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 'illness,'. Tue, 04 May 2010 18:19:02 +0100 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3530000&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fmy-thought-for-blogging-day.html View Full Album Charlie’s New Cat Charlie brought my medications last night.  Charlie also brought some diet Cokes and a fried shrimp plate from Merl’s diner.  He was in a super mood and was just laughing and laughing.  Dad is still having issues with his new computer system and had the tech guys at the store last night after closing.  “I’ve got a new cat,” he said. “For a few weeks, he has made himself at home.  Yesterday, he showed up with a collar with a bell on it.  It seems he has two homes now.” I laughed. It would be just Charlie’s luck.  The cat is a vagabond going where the grass is greener.  Charlie just laughed and laughed about it – so surprised when the cat showed up with a collar.   He had thought the cat was... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3530000 Tue, 04 May 2010 07:46:00 +0100 3530000 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3529840&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2F03%2Fpsych-week-on-discovery-health%2F Approximately 1 in 3 Americans meet the criteria for having a mental illness — but we rarely see or hear about it. Discovery Health wants you to know more about it with their special “Psych Week” shows about mental illness. Discovery Health will open a meaningful dialogue on mental health with Psych Week, a weeklong programming event from Sunday, May 2, through Thursday, May 6. With premieres airing nightly at 9 PM (ET/PT), Psych Week will profile individuals dealing with a spectrum of afflictions and addictions, from anxiety disorders and schizophrenia to multiple personalities and bizarre compulsions. “Discovery Health is putting an unprecedented emphasis on mental wellness, presenting an unfiltered look at a variety of rare and common mental disorders through the... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3529840 Mon, 03 May 2010 23:55:14 +0100 3529840 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3529841&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F05%2F03%2Fintroducing-coming-out-crazy%2F I’m pleased to introduce Coming Out Crazy with Sandy Naiman. With years of journalistic experience and mental health advocacy, this former Toronto Sun blogger will engage us passionately in an ongoing dialogue on mental health issues from her perspective. Sandy has lived with serious mental health issues since her adolescence, and began writing and speaking about it in 1998. She was on the staff of The Toronto Sun for more than 30 years, and in April 2008, was contacted by The Toronto Star to blog for their site.  Sandy has been blogging on their site, Healthzone.ca, for the past two years about mental health issues and advocacy. She speaks regularly at conferences on these same topics, and is well known as an engaging storyteller as she weaves her personal tales into the research o... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3529841 Mon, 03 May 2010 16:55:12 +0100 3529841 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3529733&cid=t_322634_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_322634_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=3526905&cid=t_322634_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fwhat-we-can-learn-from-other-chronics.html Something else that struck me from my recent interview with D-psychologist Jessica Bernstein was her observation that “we diabetics tend to not see ourselves as part of the larger chronic illness community — which is unfortunate because we miss out on a lot.”  I am sure she is quite right. And yet… It’s simply human nature [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526905 Mon, 03 May 2010 13:00:40 +0100 3526905 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3526931&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F05%2Fmy-thoughts-for-end-of-blogging-day.html Double Cheeseburger Time… View Full Album “Mom?” I asked a moment ago. “Can I come and get my Cokes early?” I was mainly bored and wanted something to do – a reason to get out and drive the car. “Sure sweetheart,” she replied gleefully. “I will have them ready for you.” I arrived at mom and dad’s to find them both sitting in the den and reading books.  Mom was reading a book on Orville and Wilbur Wright and dad was reading a book on Jackie Kennedy.  The cover of the book said, “The Queen of America.” “Johnny, go buy me a double cheeseburger,” mom said. Dad looked up and grunted. “One of those McDonald’s apple pies would be good as well.” Dad grunted again, closed his book, and got up to go get supper.  I rode with him.  I just got a l... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3526931 Mon, 03 May 2010 00:07:00 +0100 3526931 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519688&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-for-blogging-day_30.html Attitude of Gratitude… I had a really good day yesterday mentally and for that I am thankful.  I never know what the fickle winds of mental illness will bring me everyday.  I try not to dwell too much about it on the blog.  I want this a positive place to come to.  I am also very thankful for mom last night.  She came over here lonesome and wanted me to go with her to Sonic to get some banana splits.  They were delicious and we had the best talk in the car as we ate.  I talked her into trying a cherry limeade and it is her new favorite drink.  Phone Phobias Arise… Mrs. Florene called me last night.  She had an argument with her sister and needed to vent.  It was over some property that needs to be sold which was her mother’s.  Mr... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519688 Fri, 30 Apr 2010 10:18:00 +0100 3519688 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3519717&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FLoYd54afo20%2F This study analyzed the sexual patterns and dynamics of 30 men who presented to one clinician between 2005 and 2009. Their important differences were captured by a 6-category spectrum: no sexual excess beyond breaking the spouse’s restrictive rules discovery of husband’s longstanding sexual secrets new discovery of the joys of commercial sex the bizarre or sexual perversion alternate concept of normal masculinity, and spiraling psychological deterioration.. Only the men with a spiraling psychological deterioration—about 25% of the sample with sexual issues—could reasonably be described as having a sexual addiction. This group experienced significant psychological failures before the onset of their deterioration. Another 25% were adequately defined with sexual perve... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3519717 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 11:10:01 +0100 3519717 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3515643&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-is-sexual-addiction%2F This study analyzed the sexual patterns and dynamics of 30 men who presented to one clinician between 2005 and 2009. Their important differences were captured by a 6-category spectrum: no sexual excess beyond breaking the spouse’s restrictive rules discovery of husband’s longstanding sexual secrets new discovery of the joys of commercial sex the bizarre or sexual perversion alternate concept of normal masculinity, and spiraling psychological deterioration.. Only the men with a spiraling psychological deterioration—about 25% of the sample with sexual issues—could reasonably be described as having a sexual addiction. This group experienced significant psychological failures before the onset of their deterioration. Another 25% were adequately defined with sexual perve... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3515643 Thu, 29 Apr 2010 11:10:01 +0100 3515643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3515639&cid=t_322634_150_f&fid=35777&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FPharmalot%2F%7E3%2FyPZffgAk_4I%2F The latest chapter in the saga involving the National Alliance on Mental Illness, or NAMI, and the amount of money accepted from the pharmaceutical industry has millions being contributed to NAMI state chapters. And Chuck Grassley, the ranking Republican on the Senate Finance Committee, who has been probing the relationship between patient groups and drugmakers and how this may influence the practice of medicine, wants to know what the national organization is doing to make the state chapters more transparent, and how the money is used. You may recall that a majority of donations made to NAMI, a big advocacy group, have come from drugmakers in recent years. And the disclosure comes after protracted criticism of NAMI for coordinating lobbying efforts with drug makers and pushing legislatio... Pharmalot blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3515639 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 18:59:52 +0100 3515639 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3511585&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F28%2Fintroducing-mental-health-humor%2F I’m pleased to introduce the new blog, Mental Health Humor — humor from the creative and always-interesting mind of Chato B. Stewart. We’re pleased to welcome Chato to Psych Central, as he’s been blogging elsewhere online for years, sharing his unique and funny perspective on all things mental health and human behavior. Humor is an individual thing, though, and we recognize that. So you may not find everything Chato does “funny,” and that’s okay. That just reminds us all that we all have an individual and unique sense of humor. But Chato says it best – I’ve known all my life the power behind humor, it can give help, hope and healing. My goal and mission has also been to tap into humor and use it as a positive tool to cope with the serious ... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3511585 Wed, 28 Apr 2010 16:40:28 +0100 3511585 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3508431&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmoderately-happy-pill.html “That’s all I want is a moderately happy pill,” I told my father a moment ago. He burst out laughing.  “But wouldn’t you want something that makes you fell really good?” he asked jokingly. “No,” I said quite contentedly. “I’ve experienced the highest of highs and the lowest of lows.  I will settle for moderately happy.” (Source: The 4th Avenue Blues) The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3508431 Mon, 26 Apr 2010 17:56:00 +0100 3508431 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3501691&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fsuccumbed.html I finally fell victim to the Campylobacter overnight. It is exactly 7 days since my dear son baptized me in his river of vomit, and the incubation period for the bacteria is 2-10 days. So that's about right. I've been racking my brain to find a time in the past 3 weeks that would have been better, because this timing is really awful - I have three papers due in the next 4 days, one due tomorrow. Writing has been nearly impossible today. But, as angry as I felt at the timing as the initial tremors of the illness began to sweep over me, I wasn't able to come up with an option that would have been better (during my presentation in Kansas City? While I was tending Aaron and Caleb in the hospital? Right when I had two funerals to attend??).Here I am, on my knees asking for divine strength again... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3501691 Fri, 23 Apr 2010 22:42:00 +0100 3501691 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490853&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-for-blogging-day_21.html Intruder Alert! Maggie woke me at 2:30 barking like I haven’t heard her bark in weeks.  I turned on all the outside and inside lights and then put some chicken nuggets in the microwave to warm.  I had the munchies something terrible.  “Did I lock my car?” went through my mind as I sat down in the den smoking my first cigarette of the day.  Out came the flashlight and I walked outside to make sure my car was locked.  I then opened the fence and found that Maggie had a raccoon cornered.  The raccoon was hissing menacingly and growling something fiercely backed up in the corner of the fence.  It seems he had been enjoying Mexican Tuesday’s as well before Maggie interrupted him.  Well, I had to pick Maggie up, bring her inside, and lock the dog d... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490853 Wed, 21 Apr 2010 10:05:00 +0100 3490853 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3487347&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmom-is-wild.html “You’ve got to help me get your mother calmed down,” dad told me last night. “Keep telling her to slow down and go to bed.” “I will,” I replied. “I’m worried about her.” I had a busy day yesterday.  Mom and I went to Wal-Mart to get our stuff.  We got my new wireless router and an  S-video and RCA cord for my DVD player.  We forgot my USB card reader for my camera and my powdered drinks.  Wal-Mart is so inconvenient to shop there.  It is huge.  Mom has a hard time walking that far.  You can never find what you need without looking for fifteen minutes as well.  It is sensory overload for me and my social anxieties.  “Don’t tell your father we went to Wal-Mart,” mom said on the drive home. “I’ve been two or three... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3487347 Tue, 20 Apr 2010 10:21:00 +0100 3487347 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3483096&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmoms-mentally-interesting-today.html “Is it eight at night?” mom just asked me over the phone. “No,” I replied. “It is eight in the morning, mom.” “I was afraid to ask your father because he would think I was taking Xanax.  I swear I haven’t had any other than my three before bed.” “You don’t have to explain to me,” I replied kindly. “I’ve got to go to Wal-Mart this morning to get your powdered drinks and some panties.  Will you drive?” “Oh joy!” I thought. This was the perfect opportunity to get my computer related stuff I need. “I will pick you up at nine.  Be sure to do your hair and put on some makeup, okay?” “Okay,” mom replied and hung up the phone. I am glad mom had the forethought to realize she couldn’t drive today.  I will most likely have to take her t... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3483096 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 12:34:00 +0100 3483096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3490882&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fget-me-out-of-here%2F A recovery book about Substance Abuse and Borderline Personality Disorder. “What the hell was that?” raged Rachel Reiland when she read the diagnosis written in her medical chart. As the 29-year old accountant, wife, and mother of young children would soon discover, it was the diagnosis that finally explained her explosive anger, manipulative behaviors, and self-destructive episodes- including bouts of anorexia, substance abuse, and sexual promiscuity. With astonishing honesty, Reiland’s memoir reveals what mental illness feels like and looks like from the inside, and how healing from such a devastating disease is possible through intensive therapy and the support of loved ones. - Order today >> Get Me Out of Here - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3490882 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:47:17 +0100 3490882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3483128&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fpz_P9uhg7c4%2F A recovery book about Substance Abuse and Borderline Personality Disorder. “What the hell was that?” raged Rachel Reiland when she read the diagnosis written in her medical chart. As the 29-year old accountant, wife, and mother of young children would soon discover, it was the diagnosis that finally explained her explosive anger, manipulative behaviors, and self-destructive episodes- including bouts of anorexia, substance abuse, and sexual promiscuity. With astonishing honesty, Reiland’s memoir reveals what mental illness feels like and looks like from the inside, and how healing from such a devastating disease is possible through intensive therapy and the support of loved ones. - Order today >> Get Me Out of Here - Alcoholism, Addiction & Codependency Recovery ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3483128 Mon, 19 Apr 2010 11:47:17 +0100 3483128 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3483098&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fseason-of-excess.html The past few days I’ve had my thermostat set on 82 and feel totally comfortable.  