The Link Between OCD and GOD: How Religion Impacts Symptomology

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is defined as “an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and disturbing thoughts (called obsessions) and/or repetitive, ritualized behaviors that the person feels driven to perform (called compulsions). It may manifest in the form of hand washing until skin is red and raw, checking doors multiple times even if the key just turned in the lock, or making certain the stove is turned off even if one has done it a moment ago. It isn’t a memory...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-link-between-ocd-and-god-how-religion-impacts-symptomology/

The Vital Importance of Emotional Safety in Relationships

In a previous article I discussed how emotional safety is an essential foundation for intimate partnerships and close friendships. If we can deeply understand how intimacy gets disrupted, we can become more mindful about what it takes to create emotionally safe relationships. We’re wired with a human longing for secure, satisfying connections, but sadly, we may not be fully aware of how we create barriers to the intimacy we want.

Feeling emotionally safe means feeling internally relaxed...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-vital-importance-of-emotional-safety-in-relationships/

The Link Between OCD and GOD: How Religion Impacts Symptomology

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is defined as “an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and disturbing thoughts (called obsessions) and/or repetitive, ritualized behaviors that the person feels driven to perform (called compulsions). It may manifest in the form of hand washing until skin is red and raw, checking doors multiple times even if the key just turned in the lock, or making certain the stove is turned off even if one has done it a moment ago. It isn’t a memory...

[Read More ...]

The Vital Importance of Emotional Safety in Relationships

In a previous article I discussed how emotional safety is an essential foundation for intimate partnerships and close friendships. If we can deeply understand how intimacy gets disrupted, we can become more mindful about what it takes to create emotionally safe relationships. We’re wired with a human longing for secure, satisfying connections, but sadly, we may not be fully aware of how we create barriers to the intimacy we want.

Feeling emotionally safe means feeling internally relaxed...

[Read More ...]

Cohort Based Recovery at The Clearing—What It Is and Why It Matters For People Seeking Residential Treatment

"We’re looking for more and better and different ways that are more effective in healing addiction."

[Read More ...]

source https://www.thefix.com/cohort-based-recovery-clearing-what-it-and-why-it-matters-people-seeking-residential-treatment

Brain Imaging Shows How LSD Alters Perception

In a new study, researchers from the University of Zurich in Switzerland used brain imaging technology to investigate how LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide, or “acid”) appears to alter a healthy person’s perception of reality.

They found that LSD triggers a reduction in the communication between brain regions responsible for planning and decision making. At the same time, it increases the connectivity in brain networks associated with sensory functions and movement.

Based on patterns of...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/31/brain-imaging-shows-how-lsd-alters-perception/139954.html

Suicide Far Outpaces Homicide in US, But Perception Is Just The Opposite

Suicide is twice as common as homicide in the U.S. — and more often involves firearms — but most Americans get it backwards.

In a new study, researchers suggest news reports, movies and TV shows may contribute to the perception of a high risk of firearm homicide. Unfortunately, this creates a substantial gap between ideas and reality, and could lead to further danger.

The new study, led by the University of Washington, Northeastern University and Harvard University, delves into public...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/31/suicide-far-outpaces-homicide-in-us-but-perception-is-just-the-opposite/139950.html

How to Have a Healthier Relationship with Your Phone

Our phones are the first things we see in the morning and the last things we see at night. They’re regularly by our sides (and bedsides). Any time we’re waiting anywhere for anything, we automatically pull them out. At the checkout line. At the doctor’s office. At the bank. At the bus stop. In the car line. In front of the microwave. In front of others.

Basically, any time there’s a pause, we pull out our devices. And often we don’t even realize we’re doing it. Because it’s...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/how-to-have-a-healthier-relationship-with-your-phone/

Cohort Based Recovery at The Clearing—What It Is and Why It Matters For People Seeking Residential Treatment

"We’re looking for more and better and different ways that are more effective in healing addiction."

[Read More ...]

Brain Imaging Shows How LSD Alters Perception

In a new study, researchers from the University of Zurich in Switzerland used brain imaging technology to investigate how LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide, or “acid”) appears to alter a healthy person’s perception of reality.

They found that LSD triggers a reduction in the communication between brain regions responsible for planning and decision making. At the same time, it increases the connectivity in brain networks associated with sensory functions and movement.

Based on patterns of...

[Read More ...]

Suicide Far Outpaces Homicide in US, But Perception Is Just The Opposite

Suicide is twice as common as homicide in the U.S. — and more often involves firearms — but most Americans get it backwards.

In a new study, researchers suggest news reports, movies and TV shows may contribute to the perception of a high risk of firearm homicide. Unfortunately, this creates a substantial gap between ideas and reality, and could lead to further danger.

The new study, led by the University of Washington, Northeastern University and Harvard University, delves into public...

[Read More ...]

How to Have a Healthier Relationship with Your Phone

Our phones are the first things we see in the morning and the last things we see at night. They’re regularly by our sides (and bedsides). Any time we’re waiting anywhere for anything, we automatically pull them out. At the checkout line. At the doctor’s office. At the bank. At the bus stop. In the car line. In front of the microwave. In front of others.

Basically, any time there’s a pause, we pull out our devices. And often we don’t even realize we’re doing it. Because it’s...

[Read More ...]

The Positive Side of Fear

How often have you heard that “magic happens outside the comfort zone”? Well, maybe not that exact line, per se, but there seems to be various reiterations of that sentiment. They say to not let fear stand in our way. To rise above. To not let fear of falling bring us down(I think that was actually a song lyric from my college graduation montage.) In any case, the self-help psychology market often urges us to transcend our fears and to conquer what’s in front of us.

And for the most...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-positive-side-of-fear/

Be Careful When Calling Those Addiction Treatment Hotlines

You have to love a guy dressed up in surgical scrubs with a stethoscope trying to sell you addiction treatment services. You know, those seedy inpatient rehab facilities that claim they can self-police their own horrible, terrible marketing practices.

