World HIV Testing Day

AIDS is a gay disease.  AIDS and HIV is not a gay disease. It effects homosexuals as well and heterosexuals. It does not discriminate. Women, men, professionals, missionaries, across the socio-economic scale and across all ethnicity's...no one is immune to contracting HIV. The Center for Disease Control estimate that men who have sex with men account for more than half of all new HIV infections in the us. This partially due to lack of using condoms as they cannot get pregnant. Twenty-six percent of those living with HIV in the U.S. are women. Among racial and ethnic groups, blacks account for more than 45 percent of new infections each year.

HIV only effects those who use drug.  Again, HIV can effect anyone, not only drugs users.  I went with two of my friends at separate times to find out their HIV status.  Both were virgins and had never used drugs. One was a missionary and had a blood transfusion before they started screening for the virus.  The other was in the health care industry and was stabbed by a needle by someone who was HIV positive.  Both people's status for HIV was negative. 

Most men do become HIV-positive through sexual contact with other men or through injection drug use. However, about 16% of men and 78% of women become HIV-positive through heterosexual contact.

You can get AIDS/HIV from an insect bite.  One of the most prevalent myths about HIV transmission is that mosquitoes or other bloodsucking insects can infect you. There is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Centers for Disease Control estimates released today, 39.5 percent of American adults age 18 and older have received an HIV test at some point in their lives. That is up from a decade ago -- only 32.1 percent had in 2000 -- but it still falls dramatically short of the CDC's recommendation that everyone between the age of 13 and 64 undergo routine screening for HIV.

Even if I test positive, I can take a pill.  It's no big deal.  To date, there is no cure for HIV or AIDS and there are no vaccines to prevent HIV infection.  Antiretroviral drugs are improving and extending the lives of many people who are HIV-positive. However, many of these drugs are expensive and produce serious side effects. None yet provides a cure. Also, drug-resistant strains of HIV make treatment an increasing challenge. If caught early, treatment only prolongs the person's life span.  Most do not catch HIV early enough to receive treatment for this outcome.

You can get AID/HIV by touching someone who is positive.  You cannot get it by just touching someone.  HIV is transmitted through contact with an HIV-positive person's infected body fluids, such as semen, pre-ejaculate fluid, vaginal fluids, blood, or breast milk. HIV can also be transmitted through needles contaminated with HIV-infected blood, including needles used for injecting drugs, tattooing or body piercing.

HIV is the same as AIDS.  This is false. HIV is an abbreviation for Human Immunodeficiency Virus and AIDS Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome is the collection of symptoms, diseases, and infections associated with an acquired deficiency of the immune system. While HIV is the underlying cause of AIDS, not all HIV-positive individuals have AIDS, as HIV can remain in a latent stage for many years. They are not the same thing. AIDS and HIV are related, yet different. HIV is the virus that causes AIDS. A person may test positive for the presence of HIV in his or her bloodstream, yet not have AIDS. An HIV-positive individual may be diagnosed with AIDS at some later point in time or not at all.

You have to be promiscuous to have HIV.  Again, anyone can get HIV if they have risky behavior not just promiscuity. In 2008, CDC estimated that approximately 56,300 people were newly infected with HIV in 2006¹  (the most recent year that data are available). Over half (53%) of these new infections occurred in gay and bisexual men. Black/African American men and women were also strongly affected and were estimated to have an incidence rate than was 7 times as high as the incidence rate among whites.

¹Hall HI, Ruiguang S, Rhodes P, et al. Estimation of HIV incidence in the United States. JAMA. 2009;300:520-529.

My partner and I are monogamous, so we are not at risk.  This is a common misconception among many people. In my practice, it's not uncommon for a woman to tell me her boyfriend or fiance assured her he was "clean." It is also not uncommon for the young gay couple to profess to being monogamous, when in fact one partner has strayed from time to time. The fact of the matter is people are sometimes dishonest and reluctant to be forthcoming with their past sexual history.

I can tell if someone has HIV.  You can be HIV-positive and not have any symptoms for up to 10 years.  A person with HIV may not show any symptoms for up to 10 years. Since HIV affects each person differently, many people with HIV can look and feel healthy for years. The only sure way to know is to get tested.

I can get HIV/AIDS by sharing food with someone positive.  You cannot "catch" HIV/AIDS by the following:

• Breathing the same air as someone who is HIV-positive
• Touching a toilet seat or doorknob handle after an HIV-positive person
• Drinking from a water fountain
• Hugging, kissing, or shaking hands with someone who is HIV-positive
• Sharing eating utensils with an HIV-positive person
• Using exercise equipment at a gym

You can get it from infected blood, semen, vaginal fluid, or mother's milk.

It is no big deal.  AIDS can be cured.  While many make claims of miraculous cures, the sad truth is there is no cure for HIV and AIDS. Be careful of claims or cures and miracles. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is. There is no cure for HIV or AIDS and there are no vaccines to prevent HIV infection. 

I'm not at risk because I use a condom.  Birth control methods protect against having a child and transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, it does not insure that one will not contract AIDS.  However, a condom should be used anyway if one or both are HIV positive.

It is estimated that more than 20 percent of the one million-plus people living with HIV nationally do not even know they have been infected.  People often don't get tested because they didn't want to know. If you catch HIV early enough, you don't have to develop AIDS. Indeed, since the first federal announcement regarding Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome 30 years ago, antiretroviral therapy has made it possible to delay progression from HIV infection to AIDS, significantly prolonging patients' lives.

