In the language of Freud, defense mechanisms are the unconscious things we do to deal with difficult emotion or stress. They are kind of like absent-minded coping skills, and we all use them. They’re natural and normal. They help us deal with life struggles. But, just like coping skills, defense mechanisms come in different flavors. […]
For introverts and people on the spectrum: how to make friends out of strangers
So you’ve met someone you don’t know and it’s time to have a conversation, hopefully create a friendship, and your first tendency is to… run. Sound familiar? If talking to strangers feels like a bucketful of icy, cold water thrown in your direction, you’ve found the right spot. This post is written for all shy, […]
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What do I do with all this anger?
“Speak when you are angry, and you will make the best speech you will ever regret.” — Ambrose Bierce Maybe your anger is a little out of control? Or maybe it’s big-time explosive and desperately needs reigning in? Or is it just that people around you are hinting you need anger management classes? No matter […]
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A family member is badgering you: what do you do?
Problem: your aunt breaths fire at you whenever you see her. She’s belittling, insulting, hurtful, and all other synonyms for “offensive” you can come up with, and her nastiness burns you. What do you do? Is this worth a big fight, an exchange of words, a gentle palaver, or should you just leave it alone? […]
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Here’s how to build self-esteem
Many people feel bad about themselves at times. Self-esteem is a complicated entity, influenced by many factors, including morality, spiritual beliefs, the approval of family and friends, environment, childhood experiences, and general sense of well-being. Negative life events, physical illness, problematic relationships, and loss of control can all undermine self-esteem. If you believe you suffer […]
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Behavioral Therapy: why you shouldn’t drive by your ex’s house
When was the last time you did something you regret? Like drive by that old boyfriend’s house just “because.” It starts out innocently enough. There’s that old yearning and a little curiosity, and you hope by God you see him. He’ll have gained weight, have an enormous beer belly, and his hair will be filthy […]
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First aid for panic attacks
by Kim Rosenthal, MDBlog, “Mental Health and You” Panic is a sudden attack of intense fear that typically lasts 10-15 minutes, although these attacks can last longer. They often leave the sufferer so distressed they change their routine to avoid having another. Episodes of panic are more common than you’d think: one in ten Americans […]
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Beating obsessive compulsive disorder
You “obsess” over obsessing and find yourself doing unnecessary things over and over again, completing them just because the anxiety won’t go away unless they’re done. A quick visit to your doctor’s office clarifies everything: you’ve got Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Now you have to figure out what to do about it. OCD is marked by […]
