Can kindness reduce physical pain? I remember physicians I saw in the past who spoke with a tender voice, shared a kind story, or just acted like they cared to spend time with me, really listening. My body and mind would begin to relax, and I would start to feel better almost immediately. Then I recall those doctors who talked to me with one hand on the doorknob, almost like I was an irritant to be dismissed as quickly as possible. Some of them looked at me like I couldn’t possibly be telling them the truth about how my body was feeling. In those cases, I tensed up, feeling... (Read More ...)
Appearances Can Be Deceiving When It Comes to Brain Function Recent scientific studies and new information from the world of autism shed new light on how much can be going on in the brains of those who don’t seem to be interacting with those around them. While we’ve often thought that little expression and response indicates little or no brain function; quite the opposite has proven to be true. Take the story of this young lady who began communicating quite articulately to the surprise of her family and teachers. And another example… The following article originates from http://www.lifesitenews.com/news/vegetative-patients-may-be-fully-conscious-lancet. ‘Vegetative’... (Read More ...)
As the anniversary of 9-11 approaches, it pays to know depression warning signs, especially if you have children. Just because an event is “over” in time, doesn’t mean the effects aren’t still going on inside each one of us subconsciously. Most of us didn’t have a relative or loved one die on Sept. 11, 2011. But the fear that we might not really be safe anywhere, anytime began to infiltrate our thoughts that day, and for many, have only continued to grow stronger.The feeling of “I am not safe” can itself cause depression, anxiety, even panic attacks. The US government site... (Read More ...)
As the anniversary of 9-11 approaches, the media and internet floods us with scenes from that tragic day. How much of the coverage is safe for children to watch, and what might be some depression warning signs in children? Every child is different and unique, and a situation that may cause depression for one child may not phase another.Let’s take a look at some of the memories my former students shared with me about September 11, 2001 as well as those from parents. You’ll notice some stark difference in the responses. Some children knew something bad had happened, but felt general... (Read More ...)