Men Don’t Report

Depression as Often as Women

Schizophrenia: Diagnosis & Treatment Strategies

Does Your Child Have an Eating Disorder? You Are Not Alone

thebeautifulmindfoundation.org

Sept 2015

Potomac Village - It Takes a Village

The mission of

The Beautiful Mind

Foundation is to dispel

the stigma and shame of

mental illness so people

will feel comfortable

getting help without

feeling judged and

ridiculed. We work to

empower people with

mood and anxiety

disorders; by increasing

awareness we provide a

stronger opportunity for

a full, meaningful life.

Men Don’t Report

Depression as Often as Women

Depression’s Not Just a Women’s IssueBoth men and women feel that symptoms of depression include feeling loneliness, sadness and hopelessness. While these feelings are common — especially among women — men often show different symptoms, so they don’t recognize the symptoms as signs of depression.

Men Often Don’t Recognize DepressionSymptomsBoth men and women feel that symptoms of depression include feeling loneliness, sadness and hopelessness. While these feelings are common — especially among women — men often show different symptoms, so they don’t recognize the symptoms as signs of depression.

Health Risks of Hanging ToughMen comprise 75 to 80 percent of all suicides in the United States, according to WebMD, and many of these cases can be traced to the cause of untreated depression.[2] EveryDayHealth.com reports that five major health risks that are caused or aggravated by untreated depression:[3]Cases of heart disease are more likely among depressed people, and more depressed people die after suffering heart attacks.Ÿ Depressed people often eat poorly and develop adult-onset diabetes.Ÿ People are more likely to ignore symptoms of other disorders when depressed.Ÿ Depressed people often become obese and face all the health risks of being overweight.Ÿ Depression can worsen conditions like osteoporosis by affecting calcium deposits, which

weakens bones. Men have been conditioned to hang tough and externalize their symptoms, which actually increases the risks to their health instead of providing relief. Instead of reporting their symptoms of depression, men are more likely to drink alcohol or self-medicate with drugs, behave recklessly, get into fights or behave aggressively toward their partners or families.

Trying to determine how many people are af fected by c l in ical depress ion is complicated by the fact that men under-report instances of depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Even though women are 70 percent more likely to become depressed, more than six million men suffer from depression but seldom get treated, according to Dr. Amit Anand, the vice-chair of the Lerner College of Medicine’s Center for Behavioral Health.[1] Men suppress their feelings on many issues because they’re expected to take risks, provide for their families, fight wars and never complain about physical problems and mental health issues.

Even though gender barriers are dropping, many men view talking about their emotions, stress and depression as weaknesses that make them less worthy or masculine than what’s considered “normal.” Throughout history, men have been encouraged to “man up,” “bite the bullet.” and “take one for the team.”Trying to determine how many people are affected by clinical depression is complicated by the fact that men under-report instances of depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Even though women are 70 percent more likely to become depressed, more than six million men suffer from depression but seldom get treated, according to Dr. Amit Anand, the vice-chair of the Lerner College of Medicine’s Center for Behavioral Health.[1]

Why Men Don’t Recognize or Report Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms of DepressionMen and women might display different symptoms of depression because women tend to internalize their feelings while men externalize them. Women often cry for no apparent reason, compensate by overeating and rehash negative feelings of self-worth. Women are also susceptible to cycles of depression, which are based on changes in their bodies caused by menstrual cycles, pregnancy and hormonal changes. Men tend to self-medicate, become obsessive about sex, sports and exercise, attempt risky stunts and engage in other behaviors that are considered unsafe. The common symptoms of depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, include:[5]

Ÿ Sleep disordersŸ Feelings of sadness, anxiety and emptinessŸ Loss of interest in normal activitiesŸ FatigueŸ Feeling hopelessnessŸ Having difficulty concentrating and remembering detailsŸ Changes in eating habitsŸ Experiencing body aches, cramps, headaches and digestive upsetsŸ Thinking about death and suicideŸ Having trouble getting motivated for normal activitiesŸ Losing interest in sex

Men don’t report their depression symptoms because of masculine stoicism, cultural pressures to take adversity in stride and conditioning not to express t h e i r e m o t i o n s . H o w ev e r, ev e n e n l i g hte n e d m e n m a y co n s i d e r depression to be a women’s disorder or not recognize the signs, which differ from women’s internalized soul-searching symptoms. Therefore, men are less likely to recognize depression or seek treatment if they suspect they have the disorder. The reasons for not getting treated are complex and varied but include:

Depressed men often commit suicide, take Cultural Gender Stereotypes unnecessary risks and bury their feelings in In the United States and many patriarchal sports, alcohol, drugs, television and excessive cu l tures , express ing emot ion i s sexual pursuits.considered a feminine trait. Male Stoicism

Men have been expected to train hard for Men can treat their depression in many ways that Men Ascribe Symptoms to Physical centuries for sports, warfare and work by include seeking professional therapy, joining a Causes developing physical strength and working support group, volunteering, exercising regularly, Men often work at demanding physical through pain and discomfort stoically. eating well, getting enough sleep and connecting jobs and feel that their symptoms are with others socially. Medications may help caused by physical activities. Instead of Effects of Aging temporarily but don’t usually treat the underlying recognizing signs of depression, men Men often view their symptoms as normal causes.report back pain, sexual problems, signs of aging. Gaining weight, getting sleeping difficulties or headaches. fatigued more easily, developing aches and If anyone suspects that he, she or a friend shows

pains and breaking bones when growing signs of depression, seek medical help or Sexuality older are viewed as consequences of age and encourage the person to get a physical exam.D e p r e s s i o n a n d a n t i d e p r e s s a n t not as signs of depression. medications can affect sexual desire and It’s helpful to list all the symptoms before seeing a performance, which men don’t like to Depression carries severe physical and medical or mental health professional postpone discuss. emotional risks, but the condition is a making any life-changing decisions. Building a

treatable health disorder and not a sign of strong social network for support can help Men Respond to Symptoms Differently weakness or femininity. Left untreated, depression victims to cope with the disorder. than Women depression can destroy relationships and Encourage anyone with depression not to expect Women with depression tend to develop cause heart attacks and other serious instant cures but gradual improvements in mood feelings of worthlessness and sadness medical conditions. each day. People don’t become depressed while men become aggressive, irritable or overnight, so they shouldn’t expect to get better hostile. without working on the problem.

