Feeling anxious? Uneasy? A persistent feeling of anxiety can sometimes stem from nothing more than confusion, brought about by the presence of two contradictory ideas. The confused person can even be unaware that the conflicting ideas are causing these feelings. … Continue reading →

Well, it’s 2006, and the off-season is in full swing. But a change in the calendar does not, by itself, eliminate psychological burdens you might have carried with you from 2005. One of the emotions that people sometimes hold on … Continue reading →

It seems that ‘Life’s a Beach!’ hit a nerve last week when we took what was (apparently) an uncomfortably close look at New Year’s resolutions (remember them?). Most of the responses I received can be pretty much summed up like … Continue reading →

  ‘I’m gonna go on a diet at exactly 12:01am January 1!’ ‘I’m gonna join a health club, first thing on New Year’s Day!’ ‘I’m gonna get myself organized for the New Year!’ ‘I’m gonna’I’m gonna’.’   How many New … Continue reading →

The timeless words, ‘I’ll be home for Christmas!’ can mean good will, lots of cheer and loads of fun. But, for some, being home for the holidays also provides the unfortunate ‘opportunity’ for conflict and tension, particularly between married couples. … Continue reading →

Does the thought of walking into a room full of strangers make you nervous? Do you often worry that somebody might not like you? Do you feel like the “odd man (or woman) out,” and that everyone knows it? Well, … Continue reading →

‘The holidays are so stressful! Shopping is such a chore. Christmas starts up so early these days. It ruins all the fun!’ Many people, especially those with large families, feel pressure at this time of year. Does it have to … Continue reading →

As kids settle into the school year, the subject of bullying inevitably comes up. Parents, teachers and kids ask me what makes bullies act the way they do. Well, there are competing theories, and I could probably write a whole … Continue reading →

Many people I have had the pleasure of meeting here at the beach are older and retired, having moved here to settle in and be happy. Some of them, however, tell me that getting older can be difficult, and they … Continue reading →

A Wave reader in Ocean View writes: Dear Dr. Hurd: I have been down and depressed for a while now. My doctor prescribed medication for the problem, and says my depression is a disease. But I feel that I have … Continue reading →

November already! Crisp ocean breezes, intense fall colors, and bundled-up strolls on the boardwalk will all culminate in the happy ritual of Thanksgiving. The holiday’s association with feasting, family and Alka Seltzer implies, by necessity, a duty to provide and … Continue reading →

Dear Dr. Hurd, I read your column every week, and I really like what you say. But sometimes, when I try to make suggestions to my husband or my adult children, it turns into an unpleasant ‘heated discussion.’ I am … Continue reading →