Did you know that you could build muscle and become stronger without weight training?
It’s true.
It’s called isometric training and it increases muscle mass, giving you that great-looking body you always wanted. And best of all, you can get fit without going to the gym or buying all that expensive home exercise equipment.
Isometric exercises involve muscular contractions performed against fixed resistance. The System gained scientific acceptance in 1953 when a couple of German researchers named Dr. Theodore Hettinger and Dr. Eric A. Muller published a study showing people who did isometric exercises obtained dramatic results by causing their muscles to tense for no more than 10 seconds at a time.
This muscle tension became popular in America when a young man from southern Italy, Angelo Sicilano, teamed up with marketing genius Harold Roman to produce an advertisement in comic books.
It showed how a 97-pound weakling became a “real he-man” and punched out the bully who had kicked sand in his face. This ad launched the mail order bodybuilding program called “Dynamic Tension.” Young Angelo went on to win the title The World’s Most Perfectly Developed Man.
He changed his name to Charles Atlas, put on a pair of leopard skin shorts, and the rest is history.
Probably the only man Atlas could not help was Mahatma Gandhi. When the great spiritual leader of India wrote a letter to Atlas asking for help, Atlas devised a diet and recommended a series of exercises to help restore Gandhi’s weakened condition. “I felt mighty sorry for him,” Atlas said. “He was nothing but a bag of bones.”
A few years before Atlas started flexing his muscles, another strongman used isometrics to build and maintain his strength. Like Atlas, Alexander Zass–better known as The Amazing Samson–offered his training through a mail order course. Zass was born in Vilna, Poland in 1888, but lived most of his early years in Russia and after 1924 in Britain.
He developed a great belief in the application of isometrics and “maximum tension” for the development of strength. He believed such an approach was superior to the normal use of weights in developing strength.
“I aimed, first, to develop the underlying connective tissues rather than the superficial Muscles,” he wrote in his instruction manual, Samson’s System and Methods. “I developed tendon Strength….” Without tendons, one would possess no control over the body, he continued. “They and their development are the secret to my strength. Muscles alone won’t hold wild horses back. Tendons will, and do.”
Sampson, so-called The World’s Strongest Living Man, said muscles were an illusion when it came to strength, but he did encourage his students to develop them because well-defined muscles “furnish Quite a respectable physical appearance.” Sampson said beginners should practice tensing their muscles one at a time then grouping the muscles together, tensing as many as possible at one time.
He outlined three methods of isometric tension: freestyle, using no appliances; wall exercises for resistance training; and weight exercises in which the student held the weight in a rigid position instead of using curls or presses, the typical “pumping iron” method of weight training.
Most isometrics instructors agree not to exceed 10 seconds on each muscle contraction. That is perhaps the greatest appeal to isometrics–a person can enhance muscle mass and strength with only a few simple repetitions in a limited time without heavy exertion.
In the 1960s, gym rats–not wanting to publicly admit their use of steroids–attributed their sudden remarkable gains in strength and muscle mass to the use of isometrics. This association, however false, between the system and the abuse of steroids created a panic among the health conscious, resulting in the American public shunning the use of isometrics.
But the system flourished in Europe, especially in physical rehabilitation programs among the aged. Seeing such positive results in Europe’s medical use of isometrics, patients in the United States also turned to the healing aspects of the system.
Scoliosis is just one of the afflictions being tackled by the medical use of isometrics. The Anti- Scoliosis Treatment Method is a Russian approach that consists of isometric and stretching exercises, vibration, spinal manipulation and electrical muscle stimulation.
Traveler’s thrombosis is another ailment that isometric exercises can help prevent. Brought on by pressure on the upper thighs caused by prolonged sitting and low mobility in narrow seats on long airplane rides, this ailment is a greater problem than jet lag or airline cuisine.
The low air humidity onboard passenger aircraft can favor the formation of blood clots in cases where passengers may be lacking fluids. Studies by Medsafe, a business unit of New Zealand’s Ministry of Health, indicate the use of isometric exercises helps relieve this condition.
Not only can isometrics help the weary worldwide wanderer, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration is out of this world when it comes to recognizing the benefits isometrics offer in the close confinements of a space capsule.
On long space journeys in prolonged weightlessness, astronauts suffer crippling muscle and bone loss. Future space trips will be longer, say three years for example, when astronauts eventually explore Mars. Longer durations in space mean increased muscle and bone losses.
Researchers at NASA’s Johnson Space Center recommend a variety of preflight fitness plans, training space travelers for in-flight use of the exercise equipment onboard the International Space Station, and monitoring their health after their return to Earth.
“Muscle and bone loss in space create an entire realm of biological concerns for astronauts,” said William J. Kraemer, director of the Human Performance Laboratory at Ball State in Muncie, Indiana. “Our challenge is to find countermeasure programs which … allow the body to maintain proper structure and function.”
Strength training for astronauts involves two types of resistance exercises: high-intensity isotonics, which shorten and lengthen muscles (for example, lifting and lowering a dumbbell), and isometrics, which fully contract muscles without movement (such as pushing against a doorway).
While both types of exercises could potentially reduce muscle atrophy in microgravity, research suggests isometrics may be more successful than isotonics in protecting slow-twitch fibers, according mto a February 2004 report in NASA’s Biological andPhysical Research Enterprise newsletter.
For the homebody, massive muscle and bone loss may not be as much a problem as those extra calories packed on while watching football or soccer on the television. It might be good advice to roll yourself out of that easy chair and spend 10 secondsat a time doing isometric exercises–at least during the commercial breaks.
The only drawback to "free hand" Isometrics (without the use of any equipment) is that there is no way to measure your strength gains and you are limited in the number of exercises.
But, there is now a way to increase there effectiveness by up to 1000%.
With the advent of new "hybrid" exercise equipment such as the Bully Xtreme home gym you can now maximize your muscle building results while being able to do more exercises up to 82 different movements. While utilizing the powerful technique of isometrics.
For more information and a free report check out...
http://www.BullyXtreme.net/
About The Author
Frank Sherrill, is a former U.S. Army Ranger and Martial Arts expert. After surviving a horrific weight training accident, he spent years researching and finally discovering an exercise program and home gym that was as effective as free weights but, without all the RISK.
To learn more about the Bullworker and the Bully Xtreme go to http://www.BullyXtreme.net
Isometrics, Steriods, Alexander Zass And Charles Atlas's Dynamic Tension- Effective or Just a Hoax?? by: Frank Sherrill
Fun in the Sun? Protect Yourself First by: Kamau Austin
Social practices and their meanings change over time. Until recently, the suntan created by excessive exposure was considered a sign of poverty. A suntan indicated that you spent your days toiling in the sun. Wealthier people had the luxury of remaining indoors and out of the sun's intense, direct heat.
Twenty years ago, sun-bathing was one of the country's favorite pastimes, and people traveled to the beaches and other water sources to have fun in the sun. People of all ages in Miami—from toddlers in polka-dot bikinis to retired men soaking up the sun in beach chairs—were found sun-bathing. It was, and still is, fun to go out in the sun, but you need to be aware of the affects sun-bathing has on your skin and how you can protect yourself.
According researchers at the MayoClinic.com, there is real concern that sun damage could lead to skin cancer. The MayoClinic.com states:
"The warm golden cast of the sun is very alluring. And many people can't resist spending hours beneath its glow.
But not all of the sun's rays are pleasing. Ultraviolet (UV) light, the invisible but intense rays of the sun, damages your skin. Some of those harmful effects—such as suntan or sunburn—are visible right away. But other skin changes, including liver spots or deep wrinkles, appear and worsen over time. With repeated sun exposure, skin damage can even progress into cancerous tumors."
This is how the sun damages your skin and what you can do about it.
The first and most prominent effects of sun-bathing will be sun spots, suntan, and sunburn. Remember, sunlight is comprised of ultraviolet (UV) rays which directly attack your skin, making you prone to hazards like skin cancer.
Sun-bathing also places your eyes at risk of damage from UV rays and can cause cataracts.
The sun can cause your skin to age quickly. The sun's rays penetrate the skin and cause extensive damage. This damage appears as wrinkles, freckles, or light spots and can cause give your skin a coarse texture.
Your blood vessels and capillaries can sustain damage from the sun, making you a high risk for developing tumors. Your skin might be affected by actinic kerotoses or sun spots.
Research has also proven that overexposure to UV rays releases chemicals into your bloodstream. These chemicals, most of them endorphins, are capable of making you feel "high." This feeling can actually lead to a sun-bathing addiction!
Even though there are cosmetics and other forms of treatment for skin damage caused by sun, the results are seldom satisfactory. The best treatment is prevention.
Know the approximate time when the sun will be at its peak. Usually between 11am and 3pm, you should not sun-bathe. Remember that, because of the thinner atmosphere, the sun's rays can be more damaging in high altitudes. Sometimes, even clothing is not enough to protect your skin, especially while swimming.
Take precautions; don't allow sun-bathing to take its toll on your skin. Protect your skin by following a few precautions before you expose it to the sun.
There are alternatives to sun-bathing. The most popular alternative is using artificial UV rays. Tanning in a sun bed gives you a chance to feel relaxed while you tan, but since it uses artificial rays, doesn't require you to face the sun's rays.
When out in the sun, always wear proper clothing and a hat large enough to protect your face, eyes, ears, and the back of your neck. Proper coverage will significantly reduce sun spots. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.
Apply a sunscreen to your skin for prolonged sun exposure. Choose a sunscreen product based on its Sun Protecting Factor (SPF). The higher the SPF ranking, the more protective the product will be. The higher numbers should be applied to people who live in high altitudes or who have fair skin. People with darker skin tones can choose a lower SPF product. To facilitate usage, sunscreen products are produced in the form of gels, creams, lotions, and alcohol (spray) solutions.
Sun-bathing creams and oils are also available. Don't confuse these products with sunscreen products. These creams act as lubricants and protect your skin from dryness, but do not provide any protection from the sun. In fact, when used exclusively, they often increase the potential for UV ray exposure.
However, creams like Lumnaderm(tm) have been developed after extensive research. Lumnaderm(tm) fights discolored skin and rejuvenates it to give you a fresher more youthful look. When used correctly this product, can be an effective tool to treat skin damages caused by the sun's rays. Lumnaderm(tm) is available from better online retailers like Amazon.com and the BODeStore.com (http://www.bodestore.com).
About The Author
Written by the V-Team, courtesy of Kamau Austin, publisher. The V-Team writes articles for the health and fitness enthusiast. Their timeless health and fitness tips are at the Fit After Forty Blog. See more useful news and tips about skin careat http://www.healthandfitnessvitality.com/blogs/fitnessblog.htm.
Twenty years ago, sun-bathing was one of the country's favorite pastimes, and people traveled to the beaches and other water sources to have fun in the sun. People of all ages in Miami—from toddlers in polka-dot bikinis to retired men soaking up the sun in beach chairs—were found sun-bathing. It was, and still is, fun to go out in the sun, but you need to be aware of the affects sun-bathing has on your skin and how you can protect yourself.
According researchers at the MayoClinic.com, there is real concern that sun damage could lead to skin cancer. The MayoClinic.com states:
"The warm golden cast of the sun is very alluring. And many people can't resist spending hours beneath its glow.
But not all of the sun's rays are pleasing. Ultraviolet (UV) light, the invisible but intense rays of the sun, damages your skin. Some of those harmful effects—such as suntan or sunburn—are visible right away. But other skin changes, including liver spots or deep wrinkles, appear and worsen over time. With repeated sun exposure, skin damage can even progress into cancerous tumors."
This is how the sun damages your skin and what you can do about it.
The first and most prominent effects of sun-bathing will be sun spots, suntan, and sunburn. Remember, sunlight is comprised of ultraviolet (UV) rays which directly attack your skin, making you prone to hazards like skin cancer.
Sun-bathing also places your eyes at risk of damage from UV rays and can cause cataracts.
The sun can cause your skin to age quickly. The sun's rays penetrate the skin and cause extensive damage. This damage appears as wrinkles, freckles, or light spots and can cause give your skin a coarse texture.
Your blood vessels and capillaries can sustain damage from the sun, making you a high risk for developing tumors. Your skin might be affected by actinic kerotoses or sun spots.
Research has also proven that overexposure to UV rays releases chemicals into your bloodstream. These chemicals, most of them endorphins, are capable of making you feel "high." This feeling can actually lead to a sun-bathing addiction!
Even though there are cosmetics and other forms of treatment for skin damage caused by sun, the results are seldom satisfactory. The best treatment is prevention.
Know the approximate time when the sun will be at its peak. Usually between 11am and 3pm, you should not sun-bathe. Remember that, because of the thinner atmosphere, the sun's rays can be more damaging in high altitudes. Sometimes, even clothing is not enough to protect your skin, especially while swimming.
Take precautions; don't allow sun-bathing to take its toll on your skin. Protect your skin by following a few precautions before you expose it to the sun.
There are alternatives to sun-bathing. The most popular alternative is using artificial UV rays. Tanning in a sun bed gives you a chance to feel relaxed while you tan, but since it uses artificial rays, doesn't require you to face the sun's rays.
When out in the sun, always wear proper clothing and a hat large enough to protect your face, eyes, ears, and the back of your neck. Proper coverage will significantly reduce sun spots. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV rays.
Apply a sunscreen to your skin for prolonged sun exposure. Choose a sunscreen product based on its Sun Protecting Factor (SPF). The higher the SPF ranking, the more protective the product will be. The higher numbers should be applied to people who live in high altitudes or who have fair skin. People with darker skin tones can choose a lower SPF product. To facilitate usage, sunscreen products are produced in the form of gels, creams, lotions, and alcohol (spray) solutions.
Sun-bathing creams and oils are also available. Don't confuse these products with sunscreen products. These creams act as lubricants and protect your skin from dryness, but do not provide any protection from the sun. In fact, when used exclusively, they often increase the potential for UV ray exposure.
However, creams like Lumnaderm(tm) have been developed after extensive research. Lumnaderm(tm) fights discolored skin and rejuvenates it to give you a fresher more youthful look. When used correctly this product, can be an effective tool to treat skin damages caused by the sun's rays. Lumnaderm(tm) is available from better online retailers like Amazon.com and the BODeStore.com (http://www.bodestore.com).
About The Author
Written by the V-Team, courtesy of Kamau Austin, publisher. The V-Team writes articles for the health and fitness enthusiast. Their timeless health and fitness tips are at the Fit After Forty Blog. See more useful news and tips about skin careat http://www.healthandfitnessvitality.com/blogs/fitnessblog.htm.
Essential Oils with Dr. Daniel Pénoël by: Noel Cunnington
In November and December 2005, Dr. Daniel Pénoël (a French medical doctor picture left), visited Perth, Melbourne and Sydney for a series of workshops on “Aromatic medicine”. I was fortunate enough to attend his Sydney seminar, along with 150 other aromatherapists, health care professionals, and keen essential oil users. His 2 and a half day seminar was an amazing introduction to the French school of aromatherapy. In this bulletin, I want to share with you some of the highlights from Dr. Pénoël's seminar.
In the world of aromatherapy, there are 3 schools of thought. The first is the British school, which teaches the dilution of essential oils, and its application –often through massage – for relaxation and balancing. The majority of Australian aromatherapists are trained in the British system. Secondly there is the German school, which relies on the aroma of the oils, rather than direct application. And thirdly, there is the French school, which treats essential oils as a valid form of medicine, to be used as in any other medical protocol – internally, by injection, topically (undiluted), rectally, and vaginally. As Dr. Pénoël said, “In my country, we've given millions and millions of clinical treatments with essential oils.” It is from this medical application of essential oils that the term “Aromatic Medicine” was derived.
Dr. Pénoël described the differences between the 3 schools very humorously, when he said: “The German system of aromatherapy (smell) is comparable to platonic love. You cannot make babies with platonic love. The English system is like flirting. You still cannot make babies. The French system of aromatherapy is like “The Full Monty”, and it will make babies!”
In France, Doctors trained in aromatic medicine will often prescribe essential oils in preference to antibiotics. But first, they will conduct an “aromatogram”. This is a simple test involving taking a sample (e.g.. a swab) of a patient's diseased area. This swab is sent away to a laboratory, and tested with a wide variety of essential oils and allopathic drugs, to see which is the most effective against the specific disease or condition.
There are many cases where essential oils are more effective than antibiotics. However, in the case where an antibiotic proves more effective, the doctor still needs to weigh up the potential side-effects of the antibiotic (such as its long-term effects on gut flora), before deciding which treatment should be undertaken.
If essential oils are the chosen treatment, the doctor will supply the patient with essential oils, and instructions on where and how to use them, and in what proportions to mix them up. This means that patients are more involved in preparing their own mixtures and remedies than in traditional allopathic medicine.
It was fascinating to hear Dr. Pénoël's strategy for fighting an infection using essential oils. He begins with a mix of oils where the “stronger” oils are in higher concentration. The “stronger” oils are those with higher percentages of phenols (such as Oregano). These phenols are very aggressive against many infections (viral and bacterial). However, because of the potential irritation that the phenols can pose to the stomach and intestines, after a week's use, Dr. Pénoël then “ramps down” the proportion of oils containing phenols, and increases the proportion of other less-irritating oils.