Estimates suggest that one-in-five people living with an HIV infection does not know it. And between 2001 and 2007, one third of people diagnosed with HIV had developed AIDS within the next 12 months -- in spite of the fact that the benefits of testing and early treatment are widely known. Finding out their status so late keeping them from getting key antiretroviral therapy as soon as possible.

Left untreated, most people develop AIDS within 10 years of an HIV infection. Research has also shown that people who are unaware of their infection are three-and-a-half times more likely to transmit HIV.

Conversely, the CDC estimates that a 25-year-old who is diagnosed with HIV after seeking out testing and subsequently receives high-quality care will live 39 additional years.  'People need to know that this is all preventable, and we don't need to see new cases. With diagnosis, it's a treatable disease. No one has to get AIDS. '

GET TESTED FOR HIV

Sunday was Harvey Milk Day 2011!!

Tommorow's post will be about my enlightening Mother's Day.

Last year Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger signed into law the Harvey Milk Day bill, in honor of the slain San Francisco supervisor who fought for LGBT rights.

Friday current California Gov. Jerry Brown issued a proclamation declaring Sunday as "Harvey Milk Day" in the state.

PROCLAMATION BY THE GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA

In 1977, Harvey Milk was elected to the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, becoming the first openly gay man in the history of the United States to be elected to public office. This milestone achievement gave hope to millions of gays and lesbians across the country that a day would come when they could live their lives openly and honestly without fear of discrimination.

As a Supervisor, Harvey worked with others to secure passage of San Francisco’s landmark Gay Rights Ordinance. This ordinance extended employment protections to gays and lesbians in San Francisco, and it became a model for anti-discrimination legislation throughout California and the nation.

In 1978, Harvey traversed the State to campaign against Proposition 6, which was known as the Briggs Initiative. Had it passed, Proposition 6 would have required California school districts to fire openly gay and lesbian teachers solely because of their sexual orientation. The proposition was defeated in the November 1978 election in part because Harvey successfully appealed to Californians’ basic sense of fairness.

A few weeks after the election, Harvey and San Francisco Mayor George Moscone were shot and killed in San Francisco City Hall by a former member of the Board of Supervisors. The tragedy and its aftermath helped further propel the burgeoning gay and lesbian civil rights movement.

Harvey’s life was cut short far too soon, but his legacy of hope, tolerance, and equality lives on.

NOW THEREFORE I, EDMUND G. BROWN JR., Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim May 22, 2011 as “Harvey Milk Day” in the State of California. I call on all Californians to observe the 81st anniversary of Harvey Milk’s birth with appropriate ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 19th day of May 2011.

___________________________________

EDMUND G. BROWN JR.

Governor of California

Harvey Milk was the first openly-gay man to be elected to public office in the US in 1977. His most recognized speech, "You Cannot Live On Hope Alone," was given in 1978, shortly before he was assassinated. His words resonate particularly today as Californians debate a resolution to ban gay marriage.

Let's go eat apple pie!!!

I'm enjoying my morning cup of coffee. Tastes like Gruda blend from Peet's Coffee and Tea. I am also finding out that it is National Apple Pie Day (May 13th). Apple pie like some many "American" foods are not American at all with their origins being from another country. Unfortunately, National Apple Pie Day is not a day off from work, but a great excuse for eating apple pie. I have great memories of my Grandpa eating apple pie where ever we went. My best friend in High School used to eat pie for breakfast. On got on her case about it, but stopped when she pointed out that the fruit filled "turn over' type things which were meant for breakfast is just the same thing, but with less. In researching this post, I found out that she was right, but for a different reason. Apple pie like some many "American" foods are not American at all with their origins being from another country.

Mr. Breakfast The history of pies, in general, dates back to 2nd Century B.C.. Briefly stated, the Greeks invented it. The Romans invaded Greece and stole it. Jumping ahead to 15th Century A.D., pies had spread throughout Europe. The recipes had become very diverse. (In 15th Century A.D.) Animated pies or pyes were the most popular banquet entertainment. The nursery rhyme "Sing a Song of Sixpence... four and twenty blackbirds baked in a pie," refers to such a pie. According to the rhyme, "When the pie was opened, the birds began to sing. Wasn't that a dainty dish to set before the King?" In all likelihood, those birds not only sang, but flew briskly out at the assembled guests. Rabbits, frogs, turtles, other small animals, and even small people (dwarfs) were also set into pies, either alone or with birds, to be released when the crust was cut. The dwarf would emerge and walk down the length of the table, reciting poetry, sketching the guests, or doing tricks. (And, I thought it was just a children's rhyme...now, it creeps me out more)

By the 19th century, apple and other fruit pies were common at the breakfast table in rural homes throughout America. In our time, pie is no longer common for breakfast. Most of us have had left over pie from the previous night's desert for breakfast. It's a great treat, but hardly a morning staple. When we consider that the history of pies, in general, predates Christ, the history of breakfast as we know it -- eggs and bacon and Cap'n Crunch et al -- is a relatively new phenomenon. The practice of going to a restaurant for pancakes or an omelet in the morning is barely 100 years old. So in many ways, breakfast pie is the infant prodigy of pies. Oh, now this is why apple pie goes so well with COFFEE...I'll take any excuse to have coffee.

