Adult Survivors of Sexual Childhood Abuse

I am an adult victim of sexual child abuse. Like many of you, I too have suffered heinous acts and violence at the hand of my perpetrator. My perpetrator happened to be my father; the one I trusted the most to protect me from harm. I spent most of my life unable to forgive and to heal. At age 67, I am now on a journey of healing and forgiveness. It has been a long and arduous journey, one in which I had to learn some very painful lessons to move forward and to let go of my past.

Adults who were sexually abused as a child grow up to develop serious mental illnesses to include bipolar disorder, borderline disorder, anxiety and depression disorders, which can greatly impact their life and relationships.

Childhood sexual abuse can have a wide range of negative effects on survivors, including emotional, psychological, and physical consequences. Survivors may experience feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem as a result of the abuse. They may also struggle with trust issues, intimacy problems, and difficulties forming healthy relationships. It is important for survivors to seek support and therapy to address these issues and begin the healing process.

Survivors may experience feelings of shame, guilt, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem as a result of the abuse. They may also struggle with trust issues, intimacy problems, and difficulties forming healthy relationships. It is important for survivors to seek support and therapy to address these issues and begin the healing process.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of childhood sexual abuse is crucial for adult survivors to understand the impact of their experiences. Common signs of childhood sexual abuse include nightmares, flashbacks, self-harm, substance abuse, and difficulties with intimacy. Survivors may also experience physical symptoms such as chronic pain, gastrointestinal issues, and headaches. By recognizing these signs and symptoms, survivors can begin to connect their current struggles with their past experiences of abuse.

In conclusion, understanding the definition of childhood sexual abuse is an important step for adult survivors to reclaim their power and begin the healing process. By recognizing that the abuse was not their fault, survivors can let go of feelings of shame and self-blame. Seeking support and therapy to address the negative effects of the abuse is crucial for survivors to move forward in their healing journey. By recognizing the signs and symptoms of childhood sexual abuse, survivors can begin to make sense of their experiences and work towards healing and empowering.

You can reach out to the following organizations for help and support:

https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/helplines/national-helpline

https://www.nimh.nih.gov

https://www.nami.org/advocacy/policy-priorities/responding-to-crises/national-hotline-for-mental-health-crises-and-suicide-prevention/

Someone out there cares and will offer you the care and support you need.  I did, and not only did I seek mental health support, I became a mental health registered nurse and have been supporting this population for over 30 years!

 

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Just Be Present

Just Be Present

Sometimes when I feel down and depressed, I may need your support.

I may not necessarily need your verbal input or your suggestions; however wise they may be.

Sometimes I just need to sit quietly and know that you are there.

That you are with me and near in case I fall.

I may feel that without you I won’t be able to stop spiraling down the rabbit hole.

You may want to offer comfort by holding me and talking softly.

But sometimes I just need for you to be present.

To be there next to me without words or gestures.

Perhaps just a gentle touch of your hand to know I am not alone.

Just sit next to me and quietly be present.

That is the most comforting and healing thing you can do for me.

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Black-White, Happy-Sad, Yin-Yang: Living With Bipolar

Introduction

Black-white, happy-sad, yin-yang, love-hate, up-down, right-wrong, rapid cycling. These are the daily struggles of living with severe bipolar disorder.  I should know. I have lived with bipolar my entire life. Following a devastating divorce and the destruction of my family at age 40, I attempted near-fatal suicide by overdose. I was in the ICU for 4 days and then transferred to an inpatient psychiatric hospital. I was in total denial refusing to accept that I had this dreaded illness. That was the beginning of a string of suicide attempts. This was my first attempt followed by ten hospitalizations in the next few years. I was never stabilized on the right medications, nor did I receive therapy. I had given up hope accepting that this was my fate and I had no control over it. At this stage, I was in a bipolar-depressed phase. I slept all day to escape the darkness surrounding me, and during the night, I would watch television and crochet blankets. Either way, it was an attempt to escape my world. The purpose of this book is to educate and support the many thousands who suffer inexorably from this disorder. I send out my prayers to you all that you will find comfort and peace along your journey of recovery as I now have.

 

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Its Christmas Again

Here we are.  Another Christmas. It comes around every year regardless of one’s circumstance.  For most it is a happy, joyful time filled with excitement of things to come and celebrating years’ past.  It is a time for shopping and baking and sharing gifts with those we love.  But not for all.  For some, the Christmas season is just a time filed with busy angry shoppers, commercials promoting toys children don’t need and parents can’t afford to buy, and credit card debt rising out of control just to fulfil one’s expected obligations.