That should save some money these summer months.  The air conditioner just kicked on when the temperature rose to 83.  I have to admit, it felt good to feel that cold air blowing on me as I sat in the den near the vent though.  I am trying to justify spending an extra $43 dollars a month on frivolous digital TV.  Who’s Money is it? I was thinking a moment ago how my social security money has become dad’s.  I have little to no say in how it is spent.  This doesn’t bother me too much because I don’t lack for much, but it made me wonder when that changed.  I think it was when dad legally got power of attorney over me and took over all my financial affairs.  ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3483098 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 22:57:00 +0100 3483098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3483085&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fday-6-were-getting-bored.html The first four pictures capture our day. We've been laying around, Caleb's complaining of tummy pain and eye pain and a headache. We're back to forcing fluids because he won't drink. I told the nurse I was willing to sit with a syringe and put it down 10 cc's at a time before we stick him for an I.V. again!And this last one is just for kicks. Caleb has learned the unique boy-joy of going shirtless now that warmer days are here, and I thought he looked like an absolute corndog walking around with thumb in his belt, his cowboy hat on, and no shirt. What a goof-ball! (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3483085 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 21:27:00 +0100 3483085 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3483131&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=36896&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FSuboxoneTalkZone%2F%7E3%2FRw-QkOLg8FM%2F Several weeks ago an article with a provocative title was posted at Suboxone Forum.  I don’t remember the exact title, but it was something like ‘Toxicity from High Dose Buprenorphine (HDB).  Before everyone gets too excited, there was nothing all that new in the article, which consisted of three case reports about deaths of people taking buprenorphine.  One case consisted of a suicide from very large doses of buprenorphine, one was a death from combining buprenorphine with other respiratory depressants, and the third death was in a person with liver failure who took buprenorphine with other psychotropic medications.  There are a couple issues brought up in the article that are worth mentioning. First, I appreciate their use of the term ‘high dose buprenorphine,&#8217... Suboxone Talk Zone blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3483131 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 20:56:42 +0100 3483131 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3480902&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fwhat-difference-day-makes.html ,Twenty-four little hours.Now there's sunshine & flowerswhere there used to be rain...Caleb and Grandma on his 2nd birthday in February.Aaron was discharged last evening after a full day with no vomiting and little diarrhea. He was told to expect colitis symptoms (bloody diarrhea and pain) for another week at least. He sounded very, very tired when I talked to him on the phone last night. He said the drive home took all his energy.Caleb is gaining energy with each passing hour, it seems. He had cream of wheat cereal for breakfast and is drinking well enough that they have been able to leave out the IV. It failed yesterday, and they tried several times to replace it, but with no success. He seems to be doing fine without it. His poop continues to contain all-out blood, and the doctors h... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3480902 Sun, 18 Apr 2010 13:38:00 +0100 3480902 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3479871&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fsubdued.html Aaron is drinking clear liquids and tolerating them fairly well this evening. Caleb has had some ice chips and we are waiting to see if that increases his diarrhea again or not. I miss my girls, my home. And my husband, oddly enough - being across the hall and seeing him for 20 minutes a day just isn't enough.Tomorrow is my grandpa's funeral. I have been trying all day to write the eulogy. Now I will be trying for a while tonight as well...Caleb apparently slept so much today that he is not particularly interested in going to bed yet. (Source: Turquoise Gates) Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3479871 Sat, 17 Apr 2010 01:44:00 +0100 3479871 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3476045&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Flong-suffering.html Many of our prayers are directed toward the quick and easy solution. Long-suffering is sometimes the only means by which the greater glory of God will be served, and this is, for the moment, invisible. We must persist in faith. God has a splendid purpose. Believe in order to see it. "Our troubles are slight and short-lived, and their outcome an eternal glory which outweighs them far. Meanwhile our eyes are fixed, not on the things that are seen, but on the things that are unseen" (2 Cor 4:17, 18 NEB). ~ Elisabeth Elliot (daily devotional available by e-mail, subscribe here)I guess I've always thought of "long-suffering" as "patience". A virtue. Not an experience. This long line of never-ending and escalating health trials has me seeing that particular fruit of the spirit in a new light. I... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3476045 Thu, 15 Apr 2010 15:46:00 +0100 3476045 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3467992&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fups-and-downs.html Caleb was up for a brief time this morning. Other than that half hour, he has been laying down in bed, mostly sleeping. He continues on the IV fluids and hasn't really taken anything to drink since yesterday in the E.R. His diarrhea doesn't seem to be slowing down much yet, and it is still bloody. We did collect a sample last night and sent it off to Mayo for analysis in their superb lab there. This morning, we saw an infectious disease doctor, who is consulting the CDC and local health department for possible clues as to what this infection could be. All of the physicians continue to suspect E. coli 0-157. If that is the case, antibiotics could cause irreparable damage to Caleb, so as of now, he is not receiving any specific treatment for infection.He is at Luther Hospital, room 4129. I a... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3467992 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 15:39:00 +0100 3467992 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3476088&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F20-questions-for-gamblers%2F Gamblers Anonymous asks its new members to answer the following “20 Questions” in order to determine the severity of their gambling addiction: Have you ever lost time from work due to gambling? Has gambling ever made your home life unhappy? Has gambling affected your reputation? Have you ever felt remorse after gambling? Have you ever gambled to get money to pay debts or solve financial difficulties? Has gambling ever caused a decrease in your ambition or efficiency? After losing, do you feel you must return as soon as possible to win back your losses? After winning, do you have a strong urge to return and win more? Do you often gamble until you run out of money? Have you ever borrowed money to finance your gambling? Have you ever sold anything to finance your gambling? Are yo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3476088 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 04:01:10 +0100 3476088 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3472051&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FS_bUG-DFfIY%2F Gamblers Anonymous asks its new members to answer the following “20 Questions” in order to determine the severity of their gambling addiction: Have you ever lost time from work due to gambling? Has gambling ever made your home life unhappy? Has gambling affected your reputation? Have you ever felt remorse after gambling? Have you ever gambled to get money to pay debts or solve financial difficulties? Has gambling ever caused a decrease in your ambition or efficiency? After losing, do you feel you must return as soon as possible to win back your losses? After winning, do you have a strong urge to return and win more? Do you often gamble until you run out of money? Have you ever borrowed money to finance your gambling? Have you ever sold anything to finance your gambling? Are yo... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3472051 Wed, 14 Apr 2010 04:01:10 +0100 3472051 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3458006&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FoXv6f6dERDg%2F This book is designed to help people with dual substance abuse and mental health problems. Millions of people have a substance-related disorder and at least one other mental illness. Those who are dealing with a combination of these disorders are met with a powerful recipe for destruction, especially self-destruction. The good news is that there is help. This book draws on research by internationally recognized pioneers in the integrated treatment of co-occurring disorders from the Dartmouth Medical School. Living with Co-occurring Addiction and Mental Health Disorders is the first handbook designed to inform and empower those with dual disorders. From this book one can make decisions about his or her own treatment and recovery and adopt a program that treats both disorders together. Key ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3458006 Sat, 10 Apr 2010 15:45:00 +0100 3458006 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3456883&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fliving-with-co-occurring-addiction-and-mental-health-disorders%2F This book is designed to help people with dual substance abuse and mental health problems. Millions of people have a substance-related disorder and at least one other mental illness. Those who are dealing with a combination of these disorders are met with a powerful recipe for destruction, especially self-destruction. The good news is that there is help. This book draws on research by internationally recognized pioneers in the integrated treatment of co-occurring disorders from the Dartmouth Medical School. Living with Co-occurring Addiction and Mental Health Disorders is the first handbook designed to inform and empower those with dual disorders. From this book one can make decisions about his or her own treatment and recovery and adopt a program that treats both disorders together. Key ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3456883 Sat, 10 Apr 2010 15:45:00 +0100 3456883 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3454139&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=35316&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnotjustaboutcancer.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fpictures-big-and-little.html I woke up yesterday morning with a sore throat and a headache.Here we go again. Having a compromised immune system is no picnic. In the last year, I missed my Toronto book launch because of the flu, got H1N1 on the day the vaccine became available, was hit by Norwalk virus when my spouse was away (and found myself crawling along my kitchen floor with a can opener to "make dinner", got pink eye and more little flus and colds than I want to count.Chemotherapy destroys cancer cells. It also destroys the cells that fight illness. Despite the fact that I try to limit my exposure to germs, wash my hands regularly, get enough sleep and eat well (not to mention the ten doses of Neupogen with which I inject myself after every treatment), I seem to fall prey to almost every little bug that passes my... Not just about cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3454139 Fri, 09 Apr 2010 13:30:00 +0100 3454139 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3454165&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fmy-thoughts-at-end-of-blogging-day_08.html You Just Gotta Laugh… Imagine my excitement a moment ago when I found a twitterer who was following countless doctors of psychiatry.  Much following ensued.  I was excited to hear what these doctors had to say.  I wanted to hear about their practices.  The medications they prescribe.  Their feelings on being doctors of psychiatry.  Much to my chagrin, they turned out to be the most egregious group of Twitter link linkers I have ever encountered.  They were posting all these countless links that had no merit towards me and my mental illness.  Unfollowing ensued fast.  I was so disappointed.  I thought I had found the mother lode for mental health on Twitter.  Instead, I get a bunch of doctors posting countless and useless links to art... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3454165 Thu, 08 Apr 2010 22:21:00 +0100 3454165 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3436288&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F04%2F04%2Fharriet-shetler-co-founder-of-nami%2F Harriet Shetler has passed away at the age of 92. She helped found the organization that eventually became the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI), and was a tireless advocate on behalf of people with mental health concerns. It’s no wonder — her son had schizophrenia. Today the organization Mrs. Shetler helped start, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, has affiliates in every state and more than 1,100 communities. It offers support to the mentally ill and people living with them; promotes research and education on mental illness; and lobbies governments on mental health concerns. NAMI was formed in 1977 when Shetler and Beverly Young, a mother who also had a son with schizophrenia, met over lunch to discuss the similar challenges they shared raising a child wit... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3436288 Sun, 04 Apr 2010 13:19:32 +0100 3436288 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3436395&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fstigma-of-mental-illness-and.html I deal with this sort of thing with my family – this stigma.  Dad feels I am incapable of making medical decisions about my mental health.  He also feels I cannot handle money efficiently or responsibly due to my illness.  It was interesting to read the results of this study below as they so echoed my own experiences with stigma and mental illness.  Dad has often told me he is afraid of me when I get very mentally ill.  I had a 9mm Glock handgun that dad took away from me for fears I would shoot people or harm them in the throes of my mental illness.  I have never shown any violent tendencies when ill or well for that matter.  There is an estimated 1.4 million Americans with schizophrenia at any given time and it takes only one crazy person on a killing... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3436395 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 23:47:00 +0100 3436395 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3435253&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fcodependent-and-alcoholic-games%2F Codependents and alcoholics/ addicts adopt behaviours and temporary personality traits. These behaviours are not deliberate or premeditated. They are built up very slowly over a period of time, bit-by-bit. Adult children of alcoholism may have started their process in childhood. Other codependents may have begun adapting when they set out on a relationship with an alcoholic/ addict. Alcoholics, addicts, gamblers, workaholics often report they started changing soon after they began their particular addictive behaviour. All of these people only report their actions in retrospect. That is after they have begun recovery and returned to spiritual lives. While they are practicing these abnormal activities they cannot see their own pain and the effects on others. This is sometimes called denial ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3435253 Sat, 03 Apr 2010 15:06:00 +0100 3435253 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429415&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Flooking-up.html I am very, very tired. I feel oddly alone. Last night I spent the night struggling for breath, exhausting my home remedies. Probably pneumonia, just guessing. I head for the doctor this afternoon once I have a sitter and a ride. Too tired to go myself with all the kids, or pack them up to get them elsewhere.A friend of a friend recently went through a crisis that set me thinking again about all God has carried me through in the last 12 years. Go me thinking that, no matter how dirty life around me is today, no matter how frazzled, or worn, or frustrated, the view always improves when I look up.O Lord, You have searched me and known me.You know my sitting down and my rising up; You understand my thought afar off.You comprehend my path and my lying down, and are acquainted with all my ways.F... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429415 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 15:31:00 +0100 3429415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429423&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F04%2Fda-sexay-is-getting-old-i-need-break.html “You need raunchy wild sex with a big black woman,” George told me this morning very matter-of-factly after drinking two of my precious Cokes. “Now Pookie!  She used to ride me like a bitch in heat.  She would get all jiggly, wiggly, and giggly on top of me.  Used to get me so excited.  I would bust a nut all up in dat shit.” “Great!” I thought. “I am getting a raunchy lecture on sex from George with Pookie as the protagonist.” “George, you can be so vulgar sometimes,” I replied disgustedly. “WHAT!?” George exclaimed and asked as he followed me into the kitchen. I was getting a soda. “You need to get laid. It would solve a lot of your mental health issues.  Men screw.  It is what they do.” I couldn’t help but laugh and giggle like... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429423 Thu, 01 Apr 2010 13:59:00 +0100 3429423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3429427&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-end-of-blogging-day_31.html Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood him, praying only for knowledge of God's will for us and the power to carry that out That’s the eleventh step of the twelve steps of Alcoholics Anonymous.  I’ve never paid much attention to the details of that step having never gotten that far in the program.  This evening, I noticed it said to ask God ONLY for knowledge of God’s will for us and the power to carry that out.  I have been praying all wrong!  I have been praying for anything and everything.  I pray mostly for mental health.  In the shower.  While I eat.  While I am driving.  I am asking God to help remove my mental illness.  It has tortured me so over the years.  Maybe Go... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3429427 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 23:51:00 +0100 3429427 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3425105&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_31.html Computer Stuff… My Twitter/email/TV computer started restarting randomly yesterday.  I was stumped until I changed the power supply from 300 watts to a 430 watt power supply. It is running fine now.  The overclock was causing the motherboard to use more “juice” and it wasn’t getting enough power.  I love trouble shooting this sort of thing.  I really should get a job working on computers.  Most people don’t know this, but I am A+ certified to repair PCs.  I took the exam in Montgomery, Al. years ago and it cost $250 dollars to take it which I thought was a racket.  Mental Illness Update for the Day… I am feeling very mentally well today.  I woke up in very good spirits.  I am still having those periods of euphoria, but they will soon... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3425105 Wed, 31 Mar 2010 11:12:00 +0100 3425105 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420738&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_30.html Shall I Howl??? I am a firm believer that the gravitational pulls of a full moon have effects on our brain chemistry.  Last night, I was sitting here at this computer and looked out the window: A full moon.  I immediately called dad on his cell phone even though he had just left after our medication ritual. “Guess what?” I asked him. “It is a full moon.  You know what I should be doing.” “You should be acting crazy, drinking beer, and raisin’ hell,” dad replied laughing. I laughed and laughed. It was so true. “We should be full tilt nuts right now.” “That explains the crazy customers I had in the store all day,” dad said laughing some more. “Everybody was wanting their pain pills.  We had some real crazies today.” At least dad and I can laugh a... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420738 Tue, 30 Mar 2010 09:01:00 +0100 3420738 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420739&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fdouble-take.html I was just sitting at a red light in downtown West Point, Georgia.  A train was passing in front of me and I was geeking out! I love trains. I was headed to the 8pm AA meeting in Lagrange.  It is a long drive and I was just out of town and was trying to psyche myself up for this ordeal. I kept praying in the shower that God would allow me and help me to make it. Then it happened.  I had a massive panic/anxiety attack sitting in front of that train.  My arms went numb.  My mind was racing a hundred miles an hour.  The whole world seemed to spin.  I managed to turn around and head home.  I have never been so glad to pull in my driveway in all my life.  I was literally scared to death.  I tried to do too much tonight.  Late in the evening... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420739 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 23:54:00 +0100 3420739 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3420742&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fbig-difference-in-me-lately.html My mother suffers from schizophrenia and bi-polar.  She also has an addiction to aprozolam (Xanax) which my father tolerates as it keeps her malleable and complacent.  She easily gets muddled and confused.  She will often sound thick tongued over the phone.  She did today and I worried deeply about her.  Her’s is not an easy life as I sometimes delude myself into thinking with Helen cleaning the house and cooking all her meals. “I just put your cokes out on the porch,” mom told me a moment ago over the phone. “Mom, I picked up my cokes at eight this morning,” I replied. Used to, I would take advantage of her muddle-ness and confusion.  I would jump all over the chance at getting six extra cokes for the day.  I won’t lie and say it wasn’t ent... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3420742 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 16:42:00 +0100 3420742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416333&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fhealthcare-workplace-toxic-for-those-in-recovery%2F Substance Abuse and Mental Health Care Environment “Toxic” for Persons in Recovery and Those Working in the Field “The environments in which behavioral health care is both given and received are toxic for persons in recovery, family members, and the workforce,” according to a recent report commissioned by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The report examined the current status of the substance abuse and mental health—also known as behavioral health—workforce and found “overwhelming evidence that the behavioral health workforce is not equipped in skills or in numbers to respond adequately to the changing needs of the American population”. Among the weakness contributing to the current “toxic” environment: A Critical Workforce Sho... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416333 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 14:01:00 +0100 3416333 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416301&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fgood-start-to-day.html “Good morning!” dad said over the phone a minute ago. “What are you doing?” I asked. “I’m drinking me some coffee, eating a microwaved honey bun, and watching CNN,” he replied. “I called to ask you about that NAMI meeting,” dad then said. “Me and your mother want to go with you.  I am not making any promises with work and all, but I do want to go.  I want to hear what other people have to say about mental illness.” “Thank you,” I replied. “That makes me so excited!  I am more likely to go on a regular basis if you all get involved.” “I want you to talk to your brother and sister as well.  There have to be some cutting edge studies on mental illness and schizophrenia you can get involved in.  I want you to try some new medications.&nb... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416301 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 12:01:00 +0100 3416301 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416302&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fgiving-thanks.html I sat down this morning at the desk in my computer room to write today’s gratitude list.  I had so many thoughts on my mind and so many things to be thankful for. Number one was yesterday.  I had a mental illness free day and they are rare.  For that, I was so thankful.  No racing of the mind.  No endless pacing of the floor to chase away my mental illness blues.  No feelings of overwhelming despair.  This morning I am thankful for my central heating and air.  I woke up very cold and heat was just pushing a button up a few degrees much to Maggie’s chagrin.  I basked in the warmth shedding clothes.  I have to remind myself of my homeless days and those times I would be so cold I would cry.  My only recourse was to crawl into my slee... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416302 Mon, 29 Mar 2010 10:28:00 +0100 3416302 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412578&cid=t_322634_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=3412479&cid=t_322634_111_f&fid=34834&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FMentalNurse%2F%7E3%2F_NOU-3ThCtk%2F Time for another round up of Mental Health in the Media. As before my search terms are mental health (and/or) illness and looking at stories in the previous month or so. I will try to focus on the news stories instead of items from the health & lifestyle sections. As before we start with the Daily Mirror which last time had a story about someone with a diagnosis of schizophrenia stabbing her daughter. This month guess what we have … Well done! Another person with a diagnosis of schizophrenia stabbing someone. Again we have a count of the number of actual stabs, which is useful I suppose. He was heard to shout, “You are the devil”, as he plunged the blade into the victim’s chest and back four times. Frankly the story has it all. A quick search of the Mirror site with the k... Mental Nurse blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412479 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 23:21:03 +0100 3412479 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412580&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fdads-visit.html “Wash your hair for me tonight,” dad told me a moment ago during our medication ritual.  “And you need to clip your fingernails.” “Yes, dad,” I replied. “I should’ve worn my baseball cap.” I was a little embarrassed, but I had let myself go the past two days.  I get so caught up in my mental illness that I can forget these vagaries of life.  I understand completely how a homeless person would let themselves go physically.  “Are you using that shampoo Dr. K prescribed for you?” “I’ve used it three times this week.” “Good,” dad replied. “We are going to get you in shape physically.” (Source: The 4th Avenue Blues) The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412580 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 20:07:00 +0100 3412580 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3412596&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FQcpS7WxOmpE%2F Alcohol Related Harm Hangovers are the most obvious result of a heavy drinking episode. They are a much talked about subject due to the self inflicted feelings of sickness and nausea they cause a person. But a hangover is not the only reminder of a heavy drinking session. The British Royal College of General Practitioners highlighted the potential harm related to alcohol arising from either regular heavy drinking, intoxication or alcoholism. They categorised the resulting problems as social, psychological or physical, and listed these problems in two lists – Problems as a result of heavy drinking and problems as a result of intoxication, drunkenness. These are; Problems related to regular heavy drinking Social Family problems Divorce Homelessness Work difficulties Unemploymen... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3412596 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 18:14:00 +0100 3412596 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411275&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmental-illness-check-in.html I had some issues with my mental illness yesterday.  I get these periods of great despair and restlessness.  I immediately jump up and pace the floor.  “I AM THE WALKING MAN!” I exclaimed loudly as I walked and Maggie looked on like I was crazy.  I tuned the TV in my spare bedroom to The Weather Channel and also the TV in the den.  I walked between both rooms pacing as I watched.  I realize it is growing time for another injection thus my restlessness.  Tuesday is the day.  We are going back to my 50mg level for my injection.  The 25mg injection just wasn’t working as well.  My sex drive started to return, but at a great cost.  I am just destined to be celibate it seems.  It is not like women are beating down my door anyway.... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411275 Sat, 27 Mar 2010 12:34:00 +0100 3411275 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3411289&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FMtMLW-BVSPo%2F The Ego, Super-Ego and the Id – A Balancing Act Anyone seriously interested in self-improvement needs at least a rudimentary understanding of the trilogy composed of the Id, the Ego and the Super-ego. These are not specific part of the brain. They are simply constructs designed to better study and understand how the psyche functions. The Id could be said to be the animal in us. It contains the instinctive drives and the raw emotions. It recognizes no law and seeks instant gratification. A perfect example of how the Id operates can be seen in the newborn. It demands immediate satisfaction and is totally self-centered. The Super-ego on the other hand is the conscience. It is the complete opposite of the Id. It strives for perfection and socially acceptable behavior. It controls our sen... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3411289 Fri, 26 Mar 2010 22:47:18 +0100 3411289 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3399131&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=35316&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnotjustaboutcancer.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fperspective-in-grey.html On June 30th it will be three years since my first clean scan, after the cancer had spread to my liver.For almost three years, I have had no evidence of disease (been NED, in cancer lingo).And yet I remain in treatment.I am asked frequently why I continue to receive chemotherapy and Herceptin, if there is no sign of cancer in my body. And the truth is that I often ask myself the same question. Certainly, I don't feel like I have cancer. And I do feel that the cumulative effects - both physical and emotional of ongoing treatment are wearing me down.I am stuck in cancer's grey area.My oncologist said to me last summer, "For all we know, you could be cured."We just don't know enough.Another oncologist I spoke to, hinted that some would take me out of treatment at this point. A third suggested... Not just about cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3399131 Tue, 23 Mar 2010 19:20:00 +0100 3399131 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390971&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Ffriend-in-need-is-friend-indeed.html “I am fixin’ to hit the bed,” George told me after stopping by for a moment after work.  He yawned loudly stretching his arms in the process. “Here!” he said, handing me a bag of Sprites and some candy bars.  “I didn’t think you would want any caffeine after yesterday’s attack.” “Thank you!” I told him with the utmost of sincerity. “What are you feeling today?” he asked. “Just scared,” I replied. “Just scared those attacks will start back.  I am so nervous and it feeds upon itself.” “Well, don’t you have some medications to take?” “I have my clonazepam,” I replied. “My psychiatrist prescribes twenty extra per month for emergencies on top of the two I take nightly.” “Take them then!” George exclaimed.  “Get to feeling... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3390971 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 15:10:00 +0100 3390971 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390807&cid=t_322634_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=3390972&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_22.html One Big Bundle of Mental Illness… I had my first real panic attack in months last night.  I lay on the bed with my heart thumping in my chest uncontrollably.  My vision got all squirrelly.  I was scared to death.  It took a complete hour for me to get over it. I had put on my contacts for the first time in months last night.  I could actually see for a change and noticed how dirty my floors were.  I got in this cleaning frenzy, doing laundry, vacuuming floors, polishing furniture.  Suddenly, the room started to spin.  “Oh, my God, NO!” I thought in a panic.  I guess I just tried to do too much.  This completely dashed my hopes of returning to work.  How can I not clean my own home and hope to work an eight hour job filled with so... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3390972 Mon, 22 Mar 2010 10:22:00 +0100 3390972 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3387038&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-end-of-blogging-day_20.html Charlie has come and gone with my medications.  He helped me clean my bathroom and then spent the rest of his time here doting over Maggie.  Charlie is Maggie’s de facto favorite visitor.   Charlie also brought a big sack of McDonald’s double cheeseburgers on top of the hamburgers George already brought me.  I am not complaining.  I will have a cheeseburger breakfast and Maggie can eat what she wants because of this bounty.  I feel better tonight.  In fifteen minutes, the full effect of my medications will sink in.  I am not sure how sleepy they will make me tonight.  I took a lot of naps today and will probably be up late because of it.   I am relieved to be feeling “normal” for what I consider normal.  I was very s... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3387038 Sun, 21 Mar 2010 02:11:00 +0100 3387038 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3390998&cid=t_322634_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_322634_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=3387042&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_20.html I Hope You’ll Stick By Me… I’ve been bereft of words lately.  I’ve been sleeping way too much.  I have oscillated from not sleeping enough to sleeping all the time.  Sleep, I have determined, is the great escape.  Mom and dad have been very kind to me during this latest flare up of my mental illness.  Mom calls me constantly and dad is doing things he has never done before.  This morning dad brought me some treats in two king sized Snicker’s bars and two regular Coca-Colas.  I was like a kid at Christmas.  It was the greatest thing I felt to happen to me in weeks.   Mom, not to be outdone by dad, went and bought me a whole bag of said candy at the grocery store. “I thought your father was going to get on to me. That candy was e... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3387042 Sat, 20 Mar 2010 18:13:00 +0100 3387042 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3385559&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FZdP47jjnadU%2F Recently I published an article about Children of Hoarders an issue I was unaware of until I accidentaly stumbled upon their website. There was a large response to this article. It seems there are similarities between Children of Hoarders and Children of Alcoholism (ACOA). It highlighted my need to become aware of other groups of children with similar problems. Are there other similar ‘children of ……….’ conditions? Does the same pattern of psychological illness appear in these children of ……..? Do some of these children become codependent? Some that I can think of are children of …; Drug addicts Compulsive gamblers Mental health sufferers Sex addicts Workaholics Religious sects I’m particularly interested in self-help, mutual-help type groups or organisations as well as... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3385559 Fri, 19 Mar 2010 23:23:00 +0100 3385559 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3382965&cid=t_322634_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=3383091&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FyQpzRLqK4v4%2F Acquired brain injury refers to any brain damage that happens after birth. Alcohol is one of the many causes of acquired brain injury. The injury inflicted by alcohol abuse is referred to as alcohol related brain injury (ARBI). More than 2,500 Australians are treated for ARBI every year. Just how much damage is done depends on a number of factors. These include individual differences, as well as the person’s age, gender, nutrition and their overall pattern of alcohol consumption. A person with ARBI might experience problems with memory, thinking abilities and physical coordination. A younger person has a better chance of recovery because of their greater powers of recuperation. However, the effects of alcohol related brain injury can be permanent for many sufferers. Alcohol and br... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3383091 Thu, 18 Mar 2010 21:53:20 +0100 3383091 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378616&cid=t_322634_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fhow-to-be-a-chronic-pain-survivor-part-1%2F A few days ago I was looking through a huge collection of books which I, probably like you, have accumulated over the years. I always surprise myself by finding books I read many years ago or finding others I never got around to reading. I came across one particular book I had picked up at a used book store several years ago, stuck in the bookshelf and forgot. The book is Love, Medicine, & Miracles by Bernie S. Siegel, MD. Written in 1986, I was amazed and deeply pleased to note all the suggestions and theories expounded by the author who was a surgeon and teacher at Yale. He founded ECaP (Exceptional Cancer Patients) and served as president of the American Holistic Medical Association. I immediately felt a bond with him because he mentioned all of the areas of interest and healing we ... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378616 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:21:39 +0100 3378616 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378740&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-is-compulsive-hoarding%2F Animal hoarding Hoarding is defined as the acquisition of, and inability to discard worthless items even though they appear (to others) to have no value. Hoarding behaviors can occur in a variety of psychiatric disorders and in the normal population, but are most commonly found in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Those people who report compulsive hoarding as their primary type of OCD, experience significant distress or functional impairment from their hoarding. They have symptoms of indecisiveness, procrastination, and avoidance, are classified as having compulsive hoarding syndrome. An estimated 700,000 to 1.4 million people in the United States are believed to have compulsive hoarding syndrome. More than a Hobby Compulsive hoarding is not just an enthusiast’s passi... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378740 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:04:23 +0100 3378740 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3378741&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fadult-children-of-hoarders%2F The mess of hoarding About growing up and adult children of hoarders (COH): For many, growing up in an environment of constant chaos and disorganization has effects that go far beyond living amongst the accumulation of possessions or not being able to have friends over. Our parents who hoard often hid behind closed blinds isolating themselves from the world outside. Adult children of Hoarders  are just now finding our voices to speak up about growing up with our parents having a serious and very misunderstood disorder. Lack of Insight – Denial This is often the “elephant in the living room” that is not easily discussed, if at all. Compulsive Hoarders often lack insight to having a problem at all.  Children sometimes get blamed for the state of the house-that it’s th... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3378741 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 17:39:37 +0100 3378741 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3382882&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F17%2Fmentally-ill-old-woman-tasered-for-refusing-to-move%2F Usually when one thinks of New England, one thinks of the seat of the War of Independence and home of states that value personal freedom and independence above virtually all else. After all, New Hampshire’s state motto is “Live Free or Die.” This was where the very idea of peaceful civil disobedience was born in the U.S. So when a police officer in Barre, Vermont (population: 9,291) decided that a woman with mental illness wasn’t moving to comply with his requests, he decided to arrest her. And when the woman still wasn’t moving to allow herself to be arrested, Cpl. Henry Duhaime of the Barre (Vt) Police Department apparently decided to pull out his Taser, instead of his radio to call for backup. Was the woman a coked up drug addict trying to fight off the pol... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3382882 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:56:27 +0100 3382882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3374182&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F17%2Fmentally-ill-old-woman-tasered-for-refusing-to-move%2F Usually when one thinks of New England, one thinks of the seat of the War of Independence and home of states that value personal freedom and independence above virtually all else. After all, New Hampshire’s state motto is “Live Free or Die.” This was where the very idea of peaceful civil disobedience was born in the U.S. So when a police officer in Barre, Vermont (population: 9,291) decided that an old woman with mental illness wasn’t moving to comply with his requests, he decided to arrest her. And when the woman still wasn’t moving to allow herself to be arrested, Cpl. Henry Duhaime of the Barre (Vt) Police Department apparently decided to pull out his Taser, instead of his radio to call for backup. Was the woman a coked up drug addict trying to fight off t... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3374182 Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:56:27 +0100 3374182 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3366436&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FALkvAgYqykY%2F Dual Recovery Anonymous has offered me what I had lost or been unable to find in my sobriety. It offers me believable hope and steps to apply to both my chemical dependency and my psychiatric illnesses. It also offers me a way to heal the emotional and psychic damage that I experienced as a result of my dual disorders. This is just as true for me today as it was when DRA first began to develop. In 1973 I made a decision to seek professional help for my chemical dependency. I had started drinking and using drugs when I was 13. By the time I was 18, I was using every day. I drank, swallowed, snorted and shot as many drugs as I could try, and rarely met a drug that I did not like. Gradually, I began to experience problems in every area of my life. There were times when I desperately wanted to... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3366436 Sun, 14 Mar 2010 21:45:00 +0100 3366436 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3363821&cid=t_322634_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=3362422&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=34750&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpsychcentral.com%2Fblog%2Farchives%2F2010%2F03%2F13%2Ffive-things-a-loved-one-should-know-about-bipolar-disorder%2F Today I have the pleasure of interviewing Bruce Cohen, M.D., Ph.D, who is Director of the Harvard University McLean Psychiatric Hospital and Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. He is also the coauthor, with Chelsea Lowe, of the recently released book Living with Someone Who’s Living With Bipolar Disorder: A Practical Guide for Family, Friends, and Coworkers. Cohen lives in the Boston area. Question: I have always maintained that the best thing a person can do to support a bipolar loved one is get educated. But if you could offer folks a crash course, what are the five most important things you think a loved one should know about bipolar disorder? Dr. Cohen: Getting educated is good advice. Here are five important things everyone dealing with bipolar disorder should kno... World of Psychology blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3362422 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 10:30:11 +0100 3362422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3362581&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FPQRAlayKel0%2F People in 12 Step Fellowships need to be aware of the different types of stress that can affect their recovery. What are the different types of stress? Acute stress Acute stress is the most common and most recognizable form of stress, the kind of sudden jolt in which you know exactly why you’re stressed: you were just in a car accident; the school nurse just called; a bear just ambled onto your campsite. Or it can be something scary but thrilling, such as a parachute jump. Along with obvious dangers and threats, common causes of acute stressors include noise, isolation, crowding, and hunger. Normally, your body rests when these types of stressful events cease and your life gets back to normal. Because the effects are short-term, acute stress usually doesn’t cause severe or permanent... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3362581 Sat, 13 Mar 2010 01:57:00 +0100 3362581 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3359174&cid=t_322634_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fbasal-testing-a-new-kind-of-torture.html Just when I thought I’d experienced every indignity and inconvenience this disease could dish up, along comes basal testing. I’ve had the Big D for almost seven years now, and I’ve always been told never to skip meals (a good thing too, because I need my meals!). At the same time, I know you’re supposed to [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3359174 Fri, 12 Mar 2010 13:00:01 +0100 3359174 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3354553&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fknock-knock.html Imagine you’re paranoid and filled with nerve wracking anxiety.  Your only weapon against this is two little pills that are increasingly hard to obtain because all your loved ones feel they are addictive and mind altering.   On top of this, you keep hearing what sounds like car doors shutting.  You run to the bedroom window and look out.  Nothing is there.  It happens again.  It begins to happen at what seems like increasing intervals.   Your social anxieties are piqued.  You don’t want visitors – not feeling like this.  You look out your other bedroom window at your neighbor’s house.  Nothing.  You sit back down to smoke and read.  The smoking helps.  It calms you and is comforting.   You hear it ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3354553 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 13:17:00 +0100 3354553 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3354554&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_11.html Don’t Try to Befriend Me… Wait until some day when they have medications that will cure my mental illness.  I am thinking genetics will be the next big breakthrough in psychiatry.  I need to ask my physician brother and sister. My point is that I am incapable of friendships.  I am just too paranoid and suspicious of people and online activities.  Email pushes this certain button in me and many have written me over the years only for me to never respond back.  I am afraid to even open my email program these days for fear of what I may find.  They say to have a friend is to be a friend, and am unable to do such a thing due to my mental limitations it seems.   One reason George is my friend is that he doesn’t take no for an answer.   He... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3354554 Thu, 11 Mar 2010 09:57:00 +0100 3354554 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350544&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day_10.html A Manic Mother… Mom called me after midnight last night.  I had been in the bed since ten zonked out.  I sighed as the phone rang trying to decide if to answer it or not.  