Category Archives: Brain

Bullying

What Happens in the Brain When Teens are Bullied

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Guest Blogger: Kaylee WilsonBullying

Teenage bullying is not really news that’s so new to anybody. We often hear kids and teens alike being bullied in schools. It seems that even when schools are trying their best, they still can’t keep teens from being bullied.

One question experts have raised in this matter is what happens in the brain when teens are bullied. We have always known how bullying can be traumatizing, but not that many are well-versed in how it can affect a child’s brain.

Fear is a powerful weapon that can affect the brain in far more ways than we know. The benefit of fear is that it can help you live through danger, but it can destroy you if you’re not strong enough to control it. Bullied teens are most likely to feel fear more than anything else. And you’d be surprised to discover what happens to the brain when teens are bullied, with fear strong in their mind. It turns out that the effects of bullying goes deeper into a teen’s brain, and leaves a psychological scar that continues to develop as a child grows older.

So how does bullying affect the brain

1. It throws brain hormones out of its normal functions

Bullying, like sexual harassment and physical trauma, throws the brain out of its normal functions. Instead of being fully developed, the neurons in the brain reduce connectivity with other neurons and therefore sabotage its normal functions – like the growth of new neurons. The anterior cingulate gyrus is the part of the brain responsible for our fear response. When we are threatened, this part of the brain works to either calm us down or fight the threat posed before us – the fight or flight stimulus. It’s also the part responsible for empathy. It would seem that empathy isn’t exactly what the brain of a teenager feels when he is being bullied. Instead, the urge to fight back is strong. But the fear emotion is strongly represented in the brain as well, and prevents a teen from acting positively to the situation.

2.  It makes a person impulsive, aggressive, and constantly anxious that might lead to teen depression

Bullies may be the products of unhealthy environments; nagging and uncaring parents, bad peer influence, or being bullied themselves when they were younger. The amygdala is the part of the brain responsible for responding to environmental emotional stimuli, and therefore helps us to deal with stress. However, bullying makes the amygdala respond beyond its normal active response. When the amygdala is subjected to conditions like constant bullying, one’s emotional stimuli becomes affected, and teens are left to become more impulsive, aggressive, and permanently anxious.

This is a good cause for concern if your teens are displaying heightened impulsive or aggressive tendencies with everyday things. Your teenage child may look fine on the outside but troubled teens dealing with bullying usually don’t display symptoms until it is too late. Find out what you can about the signs and symptoms of bullying, and help your teen deal with it before it permanently affects the way his brain operates.

About the Author

Kaylee is a family counselor in Dayton, Ohio, and specializes in problems affecting troubled teens in middle school and currently partners with Online Degree Enlightment.

References

Radical Parenting: What Happens in the Brain When Teens are Bullied?;

http://www.radicalparenting.com/2011/03/28/what-happens-in-the-brain-when-teens-are-bullied/

Boston: Inside the Bullied Brain;

http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/ideas/articles/2010/11/28/inside_the_bullied_brain/

Queerty: Science: Getting Bullied Screws Your Brain;

http://www.queerty.com/science-getting-bullied-screws-with-your-brain-20110322/

 

Avocado

Top Natural Home Remedies for Depression

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Guest Blogger: Leo Wyatt

Depression is a condition which can strike you almost literally out of the blue – and may follow an Avocadoupheaval in your life, including redundancy, divorce, moving home or a bereavement. However, depression can also occur at times in your life in which you should be happy, such as having a baby, moving jobs, going to university or changing school/college/university.

Any event which alters your normal daily life can make you feel anxious and worried about a new responsibility or how your life may change.

Sometimes it is not always easy to understand why you feel depressed – feelings of hopelessness, pointlessness, low energy, and feeling inexplicably angry can suddenly hit. Panic attacks sometimes accompany depression and the symptoms of these episodes of intense anxiety can result in a thumping heart, perspiring profusely, and a feeling of being terrified, often without knowing what has brought on an attack of anxiety at that moment.

The brain is a complex organ which is home to our thoughts, memories, feelings and sleep patterns. Anything which disrupts our normal lives can undermine our confidence and result in a profound sense of shock or apprehension, which can be difficult to rationalize, meaning depression and panic attacks – a symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder – can take hold.

