Four years ago, a dream came true for me. Tears to Joy, the book describing my journey through my husband’s bipolar disorder and suicide, was finally published. Many of you celebrated with me. It seems like only yesterday. If all goes well, I will finish my dissertation and graduate with my doctorate in Professional Counseling this year. Knowing the finish line is in sight begs…
I love to snuggle in a warm blanket and watch a good psychological movie that portrays mental illness in a real life context. One of my favorites is an old movie I show my Human Growth and Development classes called, The Bad Seed. Also among my favorites are A Beautiful Mind and Shutter Island. I am looking to expand my library. What are some of…
I have resolved to start 2016 without sugar — no sugar, no artificial sweeteners, and minimal carbohydrates. The first few days were rough, I won’t lie. The withdrawal symptoms included headaches, aches and pains, and even an upset stomach. I pushed through and finally, I am beginning to feel myself again. Why would I do this? One word — my health. Last year I spent…
It seems like much of my stress comes having too much to do or huge projects hanging over my head. We all know the answer to the infamous question, “How do you eat an elephant?” Knowing that taking bite sized pieces eats away at the elephant does not make the task any less daunting. I’ve learned that I do better when I break large tasks…
Several years ago, I was working in campus ministry when a group of students decided to sing “Give Tanks with a Grapeful Heart.” At the time we thought this was a great idea. As if the song wasn’t enough, we dressed up as grapes with purple and green balloons and handed out toy tanks to everyone. Now looking back, I think how silly we were,…
This semester I have been teaching a psychology class on illness, death and healing. In the course of the semester, I have spoken with friends who are nearing the end as they face their own mortality, and with others who have recently lost someone they love. What surprised me is the desire by those who are dying to talk about their impending death. We often…