She shares an important story about her addiction and recovery, it’s a powerful post. Read for yourself, friends, and children, the time may come when you can use some of her techniques.
Once Upon a Relapse By Guest Blogger Hope Whispers
Category: Men & Womens Health
Just Pondering
Friday Quote 9/22/2023
So glad you stopped by, I hope to see you again soon.
Melinda
How Parents Can Help Their Teens Overcome Depression
Children are heavily influenced by their surroundings. When we lavish them with positivity, they often grow up with a positive mindset and a can-do attitude. However, if we subject them to certain difficulties, they can be a lot more hardened as they approach their teenage years. The trials and challenges children face during their teenage years can often define who they are once they bloom into young adults.
While our formative years are usually between the ages of 0 and 8, children start to develop complex emotions and feelings when they begin entering high school. This is made even more difficult for certain children when they’re exposed to the internet and vastly different opinions and takes on life. When your child mingles with different cultures and personalities in school, it can trigger a lot of realizations and changes that ultimately change the way they think.
As such, a common occurrence in young teenagers is depression. This isn’t just a feeling of sadness that occurs now and then, but a recurring emotion that can make them feel hopeless and helpless. To help your child break out of these feelings, it’s essential to take a delicate approach so you don’t agitate them further.
Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/qYanN54gIrI (CC0)
Understanding the signs and symptoms of teenage depression
It’s hard to explain what depression feels like as it differs from person to person. However, there are a couple of common signs that you should look out for:
- Unable to enjoy things as they used to.
- Feeling worthless or guilty for things they can’t directly affect.
- Sleeping too little or too much.
- Abusing drugs or alcohol to help with their feelings.
- Frequent crying.
- Mood swings.
- Constantly irritable or frustrated.
- Losing or gaining a lot of weight.
- Having trouble concentrating in school.
- Falling grades and difficulty at school.
- Feeling hopeless and/or helpless.
If you notice these signs in your children then you may want to speak to them first. You could consult depression treatment centers for teenagers if they’ve harmed themselves or have turned to alcohol or drugs to help with their feelings. However, if they’re only occasionally showing these symptoms, you may still be able to speak with them and encourage them to break out of those negative feelings.
How to approach your child if you think they’re depressed
You must take your child seriously when they’re feeling depressed. You want to give them space to deal with their problems and listen to everything they say. They may give clues on why they’re feeling depressed and how you could help them. If they’re not willing to speak to you, then you may find it easier to encourage them to speak to a friend or family member. Whatever you do, don’t brush aside their feelings and chalk it up to a “phase”.
While there are many ways to improve your child’s mental health, it’s important to understand that there’s no easy fix that can be applied to all children. Every child deals with depression differently. You also shouldn’t blame yourself if your child feels depressed. While there is certainly a parenting factor, it’s also heavily dependent on their environment and school conditions too.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Lost in Caregiver Twilight Zone
Repost from 2009
We learned my gramps had months to live during a hospital stay. One very important piece of information the doctor did not share is people his age die much quicker. My gramps died in February 2010. We knew the end was near yet you were never ready. For me, times were challenging and emotions raw. You look at your loved one knowing they are dying yet you don’t want them to know you see death when you look at them. My gramps had Prostate Cancer, Bladder Cancer, and Chronic Kidney Failure. His breathing labored from not getting enough oxygen in the blood. Partially brought on by not using his oxygen. Kidney Failure caused severe anemia, and he took shots once a month to help with energy.
*******************
December 2009
I’ve been caring for my 92-year-old grandfather for five weeks following three surgeries within seven days. I’m so tired it’s numbing. My grandfather is a man of habits driven by the time of day, maybe from his military background. One morning he was upset when the hospital had not brought his coffee and could not see he was the problem. We’re in a hospital, not the Hilton. At home, it was far worse. It does not matter that I have changed the sheets again this morning, changed his soiled underpants more than once, and got him dressed for the day. If the coffee is not ready when he expects it or I don’t have the newspaper yet, I hear about it. My grandparents raised me and I love my grandfather dearly but it’s hard to bite my tongue. I want to ask if doesn’t he realize or care that I’ve been moving since 5:00 a.m. to take care of him.
At 92 he lives at home alone, still drives (very limited), and goes to the local Senior Center several times a week to play dominos. He amazes me with each year. He is the healthiest dying person I know and in his mind, he is much younger and more capable. This makes it impossible for him to understand recovery will take several more weeks at least. I catch him doing things he shouldn’t and I get the standard “I can do it”. He also acts like a child when he doesn’t want to do something, most of the time it’s taking his medicine or getting up to move around.
