MedWorm provides a medical RSS filtering service. Over 6000 RSS medical sources are combined and output via different filters. This feed contains the latest medical blog items that have been tagged with 'depression,'. Tue, 04 May 2010 18:19:43 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3529856&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=38950&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shockmd.com%2F2010%2F05%2F04%2Ftms-for-medication-resistant-depression%2F This study also shows that longer treatment with rTMS is well tolerated. The use of pharmacotherapy treatment failure as an inclusion criterion every time amazes Dr Shock. There are far better treatment options e.g. plasma level controlled TCAs, lithium addition and ECT to name a few. Considering the outcome on the time point at week 4, Dr Shock is not very impressed by the results. For significant difference with the primary outcome 6 patients had to be excluded from the analysis. The mean difference between active and sham on the severity scales is in the range of 2-3 points, significant but hardly clinical relevant. Absolute figures on response and remission at week 4 are not given in this article. Remission rate at 6 weeks on the HAMD-17 was 15.5% increasing to 22.6% at week 9 with ope... Dr Shock MD PhD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3529856 Tue, 04 May 2010 06:27:57 +0100 3529856 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3529733&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Fdo-women-get-depressed-more-than-men%2F May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, reminding us all to keep our stress in check, and deal with signs of depression. But is all of that women’s work? This Pristiq commercial seems to say so. The prescription antidepressant advertisement features a mom-type watching her family play while she repeatedly winds up a sad toy lady, then lets it crawl across the picnic table. “I feel like I have to wind myself up to get out of bed, and well, I have to keep winding myself up to deal with the sadness, the loss of interest, the trouble concentrating, the lack of energy,” the woman explains. By the end of the dreadful commercial, we get the idea: Mom used to be a gloomy automaton of a woman. And now, thanks to Pristiq, she’s not. Anyone who has been through a major depression k... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3529733 Mon, 03 May 2010 15:21:31 +0100 3529733 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3526710&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Fdo-women-get-depressed-more-than-men%2F May is Mental Health Month! Mental Health America is encouraging us to stay on top of our stress, manage parenting in a difficult economy, and deal with signs of depression. But is all of that women’s work? This Pristiq commercial seems to say so. The prescription antidepressant advertisement features a mom-type watching her family play while she repeatedly winds up a sad toy lady, then lets it crawl across the picnic table. “I feel like I have to wind myself up to get out of bed, and well, I have to keep winding myself up to deal with the sadness, the loss of interest, the trouble concentrating, the lack of energy,” the woman explains. By the end of the dreadful commercial, we get the idea: Mom used to be a gloomy automaton of a woman. And now, thanks to Pristiq, she’s not. Bu... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526710 Mon, 03 May 2010 15:21:31 +0100 3526710 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3524309&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2F02%2Fto-tell-or-not-to-tell-your-boss-bipolar-and-depression-in-the-workplace%2F Daniel Lukasik, creator of the site Lawyers With Depression asked me awhile ago to write a guest post on work and depression. You can click here to read the original post. Just when I think our world has moved a baby step in the right direction regarding our understanding of mental illness, I get another blow that tells me otherwise. For example, I awhile back I quoted an intelligent woman who wrote an article in a popular women’s magazine about dating a bipolar guy when she was bipolar herself. She recently discovered that she had jeopardized a job prospect because the article came up –as well as all those who referenced it, like Beyond Blue — when you Googled her name. So she requested everyone who picked up that article to go back and change her real name to a pseudony... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3524309 Sun, 02 May 2010 11:22:38 +0100 3524309 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3522716&cid=t_299691_122_f&fid=34736&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FChannelN-PodcastsPoweredByOdiogo%2F%7E3%2FPoyjDXA-d7w%2Fbasketball-for-suicide-prevention.html Ed Kittrell of 1 Lyfe Presents Winter Basketball Classic Liletta Thompson of Big Sis & Company Productions covers a basketball game and suicide prevention awareness event by 1 Lyfe, talking with organizers about surviving suicide, abuse, and suicide attempts, about community activism, and how people can get help [global hotlines here]. Nicely produced and edited video, with great messages. (Source: Channel N) Channel N blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3522716 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 20:47:20 +0100 3522716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519503&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F30%2F7-ways-to-beat-depression-if-youre-unemployed%2F The unemployment rate today has skyrocketed to approximately 10 percent and is forecast to stay above 9.5 percent for the rest of 2010. For the first time in American history, more women are working than men because close to 80 percent of the people laid off in the recent recession were men. According to a recent study published in the “International Journal of Epidemiology,” unemployment is a major risk factor for depression, even in people without previous vulnerability. Because my husband is an architect — the housing market is dead, remember — whose work has slowed down substantially, I have an invested interest in this topic and wanted to know what I could do to help him stay physically and emotionally healthy, since, theoretically, one of us should be. Here, ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519503 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 16:30:00 +0100 3519503 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519499&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fplease-pass-chocolate.html This is for Victor, who sent us the link to a CNN article looking at mood and chocolate consumption: Chocolate and Depression Go Hand and Hand by Denise Mann. So here's the scoop, people eat more chocolate when they are depressed. Mann writes:Although gorging on chocolate and sweets to beat the blues has become a cliché thanks to sitcoms and romantic comedies, there's been "little prior scientific literature linking chocolate and depression," says the lead author of the study, Dr. Beatrice Golomb, a professor of medicine at the University of California at San Diego School of Medicine. The study, she says, provides evidence to support "the popular perception that when people need a pick-me-up, they pick up chocolate." It's unclear, however, whether depressed people eat more chocolate simp... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519499 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 23:51:00 +0100 3519499 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508138&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Fmental-health-are-antidepressants-all-in-your-head%2F Your Prozac may not be helping you any more than a tic tac, according to a recent article in the The New York Times. A shrink explains why he decided to go from just writing prescriptions to helping patients with behavioral therapy, saying that psychiatry had been “transformed from a profession in which we talk to people and help them understand their problems into one in which we diagnose disorders and medicate them.” When, actually, behavioral therapy might be more effective. According to the article, one study of 19,000 patients found that the average patient taking antidepressants showed a 40% drop in depression, while those taking the placebo showed a 30% drop. “This meant that about three-quarters of the apparent response to antidepressants is actually due to the pl... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508138 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 18:55:41 +0100 3508138 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508246&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F26%2Fgratitude-grace-and-granola%2F “He is a wise man who does not grieve for the things which he has not, but rejoices for those which he has.” — Epictetus When I began my academic career and clinical practice, I would wake up every morning with a feeling of dread. The heaviness and ache on my chest and in my mind, the struggle to attack the day, was oppressive and demoralizing. This crush of morning depression weakened me so much, I was worn out even before the tsunami of “to do” engulfed me. Then one of my 12-step patients came back from a retreat marveling at how she was able to break this lifelong struggle she had in the morning, this heaviness and burdensome dread she’d wrestled with throughout her adult life. She was visibly more energized and jubilant. She had my attention. “Tell me more,”... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508246 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:35:22 +0100 3508246 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3502831&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F25%2Fultrawellness-or-ultra-hype-antidepressant-as-demagogue%2F Mark Hyman, MD, is a “practicing physician and pioneer in functional medicine,” according to his bio on the Huffington Post where he recently penned the nonsensical, “Why Antidepressants Don’t Work for Treating Depression.” I say “nonsensical” because this article is based upon a study that came out 3 years ago, so writing this article to educate the public seems not to be its primary purpose. Exhibiting sound reasoning and logic also doesn’t seem apparent in this article, since generally a scientist or doctor would not dismiss an entire class of medications — antidepressants — based upon a single study. Or when there are many different types of antidepressants and sub-classes — SSRIs, tricyclics, MAOIs, SRNIs, etc. The stud... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3502831 Sun, 25 Apr 2010 15:45:16 +0100 3502831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3499160&cid=t_299691_113_f&fid=38494&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcuretogether.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F04%2F22%2F6-surprising-depression-treatments%2F This is how it happened. When my amazing CureTogether co-founder Daniel Reda flipped his screen around to show me this infographic, my excitement at how beautiful it looked was quickly replaced by my curiosity for what it showed. I knew exercise, sleep, and therapy were popular and effective treatments for depression. But a few things surprised me. Fish oil, also popular, showed up as much less effective than I expected. And light therapy, which not many people have tried, was quite effective. Take a look at it for yourself and see if anything surprises you. Where did this data come from? CureTogether members have been sharing symptoms and treatments for almost 2 years now. For this infographic, information was anonymously analyzed from 944 people in our Depression community. To thank ever... The Collective Well blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3499160 Thu, 22 Apr 2010 17:39:52 +0100 3499160 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490680&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F21%2Fthe-pocket-therapist-mental-health-to-go%2F Imagine a GPS navigational system that said something like this: “In approximately 30 minutes, you will run into your old boss, who will want to make you feel like a worthless pile of feces. Erect personal boundaries immediately…. I said, Get in your bubble, Woman … Are you listening? She’s approaching you on your left. Lock up all childhood tapes now (the ones that convinced you that were weak, ugly, and pathetic) and DO NOT, I said DO NOT play them for her. Remember, their messages are no longer valid. Proceed carefully. You will speak to her in approximately 3, no 2, no 1 second.” Me? I would like one of those. So I made one. In book form. You see, I am an obsessive-compulsive woman who has recorded, in her journals, 12 years of therapy sessions, 21 years ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490680 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 11:07:59 +0100 3490680 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490879&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcouples-therapy-best-for-women%2F Couples therapy can be the best choice for alcohol-dependent women with supportive husbands, spouses or partners. Barbara McCrady and Elizabeth Epstein wanted to know whether therapy worked better for alcoholic women when delivered as couples therapy than when delivered as individual therapy. They reported recently that both treatment methods worked well, but women treated in couples therapy maintained their gains better than those in individual therapy. Also, women suffering from depression in addition to alcohol-dependence did better in couples therapy. Alcohol use disorders hit women particularly hard, physically and psychologically. Epstein and McCrady cite earlier studies’ findings that between 4 and 8 percent of women under age 44 are alcohol-dependent, that as many as 65 pe... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490879 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 03:36:16 +0100 3490879 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3487000&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34867&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thediabetesblog.com%2F2010%2F04%2F20%2Fthe-relationship-between-diabetes-and-depression%2F Filed under: ResearchDepression and diabetes are often seen in the same patients, but does one cause the other? It's no doubt that the stress of living with diabetes can make patients depressed. Research presented at the 2006 American Diabetes Association meeting may complete the circle. Research suggests that certain hormonal changes that accompany depression may lead to diabetes. And a surprising analysis from a large diabetes prevention trial hints that the use of antidepressants is somehow linked to diabetes. Still, many argue, the benefits of taking antidepressants far outweigh the supposed diabetes risks. In addition to both disease being problematic on their own, they're also linked to heart disease. Diabetics should be on the lookout for signs of depression, which can interfere... The Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3487000 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 23:00:00 +0100 3487000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3487128&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2F0lYQjVkDkj4%2F URL: http://www.selfhelpmagazine.com/index.phpArticles, cartoons, blogs, mediation center, community discussion groups - since 1994. As licensed professionals, we bring information to your home or office, tailored to your needs through tele-seminars, eBooks and podcasts (MP3), and more. Drop in and tell us what you need. For: Consumers, Anyone, ConsumersTopics: Abnormal, Academia, Anger, Anxiety, Behaviour Management, Child and Adolescent, Clinical Psychology, Cognitive, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Developmental, Diagnosis, Emotional Health, Family Therapy, General Psychology, Health and Social Services, Life, Lifestyle, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Personality disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Quality of Life, Schizophrenia, Self-harm and suicide, Social Psychology, Substance ... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3487128 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 17:00:15 +0100 3487128 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3487126&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F18%2Fcompeting-models-when-mental-health-recovery-clashes-with-twelve-step-programs%2F In my chapter about substance abuse in Beyond Blue, I wrote: Today I realize the recovery cultures of addiction and mental illness clash. Like the Church of Scientology and neurobiology. Like Tom Cruise and common sense. Because complaining is considered whining to most twelve-steppers — “poor me, poor me, pour me a drink” — but as a smart disclosure of symptoms to mental-health professionals. Because many recovering alcoholics and drug addicts are not educated about mental illness, a lot of bad advice is doled out at meetings and/or social hours. With the best of intentions, of course. But dangerous all the same. I was intimidated by the AA old-timers and afraid to think any differently from them, fearing that if I listened to my gut, I would become one of those pe... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3487126 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 12:13:19 +0100 3487126 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480814&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F18%2Fcompeting-models-when-mental-health-recovery-clashes-with-twelve-step-programs%2F In my chapter about substance abuse in Beyond Blue, I wrote: Today I realize the recovery cultures of addiction and mental illness clash. Like the Church of Scientology and neurobiology. Like Tom Cruise and common sense. Because complaining is considered whining to most twelve-steppers — “poor me, poor me, pour me a drink” — but as a smart disclosure of symptoms to mental-health professionals. Because many recovering alcoholics and drug addicts are not educated about mental illness, a lot of bad advice is doled out at meetings and/or social hours. With the best of intentions, of course. But dangerous all the same. I was intimidated by the AA old-timers and afraid to think any differently from them, fearing that if I listened to my gut, I would become one of those pe... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480814 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 12:13:19 +0100 3480814 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480940&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FUwBtgHpK-EA%2F Adult Children A recovery book for people outside alcoholic or addictive families. It is estimated that millions of people have grown up in alcoholic homes. But what about the rest of us? What about families that had no alcoholism, but did have perfectionism, workaholism, compulsive overeating, intimacy problems, depression, problems in expressing feelings, plus all the other personality traits that can produce a family system much like an alcoholic one? Countless millions of us struggle with these kinds of dysfunctions every day, and until very recently we struggled alone. Pulling together both theory and clinical practice, John and Linda Friel provide a readable explanation of what happened to us and how we can rectify it. - Order Today >> Adult Children of Dysfunctional Famil... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480940 Sat, 17 Apr 2010 09:28:27 +0100 3480940 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3479909&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsecrets-of-dysfunctional-families%2F Adult Children A recovery book for people outside alcoholic or addictive families. It is estimated that millions of people have grown up in alcoholic homes. But what about the rest of us? What about families that had no alcoholism, but did have perfectionism, workaholism, compulsive overeating, intimacy problems, depression, problems in expressing feelings, plus all the other personality traits that can produce a family system much like an alcoholic one? Countless millions of us struggle with these kinds of dysfunctions every day, and until very recently we struggled alone. Pulling together both theory and clinical practice, John and Linda Friel provide a readable explanation of what happened to us and how we can rectify it. - Order Today >> Adult Children of Dysfunctional Famil... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3479909 Sat, 17 Apr 2010 09:28:27 +0100 3479909 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3471888&cid=t_299691_113_f&fid=38494&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcuretogether.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F04%2F15%2Fannouncing-the-curetogether-guide-to-depression%2F You are a part of this, too. Just like for Anxiety, this crowdsourced guide to depression is based on input from 1000 CureTogether members with Depression. Inside the book are insights about how to find out if you’re depressed, getting diagnosed, how to find a treatment that is most likely to work for you, running self-experiments, understanding cognitive bias in decision-making, and the latest discoveries from both patients and scientists around the world. The CureTogether Guide will help you navigate your way through Depression. Download your copy here. We hope it helps! (Source: The Collective Well) The Collective Well blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3471888 Thu, 15 Apr 2010 13:47:40 +0100 3471888 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3468061&cid=t_299691_167_f&fid=38576&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drbriffa.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F04%2F14%2Fzinc-supplementation-found-to-improve-mood-in-women%2F What we eat and drink can have a profound influence on our health. Not just of the body, but of the brain too. For example, certain foodstuffs (e.g. the artificial sweetener aspartame) can have toxic effects on the brain. Other foodstuffs appear to ‘feed the brain’ and help optimise its function. For example, so-called omega-3 [...] (Source: Dr John Biffa's Blog) Dr John Biffa's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3468061 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 16:39:49 +0100 3468061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3463640&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F13%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-april-13-2010%2F It’s a brand new week. Glad you made it! April’s a pretty hectic month, but we’re nearly halfway through. You’ve already gotten through April Fool’s Day, hopefully your taxes are finally done, spring break’s about over and well Earth Day is still to come. May the rest of this month be all about relaxing and enjoying the sun! For me, getting a little R&R means sitting down in a cafe and reading various chapters in my ever-growing stack of books. My shelf contains every subject including memoirs and psychology books. There’s a handful of fresh reads as well as a number of good old favorites. Have you ever gone back to reread an oldie to discover a new gem, some new found insight that makes you rethink your life? I recently flipped through The Dr... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3463640 Tue, 13 Apr 2010 11:08:46 +0100 3463640 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3463581&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=36438&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FCato-at-liberty%2F%7E3%2FR5vqWx39lqY%2F By Tad DeHavenOne of the topics Chris Edwards will be discussing with Glenn Beck this evening (5:00 EST, Fox) is the “Not-So-Great Depression” of 1920-21. Cato Senior Fellow Jim Powell notes that President Warren G. Harding inherited from his predecessor Woodrow Wilson “a post–World War I depression that was almost as severe, from peak to trough, as the Great Contraction from 1929 to 1933 that FDR would later inherit.” However, instead of calling for bigger government to right the economy, as President Obama did upon inheriting George Bush’s mess, Harding pushed for spending and tax cuts. The result? With Harding’s tax and spending cuts and relatively non-interventionist economic policy, GNP rebounded to $74.1 billion in 1922. The number of unemployed fell to 2.8 million�... Cato-at-liberty blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3463581 Mon, 12 Apr 2010 18:23:03 +0100 3463581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3460213&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F11%2Fhow-long-is-a-typical-bipolar-episode%2F Bipolar disorder is characterized by a cycling from depression to mania, and back again over time (hence the reason it used to be called manic depression, because it includes both mania and depression). One of the commonly asked questions we get here is, “How long does a typical bipolar episode last?” The answer has traditionally been, “Well, it varies considerably from person to person. Some may have rapid cycling bipolar disorder where that person can cycle back and forth between depression and mania in the course of a day or multiple times a week. Others may be stuck in one mood or the other for weeks or months at a time.” New research (Solomon et al., 2010) published in The Archives of General Psychiatry sheds a little more empirical light onto this question. I... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3460213 Sun, 11 Apr 2010 16:15:02 +0100 3460213 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3456719&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F09%2Flook-whos-depressed-now-interns%2F As though medical school wasn’t difficult enough, now new research suggests that internship is even more difficult. In a study of 740 medical students who were on internship, researchers (Sen et al., 2010) found that nearly 4 percent of the students met the criteria for depression before their internship started. That number jumped to over 25 percent of students when the researchers measured their depression level at four points over the course of the internship year. That’s right — 1 in 4 medical students on internship suffer from serious, clinical depression. Most of the students who met criteria for depression were classified as moderately depressed. That’s in-between mild and severe depression, and in most people, means their daily functioning is significantly ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3456719 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 20:38:54 +0100 3456719 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3456720&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FIGndz9-9Mp4%2F URL: http://users.erols.com/ksciacca/This site is designed to provide information and resources for service providers, consumers, and family members who are seeking assistance and/or education in this field. For: Anyone, ConsumersTopics: ADHD, Addiction, Anxiety, Aspergers, Behaviour Management, Bipolar, Chronic Disease, Clinical Psychology, Depression, Diagnosis, General Psychology, Mental Health, Personality disorders, Psychotherapy, Varied DisordersFeatures: Articles, Books, Chat Rooms, Collaborative News, Commentary and Blogs, Conferences, Databases, Glossary, Information, Links, Resources This site is designed to provide information and resources for service providers, consumers, and family members who are seeking assistance and/or education in this field. The ultimate... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3456720 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 17:00:58 +0100 3456720 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3453859&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2F173880%2F Sleep Deprivation to Cure Postpartum Depression: The New York Times reports that researchers find insomnia can lead to faster recovery from certain types of depression. Post from: BlissTree (Source: Healthbolt) Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3453859 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 13:00:20 +0100 3453859 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3453956&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F09%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-april-9-2010%2F Happy Friday! Hope everyone has an exciting weekend planned, even if “exciting” means sleeping in and vegging out in front of the TV. I don’t know about you, but I love this early spring weather, when the sun’s out, large clunky sweaters get stored away and tank tops and flip flops finally show their face. However, for some the warm weather brings up other things like spring cleaning, getting organized, taxes (ack!), a reminder of what we haven’t accomplished from our 2009 New Year’s Resolution, or our body image issues. In regards to the latter, ever notice that the two most busiest times at the gym are after New Year’s and spring? What’s great is that I’m noticing a new trend, one that has to do with self-acceptance regardless of size... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3453956 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 12:51:17 +0100 3453956 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443782&cid=t_299691_111_f&fid=39123&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fnursingcomments%2Ftdtc%2F%7E3%2FLds048tgvPc%2F             Depression affects approximately 19 million Americans, or 9.5% of the population in any given one-year period.  At some point in their lives, 10%-25% of women and 5%-12% of men will likely become clinically depressed.  In fact, it affects so many people that it is often referred to as the “common cold” of mental illness.  Depression not only causes suffering to those who are depressed, but it also causes great difficulty for their family and friends who often do not know how to help.  Clinical depression affects all aspects of a person’s life.  It impairs our ability to sleep, eat, work, and get along with others.  It damages our self-esteem, self-confidence, and our ability to accomplish everyday tasks. People who are depressed find daily task... Nursing Comments blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443782 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 15:41:19 +0100 3443782 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443759&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F07%2Fgrowth-through-therapy%2F I was sitting there in the office talking with my therapist about how much I have grown since the ending of my five-year relationship. So many things began to surface for me. The insight I have gained through therapy has been invaluable. I realized that I had left my relationship because I loved myself and I wanted to grow. Not just professionally or academically, but I wanted to grow into the person I was meant to be: a devoted mother and competent student doctor of clinical psychology. When I first started seeing my current therapist, my son and I had seen another one previously — whom I once had deemed to be without enlightenment. Back then I thought — could the previous therapist not see my potential as a human and a mother? What is wrong with this picture? Today the thoug... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443759 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 11:44:35 +0100 3443759 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3443760&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F06%2Fgood-ole-exercise-for-depression%2F Time and time again we hear about the importance of regular exercise for our bodies. But not only does such exercise help our bodies — it does wonders for our minds as well. The latest finding comes from two researchers who found that simple exercise can be helpful with some people’s depressive mood: [The researchers] based their finding on an analysis of dozens of population-based studies, clinical studies and meta-analytic reviews related to exercise and mental health, including the authors’ meta-analysis of exercise interventions for mental health and studies on reducing anxiety sensitivity with exercise. The researchers’ review demonstrated the efficacy of exercise programs in reducing depression and anxiety. And this is good news, since not everyone can afford psychoth... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3443760 Wed, 07 Apr 2010 01:32:27 +0100 3443760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3440841&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F06%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-april-6-2010%2F April showers bring May flowers. And this past week it’s been raining enough to grow a whole football field of them. But a follower on Twitter yesterday got me thinking about another meaning behind this popular children’s rhyme. Maybe it’s the storm inside that’s really stealing our energy and attention. It’s all the work and heartache we’re going through now that will inevitably become our own rainbow, our own future field of flowers. So this post is dedicated to you, all of you who work so hard on themselves, transforming your inner and outer lives, and working through the endless days of rain for the hope of one day experiencing the reward and joy of your own flower filled inner garden. I hope you’ll enjoy this week’s round-up of intrigui... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3440841 Tue, 06 Apr 2010 11:18:06 +0100 3440841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3436289&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F03%2Ffaa-still-stigmatizes-depression-mental-illness%2F The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on Friday cleared pilots who have depression to regain their flying privileges, with one tiny caveat — they have to be taking one of only four “approved” antidepressants. I can only express my extreme disappointment at this decision, because while it has the potential to help pilots take to the air again if they were suffering from depression, it fails to recognize other effective treatments for depression. Apparently the FAA doesn’t recognize the effectiveness of psychotherapy in the treatment of depression. This despite something on the order of four decades’ (or more) worth of research demonstrating its effectiveness for everything from mild to severe depression. In fact, if anything, there’s more resear... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3436289 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 20:27:15 +0100 3436289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435083&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F03%2F7-strategies-to-help-you-recover-from-a-relapse%2F It’s a dreadful place. Relapse. Maybe you had hoped you’d never go there. Or maybe you stay awake fearing you will. It doesn’t matter. You don’t have to stay there for long. You’ll be on your way shortly. I prefer to use the term “set back” when I get sucked back into the Black Hole — bam! — stuck inside a brain that covets relief, any form of relief, and will do just about anything to get it. Because it’s certainly not the end of recovery. From depression or any addiction. A relapse merely gives you a new starting place. Since I’ve been struggling with this recently in my own life, I’ve laid out seven strategies to get unstuck … to recover from a relapse. 1. Listen to the right people. If you’re like me, ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435083 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 12:46:50 +0100 3435083 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3433140&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=34849&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPWBlogs-Trouble%2F%7E3%2F7G840pfuORU%2F An incredibly eloquent submission by Joe Gutstein. Let’s imagine for a moment that you are long into the public mental health system. You have been in the hospital multiple times, in a couple of partial hospitalization programs, and have spent years in sheltered workshops and day programs. You’ve received the Prophecy of Doom, “Too sick for too long to get any better.” You’ve heard plenty of statements beginning with “You can’t, You won’t, and You will never.” You’ve been told endlessly that something is intrinsically (genetically) wrong with you and the only thing that will truly save you is a medication yet to be discovered. You’ve also been told that the most important thing you can do is get on SSI or SSDI in light of th... The Trouble With Spikol blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3433140 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 15:42:05 +0100 3433140 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3433164&cid=t_299691_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2Fc_0pliKPa0w%2F The Federal Aviation Administration has dropped a decades-old ban on four antidepressants and so, as of April 5, as many as 10,000 pilots - some of whom were grounded - will be allowed to take to the air while on Prozac, Pfizer’s Zoloft or Forest Lab’s Celexa and Lexapro, Bloomberg News reports. In reaching its decision, the FAA says that drowsiness, which is associated the pills, doesn’t pose a safety threat. “We have a better understanding of the drugs,” FAA Administrator Randy Babbitt tells the news service. “We know more about the illness, we know more about how to treat it. We really need to remove the stigma, if you will, of being treated for an illness.” FAA policy bans pilots from flying if depressed because the condition can be distracting in the... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3433164 Fri, 02 Apr 2010 12:20:39 +0100 3433164 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3432590&cid=t_299691_146_f&fid=38266&url=http%3A%2F%2Fsleepeducation.