Denial and Drug Addiction, A Serious Problem
Posted by Allan N. Schwartz, LCSW, PhD on Nov 19th 2008
"In the case of drug abuse, the impaired insight causes what is referred to as "denial." One definition of denial when applied to drug abuse is "not recognizing the severity of the disorder." It's like having your "head in the sand."" More...

How you can be triggered into depression…without even knowing it
Posted by Elisha Goldstein, Ph.D. on Nov 17th 2008
"Just last year a study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported 118 million prescriptions for antidepressants were filled. While many people filling these prescriptions are in deep need of them, others may just be feeling unhappy or tense. Let's go a bit deeper into recognizing what can trigger you into depression and 4 steps to relief. " More...

An Interview with Patt Denning, Ph.D. on Harm Reduction Psychotherapy for Substance Abuse and Addictions
Posted by David Van Nuys, Ph.D. on Nov 16th 2008
"In the interview, Dr. Denning compares harm reduction, her synthesis of public health safety promotion philosophy and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques such as motivational interviewing, relapse prevention and the stages of change model with the traditional Minnesota Model substance abuse treatment which, she believes, contains within itself a counter-productive and judgmental values system which works against successful treatment outcomes. She discusses how her early work as a psychotherapist and clinic director influenced her to explore substance abuse treatment; how she found this treatment wanting, and how she went about assembling what she considers to be a superior way to conduct psychotherapy for substance abuse, namely Harm Reduction Psychotherapy. " More...

"Music Hath Charms to Soothe the Savage Breast"
Posted by Allan N. Schwartz, LCSW, PhD on Nov 15th 2008
"According to Dr. Michael Miller, Director of the Center for Preventive Cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center, listening to music that makes you feel good could have health benefits that might prevent a heart attack. " More...

How to take advantage of the holidays and stave off stress, anxiety, and depression
Posted by Elisha Goldstein, Ph.D. on Nov 14th 2008
"Whether we like it or not, the holidays are just around the corner. While the commercials will show us all how fun and celebratory the holidays can be, for many of us, they serve as a trigger for stress, anxiety, and depression. Distress rises when we're thrust into social situations we're not ready for, pressured into buying gifts with money we don't have, or caring for parents whose health is failing, along with an array of other challenges. Here are 5 things you can do to minimize your stress and depression during this holiday season and perhaps even enjoy yourself in moments at a time. " More...