Helpguide.org

Relationship Help

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 08:05:00 PST

Relationships are an investment. The more you put in, the more you can get back. These tips can help keep a healthy relationship strong, or repair trust and love in a relationship on the rocks. Read more

How To Find Lasting Love

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 08:05:00 PST

For many of us, finding someone we want to share our life with can seem like an impossible task. But don't despair. Even if you have a history of relationships that don't last or are burned out by traditional dating, you can still learn how to find lasting love. Read more

Feeling Loved: Finding Emotional Fulfillment in a Disconnected World

Thu, 10 Jan 2013 08:05:00 PST

Though our lives are filled with more technology, entertainment, and connectivity than ever before, some of us still feel empty and lonely. Something is missing. It's hard to put a finger on it, but for many of us, this missing something is the safety, understanding, and the support we get from feeling loved. Read more

Bring Your Life Into Balance Toolkit

Mon, 7 Jan 2013 08:05:00 PST

Stress or mood swings rock everyone's balance from time to time. However, when too much stress, anxiety, depression, or worry interfere with your health, career or personal relationships, it's time to make a change. No matter how difficult things seem, by learning to harness overwhelming stress and gain emotional awareness, you can bring yourself into balance and have a more positive effect on those around you. Read more

Improving Emotional Health

Mon, 7 Jan 2013 08:05:00 PST

Just as it requires effort to build or maintain physical health, so it is with mental and emotional health. Improving your emotional health can be a rewarding experience, benefiting all aspects of your life, including boosting your mood, building resilience, and adding to your overall enjoyment of life. Read more

Emotional Intelligence

Mon, 7 Jan 2013 08:05:00 PST

Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the ability to identify, use, understand, and manage emotions in positive ways to relieve stress, communicate effectively, empathize with others, overcome challenges, and defuse conflict. Learn about the skills that can help you raise yours. Read more

Internet and Computer Addiction

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

While time spent online can be hugely productive, compulsive Internet use can interfere with daily life, work, and relationships. Learn about the signs and symptoms of Internet addiction and how to balance your life online and off. Read more

How to Quit Smoking

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

Whether you're a teen smoker or a lifetime pack-a-day smoker, quitting can be tough. With the right game plan tailored to your needs, you can replace your smoking habits, manage your cravings, and join the millions of people who have kicked the habit for good. Read more

Why is Breaking Free of Addiction so Tough?

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

The word "addiction" is derived from a Latin term for "enslaved by" or "bound to." Anyone who has struggled to overcome an addiction, or has tried to help someone else to do so, understands why. Learn why breaking free can require more than willpower alone. Read more

Are You Almost Alcoholic?

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

There are also a large number of people who don't meet the accepted criteria for diagnosing alcoholism, but fall into a grey area of problem drinking. These are the almost alcoholic. Read more

Dealing with Depression

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

While overcoming depression isn't quick or easy, it's far from impossible. You can't beat it through sheer willpower, but you do have some control, even if your depression is severe and stubbornly persistent. Read more

Supporting a Grieving Person

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

It's often hard to know what to say or do when someone you care about is grieving. You may be afraid of intruding, saying the wrong thing, or making the person feel even worse. There are many ways to help a grieving friend or family member, starting with letting the person know you care. Read more

Coping with Grief and Loss

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

Losing someone or something you love or care deeply about is very painful. You may experience all kinds of difficult emotions and it may feel like the pain and sadness you're experiencing will never let up. These are normal reactions to a significant loss. Read more

Healing Emotional and Psychological Trauma

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

If you've gone through a traumatic experience, you may be struggling with upsetting emotions, frightening memories, or a sense of constant danger. Or you may feel numb, disconnected, and unable to trust other people. But, with the right treatment, self-help strategies, and support, you can speed your recovery. Read more

Coping with Traumatic Stress: Emotional Recovery After a Disaster

Tue, 18 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

Natural disasters and other catastrophic events, such as motor vehicle accidents, plane crashes, nuclear meltdowns, and terrorist attacks, are extraordinarily stressful, both to survivors and observers. Whether or not you were directly impacted by the traumatic event, it's normal to feel anxious, scared, and uncertain about what the future may bring. Read more

Drug Abuse and Addiction: Signs, Symptoms and Help for Drug Problems and Substance Abuse

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

Some people are able to use recreational or prescription drugs without ever experiencing negative consequences or addiction. If you're worried about your own or a friend or family member's drug use, it's important to know that help is available. Read more

