How crucial is the power of touch in developing a healthy sense of self-esteem . . . . . . and what role do these play in how people respond to fear? To answer these questions, Dr. Sander L. Koole and a team of researchers at VU University Amsterdam in the Netherlands conducted a series […]
The Power of Mindfulness in Schools
Despite our best intentions, the holidays can be demanding . . . . . . so it’s probably not surprising that levels of anxiety, stress, and depression tend to ramp up around this time of year. Now imagine living at a high level of stress year round (and trying to learn at the same time). […]
Is Chronic Worry Linked to Increased Likelihood of PTSD?
Is it possible that chronic worry may be linked to an increased likelihood of developing PTSD? I can remember my father telling me, “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (The Bible was quoted often in […]
Treating Trauma in Children
Trauma’s victims are often among the most vulnerable in society . . . . . . especially when they include children. When trauma occurs at a young age, children can face biological effects that change the way their brains are developing. This includes parts of the brain that are critical for processing emotions like trust, […]
Fear and Shame: Loosening Trauma’s Grip
Often a trauma patient’s body seems to tell them, “There’s something wrong with me. Everything is my fault. I’m so ashamed.” It’s challenging, helping patients learn how to quiet the messages their bodies are sending them so they can self-regulate and heal. And for some clients, just hearing the word body can activate a fear […]