New Jersey’s winter weather may have us in its grips and, for some people, the darker days hold on strong with symptoms of depression. Diagnosed by clinical psychologists and psychiatrists as Major Depressive Disorder with seasonal pattern, this form of depression is often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). The usual characteristics of SAD include depression, social withdrawal, lethargy, hopelessness, and lack of interest in normal activities. You may also experience difficulty … [Read more...]
Inspiration: Overcoming Anxiety
December 20, 2013 By
Following a talk I presented on anxiety on November 14, 2013 for friends of the Rumson-Fair Haven Friends of Different Learners, a woman shared her inspiring story with me about how she overcame a lifetime of anxiety. I believe we can all relate in some way to her struggle to overcome fear. As we approach the New Year and we think about resolutions, I hope this story will encourage you to think about the things you can do to live a happy, healthy and more productive 2014. Anxiety, whether … [Read more...]
A Stress-Free Holiday…the best gift you can give yourself!
November 26, 2013 By
It's Christmas Day. Your teenage son is refusing to emerge from his darkened bedroom because the love of his life (relationship duration: three weeks) has broken up with him. Your favorite cousin has fallen (leapt?) off the wagon right in your living room and upended the rum into the eggnog bowl. It’s no longer "laced" with liquor - it's positively trussed. And while we're on trussing: Your turkey- that lovely, fresh 22- pounder you had to pay a proverbial arm and leg for— seems to be cooking at … [Read more...]
Workshop: Smart But Scattered: Helping Students Cope with Executive Function Challenges
November 18, 2013 By
Freehold Regional High School District Special Education Advisory Council (SEAC) Presents Smart But Scattered: Helping Students Cope with Executive Function Challenges a Workshop by Alison Block, P.h.D. Tuesday, February 18, 2014 Doors Open 6:30/Presentation: 7:00 pm Colts Neck High School 59 Five Points Road Colts Neck, New Jersey 07722 Do any of these describe your child? • Disorganized desk and a messy backpack • Often loses things • Forgets to finish or turn in … [Read more...]
Is Your Child’s Profile Happier than Her Real Life? Social Media Use and Anxiety in Children
November 18, 2013 By
If you are on Facebook you already know what a recent study found - it makes you sad. Researchers revealed that the more young people used Facebook, the more they became dissatisfied with their lives. How ironic that the social network we use for fun and connection can lead to sadness and disconnect! From TV to smart phones to social media, the lives of U.S. children and families are dominated 24/7 by media exposure. It’s only now that we are beginning to research and understand its … [Read more...]