But as this television commercial, that’s been airing for years on cable TV, clearly demonstrates, there remains very little that’s ethical about addition treatment marketing. That’s especially true if you get suckered into calling one...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/be-careful-when-calling-those-addiction-treatment-hotlines/

The Positive Side of Fear

How often have you heard that “magic happens outside the comfort zone”? Well, maybe not that exact line, per se, but there seems to be various reiterations of that sentiment. They say to not let fear stand in our way. To rise above. To not let fear of falling bring us down(I think that was actually a song lyric from my college graduation montage.) In any case, the self-help psychology market often urges us to transcend our fears and to conquer what’s in front of us.

And for the most...

[Read More ...]

Be Careful When Calling Those Addiction Treatment Hotlines

You have to love a guy dressed up in surgical scrubs with a stethoscope trying to sell you addiction treatment services. You know, those seedy inpatient rehab facilities that claim they can self-police their own horrible, terrible marketing practices.

But as this television commercial, that’s been airing for years on cable TV, clearly demonstrates, there remains very little that’s ethical about addition treatment marketing. That’s especially true if you get suckered into calling one...

[Read More ...]

Moving Forward with Radical Self-Acceptance

Being compassionate and accepting of yourself is an important piece of recovery.

[Read More ...]

source https://www.thefix.com/moving-forward-radical-self-acceptance

Veterans with PTSD Can Benefit from Horseback Riding Intervention

A new study shows that an 8-week therapeutic horseback riding program reduces anxiety, anger and depression in veterans with combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The findings have important implications as combat-related PTSD in military service personnel remains a national public health concern with an estimated 2 to 17 percent of veterans suffering from the disorder.

Veterans who participated in the therapeutic riding program showed clinically significant improvements in...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/30/veterans-with-ptsd-can-benefit-from-horseback-riding-intervention/139917.html

Best of Our Blogs: October 30, 2018

It’s that time of year when I dedicate this blog to the things that terrify us. Normally it’s saved for those suffering from anxiety and mental illness. But fear over our state of the world is making everyone vulnerable.

As you gear up for Halloween, read how you can damper down or tame these fears by learning ways to address electronic use with your children, and how to stop our own anxiety from scaring our kids.

Yes there are legitimate reasons to be afraid these day. But there are...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/best-of-our-blogs-october-30-2018/

Moving Forward with Radical Self-Acceptance

Being compassionate and accepting of yourself is an important piece of recovery.

[Read More ...]

Veterans with PTSD Can Benefit from Horseback Riding Intervention

A new study shows that an 8-week therapeutic horseback riding program reduces anxiety, anger and depression in veterans with combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The findings have important implications as combat-related PTSD in military service personnel remains a national public health concern with an estimated 2 to 17 percent of veterans suffering from the disorder.

Veterans who participated in the therapeutic riding program showed clinically significant improvements in...

[Read More ...]

Best of Our Blogs: October 30, 2018

It’s that time of year when I dedicate this blog to the things that terrify us. Normally it’s saved for those suffering from anxiety and mental illness. But fear over our state of the world is making everyone vulnerable.

As you gear up for Halloween, read how you can damper down or tame these fears by learning ways to address electronic use with your children, and how to stop our own anxiety from scaring our kids.

Yes there are legitimate reasons to be afraid these day. But there are...

[Read More ...]

Using Classical Conditioning to Fall Out of Love With Someone

Yes, it’s possible.

After a devastating breakup, it’s normal to still feel in love with your ex — you wouldn’t have been with them if you didn’t. And it takes a lot of time to get over that, move on, and learn how to fall out of love.

Founder of Relationship Psychology, John Alex Clark, shared some techniques in order to help the broken-hearted fall out of love with that someone. Yes, it’s possible to learn how to fall out of love with someone just by using a psychology concept...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/using-classical-conditioning-to-fall-out-of-love-with-someone/

Autism Study Finds Unusual Patterns of Amygdala Connection with Other Brain Regions

A new MRI study of autistic kids has discovered unique patterns of neural communication in the area of the brain involved in processing social information.

After studying MRI scans of school-age children’s brains, researchers at San Diego State University discovered that in children with autism, the mid-brain structure called the amygdala only weakly connects with some regions of the brain — and more strongly with others — when compared with typically developing children of the same...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/29/autism-study-finds-unusual-patterns-of-amygdala-connection-with-other-brain-regions/139833.html

The Complex Case for Inpatient Psychiatric Care

Amidst the cat pics and political memes, the images of my former elementary school classmates’ children, now elementary school students themselves, there will be a link to a mental health article smushed in there on my Facebook wall. Sometimes, usually against my better judgment, I click on it, because click-bait is just so deliciously clickable. Today, I made the mistake of clicking on an article written by Noam Shpancer, PhD, a psychologist and professor at Otterbein University. The...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-complex-case-for-inpatient-psychiatric-care/

Parent-Child Bond Tied to Mental Health of Teens in High-Achieving Schools

The top three risk factors for poor mental health in adolescents — poverty, racism and discrimination — have been the same for many years; but a new risk factor appeared in this year’s Robert Wood Johnson Foundation 2018 report: ongoing pressure to excel in high-achieving schools in affluent communities.

Although facing academic pressure in a high-achieving school may not seem as big of a risk factor as living in poverty or facing racism or discrimination, decades of research shows...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/29/parent-child-bond-tied-to-mental-health-of-teens-in-high-achieving-schools/139911.html

Using Classical Conditioning to Fall Out of Love With Someone

Yes, it’s possible.

After a devastating breakup, it’s normal to still feel in love with your ex — you wouldn’t have been with them if you didn’t. And it takes a lot of time to get over that, move on, and learn how to fall out of love.

Founder of Relationship Psychology, John Alex Clark, shared some techniques in order to help the broken-hearted fall out of love with that someone. Yes, it’s possible to learn how to fall out of love with someone just by using a psychology concept...

[Read More ...]