Schizophrenia: Diagnosis & Treatment Strategies

Over the last few decades, great strides have been made in understanding and treating schizophrenia. Hospitalizations are rarer and briefer than they used to be, and improved antipsychotic meds have made symptoms more manageable. The public is better educated, too, so people who have schizophrenia are less likely to be stigmatized. Intelligent, likable and highly creative people are diagnosed every day. Although there is no cure, most people who have the disorder respond well to treatment and lead happy, productive lives.

Myths and Facts completely unfounded. If untreated, Risk Factors and Diagnosissymptoms could progress to strange Schizophrenia has genetic roots rather than behavior, delusions and hallucinations. environmental causes. If one parent has the Emotional detachment could worsen to disease, his or her children have about a 13 apathy and catatonic states. percent chance of developing it, too. If both

parents have it, the likelihood that their kids The Importance of Treatment will is around 35 percent.Since the course of the disease rapidly gains momentum, the importance of early Onset is usually during the late teens or early diagnosis and attention can’t be adulthood. About 75 percent of people who overstated. People with untreated have schizophrenia developed it between

There are a number of misconceptions schizophrenia usually suffer long-term ages 16 and 25; it’s much rarer in people over about schizophrenia, largely because unemployment or homelessness. They’re age 30. It most commonly occurs along with of the way it’s been portrayed in the often plagued by drug addiction. Their another mental disorder, such as anxiety or movies. physical health declines. Their life depression, and abuse of drugs or alcohol can The name originated from two Greek expectancy is ten to twenty years lower trigger the first appearance of symptoms. words that mean “split” and “mind.” than that of the general population, and This doesn’t indicate a splitting of the suicide rates are high. Since there is no medical test for detecting personality, but a disconnect between schizophrenia, a psychiatrist will take all your fantasy and reality. However, with therapy, medication and a risk factors into consideration. Be thorough

strong network of support, most patients when you report your physical condition and People who suffer from schizophrenia cope well. If you’ve noticed marked mental health history, including that of your have trouble distinguishing what is real changes in your thoughts or emotions, or if family members. The doctor will also rely from what is unreal. Their thinking is others have expressed concerns about heavily on your symptoms for an accurate confused, and they may subscribe to your behavior, read on to learn about diagnosis, so write them down before your bizarre beliefs. They tend to be fearful diagnosis and treatment. consultation.or paranoid, even when their fears are

caused the incarceration in the first place. It’s a vicious, untenable cycle.

Yet, some progress is providing a glimmer of hope. Several police departments have received training in handling the mentally ill; the first responders may now arrive in plain clothes and,

f you’ve been alive more often than not, take the afflicted to mental long enough, you have health facilities rather than jails.stays. Let’s face it – Iprobably seen it – a nameless the current state of mental

person wandering down the street, Sure, one might think – that’s great, but can we health care in the US is in crisis.screaming at people and things only he afford to treat mental illness at the community can see. If you stuck around long enough, level? The outcome of these new procedures is The privatization of mental health care 30 you probably saw the police arrive – and clear – for example, San Antonio recently saved years ago created a mental health divide:even though the man has not harmed over $50 million dollars in the last five years after anyone, the officers begin shouting they implemented a diversion program – Those who could afford care would receive orders at him he cannot possibly including building and staffing the public treatment, and Those who could not be understand. facilities.imprisoned. He is incapable of complying, so the In the end, so long as mental health care is Today, most people who experience officers wrestle him to the ground and privatized, mental illness among the middle class mental health issues are largely ignored by arrest him. As if that wasn’t enough, the and poor will be punishable by law. The myth that the system and often go untreated.man can’t afford bail, so he languishes in is treating the mentally ill with community jail for a month before his case is centers will hit taxpayers in the wallet is simply So what did we expect when someone dropped. false – it has been proven time and again in recent begins suffering from a mental health crisis? years that such facilities actually save taxpayer Sans community programs, the police In America today, there are over a quarter money.become our first line of treatment for million inmates in prisons that have been everything from schizophrenic episodes to diagnosed with some form of mental That’s why major cities like Los Angeles and New psychotic breaks. In other words, what illness. Compare that to the 30,000 or so York are organizing tasks forces to eliminate the should be treated as a medical crisis is now mentally ill patients in American criminalization of mental illness. Plans include being treated as a crime.psychiatric facilities – if the disparity enhanced training for the police and establishing between the two numbers is shocking to mental health community centers that can And it goes downhill from there. Once the you, well – it should be. provide comprehensive treatment. While these mentally ill enter prison, they are often

plans will save millions, it also saves some of neglected and abused by both the prison The bottom line is that America has society’s most vulnerable citizens from the staff and other inmates. The guards, who criminalized mental illness. current systemic abuse of the poor and mentally are not trained to deal with a mental health ill.crisis, often see psychotic symptoms as A recently released film by Brave New aggression or non-compliance.Films illustrates this crisis and is For more information, make certain to watch the attempting to raise awareness of the Brave New World film series “Criminalizing If they are treated in prison, medications issue and create a public dialog about Mental Health“. New episodes are planned to be and therapy cease after release – often treatment options rather than prison released weekly.leading to the return of the symptoms that