For some, it is a time of reflection of a lifetime of regret.  A time when families are estranged and no friends are to be found.  It can be a very lonely time for many.  For me, it has always been such a letdown.  So much buildup and preparation. . . gone in 24 hours. And we are no better off than the year before.

There have been many studies that prove that the holiday season exacerbates mental illness resulting in crowed hospital rooms and psychiatric facilities.  Depression and suicide are on the rise. I think that the commercialization of Christmas and the focus taken off of Christ’s birthday has led to the not so jolly season.  It can make the less fortunate realize that they have been excluded from this time of joy and celebration.

What is the answer?  I don’t know.  Perhaps getting back to the roots of what Christmas is all about and reaching out to the lonely and less fortunate would be a good start.  Let’s make it a time of giving from the heart, not giving from our checkbooks.

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Bipolar Depression – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A colorful image of the human brain.


Causes of Bipolar Depression

Bipolar disorder runs in families, with genetics believed to play a significant role. A person with this inherited vulnerability may develop bipolar disorder in response to environmental triggers such as a traumatic experience or drug abuse. Serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine are three neurotransmitters—or chemical messengers in the brain—that help regulate our moods. It is believed that imbalances in these biochemicals are responsible for the mood swings of bipolar disorder. Brain imaging scans reveal significant differences between the metabolism of a normal brain and a bipolar brain. During normal mood, brain activity and blood flow across the two sides of the brain are basically equal. Hormonal imbalances have been found in many people with bipolar disorder. In particular, high levels of the stress hormone cortisol and abnormal levels of thyroid hormone are believed to contribute to manic and depressive mood episodes.

Severe stress or emotional trauma can trigger either a depressive episode or a manic episode in an individual predisposed to bipolar disorder. Stress can also prolong a bipolar mood episode. Major life events such as getting married, going away to college, or starting a new job can trigger a mood episode. Certain medications, most notably antidepressant drugs, can trigger a manic episode. If antidepressants are prescribed during the depressive phase of bipolar disorder, they must be taken with a mood stabilizer in order to avoid this complication. Sleep deprivation—even as little as skipping a few hours of sleep—can trigger an episode of mania. Episodes of mania and depression often follow a seasonal pattern. Manic episodes are more common during the summer, and depressive episodes are more common during the fall, winter, and spring. Disturbances in circadian rhythms have been implicated in bipolar disorder. Some researchers believe that the biological clock that regulates our sleep-wake cycle is abnormally fast in people with bipolar disorder.

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar, also known as manic depression, is characterized by cycling mood changes, with episodes of depression alternating with episodes of mania.

Typically,Guest Posting the switch from one mood extreme to the other is gradual, with each manic or depressive episode lasting for at least several weeks. When depressed, a person with bipolar disorder exhibits the usual symptoms of major depression. People with bipolar disorder are at risk of death – either by dangerous behavior in the manic state or by suicide in the depressive state. About 5.7 million American adults, or about 2.6 percent of the population age 18 and older in any given year,1 have bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder typically develops in late adolescence or early adulthood. However, some people have their first symptoms during childhood, and some develop them late in life. Bipolar disorder sends you on an emotional rollercoaster, and the results can be devastating. Bipolar Disease has affected many well-known musicians, writers, and artists the illness and the effects the disease has on the lives of its sufferers have been trivialized. The reason is that there are so many creatively talented people who live with Bipolar Disease.

The extreme mood states of the disease disrupt normal activities, causing problems at home, work, and school. In the manic phase, you may be hyperactive and irresponsible. Bipolar disorder involves periods of elevated mood or mania, alternating with periods of depression. A person with bipolar disorder typically cycles between these two extremes, often with periods of normal mood in between. The pattern of symptoms differs from person to person. Some people are more prone to either mania or depression, while others experience equal numbers of manic and depressive episodes. The frequency and duration of mood episodes also vary widely. Bipolar disorder causes dramatic mood swings—from overly “high” and/or irritable to sad and hopeless, and then back again, often with periods of normal mood in between. Severe changes in energy and behavior go along with these changes in mood. Psychiatrists list four types of bipolar disorder. The four types differ largely on three factors. One factor is whether mania (the highs) or depression (the lows) is more common in the patient. The second factor is how serious each condition is. The third factor is how fast the patient alternates between stages.

