My article today is outside what I would normally write about but today my parents had to see my uncle dead in his apartment after his daughter checked on him after he did not answer our calls yesterday. My mother's brother committed the most selfish act one human can do to another, he took his own life. This is the second suicide in two years that I have had to deal with since my aunt on my fathers side took her life because of a gambling addiction.
My uncle committed suicide due to depression and loneliness after a life of self gratifying abuse with women and alcohol. I know I should feel sorry for him but instead I am angry at him for doing this to my mother. She has been there for him his entire life when others were not and never judged him for his actions. She just opened her home and fed him and gave him love for most of his life. My mother and father, both in their early 70's, want to spend their last years in New Brunswick, Canada, and were moving today. His act was his final selfishness to prevent her from leaving him. My mother will undoubtedly carry some unwarranted guilt and their move down east which should be an exciting move for them will instead be a move of dread and heartache. I am very angry with my uncle.
If you are considering such an act yourself. Stop and ask yourself first, who will be most hurt by this act and if the answer is the one who loved you most and was always there for you then does she deserve this heartache and guilt? The answer is NO. So do the most heroic thing in your life and reach out for professional help.
I have added a link to a Canadian website that speaks to how you can get help. Take that step and click here for the website. Remember that Suicide is a selfish act. Is that how you want to be remembered?
Friday, September 5, 2008
How to Deal with Poverty
A SOLUTION FOR EMPLOYMENT PROBLEMS TO AID IN THE FIGHT AGAINST POVERTY
I know that with globalization the future looks brighter and brighter for many people: But will many people also be left behind in this expanding economy? I know that with technology expanding as it is, many of the jobs that required more human effort are disappearing while other types of jobs that involve more technical expertise are being created. Now do the jobs created by this expanding technology compensate for the loss of jobs in the non-tech sector, considering also the expanding population around the world? Two problems arise. One is that those who lose theirs jobs need more education, assuming they can be retrained, to attain those jobs that are being created by this new technology, and this new technology is expanding at such an accelerated pace that I wonder whether this reeducation can really keep up with this technological expansion. And secondly, if one can find employment or if there are no ethnic conflicts or natural disasters to interfere with job opportunities, the non-tech sector’s remuneration level would probably be lowered because of its new supporting service function to a point whereby many would need a second or third job to make livable ends meet. Therefore you’ll have those growing with globalization while I believe there will be many who will not be able to keep up within this movement. What can be done about this?
To provide more employment for individuals, you could re-engineer the workweek by providing shorter hours for those already working, thus allowing more workers to be employed to keep up with the productivity. Financially you could spread the profitability of the enterprise more evenly between the workers and management so everyone could then have a livable standard of remuneration. Of course in evening out the remuneration levels, one might feel the motivating factor for improving productivity would lessen. But perhaps the motivating factor for this should be something else other than profit, such as job significance.
This approach could also lessen excessive stress that can accumulate on the job. Tips on how one can be more frugal with ones expenses, as expressed in my report on How to become Financially Independent, can also be practiced to aid one in developing a more livable standard of life.
If by chance you might not be able to find a job no matter how hard you try you should not become embarrassed by this situation because this is how life oftentimes is and many are probably in the same boat. But the job one should eventually get, if he or she gets one, should be one whereby the employee finds societal significance in his or her employment, otherwise the motivation for working would tend to be quite unfulfilling and lead to much more restlessness and uncreativity in his or her job. An answer to this dilemma could be a procedure, which is set up whereby some financially well-off families could adopt some families that are not so financially well off. And this policy should be considered on a worldwide basis, sometimes crossing national boundaries, but always with an accountability procedure in place. Of course, this process could be either temporary or permanent depending upon the state of the adoptee's employment situation. In doing this though, the cost would have to be the loss of much of the adoptee´s privacy, and much of the time needed by the adoptors to supervise the distribution of financial aid to the adoptees in an accountable fashion. But since work is the vehicle by which individuals do develop a self-worth, however, the adoptees could engage in volunteer work that they find meaningful, and perhaps this could eventually lead them to specific job opportunities, while the adoptors are financially supporting them. If a procedure like this is not adopted, much talent is going to be lost to society, because those individuals struggling financially will be spending all of their time trying to survive, which sometimes can develop into some limited creativity, but not to the extent that creativity could be developed if you didn't have to struggle exclusively just to survive. If this plan can not be adopted, than governments would have to be the adoptors and give a guaranteed livable wage to everyone who hasn't one, because work for pay as we know it will continue to be less and less. And the more
political stability you have around the world, the more effective this program can be.
ECONOMIC INQUERIES THROUGH INTERNET
1st Question - What is the root of all evil: Money or the Love of Money?
THE RESPONSES COME FROM 3 CHRISTIAN WEBSITES
1) Corbin says: As one becomes poorer and poorer, I believe the person tends to feel that money is really the root of all evil.
2) Sarah says: I believe that lack of Love-Love for God, for fellow man, for the world around us - is the root of all evil, followed by greed - greed for money, power, luxury, whatever. Lack of enough money to buy necessities is pretty bad, especially if you're the person suffering the lack, but the reason for it goes back to the above. If a person has no money to buy food, you can bet someone else has got some.
3) Mary Anne says: In my humble opinion, it's neither. The root of all evil is ignorance. Ignorance breeds fear, fear breeds anger and hatred, jealousy and greed. Money is just a symbol. Money symbolizes the value of our hours awake: Naturally if we spend all our hours awake making horseshoes, we are not tilling the soil necessary to grow the food to support our bodies. Money is the symbol of value we attach to the products of our conscious endeavor. It's not actually a thing, it's an abstraction whose actual value is nuetral, unless we all agree on one value or another. Even then, it's still a figment of our imagination. When we all agree on a value, we are consenting to be bound by a certain delusion about the nature of reality. At that point, I think it can be argued, that a certain brand of "collective insanity" takes hold. The fact of the matter is that we are here, it's All God's stuff, and Private Property, while a pleasant delusion, is still a delusion. Marxist-sounding, I know, but there it is. Jesus was a Communist too, as I recall. It's only ignorance that prevents us from claiming the Kingdom in the here and now. Money has little or nothing to do with it, in my opinion. But it's a great question.
4) John says: To me it would be the love of money. For if one loves money too much one is willing to do all kinds of things to get money. Steal, lie, cheat and even kill to get the money they love. And another thing, it seems the more money one has the more they want which is greed and that's not a nice thing.
5) Gary says: Pretty much agree with every thing that's said so far.
6) Frank says: I believe that the correct translation of the verse is "the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil" Here it is, 1 Timothy 6:9-10, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."
7) David says: I think you are asking a couple of different questions here...One is whether money is the root of all evil and the other is what to do when there is a lack of money which is a backbreaker to many and how to deal with it. I tend to see money as the root of all evil...(all evil is plural--as Frank pointed out)...and I think that lack of money is just part and parcel of a world that runs on it. I work on this in the States and I see the frustration and pain in not having enough money and the barriers it presents to just live with the basics...food, shelter, clothing... I also think that a generation builds upon another generation so that it is even more difficult because this situation turns into the a poverty of spirit and hope...the manifestations of which
abound...so that you not only have the outside barrier of the lack of resources, but also the inside barriers of the loss of spirit, dreams and hope.
8) Lawrence says: This is a great question indeed. I am sure that there is an inherent evil in all things, as well, there is an inherent good in all things. Take the subject of money; Money in and of itself is not good or bad, neither is it worth anything. Its value is determined at the time of purchase, at that time its potential for good or evil is also determined. There was a story in the news lately that shows this concept perfectly. A group of women decided to hold a fund raiser for the children that had no hope of receiving a Christmas. These women were prostitutes and ended up raising a lot of money for the children. The way that the money was raised was questionable at the very least. This made some of the locals mark the funds as evil. The funds were donated to a local church for the children. The presiding minister had a hard time deciding whether or not to accept the funds, saying that the money was evil and that it was received in sin, therefore it was not good enough to be used for the children. I believe that when the money gathered was put into the coffers of the church for the good of the children, the money, although gathered in sin, is now indistinguishable from the other monies gathered by other means. All of the money is now good, whether given by the whore or the deacon, the use and the intent is now for a good and therefore the money is good. Now the question that I have is would that money, having been donated by a business man, have also been marked as evil? The business man would likely not be questioned as to whether he lied, or even possibly stretched the truth just a little in the deal in which the money was raised. If he did, would the money not also have been acquired in sin? I believe that we spend too much time judging the intent and values of others, and far too little time evaluating the intent of our deeds and actions.
In closing, the answer to the question is NO. There is no evil in money or the love of money. It is in the priorities, uses, and means by which we acquire, spend and use the money that is evil. We must realize that it is by the grace of God that all things are possible and through Him anything acquired can be righteous. God has made many men rich and famous, he has also given them power over others. None of these are evil but the acquisition or the use of these same things without the power or influence of God is evil..
9) Harold says: The love of money is, not money itself. If you love money, you love the world. The worldly system is selfishness. The cause of most of our society disorders is selfishness. Selflessness would cure many of the problems created by selfishness. God is not against money. He can bless us with money. He will, however, not bless us for personal gain, but so that we can bless others.
10) Robert says: I can understand the feeling and concern about poverty increasing. Even in the US, the percentage difference in the salary of CEOs and the average worker has increased tremendously in the last couple of decades. More and more of the middle class is becoming the lower class. But I personally agree that the love of money is really the evil. It's saying that money is much more important than other aspects of life, such as helping others. Although I can understand the minister's hesitation in accepting money raised by prostitution. It is also interesting to note here that during the time of Jesus, you were usually believed to be rich because you were blessed by God. I further think that people tend to believe that money is evil when it's someone else's money.
11) Steven says: Neither money nor the love of money is evil, provided it is used for developing God's Kingdom. The danger is the rich person will be consumed with the material things of earth rather than heaven. And if the poor were the ones who had money to feed their families would they think money is evil? It's really situationally dependent.
12) Corbin says: A respondee suggested to me that if you wanted a rich boss to work harder, you should pay him more money, whereas if you wanted a poor worker to work harder, you should pay him less money.
2nd Question - There was a consensus of opinion among Internet contributors that Gambling is not prohibited by Scripture, but is, if it's overused.
Poverty, one should consider, is not only Material Poverty, but more importantly, Spiritual Poverty as well.
The names of the commentarians, other than myself, have been changed to protect the privacy of the Internet contributors, but their comments are accurate.
I know that with globalization the future looks brighter and brighter for many people: But will many people also be left behind in this expanding economy? I know that with technology expanding as it is, many of the jobs that required more human effort are disappearing while other types of jobs that involve more technical expertise are being created. Now do the jobs created by this expanding technology compensate for the loss of jobs in the non-tech sector, considering also the expanding population around the world? Two problems arise. One is that those who lose theirs jobs need more education, assuming they can be retrained, to attain those jobs that are being created by this new technology, and this new technology is expanding at such an accelerated pace that I wonder whether this reeducation can really keep up with this technological expansion. And secondly, if one can find employment or if there are no ethnic conflicts or natural disasters to interfere with job opportunities, the non-tech sector’s remuneration level would probably be lowered because of its new supporting service function to a point whereby many would need a second or third job to make livable ends meet. Therefore you’ll have those growing with globalization while I believe there will be many who will not be able to keep up within this movement. What can be done about this?
To provide more employment for individuals, you could re-engineer the workweek by providing shorter hours for those already working, thus allowing more workers to be employed to keep up with the productivity. Financially you could spread the profitability of the enterprise more evenly between the workers and management so everyone could then have a livable standard of remuneration. Of course in evening out the remuneration levels, one might feel the motivating factor for improving productivity would lessen. But perhaps the motivating factor for this should be something else other than profit, such as job significance.
This approach could also lessen excessive stress that can accumulate on the job. Tips on how one can be more frugal with ones expenses, as expressed in my report on How to become Financially Independent, can also be practiced to aid one in developing a more livable standard of life.
If by chance you might not be able to find a job no matter how hard you try you should not become embarrassed by this situation because this is how life oftentimes is and many are probably in the same boat. But the job one should eventually get, if he or she gets one, should be one whereby the employee finds societal significance in his or her employment, otherwise the motivation for working would tend to be quite unfulfilling and lead to much more restlessness and uncreativity in his or her job. An answer to this dilemma could be a procedure, which is set up whereby some financially well-off families could adopt some families that are not so financially well off. And this policy should be considered on a worldwide basis, sometimes crossing national boundaries, but always with an accountability procedure in place. Of course, this process could be either temporary or permanent depending upon the state of the adoptee's employment situation. In doing this though, the cost would have to be the loss of much of the adoptee´s privacy, and much of the time needed by the adoptors to supervise the distribution of financial aid to the adoptees in an accountable fashion. But since work is the vehicle by which individuals do develop a self-worth, however, the adoptees could engage in volunteer work that they find meaningful, and perhaps this could eventually lead them to specific job opportunities, while the adoptors are financially supporting them. If a procedure like this is not adopted, much talent is going to be lost to society, because those individuals struggling financially will be spending all of their time trying to survive, which sometimes can develop into some limited creativity, but not to the extent that creativity could be developed if you didn't have to struggle exclusively just to survive. If this plan can not be adopted, than governments would have to be the adoptors and give a guaranteed livable wage to everyone who hasn't one, because work for pay as we know it will continue to be less and less. And the more
political stability you have around the world, the more effective this program can be.
ECONOMIC INQUERIES THROUGH INTERNET
1st Question - What is the root of all evil: Money or the Love of Money?
THE RESPONSES COME FROM 3 CHRISTIAN WEBSITES
1) Corbin says: As one becomes poorer and poorer, I believe the person tends to feel that money is really the root of all evil.
2) Sarah says: I believe that lack of Love-Love for God, for fellow man, for the world around us - is the root of all evil, followed by greed - greed for money, power, luxury, whatever. Lack of enough money to buy necessities is pretty bad, especially if you're the person suffering the lack, but the reason for it goes back to the above. If a person has no money to buy food, you can bet someone else has got some.