According to http://www.thewordly.org/, the first recorded, edible crust apple pie recipe was in 1361.The first apple seeds in American came from the Pilgrims in 1620. Mock Apple Pie made from soda crackers instead of apples, was popular during The Great Depression, because apples were hard to obtain.

While it is uncertain to why either of these dates became National Apple Pie Day, it is well known that apple pies are an important part of the American culture with sayings like "as American as apple pie". From http://www.theoi.com/, the meaning that apples are not originally from the United States, like many of its people, but they adapted into Americans. Apples have been around since ancient times and are even noted in Greek mythology when Ge gave Hera, bride of Zeus, a tree with golden apples.

Even though apple pie is commonly associated with being American, apple seeds were brought over by the Europeans, as no apple trees existed in the Untied States before the time of Columbus. However, apple pies soon began being a part of the culture and history as it is believed that the apple pie and recipe was brought over by the early English settlers. Henry Finck stated a claim that apple pie was an American Nation Dish in his book "Food and Flavor" written in 1913. Making the statement that "The apple pie is ours, as much as our flag".

According to http://www.gwinnettmagazine.com/ Apples pies became highly associated with the US during World War II when the soldier were heading off to war. Soldiers would answer when ask why they were going to war... "for mom and apple pie". Apple pies have also been involved in a big patriotic ad by General Motors in the 1970s, stating the company was as an "American Tradition just like baseball, hot dogs and apple pie". Given all the roots, tradition and association to apple pie, it's no wonder that America celebrates this holiday twice a year. While it there is not an international apple pie day, there are other international apple holidays celebrated.

Apple pie is actually a European creation. The French have “tarte tatin,” the Austrians “apfelstrudel” and the British apple pie.

Apples found their way to the United States via the early British colonists who carried over apple seeds and apple tree seedlings. The apple is a tricky fruit to grow as the characteristics of the mother plant do not necessary carry over to the fruit grown from its seed.

Still, Americans were creating–and writing about–apple pie from the early 18th century onwards. The phrase “as American as apple pie” actually comes from the World War II era where servicemen and women were instructed to answer reporters that they were fighting for “mom and apple pie.”

My cousin makes the best homemade apple pie that I've ever had, so I asked him for the recipe. Here was his response:

I don't really use a recipe. It's green apples (sliced thin)mixed with a little bit of flour, butter (couple tablespoons), cinamon, and sugar to taste. The apples should be lightly coated. Put it in a pie crust. I usually use the pre-made refrigerated crust or just the basic pie crust recipie. I sometimes put a crumb topping of cinamon, sugar, flour, brown sugar, and butter. Or I lay sliced pieces of crust over the top. I use my moms Better Homes and Gardens cookbook for cook times and the crust recipe.

So, can you think of a food item that is American in origin? What is your country's "national food?"

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

This month of May is dedicated to Mental Health Awareness.

 

Mental Health America is proud to continue its tradition of celebrating "May is Mental Health Month," which began in 1949 to raise awareness of mental health conditions and mental wellness for all.

This year, we are addressing these important issues through two themes:

Do More for 1 in 4 is a call to action to help the 1 in 4 American adults who live with a diagnosable, treatable mental health condition and the fact that they can go on to live full and productive lives.The second theme, Live Well! It's Essential for Your Potential, focuses on the importance of mental wellness and the steps everyone can take to improve their well-being and resiliency in the face of difficult times and challenges. Mental Health America's Live Your Life Well program offers ten science-based tools to manage stress and help you relax, grow and flourish.

So what are some examples of mental illness/disorders, you may be surprised or not:

Mental retardation
Learning disorder (reading, math, written expression),
Motor skills disorder,
Communication disorders (expressive language, mixed receptive- language disorder, stuttering),
Pervasive developmental disorder), (autism, Rett’s, Asperger’s)
Tic disorder (Tourette’s)
Elimination Disorders
Selective Mutism
Delirium
Dementia (at least 10 different forms)
Amnesic disorders,
Catatonic Disorder
Substance Related Disorders
Alcohol Related Disorders,
Amphetamine Related Disorders
Caffeine-Related Disorders (I was once diagnosed with this…I have know idea why, by the way where is my coffee!)
Cannabis-Related Disorders
Cocaine-Related Disorders
And the list goes on for each substance addiction
Schizophrenia (five different types)
Other Psychotic Disorders
Mood Disorders ( depression, bipolar, mood disorders, substance –induced mood disorder)
Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorde, Social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder)
Somatoform Disorders (presence of physical symptoms that suggest an illness, but is actually attributed an underlying stress. For me, my psoriasis and rash on my neck expresses my anxiety)
Dissociative Disorders (five types)
Sexual and Gender Identity Disorders
Paraphhilias
Eating Disorders
Sleep Disorders
Impulse-Control Disorders
Adjustment Disorder
Personality Disorder (Paranoid, Schizoid, Schizotypal, Antisocial, Histrionic, Narcissistic, Avoidant, Dependent, Borderline, Obessive-Compulsive)

WHO (World Health Organization) statistics for 2002 show that 154 million people globally suffer from depression, only one form of mental illness. Mental disorder effects everyone as one in four have some type of disorder globally. Mental disorders comprise a broad range of problems, with different symptoms. However, they are generally characterized by some combination of abnormal thoughts, emotions, behaviour and relationships with others. They must interfere with daily life functioning or cause significant distress. Mental, neurological and behavioural disorders are common in all countries around the world, causing immense suffering and staggering economic and social costs. People with disorders are often subjected to social isolation, poor quality of life and higher death rates.