Autism Study Finds Unusual Patterns of Amygdala Connection with Other Brain Regions

A new MRI study of autistic kids has discovered unique patterns of neural communication in the area of the brain involved in processing social information.

After studying MRI scans of school-age children’s brains, researchers at San Diego State University discovered that in children with autism, the mid-brain structure called the amygdala only weakly connects with some regions of the brain — and more strongly with others — when compared with typically developing children of the same...

[Read More ...]

The Complex Case for Inpatient Psychiatric Care

Amidst the cat pics and political memes, the images of my former elementary school classmates’ children, now elementary school students themselves, there will be a link to a mental health article smushed in there on my Facebook wall. Sometimes, usually against my better judgment, I click on it, because click-bait is just so deliciously clickable. Today, I made the mistake of clicking on an article written by Noam Shpancer, PhD, a psychologist and professor at Otterbein University. The...

[Read More ...]

Parent-Child Bond Tied to Mental Health of Teens in High-Achieving Schools

The top three risk factors for poor mental health in adolescents — poverty, racism and discrimination — have been the same for many years; but a new risk factor appeared in this year’s Robert Wood Johnson Foundation 2018 report: ongoing pressure to excel in high-achieving schools in affluent communities.

Although facing academic pressure in a high-achieving school may not seem as big of a risk factor as living in poverty or facing racism or discrimination, decades of research shows...

[Read More ...]

Listen to This if You’ve Ever Played the Mental Illness Suffering Olympics

Gabe’s granny likes to say that the only thing you need to start a competition is two people. And while we all accept that people like to compete over their successes – who’s faster, prettier, or richer – it may come as a surprise to you that some folks compete over who is sicker.

Gabe dubs this contest “the suffering Olympics” and readily admits to having played this game, himself. “I wanted to prove I was sicker and it seemed important I was the sickest person in the...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/listen-to-this-if-youve-ever-played-the-mental-illness-suffering-olympics/

Listen to This if You’ve Ever Played the Mental Illness Suffering Olympics

Gabe’s granny likes to say that the only thing you need to start a competition is two people. And while we all accept that people like to compete over their successes – who’s faster, prettier, or richer – it may come as a surprise to you that some folks compete over who is sicker.

Gabe dubs this contest “the suffering Olympics” and readily admits to having played this game, himself. “I wanted to prove I was sicker and it seemed important I was the sickest person in the...

[Read More ...]

The Pressure Cooker Before College: How to Navigate and Actually Help Your Teen

The senior year countdown to college brings out parents’ worries and fears alongside teens’ own anxieties and self-doubt. During this time of escalating pressure and stress in families, parents can fall into common traps that defeat their intention to help and interfere with teens developing capacities that are the foundation for succeeding once they’re at college.

When the dynamics associated with these traps are at play, parents become part of the problem rather than a resource for...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-pressure-cooker-before-college-how-to-navigate-and-actually-help-your-teen/

Many Survivors of Head and Neck Cancer Struggle With Suicide

A new study has found that survivors of head and neck cancer are two times more likely to commit suicide than survivors of other cancers and four times more likely than the general population.

“This problem of suicide is bigger than many realize. In the general U.S. population, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death,” said Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters, B.D.S., Ph.D., M.P.H., an assistant professor of otolaryngology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and faculty member at the...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/28/many-survivors-of-head-and-neck-cancer-struggle-with-suicide/139836.html

Does Marriage Have to Be Boring?

Have you heard that marriage can get boring? This doesn’t need to happen, but it can feel ho-hum when things have gotten way too predictable. Routines are important, but this doesn’t mean that the thrills have to end.

By trying out activities that are different from your usual ones, you’ll enjoy the comfort of some routines and also stay enjoy enough stimulation to keep you thriving.    

Zest Is Contagious

By doing things that bring a sense of joie de vivre, we sparkle. Our...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/does-marriage-have-to-be-boring/

Hallucinations Tied to Brain Hyperactivity in Macular Degeneration Patients

A new Australian study finds that the visual hallucinations sometimes experienced by patients with macular degeneration (MD) may be linked to abnormally heightened activity in the visual cortex of the brain.

Macular degeneration is a retinal eye disease that causes progressive deterioration of the central region of the retina, leading to visual loss in the center of one’s field of vision, while peripheral vision usually remains unaffected. MD is a leading cause of legal blindness in...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/28/hallucinations-tied-to-brain-hyperactivity-in-macular-degeneration-patients/139865.html

The Pressure Cooker Before College: How to Navigate and Actually Help Your Teen

The senior year countdown to college brings out parents’ worries and fears alongside teens’ own anxieties and self-doubt. During this time of escalating pressure and stress in families, parents can fall into common traps that defeat their intention to help and interfere with teens developing capacities that are the foundation for succeeding once they’re at college.

When the dynamics associated with these traps are at play, parents become part of the problem rather than a resource for...

[Read More ...]

Many Survivors of Head and Neck Cancer Struggle With Suicide

A new study has found that survivors of head and neck cancer are two times more likely to commit suicide than survivors of other cancers and four times more likely than the general population.

“This problem of suicide is bigger than many realize. In the general U.S. population, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death,” said Nosayaba Osazuwa-Peters, B.D.S., Ph.D., M.P.H., an assistant professor of otolaryngology at Saint Louis University School of Medicine and faculty member at the...

[Read More ...]

Does Marriage Have to Be Boring?

Have you heard that marriage can get boring? This doesn’t need to happen, but it can feel ho-hum when things have gotten way too predictable. Routines are important, but this doesn’t mean that the thrills have to end.

By trying out activities that are different from your usual ones, you’ll enjoy the comfort of some routines and also stay enjoy enough stimulation to keep you thriving.    

Zest Is Contagious

By doing things that bring a sense of joie de vivre, we sparkle. Our...

[Read More ...]

Hallucinations Tied to Brain Hyperactivity in Macular Degeneration Patients

A new Australian study finds that the visual hallucinations sometimes experienced by patients with macular degeneration (MD) may be linked to abnormally heightened activity in the visual cortex of the brain.