Treatment of Bipolar Depression

People with bipolar disorder typically receive medication and psychotherapy. Mood stabilizers can help control mood swings, prevent recurrences of mood swings, and reduce the risk of suicide. They are usually taken for a long time, commonly for many years. Examples include lithium and certain anticonvulsant drugs such as lithium and Valproate.  These chemicals are among the oldest and most frequently prescribed of all drugs for the treatment of bipolar disorder. Carbamazepine is an anticonvulsant drug used to prevent convulsions (spasms). It is often prescribed to patients for whom lithium treatment is ineffective. Valproate is primarily for the treatment of patients with rapid cycling bipolar disorder.  Patients often do not respond to treatment with these medications.  One group of drugs used to treat depression is called selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These drugs increase the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a major neurotransmitter which is a hormone that appears to affect mood, emotions, appetite, and digestion. As the precursor for melatonin, it helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and the body clock. Some side effects of SSRIs include anxiety, diarrhea, drowsiness, headache, sweating, nausea, poor sexual functioning, and insomnia (see insomnia entry).

In extreme cases, Bipolar disorder is sometimes treated with electroconvulsive shock therapy or ECT. ECT is a procedure in which intense electrical shocks are administered through electrodes attached to the patient’s head. The patient is first given anesthesia and a muscle relaxant.

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A person with their hands over his face

Is It Holiday Stress . . . or something else??


A person with their hands over his face

Bah Humbug?  It’s that time of year when friends and loved ones unite to celebrate family. It is usually a joyous season filled with laughter, plentiful food and drink, and a renewed sense of faith and hope.  However, for some of us who suffer from a major depressive disorder (MDD), the Holidays can create additional stress, anxiety and worsen our existing depression.  We may feel like isolating and not participating in festivities.  We may look around at all the happy faces and wonder, “why am I not happy?†According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Depression is a common illness worldwide, with an estimated 3.8% (264 million) of the population affected, including 5.0% among adults and 5.7% among adults older than 60 years.† MDD is defined as depression that lasts more than two weeks.

 

During a depressive episode, the person may experience feelings of profound sadness, irritability, increased anxiety or agitation, poor concentration, feelings of excessive guilt or low self-worth, disrupted sleep, changes in appetite or weight, and feelings of hopelessness, to name a few.  Chronic untreated depression can often lead to suicidal thoughts and actions.  Yet, with all the advanced medical technology available today, there are few effective treatments that cure or put depression into remission.  The most common medical treatment over the years has been antidepressant medications (along with psychotherapy) and there are hundreds, if not thousands, to choose from.  For some, antidepressants can play an invaluable role in helping relieve symptoms; but for those who suffer from treatment resistant depression (TRD), standard medications bring little to no relief.  According to Johnson and Johnson, up to one-third of adults with MDD do not respond to treatments.

 

But there is hope at the end of this dark tunnel:  Psychedelics. You heard right! Hold on ladies and gents from the 60’s and 70’s—this isn’t a joke. Due to the massive failure of Big Pharma to deliver, psychedelics have undergone a medical renaissance as researchers look to an ancient remedy for help.  Studies at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world are conducting research into the world of psychedelics:  John

Hopkins University, Yale School of Medicine, University of California/San Diego, London’s Imperial College of Science Technology and Medicine, and New York’s Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, for example.  Recent research has proven psychedelics to be stunningly effective against intractable mental illnesses such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), Post-Traumatic Stress Syndrome (PTSD), bipolar disorder, and alcohol and drug dependence.  Ketamine is showing promise in the treatment of MDD and PTSD; Ecstasy (MDMA); and LSD has proven to be quite effective at treating MDD and alcohol and drug dependence.  However, by far the most promising among the psychedelics is psilocybin—the active ingredient in “magic mushrooms.â€Â  Studies show that this powerful compound, combined with psychotherapy, brings fast and long-lasting relief from MDD and PTSD.  Not only are psychedelics effective in the treatment and remission of MDD ad PTSD symptoms, but recent studies also suggest that psychedelics can heal and repair the brain, many times in just a single dose. This is great news to those of us who suffer from one of these debilitating illnesses.

