18 MAY 2014
IS DEPRESSION DIFFERENT FOR MEN?
Millions of men suffer from depression but are far less likely to seek help and are unlikely to admit they are depressed. So how does one look out for signs of depression in this group? Sometimes the conventional symptoms of depression such as low self-worth/not being able to get out of bed etc may not feature largely in the account men give of their depressed mood. However, as men may have greater problems describing their moods and emotions it is less likely that they will link tiredness, sleeping problems, loss of interest in hobbies and anger outbursts to being depressed. It is not a coincidence that men struggling with road rage or experiencing anger with different situations in traffic often have been asked by their GP to see a psychologist to understand their depression or anxiety that can lower frustration tolerance leading to several consequences for them
The use of drugs and alcohol is higher in men who may self-medicate or over work to mask the signs of depression. Depression can link to problems at work, relationships, and can lead to other negative psychological consequences.
Research indicates that the men who may require mental-health services most are the least interested in seeking this help.
Psychologists are experienced at being sensitive to depression danger signs for men that are different than those for women. As mental health providers we try and steer men towards seeking treatment and help to explore their greater discomfort with emotional discussions, risk of abusive anger, substance abuse, and relationship issues.
There is strong evidence that meetings or consultations with a mental health professional can help men with strategies and goals to overcome depression.
18 MAY 2014
BABIES AND MASSAGE: HOW CAN THEY BENEFIT FROM IT?
Massage therapy has been used for generations in several cultures to improve physical and emotional well being. Developmental research supports that human babies benefit enormously from touch therapies. In fact, premature babies (born before 37 weeks) show greater improvements in their infant development after massage therapy.
Massage therapy has since been shown to help with a variety of conditions. Interestingly, mammals such as rats, also demonstrate improvements from massage therapy. Overall, there is evidence that our sense of touch is a very important component for mammals to develop.
Neonatal intensive care units across several western countries recommend massage therapy for babies.
Massage therapy is simple, easy to give, and a much loved way to connect to your baby. In terms of saving costs- it can be very affordable and you can learn to do it yourself. Touch therapy can help bond and connect to your baby and is a fun way to include actions and activity that helps your baby with cognitive and motor skill development.