For more information, go to Tasmania Department of Health and Human Services, WHO (World Health Organization), World Federation of Mental Health, World Congress Federation for Mental Health or do a Google Search. There is a lot of information available.

Do you or someone you know have a mental illness? Please describe your experience.

The Forgotten Victim!!

It is National Child Abuse Prevention Month and National Sexual Assault Awareness Month. These are two extremely important issues.  I wanted to do a post that I rarely see and that is about male sexual assault and not just children, but men. For women, it is very difficult to speak up about being sexually assaulted, but for men it is significantly harder. When they do speak up, they are really not taken seriously or their emotional damage is hardly ever addressed. They receive little support because most services are for men although this is changing somewhat.

From the National Center for Victims of Crime, they define sexual assault by the following: Sexual assault takes many forms including attacks such as rape or attempted rape, as well as any unwanted sexual contact or threats. Usually a sexual assault occurs when someone touches any part of another person's body in a sexual way, even through clothes, without that person's consent. Some types of sexual acts which fall under the category of sexual assault include forced sexual intercourse (rape), sodomy (oral or anal sexual acts), child molestation, incest, fondling and attempted rape. Sexual assault in any form is often a devastating crime. Assailants can be strangers, acquaintances, friends, or family members. Assailants commit sexual assault by way of violence, threats, coercion, manipulation, pressure or tricks. Whatever the circumstances, no one asks or deserves to be sexually assaulted.

Adult men seem to be the forgotten victims of sexual assault due to some of what I stated above. I found little information regarding adult male sexual assault, but tons of information regarding women and children (boys and girls). But, there are some resources. One reason is the myth instilled through masculine gender socialization and sometimes referred to as the "macho image," declares that males, even young boys, are not supposed to be victims or even vulnerable. We learn very early that males should be able to protect themselves. , strength, and knowledge. A cultural bias maintains that males cannot be victims. Males are expected to be confident, knowledgeable, and aggressive. To be a victim means one is an inadequate male.

The same misconceptions apply to men and some to women as well. Male victims of sexual abuse struggle with issues of homosexuality as most offenders are male. Their homophobia plus their confusion and fear encourage silence. If a boy receives money for sex; he is less likely to be perceived as a victim; If a boy has a homosexual orientation, he is often blamed for the "seduction" of the older male, instead of being acknowledged as a legitimate victim of sexual abuse; molestation by an older female is often viewed positively as a kind of "initiation rite" into manhood; cultural pressure encourages participation while denying feelings; male victims of sexual abuse, more than female victims, may fear loss of freedom and independence if the sexual abuse should be made public; fear of reprisals from the offender plays a role in under-reporting; when boys are victimized, they tend to be blamed more for their abuse and are viewed as less in need of care and support; boys fear negative judgment by family and friends; and embarrassment and/or confusion prevent male victims of sexual abuse from disclosing. This information is from Male Survivor website.

For more information and support go to Male Survivor, Butler County Rape Crisis Center or RAIIN.

Please share your experiences personal or someone you know. All comments are welcome, but please be considerate of the fact that adult males are victims and maybe reading this post. Don't further myths and cause shame and emotional harm by your comments.

Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Silence!!

Trigger Warning! Trigger Warning!! Trigger Warning!!!

What Would You Do?

Sexual Assault Awareness Month: Facts

Trigger Warning!  Trigger Warning!! Trigger Warning!!!

NEDA Week ~ It May Not Be What You Really See

Eating Disorders Awareness Week: Media and Garment Industry influences.

Vanity sizing, also known as size inflation is used to refer to the phenomenon of ready-to-wear clothing of the same nominal size becoming larger over time. It is generally acknowledged that clothing of the same nominal size has become larger over the years.

In 2003, a study that measured over 1,011 pairs of women's pants found that more expensive brands tended to be smaller than cheaper ones of the same nominal size. The increasing dimensions of garments of the same nominal size has caused some designers to introduce size 0, 00, or other subzero sizes. Many commentators have suggested that "vanity sizing," as its name suggests, is designed to satisfy buyers' wishes to appear thin and feel better about themselves.

Model fired for being "too large."

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

For another video clip titled, "Size 4 model 'too fat' to work" 

Retouching: Real versus Fake:

Trying to attain the "perfect" body according to the media requires retouching.  No wonder most women want to lose weight...some will DIE to get it.

National Depression Screening Day

Today is National Depression Screening Day, so I decided to re-post my post on Major Depression. I hope that you find it helpful and/or encouraging.

I am a person, a unique complex individual. My diagnosis does not define who I am. It only describes some of the things that I experience. Major depressive disorder is one way to describe how I feel and relate to myself, others and the world. Don't ever call me by my mental illness. I always have a name and a face.

Although I desperately want you to understand, I know most people, even mental health professionals, cannot. I can't just snap out of it no more than someone can snap out of heart disease. Thinking positively will not do it either. Do you not get that I am in serious pain everyday all the time. "No, I can't just get better." "Yes, it is that bad and no, I am not feeling sorry for myself." "No, I am not trying to escape my responsibilities. I want to work and take care of household and personal tasks." "I am not doing this to be treated special and no, I'm not over it yet!" I've heard those comments and thought about them and tried some and failed. I feel like I am a failure. I know that you meant well, but you were not helpful. I just feel like retreating more. My feelings were hurt. Please read the following and maybe you will understand me more.

