Tag Archives: substance abuse

Halloween: The Masks We Wear

We all wear masks at one time or another, pretending that everything is OK. It’s common to hide personal pain. But the bad feelings don’t just disappear. Transitions are complicated. You may be letting go of roles that define you, facing a financial crisis, or adjusting to loss and a new reality. Refuse to give up on yourself, and let the following tips help you take one step at a time: Look deep inside. Are you afraid of what’s in your heart or head? If you’re angry or depressed and holding back, … Continue reading

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Virtual Book Tour: Out of the Blue Valise

Today we’re thrilled to host author Mari Gayatri Stein and feature her debut novel, Out of the Blue Valise. Imagine an encounter between Alice in Wonderland and Winnie the Pooh at a twelve-step meeting and you may approximate the tone and flavor of this category-defying work of fiction. Both Mari and her book are very interesting, so let’s get started: Her Mentor Center: One line from Out of the Blue Valise jumps out at me: “If not silly, what?” The book is both whimsical and deals with life and death issues. … Continue reading

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Robin Williams: The Mask of Humor

Beloved actor Robin Williams struggled with depression and substance abuse throughout his illustrious career, and recently was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. On Monday, August 11, he committed suicide at the age of 63. We all wear masks at one time or another, pretending that everything is OK. It’s common to hide our personal pain. But the bad feelings don’t just disappear. Whether you’re facing a financial crisis, giving up roles that define you, or adjusting to great loss and a new reality, examine how to deal with what’s missing. Decide what … Continue reading

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Grandparents and Adult Grandkids Bonding Can Lower Depression for Both

  The number of grandparents raising grandkids surged during the Great Recession. In 2011, according to a Pew Research Center report, grandparents were the main caregivers for more than 3 million children. There are still many reasons why this is necessary today – military service, untimely death, incarceration, substance abuse, mental illness or problems with layoffs and foreclosures. The second Sunday in September is always Grandparents’ Day. But every day is a good time to celebrate caring across the generations. For many of us growing up, our grandparents were the … Continue reading

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