September 2007 Newsletter
IN THIS ISSUE:
WELLNESS MAKES A DIFFERENCE - RECOMMENDED LINKS - OFFICE NEWS - NEXT ISSUE
What's with the name TherapyShare?
There is no profound significance to the name TherapyShare, other than
1) it was available as a domain name a couple of years ago and
2) "share" is used (at least by Texans) when we mean to indicate disclosure , as in "she shared with me about her childhood" and the popular sarcastic comment "thanks for sharing."
I hope to use this newsletter to "share" with you what I have learned as a therapist. - Mary K. Williams
DUH!: These things matter.
There are five interrelated aspects of wellness that are commonly problematic for clients:
Sleep, Diet, Healthcare, Exercise and Personal Care.
Wellness makes a difference. Making wellness improvements can enhance the effectiveness of psychotherapy - and help with creating any type of positive change.
Before you say "duh" take your own inventory:
How am I Sleeping? Sleep disturbance is the cause and symptom of many types of problems. Adequate sleep is essential to overall health. Unfortunately, it's often hard to figure out whether a sleep problem exists.
Tips
If your partner voices concerns about your sleep, take them seriously.
If you are drowsy or irritable during the day, wake often at night, or suspect sleep problems, consult your doctor before taking any medication, herb or supplement.
Don't assume that the only remedy for sleep problems is a powerful sleeping pill - seek a professional opinion before you decide what to do.
What am I Eating? Our minds and bodies work better when they receive proper nutrition. Malnourishment, dehydration and food reactions can contribute to several symptoms of mental and physical illness.
Tips
Research nutrition information and evaluate your diet. There are lots of wonderful books at the library on nutrition.
Make small changes in your eating habits to promote health - don't dive into a complicated diet without getting advice from a professional.
Having the proper amount of fresh produce, fiber, protein, and fluids are good ways to start.
Eliminating unhealthy foods (even for a short amount of time) may bring unexpected benefits.
Am I Avoiding the Doctor (or Therapist, Dentist, etc.)? Often there are physiological causes and symptoms that contribute to emotional, relationship and behavior problems.
Tips
Make those appointments that you have been putting off.
Take medications as directed - never stop or cut down without medical clearance.
Get help for the health problems that you have been trying to ignore, and look into medical aspects of symptoms such as headaches, moodiness, irritability, fatigue.
What is my Activity Level? Yeah, yeah, we know that exercise promotes overall health, but many of us fail to follow through with action at those times when we need the benefits the most.
Tips
If you have not already, add moderate exercise to your daily routine - even a few minutes a day.
If you have not already, add moderate exercise to your daily routine - even a few minutes a day.
Stretch regularly.
Find several ways to keep your body active on a regular basis (walking the dog/kid, yard work, sports etc.)
How do I Look? Sorry, but it's true: Our presentation to the world affects how we are treated and how we perceive ourselves. Are you neglectful of your grooming, or obsessive about your appearance?
Tips
Care for yourself and dress in a way that reflects who you are - or want to be - and the respect that you have - or want to have - for your body.
Check out your environment and assess whether you are presenting yourself in an up-to-date, attractive manner. Is it time for a haircut? Do your clothes fit properly?
I welcome your comments on this topic! click on "add comment" at the bottom of this page or email mkw@therapyshare.com
RECOMMENDED LINKS
From the National Institute of Mental Health
Tamoxifen Helps with Mania
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/press/tamoxifen-mania.cfm
A Fast Acting Antidepressant?
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/press/ketamine_2.cfm
From HealthDay
Stomach Virus Related to Some Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Cases
http://www.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=608181
First Study to Link Food Additives and Hyperactivity
http://www.healthday.com/Article.asp?AID=608014
OFFICE NEWS
New Clients. I am accepting new clients, including adults, families, couples and children. I encourage new clients to check with their health insurance company about outpatient mental health coverage before the first session. Those not using insurance are charged according to the sliding fee scale.
FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION may become extinct. For the past 3 years I have offered a free initial consultation to encourage people to "shop around" for the appropriate therapist. To give priority to my established clients, however, the policy will change at the beginning January 2008. I will be charging a fee that is less than the full fee, and I am considering shortening the length of the consultation. Your feedback is welcome on this topic.
Appointments. This is a busy time of year for the psychotherapy office. Please try to make appointments one week in advance. You may email me at mkw@therapyshare.com to make an appointment or call (479) 575-0529.
IN NEXT ISSUE: Cognitive behavioral therapy techniques that you can use NOW!
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