Our body has many nerves that come out of our spinal cord and perform various functions, from controlling our muscles to carrying pain sensations. There are twelve nerves that emerge directly from our brain and brain stem. These are called the cranial nerves, and [...]
It is on a daily basis that I get consulted about using alternative modalities to treat various mental health difficulties. By alternatives, I mean “other than the conventional psychotropic interventions”. Following are the points to consider when thinking about treatment options. -Mental health problems come [...]
In 1951 a sociologist named Talcott Parsons, coined the concept of Sick Role. It tries to define the role of a sick person in a society. Sickness or illness is viewed as a departure from the regular state of affairs in a society. Society tends [...]
One of the things that characterizes many mental health problems, particularly depression is the vicious cycle that a person finds himself caught up in. The lack of ability to pull oneself out of problematic behavior patterns, contributes to more problems with self esteem and [...]
The past few decades of medical research have shown unequivocally that those with chronic stressors in their lives are more vulnerable to disease. Chronic stress has a significant effect on the immune system that may ultimately manifest an illness. The illness can be physical (like heart [...]
A great ADD resource found its way across my web browser and I thought I would share it. I love the interface and the individual flare of Totally ADD. The site is dedicated to helping adults with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and their loved ones, coworkers [...]
Spontaneity is a voluntary or undetermined action. It is frequently observed that in difficult times, spontaneity disappears. A state akin to freezing up happens. Security is desired. Predictability is desired. Spontaneous decisions tend to be a trade off for more predictable decisions; yet both [...]
Integrative or Holistic Psychiatry is an approach that considers and utilizes both conventional and complementary therapies in addressing emotional and mental challenges. I will try explaining it with the help of an anecdote about Nasreddin. Nasreddin was a Sufi wise man who taught important lessons about life through subtle [...]
For the sake of knowledge Faust sold his soul. There are many who have died in the struggle for freedom of expression. Information's importance to the world today can't be overstated; yet with all that we possess right at our finger tips, it's more [...]