People sometimes tell me that their spouses, family members or friends accuse them of being too sensitive. I equate that with somebody telling you, “I don’t like what you’re feeling.” That can certainly be annoying, since it isn’t a statement … Continue reading
People often ask me about the virtue of loyalty. The mental health profession generally falls into line behind widely accepted virtues as a measure of mental health, so is loyalty in fact healthy, wise and good? Many people equate loyalty … Continue reading
Parents of teenagers sometimes tell me that they don’t feel appreciated by their kids. “Look at all I’ve done for them,” they say. “Why can’t they show gratitude?” As reasonable as this may seem, it contains a huge error. Gratitude … Continue reading
Henry Wadsworth Longfellow said it best: “We judge ourselves by what we feel capable of doing, while others judge us by what we have already done.” And it works both ways! If you underestimate your potential, or if you ignore … Continue reading
When it comes to marriage and relationships, dollars and cents represent a lot more than just the basic necessities. In fact, money issues often become the means through which conflicts are played out. Though some fights and disagreements may seem … Continue reading
Do you sometimes feel anxious or uneasy? A persistent feeling of anxiety can sometimes stem from mental conflict brought about by trying to resolve two or more contradictory ideas. You might not even be aware of the cause, but if … Continue reading
Every so often, somebody proudly tells me, “Things are so peaceful around here; we don’t even lock our doors!” I don’t understand why it seems to be a matter of pride to not secure one’s home and car. On the … Continue reading
Cell phones on the beach. On the highway (in spite of the new laws!). In the grocery store. In restaurants. They’re everywhere. For me, the question isn’t why people love cell phones so much; it’s why people have such a … Continue reading
A reader emails that she’s resentful over other people’s success. Rich people, TV stars, neighbors who are thriving in business … she feels they are all bringing her down with their accomplishments. Well, imitation may be the sincerest form of … Continue reading
A reader emails that her father always cautioned her that “the grass is always greener,” i.e., that she should keep searching for something better than what she already has. She asks me if an endless quest for “something better” could … Continue reading
Caveat emptor: Let the buyer beware! Like any product or service you pay for, you have to be sure that the therapist you choose is right for you. My latest book, “Bad Therapy, Good Therapy (And How to Tell the … Continue reading
A Delaware Wave reader writes, “My husband and I (we have no children) have been happy for the last four years. But now, he has suddenly become Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. He’s fine one minute, then in response to … Continue reading