The song is AI-generated. The entire song is powerful. It reached the top of the iTunes USA and Global Charts.

In many reels, this little girl character is captivating, also AI-generated.

I am so conflicted about AI

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It is amazing

There is a human skill used in developing images and prompts about :

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2. The images

3. The animation

4. It is a great tool used to help people in many ways

Cons

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1. AI that most companies use for chat and phone support is inadequate and continues to frustrate customers.

2. How many jobs will AI take over

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The couple’s main issue is extreme sensitivity to rejection dysphoria. A partner with this condition can be deeply affected and may feel ignored or rejected if they see their partner interacting with others, even in innocent situations that pose no threat to their relationship. This heightened sensitivity leads them to perceive these interactions as threatening. The disparity in how each partner views these social interactions can result in significant conflict, emotional harm, and, in some cases, separation within the relationship. Often, the partner who exhibits symptoms of rejection sensitivity obsessively questions their partner. Also, wanting to know the partner's whereabouts at all times. The intensity of these inquiries drives the other away from the relationship.

This article is about those relationships that pose no threat to the couple’s integrity but in no way suggest that partners do not get involved with others they meet and have affairs with.

What is Extreme Sensitivity to Rejection Dysphoria?

The symptoms of extreme sensitivity to rejection dysphoria are intense emotional pain when they perceive they have been criticized, rejected, ignored, or have felt disapproval (Cleveland Clinic, 08/30/2022). Symptoms can include hypervigilance about a partner’s interactions with others. They may have difficulty containing emotions when they feel rejected. Strong emotional reactions are often seen in children or adolescents who feel rejected. Fine the causes more clearly. However, researchers suspect rejection sensitivity involves structural issues of the brain similar to those of people who have ADHD. It is clear that social rejection, no matter how slight, causes brain activity, as seen in pain. The similarity with ADHD is that people with both these issues have trouble regulating internal communication in the same way as people without either one of these issues.

In ADHD, the problem of regulating internal communication is often why those with an ADHD diagnosis usually have trouble processing information through their senses. Usually, they report feeling overwhelmed by loud noises, bright lights, or sudden changes in their environments. A person diagnosed with ADHD may have difficulty regulating their response to pain (Cleveland Clinic, 08/30/2022).

People with rejection sensitivity dysphoria seem to have similar brain structures. Additionally, regulating their responses to emotional reactions is impossible, primarily pain and social rejection.

Treatment

When deciding on treatment options for Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria, an assessment of the intensity of the symptoms can be helpful. Also, there could be a determination that it overlaps with other emotional or psychiatric problems.

In some circumstances, it can be helpful. This can help people notice their inclination toward pain responses. Tools can help people cope with this pain rather than lashing out at another person. It may also benefit the client to question the pain and thoughts to see whether they are more their own projection.

Thoughts

Bonior, A ( July 25, 2019). What Is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria? Psychology Todayhttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/friendship-20/201907/what-is-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria

Cleveland Clinic(08/30/2022) Rejection sensitive dysphoria, Cleveland Clinic,https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24099-rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-rsd

Fiorenza, M ( February 27, 2023). What Is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria? Healthhttps://www.health.com/rejection-sensitive-dysphoria-7110554

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While touring a school for twice-exceptional students, I walked into a classroom of high school students taking Japanese Level 5. The student called upon to answer a question was sitting amidst a pile of disorganized papers. I felt my anxiety rise. The teacher kindly told him to take his Time and answer when he felt ready. The class had about 5 or 6 students, all sitting in a half circle facing the teacher’s desk. The teacher sat at his desk, a few feet from each student. As I stood watching, I could feel his warmth and patience as he waited for the student to answer.

What are Twice Exceptional Students

Twice exceptional students have two unique qualities. They can be highly gifted and also struggle with learning, cognitive, physical, or sensory difficulties. Often, these students are misdiagnosed. In the classroom and at home, it can be hard to keep these children challenged and to modify situations to support their learning styles.

Schools to Accommodate Children who are Gifted and Challenged

Bridges Academy in Los Angeles is the school mentioned at the top of this post. This school is tailor-made for a twice-exceptional school. It is wonderful. However, the cost of the school is 38k-59k per child per school year. This is prohibitive for most families.

There are very few public school programs for these children. In the Los Angeles Unified School District, there were no programs. Programs for gifted children and special ed were plentiful; however, no programs accommodated both special aspects of students. The closest programs I saw to accommodate these children are homeschooling. Homeschooling can be good for some kids, but it lacks aspects of the social environment.

