The mind-body connection has become a prominent discussion. The microbiome has been less discussed. However, it has interesting mental health implications. Scientists published evidence that microorganisms in our gut may correspond to mood and nervous system problems–including anxiety, depression, and mania. Here are two media clips that summarize some of the recent research. The first clip is a short and sweet summary, 8.5 minutes. The second clip, 23 minutes, is an interview with two medical researchers.
Author Archives: Julia
Schizophrenia Simulation Video
A journalist wore wore headphones that simulated audio hallucinations. This short video describes his experience.
Somatic Experiencing Training
I recently took a somatic psychology training with Babette Rothchild, author of The Body Remembers Casebook. I gained knowledge about the body’s nervous systems and ways to reorient trauma and panic.
Celebrating 3 Years
My business turned 3 years old! During this time I enhanced my professional knowledge, expanded contracts with insurance companies, and initiated two support groups. I’m ready for another great year.
Lives Restored
Lives Restored is a New York Times video/interview series that profiles the resiliency of five people diagnosed with mental illness.
A Creative Way to Manage Mental Illness
Giulietta Carrelli manages her schizoaffective disorder, in part, by making herself a recognizable public figure. She wears the same clothing style everyday; has unique tattoos; and takes the same route through the city everyday. Strangers get to know her and help her when she experiences psychotic episodes, which she calls “Trouble.”
She expanded her support network by developing her own business (starting with $1,000), which apparently created a toast craze throughout the city. This article gives a poignant narrative about Carrelli and answers the question of “why toast?”
Approach to Problems
Many people avoid problems–or at least avoid discussing them. Some people experience total defeat when a solution does not appear immediately. Here is an approach to problems I encourage and utilize in my practice:
-Problems are discussable. -Most problems do not require an immediate resolution. -Exposing problems may enhance opportunities and choices.Sex Therapy Conference
I attended the Kansas Association for Marriage and Family Therapy conference last week. It was two days full of sex therapy information, presented by Stephanie Buehler of the Buehler Institute. We discussed the diverse, healthy range of sexual expression/sexual orientation/and gender orientations. I gained knowledge about sexual problems and ecosystemic contexts–including individual, medical, and intimate relationship interventions.
Quote about Success and Failure
Today, I’m on a lengthy telephone hold with a bureaucracy. I had the time to find a pertinent message:
“Life’s real failure is when you do not realize how close you were to success when you gave up” –unknown
Signs of an Abusive Relationship
A graphic from the Duluth Model outlines many components of abusive relationships. This power and control wheel was developed in 1984 and became widely circulated as the Duluth Model became the most researched and utilized domestic violence intervention approach in the world. The Duluth Model website hosts a gallery of other wheels, including the Using Children Post-Separation Wheel and the Equality Wheel. It also includes a wheel designed by an American Native community and Spanish-language wheels.