http://www.articlearmies.com Articles posted by alex. en-us Copyright (c) 2005 ArticleTime.com http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/faking-weight-loss.html The number of overweight and obese people has continually risen in the United States year after year. And every year or so, a new low-carb diet comes out, or at least, a great new way to shed those stubborn pounds. From the South Beach Diet to the Mediterranean Diet, these new methods of weight loss has increased their popularity among people who want to lose weight. A variety of weight loss pills are on the market that promises to vaporize the fat without any effort on the part of the dieter. These weight loss pills are now widely available in drugstores, supermarkets, and health food stores nationwide. Even fad exercise videos are now everywhere, coming out all the time featuring a new trainer with a headset, an attitude, and a DVD to sell. Among the plethora of popular diets, one diet plan may be taking weight control to the extreme. Kimkins Diet was introduced in 2007 throughout different forms in media, but it is apparently the original 1972 version of the Atkins Diet. Interest for this diet has begun to circulate in the past few years around a dietary regiment that can shed a pound a day or even more. This particular diet, which is a low carbohydrate, low calories, and low protein—is seen by many to be nothing but anorexia in disguise. According to the Kimkins Diet, it compares itself to other diets such as Atkins and South Beach, saying that these diets make long-term weight loss extremely frustrating. It does not meddle with fiber and sugar alcohol subtraction in order to quickly shed excess pounds. This diet is specifically helpful for those with mobility problems due to morbid obesity or diabetics who do not wish to be tied to their medications, as seen in cases of people classified as Type-2 diabetics. Kimkins, as a weight loss program, demands near starvation. A dieter using this plan is not supposed to eat more than 500 calories a day, or 20 kilocarbs. The dieter must also skip on as many fatty amino acids and fibers as possible. This diet can end up turning the body against itself to gain the necessary proteins, so body tissue and muscle may be lost instead of the fat. The person who developed the plan, Heidi Diaz, went on for a time with the online alias 'Kimmer' to hide her identity. The controversies surrounding her diet are simple. Kimmer has banned paying members from accessing her web page simply because they do not agree with her advice. She has continued to cite a number of adherents to her diet plan who did eat below the recommended cap of 500 calories per day, making her seem more like an eating disorder coach than a dietary professional. Some experts have come out with warnings about the possible health risks associated with Kimkins Diet including hair loss, heart palpitations and even joint pain. After a number of dieters who followed Kimkins plan went ill, Heidi Diaz was ordered to a California court yesterday. There may be a class action lawsuit taken against her for the detrimental and uneducated medical advice that has harmed many people. A separate investigation is pending for fraud and false advertising. Considering how morbidly obese Heidi Diaz appeared to be in court, (contrary to her ads and personal testimonies), it's no wonder she wanted her identity kept secret for so long. Anyone should be aware of these diets that does not require exercise. Kimkins continues to be denounced by professionals as an unhealthy, fake, and dangerous alternative to healthy meals and good work outs. Weight loss is never an easy task and it takes dedication to lead a person to proper weight loss. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/metabolism-processing-the-fuel-for-the-body.html It is a common belief that slim people generally have higher metabolism rate that those of overweight and obese people. That isn’t necessarily true. Weight is not directly connected to metabolism. One’s weight is dependent on the balance of the total calorie consumption as opposed to the total number of calories expended. Once a person eats more calories that his body needs, expect a weight gain to follow. Just the same, taking in less that what the body requires and a weight loss will follow. Your body requires a minimum amount of calories per day to be able to maintain its essential functions like breathing, maintaining your heartbeat, and keeping the brain properly functional. This is called your basal metabolic rate (BMR). There is a great likelihood that the body burns more calories that your basal metabolic rate, unless you spend the entire day in bed doing nothing. Your basal metabolic rate accounts for sixty to seventy percent of your daily caloric needs. Several factors affect a person’s basal metabolism, it includes: · Age. A person’s BMR lowers as he ages. · Height. Studies have also shown that taller people have higher BMR. · Gender. BMR is generally higher in men than in women. · Body composition. People who have more muscle that fat have higher BMRs. · Environmental temperature. BMR has also been noted to be generally higher in extreme temperatures of heat or cold. · Diet. People who live on low calorie diets have low BMRs. · Stress. BMR appears to increase during periods of stress and anxiety. Factors like age, gender, and height are difficult to change as we cannot stop ourselves from ageing, or change our height or our gender. However, we have control of other affecting factors to change our basal metabolic rates. · People who live in areas of extreme temperatures of hot or cold may need to increase their calorie intake to keep their body temperatures normal and support all vital body functions. · Stress may help burn extra calories, however it is not advisable to subject yourself to mental or emotional stress just for this reason. Physical stress on the body, like pregnancy or growth, may also increase a person’s metabolic rate. · Quick weight-loss diets affect the body by slowing it down, causing the body to initiate energy conservation and decrease its metabolic rate. Not skipping the important meals of the day may increase a person’s energy expenditure by 10% as eating requires calories for digesting, absorbing, transporting and metabolising food. · Exercising helps your metabolism in two ways. First, it helps burn calories while performing the exercise, and it burns even more calories after you stop exercising. It takes as long as twelve hours for a person’s metabolic rate to return to its normal rate after exercising. Second, it helps form more muscle, therefore adding to muscle mass that also helps speed up your metabolism. It’s like hitting two birds with one stone. Keeping yourself healthy not only entails that we avoid vices and harmful substances. It also includes eating right and maintaining an active lifestyle. Healthy eating, coupled with the right amount of exercise and the right company leads to a better, happier, healthier life. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/plastic-surgery-where-science-meets-art.html Today, plastic surgery is synonymous with Hollywood and its never ending quest to remain young and beautiful forever, through mammoplasty (breast reduction or augmentation), mastopexy (breast lift), rhinoplasty (nose lift), chin augmentations, cheek augmentations, tummy tucks, liposuction, and face lifts. These procedures are more commonly referred to as cosmetic surgery. However, the art and science of plastic surgery is not solely limited to improve the physical appearance of an aging Hollywood actor. In fact, this particular branch of surgery was developed to correct disfigurement and restore impaired function. This type of surgery became known as reconstructive surgery, which can be defined as the correction of a congenital or acquired deformity; as opposed to cosmetic surgery, which entails the correction of a perceived physical imperfection. The use of the word plastic does does not refer to the synthetic polymer material, but is derived from the Greek word “plastikos,” meaning to mold or shape. This refers to the fact that plastic surgeons typically mold and reshape bone, cartilage, muscle, fat and skin to achieve the aesthetic results they desire. These body parts may be moved to fill, alter, or cover the appearance of a defect, or completely removed. Although rudimentary plastic surgery methods were being practiced as early as 800BC, the techniques being used today are largely attributed to Sir Harold Delf Gillies, a Cambridge-educated surgeon from New Zealand. He is often referred to as the father of plastic surgery. Gillies joined the Red Cross during World War I and saw the need for a plastic surgery unit for the British troops after seeing the French surgery units in Paris. This war was particularly gruesome because it had the distinction of being the first fully mechanized war, and the advent of heavy artillery, shells and machine guns meant more devastating injuries than ever before could be inflicted. The War Office recognized the necessity for a specialized unit of surgery and subsequently sent Gillies to the Cambridge Military Hospital in Aldershot to set this up, thus becoming Britain's first plastic surgeon. Soon men began pouring in to the facility from the field hospitals, all with jaw and face injuries that required reconstruction. Gillies was determined not only to restore the function of these wounded men but to also make the person look as normal as possible, if not more attractive than before. He called his brand of plastic surgery, “ a strange new art.” This melding of function and aesthetics underlined his entire body of work. Gillies pioneered many surgical techniques and developed instruments to use in his operations; many of them are still being used today. One of these techniques is the pedicle tube, in which a skin graft taken from an undamaged part of the patient's body is sewn into a tube and used to cover the damaged area. Not only was the blood supply maintained to the skin graft, but sewing the edges of skin together meant that the skin graft was less prone to infection, a constant hazard to patients. He delighted in sharing his skills and insights with doctors from all over the world, helping many countries to establish their skill base for this emerging field of surgery. In addition to describing his work in written form, he was the first surgeon to make pictorial records of facial reconstruction cases, both before and after surgery. In 1920 he published a book called Plastic Surgery of the Face, which detailed his work and techniques. As weapons of war become more and more destructive, the need for reconstructive surgery increases for its casualties. But because of men like Sir Harold Gillies, these men and women can get back the face that was stolen from them. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/alternatives-to-cold-turkey-methods-of-quitting-smoking.html Everyone is well aware of the dangers that smoking can bring. It is highly addictive since it contains nicotine, which is very addictive. Like heroine or any other recreational drugs, both the body and mind can quickly become used to the nicotine in cigarettes --- a substance that eventually becomes necessary to ingest to make a smoker feel good. A lot of people smoke regularly, for a variety of reasons. Peer pressure, curiosity, and family members who smoke can expose a young adult to cigarettes and smoking. Little do they know about the harsh effects that smoking can bring to a person's health, especially to the lungs. Statistics have shown that nine out of ten tobacco users started smoking before the age of eighteen. Most adults who started smoking during their teen years would never expect to become addicted. This fact is not known by all smokers or for people who would want to try smoking. Naturally, if a person starts smoking, their lifestyle slowly changes, bringing in smoking as one of their pastimes. People who smoke cigarettes or any other forms of tobacco does not consciously think about its consequences. They light a cigarette when waking up just to have the nicotine rush. This nicotine-induced rush helps them get rid of drowsiness. This can be habit forming, especially for those people who cannot wake up as fast as others. Smokers also light up a cigarette after eating, since this can eliminate any hunger pangs that they may have or crave. It stops the feeling of hunger, and eventually makes the person feel full. Other people smoke when they are bored. This usually happens when they wait for someone, or when they are on breaks at work or in school, or just to pass the time away. Either way, smoking can change one's lifestyle, but unfortunately for the worse. For people with family members who smoke, it is best that the family members themselves provide the assistance needed to help the smoker quit this farmful habit. Of course, it would not be an easy task at all. Nicotine is addictive, and people who smoke really crave for that nicotine rush, even if they know its bad for them. One should not make a person quit smoking just like that, for it brings withdrawal symptoms. Uneasiness, restlessness, irritability, and aggressiveness often comes when cigarettes are not around. Tagged as “cold turkey”, these people who quickly quit smoking can really behave differently from how they used to when they were still smoking. In order to help loved ones who smoke, people should talk to their loved ones about the dangers and consequences that smoking can bring. It is important that the person who smoke would want to stop smoking, so that quitting can be a lot easier. Try and purchase self-help books that teach quitting techniques that do not involve “cold turkey” methods. They have guidelines and ways to avoid smoking including such alternatives as eating carrots, and any other nibblets when they feel the need to smoke. Think of having a smoke-free home rule where no one is allowed to smoke inside the house. This can help the smoker slowly realize that smoking is just a waste of time and effort, and that there are other things to do besides smoking. Getting them to attend therapy sessions could also help. But at the end of the day, only the smoker can decide to stop smoking since it is the smoker's will to quit and concern for his health that will lead to such a life-saving decision. