Jon is a 32-year-old construction worker, who recently returned from six years of service in the Middle East. Throughout those years, he only came home on leave three times. While in combat, he was exposed to some very traumatic events such as picking up body parts of his friends who died, surviving a bomb attack on his platoon, and making raids on populated areas. He thought he was okay when his service ended, despite the fact, that he did have some nightmares. Since returning home, … [Read more...]
What is Gaslighting?
August 15, 2024 By
We often talk about “gaslighting” in connection with a manipulative behavior used by a narcissist in dealing with their victim. The term originated in a 1930's play called Gas Light, in which the main character is attempting to make his wife believe she is going crazy by dimming the lights ever so slightly each day, and convincing her it is all in her head. It was later made into a movie starring Charles Boyer and Ingrid Bergman which emphasized the way male privilege is used to gain power over … [Read more...]
Are You in A Relationship with A Narcissist?
July 15, 2024 By
Do you ever wonder why your husband only cares about his interests and activities? Does he do as much for you as you do for him? Does your good friend consistently ignore what you care about yet go on and on about his own needs? Do you feel unheard even when you take the time to tell your boyfriend what is important to you and how you feel? You might be in a relationship with a narcissist. Narcissism, a term that is often bandied about casually, is actually a psychiatric diagnosis … [Read more...]
Quieting Your Inner Critic
July 9, 2024 By
One may think that all eyes are on us when we’re out and about. We may hear an acquaintance say “Look at what she’s wearing today!” Comments like this may be normal but, ultimately, we are our own worst critic and it is vital that we not take it to heart. Recently I read an article in the New York Times titled Learn to Quiet Your Inner Critic by Christina Caron and in today’s day and age it couldn’t be more relevant. Inner criticism stems from our constant want, not need, to be … [Read more...]
Understanding Postpartum Depression (PPD)
May 30, 2024 By
For most women, bringing home their new baby is one of the happiest days of their lives. But research shows that about one in eight new mothers struggle with postpartum depression and that the statistic climbed as high as one in three during the COVID pandemic. The mood swings that most new moms experience usually subside within the first month after giving birth, but for mothers with postpartum depression negative emotions and trouble bonding with the baby can go on for a long … [Read more...]