3) Mary Anne says: In my humble opinion, it's neither. The root of all evil is ignorance. Ignorance breeds fear, fear breeds anger and hatred, jealousy and greed. Money is just a symbol. Money symbolizes the value of our hours awake: Naturally if we spend all our hours awake making horseshoes, we are not tilling the soil necessary to grow the food to support our bodies. Money is the symbol of value we attach to the products of our conscious endeavor. It's not actually a thing, it's an abstraction whose actual value is nuetral, unless we all agree on one value or another. Even then, it's still a figment of our imagination. When we all agree on a value, we are consenting to be bound by a certain delusion about the nature of reality. At that point, I think it can be argued, that a certain brand of "collective insanity" takes hold. The fact of the matter is that we are here, it's All God's stuff, and Private Property, while a pleasant delusion, is still a delusion. Marxist-sounding, I know, but there it is. Jesus was a Communist too, as I recall. It's only ignorance that prevents us from claiming the Kingdom in the here and now. Money has little or nothing to do with it, in my opinion. But it's a great question.
4) John says: To me it would be the love of money. For if one loves money too much one is willing to do all kinds of things to get money. Steal, lie, cheat and even kill to get the money they love. And another thing, it seems the more money one has the more they want which is greed and that's not a nice thing.
5) Gary says: Pretty much agree with every thing that's said so far.
6) Frank says: I believe that the correct translation of the verse is "the love of money is the root of all sorts of evil" Here it is, 1 Timothy 6:9-10, "People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs."
7) David says: I think you are asking a couple of different questions here...One is whether money is the root of all evil and the other is what to do when there is a lack of money which is a backbreaker to many and how to deal with it. I tend to see money as the root of all evil...(all evil is plural--as Frank pointed out)...and I think that lack of money is just part and parcel of a world that runs on it. I work on this in the States and I see the frustration and pain in not having enough money and the barriers it presents to just live with the basics...food, shelter, clothing... I also think that a generation builds upon another generation so that it is even more difficult because this situation turns into the a poverty of spirit and hope...the manifestations of which
abound...so that you not only have the outside barrier of the lack of resources, but also the inside barriers of the loss of spirit, dreams and hope.
8) Lawrence says: This is a great question indeed. I am sure that there is an inherent evil in all things, as well, there is an inherent good in all things. Take the subject of money; Money in and of itself is not good or bad, neither is it worth anything. Its value is determined at the time of purchase, at that time its potential for good or evil is also determined. There was a story in the news lately that shows this concept perfectly. A group of women decided to hold a fund raiser for the children that had no hope of receiving a Christmas. These women were prostitutes and ended up raising a lot of money for the children. The way that the money was raised was questionable at the very least. This made some of the locals mark the funds as evil. The funds were donated to a local church for the children. The presiding minister had a hard time deciding whether or not to accept the funds, saying that the money was evil and that it was received in sin, therefore it was not good enough to be used for the children. I believe that when the money gathered was put into the coffers of the church for the good of the children, the money, although gathered in sin, is now indistinguishable from the other monies gathered by other means. All of the money is now good, whether given by the whore or the deacon, the use and the intent is now for a good and therefore the money is good. Now the question that I have is would that money, having been donated by a business man, have also been marked as evil? The business man would likely not be questioned as to whether he lied, or even possibly stretched the truth just a little in the deal in which the money was raised. If he did, would the money not also have been acquired in sin? I believe that we spend too much time judging the intent and values of others, and far too little time evaluating the intent of our deeds and actions.
In closing, the answer to the question is NO. There is no evil in money or the love of money. It is in the priorities, uses, and means by which we acquire, spend and use the money that is evil. We must realize that it is by the grace of God that all things are possible and through Him anything acquired can be righteous. God has made many men rich and famous, he has also given them power over others. None of these are evil but the acquisition or the use of these same things without the power or influence of God is evil..
9) Harold says: The love of money is, not money itself. If you love money, you love the world. The worldly system is selfishness. The cause of most of our society disorders is selfishness. Selflessness would cure many of the problems created by selfishness. God is not against money. He can bless us with money. He will, however, not bless us for personal gain, but so that we can bless others.
10) Robert says: I can understand the feeling and concern about poverty increasing. Even in the US, the percentage difference in the salary of CEOs and the average worker has increased tremendously in the last couple of decades. More and more of the middle class is becoming the lower class. But I personally agree that the love of money is really the evil. It's saying that money is much more important than other aspects of life, such as helping others. Although I can understand the minister's hesitation in accepting money raised by prostitution. It is also interesting to note here that during the time of Jesus, you were usually believed to be rich because you were blessed by God. I further think that people tend to believe that money is evil when it's someone else's money.
11) Steven says: Neither money nor the love of money is evil, provided it is used for developing God's Kingdom. The danger is the rich person will be consumed with the material things of earth rather than heaven. And if the poor were the ones who had money to feed their families would they think money is evil? It's really situationally dependent.
12) Corbin says: A respondee suggested to me that if you wanted a rich boss to work harder, you should pay him more money, whereas if you wanted a poor worker to work harder, you should pay him less money.
2nd Question - There was a consensus of opinion among Internet contributors that Gambling is not prohibited by Scripture, but is, if it's overused.
Poverty, one should consider, is not only Material Poverty, but more importantly, Spiritual Poverty as well.
The names of the commentarians, other than myself, have been changed to protect the privacy of the Internet contributors, but their comments are accurate.
Is Depression Making Your Life A Hell - Get Your Right To Peaceful Life Right Now
Till date, Ultram has been considered to be one of the most reliable anti-depressants. Ultram is an anti-depressant which is highly recommended for pain-relief in certain chronic conditions. But as no drug in this world has ever escaped from the harms it can cause to its consumers, then how can Ultram remain ignored. Even these reliable anti-depressants can cause certain side-effects to those who regularly take them.
So, it becomes your responsibility to get full reliable information on the drug you have to take. With full precautions you will be able to get the best out of that medicine without being affected by its harmful effects.
So, here the things for you to remember before you go for this depression medication named Ultram:
Things To Be Avoided
1. Take no other drug along with ultram - This medicine proves to be fatal if taken along with some other antidepressant drugs. Do not take Ultram with alcohol, other narcotics, or tranquilizers, which could lead to impairment of physical and mental functioning. Before doing any self medication, please do not forget to consult your practitioner.
2. Do not take ultram in Pregnancy - Never dare to use Ultram antidepressant if you are pregnant, as this particular drug may not be tolerated by some people.
3. Prolonged use of Ultram - If used for a much longer time, it can badly affect your brain, attacking your pleasure and motivational systems. And when this happens, the nightmare of your Ultram addiction turns into reality.
Things To Be Done
1. Medical Detoxification - Medical detoxification is quite effective in relieving Ultram side-effects that a patient may experience when getting rid off this drug.
2. Medications and Behavioral Counseling - Go for a proper medication the moment you realize you are getting addicted to it. This way you will combat the severe withdrawal syndrome that termination can precipitate.
3. Get a Nutritional Status Evaluation done - Minerals and vitamins help in reducing the dosages of this antidepressant medication, or in the aftermath of Ultram addiction.
4. Go for the effective Herbal Preparations - These effective herbal preparations are used to beat the withdrawal effects, and additionally, people are becoming quite aware of the enormous potential of natural supplements to relieve depression. These preparations treat the deficiencies that lead to malfunctioning neurotransmitters and brain impairment. Herbal preparations therefore, restore the balance, enhance brain functioning, without adverse withdrawal symptoms, like those encountered when stopping Ultram antidepressant use.
WARNING: -
1. Do not try self-medication
2. Never prescribe your own medicine to anybody else suffering with the same problem - what works for you could be fatal for him/her.
3. Do not hide anything from your physician - All your previous drugs' records should be known to your doctor. Any of your past or present addictions can help your doctor to diagnose your resistance to Ultram addiction.
So, come on my friend, you can make this drug the best source to help you attain an active, stress-free life you are worth of!
So, it becomes your responsibility to get full reliable information on the drug you have to take. With full precautions you will be able to get the best out of that medicine without being affected by its harmful effects.
So, here the things for you to remember before you go for this depression medication named Ultram:
Things To Be Avoided
1. Take no other drug along with ultram - This medicine proves to be fatal if taken along with some other antidepressant drugs. Do not take Ultram with alcohol, other narcotics, or tranquilizers, which could lead to impairment of physical and mental functioning. Before doing any self medication, please do not forget to consult your practitioner.
2. Do not take ultram in Pregnancy - Never dare to use Ultram antidepressant if you are pregnant, as this particular drug may not be tolerated by some people.
3. Prolonged use of Ultram - If used for a much longer time, it can badly affect your brain, attacking your pleasure and motivational systems. And when this happens, the nightmare of your Ultram addiction turns into reality.
Things To Be Done
1. Medical Detoxification - Medical detoxification is quite effective in relieving Ultram side-effects that a patient may experience when getting rid off this drug.
2. Medications and Behavioral Counseling - Go for a proper medication the moment you realize you are getting addicted to it. This way you will combat the severe withdrawal syndrome that termination can precipitate.
3. Get a Nutritional Status Evaluation done - Minerals and vitamins help in reducing the dosages of this antidepressant medication, or in the aftermath of Ultram addiction.
4. Go for the effective Herbal Preparations - These effective herbal preparations are used to beat the withdrawal effects, and additionally, people are becoming quite aware of the enormous potential of natural supplements to relieve depression. These preparations treat the deficiencies that lead to malfunctioning neurotransmitters and brain impairment. Herbal preparations therefore, restore the balance, enhance brain functioning, without adverse withdrawal symptoms, like those encountered when stopping Ultram antidepressant use.
WARNING: -
1. Do not try self-medication
2. Never prescribe your own medicine to anybody else suffering with the same problem - what works for you could be fatal for him/her.
3. Do not hide anything from your physician - All your previous drugs' records should be known to your doctor. Any of your past or present addictions can help your doctor to diagnose your resistance to Ultram addiction.
So, come on my friend, you can make this drug the best source to help you attain an active, stress-free life you are worth of!
Discover Herbal Medicine For Depression And Other Natural Nutrients
Herbal medicine for depression has become more and more popular, as people are looking for safe, natural alternatives to prescription medications, many of which can cause serious side effects. However, it's important to note that you should never substitute herbal therapies for antidepressants and/or psychotherapy without speaking first to both a physician and herbal medicine specialist. In addition, immediately contact your physician or call a suicide hot line or emergency local number if you're having suicidal thoughts. These herbs and natural substances are meant to be helpful for those who suffer from mild to moderate depression.
Herbal medicine for depression
St. John's Wort - St. John's Wort has a long history of folk use for treating depression, anxiety, and other ills. Today, many studies have backed up its favorable depression effects and, as such, it is a very popular herbal medicine for depression. In fact, it often referred to as nature's Prozac. It appears to boost levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which is a powerful chemical that is responsible for good moods. It has also been shown to increase the concentration of two other brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine, which are also responsible for moods.
Kava - Kava is an herb that has been used in the Fiji Islands for many years. This powerful one is highly touted as nature's valium because it promotes calming and relaxing effects. More specifically, Kava helps treat depression occurring with anxiety.
Ginkgo biloba - Ginkgo is prized for its ability to increase oxygen flow to the brain and other bodily tissues. Ginkgo also improves the activity of neurotransmitters and, as such, it can help treat depression, especially in the elderly who suffer reduced blood flow to the brain.
In addition to the aforementioned herbal medicine for depression, there are other important natural nutrients that can help lift depressive feelings and enhance your mood:
SAMe - SAMe is a substance that appears to boost levels of important brain compounds such as serotonin, dopamine, and phosphatidylserine. In addition, SAM-e enhances serotonin and dopamine as it facilitates their binding to the proper receptor sites in the brain. Serotonin and dopamine are two very important compounds that are responsible for controlling mood.
5-HTP - The body makes 5-HTP from tryptophan, a common amino acid found in high-protein foods such as chicken, fish, beef, and dairy products. In the body, 5-HTP boosts levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that has a positive effect on mood and, as such, it has been used to treat depression. In fact, 5-HTP has been shown to be as effective as antidepressants in several small clinical trials.
Tyrosine - Tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid produced inside the body from phenylalanine. Tyrosine combats stress by increasing the production of adrenaline. It also boosts dopamine levels, which influence moods.
Phenylalanine - Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid. Inside the body, phenylalanine is converted into tyrosine, which in turn is used to produce two important neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine. Some studies indicate that phenylalanine supplements is useful in treating depression.
Inositol - Inositol is required for the proper action of several brain neurontransmitters, including serotonin and, as such, it is currently thought that a reduction in brain inositol levels may induce depression.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids - Omega 3 Fatty Acids like those found in fish oil have shown to be successful in boosting mood and alleviating depression. Researchers have found that the lack of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA is linked to depression. Indeed, while fish oil is not an herbal medicine for depression, it's one worth considering.
Vitamin B-complex - The B vitamins are crucial for the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system. In fact, the B vitamins are often referred to as the stress and energy vitamins. More specifically, studies have shown that clinical depression sufferers often have low levels of one or more of the B vitamins (especially B6, B12 and folic acid).
Side Note: Serotonin is manufactured in the brain from the amino acid, tryptophan with the help of three friends, which are vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid.
Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre's Opinion on Natural Nutrients and Herbal Medicine for Depression
We believe you may want to consider a comprehensive formula specifically designed to combat depression. In fact, a comprehensive formula using carefully selected ingredients can offer more therapeutic benefits, often better than taking a single nutrient or herb on its own.
Therefore, it's important to understand the how and why of what makes some these comprehensive depression products useful, which is an important factor in making an informed choice. Moreover, mixing and matching nutrients and herbs on your own can be very dangerous to your health as well as expensive.
However, make sure that the product is professionally and scientifically formulated by a highly-credentialed scientific team that can ensure the proper blending of ingredients to maximize the therapeutic benefits needed to combat depression.
Final note about natural nutrients and herbal medicine for depression ...
It's important that you always speak to a physician before taking any dietary and herbal supplements. In addition, you should never stop taking any prescribed medications to try any these nutrients without talking to your physician and/or psychiatrist.
