Natural Antidepressants, Anti-Anxiety Supplements

I've always struggled with panic attacks, anxiety, depression, PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. I lost two second trimester infants and started menopause early, at about 45. For seven years, I took antidepressants. These made me feel disoriented and numb. I also put on 100 pounds (which certainly didn't help the depression!) I weaned myself several years ago and now use natural supplements to combat negative feelings and boost emotional health. Here's my daily mental health regimen.  Natural Antidepressants, Drugfree Antianxiety Supplements

Octomom Nadya Suleman Exemplifies Misconceptions About Welfare

Mom of 14, Nadya Suleman, dubbed "Octomom" for her octuplets, was investigated by Child Protective Services after photos appeared showing unsanitary, dangerous conditions at her home. Suleman lashed out in an ABC Good Morning, America interview, saying that her hairdresser who took the photos "set her up."

CPS found no reason to remove the children, but ABC cameras showed quite a lot of damage to the house. It concerns me that Suleman's children are living in such a poorly-kept home, while mom is getting expensive stylist treatments. Beyond that, her attitude toward money bothers me even more. It exemplifies some basic misconceptions about welfare. Read more

Simple life parenting: Teaching kids how to slow down

Whenever I ask fellow parents how they are, the first answer is always "busy." Parents are under a lot of pressure from work, family, school and community. It's easy to get so caught up in our busy lives that we forget to live. We disconnect from spouses and kids because we're stuck in a too-fast lifestyle. We complain that kids are too busy, but they learn from our example. Here are ways parents teach kids, by example, how to slow down.  Simple life parenting: Teaching kids how to slow down

Mental and Emotional Health Resources for Disaster Victims

 When disaster strikes, like the Japan and Haiti earthquakes, tsunamis, nuclear reactor meltdown, the Gulf oil spill, house fires and other hazards, the first thought is physical safety. But what about mental health and PTSD concerns?

Disasters cause emotional stress and mental health issues, too. When disaster strikes, victims usually spend a period of time in shock. Sometimes, shock or fear-induced adrenalin rushes help disaster victims respond to immediate safety and rescue concerns.

When the adrenaline and shock wear off, disaster victims are left exhausted and emotionally drained. Shock acts as a mental insulator. It protects the mind and emotions from meltdown. As shock wears off, it can leave a profound lethargy and depression in its wake. Read more at Mental and Emotional Health Resources for Disaster Victims

SAD - Seasonal Affective Disorder Tips and Mood Lifters

Do you feel a sort of depression after the New Year that lasts until spring? If so then you may be suffering from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). It's likely that while you may have heard of SAD, you may not

understand the causes, manifestations and ramifications of this seasonal mood disorder. Read on...