PORTRAITS Sam’s mother was killed by a drunk driver. Ever since life has been extremely difficult for Sam and his family. The woman who killed her was only given a light sentence. Same is better about the unfairness of life. Katherine’s ex-boyfriend was extremely critical of her. He was always humiliating her in front of their friends and treating her unfairly in their relationship. It’s been along time since their break-up but Katherine can’t seem to get over it and still fantasizes about revenge. Jake’s parents constantly belittled him as a child. As an adult, he suffers from anxiety and depression and can’t figure out why he cannot let go of it all. Sheila’s husband does not seem to care about meeting any of her emotional needs. She has tried to talk to him about it, but he is always so distant and cold that it only makes her more frustrated. She is giving up the hope that their relationship will ever get better and can’t see any point in continuing their … [Read more...]
Boston Sex Therapy
Boston Sex Therapy, Powered by Thriveworks Sex is awesome. Or rather, it should be. Aside from the fact that it’s our tried-and-true way of continuing the human race, sex can also be incredibly fun and satisfying. Unfortunately, however, we humans have an artistic flair for going about things in the wrong way: we elevate the importance of sexuality in our entertainment and advertisements while simultaneously cheapening its authenticity. It’s no wonder so many of us are so often confused, frustrated or anxious about sex. Despite how much it permeates various levels of our day-to-day (as Oscar Wilde once said, “Everything in the world is about sex except sex. Sex is about power.”), very little in the way of open and honest discourse about physical intimacy happens in the limelight. No, instead sex usually makes the headlines when someone is sleeping with someone other than who they should be sleeping with (or doing so in a way that many deem questionable). So, instead of it being … [Read more...]
What is Borderline Personality Disorder? How is BPD Treated?
The following article provides an overview of the diagnosis and symptoms of Borderline Personality Disorder. DSM IV-TR Definition A pervasive pattern of instability of interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affect, and marked impulsivity beginning by early adulthood and present in a variety of contexts, as indicated by five (or more) of the following: (1) frantic efforts to avoid real or imagined abandonment. Note: Do not include suicidal or self-mutilating behavior covered in Criterion 5. (2) a pattern of unstable and intense interpersonal relationships characterized by alternating between extremes of idealization and devaluation (3) identity disturbance: markedly and persistently unstable self-image or sense of self (4) impulsivity in at least two areas that are potentially self-damaging (e.g., spending, sex, Substance Abuse, reckless driving, binge eating). Note: Do not include suicidal or self-mutilating behavior covered in Criterion 5. (5) recurrent … [Read more...]
Depression In Adolescence: Depression Risk Factors, Depression Effects, Depression Treatment
By, Laura P. Naylor Abstract Depression is very common in adolescence and if not treated properly it can produce long-term negative consequences, such as alcohol and drug abuse, criminal behavior, and even suicide. It is imperative that parents, educators, mental health workers, and the entire society better understand the signs, symptoms, risk factors, and behavior problems associated with depression in adolescence. This paper attempts to provide society with a better understanding of adolescent depression by reviewing the current literature on adolescent depression. This paper defines depression and reviews its symptoms, as well as the genetic, environmental, and social influences of adolescent depression. It also examines gender and racial differences among adolescents with depression and examines treatment options available to depressed adolescents. Introduction Everyone has most likely experienced a sad mood at one time or another in their lives. A short period of … [Read more...]
Overcoming Workaholism: Counseling Tips for Achieving Balance
Portraits of Workaholism Henry can’t even recall the last time he felt he was able to truly relax. What he can recall, however, is just how difficult it was for him growing up poor. All he seems to care about these days is making sure that he does not have to experience those struggles again. He worries that if he stops working for even a day, then he will lose everything. Marie can’t get herself to slow down. She is constantly picking up after her two children, cooking, and cleaning in attempt to maintain a spotless household. Unfortunately, as a result she can never actually enjoy her home and family. Definitions and Key Thoughts Workaholism occurs when one fails to maintain a healthy balance between work and life. For workaholics, work is their principal avenue for finding success, approval, and respect. For many, work has become a powerful obsession. However, workaholism is a health-robbing, sleep-depriving, and greed-festering addiction. However, it is a problem … [Read more...]