Cindy Amorin is the chief editor of Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre, an information-rich site that discusses nutritional, dietary, and herbal supplements and their potential therapeutic value.
Herbal medicine for depression
St. John's Wort - St. John's Wort has a long history of folk use for treating depression, anxiety, and other ills. Today, many studies have backed up its favorable depression effects and, as such, it is a very popular herbal medicine for depression. In fact, it often referred to as nature's Prozac. It appears to boost levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which is a powerful chemical that is responsible for good moods. It has also been shown to increase the concentration of two other brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine, which are also responsible for moods.
Kava - Kava is an herb that has been used in the Fiji Islands for many years. This powerful one is highly touted as nature's valium because it promotes calming and relaxing effects. More specifically, Kava helps treat depression occurring with anxiety.
Ginkgo biloba - Ginkgo is prized for its ability to increase oxygen flow to the brain and other bodily tissues. Ginkgo also improves the activity of neurotransmitters and, as such, it can help treat depression, especially in the elderly who suffer reduced blood flow to the brain.
In addition to the aforementioned herbal medicine for depression, there are other important natural nutrients that can help lift depressive feelings and enhance your mood:
SAMe - SAMe is a substance that appears to boost levels of important brain compounds such as serotonin, dopamine, and phosphatidylserine. In addition, SAM-e enhances serotonin and dopamine as it facilitates their binding to the proper receptor sites in the brain. Serotonin and dopamine are two very important compounds that are responsible for controlling mood.
5-HTP - The body makes 5-HTP from tryptophan, a common amino acid found in high-protein foods such as chicken, fish, beef, and dairy products. In the body, 5-HTP boosts levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that has a positive effect on mood and, as such, it has been used to treat depression. In fact, 5-HTP has been shown to be as effective as antidepressants in several small clinical trials.
Tyrosine - Tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid produced inside the body from phenylalanine. Tyrosine combats stress by increasing the production of adrenaline. It also boosts dopamine levels, which influence moods.
Phenylalanine - Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid. Inside the body, phenylalanine is converted into tyrosine, which in turn is used to produce two important neurotransmitters, dopamine and norepinephrine. Some studies indicate that phenylalanine supplements is useful in treating depression.
Inositol - Inositol is required for the proper action of several brain neurontransmitters, including serotonin and, as such, it is currently thought that a reduction in brain inositol levels may induce depression.
Omega 3 Fatty Acids - Omega 3 Fatty Acids like those found in fish oil have shown to be successful in boosting mood and alleviating depression. Researchers have found that the lack of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA is linked to depression. Indeed, while fish oil is not an herbal medicine for depression, it's one worth considering.
Vitamin B-complex - The B vitamins are crucial for the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system. In fact, the B vitamins are often referred to as the stress and energy vitamins. More specifically, studies have shown that clinical depression sufferers often have low levels of one or more of the B vitamins (especially B6, B12 and folic acid).
Side Note: Serotonin is manufactured in the brain from the amino acid, tryptophan with the help of three friends, which are vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid.
Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre's Opinion on Natural Nutrients and Herbal Medicine for Depression
We believe you may want to consider a comprehensive formula specifically designed to combat depression. In fact, a comprehensive formula using carefully selected ingredients can offer more therapeutic benefits, often better than taking a single nutrient or herb on its own.
Therefore, it's important to understand the how and why of what makes some these comprehensive depression products useful, which is an important factor in making an informed choice. Moreover, mixing and matching nutrients and herbs on your own can be very dangerous to your health as well as expensive.
However, make sure that the product is professionally and scientifically formulated by a highly-credentialed scientific team that can ensure the proper blending of ingredients to maximize the therapeutic benefits needed to combat depression.
Final note about natural nutrients and herbal medicine for depression ...
It's important that you always speak to a physician before taking any dietary and herbal supplements. In addition, you should never stop taking any prescribed medications to try any these nutrients without talking to your physician and/or psychiatrist.
Cindy Amorin is the chief editor of Nutritional-Supplement-Educational-Centre, an information-rich site that discusses nutritional, dietary, and herbal supplements and their potential therapeutic value.
Debt and Family Stress
Over the years, hundreds of students have shared with me that their parents are fighting, not speaking to each other, or are feeling stressed due to financial pressure. Common themes centered on a parent losing his or her job, not being able to afford "what others have, and battles among siblings who have to share "family gifts." For years, many parenting authors shared their concerns and made claims that financial pressure was a leading cause of divorce in the United Stated. The good news is that many of these claims are no longer being made without proof. In fact, Jan Andersen, associate professor at CSU Sacramento, research indicated that financial pressure was not a leading cause of divorce in the U.S., but is often ranked four or fifth in that category (MSN, Money).
Over the past five years, tens of thousands of Websites have been developed to assist families with financial advice to reduce not only debt, but the stress that comes with the debt. Most of these sites, however, do not provide resources, strategies or techniques for parents to utilize in helping their child and themselves reduce the emotional stressed caused by financial difficulties. To reduce family stress, help your child become more accountable with his or her money and become a role model in your home with financial matters, parents may apply some of the strategies listed below.
Have a discussion with your children at an early age (five or above) to let them know that items cost money. Have this type of discussion several times a year. Don't lecture, but provide information in a learning atmosphere. Share (at an age appropriate level) what you, as a parent do for a job or how you make money to buy things. Don't allow your child to learn that materials goods come at no cost.
Show your child how you pay your bills; what it cost to heat the home, pay for car repairs and buy groceries. It's not appropriate to share your private computer accounts, codes and passwords for bank accounts. It is important to let the child know that you have a system in place to pay for things that your family needs.
Hold a discussion with your children that centers on the following:
Family/Individual Needs: Food, shelter, clothes, transportation (car), communication (phone), etc. vs.
Family/Individual Wants: TV, cell phone, toys, games, trips, jewelry etc.
Let your children know that you love them; especially during stressful times. Spent time talking, doing activities that don't cost anything (play cards, games, read, take a walk etc.). Having fun does not have to cost a lot of money. Saying, "I love you" is free!
Over the past five years, tens of thousands of Websites have been developed to assist families with financial advice to reduce not only debt, but the stress that comes with the debt. Most of these sites, however, do not provide resources, strategies or techniques for parents to utilize in helping their child and themselves reduce the emotional stressed caused by financial difficulties. To reduce family stress, help your child become more accountable with his or her money and become a role model in your home with financial matters, parents may apply some of the strategies listed below.
Have a discussion with your children at an early age (five or above) to let them know that items cost money. Have this type of discussion several times a year. Don't lecture, but provide information in a learning atmosphere. Share (at an age appropriate level) what you, as a parent do for a job or how you make money to buy things. Don't allow your child to learn that materials goods come at no cost.
Show your child how you pay your bills; what it cost to heat the home, pay for car repairs and buy groceries. It's not appropriate to share your private computer accounts, codes and passwords for bank accounts. It is important to let the child know that you have a system in place to pay for things that your family needs.
Hold a discussion with your children that centers on the following:
Family/Individual Needs: Food, shelter, clothes, transportation (car), communication (phone), etc. vs.
Family/Individual Wants: TV, cell phone, toys, games, trips, jewelry etc.
Let your children know that you love them; especially during stressful times. Spent time talking, doing activities that don't cost anything (play cards, games, read, take a walk etc.). Having fun does not have to cost a lot of money. Saying, "I love you" is free!
My Elderly Father Was Swinging From the Chandelier, Protecting The Dignity Of Aging Loved Ones
Often, the focus of the person providing the direct care is on protecting their loved one, and enhancing their dignity and self-esteem. As their loved ones behavior becomes unpredictable and care needs increase, it is sometimes easier to avoid telling anyone, or going out in public, such as church or visiting with friends.
The Challenge - The person providing the direct care has difficultly sharing with family and friends the actual behaviors and physical care needs of their loved one, resulting in caregiver isolation.
It can be over whelming and sometimes embarrassing for the caregiver to share the details of the loved ones condition or behavior with family members, neighbors or people at church. Many family members only see what is really happening when they get together for special occasions and holidays.
The Solution - Being aware of your loved ones condition and behavior is essential in helping the direct caregiver.
1. The family may want to schedule regular visits on a rotating schedule, so they can see their loved ones behavior first hand.
• Sometimes each family member sees things in a little different way, and if they each visit at different times they can get together later to share their views of the situation.
• The direct caregiver may react differently to each family member; being more open with some.
2. The direct caregiver and/or other family members may want to join a support group. It is sometimes easier to discuss the situation with others who are in similar situations as yours.
3. Explore ways of protecting the dignity and self-esteem of your loved one:
• Explain their condition and behavior openly to others before they see the person.
• Accommodations can be made to make you and your loved one more comfortable in a public situation. For example, the Alzheimers' Association has cards that can be given to the server in a restaurant that explains your loved ones dementia and behavior.
As you visit your aging loved ones, observe for changing care needs and behaviors. Have different family members or friends visit at different times of the day and evening. Stay the night. Provide opportunities for the direct caregiver to discuss the most challenging aspect of care. Talk with friends and family members about their observations. Develop ways to protect the dignity and self esteem of your loved one when inviting people in or when taking the loved one out.
Carol McGowan RN and Cindy Streekstra RN are Caregiver Coaches and geriatric nurses who share a mission of caring for caregivers as part of a family unit. Their passion for caregivers has led them to create The Caregiver Cottage, a virtual place of support where they guide family caregivers through the care giving experience.
The Challenge - The person providing the direct care has difficultly sharing with family and friends the actual behaviors and physical care needs of their loved one, resulting in caregiver isolation.
It can be over whelming and sometimes embarrassing for the caregiver to share the details of the loved ones condition or behavior with family members, neighbors or people at church. Many family members only see what is really happening when they get together for special occasions and holidays.
The Solution - Being aware of your loved ones condition and behavior is essential in helping the direct caregiver.
1. The family may want to schedule regular visits on a rotating schedule, so they can see their loved ones behavior first hand.
• Sometimes each family member sees things in a little different way, and if they each visit at different times they can get together later to share their views of the situation.
• The direct caregiver may react differently to each family member; being more open with some.
2. The direct caregiver and/or other family members may want to join a support group. It is sometimes easier to discuss the situation with others who are in similar situations as yours.
3. Explore ways of protecting the dignity and self-esteem of your loved one:
• Explain their condition and behavior openly to others before they see the person.
• Accommodations can be made to make you and your loved one more comfortable in a public situation. For example, the Alzheimers' Association has cards that can be given to the server in a restaurant that explains your loved ones dementia and behavior.
As you visit your aging loved ones, observe for changing care needs and behaviors. Have different family members or friends visit at different times of the day and evening. Stay the night. Provide opportunities for the direct caregiver to discuss the most challenging aspect of care. Talk with friends and family members about their observations. Develop ways to protect the dignity and self esteem of your loved one when inviting people in or when taking the loved one out.
Carol McGowan RN and Cindy Streekstra RN are Caregiver Coaches and geriatric nurses who share a mission of caring for caregivers as part of a family unit. Their passion for caregivers has led them to create The Caregiver Cottage, a virtual place of support where they guide family caregivers through the care giving experience.
The Correlation Between Writers And Depression
Is there a correlation between writers and depression? Well it may seem so, since so many writers have admitted to having some form of depression or going through bouts of depression. What’s interesting is how so many writers seem to welcome their depressive state because they believe that it causes them to write better. Why do writers feel that creativity is born solely from a cathartic event which usually entails some form of suffering either mentally or physically?
True many writers are depressed, but I feel that this is because of the conditions that writers face. Irregular hours, Isolation, a lack of exposure to sunlight, and the greatest factor, financial and professional uncertainty—all may cause a depression or worsen one.
These factors would cause anyone to become depressed; writers are just unfortunate enough to face all them.
Scientists have been debating why writers are more prone to depression, what they should be asking is why some writers enjoy their depression or feel that they create better pieces when they are depressed.
Because of the financial and professional uncertainty there is a correlation between writers and depression. Many writers feel that when there are no major assignments coming in (free lance writer) or no works being published/bought there are depressed. Well this shouldn’t surprise anyone. I don’t think anybody is ecstatic when they have bills to pay and no way to pay for them.
It’s no secret that some writers go through bouts of depression. But what makes them so different from any other creative master? I’m sure that there are many “work at home” gurus who are depressed or painters or even designers. Anyone who has an uncertain future in their career and spends a lot of time alone is prone to depression. Yet, their depression isn’t as glamorized as it is with writers.
Writers may be depressed, everyone is sometimes but to say that they are more creative when they are is myth. And I feel that writers should ease up on the affection that they have for their depression. Why would anyone want to welcome an unhealthy state? Why would you want to be depressed in order to create?
Writing is therapeutic, and can be used as an escape and a release. In many ways writing can be seen as an antidepressant. But for anyone to relish in their depression is to deny themselves the real art of creating. If you can only produce a document when you are experiencing one particular state, then you will never know what it is like to create from a different one. It makes me sad to think that any writer would use depression as a crutch for their creativity.
I want to be able to write when I’m happy or sad, when I see something that aggravates me or amuses me, when I’m at my highest point or my lowest. I want to always be able to tap into my writing skills anytime, anyplace. Are some days better than others? Of course, I’m sure that all writers will agree they feel inspired during some moments more than others. But how can anyone have a flourishing writing career when they are dependent on their depression to inspire new ideas. Clinical depression is very real and very serious yet there are writers who refuse to take their medication because they don’t feel that they can write unless they are depressed.
You may be a writer, but it is no excuse to neglect your health. Get out as much as you can, eat well, sleep well and exercise. Finding company among other writers is also helpful. There may seem to be an unhealthy bond between some writers and their depression but you must try to find writing in the act itself. Creativity stems from both negative and positive experiences.
True many writers are depressed, but I feel that this is because of the conditions that writers face. Irregular hours, Isolation, a lack of exposure to sunlight, and the greatest factor, financial and professional uncertainty—all may cause a depression or worsen one.
These factors would cause anyone to become depressed; writers are just unfortunate enough to face all them.