I push him gently but firmly to get up and move around. Laying in bed or sleeping in the chair all day will not improve his strength. He does not like being told what to do. You learn what you’re made of in stressful times. Our minds and bodies can withstand so much to help someone we love. All I know is tomorrow is a new day.
I grew up in their house and it feels strange to stay in my old bedroom at 46. The house built in 1950, is in the hood, has no dishwasher, internet, or privacy. I am going crazy without my internet escape. I’m in the twilight zone, washing dishes by hand three times a day, and the room is the same as it was when I left home in 1981.
Tomorrow is a new day.
Melinda
Suicide Awareness Month-My Story & Tips
Every day is Suicide Awareness for me, suicide happens every day leaving friends and family to pick up the pieces. My father committed suicide in 1992 at 52 years old. The first time I attempted suicide was nine years old and the last time I was suicidal was last month.
You often hear it said that the person looked fine before committing suicide. We’ve listened to those words many times this year and lost several celebrities that shocked the community. Rich or poor, anyone can be affected by suicide.
You have to look for small changes, not big ones.
How is their appearance?
Are they wearing dirty clothes?
Not returning your call or answering the door.
Do they appear tired from not sleeping?
Are they completing tasks they have put off in the past?
If they avoid eye contact ask them what you can do to help?
Here’s an example of completing the task before committing suicide.
My father’s roommate found his gun, then returned everything he borrowed from my dad, mowed the yard, and by the time the Police arrived at his door hours later, the gun fired. The same story from my dad, he had no idea that his roommate was suicidal. This was the first time I had to clean up after someone killed themselves. It was so sad that his life fit in three bags of clothes and four pennies. That image will never leave.
Let’s Look At The Numbers.
If you or someone you know is suicidal please contact:
- Call or text 988
- Chat at 988lifeline.org
Connect with a trained crisis counselor. 988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.
CDC developed the Suicide Prevention Resource for Action (Prevention Resource), which provides information on the best available evidence for suicide prevention.
Over 48,000 Americans died by suicide in 2021 according to the CDC. It’s difficult to get my head around that one suicide happens every 11 minutes. These numbers are before the Pandemic, and I believe the number is much higher.
I will say that guilt goes with the grieving. Grieving is different for everyone and there is no time frame, when your heart starts to heal you are close to the light.
Melinda
References:
Blogger Highlight-Dawn Pisturino’s Blog
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight the blog of Dawn Pisturino’s Blog.
Hello,
I am a retired registered nurse in Arizona with a B.S. in Natural Health. My publishing credits include poems, limericks, short stories, and articles. Every writer undergoes a unique and wonderful journey. Let me share mine with you.
Official Author website (desktop or laptop work best): http://www.dawnpisturino.org
Member of Mystery Writers of America, Arizona Authors Association, and The Black List.
AAA author page: http://www.arizonaauthors.org/members/dawn-pisturino
My poem, Nature’s Child, won Honorable Mention in the Arizona Authors Association 2022 Literary Contest.
Enjoy the journey.
Melinda
Deep Thoughts
In this fast-paced social media world, it can be difficult to find the time to look within or back in time. I hope you find these quotes and questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!
I’m Sending You Joy This Rosh Hashanah-Sunset September 23, 2025 –
Happy New Year! I pray you’re surrounded by friends, family and good food. As I understand it, Rosh Hashanah starts the New Year and many rituals follow back to the bible.
Melinda
Friday Quote 9/15/2023
So glad you stopped by, I hope to see you again soon.
Melinda
Why Do People Blame The Survivor by Guest Blogger DocTalk, Explorations in Psycotherapy
My Thoughts
Blaming the survivor is still commonplace in America and probably in many countries. This stigma toward survivors is still in the dark ages at times. Like women walking home from work and stopping in for a drink. She makes her way home and is raped. The stigma is she was drinking and had on a short short, she was asking for sex. Total crap!
If rape is the case, go to the hospital right away, get a rape kit done, and call the police. Give them everything you remember and don’t for one minute let anyone point the finger back at you, shut it down. If a department doesn’t treat you with respect, call the Captain or go to another police station. I know it’s a hassle going through the questioning while you’re distraught but hang in there.
Don’t let the assailant get away with the crime.
You’re a Survivor!
Melinda
How to Protect an Aging Parent
Do you want to make sure that your aging parents are being taken care of? If so then this is the guide for you. Here you will find out what steps you can take to protect those who you love, today.
