Archives for 2014

Attention deficit disorder presents a variety of challenges, but are there any advantages to having this condition? You may be surprised at how many benefits there are to having ADD. If you struggle with this disorder, taking a new perspective on the negatives can help you break through the stereotypes and ultimately recognize the positives.

Finding Parallel Traits
Although there are certainly downsides to this condition, each negative symptom can be turned into an asset. You just need to look for the parallels between the good and the supposed bad. Are you easily distracted, and do you have difficulties staying on point? If so, you’re also probably inherently curious and you can see things others miss.

Many people dealing with this disorder are impulsive and restless, which means they’re creative and energetic as well. Someone who is forgetful may simply be immersed in a task, and a disorganized mind is also spontaneous. Even the most undesirable characteristics mirror constructive ones. If you’re called moody, stubborn or pushy, you can let the antagonists know you’re actually sensitive, persistent and enthusiastic.

Applying the Positives to Your Life
Attention Focusing on your strengths is like recharging your spiritual battery. Instead of allowing certain characteristics to hold you back, let them propel you toward a successful life. If you tend to be hyper-focused, use that as motivation to achieve a goal. Rather than trying to control your intense awareness of the world around you, allow your intuitiveness to guide you through social and work-related relationships.

Any absentminded tendencies you have can also be used as fuel. Pinball thoughts feed ingenuity, which means you may be the greatest asset for workplace brainstorming. If you cannot walk away from a problem, use that to your advantage as well, and be the hero who explains the seemingly inexplicable. There is a wide range of potential in your quirks, from your diverse insight on the world to your ability to empathize with others.

A diagnosis of attention deficit disorder isn’t as dismal as some people believe. If you’ve ever doubted yourself because of this condition, try shifting your point of view. You likely have an instinctive knack for metaphorically kicking challenges in the shins, so use that sass to your advantage. Once you identify your strengths, you can unlock even more potential and benefit from the very traits that held you back.

Maintaining control during an anxiety attack may seem as impossible as harnessing a tornado, but you do have some power over your own mind and body. When the emotional and physical stresses of anxiety attacks occur, you have a choice to make: You can either let panic set in or you can work on keeping calm by practicing certain mental exercises.

Breathe and Visualize
Anxiety episodes challenge your body’s natural processes, and the first to be affected is your breathing. When you’re anxious, you may breathe more shallowly or subconsciously hold your breath. This can exacerbate your fear of losing control. To initiate a mind-body relaxation mode, practice square breathing, which is repeatedly inhaling and exhaling slowly for four counts each.

Another way to soothe your senses is through calming visualizations. Imagine yourself in a situation you thoroughly enjoy, such as relaxing on a beach or standing outside during a light snowfall. Picture every sensation you may feel during those moments. This will redirect your emotions and thoughts away from the anxiety symptoms.

Accept and Trust
Anxiety is just an emotional response, and it’s more tolerable than you think. Like any other feeling, it’ll pass. The key is accepting that your mind is tricking you into panicking. Rather than falling down the what-if well, focus on the present and decide if it’s really as bad as you imagine. When you start worrying about potential issues, take a pause, and allow yourself to come up with a plan for handling specific problems.

If it’s difficult to accept what your body is experiencing, try simply trusting yourself. Anxiety overrides logic, so concentrate on the fact that you have overcome many things in life already. Use these positive affirmations to alter the picture in your frenzied mind. Combine the constructive thoughts with yoga and meditation to quiet any alarms your brain sends during an attack.

The main thing to remember during anxiety attacks is that you have the choice to remain calm. It just takes practice, commitment and even some faith. These mental exercises work because they change the way the brain processes sensations and assigns emotions. You can be uncomfortable, but you don’t have to be so reactive to anxiety. Whenever you feel flustered, try a couple of these techniques. You may be surprised at how much authority over your body you actually have.