It is normal for everyone to have the blues now and then, but they usual pass in a day or so. There are several types of depressive disorders that interfere in daily functioning and causes pain everyday for the person and those around them. Before I specifically address major depressive disorder, I want to briefly tell you what the others depressive disorders are in this category. There is major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder (low-grade chronic depression), psychotic depression (depression with a break in reality, hallucinations and delusions), postpartum depression (depression which occurs after the birth of one's baby), and seasonal affective disorder (depression which occurs when there is less natural sunlight). They are all chemical imbalances.

I was in psychotherapy for 12 years and then things were pretty good until November 2003 when I figured out I was depressed. Well, I know the symptoms, but I did not pick them up. I returned to therapy and to taking medications which I had done previously for about 7 years. Even so, my sleep is all disturbed.  I wake up about 1 to 3 am almost every morning and nap during the day.

I actually cannot remember not having disruptive sleep ever except for maybe a one year period after I was married. My psychiatrist indicated that it is common for a person under my circumstances to have difficulties with sleep disturbances. At least, since I am not working it helps because I can sleep whenever I am tired then it is usually a 2-3 hour nap and sometimes two during the day.

During this second time in therapy with Gary, I began to have flashbacks and memories of neglect, physical, emotional and sadistic sexual abuse. I became incapacitated at home and would not leave the house except for work. Everything became overwhelming I couldn't shop (me not shop...you know it is serious), clean the house, cook, bake, etc. All I could manage to do was to work, which I kept up to date, and at the beginning no one noticed and went to therapy 5 times per week. Yes, I had long days. Work was my way of trying to prove that I was "okay," when I was anything but okay.

All at the same time, he began sleeping in the extra bedroom to make me feel safer. He volunteered...imagine a man doing that. You know that God was at work here because nothing was wrong with him. Our church began to provide meals. It felt like I was living a double life...a part had it all together and the other was falling apart and a mess. I went to work everyday feeling overwhelmed and panicked. Medications helped some, but not enough.

In 2006, working and going to therapy caught up with me and I was no longer able to work. It was continue to work and be hospitalized or stop working. I subsequently was hospitalized and then twice in 2009.  With fragmenting and a new supervisor "re-traumatized" me due to her supervisory skills. Most of those under her left for other jobs. The unfortunate thing is that I loved my job and envisioned being there a long time. But, I figure that God knows what He is doing. Also, I would not have been able to do the tougher emotional work while being employed. This has been a good thing.

Now, I am a little better. But, I still have to gage if I can tolerate going out and handling the crowd without going away or becoming overwhelmed. Then, afterward and the next day I sleep and sleep and sleep. Also, there are days when I just don't want to get out of bed and if I do and don't have to go anywhere I don't brush my teeth, shower or get out of my pajamas. These are some specific examples of major depression versus dysthymia which is painful as well. Gary and I figure that I've been depressed my whole life with periods of major depressive episodes.

Depressive disorders are mental illness that are treatable and manageable, but need to be taken care of just as someone with heart disease would. No one would dare say or think any of the above about someone who has had a heart attack. But, somehow, everyone treats mental illness differently. Sometimes, it feels like some people are afraid they are going to catch it.

Major Depression is a serious medical illness affecting 18 million American adults, men and women of all ages, races and economic levels. Unlike normal emotional experiences of sadness, loss, or passing mood states, major depression is persistent and can significantly interfere with an person's thoughts, behavior, mood, activity and physical health. It is the leading cause of disability in the United States and usually strikes people between the ages of 25 and 44.

Twice as many women as men are diagnosed with Major Depression. It is not fully understood why. After a single episode, a person is more likely to have another one and after the second the percentage exponentially increases with each episode. There is evidence that the brain may make permanent changes making someone more susceptible to another episode. I've had a least five, but only two were diagnosed and treated. The others were before age 21. Without treatment, the frequency as well as the severity increases over time and can lead to suicide. However, with proper treatment a person can recover as long as they don't give up on the treatment.

Symptoms:

• 
  
  persistently sad, anxious or irritable mood
• 
  
  pronounced changes in sleep, appetite, and energy
• 
  
  difficulty thinking, concentrating and remembering
• 
  
  physical slowing or agitation
• 
  
  lack of interest in or please from activities that were once enjoyed
• 
  
  sleeping too much or can't sleep
• 
  
  feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness and emptiness
• 
  
  recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
• 
  
  persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain.

A depressive episode is diagnosed several of these symptoms last most of the day, nearly every day, for a period of 2 weeks or longer.

Psychological, biological, and environmental factors may all contribute to the development of a depressive episode. Whatever the specific cause of depression, scientific research has firmly established that it is a biological, medical illness. Neurotransmitters are thought to be involved which is what medications address. There is also some evidence that there is a genetic predisposition. Also, discuss with your doctor your medical history as some illness may influence depression especially hypothyroidism.

Reportedly, between 80-90% of those treated for Major Depression return to their usual daily activities and feelings. I did so successfully for about five years, but this episode is much worse and I don't feel as hopeful. But, all indications are that I will recover to some degree although it is taking much longer than I want it to partly because it is complicated by post-traumatic stress disorder.

Treatment options include medications, psychotherapy (usually cognitive behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy), and/or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT; it causes a seizure by means of an electrical current which may improve mood). I am taking medications and receiving psychotherapy, but it is the person with the illness that must make the decisions just like a cancer patient with the assistance of their support system and medical professionals. Be aware that many of the side effects from these medications go away after a short period and it may take time before the full effects are noticed.

