As New Year’s approaches, I think about fireworks, parties and a brand new year. The New Year also sparks imagination in me. I am not one to make “new year’s resolutions.” I tend to shy away from them because in general I have often found them to be quick fixes, short-sighted commitments or at the […]
Have you ever seen the movie “Four Christmases?” If not, I highly recommend it for some guilty viewing pleasure! It is the story about a couple who visits their families around Christmas time only to be triggered by various forms of family dysfunction at every corner! They encounter situations with messy family boundaries, uncomfortable family […]
December is a month full of celebrations. Regardless of faith or religion, it is difficult to not get caught up in the excitement of the season. It is a time that society tells us is full of happiness, joy, family, togetherness, and so on. What we see on social media and television is usually also […]
Throughout my life I have had spells of living with pain. Ankle pain, elbow pain, back pain and more. However, I would not classify myself as having chronic pain. If the definition of chronic pain is 3 months or more (as some doctors say) than perhaps I have experienced it. However, I have personally and […]
Chronic pain is often described as any pain that lasts for 3-6 months or more. It can even last years. Chronic pain can take a toll on not only your physical health, but your mental health as well. If you suffer with chronic pain of any sort it is important to continually talk to your […]
Have you ever gotten so angry or frustrated that you just want to scream? Or just want to punch something? The National Institute for the Clinical Application of Behavioral Medicine (NICABM) study revealed that anger can cause a person to lose the use of their prefrontal cortex which is what we use for making good […]
Transitions in life are marked by a level of difficulty or discomfort depending on the circumstances surrounding it. When we adjust to major life changes, we gradually find our footing, gain familiarity with all that feels new, and eventually life just starts to feel “normal” again after awhile. This is not normally the case with […]
First and foremost, if the symptoms of depression are making your want to end your life contact your doctor/therapist/mental health professional as soon as possible.
Many, many years ago I remember reading a study about aging white males. The study said that older white men who were single (widowers or never married) and had no friends or close family relationships had a significantly higher rate of suicide. The chance of suicide only increased in these men if they struggled with […]
Do you have many friends? A few close friends? Or maybe just one best friend? Hopefully you do not live your life feeling isolated and have friends, family or both to share in your life’s greatest joys as well as the challenges you face. If you do have a best friend or a small group […]