The Misdiagnosis of Twice Exceptional Students

Many parents and teachers have not had education or experience with children who have twice-exceptional capabilities and struggles. These children can suffer at the hands of adults who do not understand them.

The misdiagnosis may lead school administrators to assign them to classes that do not meet their unique needs. For example, some students are assigned to classes for gifted students. Students may do well in some subjects; however, they may falter in others.

Teachers and parents might label these students as lazy and discipline them to improve in areas where they cannot perform without significant help. Sitting in a general or special education class can be extremely frustrating.

Children in gifted or general classes can become overwhelmed and have meltdowns, which may leave them feeling embarrassed.

Help for Twice Exceptional Students

• For children who do not seem to fit into classrooms, an accurate diagnosis is the first step. Neuropsychological evaluations can be very helpful.

• Request an Individual Educational Plan from your child’s school.

• Help the school become aware of the students’ needs.

• If the school cannot provide for your child’s needs, some school districts will pay for a non-public school, which is essentially a private school.

• Parents can be helpful at home by being mindful of the child’s abilities and challenges. Try to become understanding of the child’s meltdowns.

More awareness and acknowledgment of the needs of twice-exceptional students over the years. To help these students build self-esteem and confidence, it is imperative that their needs are understood and that support is provided

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References

Abraham, M. (2025). The school experiences of twice exceptional students: a review of recent research. Exceptionality, 33(4), 217-240.

Gierczyk, M., & Hornby, G. (2021). Twice-exceptional students: Review of implications for special and inclusive education. Education Sciences, 11(2), 85.

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The Drive-In Therapist

“ I hope you dont mind. I have to talk on video chat from the car. I couldn’t find a private place to talk to you in the house.”

Years ago, when I began my career as a psychotherapist, I never would have dreamed I would be seeing clients in their cars, often at night in the dark. It began during COVID and persisted because technology reimagined, made working from home possible. People enjoyed the convenience of working from home; however, working from home without privacy is just one of the consequences that affect couples who are together most of the time.

Can Couples Spend Too Much Time Together?

Partners who spend nearly all their Time together—especially when working together and lacking privacy—may experience downsides: feeling overly dependent, losing a sense of self, poorer communication from taking each other for granted, and increased irritability from work stress. As a result, some begin to crave Time apart. Research indicates that couples who spend too much Time together may experience declines in themselves and in their relationship,

The Survival Plan

Below are some ideas you can use to help make working together as a couple as smooth as possible. Adding a plan may save your relationship.

Set Boundaries

• Try to spend some time talking about the logistics of being at home together. What do each of you want in your space? When do you need quiet? When are you each going to take breaks during the day? What Time are each of you going to start and end work? Let the other know if you are going to have a meeting or an event happening at work.

Create Your Personal Space

• This is especially true for partners who work in the same room. Your relationship will survive if each partner can create their space. Decorate it both aesthetically and practically to suit each of you. Try to continue evaluating which work-environment needs are being met. You may want to add noise-canceling headphones so that neither intrudes on the other.

Be thoughtful about the use of Time.

• Time can be a crucial factor. It is the lack of Time for a specific need that may begin to get partners angry at one another. Time can be a tough balancing act. Flexibility is important because family, relationships, or work may need more Time periodically. Personal Time is imperative for each partner to take a break and do something they like. Special Time for both of you is also Time away from your respective jobs, which is important for refreshing your romance and your sense of being a couple. Also, if you have children, communication about the partner's responsibilities is understood. Also, spending Time with family helps everyone.

Communicate Conflicts and Other Issues

• As you move into the future with both of you working remotely, you will discover what does and doesn't work. Be sure to communicate your feelings about the schedule, wake-up Time, and responsibilities. Catch issues when they are small so they don't grow into a problem.

Working remotely can offer great convenience, and people can find it less stressful than going to the office each day. If you and your partner both work from home, doing a little extra for one another can make it a good experience for both of you.

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References

Hudson, Lucas, and Donnellan. “2020) “The Highs and Lows of Love: Romantic Relationship Quality Moderates Whether Spending Time with One’s Partner Predicts Gains or Losses in Well-Being.” Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin 46 (4): 572–89. doi:10.1177/0146167219867960.

