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...]
Understanding Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
June 26, 2013 By
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Day is Thursday, June 27th. Millions of children and adults across the United States suffer from the effects of PTSD, and evidence suggests that over seven million adults suffer from the disorder each year. As these numbers continue to rise, both government and mental health professionals pursue ways to control the growing epidemic. Many people associate PTSD with a soldier who has … [Read more...]
Mental Health of Families Displaced by Hurricane Sandy
January 16, 2013 By
It may be the start of a New Year, but for many families from across the NY/NJ region reconstruction, building debris and construction crews are daily reminders of Hurricane Sandy. The media covered the events surrounding Sandy for months, but although the reporting has died down, the personal and emotional loss felt by many remains. Personally, I was affected by the storm when my Little Silver, NJ office was flooded. For the first month or so following the storm, I worked on the second floor … [Read more...]
Understanding Anxiety Disorders
September 19, 2012 By
Getting sweaty palms and “butterflies” in the stomach right before an important job interview, a big speech, a first date or any challenging situation is normal. Anxiety disorders, however, are medical illnesses that differ dramatically from normal feelings of nervousness. The symptoms of these disorders often occur without any warning and can actually interfere with one’s life. Anxiety is the most common medical illness in the U.S., afflicting upwards of 20 million Americans. If left … [Read more...]