Macular degeneration is a retinal eye disease that causes progressive deterioration of the central region of the retina, leading to visual loss in the center of one’s field of vision, while peripheral vision usually remains unaffected. MD is a leading cause of legal blindness in...

[Read More ...]

Could Universal Thyroid Screening in Early Pregnancy Boost Kids’ IQs?

In a new paper published in the journal Frontiers in Endocrinology, researchers assert that universal thyroid screening in early pregnancy holds promise for improving fetal and maternal outcomes.

Research has shown that maternal thyroid hormones are critical for a baby’s brain development. A fetus is completely reliant on thyroid hormones from its mother up to 16 weeks, a critical period for brain development.

Too much or too little can reduce later IQ, and increases the risk of premature...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/28/could-universal-thyroid-screening-in-early-pregnancy-boost-kids-iqs/139872.html

Should Parents Let Their Teens Trick or Treat?

A scene from last year: Four boys too tall and too gangly to pass for being under 12 showed up on my doorstep in costumes that were clearly last minute and uninspired. They shoved and joked with each other, laughing and stumbling up my steps. Bashfully, they held out pillow cases and shopping bags for my contribution to their hoards. They let me goof with them a bit as I tossed candy bars their way. One remembered to say “Thank you.” It was harmless fun. It was probably the last year...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/should-parents-let-their-teens-trick-or-treat/

Could Universal Thyroid Screening in Early Pregnancy Boost Kids’ IQs?

In a new paper published in the journal Frontiers in Endocrinology, researchers assert that universal thyroid screening in early pregnancy holds promise for improving fetal and maternal outcomes.

Research has shown that maternal thyroid hormones are critical for a baby’s brain development. A fetus is completely reliant on thyroid hormones from its mother up to 16 weeks, a critical period for brain development.

Too much or too little can reduce later IQ, and increases the risk of premature...

[Read More ...]

Should Parents Let Their Teens Trick or Treat?

A scene from last year: Four boys too tall and too gangly to pass for being under 12 showed up on my doorstep in costumes that were clearly last minute and uninspired. They shoved and joked with each other, laughing and stumbling up my steps. Bashfully, they held out pillow cases and shopping bags for my contribution to their hoards. They let me goof with them a bit as I tossed candy bars their way. One remembered to say “Thank you.” It was harmless fun. It was probably the last year...

[Read More ...]

Can Opening to Your Own Creative Gifts Make You a Happier Human Being?

“You cannot use up creativity. The more you use it, the more you have.” – Maya Angelou

Are you an Imaginista? A Creativa? An Inspirista? A Wild Enthusiast? If you had your way, would life be lived out loud, in Technicolor, vibrantly glowing, tap dancing to a rhythm that you alone can hear? And then, would you invite people to dance, sing and play along with you?

Sadly, many were encouraged to lip synch, color inside the lines, stay inside the box, play it safe, and keep their light...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/can-opening-to-your-own-creative-gifts-make-you-a-happier-human-being/

Change Suicidal Thoughts by Asking “Says Who?”

In my book, Says Who? How One Simple Question Can Change the Way You Think Forever, I’ve created a method for transforming negative and fear-based thoughts that cause emotional turmoil, such as anxiety or depression.

For many years as a young actress, I experienced severe anxiety. It wasn’t until I went into Jungian analysis that I came face to face with a deep-seated, fear-based thought that I’d buried deep in my subconscious. By unburying it, I was able to realize how it was the...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/change-suicidal-thoughts-by-asking-says-who/

Offering Employees A Helping Hand May Backfire

If a coworker or employee is struggling, should you offer to help?

Whether it’s help on the job or just a shoulder to cry on, new research has found that either kind of support does roughly the same thing.

Researchers at San Francisco State University also found that sometimes it’s best not to address the situation at all.

“We found it’s half and half. Sometimes offering support makes things worse, sometimes it makes it better,” said Michael Mathieu, who led the study as a...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/27/offering-employees-a-helping-hand-may-backfire/139830.html

Study: Take Online Reviews With A ‘Pinch of Salt’

Many people turn to online reviews to help them decide on a variety of products and services, whether it’s a new book, a car, or a room at a hotel. But a new U.K. study shows these reviews are often heavily influenced by the reviewer’s psychological state.

In fact, the researchers suggest we read online reviews with a healthy dose of skepticism; in other words, with a “pinch of salt.”

“People have time and cognitive constraints that regulate their decisions, and compared to...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/27/study-take-online-reviews-with-a-pinch-of-salt/139849.html

Can Opening to Your Own Creative Gifts Make You a Happier Human Being?

“You cannot use up creativity. The more you use it, the more you have.” – Maya Angelou

Are you an Imaginista? A Creativa? An Inspirista? A Wild Enthusiast? If you had your way, would life be lived out loud, in Technicolor, vibrantly glowing, tap dancing to a rhythm that you alone can hear? And then, would you invite people to dance, sing and play along with you?

Sadly, many were encouraged to lip synch, color inside the lines, stay inside the box, play it safe, and keep their light...

[Read More ...]

Change Suicidal Thoughts by Asking “Says Who?”

In my book, Says Who? How One Simple Question Can Change the Way You Think Forever, I’ve created a method for transforming negative and fear-based thoughts that cause emotional turmoil, such as anxiety or depression.

For many years as a young actress, I experienced severe anxiety. It wasn’t until I went into Jungian analysis that I came face to face with a deep-seated, fear-based thought that I’d buried deep in my subconscious. By unburying it, I was able to realize how it was the...

[Read More ...]

Offering Employees A Helping Hand May Backfire

If a coworker or employee is struggling, should you offer to help?

Whether it’s help on the job or just a shoulder to cry on, new research has found that either kind of support does roughly the same thing.

Researchers at San Francisco State University also found that sometimes it’s best not to address the situation at all.