Teng (Mar 30 2020) Fifteen Tips for Successfully Working at Home with a Significant Other. Thrive Global https://community.thriveglobal.com/15-tips-for-successfully-working-from-home-with-a-significant-other

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I’ve struggled to keep my house clean and to organize my entire life. In my twenties, a friend visited my apartment and told me, “My apartment should be the standard against which all messy apartments are measured.” I recently realized I have ADHD. It makes so much sense now!

People are often plagued by the desire to manage their homes or offices. They can become angry with themselves when they feel the chaos all around them. Some pick a day or time to begin but then procrastinate. They are unable to start or continue because of indecision and overwhelm. Many people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder have difficulty focusing on tasks that are not interesting to them.

Disorganized or Messy Children and Partners

Living with messy children or a disorganized partner can be challenging for a neat person. Some complain bitterly about getting their family to clean up after themselves. People seek help because they are at their wits’ end. Differences in organizational ability can cause family problems that last a lifetime.

Partners who are disgusted by their partner’s messiness can reach the point of separation or divorce. Parents who get angry at their children for not picking up after themselves can cause the children to internalize the anger and become angry with themselves. This can have long-term consequences for the child’s emotional development.

It can be frustrating to live with someone who is messy and disorganized. You may think they are lazy and don’t care about organization. However, the real reason may be that they have a learning disability, such as ADHD, OCD, or another learning disability. These disabilities can make it difficult for them to focus, know what goes together, or follow through on tasks. Understanding the cause can be helpful.

A Discovery in Organization

I have struggled to be organized for as long as I can remember. Years ago, I came across a book called “Driven to Distraction” by Edward Hollowell. The book had one idea I started using because it made so much sense. Often, when we went on vacation, I left something behind. Sometimes, I was able to have it shipped back to me, and as my anxiety grew about leaving things behind, a game came to me that I had used for years. I have never left anything behind since.

Over time, I’ve collected games that can help with less mess and more organization. Some of these may be helpful to you, and some could be geared toward helping your children clean up their rooms in a fun way. I still am disorganized, but when I need to, I choose a game that gets me back on track.

Organization Playbook

The playbook has several key ideas that can help people overwhelmed by too much in front of them. Often, parents tell their children to clean their rooms. Children may not know what that entails and feel overwhelmed when they see an unmade bed, clothes, and toys strewn across the room. Things are put together in a way or pattern that makes focusing more leisurely. This can be done with a system of things that fit together in a game, and the player can win by following specific rules and strategies. It is easier to focus. This can be done with a system of things that fit together in a game, and the player can win by following specific rules and strategies.

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Rules, Clean-up, and Organization Games

Whether you play the games for yourself, with a partner, or with children, it is essential to know the rules so that you and your family can achieve your goals. Some games are timed or competitive. When the excitement intensifies, things can be piled or strung all over, which may defeat the purpose. While explaining the rules, specify where each object goes and whether it should be folded or put away. Things can be placed in a pile if the game is timed or a competition. Time, completion, scoring, and prizes can be highly motivating and fun. It is much better than beating yourself up, nagging your partner, or yelling at your kids.

Supplies

1. Timer and Alarm ( a cell phone can work)

2. Clear Boxes ( if you want things sorted

3. Trash Bags for Throwaways

4. Basket or Bins for Donating

5. Scorecards (Templates will be provided at the end of this article.

The Object of the Games

1. Break down clean-up tasks so they are manageable.

2. To make it fun for Children or Adults

3. To help family members learn ways to externally organize items when they do not know how to process this skill internally.

4. To avoid angry exchanges when homes become messy.

5. To help people who have difficulties with follow-through cleaning or organizing feel successful.

Organizational Challenges for Short-Term Clean Up

1. Timed Pick-Up: This game is a great way to get started organizing. Set a 10-minute timer and challenge yourself and your family to pick up as many items in one category as possible. If you like, you can give each person a separate category.

Keeping Score

You can choose how many objects are picked up if you want to keep score. Use the scoresheet. Give a prize after each challenge or keep a running tally; prizes can be given at the end.

2. The Match Game—This is a ten-minute timed game in which each player must find and place pairs of objects in their respective places.Scoring: Each person gets points based on how many pairs they put away.

3. The Alphabet Game: This Timed Game lasts 10 minutes. Each person is given a letter of the alphabet. During their time, they must pick up objects that start with the letter shown.

Scoring- Each person is given a point for each item they put away.

4 The Color Game — Time: Each person is given a color and must pick up items of that color in the time allotted.Scoring- Each person is given a point for each item they put away.

5. End of Vacation or Organizing by Category: Set a timer to give each person a category of items you need to pack. In the allotted time, they must pick up items in their category and, if they are items that will be returned home, put them neatly in a suitcase.