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fpregnancy-sleep-postpartum-mood.html (Source: Sleep Education) Sleep Education blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3432590 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 18:17:00 +0100 3432590 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429227&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F01%2Fmental-illness-cured%2F After working on these issues for the past 150 years, Psych Central is pleased to announce a final, simple cure for mental illness. “Yes, it’s been a long-time in the making, but we finally figured out how to cure mental illness,” said Founder and CEO of Psych Central, Dr. John Grohol. “The final push came 6 months ago, when we realized we had not only discovered the single mental illness gene, but how to deactivate it with simple products found in most people’s homes.” The cure comes on the heels of over 150 years of mental illness being recognized as something needing treatment. Serious mental disorders — things such as depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety and panic, ADHD — have long had a significant, negative impact in peo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429227 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 14:55:36 +0100 3429227 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3425061&cid=t_299691_133_f&fid=35096&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeeds.b5media.com%2F%7Er%2Fb5media%2FAutismVox%2F%7E3%2F_Rby8bU9EbI%2F When seven-year-old foster child Gabriel Myers hanged himself by a shower cord last year, all eyes turned to psychiatrist Dr. Sohail Punjwani, who had been treating the boy. The doctor had prescribed several powerful mental health drugs to Myers – some of which aren’t approved for use by kids, and had been linked to suicide among children. Image: istockphoto Every day, more and more youngsters around the country are being diagnosed with ADHD, depression, anxiety, autism, and other emotional disorders. Some parents and doctors jump to the conclusion that every hyper kid has ADHD, or that every sad child suffers from depression and needs medication. Somewhat surprising is the fact that the FDA has officially approved only one antidepressant drug for the treatment of depression in chi... Autism Vox blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3425061 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 21:30:31 +0100 3425061 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3424820&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=36050&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Flive%2Fshould-we-be-drugging-our-kids%2F When seven-year-old foster child Gabriel Myers hanged himself by a shower cord last year, all eyes turned to psychiatrist Dr. Sohail Punjwani, who had been treating the boy. The doctor had prescribed several powerful mental health drugs to Myers – some of which aren’t approved for use by kids, and had been linked to suicide among children. Image: istockphoto Every day, more and more youngsters around the country are being diagnosed with ADHD, depression, anxiety, autism, and other emotional disorders. Some parents and doctors jump to the conclusion that every hyper kid has ADHD, or that every sad child suffers from depression and needs medication. Somewhat surprising is the fact that the FDA has officially approved only one antidepressant drug for the treatment of depression in chi... Breastfeeding 1-2-3 blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3424820 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 21:30:31 +0100 3424820 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3424910&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F30%2Fbest-of-our-blogs-march-30-2010%2F There’s just a few days left in March and we’re heading straight for the spring season! Some of you may be busy preparing for Easter weekend while others are in the thick of spring break. Whatever you’re doing, we hope you’ll stop by and see what’s buzzing over at our blogs this week. I’ve scoured our blogs to find the best, most popular posts so that you can quickly click through and find your favorite ones. Happy Hunting! And make sure to come back later in the week for another round of, “Best of Our Blogs.” Music Education Helps Kids Brains With Sound Stimuli (Family Mental Health) – Music isn’t just all fun and games. Did you know it actually helps with communication skills? Hard to believe that all that noise in a music class... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3424910 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 18:06:42 +0100 3424910 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416084&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F29%2Fnew-health-bill-helps-postpartum-depression-ppd%2F The historic passage of the federal health care legislation last week included a provision for a new national postpartum depression (PPD) program. It leaves out the federal screening program so feared by the bill’s opponents, but it includes more money for greater education outreach and more research into this condition. The Melanie Blocker Stokes Mother’s Act passed in watered down form. Postpartum depression (PPD) is a condition suffered by a minority of women who just gave birth. It is characterized by severe depression and sadness, and often either a lack of interest or even thoughts of harming one’s newborn baby. There is also often the feeling that one will not be a good mother. Postpartum depression may be called the “baby blues,” and sometimes an obste... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416084 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 15:45:19 +0100 3416084 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3437937&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FYnlMcz2ykrQ%2F Conclusions: Current or past substance use disorders were not associated with longer time to recovery from depression but may contribute to greater risk of switch into manic, mixed, or hypomanic states. The mechanism conferring this increased risk merits further study. Michael J. Ostacher,  et al. American  Journal of Psychiatry 2010 167: 289-297 See also AA & NA Work for Teens Too Double Trouble in Recovery Narcotics Anonymous The Dual Disorders Recovery Book The Object of My Affection Is in My Reflection Share/SaveDoes AA Lower Alcohol use by Reducing Depression?Twelve Step Facilitation (TSF) Reduces Substance AbuseLonger AA Attendance Predicts ChangeRisky Partners and Domestic ViolenceSleep problems affect alcoholism recovery (Source: Twelve Step Facilitation.com) Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3437937 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 09:47:00 +0100 3437937 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416328&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fbipolar-disorder-is-highly-comorbid-with-substance-use%2F Conclusions: Current or past substance use disorders were not associated with longer time to recovery from depression but may contribute to greater risk of switch into manic, mixed, or hypomanic states. The mechanism conferring this increased risk merits further study. Michael J. Ostacher,  et al. American  Journal of Psychiatry 2010 167: 289-297 See also AA & NA Work for Teens Too Double Trouble in Recovery Narcotics Anonymous The Dual Disorders Recovery Book The Object of My Affection Is in My Reflection Related Reading: Share/SaveDoes AA Lower Alcohol use by Reducing Depression?Twelve Step Facilitation (TSF) Reduces Substance AbuseLonger AA Attendance Predicts ChangeRisky Partners and Domestic ViolenceSleep problems affect alcoholism recovery (Source: Twelve ... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416328 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 09:47:00 +0100 3416328 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412578&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_28.html The Ghetto Lawnmower… Dad bought me a used lawnmower a few years ago.  I have rarely used it.  Last summer, I was having those panic/anxiety attacks and couldn’t mow my lawn.  Charlie came every two weeks and did it for me.  Late yesterday afternoon, I got out the lawnmower cleaning the air filter, changing the oil, and putting fresh gas in.  It like to have never cranked.  It cranked with a big puff of blue oil smoke.  It’s ghetto.  The deck is rusting.  It uses oil.  It is just downright cantankerous, but it has personality.  I think I can finally cut my grass this year with the panic attacks at bay.  Luckily, I don’t have a large yard.  It will be time to mow in about two more weeks.  The weeds already have a ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412578 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 07:22:00 +0100 3412578 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412625&cid=t_299691_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2FqBMmlT1SQjI%2F Why do you think you feel bad when you see a poor miserable homeless man in the street? Apart from feeling guilty for not helping poor people there are still some sad emotions that you will experience upon seeing anybody who suffers. Do you know why you experience these emotions? It’s because you experienced some of the man’s pain at the moment you saw him. We humans usually absorb some of the emotions of the person we are watching or listening to and then experience a change in our own mood even though nothing bad has happened to us, personally. Emotions are communicated to the people we deal with Why do you think you feel scared in horror movies when you see actors feeling scared? It’s because their emotions were communicated to you through their gestures and facial expressions. Wh... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412625 Sun, 28 Mar 2010 03:53:48 +0100 3412625 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416340&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=39090&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fhelpalcoholicfamily%2FxITS%2F%7E3%2FyydlGQeyKRQ%2F Is your alcoholic wife or alcoholic husband depressed? Is your alcoholic spouse already on antidepressants, but is still depressed? Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant and can cause depression, It also counteracts the benefits of the antidepressants. Don’t panic, there is still hope that your alcoholic spouse can overcome both depression and his/her alcohol problem! Read on to find out how: The American Journal of Psychiatry published a study on line on March 15, 2010 showing that combining Zoloft, an antidepressant, with natrexone, an anticraving drug was more effective than either treatment by itself. (There were 140 participants who were randomly assigned to 14 weeks of either sertraline (the generic for Zoloft), natrexone, both drugs, or placebo. The group on both drug... blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416340 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 16:51:26 +0100 3416340 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408613&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=34849&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPWBlogs-Trouble%2F%7E3%2FbJnhqrbnpik%2F In the recovery movement, which is the zeitgeist in the delivery of mental health services at this time, we are supposed to look past someone’s diagnosis. I am not “a bipolar” or “depressive” or “schizophrenic.” I have been diagnosed with such, but the relevance of that diagnosis is highly suspect. Because aren’t I just Liz? Liz who is addicted to Dunkin Donuts hazelnut coffee, Liz who likes chihuahuas in sweaters, Liz who tries to do gluteal exercises to increase her butt’s circumference — without success. So many things make up my Liz-ness, right? So who cares what some doctor said? Generally speaking, I agree with this approach. For many years we have been labelling people in an attempt to treat them, and the results aren&#8217... The Trouble With Spikol blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408613 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 14:50:58 +0100 3408613 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3408438&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F26%2Fpsychotherapy-the-active-treatment%2F My friend Anne and I were talking the other day when the conversation turned to a recent airplane flight she was on. She recounted how it was on one of those smaller, turboprop planes with just 3 seats per row: “We hit some turbulence and then it was like we were free-falling. It was only a few seconds, but it was the scariest moment in my life. I felt so helpless and out of control. I know it was irrational to think anything bad would happen, but still …” When a person isn’t in control of his or her own destiny, most people feel powerless. Powerlessness can lead to feelings of helplessness as well. Most people prefer to be able to exert some influence on their destiny, on their future. We’d like to think that we actually have something to do with the way our ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3408438 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 10:06:18 +0100 3408438 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3403926&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F25%2Fintroducing-light-laughter-and-life%2F I’m pleased to introduce you to our blog, Light, Laughter and Life with Leslie Hull. Leslie hopes that with a blend of humor, compassion and healing, Light, Laughter and Life will present the perspective of a woman who has realized that bipolar is such an integral part of her foundation, that the castles we build each day could never be achieved without this component that makes us who we are. Here’s an excerpt from her first entry, A Case for Staying In: A couple of weeks ago, I begrudgingly attended a singles event at a local museum. Depression can often keep me safely tucked away in my apartment, but in the spirit of not wanting to further cultivate my reputation of being a stick in the mud, I went. Besides, visions of fancy steak on a stick h’or dourves and a complimentary c... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3403926 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 11:44:51 +0100 3403926 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3404175&cid=t_299691_180_f&fid=38612&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Fpickthebrain%2FLYVv%2F%7E3%2Friwzfa8Ycgg%2F Does Social Anxiety Keep You from Fully Enjoying Life? Sharon would later cheerfully admit that she had been dreading meeting me; but for now, it was still a sickening nightmare. Social anxiety is more than just shyness. Just thinking about meeting or mingling with others can cause a pounding heart, shaky voice, rapid breathing, sweating, blushing, an upset stomach… It’s no wonder it sometimes feels easier to avoid other people completely. For Sharon, even seeing people she’d met many times before – such as family, friends, and colleagues – felt like an ordeal imagined by the Spanish Inquisition. Actually, it was curious: “I’m okay in a work context or when things are a bit more formal. I know what to talk about. But as soon as it’s kind of unorganized – you know, jus... PickTheBrain | Motivation and Self Improvement blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3404175 Thu, 25 Mar 2010 05:29:04 +0100 3404175 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3398987&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F24%2Fsurrender-to-the-brain-when-the-reframing-gets-old%2F I sometimes wish I didn’t have fodder for this blog, that I could graduate to writing a Happiness Project like Gretchen Rubin, and give you tips that could increase your happiness level. Alas, after weekends like last, I know that I will have the content to write a blog on depression for many more days. In Beyond Blue the book, I describe my analogy of recovery from depression and bipolar, from anxiety and addiction, as a four-story apartment: the first level is staying alive, the second staying out of the psych ward, the third status quo, and the fourth gusting toward better health. Although I wish I could say the majority is spent in the penthouse on the deck, the truth is that I stay mostly on the third, going up for a quick visit to the fourth some afternoons, and taking the esca... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3398987 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 09:34:04 +0100 3398987 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399058&cid=t_299691_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fimagery-can-help-in-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F This whole subject of prayer, meditation and/or imagery can bring comfort to a life of discomfort, rest to a worn out spirit and a strange form of mental energy to get you through the day. As I’ve shared with all of you in previous blogs, I find religion, faith and one’s personal philosophy a very private journey. Not only is it an individual’s privilege how they find peace within but it is a much customized search. Over the years, this has always been a subject of great interest to me and I’ve often turned to writers, mystics, philosophers and ministers for encouragement and wisdom. I even dated an Episcopal priest when I was a single mother, but that’s a story for another time…if ever. Seriously, though, I find comfort in many forms as I’m certain you do, also. Just as they... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399058 Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:55:03 +0100 3399058 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390807&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F22%2Fdepression-smack-talk-on-the-playing-field%2F This comes as no surprise to anyone, but in the heat of a rugby match the other day in Australia, Storm fullback Billy Slater’s allegedly taunted the Knights forward Cory Paterson with the words, “go to your room and have a cry.” This referred to Paterson’s battle with depression over the past two years, keeping him off the playing field all of last season. In sports, one would expect a certain level of smack talk on the playing field. Most of it is meant to incite the other team’s players, so that they react and play more emotionally. A player who plays from anger rather from their rational mind is likely to make more mistakes, so goes the common wisdom. Where do we draw the line on the playing field? Nobody would think about insulting another player because... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3390807 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 13:48:50 +0100 3390807 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390998&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwomens-libido%2F This article may help. Your libido is your sexual interest and desire. Loss of libido may be experienced by women before or after menopause and may result in reduced desire and sexual experiences that are no longer satisfying or pleasurable. With greater awareness, knowledge and discussion about sexual health issues, more women are seeking advice for low libido from health practitioners. Low libido is a very sensitive issue and often occurs because of stress, substance use or abuse, tiredness, relationship difficulties, or depression. It can also be caused by a variety of medications used to treat unrelated conditions. Rest, relaxation, recreation and exercise – like walking, playing a sport, yoga, dancing or gardening – can all have positive effects on libido, as well as on health, bo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3390998 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 22:02:59 +0100 3390998 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3387059&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FJ1ReS7xU2hs%2F This article may help. Your libido is your sexual interest and desire. Loss of libido may be experienced by women before or after menopause and may result in reduced desire and sexual experiences that are no longer satisfying or pleasurable. With greater awareness, knowledge and discussion about sexual health issues, more women are seeking advice for low libido from health practitioners. Low libido is a very sensitive issue and often occurs because of stress, substance use or abuse, tiredness, relationship difficulties, or depression. It can also be caused by a variety of medications used to treat unrelated conditions. Rest, relaxation, recreation and exercise – like walking, playing a sport, yoga, dancing or gardening – can all have positive effects on libido, as well as on health, bo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3387059 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 22:02:59 +0100 3387059 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390999&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcompulsive-overeater%2F Bill B. tells the story of how he lost seventy-five pounds and maintained his weight loss for over ten years. Chapters focus on topics of real concern to us; abstinence, anger, fear and depression, relationships, and money. For those of us who struggle with compulsive overeating, Bill B.’s interpretation of the Twelve Steps and how they apply to overeating can be a valuable inspiration. - Order today >> Compulsive Overeater - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3390999 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 17:25:06 +0100 3390999 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3387060&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fz_qRkjRayKQ%2F Bill B. tells the story of how he lost seventy-five pounds and maintained his weight loss for over ten years. Chapters focus on topics of real concern to us; abstinence, anger, fear and depression, relationships, and money. For those of us who struggle with compulsive overeating, Bill B.’s interpretation of the Twelve Steps and how they apply to overeating can be a valuable inspiration. - Order today >> Compulsive Overeater - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery Bookstore Hazelden Books, DVD's & Medalions (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3387060 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 17:25:06 +0100 3387060 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385323&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fblisstree.com%2Ffeel%2Flarry-david-wants-you-to-get-it-on%2F Larry David (photo: WENN.com) “Curb Your Enthusiasm” creator, producer, and star Larry David has a romantic take on happiness in the new PBS three-part series “This Emotional Life,” which explores relationships, love, anger, and depression. For Larry, joy comes from having money and sex – lots of sex. No argument here. Post from: BlissTree (Source: Healthbolt) Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385323 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 23:56:38 +0100 3385323 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3382965&cid=t_299691_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fhow-to-be-a-chronic-pain-survivor-part-2%2F In the last blog we were discussing that 15-20 percent of patients who are deemed “exceptional” because of their way of life, their attitudes and their basic approach to wellness. To continue where we left off, Dr. Bernie Siegel was referring to psychologist Al Siebert’s study of survival characteristics. Apparently these characteristics have been observed and perceived as being similar to personality traits observed in patients at the Simonton Cancer Center where seminars are held in Santa Barbara, CA and in Siegel’s organization, Exceptional Cancer Patients. I found myself thinking of many of you who communicate with me here at the pain blog. Some of these characteristics are: successfully career oriented, creative but sometimes hostile because of a strong sense of self, a high s... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3382965 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 21:58:00 +0100 3382965 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378543&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FfbhrWybUdEo%2F URL: http://www.petlosshelp.org/PetLossHelp.Org is a website devoted to helping you manage the grieving process that follows the loss of an animal companion. Losing a precious pet can be among the most devastating experiences in a person’s life. Often we are overwhelmed with feelings that are so strong, we feel as if we cannot tolerate the intensity of the grief. For: AnyoneTopics: Attachment, Behaviour Management, Depression, Emotional Health, Life, LifestyleFeatures: Articles, Community and Social Networking, Information, Links, e-learningPetLossHelp.Org is a website devoted to helping you manage the grieving process that follows the loss of an animal companion. Losing a precious pet can be among the most devastating experiences in a person’s life. Often we are overwhelmed wi... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378543 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 17:00:07 +0100 3378543 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378688&cid=t_299691_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fchemotherapy-shows-us-at-our-worst%2F The only thing more challenging than living with a teenager is living with a college kid home for spring break. Like most parents I get to see a side of my son that no one else does. If you were to meet the Big Guy you would tell me that I had a polite, charming, intelligent and sensitive young man and congratulate me for raising such a great kid, most people do. If you do meet that kid, please send him home because I think I got the wrong one. Actually though, I need to cut him some slack since he is cranky because of the pain he is experiencing from his recovering knee injury. I can relate to that. When I was going through chemotherapy there were times when I was a little cranky too. Trying to handle chemotherapy and the world at the same time can be a little overwhelming. We are run dow... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378688 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 20:08:47 +0100 3378688 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370667&cid=t_299691_150_f&fid=34889&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpharmamkting.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fuse-of-internet-to-obtain-health.html This study was conducted between 2000 and 2002 and the researchers recognize that the Internet and access to it have changed dramatically since then, especially the rise of social networking resources. "The quality of health information and support online may have improved," say the researchers, "and Internet users today may no longer use Internet resources in the same fashion as they did during the time period of our study..."Perhaps if drug companies could more easily supply hopeful messages about effective treatments via the Internet, online health information seekers may be less depressed. Online health information seekers may even be the opposite of depressed -- ie, joyful -- if drug companies were to support open and authentic social networks where patients can exchange personal info... Pharma Marketing Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370667 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 11:25:00 +0100 3370667 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370473&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F16%2F7-ways-to-beat-depression-for-seniors%2F Roughly a quarter of people age 65 or older suffer from depression. More than half of doctor’s visits by the elderly involve complaints of emotional distress. Twenty percent of suicides in this country are committed by seniors, with the highest success rate belonging to older, white men. According to a recent report in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, depression is one of the major causes of decline in the health-related quality of life for senior citizens. Why all the depression? Rafi Kevorkian, M.D. calls them the five D’s: disability, decline, diminished quality of life, demand on caregivers, and dementia. To combat senior depression, then, requires coming up with creative methods to counter the five D’s. Here are 7 strategies to do just that, to help pe... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370473 Tue, 16 Mar 2010 10:09:10 +0100 3370473 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370364&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34902&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.futurepundit.com%2Farchives%2F007020.html Most anti-depressants show beneficial effects only after a few weeks. By contrast, scopolamine joins ketamine as a rapid depression lifter. Philadelphia, PA, 1 March 2010 - Conventional antidepressant treatments generally require three to four weeks to become effective, thus the discovery of treatments with a more rapid onset is a major goal of biological psychiatry. The first drug found to produce rapid improvement in mood was the NMDA glutamate receptor antagonist, ketamine. In a new issue of Biological Psychiatry, published by Elsevier, researchers from the National Institutes of Health report that another medication, scopolamine, also appears to produce replicable rapid improvement in mood. Scopolamine temporarily blocks the muscarinic cholinergic receptor, thought to be overactive in ... FuturePundit blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370364 Mon, 15 Mar 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3370364 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366261&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F14%2Fwhat-works-for-you-in-bipolar%2F Bipolar disorder is a serious mental health condition, and while not as common as depression or anxiety disorders, it remains one of the most challenging to treat. That’s largely because it’s characterized by its wide mood swings. When a lot of people first hear about bipolar disorder, it doesn’t sound like it should be such a problem. For instance, mania can be characterized by intense creative spurts and periods of productivity. But those periods are often followed by a crash into depression. After having reached such “highs,” the lows may feel especially dark and lonely. Indeed, there are some who believe that bipolar disorder should be viewed in a different light, with an understanding and appreciation for the positive side. Bipolar Advantage is our blog t... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366261 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 21:00:58 +0100 3366261 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3370675&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation%2FwAgT%2F%7E3%2FM-070nxmOqA%2F Conclusions  AA attendance was associated both concurrently and predictively with improved alcohol outcomes. Although AA attendance was associated additionally with subsequent improvements in depression, it did not predict such improvements over and above concurrent alcohol use. AA appears to lead both to improvements in alcohol use and psychological and emotional wellbeing which, in turn, may reinforce further abstinence and recovery-related change. Research; John F. Kelly, Robert L. Stout, Molly Magill, J. Scott Tonigan & Maria E. Pagano, Addiction, Volume 105 Issue 4, Pages 626 – 636 See also Disturbing Denial Strategies for Dealing With Denial Addiction & Recovery Books The Dual Disorders Recovery Book Acceptance and Surrender Related Reading: Share/SaveCos... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3370675 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 17:39:00 +0100 3370675 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366434&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35805&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftwelvestepfacilitation.com%2Fdoes-aa-lower-alcohol-use-by-reducing-depression%2F Conclusions  AA attendance was associated both concurrently and predictively with improved alcohol outcomes. Although AA attendance was associated additionally with subsequent improvements in depression, it did not predict such improvements over and above concurrent alcohol use. AA appears to lead both to improvements in alcohol use and psychological and emotional wellbeing which, in turn, may reinforce further abstinence and recovery-related change. Research; John F. Kelly, Robert L. Stout, Molly Magill, J. Scott Tonigan & Maria E. Pagano, Addiction, Volume 105 Issue 4, Pages 626 – 636 See also Disturbing Denial Strategies for Dealing With Denial Addiction & Recovery Books The Dual Disorders Recovery Book Acceptance and Surrender Related Reading: Share/SaveCos... Twelve Step Facilitation.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366434 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 17:39:00 +0100 3366434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3363685&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F14%2Fis-psychiatry-a-science%2F In a nearly 6,000-word essay, Louis Menand asks the question of the hour in the March 1 edition of The New Yorker. Menard lays out in excruciating detail the questions revolving around psychiatry these days, including the recent research into drug trials that suggests that some of the science psychiatry is founded upon is sometimes … Well, how shall we put it? Lacking. But it is a thoughtful piece that just doesn’t review two recent books — Gary Greenberg’s Manufacturing Depression and Irving Kirsch’s The Emperor’s New Drugs — but provides a fairly balanced set of observations and valuable historical insights about these never-ending arguments that seem to pervade psychiatry (and psychology and mental disorders in general). Questions such as: What is the basi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3363685 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 11:10:22 +0100 3363685 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3363821&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F_gS7hjkATkc%2F Therapy steps Twelve Steps can help manage various types of chronic illness For more than 75 years, the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous have worked for many people with alcohol and other drug problems. Today, the therapeutic value of the steps extends far beyond the field of addiction. Physicians, therapists and other health care professionals are finding that the steps can help people with other chronic illnesses (eg, cancer, heart disease, diabetes and mental illness) find hope and healing. There is increased recognition that a spiritual component, such as the Twelve Steps, is important in addressing mental and physical illness. One of the first things people realize when they have a chronic illness is, “Oh my God. I’m going to die and I don’t have the ability to ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3363821 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 01:14:00 +0100 3363821 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3363824&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F9woPO90eBhY%2F Addicted people often feel handcuffed Problems in controlling sexual behavior usually reveal themselves in four distinct stages: Preoccupation: The person continually fantasizes about sexual prospects or situations. Constant sexual focus results in a high level of arousal which can trigger an episode of sexual “acting-out.” Ritualization: A preferred sexual activity or situation is often stereotyped and repetitive, and may include a wide variety of activities intended to keep arousal at a high pitch, rather than being aimed at sexual release. Compulsion: The person continues to engage in sexual activity despite negative consequences and a sincere desire to stop. A sex addict can feel as powerless as an alcoholic or drug addict over his or her addiction. Despair: Sex addicts exp... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3363824 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 22:26:00 +0100 3363824 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3359181&cid=t_299691_134_f&fid=35187&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDiabetesDaily%2F%7E3%2FL3HMyYuc_Oo%2Fformefiveyears.php Five years on Sunday.  It has been five years since the nurse called me with test results pointing to full-on type 2 diabetes.  This after being monitored closely for the previous four years after spilling glucose in my urine at a routine physical.  This before making health a priority. Five years of testing blood glucose and counting carbs.  Five years of learning to love exercise and its positive impact on both body and mind.  Five years of trial and error each time diabetes throws a twist into the care plan.  I would have to say that this year has been the most difficult, going from excellent control in spring and summer to severe illness in late autumn to now being unable to regain the excellent control I previously had.... Diabetes Daily blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3359181 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 15:22:00 +0100 3359181 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350592&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35822&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FWhatWinnersDo%2F%7E3%2FVOOsNkmfgyk%2F As I read all of the comments on the Cymbalta Withdrawal Symptoms Suck post left by people suffering through the Cymbalta withdrawal I am infuriated. I decided that more needs to be done than just compiling signatures on a Cymbalta petition to send to Eli Lilly. I figured rather than just inform the pharmaceutical company themselves the FDA should be informed. I was able to find the FDA MedWatch Online Reporting Form and I filled out a complaint against Cymbalta. I'm going to tell you how you can file a complaint with the FDA too. I urge all of the people that are effected by Cymbalta withdrawal to do the same. Just follow the link above and answer the questions. There is also a field that allows you to explain in your own words what your complaint is about. This section allows you somethi... What Winners Do blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350592 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 23:36:15 +0100 3350592 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3346501&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F09%2Fmindfulness-based-stress-reduction-workbook%2F About once a year I discover a workbook that allows me to put all the steps that I learn in therapy into practice. I’ve mentioned in past blog posts David Burns’s 10 Days to Self-Esteem, and how the exercises in that workbook allowed me to recognize distorted thought patterns and practice ways of untwisting them. Two years or so ago, when I didn’t know whether or not I should have my son treated for anxiety, my therapist recommended I read Understanding Your Child’s Puzzling Behavior, which was very, very helpful. And now fellow blogger and mindfulness expert Elisha Goldstein has published, with co-author Bob Stahl, a comprehensive workbook — A Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Workbook — that teaches the art of mindfulness in relieving and reducing str... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3346501 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:20:19 +0100 3346501 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342735&cid=t_299691_113_f&fid=38494&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcuretogether.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F03%2F08%2Fhow-to-choose-the-right-test%2F Say “Aaaahh!” (Photo credit: superfantastic) “First the doctor told me the good news: I was going to have a disease named after me.” - Steve Martin . Say you’ve decided to go ahead and get a diagnostic test done to have a more definite answer on whether you have a condition like depression. Now what? Where do you start? First off, here are some general factors to consider in choosing a test: . 