Scientists have been debating why writers are more prone to depression, what they should be asking is why some writers enjoy their depression or feel that they create better pieces when they are depressed.
Because of the financial and professional uncertainty there is a correlation between writers and depression. Many writers feel that when there are no major assignments coming in (free lance writer) or no works being published/bought there are depressed. Well this shouldn’t surprise anyone. I don’t think anybody is ecstatic when they have bills to pay and no way to pay for them.
It’s no secret that some writers go through bouts of depression. But what makes them so different from any other creative master? I’m sure that there are many “work at home” gurus who are depressed or painters or even designers. Anyone who has an uncertain future in their career and spends a lot of time alone is prone to depression. Yet, their depression isn’t as glamorized as it is with writers.
Writers may be depressed, everyone is sometimes but to say that they are more creative when they are is myth. And I feel that writers should ease up on the affection that they have for their depression. Why would anyone want to welcome an unhealthy state? Why would you want to be depressed in order to create?
Writing is therapeutic, and can be used as an escape and a release. In many ways writing can be seen as an antidepressant. But for anyone to relish in their depression is to deny themselves the real art of creating. If you can only produce a document when you are experiencing one particular state, then you will never know what it is like to create from a different one. It makes me sad to think that any writer would use depression as a crutch for their creativity.
I want to be able to write when I’m happy or sad, when I see something that aggravates me or amuses me, when I’m at my highest point or my lowest. I want to always be able to tap into my writing skills anytime, anyplace. Are some days better than others? Of course, I’m sure that all writers will agree they feel inspired during some moments more than others. But how can anyone have a flourishing writing career when they are dependent on their depression to inspire new ideas. Clinical depression is very real and very serious yet there are writers who refuse to take their medication because they don’t feel that they can write unless they are depressed.
You may be a writer, but it is no excuse to neglect your health. Get out as much as you can, eat well, sleep well and exercise. Finding company among other writers is also helpful. There may seem to be an unhealthy bond between some writers and their depression but you must try to find writing in the act itself. Creativity stems from both negative and positive experiences.
Food Shopping Tips For Dieters - The Supermarket Wars
Diets are a stone cold drag. The cravings, the weighing of food, the taste of a Brussels sprout soufflé. No one - NO ONE - likes to diet. But you can help yourself and your family by shopping smart. Think of the supermarket as the battleground. Here's how to avoid temptation.
Start With Shopping List
Lots of people go to the market with no list so they roam up and down the aisles throwing bags of pork rinds and cases of soda into the cart. Yummm.
Then, there are people who do put together shopping lists and promptly forget them once they see that Oreos are on sale - two for the price of one!
Before leaving the house, prepare a shopping list. A nutritionally sound one. Then stick to the plan. It's a lot easier to show self-discipline in the store passing the ice cream freezer that it is when you hear that Rocky Road calling from your own freezer.
You decide what foods come in the house. Make good choices, write them down and stick to the list. Oh, and be sure to include some goodies on your list - but healthful goodies. For example, instead of tossing in a bag of taco chips, go for the pretzels. They're baked, therefore, less fat.
Substitute two items on your list for better, more nutritious food. The pretzels/chips thing is one, and instead of pork chops, go for some sole. Lightly baked with bread crumbs and you've got a taste treat with a lot less fat.
Entering Enemy Territory
Supermarkets are there for one reason - to sell food. That's why they make their food offerings so attractive.
The layout of every supermarket is the same. The first thing you see upon entering is a stack of soda, crackers, cookies or some other deeply discounted foods. Turn away.
The fact is, supermarkets arrange their food products so that all the necessities - fruits and veggies, milk, bread and other staples line the outer walls of the store. Think about your supermarket. Where's the milk section? Fruits and veggies? On the outside of the store - something you can use to your advantage.
Outer aisles in the supermarket contain pet foods, paper goods, cereal, coffee and other necessities. Ahh, but then there are those two or three aisles in the center of the store - where most people will see them.
This is where the snacks are and rows and rows of soda and other high-calories drinks. In some stores, bottles of water might be placed in the same row as the soda so as you go to pick up your Aqua Fina, you can't resist throwing a couple of gallons of Mountain Dew into the cart at the same time.
Another key selling area? At the end of each aisle are displays called carousels. Food makers actually pay stores for this key space, either by offering a lower wholesale price or through the exchange of money. These carousels are prime supermarket real estate and the only reason they're in place is to tempt you.
So, stay out of the center aisles of the supermarket and stick to the outer walls to find the foods that are nutritious instead of loaded with empty calories.
Eat Something
The worse thing you can do is shop hungry. You end up putting a bunch of foods in your cart for later. Hard to resist a dozen, high-fat muffins fresh from the oven. Especially on an empty stomach. So only shop when you're full.
Resist Temptation When It's Easy
Resisting temptation is tiring. It can also be stressful and downright depressing. When you know there's a pie in the fridge, all you can do is think about that stupid pie.
However, it doesn't take anywhere near as much will power to simply walk by the pie in the store. This is where it's easy to be strong.
Start With Shopping List
Lots of people go to the market with no list so they roam up and down the aisles throwing bags of pork rinds and cases of soda into the cart. Yummm.
Then, there are people who do put together shopping lists and promptly forget them once they see that Oreos are on sale - two for the price of one!
Before leaving the house, prepare a shopping list. A nutritionally sound one. Then stick to the plan. It's a lot easier to show self-discipline in the store passing the ice cream freezer that it is when you hear that Rocky Road calling from your own freezer.
You decide what foods come in the house. Make good choices, write them down and stick to the list. Oh, and be sure to include some goodies on your list - but healthful goodies. For example, instead of tossing in a bag of taco chips, go for the pretzels. They're baked, therefore, less fat.
Substitute two items on your list for better, more nutritious food. The pretzels/chips thing is one, and instead of pork chops, go for some sole. Lightly baked with bread crumbs and you've got a taste treat with a lot less fat.
Entering Enemy Territory
Supermarkets are there for one reason - to sell food. That's why they make their food offerings so attractive.
The layout of every supermarket is the same. The first thing you see upon entering is a stack of soda, crackers, cookies or some other deeply discounted foods. Turn away.
The fact is, supermarkets arrange their food products so that all the necessities - fruits and veggies, milk, bread and other staples line the outer walls of the store. Think about your supermarket. Where's the milk section? Fruits and veggies? On the outside of the store - something you can use to your advantage.
Outer aisles in the supermarket contain pet foods, paper goods, cereal, coffee and other necessities. Ahh, but then there are those two or three aisles in the center of the store - where most people will see them.
This is where the snacks are and rows and rows of soda and other high-calories drinks. In some stores, bottles of water might be placed in the same row as the soda so as you go to pick up your Aqua Fina, you can't resist throwing a couple of gallons of Mountain Dew into the cart at the same time.
Another key selling area? At the end of each aisle are displays called carousels. Food makers actually pay stores for this key space, either by offering a lower wholesale price or through the exchange of money. These carousels are prime supermarket real estate and the only reason they're in place is to tempt you.
So, stay out of the center aisles of the supermarket and stick to the outer walls to find the foods that are nutritious instead of loaded with empty calories.
Eat Something
The worse thing you can do is shop hungry. You end up putting a bunch of foods in your cart for later. Hard to resist a dozen, high-fat muffins fresh from the oven. Especially on an empty stomach. So only shop when you're full.
Resist Temptation When It's Easy
Resisting temptation is tiring. It can also be stressful and downright depressing. When you know there's a pie in the fridge, all you can do is think about that stupid pie.
However, it doesn't take anywhere near as much will power to simply walk by the pie in the store. This is where it's easy to be strong.
Symptoms of Child Obesity
Obesity is considered the most common dietary crisis faced by a lot of Americans today. Both infants and children are not exempted from this grave health threat. This condition often happen when they are taking more calories than their small bodies can use. Like adults, this puts them in a very high risk of other health complications. Prevention and early detection is highly advised, since parents are mainly responsible for their child’s health. So what are the symptoms of child obesity?
Although most people consider a fat child cute, parents should pay more close attention to their child’s weight. There are some signs that can help you detect if your child is in danger of obesity. It can usually be determined by measuring the height and weight. A child is considered obese of his/her weight is significantly over the ideal weight for his/her age and height. The most common symptoms of child obesity include disproportionate appearance of facial features, adiposity in the breast area among boys, unusually large abdomen and exceptionally small external genitals for males. Puberty may also occur earlier in obese children.
For most obese people, the cause of their disorder can be traced back to their childhood. Obesity is expected to persist through life. That is why early detection and therapy of obesity in children is the best preventive solution in blocking its progression into adulthood. Close attention to the symptoms of child obesity would really help in the intervention and treatment of the child.
It is therefore a huge responsibility for parents to constantly monitor symptoms of child obesity, especially if their child is visibly overweight. Parents should never neglect to scrutinize the eating habits of their children. Early cure could prevent the child from developing other medical complications such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
It is also important to include every member in the family to participate in treating an obese child. The support and reassurances of loved ones would make it easier for the child to deal with his/her weight problems. If you have a close relative suffering from obesity, ignoring the problem or unrepentantly teasing them will not solve the problem in any way. Early intervention is needed, not only solely directed to the child but to the parents as well. Since more than anybody else, parents should be aware of the food intake and eating attitude of the child. A long-term program is highly advised to rehabilitate both the parents and the child. This is not just the burden if the child to carry, but a family problem that needs attention and quick action.
Although most people consider a fat child cute, parents should pay more close attention to their child’s weight. There are some signs that can help you detect if your child is in danger of obesity. It can usually be determined by measuring the height and weight. A child is considered obese of his/her weight is significantly over the ideal weight for his/her age and height. The most common symptoms of child obesity include disproportionate appearance of facial features, adiposity in the breast area among boys, unusually large abdomen and exceptionally small external genitals for males. Puberty may also occur earlier in obese children.
For most obese people, the cause of their disorder can be traced back to their childhood. Obesity is expected to persist through life. That is why early detection and therapy of obesity in children is the best preventive solution in blocking its progression into adulthood. Close attention to the symptoms of child obesity would really help in the intervention and treatment of the child.
It is therefore a huge responsibility for parents to constantly monitor symptoms of child obesity, especially if their child is visibly overweight. Parents should never neglect to scrutinize the eating habits of their children. Early cure could prevent the child from developing other medical complications such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
It is also important to include every member in the family to participate in treating an obese child. The support and reassurances of loved ones would make it easier for the child to deal with his/her weight problems. If you have a close relative suffering from obesity, ignoring the problem or unrepentantly teasing them will not solve the problem in any way. Early intervention is needed, not only solely directed to the child but to the parents as well. Since more than anybody else, parents should be aware of the food intake and eating attitude of the child. A long-term program is highly advised to rehabilitate both the parents and the child. This is not just the burden if the child to carry, but a family problem that needs attention and quick action.
Hypnosis And Smoking
If you consider hypnosis to stop smoking, you make a good decision!
You want to know why nicotine replacement treatments don’t work?
Because nicotine doesn`t keep you smoking! You can blame nicotine for the rest of your life, but even if all the nicotine would exit your body this second, you would probably continue smoking!
Smoking is habit and you know that! There’s something more than nicotine that you get from lighting another cigarette!
...And that “something” is what keeps you smoking! It’s most likely subconscious issue that keeps you wanting cigarette and unless you solve that issue, you find it’s very hard to quit smoking.
You know, people who have tried hypnosis to quit smoking have reported amazing results.
People who have smoked for 30-40 years have been able to finally quit!
And the most amazing thing is that some of them have been able to do it very fast!
You don’t believe this? Great, I didn`t even think you would so keep reading!
I just asked if you believe you can stop smoking in matter of hours. Basically, our belief system controls our life. What you believe is what you are!
If you believe you can never stop smoking, you will keep smoking until you change that belief!
Hypnosis can change your beliefs about smoking and that’s why I recommend it.
Once you are able to stop smoking with hypnosis, you will never start again!
If you decide to choose hypnosis to stop smoking, be sure to get a hypnotherapist with good reputation and high success rate. You may have to pay little more for a good hypnotherapist, but that`s worth of it if you are able to stop smoking.
You want to know why nicotine replacement treatments don’t work?
Because nicotine doesn`t keep you smoking! You can blame nicotine for the rest of your life, but even if all the nicotine would exit your body this second, you would probably continue smoking!
Smoking is habit and you know that! There’s something more than nicotine that you get from lighting another cigarette!
...And that “something” is what keeps you smoking! It’s most likely subconscious issue that keeps you wanting cigarette and unless you solve that issue, you find it’s very hard to quit smoking.
You know, people who have tried hypnosis to quit smoking have reported amazing results.
People who have smoked for 30-40 years have been able to finally quit!
And the most amazing thing is that some of them have been able to do it very fast!
You don’t believe this? Great, I didn`t even think you would so keep reading!
I just asked if you believe you can stop smoking in matter of hours. Basically, our belief system controls our life. What you believe is what you are!
If you believe you can never stop smoking, you will keep smoking until you change that belief!
Hypnosis can change your beliefs about smoking and that’s why I recommend it.
Once you are able to stop smoking with hypnosis, you will never start again!
If you decide to choose hypnosis to stop smoking, be sure to get a hypnotherapist with good reputation and high success rate. You may have to pay little more for a good hypnotherapist, but that`s worth of it if you are able to stop smoking.
Family Law Attorneys
Attorneys and lawyers practicing family law take up cases relating to all kinds of family related issues. These can be adoption, prenuptial agreements, marriage, domestic violence, divorce, separation, legal separation, annulment, division of the property accumulated during the marriage, alimony, negotiation, adjudication, child custody and support, child abduction, kidnapping or child seizure, emancipation, abuse in the marriage, parental rights, paternity, juvenile, felonies etc., and many such cases related to family. Other than this they also deal with regular cases relating to criminal laws, property related laws, probation law, trusts etc. However, majority of the cases that come to family lawyers are the divorce, separation, abuse or child custody cases. A number of details need to be considered when it comes to these cases and family lawyers are specialized in all the legalities involved in such cases.