Organizational Challenges for Longer Term, Larger Cleaning Efforts or Moving!

1. The One In, One Out Game: This game suits people who need to be more organized and have many similar problems. When someone gets a new item, they pick an old one to donate or throw away. This can be hard for some children or adults, so use your judgment to see if it is right for you. Compete with a friend or family member to see who can eliminate the most items in a week or a month. The winner gets a prize!

2. The Completion Challenge: This game suits people with trouble completing tasks. Each person is given an area in the house to clean and organize. Depending on each person’s age or ability, the area should be small enough so they don’t feel overwhelmed. It is crucial for the players to feel successful. Each person cleans and organizes their area.

Scoring: Each player gets a point for each area they organize or task they complete.

3. The Sorting Game: Set out four boxes, labeling each with a category of items. Set a timer and see how many items each person can sort from the room. You may want to give each person a set of containers.

Scoring: give a point for each item sorted correctly.

Prizes — Each person should be awarded for some aspect of their work. This will be received better than if a single person won a prize.

Benefits

The benefits of getting organized, from less stress to more free time, can make the process more enjoyable and increase everyone’s chances of sticking with it and playing the game again. Turning organizing into a game can also make it more enjoyable. Learning to clean and organize may come quickly for some people, but for those who have issues with focus, visual processing, or spatial processing, these tasks can be a nightmare.

An important reminder: getting organized is a journey, not a destination. Organizing and cleaning do not have to cause family stress. They can be fun and educational or corrective for those with learning issues.

References

Cherry, K ( 2023). What Causes Someone to Not Clean Their House? Verywellmind .https://www.verywellmind.com/psychology-of-a-messy-room-4171244

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Have you ever struggled with loneliness while being in a romantic relationship?

Loneliness and distance are common in long-term relationships. Sometimes it takes a while to understand how much time and nurturing go into creating the foundation. Relationships often are taken for granted; unmet needs can go unnoticed for a while. Reality sets in as we realize that being with another person through life is complicated. People grieve the loss of the wished-for characteristics and traits their partner does not have. To stay in a relationship without constant resentment, one needs to reach a level of acceptance of the other person. At times, the unmet need is so central to one of the partners that it becomes unbearable, cannot be accepted, and often is acted upon.

Unmet sexual desires and loneliness are needs that many cannot accept. People struggle with these isuues long periods of time. The couple may have fought about it, but neither has resolved. People dont listen to their partners or take them seriously when the subject brings up too many unpleasant feelings, and they avoid the topic. Faced with shame, fear, and distance, attempts at discussion end in arguments or silent withdrawal.

Frustrations run deep, with no resolution, the partner who feels the most pain can be vulnerable to an affair. When awareness of an affair sets in, shame, guilt, anger, and fear of abandonment can emerge. Couples may then identify with roles in this dynamic, often portraying the victim, who has been betrayed, and the horrible betrayer, who cannot be trusted.

Trust can become the identified issue, but that is usually not the case. The issue of trust goes both ways as considering cause and effect is important. A considerable issue to contend with is communication and the willingness to listen when someone is unhappy in the relationship.

Can a Relationship Survive Loneliness or an Affair?

The simple answer is yes; however, it takes much work and psychological sophistication. We need to give each partner a chance to process their feelings before deciding to begin addressing the issues. An affair can temporarily solve the unmet need from the desperation of dealing with loneliness or unmet sexual needs. However, when couples unleash anger, resentment, and betrayal on each other, the relationship can be torn even further apart.

Protection

Seeking help can be a good step in protecting one another from further tearing down each other's self-worth. Relationships can bring out early childhood vulnerabilities. An affair can leave each member of a couple wondering about their inherent self-worth. Each partner goes through deep feelings and questions about themselves and their partners.

Rejection of sexuality can bring about insecurity and undesirability. If one initiates and is repeatedly rejected, and experiences pain and a sense of unattractiveness, the spirit can become lost, not knowing what the other is thinking or feeling. A partner who has felt betrayed by the other’s affair can contribute to similar feelings. From babyhood, there is a need to be special, seen, heard, and understood. These early self-doubts reemerge as processes of distance, rejection, or an ensuing affair.

Resolution

Resolution does not necessarily mean the couple will get back together. It is to help us learn and understand what occurred. The dissolution of the relationship may be explored later.

