depression.

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?  

She's not Bipolar, She Has PTSD

She's crying uncontrollably.  "They say I'm Bipolar, but I just don't think I am."