If you have ever experienced an anxiety attack, you’re probably familiar with the fear of not having control over your mind or body. During an attack, it can be difficult to stay focused long enough to calm yourself. In order to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety attacks, it may help to understand and anticipate the changes in the body during an episode.

How Does an Attack Begin?
Everyone experiences these types of attacks differently, but there are some common signs to look out for. Panic is often triggered by specific situations, so it may be helpful to analyze your day-to-day stress points. Attacks of anxiety don’t necessarily have to stem from circumstances, and many people experience moments of panic abruptly and unexpectedly. Read More

Most children experience some type of disconnect with the world around them due to lack of interest, forgetfulness or a short attention span. In some cases, these emotional disruptions are caused by attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity. As a parent, it can be difficult determining the difference between a child with ADHD and one who is just a fidgety daydreamer.

What is ADHD?
ADD and ADHD are disorders that emerge during early childhood. The signs of each disorder vary from child to child, but the main characteristics to watch out for are hyperactivity, impulsivity and the inability to remain focused. These issues can adversely affect a child’s learning capabilities, mental health and social skills. This is why it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible.

There aren’t any clear-cut tests regarding ADHD. However, a physician can provide a valid assessment based on the child’s behavioral patterns. If your son or daughter seems to channel the energy of a kitten on catnip at the most inopportune moments, your physician may want to take a closer look at the cause by interviewing the child as well as teachers and caregivers.

How can you Determine if it’s ADHD or Something Else?
Certain medical issues mimic the signs of attention deficit disorder. Your physician should rule out other possibilities to offer an accurate diagnosis. One of the main conditions often mistaken as ADHD is bipolar mood disorder. The two share similar symptoms such as restlessness, mood shifts, emotional outbursts and impatience. However, bipolar disorder is typically intermittent and based on moods, while ADHD is chronic and based on behavior and attention span.

Other issues that may be to blame for your squirmy, distracted or impetuous little one include:

• hearing loss
• overactive or underactive thyroid
• dyslexia or other learning problems
• autism spectrum disorder
• sensory processing disorder

What Lifestyle Factors Produce ADHD Symptoms?
Your son or daughter may not have any medical condition triggering his or her symptoms. A poor diet or blood sugar issues often cause hyperactivity or concentrations problems. If sugarcoated marshmallow cereal, carb-loaded salty snacks and caffeinated soda are your child’s main sources of nutrition, you can expect some drastic changes in behavior.

Depression, anxiety, stress and lack of sleep can also affect focus, mood and conduct. The key is to decide whether or not any negative behavior is long lasting, recurring or on a higher level compared to other children. A child with ADHD usually displays the associated characteristics in a variety of situations as well. Simply exhibiting excessive energy on the playground or daydreaming in class aren’t necessarily red flags.

Rather than assuming your child has an attention disorder, it’s more advantageous to eliminate other possibilities first. There may be a simple fix to the problem that would otherwise go unrealized with an inaccurate diagnosis. You can learn more about obtaining a proper evaluation for your child by visiting our homepage or contacting us directly.

Autism and related disorders can be difficult to manage, particularly in children or young adults. Although there are no definitive cures or causes for the disorder, nutrition may play a considerable role when it comes to autism symptoms. Virtually all autistic children experience some type of food sensitivity, which can generate or intensify the symptoms.

Establishing a Proper Diet to Manage Symptoms
If your child’s symptoms are aggravated at certain times of the day, his or her diet may be the culprit. Artificial flavorings, colorings, sweeteners and preservatives may cause mood changes, poor concentration, headaches, sleep disorders, hyperactivity, respiratory issues or learning problems. Eliminating these types of additives may be the first step toward controlling the autism.

Your child may also simply be intolerant to digesting or absorbing certain food substances, such as casein and gluten. Removing these from the diet may improve social function, cognitive skills and general behavior. Blood sugar imbalances and the consumption of high-fructose corn syrup can contribute to the symptoms of autism as well, so it’s a good idea to monitor intake of natural and artificial sugars.

