We tend to think of drug and alcohol addiction as a problem for the lower class, but the reality is that drug and alcohol abuse takes place at all levels of society. When professionals and executives deal with addiction, the pressure is often higher because they have higher expectations and responsibilities placed on them. Dealing […]
Individuals who are suffering from addiction are often perceived as lacking willpower and moral failing. In times gone by, people suffering from addiction experienced prejudice and unfair judgment from society. Back then, individuals struggling with addiction were viewed as menaces to society. Years later, it was discovered through research that like any other ailment, addiction […]
Netflix’s second season of the hit series 13 Reasons Why was released this past May, and like many other mental health professionals, I took it upon myself to watch the series to see how the series directors have chosen to continue the story past the original intent of the book on which the series is […]
One of my greatest disappointments as the CEO/Founder of a suicide prevention nonprofit is seeing the rates for suicide climbing. With news breaking of several high-profile suicides this week, including Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain, not to mention the devastating losses of celebrities in recent years such as Chester Bennington, Robin Williams, Chris Cornell, Verne […]
Today’s culture is unfortunately fraught with hostility. It has become the norm to see mass violence in our everyday news. I find myself increasingly sighing with disappointment in the face of yet another mass shooting, rather than the horrified gut-wrenching reaction I should have, because it’s become so common. Hot debates surrounding the solution to […]
Full disclosure, I am not a counselor, therapist, or doctor, and as such I am not qualified to make any sort of diagnoses or provide any type of therapy. That being said, I did go to college for human services and case management, which involves a great deal of talking to people. I did learn […]
Hello, my fellow Holiday Warriors! Why do I like the term “Warriors”? Well, let’s be honest, mental illness doesn’t take a break over these “fun” holidays and the simple concepts of the Christmas mood [“…have yourself a merry little Christmas”? I DON’T THINK SO!], often bug me because Christmas Day, or even the day after, […]
This holiday season I find myself wanting to give thanks for our supporters and also considering the amazing giving season that’s ahead of us. As Please Live’s founder and executive director, I sometimes feel guilty asking for donations at this time of year. We’re one of many charities worthy of your time and consideration, so […]
“That’s not how you do it. I always want to tell patients when they come in for that how they should do it properly, but obviously I can’t.” This was the response that I got from someone after I had told them that I had a previous suicide attempt in my history. Now, you’d think […]
Hello, everyone! This blog is all about ESAs. What is an ESA you ask? ESA stands for emotional support animal. This is a pet that provides many things including companionship to a person who suffers from a mental or emotional disability. ESAs are unique in that unlike service animals, certification is not limited to only dogs. ESAs […]