Know the Signs of Trouble
The first thing you need to do is know the signs of trouble. If you are a caregiver, then you have to remember that there is a limit to what you can do alone. The best thing you can do is reach out for help. Keep an eye on your loved one’s health and their living conditions. It may be that they are no longer able to keep up with activities, such as bathing, walking, cooking or even cleaning. If you notice a drastic change in your loved one’s living environment, for example, if things become cluttered or dangerous then this can also signify that something is wrong. With that in mind, taking care of yourself is also very important. If you feel angry or irritable all the time or if you are losing sleep over things then this is a sign that you are overwhelming yourself. If you want to protect your loved one even more, consider looking at our team page from Montana Elder Law.
Protect your Health
As a loving caregiver, it is all too easy for you to devote all of your time and attention to the ones you are actively trying to support. At times, you may find that it is too easy to overlook your health along the way. Don’t let your standard of health suffer. Be sure to check in with yourself and your family so you can make sure that everyone is feeling good. Drink lots of water, make time to exercise, and also talk to someone if you need it.
Give Yourself a Break
If you are a caregiver then it’s easy for you to feel as though the weight of the world is resting on your shoulders. This is especially the case if you are part of the sandwich generation. This generation often finds that they are looking after younger and older people at the same time. It is very natural for you to want to fill up your schedule and take care of everyone. That being said, you need to cut yourself some slack sometimes. As you build out your calendar, make sure that you have enough time for yourself and that you are giving your body a chance to rest and recharge, free from stress.
Make the Most Out of Tech
In this day and age, there are all kinds of ways that you can put tech to work and make things way easier for yourself going forward. Add cameras and home security features if you want to keep your loved one safe when you are not home, and give your senior relative an alert button. If you do this then you give them the chance to alert an authority if something happens. Use a group chat too, so you can talk about your loved one with your sibling or other caregivers.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Pain Awareness Month-Reality
The number of people with chronic pain grows daily, and pain medication is hard to find in stock or doctors have stopped writing prescriptions due to the DEA. It’s a difficult time to have chronic pain, there are stories of people with cancer or other painful diseases being denied pain medication, It’s heartbreaking.
I have not taken Percocet for 3 years, It wasn’t an intentional choice, it was the choice of my doctor. I wasn’t in enough pain for him. Pain Doctors can be very strict due to the DEA breathing down their neck.
I’m not going to tell you about pain, you already know. I want to pass on a few tips about Pain Doctors.
The DEA is on a war path against pain medication (all controlled substances), and in the process has scared many doctors to no longer write prescriptions for their patients or have very strict rules you need to understand.
Taking pain medication long-term will require patience, compliance, and frustration. Appointments with your pain doctor are a top priority, do not miss an appointment. Call after if you have to but call the office right away and talk to the Office Manager. Most Pain Doctors have a contract saying you will do certain things and will not do certain things. In the contract, it could say two missed appointments and you’re fired. Read the contract!
If this is your first pain doctor, work hard to keep the relationship healthy, every time you change Pain Doctors it’s notated in your medical records. The more Pain Doctors you see, you run the risk of being labeled as a drug seeker.
When talking to your doctor always focus on the pain areas and other issues related. Don’t ask about medication, say instead, I’m hoping you can help me. Again, this is a measure to not be called a drug seeker.
Don’t complain about waiting or staff with the doctor, calmly talk with the Office Manager. They pull a ton of weight and are good to be friends with.
You can expect to give a urine sample every month or possibly every three, whatever the doctor decides.
The DEA will not allow pharmacies to fill certain medications, including pain meds until you’re down to your last pills, so expect to see your doctor every month to get a new prescription. It’s a crazy world. Do say what medication you pick up, just your name and how many prescriptions you have. Sad to say but someone may have a better idea of what to do with the meds. I know this sounds dramatic but have you watched the news this week?
My next tidbit will sound strange. I recommend keeping a backstock in case you are fired and left without medication. This happened to me and I was glad to have backstock to help ease the withdrawal. When it’s time to take your medication, ask yourself, do I really need it or all of it. If you can skip it, then put it in a bottle for the what-ifs. Always fill your prescription on time even if you have pills left, the leftovers can go to backstock.
I get addicted quickly to pain meds and the withdrawal is tough. Don’t deny yourself medication, at the same time, it’s tough to go cold turkey. That’s why I have a backstock. It goes without saying, don’t tell your doctor what you’re doing!