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/behavioral-activation-may-be-effective-for-depression.html People with depression may find even the smallest task to be a huge obstacle that it keeps them from acting on things they need to address or work on. Too many times, moving forward in life poses a challenge and requires discomfort. Most people go through periods of adjustment during transition from middle school to high school to college, or from one job to another. But depression can make these situations a tougher time to cope with. This doesn't mean that they are less capable than anyone else. It's their lack of confidence or the talent for imagining worst case scenario that make it hard for them to face the realities of life. However, the results of a new study show that the right kind of coaching, encouragement, and education may be an effective treatment for depression. Very recently, a team of psychologists at the University of Washington compared four types of depression treatment: behavioral activation, cognitive-behavioral therapy, an antidepressant medication, and a placebo pill. About 250 people with major depression were assigned to one of the 4 treatment groups. After a period of four months, patients in the behavioral activation (BA) group did at least as well as those receiving an antidepressant. Such results were a surprise. As per guidelines, cognitive therapy and antidepressants are the most effective treatments for depression. Somehow, BA was better than antidepressants as fewer patients that received BA dropped out of treatment than those who took the pill. Another intriguing finding was that BA appeared to be more effective than cognitive therapy when used on severely depressed patients. Behavioral activation is a practice that does not tell patients to 'just do it.' It is more of a technique that helps people with depression to do what they usually tend to avoid. Those who believe in this type of therapy agree that it works because depression makes people tend to withdraw from stressful situations. In such a short period of time, they get some relief because they spare themselves the agony of confronting tough problems. But they also miss out on the rewards. For instance, a depressed man may phone in sick to avoid a possible confrontation with a co-worker. However, he misses out on the satisfaction that could come from getting his job done and earning a living eventually. Such avoidance leaves the original problem unchanged. Inaction only makes problems become worse and deepens depression which makes getting out of bed in the morning seem more difficult. The logic behind BA is not to shame or blame the person for his problems. Depression usually makes people withdraw from activities that could be pleasurable and deprives them of the satisfaction that come from engaging in life. Since activity can help increase enjoyment in life and relieve depression, patients are taught to adhere to a daily schedule and a gradual increase in their activity is made. Interrupting the circular, self-critical thinking usually associated with depression is the job of therapists. They pay attention to the present moment and actions that help reach long-term goals. Improving problem-solving skills makes up the third part of BA. The difference between behavior therapy and cognitive therapy is that cognitive therapist spends time reviewing negative and distorted thinking, as well as self-defeating beliefs of depressed patients. According to the cognitive therapy model, thinking must change before behavior can. In a behavior therapy model such as the BA technique, a therapist tells the patient not to think too much. Simple strategies such as goal-setting, problem-solving, and attending to the task at hand become the focus, rather than on the overwhelming big picture. For many years, these two approaches have been closely linked through an approach called cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT), which purposely blends the two. A better and happier existence does not depend on the success of 'just do it' over 'getting in touch with your feelings.' Usually, the answer lies somewhere in between. No one wants a life of grinding through tasks without feeling anything. Turning your attention away from thoughts and feelings that undermine your functioning, and toward thoughts that promote it may prove to be a better action. Proponents of BA advise their patients to notice when they are dwelling on unproductive thoughts, and focus instead on the immediate sights and smells which they experience around them. The moment you begin to function better, it's easier and more useful to examine your thoughts from a position of strength and to understand why they were so negative in the first place. The initiative to take action is not easy for a depressed person to do. This is why a therapist has to be the encouraging coach or personal trainer who reminds a patient of the good that will come from doing difficult things. Although behavioral activation was the most effective treatment in the University of Washington study, it should not be taken as a replacement for CBT and antidepressant medication as the first treatment recommended for depression. The study demonstrates the value of including BA in a comprehensive plan for treating depression, especially in its most severe forms. It is neither a choice between one technique over the other. Combining approaches may give patients the best chance to feel better and do better. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/proper-consultation-and-dosage-making-sleeping-pills-safe.html Burt Reynolds, the star of Smokey and the Bandit, and many other movies, once went into a coma while trying to kick his sleeping pill addiction. He went into a coma for about eight or nine hours. At one point, the doctors already told his wife Loni to say her goodbyes. Reynolds said that at one point during his coma, he had what was called an “out-of-body experience.” He said that, in the operating room, he even heard the doctor say, “We're losing him.” That experience helped Reynolds get rid of his drug addiction. Robbie Williams was another celebrity who battled with addiction. According to reports, he has checked himself into rehab to escape a spiral of caffeine and sleeping pill overdose, in addition to an addiction to antidepressant medications. News reports also revealed that the pop star is addicted to an antidepressant called Seroxat on top of his compulsive consumption of caffeinated drinks. It is said that Williams can consume over 50 highly caffeinated drinks a day in the form of double espressos or cans of Red Bull tonic. In a newspaper interview, Williams said: “I can’t honestly say that I don’t take too many prescription drugs. How many is too many? I don’t know. If you drink as much coffee as I do, you can easily get into the too-many-sleeping-tablets thing.” In Robbie William's case, his caffeine addiction led him to an addiction to sleeping pills. But for millions of other people, the addiction to sleeping pills began due to the classic difficulty of sleeplessness. Having difficulty sleeping is a common problem shared by many. This is why sleeping pills are one of the most common medications in the market. Chronic insomnia can lead to an overall inability to cope and function in the world. Sleeping pills offer the promise of an improved night's sleep and an overall improved capacity to cope with worries and anxieties that usually keep an insomniac wide awake till the wee hours of the morning. Sleeplessness leads to a kind of desperation that makes sleeping pills like Ambien, Sonata, Restoril and Dalmane seem positively irresistible. But are they all they're made out to be? Do they in fact improve sleep and overall daytime functioning? The case against sleeping pills is compelling. The following information points out some important reasons why the use of sleeping pills should be regulated and allowed only with doctor's approval. · Those who use sleeping pills have significantly higher mortality rates than those who do not. · Sleeping pills do little or nothing to improve chronic insomnia and cause long-term chemical dependency. · Sleeping pills reduce brain cell activity during the day, affecting short-term memory as well as causing a hangover effect. · Sleeping pills accentuate the GABA neurotransmitter, which keeps the nerve cells in the lung tissue from firing. This is why an overdose of sleeping pills will cause asphyxiation and over 1000 overdose related deaths each year. · GABA actuation is also responsible for impaired physical ability. Each year, thousands of traffic deaths, car accidents and falls (especially in the elderly) are attributed to sleeping pills. · Sleep Apnea Patients should never take sleeping pills. Sleeping pills increase the pauses and length of pause in breathing. Someone with sleep apnea could suffer brain or ocular damage from the lack of oxygen or even death. · Anyone over the age of 40 should be cautioned against the use of sleeping pills, and anyone over the age of 65 should never take sleeping pills. Studies show that almost all people over 40 have some symptoms of sleep apnea, and anyone over 65 would be clinically diagnosed with sleep apnea. · Sleeping pills create a hypnotic dependency similar to alcohol and lower inhibitions and fear of pain or consequences. This is one reason why sleeping pills contribute to accidents and why chronic sleeping pill users are less likely to worry or take care of themselves. · Sleeping pills are highly addictive. Sleeping pills are similar to barbiturates and are extremely difficult to stop using. · Although sleeping pills do not improve daytime functioning, people still prefer taking them because of the barbiturate feel-good effect they produce. As with many addictive drugs, they may not be helpful, but we feel good when we take them. Long-term studies on the effects of sleeping pills surely point out the need for regulation and education about its uses and effects. But with proper consultation and dosage, people who need medical aids for sleeping be assured of greater safety in the use of these medications. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/the-mane-attraction.html Of all the animals, the horse has probably shared the most of their existence in human adventures and has been intimately allied with human progress. For thousands of years, the horse has participated in the pleasures, the dangers, and the hard work that have marked human life. It has long played an important role in transport, whether ridden or used for pulling a chariot, carriage, horse-drawn boat, stagecoach, or tram. For many centuries, horses were primarily used in warfare. They have also been used for food. Indeed, horses have galloped through an important role in human life. Now, horses have also contributed an important product that was never thought will be used by men. There have been a clamor for horse shampoos for many years now. There's nothing so distinctively unusual about horse shampoos, except for the fact that it is used not by the quick and hard-kicking animals alone, but by men too. Horse shampoos that promises longer, thicker and shinier hair, and that it can even prevent hair loss some believed. But can this shampoos really stop anyone from getting bald? Experts explained that horse shampoo only thickens the hair strands and do not stimulate hair growth. So why do people experience hair loss? Let us comb this issue strand by strand. The hair's normal cycle of growth lasts for two to six years. Each hair grows approximately one centimeter per month during this phase. About 90 percent of the hair on our scalp is growing at any one time. About 10 percent of the hair on the scalp, at any one time, is in a resting phase. After two to three months, the resting hair falls out and new hair starts to grow in its place. It is normal to shed some hair each day as part of this cycle. However, some people may experience excessive hair loss. This type can affect men, women and children. There are a number of things that can cause excessive hair loss. About 3 or 4 months after an illness or a major surgery, a patient may suddenly lose a large amount of hair. This hair loss is related to the stress of the illness and is temporary. It is also related to aging, heredity, and testosterone. Hormonal problems may also cause hair loss. If the thyroid gland is overactive or underactive, hair may fall out. This hair loss usually can be helped by treatment of the thyroid disease. Many women notice hair loss about 3 months after they've had a baby. This loss is also related to hormones. Moreover, some medicines can cause hair loss. This type of hair loss improves when you stop taking the medicine. Medicines that can cause hair loss include blood thinners (also called anticoagulants), medicines used for gout, in chemotherapy to treat cancer, vitamin A (if too much is taken), birth control pills, anti anxiety drugs and antidepressants. Certain infections can cause hair loss too. Fungal infections of the scalp can cause hair loss in children. The infection is easily treated with antifungal medicines. It may occur as part of an underlying disease, such as lupus or diabetes. Since hair loss may be an early sign of a disease, it is important to find the cause so that it can be treated. There are treatments that are available, depending on your type of hair loss. If a medicine is causing hair loss, a physician may be able to prescribe a different medicine. It is likely that your physician will ask you some questions about your diet and any medicines you're taking. Recognizing and treating an infection and correcting a hormone imbalance may prevent further hair loss. If there are no available treatment for a certain type of hair loss, one may consider trying different hairstyles or wigs, hairpieces, hair weaves or artificial hair replacement. Or why nor try to put a new life in a man's head and try to get some pony's tail. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/weight-loss-pills-more-harm-than-good.html Most women, it can be said, have an overwhelming desire to be always look good all the time. Every woman needs to feel beautiful physically. They also want to have a pleasant, alluring personality and attitude. Of course, to make it complete, women want to be in good health. However, in society today, there is now a confusion about what is beautiful and what is plain vanity. Media distortion and exaggerated advertising campaigns have done a lot to shape the new standard in beauty: slim and sexy is beautiful. No wonder, even Hollywood's glamorous women find it a requirement to have shapely curves especially during a photo shoot or during the Awards Night. So, what is a woman to think, if she weighs around 180 pounds and above? Of course, the poor lady would have to think of an easy way out of being called “big” or “fat”. Taking over-the-counter weight loss pills would be the quickest, easiest, and most convenient way to lose weight. These weight loss pills are readily available in the market, with or without the approval of the FDA. It is seen everywhere --- from the local drugstore, the supermarket, or any health food stores. One can even purchase these pills online, with a lot more options to choose from. These weight loss pills are said to make a person lose weight, decrease one's appetite, reduce body fat, increase the amount of calories burned, increases fat metabolism, blocks the absorption of dietary fat, and increase the feeling of fullness with continued use. There are a number of weight loss pills circulating the market today. Whether herbal or dietary supplement, these pills should be taken with caution. A woman's health is at risk when taking such diet pills. Since these pills are available almost anywhere, it's appealing to women who would want to lose weight fast. But everyone should consider in researching more on the said diet pills, since some of these pills can be downright dangerous for a woman's health. Bitter orange is considered as a diet pill. This dietary supplement claims to decrease appetite, but what a woman really needs to know is that this specific supplement is also an ephedra substitute. This substitute, however, may cause health risks similar to those of ephedra. Chitosan is another example, a diet pill that supposedly blocks the absorption of dietary fat. This particular drug is relatively safe but its its effectiveness is doubtful. This specific weight loss pill can also cause constipation, bloating, and other gastrointestinal complaints. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), another diet pill, claims to reduce body fats, decreases appetite and also build up muscles. What people don't know is that this weight loss pill can cause diarrhea, indigestion, and other gastrointestinal problems, and that is will not reduce a person's total body weight. Ephedra, which also claims to decrease appetite, has a lot more side effects than any of the other diet pills. This can cause high blood pressure, heart rate irregularities, sleeplessness, heart attacks, strokes, seizures, and even death. This weight loss pill has already been banned from the market due to safety concerns but it can still be legally purchased as tea. For consumers, especially women, it is hard to know what's inside those pills. Most weight loss pills have a combination of different ingredients, some of which are just basically add-ons like caffeine or laxatives. These mixture of ingredients can pose a risk to a woman's health, since the interaction between these ingredients is still unknown. The best way for women to lose weight is not by taking these so-called diet pills but to have an active and healthy lifestyle. Consider eating a good and balanced diet, together with physical exercise. And lastly, be happy with how you look. It's not how heavy or sexy you are, it's about confidence and having the right attitude towards life. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Family/cyberbullying-threat-and-intimidation-online.html Meredith, 30, had been married to Ralph, 32, for more than six years. She was a stay-at-home wife and he was a top business executive. Ralph's work has kept him so busy that he really thinks that he has no time to start a “family.” His frequent business travels have kept him away from home several days, and even weeks at a time. Like a typical workaholic, Ralph has made same mistake committed by many career-driven husbands --- neglecting his wife. This situation has even made Meredith think that Ralph and really married to his career and not to her. Meredith and Ralph had been fighting more than ever before and it was pretty obvious that there was already a serious problem with their marriage. She accuses him of being cold and indifferent, and he accuses her of being a nagger. All their marital woes have caused them enormous stress and anxiety. Aside from financial trouble, infidelity, and problems with the in-laws, many marriages suffer from the simple lack of communication. Like Meredith and Ralph, many couples fail to resolve their problems early on. As a result, couples grow further apart and are left to struggle with their respective anger and frustration. Instead of speaking with each other as adults, many couples resort to withdrawal or the “silent treatment.” In many cases, couples have already formed the way they communicate based on how their own parents communicated with each other. A person who grew up with parents who constantly fight has the tendency to be argumentative too. A person who was raised by parents who ignored each other whenever they had problems may have the tendency to ignore his partner and his own problems in marriage. It is said that it takes two to tango and it takes two to argue. But many marriages end up in separation or divorce precisely because the couple even evades quarrels and just chooses to ignore their problem. With mutual “silent treatment,” a couple denies their own opportunity to discuss and hopefully resolve their problem. And when they do talk, the couples would often just exchange accusations and even hurl invectives at one another. Many women complain that men are so cold, indifferent, and insensitive to their needs and to the issues that affect their relationship. They say that men spend too much time at the office and neglect their duties as husband and father. Women feel angry when men go home only to spend time in front of the t.v. or go out to have drinking sprees with their friends. Men, on the other hand, complain that women are so boisterous, jealous, and nag all the time. So, how can men and women in marriage deal with their marital problems? The first step that couples should take is to improve the way how they communicate with each other. Shown below are some of the ways how couples can improve their communication skills in marriage: 10 Ways to Communicate Effectively 1. No name calling and don't make any threats. 2. Don't interrupt when your spouse is still speaking. 3. Don't dominate the discussion and stay on the same topic or issue at hand. 4. Listen and pay attention to what the other is saying. 5. Respect each other and be prepared to make changes in the way you think, feel, and behave. 6. Avoid mentioning or bringing up past mistakes and old resentments. 7. Don't assume too much that you know what your spouse is thinking or feeling. 8. Don't presume that you're always “right” in any argument. 9. Try to meet half-way or compromise. 10. Be honest and acknowledge the validity and importance of each other feelings. Many couples forget that simple affirmation or small acts of love and kindness can do wonders for their marriage. A warm hug or attentively listening to your spouse can bring back a semblance of peace, love, and respect in your relationship. Indeed, one of the keys to a lasting marriage is effective communication. Given enough time and lots of patience, any couple on the rocks can revive their marriage. It just takes a lot of listening and kind words to make your marriage a real match made in heaven. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/effective-communication-is-the-key-to-a-stable-marriage.html Meredith, 30, had been married to Ralph, 32, for more than six years. She was a stay-at-home wife and he was a top business executive. Ralph's work has kept him so busy that he really thinks that he has no time to start a “family.” His frequent business travels have kept him away from home several days, and even weeks at a time. Like a typical workaholic, Ralph has made same mistake committed by many career-driven husbands --- neglecting his wife. This situation has even made Meredith think that Ralph and really married to his career and not to her. Meredith and Ralph had been fighting more than ever before and it was pretty obvious that there was already a serious problem with their marriage. She accuses him of being cold and indifferent, and he accuses her of being a nagger. All their marital woes have caused them enormous stress and anxiety. Aside from financial trouble, infidelity, and problems with the in-laws, many marriages suffer from the simple lack of communication. Like Meredith and Ralph, many couples fail to resolve their problems early on. As a result, couples grow further apart and are left to struggle with their respective anger and frustration. Instead of speaking with each other as adults, many couples resort to withdrawal or the “silent treatment.” In many cases, couples have already formed the way they communicate based on how their own parents communicated with each other. A person who grew up with parents who constantly fight has the tendency to be argumentative too. A person who was raised by parents who ignored each other whenever they had problems may have the tendency to ignore his partner and his own problems in marriage. It is said that it takes two to tango and it takes two to argue. But many marriages end up in separation or divorce precisely because the couple even evades quarrels and just chooses to ignore their problem. With mutual “silent treatment,” a couple denies their own opportunity to discuss and hopefully resolve their problem. And when they do talk, the couples would often just exchange accusations and even hurl invectives at one another. Many women complain that men are so cold, indifferent, and insensitive to their needs and to the issues that affect their relationship. They say that men spend too much time at the office and neglect their duties as husband and father. Women feel angry when men go home only to spend time in front of the t.v. or go out to have drinking sprees with their friends. Men, on the other hand, complain that women are so boisterous, jealous, and nag all the time. So, how can men and women in marriage deal with their marital problems? The first step that couples should take is to improve the way how they communicate with each other. Shown below are some of the ways how couples can improve their communication skills in marriage: 10 Ways to Communicate Effectively 1. No name calling and don't make any threats. 2. Don't interrupt when your spouse is still speaking. 3. Don't dominate the discussion and stay on the same topic or issue at hand. 4. Listen and pay attention to what the other is saying. 5. Respect each other and be prepared to make changes in the way you think, feel, and behave. 6. Avoid mentioning or bringing up past mistakes and old resentments. 7. Don't assume too much that you know what your spouse is thinking or feeling. 8. Don't presume that you're always “right” in any argument. 9. Try to meet half-way or compromise. 10. Be honest and acknowledge the validity and importance of each other feelings. Many couples forget that simple affirmation or small acts of love and kindness can do wonders for their marriage. A warm hug or attentively listening to your spouse can bring back a semblance of peace, love, and respect in your relationship. Indeed, one of the keys to a lasting marriage is effective communication. Given enough time and lots of patience, any couple on the rocks can revive their marriage. It just takes a lot of listening and kind words to make your marriage a real match made in heaven. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/car-accidents-the-expressway-to-the-next-life.html According to a recent study, car accidents ranked ninth out of the top ten causes of death world wide. It also ranked first among the top ten accident-caused deaths. Over 40,000 Americans die in car crashes every year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, someone is involved in a car accident every ten seconds. It is estimated that every 12 minutes, a person dies in a car crash. Car accidents are the leading cause of death for Americans 35 years old and younger. In 2002 alone, there has been a reported 43,005 deaths caused by car accidents. What are the leading causes of car accidents? Car accidents can often be attributed to driver recklessness or negligence, the vehicles involved in an accident, and road and weather conditions at the time of the accident. Driver Negligence. Driver negligence may manifest in many forms. It may be because of rubbernecking, driving under the influence of alcohol, the driver’s lack of experience, or an aggressive driving behavior. Under driver negligence, rubbernecking had been reported as the top cause of car accidents. This happens when motorists stop to look at other accidents they pass by and lose concentration on the road ahead. This distraction ends up in a chain of accidents that could have been avoided. Driving under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited in the US. This is considered as a criminal offense and is not taken lightly. A reported forty percent of all traffic-related deaths have been attributed to driving while intoxicated. Inexperienced drivers who aren’t accompanied by an adult with a valid driving license also contribute to car accidents. One quarter of reported car accidents involved teenage drivers. Aggressive driving behaviour like challenging other drivers to a street race in the middle of the road, forcing to cut into a lane, not giving way to other cars also contribute to the growing statistics of car accidents. Vehicles. Defective auto parts, vehicle design, and/or car maintenance are also major causes of car accidents. Defective door latches, seat belts, airbags, seat backs, roofs, ignition systems, and fuel systems are all contributing factors in the damage caused in vehicular accidents. The overall faulty design of a car makes accidents and damages more likely. SUV designs make a car less stable on the road and four times more likely to rollover in an accident as compared to passenger cars. Road and weather conditions. It is understandable that this cause isn’t really something man can have any control of. However choosing to come out on the road without first taking into consideration the weather and road condition may also be considered negligence on the part of the driver. How can I avoid car accidents? Responsible driving is the key to avoid getting yourself involved in a car accident. For teenage drivers, don’t go out driving unsupervised. Avoid ingesting too much alcohol when you’re driving, not only will you be able to see the road clearer, your concentration will be better, too. Concentrate on the road, disregard any distractions while driving. If it is really necessary that you take a moment to acknowledge any distractions, park your car on a safe area and then attend to what ever needs your immediate attention. Drive defensively instead of being aggressive on the road. Always keep yourself abreast to weather conditions before going out. Make sure and check your vehicle for any problems even before you hit the road. It is better to be prepared and safe than getting into an accident on the road. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/the-social-killer.html Scared to go out to a meeting to speak to a client? Need to deliver a speech but feel like fainting at the thought of going in front of the class to present? Scared to attend a social gathering for no apparent reason? You might be suffering from social anxiety disorder. Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is a kind of mental disorder where the sufferer experiences a severe or unreasonable fear of social gatherings where there is a possibility that one may get embarrassed or ridiculed. Most of the time, these anxieties arise from an intense fear of being closely watched or scrutinized - from the simple things like the way they dress, talk or act; to important job functions like performing in front of a crowd, giving a presentation, or finishing an interview for a job application. This kind of phobia gives sufferers a feeling of being trapped or shut away from the world. They say social anxiety disorder is closely related to shyness. However social phobia differs in the sense that this disrupts normal socializing functions. It is true that everyone goes through a stage of shyness in their life, overcoming it is a different thing. When it becomes too much that it interrupts your daily life and relationships to the point where you are sick with worry, it is time to seek counsel. It is good to know the signs and symptoms of social anxiety disorder to be able to determine and treat this said condition before it worsens. People with social phobia manifest 2 basic kinds of symptoms: emotional and physical. The emotional symptoms include: an intense fear of being in situations in which you don't know people, fear of situations in which you may be judged, worrying about embarrassing or humiliating yourself, fear that others will notice that you look anxious, anxiety that disrupts your daily routine, work, school or other activities, avoiding doing things or speaking to people out of fear of embarrassment, avoiding situations where you might be the center of attention. The physical symptoms include: Blushing, profuse sweating, trembling or shaking, nausea, stomach upset, difficulty talking, shaky voice, muscle tension, confusion, palpitations, diarrhea, cold and clammy hands, and difficulty making eye contact. Basically, this phobia manifests a symptom of being overly anxious around other people. Sufferers think that other people are more confident that they are, that other people are better them. They feel uncomfortable being around people that it makes it difficult for them to eat, drink, work, asking questions, asking for dates, even going to the toilet, when other people are around. The good news is that there is a cure for this condition. For the past 20 years, a combination of talk therapy and medications has proven most helpful to limit the effects, if not cure, this mental condition. Certain anti-depressants (Paroxetine, Sertraline and Venlafaxine), anti-anxiety medications, and beta blockers are used to help Socio-phobic people to balance certain chemicals in the brain and minimize panic attacks during periods of heightened anxiety. Talk therapy teaches people with social anxiety disorder to react differently to situations that trigger their anxiety. The therapist helps the patient confront the negative feelings about social situations and the fear about being judged by others. Patients learn how their thinking patterns add to the symptoms of social anxiety disorder and how to change their thinking so the symptoms begin to lessen. To be shy is quite normal, everybody has gone through a similar phase. Getting past that stage is the difficult part. Ultimately, it ends up to building your confidence to a certain level for you to be comfortable enough to move normally. In case you’ve been diagnosed as a socio-phobic, it is nothing to be ashamed of. With a little bit of therapy, proper medication, and enough support from people who believe in you, you’ll slowly be able to do socialize and function normally within a group without being too anxious. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/cracked-by-crack-the-side-effects-of-cocaine-withdrawal-and-abuse.html Pure cocaine, along with the so-called “poor man's cocaine” known as “crack,” is among the most widely abused substances in the world today. The pure cocaine in powder form is usually mistaken as fine sugar or baking soda. The street variant called crack is diluted and mixed with baking soda, allowing the street pushers to reap more profits. People who become addicted to both cocaine and “crack” are considered to be among the worst addicts that can be found in a rehab clinic mainly because of the intense physical and mental health damage that prolonged use can lead to. There is an extensive list of negative effects associated with long-term use of “crack.” Withdrawal from crack addiction is also very difficult in physiological and psychological terms. Nasal passages, which are the primary pathways by which cocaine gets into an addict's body, can also suffer severe damage due to prolonged abuse. However, the damage tends to manifest only after the drug has been removed and withdrawal has occurred. Among the possible side effects of the damage are runny noses, nasal congestion, and nose bleeding. These side effects are relatively minor and can easily be treated by using the appropriate medications and having good environment, especially at home. During cocaine withdrawal, nasal problems are likely going to be the least of a recovering addict's worries. Panic attacks similar to those developed by people with panic disorders are not uncommon to both addicts and recovering users. This is more pronounced once a person undergoes withdrawal because there is no longer the psychologically “stabilizing” effect of the drug. Also, people undergoing withdrawal have become so used to having “crack” on hand that they are almost mentally incapacitated by being deprived of it. Insomnia is also a recognized side effect of being forcibly withdrawn from cocaine abuse. However, insomnia encountered during withdrawal has a shorter range of effect compared with regular cases of insomnia. Mild headaches and occasional periods of excessive fear and anxiety are also possible symptoms of prolonged abuse, though they are not considered common. Muscle spasms are usually associated with the more violent cases of withdrawal. This is particularly common in those cases where the user has developed a dependency on the cocaine being in the system, such that the mind no longer believes the body can function without it. Muscle spasms are usually a minor indication of a worsening problem in cases such as this, since people who develop them tend to suffer more physically violent symptoms of drug withdrawal. These problems generally occur in the earlier stages of withdrawal, as the shock to the body being cut off from “crack” is still fresh. As the withdrawal sets in and the cleansing process is underway, the body slowly adjusts to a normal state and the likelihood of muscle spasms and convulsions decreases considerably. Chronic pain in the chest and coughing have also been noted as possible symptoms. Some withdrawal patients report that the coughing can sometimes be accompanied by severe chest pains. Phlegm coughed up by these patients tend to be colored black and are generally not mixed with blood unless the patient has another respiratory condition. Coughing and phlegm of this sort also manifests in people that abuse marijuana or nicotine. This is generally alleviated by any number of over-the-counter cough medications or increased intake of water and other fluids. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/no-shortcuts-to-health-and-weight-loss.html For some, losing weight is a never-ending battle that entails personal and social consequences. Being overweight is now a health problem for about two-thirds of the current U.S. population. Being overweight and obese increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, and some forms of cancer, and other diseases. As a social problem, being obese or overweight makes a person more susceptible to ridicule and name calling. In fact, it is now common to hear friends and relatives greet each other by saying, “Oh! You gained weight!” The more complimentary form is when people greet others by saying, “Wow! You look like you've lost a lot of weight!” Either way, the subliminal message of these greetings point to society's obsession with physical beauty. No wonder, many overweight and obese individuals struggle with maintaining their confidence and self-esteem in the face of society's aesthetic demands. Due to these health risks and social consequences, more and more people are now becoming more conscious about their figure and lifestyle. Fitness and health industries are now experiencing a business boom due to the sheer number of people who want to shed excess weight. Somehow, even the busiest executives and hardworking employees are finding time to break some sweat. A lot of people have also become more conscious about their eating habits to the point that they now count every calorie in every meal they have. Still, not all can afford the expensive gym memberships, much less have time to run on a treadmill or lift weights. Majority of people who need to lose weight struggle with having to cut down on food intake or in staying away from calorie-rich foods. Lack of time, discipline, and will to shed off those excess pounds has led many weight watchers to a “quick fix” method --- using so-called ““miracle diets.” While a lot of diet plans offer “guaranteed” results, many do not have the focus to stay with their eating plan. The effectiveness of the trendiest and most popular diet fad ultimately depends on a person's ability and willingness to choose the right food and amount to eat. It's really not about the recipe...but about the person's desire to cut down on food. Now, for some, there is an even better “quick fix” method of going on a diet. Instead of going to the gym and missing out on one's favorite delicacies, some people take weight loss pills. These weight loss pills work by helping reduce the absorption of fat in food that we eat; or act as an appetite suppressant. There are a number of weight-loss pills available at the local drugstore, supermarket, and health food store. There are even weight loss pills that can be bought online. However, the safety and efficacy of these pills have not been adequately substantiated or proven. Some fake weight loss pills are downright dangerous. Most people have heard of contemporary herbal weight loss pills, such as the ephedra (ma huang) pills or Hoodia Gordonii which are very popular today. In the last few years, hoodia has been heavily marketed as the latest in a long list of “miracle herbal products” that promote weight loss and over-all health. The ban on certain weight loss diet pills such as ephedra has opened up a new market for Hoodia. The said drug is now sold in health shops and in the Internet in various forms: capsulated, powder, liquid, or as tea. Despite its popularity, there is no published research or random controlled trial in humans to show that Hoodia is safe or effective in pill form. Many of the Hoodia products being sold today are difficult to analyze in terms of purity or freshness. To provide the public a safer and tested product, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a reduced-strength, over-the-counter version of weight loss ingredient called Orlistat. It is a prescription weight-loss medication for adults aged 18 and older. Orlistat, otherwise known as Alli, helps promote weight loss by decreasing absorption of fat by the intestines. The capsules are taken with meals, up to three times a day. This ingredient or pill is among the list of very popular weight loss diet pills. Still, Orlistat is intended to be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet, and regular exercise. Losing weight is important to maintain one's health and to sustain a person's sense of comfort and confidence in social settings. People who are still in search for the best weight loss diet pill should make sure that the products they use are safe and FDA-approved. Losing weight should also be done in a very gradual manner. Starving one's self is a no-no. Indeed, losing weight should ultimately be about regaining one's health and not just to attain physical perfection --- if there is such a thing. Losing weight and reaching the ideal number of pounds takes time. There are no shortcuts to weight loss and to achieving optimum health. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/when-the-quest-for-the-best-body-turns-worst.html Body image is the sum of thoughts and feelings people have about their physical appearance. Oftentimes, the media tend to promote a body image that can be unrealistic. Featuring role models for beauty and weight who are unnaturally thin can affect the physiological and psychological well-being of young women, especially adolescents, who are just starting to become conscious of the changes in their physical structures. Women living in a culture focused on dieting and weight loss are more prone to develop eating disorders which are detrimental in one's health. Dieting and the weight loss pill industry may lead young people to develop eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, as well as serious physical and psychological conditions, like lack of focus, depression, low self-esteem, and fatigue syndrome. Having an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image can lead to extreme behaviors of over-exercising, too much dieting, over-eating, binging, self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse. A young woman who do not eat enough to keep her body working properly may be suffering from anorexia nervosa. Losing too much weight can make you become weak and unhealthy because of a poor diet. Most people with anorexia exercise too much in order to burn up the food they eat. They tend to "feel fat" even when they are actually losing weight. They try to convince themselves and the people around them that they are not hungry. They often take diet pills to control hunger and attempts to lose weight. Some of these pills side effects often make girls feel anxious or nervous. They drink caffeinated beverages that give a false sense of energy. Most people with anorexia develop emotional problems like low self-esteem, obsessive thoughts and behaviors. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by abnormal loss of weight, having distorted impression about one's body size, and unreasonable fear of becoming fat. Some of the symptoms of people with anorexia can be dizziness, heart problems, low blood pressure, low temperature and fainting spells. Anorexia can cause hair and fingernails to become brittle. Loss of hair on the head, dry skin, dehydration, and constipation are also symptoms of anorexia. People with anorexia experience anxiety, tiredness, and depression. Anorexia can also cause the growth of soft furry hair on face, back and arms, also known as lanugo. Since there is not enough estrogen to maintain the body's normal function, menstrual periods usually stop and bones become weal, leading to osteoporosis. The combination of osteoporosis and over exercising can lead to stress fractures. Another type of eating disorder is bulimia, a condition that makes girls resort to binge, or eat a lot of food out of control even if they are not hungry. Most people with bulimia often feel they have no control over their eating. After bingeing episode, people feel guilty and anxious that they desire to get rid of the food by self-induced vomiting or by exercising. People with bulimia may have unusual tendency to eat in private and hide what they eat from others or eat until they are uncomfortable and exhausted. Bulimia causes people to feel afraid or ashamed of themselves. People with bulimia may develop serious electrolyte problems, irregular menstrual periods, dehydration, swollen face, sore throat, tooth decay, dry and flaky skin, upset stomach, heartburn, constipation, depression, or weight fluctuations. Low potassium levels due to too much self-induced vomiting may lead to serious heart arrhythmias, or even death. Detecting bulimia may not be easy as someone can have a normal weight, but still suffer from the condition. Also, since they tend to be secretive about their eating habits, even their family and friends are not aware that they have a problem. Bulimia is a serious condition and can cause permanent damage to the teeth, stomach, digestive track, and heart. If you have eating disorder, the goal is to improve your body image and self-esteem. Try to address other emotional issues such as depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, or substance abuse. Discuss with your therapist feelings of sadness, anxiety, or anger with your therapist. Therapy greatly helps in providing the time and space where you can confidentially talk about your needs, your goals, and your understanding of the eating problem. Understanding attitudes and behaviors where teasing and harassment about weight and body shape are parts of the culture can help prevent eating disorders. You don't have to be resigned in accepting these unreasonable standards of body image but you have the option to go against the industry that conditioned your mind set about it and reverse the situation to your advantage and benefit. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/keeping-sexual-relationships-healthy-and-safe.html Getting involved in relationships with the opposite sex is part of growing up. Teenage girls and boys tend to think about what it means to be involved in a sexual relationship. There are many things to be taken into consideration before one should decide to have sex. There is the issue of morality which can make one feel guilty about premarital sex. Such guilt can play a major role in affecting one's emotional and psychological well-being, which usually leads to anxiety and depression. Health concerns are also on top of the agenda whenever a person decides to engage in a serious, intimate relationship. Sexual health is an important matter to think about since it is no longer safe to engage in unprotected sex. One must be aware that sexual relationships can expose people to the risk of getting sexually transmitted diseases (STD). No one can tell if a person is infected with STD. Even healthy-looking people can have the disease without them knowing it. Be sure that you and your partner are protected before engaging in any sexual activity. Unwanted pregnancy is also another consequence of sexual relationships which young people should think about. Many young people's future have been ruined by getting pregnant even when they are not yet emotionally and psychologically ready for the responsibility that teenage pregnancy entails. Even if you don't get pregnant or infected by STD, consider how you will feel if the relationship breaks up. Many young people are not comfortable talking to their parents about this situation. It is important that you have a trusted adult or health care provider with whom you can discuss all your concerns and worries. Times like these can be very confusing for most young people and having someone to talk to would do wonders to gain more clarity and objective advice about sexuality. Young people who make the decision to engage in any sexual activity should learn how to protect themselves aginst STD and prevent unwanted pregnancy. For contraception, there are various products out in the market that are effective in preventing pregnancy. Costs, methods of use, and level of protection against STD vary depending on the contraceptive. There are two popular types of contraception, namely: the use of birth control pills and the condom. Both contraceptives can protect against pregnancy and STD. Males use some types of contraception that are usually different from what females normally use. It is good to know all about the different types of female and male contraceptions if you are into a sexual relationship. Together, the involved partners should figure out the best choice for the two of them. The type of contraception can have an effect on the health of both people in the relationship. Only females can get pregnant, but both males and females can get STD. Sexual intercourse always increase the risk for unwanted pregnancy and STD. Practicing safe sex with only one partner who is uninfected and has no other sexual partners can greatly lower such risk. Birth control pills are small contraceptive tablets that usually contain two types of synthetic female hormones, the progestin and estrogen. This is called the "combination oral contraceptive". Estrogen and progesterone are produced by the ovaries. These hormones prevent pregnancy by suppressing the pituitary gland, which stops the development and the release of the egg in the ovary, called ovulation. The progestin hormone also helps to prevent the sperm from reaching the egg and changes the lining of the uterus. Birth control pills contain only one hormone called progestin and considered to be the "mini-Pill." This type of contraceptive works by suppressing ovulation and helping to prevent the male's sperm from reaching the egg. The combination pill is slightly more effective than the progestin-only pill. But there are some people whose bodies don't react well to the estrogen in the combined pill. It is better that they take the progestin-only pill to avoid any complications from side effects. The birth control pill is highly effective if you take the pill exactly as directed by your health care provider. The pill is to be taken once a day, at the same time everyday. Be sure to have back-up contraception such as condoms during the remainder of the pill cycle when diarrhea or vomiting occur, or when you are taking some other medication that could change the effectiveness of the birth control pills. Aside from preventing unwanted pregnancy, birth control pills have other medical benefits, such as easing menstrual cramps, regulating the menstrual cycle, reducing the amount and length of menstrual bleeding. Having a sexual relationship entails great responsibility, not only to yourself, but to your partner as well. Always remember to engage in safe sex. DrugstoreTM.com is a reputable online drug store. From sexual health to a woman's health, sleeping aids to weight loss pills, our online pharmacy offers convenient customer access to various health medicines, including an array of health product and medicare prescription drug. Buy Soma | Buy Tramadol http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Family/why-do-we-need-some-good-old-fashion-advice.html Problems are part of life that come in different shapes and sizes --- minor inconveniences to crisis situations that no one can even outrun or wish away. There is no other way to escape these trials of faith and sanity other that to face them head on. Among the difficulties faced by people everyday, none is so distressing and painful as a relationship problem. Often, these relationship squabbles cause so much stress and depression. The fight between couples can become so overblown that the only way for the fight to end is for a mediator to come in. Sometimes, a mediator is needed as a third party “referee” or “peacemaker.” The mediator is also expected to provide the feuding parties the necessary guidance and counseling. Still, many who are involved in a tussle refuse to acknowledge the need for counseling. Whether it is a married or engaged couple, siblings, or very close friends who suddenly became bitter enemies – the thought of seeking professional help just does not come to mind. Many are held back from asking for counseling due to the following reasons: l State of Denial – Angry people sometimes deny the existence of a problem. With stubborn pride, an angry person can just fume away and dismiss the need to control anger and resolve a problem by saying that, “...this too shall pass.” People can also camouflage or mask their vulnerabilities by refusing to seek help. They see counseling as a situation that will expose themselves for who they are --- warts and all. That kind of vulnerability is avoided at all costs and, as a result, people who need help enter into a state of denial. l Social Stigma – Most people have a misconception that only “crazy” or “insane” people go to therapy. This mindset prevents a lot of people from getting the help they need because they value more “what others think” about them rather than what they need emotionally and psychologically. They fail to see the value of professional counseling which is expected to be objective, scientific, and results-oriented. l Plain Fear – The fear of facing the truth and reliving painful experiences like sexual abuse, physical abuse, drug addiction, or trauma from violent incidents prevent people from coming to a counselor. Remembering painful memories are usually part of counseling sessions and therapy. These memories cause fear and anxiety on the part of the patient. But if a person in great stress or someone who is suffering from severe depression neglects to get proper therapy, it can be expected that the problem would get worse. Reopening a painful emotional wound is never pleasant but we will never be healed unless we learn to face and eventually cast away all painful memories of the past. Through counseling, people with serious problems can learn to adjust and cope with their present emotional and psychological struggles. l Religious Stigma - Some associate counseling with religion or dogmatic beliefs, making the act of getting counseling uncomfortable for those who are not religious or are not into spirituality. While so many people have found comfort and refuge in church-based counseling sessions, many are still wary of getting counseling there since they think they will have to become a member of the church. Some people are strong enough to face life's storms while others need to counseling to cope with problems. Either way, both take time and commitment so that one can see positive results, and hopefully, a resolution of problems that make life challenging. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Internet/why-web-based-faxing-is-better.html Jobs in the 21st century are so demanding that we cannot afford not to rely on modern office gadgets. These office equipment make our work less strenuous and time-consuming. Everyday, we rely on answering machines, cordless phones, and the computer to accomplish a multitude of tasks. Technologies and innovations have changed the way we work and do business. One of the most ubiquitous office equipment is the facsimile machine. In many companies today, faxing is still very much in use as a business communication method, In the past, the increased use of fax machines by business organizations have transformed the fax machine into an indispensable tool. This machine provides organizations the ability to send and receive documents almost instantly. The only drawback is that the ordinary fax machine does not ensure complete privacy in communication. Anyone from the office can gain access to the fax machine and send even unofficial documents. In addition, using the traditional faxing is expensive. The company always has to set aside a budget for fax paper, toner or ink cartridges. To thrive in today's highly competitive business organization, companies need to have a stable, reliable and fast communications platform to keep them on top of the game. One such platform is called the Internet Faxing. Some of the benefits of Internet Faxing include: · No unauthorized access to Internet faxing account. The system can only be activated by the account user and it is password protected. · Reduced possibility of human error that usually occurs. · Provides real-time fax receipt confirmation via email and prevents sending the fax to the wrong recipient. · Internet Faxing complies with legislative requirements for safeguarding personal information. Faxing had made it easy for any business organizations to transmit and receive information almost instantly. This is now the perfect time to try alternative means of securing your document and reduce operational cost. Furthermore, web-based faxing ensures fast and efficient delivery of messages any where you are around the globe. Another advantage of using web-based faxing instead of the traditional machine is that you don't need to configure it, download a software, or purchase additional hardware. There is also no need to put up an additional phone line. The Internet faxing service is available round-the-clock. The service is perfect for business people who frequently travel, allowing them to increase productivity without additional complexities. Web-based fax service is also useful to telecommuters and sales people who send enormous bulk of sales materials like brochures and sales letters. It is the practical solution to current sales, marketing, and communication needs. It does not require a person to have highly technical skills since the service was designed for laypeople and those who are always busy and need simple yet effective tools at their disposal. Indeed, Internet faxing is slowly transforming many companies in terms of business operations. These companies appreciate the benefits that come with this new technology because in business, time is of the essence. Multi-tasking is now the norm and any service such as the Internet faxing would surely allow the top executive and the rank-and-file employee to maintain their edge. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/testosterone-levels-sexual-performance-and-happy-marriages.html Many people consider sex as a vital component of a healthy marriage. The sexual act is not just for the purpose of satisfying one's libido. It is about effective communication and intimacy. Many wives claim that they often feel rejected when their husbands lack intimacy. Lack of intimacy in marriage often takes an emotional and physical toll on the husband and wife. Their sexual frustrations can also lead to stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. On the other hand, couples who engage in regular sexual activities have been reported to be much happier and closer as a marriage partners. Happiness expert Dr. Robert Holden says that, “...sexual intercourse is not just an act of lust or a biological need. Sex is a unique form of communication and intimacy.” According to Dr. Holden: “One of the big mistakes I think we make in relationships is that we don't give our best energy to the people that matter most.” He said that married partners should work hard to have a satisfying sex life along with the balance of a gratifying emotional connection. But why do some couples have trouble with their sex lives. According to marriage experts, sex problems are just normal. Some of the common sex problems couples may encounter are boredom, lack of intimacy, low sexual desire, and passionless sex. Another possible reason for sexual frustration may be due to the failure of the man to perform according to the expectations of the female partner. Low testosterone level is one reason why some men have poor sexual performance. Testosterone is a steroid hormone that is necessary for sperm production, development of the male reproductive system, enhanced libido and energy, and immune system function. In addition to its importance to sexual health, this hormone aids the development of many male characteristics like muscles, hair patterns, and voice modulation. Decreased testosterone production in men is a natural effect of aging. This decline in production may result in a low sex drive, constant tiredness, depression, and energy loss. Low levels of testosterone can also lead to sexual dysfunction, bone loss, muscle atrophy, and mood swings. There are different testosterone replacement options that may help many individuals keep normal testosterone levels in the bloodstream. These treatments are available in different dosages and may be administered via injections, patches, gels, and pills. Testosterone injections are usually done in the buttocks. Two popular injected testosterone products are testosterone cypionate and testosterone enanthate. The former is injected every three to four weeks while the latter is given every 4 weeks. Like many intramuscular injections, these injections may be painful and are usually administered by trained individuals at medical clinics. On the other hand, testosterone patches and gels, help maintain a constant level of sex hormones and are applied once on a daily basis. They are usually rubbed on clean, dry skin on the back, arms, abdomen, or thighs. These products are not designed to be applied directly to the genitals. Also, putting the patch or gel on broken, oily, or irritated skin should be avoided. Pills containing testosterone undecanoate is another way to boost testosterone levels in the bloodstream. Many testosterone pills are safe to use because they are made from natural ingredients. These pills should be swallowed entirely without chewing. Taking treatments for low testosterone levels should not be done without the prior advice of a health professional. Men are strongly advised to talk to doctors or other medical specialists and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of these low testosterone medications and treatments. Another focus of attention should be on maintaining a health lifestyle that includes eating good food, engaging in regular exercise, and having adequate sleep. Men should try to improve their sexual performance and communicate intimately with their female partners to nourish each others feelings. Improvement in sexual performance and frequent sex can deepen physical intimacy between married partners and strengthen their bond of love --- which is the real goal of sex in marriage. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/the-perfect-diet-anyone.html Just recently, a South American teenage model died of suspected malnutrition. That sad news topped the headlines and stunned the fashion industry. It happened just six months after her “size zero” sister starved herself to death on a diet of lettuce leaves and Diet Coke. Like her elder sister, preliminary indications suggest that she died suddenly of a heart attack, as a result of malnutrition. In response to these incidents, ultra-thin or size zero models were barred from participating in the Madrid Fashion Week 2006. Organizers of the fashion show for the Milan leg also followed suit. These tragic deaths sparked an international debate about the ethics of using models who have “size zero” measurements. Size zero, in metric terms, is having the following vital statistics: 31.5 inches in bust size; 23 inches in waistline; and 34 inches in hip measure. Zero size is indeed alarming of one goes by the standard measurements. The average waistline of an eight year-old Caucasian is about 22 inches, making the size zero waistline of 23 inches incredible and dangerous at the same time. These ultra skinny super models are idolized and imitated by thousands if not millions of women around the world. While not all of these super models starve themselves almost to the point of death, great care must be exercised in marketing their unique looks as the ideal for women to follow. One area of urgent action is the need to address myths and misconceptions about dieting. The proliferation of super model diets and other diet fads have left many women sick and unsightly. Many who were uninformed or ignorant about the science behind dieting have pursued their quest for physical perfection by following some supposedly “perfect diet program” that guarantees the attainment of a super model body. But is there really a perfect diet? By definition, a diet is something you undertake for weight loss. A diet will require you to alter your food choices and consumption. Most of the diets have either lots of fibers, or steamed vegetables, and very little or practically no room for carbohydrates. Although it might make you feel light, it certainly induces a series of side effects. These may vary from severe head aches, to black outs, to low mental balances to even desperate carbohydrate cravings --- to something as serious as heart failure and death. There are a lot of popular diet plans that currently being offered to weight-watchers and regular consumers. Research has shown that the majority of people who start on a diet plan tend to lose between 5 to 10% of their starting weight within 3 months of starting their plan. However, when the weight loss slows down, people tend to become disappointed with the slow progress of the plan and often abandon the diet and then regain the weight they had lost. No single diet will work perfectly for everyone, but there are diet plans that might suit an individual. The way to pick a diet program that is right for you is to find a plan that contains the food you like and the one that reflects your lifestyle. These diet plans should be accompanied by regular exercise and adequate rest and sleep. Everyone knows the keys to losing weight achieved through discipline and balance in all aspects of the diet and exercise program. It sounds simple enough, but in real life, losing those excess pounds can be very demanding on one's time and level of effort. Individual diet plans really depend on each person's health and weight loss goals. The best weight loss diet is one that will help you to eat less, eat healthy, and exercise more. The perfect diet should not end up in deprivation, starvation, or much worse, the loss of one's life. Losing the extra pounds and gaining more enjoyment in life are the real outcomes of a perfect diet. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/depression-flesh-and-blood-or-thoughts-and-emotions.html Is depression caused by external factors, or by our own mind and body? The answer may not be as simple as some would like to believe. The commonly held view is that depression is caused by negative events or circumstances that result in fear, sadness, apprehension, and worry. External factors such as gloomy weather, the six o'clock news, and even how one views society at large --- are also considered major sources of depression. Another school of thought in this issue about depression is rooted in biology and biochemistry. Going by this theory, depression is supposedly caused by chemical imbalances which, in turn, affect a person's psychological and emotional equilibrium. The discipline of psychology, however, takes a different tack by claiming that the chemical changes are effects of the psychological condition, not the other way around. There are reports and studies that show depression as being linked to a variety of chemical changes in the brain. Changes in the brain's chemical receptors have been mentioned as possible causes of depression. The same has been said of damage to the nerves and biochemical transmitters that do the gritty work of the central nervous system. Serotonin is usually mentioned, though other neural receptors have also been named by a variety of studies into the topic. Noradrenaline and dopamine levels have also been mentioned by some studies as being linked to depression. It is these drugs that most antidepressant medications are designed to target. The basic idea is that low levels of the aforementioned chemicals causes depression, so higher levels should be uplifting. While most cases of depression are treated successfully in this manner, there are still some issues to be resolved. The low levels may be indicative of another problem, rather than being the root of the problem itself. Psychology may be a major factor in depression, if not the root cause. Studies show that people who have suffered emotional or psychological trauma are more likely to develop depression later on in life. This is particularly true if the trauma occurred during the person's formative years, or was caused by a trusted figure in their life. Pessimism can also make it easier for a person to slide into depression, but most do not see it as a major factor. Anxiety disorders may also lead to depression, according to some studies. This stems from the negative self-perception that can be caused by anxiety disorders that cripple a person's ability to fulfill his perceived duties. These can include social anxiety and performance anxiety, among other types of anxiety disorders. As the negative self-perception sinks in, it begins to alter the person's view of reality. Eventually, as depression sets in, everything appears bleak and hopeless. For the time being, it is difficult to be sure whether depression is a mental condition or a biological one. There is ample evidence to show that there are factors on both sides of the argument. However, there is a lack of evidence to point to either side of the coin being the definitive answer. More research into the matter is going to be needed, especially since there are some unanswered questions about depression. For example, the fact that depression seems to manifest frequently in families suggest some sort of genetic connection. Also, if the state of mind does have an effect on depression, then would there be a statistical correlation between nihilism and depression? Clearly, there is still much to be discovered about this condition. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/the-psychological-fallout-of-acne.html Acne, whether the common teenage variety or the rarer adult variety, is one among several types of skin infections that could produce serious skin blemishes and aesthetically undesirable consequences. Aside from the obvious physical markings that come with the onset of the acne, there is also the possibility that the breakout would leave scars on the face. While only adult acne and a select few skin infections leave scars, these marks are often difficult and costly to remove. Facial scars due to acne can have serious mental and social implications. Acne and skin infections can have mental health side effects that can be more serious than the infection itself since skin problems often have an effect on a person's self-esteem. A temporary bout of social anxiety is common among people who suffer from acne. Since most people view the skin as a visual indication of a person's physical well-being and hygiene, blemishes can often be perceived quite negatively. People can interpret the acne as signs of poor hygiene or physical health, as well as being possible signs of unhealthy dietary choices. Some people to slowly avoid people with acne, especially in communities or groups where physical attractiveness and “sameness” are critical to social survival, a situation found in a typical high school campus. This detachment, along with the acne patient's own perception – one that is all too often affected by outside influences – can result in social withdrawal. The acne sufferer's withdrawal and sense of being socially unacceptable can even worsen and lead to an onset of social anxiety in some cases. Another potential problem brought about by acne is status anxiety. As previously stated, some communities embrace a culture of “sameness” that causes members to subconsciously ostracize those who are perceived to be “different.” While extreme in interpretation, people with acne are often seen to be among those who are “different.” But for the popular, high-ranking members of society, any sign of skin imperfection can even cause status anxiety. Modern society often puts pressure on people to either retain their status or improve it, which is among the leading causes of stress and anxiety in people. This pressure is an underlying force behind social interactions with one's perceived peers and superiors, but can come into the foreground with the onset of acne. As acne becomes manifest, concern over one's physical appearance as a factor in one's social standing grows. Once a certain point, which is different for each person, has been reached, status anxiety sets in as the person becomes increasingly worried about how the “infection” will affect his status within his social circle. Perhaps among the more drastic effects of acne on the human psyche would be depression, though this is arguably more like a side effect of the previously mentioned issues. Typically, depression makes itself manifest if the acne has been prevalent for a prolonged period. As the social isolation continues, the patient also loses more and more confidence in his social skills and standing. This social anxiety, combined with worries over the perceived decline in his standing among his peers, can often make the situation seem hopeless for a person. The state of depression, which may only be perception and not an accurate reflection of the situation, can have dangerous consequences on a person's mental health. The possible psychological fallout caused by prolonged depression can easily outlast even the worst acne outbreak, with the possibility of becoming worse if the patient develops acne again later in life. The potential psychological fallout caused by acne should be a major concern for anyone who is fighting acne. As such, acne should be taken seriously and treated properly from the start. If over the counter medications are failing to alleviate the problem, then consult a professional for advice. Be sure to follow the instructions given for the acne medication, whether this is over-the-counter or prescribed, to minimize the chances of side effects occurring. While prescription acne treatments and acne scar removal surgery might seem expensive, they can prove to be worthwhile long-term investments when compared with the costs of therapy and anti-depressants. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/alternative-ways-to-fight-stress.html Stress relief is something that everybody needs to get regularly, no matter how much they complain that they don't have the time. Especially if they complain that they don't have the time! There are a thousand and one ways to get stress relief, with some of them being considered to be “tried and true” methods. However, there are some problems with these old methods, particularly because the old methods may or may not work that well with people who have “new” mindsets. While making someone listen to Mozart may not be a cause for complaint, it may not work that well in relieving his stress either, particularly if classical music isn't really suited to his tastes. For people with that sort of personality, perhaps the best stress relief is one that might be considered a little...unconventional. There are, of course, “conventional” stress relief techniques. These are the ones that people have used for centuries on end, and will likely outlast even the societal factors causing the stress and anxiety in the first place. These methods include the aforementioned music, though some more modern genres are better at causing stress and anxiety, rather than relieving them. Another typically suggested one would be exercise, which not only serves as good stress relief, but also has a few other benefits on a person's physical well-being. Some types of tea, with jasmine, oolong, and green tea being most commonly mentioned, are also said to be a good way of achieving stress relief, as they calm both the mind and body. However, as previously stated, these may not work on some people. So, what are the unconventional methods of stress relief? Well, chief among them is physical violence. Sometimes, the best way to let go of all your stress and anxiety is to hit something --- and hitting it over and over again, if necessary. This does not mean that you should go around hitting people at the slightest sign of frustration. This is often suggested as a means of finding release from one's negative emotions, letting go of the stress they cause at the same time. Since it would be unwise and potentially problematic to lash out against people, it is best to lash out against objects such as pillows, stress balls, and the occasional lump of clay. Items such as these can take a tremendous amount of punishment, allowing someone with a lot of stress and anxiety to work through his problems physically, without risking harm to himself or anyone else. Another alternative comes from the advent of modern Internet technology and trends: blogging. Blogging, which is basically a journal or diary that is available on the Internet for the general public to read, can really help someone with stress relief in the workplace. It allows a degree of anonymity that can't be found anywhere else, giving the person the freedom to write whatever comes to mind, even if what comes to mind happens to be criticisms of management's latest blunder or your direct supervisor's tendency to show off his incompetence. An added benefit is that the blogger can look back into his past entries and hopefully be able to do a little self-analysis at a later date. The final unconventional method of stress relief is derived from the German word schadenfreude, which means “happiness at the misery of others.” The final oddball stress relief method is to watch reality TV. It doesn't particularly matter what show you watch, as long as someone's being made miserable or there's some serious drama going on. How many of us have had a horrible day, only to feel just a bit better after watching Simon Cowell rip into some aspiring recording artist on “American Idol”? Watching that poor contestant get his hopes and dreams dashed, in a sadistic manner, uplifts your own mood and makes your day just a little bit better. Some people listen to the police frequency of the radio for the same reason. Hearing about other people's dismal lives makes their own lives seem better by comparison. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/ayurveda-alternative-medicine-from-india.html For the past few decades, the field of medicine has been largely influenced by the medical philosophy of the Western world. The emphasis of Western medicine has been predominately curative, relying on chemical preparations and invasive surgery as means of treatment. In contrast, Eastern medical and therapeutic philosophy focuses on the more metaphysical side of human illness and treatment. Its practice is hinged on the use of a variety of methods ranging from the use of medicinal plants and herb, massage, acupuncture, aromatherapy, pulse reading, and other alternative healing methods. These methods are now gaining acceptance even in modern societies, in a large measure, due to the increased awareness about the healing arts of China and India. There are volumes of literature on traditional Chinese medicine. But what also deserves wide recognition is the folk remedies and traditional practices in India which are also ancient and effective, at least, according to those who have tried them. Ayurveda, a healing system native to India, is a centuries-old practice that has recently been given attention by Western science. Like traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda practitioners adhere to a particular medical philosophy that regards illness as an imbalance in the body and influenced by internal and external factors, similar to the Chinese principles of yin and yang. Ayurveda also takes into consideration a patient's emotions and state of mind alongside the study of infections that make the body sick. It places a high importance on the patient’s sense of taste and diet. In Ayurveda, it is believed that the healing of a person must take into consideration three elements found in nature: air, water, and fire. Each of these elements has a deep philosophical background. These elements also govern the major functions of the body. Ayurvedic theory rests on the belief that the balance of the three elements is the basis of health. Any imbalance, blockage, or weakening in these elements causes illness. It is the task of the Ayurveda practitioner to determine and restore the patient’s elemental harmony. In other words, an infection or ailment is the result of an imbalance in the patient's natural internal or elemental harmony. These imbalances can be caused by internal or external factors, and may be aggravated or alleviated by the patient's emotional state and, in some cases, mental health. The primary concept of Ayurveda is that the restoration of imbalances in the body requires a very personalized concept. Treatment can involve the use of natural oils, minerals, herbs, metals, and even animal ingredients. Similar to how herbal medications are administered in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurveda medications are given base formulas that are modified by the physician according to the patient's needs. This process makes getting a treatment for an infection different from Western medicine, where the formulas are constant and only the dose is altered based on the patient's metabolism and constitution. As mentioned earlier, diet and taste play a central role in Ayurveda. However, unlike Chinese medicinal doctrine, the taste and quality of the food plays a much larger role in traditional Indian healing arts. Different tastes correspond to different conditions in the body. These tastes are taken into account by an Ayurveda physician before prescribing an appropriate treatment. For example, food with a bitter taste is generally considered to cool the body, dry out moisture, and work to remove toxins. This concept also extends to the herbal and animal ingredients that are used in Ayurveda medication. Ayurveda also prescribes a particular form of massage known as “Panchakarma” for the treatment of emotional distress. This practice is highly similar to acupuncture except that no needles are used. The strokes, presses, and body manipulations used in Panchakarma supposedly stimulates energy flow throughout the body, a process that is necessary to ensure good health. Problems arise when the energy flow is disrupted, clogged, or stalled. Massage is often prescribed in conjunction with a diet plan and herbal remedies to relieve problems such as sinusitis, conditions associated with stress and anxiety, and other problems that Ayurveda practitioners see as symptoms of emotional disharmony rather than just purely physical ailments. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/stress-anxiety-and-insomnia-among-children-with-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder.html Tyler, a five-year old boy was nicknamed “Twister Tyler” after being diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) about four months ago. He is currently enrolled in a special education (SPED) school to accommodate his academic and social needs. During the initial pre-enrollment interview, Tyler's mother said that her son used to study in a regular school but had to be transferred after the teachers complained about the boy's disturbing behavior in the classroom. She said that the teachers found it hard to control Tyler every time he would roam around the classroom and grab his classmates' belongings. She added that her son found it hard to pay attention during class and did not participate in group activities. At home, Tyler would leave his toys all over the house and climb over furniture and other high places. Even at a young age, Tyler's mother already knew that her son was a handful, unlike other children his age. After careful consideration, she decided to seek a doctor's opinion and found out about her son's condition. ADHD is still a relatively new condition that has yet to be understood by the public. While a number of professionals have guested in health-related television shows to explain ADHD, many are still clueless about the nature, symptoms, and possible treatments for this condition. Those who are uninformed about the true nature of ADHD often unknowingly label children with this condition as being simply “hyperactive.” Others are even considered as “abnormal children.” Parents who suspect that their children might be positive for ADHD should strongly consider having them examined by a specialist. Diagnosis of ADHD can only be made by doctors who have thorough knowledge of this condition. These parameters are usually used by doctors to determine if a child is ADHD-positive: l A child exhibits behaviors common among those with ADHD; l A child exhibits disturbing or hyperactive behavior that is uncommon in other children of the same age; and l A child exhibits disturbing or hyperactive behavior for more that six months. Parents must exert efforts to understand ADHD and should avoid labeling a child without proper evaluation by a doctor. Labeling will just create a stigma on children which will cause a wrong concept of themselves. It is sometimes difficult to properly diagnose children as having ADHD since a lot of other conditions also exhibit the same symptoms. Symptoms of ADHD include inability or difficulty paying attention and sustaining attention, difficulty remaining seated and constantly fidgeting, and problems with interrupting and waiting for turns. These symptoms are also exhibited by children who suffer from stress and depression and those with behavioral problems. It is therefore necessary to exhaust all possible information about the child and his behaviors through evaluations and interviews before making a valid diagnosis. A lot of parents, mostly those who have children with ADHD, often wonder how their kids acquired the condition. Based on recent studies done by Dr. Joseph Beiderman, Dr. Dennis Cantwell and Dr. Florence Levy, heredity plays a major role in developing ADHD. Other studies also show that infant exposure to toxic substances such as nicotine and alcohol and injury to the brain, especially the frontal lobe, from trauma or tumors can also lead to kids having ADHD. Hyperactivity is one of the most noticeable characteristics of children with ADHD. It is said that this behavior results from a problem in an executive function of their brain. This executive function is identified as response or behavior inhibition. Because of their difficulty in inhibition, their sleep behaviors are affected. Moreover, children with ADHD are sometimes prescribed medications containing stimulants which also prevent them from being able to sleep. A lot of these kids with this condition, thus, are susceptible to having insomnia. Like most people who suffer from insomnia, children with sleeping disorders also exhibit anxiety as a result of their lack of rest. Their mood and performance in school are most affected by this problem. When a child with ADHD is suspected to be having problems with sleeping, it is best to consult a doctor immediately. The doctor may prescribe medications to address this problem and determine what other management can be provided. It will also be helpful to teach the child relaxation techniques and proper sleeping habits such as avoiding rigorous activities before sleep. The importance of ADHD awareness and its accompanying complications should be emphasized not only to those afflicted with the condition but to parents and other individuals concerned. Awareness leads to the proper management of the condition and appropriate response to the situation. Forcing a child with ADHD to sit quietly for hours in class, expecting them to perform or behave like most children their age and reprimanding them constantly because of their peculiarities will only lead to a feeling of stress and anxiety. With all the compounding problems that children with ADHD already suffer, the least thing people could do to help is to avoid adding up unnecessary and inappropriate demands. Through proper treatment and appropriate management, sleeping problems, anxiety and stress that result from or relate to ADHD can be lessened or prevented. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/the-first-day-is-always-the-hardest.html You probably know the feeling by now. Your hands are clammy and you can't quite figure out why you're unable to stop them from shaking. You're not the least bit cold, but you feel like you should be wearing winter gear. You're terrified of that shadow that seems to constantly loom over your shoulder. You feel anxiety at what you're doing, even though you're well aware of your qualifications and you know you can do the job better than anyone else on the production floor. You know this is something well within the scope of your skills, but you can't help but be terrified of the prospect of your shift starting. After all, the first day is always the hardest. The first day on a new job is always going to be a source of anxiety for an employee. There are the co-workers you have to get to know and adjust to. There are the rules and regulations of the company that you have to know, along with the unwritten conventions among the employees. In some cases, you might feel anxiety because of the intimidating nature of that supervisor who doesn't seem to do anything but walk around the office and look over his employees' shoulders. Feeling anxiety during the first day of a new job is perfectly understandable. There are things that you have to adjust to and things you have to learn. The anxiety sets in because the workplace and the nature of the job are both unfamiliar territory. You're also not entirely sure how well you're going to mesh with your co-workers and your direct supervisors, which can ultimately have an effect on how well you do your job. However, the trick here is not to let that anxiety sink in so much that you can't let it go. It is perfectly understandable to spend a few days, maybe even a month for some people, to get acclimatized to how things work in your new office. Of course, the nature of the job often defines how fast a new worker can adjust. Even if you move to a job that basically the same thing as your old one, you'd still need to learn about procedures in the new company. You'd have to study the way things are done and get a feel for the various specifics of the job. To give an example, selling cars is a completely different compared to selling insurance. Aside from the mechanics of the job, you also have to get used to how the interpersonal relationships in the office work. Every office has employees that form groups and cliques. You'll have to learn to get along with your co-workers while you're at the work place, as well as find a clique where you can fit in well. You also have to learn with the office politics, which can have an effect on your personal relationships with your co-workers even if you don't participate in it. You also have to learn how to handle co-workers that you don't get along with, without causing unwanted conflict. The first day is always the hardest regardless of the place or type of job you have. There are so many things you have to adjust to and so many things to learn. However, despite whatever fear and anxiety you might have during that first day, you can always find ways to