He explained that he may start with a mix of 70% Oregano and 30% Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree oil), and after a week move to 30% Oregano and 70% Melaleuca alternifolia (and continue on this mix for another couple of weeks). In his use of essential oils internally, Dr. Pénoël always includes a vegetable oil along with the essential oil in a gel cap, because the vegetable oil helps to transport the essential oil into the intestinal tract.
Another example given by Dr. Pénoël was how he works with tonsillitis, using the molecule Terpinen-4-ol, which is present at about 40% concentration in Melaleuca alternifolia. Dr. Pénoël demonstrated how he puts a tiny bit of high-quality, unadulterated Tea Tree oil on his hand (on a point between the thumb and 2nd finger on top of hand, which is a special acupuncture point), and then he licks the oil off.
“I now have millions of billions of molecules of terpenen-4-ol which have been blended in my saliva. I bring my saliva back to my tonsils……[and I have] changed the breeding ground of the medium which exists in my throat at this infectious stage. You have changed the pH of your saliva.” He went on to explain that this makes the saliva more acidic, which inhibits the growth of the infection.
Dr. Pénoël then described how he will swallow the Tea tree oil at this point, so that it will reach his stomach, small and large intestine to become an “aromatic healing saliva”. He stated that in addition to this indirect action, the Tea tree oil also has a direct action because “the terpenen-4-ol in the Tea Tree oil also attacks the bacteria itself. It penetrates through the cell wall and membrane, into the cell wall, and destroys the bacteria.”
One of the most interesting things I learned from Dr. Pénoël's seminar was about frequency of application. He shared that when one of his patients is fighting an infection, he instructs them to take a smaller amount of essential oil more often, so that the molecules are consistently in their blood stream. For example, in a simple case of tonsillitis he instructs his patients to lick the Tea Tree oil from their hand every minute for 5 minutes, then every 5 minutes for 15 minutes.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Dr. Pénoël was discussing important oils for a first aid (emergency) kit, when he said: “The #1 problem we face in our daily life in emergencies is pain. We want to find a molecule which is endowed with the capacity to stop the pain, instantly. One molecule which can achieve this is menthol (contained in Peppermint essential oil)…..So in your emergency kit, use Mentha piperita (Peppermint).
But don't use peppermint on a large area of the body. It's OK to use on a small area of the body. It must be used neat, exactly as it's been extracted from the plant. Use just a few drops neat, and the pain will go away almost immediately. This is because peppermint has a cooling action, so it blocks/inhibits the pain transmitters….[After applying Peppermint oil], you will suddenly feel the cold more. This means that although the outside temperature may be warm, your body feels as though it's had ice placed on it (so it has a similar effect to putting ice on pain)."
Natural Home Health Care with Essential Oils by Dr. Pènoël
Dr. Pènoël is a native French man and as a Medical Doctor, he uses essential oils in the treatment of his patients. He advises his patients to take essential oils internally, against all the advise of the English school of aromatherapy. The results speak for themselves. In this marvelous volume, Dr. Pènoël demonstrates just how you can use Essential oils as a drug free alternative for health. What distinguishes the oils that Dr. Pènoël uses is that they are therapeutic grade essential oils and the majority are organically grown.
Dr. Pènoël spent sometime with his wife Rose-Marie, in a medical practice in Adelaide, South Australia. Here he met Abby who had been suffering from chronically blocked sinuses for many years. As these things go, Abby was due for an operation, the final resort, to alleviate the problem when she met Dr. Pènoël.
Given just two weeks to turn Abby's condition around, Dr. Pènoël launched on an intensive aromatic care program. This involved essential oils, of course, but demanded the dedication and co-operation of his patient, Abby and her parents.
Needless to say Abby was much improved and the surgery was cancelled. The book has photographs of Abby and reproductions of her X-rays before and after her treatment with Dr. Pènoël. You can judge for yourself the effectiveness of his protocol.
Dr. Pènoël goes on to give recipes and protocols for some common ailments. Since all circumstances are unique, we suggest using common sense when integrating any new health system and especially essential oils.
For anyone seeking a drug free alternative to mainstream medicine, this book is an excellent place to start. At times the English is a little stilted but this does not detract from the wealth of information it contains.
With oil, Noel Cunnington
About The Author
The author, Noel Cunnington, holds a Bachelor Degree in Film and Television with a Graduate Diploma in Education. After discovering high-quality essential oils in 1998, he has been passionate about them and their applications. With his wife, Artemis, he operates a web site www.healthgarden.com.au that speicalises in Essential Oils and Aromatherapy related books, audio tapes, audio cd's, video dvd's and powerpoint presentations. This article and others can be seen at http://www.healthgarden.com.au/wordpress/index.php.
In the world of aromatherapy, there are 3 schools of thought. The first is the British school, which teaches the dilution of essential oils, and its application –often through massage – for relaxation and balancing. The majority of Australian aromatherapists are trained in the British system. Secondly there is the German school, which relies on the aroma of the oils, rather than direct application. And thirdly, there is the French school, which treats essential oils as a valid form of medicine, to be used as in any other medical protocol – internally, by injection, topically (undiluted), rectally, and vaginally. As Dr. Pénoël said, “In my country, we've given millions and millions of clinical treatments with essential oils.” It is from this medical application of essential oils that the term “Aromatic Medicine” was derived.
Dr. Pénoël described the differences between the 3 schools very humorously, when he said: “The German system of aromatherapy (smell) is comparable to platonic love. You cannot make babies with platonic love. The English system is like flirting. You still cannot make babies. The French system of aromatherapy is like “The Full Monty”, and it will make babies!”
In France, Doctors trained in aromatic medicine will often prescribe essential oils in preference to antibiotics. But first, they will conduct an “aromatogram”. This is a simple test involving taking a sample (e.g.. a swab) of a patient's diseased area. This swab is sent away to a laboratory, and tested with a wide variety of essential oils and allopathic drugs, to see which is the most effective against the specific disease or condition.
There are many cases where essential oils are more effective than antibiotics. However, in the case where an antibiotic proves more effective, the doctor still needs to weigh up the potential side-effects of the antibiotic (such as its long-term effects on gut flora), before deciding which treatment should be undertaken.
If essential oils are the chosen treatment, the doctor will supply the patient with essential oils, and instructions on where and how to use them, and in what proportions to mix them up. This means that patients are more involved in preparing their own mixtures and remedies than in traditional allopathic medicine.
It was fascinating to hear Dr. Pénoël's strategy for fighting an infection using essential oils. He begins with a mix of oils where the “stronger” oils are in higher concentration. The “stronger” oils are those with higher percentages of phenols (such as Oregano). These phenols are very aggressive against many infections (viral and bacterial). However, because of the potential irritation that the phenols can pose to the stomach and intestines, after a week's use, Dr. Pénoël then “ramps down” the proportion of oils containing phenols, and increases the proportion of other less-irritating oils.
He explained that he may start with a mix of 70% Oregano and 30% Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree oil), and after a week move to 30% Oregano and 70% Melaleuca alternifolia (and continue on this mix for another couple of weeks). In his use of essential oils internally, Dr. Pénoël always includes a vegetable oil along with the essential oil in a gel cap, because the vegetable oil helps to transport the essential oil into the intestinal tract.
Another example given by Dr. Pénoël was how he works with tonsillitis, using the molecule Terpinen-4-ol, which is present at about 40% concentration in Melaleuca alternifolia. Dr. Pénoël demonstrated how he puts a tiny bit of high-quality, unadulterated Tea Tree oil on his hand (on a point between the thumb and 2nd finger on top of hand, which is a special acupuncture point), and then he licks the oil off.
“I now have millions of billions of molecules of terpenen-4-ol which have been blended in my saliva. I bring my saliva back to my tonsils……[and I have] changed the breeding ground of the medium which exists in my throat at this infectious stage. You have changed the pH of your saliva.” He went on to explain that this makes the saliva more acidic, which inhibits the growth of the infection.
Dr. Pénoël then described how he will swallow the Tea tree oil at this point, so that it will reach his stomach, small and large intestine to become an “aromatic healing saliva”. He stated that in addition to this indirect action, the Tea tree oil also has a direct action because “the terpenen-4-ol in the Tea Tree oil also attacks the bacteria itself. It penetrates through the cell wall and membrane, into the cell wall, and destroys the bacteria.”
One of the most interesting things I learned from Dr. Pénoël's seminar was about frequency of application. He shared that when one of his patients is fighting an infection, he instructs them to take a smaller amount of essential oil more often, so that the molecules are consistently in their blood stream. For example, in a simple case of tonsillitis he instructs his patients to lick the Tea Tree oil from their hand every minute for 5 minutes, then every 5 minutes for 15 minutes.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Dr. Pénoël was discussing important oils for a first aid (emergency) kit, when he said: “The #1 problem we face in our daily life in emergencies is pain. We want to find a molecule which is endowed with the capacity to stop the pain, instantly. One molecule which can achieve this is menthol (contained in Peppermint essential oil)…..So in your emergency kit, use Mentha piperita (Peppermint).
But don't use peppermint on a large area of the body. It's OK to use on a small area of the body. It must be used neat, exactly as it's been extracted from the plant. Use just a few drops neat, and the pain will go away almost immediately. This is because peppermint has a cooling action, so it blocks/inhibits the pain transmitters….[After applying Peppermint oil], you will suddenly feel the cold more. This means that although the outside temperature may be warm, your body feels as though it's had ice placed on it (so it has a similar effect to putting ice on pain)."
Natural Home Health Care with Essential Oils by Dr. Pènoël
Dr. Pènoël is a native French man and as a Medical Doctor, he uses essential oils in the treatment of his patients. He advises his patients to take essential oils internally, against all the advise of the English school of aromatherapy. The results speak for themselves. In this marvelous volume, Dr. Pènoël demonstrates just how you can use Essential oils as a drug free alternative for health. What distinguishes the oils that Dr. Pènoël uses is that they are therapeutic grade essential oils and the majority are organically grown.
Dr. Pènoël spent sometime with his wife Rose-Marie, in a medical practice in Adelaide, South Australia. Here he met Abby who had been suffering from chronically blocked sinuses for many years. As these things go, Abby was due for an operation, the final resort, to alleviate the problem when she met Dr. Pènoël.
Given just two weeks to turn Abby's condition around, Dr. Pènoël launched on an intensive aromatic care program. This involved essential oils, of course, but demanded the dedication and co-operation of his patient, Abby and her parents.
Needless to say Abby was much improved and the surgery was cancelled. The book has photographs of Abby and reproductions of her X-rays before and after her treatment with Dr. Pènoël. You can judge for yourself the effectiveness of his protocol.
Dr. Pènoël goes on to give recipes and protocols for some common ailments. Since all circumstances are unique, we suggest using common sense when integrating any new health system and especially essential oils.
For anyone seeking a drug free alternative to mainstream medicine, this book is an excellent place to start. At times the English is a little stilted but this does not detract from the wealth of information it contains.
With oil, Noel Cunnington
About The Author
The author, Noel Cunnington, holds a Bachelor Degree in Film and Television with a Graduate Diploma in Education. After discovering high-quality essential oils in 1998, he has been passionate about them and their applications. With his wife, Artemis, he operates a web site www.healthgarden.com.au that speicalises in Essential Oils and Aromatherapy related books, audio tapes, audio cd's, video dvd's and powerpoint presentations. This article and others can be seen at http://www.healthgarden.com.au/wordpress/index.php.
Objections To A Single-Payer Plan In America by: Kate Loving Shenk
1) The government can't run anything. I don't trust the government.
The current gang in Washington may be a good reason not to trust the government to do ANYTHING right.
However, Medicare and Social Security are good examples of systems that run well and on time. People receive their checks the same time every month and health care is provided: on time.
2) I'm a free market person and don't want any part of "socialized medicine."
Single Payer Insurance is defined as a single government fund with each state which pays hospitals, physicians and other health care providers, thus replacing the current multi-payer system of private insurance companies.
It would provide coverage for the fifty million people who are uninsured.
It would eliminate the financial threat and impaired access to care for tens of millions who do not have coverage and are unable to afford the out-of-pocket expenses because of deficiencies in their insurance plans.
It would return to the patient free choice of health care provider and hospitals, not the choice that only the restrictive health plans allow.
It would relieve businesses of the administrative hassle and expense of maintaining a health benefits program.
It would remove from the health care equation the middleman-the managed care industry-that has broken the traditional doctor-patient relationship, while diverting outrageous amounts of patient care dollars to their own coffers.
It would control health care inflation through constructive mechanisms of cost containment that improve allocation of our health care resources, rather than controlling costs through an impersonal business ethic that robs patients of care so as to increase profits for the privileged few. Single Payer Universal Health Care would provide access to high quality care for everyone at affordable prices.
3) Canadians have long waiting periods and come to the U.S. for their health care needs. Therefore, such a plan would make for waiting periods in the U.S.
First of all, ask almost any Canadian if they would trade our system for theirs. The answer is a resounding "NO."
They may have to wait for elective surgeries, for instance, but we have to wait for these kinds of surgeries, as well.
Canadians have the option to buy extra coverage to get heroic measures covered, say in the case of Cancer treatment.
At 9% of their GDP, they are spending much less than we are as a nation. We, the wealthiest nation on earth, spend 14 % of our GDP.
4) Our country cannot afford to insure everyone.
Our country already has enough funds dedicated to health care to provide the highest quality of care for everyone. Studies have shown that under a single payer system, comprehensive care can be provided for everyone without spending any more funds than are now being spent.
Not only do we have more than sufficient funds, we are also a nation that is infamous for our excess health care capacity. Typical of these excesses is the fact that there are more MRI scanners in Orange County, CA than in all of Canada.
With our generous funding and the tremendous capacity of our health care delivery system, the delays would not be a significant limiting factor in the U.S.
5) Americans do not want "Socialized Medicine."
Socialized medicine is a system in which the government owns the facilities, and the providers of care are government employees.
In sharp contrast, a single payer system uses the existing private and public sector health care delivery systems, preserving private ownership and employment. The unique feature of a single payer system is that all health care risks are placed in a universal risk pool, covering everyone. The pool is funded in a fair and equitable manner so that everyone pays their fair share in taxes, unlike our current defective system in which some pay far too much while others are not paying their share. The funds are allocated through a publicly administered program resulting in optimum use of our health care dollars.
A single payer system has no more in common with socialized medicine than our current Medicare program.
Socialism is a dirty word in this country. Universal health care for all has been equated with socialism, and much propaganda has been communicated by the press, by right wing politicians, by medical groups such as the AMA or anyone else who has an agenda to keep the 1500 plus health insurance companies a thriving market with profits that undoubtedly help to pay for their agendas.
6) A Universal Single-Payer would lower the standard of care to a level of mediocrity for everyone, preventing the affluent from exercising his or her option to obtain the highest level of care.
Our current system is characterized by essentially two alternatives: either no insurance with severely impaired access to even a mediocre level of care, or being insured by a managed care industry that has whittled down what is available until mediocrity has become the standard of care. Only the relatively affluent have access to unlimited care.
The generous level of funds that we have already dedicated to health care, adding to this a more efficient administration with an exclusive mission of optimum patient care well above the mediocrity that we now have, lays the foundation for a universal health care system in America.
A single payer system does not preclude the affluent from paying, outside the system, for a penthouse suite in the hospital, or for cosmetic surgery or for any other service that would not be part of a publicly funded program.
But if Americans knew the truth, and would turn off their TVs and use that time instead to change this country, using the power of grassroots politics, to make a single payer universal system a reality for all, then we would finally have the best health care system in the world.
Any group with the passion to change the world, one issue at a time, with a loving intent, can do it.
About The Author
Kate Loving Shenk is a writer, healer, musician and the creator of the e-book called "Transform Your Nursing Career and Discover Your Calling and Destiny." Click here to find out how to order the e-book: http://www.nursingcareertransformation.com Check Out Kate's Blog: http://www.nursehealers.typepad.com
The current gang in Washington may be a good reason not to trust the government to do ANYTHING right.
However, Medicare and Social Security are good examples of systems that run well and on time. People receive their checks the same time every month and health care is provided: on time.
2) I'm a free market person and don't want any part of "socialized medicine."
Single Payer Insurance is defined as a single government fund with each state which pays hospitals, physicians and other health care providers, thus replacing the current multi-payer system of private insurance companies.
It would provide coverage for the fifty million people who are uninsured.
It would eliminate the financial threat and impaired access to care for tens of millions who do not have coverage and are unable to afford the out-of-pocket expenses because of deficiencies in their insurance plans.
It would return to the patient free choice of health care provider and hospitals, not the choice that only the restrictive health plans allow.
It would relieve businesses of the administrative hassle and expense of maintaining a health benefits program.
It would remove from the health care equation the middleman-the managed care industry-that has broken the traditional doctor-patient relationship, while diverting outrageous amounts of patient care dollars to their own coffers.