The herb St John’s Wort was at one time thought to be the best over-the-counter treatment for mild depression, but it can cause an allergic reaction and alcohol and exposure to sunlight should be avoided when using it. Many people still swear by St John’s Wort as a home remedy for depression and some researchers claim it can be as effective as the class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) for mild to moderate depression.

But eating certain foods can also help balance your hormones, naturally boost levels of the “happiness chemical” serotonin in the brain, and boost brain function.

The brain needs a whole range of nutrients to remain healthy and functioning, so feed your brain to help cure your depression.

1. Avocados contain high levels of Vitamin E and Omega-3 fatty acids and can help regulate blood pressure when you are feeling stressed.

2. Aromatherapy using scented oils or natural scented products like rose petals or lavender can boost mood. Lemon verbena or ginger can give you a natural lift – while rose or lavender can relax you and help boost sleep. Ginger tea is also good for digestion and coughs.

3. Chocolate – a few squares of 70% cocoa dark chocolate can protect arteries, boost blood supply to the brain, and help increase levels of the happiness chemical serotonin for a natural high. Dark chocolate also contains iron to boost the health of red blood cells as they carry oxygen round the body and to the brain.

4. Exercise is also a good way to keep the brain well supplied with oxygen and make new connections in the brain’s wiring –  make sure you take some exercise and schedule in a daily household chore or a spot of gardening to keep you connected with daily life. The brain also needs to make new connections to stay healthy, so acquiring new skills and information can help – read, do puzzles, chat to people, write stories or poems, and do a little sports to keep your brain alert.

5. Lack of B vitamins can make you feel lethargic and low; so make sure you eat plenty of whole grains, wholemeal bread and pasta, and even yeast-based foods like Marmite to help maintain your mood balance.

6. Lack of iron can also make you feel depressed and lethargic – and red blood cells need iron to be able to carry oxygen to the brain efficiently; so take a supplement or eat liver and red meat, eggs, spinach, or drink milk.

7. Oily fish is high in Omega-3 fatty acids, which boost the health of brain cells and improves concentration and mood – have three portions of salmon, tuna, or herring weekly.

8. Red grape skins contain the antioxidant resveratrol, which protects arteries to boost blood flow to the brain. Grape skins also release antioxidants when exposed to UV light and may help boost skin health and protect against ageing – reasons to be cheerful. A glass of red wine daily can protect arteries and boost mood.

9. Tryptophan is an amino acid which is also a natural antidepressant because it converts to serotonin in the brain. Foods containing tryptophan include avocados, bananas, turkey, cherries, and kiwifruit.

10. Vitamin C can boost your immune system – depression can mean you fall ill frequently with colds and infections because depression lowers your immune system, so make sure you get plenty of Vitamin C and also zinc.

If you are suffering from long-term depression or postnatal depression, it is important to see your GP to get the help you need – and also check that it is okay for you to try some natural remedies for depression, especially if you are taking other medication, as even herbal remedies and vitamins can cause adverse reactions in some people.

Depression Alliance (www.depressionalliance.org.uk) is an online support group which can help people with depression – and taking the first steps to handling your depression can often lift a huge weight from your shoulders

About the Author

Leo Wyatt is a freelance writer & journalist who graduated from Birmingham University. Leo has worked for several newspapers in the midlands but now spends most of his time writing articles for companies, websites and businesses on a freelance basis, primarily the brain injury experts. Leo also has a particular interest in politics, law, and health.

overcoming depression

Overcoming Depression – Self Recovery Advice

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Guest Blogger: Leo Wyattovercoming depression

Depression is a condition which can sneak up on you suddenly, or develop over time until you reach a point when it becomes almost a way of life. Some people who suffer from depression can reach a stage when the thought of not feeling depressed becomes almost frightening, as depression becomes like a familiar blanket and a reason not to engage with life.

Depression is sometimes a case of better the devil you know – but most people with depression long to return to a time when they did not have to endure the symptoms and the feelings of hopelessness and pointlessness depression brings with it. To break the cycle of depression, it can often be necessary to get help, either from a GP or a support group.

Sometimes admitting to your doctor that you have been coping with depression can help relieve some of the burden, as admitting you need some help can be the first step to improving the situation. Taking good care of yourself and being aware of your own needs when tackling depression can also help – often daily life and caring for others does not leave people with depression much time for themselves.

On the other hand, if you have been made redundant or do not work, too much time to fill can make you feel depressed, especially if you are coping with money issues. Bereavement or the breakdown of a relationship, as well as illness, injury, or surgery can also bring on depression – any interruption to the normal course of your life can make you feel vulnerable and that is when depression can strike you.

