In Order to Learn, We Need to Unlearn
“What is the first business of one who practices philosophy? To get rid of self-conceit. For it is impossible for anyone to begin to learn that which he thinks he already knows.” -Epictetus, Discourses, Book II, ch. 17 A couple … Continued
Why We All Need a Wide Support Network
The simple answer, is no one person can do everything for us. We like to think that isn’t true, but it is. As a husband who’s been watching his wife grieve the loss of her parents these last few months, … Continued
SafeTALK Training
This past weekend, I attended a SafeTALK workshop put together by the local chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. The half-day workshop is designed to help train folks to be more suicide aware, and to be “helpers” for … Continued
Holiday Weekends and Social Media
This past weekend was Memorial Day in the US, which is a time to reflect on those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while fighting for our country, but also the “unofficial” beginning of Summer for us as well. Given … Continued
Disclosure Seems Like a Simple Word, It’s Not a Simple Thing To Do
Ah, the art of disclosure. Actually coming forward and telling someone about the childhood abuse you experienced. Seems like it should be so simple. Something bad is happening, or did happen so tell someone about it. If only…. It’s not … Continued
There Are Lots of People “Not Like You” and That’s Fine
I was reading an article recently written by college professor Rupert W Nacoste Ph.D. on Psychology Today’s website. In it, he talks about a student who suggested he include mental health conditions as an example of neo-diversity. It’s an interesting … Continued
Quick Thought Number 8 – An Example of Stigma and When We Can’t Be Open
As much progress as we’ve made in society when it comes to abuse and mental health stigma, it seems like there will always be a story like this one around to remind us why it’s not always going to be … Continued
When Self-Care Becomes Selfish Care
As you know if you’ve spent much time around here, I am an advocate for self-care. We simply have to set some time aside to care for ourselves, to re-energize ourselves, and do what is necessary for our own mental … Continued
Can We Share Unheard Voices Like Joe Strummer?
Bear with me on this. I want to take you back to the early 80s with me, in New York City. I’ve been listening to a podcast series on Spotify, The Story of the Clash, and during an episode a … Continued
When You Don’t Know What to Say
As many of you probably know since I’ve mentioned being away from the online community for a bit, last week my wife’s dad passed away, just 5 weeks after her mom had. Obviously, the grieving process for us is still … Continued