To work and unpack feelings after an affair, as each partner may feel traumatized. Empathy for the plight of the other may be difficult to achieve, even if time has been taken to allow each to process their feelings. Understanding. Accountability is key in working toward resolution and learning from the experience. Allowing time to assess if communication has improved. Understanding issues that led to the affair, as well as issues that have gotten in the way of sexual intimacy. Couples can have a chance to be heard and understood.

Discussion of rebuilding trust and assessment of each partner's needs are germane. Facing one’s inner self with realistic expectations also helps the couple to decide whether the possibility of staying together is appropriate. It is very challenging to be honest with one’s authentic self and their partner. The work is a continual process, and along the way, couples may decide to separate or stay together.

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Lack of money, illness, old age, and the absence of family or friends to advocate strongly for them render them powerless and at the mercy of those in power. Those who have no one to rely on are at risk of harm.

It is particularly difficult for people who have changed station in their lives. People who live their lives as independent, strong individuals who fought for human rights are perplexed!

How did we get to such a situation! How can we return to a position of power so we can fight against harm’s way?

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Protests. Vote; Incomee Leadership

How to become empowered or protect. How to empower individuals and protect those who are truly vulnerable.

That is the question^!

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Urgent need for same-day psychotherapy appointments

Saturday afternoon, a text came in on my phone. A mom of one of my clients writes My teenage daughter is asking to talk to you today. She cut herself last night. Can you talk this afternoon? I agreed. As I spoke with the teenage girl, who was very depressed and filled with rage, she was able to regulate her emotions and felt relieved.

People can’t predict times when they might feel overwhelmed, anxious, or unable to cope. A difficult moment can happen unexpectedly, or external painful situations trigger anxiety, loss, or feelings of being overwhelmed. However, therapy often requires waiting days or even weeks for an appointment. For many, that wait can feel too long! Rosen et al. (2014) discuss a study on how acute appointments helped clients. Long wait times are linked to worsening mental health conditions, as well as cutting down on emergency room visits, which creates more drama for patients. Additionally, there were fewer no-show appointments.

Many times, I have seen a client for the first time, only to learn that when they were initially called, they were in crisis and that by the time of the appointment, the crisis had resolved to some degree. Those whose needs go unmet during a crisis may not engage in the process and miss out on the potential benefits they might otherwise have found.

A Same-Day Session Offers:

• goal is to help you:

  • Feel less alone in what you’re experiencing

  • Calm your nervous system enough to think more clearly

  • Put words to what feels confusing or overwhelming

  • Find some steadiness in the middle of what you’re going through

  • Identify next steps, if needed

  Sometimes one conversation is enough to help you regain your footing.
  Sometimes it becomes the beginning of something more ongoing.

References

Rosen, J., Hoy, M. (2014 04-01). Elimination of Behavioral Health Wait Times: Impact on “Avoidable” Medical Visits, Productivity, and Revenues, Community Mental Health Journalhttps://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-024-01303-5

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The Danger of Unconsciousness in Romantic Relationships

Many of us develop romantic relationships before we are aware of our attractions. Unaware of our deep, unmet parental needs, we choose someone who resembles family members who left us, and we seek more from them. Love, connection, and feeling special to someone are essential needs that lie within. Unconsciously. Desperately, we long to find someone who gives us the perception of what we need. When someone is charming, trauma love bonding occurs outside of awareness.

Romantic relationships become dangerous when the original relationships were withholding, neglectful, or abusive. We long for love from someone who seems to meet the needs we desire, but choose someone so much like the original experience that we are surprised and will not accept the realities of the one we desire. Underneath the surface, the qualities of the idealized one can lead to dangerous behaviors. Abuse, violence, rape, and the loss of oneself can ensue.

Freud coined the term "repetition compulsion" to convey the idea that we seek the same dynamics to recur in an effort to repair the damage of childhood. Not until we become conscious of the process are we able to begin to change course.

The Uncousios Repetition In All Relationships

The need is so strong that we can see the same dynamic occurring in friendships, work situations, and politics. Easily lulled by the outline of people who look like we are the special ones to people who devalue others, we continually seek praise from someone who can’t give it. Usually, if we remain unconscious, we will stay in these relationships, endure the abuse, and become the special one again.

The Danger of Unconscious Relationships in Powerful National and Global Politics.

This dynamic transcends socioeconomic boundaries. However, when individuals in positions of extreme power are involved, the consequences can be far-reaching, impacting both national and global landscapes.

