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.
Continue reading "When Childhood Bipolar Disorder - Isn't" »
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.
Continue reading "Take Two Yoga Classes and Call me in the Morning" »
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?
Continue reading "A Culture of Victimhood and the Rise of Depression" »
Survivors of trauma, especially childhood abuse, often use numbing as a technique for dealing with strong or painful emotions.
Continue reading "Trauma and Numbing" »
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.
Continue reading "Are We Thinking Beings Which Feel or Feeling Beings Which Think?" »
My video collection is inexplicable, unless you understand its purpose. The only movies I actually purchase to keep are those which are safe and make me laugh. I know no one dies, there is no violence, no animals are killed or harmed in the viewing of this movie and it makes me laugh.
Continue reading "Laughter Really is the Best Medicine" »
What can a ride to the crack house and a trip home for the holidays have in common? Well, let's see...
Continue reading "The Ride to the Crack House and the Trip Home for the Holidays" »
She's crying uncontrollably. "They say I'm Bipolar, but I just don't think I am."
Continue reading "She's not Bipolar, She Has PTSD" »
Though we often think of the holidays as a time of giving and sharing they can also be extremely stressful. This stress can lead to an increase in substance use or a relapse by someone in recovery. What are some of the symptoms of a problem in a family member? In yourself? What can you do to protect your own sobriety?
Continue reading "Dealing with Addiction During the Holidays" »
What would happen if everyone just decided not to exchange presents any longer? Would the Earth spin off its axis?
Continue reading "Just Say "NO" to Christmas Presents and Obligatory Gifting" »