 

Suffice it to say, this could still be years away from production and approval from the FDA.  So, what do I do in the meantime?  There are many helpful strategies that can bring temporary relief from depression, such as psychotherapy, meditation, yoga, biofeedback, listening to music, exercise, and even pet therapy.  I will be doing a series on depression where I will expand on helpful therapeutic interventions.  In the meantime, if you or a loved one is suffering from depression, please seek professional help right away. Here are a few resources:

 

  1. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA):(800) 662-HELP (4357)
  2. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI):  (800) 950-NAMI (6264)
  3. National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) 273-8255

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A group of people sitting at tables with paint and pencils.

Spring Activities to Boost Seniors’ Mental Health


With longer daylight hours and warmer weather, it’s a great time to shake off those winter blues. Many people have been stuck indoors because of COVID-19 and the cold, which can increase feelings of depression and loneliness. We’re taking a closer look at some ways to boost your mood while enjoying the change in seasons.

Simply spend time outdoors. Just getting out and breathing in the fresh air and soaking in some natural sunlight can do wonders for your mood. Go for a walk around your neighborhood or sit out on your porch with a good book. Watch as the trees bud, flowers bloom, birds build nests, and more critters emerge.

Plant flowers. Spruce up your yard by turning over old soil, pulling weeds, and planting some of your favorite flowers. Choose bright, colorful blooms that make you smile and make your space look more alive. You can even mix and match plants of different types and heights.

Start a garden. A garden can give you something to look forward to every day. You can slowly watch the seeds turn into plants and then enjoy your favorite vegetables as they grow and ripen. You can grow everything from tomatoes, squash, and cucumbers to peas, carrots, and peppers. Choose veggies you love to eat, or even some new ones that you’ve been wanting to try. Don’t have a lot of space for an outdoor garden? Consider container gardening instead!

Make a birdfeeder. You don’t need to spend money on anything fancy when you can make a birdfeeder at home. You can use a plastic water bottle or milk jug, a paper plate, a tin can, some scraps of wood, or other materials that can hold birdseed or berries. Use some string to tie it in a tree, or secure it to a railing or windowsill. Count how many different types of birds come to enjoy a snack!

Have a picnic. Pack up a blanket, some water, and your favorite foods and go on a picnic. You can spread out in a park or nature reserve and take in your surroundings with a family member or friend. It’s also a great way to socialize while social distancing because each person can have their own space.

Go to an outdoor event. As the weather gets nicer, more organizations are shifting events outside again. You can listen to music, take in a show, watch a movie, participate in a fitness class, or do other activities. Ask around to see what is happening in your area.

Move exercise outside. If you’re tired of staring at the walls of your house as you exercise, take it outside instead. You can do yoga, stretches, cardio, aerobics, biking, swimming, hiking, running, and countless other types of exercise while enjoying the fresh air, sunshine, and change of scenery.

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A woman and an older person smiling for the camera.

Breast Cancer and Seniors: What You Need to Know


October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and while a lot of attention is given to the importance of early detection and women getting mammograms beginning at age 40, there is less emphasis on older adults. In reality, this population is at increased risk and should continue to be vigilant about breast health.

According to the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results registry, “The median age of a breast cancer diagnosis is 62 and nearly 20 percent of women diagnosed are over the age of 75.†Researchers also predict that cancer diagnoses in women ages 70 to 84 will continue to increase.

The good news is that breast cancer is still treatable – and survivable – for seniors. Whereas radical mastectomies were once commonplace, with advancements in research and treatment, they are now fairly rare with other options proving effective. More studies are being conducted to better understand cancer development and treatment effects on older adults. It is important that the patient’s age and functional ability be taken into consideration when undergoing chemotherapy treatment to reduce risk of potential toxicities and minimize the impact on their quality of life.

Breast Cancer Signs and Symptoms

Early detection is still key when it comes to effectively treating breast cancer. Women should continue to receive annual or biennial mammograms to monitor breast health and detect any changes. Unfortunately, doctors have found that seniors tend to become less consistent with yearly breast screenings. Monthly self-exams are also recommended, as well as paying attention to warning signs that may indicate breast cancer.

Signs and symptoms include:

  • A lump in the breast or underarm
  • Visible changes in breast size or shape
  • Redness or pitting of the skin
  • Bloody discharge from the nipple

Women should also know common risk factors for breast cancer such as:

  • Over 50 years old
  • Menarche beginning before age 12
  • Menopause beginning after age 50
  • No pregnancy or pregnancy after age 30
  • Long-term oral contraceptive use
  • Dense breast tissue

Treatment for Breast Cancer

Surgery is still very common for breast cancer, but it is not necessarily the first line of defense. Many women undergo chemotherapy or radiation therapy to shrink or destroy tumors and cancer cells. These treatments are sometimes used in conjunction with one another, or with surgery. A lumpectomy may be performed to remove just the tumor, or a mastectomy may be performed to remove the entire breast. Hormone therapy is also becoming more common for certain types of breast cancer.