Lawyers and attorneys practicing family law are the best with more experience than qualifications. It is amazing how much documentation and negotiation is expected when taking care of a family related case. Along with this the lawyers must be able to support the party professionally, emotionally and morally all the while helping in separating the client from the spouse and in some instances from the children. Also, the lawyers dealing with the family law cases must be aware of the laws in that particular state as family law differs in each state.
Family law attorneys charge the fee depending on the type of case. In case of divorce, the price can range depending on whether the parties have still some issues pending between them such as property division, child custody, support etc., Most attorney charge either an hourly fee or a flat rate after the case is filed and the court accepts the divorce. However, the best kind of attorneys charge by the hour as there would be less scope of getting fleeced later on after getting a big settlement or alimony from the spouse. These hourly rates can vary depending on the area or state where the case is to be held. Of course, a lawyer in New York, Beverly Hills or Los Angeles would be expected to charge a lot more than a lawyer from a small place in Iowa! Also, it is a usual practice for the attorneys to charge a retainer, as is the case with regular lawyers practicing in other fields of law. If unable to bear the retainer charges, the court can make the spouse bear the retainer charges when the court is requested for counsel fee pedente lite! Pedente lite is a court order for taking financial care of a low income spouse while court proceedings are ongoing.
Family problems can be very upsetting and distressing and the best way to handle them is with the help of a lawyer experienced in practicing family law. An exhaustive list of lawyers that are qualified, experienced can be found either from the yellow pages or on the Internet with some effort. A word of advice, it is the best option to always go for a new lawyer chosen on basis of qualifications and experience instead of the ones recommended by friends or acquaintances or relatives to avoid any problems or explanations later on!
Lawyers and attorneys practicing family law are the best with more experience than qualifications. It is amazing how much documentation and negotiation is expected when taking care of a family related case. Along with this the lawyers must be able to support the party professionally, emotionally and morally all the while helping in separating the client from the spouse and in some instances from the children. Also, the lawyers dealing with the family law cases must be aware of the laws in that particular state as family law differs in each state.
Family law attorneys charge the fee depending on the type of case. In case of divorce, the price can range depending on whether the parties have still some issues pending between them such as property division, child custody, support etc., Most attorney charge either an hourly fee or a flat rate after the case is filed and the court accepts the divorce. However, the best kind of attorneys charge by the hour as there would be less scope of getting fleeced later on after getting a big settlement or alimony from the spouse. These hourly rates can vary depending on the area or state where the case is to be held. Of course, a lawyer in New York, Beverly Hills or Los Angeles would be expected to charge a lot more than a lawyer from a small place in Iowa! Also, it is a usual practice for the attorneys to charge a retainer, as is the case with regular lawyers practicing in other fields of law. If unable to bear the retainer charges, the court can make the spouse bear the retainer charges when the court is requested for counsel fee pedente lite! Pedente lite is a court order for taking financial care of a low income spouse while court proceedings are ongoing.
Family problems can be very upsetting and distressing and the best way to handle them is with the help of a lawyer experienced in practicing family law. An exhaustive list of lawyers that are qualified, experienced can be found either from the yellow pages or on the Internet with some effort. A word of advice, it is the best option to always go for a new lawyer chosen on basis of qualifications and experience instead of the ones recommended by friends or acquaintances or relatives to avoid any problems or explanations later on!
Signs Of Depression What It Is And How To Identify It
Depression is a regularly misinterpreted abnormality. Everybody gets desolate and feels pain every once and a while, notwithstanding what happens when a sad attitude persists for a long period of time? This is what is known as depression. Depression is well-known by widely apart signs and symptoms, nevertheless because there are so worlds of different ones, it can be hard to Identify them. Being aware of what depression is and what its symptoms are could save somebody's life whether it is your own that of a loved one.
Describing The abnormality
Thousands people are unsure about what depression unmistakably is. Depression is a disorder that can last anywhere from a few months to a lifetime. It causes one to feel unrelentingly and overwhelmingly dire or lifeless for an elevated period of time. Some people recount depression as a feeling of long-phase aggrieve, while others say it is an absence they feel inside.
The problem with this disorder is that those who live through with it many times do not associate with that they abide from it, or else they do not care good enough to do anything about it. That is why it is up to their friends and family members to be aware of what depression is, and its symptoms.
Signs And Symptoms Send A Message
People who are afflicted with depression can signify a wide range of symptoms, all with differing extremity. Ordinary symptoms articulate feelings of helplessness and despondency, loss of interest in daily activities, appetite or weight changes, sleep changes, psychomotor agitation or retardation, aches and pains, loss of energy, concentration problems, irritability, and self-loathing.
Pinpointing these symptoms can be jaw breaking, because thousands of them can be experienced by people with other illnesses or with nothing wrong with them at all. Everybody feels cranky every once in a while, and it is not uncommon to have aches and pains sometimes. Even so, if a collection of these symptoms persists, then it is time to attune your concerns.
Intervene, Or Else
Understanding the long phase consequences of depression are part of comprehending what it is. Depression that goes untreated can originate numerous problems for those who are agonized, yet the lamentable implication of all is the likelihood of self-immolation. This eventuality should be an impetus to get help as soon as achievable.
Know The Essential facts
Being knowledgeable of the facts about depression, encompassing what it is, what its symptoms are, and what the long phase effects of the abnormality are, can avert you to be more vigilant if you come across it in your daily life. If you or somebody you associate with has clinical depression, apply stunt now, because there is not a moment to lay waste.
Describing The abnormality
Thousands people are unsure about what depression unmistakably is. Depression is a disorder that can last anywhere from a few months to a lifetime. It causes one to feel unrelentingly and overwhelmingly dire or lifeless for an elevated period of time. Some people recount depression as a feeling of long-phase aggrieve, while others say it is an absence they feel inside.
The problem with this disorder is that those who live through with it many times do not associate with that they abide from it, or else they do not care good enough to do anything about it. That is why it is up to their friends and family members to be aware of what depression is, and its symptoms.
Signs And Symptoms Send A Message
People who are afflicted with depression can signify a wide range of symptoms, all with differing extremity. Ordinary symptoms articulate feelings of helplessness and despondency, loss of interest in daily activities, appetite or weight changes, sleep changes, psychomotor agitation or retardation, aches and pains, loss of energy, concentration problems, irritability, and self-loathing.
Pinpointing these symptoms can be jaw breaking, because thousands of them can be experienced by people with other illnesses or with nothing wrong with them at all. Everybody feels cranky every once in a while, and it is not uncommon to have aches and pains sometimes. Even so, if a collection of these symptoms persists, then it is time to attune your concerns.
Intervene, Or Else
Understanding the long phase consequences of depression are part of comprehending what it is. Depression that goes untreated can originate numerous problems for those who are agonized, yet the lamentable implication of all is the likelihood of self-immolation. This eventuality should be an impetus to get help as soon as achievable.
Know The Essential facts
Being knowledgeable of the facts about depression, encompassing what it is, what its symptoms are, and what the long phase effects of the abnormality are, can avert you to be more vigilant if you come across it in your daily life. If you or somebody you associate with has clinical depression, apply stunt now, because there is not a moment to lay waste.
Male Depression and Its Blinding Bind
Many men have a difficult time recognizing that they are depressed. Men often interpret the word "depression" as describing a state of helplessness or hopelessness. In many ways our culture conditions men to ignore these states or to experience little awareness of them. Men are taught "boys don't cry," and are uniformly rewarded with praise and validation when they "act like a man" instead of tearing up or expressing fear in response to a harshly distressing encounter. After years of this kind of persistent reinforcement these boys grow into men with a form of blindness whereby they often do not see or understand the nature of depression. In ignorance they become bound by painfully repetitive behaviors and feelings with no knowledge that they can change.
What men do recognize is the feeling of "stress" and they will commonly describe situations as stressful with no awareness that those situations are only triggers stimulating an internal state of dis-ease that often leads to depression. The following are some of the less recognizable experiences that men commonly describe as stressful and that are symptomatic of depression.
Symptoms of Depression
--high levels of anxiety
--irritability, and/or anger
--low energy and/or fatigue
--loss or lack of confidence
--loss of interest in favorite activities
--weight loss or gain
--loss of sex drive
--sleep problems
--inability to relax
--obsessive-compulsive behaviors
--frequent suffering from vague physical ailments.
Triggers of Depression
Many normal and joyous life experiences can trigger depression. A new relationship, a new baby, a new home or job, a large inheritance, or even winning the lottery. Each of these events brings additional and, at times, unfamiliar experiences that can inhibit a man's ability to effectively manage these new experiences. If such a situation continues long enough a man's self worth can diminish and depression can then set in.
Divorce, loss of a job, retirement, a death, constant and unrelenting pressures from others to do things their way--these also can tax a man's sense of competency and self-worth. When having difficulty coping with these painful life experiences many men will present a "stiff upper lip" and try harder and harder. And if, by chance, they continue to have trouble functioning effectively, they will suffer intense anxiety, tension, and fatigue. With no relief they will begin experiencing more of the symptoms listed above.
Physical illness and unrelenting pain can also trigger depression. Pain is the body's red alert system that something is misfiring, and the nervous system is the first responder to engage our defense system to bring relief. When pain is intense enough or it persists long enough it creates unrelieved stress on our natural biological defense systems. Once that happens our immune system and other related defense systems become compromised and can no longer provide necessary relief. One of the common results of this biologically-based depletion is depression. The biological and chemical effects of untreated depression then synergistically trigger an even wider system breakdown that further weakens our body and makes us susceptible to other physical disorders.
The Blind Bind Of Male Depression
Men are conditioned from the time they are little boys to be problem solvers, doers, and thinkers. As such they push themselves to meet time lines, sales quotas, budget schedules, financial, emotional, and professional expectations of family and friends. They are not taught to consider or are not aware of the cost these pressures can impose on their physical well being and emotional peace of mind. They are blinded to the understanding that if the cost gets high enough fatigue, irritability, impatience, and the other symptoms listed above will start to manifest. They do not recognize that in an effort to gain relief from these symptoms they engage in behaviors that potentially exacerbate the problem.
And so, in ignorance, they compulsively and impulsively bind with the distracting excitement or mind numbing experience of a increasing variety of behaviors. Some examples include alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex, spending, long periods on the internet, and working harder and longer. Ultimately, instead of bringing relief, these binding behaviors bring an additional set of worries that now includes substance-related depression, financial debt, social isolation, family conflict, a shame-driven perception of self, and a widening rift between the painful state of depression and the support that can bring relief and healing.
Healing from Male Depression
Men did not ask for this blind-bind state of being. And they cannot return to their pasts and change the experiences that conditioned them to overlook, ignore or have little understanding of the symptoms of depression and the interactions that trigger it. However, men can learn to recognize the symptoms and seek help.
Depression is treatable and with the support of a knowledgeable doctor and a skilled psychotherapist who has experience and training working with men in the treatment of depression and anxiety the blind bind of male depression can release. And with that release men can then acquire the tools to alleviate the symptoms of depression, to prevent its debilitating re-occurrence, and to live with a consistent sense of healthy and enjoyable connection with self and others.
What men do recognize is the feeling of "stress" and they will commonly describe situations as stressful with no awareness that those situations are only triggers stimulating an internal state of dis-ease that often leads to depression. The following are some of the less recognizable experiences that men commonly describe as stressful and that are symptomatic of depression.
Symptoms of Depression
--high levels of anxiety
--irritability, and/or anger
--low energy and/or fatigue
--loss or lack of confidence
--loss of interest in favorite activities
--weight loss or gain
--loss of sex drive
--sleep problems
--inability to relax
--obsessive-compulsive behaviors
--frequent suffering from vague physical ailments.
Triggers of Depression
Many normal and joyous life experiences can trigger depression. A new relationship, a new baby, a new home or job, a large inheritance, or even winning the lottery. Each of these events brings additional and, at times, unfamiliar experiences that can inhibit a man's ability to effectively manage these new experiences. If such a situation continues long enough a man's self worth can diminish and depression can then set in.
Divorce, loss of a job, retirement, a death, constant and unrelenting pressures from others to do things their way--these also can tax a man's sense of competency and self-worth. When having difficulty coping with these painful life experiences many men will present a "stiff upper lip" and try harder and harder. And if, by chance, they continue to have trouble functioning effectively, they will suffer intense anxiety, tension, and fatigue. With no relief they will begin experiencing more of the symptoms listed above.
Physical illness and unrelenting pain can also trigger depression. Pain is the body's red alert system that something is misfiring, and the nervous system is the first responder to engage our defense system to bring relief. When pain is intense enough or it persists long enough it creates unrelieved stress on our natural biological defense systems. Once that happens our immune system and other related defense systems become compromised and can no longer provide necessary relief. One of the common results of this biologically-based depletion is depression. The biological and chemical effects of untreated depression then synergistically trigger an even wider system breakdown that further weakens our body and makes us susceptible to other physical disorders.
The Blind Bind Of Male Depression
Men are conditioned from the time they are little boys to be problem solvers, doers, and thinkers. As such they push themselves to meet time lines, sales quotas, budget schedules, financial, emotional, and professional expectations of family and friends. They are not taught to consider or are not aware of the cost these pressures can impose on their physical well being and emotional peace of mind. They are blinded to the understanding that if the cost gets high enough fatigue, irritability, impatience, and the other symptoms listed above will start to manifest. They do not recognize that in an effort to gain relief from these symptoms they engage in behaviors that potentially exacerbate the problem.
And so, in ignorance, they compulsively and impulsively bind with the distracting excitement or mind numbing experience of a increasing variety of behaviors. Some examples include alcohol, drugs, gambling, sex, spending, long periods on the internet, and working harder and longer. Ultimately, instead of bringing relief, these binding behaviors bring an additional set of worries that now includes substance-related depression, financial debt, social isolation, family conflict, a shame-driven perception of self, and a widening rift between the painful state of depression and the support that can bring relief and healing.
Healing from Male Depression
Men did not ask for this blind-bind state of being. And they cannot return to their pasts and change the experiences that conditioned them to overlook, ignore or have little understanding of the symptoms of depression and the interactions that trigger it. However, men can learn to recognize the symptoms and seek help.