oni ot fa Mzil ea nn ti alm i Hr eC a le th h

T

Warning Signs you could harm yourself or others, and clergy can be valuable Early signs of schizophrenia include such intensity is rare. Symptoms are s o u r c e s o f unusual tension or irritability, insomnia usually arrested and managed by e n c o u r a g e m e n t . and difficulty concentrating. As the antipsychotic drugs. Support programs in disease progresses, emotions are the mental health affected. The following symptoms Antipsychotic drugs work by acting on system will teach you should be taken very seriously: certain brain chemicals, mainly how to cope with

dopamine. This feel-good chemical symptoms that crop up Ÿ Social withdrawal plays an important role in your unexpectedly. You’ll Ÿ Dulled emotions perception of pleasure. It’s also learn to monitor your Ÿ Lack of motivation involved in thinking, learning, own medication and Ÿ Thoughts that jump rapidly from one motivation, judgment and deciding be alert to unwanted

topic to another what’s important or meaningful. side effects. Sometimes, Ÿ Hearing or seeing things that aren’t Dopamine even keeps your motor skills living in a group home during the adjustment

there, especially hearing voices sharp. period is recommended.inside your head

Ÿ Strongly held beliefs or ideas that However, when the dopamine system is You should also adopt a healthy lifestyle. others find unreasonable overly active and chemical levels are too Nutrition, exercise and quality sleep are

Ÿ Episodes of bizarre behavior that high, thinking can become disordered. excellent for your brain and body and keep your you couldn’t explain or were later Delusions or hallucinations might result. meds working at top efficiency. Recreational embarrassed about Antipsychotic drugs correct the imbalance, drugs and alcohol, on the other hand, will

allowing you to think clearly and have negate the drugs’ effects and most likely Bear in mind that these symptoms don’t peace of mind. trigger psychotic episodes.reflect on your character. Schizophrenia is a disease, just like diabetes and Your doctor may have to try a few different Living with schizophrenia is never easy, but asthma. meds before hitting on the one that’s best with proper care, you can take the reins. Reach

for you, so frequent communication is out for help today.imperative. Arresting SchizophreniaSupport therapy is also advised. Friends, You will only be hospitalized if family members, coworkers, teachers and psychotic episodes are so intense that

People with untreated

schizophrenia usually suffer

long-term unemployment

or homelessness.

Does Your Child Have an Eating Disorder? You Are Not Alone

The first, and most important, thing to disorders have the highest mortality rate often play a role in the disorder, other factors can realize is that eating disorders are most of any mental disorder. act as a trigger or cause a much greater chance of often caused by a confluence of factors – manifestation. social, genetic, and psychological – that Temperamentfuse into a “perfect storm” and manifest If you’ve been a parent for any amount of Sociocultural Factorsin your child as an eating disorder. The time at all, you probably already realize that Peer pressure – whether delivered in person or next thing you need to understand is that every child is utterly unique. That being via social media – can cause a child to desire a it is highly unlikely that you caused (either said, science has uncovered several more acceptable body appearance. For example, directly or indirectly) your child’s eating personality traits that seem to be more consider the modern adolescent trend of posting disorder. Rather, there were most likely prevalent in adolescents with eating pictures online to receive feedback. several factors that contributed to the disorders. These traits include:diagnosis. Family Dynamics

Ÿ Competitiveness, In the not-so-distant past, therapists were often Even today, there is a tendency in society Ÿ Easily influenced by punishments and trained to assess blame for a child’s eating to dismiss eating disorders as a relatively rewards, disorder on his or her parents. While science harmless and temporary illness. Nothing Ÿ Perfectionism, and today has largely discredited this notion, the could be further from the truth – Ÿ Often displays impulsive behavior. family can play an important role in the recovery consider, for example: process by becoming a source of empowerment

Of course, just the presence of these traits and emotional support.Ÿ Almost half of people with diagnosed do not always foreshadow an eating

with eating disorders meet the disorder in the future – but some or all of In the end, it’s important to understand the criteria for clinical depression. these traits are often found in those source of the eating disorder is almost irrelevant

Ÿ Less than 10% of people with eating afflicted. – rather, parents should focus on identifying the disorders receive treatment. And of problem and seeking professional help.those that receive treatment, less Geneticsthan a third receive holistic in-patient Recent studies have confirmed that While understanding the symptoms and causes treatment. individuals with a family history of eating of your child’s eating disorder will not stop the

Ÿ In 2014, there were over 30 million disorders are 8-12 times more likely to self-destructive nature of the disease, it will help people of all ages and genders develop one themselves – in other words, you work with your doctor, nutritionist, and diagnosed with an eating disorder in eating disorders are often inherited. therapist more effectively.the U.S.

Ÿ Finally, and most importantly, eating Keep in mind, however, that while genetics

Just How Did My Child Get an Eating Disorder? Disbelief. Embarrassment. Anger. The verdict is in: your doctor is convinced your child has an eating disorder.

How exactly did this happen? What did you do wrong?