It would control health care inflation through constructive mechanisms of cost containment that improve allocation of our health care resources, rather than controlling costs through an impersonal business ethic that robs patients of care so as to increase profits for the privileged few. Single Payer Universal Health Care would provide access to high quality care for everyone at affordable prices.
3) Canadians have long waiting periods and come to the U.S. for their health care needs. Therefore, such a plan would make for waiting periods in the U.S.
First of all, ask almost any Canadian if they would trade our system for theirs. The answer is a resounding "NO."
They may have to wait for elective surgeries, for instance, but we have to wait for these kinds of surgeries, as well.
Canadians have the option to buy extra coverage to get heroic measures covered, say in the case of Cancer treatment.
At 9% of their GDP, they are spending much less than we are as a nation. We, the wealthiest nation on earth, spend 14 % of our GDP.
4) Our country cannot afford to insure everyone.
Our country already has enough funds dedicated to health care to provide the highest quality of care for everyone. Studies have shown that under a single payer system, comprehensive care can be provided for everyone without spending any more funds than are now being spent.
Not only do we have more than sufficient funds, we are also a nation that is infamous for our excess health care capacity. Typical of these excesses is the fact that there are more MRI scanners in Orange County, CA than in all of Canada.
With our generous funding and the tremendous capacity of our health care delivery system, the delays would not be a significant limiting factor in the U.S.
5) Americans do not want "Socialized Medicine."
Socialized medicine is a system in which the government owns the facilities, and the providers of care are government employees.
In sharp contrast, a single payer system uses the existing private and public sector health care delivery systems, preserving private ownership and employment. The unique feature of a single payer system is that all health care risks are placed in a universal risk pool, covering everyone. The pool is funded in a fair and equitable manner so that everyone pays their fair share in taxes, unlike our current defective system in which some pay far too much while others are not paying their share. The funds are allocated through a publicly administered program resulting in optimum use of our health care dollars.
A single payer system has no more in common with socialized medicine than our current Medicare program.
Socialism is a dirty word in this country. Universal health care for all has been equated with socialism, and much propaganda has been communicated by the press, by right wing politicians, by medical groups such as the AMA or anyone else who has an agenda to keep the 1500 plus health insurance companies a thriving market with profits that undoubtedly help to pay for their agendas.
6) A Universal Single-Payer would lower the standard of care to a level of mediocrity for everyone, preventing the affluent from exercising his or her option to obtain the highest level of care.
Our current system is characterized by essentially two alternatives: either no insurance with severely impaired access to even a mediocre level of care, or being insured by a managed care industry that has whittled down what is available until mediocrity has become the standard of care. Only the relatively affluent have access to unlimited care.
The generous level of funds that we have already dedicated to health care, adding to this a more efficient administration with an exclusive mission of optimum patient care well above the mediocrity that we now have, lays the foundation for a universal health care system in America.
A single payer system does not preclude the affluent from paying, outside the system, for a penthouse suite in the hospital, or for cosmetic surgery or for any other service that would not be part of a publicly funded program.
But if Americans knew the truth, and would turn off their TVs and use that time instead to change this country, using the power of grassroots politics, to make a single payer universal system a reality for all, then we would finally have the best health care system in the world.
Any group with the passion to change the world, one issue at a time, with a loving intent, can do it.
About The Author
Kate Loving Shenk is a writer, healer, musician and the creator of the e-book called "Transform Your Nursing Career and Discover Your Calling and Destiny." Click here to find out how to order the e-book: http://www.nursingcareertransformation.com Check Out Kate's Blog: http://www.nursehealers.typepad.com
The Perfect Fitting Dress Shirt For The Big And Tall Man by: Janine Giorgenti i
Outfitting Matthew Tullis used to be a tall order.
At 6 foot 7 inches tall, he frequented the big and tall dress shirt departments of local retailers in West Jordan, Utah, just outside of Salt Lake City. But even when the size seemed right, the look was all wrong.
"I'd go to Nordstrom's or some other store and tell the clerk my neck size and sleeve length, 16 and a half neck and 37 sleeve, and I'd always have trouble with the shirt. I'm a thin person, and the shirts weren't made for people like me, so either the sleeves were too short or the neck was too big. And the shirt was always baggy in the body. I began to think that bad fit was just par for the course," shrugs Matthew. "It got to the point where I really didn't care. I wasn't very picky."
As a church leader and a father of three, though, Matthew felt an increasing need to ensure his appearance matched his growing responsibilities.
"I've never been very worried about what other people think, but in this case it came down to something bigger than me; my religion. When it had to do with my church calling, I felt it was important to look my best and to set a good example," explains Matthew.
Desperate for a better answer, he turned to the Internet. Somewhere out there, he reasoned, had to be well-priced, good looking shirts for big and tall men who were more tall than big. The option of custom-made clothing never occurred to him. It sounded too expensive and difficult.
When he stumbled upon Best Custom Shirt, the made-to-order option seemed so affordable it was almost too good to be true.
"I think the terms I put in the search engine were something like, 'cheapest, nicest dress shirt' or something similar. I don't remember how many links it returned, but one of them was Best Custom Shirt. When l looked it at the site, I thought the prices were really good. So I immediately compared them against five other online stores that had big and tall men's shirts," says Matthew.
Matthew shared the news with his wife, who did her own online comparison shopping. The result, says Matthew, was that she was happy, too.
"She enjoyed the fact that she didn't have to go buy them. And when she looked at the price, she thought I should go ahead and do it. Frankly, at that point I was sick and tired of spending so much time comparing everything. I figured I would just order the shirts and see what happened," recalls Matthew.
Matthew's first custom shirt arrived within days. He enjoyed the look and feel, but still wasn't totally satisfied with the fit. So he called a customer service expert and described the problem.
"I told him this was my first custom-made shirt and it seemed to pull across the back when I touched my elbows together in front. I didn't know how much more space it needed, but they put me in touch with Janine and she told me how she thought the shirt could be changed. She also talked to me about some of the other little things I might like," says Matthew.
New York Designer Janine Giorgenti, owner of Best Custom Shirt. Com, spent time helping Matthew define his own preferences, tastes he was previously unaware of. Working together, they pinned down the particular look Matthew sought for his shirt's collar and buttons.
Ten days after Matthew's initial Internet foray, he was the proud owner of four handsome, well-made, crisp white shirts – precision-tailored to his proportions. These big-and-tall men's dress shirts were big on style, but, even better, these were the first shirts he worn that genuinely fit his frame. Suddenly, all the little discomforts he'd taken for granted with standard men's dress shirts vanished. No longer did he have to contend with a baggy chest, too- short sleeves or ugly collars that just didn't lay right.
"Now, if I raise my hands right above my head, the shirt doesn't pull, so I'm glad about that. And some of the other options, like a collar without any buttons, made me really happy," says Matthew.
He credits extraordinary customer service for his extraordinary results.
"The people I dealt with were very good, very nice, and very easy to work with," smiles Matthew.
He now feels the shirts help him to do his best work. When he presides over church group meetings, he looks and feels like the leader and role model he is. He never has to worry whether his polished appearance will disappear when he takes his jacket off.
Now that he's a made-to-order shirt fan, Matthew ready to take on another challenge: color.
"This time, I just wanted white shirts. Now that I have all the white shirts I need, I'd like to add some cool colors. I love blue and may even want to get a maroon shirt. And I'm thinking about custom-made slacks, too," remarks Matthew.
The ease of caring for his custom shirts makes them all the more appealing. Matthew finds the garments look just as good after machine washing as when they first arrived. His over-the-counter dress shirts never stood up as well.
As a newly-savvy shirt buyer, Matthew intends to approach garment purchases with a more exacting eye. He also plans to apply the same high standards to dress-up clothing for his three sons; six-year-old Landan, three-year-old Dalin, and Alex, who's just a year old. All, he laughs, are destined to inherit their father's hard-to-fit stature and build.
"They'll be big and tall like me," smiles Matthew. "I like to look good and I'm sure they'll want to look good, too…in shirts that really fit."
For more information on big and tall dress shirts please visit www.bestcustomshirt.com.
About The Author
For two decades, Janine Giorgenti has dedicated her life’s work to developing cutting edge techniques, for creating a professional image. She is a pioneering top clothing designer, image and wardrobe consultant as well as a dynamic speaker.
As a recognized expert in color psychology and a seasoned Seventh Avenue designer, Janine helps clients substantially improve their professional appearance. Her scientific approach to image enhancement applies the innovations of the world’s greatest clothing experts to each individual’s wardrobe.
Many clients credit her counsel with helping them win promotions, close deals, land new jobs, perform better in the business world and build general self-confidence. Her clients include sport figures, celebrities and Fortune 500 executives from American Express, Deloitte &Touché, Citicorp, MetLife, Marriott and Morgan Stanley, among others.
Janine Giorgenti reaches thousands through her “ Dress for Success” seminars, TV and Radio appearances, while her acclaimed “Image Empowerment” audio series” empower countless more people. Her makeovers are featured on local and regional television programs, and her advice was recently the centerpiece of a McKinsey & Company women's website series on 'business casual'.
Janine is a fourth generation designer who trained at New York’s renowned Fashion Institute of Technology. She was a fashion consultant for Saks 5th Ave, Anne Taylor, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. Janine’s original creations have been featured in The New York Times Fashion of the Times centerfold, as well in Vogue magazine.
Janine is committed to giving back to the community, often providing custom clothing and organizing fashion shows as fundraising events for nonprofits that include The American Heart Association, A Cure for Breast Cancer, Arthritis foundation, The United Way, and the Special Olympics for Handicapped Kids.
Her advice is frequently sought by major national newspapers and magazines, and will soon be collected into a book, co-authored with award-winning television producer and journalist Sue Treiman.
Janine Giorgenti can be contacted at 1-800-99-IMAGE or info@bestcustomshirt.com
Copyright clause: My articles can be copied, published and re-printed without my permission as long as I remain the author of the article.
At 6 foot 7 inches tall, he frequented the big and tall dress shirt departments of local retailers in West Jordan, Utah, just outside of Salt Lake City. But even when the size seemed right, the look was all wrong.
"I'd go to Nordstrom's or some other store and tell the clerk my neck size and sleeve length, 16 and a half neck and 37 sleeve, and I'd always have trouble with the shirt. I'm a thin person, and the shirts weren't made for people like me, so either the sleeves were too short or the neck was too big. And the shirt was always baggy in the body. I began to think that bad fit was just par for the course," shrugs Matthew. "It got to the point where I really didn't care. I wasn't very picky."
As a church leader and a father of three, though, Matthew felt an increasing need to ensure his appearance matched his growing responsibilities.
"I've never been very worried about what other people think, but in this case it came down to something bigger than me; my religion. When it had to do with my church calling, I felt it was important to look my best and to set a good example," explains Matthew.
Desperate for a better answer, he turned to the Internet. Somewhere out there, he reasoned, had to be well-priced, good looking shirts for big and tall men who were more tall than big. The option of custom-made clothing never occurred to him. It sounded too expensive and difficult.
When he stumbled upon Best Custom Shirt, the made-to-order option seemed so affordable it was almost too good to be true.
"I think the terms I put in the search engine were something like, 'cheapest, nicest dress shirt' or something similar. I don't remember how many links it returned, but one of them was Best Custom Shirt. When l looked it at the site, I thought the prices were really good. So I immediately compared them against five other online stores that had big and tall men's shirts," says Matthew.
Matthew shared the news with his wife, who did her own online comparison shopping. The result, says Matthew, was that she was happy, too.
"She enjoyed the fact that she didn't have to go buy them. And when she looked at the price, she thought I should go ahead and do it. Frankly, at that point I was sick and tired of spending so much time comparing everything. I figured I would just order the shirts and see what happened," recalls Matthew.
Matthew's first custom shirt arrived within days. He enjoyed the look and feel, but still wasn't totally satisfied with the fit. So he called a customer service expert and described the problem.
"I told him this was my first custom-made shirt and it seemed to pull across the back when I touched my elbows together in front. I didn't know how much more space it needed, but they put me in touch with Janine and she told me how she thought the shirt could be changed. She also talked to me about some of the other little things I might like," says Matthew.
New York Designer Janine Giorgenti, owner of Best Custom Shirt. Com, spent time helping Matthew define his own preferences, tastes he was previously unaware of. Working together, they pinned down the particular look Matthew sought for his shirt's collar and buttons.
Ten days after Matthew's initial Internet foray, he was the proud owner of four handsome, well-made, crisp white shirts – precision-tailored to his proportions. These big-and-tall men's dress shirts were big on style, but, even better, these were the first shirts he worn that genuinely fit his frame. Suddenly, all the little discomforts he'd taken for granted with standard men's dress shirts vanished. No longer did he have to contend with a baggy chest, too- short sleeves or ugly collars that just didn't lay right.
"Now, if I raise my hands right above my head, the shirt doesn't pull, so I'm glad about that. And some of the other options, like a collar without any buttons, made me really happy," says Matthew.
He credits extraordinary customer service for his extraordinary results.
"The people I dealt with were very good, very nice, and very easy to work with," smiles Matthew.
He now feels the shirts help him to do his best work. When he presides over church group meetings, he looks and feels like the leader and role model he is. He never has to worry whether his polished appearance will disappear when he takes his jacket off.
Now that he's a made-to-order shirt fan, Matthew ready to take on another challenge: color.
"This time, I just wanted white shirts. Now that I have all the white shirts I need, I'd like to add some cool colors. I love blue and may even want to get a maroon shirt. And I'm thinking about custom-made slacks, too," remarks Matthew.
The ease of caring for his custom shirts makes them all the more appealing. Matthew finds the garments look just as good after machine washing as when they first arrived. His over-the-counter dress shirts never stood up as well.
As a newly-savvy shirt buyer, Matthew intends to approach garment purchases with a more exacting eye. He also plans to apply the same high standards to dress-up clothing for his three sons; six-year-old Landan, three-year-old Dalin, and Alex, who's just a year old. All, he laughs, are destined to inherit their father's hard-to-fit stature and build.
"They'll be big and tall like me," smiles Matthew. "I like to look good and I'm sure they'll want to look good, too…in shirts that really fit."
For more information on big and tall dress shirts please visit www.bestcustomshirt.com.
About The Author
For two decades, Janine Giorgenti has dedicated her life’s work to developing cutting edge techniques, for creating a professional image. She is a pioneering top clothing designer, image and wardrobe consultant as well as a dynamic speaker.
As a recognized expert in color psychology and a seasoned Seventh Avenue designer, Janine helps clients substantially improve their professional appearance. Her scientific approach to image enhancement applies the innovations of the world’s greatest clothing experts to each individual’s wardrobe.
Many clients credit her counsel with helping them win promotions, close deals, land new jobs, perform better in the business world and build general self-confidence. Her clients include sport figures, celebrities and Fortune 500 executives from American Express, Deloitte &Touché, Citicorp, MetLife, Marriott and Morgan Stanley, among others.
Janine Giorgenti reaches thousands through her “ Dress for Success” seminars, TV and Radio appearances, while her acclaimed “Image Empowerment” audio series” empower countless more people. Her makeovers are featured on local and regional television programs, and her advice was recently the centerpiece of a McKinsey & Company women's website series on 'business casual'.
Janine is a fourth generation designer who trained at New York’s renowned Fashion Institute of Technology. She was a fashion consultant for Saks 5th Ave, Anne Taylor, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s. Janine’s original creations have been featured in The New York Times Fashion of the Times centerfold, as well in Vogue magazine.
Janine is committed to giving back to the community, often providing custom clothing and organizing fashion shows as fundraising events for nonprofits that include The American Heart Association, A Cure for Breast Cancer, Arthritis foundation, The United Way, and the Special Olympics for Handicapped Kids.
Her advice is frequently sought by major national newspapers and magazines, and will soon be collected into a book, co-authored with award-winning television producer and journalist Sue Treiman.
Janine Giorgenti can be contacted at 1-800-99-IMAGE or info@bestcustomshirt.com
Copyright clause: My articles can be copied, published and re-printed without my permission as long as I remain the author of the article.
Persistence Goes the Distance
"Hang in there! is more than an expression of encouragement to someone experiencing hardship or difficulty; it is sound advice for anyone intent on doing good in the world. Whether by leading or prodding others, or improving oneself, or contributing in the thick of things to some larger cause, perseverance is often crucial to success...Much good that might have been achieved in the world is lost through hesitation, faltering, wavering, vacillating, or just not sticking with it." — William J. Bennett, The Book of Virtues
In 1914 Thomas Edison's factory in West Orange, New Jersey, was virtually destroyed by fire. Although the damage exceeded $2 million, the buildings were insured for only $238,000 because they were made of concrete and were thought to be fireproof. Much of Edison's life work went up in smoke and flames that December night. At the height of the fire, Edison's 24-year-old son, Charles, searched frantically for his father. He finally found him, calmly watching the fire, his face glowing in the reflection, his white hair blowing in the wind.
"My heart ached for him," said Charles. "He was 67 — no longer a young man — and everything was going up in flames. When he saw me, he shouted, "Charles, where's your mother?" When I told him I didn't know, he said, 'Find her. Bring her here. She will never see anything like this as long as she lives.'"