Overcoming Drug Addiction: Drug Abuse Treatment, Recovery, and Help

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

When you're struggling with drug addiction, sobriety can seem like an impossible goal. Don't give up, even if you've tried and failed before. The road to recovery often involves bumps, pitfalls, and setbacks, but by examining the problem and thinking about change, you're already on your way. Read more

Substance Abuse & Mental Health: Substance Abuse and Co-Occurring Disorders

Wed, 12 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

When you have both a substance abuse problem and a mental health issue such as depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety, it is called a co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis. With proper treatment, support, and self-help strategies, you can overcome a dual diagnosis and reclaim your life. Read more

Gambling Addiction and Problem Gambling

Thu, 6 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

Whether you bet on sports, scratch cards, roulette, poker, or slots; in a casino or online; problem gambling can strain relationships, interfere with work, and lead to financial catastrophe. You may think you can't stop but, with the right help, you can overcome a gambling problem or addiction and regain control of your life. Read more

Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse

Thu, 6 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

Alcoholism and alcohol abuse can sneak up on you, so it's important to be aware of the warning signs and take steps to cut back if you recognize them. Understanding the problem is the first step to overcoming it. Read more

Alcohol Addiction Treatment & Self-Help

Thu, 6 Dec 2012 08:05:00 PST

Overcoming an addiction to alcohol can be a long and bumpy road. At times, it may even feel impossible. But it's not. You don't have to wait until you hit rock bottom; you can make a change at any time. Read to get started on the road to recovery today. Read more

Senior Nutrition & Diet Tips

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 08:05:00 PST

For older adults, the benefits of healthy eating include increased mental acuteness, resistance to illness and disease, higher energy levels, faster recuperation times, and better management of chronic health problems. But healthy eating doesn't have to be about dieting and sacrifice. Eating well as an older adult is all about fresh, colorful food, creativity in the kitchen, and eating with friends. Read more

Support for Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregivers

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 08:05:00 PST

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease impacts every aspect of your daily life. As Alzheimer's patients lose one ability after another, you face tests of stamina, problem-solving, and resiliency. Maintaining your emotional and physical fitness is crucial. Read more

Is it Alzheimer's or Another Dementia?

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 08:05:00 PST

For physicians and families intent on pinning down a diagnosis, one major complicating factor is the existence of so many kinds of dementia. More than 50 conditions can mimic or cause dementia. Read more

Alzheimer's Behavior Management

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:05:00 PST

As a caregiver for a loved one, it can be extremely worrying to experience the behavior problems associated with mid-stage Alzheimer's disease, such as wandering, aggressiveness, hallucinations, or sleeping and eating difficulties. By learning how to make changes in the caring atmosphere, you can increase the quality of life for both the patient and yourself. Read more

Dementia and Alzheimer's Care

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 08:05:00 PST

Caring for someone with Alzheimer's can seem overwhelming at times, but the more information and support you have, the better you can navigate the demanding road ahead and determine the long-term care options that are best suited to you and your loved one. Read more

Alzheimer's Disease Prevention

Thu, 8 Nov 2012 08:05:00 PST

By leading a brain-healthy lifestyle, you may be able to prevent Alzheimer's symptoms and slow down, or even reverse, the process of deterioration. Read more

How to Improve your Memory

Thu, 8 Nov 2012 08:05:00 PST

Whether you're a student studying for final exams, a working professional interested in doing all you can to stay mentally sharp, or a senior looking to preserve and enhance your grey matter as you age, there are lots of things you can do to improve your memory and mental performance. Read more

Early Recognition & Diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Alzheimer's disease usually is not diagnosed in the early stages, even in people who visit their primary care doctors with memory complaints. One reason is that people and their families generally underreport the symptoms. Learn more about how to recognize the early signs of Alzheimer's in this article. Read more

Alzheimer's Disease: Symptoms, Stages and Coping with Alzheimer's Disease

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Suspecting you or a loved one are exhibiting signs of Alzheimer's can be a stressful and emotional experience. Even if you find yourself forgetting things, it doesn't necessarily mean you have this disease. Even when you fear the worst, the earlier you seek help, the better your chances of getting the care you need and maximizing your quality of life. Read more

Elder Abuse and Neglect: Warning Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Help

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Many elderly adults are abused in their own homes, in relatives' homes, and even in facilities responsible for their care. Learn to recognize the warning signs of elder abuse, what the risk factors are, and what you can do to prevent and report the problem. Read more

