It’s not so bad, being an addict. And for those of us who fit that description, most have discovered that the biggest hurdle to jump is neither the actual quitting, nor the emotional and physical withdrawal symptoms. It is making the pure and honest admission that you have become what you feared, and if you […]
Learning to Call Myself an Addict Was Freedom Read More »
The Obama administration has given a tentative green light to marijuana legalization in states, weighing in on the growing issue related to the legalization of the drug in Colorado and Washington. Since 20 states (and the District of Colombia) have passed laws allowing for the medical use of the drug, the issue is a symptom
Obama Administration Won’t Block State Marijuana Laws Read More »
In the U.S., the term “unofficial” mental disorder is generally used to describe any condition not recognized by the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and included in an APA guidebook called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. As a rule, disorders are excluded from this guidebook if they don’t meet the standards of the
What Are ‘Unofficial Mental Disorders’? Read More »
Ah, summer: flips flops and swimming lessons, barbeques and bug bites. Ask any adult what summer means to them and chances are good you’ll get an answer steeped in nostalgia for childhood, fireflies and July 4th fireworks. But summer is a short season compared to the rest of the year—the school year—and for many families
Back-to-School Mood Swings: Parenting Through Change Read More »
It’s not uncommon for depression to develop (or recur if you have a history) later in life. This can be due to a variety of reasons – both psychological (e.g. suddenly coping with an empty nest) and physiological (e.g. age-related health issues, menopause). Symptoms of depression can range from mild to severe. They may include
Proven Mood Boosters If You’re Over 50 and Feeling Blue Read More »
Bipolar disorder is one of the most challenging psychiatric disorders. With moods that often hit crippling extremes and bizarre behavior that is difficult to understand – let alone explain to others – bipolar sufferers can feel very isolated and alone. Medication is often necessary, but has its limits. Individual and family therapy can also be
‘It’s Not Just Me’: Amazing Benefits of Group Therapy for Bipolar Disorder Read More »
Alcoholism is a destructive addiction that can literally ruin people’s lives. Whether you’re struggling with excessive drinking yourself or you love someone who is, you understand all too well the path of devastation this chronic condition can bring, from splintered relationships to serious medical issues. Professional addiction treatment, individual therapy and attending support groups can
Antabuse Helps Alcoholics Stop Drinking Read More »
People suffering from a mood disorder are 30 times more likely to commit suicide than the general population. Finding an effective treatment that reduces the likelihood of suicide in individuals with mood disorders is therefore an important area of research. Previous studies have indicated that lithium may possess this effect, but concerns about its side
Lithium Reduces Risk of Suicide Read More »
The celebrity drug addiction story is one we’ve all heard numerous times. From the Keith Richards to the Lindsay Lohans and the Charlie Sheens, we expect excess from some of our celebrities. Others, however, cultivate such as wholesome image or play seemingly innocent characters in movies or TV shows that we’d never expect them to
Zac Efron Went to Rehab? Celebrities You Didn’t Know Had Addictions Read More »
“Mainstream psychology views disturbing feelings, behaviors, or experiences as an indication that something is wrong with us—an attitude that often shames people.” — David Bedrick Ruby had been described as a fearful child, one who shied away from pets, playground equipment, other children—even her teachers. Twenty-four years old, she sat on her hands in her
Making Friends With Symptoms: A Love-Based Approach Read More »