BEWARE! If you have constant pain and have not received relief from medication, the doctor may mention a Spine Stimulator. STOP!!!!! You can let them check your insurance coverage if you’re curious, but decide later. This medical device needs your research because the results are all over the board. Read until you are satisfied.
I had a bad fall over the weekend and the post was written with concussion fog. I apologize if it doesn’t flow.
I’m hoping you have many pain-free days.
Melinda
Four Tips For Avoiding Unnecessary Stress In Life
Stress is a major thorn in the side for many people. While it is natural and beneficial in certain scenarios, chronic stress is very unhealthy. It can have negative effects on your physical and mental health. If you are regularly hampered by stress and anxiety, it’s important to address it. Failing to acknowledge continuous stress can trigger further problems.
Before taking action to combat stress, it’s important to acknowledge what it actually is. Stress is one of the body’s natural defense mechanisms. In times of danger, people generally react through a fight-or-flight response. Your mind and body recognize the danger and get prepared for you to either fight or flight.
When you’re body goes into fight or flight mode, it is in a state of stress. Your senses are heightened, your alertness and focus are peaked, and your energy leaves are fueled by adrenaline. While this is beneficial in times of true peril, stress does not add value to your life in most scenarios.
If you suffer from unnecessary stress, you should find some ways to manage it. With this in mind, here are four tips for avoiding unnecessary stress in life.
Get active
Exercise is a natural stress reliever. It provides a mental escape and keeps your body physically fit. During exercise, the human body produces endorphins. These have a tremendous impact on your mood and work wonders in battling stress. A natural release of endorphins can also help you sleep better, further reducing stress levels.
Make an effort to stay active as much as possible. Rhythmic exercises such as walking, biking, or running are particularly beneficial as they produce a meditative effect.
Work on time management
Time management is key when you live a busy lifestyle. Failing to effectively manage your regular workload can lead to long-term and chronic stress. At times when you’re under serious pressure, organization, and time management can guide you.
One of the best ways to get on top of time management is to schedule. Different scheduling styles work for different people. Some work best with extremely detailed plans, while others work best with more vague to-do lists.
Find out what you’re best suited to and start to manage your time more efficiently.
Beware of scams
In the technological era, there are countless manipulative scams out there that prey on the vulnerable. Having confidential information or money stolen from you can leave you in a financial predicament. What’s more, it can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety.
Do some research on how to prevent this from happening. DTSS reviews banking fraud and scams and is a great informational resource to consider.
Practice mindful activities
Mindfulness revolves around centering your mind and being present in the moment. This helps detach your mind from unnecessary stress and it relieves your consciousness of clutter, bringing clarity to your mental state.
Practicing mindful techniques such as meditation and yoga can work wonders for reducing stress. There is a myriad of free online guides to help get you started. Meditation apps are a great way to get into a routine, as they have a number of guided sessions.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Where Were You On 9/11?
You can not mention 9/11 without thinking of the firefighters who went into the building knowing the situation and went anyway. All of those who died helping another to live is a HERO! All who survived and helped someone in need is a HERO.
I have difficulty wrapping my head around the damage and how the terrorists stayed under the radar. We may have survived but Muslim rage started after the attack and many innocent people were mistreated. Let this be a lesson for us to learn.
I had my luggage at the door, ready to catch a flight to Russia. My gramps called and said a plane flew into the tower, I didn’t have the television on but assured him it was okay. I’m thinking of a small plane, not the attack New York received.
On the way to the airport, more information is coming through but not the magnitude of the attacks. When we arrive at the airport it’s closed like all the other airports across America. I think the airspace was closed for 10 days, after the airports opened I rescheduled my dream trip to Russia.
Our country was forever changed, and the far-reaching effects are endless. New Yorkers came together like never before and the world watched to see what happened next.
I will always have a hole in my heart that time won’t heal.
Melinda
Blogger Highlight-Jay’s Sandbox
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight the blog of Jay’s Sandbox.
Jay’s Sandbox
A place for my million-mile-per-hour thoughts
Chris Ryan’s work has been translated into over twenty languages, and appeared just about everywhere, including Netflix, HBO, MSNBC, Fox News, CNN, NPR, The New York Times, The Times of London, Playboy, The Washington Post, Time, Newsweek, National Geographic, and The Atlantic. Chris has been a featured speaker at TED, SXSW, The Festival of Dangerous Ideas at the Sydney Opera House, the Portland Comedy Festival, the Einstein Forum in Pottsdam, Germany, and is a frequent guest on The Joe Rogan Experience, the Duncan Trussell Family Hour and many other podcasts. He’s provided expert testimony in a Canadian constitutional hearing, won a coveted AVN award (best non-sex performance, Marriage 2.0) and popped-up in dozens of documentary films and television shows.