“We found it’s half and half. Sometimes offering support makes things worse, sometimes it makes it better,” said Michael Mathieu, who led the study as a...

[Read More ...]

Study: Take Online Reviews With A ‘Pinch of Salt’

Many people turn to online reviews to help them decide on a variety of products and services, whether it’s a new book, a car, or a room at a hotel. But a new U.K. study shows these reviews are often heavily influenced by the reviewer’s psychological state.

In fact, the researchers suggest we read online reviews with a healthy dose of skepticism; in other words, with a “pinch of salt.”

“People have time and cognitive constraints that regulate their decisions, and compared to...

[Read More ...]

Stronger Grip & Cognition Tied to Avoiding Disability for Older Adults

A new study finds that stronger grip strength and better cognition in older adults may be able to prevent or delay disability.

The findings, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, suggest that older adults who perform physical and mental training may be able to slow down their physical decline and potentially prevent future problems such as the loss of independence, reduced quality of life, the likelihood of developing depression and dementia, and even death.

Research...

[Read More ...]

Virtual Reality Can Ease Medical Anxiety and Pain in Children

Two studies recently presented at the annual meeting in San Francisco of the American Society of Anesthesiologists show that virtual reality can reduce children’s anxiety and pain before and after medical procedures and surgery.

Researchers also believe use of virtual reality may be beneficial in a variety of care settings including child birth, physical therapy and a variety of health care scenarios that involve pain management.

In the new report, one study found virtual reality that...

[Read More ...]

Psychology Around the Net: October 27, 2018

This picture has nothing to do with this week’s Psychology Around the Net. I just love fall!

What does have to do with this week’s post is “priming” and how it can help women stop shying away from competition, a first-of-its-kind survey that lets mental health consumers tell scientists what they want them to study, overdose prevention kits popping up on college campuses, and more.

Closing the Gender Gap in Competitiveness With a Psychological Trick: Often, women tend to shy away...

[Read More ...]

Stronger Grip & Cognition Tied to Avoiding Disability for Older Adults

A new study finds that stronger grip strength and better cognition in older adults may be able to prevent or delay disability.

The findings, published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, suggest that older adults who perform physical and mental training may be able to slow down their physical decline and potentially prevent future problems such as the loss of independence, reduced quality of life, the likelihood of developing depression and dementia, and even death.

Research...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/27/stronger-grip-cognition-tied-to-avoiding-disability-for-older-adults/139859.html

Virtual Reality Can Ease Medical Anxiety and Pain in Children

Two studies recently presented at the annual meeting in San Francisco of the American Society of Anesthesiologists show that virtual reality can reduce children’s anxiety and pain before and after medical procedures and surgery.

Researchers also believe use of virtual reality may be beneficial in a variety of care settings including child birth, physical therapy and a variety of health care scenarios that involve pain management.

In the new report, one study found virtual reality that...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/27/virtual-reality-can-ease-medical-anxiety-and-pain-in-children/139818.html

Psychology Around the Net: October 27, 2018

This picture has nothing to do with this week’s Psychology Around the Net. I just love fall!

What does have to do with this week’s post is “priming” and how it can help women stop shying away from competition, a first-of-its-kind survey that lets mental health consumers tell scientists what they want them to study, overdose prevention kits popping up on college campuses, and more.

Closing the Gender Gap in Competitiveness With a Psychological Trick: Often, women tend to shy away...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/psychology-around-the-net-october-27-2018/

OCD and Physical Pain

I don’t think it comes as a surprise to many that physical pain and mental pain often seem to be connected. I often hear from people with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder who also suffer from debilitating physical pain. And it’s not unusual, once their OCD is treated, for their physical symptoms to subside or even disappear completely.

Sometimes the pain those with OCD experience is directly related to compulsions they perform. For example, some people with OCD are compelled to...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/ocd-and-physical-pain/

When You Can’t Stop Seeing the Negative in Everything—Even Though You’re Grateful

You wake up and instantly think about everything that needs to get done. You walk into your kitchen, and see only what’s out of place. You believe you can always do more, and so can your family.

You hyper-focus on unchecked tasks, problems, flaws, mistakes, rainy days, dust and dirt. You can’t help but be negative, and many times you don’t even notice it. You don’t even realize you’re doing it. You’re grateful for what you do have—like your loved ones and your life—but you...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/when-you-cant-stop-seeing-the-negative-in-everything-even-though-youre-grateful/

OCD and Physical Pain

I don’t think it comes as a surprise to many that physical pain and mental pain often seem to be connected. I often hear from people with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder who also suffer from debilitating physical pain. And it’s not unusual, once their OCD is treated, for their physical symptoms to subside or even disappear completely.

Sometimes the pain those with OCD experience is directly related to compulsions they perform. For example, some people with OCD are compelled to...

[Read More ...]

When You Can’t Stop Seeing the Negative in Everything—Even Though You’re Grateful

You wake up and instantly think about everything that needs to get done. You walk into your kitchen, and see only what’s out of place. You believe you can always do more, and so can your family.

You hyper-focus on unchecked tasks, problems, flaws, mistakes, rainy days, dust and dirt. You can’t help but be negative, and many times you don’t even notice it. You don’t even realize you’re doing it. You’re grateful for what you do have—like your loved ones and your life—but you...

[Read More ...]

Can Microdosing Magic Mushrooms Boost Creativity?

The use of very small doses of magic mushrooms and psychedelic truffles can lead to a more open state of thinking, resulting in more novel, creative ideas, according to a new study at Leiden University in The Netherlands.

“Microdosing” in this manner may allow individuals to experience the creative benefits of psychedelic drugs without the risk of the so-called “bad trips” that can occur with high doses of such substances, say the researchers.

Taking a tiny fraction of a normal dose...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/26/can-microdosing-magic-mushrooms-boost-creativity/139813.html

Relationships, Not Money, May be Key to Improving Schools

A strong relationship network between teachers, parents and students is significantly more effective for improving student learning than financial support alone, according to a new study published online in the Journal of Education for Students Placed at Risk.