Once you have admitted to yourself and your GP that you need some help, here are a few ways you can take your depression in hand and take small steps towards overcoming it.

  • The brain needs to make new connections in its “wiring” to remain healthy and fully functioning; so try and vary your routine, learn something new, read more, do word or logic puzzles, or try an activity like creative writing, start an eBay shop or learn a new skill, like motor mechanics or carpentry – whatever takes your fancy.
  • Motivation can slump when you are depressed – schedule in a short walk every day (build up to longer walks) and a domestic chore or some gardening. Sticking to a routine will help make you feel you are still on top of things. Exercise boosts blood flow to the brain and brains need the oxygen carried by red blood cells to function properly.
  • Reward yourself – a small treat, a trip to the cinema or a museum or motor show (whatever your interests) can get your brain working and get you out of a rut.
  • Shutting yourself off from friends and family is common with depression, but conversation can help boost brain function – and is recommended for older people to stave off Alzheimer’s disease, as the brain’s wiring needs stimulation. Talk to friends, talk to family, and talk to strangers also – even if you just chat at the checkout or at the hairdresser, it will make you feel more connected with life.
  • Listen to what your body is telling you – low energy and wanting to sleep, or not sleeping at all, are common with depression; but if you suddenly feel like a trip out, don’t ignore the signs and let depression hold you back – make the effort and go out, paint that wall, chat on Facebook, or play a video game for half-an-hour, rather than sit in front of the TV or lie in bed and do nothing.
  • Eat well – certain foods can boost brain function and health and help beat depression, as they contain compounds which help the brain stay healthy. Eat iron-rich foods, like liver or steak, to boost red blood cells, and complex carbohydrates like whole meal bread, wholegrain cereals, and brown rice. Turkey and bananas contain tryptophan, which converts to serotonin in the brain. Avoid sugar, white flour, and pasta or biscuits and cakes, as these can give you a quick burst of energy followed by a slump. Fatty fish like salmon and tuna contains Omega-3 fatty acids to boost brain health, improve sleep patterns and reduce anxiety and depression. Take flaxseed (linseed oil) if you are allergic to fish.
  • Enjoy a glass of red wine and a few squares of 70% cocoa dark chocolate daily to boost brain health. Red wine keeps arteries healthy and boosts blood flow to the brain – dark chocolate does the same and also helps trigger serotonin production, which is the happiness chemical in the brain.
  • Avoid reading bad news – serotonin is produced whenever we are happy and depression can mean fall in its levels. Serotonin is sometimes called the “love chemical” because of the feelings of elation it creates when we fall in love, so do and read things which make you happy – whether this a walk by the sea or reading a holiday brochure – to boost serotonin levels naturally.
  • Avoid addictive behavior – if you find yourself drinking more, eating more, gambling, comfort spending, or taking recreational or over-the-counter medications to try and cope with depression, see your GP. If you are beginning to rely on food or comfort spending to feel better, you will need to break the “boom and bust” mood cycle of addictive behavior.

The organization Depression Alliance (http://www.depressionalliance.org/) offers support to people with depression – and depression is not something you have to hide away from others, as one-in-five of us will suffer an episode of depression at some time in our lives.

Be kind to yourself, talk to your GP – and get the help and support you need to beat depression.

About the Author

Leo Wyatt is a freelance writer & journalist who graduated from Birmingham University. Leo has worked for several newspapers in the midlands but now spends most of his time writing articles for companies, websites and businesses on a freelance basis, primarily the brain injury experts. Leo also has particular interests in politics, law and health.

 

How to Battle Depression in College

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Guest Blogger: Angelita Williams

According to NPR, depression is now more common among college students than it was just ten years ago. Additionally, some research indicates that up to 50% of all college students will suffer from some form of psychiatric illness during their four years of study. College is a transitional period for many young adults, which also makes it a sometimes difficult time of adjustment. Depression is a tough illness to battle at any stage of your life, but it can be particularly difficult to deal with in college when combined with social, academic, and financial stressors. If you’re in college and think you might be depressed, here are a few things you should consider doing for yourself:

Visit Your School Counseling Department

This should be the first thing you do when you start to feel depressed. The counselors at your university will be able to help you develop an action plan to deal with your depression. Additionally, they’ll be able to refer you to a psychiatrist or doctor if they believe your situation could be improved with medication. If you’ve never been to a counselor before, you may be a little nervous about visiting one at your school. That’s normal. Just keep in mind that plenty of your college peers seek the help of your school’s counseling department, and the counselors are there to help you.