Depression is treatable and with the support of a knowledgeable doctor and a skilled psychotherapist who has experience and training working with men in the treatment of depression and anxiety the blind bind of male depression can release. And with that release men can then acquire the tools to alleviate the symptoms of depression, to prevent its debilitating re-occurrence, and to live with a consistent sense of healthy and enjoyable connection with self and others.
Helping The Whole Family Cope With Mental Illness
Throughout my childhood my brother Tom took up much of the family energy due to his mental illness. It wasn't his fault or ours, it just happens that way in families. As I think back on how my parents dealt with the challenges, there are things I think they could have done better. Hindsight is 20/20, I know, and they did the best they could. But it’s a very tough situation and every one of us who has lived with it can offer suggestions to other families in crisis, which may spare them some pain. Here are mine.
Here are 5 ways to improve the family situation when a member has mental dis-ease.
1. Educate everyone about the illness. Knowledge is power so get books, talk to doctors, seek out support groups (see our resource section for ideas) and gather all the facts you can. You will each have different reactions to the situation, but at least you’ll share concrete information.
2. Establish a support team of professionals. It’s not just the family member with mental illness that needs professional support. Anyone in the family and the family as a whole may need assistance with emotions, coping, communications, and cooperation.
3. Talk with family members about the issues. Have family meetings to discuss feelings and problems each person is having. Share possible strategies for addressing problems. Allow each person to express their concerns openly and honestly. Even though the family unit has changed due to the illness, be creative and continue to stay connected as a family even if it "feels different".
4. Develop boundaries around the person's illness. Decide what is appropriate "helping" and what is classified as someone elses’s misplaced needs and "enabling". It is very easy to fall into the trap of thinking the person cannot do things for him/herself, when often this is not the case.
5. Pay attention to your own wellness. It’s not at all unusual to become burnt out, and to start isolating yourself personally and as a family. Take extra good care of yourself. Spend time with friends, go to a museum and get inspired by great art, plant a flower, do things you enjoy. Even if it feels like a struggle at first, do it -- because in the long run your health and sanity needs to be replenished so you can give to the rest of the family.
One word of caution here about the idea of "wellness" or taking care of your "self". You may feel that taking good care of your "self" when the family member suffers from mental illness is just, well, plain ol' "selfish". But the fact is that being able to stay well enhances you’re ability to deal with your new family situation. In addition, caring for your "self" means your will have more patience and energy when they need you .
In the end, families face many challenges if mental illness is in the mix. Be proactive, realize this is manageable, and keep others involved in the process. Living your life as a family may have changed due to the mental illness but that doesn’t mean you are not still a “family”. Be creative and find other ways to do family things that make sense under the changing dynamics. Nothing is perfect but your response to the challenge and your ability to model proactive behaviors for other family members will assist them in moving forward.
Here are 5 ways to improve the family situation when a member has mental dis-ease.
1. Educate everyone about the illness. Knowledge is power so get books, talk to doctors, seek out support groups (see our resource section for ideas) and gather all the facts you can. You will each have different reactions to the situation, but at least you’ll share concrete information.
2. Establish a support team of professionals. It’s not just the family member with mental illness that needs professional support. Anyone in the family and the family as a whole may need assistance with emotions, coping, communications, and cooperation.
3. Talk with family members about the issues. Have family meetings to discuss feelings and problems each person is having. Share possible strategies for addressing problems. Allow each person to express their concerns openly and honestly. Even though the family unit has changed due to the illness, be creative and continue to stay connected as a family even if it "feels different".
4. Develop boundaries around the person's illness. Decide what is appropriate "helping" and what is classified as someone elses’s misplaced needs and "enabling". It is very easy to fall into the trap of thinking the person cannot do things for him/herself, when often this is not the case.
5. Pay attention to your own wellness. It’s not at all unusual to become burnt out, and to start isolating yourself personally and as a family. Take extra good care of yourself. Spend time with friends, go to a museum and get inspired by great art, plant a flower, do things you enjoy. Even if it feels like a struggle at first, do it -- because in the long run your health and sanity needs to be replenished so you can give to the rest of the family.
One word of caution here about the idea of "wellness" or taking care of your "self". You may feel that taking good care of your "self" when the family member suffers from mental illness is just, well, plain ol' "selfish". But the fact is that being able to stay well enhances you’re ability to deal with your new family situation. In addition, caring for your "self" means your will have more patience and energy when they need you .
In the end, families face many challenges if mental illness is in the mix. Be proactive, realize this is manageable, and keep others involved in the process. Living your life as a family may have changed due to the mental illness but that doesn’t mean you are not still a “family”. Be creative and find other ways to do family things that make sense under the changing dynamics. Nothing is perfect but your response to the challenge and your ability to model proactive behaviors for other family members will assist them in moving forward.
2009 Nationwide Switch To Digital TV Network Broadcasting - Boon To Small Biz and Bust To The Poor?
Broadcast Television has been a part of our lives for more than 50 years now... That box with a screen in it has certainly become as much a part and parcel of our lives, as our own Natural appendages, familial relatives, and even children and pets!
The TV set has always managed to find itself a home, even in the poorest of hovels, and it's presence is expected to be seen everywhere... I once had a small apartment that did not even have the space for a lounge chair, and I got myself severely razzed for not having a TV set, by my so-called buddies at the time... They wanted to see the TV broadcast predictions and ceremonies of the very same "live" football game that we were going to attend ourselves, that very same day!
These days, I am a businessman. Having witnessed the power of TV programming as a "Life- Changing Force" for good or ill for over 50 years, I can say with confidence that the coming changes will definitely affect our lives very deeply and very personally... And I am dismayed to see how casually this matter is being handled!
I have lots of experience as a consumer and as a businessman with media of all types-- From radio, all the way to the Internet... All of these platforms have their distinct functions and varying degrees of power as they intersect with our Lives, however Television, with it's visual impact and instant presentations, can scale the walls of our perceptions and jump into the pools of our collective imaginations and swim around at Will... Sometimes we don't even realize that we have the option to shut it off...
Marketing and Advertising folks have always utilised this peculiar effect of TV to their advantages, and certainly we all know about the effectiveness of that-- Just a look around our homes and apartments will show how many brand names are attached to the stuff that we bought, because we saw it or heard about it on TV.
Nowadays, with the Internet becoming more and more an advertising medium, especially for micro-enterprises and small businesses with modest budgets, that ever increasing desire for marketing and advertising folks to cost-effectively link the Internet with Television, is now about to be met fully and roundly... DTV can and will be, inter-connected with the Internet by the wise and savvy business persons and small companies who have an understanding of the powers of this "New Media World" of opportunities.
With a Direct Digital Interface, these media can mesh together-- Along with Digital Radio and other players, for a very potent mix that can be very good for some us Humans, or very bad for some of us Humans...
Hidden within a huge cultural change is the danger that many will be marginalized and forgotten about... Traditionally these are the Poor, Minorities and The Elderly and the so-called, Physically and Mentally Less-Abled...
The DTV Initiative is, of course an "Enterprise" which will make a while lot of money for some very rich folks, while there is nothing at all that wrong with that goal, I see troubling times for huge groups of people in our society... There are those that will be able to use the two $40.00 dollar coupons that will help them purchase a DTV Converter Box, ( Hopefully, the manuals and instructions coming with this device will be clear enough for correct installations) and those to whom this coupon is just another discount on something that they cannot afford to buy in the first place.
My experiences of serving the Elderly, by showing them how to find their way around the internet, has revealed the need for comforting instructional guidance to help these folks learn what to do, "When the TV goes bad". The Television is the only thing that keeps many of these folks alive, I can tell you for a fact, and without it... Well, you do the math.
The problems that arise from cultural changes are as many in number, as the riches that come from those same changes, but this time... We do have an idea if what can occur in our society, for better or for worse.
From personally going out to help others meet the challenge of DTV ourselves, to writing instructional articles about DTV, with the object of helping others get through the changes successfully, we Internet-savvy folks can better our own Lives...
The TV set has always managed to find itself a home, even in the poorest of hovels, and it's presence is expected to be seen everywhere... I once had a small apartment that did not even have the space for a lounge chair, and I got myself severely razzed for not having a TV set, by my so-called buddies at the time... They wanted to see the TV broadcast predictions and ceremonies of the very same "live" football game that we were going to attend ourselves, that very same day!
These days, I am a businessman. Having witnessed the power of TV programming as a "Life- Changing Force" for good or ill for over 50 years, I can say with confidence that the coming changes will definitely affect our lives very deeply and very personally... And I am dismayed to see how casually this matter is being handled!
I have lots of experience as a consumer and as a businessman with media of all types-- From radio, all the way to the Internet... All of these platforms have their distinct functions and varying degrees of power as they intersect with our Lives, however Television, with it's visual impact and instant presentations, can scale the walls of our perceptions and jump into the pools of our collective imaginations and swim around at Will... Sometimes we don't even realize that we have the option to shut it off...
Marketing and Advertising folks have always utilised this peculiar effect of TV to their advantages, and certainly we all know about the effectiveness of that-- Just a look around our homes and apartments will show how many brand names are attached to the stuff that we bought, because we saw it or heard about it on TV.
Nowadays, with the Internet becoming more and more an advertising medium, especially for micro-enterprises and small businesses with modest budgets, that ever increasing desire for marketing and advertising folks to cost-effectively link the Internet with Television, is now about to be met fully and roundly... DTV can and will be, inter-connected with the Internet by the wise and savvy business persons and small companies who have an understanding of the powers of this "New Media World" of opportunities.
With a Direct Digital Interface, these media can mesh together-- Along with Digital Radio and other players, for a very potent mix that can be very good for some us Humans, or very bad for some of us Humans...
Hidden within a huge cultural change is the danger that many will be marginalized and forgotten about... Traditionally these are the Poor, Minorities and The Elderly and the so-called, Physically and Mentally Less-Abled...
The DTV Initiative is, of course an "Enterprise" which will make a while lot of money for some very rich folks, while there is nothing at all that wrong with that goal, I see troubling times for huge groups of people in our society... There are those that will be able to use the two $40.00 dollar coupons that will help them purchase a DTV Converter Box, ( Hopefully, the manuals and instructions coming with this device will be clear enough for correct installations) and those to whom this coupon is just another discount on something that they cannot afford to buy in the first place.
My experiences of serving the Elderly, by showing them how to find their way around the internet, has revealed the need for comforting instructional guidance to help these folks learn what to do, "When the TV goes bad". The Television is the only thing that keeps many of these folks alive, I can tell you for a fact, and without it... Well, you do the math.
The problems that arise from cultural changes are as many in number, as the riches that come from those same changes, but this time... We do have an idea if what can occur in our society, for better or for worse.
From personally going out to help others meet the challenge of DTV ourselves, to writing instructional articles about DTV, with the object of helping others get through the changes successfully, we Internet-savvy folks can better our own Lives...
This Is A Test, It Is Only A Test !
This is a test, it is only a test. For the next 10 minutes I will try to hold your attention long enough for you to realize; "Jay's got a good point," or for some of you, you might be thinking, “what the heck did he just say?" Either way let's get started and see if we can stir things up a little.
Let me tell you a little bit about myself that will qualify me as a respected writer, and a thinker who is way ahead of his time, and well behind on his rent. Now it's come to my attention that for some of you, as soon as you get caught up on your bills, the next ones are due already. For most of you I realize how frustrating that can be, and although I've been in your shoes, it appears that you've got it figured out better than I do, because I haven't quite got down the part about "being caught up on your bills", however, and I hate to boast, I can honestly say that last week I didn't see a single bill, but the mailman told me I need to empty my mailbox, so that stretch of good luck came to an abrupt halt.
So now what?
I begin the sorting process, dividing my bills up into three different groups. "This is how we do it", and this my friend is why I may be broke, yet I'm the mastermind behind this time tested sorting system. The man with the plan, the king of the hill, the master of the three day notice to evict. Been there, done that, but that was before my system was totally fool proof, and this fool will prove it. So I sort my bills into three separate groups; the bills I must pay, followed by the bills I must pay now, and I take those 2 piles and gently place them into a third pile, which is the most important part of the entire sorting system. I like to call this very organized group," The bills I can't pay pile", which now systematically, and I must say from years and years of testing, now only leaves me with only one pile, where there once was three.
Brilliant!
Stick with me and I'll take you places you've never dreamed of. This has been a test. It is only a test! Had this been a real emergency, we would have all been in a lot of trouble. Stay tuned, I have plenty more tests to reveal to you, to make your life just that much easier. Ciao
Let me tell you a little bit about myself that will qualify me as a respected writer, and a thinker who is way ahead of his time, and well behind on his rent. Now it's come to my attention that for some of you, as soon as you get caught up on your bills, the next ones are due already. For most of you I realize how frustrating that can be, and although I've been in your shoes, it appears that you've got it figured out better than I do, because I haven't quite got down the part about "being caught up on your bills", however, and I hate to boast, I can honestly say that last week I didn't see a single bill, but the mailman told me I need to empty my mailbox, so that stretch of good luck came to an abrupt halt.
So now what?
I begin the sorting process, dividing my bills up into three different groups. "This is how we do it", and this my friend is why I may be broke, yet I'm the mastermind behind this time tested sorting system. The man with the plan, the king of the hill, the master of the three day notice to evict. Been there, done that, but that was before my system was totally fool proof, and this fool will prove it. So I sort my bills into three separate groups; the bills I must pay, followed by the bills I must pay now, and I take those 2 piles and gently place them into a third pile, which is the most important part of the entire sorting system. I like to call this very organized group," The bills I can't pay pile", which now systematically, and I must say from years and years of testing, now only leaves me with only one pile, where there once was three.
Brilliant!
Stick with me and I'll take you places you've never dreamed of. This has been a test. It is only a test! Had this been a real emergency, we would have all been in a lot of trouble. Stay tuned, I have plenty more tests to reveal to you, to make your life just that much easier. Ciao
Child and Adolescent Behavior Problems - Finding Help - Part 1 - How to Know When to Say "When"
Normal adolescence is all about upheaval. First and foremost, there is puberty to deal with, which is properly defined as "a complex biologic and physiological process involving sexual development, accelerated growth, and adrenal maturation".