We have watched this dynamic unfold during the Trump administrations, particularly the second. As those involved have developed conscious awareness, they begin to question the seduction of Trump and fall away as the abuses become blatantly obvious. We see examples of those who lose themselves so deeply that they become blind until Trump turns on them.

We have witnessed these dangerous dynamics unfold before our eyes. One example of this diabolical dynamic is observing the lengths to which the 87th Attorney General of the United States, Pam Bondi, went to protect Trump, ultimately ruining her career and leading to other yet-to-be-determined consequences for her, as well as the destruction of immigrant citizens and survivors of Epstein’s abuses, to name just a few of the millions of people severely injured and killed by Bondi’s unconscious choices.

Wake up or Become Woke

We desperately need intelligent leaders, ask for help, and be conscious of their behavior so the nation and the world can continue to grow instead of being on the edge of destruction.

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This article is dedicated to World Bipolar Day . with the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance

Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that is characterized by extreme mood swings. These mood swings can range from feeling significantly ‘up’ or satisfied to feeling down and depressed. Bipolar disorder can also cause a person to experience a wide range of other symptoms, including changes in sleep patterns, energy levels, and appetite.

Bipolar disorder is a severe condition that can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to function in day-to-day life. However, with proper treatment, people with bipolar disorder can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of bipolar disorder, it is vital to seek professional help. Keep reading to learn more about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for bipolar disorder.

Causes of Bipolar Disorder

The neurobiological and environmental causes for Bipolar Disorder lag behind the science of other mental disorders. Many articles write that the causes of Bipolar Disorder are unknown. However, in academic journals, one begins to find out some of the neurobiological and environmental causes of Bipolar Disorder.

The study of the neurobiology of Bipolar Disorder still has a long way to go. Studies acknowledged that bipolar disorder is a hereditary genetic disorder. Above is a picture of a neuron, or a brain cell. The tentacles coming out from the cell are the dendrites. The liquid comes from brain cells through dendrites to communicate with other brain cells, enabling our bodies to function. The liquids are called neurotransmitters. Research has not determined how many neurotransmitters are in the brain. Studies have found that three neurotransmitters are involved in mood for quite some time. These include serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. A fourth neurotransmitter in bipolar disorder is glutamate.

Perrotta (2019) explains that a lack of serotonin, norepinephrine, and the stress hormone cortisol can bring on depression. Gonçalo et al. (2022) describe recent research on mania. Dysregulation of synaptic neurotransmission can cause neurons to connect in an unusual pattern. People with manic episodes have an excess of glutamate. Glutamate is the most excitatory neurotransmitter released by nerve cells in the brain. When there is an excess of glutamate and dysregulation of synaptic patterns, people can lose impulse control and behave in unusual ways.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

There are several different types of Bipolar Disorder based on severity. Bipolar 1 is the most severe type of manic depressive disorder. People with Bipolar one experience extreme highs and lows. The highs can be so out of control that they can have psychotic symptoms such as auditory or visual hallucinations or delusions, which are thinking things are real that are not. They can experience excessive moods, lack of sleep, racing thoughts, and appetite. They can become irritable or angry, impulsive or reckless about decision-making.

Bipolar II is similar to Bipolar I, except the symptoms are less severe. Symptoms include hypomania, which is a form of mania that is less severe than that of bipolar I. People with bipolar II do not usually have any hallucinations or delusions. The levels of depression are uncomfortable but not as bad as those in bipolar disorder. They may still experience difficulty sleeping and eating, and lack concentration and motivation.

Cyclothymic disorder is the third type of bipolar disorder. This type involves periods of manic and depressive behavior that last at least two years in adults or one year in children and teens. The symptoms aren’t as intense as those of bipolar disorder I or bipolar disorder II. Usually, there is less disruption to sleep, appetite, racing thoughts, motivation, or concentration.

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder

Treatment of bipolar disorder requires an individual to take care of themselves. Unfortunately, people who do not self-medicate with alcohol or drugs do not pay attention to their stress level or sleep. It can be challenging to treat, and the patient may not be able to function well in everyday life.

Those who take good care of themselves can usually work and enjoy life within normal limits. It does take effort. A person with bipolar disorder needs a team of professionals. Usually, a psychiatrist, a psychotherapist, and a primary care physician. Below are the ways you need to take care of yourself if you have bipolar disorder:

1. Meet with your psychiatrist regularly. Sometimes, medicines need to change to keep working well.

2. Meet with your therapist regularly. Your therapist can also check your mood and recommend that you talk to your psychiatrist. Your therapist can also help with depression, stress, and other psychological problems that are stressful. Stress can often set off a manic episode.