The Biggest Misconception about Bipolar Disorder

t The Beautiful Mind Foundation, disorder causes rapid and dramatic mood irritable the rest of the day. Or conversely – we believe today there is a great changes in the course of a single day. sometimes you wake up cranky, and something deal of misconceptions, half- Nothing could be further from the truth – in good happens – perhaps you receive a gift. Your A

truths, and outright rumors circulating fact, the vast majority of bipolar disorder mood quickly improves, but you often feel like regarding bipolar disorder. A recent study sufferers experience mood swings over you are on an emotional roller coaster.released the National Alliance on Mental weeks, not hours.Illness (NAMI) showed a great This type of unstable mood deal of new psychiatric condition can have a patients believe they have disastrous effect on almost bipolar disorder, only later all facets of a patient’s life to be diagnosed with and is often diagnosed as a something completely personality disorder.different. So, let’s talk about the biggest misconception about bipolar Personality disorders are chronic and consistent disorder. patterns of uncontrollable behavior and

So – if you are experiencing rapid mood thoughts.changes in the course of a day, and they can To be fair, psychiatrists have a tough job be linked to stressors, you probably do not properly diagnosing many personality On the other hand, bipolar disorder is more often have bipolar disorder. The next question to disorders because they often manifest associated with distinct periods of irritable or ask yourself is if your mood swings are with similar symptoms. Accurate elevated moods that can last several days or impairing your ability to work and the diagnosis is key, however – because weeks.quality of your relationships.treatments vary widely across the spectrum of mental disorders. In the end, we believe strongly as a society we If so, let’s break down a typical day for you to should have as much compassion and empathy see if it resonates:The most common misconception is for someone with a mental illness as we do for You wake up feeling great but then someone patients who believe that bipolar someone with a physical illness or disability.cuts you off on the freeway, and you are

So – if you are experiencing rapid mood changes in

the course of a day, and they can be linked to stressors,

you probably do not have bipolar disorder

yan watched warily as his mother But this wasn’t the worst part of his day. this park; baseball, football, summer barbecues… finished her last drink of the Earlier, his girlfriend had admitted to it all seemed so long ago now and just thinking Revening. It was hard to know how cheating with one of his friends. Also about it hurt. He sat down at a bench overlooking

this time of day would play out – would hanging over him was his latest report card a pond and took the gun out of his pants. He she start screaming and yelling at him or – he was failing in several of his classes. But studied the revolver intently, stroking the barrel simply trudge upstairs and sleep it off? so what? They had no money, so no chance and feeling a tear welling up in his eye.Her drinking had always been a problem of college anyway.but had gotten much worse since the Ryan is not alone – this scene, or one like it, plays divorce. Ryan had begun to worry if life was worth out every 15 minutes in America. Consider:

the trouble. He was utterly exhausted and Swaying, she got up from her chair and worn out at the age of sixteen, and Ÿ Nearly 30,000 Americans commit suicide woozily made her way to her bedroom. wondered what it would be like to just check every year.To Ryan, this was becoming a nightly out. Would anybody care? Ÿ In the U.S., suicide rates are highest during ritual – sometimes she might stumble, the spring.and he would rush to help her back up. Ryan picked himself up from his chair and Ÿ Suicide is the 3rd leading cause of death for 15 Tonight, thankfully, he heard her fall into walked over to his mom’s laptop. He sent an to 24-year-olds and 2nd for 24 to 35-year-her bed, probably asleep before her head email to his ex-girlfriend and his mom and olds.hit the pillow. said goodbye. Ÿ Each suicide intimately affects at least six

other people.Day by day, he felt his life slipping away – He walked out to the garage and reached it felt as if the world was sucking the life into his dad’s old toolbox. He pulled out a So there it is – the cold, hard facts about suicide. right out of him. He felt broken and alone. small revolver his dad kept there; it was Depression is the primary driver of suicides in

supposed to be a secret, but Ryan had America. The sad truth of the matter is that you It wasn’t always like this. Before the known about it since he was twelve. He took or someone you know has likely been affected by divorce, his mom held a steady job and the gun and placed it in the pocket of his depression and suicide.managed to take care of everything at slacks.home. Since the divorce, however, she If you know someone who is walking the dark had turned to the bottle. She had trouble Ryan exited the garage and headed to the road, or if you are personally struggling with keeping a job as result, and was just neighborhood park. He tried to remember depression, don’t give up hope. Get professional terminated today from her latest gig. all the good times he had with his father in help as soon as possible.

The Deadly

Synergy Between

Depression and

Suicide

Can Help Prevent DepressionPLANNING

epression is a serious mental Stanley Safety plan has proven itself as an networks and rely on a specific set of self-care illness and can be debilitating for effective suicide prevention tool. It is practices. Still, if you aren’t feeling better, the those who suffer from it. In this currently used in many large depression and plan can also help you connect with a crisis center Darticle, we will provide 4 suicide prevention initiatives, including: or mental health professionals in your area.

specially created steps of planning with aim to prevent depression. Veterans’ Health Administration, State This version of the plan focuses on your emotions

with the goal of preventing you from entering into a full-blown depressive episode. First, Recognize the Symptoms of Depression

Begin by documenting your moods prior to a depressive episode – and also include any situational triggers that precede or may even cause your episodes. For example, are you sleeping more or less? Are you less interested in your friends and family?

Next, list your coping strategies – what can you do to avoid feeling depressed? Some people find running or long walks can ease their moods, others like to treat themselves to something like manicure, pedicure, or makeover. Don’t worry if your strategies are superficial – if it makes you feel better, it’s probably worth it.

Mental Health Systems (including NY and You may not feel like it, but forcing yourself to While therapy and drugs can help the Georgia), Military Behavioral Health socialize with other people will probably lift your majority of those with the illness, Systems, Crisis Hotlines Hospital Emergency spirits. So go for it – pack your calendar with monitoring and planning for depressive Departments, College Counseling Centers, activities with friends and family. Let’s face it – episodes can also help maintain a more High School Counseling Outpatient Clinics sometimes there is no cause or trigger for a healthy lifestyle. and Private Practices. depressive episode. A busy social life can distract

you from your symptoms and may help keep your Can you prevent an episode from The plan is progressive and encourages episode at bay.occurring? Much depends on the severity participants to lean on their support of your case, but for many, the answer is an unqualified “yes”. Next, don’t put off calling in the Having a plan that helps you experts.recognize your early symptoms List the names of your mental health and engages your coping skills can professionals – your doctors and often prevent the onset of a therapists, along with your pharmacist. depressive episode. Also, remember to include the number

for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.How to Create Your

Depression Prevention Finally, don’t forget to share your plan Planwith your family and trusted friends – you’ll appreciate their support and While there are many good guidance when you need it the most.preventions plans today, the