The next morning, Edison looked at the ruins and said, "There is great value in disaster. All our mistakes are burned up. Thank God we can start anew."
Three weeks after the fire, Edison managed to deliver the first phonograph.
******
Failure often results from following the line of least persistence. Despite the book titles, magazine articles, and guru claims, there are no quick and easy ways to health, happiness, wealth, teamwork, or success. Usually the only person who's stumbled upon a quick and easy route to success is the author who's sold millions of books proclaiming how easy it is by following the formula they're selling. Most "overnight successes" take years to achieve. Most "natural talent" is created through thousands of hours of disciplined training and practice (that's the final level of mastery — making it look natural).
There are no "success secrets." However, there are success systems, success habits, and success principles applied through discipline and persistence. In a university address on medical education, the 19th century English biologist, Thomas Henry Huxley, advised students, "Patience and tenacity of purpose are worth more than twice their weight of cleverness."
We often think that successful people are those lucky enough to have won the "gene pool." They picked good parents and were born with great talent, intelligence, or natural gifts. But we all know people with talent, perhaps even streaks of genius, who never did much with their abilities. Many people give up just as they're about to achieve success. They often stop digging when they're inches from their vein of gold. Then they decide to prospect for silver, start digging in new places, get discouraged and give up just before they're about to reach their dreams.
Studies of Nobel Prize winners have shown that their intelligence levels are average. However, their tenacity and persistence is well above normal. They hang in there with research and doggedly following a theory long after many of their colleagues have moved on to what look like more promising research paths. The French-born American surgeon and biologist, Alexis Carrel, won a Nobel Prize for his work on vascular ligature and grafting of blood vessels and organs. His research experience led him to conclude, "Life leaps like a geyser for those who drill through the rock of inertia." We aren't losers until we quit trying. As the Japanese proverb teaches, the eventual winners are those who "fall down seven times, get up eight."
Facing a journey of a thousand miles or many years of effort can be discouraging. One way to deal with that is breaking it into small, manageable pieces. It's eating that proverbial elephant one bite at a time (Not that I can imagine anyone wanting to eat an elephant; I often wonder about the sadists that comes up with these expressions — skinning cats, boiling frogs, etc?). It's often helpful to move away from looking at the long journey and instead break it into a series of short trips.
Terry Fox, having lost his leg to cancer, embarked on a cross-Canada run called the "Marathon of Hope" to raise money for cancer research. With an artificial right leg, his shuffle-and-hop running style took him about 24 miles per day. I think jogging a few miles in the morning is pretty good. Many people train for months and make a big deal out of running in a single marathon (26 miles). Terry ran close to a marathon a day – with an artificial leg! He managed to run for 143 days and cover 3339 miles from St. John's, Newfoundland to Thunder Bay, Ontario. At that point, cancer was discovered in his lungs and he was forced to abandon his run. A few months later he died. His inspiring legacy continues to this day in annual Terry Fox runs that have raised tens of millions of dollars for cancer research. When asked how he kept himself going out there as exhaustion set in and he had thousands of miles ahead of him, he replied, "I just keep running to the next telephone pole."
About The Author
Jim Clemmer
Excerpted from Jim's fourth bestseller, Growing the Distance: Timeless Principles for Personal, Career, and Family Success. View the book's unique format and content, Introduction and Chapter One, and feedback showing why nearly 100,000 copies are now in print at www.growingthedistance.com. Jim's new companion book to Growing the Distance is The Leader's Digest: Timeless Principles for Team and Organization Success. Jim Clemmer is an internationally acclaimed keynote speaker, workshop/retreat leader, and management team developer on leadership, change, customer focus, culture, teams, and personal growth. His web site is www.clemmer.net.
In 1914 Thomas Edison's factory in West Orange, New Jersey, was virtually destroyed by fire. Although the damage exceeded $2 million, the buildings were insured for only $238,000 because they were made of concrete and were thought to be fireproof. Much of Edison's life work went up in smoke and flames that December night. At the height of the fire, Edison's 24-year-old son, Charles, searched frantically for his father. He finally found him, calmly watching the fire, his face glowing in the reflection, his white hair blowing in the wind.
"My heart ached for him," said Charles. "He was 67 — no longer a young man — and everything was going up in flames. When he saw me, he shouted, "Charles, where's your mother?" When I told him I didn't know, he said, 'Find her. Bring her here. She will never see anything like this as long as she lives.'"
The next morning, Edison looked at the ruins and said, "There is great value in disaster. All our mistakes are burned up. Thank God we can start anew."
Three weeks after the fire, Edison managed to deliver the first phonograph.
******
Failure often results from following the line of least persistence. Despite the book titles, magazine articles, and guru claims, there are no quick and easy ways to health, happiness, wealth, teamwork, or success. Usually the only person who's stumbled upon a quick and easy route to success is the author who's sold millions of books proclaiming how easy it is by following the formula they're selling. Most "overnight successes" take years to achieve. Most "natural talent" is created through thousands of hours of disciplined training and practice (that's the final level of mastery — making it look natural).
There are no "success secrets." However, there are success systems, success habits, and success principles applied through discipline and persistence. In a university address on medical education, the 19th century English biologist, Thomas Henry Huxley, advised students, "Patience and tenacity of purpose are worth more than twice their weight of cleverness."
We often think that successful people are those lucky enough to have won the "gene pool." They picked good parents and were born with great talent, intelligence, or natural gifts. But we all know people with talent, perhaps even streaks of genius, who never did much with their abilities. Many people give up just as they're about to achieve success. They often stop digging when they're inches from their vein of gold. Then they decide to prospect for silver, start digging in new places, get discouraged and give up just before they're about to reach their dreams.
Studies of Nobel Prize winners have shown that their intelligence levels are average. However, their tenacity and persistence is well above normal. They hang in there with research and doggedly following a theory long after many of their colleagues have moved on to what look like more promising research paths. The French-born American surgeon and biologist, Alexis Carrel, won a Nobel Prize for his work on vascular ligature and grafting of blood vessels and organs. His research experience led him to conclude, "Life leaps like a geyser for those who drill through the rock of inertia." We aren't losers until we quit trying. As the Japanese proverb teaches, the eventual winners are those who "fall down seven times, get up eight."
Facing a journey of a thousand miles or many years of effort can be discouraging. One way to deal with that is breaking it into small, manageable pieces. It's eating that proverbial elephant one bite at a time (Not that I can imagine anyone wanting to eat an elephant; I often wonder about the sadists that comes up with these expressions — skinning cats, boiling frogs, etc?). It's often helpful to move away from looking at the long journey and instead break it into a series of short trips.
Terry Fox, having lost his leg to cancer, embarked on a cross-Canada run called the "Marathon of Hope" to raise money for cancer research. With an artificial right leg, his shuffle-and-hop running style took him about 24 miles per day. I think jogging a few miles in the morning is pretty good. Many people train for months and make a big deal out of running in a single marathon (26 miles). Terry ran close to a marathon a day – with an artificial leg! He managed to run for 143 days and cover 3339 miles from St. John's, Newfoundland to Thunder Bay, Ontario. At that point, cancer was discovered in his lungs and he was forced to abandon his run. A few months later he died. His inspiring legacy continues to this day in annual Terry Fox runs that have raised tens of millions of dollars for cancer research. When asked how he kept himself going out there as exhaustion set in and he had thousands of miles ahead of him, he replied, "I just keep running to the next telephone pole."
About The Author
Jim Clemmer
Excerpted from Jim's fourth bestseller, Growing the Distance: Timeless Principles for Personal, Career, and Family Success. View the book's unique format and content, Introduction and Chapter One, and feedback showing why nearly 100,000 copies are now in print at www.growingthedistance.com. Jim's new companion book to Growing the Distance is The Leader's Digest: Timeless Principles for Team and Organization Success. Jim Clemmer is an internationally acclaimed keynote speaker, workshop/retreat leader, and management team developer on leadership, change, customer focus, culture, teams, and personal growth. His web site is www.clemmer.net.
Interesting Facts About Cell Phones
Cell phone (telefone celular) is a wireless, portable, long-range, electronic telephone, which during travel can seamlessly change antenna connections, from one radio reception cell to another radio reception cell, without dropping or losing the ongoing call.
Besides the standard voice function of a telephone, latest cell phones (telefone celular) have features such as SMS for text messages, MMS for multimedia messages, radio, games, internet connectivity for email, browsing, blogging, music (MP3) playback, memo recording, built-in cameras and camcorders, ringtones, personal organizers, Push-to-Talk (PTT), Bluetooth and infrared connectivity, call registers, streaming video, downloading video, video call, and also serve as wireless modems for PCs that can be connected to the Internet.
The power in a cell phone (telefone celular) is obtained from rechargeable batteries, which can be recharged from the mains, a USB port or a cigarette lighter port in an automobile. Nickel Metal Hydride were the most common types of batteries, which due to the "memory effect" (the user can recharge only when the entire battery is drained off) were replaced by Lithium-Ion batteries, which did not suffer from any memory effect.
Cell phones (telefone celular) came into existence because of the invention of hexagonal cells in 1947, for the base stations by Bell Labs engineers at AT&T. This was further developed during the 1960s by Bell Labs. During a call, the channel frequency could not be changed automatically from one cell (base station coverage area) to another cell (base station coverage area) as the person traveled from the area of one cell to the area of another cell. Amos Joel of Bell Labs invented a breakthrough invention and called it as the `call handoff` by which the channel frequency could be changed automatically from one cell to another cell, during the same call, as the mobile user traveled from one cell to another cell. Due to their heavy construction, these phones were used mainly in automobiles.
The first practical cell phone in a non-vehicle setting, and which could be handheld, was invented by Martin Cooper, the General Manager (Communications Division) of Motorola, who made the world`s first handheld cell phone (telefone celular) call on April 3, 1973.
The technology by which the cell phone (telefone celular) works depends on the mobile phone operator; however, all of them use electromagnetic radio waves, which are in touch with a cell site (base station). The base station is composed of several antennas which are mounted on a pole, tower, or building. Cell sites are spread at a distance of 5 to 8 miles (approx. 8 to 13 km) from each other. The low power transceiver from the cell phone transmits the voice and data to the nearest cell site. During movement, the cell phone will "handoff" the information to other cell site. Mobile phone operators use many technologies to maintain the smooth stream of digitized data from the cell phone to the cell site and vice versa.
The wireless telephone technologies are grouped under heads known as generations, starting from zero generation or 0G. The current generation going on is 4G; however, there are old cell phones (telefone celular) that still operate on 1G, 2G, and 3G technologies. The wireless telephone technologies used in each generation are as given below:
0G: PTT, MTS, IMTS, AMTS, OLT, MTD, Autotel/PALM, ARP
1G: NMT, AMPS/TACS/ETACS, Hicap, CDPD, Mobitex, DataTac
2G: GSM, iDEN, D-AMPS, IS-95/cdmaOne, PDC, CSD, PHS, GPRS, HSCSD, WiDEN, CDMA2000 1xRTT/IS-2000, EDGE (EGPRS)
3G: W-CDMA, UMTS (3GSM), FOMA, TD-CDMA/UMTS-TDD, 1xEV-DO/IS-856, TD-SCDMA, GAN (UMA), HSPA, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA+, HSOPA
4G : UMB, UMTS Revision 8 (LTE), WiMAX
Frequency bands: SMR, Cellular, PCS
The impact of cell phone (telefone celular) usage on human health has been of considerable worldwide concern. Research studies in Copenhagen, from the Danish Institute of Cancer Epidemiology, the National Cancer Institute, and the Institute of Cancer Research, do not establish any link between cancer and cell phone usage. However, an intergovernmental agency IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) forming part of the World Health Organization of the United Nations, undertook a study of 4,500 users and found a statistically significant link between cell phone usage and tumor frequency. Further research is going on.
Cell phone (telefone celular) usage and driving is a common worldwide phenomenon. Some jurisdictions have banned usage of hand-held phones during driving, but allowed the hands-free fashion of cell phone usage while driving. However, studies have found out that the distraction is caused by the conversation itself; hence, both hand-held and hands-free cell phones contribute towards road traffic accidents. Further studies on cell phone usage and driving are going on.
Nokia Corporation is currently the world`s largest manufacturer of cell phones (telefone celular). Other notable cell phone manufacturers, in alphabetical order, are 3G, Audiovox (now UT Starcom), Benefon, BenQ-Siemens, Fujitsu, High Tech Computer Corporation (HTC), Kyocera, LG Mobile, Motorola, NEC, Panasonic (Matsushita Electric), Pantech Curitel, Philips, Research In Motion, Sagem, Samsung, Sanyo, Sharp, Siemens, Sierra Wireless, SK Teletech, Sony Ericsson, T&A Alcatel, Toshiba, and Verizon.
About The Author
Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for http://www.polomercantil.com.br
This article can also be accessed in portuguese language from page http://www.polomercantil.com.br/celular.php
Besides the standard voice function of a telephone, latest cell phones (telefone celular) have features such as SMS for text messages, MMS for multimedia messages, radio, games, internet connectivity for email, browsing, blogging, music (MP3) playback, memo recording, built-in cameras and camcorders, ringtones, personal organizers, Push-to-Talk (PTT), Bluetooth and infrared connectivity, call registers, streaming video, downloading video, video call, and also serve as wireless modems for PCs that can be connected to the Internet.
The power in a cell phone (telefone celular) is obtained from rechargeable batteries, which can be recharged from the mains, a USB port or a cigarette lighter port in an automobile. Nickel Metal Hydride were the most common types of batteries, which due to the "memory effect" (the user can recharge only when the entire battery is drained off) were replaced by Lithium-Ion batteries, which did not suffer from any memory effect.
Cell phones (telefone celular) came into existence because of the invention of hexagonal cells in 1947, for the base stations by Bell Labs engineers at AT&T. This was further developed during the 1960s by Bell Labs. During a call, the channel frequency could not be changed automatically from one cell (base station coverage area) to another cell (base station coverage area) as the person traveled from the area of one cell to the area of another cell. Amos Joel of Bell Labs invented a breakthrough invention and called it as the `call handoff` by which the channel frequency could be changed automatically from one cell to another cell, during the same call, as the mobile user traveled from one cell to another cell. Due to their heavy construction, these phones were used mainly in automobiles.
The first practical cell phone in a non-vehicle setting, and which could be handheld, was invented by Martin Cooper, the General Manager (Communications Division) of Motorola, who made the world`s first handheld cell phone (telefone celular) call on April 3, 1973.
The technology by which the cell phone (telefone celular) works depends on the mobile phone operator; however, all of them use electromagnetic radio waves, which are in touch with a cell site (base station). The base station is composed of several antennas which are mounted on a pole, tower, or building. Cell sites are spread at a distance of 5 to 8 miles (approx. 8 to 13 km) from each other. The low power transceiver from the cell phone transmits the voice and data to the nearest cell site. During movement, the cell phone will "handoff" the information to other cell site. Mobile phone operators use many technologies to maintain the smooth stream of digitized data from the cell phone to the cell site and vice versa.
The wireless telephone technologies are grouped under heads known as generations, starting from zero generation or 0G. The current generation going on is 4G; however, there are old cell phones (telefone celular) that still operate on 1G, 2G, and 3G technologies. The wireless telephone technologies used in each generation are as given below:
0G: PTT, MTS, IMTS, AMTS, OLT, MTD, Autotel/PALM, ARP
1G: NMT, AMPS/TACS/ETACS, Hicap, CDPD, Mobitex, DataTac
2G: GSM, iDEN, D-AMPS, IS-95/cdmaOne, PDC, CSD, PHS, GPRS, HSCSD, WiDEN, CDMA2000 1xRTT/IS-2000, EDGE (EGPRS)
3G: W-CDMA, UMTS (3GSM), FOMA, TD-CDMA/UMTS-TDD, 1xEV-DO/IS-856, TD-SCDMA, GAN (UMA), HSPA, HSDPA, HSUPA, HSPA+, HSOPA
4G : UMB, UMTS Revision 8 (LTE), WiMAX
Frequency bands: SMR, Cellular, PCS
The impact of cell phone (telefone celular) usage on human health has been of considerable worldwide concern. Research studies in Copenhagen, from the Danish Institute of Cancer Epidemiology, the National Cancer Institute, and the Institute of Cancer Research, do not establish any link between cancer and cell phone usage. However, an intergovernmental agency IARC (International Agency for Research on Cancer) forming part of the World Health Organization of the United Nations, undertook a study of 4,500 users and found a statistically significant link between cell phone usage and tumor frequency. Further research is going on.
Cell phone (telefone celular) usage and driving is a common worldwide phenomenon. Some jurisdictions have banned usage of hand-held phones during driving, but allowed the hands-free fashion of cell phone usage while driving. However, studies have found out that the distraction is caused by the conversation itself; hence, both hand-held and hands-free cell phones contribute towards road traffic accidents. Further studies on cell phone usage and driving are going on.