That sounds like a lot, but what it all means is that there is "sexual development", i.e., your kids are changing sexually, there is "accelerated growth", i.e., your kids are growing really fast and last season's clothes probably don't fit, and, finally, there is "adrenal maturation", i.e., your kids' hormones are kicking in.
This is all new stuff to your kids, and even in the best of situations, these changes, all coming about so rapidly, can cause stress and exaggerated reactions to that stress. This is all normal.
For some-kids who have been abused or neglected or those who just seem to react poorly to their situations-you need to be aware of signs that point to your child having serious difficulties. Please take special note here: I have just said above, "kids who have been abused or neglected or those who just seem to react poorly to their situations". As parents, we like to think that we know everything terrible that may have taken place in our children's lives and that we would know early on if something traumatic had happened to our child.
That is just not true. You do not live your children's lives, and things happen every day to our children, even when they are very young, that we are not privy to.
So, if your child seems to be having trouble coping and you sense that your child's emotions or behaviors are just a little "off", seek help. While there is no tidy checklist of signs to determine whether or not your teen has a mental health issue, you should be aware that the following should be evaluated:
• Thinking or talking about suicide
• Threats of self-harm or harm to others
• Excessive anger, hostility, or violent behavior
• Abuse of animals
• Trouble coping with problems and daily activities
• Expressions of worthlessness or guilt
• Excessive anxiety
• Prolonged sadness or depression or apathy
• Marked changes in eating or sleeping patterns; excessive sleeping or sleeping too much; lethargy
• Little interest in activities once enjoyed
• Notable personality change
There are many other changes in behavior that you should be aware of, but if any of these are present, it's best to seek help from a mental health professional as soon as possible.
That sounds like a lot, but what it all means is that there is "sexual development", i.e., your kids are changing sexually, there is "accelerated growth", i.e., your kids are growing really fast and last season's clothes probably don't fit, and, finally, there is "adrenal maturation", i.e., your kids' hormones are kicking in.
This is all new stuff to your kids, and even in the best of situations, these changes, all coming about so rapidly, can cause stress and exaggerated reactions to that stress. This is all normal.
For some-kids who have been abused or neglected or those who just seem to react poorly to their situations-you need to be aware of signs that point to your child having serious difficulties. Please take special note here: I have just said above, "kids who have been abused or neglected or those who just seem to react poorly to their situations". As parents, we like to think that we know everything terrible that may have taken place in our children's lives and that we would know early on if something traumatic had happened to our child.
That is just not true. You do not live your children's lives, and things happen every day to our children, even when they are very young, that we are not privy to.
So, if your child seems to be having trouble coping and you sense that your child's emotions or behaviors are just a little "off", seek help. While there is no tidy checklist of signs to determine whether or not your teen has a mental health issue, you should be aware that the following should be evaluated:
• Thinking or talking about suicide
• Threats of self-harm or harm to others
• Excessive anger, hostility, or violent behavior
• Abuse of animals
• Trouble coping with problems and daily activities
• Expressions of worthlessness or guilt
• Excessive anxiety
• Prolonged sadness or depression or apathy
• Marked changes in eating or sleeping patterns; excessive sleeping or sleeping too much; lethargy
• Little interest in activities once enjoyed
• Notable personality change
There are many other changes in behavior that you should be aware of, but if any of these are present, it's best to seek help from a mental health professional as soon as possible.
Alcoholism and Drug Addiction
Many people don't really consider alcohol a drug. After all, it is legal to drink - as long as you're of age. But the real truth is that alcoholism is a form of drug addiction just as serious and harmful as addiction to other drugs. Because alcohol is legal to drink, many people just think of alcohol as another beverage.
Drug addiction is defined as an uncontrollable craving for a substance that a person feels they must have in order to live. Alcoholism is defined in much the same way. When a person has an addiction to alcohol, they can't see their life without drinks in it. The presence of alcohol has become a "given" and they are not willing to give that crutch up without a fight. The cold harsh reality is that people with alcoholism are drug addicts plain and simple.
Alcoholism causes a person to think that they cannot live without the "buzz" that alcohol gives them. Alcohol has been classified as a drug by the Food and Drug Administration, so a person with alcoholism does suffer from a drug addiction.
The good news is that there is help for people who are suffering. Perhaps the most well-known organization that helps people with alcoholism is Alcoholics Anonymous. This is a private group that meets several times a week and centers on twelve steps of recovery. Making it through the twelve steps leads to a full recovery from alcohol addiction although it is still a struggle to stay sober.
People who have a drug addiction to substances such as heroin and cocaine suffer from withdrawal symptoms. People with alcoholism do too. The far-reaching effects of drug addiction and alcoholism can stay with a person for years making it obvious that the similarities between the two evident.
When you decide to seek out help for your alcoholism, it's important that you acknowledge the fact that you are also suffering from an addiction to a powerful drug. Once you face that fact, you can really start on the road to recovery.
Alcoholism is a serious disease just as drug addiction is. While you may not think that being addicted to alcohol is as serious as being addicted to heroin, it can still affect your body in ways you never even thought of. Do a little research and pay attention to what the experts say about your problem.
If you think you have an addiction to the drug that causes alcoholism - alcohol - it's important that you seek help as soon as you can. You deserve to be healthy and live a long, clean life. The time to start is now.
Drug addiction is defined as an uncontrollable craving for a substance that a person feels they must have in order to live. Alcoholism is defined in much the same way. When a person has an addiction to alcohol, they can't see their life without drinks in it. The presence of alcohol has become a "given" and they are not willing to give that crutch up without a fight. The cold harsh reality is that people with alcoholism are drug addicts plain and simple.
Alcoholism causes a person to think that they cannot live without the "buzz" that alcohol gives them. Alcohol has been classified as a drug by the Food and Drug Administration, so a person with alcoholism does suffer from a drug addiction.
The good news is that there is help for people who are suffering. Perhaps the most well-known organization that helps people with alcoholism is Alcoholics Anonymous. This is a private group that meets several times a week and centers on twelve steps of recovery. Making it through the twelve steps leads to a full recovery from alcohol addiction although it is still a struggle to stay sober.
People who have a drug addiction to substances such as heroin and cocaine suffer from withdrawal symptoms. People with alcoholism do too. The far-reaching effects of drug addiction and alcoholism can stay with a person for years making it obvious that the similarities between the two evident.
When you decide to seek out help for your alcoholism, it's important that you acknowledge the fact that you are also suffering from an addiction to a powerful drug. Once you face that fact, you can really start on the road to recovery.
Alcoholism is a serious disease just as drug addiction is. While you may not think that being addicted to alcohol is as serious as being addicted to heroin, it can still affect your body in ways you never even thought of. Do a little research and pay attention to what the experts say about your problem.
If you think you have an addiction to the drug that causes alcoholism - alcohol - it's important that you seek help as soon as you can. You deserve to be healthy and live a long, clean life. The time to start is now.
Childhood Depression
Childhood depression is a very real but sometimes elusive illness that affects the young today. We take a look at what it actually means and how unity and support in the family can help fight its hold over a child.
At the recently concluded Asia Pacific Suicide Prevention Convention 2006, we learnt a few startling facts about children and suicide. For example, in a worldwide survey, 7.3% to 38% of the children surveyed demonstrated suicide ideation, which is the idea of wanting to kill themselves. In Singapore, close to 4.7% of children entertain this morbid thought. While the figure may be alarming, there is no need to panic as it is actually not uncommon to think about suicide.
Ask anyone in the street if he had thought about suicide before and the answer will most probably be a `yes'. Thinking about something as serious as killing oneself and actually doing it are two different matters. Out of all childhood suicides, approximately 23.5% are associated with mental illness such as depression, schizophrenia and others. Seeing the numbers and understanding that depression is one of the key causes that drive our young to suicide. It is time we understand a little more about this elusive illness called "Childhood Depression".
The Definition of Childhood Depression
In a 2004 article published by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsfam/depressd.htm , childhood depression is defined as "an illness when the feelings of depression persist and interfere with a child or adolescent's ability to function."
Feelings of depression are represented in the forms of mood, physical, mental and behavioural changes in a child. Dr Ken Ung, Senior Consultant Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist & Psychotherapist at Adam Road Hospital describes the signs of childhood depression as persistent "irritability or loss of interest, loss of appetite and weight, poor sleep , lethargy, headache, stomach pain, loss of concentration, preoccupation with self-harm or suicide, refusal to go to school, increased temper tantrums and antisocial behaviours such as smoking, drinking and running away from home. Any combination of these changes that lasts for more than two weeks could spell a child falling into depression and warrants a closer look.
Many of the symtoms listed are actually applicable to both adults and children but there are telling differences. Age, in a non-categorical way, does make a difference in the presentation of depressive behaviour. "We don't tend to categorize (childhood depression) in terms of age groups," says Dr Ung, " but we can generally say that adolescent depression tends to look more like adult type depression , whereas, childhood depression can be more `a typical' perhaps manifesting in bodily pains and behaviour changes. The closer the age of a child to adulthood - the more we can expect to see an adult-type depression.
Types of childhood depression
There is no clear categorization of childhood depression. According to Dr Ung, "Typing depression is notoriously difficult and fashions come and go. We now tend to type it according to severity i.e. mild, moderate and severe. Sometimes, we use the term `reactive' depression to denote the type that is due to a reaction to some stress (such as the sudden passing of a loved one). Although very rare in children, `psychotic' depression refers to the presence of psychotic symptoms, which are symptoms that show that the person has lost touch with reality, i.e. hearing voices, believing irrational, bizarre or incredible thoughts."
Another childhood psychiatry expert, Dr Sharon Chan of Sharon Chan Child Guidance Clinic, who has been practicing child psychiatry since 1988 concurs, "I am not sure that there is such a categorization (of childhood depression).. because the entity is still controversial, it follows adult depression patterns (sic) - chronic, single episode or recurrent, adjustment disorder, bipolar etc."
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression, is a type of mood disorder marked by extreme changes in mood, energy levels and behaviour. Symptoms can begin in early childhood but more typically emerge in adolescence or adulthood. Children with bipolar disorder usually alternate rapidly between extremely high moods (mania) and low moods (depression). These rapid mood shifts can produce irritability with periods of wellness between episodes, or the young person may feel both extremes at the same time. Parents who have children with the disorder often describe them as unpredictable, alternating between aggressive or silly and withdrawn.
Stages of childhood depression
According to a Harvard Medical School Publication, " The picture changes with age. Up to age three, the signs (of childhood depression) may include feeding problems, tantrums, and lack of playfulness and emotional expressiveness. AT ages 3-5, depressed children may be accident-prone and subject to phobias. Even before age 5, they may show signs of self-reproach by apologizing unnecessarily for minor mistakes and transgressions like spilling food or forgetting to put clothes away. Children of early school age (6-8) sometimes show depression with vague physical complaints and aggressive behavior. They may cling to their parents and avoid new people and challenges. At ages 9-12, some common symptoms are morbid thoughts and lying awake worrying about schoolwork. By then, children have enough intellectual capacity and social understanding to think about reasons for their depression , and they may blame themselves for disappointing their parents."
When asked for his opinion on this analysis, Dr Ung says, " I think that this is a good guide by and large. Nevertheless, this is merely a guide and should not ne taken as set in stone. For example, a 12 year old boy may show signs of depression by aggressive behaviour and phusical complaints."
For Dr Chan, "Depression before the age of six is very rare. In fact, I do not think that there is general agreement that it exists. In a young child, the common emotional condition is anxiety, not so much depression. From six years onwards, I would agree with the given description."
Children under stress, who experience loss , or who have attention , learning , conduct or anxiety disorders are at a higher risk for depression. Depression also tends to run in families.
Lena's experience
Lena (not her real name) is a 17 year-old student who recently suffered a relapse and fell into depression once more. Lena has been troubled by depression since the age of 12. Once again, she has no appetite for food, is feeling listless and confused, lost alot of weight and is isolating herself from others.
Lena's mother, 49 year old clerical staff Sonia (not her real name), recounts her daughter's experience with depression, " It all started after Lena's father passed away. At first , nothing seemed wrong. SHe was very sad but she did not shed a tear at his funeral. It was a year after that she started to miss him badly. This was compounded by being bullied in school and stressed by schoolwork. Always a quiet child, Lena became even more withdrawn. She had trouble sleeping, would cry for no reason, refused to eat and talked about hurting herself."
Seeing her daughter's condition, Sonia brought Lena to a Polyclinic which referred them to a psychiatrist at a hospital. Lena was given antidepressants and started having regular therapy sessions with psychiatrists and counsellors. She tried to follow their advice of not thinking negatively, to focus on developing her interests and to make a timetable for each day. Everyday was a struggle but she managed to recover with time.
"She said she liked the counselling sessions where she could talk to someone about her feelings and problems." say Sonia of Lena's reaction to treatment. "Slowly, she got better to the point that she was more cheerful and could laugh and giggle like a normal young girl. She even enrolled in yoga classes that helped her gained fitness and to relax."
For Sonia, being supportive of Lena through the down times and being sensitive to her needs are her priorities. "I told her that her health is more important than studies. When I'm at work, I try to call her and talk to her whenever I can. She will tell me things like, " Mummy, I'm useless and I don't know what to do," and I will try to encourage her to look on the bright side, not to think too much..etc.. I have to try to give her lots of love, my full support and attention."
Treatment
What most doctors agree on is that medication should not be used unnecessarily on children and that when used, it should be accompanied with the right counselling and therapy. " It's interesting that recent studies have not been able to prove that antidepressants work in children. This could be because children are not mini adults and what works for adults may not work for kids," says Dr Ung.
There is also little research of how antidepressants work on children and prescription drugs may increase the risk of self-harm for some vulnerable ones. However, Dr Ung adds, "To keep a perspective on things, the increase of antidepressants prescriptions is small, probably around 2% in affected children given inactive medications (placebos) to about 4% of those on active medication."