Even before co-authoring the New York Times best-seller, Sex at Dawn: How We Mate, Why We Stray, and What it Means for Modern Relationships with Cacilda Jethá, MD in 2010, Chris was on a wild ride.
His blog is sweet on the eyes and full of great content. Check out his blog, it’s a must-see.
Melinda
Friday Quote 9/08/2023
So glad you stopped by, I hope to see you again soon.
Melinda
Moving Beyond Anger
The word persistent has two meanings. Persistent as in great salesperson or persistent in that not give up on those who wronged me. I fit both and the second is not good when I’m wronged.
I’ve written several posts on my stay at UTSW Psych Hospital and my traumatic experience with one doctor. One day I found all of the doctor’s notes and almost had a coranary. I printed out 19 pages of notes and labs and then started marking all the half-truths, conversations that didn’t happen, and flat lies.
I was enraged! These notes were all negative toward me, I’ve never had a doctor act like this. These notes go on my medical records and all I wanted to do was attack him at all levels.
No one would validate my concerns, not even a blah blah We are aware of your concerns, that have sattified me. I did receive a letter about how to change my medical notes. It’s not a correction to the notes, it’s an amendment. I thought about it for two days and decided that adding my note of complaints would not help me and possibly hurt me down the road.
I also received a letter from Legal to acknowledge my concerns. I filed two complaints with the Texas Medical Board.
I’ve sent a few emails about my concerns but received no feedback. While resting today I decided the anger has to go for me to move on.
Getting letters from Medical Records and the Legal Dept. gave me what I needed, to validate my concerns. I realized it’s time to move beyond anger.
I felt lighter, not happy yet but the block around my ankle had been cut off.
Now comes the difficult process! It requires a clear picture in your head of where you’re going.
Here’s my plan
Grieve the pain I felt after being traumatized.
Acknowledge that I made the best decision by moving forward.
Prepare how you’re going to respond if anger creeps in.
Break down the tasks that need attention and accomplish at least one task a day.
Start to look for a new house.
Catch up on appointments I’ve been putting off.
I will keep looking for positive reinforcement.
Challenges
Only drive 3-5 miles from the house.
Have to check with my husband to see if the appointment date works for him, in case he has to drive me.
Cognitive issues
Agoraphobia
I dislike his huge truck. It’s hard to park if anyone is next to me, often causing me to park far from the building entrance. The guard rails on truck are not ergo and it takes precision to get in.
Spend less time on the computer.
I’m not a doctor as you know but at 60 years old, I’ve been around the block before and have a few ideas.
There will be ups and downs but I’m confident in success.
What do you do to move past anger?
Melinda
References:
https://academic.oup.com/book/25080/chapter-abstract/189217644?redirectedFrom=fulltext
September Awareness Days
Hi,
I hope you are happy and healthy. The Awareness Days listed are for America. You would be shocked if you saw how many days are observed in the UK. September is a busy month for Awareness Days and maybe even get you to the doctor.
Blood Cancer Awareness Month
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Healthy Aging ® Month
National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month
National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month
National Cholesterol Education Month
National Sickle Cell Month
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Pain Awareness Month
Prostate Cancer Awareness Month
World Alzheimer’s Month
Melinda
References:
What To Do If You Suspect You Have Allergies
While over 100 million people in the US alone have allergies, not everyone is born with them, and they can develop as an adult, during childhood, or be present from birth. The only way to know you are truly allergic to something is to be exposed to the potential trigger. And, you can be allergic to thousands of different things. You can have pet allergies, be allergic to bee stings, severe food allergies, and common household materials and chemicals such as hair dyes and cleaning products
Talk to your doctor.
In the first instance, you should talk to your doctor if you are concerned you might have an allergy. Your doctor can arrange tests for you to identify if you are allergic to anything and exactly how you are allergic to it. Keep notes of any symptoms and potential triggers you voiced and how you feel. They can talk you through the allergy treatments available and get you started if needed.
Know Your Signs
Prevention is always better than a cure for allergic reactions, but knowing the signs and symptoms of an allergy attack can help you get the treatment you need fast. Some people only experience mild discomfort when coming into contact with their allergens, for others, it is an instant severe reaction that quickly becomes life-threatening. Know your signs, your triggers, and how best to help yourself. This is especially important if you have yet to be diagnosed, as medical professionals can use this information to analyze your allergy and treat your symptoms quickly.
