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Lessons on self-control and self-discipline: 12 research-backed techniques
Self-control and self-discipline are the unsung heroes of our success stories.
Those who master the art of self-control tend to enjoy greater popularity, success, and even a slower aging process.
Meanwhile, those with low self-control often grapple with overeating, addictions, and underachievement.
But fear not, gentle reader, for here are 12 scientifically-backed techniques to boost your self-control!
Postpartum Depression and marital conflict: understanding and addressing the challenge
It’s important not to confuse Postpartum Depression with the more typical “baby blues” which fades after a few weeks.
More severe form of Postpartum Depression may result in more serious struggles to care for and bond with a new infant.
Snack Attacks: How loneliness hijacks your diet and sanity
Feeling lonely and craving that second slice of chocolate cake? You’re not alone—literally!
Turns out, loneliness isn't just a bummer for your social life; it’s a recipe for dietary disaster too.
A recent study reveals that lonely women are more likely to indulge in calorie-packed comfort foods like cakes and chocolates.
Why? Because these sweet treats offer a temporary fix to the sting of social isolation. …But why?
Do lifelong readers enjoy cognitive and health benefits from reading fiction?
Reading fiction has been linked to better linguistic skills, according to recent research.
It doesn't matter if the fiction is as fantastical as Harry Potter or as classic as Charles Dickens; people who read fiction for pleasure tend to have superior language skills.
This contrasts with folks who read solely for information, often out of necessity, who score lower on language tests.
Depressed again in just 2 Weeks? Here Are the 5 behaviors you must maintain!
Who knew that slacking off on certain activities could make you feel so down?
It turns out, a fascinating series of studies has identified 5 types of activities crucial for mental health.
Stop doing them, and you might find yourself on a fast track to depression.
But don't worry, I've got the scoop on what you need to keep those blues at bay. Let’s jump in!
How depression can harm marriages: insights for couples during stressful times
Mental health problems can create a vicious cycle that severely damages relationships, especially during historically stressful times.
As a couples therapist, it’s essential to understand how depression affects both partners in a marriage and to use this knowledge to help couples navigate their struggles.
Research reveals that women who are depressed lose their ability to read emotions accurately, which negatively impacts their relationships.
This phenomenon, known as the loss of ‘empathic accuracy,’ causes significant strain and can lead to a cycle of increasing depression and relational distress.
Positive vs.Negative Thinking- the science
Positive thinking is often touted as the key to happiness and well-being.
However, recent research suggests that attempting to "think positive" can actually worsen the emotional state of some people, especially those prone to worry.
As a couples therapist, I've seen how this paradoxical effect can play out in relationships, and understanding the nuances of positive thinking is crucial for effective therapy. Let’s jump in!
8 effective ways relationship anxiety can be curbed in an otherwise good marriage
Relationship anxiety is an ongoing fear that your relationship has hidden deficits that require immediate attention.
Symptoms of relationship anxiety include picking fights, turning away, and constantly testing boundaries... sound familiar? This one is for you.
How different types of alcohol affect emotions: a spirited study
Ever wondered why a glass of wine makes you feel like a relaxed philosopher, while a shot of tequila transforms you into a party animal?
A recent survey sheds light on how different types of alcohol can stir up distinct emotions, revealing the quirky relationship between our drink choices and our feelings.
Do fearful dreams of hunter-gatherers inform modern anxiety disorders?
As a family therapist, it's fascinating to explore how the dreams of our ancient ancestors may relate to the anxiety disorders we see today.
In hunter-gatherer societies, which still mirror the lifestyles of our early human ancestors, dreams play a crucial role in coping with threats and anxieties.
Recent cross-cultural research delves into the function of dreams among hunter-gatherer societies, suggesting that dreams help prepare us for anxiety-provoking situations in waking life. These are known as ‘simulation theories.’
How being in a hurry reveals our true personalities
As a marriage and family therapist, I often emphasize that time is the very essence of life.
It's fascinating how our true selves emerge under the strain of time pressure, a phenomenon that could be described as "being in a hurry” — the way our authentic traits are exposed when we're in a hurry.
This exposure raises profound questions about our nature and the role of time in shaping our identities.
Understanding Unsupportive Spouse Depression: a closer look
Believing that you have an unsupportive Spouse has been identified as a primary source of depression.
New research shows that partners who believe that they have unsupportive spouses are at higher risk of depression than those who were alone and unmarried.
But what is unsupportive spouse depression?