Dealing with Bullying and Cyber-bullying: Tips for Kids, Teens, Parents, and Teachers

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Bullying should never be tolerated. Unless you've directly experienced bullying or cyber-bullying, you may not realize just how devastating it can be, especially to a child or teenager. Whether you're the one being bullied, or you're a teacher or parent who thinks their child is being bullied or engaged in bullying behavior, there are steps you can take to deal with the problem. Read more

Child Abuse and Neglect: Recognizing and Preventing Child Abuse

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

The earlier abused children get help, the greater chance they have to heal and break the cycle-rather than perpetuating it. By learning about common signs of abuse and what you can do to intervene, you can make a huge difference in a child's life. Read more

Coping with Traumatic Stress: Emotional Recovery After a Disaster

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

The impact of a natural disaster or traumatic event goes far beyond physical damage. Natural disasters and other catastrophic events, such as motor vehicle accidents, plane crashes, nuclear meltdowns, and terrorist attacks, are extraordinarily stressful-both to survivors and observers. There are specific things you can do to help yourself and your loved ones cope with the emotional aftermath of the traumatic event. Read more

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Symptoms, Treatment, and Self-help

Wed, 17 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can develop following a traumatic event that threatens your safety or makes you feel helpless. It can seem like you'll never get over what happened or feel normal again. But by seeking treatment, reaching out for support, and developing new coping skills, you can overcome PTSD and move on with your life. Read more

Help for Abused Men

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

While the majority of domestic violence victims are women, abuse of men happens far more often than you'd probably expect. An abused man faces a shortage of resources, skepticism from police, and major legal obstacles, especially when it comes to gaining custody of his children from an abusive spouse. No matter your age, occupation, or sexual orientation, though, you can overcome these challenges and escape the abuse. Read more

Help for Abused & Battered Women

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Getting out of an abusive or violent relationship isn't easy. There are many resources available for abused and battered women, including crisis hotlines, shelters, job training, legal services, and childcare. You deserve to live free of fear. Start by reaching out. Read more

Domestic Violence & Abuse

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Domestic violence and abuse can happen to anyone, yet the problem is often overlooked, excused, or denied. Noticing and acknowledging the signs of an abusive relationship is the first step to ending it. No one should live in fear of the person they love. If you recognize yourself or someone you know in the following warning signs and descriptions of abuse, reach out. There is help available. Read more

Playful Communication

Thu, 4 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Mutual laughter and play are an essential part of strong, healthy relationships. Use these tips to incorporate more humor and play into your love relationships - as well as your connections with coworkers, family members, and friends. Read more

Harvard- helping yourself to a better sex life

Thu, 4 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

Sex. The word can evoke a kaleidoscope of emotions. From love, excitement, and tenderness to longing, anxiety, and disappointment-the reactions are as varied as sexual experiences themselves. Read more

Relationship Help

Thu, 4 Oct 2012 10:05:00 PST

How To Find Lasting Love

Thu, 4 Oct 2012 09:05:00 PST

Finding the Right Career

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 PST

The first step in considering a career change is to think carefully about what really drives you. You might find it hard to get past thinking about "what pays the most" or "what is most secure," especially in today's economy. However, it's important to first discover your primary interests and passions. Read more

Volunteering and its Surprising Benefits

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 PST

If you're considering a new career, volunteering can help you get experience in your area of interest and meet people in the field. Even if you're not planning on changing careers, volunteering gives you the opportunity to practice important skills used in the workplace, such as teamwork, communication, problem solving, project planning, task management, and organization. Read more

Job Networking Tips

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 08:00:00 PST

Your network is bigger than you think it is. It includes all of your family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers, colleagues, and even casual acquaintances. Start writing down names, and you'll be surprised at how quickly the list grows. Read more

Effective Communication

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 PST

In the information age, we have to send, receive, and process huge numbers of messages every day. But effective communication is about more than just exchanging information. Effective communication requires you to also understand the emotion behind the information. Read more

Improving Emotional Health

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 PST

Being mentally or emotionally healthy is much more than being free of depression, anxiety, or other psychological issues. Rather than the absence of mental illness, mental and emotional health refers to the presence of positive characteristics. Read more

Anger Management

Tue, 20 Mar 2012 11:00:00 PST

The emotion of anger is neither good nor bad. It's perfectly healthy and normal to feel angry when you've been mistreated or wronged. The feeling isn't the problem-it's what you do with it that makes a difference. Anger becomes a problem when it harms you or others. Read more