Using Supplements to Improve Emotional and Physical Health
Some vitamins and minerals are essential for enhancing the health of autistic children. Increasing your child’s intake of vitamin B6, magnesium, vitamin D, zinc and vitamin C may positively affect his or her sleep patterns, social interaction, educational abilities, speech or temperament. When starting your child on any supplements, add one at a time for a few weeks so that you can properly evaluate any changes.

You may also want to increase the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in your little one’s diet. Doing so may lessen anxiety, impulsivity, aggression and hyperactivity. To alleviate any digestion complications associated with autism, consider introducing probiotics, antifungals or digestive enzymes to his or her nutritional routine. It may take some trial and error before you notice positive results.

Food sensitivities affect autism symptoms in a variety of ways, and every child’s system reacts differently. The best way to decode any dietary difficulties is to begin with basic alterations. Offer plenty of natural, whole food options. As the nutritional schedule becomes more balanced, your child’s health and brain function will likely improve. If you need help getting started, check out our homepage. You can also contact one of our experts for tips on developing a wholesome diet.

There is no denying that anxiety is a widespread problem, but does that mean those suffering should consume endless amounts of medications for a few moments of relief? Using pharmaceuticals to calm the nerves is like raising the white flag of defeat. If you want to fight back, take control of your body and mind with these natural treatments.

Passionflower
In extract form, passionflower is highly potent for soothing the nerves. Use it as needed for your anxiety-based headaches, muscle pain, nervousness, mood swings and insomnia.

Chamomile
This herbal sedative is one of the best natural remedies for anxiety. While it may not control severe cases, chamomile can decrease tension in the mind and body.

Kava
The root of the kava plant is often used in medicine, and it’s well-known for treating the mental aspects of anxiety. If your brain is constantly on fast-forward, this may be the best option.

L-theanine
This amino acid makes it easier to manage the emotional rollercoaster you may experience day to day, and it’s helpful in controlling all versions of anxiety.

Exercise
The right exercise techniques can curb the effects of anxiety. Moving your body is like turning on every healthy switch in your system. Exercise provides immediate relief as well as long-term benefits.

Breathing
It may sound preposterous, but purposefully performing your most basic function may soothe your angst. Methodical breathing can thwart an anxiety attack, and daily deep-breathing exercises will encourage continued relaxation.

Meditation
Most people know the advantages meditation provides, but certain techniques are better than others for treating anxiety. If you want to stamp out your worries, begin by focusing on what’s actually occurring in the moment rather than projecting yourself into an unclear future.

In many cases, popping pills is not only unnecessary, it’s unsafe. These natural options can be just as effective as medication for quieting those deafening inner voices. The advantage is that you will likely experience fewer side effects, you’ll retain a clear mind and you won’t have to worry about addiction.

No matter what type of anxiety you suffer from, you may benefit from thinking outside the box. If you have concerns about using these or other natural remedies for anxiety, contact one of our experts. We can help you decide when and how to go natural so that you can free yourself from the demons inside.

Stress, anxiety and emotional upset are like speed bumps on the road of your life. They can cause significant damage if you don’t keep them under control. Managing daily stresses involves taking charge. In order to learn how to control anxiety and other types of mental distress, you need to act rather than react. There are numerous actions you can take to minimize your anxieties.

Get Physical in Emotional Chaos
Whenever you feel upset, worried or anxious, your entire body suffers. This is due to the strong link between body and mind. Because there is such a connection, physical activity can calm your nerves. Regular exercise releases chemicals that enhance mood. Nearly any type of gentle activity will rejuvenate your mind, but it’s best to choose pursuits that you’ll enjoy.

You don’t have to run five miles or spend hours in a gym to take a break from the demons in your head. Just getting your body moving is a distraction from your reflection. Something as simple as running errands or taking a walk through the park will shift your focus. Even a short yoga session can soothe your nerves and refresh your mind as well as your body.