Chemotherapy and radiation often take place over many weeks and require regular visits for treatment. These treatments can be hard on the body, and it can be beneficial for women to have reliable transportation as well as support at home to manage side effects and assist with daily care.

Caregivers can provide a wide range of non-medical care and support for women as they undergo or recover from breast cancer treatment. Caregivers can help prepare healthy meals, assist with mobility, accompany individuals on errands or outings, provide medication reminders, perform light housekeeping, and much more allowing seniors to remain as independent as possible.

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A man in glasses is using his phone

Best Technology Gifts for Seniors


Shopping for aging parents can be tough because they often have everything they really need. Throughout their lives, they have accumulated a lot of belongings, and many are working on consolidating and cleaning to minimize clutter and prepare for if they want to eventually downsize their living space. Certain technology can be a good option because it is practical and allows seniors to stay connected and active. Here are some great gift ideas for seniors:

  1. Digital Tracking Tags: Small tags such as Tile Stickers or other tracking devices can be great for older adults who forget where they put their keys, phone, wallet/purse, remote, or other items. All you have to do is attach the tag to the item, and you can use a phone app to track its location. This can save time and frustration of searching for missing items.
  2. Video Doorbell: Not only can seniors quickly see who is at their door, you can set up alerts so a family member is notified as well. This can provide an added level of safety and security.
  3. Noise Cancelling Headphones: Cut down on background noise by wearing noise-cancelling headphones when watching tv or movies or listening to music. This can be great for seniors who are experiencing hearing loss.
  4. Tablet: Get a simple tablet and set it up with some fun games and apps for video communication. Your aging parents can keep their minds sharp and also have an easy way to connect with family members and friends whether they live near or far.
  5. Fitness Watch: Not only can these products help track activity levels, some can also monitor heart rate, sleep, and other data. It can help your loved one better manage their health and physical activity.
  6. Digital Photo Frame: Pictures can be a wonderful memory-jogger and conversation starter. Get a digital frame that can hold dozens of photos and automatically scrolls through so your loved one can see family and friends. Some models even allow you to upload photos remotely, so they can be regularly updated with new images.
  7. Gaming System: Videos games aren’t just for kids. There are plenty of games that seniors can enjoy that will challenge their minds, provide entertainment, and work on balance and coordination. Find things you can play together as well as a way to bond and spend time together.
  8. Alexa/Amazon Echo: These devices can make it easier for aging adults to quickly access information, set reminders, make lists, and much more. They can also be set up to control lights, music, thermostats, and other devices.

It can take some time for seniors to get used to technology and understand how to use it, but once they do, it can have a lot of advantages. Plus, as technology continues to improve, it becomes more user friendly and intuitive, and some products are geared specifically toward seniors.

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A man running in the park wearing headphones.

Three benefits from exercising with others


Staying active is beneficial for people of all ages, but it’s especially important for older adults. But you may be surprised to learn that the benefit go beyond physical… Exercising with others offers many social benefits as well! A study from BioMed Research International found that “improvements in mental health, emotional, psychological, and social well-being and cognitive function are associated with regular physical activity.”

Here are three benefits of exercising with friends, groups, or classes:

1. Meet new friends

What better way to connect with others who want to live an active, healthy lifestyle than at a fitness class? An energetic and supportive environment may be the start of new friendships, but it certainly isn’t the end. Fitness technicians from our communities love to see their members sharing meals, life, and laughter together––even outside the fitness center.

2. Learn from others

Whether exercising with a professional instructor or a peer who’s just a bit further along in their exercise journey, we can all learn from each other. Fitness techs at our communities offer expert group classes and personal training sessions, so there’s something for everyone. The best part? These team members, along with residents and fitness center members, make learning fun.

3. Work toward your goals together

Motivation. Accountability. Encouragement. Knowing others around you are working to improve, even if you have different goals, can be a great reminder to keep going. A study from The Ohio State University found that telling someone you respect or admire about your goals makes you more likely to reach it.

We hope this inspires you to try something new, invite a friend to go for a walk, or find the support you need for your wellness journey.

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