The inimitable Fred Rogers often stated: “Anything that is mentionable can be more manageable.” This simple sentiment on the importance of naming emotions has become an important aspect of helping children develop healthfully, productively and creatively. In fact, renowned neuropsychiatrist Dr. Dan Siegel calls it “mindsight.” What Our Children Need According to Siegel, some basic childhood needs …Read the rest…

Some lessons are more painful to learn than others. When betrayal is at the root, the pain is particularly deep. What are we to do if we’ve been cheated on? At first, of course, some rather extreme options may appear tempting. With a little time and perspective, however, we are left with some stark realities. …Read the rest…

Sleep disorders — a blanket term referring to conditions that prevent people from sleeping well on a regular basis — are common. In fact, by some estimates, as many as three-quarters of adults suffer from some type of sleep disorder. Sleep disorders can have a significant effect on our general health and well-being. Issues with …Read the rest…

It’s no secret that sex is a critical component of relationships. In fact, studies show the average couple has sex about 54 times a year, or about once a week. Regular, enjoyable intimacy has the potential to bring you and your partner closer together both physically and emotionally. While intimacy and pleasure feel exhilarating in …Read the rest…

Just because something is a cliché doesn’t mean it’s not also true. Every day, we are bombarded with more evidence that our tech has taken over our lives. Getting outside is no longer a given. As we read such updates (on our phones, of course), how often do we ponder the role modern technology plays …Read the rest…

Trust is hard to earn yet so easy to lose. In the case of infidelity, trust can be shattered in a heartbeat. This situation has doomed many a relationship. Conversely, it is most definitely not an automatic death knell. Tears will be shed. Angry words will be yelled. Ultimatums, threats, and doubts will run rampant. …Read the rest…

During childhood, we each experience countless events. These can range from mundane to extreme. The events that fall into an extreme category can play a major role in how we live our lives. When such events are negative or traumatic, they are known as adverse childhood experiences or ACEs. Every child has ups and downs. …Read the rest…

Each generation is capable of heaping too many expectations upon the youth. However, it’s probably safe to say that the current way young people find themselves striving for perfection is exhausting. Across a broad spectrum of avenues and platforms, perfectionism is being, well…perfected? And the outcomes are widespread and far from positive. Perfection is a …Read the rest…

A teen using social media is often an anxious teen. This is not social media bashing, it’s a research-based reality. And it’s not slowing down. Your teen’s attention is being hijacked and the results are not even close to positive. The good news? You can help turn this trend around. How Your Teen’s Attention is Being …Read the rest…

The initial response to infidelity is often some blend of shock, anger, shame, guilt, and resentment. At some point, however, a concrete decision is made. Will the couple break-up or stay together? For those who choose to try again, it can be a long, bumpy road back to intimacy. In fact, there are more than …Read the rest…

Parenting styles may vary widely over the years — and from culture to culture. The variations are far too numerous to detail but some common threads exist. One of the most important and enduring foundations involves connections. Healthy parenting involves discovering how to connect with your kids and how to maintain a secure and strong …Read the rest…

Plenty of teens will stress over an exam or worry about a first date. Anxiety is much more than that. It is a diagnosable mental condition that can negatively shape a teen’s life. If an over-achieving teen feels pushed or coerced into achieving at all costs, the anxiety quotient increases. There are many factors involved …Read the rest…

Parenting mistakes happen. Parenting with forethought simply means planning ahead. It’s an essential part of finding equilibrium when anxiety affects your parenting. It can often feel like you have to be ten steps ahead of whatever your child is thinking or doing at all times. But as with most other areas of parenting (or life …Read the rest…