February 19, 2015
by Tracy Busse, MA, LPC
In the last year, the chilling actions of ISIS and Boko Haram have shocked many. Americans have questioned their barbaric practices and lack of regard for women. It is hard to imagine something like that happening in America. As stories of survivors are released, hearts sink when they hear of women and children being forced into marriage and raped by militants (Those, 2014). But what if these same injustices were happening in the United States? Perhaps they are.
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January 28th, two former Vanderbilt football players were found guilty on all counts of aggravated rape of an unconscious woman. The details of the story as reported in the Tennessean (Barchenger & Walker, 2015) were horrific. The rape occurred 19 months ago. The football players had taken photos and video of their sadistic acts and shared them with friends. The victim, who had been drugged, was unaware that she had been assaulted until video surfaced.
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Violence is a main cause of stigma toward people with mental illness, but lack of knowledge and education are also part of the problem. People with mental illness are no more likely to commit violent acts than anyone else, but when mental illness is present with substance abuse and a history of violence, that risk does increase. As a society, we must better understand and effectively address all causes of violence.
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The experience of trauma can result in painful psychological symptoms for some people. Every person is unique, and what may be a traumatic experience for one person, may not result in symptoms for another. It’s important for people to understand the signs and symptoms of what is known as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), so that treatment can be received as soon as possible. The symptoms of PTSD can range from mild to severe, and can be brief in nature or more long-term, depending on the individual and the type of trauma they have experienced.
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November 12, 2014
by Christie Hunter
Some people have some issues with their relationships, but sometimes, they get to a point where people really struggle and they could be in an abusive relationship. If you are in a relationship that is having troubles, and you aren't sure if you could consider it to be an abusive relationship, that's why I've written this article. Let's take a closer look at abusive relationships, how you can discover whether or not you are in one, and how to get out if you have to do so. This information can help save you from a lot of hurt, so it's important that you read it.
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Punishment is sometimes necessary as it serves to stop behavior that is inappropriate. It is very important for parents to keep in mind that punishment is only a part of the overall teaching of discipline. Discipline requires a two-pronged approach. Stop the inappropriate behavior and reward the appropriate behavior.
FB- What is your view on spanking as part of discipline? C. Wayne Winkle explores some of the views held by parents on this controversial issue.
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Dating is supposed to be a time for teens to explore relationships and learn about themselves. It is supposed to be fun--and safe. But sometimes things go terribly wrong. Too often, teens are resorting to emotional and physical violence to resolve conflicts and manage painful feelings. Teens and their loved ones must be able to recognize abusive behavior in relationships, and know how to safely leave a relationship and get help.
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Hazing is a widespread problem impacting not only colleges and universities, but high schools, as well. Rites of passage and initiation rituals are nothing new, but some of the hazing that goes on is devastating for victims and their families, and even illegal. Both victims and those participating in perpetrating the hazing can experience significant psychological effects including trauma reactions and shame and guilt. Joining any group, team, or club should not mean sacrificing your physical or psychological health and well-being.
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October 17, 2014
by Marti Wormuth, MA
Millions of men, women, and children are affected by domestic abuse every single year, and it's important that we understand what it is and how it can affect people for the rest of their lives. So, in this article, we're going to define domestic abuse and explore how it can affect those involved for the long term.
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October 10, 2014
by David Porter, MA
If you are a MH/SA staff, providing counseling, psychotherapy, case management, or medication to this population, there is a certain degree of risk involved. The risk is greater if you work with an offender population, and individuals with a history of violence. If proper precautions are taken, support and protection are provided from co-workers and the agency, proper training is received, and good judgment based on training and education are exercised, safety to staff, as well as patients and bystanders, is enhanced. However, improper handling will result in problems.
FB- Mental health and substance abuse workers are unfortunately at risk for experiencing violence in the workplace. Here are some things you can do to protect yourself.
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