3. Monitor your sleep. If you have not slept for a few nights, contact your psychiatrist. Lack of sleep can be a warning that a manic episode may be coming.

4. Watch for appetite changes.

5. Listen to your inner self. If you need rest, do as your body needs.

6. Eat healthy foods.

7. Be careful with alcohol. Ask your doctor if you can have an occasional drink.

8. When people are mindful of their symptoms and take care of themself, they can enjoy a decent quality of life.

Resorce

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Reference

Anderson, I. M., Haddad, P. M., & Scott, J. (2012). Bipolar disorder. Bmj, 345.

Gonçalo, C., & Oliveira-Maia, A. J. (2022). Functional neuroanatomy of mania. Translational Psychiatry, 12(1).

Perrotta, G. (2019). Bipolar disorder: definition, differential diagnosis, clinical contexts, and therapeutic approaches. J Neuroscience and Neurological Surgery, 5.

WebMD-editorial-contributors,( 2022), Bipolar Disorder, medically reviewed by Smitha Bhandari, MDhttps://www.webmd.com/bipolar-disorder/mental-health-bipolar-disorder.

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“I might be old but I am not dead”

I am grateful for the extraordinary sensual sexuality in my life. There is something about a soft, smooth body intertwined with another that can be so soothing, The ability to allow oneself to be free and focus on an experience.

Learn to Appreciate Your Body

'‘You can touch but cant look” anonymous

Many think of sexuality and aging as bodies declining. Others feel they can no longer experience fiery passion.Some become so preoccupied with wrinkles, fat, or other aspects of their bodies that they see them as unfavorable. It is impossible to quiet the mind and enjoy sensations.

Time to rethink beauty and enjoy your body!.Culturally, we are conditioned to prioritize the image of a youthful, idealized physique as the standard of beauty, and for many, this ingrained belief persists, leading to feelings of inadequacy. It is essential to see the beauty in your body so shame does not destroy your experience.’It is necessary to begin gradully changes with age.

Changing Perspectives (2024)

Changing your perception of your body is a process.Below are some ideas that may help

1. Spend time looking in the mirror and reflecting on the body that has supported you through life’s joys and challenges.

2. Think about the wisdom you have gained and how your body has protected you.

3. Be kind to your body and be health conscious. Buy clothes that feel beautiful and sexy. When you think more about acceptance in your body, you will be able to experience more pleasure.

   Erotic wisdom in Aging

   Experience usually brings wisdom. You have had the time to learn about your body and others. Through the years, you may have learned muchabout the complexity of eroticism. Erotism involves many parts of the mind-body experience. Iacub (2015) notes that erotism involves psychological, biological, and social bases that are necessary to develop the “wisdom of eroticism and sexuality.

Some may find it challenging to ask for what they need or want because they always need to accommodate others. At this time of life, it is time to ask for needs and wants. The goal is to be able to receive as well as give.

There are so many negative myths about sexuality and aging that older people believe many stop having sex and miss out in their later years. Sexuality is healthy; it is a way people express their feelings and desires. It contributes to intimacy, closeness, and connectedness in a relationship (Nartional Insttute on Aging 2022).

References

Iacub, R. (2015). Erotic wisdom in old age. Journal Kairós Gerontologia, 18(N. Special 20), “Aspectos positivos en la vejez. Cuestiones teóricas”, pp. 87–102. ISSNe 2176–901X. São Paulo, SP, Brazil: FACHS/NEPE/PEPGG/PUC-SP

Maharani, A. P., Setiyani, R., Triyanto, E., & Iskandar, A. (2021). Sexuality in later life: A descriptive study of sexual desire, expression and satisfaction among older adults. Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health, 7(1).

Ramseyer Winter, V., & Pevehouse, D. (2016). Exploring body appreciation and women’s health-related quality of life: The moderating role of age. Journal of Health Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105316675212

Shaping Perspectives (2024)Accepting the Aging Body Shaping Perspectiveshttps://shapingperspectives.com/accepting-the-aging-body/

Iacub, R. (2015). Erotic wisdom in old age. Journal Kairós Gerontologia, 18(N. Special 20), “Aspectos positivos en la vejez. Cuestiones teóricas”, pp. 87–102. ISSNe 2176–901X. São Paulo, SP, Brazil: FACHS/NEPE/PEPGG/PUC-SP

Maharani, A. P., Setiyani, R., Triyanto, E., & Iskandar, A. (2021). Sexuality in later life: A descriptive study of sexual desire, expression and satisfaction among older adults. Annals of Tropical Medicine and Public Health, 7(1).

