Author: Susan Menahem

5 Signs Your Child May Benefit from Psychotherapy

Nearly 10%-20% of children and adolescents in the world experience mental disorders, reveals data published by the World Health Organization. And, half of these mental illnesses begin by the age of 14 years. Kids are known for their fluctuating feelings. However, any sign of persisting feelings of hopelessness, sadness, anger, worry, anxiety, tendency to overreact to situations, sudden and unexplained poor performance in school, should never be taken lightly. Nearly 6 million children in the US, aged 2 to 17 years, are diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. These children face extreme difficulties in academics and classroom communication. Early diagnosis is the best way to ensure that such children learn skills that will benefit them as they grow up. Here are five signs that indicate that your child might benefit from psychotherapy. 1.     They Don’t Speak Children too can mental health issues, similar to adults. However, they do not have the emotional intelligence or language to tell their parents what they are experiencing or the skills to cope with such issues. Their unusual behavior can be an indication that they need to see a good therapist. 2.     Uncontrolled Crying If… Read more »

7 WAYS TO BEAT THE HOLIDAY BLUES

By Susan Menahem Stockings are not the only things that will be filled this holiday season — so will most therapist’s waiting rooms. The truth is that many people have difficulties during the holidays. To beat the holiday blues, keep these seven things in mind: TRADITIONS are wonderful, but they usually change as our lives do. Be open to creating new traditions, either for yourself or with other people. What makes traditions special is the meaning that we attribute to them. Even a new tradition can be special and meaningful if we decide that it is. EXPECTATIONS around the holidays will only lead to trouble and hurt feelings. Rarely is an expectation grounded in reality, and having expectations does not leave room for circumstances to change. Lastly, expectations block us from being able to appreciate whatever does occur. Rather than having expectations, we need to allow our mind to become a blank mental canvas, open to whatever unfolds. SELF PITY only creates more sadness. So your life may have taken a twist and a turn and it is not how you want it to be right now. Accept that you are in a transition and things won’t always be this way…. Read more »