Social capital is defined as the relationship network between school officials, teachers, parents and the community. This network is responsible for establishing the trust and norms needed to promote academic achievement.

The...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/26/relationships-not-money-may-be-key-to-improving-schools/139808.html

Best of Our Blogs: October 26, 2018

I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to be well when you’re chronically ill. Being healthy may not constitute a lack of illness. It may not look like your state of well-being before you were diagnosed.

Wellness may mean there are pockets of time when you find peace in the moment. It may mean a commitment to radical self-care. It may simply mean the ability to take a walk or meditate. It may be the hope of living in harmony with disorder or disease.

Sometimes we can’t control...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/best-of-our-blogs-october-26-2018/

Can Microdosing Magic Mushrooms Boost Creativity?

The use of very small doses of magic mushrooms and psychedelic truffles can lead to a more open state of thinking, resulting in more novel, creative ideas, according to a new study at Leiden University in The Netherlands.

“Microdosing” in this manner may allow individuals to experience the creative benefits of psychedelic drugs without the risk of the so-called “bad trips” that can occur with high doses of such substances, say the researchers.

Taking a tiny fraction of a normal dose...

[Read More ...]

Relationships, Not Money, May be Key to Improving Schools

A strong relationship network between teachers, parents and students is significantly more effective for improving student learning than financial support alone, according to a new study published online in the Journal of Education for Students Placed at Risk.

Social capital is defined as the relationship network between school officials, teachers, parents and the community. This network is responsible for establishing the trust and norms needed to promote academic achievement.

The...

[Read More ...]

Best of Our Blogs: October 26, 2018

I’ve been thinking a lot about what it means to be well when you’re chronically ill. Being healthy may not constitute a lack of illness. It may not look like your state of well-being before you were diagnosed.

Wellness may mean there are pockets of time when you find peace in the moment. It may mean a commitment to radical self-care. It may simply mean the ability to take a walk or meditate. It may be the hope of living in harmony with disorder or disease.

Sometimes we can’t control...

[Read More ...]

Free Live Webinar: 8 Signs of Intergenerational Trauma

Please note: This free live webinar will be recorded and a copy made available to all who registered.)

Do you or someone you know believe that intergenerational trauma has negatively impacted you?

If so, you are not alone. I’m sure you have heard people talk about the “family curse” when discussing relationships, trauma, or abuse. As one from a multi-ethnic family, I have heard the same.

Intergenerational trauma is the idea that unresolved trauma from previous generations has, in...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/free-live-webinar-8-signs-of-intergenerational-trauma/

Tornado Brain: Taming the Whirlwind of Anxiety

Anxiety feels like showing up to the start of a marathon with zero preparation. You haven’t trained a day in your life, and you have no idea what you’re doing. Common sense tells you this is a long race, you need to pace to survive. But without warning, and out of your control, a powerful force won’t let you. It takes over and you sprint the first few miles, burn out, then fall to the side of the road confused and frustrated.

Is everyone else experiencing this? How are they able to...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/tornado-brain-taming-the-whirlwind-of-anxiety/

Racism, Sexual Assault Issues May Challenge Collegians’ Mental Health

A text mining analysis of academic and news articles related to mental health issues finds that racism, violence and sexual assault are key contributors to mental health challenges for college students.

North Carolina State University researchers believe their findings highlight the pressing need for mental health services. On a positive note, they believe mobile technologies may be able to help address these needs.

“We had found in our previous work that students are concerned about...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/25/racism-sexual-assault-issues-may-challenge-collegians-mental-health/139790.html

Free Live Webinar: 8 Signs of Intergenerational Trauma

Please note: This free live webinar will be recorded and a copy made available to all who registered.)

Do you or someone you know believe that intergenerational trauma has negatively impacted you?

If so, you are not alone. I’m sure you have heard people talk about the “family curse” when discussing relationships, trauma, or abuse. As one from a multi-ethnic family, I have heard the same.

Intergenerational trauma is the idea that unresolved trauma from previous generations has, in...

[Read More ...]

Tornado Brain: Taming the Whirlwind of Anxiety

Anxiety feels like showing up to the start of a marathon with zero preparation. You haven’t trained a day in your life, and you have no idea what you’re doing. Common sense tells you this is a long race, you need to pace to survive. But without warning, and out of your control, a powerful force won’t let you. It takes over and you sprint the first few miles, burn out, then fall to the side of the road confused and frustrated.

Is everyone else experiencing this? How are they able to...

[Read More ...]

Racism, Sexual Assault Issues May Challenge Collegians’ Mental Health

A text mining analysis of academic and news articles related to mental health issues finds that racism, violence and sexual assault are key contributors to mental health challenges for college students.

North Carolina State University researchers believe their findings highlight the pressing need for mental health services. On a positive note, they believe mobile technologies may be able to help address these needs.

“We had found in our previous work that students are concerned about...

[Read More ...]

Moral Outrage Can Help Drive Social Change

While outrage is often seen as an obstacle in the path to civil debate, in a new study a team of psychologists suggests that moral outrage — anger at the violation of one’s own moral standards — may be an important catalyst for people to take part in long-term collective action.

For their analysis, the researchers from Pennsylvania State University looked over a variety of studies investigating the dynamics of outrage. They presented their new findings in the journal Trends in...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/25/moral-outrage-can-help-drive-social-change/139794.html

Podcast: The Problem of Workplace Bullying

 

Bullying is a huge problem in society. Many people believe that it’s something that takes place just in school and online, but it’s also unfortunately present in the work environment, as many listeners will likely agree. This episode looks at the topic of workplace bullying, covering the definition and causes of it, the extended damage it can inflict (including the damage “taken home”), and the pattern that workplace bullying often follows. Also discussed is “mobbing,”...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/podcast-the-problem-of-workplace-bullying/

Moral Outrage Can Help Drive Social Change

While outrage is often seen as an obstacle in the path to civil debate, in a new study a team of psychologists suggests that moral outrage — anger at the violation of one’s own moral standards — may be an important catalyst for people to take part in long-term collective action.

