Archive for the 'Stress Reduction' Category

Sep 03 2009

Avoid the pain: What we can learn from the Seligman research on dogs exposed to electric shock (Part 2)

Published by Bill Martin, LCSW under Stress Reduction, Counseling & Psychotherapy, Suicide, Alcohol and other Drug Abuse, How the Brain influences our lives, Trauma & Abuse, ACA/ACOA:Adult Children from Alcoholic Families, Attachment, Cognitive Therapy, Depression

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Sep 02 2009

Dogs, painful electric shocks, and explanatory style: What does the research tell us about feeling discouraged and helpless? (Part 1)

Published by Bill Martin, LCSW under Stress Reduction, Counseling & Psychotherapy, Suicide, How the Brain influences our lives, Parenting, Trauma & Abuse, Cognitive Therapy, Depression

It’s pretty simple. The research shows us that when people feel discouraged and helpless, they are more likely to become depressed. There are several landmark studies conducted by Martin Seligman and Steven Maier describing the phenomenon of learned helplessness using dogs and the effect of exposing the dogs to unpleasant electrical shocks while in a harness.

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Jun 17 2007

MAST: Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test

Published by Bill Martin, LCSW under Stress Reduction, Counseling & Psychotherapy, Inspiration, Education & Personal Growth, Alcohol and other Drug Abuse

Here is another online screening test for anyone interested in evaluating their or a loved ones alcohol use. It is commonly referred to as the MAST, or the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test.

This test asks questions like,

  • do friends and family think of you as a normal drinker?
  • are you able to easily stop drinking after a few drinks?
  • have you ever woken up the next day and not remembered events of the night before?
  • have you ever been arrested for more than 1 DUI?

The MAST has been widely used as a screening tool to help individuals concerned about their alcohol use. Take a look at it or send it to a friend who may benefit.

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Feb 25 2007

Relaxation Script to Help Relieve Stress

Published by Bill Martin, LCSW under Stress Reduction

Relaxation Script

Here are some basic tips about learning to relax:

1. Learning to relax is like anything new, the more you practice, the more skillful you become.

2. Wear loose fitting clothing and use your favorite chair or couch whenever you are trying to relax.

3. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, sugar, or anything that may make it difficult to relax. Continue Reading »

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