Raising a teenager can be one of the most challenging experiences a parent will go through. Teenagers are in an awkward stage, dealing with hormonal changes that are out of their control and a developing brain. They’re awakening to new realizations about themselves and the world around them.Teenage rebellion is a natural phase, however, handling it as a parent is...[ read more ]
Many parents experience clinical depression each year. As if the disease weren’t enough, recognizing its effects on your children can be quite painful.Studies have shown that children of depressed parents are at greater risk of not only developing depression themselves, but also of poor physical health, problems bonding, anxiety, poor self-esteem and aggressive behavior. Of course, different things will determine the...[ read more ]
Anxiety is a natural dialogue between our mind and body. It’s a red flag that something might be going on in our surroundings that requires our attention.For most of us, anxiety is an uncomfortable but fleeting feeling that pops up on occasion during particularly stressful times. For some, anxiety may be more present and color more of their daily life....[ read more ]
When talking about depression, a lot of people forget that depression is an illness that requires proper attention and treatment. If you’re depressed, it can be incredibly frustrating to hear things like “Just get over it”, “You’re being really dramatic”, “You have to be strong”, “Learn to deal with it”, “Happiness is a choice”. You might start to think of...[ read more ]
http://americathebeautifuldoc.com/2/screening-schedule/ I'm looking forward to seeing this new documentary on America's obsessions with beauty and thinness.
The winter holidays are once again upon us. The time has come to spend some time away from work and school and to enjoy family. While filled with excitement and joy, the holidays are stressful for many people. Whether you are planning to spend you holidays at home or away, here are some simple reminders to ensure a truly happy...[ read more ]
Eric Freeman of "Early Termination Option" (http://earlyterminationoption.wordpress.com/2010/09/02/ron-artest-is-now-a-mental-health-spokesman/) provided an interesting perspective on a famous basketball player involved in advocating for mental health awareness. Regardless of this particular player's history of behavior, it is refreshing to see someone in the public limelight take a stand with regard to an issue that is often subject to social stigma. (It is particularly heartening...[ read more ]
Another Summer has come and gone and your kids are starting school again (or are about to). The beginning of the school year is a fresh start and a great opportunity to establish good habits. In talking with parents about the stress associated with the beginning of the school year, I have accumulated some tips that I think might make...[ read more ]
In recent years a lot has been published on the beneficial impact of playing in nature on children's emotional and psychological well-being. In the most recent issue of The California Psychologist, psychologist Dr. Gomes reviews this research and makes valuable suggestions for therapists and parents on how to reap the benefits of the outdoors. In a study done on children...[ read more ]
As a psychologist interested in social relationships, I have long wondered about the impact of social media and technology on the quality of human interactions. I have spoken with many parents who voiced concerns that the entirety of their teenager's social interactions happen via text messaging or social media networking. These parents worried their children might not be developing the...[ read more ]