Common allergy symptoms include;
- Runny nose or sneezing
- Pain or tenderness in or around your face, nose, and throat
- Bodily swelling
- Difficulty breathing
- Itchy skin or rash
- Feeling sick
If you experience these symptoms, you should head to your doctor or pharmacist. In the event of more severe reactions, you should go to the nearest emergency room for immediate treatment.
Treatment Options
Some treatment options are available for people with allergies, from using an Epi-pen for more severe reactions, which can be life-saving, to using OTC allergy relief medication. Your doctor can advise you on the right type of medication for you. Be it antihistamines, topical creams for itch relief, desensitization, or immunotherapy to lessen the reaction or avoid the trigger altogether. You can work with them to help you develop a suitable treatment plan based on your lifestyle, specific triggers, and the severity of your reaction. From here, you can adjust your lifestyle to accommodate your allergy and live as healthy as possible.
It is vital that if you are diagnosed with an allergy, you take the proper steps to keep yourself safe. This can be via informing others of your allergy to reduce exposure, carrying around your medication should you need it, or being proactive in asking if your allergens are present in food or environments so you can make a more informed decision. Failure to do this can put you at risk of triggering an allergy, and you will likely suffer the consequences. Always remain vigilant regarding your allergies to ensure you are always prepared.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Happy Labor Day
Happy Labor Day! In 1882 work life was very different than today. Think of the computer/phone users today, they don’t need a union but work conditions in 1882 were deplorable, working outrageous hours, and the list goes on.
I respect every person who participated and spoke about their needs. Your voice made a difference and still does in 2023.
It’s because of the people
I had forgotten the walk-out was union-driven. No posturing on their part? Only the most dangerous jobs need a union. Unions get their money first, and no they don’t care about you. As you can tell I don’t believe in unions. A Starbucks upstate went union, WFT!
Let’s share a toast to the workers who walked off their jobs with no pay. That’s true commitment. Their actions on September 5, 1882, sparked the laws we work under today.
Have an awesome day.
Melinda
Blogger Highlight-The Amethyst Lamb
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight the blog of The Amethyst Lamb.
I’m a 29-year-old child advocate/social worker. I’m also a certified yoga teacher. I’m vegan and I love animals and nature. I mostly post poetry on my blog, but I also draw and am working on some stickers right now
Be sure to check out her interesting blog and say hi!
Melinda
6 Signs You Are Dealing With Addiction
There is nothing funny about feeling compelled to drink, take drugs, or smoke. Addiction is not a joke, and if you are in the throes of one, there is every chance that you don’t even know it. Engaging in something that you find pleasurable is not inherently bad for you, but there is a very fine line between having fun and enjoying yourself and feeling an unavoidable compulsion to do something. One of these isn’t healthy, and I bet you could guess which one!
Whether it’s a compulsion to binge eat, watch Netflix, drink alcohol, or take prescription drugs, you need to know that your compulsion could get you into massive amounts of trouble. You could call Leyba Mathew if you find that your addiction has led you to dangerous territories, but before you get there, you need to know that you definitely are dealing with addiction. With that in mind, we’ve put together six clear signs that it’s an addiction that you’re dealing with. Let’s take a look:
It’s Become Something So Important To You
The importance of the thing that you are doing goes beyond your job, your family, and your friends. At any cost, you will do the thing you NEED to do. You can determine how important something is to you by how much you’re not doing other things in favor of that one thing you are doing. For example, if you’re not paying your mortgage to afford wine, there’s a problem!
You Feel Better When You Do It
The reason we call it being a shopaholic is that shopping triggers a relaxed, happy response. The endorphins released because we are shopping make us feel good. When you take drugs, you do it for the high. Of course, it doesn’t feel too good when you’re involved in a DUI, but it feels good at the moment. The reward response is a clear reason to continue to do it. And that’s when the issues arise.
There Is No “Enough”
The more you do the thing you are doing, the more you want to do it. It takes precedence over every other thing that you have in your life, and that’s becoming an issue. When you’re carving out more space in your day-to-day life for this new compulsion, you’re putting more emphasis on the thing you’re doing.
You Get Anxious When You Can’t
There is a reason that employers give their staff smoking breaks. A lack of nicotine leads to anxiety, irritability, and angst in someone addicted to cigarettes. Smoking breaks “take the edge off” the anxiety and make them feel better, so they are able to take paid breaks to have a cigarette. When you are feeling bad on the inside when you can’t binge eat, watch Netflix, or even shop, it’s a good sign you’re addicted to what you’re doing.