Possible complications of depression include suicide (15% of people with major depressive disorder die by suicide), increased risk of alcohol and drug related problems, increased risk of tobacco dependence and increased risk of problems with physical health and premature death due to medical illness.

Call 911, a suicide hotline or get safely to an emergency room if you have thoughts of suicide, a suicidal plan or thoughts of harming yourself or others. If a loved one expresses such thoughts, it is okay to let them talk about it. By not talking about it, it becomes a "taboo" subject, so they may not go to you if they are at risk. If they talk about it, you can be sure that they have been thinking about it.

Your doctor needs to be called right away if you hear voices, see things, smell things, feel things that are not there (psychosis which can accompany MDD; have frequent crying spells, if your work, school or family life is disrupted for two or more weeks; and if you or someone else thinks that you should cut back or stop drugs or alcohol. Side effects of some medication includes depression, but DO NOT stop taking it without talking to your doctor.

Depression effects men and women in different ways which is a fairly new area of study. They process medications differently. Neurochemicals such serotonin (used by the brain to stabilize mood) is processed differently between men and women. Suicide attempts are more common in women, but men are more likely to be successful. Men are more likely to be diagnosed with alcohol problems, but women are at higher risk following an episode of depression.

Women's changing hormones provide additional challenges. Under age 13, approximately equal numbers of girls and boys experience depression. Once they reach age 13 girls are more likely to become depressed. I know that right before and during my menstrual cycle that my symptoms are more difficult. While women may cry, become withdrawn, and gain or lose weight, men may abuse alcohol or drugs, or eat excessively, and/or become violent to themselves or others. Men keep things hidden while women are more open about their feelings. Additionally, older adults, children and adolescents will experience and express depression in atypical ways.

Preventative measures include, stress management; avoiding drugs, alcohol and caffeine; exercise regularly; and maintaining good sleeping habits. If you are socially isolated try volunteering or get involved in some social group. Medications and psychiatric treatment my prevent recurrences; however, some are not preventable.

Some helpful tips if you have a depressive disorder. You are not a failure if you cannot do these. Participate in mild activity or exercise. At the beginning, I was able to exercise, but now I do not have the energy or motivation. Participate in things that you once enjoyed. I have continued to go to music concerts, at least, one time per year. I am also beginning to read my cookbooks again and look on the Internet.

Set realistic goals for yourself. Break a large task into smaller tasks, so you don't feel so overwhelmed. Try to spend time with a friend or relative and confide in them. Try not to isolate yourself and let others help you. This is difficult for me, but I have let my therapist, a couple of friend and my husband in more and more. The biggest step was starting this blog. Postpone making major life decisions.

Remember, it is normal for appetite and sleep to be disrupted. Be gentle with yourself. Don't expect to snap out of it or for you to feel better "sooner." I get into trouble with this all the time because I always want to be further than I am instead of accepting the progress that I have made.

If you know of someone who has a major depressive disorder. The most important thing you can do is to take care of yourself first before attending to the person who is depressed. Remember what they say on an airplane, put your breathing mask on first, then help others. After that the best thing you can do is to encourage them to seek a diagnosis and treatment. It is okay to shop around for a therapist and psychiatrist. It is important to have a good match because they need to be able to tell them the truth about how they feel which means they need to be as comfortable as possible.

Please, know that sharing of this sort will cause an increase of some symptoms and that you will never be completely comfortable with a health care professional. This is normal.

As a friend or relative, offer emotional support, understanding, patience and encouragement. Talk with your friend or relative and listen carefully. Never disparage feelings they express, but point out realities and offer hope. If they become agitated, acknowledge that you don't know exactly how they feel and back off that part of the conversation, but do not end it.

Never ignore comments about suicide, and report them to your friend's or relative's therapist or doctor. They maybe angry for awhile, but it is necessary. You don't want to end up at their funeral with regrets. Invite them out even if they decline, but don't push too soon or it will feel demanding or overwhelming and increase feelings of worthlessness and failure. Remind yourself and them that with time and treatment, that the depression will get better.

I have a name, remember me and not my illness. My name is not, "depression." Please don't whisper anymore when you think I'm not listening or spread gossip behind my back or back away from me and pretend you don't see me. Please try to understand and help me. If you don't want to help, at least, don't make it worse by making me feel "different," unseen, worthless or like I'm a failure. Remember, there are at least 18 million of us. One of them might be you.

I hope this helps you or someone you love to have a better understanding and compassion for yourself and others with depression. I know it helped me to have more compassion for myself.

Most of the information in this post was compiled from www.nami.org, www.nlm.nih.gov, and www.healthyplace.com. You can also go to their websites for additional information and other resources. Remember there is treatment available and stick to it don't give up!!

Your can also go to PsychCentral for more information and to take a depression screening test. 