Nokia Corporation is currently the world`s largest manufacturer of cell phones (telefone celular). Other notable cell phone manufacturers, in alphabetical order, are 3G, Audiovox (now UT Starcom), Benefon, BenQ-Siemens, Fujitsu, High Tech Computer Corporation (HTC), Kyocera, LG Mobile, Motorola, NEC, Panasonic (Matsushita Electric), Pantech Curitel, Philips, Research In Motion, Sagem, Samsung, Sanyo, Sharp, Siemens, Sierra Wireless, SK Teletech, Sony Ericsson, T&A Alcatel, Toshiba, and Verizon.
About The Author
Roberto Sedycias works as IT consultant for http://www.polomercantil.com.br
This article can also be accessed in portuguese language from page http://www.polomercantil.com.br/celular.php
Healthy Eating, Healthy Breasts
Healthy Eating, Healthy Breasts
Eating for healthy breasts is easy and delicious. It is not about sacrifice or giving up burgers and ice cream; it's about discovering new foods and new ways to prepare old favorites. It's about having more energy, feeling better about yourself, and having more control over your health. Basically, it's about improving the quality of your life, for the rest of your life.
Make no mistake: No single diet, food, or supplement can guarantee you won't get cancer. But if you eat a combination of foods that have been shown to prevent cancer and promote health, you can reduce your risk by at least one-third, and more if you follow other healthy habits.
Fortunately there are many different types of cancer preventive foods available perhaps more than you dreamed. Chances are you're already eating some of them, but you may not recognize them when you look at the food on your plate. Are there avocados and fresh spinach under that blue cheese dressing? Are vitamin-rich onions hiding under that fried batter? Can you detect protein-rich low-fat beans swimming in that beef-laden chili? This step will help you gain a new perspective on healthy foods and expand your culinary horizons.
What We Know About Healthy Eating
The Controversy
Although scores of studies have been done, researchers do not have many definitive answers about the role of foods and nutrients in the prevention of cancer. Many nutritional experts believe, however, that a significant number of Nature's compounds, including vitamins minerals, and phytochemicals, help fight cancer. But it has been difficult to measure the actions of these substances because there are so many variables to consider when analyzing the impact of foods and nutrients in humans. That's why the information in this chapter has been culled from the latest and most respected sources, including the American Institute for Cancer Research and the American
Dietetic Association.
The American Institute for Cancer Research
To make it easy for you to put together your healthy eating plan, here are the recommendations put forth by the American Institute for Cancer Research's Program for Cancer Prevention -t Food, Nutrition and the which are explained in detail in its report ,Prevention of Cancer: A Global Perspective, These recommendations are the foundation upon which the dietary suggestions in this chapter are based. Although you won't see any radical ideas here, they are universal and the result of years of solid research:
Choose foods that leave undergone little or no processing ( avoid canned, freeze-dried, and frozen foods and foods containing chemical preservatives colorings, and favorings).
The majority or all your food choices should come from the plant kingdom, which includes fruits, vegetables, legumes, rice, soy foods, whole grains, and foods made from whole grains (and not white, bleached floor), such as pasta, breads and cereals.
Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
Eat at least seven serving of whole grains, legumes, roots, plantains, and tubers every day.
Afraid red meat. If you do include animal protein, limit it to no more than 3 ounces per day and choose fish or chicken without skin. Animal protein should be baked, steamed , broiled, or poached, do not add fat when cooking.
Limit consumption of dairy products ( low-fat and no-fat are better, but they may still contain toxins) and other fatty foods. The healthiest oils are olive, flaxseed, and nut. These vegetable oils should be used in moderation and never heated.
If you drink alcohol , limit your intake to one drink per day.
Armed with this basic outline, along with the warning to avoid sugar and caffeine, you are now ready to look at these foods and the healthy substances they contain.
This article is not designed as a substitute for personal medical advice but as a supplement to advice for those wishes to understand more about her condition.
About The Author
Annabel Cruz is a researcher into studies of Natural healing by combining both Western and Eastern ways. Feel free to use this article on your website or ezine as long as the following information about author/website is included.
http://www.bestpuerariamirifica.com
Eating for healthy breasts is easy and delicious. It is not about sacrifice or giving up burgers and ice cream; it's about discovering new foods and new ways to prepare old favorites. It's about having more energy, feeling better about yourself, and having more control over your health. Basically, it's about improving the quality of your life, for the rest of your life.
Make no mistake: No single diet, food, or supplement can guarantee you won't get cancer. But if you eat a combination of foods that have been shown to prevent cancer and promote health, you can reduce your risk by at least one-third, and more if you follow other healthy habits.
Fortunately there are many different types of cancer preventive foods available perhaps more than you dreamed. Chances are you're already eating some of them, but you may not recognize them when you look at the food on your plate. Are there avocados and fresh spinach under that blue cheese dressing? Are vitamin-rich onions hiding under that fried batter? Can you detect protein-rich low-fat beans swimming in that beef-laden chili? This step will help you gain a new perspective on healthy foods and expand your culinary horizons.
What We Know About Healthy Eating
The Controversy
Although scores of studies have been done, researchers do not have many definitive answers about the role of foods and nutrients in the prevention of cancer. Many nutritional experts believe, however, that a significant number of Nature's compounds, including vitamins minerals, and phytochemicals, help fight cancer. But it has been difficult to measure the actions of these substances because there are so many variables to consider when analyzing the impact of foods and nutrients in humans. That's why the information in this chapter has been culled from the latest and most respected sources, including the American Institute for Cancer Research and the American
Dietetic Association.
The American Institute for Cancer Research
To make it easy for you to put together your healthy eating plan, here are the recommendations put forth by the American Institute for Cancer Research's Program for Cancer Prevention -t Food, Nutrition and the which are explained in detail in its report ,Prevention of Cancer: A Global Perspective, These recommendations are the foundation upon which the dietary suggestions in this chapter are based. Although you won't see any radical ideas here, they are universal and the result of years of solid research:
Choose foods that leave undergone little or no processing ( avoid canned, freeze-dried, and frozen foods and foods containing chemical preservatives colorings, and favorings).
The majority or all your food choices should come from the plant kingdom, which includes fruits, vegetables, legumes, rice, soy foods, whole grains, and foods made from whole grains (and not white, bleached floor), such as pasta, breads and cereals.
Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day.
Eat at least seven serving of whole grains, legumes, roots, plantains, and tubers every day.
Afraid red meat. If you do include animal protein, limit it to no more than 3 ounces per day and choose fish or chicken without skin. Animal protein should be baked, steamed , broiled, or poached, do not add fat when cooking.
Limit consumption of dairy products ( low-fat and no-fat are better, but they may still contain toxins) and other fatty foods. The healthiest oils are olive, flaxseed, and nut. These vegetable oils should be used in moderation and never heated.
If you drink alcohol , limit your intake to one drink per day.
Armed with this basic outline, along with the warning to avoid sugar and caffeine, you are now ready to look at these foods and the healthy substances they contain.
This article is not designed as a substitute for personal medical advice but as a supplement to advice for those wishes to understand more about her condition.
About The Author
Annabel Cruz is a researcher into studies of Natural healing by combining both Western and Eastern ways. Feel free to use this article on your website or ezine as long as the following information about author/website is included.
http://www.bestpuerariamirifica.com
Support Cancer Research, Wear Cancer Wristbands
Cancer is a very serious illness. This dreaded disease has caused many deaths; cancer is a disease that’s characterized by uncontrollable cell division and the danger of these mutant cells to invade the neighboring healthy cells and infect them. There are many types of cancer and most of them are deadly which can cause death, while there are some treatments available; there has been no known cure that’s potently effective just yet. Some treatments can kill the cancerous cells while some control the symptoms such as pain. Millions every year gets afflicted with different types of cancer and millions more die every year all over the world. Cancer has been a serious predicament in the medical world and there are concerns on the probability of finding a cure soon.
There are some major efforts being done to correct this but funds have been dwindling making these researches an effort that needs the aid of many people. Many foundations, colleges and other medical groups are doing intensive scientific endeavors to understand fully the development of cancer and what possible treatments, therapies and cure could be done to prevent cancer and its growth. They are called cancer research. In cancer research they discover new methods of treating cancer with the development of new technology and new discoveries about the disease. With proper funding, cancer researches would be able to flourish and hopefully find the perfect cure.
Many organizations have been doing their best to help fund this research facilities, doing fund raising projects and programs for public awareness. It is essential for the public to take notice of this programs because anyone from anywhere can be afflicted with cancer. Gradually, more and more people have found ways in doing both, raising funds for cancer and spreading awareness. When doing such, you hit the head of a nail twice making it more beneficial for cancer victims. Any method is appreciated as long as it spread awareness and help bring in money to aid cancer research. The current popular method is by selling cancer wristbands, which are inscribed with inspiring and informing statements.
Cancer wristbands have been the craze lately, many are wearing them because they are cool and fashionable and yet they help out in finding a cure for cancer. Remember the ribbons everybody used to wear for AIDS. Cancer Wristbands now are what the AIDS ribbons were then. This stretchy cancer wristbands, usually made from either from rubber or silicone, are a great way to do fundraising. They are one size fits all and don’t cost too much. There is a 100 percent profit in cancer wristbands, which may be donated to cancer researches and also boost cancer awareness. In doing so, you not only get a cool looking cancer wristband, you are also helping out the countless cancer victims all over the world.
Many say that this trend started out when Lance Armstrong came out yellow “LiveStrong” wristband to promote and fund cancer research. That promotion had all the right ingredients to capture the people’s interest. Present was the revered American icon asking the people for help, the item was very affordable, was a good conversation peace and it showed that if you were wearing it, you were concerned about other people and their needs. It was also for a cause everyone wanted to help in and deserved all the help t can get. Soon enough, everyone was wearing them, from high profile people, to entertainers with big names straight to the president.
After that, many cancer wristbands went into the market spreading the word, many organizations joined the bandwagon and produced their own cancer wristbands. It has come to be that the color of the cancer wristband represented which type of cancer was to be benefited; for example, pink bracelets were in aid for breast cancer. Messages and statements would be inscribed in the bracelets empowering the knowledge of the people about cancer and tugging their hearts and the hearts of others to help out for the worthy cause.
Cancer wristbands are not only cool, they also help out, many small organizations can help out by browsing the internet and order them from reputable manufacturers who pledge assistance for every cancer wristband you purchase. You may also do your own fundraising; some sites offer very low prices for wholesale purchases so that you can sell them at a markup price so you can have earnings to donate to research facilities. Be aware, support cancer wristbands to help cancer research.
About The Author
Michael Sanford updates his website with up to date cancer info at http://www.cancer-resource-center.com/.
There are some major efforts being done to correct this but funds have been dwindling making these researches an effort that needs the aid of many people. Many foundations, colleges and other medical groups are doing intensive scientific endeavors to understand fully the development of cancer and what possible treatments, therapies and cure could be done to prevent cancer and its growth. They are called cancer research. In cancer research they discover new methods of treating cancer with the development of new technology and new discoveries about the disease. With proper funding, cancer researches would be able to flourish and hopefully find the perfect cure.
Many organizations have been doing their best to help fund this research facilities, doing fund raising projects and programs for public awareness. It is essential for the public to take notice of this programs because anyone from anywhere can be afflicted with cancer. Gradually, more and more people have found ways in doing both, raising funds for cancer and spreading awareness. When doing such, you hit the head of a nail twice making it more beneficial for cancer victims. Any method is appreciated as long as it spread awareness and help bring in money to aid cancer research. The current popular method is by selling cancer wristbands, which are inscribed with inspiring and informing statements.
Cancer wristbands have been the craze lately, many are wearing them because they are cool and fashionable and yet they help out in finding a cure for cancer. Remember the ribbons everybody used to wear for AIDS. Cancer Wristbands now are what the AIDS ribbons were then. This stretchy cancer wristbands, usually made from either from rubber or silicone, are a great way to do fundraising. They are one size fits all and don’t cost too much. There is a 100 percent profit in cancer wristbands, which may be donated to cancer researches and also boost cancer awareness. In doing so, you not only get a cool looking cancer wristband, you are also helping out the countless cancer victims all over the world.
Many say that this trend started out when Lance Armstrong came out yellow “LiveStrong” wristband to promote and fund cancer research. That promotion had all the right ingredients to capture the people’s interest. Present was the revered American icon asking the people for help, the item was very affordable, was a good conversation peace and it showed that if you were wearing it, you were concerned about other people and their needs. It was also for a cause everyone wanted to help in and deserved all the help t can get. Soon enough, everyone was wearing them, from high profile people, to entertainers with big names straight to the president.
After that, many cancer wristbands went into the market spreading the word, many organizations joined the bandwagon and produced their own cancer wristbands. It has come to be that the color of the cancer wristband represented which type of cancer was to be benefited; for example, pink bracelets were in aid for breast cancer. Messages and statements would be inscribed in the bracelets empowering the knowledge of the people about cancer and tugging their hearts and the hearts of others to help out for the worthy cause.
Cancer wristbands are not only cool, they also help out, many small organizations can help out by browsing the internet and order them from reputable manufacturers who pledge assistance for every cancer wristband you purchase. You may also do your own fundraising; some sites offer very low prices for wholesale purchases so that you can sell them at a markup price so you can have earnings to donate to research facilities. Be aware, support cancer wristbands to help cancer research.
About The Author
Michael Sanford updates his website with up to date cancer info at http://www.cancer-resource-center.com/.
Lifestyle Affects Cancer Risks
During February 2009, results of a joint American-British study concluded that 1/3 of most common cancer cases in the U.S. to be preventable by making healthy choices. Next to avoiding smoking, a healthy lifestyle is the most effective thing you can do to prevent cancer.
Dr. Tim Byers of the University of Colorado at Denver, stated that even though estimating cancer preventability is very complex and involves making some assumptions, the figures in the report are as good an estimate as possible about the number of cases that could be prevented through healthy diet, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight.
At the AICR (American Institute for Cancer Research) Conference 2008, 400 people attended and participated in prevention topics such as: potential risks and benefits of specific dietary supplements, how changing eating and physical activity may affect cancer survivorship and effective ways to get people to adopt healthy behaviors and stick to them. Certain nutrients found in food that can change how a person’s genes function to influence cancer risk were also discussed.
The AICR urges people to eat a healthy diet that includes a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans. Here, you will also get your nutrients, fiber and cancer fighting phytochemicals.
The cancer preventing benefits found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and bok choy have been well known. Allium vegetables like onion, garlic, shallots, scallions and chives contain sulphur compounds called organosulfides which are touted for providing heart health, stimulating immunity, warding off infection and deactivating carcinogens. According to research, this compound also seems to help prevent cells from mutating and tumors from forming. In general, the foods of the Allium family decrease inflammation and protect against stomach and colorectal cancers.
Robert S. Chapkin, Ph.D., presented the conference data describing how omega-3 fatty acids may prevent colon tumors. At first, the omega-3 fatty acids in fish were linked with lower risk of heart disease. Now, research at the cellular level is beginning to reveal a possible link with lower risk of cancer. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include: oily fish such as salmon and tuna, flax seed/oil and walnuts which contain ALA-alpha-linolenic acid which slows the growth of breast cancer cells.
Dr. Zeke Emanuel, an oncologist and director of bioethics at the National Institutes of Health emphasized the need for people to keep their weight in a healthy range. Besides eating a nutritious diet, people need to include 30 minutes of exercise into their days, at least four days every week. Exercise plays a multiple role in human health, benefiting the circulatory system, muscular/skeletal system and increases the effectiveness of our immunity system to fend off beginning cancer cell growth and foreign invaders like bacteria and virus’.
Some of the recommendations for policy improvements to government, industry, media, schools, workplaces and humanity are:
•Governments should build walking and cycling routes.
•The food and drinks industry should make public health an “explicit priority.”
•Schools should encourage exercise and provide healthy food.
•Schools, workplaces and institutions should remove junk food from vending machines.
•Health professionals should provide more information about healthy living and cancer prevention.
•People should use nutrition guides and food labels to buy healthier food for their families.
AICR Recommendations for Cancer Prevention include:
•Be as lean as possible without becoming underweight.
•Be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day.
•Avoid sugary drinks. Limit consumption of energy dense foods (particularly processed foods high in added sugar or low in fiber, or high in fat).
•Eat more of a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes such as beans.
•Limit consumption of red meats (such as beef, pork and lamb) and avoid processed meats.
•If consumed at all, limit alcoholic drinks to 2 for men and 1 for women a day.
•Limit consumption of salty foods and foods processed with salt (sodium).
•Don’t use supplements to protect against cancer.
Special Population Recommendations
•It is best for mothers to breastfeed exclusively for up to 6 months and then add other liquids and foods.
•After treatment, cancer survivors should follow the recommendations for cancer prevention.
And always remember
– Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
About The Author
Linda Hibbard holds certificates in Personal Training and Lifestyle/Weight Management. Innovative health and fitness products for men and women are available through her website at http://www.womenspersonalfitness.net
Dr. Tim Byers of the University of Colorado at Denver, stated that even though estimating cancer preventability is very complex and involves making some assumptions, the figures in the report are as good an estimate as possible about the number of cases that could be prevented through healthy diet, regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight.