It’s Consuming Your Life
If drugs, alcohol, or even shopping are starting to consume everything else in your life, taking over your money and putting you into debt, there is a problem. You should be able to enjoy most things in moderation, but when you can’t help it and you MUST drink, you need to seek some help.
You Can’t Help Yourself
You wake up in the morning and say today is the day you won’t drink. Then you get to the evening and before you know it, you’re pouring out your third glass of wine, promising yourself that tomorrow is the day. The problem with addiction is that tomorrow is never the day, and you need to speak to the professionals to make sure that you can reach that tomorrow.
Getting help is vital before your addiction costs you your life or someone else’s life.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Friday Quote 9/01/2023
So glad you stopped by, I hope to see you again soon.
Melinda
Review Of Vital Field’s Sleep Frequencell
I want to send a special thanks to Communications Director Nassia Bitha for sending me a host of Vital Field Frequencells to try. Today I’m writing about the Sleep Frequencell and I’m excited to share with you my experience.
This post contains affiliate links that earn me a small commission to help cover my coffee habit.
About Vital Field
The cumulative expert knowledge and the science of using precisely targeted frequencies for health management and pain management are now, for the first time in history, available to end-users worldwide.
Vital Field applications don’t replace or compete with traditional medicine or conventional treatment methods. They are intended to provide an alternative treatment for pain and health when conventional methods fail to provide significant results on their own.
With zero negative side effects reported and over 80% reported satisfaction from customers, we are confident in offering a full money-back guarantee if our product does not work for you.
SLEEP Cell
The Sleep Cell actively helps with:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Trouble staying sound asleep
- Jet lag
- Recuperating after birth when sleep schedules are erratic but the body needs to recover from the most intense physical challenge
- Stress and insomnia
- Signs of Anxiety
- Mood swings
Since Vitalfield products are safe, natural, non-invasive, and non-chemical, you have nothing to lose by using their line of products. I am 100% confident in the technology and the complete line of products.
The Sleep Frequencell needs to be placed on the first vertebra on your back and only wear it overnight. I’m starting tonight and look forward to sharing the results in a few days.
The first night I felt the relaxing properties shortly after taping on which reduced my stress and helped me sleep deeply. The more nights I used the Sleep Frequencell the better it worked.
A couple of minutes after the Sleep Frequencell is in place you don’t even feel that it’s there. Vital Field includes tape to use with each Frequencell and you can purchase more from Vital Field or use another type of kinetic tape.
I love Vital Field’s innovative natural approach to designing each product which can be used over and over. Unlike traditional medicine, you don’t feel the cell working, but you see the results.
I’ve done several reviews for Vital Field products and have not been disappointed yet. I encourage everyone to check out the product line and purchase the Frequencells that fit your health needs.
You can find more information on all Frequencell’s here
Use discount code LIGHT20 for 20% off any Vital Field product.
I’m thrilled to find a product that works naturally and not have to take a sleeping pill.
Melinda
Addiction Resources Available In Organizations That Can Page
You can find resources on many topics under the Organizations That Can Help and click on Addiction. Thank you for visiting today.
Local Non Profit Addiction Treatment Directory
Addiction Center.com Find Rehab Clinics In Your Area
Recovery.Org Find Addiction Treatment Near You
Rehab Centers Nation Wide (Insurance Specific)
Help Guide.org – Addiction Information
Drug Abuse Resources for Parents
SMART Recovery.Org – Self Management and Recovery Training
An Article On Alcoholism
Melinda
Reference:
https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder
Book Review of Voices Off by Georgia Brask
I want to give a special thanks to Andrea Marchiano, Editor from Trigger Publishing for sending the book Voices Off by Georgia Brask to read and review.
Blurb
Georgia has heard voices all her life – the voices of bullies who tormented her throughout her school years and the voices inside her head, which didn’t have many nice things to say, either. At the age of 17, she suffered a catastrophic psychotic breakdown that resulted in her being hospitalized for seven months and receiving a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia.
Now it’s time for Georgia to use her voice, which she does so with candour and humour to address the misconceptions and stigma associated with schizophrenia. She hopes that sharing what she has learned can help someone embarking on their own complicated conversation with this devastating illness.
My Thoughts
You know that little voice in our head, now imagine there are 200 voices in your head. That’s a heavy load to carry. The extra stress and all the extra input from people or television were too much for her to handle at the beginning. She’s completely honest about her illness and hopes to help others just as she did in her Danish blog.