Anxiety Attacks and Anxiety Disorders: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 15:00:00 PST

We all know what an attack of anxiety feels like. Your heart pounds before a big presentation or a tough exam. You get butterflies in your stomach during a blind date. You worry and fret over family problems or feel jittery at the prospect of asking the boss for a raise. These are all natural reactions. However, if worries, fears, or anxiety attacks seem overwhelming and are preventing you from living your life the way you'd like to, you may be suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Fortunately, there are many anxiety treatments and self-help strategies that can help you reduce your anxiety symptoms and take back control of your life. Read more

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Symptoms, Treatment, and Self-Help

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:00:00 PST

Do you worry excessively about things that are unlikely to happen, or feel tense and anxious all day long with no real reason? Everyone gets anxious sometimes, but if your worries and fears are so constant that they interfere with your ability to function and relax, you may have generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is mentally and physically exhausting. It drains your mental energy, keeps you from sleeping and unwinding, and wears your body out. But you don't have to live it. You can break free from the grip of chronic worrying and learn to calm down your anxious mind. Read more

ADD / ADHD Treatment and Help: Finding Treatments That Work for Children and Adults

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 13:00:00 PST

If you or your child are struggling with ADD/ADHD, take hope. There are many safe and effective treatments that can drastically improve its symptoms. ADD/ADHD treatment can boost school and job performance, improve organizational skills, and foster better relationships.

Furthermore, treatment doesn't necessarily mean pills or doctors' offices. Treatment for ADD/ADHD is any action you take to manage your symptoms. And while you may want to seek professional help along the way, ultimately, you are the one in charge of treating ADD/ADHD, whether you are the parent or the patient. You don't have to wait for a diagnosis or rely on professionals. You can start treating your or your child's symptoms today. Read more

Self-help for Adult ADD/ADHD: Tips for Managing Money and Bills

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:00:00 PST

Money management requires budgeting, planning, and organization, so for many adults with ADD/ADHD, it can be a true challenge. Many common systems of money management don't tend to work for adults with ADD/ADHD because they require too much time, too much paper, and too much attention to detail. But if you create your own system that is both simple and consistent, you can get on top of your finances and put a stop to overspending, establish a schedule for paying bills, and avoid penalties for missed deadlines. Read more

Help for Adult ADD / ADHD: Tips for Managing Symptoms and Getting Focused

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 12:00:00 PST

The responsibilities of daily life can weigh on anyone, but if you have adult ADD/ADHD, everything from paying the bills on time to keeping up with work, family, and social demands can seem overwhelming. While it is true that ADD/ADHD does create multiple challenges, it is possible to get focused and turn chaos into calm. By educating yourself about adult ADD/ADHD and taking advantage of self-help techniques, you can learn to manage even your most difficult symptoms. You can become more productive, organized, and in control of every area of your life.

Finding and carrying out the best ways to overcome your adult ADD/ADHD may take time and courage, but your hard work can improve your organization, relationships, work performance-and sense of self-worth and accomplishment. Read more

ADD/ADHD Parenting Tips: Helping Children with Attention Deficit Disorder

Tue, 19 Jul 2011 14:00:00 PST

Life with a child with ADD/ADHD can be frustrating and overwhelming, but as a parent there is actually a lot you can do. The symptoms of ADD/ADHD can be controlled and reduced. You have the power to help your child meet his or her daily challenges and channel his or her energy into positive arenas - and at the same time bring greater calm and order to your family home.

Children with ADD/ADHD can and do succeed. The earlier and more consistently you address your child's problems, the more likely their success. Read more

Relaxation Techniques for Stress Relief: Finding The Relaxation Exercises That Work For You

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 14:00:00 PST

For many of us with hectic, stressful lives, relaxation means zoning out in front of the TV at the end of the day or snatching some extra sleep at the weekend. Unfortunately, this does little to help reduce the damaging effects of stress on the mind and body.

To effectively combat stress, we need to activate the body's natural relaxation response. You can do this by practicing relaxation techniques including deep breathing, visualization, meditation, and yoga, or by performing rhythmic exercise, such as running, cycling, or mindful walking. Finding ways to fit these activities into your life can help reduce everyday stress and boost your energy and mood. They'll also help you to stay calm in the face of life's unexpected events. Read more

Antidepressants: What You Need To Know About Depression Medication

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 13:00:00 PST

If you're suffering from depression, antidepressant medication, used under the guidance of a mental health professional, may relieve some of your symptoms. But antidepressants aren't a silver bullet for depression. Medication doesn't cure the underlying problem and is rarely a long-term solution. Not only do antidepressants come with significant side effects and dangers, but recent studies have also raised questions about their effectiveness.