Put the Negatives in a Timeout
Anxieties and mental stresses wreak havoc on the psyche, but they can be suppressed long enough for you to put things into perspective. One of the best ways to do so is through meditation. This may involve sitting in silence and creating a blackness in your mind, using visualization techniques, repeating self-supportive mantras or focusing your concentration on an object such as a candle flame.

You can send your negative thoughts to the timeout chair in other ways as well. Connecting with the people you love, listening to relaxing music or reading your favorite book may give you the brief break you need. Concentrating on the moment rather than the what-ifs is also helpful. Instead of panicking over the pressure of the days to come, work on only getting through the next minute.

Practice Instant Gratification
Psychological turmoil is the body’s way of throwing a tantrum, and putting an end to the fit often requires immediate action. Deep breathing is an effective way to relax the muscles and nerves, and it triggers an instant positive reaction. You can also use your senses to prompt quick relief from anxiety. This may entail gazing at the clouds, lighting incense or draping a soft blanket around your body.

No matter how you choose to calm yourself during moments of distress, you should know when to seek specialized help. If your symptoms worsen or don’t subside, it may be time to get medical attention. You can visit our homepage or contact us directly to learn how to control anxiety with or without professional assistance.

Anxiety is a common problem for people of all ages and backgrounds, but the causes behind this condition vary from person to person. More and more health care workers are researching what causes anxiety so that better treatment plans can be executed. Although mental imbalances are often to blame, there are certain physical issues that can produce high levels of emotional uneasiness.

Nutritional Deficiencies
One of the most widespread *triggers of anxiety* is poor nutrition. A vitamin deficiency or problems with vitamin absorption can generate anxiety and panic. Sensitivity to food, a sugar imbalance and even digestive complications are common causes as well. If your anxiety symptoms occur shortly after you eat, adjusting your diet with the help of a physician may keep the emotions under control.

Environmental or Chemical Toxicity
Your mental unrest may be caused by contaminants in your system. Mold and other allergens can create significant emotional instability. Mercury poisoning and chemical pollutants such as insecticides have also been linked to panic and anxiety disorders. Consider whether or not you’ve been exposed to such toxins so that you can undergo the proper testing and avoid contact with the culprit.

Drugs and Medications
There is a wide range of medicines, over-the-counter and prescribed, that can create long-lasting anxiety. Alcohol, illegal drugs and certain stimulants may also result in emotional distress that mimics anxiety disorders. The process for determining which drug or medication may be causing your anxiety can be overwhelming, but taking a systematic approach with a health care provider will simplify things.

Hormonal Imbalances
Hormones are like coaches leading the different processes in your body to victory. When there is a disruption of the hormones, your system suffers multiple losses, which frequently includes the loss of emotional control. Issues with cortisol, estrogen and thyroid hormone production can affect your mental health in substantial ways. If a hormonal imbalance is causing your anxiety, you can take medications to even out the levels and ultimately calm your mind.

Infections
Viral and bacterial infections can do more than rage a physical war in your body; they can assault your emotions without your knowledge. Strep infections, brain inflammation and even the flu often cause psychological turmoil. Although the resulting anxiety may not be preventable, you can take measures to ensure your symptoms don’t spiral out of control. Treating the physical issue immediately may help you avoid extreme mental chaos.

These physical causes of anxiety are often overlooked, which can lead to improper treatment. Instead of simply using medication to treat the symptoms, it’s more beneficial to find out what causes anxiety in the first place. If anxiety has become an unwelcome guest in your life, you may have more options than you realize. Contact one of our experts to determine which steps you should take regarding treatment.

ADHD is a serious neurological disorder that is often misdiagnosed. This is partly because a number of other medical, biological and psychological conditions share symptoms with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. These issues may or may not accompany ADHD, which can make the diagnostic process even more difficult. With all the confusion, how do you determine if your child has ADHD or something else?

