Patricia Lyon

The Effects of Chronically Ill Children on Marriage, Part 3 The effects of a chronically ill child on marital satisfaction have been studied by a number of researchers, with some studies indicating overwhelmingly negative reactions. In my previous articles, I have discussed some of the ways in which couples, together with their families, are coping with the stress, role assignments, perception, and depression related to the care of an ill child. Unresolved, untreated, or unrecognized marital problems and/or depression

The Effects of Chronically Ill Children on Marriage, Part 2 A number of studies have investigated the effects of a chronically ill child on marital satisfaction, with some indicating overwhelmingly negative reactions. In my previous article, I discussed some of the ways in which couples, together with their families, can cope with the stress, role assignments, perceptions, and depression related to the care of an ill child. In this article, I continue the discussion by looking at how caring

Part 1 in a 3-Part Series Chronically Ill Children and Marriage A number of studies have investigated the effects of a chronically ill child on marital satisfaction, with some indicating overwhelmingly negative reactions. In this article, I address some ways in which couples, together with their families, can cope with the stress, role assignments, perceptions, and depression related to the care of an ill child. The Exposure of Underlying Marital Problems Unresolved, untreated, or unrecognized marital problems and/or depression

How we view ourselves can have an important influence on our well-being. Research studies into low self-esteem (LSE) and high self-esteem (HSE) have been conducted in order to investigate how people with low and high self-esteem respond and what impact this has on their lives. In this article, I discuss some of the conclusions that are drawn by these studies. Emotional Responses in Individuals with Low Self-Esteem Some individuals with LSE have been shown to experience aggression and hostility

Part 2 in the Common Symptoms of Panic Disorder Series In my previous article, I discussed panic attacks and Panic Disorder. I spoke about what Panic Disorder is and outlined how it can be treated, using both medication and cognitive behavior therapy. In this article, I continue to discuss the treatment of Panic Disorder, outlining some therapy options. The Immediate Treatment Objective The objective in treatment is to obtain at least a 12-month period free of symptoms, before tapering

Part 1 of a 2-Part Series Panic disorder (PD) is an anxiety disorder that affects an estimated two to three million people in the U.S. This article explores the physical symptoms associated with PD, some of the neurological research that has provided us with insight into the causes of PD, and various treatment options for sufferers. Although agoraphobia and depression may and often do accompany PD, they are not discussed here. What is a Panic Attack? Panic disorder is characterized by what

Do find yourself making lots of sacrifices for your partner's happiness, but not getting much in return? If this kind of one-sided pattern sounds like yours, you don't have to feel trapped. There are lots of ways to change a codependent relationship and get your life back on an even keel. What is a Codependent Relationship? The first step in getting things back on track is to understand what a codependent relationship is. Experts describe it as a pattern

Sexual addiction is the inability to stop sexual behavior, even when it damages your life. It involves engaging in excessive sexual fantasies and urges in response to anxiety, depression, or stressful life situations. Sexual addiction is characterized by repetitive but unsuccessful attempts to control or significantly curtail these fantasies, urges, and behaviors. Engaging in sexual behavior without regard for the risk of emotional or physical harm to yourself or others is another hallmark of sexual addiction. This article is

What does this statement mean? It may mean that you are seeking some helpful communication techniques: how to fight fair, resolve conflict, express wants and needs, etc. But my guess is that both of you feel lonely – desperately lonely. Fear is often the emotion that underlies this loneliness. Our connection with our mate is deeply primal – just like the relationship of a child and parent. Stories about neglected orphans recount their lack of crying and their failure

“I hate my mother and just wish she would die. But I shouldn’t feel like this!” said one of my friends. You’ve watched your mother decline into dementia. She thinks people are stealing from her and trying to kill her. You might even be the one she accuses. Remember, she is so afraid. Instead of reacting with anger or argument, will you create a moment of joy? Perhaps you could pull out a photo album, or give her a

If I have forgiven, why do I still experience so much emotional pain? A wise older woman once explained how forgiveness “works.” If someone comes up to me and slashes my arm with a knife, I am left with a wound. Choosing to forgive means choosing not to retaliate. But I am still left with a nasty wound on my arm. If left untended, it may get infected, or develop gangrene, or create an ugly scar. Tended, it will