I finally got up out of my warm bed in the freezing cold of my house and answered the phone after mom left a lengthy message on my answering machine… “Mom do you know what time it is?” I asked before she could speak. “Let me look at my clock,” she replied, walking across the room. “Oh, I didn’t realize it was so late.” Mom was manic.  “What are you doing?” “Well, your dad is on the Internet and not talking to me.  He says I am acting crazy.  He told me to take my Xanax and go to bed.” “Do you think your Xanax will help you?” I asked. “Oh, I don’t want to g... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350544 Wed, 10 Mar 2010 11:24:00 +0100 3350544 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3350545&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-end-of-blogging-day_09.html It Pains Me… It pains me to see my mother struggle with her mental illness.  She has had a rough past few months with lots of ups and downs.  I thought maybe it was me – that all she does for me puts too much pressure on her.  Thus my conversation with her yesterday.  She is terrible at handling stress and pressure.   Tonight, she called me fretting over her meal tonight with her friend and going to get my groceries tomorrow.  She said she had been driving back and forth down through the Valley endlessly in worry.  She didn’t know if she could do all that, but she couldn’t bring herself to cancel.  Mom and I have two distinctly different modus operandi as far as when our mental illnesses flare up.  Mom gets hyper, manic and super s... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3350545 Tue, 09 Mar 2010 23:54:00 +0100 3350545 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3346730&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FS_LcaYaaIxg%2F People in recovery may experience a sudden drop in their libido. If your erotic life has gone from an all-out sexfest to a G-rated event, you are not alone. While chronic aversion to sex is a serious issue for both men and women, an occasional drop in your sex drive is perfectly normal. According to a 1994 University of Chicago National Health and Social Life Survey, lack of interest in sex was the number one complaint of sexually active people of all ages. The reasons for a lowered sex drive can vary from person to person. But the following will help you sort out the sources that might be taking the X out of your sex. Stress The work on your desk keeps piling up and your latest dot-com investment just took a nosedive. When stressful events take over, they suck the sexual energy right o... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3346730 Mon, 08 Mar 2010 20:55:48 +0100 3346730 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3342760&cid=t_322634_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_322634_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=3339798&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-day.html More Signs of the Spiral Downwards… When my mental illness flares up, all aspects of my life get out of control, jumbled and confused.  Another area of my life that was glaringly telling on me about my mental illness was my food consumption.  I quickly ran out of food bingeing to satiate this empty feeling in me and I have no way of buying more.  I sheepishly asked dad for two loafs of bread and some sandwich meat yesterday.  Grocery day was a long way away still being next Wednesday.   “Your mother bought you fourteen Lean Cuisines!” dad exclaimed.  “Where did all that food go?” “I ate it all,” I replied, keenly embarrassed.  “Did you throw it all up?” he then asked. “You told Dr. Kern you were struggling with your bulimia.”... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3339798 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 11:23:00 +0100 3339798 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3339780&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Funanswered-prayer.html I have unanswered prayersI have trouble I wish wasn't thereAnd I have asked a thousand waysThat You would take my pain awayI am trying to understandHow to walk this weary landMake straight the paths that crooked lieOh Lord, before these feet of mineWhen my world is shakingHeaven standsWhen my heart is breakingI never leave Your handsYour hands that shaped the worldAre holding me, they hold me still~ Your Hands, J.J. Heller ~The bacterial culture done on Amelia's spinal fluid last week grew a particularly rare anaerobic bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes, on Wednesday, 5 days after the fluid was removed from her body. This bacteria is a common skin bacteria, and usually only causes meningitis or encephalitis in children with hardware in their brains (VP shunts) or post-neurosurgical patients... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3339780 Sun, 07 Mar 2010 04:30:00 +0100 3339780 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3338421&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fthoughts-for-day_06.html Signs… I should’ve seen it coming.  I am usually pretty good about knowing when my mental illness will flare up.  It started with my smoking copious amounts of cigarettes.  I was only smoking one every thirty minutes beforehand.  Then came the almost uncontrollable pacing of the floor.  I would literally walk until I was exhausted and could walk no more.  I had all this nervous energy I needed to expend it seems.   Then came the drinking of two bottles of wine in an attempt to self medicate.  My life was spiraling out of control again and I was just this hapless spectator I thought.   I had to pull in the reigns and quick.   It is times like these that I have told my father and my doctors countless times that I need to ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3338421 Sat, 06 Mar 2010 10:35:00 +0100 3338421 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3338422&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-for-end-of-day_05.html Helen Friday…  Helen’s meal was wonderful tonight.  We had fried white fish, hushpuppies, French fries, cole slaw, and a platter of sliced onions and dill pickles.  Mom and I both dug in as dad was carefully tread through his meal.  “I am going to have the worst heartburn tonight,” he said.  “You and your  mother just had to have this meal.” Medications… Dad gave me two extra Risperdal tonight  after our meal to take before bed.  I have already taken both and the constant car door shutting sound has gone away for the night much to my relief.  I will literally jump every time I hear it as it piques my social anxieties and I feel I will have to deal with company or strangers.  You would be surprised at how often a stranger will... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3338422 Sat, 06 Mar 2010 00:37:00 +0100 3338422 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3338423&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fi-need-favor-from-my-readers.html I am having tons of paranoia these past few days.  I just got around to checking my email today after a week or two of letting it languish.  Liz, you will be the first to get an email back.  Thank you for all your mail. I *heart* you!  Laura S., you are also in the queue to get an email from me.  It is flattering that you wrote a whole chapter about me in your thesis.  I will endeavor to read your thesis tonight and respond in kind. What I need is someone to check the recent comments on the blog and email me back if they are safe to read or not.  I don’t need any triggering mechanisms emotionally at the moment.   I am very sensitive and paranoid right now about comments and emails, and just can’t take a lot of criticism.  I am being the... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3338423 Fri, 05 Mar 2010 21:23:00 +0100 3338423 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3335548&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fmy-thoughts-at-end-of-day_04.html The Defeated Man… Mom ate at Rodger’s tonight and then brought Maggie and I a barbeque plate – a welcomed surprise for a Thursday night.  We were sitting in my den when mom asked, “What’s wrong with you?  You’ve seemed off for the past few days.” “Oh, I’ve just had a tough few days that have made me question everything and anything.  I am really struggling with my obsessive compulsiveness.  The Luvox has quit working I fear,” I replied.  “I called dad today and told him I was willing to move into that home for the mentally disabled where Jeffrey lives. I don’t want to always be a burden on ya’ll.” “It’s your father’s fault you are a burden on us and not yours,” mom told me, her honesty and lucidity surprising me. “If he would j... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3335548 Thu, 04 Mar 2010 23:58:00 +0100 3335548 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3331571&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fthoughts-for-day_03.html Give Me a Shot of Viagra, Doc! I watched as my psychiatrist pulled out his iPhone and calculated my ideal weight this morning.   “You’re at 180. Your ideal weight for your height,” he said, smiling broadly.  “On your last visit, you weighed 167.” I could hear dad breathe a deep sigh of relief.  My weight has been an all encompassing obsession with him lately. “Are you having any side effects?” Dr. Kern asked as he began to write out my prescriptions.  I asked dad to leave the room at that moment.  I wanted some privacy and one on one time with my doctor.  Dad reluctantly agreed and left to go sit in the waiting room. “I am effectively castrated by my medications,” I said. “Do you think Viagra will help?” A quizzical look drew acr... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3331571 Wed, 03 Mar 2010 18:14:00 +0100 3331571 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3327304&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Ftwelve-steps-and-dual-disorders%2F The Twelve Steps And Dual Disorders With compassion and encouragement, this book helps us to begin and strengthen our recovery from our addictions and emotional or psychiatric illnesses. A gentle, spiritual and supportive approach to bolster our recovery, The Twelve Steps and Dual Disorders provides an adaptation and discussion of each of the Twelve Steps of Dual Recovery Anonymous. - Buy Today! – The Twelve Steps And Dual Disorders - (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3327304 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:41:51 +0100 3327304 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3322610&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F03%2Fthoughts-at-end-of-day.html Wearing Furrows in my Hardwood Floors… I have paced and paced today.  I have paced for hours.  My legs feel like Jell-O and are extremely sore from all the pacing.  I know rationally that is not normal to constantly walk in circles around the inside of my house, but I can’t seem to communicate this to the obsessive compulsive component of my brain.  Late this evening, I finally collapsed in the world’s most comfortable computer chair to write and relax as I drank the only two diet Cokes I had on hand.  The urge is still there though.  I want to pace until dad gets here then I will take my medications and go to bed.  Luvox don’t let me down tonight! Shaky Hands Make for Spilt Pills… “I can’t seem to get the pills out of the bottle,” mom sa... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3322610 Tue, 02 Mar 2010 02:18:00 +0100 3322610 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3318671&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FP8hSX8c_pXA%2F Dr Karen Horney saw neurosis as continuous with normal life. Specifically, she saw neurosis as an attempt to make life bearable, as a way of “interpersonal control and coping.” This is, of course, what we all strive to do on a day-to-day basis, only most of us seem to be doing alright, while the neurotic seems to be sinking fast. In her clinical experience, she discerned ten particular patterns of neurotic needs. They are based on things that we all need, but they have become distorted in several ways by the difficulties of some people’s lives. Let’s take the first need, for affection and approval, as an example (see below). We all need affection, so what makes such a need neurotic? First, in the neurotic the need is unrealistic, unreasonable, indiscriminate. For ex... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3318671 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 16:57:00 +0100 3318671 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3316225&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39016&url=http%3A%2F%2Fturquoisegates.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Ftop-5-things-parents-hate-about.html 1. There is no privacy. This is difficult on many levels - from private discipline of your child, to having the time and privacy needed to use the bathroom. Ever tried to use only a public toilet for 10 days in a row? Let's just say it can inhibit even the most stolid of personal routines. I remember one parent who threatened to use the toilet in his child's intensive care room: the toilet was surrounded by a flimsy hospital curtain. I always wondered what possessed him to threaten such a thing, and assumed he must have been joking, although he seemed frighteningly serious at the time. Now I have experienced the push/pull of wanting to be by your child's side 24 hours a day - every single second of the 24 hours - and also needing time to yourself for the basic necessities like toileting an... Turquoise Gates blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3316225 Sun, 28 Feb 2010 14:00:00 +0100 3316225 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3314797&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fpn5hiGOwqIs%2F Denial is Hazy Thinking Alcoholics, addicts and co-dependents use many and varied combinations of these. Identify yours and work to eliminate them. When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us – Alexander Graham Bell Defence and denial mechanisms are used by all human beings and may be necessary for survival in some situations. We’ve all used defences and denial to distance ourselves from distressing feelings and maintain a sense of emotional stability. Our defence and denial patterns began in childhood when they prevented us from becoming overwhelmed with anxiety. However, as an adult we outgrow their usefulness. If we continue to use outgrown defences or denial, we are ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3314797 Sat, 27 Feb 2010 04:30:50 +0100 3314797 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3307072&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fgo-to-dentist-or-die-crazy.html “You sure that toothache isn’t going to cause your schizophrenia to act up?” mom asked me, concerned, this afternoon. “You know what stress can do to you.  It’ll make you crazy.” Mom popped the trunk for me to get my groceries out.  She sat in the car asking me more fretting questions all the while my brow wrinkled with frustration and aggravation.  You could hear Maggie loudly yelping on the inside that mom was here she was so excited. “I’m not going to the Dentist unless the Tylenol and aspirin stops working,” I told her. “I have a phobia about dentists and barbers.” I started to walk through the yard carrying four bags of groceries. “That infection is going to eat your brain out!” mom hollered back at me frustrated. I smiled, but didn’t look ba... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3307072 Wed, 24 Feb 2010 19:55:00 +0100 3307072 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3290979&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fthoughts-for-day_20.html Dearest Martha… It was 3 AM.  I was sound asleep when I got a call from mom. “What day is it?” mom asked, foregoing any pleasantries. I laughed. Oh god! “Mom, it is late Friday night, early Saturday morning!” “I woke up and didn’t even know where I was,” she said, sounding confused and then hung up abruptly. Well, after waking up some, I drove over to get my sodas.  They weren’t on the porch.  Disappointment central!  Mom is really having a time with her mental illness these days and is usually completely out of it.  My father is extremely concerned about her.  She’s been so sick. Dawn of the Dead… When I woke up this morning due to mom’s phone call, Maggie was sound asleep next to me.  I kept smelling something putrid as I lay the... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3290979 Sat, 20 Feb 2010 08:56:00 +0100 3290979 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3416285&cid=t_322634_137_f&fid=39091&url=http%3A%2F%2Falzheimmers.