Nartional Insttute on Aging (2022)Sexuality and Intimacy in Older Adultshttps://www.nia.nih.gov/health/sexuality/sexuality-and-intimacy-older-adults

Ramseyer Winter, V., & Pevehouse, D. (2016). Exploring body appreciation and women’s health-related quality of life: The moderating role of age. Journal of Health Psychology. https://doi.org/10.1177/1359105316675212

Shaping Perspectives (2024)Accepting the Aging Body Shaping Perspectiveshttps://shapingperspectives.com/accepting-the-aging-body/

The open Nester’s podcast(2024)https://theopennesters.com/2024/10/03/your-pleasurespan/

The process includes preparation. dosing and integration.

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Intimacy is the level of connection each partner feels toward the other. There are many different ways that people connect and become attached. These areas can include physical attachment, emotional attachment, sexual compatibility, intellectual connection, and special needs.

Relationships are complicated. Most individuals do not want to be abandoned by their partner; however, partners do not want to lose themselves in a relationship. In addition, both live their formative years in distinctive families and cultures. As a result, each partner has exclusive views about long-term relationships or marriage. However, they are in the same situation and have unique needs and distinctive approaches to communication.

Separately each uses similar vocabularies or experiences encounters with their partner, which has dissimilar significance. The disparities can contribute to conflict and misunderstandings. These conflicts can chip away at loving feelings and twist into arguing, which can escalate. Years of conflict can erode the love and connection between the two.

Then the second partner has a chance to explain their trigger to their partner. They may start where in childhood or when a trauma occurred. We usually know we hit a trigger when someone’s anger goes from 0 to 60.

Many couples have the same core argument repeatedly. In childhood, some children encounter trauma, and others often suffer harsh words or experiences in their family of origin. Therefore, many couples have the same core argument frequently. Innocently, one partner can express or behave in a triggering manner that strikes the other old injury, and they can get furious. Usually, when someone gets very angry, it is a sore spot from childhood or another traumatic experience. For example, when someone gets extremely angry when criticized, they could be attacked a lot as a child.

Usually, the injured party reacts heatedly without thinking. The other partner feels hurt and responds in an equally angry manner. This progression of anger escalates between the two until both have torn the other apart.

There is a way to use triggers to learn more about your partner and work on emotional intimacy. The following steps help people work through triggers and learn about each other more deeply. All people have triggers because no one goes through a life that is perfect for them.

The Process of learning about each partner triggers

1. Create a safe environment to learn more about your partner’s triggers.

2. When learning about your partner’s triggers, ask questions so you understand.

3. Sometimes partners only realize they have triggers. You may ask probing questions. This does not have to be done at one time.

4. Just because each partner learns about the other triggers doesn’t mean it won’t happen again.

5. Partners begin to notice when they are about repeatedly once each partner processes the other triggers. This involves many conversations to understand the trigger and where it originated.

6. The more partners notice they will say something triggering, the more they learn to say things differently.

7. When either of the partners senses a charge of anger rising within. Excusing themselves from the discussion is essential, letting their partner know they need time before continuing. Everyone takes a specific amount of time to defuse the charge of anger. Each must wait until both are ready to talk.

Once each feels safe, vulnerability is possible, as the couple begins to discuss their trigger with their partner and learns more about the other’s life and the specifics of the different experiences. The partners learn about each other on an intense level. This creates a deep level of emotional intimacy.

Format the Process

Essentially, each partner must listen to the other and trust that their partner says it is true. If a word is unclear to the listener, inquire what it means to them. Wait until the first partner finishes. Try to be supportive and empathic. For example, the second partner might start their part of the conversation with “my intention was — -when I said the words that hurt you.” When the second partner finishes, the first partner might discuss how the words or actions were a childhood wound. These discussions help to build emotional intimacy.

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For those who don’t know me, my name is Karen Chambre. I have been a licensed therapist for 40 years. I am enjoying my experience on Substack and learning a lot from many of you. If you’re fortunate, you can have many great holidays, but life has its ups and downs, and sometimes holidays can be difficult. I am offering a free 30-minute Zoom call to anyone with a basic paid subscription for $5 a month. It is a consultation where you can discuss concerns about relationships, loss, parenting, trauma, and neurodivergent issues, such as ADHD or any other problem. I am excited to hear from you.

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