For their analysis, the researchers from Pennsylvania State University looked over a variety of studies investigating the dynamics of outrage. They presented their new findings in the journal Trends in...

[Read More ...]

Podcast: The Problem of Workplace Bullying

 

Bullying is a huge problem in society. Many people believe that it’s something that takes place just in school and online, but it’s also unfortunately present in the work environment, as many listeners will likely agree. This episode looks at the topic of workplace bullying, covering the definition and causes of it, the extended damage it can inflict (including the damage “taken home”), and the pattern that workplace bullying often follows. Also discussed is “mobbing,”...

[Read More ...]

Prime Minister, now is the time to translate your commitments into action.

[Read More ...]

source http://www.rethink.org/news-views/2018/10/prime-minister-now-is-the-time-to-translate-your-commitments-into-action

Prime Minister, now is the time to translate your commitments into action.

[Read More ...]

Scientific Meeting » The NIMH Director’s Innovation Speaker Series: America’s Hidden Mental Health Crisis - Alisa Roth and John McCarthy

One of the most horrific—and least acknowledged--effects of mass incarceration is the epidemic of mental illness in our jails and prisons. On November 13, 2018, Alisa Roth, journalist and author of Insane: America’s Criminal Treatment of Mental Illness, will explain how this happened—and how we can fix it. Montgomery County Maryland’s State’s Attorney, John McCarthy, will discuss how mental health courts have improved public safety, prevented inappropriate incarceration, and...
[Read More ...]

source https://www.nimh.nih.gov/news/events/announcements/the-nimh-directors-innovation-speaker-series-americas-hidden-mental-health-crisis-alisa-roth-and-john-mccarthy.shtml?utm_source=rss_readers&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=rss_summary

Coping with Life’s Literal Clutter

Back in 2015, I published a collection of my previously published Psych Central pieces in an E-Book titled Coping With Life’s Clutter. Whether it’s relationship issues or introspective woes, I wanted this collection to be about life’s various stresses, and how we can try to deal with them to the best of our ability.

I recently had a job interview where the prospective employer perused my resume and asked about this very book. His eyes lit up as he inquired about the title and the...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/coping-with-lifes-literal-clutter/

The Best Time Management Techniques for Living a Fulfilling, Satisfying Life

Time management isn’t about cramming more tasks into your day. It isn’t about reaching Inbox Zero. It isn’t about saving several minutes by pre-sorting the laundry (or not) or minimizing trips to the trash can (yes, that’s really a tip from a magazine article). It’s not about making lunch the night before or even multitasking (or single-tasking).   

Time management is about “choosing well,” said Leslie Garcia, LCSW, a psychotherapist and founder of Counseling Space in New...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/the-best-time-management-techniques-for-living-a-fulfilling-satisfying-life/

Study: Antipsychotics Do Not Improve ICU Delirium

Critically ill patients do not benefit from the antipsychotic medications commonly used for four decades to treat delirium in the intensive care unit (ICU), according to a large, multi-site study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Rather, using an approach that uses the least amount of sedation while keeping the patient comfortable, involving the family and getting the patient moving around provides the most benefit.

Each year, more than 7 million patients in U.S. hospitals...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/24/study-antipsychotics-do-not-improve-icu-delirium/139762.html

New Smartphone App Aims to Reduce OCD Symptoms

University of Cambridge researchers in the U.K. have developed a smartphone application that shows promise in helping reduce the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Investigators reported the brain training app — not yet available to the public — can lead to significant improvements after only one week of use.

Excessive hand-washing and contamination fears are symptoms of a common type of OCD, affecting up to 46 percent of OCD patients. Excessive washing can be harmful as...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/24/new-smartphone-app-aims-to-reduce-ocd-symptoms/139749.html

Severe Grief Can Lead to Fatal Inflammation

Severe grief is tied to greater levels of inflammation in the body, and that can prove fatal, according to a new study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology.

“Previous research has shown that inflammation contributes to almost every disease in older adulthood,” said lead author Dr. Chris Fagundes, an assistant professor of psychological sciences at Rice University in Houston.

“We also know that depression is linked to higher levels of inflammation, and those who lose a...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/24/severe-grief-can-lead-to-fatal-inflammation/139758.html

Scientific Meeting » The NIMH Director’s Innovation Speaker Series: America’s Hidden Mental Health Crisis - Alisa Roth and John McCarthy

One of the most horrific—and least acknowledged--effects of mass incarceration is the epidemic of mental illness in our jails and prisons. On November 13, 2018, Alisa Roth, journalist and author of Insane: America’s Criminal Treatment of Mental Illness, will explain how this happened—and how we can fix it. Montgomery County Maryland’s State’s Attorney, John McCarthy, will discuss how mental health courts have improved public safety, prevented inappropriate incarceration, and...
[Read More ...]

Coping with Life’s Literal Clutter

Back in 2015, I published a collection of my previously published Psych Central pieces in an E-Book titled Coping With Life’s Clutter. Whether it’s relationship issues or introspective woes, I wanted this collection to be about life’s various stresses, and how we can try to deal with them to the best of our ability.

I recently had a job interview where the prospective employer perused my resume and asked about this very book. His eyes lit up as he inquired about the title and the...

[Read More ...]

The Best Time Management Techniques for Living a Fulfilling, Satisfying Life

Time management isn’t about cramming more tasks into your day. It isn’t about reaching Inbox Zero. It isn’t about saving several minutes by pre-sorting the laundry (or not) or minimizing trips to the trash can (yes, that’s really a tip from a magazine article). It’s not about making lunch the night before or even multitasking (or single-tasking).   

Time management is about “choosing well,” said Leslie Garcia, LCSW, a psychotherapist and founder of Counseling Space in New...

[Read More ...]