At the AICR (American Institute for Cancer Research) Conference 2008, 400 people attended and participated in prevention topics such as: potential risks and benefits of specific dietary supplements, how changing eating and physical activity may affect cancer survivorship and effective ways to get people to adopt healthy behaviors and stick to them. Certain nutrients found in food that can change how a person’s genes function to influence cancer risk were also discussed.
The AICR urges people to eat a healthy diet that includes a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and beans. Here, you will also get your nutrients, fiber and cancer fighting phytochemicals.
The cancer preventing benefits found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage and bok choy have been well known. Allium vegetables like onion, garlic, shallots, scallions and chives contain sulphur compounds called organosulfides which are touted for providing heart health, stimulating immunity, warding off infection and deactivating carcinogens. According to research, this compound also seems to help prevent cells from mutating and tumors from forming. In general, the foods of the Allium family decrease inflammation and protect against stomach and colorectal cancers.
Robert S. Chapkin, Ph.D., presented the conference data describing how omega-3 fatty acids may prevent colon tumors. At first, the omega-3 fatty acids in fish were linked with lower risk of heart disease. Now, research at the cellular level is beginning to reveal a possible link with lower risk of cancer. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids include: oily fish such as salmon and tuna, flax seed/oil and walnuts which contain ALA-alpha-linolenic acid which slows the growth of breast cancer cells.
Dr. Zeke Emanuel, an oncologist and director of bioethics at the National Institutes of Health emphasized the need for people to keep their weight in a healthy range. Besides eating a nutritious diet, people need to include 30 minutes of exercise into their days, at least four days every week. Exercise plays a multiple role in human health, benefiting the circulatory system, muscular/skeletal system and increases the effectiveness of our immunity system to fend off beginning cancer cell growth and foreign invaders like bacteria and virus’.
Some of the recommendations for policy improvements to government, industry, media, schools, workplaces and humanity are:
•Governments should build walking and cycling routes.
•The food and drinks industry should make public health an “explicit priority.”
•Schools should encourage exercise and provide healthy food.
•Schools, workplaces and institutions should remove junk food from vending machines.
•Health professionals should provide more information about healthy living and cancer prevention.
•People should use nutrition guides and food labels to buy healthier food for their families.
AICR Recommendations for Cancer Prevention include:
•Be as lean as possible without becoming underweight.
•Be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day.
•Avoid sugary drinks. Limit consumption of energy dense foods (particularly processed foods high in added sugar or low in fiber, or high in fat).
•Eat more of a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes such as beans.
•Limit consumption of red meats (such as beef, pork and lamb) and avoid processed meats.
•If consumed at all, limit alcoholic drinks to 2 for men and 1 for women a day.
•Limit consumption of salty foods and foods processed with salt (sodium).
•Don’t use supplements to protect against cancer.
Special Population Recommendations
•It is best for mothers to breastfeed exclusively for up to 6 months and then add other liquids and foods.
•After treatment, cancer survivors should follow the recommendations for cancer prevention.
And always remember
– Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
About The Author
Linda Hibbard holds certificates in Personal Training and Lifestyle/Weight Management. Innovative health and fitness products for men and women are available through her website at http://www.womenspersonalfitness.net
Cell Phone Safety
Cell phone safety is a topic widely debated around the world. Millions of dollars is being spent ever year to find out the dangers in using cell phones “if any” The research is to determine whether or not there is a dangerous exposure to radiofrequency energy which could result in cancer.
You may have heard some cell phone manufacturers playing down the exposure as minimal and that the traces of radiofrequency energy exposed from cell phones could not be proven as a health hazard. You will also have heard some cancer research or pharmaceutical companies campaigning for all cell phone manufacturers to issue a warning to all cell phone users regarding the dangerous levels of radiofrequency. We see this type of warning on cigarette boxes.
As cell phones are relatively new we will know exactly how much if any damage they are causing as the years go by, however it is agreed by all that cell phones do give of exposure to radiofrequency and for that reason alone you should take some precautions.
You can eliminate the exposure to your body at a very inexpensive cost. Wearing an earpiece has become very popular and using car kits will reduce the time the cell phone is against your ear. The car kit is also essential for safe driving and in many states and other countries it is against the law to drive and talk on a cell phone at the same time.
Cell phones and children
Apart from the expense aspect children should have limited access to cellular phones. While the debate is going back and forth from cell phone manufacturers and cancer research groups it is best to play it safe. Some countries such as the United Kingdom have recommended that children be limited in using cell phones but this is advertised as a precaution only with no medical evidence supporting the case for cancerous side affects. Children’s brains are still growing and now many countries have advertised precaution only.
The IEC (The International Electrotechnical Commission) in Switzerland has issued guidelines for cell phone manufacturers to measure the amount of radiation that their individual phones release. Medical conventions are held ever year all over the world to try and establish a healthy outcome to all the debates.
Are the cell phone manufacturers making changes?
The cell manufacturers are certainly spending millions on research to provide evidence that radiation levels from cell phones are not harmful. They are bringing out phones that limit radiation but the fact remains that all cell phones currently on the market today omit some radiations. Let’s face it, no cell phone manufacturer is going to come out and tell you that their product may be harmful. If there is no harmful side affects why are cell phone manufacturers constantly trying to bring out new cell phones that omit less radiation? Come to your own conclusion.
Overview:
Radiation from cellular phones is harmful if enough is administered into the body but the debate remains on how much is omitted from the cell phone and if that level is a danger. What is evident is the fact that since the introduction of cell phones tumor related cancerous diseases have increased. Neurologists in Ireland have expressed concerns over the growing number of neurological patients treated there since the spread of mobiles.
You need to be sensible and limit your exposure. As mentioned before headsets, earpiece and car kits are all ways to avoid dangerous exposure to radiation. It may take many years to come before we see the real results of cell radiation exposure. Look after your children now and do not regret what could be evident in ten or twenty years. Encourage children to send SMS text instead of constantly chatting on the phone.
We all use cell phones and some more than others, they are reliable, convenient and a technological master piece but with all master pieces “handle with care”.
About The Author
Declan Tobin is a successful freelance writer providing advice for consumers on purchasing a variety of Prepaid phone plans which includes Cell prepaid plans, Carriers, and more! His numerous articles provide a wonderfully researched resource of interesting and relevant information for all of your phone interests and needs. Visit http://www.no1-in-cell-phones.com for more information and reviews on cell phones.
Treatment of Mental Illness
Extraordinary advances have been made in the treatment of mental illness. An understanding of what causes some mental health disorders has led to greater sophistication in tailoring treatment to the underlying basis of each disorder. As a result, many mental health disorders can now be treated nearly as successfully as physical disorders.
Most treatment methods for mental health disorders can be categorized as either somatic or psychotherapeutic. Somatic treatments include drug therapy and electroconvulsive therapy. Psychotherapeutic treatments include individual, group, or family and marital psychotherapy; behavior therapy techniques (such as relaxation training or exposure therapy); and hypnotherapy. Most studies suggest that for major mental health disorders, a treatment approach involving both drugs and psychotherapy is more effective than either treatment method used alone.
Psychiatrists are not the only mental health care professionals trained to treat mental illness. Others include clinical psychologists, social workers, nurses, and some pastoral counselors. However, psychiatrists are the only mental health care professionals licensed to prescribe drugs. Other mental health care professionals primarily practice psychotherapy.
Types of Mental Health Care Professionals
Professional Training and Expertise
Psychiatrist
Medical doctor with 4 years of psychiatric training after graduation from medical school.
Can prescribe drugs and admit people to the hospital. Some practice psychotherapy, some only prescribe drugs, and many do both.
Psychologist Professional who has a doctorate but not a medical degree. Many have postdoctoral training, and most are trained to administer psychologic tests that are helpful in diagnosis. May conduct psychotherapy but cannot perform physical examinations, prescribe drugs, or admit people to the hospital.
Psychiatric social worker A professional with specialized training in certain aspects of psychotherapy, such as family/marital therapy or individual psychotherapy. Often trained to interface with the social service systems in the state. May have a master's degree, but some have doctorates as well. Cannot perform physical examinations or prescribe drugs.
Psychiatric nurse Registered nurse who may practice psychotherapy independently in some states and may prescribe drugs under the supervision of a doctor.
Psychoanalyst May be a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker who has many years of training in the practice of psychoanalysis, a type of intensive psychotherapy involving several sessions a week designed to explore unconscious patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior. Psychoanalysts who are also psychiatrists may prescribe drugs and admit people to hospitals in addition to conducting psychoanalysis.
Drug Therapy
Over the last 40 years, a number of psychoactive drugs have been developed that are highly effective and widely used by psychiatrists and other medical doctors. These drugs are often categorized according to the disorder for which they are primarily prescribed. For example, antidepressants are used to treat depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the newest and most widely used class of antidepressants. Other new classes of antidepressants are being developed.
Electroconvulsive Therapy
With electroconvulsive therapy, electrodes are attached to the head, and a series of electrical shocks are delivered to the brain to induce seizures. This therapy has consistently been shown to be the most effective treatment for severe depression. Many people treated with electroconvulsive therapy experience temporary memory loss. However, contrary to its portrayal in the media, electroconvulsive therapy is safe and rarely causes any other complications. The modern use of anesthetics and muscle relaxants has greatly reduced any risk to the person.
Psychotherapeutic Treatments
In recent years, significant advances have been made in the field of psychotherapeutic treatments. Psychotherapy, sometimes referred to as "talk" therapy, works on the assumption that each person has within himself the cure for his own suffering and that this cure can be facilitated through a trusting, supportive relationship with a psychotherapist. By creating an empathetic and accepting atmosphere, the therapist often is able to help the person identify the source of his problems and consider alternatives for dealing with them.
The emotional awareness and insight that the person gains through psychotherapy often results in a change in attitude and behavior that allows the person to live a fuller and more satisfying life. Psychotherapy is appropriate in a wide range of conditions. Even people who do not have a mental health disorder may find psychotherapy helpful in coping with such problems as employment difficulties, bereavement, or chronic illness in the family. Group psychotherapy, couples' therapy, and family therapy are also widely used.
Most mental health professionals practice within one of five types of psychotherapy: psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive therapy, behavior therapy, or interpersonal therapy. Psychoanalysis is the oldest form of psychotherapy and was developed by Sigmund Freud in the first part of the 20th century. The person typically lies on a couch in the therapist's office 4 or 5 times a week and attempts to say whatever comes into his mind, a practice called free association.
Much of the focus is on understanding how past patterns of relationships repeat themselves in the present. The relationship between the person and the therapist is a key part of this focus. An understanding of how the past affects the present helps the person develop new and more adaptive ways of functioning in relationships and in work settings.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy, like psychoanalysis, emphasizes the identification of unconscious patterns in current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. However, the person is usually sitting instead of lying on a couch and attends only 1 to 3 sessions per week. In addition, less emphasis is placed on the relationship between the person and therapist.
Cognitive therapy helps people identify distortions in thinking and understand how these distortions lead to problems in their lives. The underlying premise is that how people feel and behave are determined by how they interpret experiences. Through the identification of core beliefs and assumptions, people can begin to think in different ways about their experiences, resulting in improvement in symptoms, behavior, and feelings.
Behavior therapy is related to cognitive therapy. Sometimes, a
combination of the two, known as cognitive-behavior therapy, is used. The theoretical basis of behavior therapy is learning theory, which holds that abnormal behaviors are due to faulty learning. Behavior therapy involves a number of interventions that are designed to help the person unlearn maladaptive behaviors while learning adaptive behaviors. Exposure therapy is one example of a behavior therapy (see
What Is Exposure Therapy? ).
Interpersonal therapy was initially conceived as a brief psychologic treatment for depression and is designed to improve the quality of a depressed person's relationships. It focuses on unresolved grief, conflicts that arise when people fill roles that differ from their expectations (such as when a woman enters a relationship expecting to be a stay-at-home mother and finds that she must also be the major provider for the family), social role transitions (such as going from being an active worker to being retired), and difficulty communicating with others. The therapist teaches the person to improve aspects of interpersonal relationships, such as overcoming social isolation and responding in a less habitual way to others.
Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy
Hypnosis and hypnotherapy are often used to manage pain and treat physical disorders that have a psychologic component. Hypnosis is simply the induction of a trance or altered state of consciousness, whereas hypnotherapy involves psychotherapeutic intervention in conjunction with the hypnotic state. These techniques may promote relaxation and thereby lower anxiety and reduce tension. For example, hypnosis and hypnotherapy can help people with cancer who have anxiety or depression in addition to pain.
About 20% of American children suffer from a diagnosable mental illness during a given year, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Further, nearly 5 million American children and adolescents suffer from a serious mental illness (one that significantly interferes with their day-to-day life).
Which Mental Illnesses Are Most Common in Children?
Children can suffer from the following mental illnesses:
• Anxiety disorders: Children with anxiety disorders respond to certain things or situations with fear and dread, as well as with physical signs of anxiety (nervousness), such as a rapid heartbeat and sweating.
• Disruptive behavior disorders: Children with these disorders tend to defy rules and often are disruptive in structured environments, such as school.
• Pervasive development disorders: Children with these disorders are confused in their thinking and generally have problems understanding the world around them.
• Eating disorders: Eating disorders involve intense emotions and attitudes, as well as unusual behaviors, associated with weight and/or food.
• Elimination disorders: These disorders affect behavior related to the elimination of body wastes (feces and urine).
• Learning and communication disorders: Children with these disorders have problems storing and processing information, as well as relating their thoughts and ideas.
• Affective (mood) disorders: These disorders involve persistent feelings of sadness and/or rapidly changing moods.
• Schizophrenia: This is a serious disorder that involves distorted perceptions and thoughts.
• Tic disorders: These disorders cause a person to perform repeated, sudden, involuntary and often meaningless movements and sounds, called tics.
Some of these illnesses, such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders and schizophrenia, can occur in adults as well as children. Others, such as behavior and development disorders, elimination disorders, and learning and communication disorders, begin in childhood only, although they can continue into adulthood. In rare cases, tic disorders can develop in adults. It is not unusual for a child to have more than one disorder.
What Are the Symptoms of Mental Illness in Children?
Symptoms vary depending on the type of mental illness, but some of the general symptoms include:
• Abuse of drugs and/or alcohol
• Inability to cope with daily problems and activities
• Changes in sleeping and/or eating habits
• Excessive complaints of physical ailments
• Defying authority, skipping school, stealing or damaging property
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Long-lasting negative moods, often accompanied by poor appetite and thoughts of death
• Frequent outbursts of anger
• Changes in school performance, such as poor grades despite good efforts
• Loss of interest in friends and activities they usually enjoy
• Significant increase in time spent alone
• Excessive worrying or anxiety
• Hyperactivity
• Persistent nightmares
• Persistent disobedience or aggressive behavior
• Frequent temper tantrums
• Hearing voices or seeing things that are not there (hallucinations)
What Causes Mental Illness?
The exact cause of most mental disorders is not known, but research suggests that a combination of factors, including heredity, biology, psychological trauma and environmental stress, may be involved.
• Heredity (genetics): Mental illness tends to run in families, which means the likelihood to develop a mental disorder may be passed on from parents to their children.
• Biology: Some mental disorders have been linked to special chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms. In addition, defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain also have been linked to some mental illnesses.
• Psychological trauma: Some mental illnesses may be triggered by psychological trauma, such as severe emotional, physical or sexual abuse; an important early loss, such as the loss of a parent; and neglect.
• Environmental stress: Stressful or traumatic events can trigger a mental illness in a person with a vulnerability to a mental disorder.
How Is Mental Illness in Children Diagnosed?
As with adults, mental illnesses in children are diagnosed based on signs and symptoms that suggest a particular disorder. However, this process can be especially challenging with children. Many behaviors that are seen as symptoms of mental disorders, such as shyness, anxiety (nervousness), strange eating habits and outbursts of temper, can occur as a normal part of a child's development. Behaviors become symptoms when they occur very often, last a long time, occur at an unusual age or cause significant disruption to the child's and/or family's ability to function.
If symptoms are present, the doctor will begin an evaluation by performing a complete medical history and physical examination. Although there are no laboratory tests to specifically diagnose mental disorders, the doctor may use various tests, such as X-rays and blood tests, to rule out physical illness or medication side effects as the cause of the symptoms.
If no physical illness is found, the child may be referred to a child and adolescent psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illness in children and teens. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a child for a mental disorder. The doctor bases his or her diagnosis on reports of the child's symptoms and his or her observation of the child's attitude and behavior. The doctor often must rely on reports from the child's parents, teachers and other adults because children often have trouble explaining their problems or understanding their symptoms.
How Is Mental Illness in Children Treated?
Mental disorders are like many medical illnesses that require ongoing treatment. Although much progress has been made in the treatment of adults with mental disorders, the treatment of children is not as well understood. Experts are still exploring which treatments work best for which conditions in children. For now, many of the treatment options used for children, including many medications, are the same as what is used to treat adults. The most common treatment options used include:
• Medication: Many mental illnesses can be effectively treated with medications. The medications often used to treat mental disorders in children include antipsychotics, antidepressants and antianxiety drugs, stimulants and mood stabilizing drugs.
• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy (a type of counseling) addresses the emotional response to mental illness. It is a process in which trained mental health professionals help people deal with their illness, often by talking through strategies for understanding and dealing with their symptoms, thoughts and behaviors. Types of psychotherapy often used with children are supportive, cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, group and family therapy.
• Creative therapies: Certain therapies, such as art therapy or play therapy, may be helpful, especially with young children who may have trouble communicating their thoughts and feelings.
What Is the Outlook for Children With Mental Illness?
When treated appropriately and early, many children can fully recover from their mental illness or successfully control their symptoms. While some children become disabled adults because of a chronic or severe disorder, many people who have a mental illness are able to live full and productive lives.
It is very important to seek treatment for your child if they are displaying any symptoms of mental illness. Without treatment, many mental disorders can continue into adulthood and lead to problems in all areas of the person's adult life. People with untreated mental disorders are at high risk for many problems, including alcohol or drug abuse, and violent or self-destructive behavior, even suicide.
What Research Is Being Done on Mental Illness in Children?
To date, most research on mental illness has centered on mental disorders in adults. However, the mental health community has now begun to focus on mental illness in children. Researchers are looking at childhood development in terms of what is normal and abnormal, trying to understand how factors affecting development can have an impact on mental health. The goal is to try to predict, and ultimately, prevent, developmental problems that could lead to mental illness. A key part of this research is the identification of risk factors -- factors that increase a child's chances of developing a mental disorder. In addition, the mental health community is calling for additional research on medications used to treat children with mental disorders.
Can Mental Illness in Children Be Prevented?
Most mental disorders are caused by a combination of factors and cannot be prevented. However, if symptoms are recognized and treatment is started early, many of the distressing and disabling effects of a mental illness may be prevented or at least minimized.
Mental Health:
Mental Illness Basics
Mental illness is any disease or condition affecting the brain that influence the way a person thinks, feels, behaves and/or relates to others and to his or her surroundings. Although the symptoms of mental illness can vary from mild to severe and are different depending on the type of mental illness, a person with an untreated mental illness often is unable to cope with life's daily routines and demands.
What Causes Mental Illness?
Although the exact cause of most mental illnesses is not known, it is becoming clear through research that many of these conditions are caused by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors. One thing is for sure -- mental illness is not the result of personal weakness, a character defect or poor upbringing, and recovery from a mental illness is not simply a matter of will and self-discipline.
• Heredity (genetics): Many mental illnesses run in families, suggesting that the illnesses may be passed on from parents to children through genes. Genes contain instructions for the function of each cell in the body and are responsible for how we look, act, think, etc. But, just because your mother or father may have a mental illness doesn't mean you will have one. Hereditary just means that you are more likely to get the condition than if you didn't have an affected family member. Experts believe that many mental conditions are linked to problems in multiple genes -- not just one, as with many diseases -- which is why a person inherits a susceptibility to a mental disorder, but doesn't always develop the condition. The disorder itself occurs from the interaction of these genes and other factors -- such as psychological trauma and environmental stressors -- which can influence, or trigger, the illness in a person who has inherited a susceptibility to it.
• Biology: Some mental illnesses have been linked to an abnormal balance of special chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or are not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms of mental illness. In addition, defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain also have been linked to some mental conditions.
• Psychological trauma: Some mental illnesses may be triggered by psychological trauma suffered as a child, such as severe emotional, physical or sexual abuse; a significant early loss, such as the loss of a parent; and neglect.
• Environmental stressors: Certain stressors -- such as a death or divorce, a dysfunctional family life, changing jobs or schools and substance abuse -- can trigger a disorder in a person who may be at risk for developing a mental illness.
Can Mental Illness Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, most mental illnesses are caused by a combination of factors and cannot be prevented.
How Common Is Mental Illness?
Mental illnesses are very common. In fact, they are more common than cancer, diabetes or heart disease. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, an estimated 23% of American adults (those ages 18 and older) -- about 44 million people -- and about 20% of American children suffer from a mental disorder during a given year. Further, about 5 million Americans adults, and more than 5 million children and adolescents suffer from a serious mental condition (one that significantly interferes with functioning).
Mental Health:
Mental Illness in Children
About 20% of American children suffer from a diagnosable mental illness during a given year, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Further, nearly 5 million American children and adolescents suffer from a serious mental illness (one that significantly interferes with their day-to-day life).
Which Mental Illnesses Are Most Common in Children?
Children can suffer from the following mental illnesses:
• Anxiety disorders: Children with anxiety disorders respond to certain things or situations with fear and dread, as well as with physical signs of anxiety (nervousness), such as a rapid heartbeat and sweating.
• Disruptive behavior disorders: Children with these disorders tend to defy rules and often are disruptive in structured environments, such as school.
• Pervasive development disorders: Children with these disorders are confused in their thinking and generally have problems understanding the world around them.
• Eating disorders: Eating disorders involve intense emotions and attitudes, as well as unusual behaviors, associated with weight and/or food.
• Elimination disorders: These disorders affect behavior related to the elimination of body wastes (feces and urine).
• Learning and communication disorders: Children with these disorders have problems storing and processing information, as well as relating their thoughts and ideas.
• Affective (mood) disorders: These disorders involve persistent feelings of sadness and/or rapidly changing moods.
• Schizophrenia: This is a serious disorder that involves distorted perceptions and thoughts.
• Tic disorders: These disorders cause a person to perform repeated, sudden, involuntary and often meaningless movements and sounds, called tics.
Some of these illnesses, such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders and schizophrenia, can occur in adults as well as children. Others, such as behavior and development disorders, elimination disorders, and learning and communication disorders, begin in childhood only, although they can continue into adulthood. In rare cases, tic disorders can develop in adults. It is not unusual for a child to have more than one disorder.
What Are the Symptoms of Mental Illness in Children?
Symptoms vary depending on the type of mental illness, but some of the general symptoms include:
• Abuse of drugs and/or alcohol
• Inability to cope with daily problems and activities
• Changes in sleeping and/or eating habits
• Excessive complaints of physical ailments
• Defying authority, skipping school, stealing or damaging property
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Long-lasting negative moods, often accompanied by poor appetite and thoughts of death
• Frequent outbursts of anger
• Changes in school performance, such as poor grades despite good efforts
• Loss of interest in friends and activities they usually enjoy
• Significant increase in time spent alone
• Excessive worrying or anxiety
• Hyperactivity
• Persistent nightmares
• Persistent disobedience or aggressive behavior
• Frequent temper tantrums
• Hearing voices or seeing things that are not there (hallucinations)
What Causes Mental Illness?
The exact cause of most mental disorders is not known, but research suggests that a combination of factors, including heredity, biology, psychological trauma and environmental stress, may be involved.
• Heredity (genetics): Mental illness tends to run in families, which means the likelihood to develop a mental disorder may be passed on from parents to their children.
• Biology: Some mental disorders have been linked to special chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms. In addition, defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain also have been linked to some mental illnesses.
• Psychological trauma: Some mental illnesses may be triggered by psychological trauma, such as severe emotional, physical or sexual abuse; an important early loss, such as the loss of a parent; and neglect.
• Environmental stress: Stressful or traumatic events can trigger a mental illness in a person with a vulnerability to a mental disorder.
How Is Mental Illness in Children Diagnosed?
As with adults, mental illnesses in children are diagnosed based on signs and symptoms that suggest a particular disorder. However, this process can be especially challenging with children. Many behaviors that are seen as symptoms of mental disorders, such as shyness, anxiety (nervousness), strange eating habits and outbursts of temper, can occur as a normal part of a child's development. Behaviors become symptoms when they occur very often, last a long time, occur at an unusual age or cause significant disruption to the child's and/or family's ability to function.
If symptoms are present, the doctor will begin an evaluation by performing a complete medical history and physical examination. Although there are no laboratory tests to specifically diagnose mental disorders, the doctor may use various tests, such as X-rays and blood tests, to rule out physical illness or medication side effects as the cause of the symptoms.
If no physical illness is found, the child may be referred to a child and adolescent psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illness in children and teens. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a child for a mental disorder. The doctor bases his or her diagnosis on reports of the child's symptoms and his or her observation of the child's attitude and behavior. The doctor often must rely on reports from the child's parents, teachers and other adults because children often have trouble explaining their problems or understanding their symptoms.
How Is Mental Illness in Children Treated?
Mental disorders are like many medical illnesses that require ongoing treatment. Although much progress has been made in the treatment of adults with mental disorders, the treatment of children is not as well understood. Experts are still exploring which treatments work best for which conditions in children. For now, many of the treatment options used for children, including many medications, are the same as what is used to treat adults. The most common treatment options used include:
• Medication: Many mental illnesses can be effectively treated with medications. The medications often used to treat mental disorders in children include antipsychotics, antidepressants and antianxiety drugs, stimulants and mood stabilizing drugs.
• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy (a type of counseling) addresses the emotional response to mental illness. It is a process in which trained mental health professionals help people deal with their illness, often by talking through strategies for understanding and dealing with their symptoms, thoughts and behaviors. Types of psychotherapy often used with children are supportive, cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, group and family therapy.
• Creative therapies: Certain therapies, such as art therapy or play therapy, may be helpful, especially with young children who may have trouble communicating their thoughts and feelings.
What Is the Outlook for Children With Mental Illness?
When treated appropriately and early, many children can fully recover from their mental illness or successfully control their symptoms. While some children become disabled adults because of a chronic or severe disorder, many people who have a mental illness are able to live full and productive lives.
It is very important to seek treatment for your child if they are displaying any symptoms of mental illness. Without treatment, many mental disorders can continue into adulthood and lead to problems in all areas of the person's adult life. People with untreated mental disorders are at high risk for many problems, including alcohol or drug abuse, and violent or self-destructive behavior, even suicide.
What Research Is Being Done on Mental Illness in Children?
To date, most research on mental illness has centered on mental disorders in adults. However, the mental health community has now begun to focus on mental illness in children. Researchers are looking at childhood development in terms of what is normal and abnormal, trying to understand how factors affecting development can have an impact on mental health. The goal is to try to predict, and ultimately, prevent, developmental problems that could lead to mental illness. A key part of this research is the identification of risk factors -- factors that increase a child's chances of developing a mental disorder. In addition, the mental health community is calling for additional research on medications used to treat children with mental disorders.
Can Mental Illness in Children Be Prevented?
Most mental disorders are caused by a combination of factors and cannot be prevented. However, if symptoms are recognized and treatment is started early, many of the distressing and disabling effects of a mental illness may be prevented or at least minimized.
Most treatment methods for mental health disorders can be categorized as either somatic or psychotherapeutic. Somatic treatments include drug therapy and electroconvulsive therapy. Psychotherapeutic treatments include individual, group, or family and marital psychotherapy; behavior therapy techniques (such as relaxation training or exposure therapy); and hypnotherapy. Most studies suggest that for major mental health disorders, a treatment approach involving both drugs and psychotherapy is more effective than either treatment method used alone.
Psychiatrists are not the only mental health care professionals trained to treat mental illness. Others include clinical psychologists, social workers, nurses, and some pastoral counselors. However, psychiatrists are the only mental health care professionals licensed to prescribe drugs. Other mental health care professionals primarily practice psychotherapy.
Types of Mental Health Care Professionals
Professional Training and Expertise
Psychiatrist
Medical doctor with 4 years of psychiatric training after graduation from medical school.
Can prescribe drugs and admit people to the hospital. Some practice psychotherapy, some only prescribe drugs, and many do both.
Psychologist Professional who has a doctorate but not a medical degree. Many have postdoctoral training, and most are trained to administer psychologic tests that are helpful in diagnosis. May conduct psychotherapy but cannot perform physical examinations, prescribe drugs, or admit people to the hospital.
Psychiatric social worker A professional with specialized training in certain aspects of psychotherapy, such as family/marital therapy or individual psychotherapy. Often trained to interface with the social service systems in the state. May have a master's degree, but some have doctorates as well. Cannot perform physical examinations or prescribe drugs.
Psychiatric nurse Registered nurse who may practice psychotherapy independently in some states and may prescribe drugs under the supervision of a doctor.
Psychoanalyst May be a psychiatrist, psychologist, or social worker who has many years of training in the practice of psychoanalysis, a type of intensive psychotherapy involving several sessions a week designed to explore unconscious patterns of thought, feeling, and behavior. Psychoanalysts who are also psychiatrists may prescribe drugs and admit people to hospitals in addition to conducting psychoanalysis.
Drug Therapy
Over the last 40 years, a number of psychoactive drugs have been developed that are highly effective and widely used by psychiatrists and other medical doctors. These drugs are often categorized according to the disorder for which they are primarily prescribed. For example, antidepressants are used to treat depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the newest and most widely used class of antidepressants. Other new classes of antidepressants are being developed.
Electroconvulsive Therapy
With electroconvulsive therapy, electrodes are attached to the head, and a series of electrical shocks are delivered to the brain to induce seizures. This therapy has consistently been shown to be the most effective treatment for severe depression. Many people treated with electroconvulsive therapy experience temporary memory loss. However, contrary to its portrayal in the media, electroconvulsive therapy is safe and rarely causes any other complications. The modern use of anesthetics and muscle relaxants has greatly reduced any risk to the person.
Psychotherapeutic Treatments
In recent years, significant advances have been made in the field of psychotherapeutic treatments. Psychotherapy, sometimes referred to as "talk" therapy, works on the assumption that each person has within himself the cure for his own suffering and that this cure can be facilitated through a trusting, supportive relationship with a psychotherapist. By creating an empathetic and accepting atmosphere, the therapist often is able to help the person identify the source of his problems and consider alternatives for dealing with them.
The emotional awareness and insight that the person gains through psychotherapy often results in a change in attitude and behavior that allows the person to live a fuller and more satisfying life. Psychotherapy is appropriate in a wide range of conditions. Even people who do not have a mental health disorder may find psychotherapy helpful in coping with such problems as employment difficulties, bereavement, or chronic illness in the family. Group psychotherapy, couples' therapy, and family therapy are also widely used.
Most mental health professionals practice within one of five types of psychotherapy: psychoanalysis, psychodynamic psychotherapy, cognitive therapy, behavior therapy, or interpersonal therapy. Psychoanalysis is the oldest form of psychotherapy and was developed by Sigmund Freud in the first part of the 20th century. The person typically lies on a couch in the therapist's office 4 or 5 times a week and attempts to say whatever comes into his mind, a practice called free association.
Much of the focus is on understanding how past patterns of relationships repeat themselves in the present. The relationship between the person and the therapist is a key part of this focus. An understanding of how the past affects the present helps the person develop new and more adaptive ways of functioning in relationships and in work settings.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy, like psychoanalysis, emphasizes the identification of unconscious patterns in current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. However, the person is usually sitting instead of lying on a couch and attends only 1 to 3 sessions per week. In addition, less emphasis is placed on the relationship between the person and therapist.
Cognitive therapy helps people identify distortions in thinking and understand how these distortions lead to problems in their lives. The underlying premise is that how people feel and behave are determined by how they interpret experiences. Through the identification of core beliefs and assumptions, people can begin to think in different ways about their experiences, resulting in improvement in symptoms, behavior, and feelings.
Behavior therapy is related to cognitive therapy. Sometimes, a
combination of the two, known as cognitive-behavior therapy, is used. The theoretical basis of behavior therapy is learning theory, which holds that abnormal behaviors are due to faulty learning. Behavior therapy involves a number of interventions that are designed to help the person unlearn maladaptive behaviors while learning adaptive behaviors. Exposure therapy is one example of a behavior therapy (see
What Is Exposure Therapy? ).
Interpersonal therapy was initially conceived as a brief psychologic treatment for depression and is designed to improve the quality of a depressed person's relationships. It focuses on unresolved grief, conflicts that arise when people fill roles that differ from their expectations (such as when a woman enters a relationship expecting to be a stay-at-home mother and finds that she must also be the major provider for the family), social role transitions (such as going from being an active worker to being retired), and difficulty communicating with others. The therapist teaches the person to improve aspects of interpersonal relationships, such as overcoming social isolation and responding in a less habitual way to others.
Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy
Hypnosis and hypnotherapy are often used to manage pain and treat physical disorders that have a psychologic component. Hypnosis is simply the induction of a trance or altered state of consciousness, whereas hypnotherapy involves psychotherapeutic intervention in conjunction with the hypnotic state. These techniques may promote relaxation and thereby lower anxiety and reduce tension. For example, hypnosis and hypnotherapy can help people with cancer who have anxiety or depression in addition to pain.
About 20% of American children suffer from a diagnosable mental illness during a given year, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Further, nearly 5 million American children and adolescents suffer from a serious mental illness (one that significantly interferes with their day-to-day life).
Which Mental Illnesses Are Most Common in Children?
Children can suffer from the following mental illnesses:
• Anxiety disorders: Children with anxiety disorders respond to certain things or situations with fear and dread, as well as with physical signs of anxiety (nervousness), such as a rapid heartbeat and sweating.
• Disruptive behavior disorders: Children with these disorders tend to defy rules and often are disruptive in structured environments, such as school.