Gregory Brown and Barbara

Still, coping with a spiral of negative you feel safe – perhaps a favorite chair or remember the feeling of ease, and it will make thoughts can harm even mentally healthy sofa, or even in the bathroom. Next, turn on you feel safe enough to explore some of your people emotionally. When it happens to some relaxing music and try closing your negativity and confusion.someone with a mental illness, the eyes. Notice your environment – what results can be devastating. In the article, temperature is it? What do you hear? What Create a collage of your feelings and thoughts.we will explain how to deal with painful colors are present?thoughts and emotions with creativity. You probably did something similar back in

school – page through magazines and So – what are the best techniques for Next, take a picture of your space and keep newspapers and find images that express your coping with negative thoughts and it handy – perhaps use it as the wallpaper on emotions. Today you can also use Google’s image emotions? Most of us learned at a very your phone. When you see it, you will search. Print or tear the images out and glue early age that crying and getting angry is them to a piece of paper. When it’s complete, simply not acceptable. Once again, our journal or blog about the images you selected. society often seems to be laser-focused What are they trying to tell you?on happiness, while other emotions, like sadness, anger, and confusion are often stigmatized. What can we do to best Practice a symbolic release.deal with negative thoughts and emotions? In this exercise, you’ll enter your safe place and

write down the things that are bothering you on First recognize that these emotions strips of colored paper. Once complete, cut out are part of the normal human each item and place within a jar. Take a second experience. Dealing with them to look at the paper in the jar, and then burn or honestly and effectively requires a bury them. Yes, it’s symbolic – but it works.set of healthy techniques to help you successfully navigate the range of your emotions. In the end, it’s very important to process

and understand our emotions. While some of the activities below may seem simplistic, it’s important If these exercises feel too small and to keep in mind that they are narrow to process your feelings, designed to identify and deal with try working with a therapist the root causes of your who integrates art into negative feelings. Talking their therapy. This about your feelings can type of therapy is certainly help, but these p a r t i c u l a r l y exercises engage you at a effective because it more rational part of your provides a safe and mind – a deeper expression, creative backdrop in other words. w i t h w h i c h t o

e x p l o r e y o u r feelings.First, find your safe place.

This could be any quiet place in your home that

HOW TO DEAL WITH PAINFUL

THOUGHTS AND EMOTIONS BY

USING CREATIVITY

Nobody likes to be caught obsessing over negative thoughts

and emotions. After all, doesn’t our society

constantly remind us how happiness is our

ultimate goal?

Even if you don't take antidepressants, effects can be discouraging. over 60% of respondents reported mood chances are you know someone who elevation after 25-30 minutes of moderate does. A recent study revealed that 18% of So - if you're not willing to deal with the side activity like walking or gardening. all adults take a least one antidepressant - effects, or if antidepressants just don't work a 90% increase in the last decade. for you, consider the following low-tech Spend some time in the sun

ways of dealing with your depression: In recent years, sunshine has gotten a bad rap. Depression is one of the most common While there are certainly risks to prolonged forms of mental illness and is the largest Try roseroot herb exposure, moderate exposure helps your brain single cause of suicide in America. A recent study at the University of regulate melatonin and serotonin. A recent study Antidepressant usage is rising as more Pennsylvania proved the effectiveness of also found that the Vitamin D absorbed by your people are acknowledging their disorder Rhodiola rosea (roseroot). Besides being skin from the sun reduced depressive symptoms and turning to medication for treatment. proven as effective as mainstream by 20%.

antidepressants, roseroot also produced far Just a few years ago, mental health fewer side effects. If you are struggling with your moods and experts uniformly believed that wondering if you are clinically depressed, start by depression was rooted in a chemical Practice mindfulness taking a free self-assessment at Mental Health imbalance in the brain. Today, experts are Mindfulness is all about rewiring your brain Americataking a more holistic approach - the and making it less reactive to negative prevail ing theory proposes that stimulus. It's also the basis of mindfulness- http://www.mentalhealthamerica.net/mental-depression is caused by several factors, based cognitive therapy (MBCT), which was health-screen/patient-healthincluding nerve problems, life events, r e c e n t l y p r o v e n a s e f fe c t i v e a s genetics, and underlying medical antidepressants in a two-year study in the Next, be brutally honest and ask your friends for conditions. United Kingdom. their opinions. If you've shown signs of

depression, it's very likely they've noticed - but Antidepressants are now backed by Get out there maybe have not said anything. decades of research and usage, and can Study after study has proven a link between unquestionably bring some patients out depression and physical activity: the more Finally, spend some time with your family doctor. of severe depression. That being said, physical you are, the less likely you are to You may be referred to a psychiatrist and therapy antidepressants simply don't work for becoming depressed. A recent study by the - either way, this is your first step.everyone, and the high incidence of side University of Toronto reinforced this idea;

Low Tech Alternatives To Antidepressants

Looks like the old adage about small town life might have a grain of truth in it. According to a recent study by Stanford University, people who live in urban areas are far more likely to suffer from chronic mental illness - particularly depression.

The good news? The study also found the antidote: get out of your office and take a walk in the park.

The researchers found that walking in a nature setting reduces negative thought cycles and other obsessive thoughts that play into depression and anxiety disorders.

In the study, researchers asked 40 men and women to answer questions to ascertain their tendency toward obsessive thought patterns. Next they underwent brain scans targeting a particular region of the brain that is active during this type of thinking. Finally, the participants next trekked out on a 90-minute walk either in an urban area or a nature park.

