Self-esteem is an opinion we have of ourselves; a way of placing value on ourselves as people. While we may voice characteristics such as “I’m American” or “I have brown eyes,” these are facts that don’t carry a negative or positive connotation. A low self-esteem suggests we carry a negative opinion of ourselves. For example, […]
Just Plain Ol’ Boyhood or Oppositional Defiant Disorder?
The old expression “Boys will be boys,” describes types of behavior that may not be appreciated by parents (or sisters). These behaviors, though typically unwelcomed, are rather benign in cause and effect. For instance, a typical boy might think it’s funny to put a frog in his sister’s bed. Two young boys might decide their […]
How to Tell if Therapy is Right for You
When it comes to your physical health, it’s pretty easy to know whether or not you need to see a doctor. If you catch a cold, there’s really no need to make an appointment; however, if you break your ankle, you need to immediately get to an emergency room. But when it comes to your […]
4 Things You Need to Know About Adolescent Anxiety
Anxiety is like fire: It can keep us safe and warm, or completely devastate our property and our lives. It’s good to be a little anxious at times. When walking down a deserted street at night, anxiety keeps us on alert and ready to fight or take flight should a dangerous situation arise. But for […]
Chronic Stress: Modern Day Plague
We all know or have been told that stress is killing us. However, the questions remain of: How is it killing me? What can I do about it? The Amygdala-Hypothalamus-Adrenal Axis is the structure that bridges our brain to our body and directs our “fight or flight” response. It is an essential mechanism that provides […]
Attention Problems Are Only the Tip of the Iceberg
What does it mean to have attention problems? Hyperactivity and inattention are problems that can make a child’s academic experience miserable, and lead to serious self-esteem issues stemming from feeling and being told they are “stupid” or are “behavior problems.” It disrupts a person’s ability to learn, read, concentrate, and makes them an inadvertent lightning […]