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Posts under ‘Difficult Issues’

How to identify symptoms of bulimia nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is where one has recurrent episodes of binge eating and inappropriate compensatory behaviors. The following are common signs and symptoms:

  • Swelling of hands and feet

  • Weakness and fatigue

  • Weight fluctuations

  • Headaches

  • Nausea

  • Enlargement of salivary glands

  • Hyperpigmentation

  • Dental erosion

  • Cavities

  • Seizures

  • Muscle weakness

  • Electrolyte inbalances

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How to identify symptoms of anorexia nervosa

Anorexia Nervosa is the refusal to maintain body wait at or above a minimally normal weight for age and height. There are a variety of risk factors attributed to anorexia nervosa. here are some common signs and symptoms to look for:

  • Weight loss/extreme thinness

  • Preoccupation with food

  • Lack of energy

  • Amenorrhea

  • Constipation

  • Dry skin and hair

  • Brittle nails

  • Headaches

  • Hypothermia & cold intolerance

  • Hypotension

  • Abdominal complaints

  • Bradycardia

  • Postural dizziness and fainting

Risk Factors for Eating Disorders

Recently I attended a seminar on eating disorders. In the U.S. it is estimated that 81% of 10 year olds are afraid of becoming fat.91% of college women surveyed in 2001 had attempted to control their weight through dieting. Annually, Americans spend over $40 billion on dieting and diet-related products.

  • Cultural

    There are cultural values that may emphasize self and body. One may equate thinness with beauty and happiness.

  • Family

    One may develop eating disorders if there is a family history of it. The family as a whole may be overinvested in food, diet, weight, appearance, or physical fitness.

5 ways to emotionally survive a divorce

Divorce is difficult for the couple and children. These are 5 ways to begin to emotionally survive a divorce.

  • Understanding feelings

    Recognize your feelings of anger, worry, depression, sadness, frustration, and loneliness. Know that these are all normal. Find positive ways to deal with them.

  • Utilize your support network

    This is the time to reach out to those closest to you, as well as your community (whether it be religion or support groups that deal with divorce).

  • Take care of your body

    Health is important. Make sure you have adequate sleep, nutrition, laughter, and exercise.

20 more warning signs of teen mental health problems

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Difficulty making decisions

  • Worries excessively

  • Constant fidgeting

  • Difficulty remaining seated

  • Fear of harming self or others

  • Displays compulsive, ritualistic behavior

  • Has racing thoughts

  • Has persistent nightmares

  • Has sleep disturbance

  • Substance abuse

  • Truancy

  • Lying/stealing

  • Has appetite disturbance

  • Excessive exercise/dieting

  • Destroying property

  • Breaking the law

  • Hurting animals

  • Fascinated with fires

  • Engaging in risky, life-threatening activities

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20 warning signs of teen mental health problems

  • Grades go down

  • Loses interest in things they usually enjoyed

  • Wants to be alone all of the time

  • Day dreams a lot

  • Feels life is too hard and is overwhelmed

  • Talks about suicide

  • Hears voices

  • Is not taking care of his/her hygiene

  • Is giving prize possessions away

  • Very moody

  • Feels extremely sad and hopeless without reason

  • Is angry a lot of the time

  • Is often tearful

  • Overreacts to things

  • Feels worthless or guilty

5 more ways to break the cycle of postpartum depression

  1. Distract yourself.

    Go out for a walk, call a friend, or meditate.

  2. Create options.

    Give yourself permission to do what would be helpful. Take a bath, exercise, engage in relaxation techniques, listen to music, pray.

  3. Be reasonable.

    Know that postpartum depression is not something that would last forever, but it is important to receive assistance.

  4. Deal with difficult feelings.

    There are many feelings that can arise from post-childbirth. It is important to talk with your therapist about feelings of guilt, failure, low self-esteem, fear, etc.

5 ways to break the cycle of postpartum depression

Here are 5 ways to overcome postpartum depression.

  1. Seek professional help.

    Ask your physician for appropriate referrals to specialists. Group therapy and/or individual therapy may also be beneficial.

  2. Accept that you are experiencing postpartum depression.

    Remember positive affirmations: “It is not my fault.” “I will not always feel this way.” “I will choose to participate in my treatment and help improve myself.”

  3. Identify patterns of negative response.

    Deal with “what is”, NOT “what if” or “I can’t” or “nothing is going to help.”

  4. Set limitations.

    Don’t take on too many responsibilities. Also set limits on telephone time, visits from family and friends, etc.

Signs and symptoms of postpartum depression

Following childbirth can be an overwhelming moment for a woman. Women may feel happy, excited, but 60-80% of women say they have experienced temporary moodiness (crying or feeling, sad, frustrated). It generally resolves after three to four days, but sometimes the emotional and physical symptoms can lead to postpartum depression. If you or anyone you know may be showing the following symptoms, it is important to consult with a doctor or a professional therapist.

  • Feelings of sadness most of the time.

  • Crying at least once a day.

  • Difficulty concentrating.

Celebrities and prescription drug abuse

The recent tragic death of Corey Haim at only 38 years old has many Hollywood insiders and doctors worried about the number of stars that regularly abuse prescription medication. The following are celebrities who have died from prescription drug abuse.

Marilyn Monroe

She was a famous actress, model and American sex symbol. At the age of 36, Marilyn died in her sleep of barbituate poisoning (overdose of sleeping pills).

Elvis Presley

Elvis was the King of Rock n Roll, but suffered from multiple addictions to prescription medications. He died of a massive overdose in 1977.