Mental Health Awareness Month

This week is dedicated to Mental Health Awareness.  So what are some examples of mental illness/disorders, you may be surprised or not:

Tic disorder (Tourette’s)
Elimination Disorders
Selective Mutism
Delirium
Dementia (at least 10 different forms)
Amnesic disorders,
Catatonic Disorder
Substance Related Disorders
Alcohol Related Disorders,
Amphetamine Related Disorders
Caffeine-Related Disorders (I was once diagnosed with this…I have know idea why, by the way where is my coffee!)
Cannabis-Related Disorders
Cocaine-Related Disorders
And the list goes on for each substance addiction
Schizophrenia (five different types)
Other Psychotic Disorders
Mood Disorders ( depression, bipolar, mood disorders, substance –induced mood disorder)
Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorde, Social phobia, generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder)
Somatoform Disorders (presence of physical symptoms that suggest an illness, but is actually attributed an underlying stress. For me, my psoriasis and rash on my neck expresses my anxiety)
Dissociative Disorders (five types)
Sexual and Gender Identity Disorders
Paraphhilias
Eating Disorders
Sleep Disorders
Impulse-Control Disorders
Adjustment Disorder
Personality Disorder (Paranoid, Schizoid, Schizotypal, Antisocial, Histrionic, Narcissistic, Avoidant, Dependent, Borderline, Obessive-Compulsive)

WHO (World Health Organization) statistics for 2002 show that 154 million people globally suffer from depression, only one form of mental illness. Mental disorder effects everyone as one in four have some type of disorder globally. Mental disorders comprise a broad range of problems, with different symptoms. However, they are generally characterized by some combination of abnormal thoughts, emotions, behaviour and relationships with others. They must interfere with daily life functioning or cause significant distress. Mental, neurological and behavioural disorders are common in all countries around the world, causing immense suffering and staggering economic and social costs. People with disorders are often subjected to social isolation, poor quality of life and higher death rates.

For more information, go to Tasmania Department of Health and Human Services, WHO (World Health Organization), World Federation of Mental Health, World Congress Federation for Mental Health or do a Google Search. There is a lot of information available.

Do you or someone you know have a mental illness? Please describe your experience.

Stop the Stigma!!

World Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Day!!

Okay, this wasn't meant to be a joke, but the World Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Day was actually yesterday and I forgot.  You can stop laughing now!!  This disease is devastating for the person with it and for the friends and families of those who have this disease.  During the course of my career, I have helped families and clients of loved ones and also clients (who were developmentally disabled and already had difficulties in the same areas)  with coping and managing Alzheimer's Disease.  My eyes water now as I think of how difficult a disease it is...I have a heavy heart.  Please watch the videos and read this post.  If it hasn't effected you yet, it will eventually.

September 21st was World Alzheimer’s Day, and the Alzheimer’s Association asks people in the United States to join those around the world in turning their attention to this disease and joining the fight against it. The Alzheimer’s Association’s commitment to raising awareness on World Alzheimer’s Day is part of an accelerating worldwide effort to find better ways to treat the disease, delay its onset, or prevent it from developing.

Think about combing your hair and break down the tasks and movements that are actually involved.  Some lists may be long and some shorter.  I tend to be detailed, so mine gets long.  Look in mirror, deciding if I want a comb or brush, opening drawer, selecting among other items which one is it that I want to use, grab the item, look in mirror again, decide how I want to brush it (forward, back, side to side), then complete that task, grab the brush, put it back in the drawer, shut the drawer, etc..

It is something that we all do without thinking about it much, but it is actually quite a complicated action if you think of all the things that you need to remember.  For someone with memory problems, it can become problematic.  Think about all the decisions that you have to make everyday if taking care of your hair every morning actually requires this much memory.

Alzheimer's disease is a type of dementia and neither is a normal part of aging.  Yes, older adults will have some memory loss and other symptoms that my look like a much less significant normal part of growing older.

Dementia is the loss of ability to talk, remember, reason properly, affects everyday functioning.  The risk increases as one ages. 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer's. It is America's seventh leading cause of death. It costs 7.2 billion in costs annually. 10.9 million are unpaid care providers.

African-Americans and Hispanics are at greater risk.  Although there appears to be no known genetic factor for these differences, the report examines the impact of health conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes, conditions that are prevalent in the African-American and Hispanic communities and how these conditions also increase Alzheimer risk.

Other types of dementia are vascular dementia (high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease), Parkinson's disease, Pick's disease, Creutzfelt-Jacobs disease, Huntington's and others.  Alzheimer's disease. is the most common type of dementia.  Other things that might look like dementia include sleep deprivation, stress, influenza, thyroid disease, eating disorder, urinary tract infection and others.

Alzheimer's disease can only truly be diagnosed when a person passes when a complete look at the internal tangles and plaques can be examined.  However, there are groups of symptoms for dementia in general such as gradually memory loss, repetitive questions, forgetting to eat, misplacing objects in unusable locations, having difficulty naming everyday objects, behavioral changes (aggressive behavior, depression), and physical changes (incontinence).  In difficulty with naming objects, the first to go are nouns, so they become descriptive such as "the thing I write with."  Remember there are other causes for this...I do this frequently, but do not have any form of dementia.  Their seems to be a small genetic link and early onset such as 40s and 50s can occur. 

The following is from the Alzheimer's Association:

Stage 1:
No impairment (normal function)
The person does not experience any memory problems. An interview with a medical professional does not show any evidence of symptoms.


Stage 2:
Very mild cognitive decline (may be normal age-related changes or earliest signs of Alzheimer's disease)
The person may feel as if he or she is having memory lapses — forgetting familiar words or the location of everyday objects. But no symptoms can be detected during a medical examination or by friends, family or co-workers.