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fis-alzheimers-mental-illness.html This is more of a political question in many ways than a scientific one. When we speak of a psychiatric disorder we often use the term "functional" as opposed to "medical". Functional essentially means without an organic cause.We know that AD has a specific course, with specific and non-specific signs and symptoms. It has demonstrated changes in the brain at a microscopic cellular level as well as a macroscopic level when it is advanced. The gross brain of a victim with advanced stages of AD looks different than the gross brain of a person without the disease.In many psychiatric disorders you can not find the physical changes in the brain. That does not mean they do not exist, it is just that science has not caught up in certain psychiatric disorders. For a long time when AD was first beco... Caregiver Survival: I Hate Alzheimer's blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3416285 Fri, 19 Feb 2010 07:10:00 +0100 3416285 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3269882&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Falcoholic-mental-health-and-personality%2F Mental health and personality traits in alcohol-dependent patients: a comparative study. The aim of this research study was to describe the mental health and personality profile associated with alcohol dependence (alcoholism) and to compare it with those of non-addictive disorders and the normal population. The groups were; 158 alcohol-dependent patients in treatment, 120 psychiatric patients with non-addictive disorders and 103 participants from the general population chosen to match the patient samples for age, gender and socioeconomic level. All participants were assessed with different instruments related to personality, mental health and personality disorders. Patients from both the alcoholic and psychiatric groups had more symptoms of anxiety and depression than the healthy partici... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3269882 Fri, 12 Feb 2010 20:26:39 +0100 3269882 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262906&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F_-LLHaTRFGI%2F This article may help you think about the issues involved. Burnout is subtle. It creeps up on you slowly. How do you know if you are burning out? I know well the face of burnout. I found myself questioning my motives, feeling guilty, and being greatly misunderstood. Sometimes I was shamed for not “working the program!” What are the signs of burnout? As a professional counsellor I have researched burnout. According to the best research available on the subject there are three aspects of burnout: 1. Perception of Inequity/Unfairness/Injustice When you start to feel like you are getting the short end of the deal, being mistreated, under-appreciated, the program is not working for you… You may be burning out. 2. Emotional Exhaustion When you start to run out of emotional gas you know som... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262906 Thu, 11 Feb 2010 01:59:00 +0100 3262906 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3262873&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fif-youre-crazy-and-you-know-it.html A few months ago, I was lying in bed when I felt this strange sensation in my mind. “Oh Shit!” my mind frantically screamed.  It was the beginning of one my especially troublesome bouts with schizophrenia – one of many.  I immediately jumped up and dialed mom’s number, but hung up before she could answer.  Dad would be angry with me.  I called 911 and they took me to the emergency room.  I talked some to the paramedics, but as my illness progressed in it’s intensity, I grew quiet and withdrawn.   In the emergency room, I began to believe the doctors and nurses were laughing at me.  They sent in person after person to talk to me. “But they’re laughing at me!” my mind screamed.   I would stare at the ceiling and just rock bac... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3262873 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 20:51:00 +0100 3262873 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259269&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FMQr5lGvE6bA%2F ACOA's often have inner shadows of early life Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA) refers to individuals who have grown up in a dysfunctional family as a result of their parents or caretakers alcoholism. Each ACOA finds they often have common characteristics in adulthood as the result of their childhood and upbringing, often including alcohol or drug abuse themselves. These traits can also be found in other dysfunctional families that include drug addiction, compulsive gamblers, or workaholism. The condition is often referred to as co-dependency as the sufferer usually needs a person dependent or addicted to alcohol or drugs to feel needed. Adult Children of Alcoholics can also refer to any 12 Step Fellowship that, like Al-anon, who assist ACOA with their common problems. Common Traits ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259269 Wed, 10 Feb 2010 10:22:33 +0100 3259269 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3259218&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fanti-coke-protest-starting-tomorrow.html I realized today my parent’s are as crazy as me.  They’re all crazy as shit.  The whole family is.  My brother and sister can be crazy as well.  I just didn’t get the overachiever gene they all seemed to get.  So I am stuck in poorsville.   I also got stuck with the particularly nasty strain of mental illness that runs in the family – nastier than most of the others of my family got except mom.  A few facts about the diet coke fiasco… It was my idea to stop drinking so many diet Cokes.  It was cutting into my grocery budget and I was frankly lazy about carrying in all those 12 packs every week.  It was a hassle.  So mom started to buy me Wal-Mart orange drink mix that was a dollar and something for six quarts of drink.&#16... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3259218 Tue, 09 Feb 2010 21:04:00 +0100 3259218 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251375&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fpoisoned-apple.html One comforting aspect of George’s drinking over the years was that I always knew I could get a drink if I needed one.  I could call George and he would be over in fifteen minutes with a case of beer thrilled to have the old times back.   Now?  Dad would be more likely to buy me a beer than George.  For some reason, this bothers me, and has for weeks.   I guess that old saying about you always want what you can’t have is true.  The same goes for my Diet Cokes.  I never thought much about Diet Cokes in my younger years.  I could always just drive to the store and buy some.  Now, I am obsessed.  I am only allowed six a day (three are caffeine free) and it drives me crazy.  Dad and I got in a fight over them last night. ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251375 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:18:00 +0100 3251375 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251406&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fundoing-denial-is-first-step%2F Denial is distorted reality Breaking through denial is alcoholic’s, addict’s first step in recovery Looking in the mirror and accepting what we see can be one of the hardest things we ever do. It’s especially hard when the image staring us in the face is painful or doesn’t fit with how we want to see ourselves. Sometimes, the truth is so painful that we avoid it at any cost. Refusing to accept a painful reality that alters the perception of ourselves is a psychological defense called denial. As human beings, we may use denial to protect ourselves from knowledge, insight or awareness that threatens our self-esteem, mental or physical health, or security. The term “denial” is often used in the chemical dependency field to describe people who deny substanc... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251406 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 08:19:29 +0100 3251406 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3251376&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fsunsets-r-us.html Really nice sunset photo over at my weather blog which is a nightly feature weather permitting.  My drug dealer neighbor was outside letting his dog pee when I was taking it.  He asked his buddy, “What is he taking photos of?”  I guess it was making him paranoid! LOL Well, I am off to pace the floor and smoke copiously till dad gets here with my medications.  I am still having some symptoms tonight.  I guess I get tired as the day progresses, my medication levels drop, and I start to hear things and feel uncomfortable.   (Source: The 4th Avenue Blues) The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3251376 Mon, 08 Feb 2010 00:34:00 +0100 3251376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3248687&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fi-have-no-needs.html This morning George and I were standing outside having a cigarette in the freezing cold after breakfast. “You have ‘needs’, don’t you?” George asked me speaking of sex. “George,” I said. “Your getting neurotic in your sobriety.  You ask me this all the time and I tell you the same thing.  I rarely have ‘needs’ as you put it.” When George quit drinking, he broke up with his long, long time love object; that crackhead Pookie.  I’ve said it many times that Pookie was the only obese crackhead I have ever met and she was a vile woman; terrible for George.  I did a victory dance when George broke things off.  When George has needs he goes to prostitutes at the shot house.   He's often offered to pay for one for me as well.   He... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3248687 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 16:51:00 +0100 3248687 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3248690&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fbest-friends-forever.html (Source: The 4th Avenue Blues) The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3248690 Sun, 07 Feb 2010 02:41:00 +0100 3248690 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3236096&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FMzMBpat_IXU%2F Anger feeds on itself What Are Anger Myths And How They Affect Us? All myths of anger give good reasons excuses for anger and aggressive behavior. Anger is an unavoidable part of being human. Anger is especially based on myths. Self-help Zone lists 5 myths that affect how we deal with anger. These are; Myth 1: Anger and aggression are natural for humans Myth 2: Frustration always leads to aggression Myth 3: Venting your anger is healthy Myth 4: Anger is always beneficial Myth 5: A person’s anger is caused by others Full story at; Self-help Zone Related Reading: (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3236096 Wed, 03 Feb 2010 02:04:32 +0100 3236096 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3231832&cid=t_322634_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=3231742&cid=t_322634_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F02%2Ffive-things-i-learned-about-lyme-disease.html I know, I know, this is a diabetes blog. But those of you who follow me regularly are probably aware that a new chronic illness has entered our lives — Lyme disease. My husband was diagnosed shortly after we returned from Germany last summer, and it’s turning out to be a much more formidable opponent [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3231742 Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:00:42 +0100 3231742 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3227963&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=35316&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnotjustaboutcancer.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fsoup-and-missing-muse.html I made three soups in January.Red lentil and carrot from Cooking With Foods That Fight Cancer.Broccoli cheddar from Looneyspoons.Jambalaya from Weight Watchers (heavily modified: I substituted white fish for shrimp, used more liquid and had sausage on the side, so folks could choose their level of spiciness. And I didn't use chicken. And I used different spices. This for me, was a wildly adventurous departure).If I don't run out of time today, I plan on making a pre-chemo Sweet potato and roasted garlic soup from the Eat Clean Diet. A friend gave this one to me. I recall it being time consuming but delicious..I have had a post on the tip of my fingers about my current highly ambivalent feelings about my life, identity and treatment but I can't seem to bring myself to write it.In fact, I ca... Not just about cancer blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3227963 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:15:00 +0100 3227963 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3227986&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F02%2Fchoices-and-ramifications.html I had been homeless for about six months when I called my mother from my deceased grandmother’s house.  I had a key from when I lived with her.  Mom, her usually fretting self, immediately went into action.  She turned on the heat and made me a bed. “You’re not going to be homeless,” she told me. My father wasn’t too pleased, but what could he do?  Cast his son aside despite all his faults and drunkenness? I had planned on going to Nashville to live.  From reading “The Homeless Guy” I knew I could get a place to sleep, three meals a day, and social worker help.  I would also have my full disability allotment to drink with.  I wouldn’t have any expenses other than cigarettes and beer.   It was sad, though, that my life had come t... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3227986 Mon, 01 Feb 2010 15:25:00 +0100 3227986 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3225000&cid=t_322634_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=3212547&cid=t_322634_134_f&fid=34841&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.diabetesmine.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fwayback-wednesday-keeping-illness-secret.html My 12-year-old daughter’s become obsessed with a website called FMyLife, if you’ll excuse the expression.  It’s a collection of mishaps and hard luck stories that might not be a bad model for the StupidDiabetes.com concept we discussed here, come to think of it. But what I wanted to point out was an entry about diabetes that [...] (Source: Diabetes Mine) Diabetes Mine blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3212547 Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:00:17 +0100 3212547 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3208698&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwhat-are-phobias%2F Fear of Caves is one phobia Phobia’s A specific phobia is a fear of a particular object or place which is so severe that it affects your way of life. It is possible to develop a phobia for almost anything, but some of the most common phobias are fear of heights, fear of spiders or mice, fear of enclosed spaces (known as claustrophobia) and fear of blood or injections. Many of us feel some anxiety about these things, perhaps realistically since if we did not fear heights, for example, we might have more accidents! But there is a difference between this ordinary reaction and a phobia, which results in a person going to extreme lengths to avoid the object or situation they fear. For example, if you have a phobia for injections rather than just a natural dislike of them, you might be unable ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3208698 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:11:04 +0100 3208698 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3205124&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FNYoCK4JetCs%2F Fear of Caves is one phobia Phobia’s A specific phobia is a fear of a particular object or place which is so severe that it affects your way of life. It is possible to develop a phobia for almost anything, but some of the most common phobias are fear of heights, fear of spiders or mice, fear of enclosed spaces (known as claustrophobia) and fear of blood or injections. Many of us feel some anxiety about these things, perhaps realistically since if we did not fear heights, for example, we might have more accidents! But there is a difference between this ordinary reaction and a phobia, which results in a person going to extreme lengths to avoid the object or situation they fear. For example, if you have a phobia for injections rather than just a natural dislike of them, you might be unable ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3205124 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 15:11:04 +0100 3205124 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3205125&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FOTfeHJ5Fto4%2F Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) If you have obsessive thoughts this means that certain words or ideas keep coming into your mind automatically. This can make you feel very anxious, particularly if the thoughts are nasty, unpleasant or frightening. For example, some people have repeated thoughts about germs causing disease or death. In order to cope with the anxiety they start to do things over and over again to get rid of the thoughts, such as washing their hands every few minutes, or reciting numbers. This is known as compulsive behaviour. People with this type of anxiety also tend to make it worse by continually checking their own thoughts. There can sometimes be a physical reason for obsessive thoughts, such as an infection, so it may be worth speaking to your doctor about this. Pa... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3205125 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:43:11 +0100 3205125 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3205098&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fsymptoms-these-days.html Oh, how far I have come.  Through dad’s help, I take my medications religiously.  I haven’t had a drink in three years.  The pieces of the puzzle of wellbeing have just fallen in place the past few years.  You know what makes me hesitate to write about this? Social Security.  I occasionally get hits on my site meter from government types.  I worry they think I am “cured” and can go back to work.  There is no cure for schizophrenia, just management of the symptoms.  I don’t know if I can handle the stress of a job however small.  I guess that speaks little of me.  I should get some derision from my anonymous commenter for writing that. lol Some current symptoms I am having are extreme paranoia about the drug dealer next door. ... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3205098 Mon, 25 Jan 2010 07:48:00 +0100 3205098 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3201908&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fpartner-enabling-of-alcoholism-2%2F Enabling is like a dam holding back responsibility Enabling is the ideas, feelings, attitudes, and behaviors that unintentionally continue to foster drinking, alcohol related problems or make matters worse by not allowing the alcoholic to deal with the consequences of their alcoholism. Enabling is part of the set of behaviors practiced by codependents of alcoholism. Researchers report that the majority of partners took over chores or duties from the alcoholic client at some point during the relationship, drank or used other drugs with the client, and lied or made excuses to others to cover for the drinker. Moreover, particular relationship beliefs were associated with higher behavioural enabling scores. Enabling Behaviors are practiced in four forms; Direct Enabling The behavior that acts ... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3201908 Sun, 24 Jan 2010 03:53:00 +0100 3201908 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197627&cid=t_322634_87_f&fid=38368&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FDisruptiveWomenInHealthCare%2F%7E3%2Fu7rrPFIWFxU%2F The following guest post by Debra Gordon, an award-winning freelance medical writer, was recently featured on the Better Health blog. The original post can be found on Debra Gordon’s Musings on Medicine and Health Care blog. Back in the day when I was a newspaper reporter I completed a biomedical ethics fellowship at the University of Virginia Medical Center in Charlottesville, VA. In addition to sitting in on the hospital’s bioethics committee discussions, I spent much of the week shadowing a nurse in the ICU. They called her the Death Nurse because her job was to intervene with doctors, nurses, patients and families when the time came for a patient to move from the ICU to hospice. While her title was Supportive Care, she flat out told her me her job was to help people die; no... Disruptive Women in Health Care blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197627 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 15:14:41 +0100 3197627 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3200669&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FkVwChdyh4DQ%2F We drank as heavy drinkers or alcoholics and found these contradictions We drank for happiness and became unhappy. We drank for joy and became miserable. We drank to be outgoing and became self-centered. We drank for sociability and became argumentative. We drank for sophistication and became crude and obnoxious. We drank for friendship and made enemies. We drank for sleep and awakened without rest. We drank for strength and felt weak. We drank for sex drive and lost our potency. We drank for relaxation and got the shakes. We drank for confidence and became doubtful. We drank for warmth and lost our cool. We drank for coolness and lost our warmth. We drank for freedom and became slaves. We drank for power and were powerless. We drank to soften sorrow and wallowed in self-pity. We drank me... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3200669 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 11:26:42 +0100 3200669 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197890&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fwe-drank-for%2F We drank as heavy drinkers or alcoholics and found these contradictions We drank for happiness and became unhappy. We drank for joy and became miserable. We drank to be outgoing and became self-centered. We drank for sociability and became argumentative. We drank for sophistication and became crude and obnoxious. We drank for friendship and made enemies. We drank for sleep and awakened without rest. We drank for strength and felt weak. We drank for sex drive and lost our potency. We drank for relaxation and got the shakes. We drank for confidence and became doubtful. We drank for warmth and lost our cool. We drank for coolness and lost our warmth. We drank for freedom and became slaves. We drank for power and were powerless. We drank to soften sorrow and wallowed in self-pity. We drank me... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197890 Fri, 22 Jan 2010 11:26:42 +0100 3197890 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197793&cid=t_322634_129_f&fid=36035&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.everydayhealth.com%2Fblog%2Flife-with-chronic-pain%2Fwho-is-your-mama-in-a-life-of-chronic-pain%2F When I was a child of eleven years of age, I had to go to bed for a year due to rheumatic fever. I was never a particularly healthy kid and had strep throat more times than I can remember, before and after that time. Naturally, it worried my parents and my mother, who had trouble expressing her feelings, did so by being very protective of me. My father was an adorable and loving man who wept when I was diagnosed and over the years, each time I became ill, he brought me milkshakes, usually strawberry, and of course, the latest comic books. As I recall my favorites were always the Archie comics and another character named Lulu. Even then I decided you could only watch so much TV. The thing I hated the most, besides being cut off from my friends at school and church, was this most miserable l... Life with Chronic Pain blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197793 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 21:48:00 +0100 3197793 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197893&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2F3-steps-to-positive-thinking%2F Three Tips For Releasing Your Addiction To Negative Thinking If you are finding yourself caught in your negative thought addiction (i.e “I’m a failure. I’m a horrible person. What if the worst happens?” etc. etc.) here are three tips for the easiest and fastest ways to shift out of these painful thoughts into more uplifting thought patterns: 1. Notice that you’re caught in the negative thought cycle and that it’s only your thoughts that are beating you up in this moment. It’s not the outside world. Once you realize that it’s just your own thoughts that are making you miserable, it takes some of the intensity off of the situation. 2. Instead of trying to “get positive”, try to be the observer of your negative thought loop. For instance, if you find yourself feeling depre... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197893 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:57:47 +0100 3197893 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3194024&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2F2qJAkA7vxTQ%2F Three Tips For Releasing Your Addiction To Negative Thinking If you are finding yourself caught in your negative thought addiction (i.e “I’m a failure. I’m a horrible person. What if the worst happens?” etc. etc.) here are three tips for the easiest and fastest ways to shift out of these painful thoughts into more uplifting thought patterns: 1. Notice that you’re caught in the negative thought cycle and that it’s only your thoughts that are beating you up in this moment. It’s not the outside world. Once you realize that it’s just your own thoughts that are making you miserable, it takes some of the intensity off of the situation. 2. Instead of trying to “get positive”, try to be the observer of your negative thought loop. For instance, if you find yourself feeling depre... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3194024 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:57:47 +0100 3194024 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3197894&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fself-injury-patterns%2F Self-Injury Why do people engage in self-injury? Even though there is the possibility that a self-inflicted injury may result in life-threatening damage, self injury is not suicidal behavior. Although the person may not recognize the connection, SI usually occurs when facing what seems like overwhelming or distressing feelings. The reasons self-injurers give for this behavior vary but ALL ARE SUBCONSCIOUS MOTIVES. The reasons given are; Self-injury temporarily relieves intense feelings, pressure or anxiety Self-injury provides a sense of being real, being alive – of feeling something Injuring oneself is a way to externalize emotional internal pain – to feel pain on the outside instead of the inside Self-injury is a way to control and manage pain – unlike the pain experienced throug... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3197894 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:34:06 +0100 3197894 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3194025&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FMGBHnXJuYgc%2F Self-Injury Why do people engage in self-injury? Even though there is the possibility that a self-inflicted injury may result in life-threatening damage, self injury is not suicidal behavior. Although the person may not recognize the connection, SI usually occurs when facing what seems like overwhelming or distressing feelings. The reasons self-injurers give for this behavior vary but ALL ARE SUBCONSCIOUS MOTIVES. The reasons given are; Self-injury temporarily relieves intense feelings, pressure or anxiety Self-injury provides a sense of being real, being alive – of feeling something Injuring oneself is a way to externalize emotional internal pain – to feel pain on the outside instead of the inside Self-injury is a way to control and manage pain – unlike the pain experienced throug... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3194025 Thu, 21 Jan 2010 08:34:06 +0100 3194025 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3189415&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fd1nSuXbFK9Q%2F Clues about alcohol related brain damage can be gathered by observing the person’s mood, behaviour, daily functioning and coping skills. Here are some examples of common indicators: Mood changes – anxiety, agitation or depression Behavioural changes – difficult behaviour, acting out, suspicious or paranoid behaviour, withdrawal, inappropriate behaviour Confusion and disorientation Talking excessively about, and living in, the past Problems carrying through with plans and getting around to chores Disconnection of gas, electricity or the phone Missed appointments Repetitious conversation Problems staying focused in conversation Resistance to change Confabulation Irrational reasoning Inability to change even when the person desires to These symptoms of brain impairment wil... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3189415 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 04:02:00 +0100 3189415 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3185629&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fsymptoms-of-alcohol-related-brain-damage%2F Clues about alcohol related brain damage can be gathered by observing the person’s mood, behaviour, daily functioning and coping skills. Here are some examples of common indicators: Mood changes – anxiety, agitation or depression Behavioural changes – difficult behaviour, acting out, suspicious or paranoid behaviour, withdrawal, inappropriate behaviour Confusion and disorientation Talking excessively about, and living in, the past Problems carrying through with plans and getting around to chores Disconnection of gas, electricity or the phone Missed appointments Repetitious conversation Problems staying focused in conversation Resistance to change Confabulation Irrational reasoning Inability to change even when the person desires to These symptoms of brain impairment wil... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3185629 Tue, 19 Jan 2010 04:02:00 +0100 3185629 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3182345&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39025&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Feverythingchangesbook%2F%7E3%2F35Xz2Z3VC6U%2Fweddings-cancer-chronic-illness I love weddings (almost obsessively so) and am thrilled for anyone who is currently engaged.  But, sometimes it is damn hard dealing with wedding planning season when you’ve got cancer or a chronic illness. Being single with cancer and no date at my brother’s wedding was hard.  I was in the midst of breaking up with a guy who couldn’t say the word “cancer”.  I was so happy for my brother and didn’t want to feel like a self-pitying sister or that I was detracting from his moment.  I tried to keep my mouth shut about it all.  I also dreaded all of the guests telling me how grrrreat I looked in that wacko-cancer-pity-adoration way.  But for all of my angst leading up to it, I decided to go totally solo, not even bring a friend date and it was the most fun wedding I�... Everything Changes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3182345 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 12:57:33 +0100 3182345 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3182242&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=38950&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shockmd.com%2F2010%2F01%2F18%2Fjazz-and-psychiatry%2F This post was inspired by two recent visits to jazz clubs in Paris. It’s the first in a series of three. The others are: Medical Dangers of Jazz and The neuroscience of Jazz. What do we know about the relationship between mental illness and creativity, more specific about the relationship between mental illness and jazz. Other art forms and mental illness are discussed elsewhere on this blog. It will be particularly valued by that group of psychiatrists who prefer to frequent jazz clubs rather than conference gala dinners (those who prefer gala dinners are advised to obtain a copy of the CD reissue of Kind of Blue by Miles Davis). A review of biographical material of 40 famous jazz musicians of the period from 1945 to 1960 excluding those who were still alive, was studied and rated ... Dr Shock MD PhD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3182242 Mon, 18 Jan 2010 07:15:47 +0100 3182242 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3182376&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FeK2YrNIPO7k%2F People can be isolated by dysfunctional beliefs People can have many dysfunctional beliefs. Not all of these are in any one person but if there is many then that person may be dysfunctional. Alcoholics, addicts, co-dependents and Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA’s) may identify. Some of these dysfunctional beliefs are; That I can control my emotions. That I can control someone else’s emotions or actions or thoughts. That I deserve: . . .to get something good. . . .to get something bad. . . .to be punished for mistakes. . . .to be rewarded for perfection. . . .to be rewarded for good behaviour, intentions, thoughts, feelings, whatever. That I can “make” sense out of anything. That I am responsible for . . .for achieving other peoples success. . . .for other people&#82... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3182376 Sun, 17 Jan 2010 10:59:25 +0100 3182376 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3180404&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fdysfunctional-fantasies%2F People can be isolated by dysfunctional beliefs People can have many dysfunctional beliefs. Not all of these are in any one person but if there is many then that person may be dysfunctional. Alcoholics, addicts, co-dependents and Adult Children of Alcoholics (ACOA’s) may identify. Some of these dysfunctional beliefs are; That I can control my emotions. That I can control someone else’s emotions or actions or thoughts. That I deserve: . . .to get something good. . . .to get something bad. . . .to be punished for mistakes. . . .to be rewarded for perfection. . . .to be rewarded for good behaviour, intentions, thoughts, feelings, whatever. That I can “make” sense out of anything. That I am responsible for . . .for achieving other peoples success. . . .for other people&#82... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3180404 Sun, 17 Jan 2010 10:59:25 +0100 3180404 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3178996&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FjcQa2Ujv4VM%2F Baby Boomers Swell the Ranks of Problem Drinkers in Nursing Homes A new study shows that the number of problem drinkers in nursing homes is rising, and is expected to sharply increase as Baby Boomers age, the Associated Press reported. “Older people with an alcohol problem are more likely to end up in health-care settings,” said study author Frederic Blow, director of the Veterans Affairs’ Serious Mental Illness Treatment, Research and Evaluation Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. According to Blow’s research alcoholics make up; 5 to 7% in the general population 10 to 15% of those in hospitals or other primary-care settings, 10 to 20% of those in nursing homes, and 5 to 10% of those in community mental-health centers. Blow found that up to 20 percent of the people in nursing home... Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3178996 Sat, 16 Jan 2010 08:07:10 +0100 3178996 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3172183&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Flight-blogging-today.html I keep seeing the shadows moving.  I’ve turned on every light in the house and opened all the curtains and blinds to alleviate any shadows.  It has helped a lot.  Ah, the joys of living with schizophrenia.  I don’t feel badly as is usually the case.  Just strange.  Years ago this would have scared me to death!  Anyways, I am just going to be quiet today and rest.  I hope you all have a good day. (Source: The 4th Avenue Blues) The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3172183 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 16:45:00 +0100 3172183 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3176128&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FUVB1Y9lp50E%2F Researchers Identify Five Alcoholism Subtypes Analyses of a national sample of individuals with alcohol dependence (alcoholism) reveal five distinct subtypes of the disease, according to a study by scientists at the US National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). “Our findings should help dispel the popular notion of [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3176128 Thu, 14 Jan 2010 14:52:00 +0100 3176128 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3172176&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39025&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Feverythingchangesbook%2F%7E3%2FeRIMicFz4UA%2Fpatients-for-a-moment-down-and-dirty Sifting through the emotional, administrative, and financial trauma of dealing with illness, being sick ultimately all comes back to the body.  So for this installment of Patients for A Moment, we asked that bloggers submit posts about the down and dirty physical world of their disease. Ever pulled a serious MacGyver providing your own home healthcare with saline solution and a turkey baster?  Duncan Cross has and writes about it in on the Duncan Cross post Duncan 1, Hospital 0. “I guess if I had a choice, I’d rather wake up next to some ugly guy that I don’t remember meeting – not that, that has ever happened to me before – because it’s really bad when the party you don’t want to wake up next to is yourself…”  Need I say more about Leslie Rott’s post The Ultimate Co... Everything Changes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3172176 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 23:33:42 +0100 3172176 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3172208&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FiBtDlgrSaXw%2F Physician heals others as he heals himself It’s hard to ask for help when you’re the doctor, but being a doctor doesn’t mean you’re immune to mental illness and addiction. The story of a Warkworth physician illustrates this fact. But the ‘Courage To Come Back Award’ Michael Kaufmann recently received from the Canadian Association of Mental [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3172208 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 23:19:52 +0100 3172208 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3172211&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FCfKUJg8lKIA%2F Addiction illuminates concept of free will Harvard Provost, Steven Hyman, recently gave a lecture titled “Compulsion and the Brain: Subverting the Concept of Self-Control.” He provided an easy to understand description of the neurobiological basis for addiction: Hyman began by explaining what neuroscience has learned about the process by which humans choose among multiple goals and [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3172211 Wed, 13 Jan 2010 20:09:32 +0100 3172211 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3164054&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FwfLNfbvIMrc%2F What is emotional abuse or verbal abuse of a spouse or intimate partner? Mental, psychological, or emotional abuse can be verbal or nonverbal. Verbal or nonverbal abuse of a spouse or intimate partner consists of more subtle actions or behaviors than physical abuse. While physical abuse might seem worse, the scars of verbal and emotional abuse [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3164054 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 15:35:23 +0100 3164054 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3163729&cid=t_322634_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F11%2Farchives-of-general-psychiatry-2009-vol-67-no-1%2F content page Fade Fave: Influence of Environmental Factors in Higher Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Linked With Parental Mental Illness Fade Skinny: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) designates a death during the first year of life that remains unexplained after autopsy, death scene investigation, and medical history review. substantial reductions in rates of SIDS during recent decades, it remains the leading cause of infant death beyond the perinatal period in developed countries. Known modifiable risk factors include parental smoking and the infant’s sleeping position, and national risk reduction campaigns have successfully targeted these factors in the general population. Recent evidence from the United Kingdom indicates that SIDS has become highly concentrated among soci... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3163729 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:41:57 +0100 3163729 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159666&cid=t_322634_86_f&fid=36669&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffadelibrary.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F11%2Farchives-of-general-psychiatry-2009-vol-67-no-1%2F content page Fade Fave: Influence of Environmental Factors in Higher Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Linked With Parental Mental Illness Fade Skinny: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) designates a death during the first year of life that remains unexplained after autopsy, death scene investigation, and medical history review. substantial reductions in rates of SIDS during recent decades, it remains the leading cause of infant death beyond the perinatal period in developed countries. Known modifiable risk factors include parental smoking and the infant’s sleeping position, and national risk reduction campaigns have successfully targeted these factors in the general population. Recent evidence from the United Kingdom indicates that SIDS has become highly concentrated among soci... Fade Library blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159666 Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:41:57 +0100 3159666 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3159957&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39027&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lrdlc.dreamhosters.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fresolve%2F The holiday break is over. Well, not for me. I’m still relaxing at home. But it’s over for my wife and daughter. On Monday, Lexi reluctantly woke up early and went back to school. That evening, she finished her first pages of homework for the week, also reluctantly. My wife, Shawntel, resumed her night classes (medical assisting) this week as well. It was a nice break for us, though. Christmas eve was spent here (bro-in-law’s place). It went surprisingly well. No stress. No nausea. No back pain. At the end of the night, we were left with a fridge full of leftovers. Good times. On December 27, we went down to the Bay Area to visit my dad-in-law’s family for a post-Christmas party. It also went well. For New Year’s Eve, we headed to Elk Grove to visit my parents... Cancer, life, and me blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3159957 Sun, 10 Jan 2010 20:32:27 +0100 3159957 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3164057&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2Fskr3BwGQku8%2F DEFENSES to PROGRESS in Recovery and Living If, instead of being honest, we respond without naming a feeling, we are hiding. The ways we hide our feelings are many, and we call them defences. Each defence prevents us from being known. These behaviours are typically practiced by alcoholics, addicts, co-dependents, adult children of alcoholics, compulsive gamblers, sex [...] (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3164057 Sun, 10 Jan 2010 15:16:18 +0100 3164057 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3157634&cid=t_322634_135_f&fid=35247&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyjourneywithaids.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F01%2F10%2Fthere%25e2%2580%2599s-a-letter-to-andre-gagnon-in-here-somewhere%2F This could be an overdue letter of thanks to a Montréal-based pianist and composer whose music has accompanied me since some time in high school. Born August 1, 1942, in the tiny village of Saint-Pacôme, Québec, in the lower St. Lawrence River area known as Kamouraska, he had “beaucoup, beaucoup, beaucoup des frères et des soeurs” [...] (Source: My journey with AIDS) My journey with AIDS blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3157634 Sun, 10 Jan 2010 11:00:37 +0100 3157634 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3156672&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Frecoveryissexy.com%2Fabstinence-can-work-wonders%2F I, along with many, many others who have at one time been through the ‘harm reduction’ method, found that it only brought us right back to our ‘drug of choice’. (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3156672 Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:58:09 +0100 3156672 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153643&cid=t_322634_151_f&fid=35818&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2FRecoveryIsSexycom%2F%7E3%2FFbOb5WTM5_w%2F Sobriety can counteract most of the brain and thinking damage caused by heavy drinking. (Source: Recovery Is Sexy.com) Recovery Is Sexy.com blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153643 Fri, 08 Jan 2010 16:34:31 +0100 3153643 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153600&cid=t_322634_136_f&fid=39025&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffeedproxy.google.com%2F%7Er%2Feverythingchangesbook%2F%7E3%2Fr6bpqInPPUk%2Fcommunication-cancer-friends It’s great to vent online with like minded patients about how we’d like to tell off the friend, family member, co-worker, or doctor who made the stupidest comment to us about our illness. But venting only goes so far.  I’m more interested in the realistic responses we can use that might make us feel better.  Fasten your seat belts, this post is gonna sound a bit therapisty, but screw it – it’s an important topic, so here I go! It’s so frustrating and soul corroding to have someone shower you with stupidity.  And it’s even worse to think of the perfect comeback three hours later when you are laying in bed.  So I’ve started to turn these situations around. Here’s an example: A friend recently said: “You gotta think positively and it will make your test results com... Everything Changes blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153600 Fri, 08 Jan 2010 12:59:17 +0100 3153600 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3153443&cid=t_322634_109_f&fid=38950&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shockmd.com%2F2010%2F01%2F08%2Fmind-mapping-illness%2F Often I explain to my residents and medical students that in the end they will arrive at the same diagnosis as I do, it only takes them somewhat more time. Medical education is mainly about seeing many patients and recognizing illness patterns. Experts have seen many patients and developed illness scripts, a kind of algorithm. Expert physicians are constantly moving through a series of learning cycles throughout their career. From Medical Education, a great blog You can assist learners in a clinical setting to develop their own patterns by asking them to graph common illnesses as they progress through their training. These graphs can be kept in a binder and added to as the learner increases their knowledge. The final graph will be useful for studying for final exams. Both text-based and v... Dr Shock MD PhD blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3153443 Fri, 08 Jan 2010 07:53:04 +0100 3153443 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149293&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=34843&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.furiousseasons.com%2Farchives%2F2010%2F01%2Fsome_thoughts_for_western_state_hospital_dshs.html So things have gone into the crapper for Lindsay at Western State Hospital. She's being denied the ability to go outside at all, a true prisoner of the system. Or so her mother, Stephany Newman, reports on her blog after attending a treatment team meeting for Lindsay yesterday at which Lindsay's doctor, Daniel Ruiz, yelled at Stephany and Stan Cavers, who'd gone along as a patient advocate, as Stephany told me in an email last night. Some thoughts: 1. It is entirely unacceptable for a public employee (cops excepted in some circumstances) to yell at a citizen. Ruiz owes Stephany and Cavers a written apology. 2. It is a violation of medical ethics as well as professional standards in this state for a doctor to yell at a family member. Ruiz is lucky Stephany hasn't filed a complaint with t... Furious Seasons blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149293 Thu, 07 Jan 2010 00:00:00 +0100 3149293 http://www.medworm.com/index.php?rid=3149298&cid=t_322634_140_f&fid=35433&url=http%3A%2F%2F4thavenueblues.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F01%2Fparallels.html If someone had cancer, would you berate them for their lot in life?  Would you laugh and cajole when they couldn’t get out of the bed or feed themselves properly?   Would you write them disparaging comments when they could no longer handle the daily tasks of life all of us take for granted?  You would be shamed into submission by your peers.  Why is this not true for mental illness?  My negative anonymous comments are an example of this.  They probably wouldn’t get on a blog written by a lung cancer patient and write, just go ahead and die already! Thus is the stigma of mental illness.  Many times mental illness is seen as a defect of character.  Oh, he’s just lazy, or he’s just willfully dependent on his parents.  He’s got it eas... The 4th Avenue Blues blogs http://www.medworm.com/rss/comments.php?id=3149298 Wed, 06 Jan 2010 11:56:00 +0100 3149298