I am honored to be invited by The Advocacy Group Project to speak at an upcoming parent support group. I’ll be focusing on the importance of boundaries and how they serve as a foundation for compassion and empathy. This is a theme I've noticed with many of my clients, and I believe it will be especially relevant during the upcoming holiday season.
When: Tuesdays 6pm PST/ 9pm EST - 7:30pm PST/ 10:30pm EST
Where: Zoom. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88038432494
I am thrilled about the current research investigating the potential use of weight-loss medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, for treating Binge Eating Disorder (BED). A recent article in the New York Times references one of the limited studies conducted in this field, indicating that further investigation is warranted. More treatment options are needed for those struggling with BED, and I am by no means endorsing these medications as a quick fix. However, I believe that with more research, we could uncover new ways to prescribe these medications at different doses tailored specifically for individuals with BED. This represents a promising development in the search for additional effective treatment options.
Loneliness is a deeply painful feeling, associated with shame and disconnection, and increasingly linked to poor mental and physical health according to recent research. The World Health Organization has even established a Commission on Social Connection to address this issue as a global public health priority.
Two recent articles, linked below, cite a research study by insurance provider Cigna on loneliness. The study found that 52% of Americans reported feeling alone sometimes or always, with the percentage rising to 65% among parents.
NY Times - Why Is the Loneliness Epidemic So Hard to Cure?
WSJ - Parenting Is Hazardous to Your Health, the Surgeon General Warns
I recently recommended a transitional object, often referred to as a 'lovey,' to one of my clients to assist with sleep. Initially, the reaction was as anticipated—laughter. However, curiosity soon followed. After giving it a try, my client shared their experience with me one week later—it was a success! I always appreciate it when articles resonate with the interventions I use with clients, so I wanted to share this New York Times article.
Great advice from the author of Secrets from the Eating Lab. The article is a quick and helpful read for anyone who is struggling with body image as we reintegrate towards a new normal.
Link here
Recently our community lost a bright, young soul to an accidental overdose. I am honored to participate on a panel about a subject for which I am deeply passionate. Prevention and early intervention of substance use and co-occuring disorders is essential, especially in our youth. I am truly happy to be moving this conversation forward with parents.
This period of isolation and physical distancing has brought on a number of different challenges for everyone. One of these challenges is the feeling of helplessness during a time of uncertainty. This NY Times article provides a simple and attainable way to boost your spirits - by lending a helping hand.
“Much of the scientific research on resilience - which is our ability to bounce back from adversity - has shown that having a sense of purpose, and giving support to others, has a significant impact on our well-being.”
Give it a try!
My clients often hear me talk about resilience and early childhood relationships; how both play a critical role in how we live and interpret our lives. This NY Times article is an easy to read reminder about both.
“The most significant determinant of resilience…is the quality of our close personal relationships, especially with parents and primary caregivers” - Eilene Zimmerman
“How loved you felt as a child is a great predictor of how you manage all kinds of difficult situations later in life” - Bessel van Der Kolk.
Having experienced a less than loving childhood does not mean you are doomed for the rest of your life. With awareness (and yes, therapy), comes the opportunity to heal and repair the relationship one has with themselves and the opportunity to build resilience.
This is incredibly important and very dear to my heart - While almost 20% of pregnancies end in miscarriage, the shame and stigma endured by the women who suffer from early pregnancy loss, and their partners who are just as much part of the process, often goes unnoticed. A new, groundbreaking research study from Imperial College in London and KU Leuven in Belgium has now found that nearly 1 in 6 of these amazing women suffer from PTSD. I hope the research continues to grow, and I hope the research starts to include partners.
For all the amazing women and partners out there - I cannot stress the importance of getting support from a friend, loved one, or perinatal therapist (like me!). Shame breeds on secrecy - you are not alone.
Direct links of the research story - BBC & Today Show
Niksen - the art of doing nothing
Cheers to the state of New York for being the first state to make mental health education mandatory!!! This feature on The Today Show shares the importance of teaching coping skills in the classroom.
Thought-provoking article in Sunday's The New York Times, introducing the new generation of Sober Curious and Mindful Drinkers
Direct link to article here
Oftentimes, clients who are recovering from eatings disorders worry about how they will be able to respond to friends or family members who are dieting themselves. This NY Times article provides reassurance that it is possible to maintain recovery while being exposed to what could have been triggers in the past.
We all want to be more resilient - better able to recover, or bounce back, from adversity. This New York Times article shares the key findings from a recent study and underscores the importance of some tried and true practices - mindfulness, social support systems, and exercise.
Link: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/12/15/opinion/sunday/stress-anxiety-depression-research.html
Most people are afraid of mindfulness, seeing it as an impossible feat where one must sit in silence for extended periods of time. This simple and straightforward NY Times article about Mindfulness debunks that myth and offers a basic mindfulness exercise that anyone can do!
https://www.nytimes.com/guides/well/be-more-mindful-at-work
As the new school year begins across the country, students (and parents) will inevitably begin to feel the stress of academic demands. This NY Times article, by psychologist Lisa Damour, reminds us that growth cannot occur without approaching life’s challenges, whether in school or in everyday life.
“…we should appreciate that healthy stress is inevitable when we operate at the edge of our abilities. Stretching beyond familiar limits doesn’t always feel good, but growing and learning — the keys to school and much of life — can’t happen any other way.”
This Forbes article, titled “Still Not Happy? Why Embracing Painful Emotions is the First Step to a Happier Life”, reminds us of what we already know - that the only way to experience pure moments of joy, connection, gratitude and love is when we allow ourselves to experience loneliness, sadness, fear and hurt.
Take a few minutes to read this article featured in Goop about using intuition to cultivate self-love and self-acceptance, two of the core principles that guide my practice. Included at the end are some helpful tips on how to we can connect to our intuition.
Link to article: https://goop.com/wellness/spirituality/using-intuition-to-find-self-acceptance/?ref=newsletter
The verb "quit" has such a strong, and often negative, connotation. Sometimes, we need to remind ourselves that it's okay to move on. Refreshing New York Times article, applicable to all.
My favorite class in graduate school at UCLA was focused on Attachment Theory; the theory that one's early relationship (or attachment stye) with a primary caregiver has a profound influence on how one relates to themselves and others in life. I draw from this theory in my practice with all my clients, as I truly believe in this theory.
Fellow Los Angeles psychotherapist, Traci Bank Cohen, has a great article on GOOP that explains the correlation between attachment styles and eating disorders.
To my clients - notice the "tips" she gives...sound familiar?
To everyone - you can resolve your attachment issues and lead a meaningful, rewarding life. Do not give up!