Stage 3:
Mild cognitive decline
Early-stage Alzheimer's can be diagnosed in some, but not all, individuals with these symptoms

Friends, family or co-workers begin to notice difficulties. During a detailed medical interview, doctors may be able to detect problems in memory or concentration. Common stage 3 difficulties include:


•Noticeable problems coming up with the right word or name


•Trouble remembering names when introduced to new people


•Having noticeably greater difficulty performing tasks in social or work settings


•Forgetting material that one has just read


•Losing or misplacing a valuable object


•Increasing trouble with planning or organizing


Stage 4:
Moderate cognitive decline
(Mild or early-stage Alzheimer's disease)
At this point, a careful medical interview should be able to detect clear-cut problems in several areas:

•Forgetfulness of recent events


•Impaired ability to perform challenging mental arithmetic — for example, counting backward from 100 by 7s


•Greater difficulty performing complex tasks, such as planning dinner for guests, paying bills or managing finances


•Forgetfulness about one’s own personal history


•Becoming moody or withdrawn, especially in socially or mentally challenging situations

Stage 5:
Moderately severe cognitive decline
(Moderate or mid-stage Alzheimer's disease)
Gaps in memory and thinking are noticeable, and individuals begin to need help with day-to-day activities. At this stage, those with Alzheimer’s may:


•Be unable to recall their own address or telephone number or the high school or college from which they graduated


•Become confused about where they are or what day it is


•Have trouble with less challenging mental arithmetic, such as counting backward from 40 by subtracting 4s or from 20 by 2s


•Need help choosing proper clothing for the season or the occasion


•Still remember significant details about themselves and their family


•Still require no assistance with eating or using the toilet


Stage 6:
Severe cognitive decline
(Moderately severe or mid-stage Alzheimer's disease)
Memory continues to worsen, personality changes may take place and individuals need extensive help with daily activities. At this stage, individuals may:


•Lose awareness of recent experiences as well as of their surroundings


•Remember their own name but have difficulty with their personal history


•Distinguish familiar and unfamiliar faces but have trouble remembering the name of a spouse or caregiver


•Need help dressing properly and may, without supervision, make mistakes such as putting pajamas over daytime clothes or shoes on the wrong feet


•Experience major changes in sleep patterns — sleeping during the day and becoming restless at night


•Need help handling details of toileting (for example, flushing the toilet, wiping or disposing of tissue properly)


•Have increasingly frequent trouble controlling their bladder or bowels


•Experience major personality and behavioral changes, including speciousness and delusions (such as believing their caregiver is an impostor), or compulsive, repetitive behavior like hand-wringing or tissue shredding


•Tend to wander or become lost

Stage 7:
Very severe cognitive decline
(Severe or late-stage Alzheimer's disease)
In the final stage of this disease, individuals lose the ability to respond to their environment, to carry on a conversation and, eventually, to control movement. They may still say words or phrases.


At this stage, individuals need help with much of their daily personal care, including eating or using the toilet. They may also lose the ability to smile, to sit without support and to hold their heads up. Reflexes become abnormal. Muscles grow rigid. Swallowing impaired.

All of these stages can is individual and can occur from 6-20 years.  (Remember that these symptoms represent a change behavior, such as, I've always had difficulty with remembering the day of the week. But, since this is normal it should not be considered as a symptom of any type of dementia.

There are medications to slow the process down which generally is most effective in the initial stages.  A person with Alzheimer with difficulty with walking can manifest as not wanting to walk or choosing not to do so. This may occur due to loss of this task or a change in perception and vision.  If their are changes in the floor such as carpeting to tile, curb to pavement and many others. They see it as a hole in the ground, so would you want to step into a hole. It may help to accompany them or to step off first. 

Also there is a term called "sundowning."  When their are changes light, it makes it harder to see and will be scary, loose sense of safety and steadiness.  Shadows appear as holes and they will have difficulty with spatial ability and interpretation of shapes and become more tired.  Their are some things that you can do such as minimize glare, shadows and reflections by removing mirrors and cover windows.  Hand rubbing also calms a person.

If you are a care giver, utilize some of community resources and make sure that you take breaks and contact services that can help you.  Adult day care centers are a good community resource.  There they should have therapeutic socialization, activities, exercise which helps decrease "behavior.", increases self-esteem and sense of worth.

There is much more significant information that I have not covered. For more comprehensive information, complete a Google search on Alzheimer's Association.  This is the link for the Los Angeles chapter.  There are many chapters throughout the world.

International Eat An Apple Day!!

Today is International Eat an Apple Day.  Its inception is to promote the beginning of fall with its vivid color and crispness, celebrate by eating an apple, the fruit of the fall season. It is always the the third Saturday in September.

Turns out an apple a day could really keep the doctor away.

1. A medium apple has just 60-100 calories, virtually no fat and no sodium.

2. Its 5 grams of fiber and 20 grams of carbs make it a filling snack.

3. Apples' fiber, pectin, antioxidants and other compounds can lower bad (LDL) cholesterol and raise good (HDL) cholesterol.

4. The flavonoids and other phytochemicals in apples help protect against lung and colon cancer

5. Apples contain boron, a mineral that helps maintain bone density and protect against heart disease.

6. The tannins prevent tooth decay, gum disease and urinary-tract infections.

7. Eating an apple a day (with skin) can guard against stroke.

8. The vitamins and antioxidants in apples may help prevent age-related vision loss.

9. The quercetin (a flavonoid) may fight cancer better than vitamin C does.

10. Apples are a good source of folic acid, a B vitamin that helps prevent serious birth defects as well as heart disease.

Well, I'm off to eat a apple or two.  What about you?