1. Informativeness is basically how good the test is at telling you something useful. How informative a test is comes from both its sensitivity (how likely the test is to diagnose you as positive if you do have a condition, or avoiding false negatives) and specificity (how likely the test is to not diagnose you if you don’t have it, or avoiding false positives). The ultimate test... The Collective Well blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342735 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 16:13:20 +0100 3342735 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342760&cid=t_299691_122_f&fid=34736&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FChannelN-PodcastsPoweredByOdiogo%2F%7E3%2FCSYKEabzyeE%2Fmind-the-difference-video-contest.html M.T.D. Is madness an issue of public space? Andrea Bertini stars in this brief video showing the dramatic effect of context. The Mind the Difference foundation in Italy is holding a video contest on this theme, open to anyone internationally, with prizes of $3,000 and presentation in the Milan Film Festival. Send them your 03:00 submissions before April 29, 2010. (Source: Channel N) Channel N blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342760 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 14:30:52 +0100 3342760 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342703&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F08%2F5-tips-if-you-love-someone-with-mental-illness%2F The National Institutes of Mental Health reports that one in every four adults – approximately 57.7 million Americans – experience a mental health disorder in a given year. One in four, and that’s just the U.S.! And for every person in the world diagnosed with a mental disorder there is at least one, probably more, trying to help, cope and support that person any way they know how. Mental illness is often a family issue. Parents, siblings, spouses and extended family provide housing, care and support, emotional and financial, sometimes to the point of becoming proverbial case managers. It’s hard enough when the chronic illness is something everyone recognizes, like diabetes. It’s a whole other thing when the disease is a mental illness which is ripe for misunderstandi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3342703 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 13:46:43 +0100 3342703 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3339774&cid=t_299691_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2010%2F03%2F07%2Fwhen-banks-go-bad%2F New cartoon by Trussell & Trussell on AOL’s Politics Daily. When Banks Go Bad. Filed under: Politics Daily Tagged: chaos theory, economy, great depression, political cartoon, recession, wall street (Source: Donna Trussell) Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3339774 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 16:16:06 +0100 3339774 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3338399&cid=t_299691_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Fhow-to-help-a-suicidal-friend%2F Here is a list of things I stole from Dawson McCallister on how to help a suicidal friend. Suicide is quite common amongst people with Aspergers Syndrome likely due to the Social Awkwardness that accompanies Aspergers Syndrome.  Its important to be there for those that are suicidal, and many people say they don’t know how [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3338399 Sat, 06 Mar 2010 05:28:36 +0100 3338399 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3338253&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F05%2Fof-genetics-and-lemons%2F Eyes brimming with tears, twisting my hair intensely, I blurted out “Daddy, was I a mistake?” Slowly, he put the newspaper down on his lap (to stall for time, I’m sure). “No, darling. You were a, uh, delightful surprise.” Hmmm. Even at the tender age of 6 my olfactory system was developed enough to smell a fish. There is a 10-year age difference between my sister and me and 7 years between my brother and me. Because of that, I’m fairly confident the conversation the night of my conception did not go like this: “Ken! Send the kids to the neighbors, light the candles and hurry — I’m ovulating!” God has a sense of humor. Out of all the ovaries in the world kickin’ it at that moment, he picked hers. Since she already had two perfectly healthy, perfectly normal kid... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3338253 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 17:46:16 +0100 3338253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331536&cid=t_299691_136_f&fid=37852&url=http%3A%2F%2Fdonnatrussell.com%2F2010%2F03%2F04%2Foh-by-the-way-dr-obama-code-blue%2F New cartoon by Trussell & Trussell on AOL’s Politics Daily. Oh, by the Way, Dr. Obama, CODE BLUE. Filed under: Politics Daily Tagged: chaos theory, economy, great depression II, health care reform, obama, political cartoon, unemployment (Source: Donna Trussell) Donna Trussell blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331536 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 17:55:09 +0100 3331536 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331350&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F04%2Fwhy-are-so-many-teens-depressed%2F Entertainment Tonight recently reported that TV and music star Marie Osmond’s 18-year-old son, Michael Blosil, committed suicide last Friday in Los Angeles. In his suicide note, he described a life-long battle with depression, the reason for his suicide. Osmond said Michael became depressed after she and her ex-husband, Brian Blosil, separated, and that he entered rehab in November 2007. According to suicide.org, a teen takes his or her own life every 100 minutes. Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for young people ages 15 to 24. Approximately 20 percent of teens experience depression before they reach adulthood, and between 10 to 15 percent suffer from symptoms at any one time. Only 30 percent of depressed teens are being treated for it.Some teens are more at risk for teen ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331350 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:24:54 +0100 3331350 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331352&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F03%2Fdepressions-upside-lets-rethink-that%2F Here’s where I sound very, very bipolar. I wrote an article a few weeks ago on “10 Good Things About Depression” and now I’m supporting psychiatrist Ron Pies’s viewpoint that we should not perpetuate what he calls “The Myth of Depression’s Upside.” Pies, who is Editor-in-Chief of Psychiatric Times and a professor of psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine, gives a much needed response to Jonah Lehrer’s essay “Depression’s Upside” in the Feb. 28, 2010 New York Times Magazine about all the wonderful tasks depression can do for you — foster creativity, sharpen analytical skills, improve problem-solving skills, yada yada yada all the way to the psych ward. Now, as I said in my “10 Good Things” ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331352 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:51:35 +0100 3331352 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3327250&cid=t_299691_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fbattling-breast-cancer-with-memories%2F Cancer is a family affair. One life may be affected but all lives are disrupted. When you talk to someone who had a mother or sister or wife or daughter that battled breast cancer, it is plain that they felt the pain of that diagnosis and the fear of loss. It is at those times a family needs to remember all the happy days they had. I think of all the happy days in my family’s life and am grateful that they outweigh the cancer days. Making memories becomes so important for those of us that survive cancer and realize how much those happy days we created before the diagnosis meant to us during the battle. I think this is what is fueling my need for family pictures all over the house. For the past three months I have been buying frames and photo books and even have one wall in the hallw... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3327250 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 15:34:14 +0100 3327250 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322413&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FYqurn2KYRHQ%2F URL: http://www.ifred.org/ iFred is dedicated to Bringing Depression Hope. iFred’s primary purpose is to Bring Depression Hope. iFred brings energy and information together from a variety of existing sources to educate, inform and change the way we look at depression today. We need to foster an environment where people feel comfortable getting help, they feel good about openly celebrating an individual’s ability to recover from a depressive episode, and support and applaud them in moving forward in a battle similar to that of any other illness. For: AnyoneTopics: Academia, Depression, Emotional Health, Lifestyle, PsychiatryFeatures: Advertising, Articles, Collaborative News, Conferences, Information, Links, Research, e-learning The International Foundation for Research and Edu... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322413 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 17:00:48 +0100 3322413 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322411&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F02%2Fthe-hidden-power-of-humor%2F Philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein said, “A serious and good philosophical work could be written consisting entirely of jokes.” Despite the buffoonish imagery that comes to mind when one considers the joker, the clown or the pie-in-the-face comedian, humor is more than mere silliness. It is an advanced intellectual means of developing new perspectives and coping with extreme circumstances. A maltreated animal has two potential responses to an abusive master: attack to stop the abuse, or cower/flee to avoid it. He cannot disarm the bully with a witty remark or ironically imitate his master behind his back for his own amusement. One of the first government actions in Nazi Germany was the establishment of a law against treacherous attacks on the state and party that made anti-Nazi humor an a... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322411 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 14:11:48 +0100 3322411 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322504&cid=t_299691_122_f&fid=34736&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FChannelN-PodcastsPoweredByOdiogo%2F%7E3%2FyZCZf9UqW3Y%2Fworkplace-bullying.html There Oughta be a Law, episode 1 The devastating effects of abusive bosses on mental health, and lobbying for a law against workplace harassment. Episode one in a documentary series by director Beverly Peterson, keep watching for more. If you are struggling with depression and anxiety at work (for any reason) also check out these free self-help workbooks, Antidepressant Skills at Work: Dealing with Mood Problems in the Workplace. (Source: Channel N) Channel N blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322504 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 13:30:43 +0100 3322504 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322412&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F01%2Fsuicide-celebrity-and-young-adulthood%2F With the recent spate of celebrity-related suicides — Alexander McQueen (a fashion designer), Andrew Koenig (from the TV series, Growing Pains), and now Michael Blosil, Marie Osmond’s 18-year-old son — it seems like a sad but appropriate time to weigh in on this tragic outcome of untreated (or under-treated) depression, which is the leading cause of suicide. Alicia Sparks, blogging over at Celebrity Psychings, notes recommendations for the media when reporting on suicide, because suicide contagion is a real phenomenon. That is, there is a small but statistically significant increase in suicide deaths after a reported suicide makes the media rounds. Especially when the person who died by suicide is a celebrity. While suicide feels like a very personal and intense situation tha... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322412 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 22:05:32 +0100 3322412 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318434&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F01%2Fthe-myth-of-depressions-upside%2F Jonah Lehrer’s essay on “Depression’s Upside” in the Feb. 28, 2010 New York Times Magazine raises many important questions about depression, and what, if anything, we can “learn” from suffering a bout of serious depression. Alas, the article obscures almost as much as it illuminates, and I fear that its net effect may be to perpetuate what I call “The Myth of Depression’s Upside.” But first, let’s be clear: a “myth” is not the same thing as a lie. A myth is a transgenerational story we tell ourselves, which often has a grain of truth to it, and which usually serves some unifying function in our culture. It is a myth that George Washington threw a silver dollar across the Potomac River — there were no silver dollars ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318434 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 17:30:47 +0100 3318434 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318435&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F01%2Fproof-positive-counting-your-blessings%2F The secret of happiness is to count your blessings while others are adding up their troubles. – William Penn Normally I’m known as a “nice guy:” easygoing, fair, pretty calm and generally happy. But several years ago I planned a weekend conference on psychodrama that unglued me. Planning the conference took six months and included the usual things; arranging for a block of rooms, guaranteeing registrants, coordinating lunches and dinners, and keeping the cost down wherever I could. As a clinical professor, the presentations and training itself were easy. I could lecture and demonstrate the use of role-playing in dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, show videos of how to apply group principles to people with intellectual and psychiatric disabilities, and demonstrate the... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318435 Mon, 01 Mar 2010 13:12:00 +0100 3318435 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318430&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34730&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychiatrist-blog.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fwhy-cant-we-be-sad.html Today's New York Times Magazine has a really interesting article by Jonah Lehrer called "Depression's Upside." Mr. Lehrer talks about a possible evolutionary purpose for Major Depression.Mr. Lehrer writes:The persistence of this affliction — and the fact that it seemed to be heritable — posed a serious challenge to Darwin’s new evolutionary theory. If depression was a disorder, then evolution had made a tragic mistake, allowing an illness that impedes reproduction — it leads people to stop having sex and consider suicide — to spread throughout the population. For some unknown reason, the modern human mind is tilted toward sadness and, as we’ve now come to think, needs drugs to rescue itself. The alternative, of course, is that depression has a secret purpose and our medical i... Shrink Rap blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318430 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 16:31:00 +0100 3318430 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3316123&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F28%2F7-ways-to-beat-depression-after-a-divorce%2F Divorce is the second most stressful life event, preceded only by the death of a spouse. And what is stress capable of? Expediting a severe bout of depression and anxiety to your limbic system (the brain’s emotional center) if you’re not careful. Acute and chronic stress, especially, undermine both emotional and physical health. In fact, a recent study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior suggests that divorced or widowed people have 20 percent more chronic health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or cancer than married people. Another study in Psychological Science claimed that a person’s happiness level drops as she approaches divorce, although there is rebounding over time if the person works at it. That’s what these 12 tips are: sugges... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3316123 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 12:01:09 +0100 3316123 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3316124&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F27%2Fbon-jovi-rocks-for-the-homeless%2F My wife is a big fan of Bon Jovi, so when I read this article about Bon Jovi’s fact-finding efforts to help better understand homelessness in order to help it through his foundation, I couldn’t help but blog about it. If you didn’t know, a significant portion of homeless persons have a mental disorder, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. It’s hard to know for certain, but research suggests that approximately 2 out of 5 homeless people have a mental health issue. Bon Jovi wants his foundation to do more to help the homeless: That’s because this tour in support of Bon Jovi’s latest release, “The Circle,” is also a fact-finding mission. The singer plans on visiting as many homeless shelters and programs as time allow... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3316124 Sat, 27 Feb 2010 18:00:01 +0100 3316124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3311967&cid=t_299691_167_f&fid=38576&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drbriffa.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F02%2F26%2Firon-supplementation-found-to-improve-brain-function%2F Iron is an essential nutrient for the making of haemoglobin – the component in red blood cells that carries oxygen and delivers it to the tissues. If iron is deficient in the body, haemoglobin levels can fall and eventually cause anaemia (pathologically low haemoglobin). Symptoms of this can include mental and physical fatigue and low [...] (Source: Dr John Biffa's Blog) Dr John Biffa's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3311967 Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:14:43 +0100 3311967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3311747&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F25%2Fwebmds-depression-test-has-issues%2F Sometimes you have to wonder, “What were they thinking?” Jim Edwards, writing for bnet, notes how when he took the WebMD depression test (here), it always told him he might be at risk for depression. Even if you answered all 10 questions negatively, it still noted that “You may be risk for major depression”: To be fair to WebMD and Lilly, the test is clearly marked as “funded by Lilly.” And there’s a Cymbalta ad sitting on the same page. But that doesn’t excuse the fact that it is rigged. Even if you answer “no” to all of the 10 questions (which are all framed so that the “yes” answer indicates depressed behavior) you still get this response: Lower Risk: You may be at risk for major depression. I just took the test now to confirm this result and did ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3311747 Thu, 25 Feb 2010 21:05:35 +0100 3311747 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3306898&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F24%2Fintroducing-adhd-in-focus%2F Attention deficit disorder is a serious mental health issue that affects the lives not only of children and teens, but millions of adults as well. So we’re pleased to announce the launch of our latest blog, ADHD In Focus, that will focus on topics in attention deficit disorder (ADHD). ADHD In Focus is hosted by Kathryn Goetzke. Kathryn is the driving force behind the non-profit organization for depression called iFred (the International Foundation for Research and Education on Depression). iFred is dedicated to encouraging research on depression and reducing the stigma associated with the disease. In addition to her incredible work on iFred, Kathryn is someone who actually battles attention deficit disorder, hence the reason she agreed to write for this blog. I’m proud to welcome h... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3306898 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 17:57:35 +0100 3306898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3302370&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F24%2F7-depression-busters-for-caregivers%2F Nearly one-third of people caring for terminally ill loved ones suffer from depression according to research from Yale University. About one in four family caregivers meet the clinical criteria of anxiety. And a recent study found that 41 percent of former caregivers of a spouse with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia experienced mild to severe depression up to three years after their spouse had died. Caregivers are so vulnerable to depression because they often sacrifice their own needs while tending to their loved one and because of the constant stress involved. Here, then, are 12 tips to help protect you from anxiety and depression and to guide you toward good mental health as you care for a relative. 1. Acknowledge it. If you haven’t already, say this out loud:... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3302370 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:57:38 +0100 3302370 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3290985&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=35443&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheSplinteredMind%2F%7E3%2FKV5hnPI2zAA%2Ftime-to-sleep-dream-of-writing.html I had a mixed day today. Some ups; some downs. I finally got over the sickness that's been pounding me down like a tent peg. I had a wonderful conversation with my oldest daughter about her college opportunities. Then I forgot to pick up my second oldest daughter because I was talking with the oldest daughter. I guess that's what they call a wash.I spent my writing time in Barnes & Noble struggling with their WiFi and then writing a flippant letter in reply to a sarcastic one I received from some customer support worker bee. On the surface, not such a great day. There were other failures as well.But I don't care about any of that. I worked in my chapter book today(!) and pulled myself out of the bog of revision I had been stuck in for weeks. I wrote new material and became excited about th... The Splintered Mind by Douglas Cootey blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3290985 Sat, 20 Feb 2010 13:39:16 +0100 3290985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3290992&cid=t_299691_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FncX1t4U0Bgc%2F Grassley, who is the ranking Republican on the US Senate Finance Committee, is investigating the relationship between WebMD and drugmakers after learning the web site is running a TV ad that encourage people to take a depression-screening test sponsored by Eli Lilly, which sells Cymbalta. So he wants WebMD, which lots of folks visit for medical info, to disclose its ties to the industry, in general, because the Lilly sponsorship raises questions about WebMD’s “independence,” according to this Feb. 18 letter to WebMD exec Wayne Gattinella. The ad encourages people to visit WebMD’s site to take a depression-screening test (see here). The test asks questions about suffering emotional or physical symptoms associated with depression and includes banner ads on the top and... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3290992 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 23:40:41 +0100 3290992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3290967&cid=t_299691_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Ftaking-inspiration-from-other-breast-cancer-survivors%2F There is a lot of transition in my life right now. I am working on new projects and my husband is refocusing his career while my boys are working on major plans of their own. During times like this, not necessarily bad times, but when I am not the one being able to predict how we will all end up, I feel agitated and overwhelmed. I am not one to back away from risk or change, but I do fantasize about going in my office covering myself with a blanket and sitting under the desk until everything works out. Sounds crazy, but I’ve come a long way from when I used to imagine locking myself in the closet. I didn’t have these feelings when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I really am a fighter. Show me injustice and I’ll speak up, pick on my friend and you pick on me. Take on o... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3290967 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 20:22:33 +0100 3290967 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3291003&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FxTJpC4ULFKg%2F Are you thinking what I'm thinking? Sexercises: Workouts to Work You Up You know all of the good-for-you arguments for becoming more physically active, but here’s an especially attractive reward: exercise can improve your sex life. This is especially so for women in recovery from alcoholism, addiction, adult children of alcoholism, co-dependency, compulsive gambling or depression. Being physically active helps you feel more interested in sex, gives you the energy and strength you need for enjoying your partner or yourself more, reduces the stress that can block sexual interest and builds the muscles used in sexual intimacy. Research shows that exercise boosts women’s sexual arousal—even if they were experiencing low sexual desire before starting physical activity. That ef... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3291003 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 23:37:22 +0100 3291003 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3288030&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsexercises-for-recovering-women%2F Are you thinking what I'm thinking? Sexercises: Workouts to Work You Up You know all of the good-for-you arguments for becoming more physically active, but here’s an especially attractive reward: exercise can improve your sex life. This is especially so for women in recovery from alcoholism, addiction, adult children of alcoholism, co-dependency, compulsive gambling or depression. Being physically active helps you feel more interested in sex, gives you the energy and strength you need for enjoying your partner or yourself more, reduces the stress that can block sexual interest and builds the muscles used in sexual intimacy. Research shows that exercise boosts women’s sexual arousal—even if they were experiencing low sexual desire before starting physical activity. That ef... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3288030 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 23:37:22 +0100 3288030 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283607&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F18%2Fwhat-do-girls-with-adhd-look-like-as-adults%2F We’ve long heard about the negative impact of attention deficit disorder (ADHD) on children and teens. We know ADHD can lead to academic problems, problems with friends and socializing, significant sleep problems, and serious concerns in other areas of a child’s or teen’s life, such as increased criminality for those with ADHD. But what does the future hold for them? Do these children grow up to be well-adjusted adults? We know from previous research (e.g., Biederman et al., 2006; Faraone et al., 2006) that by young adulthood, most people who were diagnosed with ADHD as a child or teen continue to suffer from attention deficit disorder symptoms. Previous studies have also shown that boys with ADHD have a significantly greater lifetime risk for antisocial, mood and anxiety... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283607 Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:27:24 +0100 3283607 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3283785&cid=t_299691_136_f&fid=36032&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-breast-cancer%2Fis-it-seasonal-affective-disorder-or-breast-cancer-depression%2F It’s snowing today. Well, it is Michigan. I keep asking my husband, ‘What self-respecting Canadian (me) moves south of the border and stops in Michigan?’ I grew up in northern Ontario where it snowed a lot more than Michigan. The difference in the winter weather between the two places is huge though. In the little city where I grew up we had tons of snow, but we also got a lot of sunshine. The sun shone almost every day in the winter, so much so that our city was called the sunshine capitol of the North. It made for a fun winter. Even though I had a great weekend skiing in the north part of Michigan and we haven’t had near the snow we had last year, I am finding the gloomy winter almost unbearable this year. Usually I muddle through but I have to say that I am battl... Life with Breast Cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3283785 Wed, 17 Feb 2010 23:08:07 +0100 3283785 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3273085&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FI7z4bxsaj_k%2F Twenty Questions to help identify sexually compulsive actions Sexual addiction can be a problem for people in recovery from alcoholism, gambling, addiction or co-dependency. This can be so whether one is gay, lesbian or straight. These questions may help identify or dismiss the problem. The Twenty Questions Do you frequently experience remorse, depression, or guilt about your sexual activity? Do you feel your sexual drive and activity is getting out of control? Have you repeatedly tried to stop or reduce certain sexual behaviors, but inevitably you could not? Are you unable to resist sexual advances, or turn down sexual propositions when offered? Do you use sex to escape from uncomfortable feelings such as anxiety, fear, anger, resentment, guilt, etc. which seem to disappear when th... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3273085 Mon, 15 Feb 2010 01:35:00 +0100 3273085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3272947&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2F4ZPwTf1oDHI%2F URL: http://www.psychologicalselfhelp.org/Psychological Self-Help is an e-book dealing with many facets of human behavior. Dr. Clay Tucker-Ladd discusses how to deal with life, marriage, and figuring out ways to understand ourselves. There are a multitude of emotions in this e-book, so whatever you are feeling–chances are Dr. Tucker-Ladd has covered it somewhat and can help you feel better about yourself. For: AnyoneTopics: Anger, Anxiety, Behaviour Management, Clinical Psychology, Depression, Emotional Health, Lifestyle, Mental Health, Personality, Personality disorders, Self-helpFeatures: Books, e-learning, ebook Some very sad news as of late:  On January 5th, 2010, Dr. Clay Tucker-Ladd passed away.  Dr. Clay was the author of the Psychological Self-Help book, and a good fri... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3272947 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 17:00:15 +0100 3272947 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271071&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F14%2F12-ways-to-mend-a-broken-heart%2F Bess Myerson once wrote that “to fall in love is awfully simple, but to fall out of love is simply awful,” especially if you are the one who wanted the relationship to last. But to stop loving isn’t an option. Author Henri Nouwen writes, “When those you love deeply reject you, leave you, or die, your heart will be broken. But that should not hold you back from loving deeply. The pain that comes from deep love makes your love ever more fruitful.” But how do we get beyond the pain? Here are 12 techniques I’ve gathered from experts and from conversations with friends on how they patched up their hearts and tried, ever so gradually, to move on. 1. Go through it, not around it. I realize the most difficult task for a person with a broken heart is to stand sti... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271071 Sun, 14 Feb 2010 13:00:09 +0100 3271071 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3271072&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FCoCnvVRV2Q4%2F URL: http://mdsasupport.homestead.com/home.htmlThe mission of Making Daughters Safe Again (MDSA) is to support and advocate for survivors of mother-daughter sexual abuse (MDSA), to educate professionals and the general public, and to inspire action, knowledge, healing and hope. For: AnyoneTopics: Abnormal, Attachment, Behaviour Management, Child and Adolescent, Clinical Psychology, Depression, Family Therapy, General Psychology, Lifestyle, Pediatric Depression, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Self-harm and suicide, Self-help, Sexual Assault, YouthFeatures: Advertising, Articles, Case Studies, Collaborative News, Information, Links, e-learning The mission of Making Daughters Safe Again (MDSA) is to support and advocate for survivors of mother-daughter sexual abuse (mdsa), to educate pr... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3271072 Sat, 13 Feb 2010 17:00:12 +0100 3271072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3269716&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F13%2Fwhat-to-do-when-life-falls-apart-the-essential-6-step-program%2F What constitutes life falling apart? The death of a beloved spouse or family member? A marriage or relationship that has withered away or perhaps ended abruptly? A job loss potentially leading to financial ruin (or so you might think right now)? Whichever situation is closest to yours, there are some steps that you must go through to come out the other side with your heart — and new life — intact.   The 6 Steps Wallow in it. This step is essential. Repeat everything you went and are still going through many times to anyone who will listen. Good friends and family will be very patient with this part of the process. If your big life change included a cheating spouse, self-righteous indignation is appropriate at this point. Part of this step includes getting out of bed and... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3269716 Sat, 13 Feb 2010 13:22:56 +0100 3269716 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3269717&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FKaiCAB2XC28%2F URL: http://www.thetrevorproject.org/home2.aspxThe Trevor Project is the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. For: AnyoneTopics: Anger, Anxiety, Child and Adolescent, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Depression, Lifestyle, Mental Health, Risk Assessment, Self-harm and suicide, Self-help, Sexual Assault, Trauma, YouthFeatures: Articles, Information, Links, Online Counselling The Trevor Project is the leading national organization focused on crisis and suicide prevention efforts among lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth. The Trevor Project operates the only accredited, nationwide, around-the-clock crisis and suicide prevention helpline for L... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3269717 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 17:00:01 +0100 3269717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3266985&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F12%2Fsnow-blizzard-2010-and-mental-health%2F I’M GOING CRAZY. Ahem. Okay, here’s the deal. Annapolis was hit with 30 inches of snow last Friday and Saturday. Annapolis owns three snowplows. Most roads have at least six inches of ice. Ours do. And if you’ve ever witnessed the way I drive, you would agree that I shouldn’t be on the road. Moreover, our cars won’t be moving from our icy driveway anytime soon because… we’re supposed to get another 10 to 20 inches tonight. Schools have been canceled all week, of course, and schools are canceled next week (Monday through Wednesday) for some other lame reason. So, I’m grumpy. Bite-everyone’s-heads-off grumpy. Because I can’t use most of the tools in my sanity box this week. The discipline to eat well is buried under three feet of ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3266985 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 16:01:24 +0100 3266985 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3266986&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F11%2Fa-review-of-the-dsm-5-draft%2F The new DSM-5 draft is out (and it appears the APA is finally dropping the silly roman numeral designations). Analysis is starting to pour in from around the country about the ramifications of the new diagnoses and proposed changes. To start with, however, I want to congratulate the American Psychiatric Association for reaching this milestone and embracing the ability for the public to comment on the proposed changes. We first called for such an option back in December of last year and it appears somebody at the APA was listening. Kudos for being willing to take the barrage of criticism that is coming your way, APA. However, we wish it was an open commentary model, where the comments appears online for all to read (it appears to be a closed model, where your comments disappear into cybers... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3266986 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 21:22:23 +0100 3266986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262576&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34865&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thecancerblog.com%2F2010%2F02%2F11%2Fprostate-cancer-diagnosis-increases-sucide-risk%2F Filed under: ResearchProstate cancer can increase a man's odds for either suicide of fatal heart attack, according to a research group at Harvard Medical School. A cancer diagnosis is stressful, and that stress can cause a number of changes in cardiovascular risk factors. Those, coupled with underlying health conditions, may be more likely to drive someone to suicide. Although doctors focused on those recently diagnosed with prostate cancer, they believe that the results will be similar for patients with other types of cancer. The researchers plan to do a similar study of breast and colon cancer patients. The researchers started with prostate cancer because they wanted to test whether the widespread use of screening using the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test has made a difference.... The Cancer Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262576 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3262576 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259026&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F10%2Fnewsweeks-take-on-antidepressants-more-reactions%2F Since Newsweek published its article on antidepressants last week, we’ve seen a wide range of opinions posted about it online. Psych Central blogger and journalist Christine Stapleton asks, Am I treating my depression with expensive Tic Tacs? She reacted strongly to the main premise of the article — that antidepressants are nothing more than expensive Tic Tacs. It’s a personal but very real reaction from someone who has battled depression and has found relief in antidepressants — like millions of other Americans. Indeed, it echoes my own arguments. Research can inform us about many things in general, but they can never tell us anything about how a specific individual will benefit (or not). Christine posted a followup entry today, Antidepressants: JAMA, Newsweek an... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259026 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:18:19 +0100 3259026 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259170&cid=t_299691_133_f&fid=37107&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.aspieweb.net%2Faspergers-depression%2F Its pretty common knowledge that Aspergers and depression go hand in hand, so should depression is Aspergers be treated with anti-depressants or therapy.  I believe that if the depression is the result of a deficit in skills therapy should be provided to help the skills of the person, rather then using an anti-depressant.  I think [...] (Source: AspieWeb.net) AspieWeb.net blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259170 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 00:39:07 +0100 3259170 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259027&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F09%2Fa-look-at-the-dsm-v-draft%2F Tomorrow will mark the release of the first public draft of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition — also known as the DSM-V. (As you can see, we have an exclusive first-copy of it to the right!) Because we were not on the American Psychiatric Association’s media list, we didn’t receive a copy of the news releases that the mainstream media will be basing a lot of their stories around that will be published tomorrow. We also weren’t invited to the conference call today, despite our repeated attempts to contact the APA’s media office. This turns out to be good news for our readers. I’m free to talk about what I suspect will be in the draft that appears on the dsmv.org website tomorrow. I gathered this information from num... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259027 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 23:55:57 +0100 3259027 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259272&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F2qZoq9gmWQ8%2F Dr tansplanting a cirrhotic liver Health Risks of Alcohol: 12 Health Problems Associated with Chronic Heavy Drinking It’s no secret that alcohol consumption can cause major health problems, including cirrhosis of the liver and injuries sustained in automobile accidents. But if you think liver disease and car crashes are the only health risks posed by drinking, think again: Researchers have linked alcohol consumption to more than 60 diseases. “Alcohol does all kinds of things in the body, and we’re not fully aware of all its effects,” says James C. Garbutt, MD, “It’s a pretty complicated little molecule.” Here are 12 conditions linked to chronic heavy drinking. Anemia This can trigger a host of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and l... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259272 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:18:03 +0100 3259272 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254730&cid=t_299691_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F12-health-risks-of-heavy-drinking%2F Dr tansplanting a cirrhotic liver Health Risks of Alcohol: 12 Health Problems Associated with Chronic Heavy Drinking It’s no secret that alcohol consumption can cause major health problems, including cirrhosis of the liver and injuries sustained in automobile accidents. But if you think liver disease and car crashes are the only health risks posed by drinking, think again: Researchers have linked alcohol consumption to more than 60 diseases. “Alcohol does all kinds of things in the body, and we’re not fully aware of all its effects,” says James C. Garbutt, MD, “It’s a pretty complicated little molecule.” Here are 12 conditions linked to chronic heavy drinking. Anemia This can trigger a host of symptoms, including fatigue, shortness of breath, and l... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254730 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 16:18:03 +0100 3254730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254655&cid=t_299691_135_f&fid=35274&url=http%3A%2F%2Facidrefluxweb.com%2F%3Fp%3D4342 So far so good for beating severe bouts of depression this winter. Every year for the last several years it seemed to have gotten worse and worse during this cloudy grey and miserable season. Oddly enough, in my hometown of Winnipeg I never had seasonal issues. I can’t think of more of a reason to get depressed about winter than living a three-hour drive north of Fargo with extreme cold leaving one to deal with warnings of exposed skin can freeze within a minute, or less. There is no doubt, winter here in Toronto is a challenge. It was hitting me around Christmas time. I really hate that time of the year. Maybe I should spend the fortune and go back to Winnipeg and spend it with family, as that would at least provide a diversion. The remedy this year has not been tinkering with anti-... acidrefluxweb.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254655 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 14:09:28 +0100 3254655 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254498&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F09%2F7-office-depression-busters-tips-for-work-depression%2F In his classic, “The Prophet,” Kahlil Gibran writes: Always you have been told that work is a curse … But I say to you that when you work you fulfill a part of earth’s furthest dream, assigned to you when that dream was born. Unfortunately Kahlil’s words don’t jibe with a new Australian study that found almost one in six cases of depression among working people caused by job stress, that nearly one in five (17 percent) working women suffering depression attribute their condition to job stress and more than one in eight (13 percent) working men. In the last decade, the number of American workers that say job stress is a major problem in their lives has doubled. In fact, the US Department of Health reported that 70 percent of physical and mental complaints... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254498 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:25:28 +0100 3254498 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254519&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=38950&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shockmd.com%2F2010%2F02%2F09%2Foptimal-target-for-deep-brain-stimulation-for-depression%2F This article also describes a detailed method for a more standardized method for targeting the SCG with DBS for depression. This is to technical to reproduce in this post but those working with DBS for depression should have a look at this procedure. From this study it is still not clear whether DBS of other brain areas might be more superior in efficacy. And is brain area more important than clinical features of the patient or do the areas differ for different types of depression? All very interesting questions and topic for more research on DBS. Hamani, C., Mayberg, H., Snyder, B., Giacobbe, P., Kennedy, S., & Lozano, A. (2009). Deep brain stimulation of the subcallosal cingulate gyrus for depression: anatomical location of active contacts in clinical responders and a suggested gui... Dr Shock MD PhD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254519 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 07:08:18 +0100 3254519 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3254699&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=34843&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.furiousseasons.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2Fpaxil_interferes_with_breast_cancer_drug.html This alarming bit of news hit yesterday: "Women who took GlaxoSmithKline's Paxil while taking tamoxifen at the same time were more likely to die of their breast cancer, the researchers found. The longer the overlap between Paxil and tamoxifen, the more likely the patients were to die, they reported in the British Medical Journal. "It is likely because Paxil, sold generically as paroxetine, interferes with the compound the body uses to process tamoxifen, the researchers said." A separate study last year reached a similar conclusion about SSRIs as a class. At this point, you've got to wonder if there's nothing Paxil cannot do. It increases suicidality, is linked to some birth defects, has all kinds of dependence and withdrawal problems and even damages male sperm. Awesome little pill, Gl... Furious Seasons blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3254699 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3254699 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251433&cid=t_299691_177_f&fid=38133&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTubalReversalBlog%2F%7E3%2F_Ca0J5LGvcI%2Ftubes-untied-tube-reversal-patient-from-dominican-republic.html Shalena is a labor and delivery nurse who had a tubal ligation while suffering from postpartum depression. She is a good friend of Dr. Monteith and she travels from the Dominican Republic to reverse the permanent decision she made after the birth of her last child. (Source: Tubal Reversal Blog) Tubal Reversal Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251433 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 15:28:06 +0100 3251433 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251384&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=35443&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheSplinteredMind%2F%7E3%2FmvAsKWxb4zU%2Fdepression-came-in-through-back-door.html There are times when life can be overwhelming. Usually, trauma, injury, death, or heartbreak can knock normally upbeat people off their stride. Then there are people such as myself whose brains are wired in curious, but dysfunctional, ways. We tend to get knocked off our stride if the wind’s blowing the wrong way. Speaking for myself, I am often frustrated how fragile my mind seems. Not hearty or rugged, but delicate and easily crumpled. This tends to make me angry at myself, so I overcompensate in some alpha male way like exercising or attacking a pile of clutter. This leads me to something I came across last month. There’s been a tab I’ve kept up in my browser for weeks. I’ve wanted to write about it here, but wasn’t sure how to approach it. It’s an article about Depression ... The Splintered Mind by Douglas Cootey blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251384 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 12:50:39 +0100 3251384 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3243842&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F05%2Fnewsweek-do-antidepressants-work-for-many-people-yes%2F I admire Newsweek writer Sharon Begley’s work … especially when she explains ways we can try to rewire our brain. But I found last week’s cover story irresponsible. If, for no other reason, than its title and subtitle: “The Depressing News About Antidepressants: Studies Suggest That the Popular Drugs Are No More Effective Than a Placebo. In Fact, They May Be Worse.” Then I may as well kill myself. That’s how I would have read the article four years ago, before I started questioning all the information available today on mood disorders and drug treatment, before I started working with a physician from Johns Hopkins who could help me tease out the hope from articles like this, so I wasn’t tempted to take my life upon reading there was no way out of ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3243842 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 12:39:19 +0100 3243842 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3243861&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=38950&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shockmd.com%2F2010%2F02%2F05%2F10-websites-with-the-best-information-on-depression%2F After searching for websites about depression (‘‘depression,’’ ‘‘depression treatment,’’ and ‘‘depression help’’) with a popular search engine: Google, the authors of this work carefully examined the websites. The websites were evaluated on accountability, interactivity, esthetics, readability and content quality. They also used the brief DISCERN as a content quality indicator for general consumers. They found 58 sites from which 13 were excluded: 8 were not websites, 3 were blogs or discussion forum, 1 required an access login, and 1 was inaccessible. They analyzed 45 websites, the overall quality of the websites about depression was good. Those with a high score on the brief DISCERN, the presence of HON label (The Health On the Net Foundation (HON) ) and affiliati... Dr Shock MD PhD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3243861 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 07:37:28 +0100 3243861 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3243897&cid=t_299691_117_f&fid=38158&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drneedles.comhttp%3A%2F%2Famericanacupuncture.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fomega-3-perfect-anti-depression-brain.html Fish oil may be more beneficial than drugs in the treatment of mental disease and depression.  Sixty percent of your brain solid matter is composed of essential fatty acids that are a large portion of their communicating membranes of the brain.  Brain cells have omega-3 in every  cell membrane.  If they don’t function well, neither will your brain.Only 5% of those on fish oil went on to develop full-blown psychosis versus 28% of those who got psychotherapy alone.  As a medical physician for over 51 years, I strive to give you the best medical information on controversial medical subjects, and help your read betwwen the lines. You must come to your own conclusions. I have no ties to any organization, pharmaceutical, or lobby group. As an practicing medical acupunc... Dr. Needles Medical Blogs blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3243897 Fri, 05 Feb 2010 00:36:00 +0100 3243897 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3239764&cid=t_299691_135_f&fid=35274&url=http%3A%2F%2Facidrefluxweb.com%2F%3Fp%3D4328 Man oh man things have gotten hectic busy. I can only think of a few time-limited periods of time where I’ve had so much to do. Don’t get me wrong, it’s all good. As grammatically incorrect that is, at least according to my spell check. I mark my tenth year on disability and it’s been a bumpy ride.  I’ve fastened my seat belt and I’m getting ready for an entirely new one. In the past I strived to find the edge of whatever situation that could be risky. That led to doing all sorts of crazy stuff, such as my hooker with a passport days traipsing across the US, and Europe partying, and well, making enough material with which to write a book. During time, especially with all the recovery shit I’m doing, I’ve realized that I am a risk junkie. I like risk. I like to terrify myse... acidrefluxweb.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3239764 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 16:01:06 +0100 3239764 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3239531&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34867&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.thediabetesblog.com%2F2010%2F02%2F04%2Fdiabetes-patients-doctors-disagreed-on-treatment-aspects%2F Filed under: CareNewly diagnosed diabetics and their doctors don't always agree on which aspects of the disease are the most important to treat. A new study from the University of Michigan Medical School showed that, on average, adults with diabetes have at least three other chronic health conditions. Doctors usually focus on treating physical aspects like high blood pressure. Diabetics, however, are more focused on pain relief and depression. The study, some believe, brings to light the reasons why diabetics have a hard time managing their health. With different goals than their doctors, it's nearly impossible to determine whether treatment is successful. There are several reasons that diabetics might experience pain. Muscle pain is a common complaint. Among the most common reasons fo... The Diabetes Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3239531 Thu, 04 Feb 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3239531 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3239619&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F03%2Finternet-addiction-and-depression%2F This study reinforces the public speculation that over-engaging in websites that serve to replace normal social function might be linked to psychological disorders like depression and addiction,” the study’s lead author, Catriona Morrison, wrote in the journal Psychopathology. “This type of addictive surfing can have a serious impact on mental health.” Indeed. When a depressed person turns to the Internet to socialize, I’m not at all surprised that they use it for social interaction in chat rooms and on social networking websites. What else would you expect? People who are depressed don’t want to socialize, but the Internet makes it so much easier to do it. It may make a depressed individual feel more “connected” and help them make it throug... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3239619 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 18:00:10 +0100 3239619 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3235899&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34752&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPsychsplash%2F%7E3%2FVBkTthmLn5g%2F URL: http://www.wadv.org/wadv1.htmWomen Against Domestic Violence (WADV) is an online organization that seeks to provide support and information to any adult or child who is or has been the victim of domestic abuse. For: ConsumersTopics: Abnormal, Attachment, Behaviour Management, Depression, Emotional Health, Family Therapy, Lifestyle, Mental Health, Parenting, Self-harm and suicide, Self-help, Sexual Assault, StressFeatures: Articles, Case Studies, Commentary and Blogs, Information, Links, Resources, e-learning Women Against Domestic Violence (WADV) is an online organization that seeks to provide support and information to any adult or child who is or has been the victim of domestic abuse. We are a group of women from all over the world who have come together to put an en... PsychSplash blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3235899 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 17:00:25 +0100 3235899 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3235896&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F03%2Fkids-and-depression-parents-call-to-action-part-3%2F How To Monitor and Stabilize Depression in Teens and Children Each time I write a prescription, I have a certain amount of trepidation. Although I know that medications can help, I am also aware of their limitations. It is also important to be vigilant as to whether there are other key factors that are causing a teenager to be overwhelmed (i.e., trauma, substance abuse). However, when children and adolescents are having difficulty functioning because of how impaired they are, medication can be critical. If a teenager is so depressed that she is thinking of tying a phone cord around her neck or jumping out a window, or if she finds it impossible to find the energy to get out of bed, or can’t concentrate long enough to read one page and her grades are dropping, an antidepressant along with... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3235896 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 15:43:40 +0100 3235896 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3235898&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F02%2Fkids-and-depression-parents-call-to-action-part-2%2F What Is Psychiatric Treatment? Although we occasionally read about psychiatrists who are accused of overprescribing medications, and antidepressant usage is hotly debated, in most cases a patient’s quality of life is a psychiatrist’s number one priority (as it is with all medical doctors), and restoring a patient to optimum health is our goal. Parents whom I see for the first time are often rightfully concerned about treatment; they want to know what I can offer their child and how they can convince their child to see me. Teenagers are understandably reluctant to see a “shrink” or talk to a stranger about their problems. At a time when they are incredibly self-conscious and want to blend in, teenagers can worry that people will think “they are nuts.” How parents communicate wi... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3235898 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 19:33:29 +0100 3235898 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231596&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F02%2Fhow-do-i-find-a-good-psychiatrist%2F This month Guideposts magazine published my story about the morning I met Dr. Smith at the Johns Hopkins Mood Disorders Center. It read a little bit like a fairy tale … as soon as I met the right psychiatrist, I was fixed for good! And I never, ever cried again. I didn’t have room to give all the details … like that it took a few months to feel good again … and there was a lot of work being done on my end … and that even today I have plenty of bad days. I suspect that because the story was so simplistic and ended with glass slippers fitting perfectly on my dainty feet that it has been generating a lot of mail for me, most of the notes asking this question: “How do I get myself one of those good doctors who can fix me?” Dr. Smith told me during one ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231596 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 14:21:40 +0100 3231596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231832&cid=t_299691_167_f&fid=38576&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drbriffa.com%2Fblog%2F2010%2F02%2F02%2Fomega-3-fats-found-to-protect-against-psychotic-illness%2F Omega-3 fats generally get good press, on the basis of research linking them with benefits for the body and brain. As far as the brain is concerned, much has been made of the apparent ability omega-3 fats have to exert a natural anti-depressant action. Omega-3 fats are a key component in brain cells. They also [...] (Source: Dr John Biffa's Blog) Dr John Biffa's Blog blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231832 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:03:19 +0100 3231832 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231791&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=35443&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheSplinteredMind%2F%7E3%2F9Abcgg7GT4I%2Fdang-that-was-fast.html First thing I saw when I woke up yesterday was a new email from the agent. Unfortunately, it is not good news. Turns out that although the agent agrees with me that my revisions have improved the story, he isn't sure my story is strong enough to capture a publisher's attention, which could simply mean he's not that excited about representing the story. Or the story isn't his cup of tea. Or the story stinks. There were no more helpful suggestions. End of the road with this particular agent. I will be getting a lot of this kind of news throughout the year if I'm serious about this project.Since I manage Depression I am always on the lookout for triggers. Events that might disappoint a person with a healthy mind may send a depressive into a deep well of misery. By keeping tabs on my feelings ... The Splintered Mind by Douglas Cootey blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231791 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 12:49:41 +0100 3231791 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231598&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F01%2Fkids-and-depression-parents-call-to-action-part-1%2F As a child psychiatrist, I help teenagers struggling with depression, bipolar disorder, and suicide. It’s also my job to communicate with parents during what is often a very difficult and scary time. More than anything, parents want their children to be okay, and I often encourage them by stressing that mental illness is highly treatable, and adolescents are capable of extraordinary growth. With treatment and proactive parents, hope does persist and, with some time and commitment, life can and will go on for children and parents alike. When I do interviews or public readings parents often ask me about warning signs in children for depression and even suicidality. They may be worried about a daughter who is withdrawing, or a son who sleeps for hours on end and is failing in school. These ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231598 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 20:45:11 +0100 3231598 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3227831&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F02%2F01%2Fare-antidepressants-really-that-ineffective%2F The more researchers delve into the research behind antidepressants — the class of drugs commonly prescribed to treat depression — the more they find that perhaps the majority of antidepressants’ treatment effect is based upon the simple belief that the drug will help. Newsweek’s Sharon Begley has a lengthy article discussing the growing body of evidence that calls into question decades’ worth of prescriptions. It’s a story that we’ve covered previously, that TIME covered nearly a year ago, and that Therese Borchard had a response to. It seems to be journalists’ favorite “go to” story now in mental health, because there’s a black-and-white controversy — do antidepressants work or don’t they? People mistakenly be... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3227831 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:10:49 +0100 3227831 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3227991&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=35443&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheSplinteredMind%2F%7E3%2FgCjKnP6PlII%2Frejections-as-therapy-opportunities-to.html As my little nightowls retire to their nests, the home becomes my silent domain again. In the quiet, I can finally think. Tonight I am thinking about the manuscript I finished on Saturday. I polished it throughout the day, then again at night. I felt confident enough about the story to email it to the agent who gave me suggestions last time. I don't know why, but this feels different than my magazine and web page gigs. The funny thing is that the manuscript is a short, wee sprig of words. My last article was nine times longer, a veritable tree in comparison. What's to worry about? It's not as if I've never heard "No thanks" before. In the past, however, I would worry. Adults with ADHD tend to have low self-esteem, robbing them of the tools they need to succeed. I'll be writing about this p... The Splintered Mind by Douglas Cootey blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3227991 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 14:08:00 +0100 3227991 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3224871&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F31%2Flawyers-and-depression-an-interview-with-daniel-lukasik%2F Today I have the honor of interviewing Daniel Lukasik, a distinguished attorney and the creator of the very cool website LawyersWithDepression.com. Daniel also writes the Lawyers With Depression blog, which covers a range of different topics, from spirituality to how to make smart decisions as professionals. Question: Why are so many lawyers depressed? Daniel: 1. Lawyers are Pessimistic Thinkers. According to Professor Martin Seligman, lawyers have a “pessimistic explanatory style.” This is not the same thing as seeing the glass as “half empty.” Rather, pessimistic lawyers tend to attribute the causes of negative events as stable and global factors (It’s going to last forever, and it’s going to undermine everything.) The pessimist views bad event... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3224871 Sun, 31 Jan 2010 14:59:42 +0100 3224871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225000&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fshowing-utmost-in-restraint.html I haven’t written about it on the blog, but I haven’t felt good lately.  It is time for my injection again.  I’ve been feeling so tired and worn out – like I've run a marathon.  The highlight of my day is to go sit with mom two hours and just talk.  Much to my chagrin, dad cut that out last night. “You can con your mother,” he said.. “She will give you anything save money.  She has a soft heart for you.” “No, No, No!  You just wait a minute!” I replied angrily. “I would never impose on mom.  I love her. I’ve changed.” “Well still,” dad said animatedly. “I have potent prescribed drugs in the house. There are Coor’s lights for your brother-in-law in the fridge downstairs, and your mother will just leave her purse anywhere a... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3225000 Sat, 30 Jan 2010 19:20:00 +0100 3225000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3224873&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F30%2Fself-help-course-may-have-led-to-suicide%2F I’ve often wondered what would happen if an undiagnosed manic-depressive participates in The Landmark Forum, receiving counsel from a Forum leader with no education on mood disorders. The result could be devastating, I would think. In real life, let’s take Rebekah Lawrence from Sydney who burst into song while standing naked in her downtown office building, her final words being “I know I am going to jump.” And then leaped out the window. An Associated Press story published a few months ago tells the details. A few days before her jump Lawrence participated in an intense self-help seminar called The Turning Point, comparable to the Forum in the US. Says the article: The course had pledged to change her life. Instead, some say, it led to her death. For nearly 40 year... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3224873 Sat, 30 Jan 2010 16:55:36 +0100 3224873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3223219&cid=t_299691_87_f&fid=34872&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blisstree.com%2Fhealthbolt%2Fone-week-into-the-s-a-d-light-experiment%2F It’s been a week since I started using my SAD light (My S.A.D. Light Experiment Starts Today) and here’s my update: I think it’s working. I started using it for half an hour, the first two days on 50% strength, the next few on 60% and starting today at 70%. The first two days, I used it within the first hour of being up and then again for 15 minutes in the late afternoon. Since then, I’ve only done it in the morning, again within the first hour of being up, always for half an hour. This is the one I have; image from promotional material I had a few concerns before starting with it. The biggest one was that I was worried the light would give me a migraine. In particular. because the light is a bit off to the side so you’re not looking directly into it – s... Healthbolt blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3223219 Fri, 29 Jan 2010 21:57:51 +0100 3223219 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3216826&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=35443&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FTheSplinteredMind%2F%7E3%2FZBDRxNnzux8%2Fadult-adhd-and-depression-interview-and.html There won't be an article today. I put my all into the interview with HealthyPlace TV, which I'll embed below.The glitches were annoying, but humorous. I would wait for my video feed to be active and it would be black, leading me to believe there was a problem. And then there'd be this big window with a red X in it warning me of impending doom. All the while, my video was being recorded and sent out into the ether. Good thing I didn't do anything embarrassing during those moments.As for the content, aside from my interstellar performance and funny faces, the commentary by the hosts was insightful, especially Dr. Croft's. Both men discussed ADHD & Depression in a clear way that I highly recommend you take time to listen to. I have not very often bumped into people that get me and what I've ... The Splintered Mind by Douglas Cootey blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3216826 Thu, 28 Jan 2010 04:58:43 +0100 3216826 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3212378&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F26%2F10-ways-to-find-a-good-therapist%2F When we want to improve our bodies we pretty much know where to find help. This time of year the gyms are full and the meeting rooms at Weight Watchers are packed. But what do we do when we want to improve our inner selves, our relationships, or want to find help with depression or anxiety? Making the decision to find help is hard enough. Why should you have to get even more stressed out hunting for the right therapist? It’s like searching for a needle in a haystack unless you have some guidance. So here are a few tips: 1. Forget the yellow pages. A yellow pages listing is expensive so a lot of good people aren’t there. I’m not. Plus there is no oversight or regulation of who can list. 2. Ask a professional you already work with and trust. Your accountant, lawyer, dentist... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3212378 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 03:30:39 +0100 3212378 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3216818&cid=t_299691_140_f&fid=34843&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.furiousseasons.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2Fstudy_ssris_complicate_breast_feeding.html As if there hasn't been enough bad news around anti-depressants and pregnancy of late--formerly assumed to be safe, now linked to preterm births!--there is news of a new study showing that SSRIs can cause delayed lactation. I think I'll just let that stand for itself without comment. (Source: Furious Seasons) Furious Seasons blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3216818 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3216818 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3208446&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F26%2Fptsd-brain-scan-hype%2F Last week, we noted along with many news outlets that a biomarker had been apparently discovered for PTSD. The researchers claimed they had a new tool to help make a differential diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The tool is a brain scanning technology that, like EEG, measures the brain’s electrical activity. But instead of directly measuring such activity, it measures magnetic fluctuations in the electrical activity. The technique is called MEG. There are certain technical benefits to this method as compared to a traditional EEG, so some researchers are exploring its greater use. Mind Hacks has a very good analysis of why the researchers’ claims were overreaching and a bit ridiculous: Crucially, the scan didn’t pick out cases of PTSD among people with ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3208446 Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:00:08 +0100 3208446 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3204933&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F25%2F6-steps-toward-freedom-from-depression%2F After trying 23 medication combinations, 7 psychiatrists, two hospitalization programs, and every form of alternative therapy available–from homeopathic remedies to yoga, I assumed I was one of those unfortunate statistics with treatment-resistant depression, a Humpty-Dumpty type that would never recover from the fall of a nervous breakdown. There was no magic that happened between then and now, the month my book about my recovery hits the shelves. I just kept on getting out of bed. Even on the days where my thoughts were cemented in the black stuff, in negativity and toxic emotions, I tried to pick up one foot and place it in front on the next. Here are the tools I picked up along the way, the basic lessons that help me in my mission to stay Beyond Blue, or at least out of black fo... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3204933 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:01:48 +0100 3204933 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3200483&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F23%2Fbrace-yourselves-for-jan-24-the-most-depressing-day-of-the-year%2F I wanted to give you guys a few days notice … to brace yourself for … the most depressing day of the year! According to Dr. Cliff Arnalls, a British psychologist with Cardiff University, it’s almost like clockwork. A number of factors coincide to make Sunday, January 24th “the perfect storm” when it comes to feeling down. According to Dr. Arnalls, an expert on seasonal disorders, a number of factors “line up” to give this date in late January this dubious distinction: While it is not technically the day with the least sunlight - that’s December 21st, the “Winter Solstice” - weather patterns often conspire in late January to deprive us of the sunlight we might otherwise enjoy, Christmas bills come due around this time, and - espec... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3200483 Sat, 23 Jan 2010 13:42:10 +0100 3200483 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3200484&cid=t_299691_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2F22%2F10-good-things-about-depression%2F A radio talk host recently asked me this question: “If you could have had your way and never deal with a mood disorder in your life, would you do that. Or has the depression, somehow, enhanced your life?” Thankfully he asked that question on a fairly stable day, when I wasn’t counting up the years until I could become a member of AARP and be closer to the finish line. Had he asked me during my two suicidal years, I think I would have shot back, “Go to hell, dude. Why not ask a 10 year old dying with Leukemia to give you a list of goodies that illness has bestowed?” I immediately thought of Peter Kramer’s eloquent 2005 article in the New York Times Magazine titled “There’s Nothing Deep About Depression.” Kramer explained that he penned h... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3200484 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 19:00:09 +0100 3200484