Learning the facts about antidepressants and weighing the benefits against the risks can help you make an informed and personal decision about whether medication is right for you. Read more

The Therapeutic Benefits of Pets: How Caring For a Pet Can Make You Happier and Healthier

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 13:00:00 PST

Professionally trained helper animals-such as guide dogs for the blind-offer obvious benefits to us human folk. However, the average domestic pet, such as a dog, cat, rabbit-even a goldfish-can also provide us with many therapeutic benefits. Pets can ease our loneliness, reduce our stress, promote social interaction, encourage exercise and playfulness, and provide us with unconditional love and affection.

Of course, pet ownership also comes with many responsibilities, and should not be undertaken lightly. To best enjoy a healthy, nurturing relationship with a pet-and experience the many therapeutic benefits a domestic animal can offer-it's important to choose a pet that's right for your lifestyle. Read more

Grieving the Loss of a Pet: Understanding and coping with the grief of losing a pet

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 13:00:00 PST

Pets enrich our lives and provide us with companionship, emotional support, and unconditional love. Given the intense bond most of us share with our animals, it's natural to feel devastated by feelings of grief and sadness when a pet dies. You may also feel shocked, confused, angry, or have trouble sleeping or difficulty focusing.

While there is no right or wrong way to grieve, there are healthy ways to cope with the pain. Some people may not understand the depth of feeling you had for your pet, but you should never feel guilty or ashamed about grieving for an animal friend. The key to coping is to accept your feelings and embrace the emotions you feel. Read more

Stress at Work: Tips to Reduce and Manage Job and Workplace Stress

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 14:00:00 PST

In this difficult economy, many of us are finding it harder than ever to cope with stress in the workplace. Regardless of occupation, seniority, or salary level, we're spending more and more of our work days feeling frazzled and out of control, instead of alert and relaxed.

While some stress is a normal part of the workplace, excessive stress can interfere with your productivity and reduce your physical and emotional health. Finding ways to manage workplace stress is not about making huge changes to every aspect of your work life or rethinking career ambitions. Rather, stress management requires focus on the one thing that's always within your control: you. Read more

Dealing with Bullying and Cyber-bullying

Fri, 13 May 2011 18:00:00 PST

Bullying affects many of us, kids and adults alike, and can leave anyone feeling hurt, angry, frightened, and even depressed or overwhelmed. Those who bully often experience their own psychological problems as well. Technology has made the problem of bullying even more widespread. Cyber-bullying can occur via email, texts, cell phones, and social media websites 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with potentially thousands of people involved.

Because bullying is so common, many people think it's normal and should be tolerated. But it doesn't have to be. By learning about why some kids bully and why others are bullied, you can help yourself or a loved one deal with bullying, and develop the resilience and self-confidence to succeed in life. Read more

Alzheimer's & Dementia Prevention: How To Reduce Your Risk and Protect Your Brain

Fri, 06 May 2011 20:00:00 PST

In spite of what you may have heard, new research reveals that lifestyle factors play a significant role in protecting your brain as you age. You can reduce your risk of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias by eating right, exercising, staying mentally and socially active, and keeping stress in check. You may even be able to prevent or slow down the symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or even reverse the deterioration of aging. Read more

Choosing Healthy Fats: Good Fats, Bad Fats, and the Power of Omega-3 fats

Fri, 06 May 2011 20:00:00 PST

When it comes to your health, it's not the total amount of fat in your diet that matters, so much as the types of fats you eat. Bad fats increase your cholesterol and your risk of certain diseases, while good fats have the opposite effect, helping you manage your moods, stay on top of your mental game, and even control your weight. The goal isn't cutting out all fat-it's learning to make the choices that promote health and well-being. Read more

Healthy Weight Loss & Dieting Tips: How to Lose Weight and Keep It Off

Fri, 06 May 2011 20:00:00 PST

All too often, we sabotage our weight loss goals with extreme diets that leave us cranky and starving, with unhealthy lifestyle choices that undermine our dieting efforts, and emotional eating habits that stop us before we get started. But there's a better way! You can lose weight without feeling miserable. You can develop new eating habits and preferences that will leave you feeling satisfied-and all while winning the battle of the bulge. Read more