overcome the “first day jitters.” http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/cooking/cooking-up-stress-and-anxiety.html Gone are the days when people think of cooking as a task that should be done “only by women.” In the past, women were traditionally relied upon to cook the meals for the family, do the dishes and clean the house, and be in-charge of just about every domestic task there is. But times have changed and women now play very different roles in society unlike what women of the previous decades were accustomed to. This change in gender roles has affected both women and men --- especially in terms of taking the lead kitchen. Today, both men and women now appreciate the art of cooking. People with exceptional culinary skills are highly compensated. For that reason, it is no wonder that the stress that used to part and parcel of cooking is now experienced by both men and women. Food, after all, is about pleasing the senses of people who partake of one's kitchen creations. Cooking and stress are not often associated with each other. The word “cooking” easily connotes gustatory pleasures and not stress which is often linked to one's work at the office or to problems at home. But it should not be a surprise to know that stress and anxiety now affect the men and women who do the cooking as much as the salesman who tries to meet his daily quotas or the manager who faces enormous organizational challenges. In restaurants, for example, there are now more male cooks or chefs. These kitchen experts follow a so-called “chef's ladder” that defines the rankings and specific tasks of each person in the kitchen. There is the head chef or “Chef de Cuisine” who visualizes the dishes in accordance with the restaurant concept of dining. Next would be the Executive Chef, who actually runs the whole kitchen, manage the costs, hire and fire staff, revamp the menu, do certain administrative tasks. Under them would be the Sous Chef who make the daily specials, takes inventory, watches over the staff, and does the hands-on work in the kitchen. Also called the “Expediter”, the Sous Chef makes sure that the food gets to the table in a timely manner, a task that requires coordination and time management. With the same level as the sous chef, the pastry chef is in-charge of the pastry section of the restaurant. Mostly women reserved for women, this job requires preparation of chocolates, souffles, and sweet pastries. Under these chefs would be the line cooks who are the ones who actually cook the food. The line cooks are divided according to certain cooking specialty. Another key member of the kitchen is the Chef de Garde Manger who manages the cold food section that includes the salads and desserts. If you have watched an episode of the t.v. cooking show, Iron chef, you would probably know how stressful it is to work as a chef or a line cook. In that show, the cameras usually show the stress and anxiety in the chef's faces as they try to prepare a certain number of meals under time pressure. Anxiety is also seen on the chef's faces when the judges are tasting their dishes. In another popular reality-based television show called Hell's Kitchen, several people enter as contestants in a game that is supposed to select the next “big chef” in town. Being a reality show, Hell's Kitchen often shows the stress and anxiety on the faces of the contestants while the host shouts and gets mad at them for not doing certain things right in the kitchen. Anxiety grips each contestant as they try to battle out to win the throne of being the next best chef. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Family/motherhood-a-time-of-excitement-and-preparation.html “We know that birth takes a woman from one place in her life to another. The birth of a child certainly does change her viewpoint of herself and I believe her viewpoint of the world.” - Sameerah Shareef You made it through your wedding and that honeymoon in the Bahamas. But just when you thought you were already in the middle of the best years of your life --- you get the news that you're pregnant! For your, this is surely the very highlight of your married life. The love you have for one another has now come to fruition right in your own womb. But soon enough, you learn that pregnancy is not all about celebration and anticipation....it can also be a time of physical and emotional strain. For the first time, you get to experience morning sickness and all the discomfort, nausea, and vomiting that it entails. The sickness can start just before you miss your first period and it is caused by the sudden increase in hormones during pregnancy. Pregnancy is also a time for learning, not only for the mom but for the dad as well. Any expecting couple should know that conception takes place in three basic stages: ovulation, fertilization, and the division of the fertilized egg. Fertility varies significantly between couples, as it can take one couple only a few weeks before the woman conceives, while with others have to wait many years before they have a child. There are several factors that may delay conception which may include drinking, smoking, taking certain kinds of medications, obesity, drug use and exposure to heat and chemicals among others. Morning sickness is also very common but is usually gone by the second trimester. Aside from morning sickness, a pregnant woman should also expect to feel fatigue, swelling of the breasts, increased sensitivity to odors, frequent urination, and abdominal bloating. To help you have a safe pregnancy, you may want to consider the following tips: l Avoid foods with smells that bother you l Eat a lot of carbohydrates like rice l Try gelatin desserts, sugared decaffeinated or herbal teas l Avoid rich fatty foods l Fruit is better at preventing nausea than sweeter snacks l Ginger was proven to be safe to use and help relieve sickness l Keep dry crackers by your bed and eat or two before getting up in the morning l Don't let your stomach remain empty for more than a couple of hours l Trying acupressure l Take vitamins prescribed by the doctor Carrying a baby should be the most amazing event in your life. Taking care of yourself should be top priority which means you always need to get a health check-up. Regular visits to your doctor will help ensure the progress of your pregnancy. Eat a well-balanced diet as you are now “eating for two.” Take folic acid and ample amounts of vitamin B-12, which is found in fish,milk, eggs, and meat. Being pregnant is a wonderful event and will affect your body for 9 months. Having a baby doesn't mean you have to give up a lot of enjoyable activities. Make sure you get the proper prenatal care and it is also alright to do light exercising during your pregnancy. Adapt a relaxation technique that will allow you to be more prepared especially for the labor. As your baby grows. Take time to pamper yourself and bond more with your husband. Better yet, get beautiful maternity clothes that enhance your appearance. Having a baby doesn't meant you should stopped paying attention to yourself and while you're in such a stage, explain to your husband that is part of being pregnant that sometimes you have mixed emotions. Although, your husband might not share with you the pains of having a baby. He may understand your emotions and give the loving support you need. After all, a happy Mom is also a happy baby. Celebrate motherhood while it lasts. It is really something to look forward too. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Family/our-personal-heroine-at-home.html The household heroine. No matter what time you need her, she is there for you just like any local hero --- only a scream or yell away. She may not be able to leap the tallest buildings but her heart and care can stretch beyond the horizon's reach. Faster than the speeding bullet? Nope, she can't do that. But certainly, her ability to protect and guard you is better than any refuge or security system known to man. She does every chore with all finesse and gusto, better than your comic book hero's ability to clean up the mess he makes after trouncing a menacing foe. But like any other hero we know, she also craves for a little recognition for all the efforts she has exerted. All too often, she just has too make do with little acts of fleeting appreciation. No need to browse your hero directory for there is no entry for Mom, Mommy or Mama --- every child's hero. Aside from these apparent obligations that she continuously and willingly fulfills, one characteristic that puts her in the hero category is her ability to heal. Step aside Wolverine, for your power to regenerate has use only for yourself. Unlike her, she has the ability to heal others. Children, from infancy to adolescence, rely on the unique healing ability that is present in all mothers. According to studies, a child's overwhelming emotion – like fear, worry, or apprehension – or clinically termed as child anxiety, is no match for a mother's caring touch. Scientifically proven, a mother's touch can help bring relief to a child suffering from illness. Other studies show that a mother's touch can help calm an infant that suffers from child anxiety. The bond between mother and child is the means through which relaxation is achieved. The reassuring touches, the patting and carrying of a child --- all these acts like natural anxiety relief for a suffering child. It is also astonishing how a mother's cuddle and caress helps prevent a child from experiencing more emotional pains and struggles. This all-natural anxiety relief has been proven time and time again as medical experts in child psychology pointed that further agitation by a child's emotion can be addressed by a simple “loving touch.” Experts, however, don't necessarily mean that we must forsake medical attention in lieu of this “motherly” wonder. Mothers also use their loving touch as artillery in waging war against depression. Whenever a child feels down and alone – a mother's care is enough to lift his spirit - an anxiety relief like no other. Child anxiety - or any problem that could put her family in peril – is not a big problem to her as she continuously strives to provide care and protection, with all her might, to secure that her home is a “safer place.” So no matter what costume mothers use, cooking apron or scrub suit... not matter what special gadgets they use --- a dusty broom or stealthy knife...our mothers too need a little energy boost from the person they rescue everyday --- You. A simple kiss or hug could dispel all problems and cares. Mothers, no matter how invincible and undaunted they may appear, are still humans and have their respective limitations. They get tired and occasionally exceed their temper limit. They, too, need some saving one time or another. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/music/stand-up-for-love-destinys-help.html “And how can I pretend that I don't know what's going on... when every minute, every minute another soul is gone.” Sounds familiar? This is an excerpt from the lyrics of a Destiny's Child's song entitled “Stand up for Love.” The song was released under Columbia records last 2005. This inspiring and empowering pop music got hyped up due to its message that was used in the wake of one of America's worst calamity, Hurricane Katrina. Stand Up For Love, written by David Foster, became popular with its positive and engaging message that managed to instill a sense of cooperation and patriotism among the American people. It has somehow relieved the Americans from the stress and anxiety that was brought by the calamity. Anxiety, which is described as an overwhelming fear, apprehension, and worry --- has struck many Americans. Those who felt agitation did not only include residents from New Orleans who were hardest hit by Katrina. Even those miles away from the calamity zone felt great unease about the apparent lack of preparation of local and federal agencies to manage such a large-scale disaster. One can just imagine the tremendous undertaking every person has go into just to avert the adverse effects of this typhoon. Hurricane Katrina, which was considered as one of the deadliest tempests to hit America, destroyed 81 billion dollars worth of property and claimed 1,836 lives. Hurricane Katrina caused panic or anxiety attacks as people tried to flee the calamity area. The lack of safe shelter made their worries grow stronger. People were emotionally, physically, financially, and spiritually shattered by the storm. At the lowest point of their lives, the victims of Hurricane Katrina found a new sense of hope through the song Stand Up For Love. With the positive and mind-awakening lyrics, the song, not only rose to the top of the pop charts but also catapulted the morale of New Orleans. Instead of wallowing in their grief, the people of New Orleans reinforced their hopes by standing up and moving to rebuild their town. Some would even dare say that the very sound of Destiny's Child's phenomenal song somewhat acted as anxiety relief to those who lost almost everything to Hurricane Katrina. Unlike any costly and short-range effects of the usual anxiety relief medication, the song was able to powerfully yet subtly influence people all across America to take part in the massive relief efforts. Aside from the picturesque beauty of the female trio, the Stand Up For Love video shows clips of Hurricane Katrina's destructive effects on people from different walks of life. Compelling as it was presented, the music video, didn't only showcase the beauty of the song but the reality and benefits of helping one another in times of national emergency. Indeed, the music played an important role in alleviating the pain and restoring the positive mindset of the people – which is anxiety relief on a massive scale. The song was actually used again to celebrate the 2005 World' Children's Day. Therefore, though the song did not actually reign supreme in the music charts, it has undeniably made a positive impact in New Orleans and in other parts of America. The soothing melody and musicality of the song to be highly commended. The lyrics were also magnificently crafted, “making waves” that touched the heart of the American people. http://www.articlearmies.com/articles/Health/separation-anxiety-is-a-psychological-disorder-that-results-in-someone-obsessively-fearing-the-possibility-of-losing-someone-important-statistically-separation-anxiety-is-often-connected-to-more-serious-problems-such-as-bipolar-disorder.html It is natural for human beings to dislike the notion of being separated from someone they care about, or feel connected to in some way. The idea of no longer having significant contact, particularly physical contact, with someone that has become a “part of our life,” as some might say, often results in some unpleasant emotional reactions. This negative emotional response prompts us to attempt to avoid such thoughts and possibilities whenever we can, as a means of preventing or escaping the associated discomfort. However, for some people, the idea of losing someone they care about takes on the form of a near-constant obsession. This condition, known as separation anxiety, is a complex psychological matter. People who have separation anxiety still feel the usual dislike and discomfort when considering the potential l