If I accused you of being a Martian…

Cross-posted from “Sacramento Street Psychiatry“.

In dynamic psychotherapy, patients often say how hurt and victimized they feel as a result of unkind judgments or criticisms by others:

“My coworker called me a hypocrite!”

“My mother told me I neglect her by not visiting enough.”

“My husband complains I’m too self-centered.”

Although sharing such complaints with a caring listener is basic [...]

Bull in a china shop

Reposted from Sacramento Street Psychiatry.

Sometimes an unruly character disrupts the surrounding peace and quiet.  Loud, gruff words and ill-considered behavior mar the scene.  Onlookers cringe, awaiting the impending destruction.  For this beastly fellow is bound to break something: wreck a friendship or relationship, make a workplace intolerable.  All the worse if the setting harbors sensitive souls with feelings [...]

Would you trade years of life for happiness?

Cross-posted from “Sacramento Street Psychiatry“

The New York Times blog called “Well” recently asked: “Will Olympic Athletes Dope if They Know It Might Kill Them?” The answer is surprisingly clear: Many would if they could.  In bi-annual surveys conducted from 1982 to 1995, researcher Bob Goldman asked elite athletes whether they would take a drug that guaranteed them a gold [...]