Psych 101

Economics of Happiness

Historically, economists have said that well-being is a simple function of income. However, it has been found that once wealth reaches a subsistence level, its effectiveness as a generator of well-being is greatly diminished.[11] This paradox has been referred to as the Easterlin paradox.[1] Happiness economists hope to change the way governments view well-being and how to most […]

Continue Reading

10 Habits of Happy People

10 Signs Of Happiness Though it may come in different forms for different people, most human beings are in pursuit of the same thing: happiness. It may be closer than you imagined.  By Meredith Dault for readersdigestca   1   For some, happiness can be a pesky, fair-weathered friend, forever on the loose. The fact […]

Continue Reading

Serotonin Dopaimine : Physiological Indicators of Mood

Higher levels of serotonin are correlated with increased happiness and decreased anxiety. Dopamine also contributes to good mood, and in addition causes an increase in activity and willpower. Both serotonin and dopamine show decreased levels in depression.However, it is important not just to look at general levels of the neurotransmitter, but to also consider which parts of the brain show decreased […]

Continue Reading

Bipolar Disorder Demystified

Highs Clients often say they have mood swings and  wonder if they have bipolar disorder.   They believe their episodes of hyperactivity are “mania”.      As described below, Diagnostic Statistics Manual (DSM) -IV   defines specific criteria for  mania  and  hypomania.   A few hours or day of elevated mood / high energy  does not fit the diagnosis.  Also, […]

Continue Reading

Intro to Psych

The Teacup ID:   43 year old woman living with husband and three children.Master’s of Arts student, major in Russian Studies.   History of bipolar II and delusional disorder.     Annie prances through the door, her cowboy boots clomping and paisley skirt flouncing.  She sits in the grey plastic chair facing me, transforming it into a throne.  […]

Continue Reading

Getting hIgh can bring you down

Many of my clients, including teachers, cooks, construction workers, nurses and university professors …report years, sometimes decades of regular, often daily, marijuana.  They are generally surprised to learn they are exacerbating, if not causing, the anxiety, depression, insomnia and / or psychosis they suffer.  It also interferes with treatment.   When marijuana use is reduced or […]

Continue Reading

Psychopharmacology 101

Many clients, whether they be electricians, administrative assistants, professors, janitors, salespeople, lawyers… have misconceptions about medications.  This sometimes gets in the way of proper treatment.  Here is some information about commonly prescribed “anti-depressants”.After 4 – 6 weeks, these medications help improve mood as well as physical symptoms associated with depression such as insomnia, poor appetite / concentration / motivation. […]

Continue Reading