Georgia had a psychotic breakdown at 17 years old, spent 7 months in a Psychiatric Hospital, and was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. Although she had symptoms from an early age she didn’t tell anyone. When her behavior became so erratic, all the cards started to fall down.
Georgia’s parents and family supported her the best they could but she was coming unattached from reality.
One issue stuck in her mind, bullies! It was the relentless bullying at her new school when the family moved to London to a small Danish community. The teachers look the other way while she gets water bottles thrown at her, pulling her hair, and bullying her on Social Media. This had a big impact on her, all the name-calling and all the negative things that were said made her feel like an outsider.
Georgia talks openly about is the voices in her head and all the horrible things they say to her. Some voices are quiet, others mumbly, and the worst is yelling. She knew the voices were not real but they had beaten her down. Could you handle 200 voices telling you that nobody likes you and goes on with it repeating itself 24/7?
She covers 5 myths about Schizophrenia and each one is worth reading. I’m reminded of how important it is to stay strong in the storm and don’t let your illness hold you back.
Georgia is a very special person, She’s been down a rough road and yet she’s honest and determined to help others by sharing her story. It takes courage for Georgia to tell her story, and she has a story to tell.
Voices Off is a must-have for Therapists, parents, and patients grappling to understand Schizophrenia.
Trigger Publishing
TriggerHub.org is the first mental health organization of its kind. We are bringing mental health recovery and balance to millions of people worldwide through the power of our books.
We have built a first-class resource of curated books produced and published in-house to create a unique collection of mental health recovery titles unrivaled in quality and selection. We work with experts, psychologists, doctors, and coaches to produce our books, but we also work with real people looking to share their stories to reach out to others and provide hope, understanding, and compassion. These brave authors also aim to raise awareness of mental health’s “human” face and its impact on everyday lives.
Melinda
No One Does It Better Than Brene Brown (TEDX Videos)
Brené Brown studies human connection — our ability to empathize, belong, love. In a poignant, funny talk, she shares a deep insight from her research, one that sent her on a personal quest to know herself as well as to understand humanity. A talk to share.
Melinda
How Plants Can Improve Mental Health
There’s no doubt about it, we’re on the verge of a mental health crisis. Although lockdown measures have been eased all over the country, critics claim that the measures put in place to get the economy back up and running are too much, too soon. However, while many debate the wisdom of reopening the economy at a time when so many are still dying from COVID-19 on a daily basis, one could argue just as fervently that an extended lockdown is a mental health crisis waiting to happen. We all need to do our part to safeguard and improve our mental health. But before you call your doctor for a prescription, you might want to consider the natural mood enhancers that are all around us. We’re talking about the healing and rejuvenating qualities of plants. Letting plants into your life can boost your mental health in a variety of ways.
Here are 5 ways in which plants can ease your stress and anxiety and help to improve your mental health.
Eat more of them
A plant-based diet has a wide range of health benefits. But did you know that certain veggies and fruits contain natural compounds that can help to correct your brain chemistry, ease your stress, and boost your mood naturally? Get more of the following in your diet and you may find that your outlook gets a little sunnier;
- Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries
- Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens
- Tomatoes
Surround yourself with them at home
Even with relaxed lockdown measures, you’re probably spending a lot more time at home these days. Why not share your home with some beautiful mood-boosting pals? Houseplants are a great addition to any interior design aesthetic. They oxygenate your living space and imbue your environment with a sense of calm and tranquility.
Spend more time with them outside
Of course, your home isn’t the only place where you can enjoy being close to plants. Indeed, when things get you down, getting out in the open air among trees, plants and flowers can be a real tonic for your wellbeing. Taking a walk in your local park is a great way to do this, as spending some quality time in the garden and watching your plants grow.
Use herbal supplements
Plant-based health supplements like CBD oil have been linked to positive mental health outcomes in some studies, especially when managing stress, anxiety, and depression. Aches and pains can exacerbate your mental health issues, and there’s also evidence to suggest that topical application of CBD oil can ease pain caused by inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
Use them to make a relaxing drink
Finally, while your cup of joe may give you a jolt in the morning, too much caffeine can actually exacerbate your stress levels and make you jittery. Instead, try a soothing infusion of green tea which is found to have calming effects on the body as well as being an excellent antioxidant.
Make plants your friends to keep you smiling through this difficult moment.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Friday Quote 8/25/2023
So glad you stopped by, I hope to see you again soon.
Melinda
Looking for the Light 