Partner abuse can be a ”muddy” issue for the two people directly involved, concerned friends and relatives, and even helping professionals. What defines an abusive relationship? What differentiates it from an up-and-down, stormy or just plain bad relationship? And, if someone feels abused or threatened by their romantic partner, how do they decide whether to…
Mental Health
Prevention and Mental Health
by Dr. Victoria Balenger •
Often we think of “prevention” in all-or-nothing terms – either you succeed in preventing a problem or you don’t. But there are different levels of prevention, and usually something can be done to at least keep things from getting worse…. This is an important concept in mental health care, as certain conditions that cannot be…
Mental Health Crisis Intervention
by Dr. Victoria Balenger •
Recognizing a Mental Health Crisis For a variety of reasons, mental health issues can be difficult to recognize and address. When people live with chronic, low to moderate levels of depression or anxiety, a new “baseline” emotional state gets established and can actually start to feel normal. Many continue to function superficially well despite their…
The ABC’s of Mental Health
by Dr. Victoria Balenger •
Most people need some type of counseling or mental health support at some time in their life. Common emotional/psychological problems range from stress-related health symptoms, to relationship issues, grief & loss, anxiety, and depression. Many people have problems with substance abuse or other compulsive behaviors (e.g., with food, spending, “workaholism”) that can be defeated only…
Primary, Progressive, Chronic and Fatal: An Alcohol Problem is Nothing to Fool Around With
by Dr. Victoria Balenger •
Alcohol is the single most abused drug in America. Although it is legal and can be used safely in moderation, about 10% of the general population exhibits alcohol abuse and/or dependence. Alcoholism is more prevalent in males than females, but has probably been under diagnosed in women because of social stigma and sometimes confusing differences…