After the walk, those who walked in the nature setting underwent another brain scan and revealed a marked decrease in obsessive thoughts. Those who walked in urban areas, however, experienced no change in their thought patterns.

The findings, therefore, suggest a direct link between spending time in nature and mental health.

For those of you who live in urban areas, the study indicated that spending just a couple of hours each week in the park can improve your well-being. Another recent British study concluded that simply walking through green spaces can put your mind into a light state of meditation.

The issue is likely to affect more people in the near future. More than 50% of the world's population lives in cities today, but by 2050 that number is expected to increase to 70%. As parks and other natural areas within urban areas continue to be reduced or closed, many people will have little or no contact with nature.

Do you spend enough time in nature? Do you think it improves your overall mental health?

City Living May Be Harming Your Mental HealthCity Living May Be Harming Your Mental Health

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JILL SCHWARTZOffice 301.907.7600 Cell 301.758.7224

Jill@JillSchwartzGroup.com

OVER $30 MILLION IN SALES & LISTING IN 2014The #3 Agent in the Long & Faster Real Estate, Inc. Bethesda Gateway Office with over $1 BILLION in sales for 2014

Bethesda Gateway Office 4650 East-West Highway Bethesda, MD 20814 301.907.7600

804.267.9083jasonmasibooking@gmail.com

www.jasonmasi.com

www.reverbnation.com/jasonmasi www.facebook.com/jasonmasimusic

www.facebook.com/jason.masi

DANIELLE KATZ

LUXURY REALTOR

DOUGLAS ELLIMAN REAL ESTATE

OFFICE: 954.874.0740

MOBILE: 954.683.0202

danielle.katz@elliman.com

450 E LAS OLAS BLVD.

FORT LAUDERDALE, FL 33301

Office: 301.634.1411 | Direct: 301.634.1419 | Cell: 855.890.1956

E-Fax: 240.331.6484 | Toll Free: 866.647.5088

www.bosley.com

Proud Supporter of

The Beautiful Mind Foundation

For all of your legal needs, please call…

Matt Bergman, Esquire

301-255-0529 |

mbergman@shulmanrogers.com

12505 Park Potomac Avenue |

Potomac, MD 20854

Phone: 240-338-2335

E-mail: terri@terribergmanevents.com www. te r r i be rgmaneven ts .com

z

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Let your personalities shine through

MBK Photography

VELMA LEE

Designs By VELMA The Kennedy Center, Broadway & Notional Tour

301-661-6224VELMA.LEE@vomcast.net

8601 Georgia Ave., Suite 1001Silver Spring, MD 20910Phone: 301-608-3900Fax: 301-608-0799rpco@philipson.com

WE OFFER THE

FOLLOWING PROGRAMS:

- ADULT CLINICS

- JUNIOR CLINICS

- CAMPS

- TENNIS TEAMS

Robin Tripp 301-351-5161

Welcome to Ed Tripp Tennis. Ed Tripp, USPTA has been teaching and running

programs in Montgomery County for over 27 years. He is widely known for his unique ability to teach and motivate people of all

ages and levels and cultivate a love for the game of tennis. Ed’s programs are run year

round at two locations. In the spring, summer and fall his programs are held at Westleigh Recreation Club where he has

been the Head Pro and Director for 25 years. In the winter he runs adult and junior clinics and teams at Potomac Swim & Tennis. Ed is a recipient of the Mid-Atlantic Unsung Hero

award from USTA Magazine.

Amy Smith and Write Ideas, Inc., applaud new causes in our community. We wish Stacy Birnbach and A Beautiful Mind Foundation much success in

raising awareness and helping others.

Amy Smith and Write Ideas, Inc., applaud new causes in our community. We wish Stacy Birnbach and A Beautiful Mind Foundation much success in

raising awareness and helping others.

Email: info@bellaroseassociates.comCall us: 202.365.2587

We offer:Core Flow

Yoga for Athletes and Junior Athletes

Healing Yoga

Meditation

Thai-Yoga Therapy

Myofacial Release Technique

East and West Massage

Ayurvedic Therapy

Nutritional support and counseling

We are currently offering a 10 days for 10.00 special to try all of our classes.

Just use the code: HEALING when you send us an email.

We aspire to bring your healing potential to a level you cannot even imagine.

Additionally, if anyone signs up for an autopay

membership we will be giving

Cell:+1 (240) 444-0101 fax: +1 (202) 478-5196Office: +1 (301) 299-1013 www.oneaum.com

At one Aum we strive to bring a fresh voice to a timeless tradition, Healing.

The owners Sean.FM and Shannon Sharma are siblings that have united

their love of family, healing and yoga and bodywork. They have a proven

success record for over 10 years. They are firmly rooted in tradition, lineage

and community. The two of them have a total of over 30 years of working in

the field of healing and wellness

Shannon Sharma is the teacher’s teacher of the Potomac, Maryland area. If

you have taken yoga in Potomac, most likely you are studying with one of her

former or current students. She believes in building a community of great

teachers and leaders and devotes her life to cultivating greatness in others.

In addition to Sean and Shannon, our teacher’s and therapists are trained at

the highest level with the greatest depth of knowledge and warm loving hearts.

Our style is an interdisciplinary approach towards healing and wellness.

Consequently, all of our members and coworkers share the numerous variety of

services we offer. We stand upon the continued growth, healing and love that

Maryland has show us and we say, Yes!

At one Aum we strive to bring a fresh voice to a timeless tradition, Healing.

The owners Sean.FM and Shannon Sharma are siblings that have united

their love of family, healing and yoga and bodywork. They have a proven

success record for over 10 years. They are firmly rooted in tradition, lineage

and community. The two of them have a total of over 30 years of working in

the field of healing and wellness

Shannon Sharma is the teacher’s teacher of the Potomac, Maryland area. If

you have taken yoga in Potomac, most likely you are studying with one of her

former or current students. She believes in building a community of great

teachers and leaders and devotes her life to cultivating greatness in others.