• Pervasive development disorders: Children with these disorders are confused in their thinking and generally have problems understanding the world around them.
• Eating disorders: Eating disorders involve intense emotions and attitudes, as well as unusual behaviors, associated with weight and/or food.
• Elimination disorders: These disorders affect behavior related to the elimination of body wastes (feces and urine).
• Learning and communication disorders: Children with these disorders have problems storing and processing information, as well as relating their thoughts and ideas.
• Affective (mood) disorders: These disorders involve persistent feelings of sadness and/or rapidly changing moods.
• Schizophrenia: This is a serious disorder that involves distorted perceptions and thoughts.
• Tic disorders: These disorders cause a person to perform repeated, sudden, involuntary and often meaningless movements and sounds, called tics.
Some of these illnesses, such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders and schizophrenia, can occur in adults as well as children. Others, such as behavior and development disorders, elimination disorders, and learning and communication disorders, begin in childhood only, although they can continue into adulthood. In rare cases, tic disorders can develop in adults. It is not unusual for a child to have more than one disorder.
What Are the Symptoms of Mental Illness in Children?
Symptoms vary depending on the type of mental illness, but some of the general symptoms include:
• Abuse of drugs and/or alcohol
• Inability to cope with daily problems and activities
• Changes in sleeping and/or eating habits
• Excessive complaints of physical ailments
• Defying authority, skipping school, stealing or damaging property
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Long-lasting negative moods, often accompanied by poor appetite and thoughts of death
• Frequent outbursts of anger
• Changes in school performance, such as poor grades despite good efforts
• Loss of interest in friends and activities they usually enjoy
• Significant increase in time spent alone
• Excessive worrying or anxiety
• Hyperactivity
• Persistent nightmares
• Persistent disobedience or aggressive behavior
• Frequent temper tantrums
• Hearing voices or seeing things that are not there (hallucinations)
What Causes Mental Illness?
The exact cause of most mental disorders is not known, but research suggests that a combination of factors, including heredity, biology, psychological trauma and environmental stress, may be involved.
• Heredity (genetics): Mental illness tends to run in families, which means the likelihood to develop a mental disorder may be passed on from parents to their children.
• Biology: Some mental disorders have been linked to special chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms. In addition, defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain also have been linked to some mental illnesses.
• Psychological trauma: Some mental illnesses may be triggered by psychological trauma, such as severe emotional, physical or sexual abuse; an important early loss, such as the loss of a parent; and neglect.
• Environmental stress: Stressful or traumatic events can trigger a mental illness in a person with a vulnerability to a mental disorder.
How Is Mental Illness in Children Diagnosed?
As with adults, mental illnesses in children are diagnosed based on signs and symptoms that suggest a particular disorder. However, this process can be especially challenging with children. Many behaviors that are seen as symptoms of mental disorders, such as shyness, anxiety (nervousness), strange eating habits and outbursts of temper, can occur as a normal part of a child's development. Behaviors become symptoms when they occur very often, last a long time, occur at an unusual age or cause significant disruption to the child's and/or family's ability to function.
If symptoms are present, the doctor will begin an evaluation by performing a complete medical history and physical examination. Although there are no laboratory tests to specifically diagnose mental disorders, the doctor may use various tests, such as X-rays and blood tests, to rule out physical illness or medication side effects as the cause of the symptoms.
If no physical illness is found, the child may be referred to a child and adolescent psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illness in children and teens. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a child for a mental disorder. The doctor bases his or her diagnosis on reports of the child's symptoms and his or her observation of the child's attitude and behavior. The doctor often must rely on reports from the child's parents, teachers and other adults because children often have trouble explaining their problems or understanding their symptoms.
How Is Mental Illness in Children Treated?
Mental disorders are like many medical illnesses that require ongoing treatment. Although much progress has been made in the treatment of adults with mental disorders, the treatment of children is not as well understood. Experts are still exploring which treatments work best for which conditions in children. For now, many of the treatment options used for children, including many medications, are the same as what is used to treat adults. The most common treatment options used include:
• Medication: Many mental illnesses can be effectively treated with medications. The medications often used to treat mental disorders in children include antipsychotics, antidepressants and antianxiety drugs, stimulants and mood stabilizing drugs.
• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy (a type of counseling) addresses the emotional response to mental illness. It is a process in which trained mental health professionals help people deal with their illness, often by talking through strategies for understanding and dealing with their symptoms, thoughts and behaviors. Types of psychotherapy often used with children are supportive, cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, group and family therapy.
• Creative therapies: Certain therapies, such as art therapy or play therapy, may be helpful, especially with young children who may have trouble communicating their thoughts and feelings.
What Is the Outlook for Children With Mental Illness?
When treated appropriately and early, many children can fully recover from their mental illness or successfully control their symptoms. While some children become disabled adults because of a chronic or severe disorder, many people who have a mental illness are able to live full and productive lives.
It is very important to seek treatment for your child if they are displaying any symptoms of mental illness. Without treatment, many mental disorders can continue into adulthood and lead to problems in all areas of the person's adult life. People with untreated mental disorders are at high risk for many problems, including alcohol or drug abuse, and violent or self-destructive behavior, even suicide.
What Research Is Being Done on Mental Illness in Children?
To date, most research on mental illness has centered on mental disorders in adults. However, the mental health community has now begun to focus on mental illness in children. Researchers are looking at childhood development in terms of what is normal and abnormal, trying to understand how factors affecting development can have an impact on mental health. The goal is to try to predict, and ultimately, prevent, developmental problems that could lead to mental illness. A key part of this research is the identification of risk factors -- factors that increase a child's chances of developing a mental disorder. In addition, the mental health community is calling for additional research on medications used to treat children with mental disorders.
Can Mental Illness in Children Be Prevented?
Most mental disorders are caused by a combination of factors and cannot be prevented. However, if symptoms are recognized and treatment is started early, many of the distressing and disabling effects of a mental illness may be prevented or at least minimized.
Mental Health:
Mental Illness Basics
Mental illness is any disease or condition affecting the brain that influence the way a person thinks, feels, behaves and/or relates to others and to his or her surroundings. Although the symptoms of mental illness can vary from mild to severe and are different depending on the type of mental illness, a person with an untreated mental illness often is unable to cope with life's daily routines and demands.
What Causes Mental Illness?
Although the exact cause of most mental illnesses is not known, it is becoming clear through research that many of these conditions are caused by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors. One thing is for sure -- mental illness is not the result of personal weakness, a character defect or poor upbringing, and recovery from a mental illness is not simply a matter of will and self-discipline.
• Heredity (genetics): Many mental illnesses run in families, suggesting that the illnesses may be passed on from parents to children through genes. Genes contain instructions for the function of each cell in the body and are responsible for how we look, act, think, etc. But, just because your mother or father may have a mental illness doesn't mean you will have one. Hereditary just means that you are more likely to get the condition than if you didn't have an affected family member. Experts believe that many mental conditions are linked to problems in multiple genes -- not just one, as with many diseases -- which is why a person inherits a susceptibility to a mental disorder, but doesn't always develop the condition. The disorder itself occurs from the interaction of these genes and other factors -- such as psychological trauma and environmental stressors -- which can influence, or trigger, the illness in a person who has inherited a susceptibility to it.
• Biology: Some mental illnesses have been linked to an abnormal balance of special chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or are not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms of mental illness. In addition, defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain also have been linked to some mental conditions.
• Psychological trauma: Some mental illnesses may be triggered by psychological trauma suffered as a child, such as severe emotional, physical or sexual abuse; a significant early loss, such as the loss of a parent; and neglect.
• Environmental stressors: Certain stressors -- such as a death or divorce, a dysfunctional family life, changing jobs or schools and substance abuse -- can trigger a disorder in a person who may be at risk for developing a mental illness.
Can Mental Illness Be Prevented?
Unfortunately, most mental illnesses are caused by a combination of factors and cannot be prevented.
How Common Is Mental Illness?
Mental illnesses are very common. In fact, they are more common than cancer, diabetes or heart disease. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, an estimated 23% of American adults (those ages 18 and older) -- about 44 million people -- and about 20% of American children suffer from a mental disorder during a given year. Further, about 5 million Americans adults, and more than 5 million children and adolescents suffer from a serious mental condition (one that significantly interferes with functioning).
Mental Health:
Mental Illness in Children
About 20% of American children suffer from a diagnosable mental illness during a given year, according to the U.S. Surgeon General. Further, nearly 5 million American children and adolescents suffer from a serious mental illness (one that significantly interferes with their day-to-day life).
Which Mental Illnesses Are Most Common in Children?
Children can suffer from the following mental illnesses:
• Anxiety disorders: Children with anxiety disorders respond to certain things or situations with fear and dread, as well as with physical signs of anxiety (nervousness), such as a rapid heartbeat and sweating.
• Disruptive behavior disorders: Children with these disorders tend to defy rules and often are disruptive in structured environments, such as school.
• Pervasive development disorders: Children with these disorders are confused in their thinking and generally have problems understanding the world around them.
• Eating disorders: Eating disorders involve intense emotions and attitudes, as well as unusual behaviors, associated with weight and/or food.
• Elimination disorders: These disorders affect behavior related to the elimination of body wastes (feces and urine).
• Learning and communication disorders: Children with these disorders have problems storing and processing information, as well as relating their thoughts and ideas.
• Affective (mood) disorders: These disorders involve persistent feelings of sadness and/or rapidly changing moods.
• Schizophrenia: This is a serious disorder that involves distorted perceptions and thoughts.
• Tic disorders: These disorders cause a person to perform repeated, sudden, involuntary and often meaningless movements and sounds, called tics.
Some of these illnesses, such as anxiety disorders, eating disorders, mood disorders and schizophrenia, can occur in adults as well as children. Others, such as behavior and development disorders, elimination disorders, and learning and communication disorders, begin in childhood only, although they can continue into adulthood. In rare cases, tic disorders can develop in adults. It is not unusual for a child to have more than one disorder.
What Are the Symptoms of Mental Illness in Children?
Symptoms vary depending on the type of mental illness, but some of the general symptoms include:
• Abuse of drugs and/or alcohol
• Inability to cope with daily problems and activities
• Changes in sleeping and/or eating habits
• Excessive complaints of physical ailments
• Defying authority, skipping school, stealing or damaging property
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Long-lasting negative moods, often accompanied by poor appetite and thoughts of death
• Frequent outbursts of anger
• Changes in school performance, such as poor grades despite good efforts
• Loss of interest in friends and activities they usually enjoy
• Significant increase in time spent alone
• Excessive worrying or anxiety
• Hyperactivity
• Persistent nightmares
• Persistent disobedience or aggressive behavior
• Frequent temper tantrums
• Hearing voices or seeing things that are not there (hallucinations)
What Causes Mental Illness?
The exact cause of most mental disorders is not known, but research suggests that a combination of factors, including heredity, biology, psychological trauma and environmental stress, may be involved.
• Heredity (genetics): Mental illness tends to run in families, which means the likelihood to develop a mental disorder may be passed on from parents to their children.
• Biology: Some mental disorders have been linked to special chemicals in the brain called neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters help nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other. If these chemicals are out of balance or not working properly, messages may not make it through the brain correctly, leading to symptoms. In addition, defects in or injury to certain areas of the brain also have been linked to some mental illnesses.
• Psychological trauma: Some mental illnesses may be triggered by psychological trauma, such as severe emotional, physical or sexual abuse; an important early loss, such as the loss of a parent; and neglect.
• Environmental stress: Stressful or traumatic events can trigger a mental illness in a person with a vulnerability to a mental disorder.
How Is Mental Illness in Children Diagnosed?
As with adults, mental illnesses in children are diagnosed based on signs and symptoms that suggest a particular disorder. However, this process can be especially challenging with children. Many behaviors that are seen as symptoms of mental disorders, such as shyness, anxiety (nervousness), strange eating habits and outbursts of temper, can occur as a normal part of a child's development. Behaviors become symptoms when they occur very often, last a long time, occur at an unusual age or cause significant disruption to the child's and/or family's ability to function.
If symptoms are present, the doctor will begin an evaluation by performing a complete medical history and physical examination. Although there are no laboratory tests to specifically diagnose mental disorders, the doctor may use various tests, such as X-rays and blood tests, to rule out physical illness or medication side effects as the cause of the symptoms.
If no physical illness is found, the child may be referred to a child and adolescent psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illness in children and teens. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a child for a mental disorder. The doctor bases his or her diagnosis on reports of the child's symptoms and his or her observation of the child's attitude and behavior. The doctor often must rely on reports from the child's parents, teachers and other adults because children often have trouble explaining their problems or understanding their symptoms.
How Is Mental Illness in Children Treated?
Mental disorders are like many medical illnesses that require ongoing treatment. Although much progress has been made in the treatment of adults with mental disorders, the treatment of children is not as well understood. Experts are still exploring which treatments work best for which conditions in children. For now, many of the treatment options used for children, including many medications, are the same as what is used to treat adults. The most common treatment options used include:
• Medication: Many mental illnesses can be effectively treated with medications. The medications often used to treat mental disorders in children include antipsychotics, antidepressants and antianxiety drugs, stimulants and mood stabilizing drugs.
• Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy (a type of counseling) addresses the emotional response to mental illness. It is a process in which trained mental health professionals help people deal with their illness, often by talking through strategies for understanding and dealing with their symptoms, thoughts and behaviors. Types of psychotherapy often used with children are supportive, cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal, group and family therapy.
• Creative therapies: Certain therapies, such as art therapy or play therapy, may be helpful, especially with young children who may have trouble communicating their thoughts and feelings.
What Is the Outlook for Children With Mental Illness?
When treated appropriately and early, many children can fully recover from their mental illness or successfully control their symptoms. While some children become disabled adults because of a chronic or severe disorder, many people who have a mental illness are able to live full and productive lives.
It is very important to seek treatment for your child if they are displaying any symptoms of mental illness. Without treatment, many mental disorders can continue into adulthood and lead to problems in all areas of the person's adult life. People with untreated mental disorders are at high risk for many problems, including alcohol or drug abuse, and violent or self-destructive behavior, even suicide.
What Research Is Being Done on Mental Illness in Children?
To date, most research on mental illness has centered on mental disorders in adults. However, the mental health community has now begun to focus on mental illness in children. Researchers are looking at childhood development in terms of what is normal and abnormal, trying to understand how factors affecting development can have an impact on mental health. The goal is to try to predict, and ultimately, prevent, developmental problems that could lead to mental illness. A key part of this research is the identification of risk factors -- factors that increase a child's chances of developing a mental disorder. In addition, the mental health community is calling for additional research on medications used to treat children with mental disorders.
Can Mental Illness in Children Be Prevented?
Most mental disorders are caused by a combination of factors and cannot be prevented. However, if symptoms are recognized and treatment is started early, many of the distressing and disabling effects of a mental illness may be prevented or at least minimized.
About The Author
"Art Buchanan's story of personal revival absolutely inspiring! He's one of the foremost experts in overcoming mental illness and what he knows can transform your life!" Mike Litman Host - Worlds #1 Personal Developmental Radio Show (http://www.out-of-darkness.com)
They are calling Arthur Buchanan's methods of recovering from mental illness REVOLUTIONARY! (MEDICAL COLLEGE OF MICHIGAN) 'Arthur Buchanan has given us a revolutionary blue print for recovery in these uncertain times, when Mental Illness at a all time high in the United States of America, yet if you follow this young mans methods, we assure you of positive results and I QUOTE 'If these methods are followed precisely, their is no way you can't see positive results with whatever illness you have' Dr. Herbert Palos Detroit, Michigan'
Listen to Arthur Buchanan on the Mike Litman Show!
http://freesuccessaudios.com/Artlive.mp3 THIS LINK WORKS, LISTEN TODAY!
With Much Love,
Arthur Buchanan
President/CEO Out of Darkness & Into the Light
209 Ellis Ave. Suite 1313 Bellevue Ohio, 44811,
http://www.out-of-darkness.com
http://www.AHHDandME.com
http://www.biologicalhappiness.com
http://www.mentalillness.com
http://www.everyonehurts.com
They are calling Arthur Buchanan's methods of recovering from mental illness REVOLUTIONARY! (MEDICAL COLLEGE OF MICHIGAN) 'Arthur Buchanan has given us a revolutionary blue print for recovery in these uncertain times, when Mental Illness at a all time high in the United States of America, yet if you follow this young mans methods, we assure you of positive results and I QUOTE 'If these methods are followed precisely, their is no way you can't see positive results with whatever illness you have' Dr. Herbert Palos Detroit, Michigan'
Listen to Arthur Buchanan on the Mike Litman Show!
http://freesuccessaudios.com/Artlive.mp3 THIS LINK WORKS, LISTEN TODAY!
With Much Love,
Arthur Buchanan
President/CEO Out of Darkness & Into the Light
209 Ellis Ave. Suite 1313 Bellevue Ohio, 44811,
http://www.out-of-darkness.com
http://www.AHHDandME.com
http://www.biologicalhappiness.com
http://www.mentalillness.com
http://www.everyonehurts.com
