In some of my reading, I ran across this article written by Sharie Stines, Psy.D and published in psychcentral.com, which spells out some key indicators that an individual may be in an abusive relationship.  One might first think that anyone with a brain should be able to ascertain that, but quite honestly nothing could be further from the truth.  I have both worked with clients and have know others on a close personal level whose experience with a verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual abuser was so common that existing in such hostility simply became their “normal.”  As that “normal” plays out day after day, individuals become more and more dependent on their “person,” make excuses for them, defend them, and eventually disappear into their overwhelming shadow.  Discussing with someone any suspected abuse within their relationship is difficult, sensitive, and sometimes downright off limits.  But the problem is prevalent, nonetheless, so by including this article in my blog, perhaps putting valuable information in front of someone you love may be a little more doable.  I could say so much more, I really could, but for now, if you want to gain more insight on how to recognize abusive behaviors in a relationship, may I suggest that if you take the time to read this article, which, in my opinion is very informative and right on the money based on my experience with clients over the years. 

Children with ADHD often struggle in school, not only because of poor concentration, but also because of poor impulse control. They sometimes require more attention from teachers and they tend to draw negative attention to themselves. The residual effect is rejection from other students. Children with ADHD want friends and acceptance as much as others and the rejection they experience can, in fact, shape their self-image and help contribute to poor self-concept in relation to others. This article from healthcentral.com offers helpful information for parents of children with ADHD on how parents can help their children form close bonds with other kids in spite of their ADHD challenges. ADHD help is available through Pathways FMHS. Call 936-238-3868.

http://www.healthcentral.com/adhd/c/1443/144562/helping-children-make/

Going through divorce can be one of the most devastating events of a lifetime.  The residual effects can leave adults, and especially children, traumatized, stressed and overwhelmed, but this is particularly true of high conflict divorces.  In fact, mental health professionals are often called upon to counsel parents or children going through divorce to address symptoms of depression and anxiety that emerge over the course of litigation.  In high conflict divorce cases, this is even more evident. This article found in About.com sums up well the indicators that high conflict divorce can have effects consistent with PTSD.  Pathways FMHS offers specialized counseling services for adults and/or children experiencing the emotional impact of divorce.  If you need help, call (936) 238-3868.

http://divorcesupport.about.com/od/copingduringdivorce/a/High-Conflict-Divorce-Post-Traumatic-Stress-Disorder.htm

Forgiveness is the when someone chooses to go through the intentional and voluntary process of changing their feelings and  attitudes about the person by whom they feel victimized, betrayed, or offended against.  That process involves letting go of negative emotions with an increased ability to wish the either wish that person well or at the very least make a decision that they will no longer harbor angry, hurtful emotions regarding that person.  But who does that really help?  The following article from Psychology Today offers insight to answer that question.   Finding the ability to free oneself from the weight of forgiveness can sometimes require assistance from a professional.  Pathways FMHS can help.  Call (936) 238-3868. Faith based counseling is also available.  

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/fulfillment-any-age/201608/4-reasons-give-someone-second-chance

Over the course of my career, it always saddens me when couples come in on the brink of divorce.  Time and a series of negative events have chipped away at the unity in the marriage and seemingly without warning, a marital crisis has occurred.  I’ve seen couples come back from very dark places, but to do so vital components of their relationship must restored.  Some are even more important than others.  The following article provides a look at two of the primary elements.  For help with restoring these components in your marriage, call us, we can help: (936) 238-3868.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/do-the-right-thing/201608/the-2-most-important-elements-any-relationship