In addition to Sean and Shannon, our teacher’s and therapists are trained at

the highest level with the greatest depth of knowledge and warm loving hearts.

Our style is an interdisciplinary approach towards healing and wellness.

Consequently, all of our members and coworkers share the numerous variety of

services we offer. We stand upon the continued growth, healing and love that

Maryland has show us and we say, Yes!

7361 Calhoun Place Suite 590 Rockville, Maryland 20855Email: info@verus.com T : (301) 742-9000

THE JEWELRY THAT MAKES YOU FEEL GOOD

Phone: 917.566.4388 Sbemail: BurkaWaverly@aol.com

www.concentriaweddings.com

Jacqueline Band-Olinger and Greystone Realty proudly supports The Beautiful Mind Foundation and its mission “of advocating for mental health, preventing and treating mental disorders, and achieving victory through education, research,

and online therapy services.”

Home is where the is

Greystone Realty 3833 Farragut AvenueKensington, Maryland 20895

Direct: 301.244.4705 Fax: 301.244.4715 info@greystonerealty.net

Directions in Art is a full service corporate & residential Art Consulting firm that specializes in art advisory services

for the commercial, hospitality, residential, and private collection market.

For a complimentary consultation, contact us at info@directionsinart.com

Art Visual Art Art Solutions Design Selection Placementwww.Directions .cominArt

Joanne Spielman301-520-6646

Julie White301-758-1444

DHM MEDIA GROUP

1028 33RD STREET NW, SUITE 320, WASHINGTON, DC 20007 | 202.236.0749

CADY’S ALLEY | INFO@DHMMEDIA.COM | WWW.DHMMEDIA.COM

Finding the perfect

summer experience for

your child is easy as:

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Talk to an expert, a friendly Summer 365

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sleepaway camps and summer programs.

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budget, location, timetable, programs,

or interests.

That’s right, Summer 365 is a

complimentary service. There’s no fee!

Andrea Grinspoon, andrea@summer365.com

301.520.5430 | summer365.com

The Judith A. Lese Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc.

100% of contributions are disbursed

“in the pursuit of education and cure for breast cancer”

16012 Chester Mill Terrace, Silver Spring, MD 20906Web: www.judithalese.org | Email: LeseCancerFdn@aol.com

Phone: 301-774-6719 | 501(c)(3) Organization | CFC Code: 53302

www.saphirahair.com

Saphira is the first company to bring the minerals of the Dead Sea to the world of hair care.

The Dead Sea is rich with 26 essential minerals, twelve of which are unique to this invaluable landmark. These minerals nourish the scalp, activate circulation and enhance relaxation,

repairing the hair and protecting it from stress and environmental damage.

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4947 Wyaconda Road,

Rockville, MD 20852

301-984-4411 Voice

301-984-4459 Fax

www.cateringbyprovisions.com

the perfectaffair depends on whocaters

1-202-379-2862support@awakeningheartnetwork.com

AwakeningHeartNetwork.comFacebook.com/awakeningheartnetwork

Awakening Heart Global Healing Circle! Inspiring Interviews, Activations and Meditations with Top Expert Speakers!

Every Call will Create True and Powerful Changes in Your Life

Robin Tripp, Personal Stylist with J. Hilburn Luxury Menswear

What a Personal Stylist Can Do For You I'm Robin Tripp, Personal Stylist with J. Hilburn Luxury Menswear. Passion for design and fashion is my driving force. I'm here to assist the guy who doesn't have the time (or, perhaps, the inclination) to

find clothes that fit his lifestyle or body type. And whether that means helping decipher a dress code or select the most flattering suit, I'll always shoot straight. Delivering quality is my business, and I am

excited about helping my clients look great and feel great about the way they dress!

In memory of Sylvester Jackson who committed

suicide on January 14, 1995. He reached out for

help on a few occasions but unfortunately he did

not get the help he really needed that would have

helped him with coping with everyday life.

Enlightened MedicineAlan R.Vinitsky, MDInternist, Pediatrician & Environmental Medicine

902 Wind River LaneSuite 201

Gaithersburg, MD 20878P: 301.840.0002, A: 866.961.6802

F: 301.417.0262enlightened_medicine@yahoo.com

www.englightenedmedicine.net

3202 Tower Oaks Boulevard, Suite 100 Rockville, MD 20852Phone: (301) 468-1001 Fax: (301) 468-1101

neuroscientificinsights.com

NEUROSCIENTIFIC INSIGHTSAt NSI we offer highly personalized and

comprehensive evaluation and treatment for any

mental health disorders. We are also a clinical

research company and conduct cutting edge

research for new medications and therapies in

collaboration with NIH, academic institutions

and pharmaceutical companies.

Send an email for appointment to customerservice@nes-kz.comWebsite: http://www.holistic-wellbeing-health.com

Are you looking to support a healthy lifestyle through a holistic approach which is QUICK, NON INVASIVE, SAFE, and EFFECTIVE. Then NES Health's unique system of healthcare is for you. Imagine the human body as a computer, a computer software is prone to Bugs and Glitches, which affect the hardware, so is the body's information system effected by stress, trauma and illness, creating distortions and errors.

NES works to correct the control system of the body, rebalance, support, optimize and enhance its information transfer and energy systems resulting in a healthier body. The program starts with a NES scan (a body field assessment) which is safe, simple, non-invasive and effective using a palm size scanner device, which involves simply resting your hand on the palm size scanner device for 20 seconds, your Human Body-Field is then scanned monitoring the quality of its responses and then prioritizing the results. The scan reports over 150 factors about your health including nutritional, emotional and environmental issues, NES research reveals that if your body field is not responding well, then it is not properly working to regulate the energy and information flow your body needs to do its job of keeping you healthy and well.

