Several years ago, I was invited to teach a course in the doctoral program at the school of social work where I earned my own doctorate; an honor I was eager to accept. The course I was to teach was similar to one that I had taken earlier as a student in the program.
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Hidden Depression
It is commonly understood in our society that depression is a disorder of epidemic proportions that too often is unrecognized, misdiagnosed, or improperly treated. The symptoms can run the gamut from headaches and chest pains to memory loss and extreme apathy. Many people with physical symptoms of one kind or another never realize that their complaints emanate from depression. As a result, many depressed people never bring their problems to medical attention and those who do typically see doctors who are not specialists in mental health.
Guess What? – Happiness May Be Good For Your Health
Researchers have long been aware that happier people tend to be in better health than those who are persistently stressed, hostile, or pessimistic. In a study of nearly 3,000 healthy British adults, lead by Dr. Andrew Steptoe of University College London, researchers found that those who reported upbeat moods had lower levels of cortisol – a "stress" hormone that, when chronically elevated, may contribute to high blood pressure, abdominal obesity and dampened immune function, among other problems.
The Soup Kitchen
I recently volunteered at a local soup kitchen in New York City. This one is sponsored by a Unitarian Church and has had a weekly lunch program for the past twenty years. Each Friday, approximately 160 residents or "guests" from the local community come for an extraordinarily hefty lunch prepared by volunteers from throughout the City. While some guests are homeless, most are welfare recipients and people who simply have too much month left at the end of their money and who need most of their limited funds for rent.
Many View Depression as Weakness
Half of Americans surveyed in a recent poll said they or their families had suffered from depression and 43 percent say they believed depression is a personal weakness, according to the National Mental Health Association. The poll results suggest that too many Americans still do not realize that depression is a disease that can be treated.
Hindsight, Insight, and Foresight
As a clinical social work psychotherapist, I am often asked a number of very understandable and meaningful questions by clients: “How exactly do people change?” “How will I know when I am really different?” Questions like these often provide an excellent opportunity to clarify the objectives of the treatment. This will help both clinician and client keep a sharp eye on the process so that the goal of eventual change is not lost.
Ten Personal Qualities Commonly Associated with Success
Discrimination: How well do you discriminate between fact and fiction?
Are you aware of subtleties or innuendos when communicating with others?
How correct are your perceptions?
Do you gather data before making a decision?
Personal Propaganda
“I meant to call you, but I didn’t have time!” “I absolutely cannot afford a gym membership or a personal trainer!” “I’m not sure I have enough money to raise a child in New York City.” “There is nothing I could have done about it!” “No way can I find the time for lunch.”
Did You Know That?
… A wealth of new research has helped scientists determine what qualities lead to a lasting marriage or a divorce. For instance, research shows even as small a gesture as eye-rolling after a spouse’s comment can be a strong predictor for divorce, while marriages with traditional gender roles often are highly successful.
How Not to Feel Sorry for Yourself
Marsha was someone who believed that one of the main purposes and benefits of her friendships was to have people with whom to share her troubles and get sympathy.