Getting an Accurate Diagnosis
There are no laboratory tests for determining the presence of ADHD. Your physician will essentially rely on a checklist of behavioral patterns in your child. Careful observation of psychological symptoms is also necessary. The process is a team effort, and parents, other caregivers, teachers and health care providers all need to work together in order to come up with a proper evaluation.

Your son or daughter should also undergo a comprehensive physical examination. This will rule out many common conditions that often get confused with ADHD. It’s important that any underlying health issues are not overlooked. Your doctor should consider all possible explanations so that he or she can develop the best and most personalized treatment plan for your child.

Avoiding the Blame Game
Many doctors and parents assume that certain symptoms are the result of ADHD simply because the disorder is so prevalent. This can be risky if a child has a more serious condition. Although ADHD may be present, other health issues should still be considered. It’s critical to evaluate all the symptoms, particularly new ones, and it’s equally important to carefully analyze any additional symptoms that aren’t associated with ADHD.

Misdiagnosing ADHD can create more health problems, especially if the wrong medication is prescribed. A stimulant is often the first recommendation, but this type of treatment may do more harm than good for a child who simply needs a healthier diet, physical stimulation or an allergy shot. A misdiagnosis can also mean the child won’t receive the correct medicine for his or her actual condition.

Seeking the Proper Medical Attention
Because there are many serious health conditions with symptoms similar to ADHD, getting the right diagnosis is essential. When seeking medical attention for your son or daughter, provide a complete list of symptoms so that all possibilities can be explored. Issues such as aggression, bed-wetting and short-term memory loss can be the result of hypoglycemia, a bladder condition or lead poisoning rather than an attention deficit disorder.

Nearly all the symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder could be due to unrelated issues. Improperly diagnosing a child with ADHD or disregarding additional conditions can create long-term problems. If you need assistance determining if your child’s ADHD symptoms are the result of other health issues, contact one of our specialists. We’ll clear up the confusion so that you can get your child the proper treatment.

Juvenile crime is on the rise, and an increasing number of repeat offenders are weaving in and out of the court system every year. Because of the high proportion of youths in the justice system, court authorities are seeking answers when it comes to the rationale behind a juvenile’s behaviors. This is why forensic psychologists are essential pieces to the family court puzzle.

Why is Forensic Psychology Necessary?
Many juvenile offenders have underlying mental and emotional disorders, and some have been exposed to abuse, neglect or other family dysfunctions. A forensic psychologist can determine the mental health history and current psychological status of an offender, which is the first step toward providing rehabilitation and preventing future crime.

The court system frequently orders evaluations based on the prosecution’s request. In some cases, the minor’s attorney may suggest a mental health assessment as a defense tactic. The information gathered during an evaluation is vital because it helps define what type of rehabilitation would be best. A psychologist’s recommended treatment plans are often integrated into the juvenile sentencing.

How is the Evaluation Performed?
During an evaluation, the mental health professional typically reviews the criminal history of the juvenile, examines school records and explores the youth’s social activities and behaviors. Parents and other members of the family may be interviewed as well. Comprehensive psychological assessment is the key to finding a connection between criminal activity and emotional instability.

A psychologist may also administer personality tests or use other techniques to identify mental issues. Possible findings include depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, sociopathic issues or even post-traumatic stress disorder. If your son or daughter is ordered to undergo this type of clinical evaluation, you may be surprised by the mental forces behind any behavioral problems.

What are the Most Common Treatment Plans?
A psychologist can suggest various therapeutic solutions for a judge to consider. Some juveniles only require one type of rehabilitation, while others need more extensive treatments. Standard, continual psychological exams, substance abuse management therapy and educational support are common recommendations. The juvenile court will either offer the proper treatment or authorize other authorities to provide the necessary aid.

Once a mental health examiner confirms a relationship between the youth’s criminal conduct and any psychological disorders, offering rehabilitation may decrease the likelihood of repeat behaviors. This is why psychologists and psychotherapists are indispensable for minors entering the justice system. If you have a child or young adult who has committed multiple criminal offenses, a psychological evaluation may be beneficial.