Counselling, it seems , plays the key role in helping children recover from depression. "A good counsellor will try to get information from parents, child and school and will try his or her best to co-ordinate the counselling to incorporate all these parties. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is one of the commonest forms of counselling techniques used nowadays - it seeks to change the negative thoughts of the child to more realistic and positive ones and also t help the child make action/behavioural changes that will help lift the mood," adds the psychiatrist.
Cyber Help
With the computer-savvy generation of today, some children or teens may choose to express their thoughts and feelings in cyber space. http://www.depnet.com is a community website launced in March to provide information and counselling services for depression. A `diary' services allows members to post daily updates on their mental and emotional experiences while a `letterbox' service provides them with an opportunity to ask questions to a panel of experts. Most importantly, a service like this seeks to educate the public on the existence of depression and encourage those who are depressed to seek help. Following examples, depressed children may be inspired by a strong sense of community to step out of a possible state of isolation. Adults too, can visit to gather more information and advice before deciding how best to seek help.
Understanding is Key.
"Sometimes, depressed children are mistakenly labelled as lazy, stubborn or difficult," says Dr Chan. This is largely due to a lack of knowledge and understanding on the adults' part. Children, unlike adults are dependent on their families and guardians to identify their troubles and seek help.
At the recently concluded Asia Pacific Suicide Prevention Convention 2006, we learnt a few startling facts about children and suicide. For example, in a worldwide survey, 7.3% to 38% of the children surveyed demonstrated suicide ideation, which is the idea of wanting to kill themselves. In Singapore, close to 4.7% of children entertain this morbid thought. While the figure may be alarming, there is no need to panic as it is actually not uncommon to think about suicide.
Ask anyone in the street if he had thought about suicide before and the answer will most probably be a `yes'. Thinking about something as serious as killing oneself and actually doing it are two different matters. Out of all childhood suicides, approximately 23.5% are associated with mental illness such as depression, schizophrenia and others. Seeing the numbers and understanding that depression is one of the key causes that drive our young to suicide. It is time we understand a little more about this elusive illness called "Childhood Depression".
The Definition of Childhood Depression
In a 2004 article published by the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry http://www.aacap.org/publications/factsfam/depressd.htm , childhood depression is defined as "an illness when the feelings of depression persist and interfere with a child or adolescent's ability to function."
Feelings of depression are represented in the forms of mood, physical, mental and behavioural changes in a child. Dr Ken Ung, Senior Consultant Child, Adolescent & Adult Psychiatrist & Psychotherapist at Adam Road Hospital describes the signs of childhood depression as persistent "irritability or loss of interest, loss of appetite and weight, poor sleep , lethargy, headache, stomach pain, loss of concentration, preoccupation with self-harm or suicide, refusal to go to school, increased temper tantrums and antisocial behaviours such as smoking, drinking and running away from home. Any combination of these changes that lasts for more than two weeks could spell a child falling into depression and warrants a closer look.
Many of the symtoms listed are actually applicable to both adults and children but there are telling differences. Age, in a non-categorical way, does make a difference in the presentation of depressive behaviour. "We don't tend to categorize (childhood depression) in terms of age groups," says Dr Ung, " but we can generally say that adolescent depression tends to look more like adult type depression , whereas, childhood depression can be more `a typical' perhaps manifesting in bodily pains and behaviour changes. The closer the age of a child to adulthood - the more we can expect to see an adult-type depression.
Types of childhood depression
There is no clear categorization of childhood depression. According to Dr Ung, "Typing depression is notoriously difficult and fashions come and go. We now tend to type it according to severity i.e. mild, moderate and severe. Sometimes, we use the term `reactive' depression to denote the type that is due to a reaction to some stress (such as the sudden passing of a loved one). Although very rare in children, `psychotic' depression refers to the presence of psychotic symptoms, which are symptoms that show that the person has lost touch with reality, i.e. hearing voices, believing irrational, bizarre or incredible thoughts."
Another childhood psychiatry expert, Dr Sharon Chan of Sharon Chan Child Guidance Clinic, who has been practicing child psychiatry since 1988 concurs, "I am not sure that there is such a categorization (of childhood depression).. because the entity is still controversial, it follows adult depression patterns (sic) - chronic, single episode or recurrent, adjustment disorder, bipolar etc."
Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depression, is a type of mood disorder marked by extreme changes in mood, energy levels and behaviour. Symptoms can begin in early childhood but more typically emerge in adolescence or adulthood. Children with bipolar disorder usually alternate rapidly between extremely high moods (mania) and low moods (depression). These rapid mood shifts can produce irritability with periods of wellness between episodes, or the young person may feel both extremes at the same time. Parents who have children with the disorder often describe them as unpredictable, alternating between aggressive or silly and withdrawn.
Stages of childhood depression
According to a Harvard Medical School Publication, " The picture changes with age. Up to age three, the signs (of childhood depression) may include feeding problems, tantrums, and lack of playfulness and emotional expressiveness. AT ages 3-5, depressed children may be accident-prone and subject to phobias. Even before age 5, they may show signs of self-reproach by apologizing unnecessarily for minor mistakes and transgressions like spilling food or forgetting to put clothes away. Children of early school age (6-8) sometimes show depression with vague physical complaints and aggressive behavior. They may cling to their parents and avoid new people and challenges. At ages 9-12, some common symptoms are morbid thoughts and lying awake worrying about schoolwork. By then, children have enough intellectual capacity and social understanding to think about reasons for their depression , and they may blame themselves for disappointing their parents."
When asked for his opinion on this analysis, Dr Ung says, " I think that this is a good guide by and large. Nevertheless, this is merely a guide and should not ne taken as set in stone. For example, a 12 year old boy may show signs of depression by aggressive behaviour and phusical complaints."
For Dr Chan, "Depression before the age of six is very rare. In fact, I do not think that there is general agreement that it exists. In a young child, the common emotional condition is anxiety, not so much depression. From six years onwards, I would agree with the given description."
Children under stress, who experience loss , or who have attention , learning , conduct or anxiety disorders are at a higher risk for depression. Depression also tends to run in families.
Lena's experience
Lena (not her real name) is a 17 year-old student who recently suffered a relapse and fell into depression once more. Lena has been troubled by depression since the age of 12. Once again, she has no appetite for food, is feeling listless and confused, lost alot of weight and is isolating herself from others.
Lena's mother, 49 year old clerical staff Sonia (not her real name), recounts her daughter's experience with depression, " It all started after Lena's father passed away. At first , nothing seemed wrong. SHe was very sad but she did not shed a tear at his funeral. It was a year after that she started to miss him badly. This was compounded by being bullied in school and stressed by schoolwork. Always a quiet child, Lena became even more withdrawn. She had trouble sleeping, would cry for no reason, refused to eat and talked about hurting herself."
Seeing her daughter's condition, Sonia brought Lena to a Polyclinic which referred them to a psychiatrist at a hospital. Lena was given antidepressants and started having regular therapy sessions with psychiatrists and counsellors. She tried to follow their advice of not thinking negatively, to focus on developing her interests and to make a timetable for each day. Everyday was a struggle but she managed to recover with time.
"She said she liked the counselling sessions where she could talk to someone about her feelings and problems." say Sonia of Lena's reaction to treatment. "Slowly, she got better to the point that she was more cheerful and could laugh and giggle like a normal young girl. She even enrolled in yoga classes that helped her gained fitness and to relax."
For Sonia, being supportive of Lena through the down times and being sensitive to her needs are her priorities. "I told her that her health is more important than studies. When I'm at work, I try to call her and talk to her whenever I can. She will tell me things like, " Mummy, I'm useless and I don't know what to do," and I will try to encourage her to look on the bright side, not to think too much..etc.. I have to try to give her lots of love, my full support and attention."
Treatment
What most doctors agree on is that medication should not be used unnecessarily on children and that when used, it should be accompanied with the right counselling and therapy. " It's interesting that recent studies have not been able to prove that antidepressants work in children. This could be because children are not mini adults and what works for adults may not work for kids," says Dr Ung.
There is also little research of how antidepressants work on children and prescription drugs may increase the risk of self-harm for some vulnerable ones. However, Dr Ung adds, "To keep a perspective on things, the increase of antidepressants prescriptions is small, probably around 2% in affected children given inactive medications (placebos) to about 4% of those on active medication."
Counselling, it seems , plays the key role in helping children recover from depression. "A good counsellor will try to get information from parents, child and school and will try his or her best to co-ordinate the counselling to incorporate all these parties. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is one of the commonest forms of counselling techniques used nowadays - it seeks to change the negative thoughts of the child to more realistic and positive ones and also t help the child make action/behavioural changes that will help lift the mood," adds the psychiatrist.
Cyber Help
With the computer-savvy generation of today, some children or teens may choose to express their thoughts and feelings in cyber space. http://www.depnet.com is a community website launced in March to provide information and counselling services for depression. A `diary' services allows members to post daily updates on their mental and emotional experiences while a `letterbox' service provides them with an opportunity to ask questions to a panel of experts. Most importantly, a service like this seeks to educate the public on the existence of depression and encourage those who are depressed to seek help. Following examples, depressed children may be inspired by a strong sense of community to step out of a possible state of isolation. Adults too, can visit to gather more information and advice before deciding how best to seek help.
Understanding is Key.
"Sometimes, depressed children are mistakenly labelled as lazy, stubborn or difficult," says Dr Chan. This is largely due to a lack of knowledge and understanding on the adults' part. Children, unlike adults are dependent on their families and guardians to identify their troubles and seek help.
Adolescent Identity and Depression - Why and What To Do?
Adolescent identity and depression often times go hand in hand. It's not hard to see why. Adolescence is a time of discovering your identity and to top it all off in today's world you may find yourself one of many teens will little if any positive encouragement from those around you. There's something about adolescence that has many similarities to toddlerhood. A toddler begins to declare her independence. That's why we call it the terrible twos! All of a sudden, that once upon a time usually compliant little baby is taking on a personality of her own. What happened?
It's an adventure into independence and changing of hormones.
Adolescence like toddlerhood marks a new kind of independence from childhood. Often times, as a result, parents may feel rejected and lose confidence in themselves, often even rejecting their child. The teen feels this loss, as do the parents, but this new independence means that the parents are no longer needed to fully care for their child. Feelings of loneliness for the parent also happen and this may rub off on the child causing him to feel that his parents' unhappiness is his fault. The teen then feels guilty and useless. If a young person is not able to express his feelings in a supportive atmosphere, depression can set in (McCoy 11).
Researchers found that there was a "strong association between negative thinking and depression in adolescents" (Garber, Weiss and Shanley, 1993). It makes sense - if you think negatively, you begin to slip into depression.
Another cause of adolescent depression is the many changes that are happening in adolescents' lives physically, emotionally and cognitively. All of these are new experiences to them and often create inner turmoil. They simply do not know how to adjust to these changes. They have no history and past experiences to draw on and so they often feeling alone and left in the dark to cope (McCoy 15).
How do teens deal with their adolescent identity and depression?
Adolescent identity and depression can lead to serious outcomes and one is suicide. Attempts are often the adolescent's way of crying out for help for someone to take notice and help them with their depression (Myers 113). However, many times she does not want to die. She simply wants to be loved, cherished and understood. If an adolescent is accident prone or taking serious risks, this can also be a cry out for help out of depression.
Emptiness sometimes causes teenagers to play different roles seeking fulfillment as they have a lack of confidence and feel that they have no resources to cope because they feel isolated. Some choose to run away from the real question of who she is and instead turns to the comforts of drugs, alcohol, and sexual promiscuity or dating relationships (Myers 120). However, the emptiness continues once the adolescent is sober requiring more drugs and alcohol only causing a downward spiral into utter self-destruction.
So, what's a parent to do?
To lay it on the line - a teen most often suffers with depression and self-esteem when her emotional tank is empty and no parent or guardian is filling it. A teen needs to know they are unique and valuable! But, there is hope when the parent or guardian recognizes their role in investing in the life of the teen! Accept the responsibility and then educate yourself on what this looks like and both you and your teen will be the happier for it.
It's an adventure into independence and changing of hormones.
Adolescence like toddlerhood marks a new kind of independence from childhood. Often times, as a result, parents may feel rejected and lose confidence in themselves, often even rejecting their child. The teen feels this loss, as do the parents, but this new independence means that the parents are no longer needed to fully care for their child. Feelings of loneliness for the parent also happen and this may rub off on the child causing him to feel that his parents' unhappiness is his fault. The teen then feels guilty and useless. If a young person is not able to express his feelings in a supportive atmosphere, depression can set in (McCoy 11).
Researchers found that there was a "strong association between negative thinking and depression in adolescents" (Garber, Weiss and Shanley, 1993). It makes sense - if you think negatively, you begin to slip into depression.
Another cause of adolescent depression is the many changes that are happening in adolescents' lives physically, emotionally and cognitively. All of these are new experiences to them and often create inner turmoil. They simply do not know how to adjust to these changes. They have no history and past experiences to draw on and so they often feeling alone and left in the dark to cope (McCoy 15).
How do teens deal with their adolescent identity and depression?
Adolescent identity and depression can lead to serious outcomes and one is suicide. Attempts are often the adolescent's way of crying out for help for someone to take notice and help them with their depression (Myers 113). However, many times she does not want to die. She simply wants to be loved, cherished and understood. If an adolescent is accident prone or taking serious risks, this can also be a cry out for help out of depression.
Emptiness sometimes causes teenagers to play different roles seeking fulfillment as they have a lack of confidence and feel that they have no resources to cope because they feel isolated. Some choose to run away from the real question of who she is and instead turns to the comforts of drugs, alcohol, and sexual promiscuity or dating relationships (Myers 120). However, the emptiness continues once the adolescent is sober requiring more drugs and alcohol only causing a downward spiral into utter self-destruction.
So, what's a parent to do?
To lay it on the line - a teen most often suffers with depression and self-esteem when her emotional tank is empty and no parent or guardian is filling it. A teen needs to know they are unique and valuable! But, there is hope when the parent or guardian recognizes their role in investing in the life of the teen! Accept the responsibility and then educate yourself on what this looks like and both you and your teen will be the happier for it.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)