Study: Antipsychotics Do Not Improve ICU Delirium

Critically ill patients do not benefit from the antipsychotic medications commonly used for four decades to treat delirium in the intensive care unit (ICU), according to a large, multi-site study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

Rather, using an approach that uses the least amount of sedation while keeping the patient comfortable, involving the family and getting the patient moving around provides the most benefit.

Each year, more than 7 million patients in U.S. hospitals...

[Read More ...]

New Smartphone App Aims to Reduce OCD Symptoms

University of Cambridge researchers in the U.K. have developed a smartphone application that shows promise in helping reduce the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Investigators reported the brain training app — not yet available to the public — can lead to significant improvements after only one week of use.

Excessive hand-washing and contamination fears are symptoms of a common type of OCD, affecting up to 46 percent of OCD patients. Excessive washing can be harmful as...

[Read More ...]

Severe Grief Can Lead to Fatal Inflammation

Severe grief is tied to greater levels of inflammation in the body, and that can prove fatal, according to a new study published in the journal Psychoneuroendocrinology.

“Previous research has shown that inflammation contributes to almost every disease in older adulthood,” said lead author Dr. Chris Fagundes, an assistant professor of psychological sciences at Rice University in Houston.

“We also know that depression is linked to higher levels of inflammation, and those who lose a...

[Read More ...]

5 Things You Can Do Today to Turn PTSD into Post Traumatic Growth

If you have experienced any type of trauma, or have a family member that has experienced trauma, it can be debilitating to the core. You can’t stop replaying the event in your mind and you may feel hopeless and afraid. But what if I were to tell you that it’s possible to get rid of that pit in your stomach? And that it’s even possible to grow from your experience?

What Is Post Traumatic Growth?

Post Traumatic Growth is the rather strange phenomenon of growing from a traumatic...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/5-things-you-can-do-today-to-turn-ptsd-into-post-traumatic-growth/

5 Things You Can Do Today to Turn PTSD into Post Traumatic Growth

If you have experienced any type of trauma, or have a family member that has experienced trauma, it can be debilitating to the core. You can’t stop replaying the event in your mind and you may feel hopeless and afraid. But what if I were to tell you that it’s possible to get rid of that pit in your stomach? And that it’s even possible to grow from your experience?

What Is Post Traumatic Growth?

Post Traumatic Growth is the rather strange phenomenon of growing from a traumatic...

[Read More ...]

Is Exposure & Response Prevention Therapy a Well-Guarded Secret?

OCD Awareness Week 2018 has come and gone and there were many successful, informative events to help all those whose lives have been touched by obsessive-compulsive disorder. There was also attention paid to OCD through the national media, though I’m not sure if the two shows I watched/listened to were broadcasted because of OCD Awareness Week.

While I think the productions both did a good job debunking the myths of OCD and illustrating what the disorder is all about (as much as you can...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/is-exposure-response-prevention-therapy-a-well-guarded-secret/

How I Overcame Substance Abuse as a Teen

This is a guest blog post written by Hunter Dollar, a passionate writer who is eager to share his personal story of addiction and recovery.

This life is rarely easy, but the paths we choose, and the decisions we make, can lead to happiness if we simply let it.

My struggle with addiction began shortly after I graduated high school. It was an eventful first summer in Jacksonville, Florida. I am typically ridden with social anxiety, but I had never really attended parties before. There...

[Read More ...]

source https://www.recovery.org/how-i-overcame-substance-abuse-as-a-teen/

What It Means to Be Emotionally Safe in a Relationship

Have you ever loved someone but didn’t feel internally relaxed with him or her? Have you experienced a longing to connect, but something kept disrupting the closeness you wanted?

It’s frustrating to love someone but not experience the trust and safety that would allow the relationship to deepen. The intimacy we want may seem so close, yet sadly elusive.

Feeling emotionally safe is an essential foundation for any intimate relationship. Although not easy to build, it creates the necessary...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/blog/what-it-means-to-be-emotionally-safe-in-a-relationship/

Green Filter May Boost Reading Speed for Dyslexic Kids

Green filters appear to increase reading speed for children with dyslexia, according to a new study by Brazilian and French researchers who published their findings in the journal Research in Developmental Disabilities.

The researchers suggest the filters may help reduce visual stimuli available for central nervous system processing, thereby increasing reading speed. The filters show no effect on non-dyslexic children.

Colored filters designed for the treatment of learning disabilities,...

[Read More ...]

source https://psychcentral.com/news/2018/10/23/green-filter-may-boost-reading-speed-for-dyslexic-kids/139726.html

Is Exposure & Response Prevention Therapy a Well-Guarded Secret?

OCD Awareness Week 2018 has come and gone and there were many successful, informative events to help all those whose lives have been touched by obsessive-compulsive disorder. There was also attention paid to OCD through the national media, though I’m not sure if the two shows I watched/listened to were broadcasted because of OCD Awareness Week.

While I think the productions both did a good job debunking the myths of OCD and illustrating what the disorder is all about (as much as you can...

[Read More ...]

How I Overcame Substance Abuse as a Teen

This is a guest blog post written by Hunter Dollar, a passionate writer who is eager to share his personal story of addiction and recovery.

This life is rarely easy, but the paths we choose, and the decisions we make, can lead to happiness if we simply let it.

My struggle with addiction began shortly after I graduated high school. It was an eventful first summer in Jacksonville, Florida. I am typically ridden with social anxiety, but I had never really attended parties before. There...

[Read More ...]

What It Means to Be Emotionally Safe in a Relationship

Have you ever loved someone but didn’t feel internally relaxed with him or her? Have you experienced a longing to connect, but something kept disrupting the closeness you wanted?

It’s frustrating to love someone but not experience the trust and safety that would allow the relationship to deepen. The intimacy we want may seem so close, yet sadly elusive.

Feeling emotionally safe is an essential foundation for any intimate relationship. Although not easy to build, it creates the necessary...

[Read More ...]