Depression in the elderly leads to poorer health, slower recovery and increased death rates from other illnesses, increased suicides, more physical pain, higher health care costs and lower quality of life. Convincing an elder to seek treatment for depression can be tricky but it can improve their quality of life. Suicide Rates in the Elderly …
When a family member falls ill, the caregiver (whether it is the well spouse, adult child, or parent) goes into crisis mode. Here’s how to recognize it: constantly suppressing or distracting oneself from negative feelings in order to cope with caregiving, or panicking and becoming non-functional, leaving the work to someone else; automatically and continually …
I have heard from many people who are devastated over the idea that they might have Borderline Personality Disorder. The person with BPD can be in a lot of pain, but the upset I witness in people appears to be more about the stigma – they seem to feel ugly, blameworthy and ashamed.This saddens me, because …
Marsha Linehan’s Biosocial Theory of the Causes of Borderline Personality Disorder Read More »
“Love Dandelions” is a powerful life skill relevant to all people who have ever tried to change anything about themselves and become frustrated. It comes from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder.Dandelions, like personality traits, can be seen as lovely or a nuisance, depending on the context. Photo: Len-k-a, Sxc.hu Our Love-Hate Thing with …
Stay Motivated to Tame Your Dark Side by Embracing it Read More »
Talking with a terminally ill loved one about death can prevent feelings of regret that arise when important things get left unsaid. Hospice worker Margaret Bromberg, LCSW, recently offered tips to people caring for a chronically ill family members in Long Island, New York, about how to talk about death with the dying. How to …
In my work with people who have terminally ill family members, I have listened to many stories about the last moments of life. In addition, hospice workers have come and shared with my clients and me information about the end of life that most of us our sheltered from. All this has helped me become …
The philosophy of hospice is that dying is “an integral part of the life cycle.” Hospice workers allow the process of death to take its course without hastening or prolonging it. They focus on “promoting a peaceful and comfortable death. through pain relief, comfort and enhanced quality of life.” National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Where …
If you are caring for a chronically ill family member at home you might feel like you need more help but then hesitate to call a home care agency because of a mistaken belief that you have to know exactly what you need before calling. However, part of the service these agencies provide is to …
What to Expect When You Call a Home Health Care Agency Read More »
People who are under chronic stress often breath in rapid, shallow breaths. People who are having a panic attack are probably breathing in this fashion. Rapid Breathing Defined In rapid breathing (as opposed to slow breathing), your inhales and exhales are short and quick, and you take many breaths in a short time, leaving little …
When parents notice their children’s natural joy over things like spring, and nurture it year after year by encouraging, teaching and enjoying spring activities together, this helps turn that joy into something remembered that the children can call upon throughout their lives. Help Kids Develop Mastery and Life Skills Helping children notice and celebrate the …