The NES scan reports are addressed using NES infoceutical drops. These specially encoded infoceuticals interact directly with the Human Body Field and remove or resolve blockages caused by shock, traumas, emotional issues, illness and injury, the infoceuticals returns your body field to its natural functioning by enhancing your body's own natural maintenance, repair and self-healing capabilities.NES has proved to be highly effective in supporting people with many health issues and significant positive changes including

- Improved health

- Deep, restful sleep

- More energy

- Improved skin condition

- Improved digestion

- Reduced pain & discomfort

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EVENTS

CONFERENCES

PORTRAITS

OCCASIONS

Erin Marie Dey Photography

E mail : erindey@hotmail.com Phone : 646-271-1405.

PORTRAITS CHERUBSWEDDINGS FASHION

Address: Photography by John Keith, Jollys Farm, Town Lane, Much Hoole, Preston, Lancashire, PR4 4GJ

Phone: 01772 614 979 Mobile: 07436 262 233 Email: mail@johnkeith.co.uk

Studio and location photographer locatednear Preston and working across Lancashire

Photography by John Keith is a friendly, family-run business with more than 20

years of experience behind us. Our studio is in Much Hoole, between Preston and

Southport and has plenty of parking nearby.

We are specialists in studio and location portrait, wedding, 'cherub' and

fashion/boudoir photography; with our location giving us the flexibility to

photograph you in our studio or in our beautiful outdoor settings.

Photography is our passion and we pride

ourselves on the personal service that we provide; from the initial consultation and photo shoot, right through to the viewing and final presentation of the completed

artwork.

POTOMAC PSYCHICReader & Adviser

Specializing in Spiritual Healing & Tarot,Energy Readings.

10120 Falls, Rd Potomac Md20854

301-637-9116 410-336-9081Call for Appointments Today!

I have been a Life/Love Coach for over 15 years, I specailize In Relationship, Career, Finances & Health.

I am a Psychic/Meium Who can help you understand your PastPresent and Future

Phone 202.338.1146 1120 20th Street NW Suite # 101 Washington, D.C. 20036

As professional

florists, Nosegay

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Damascus Interiors Drywall

& Remodeling, LLC

24816 Woodfield School Rd.Gaitherburg, Md. 20882301-414-7500 DamascusInteriors@verizon.net

Francis J. DavidsonOwner

The Manor Montessori SchoolPO Box 60691

Potomac, MD 20859(301) 299-7400

themanormontessori@gmail.comwww.manormontessori.com

Founded in 1962, The Manor Montessori School was the first Montessori school established in the State of Maryland. It is also one of the few Montessori schools to have

constructed its own facility, in Potomac, which was specifically designed for children working in a Montessori environment. The Manor Montessori School provides a warm

and nurturing atmosphere for children between the ages of two and nine.

Learn to love to do well and you shall

Phobias and Fear:Acupuncture from Brad Hill cured my irrational fear of the power of water. Since buying a boat 4 years ago, I have not been able to enjoy it, until this summer. It used to be that every time I got onto the boat, I knew that my 2 children, my husband, and I were going to die, and no one could convince me otherwise. I'm a very cerebral person; I can almost always reason myself out of (and into) anything. This unreasonable terror got worse every summer, until I just stopped going with my family on the boat. This was unacceptable to me... we live on the coast of Maine, for crying out loud! I finally accepted that I needed someone else's help with overcoming this debilitating emotion.

I first tried 10 months (boating off-season) of polarity therapy and had only positive expectations that following summer. The first day out, on semi-choppy water, I totally panicked. I was so angry with myself for failing at this. This experience proved to me, without a doubt, that my issue was not a matter of "mind over matter;" I had started the season with 100% confidence that polarity therapy had erased my terror. My failure was shocking to me.

I then tried 10 months of acupuncture from Brad Hill the following off-season, because it couldn't hurt. And when I stepped onto our boat this summer, I was NOT filled with confidence. Why should I trust acupuncture, after I trusted polarity therapy, and had no success? But I had to get on the boat, because we had guests. It was a particularly choppy day. I assumed my position: shotgun, white-knuckling the dashboard, and holding my breath. I refrained from donning my lifejacket, which I usually do, so I wouldn't scare our guests. After about 2 minutes, I realized I wasn't holding my breath, and that I wasn't feeling like we were all going to die, as I was completely prepared to feel. I found this very curious. I thought about the situation. I looked around, a bit surprised. I let go of the dashboard. I did not panic. I took a really deep breath (usually totally impossible for me on the boat), and still did not panic. We bounced to our destination, and I was ecstatic!

Although I did not enjoy myself on the bumpy ride, I DID NOT FEEL LIKE I WAS GOING TO DIE. I knew that the acupuncture treatments had worked on a very deep level, in a very subtle and powerful way, to get me over my hump. The rest of my recovery will involve baby-stepping my way to total comfort and ultimately, joy. - Anonymous

Pain and Stress:Curiosity was the reason I first decided to try acupuncture and it was results that kept me coming back for over two years. I am an Osteopathic Physician who appreciates the concept of mind, body and spirit medicine. The results that have occurred give me a great trust in Brad and his application of the therapy. I have experienced resolution of many middle-aged male aches and pains and no longer need to use Advil on a daily basis. Most importantly, I am a calmer person and don't feel like I am going to die anymore.

I have a professionally stressful life and during the past five years I have seen my marriage dissolving. The despair I felt was as if I was dying. After a few months of treatment with brad, I regained my balance of mind-body-spirit and the feelings dissipated. I am now receiving maintenance therapy and life is much richer. - Dr. J.R.

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