The Syrian migrant crisis has triggered the worst humanitarian emergency since the 1940s. The tragedy was felt worldwide in the photo of three-year-old Aylan Kurdi, whose body washed up on the shore in Bodrum, Turkey. Since the early days of the Syrian conflict, Non-government Organizations and the International Medical Corps have worked with families along the Turkish, Jordanian and Lebanese borders. Mass displacement, economic despair, daily violence and the death of loved ones have led to a mental health epidemic. As the political, financial and social issues are multi-faceted and complicated, there’s … Continue reading
September Transitions
It’s September and another school year – for me personally, it means an exciting combination of fresh beginnings. A grandson just started high school, two nephews are now freshmen in college, a great-nephew has begun kindergarten, and I am teaching a new set of first year medical students. Are you too finding yourself in the middle of stimulating transformations? Some parents are dropping off their kids on campus and others are accepting them back home four years later as boomerangs, given the still sagging economy. If you’ve got a revolving … Continue reading
Ashley Madison and the High Cost of Infidelity
Adultery isn’t a new concept to any of us, but the illegal hacking onto the Ashley Madison website was an unprecedented crime. The ripple effect of the massive information release has impacted over 37 million families. And it’s taken a huge emotional toll – hate crimes, blackmail, embarrassment, shame, even suicide. Of course, there are many hidden dangers in acts of betrayal. And to minimize the fallout is totally naive. The result is often personal ruin and devastation of the family. An affair can be related to many issues – poor moral … Continue reading
Cuddles and Hugs
Have you heard of “cuddle clubs?” They are the latest trend around the world among Millennials, Gen X’ers and Boomers who are in need of a hug. Cuddling – with a parent or sibling or even a favorite stuffed animal – was easier when we were younger. But it can be difficult for an adult who is not in a relationship to find a partner to embrace. With the widespread use of social media on the Internet taking the place of face-to-face interactions and delayed marriage rates, young adults are … Continue reading