Immerse Yourself in Your Studies

When you’re depressed, it requires a lot of extra effort to stay motivated in school. You should, however, try your absolute hardest to keep up with your college courses. Regularly learning new things will expand your mind and enliven your spirit. Plus, keeping your mind busy will help you focus less on things that are bothering you.

Get Your Body Moving

Regular exercise can help alleviate the symptoms of depression. So, pick a form of exercise you like, and try to stay active. Decreased levels of energy are a side effect of depression. So, you might want to start with simple, short activities throughout the week to avoid overexerting yourself. For instance, taking a fifteen-minute walk each evening suffices when you first start exercising. Over time, you should try to work your way up to exercising for at least 30 minutes, three to five times a week.

Change Your Eating Habits

The stereotypical college student’s diet of pizza, ice cream, and beer can wreak havoc on your body and affect your mental state too. Eating healthy will help you increase your energy levels and give your body and mind the nutrients they need to function optimally. Try to eat a good amount of vegetables, lean meat, and whole grains. Additionally, you should consider taking a fish oil supplement and B vitamin supplement. Fish oil and B vitamins have actually been shown to improve the symptoms of depression in some cases.

Handling yourself with care should be your top priority when you’re depressed. So, seek professional help, expand your mind, and stay physically healthy. You’ll find that your life becomes considerably more manageable if you’re proactive about treating your depression.

About the Author

Angelita Williams is a blogger who writes about education, teaching, and the college student experience. Nothing makes her happier than reading about student success in and out of the classroom. Get in touch with Angelita at angelita.williams7@gmail.com.

 

 

Meditate Daily to Build a Life Full of Energy, Positivity, and Confidence

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Guest Blogger: Mily Smith

In reality, how many of us take initiatives for self-realization? Time is one of the biggest hindrances in our lives that stops us from achieving enlightenment. Despite handling domestic and work pressures, we humans are almost forbidden to say ‘no’ to lethargies and weariness. Rather, we often land up as failures in discovering peace within us and instead keep fighting the battle to live life happily. Well, one powerful remedy that can convert your battling life torn with stress and anxiety to a peaceful one full of happiness and energy is meditation.

Neither any medicine nor any medical therapy can substitute meditation. It’s indeed one of the most powerful and effective techniques to free humans from acquiring any sort of physical complications. In fact, sages and doctors have always believed in meditation for generations. Surprisingly, meditation has cured a good lot of body diseases and therefore millions today practice it almost on a daily basis without fail.

Health experts say that meditation is required to be practiced with perfection. There are several meditation techniques designed for people of all ages which should be done with ease and without exerting any pressure on the body. So, it’s always advisable to watch specific videos related to the very meditation technique you are going to practice. There are many such videos available online in which you can watch it on a regular basis.

Now, take a look at some of the best meditation techniques that can bring positive changes in your lifestyle:

  • Zen meditation – The primary goals of Zen meditation are peace, awareness, and detachment. In fact, this meditation technique is considered to be the most effective among others. Those planning to get accustomed to meditation can kick off with this easy and effortless technique where one needs to imitate the silent Buddha. You simply need to sit cross-legged with eyes partially open.

Benefits:

  1. With Zen meditation, you can regain concentration and acquire an ability to stay focused.
  2. Negative thoughts get wiped off from your mind, thereby filling it with good and inspiring thoughts.
  3. Soothes your mind and makes you stronger in encountering stressful situations.
  • Concentration meditation – In today’s world, one needs to be mentally focused toward every aspect of life. In this respect, Concentration meditation lets you enhance your concentration power. One of the best ways to practice such meditation techniques is candle flame gazing. Light up a candle in a dark room and keep staring at it for at least for 15 minutes. This is indeed a brilliant way to develop concentration.

Benefits:

  1. With Concentration meditation, your power to focus increases to a good extent.
  2. Students can draw huge benefits from this effective meditation technique.
  3. Inner peace is extremely essential for the human mind that actually keeps one happy. Concentration meditation is the ideal source of extracting inner peace.
  • Hum Meditation – Hum meditation is one of the specialized meditation techniques that can effectively nurture your inner feelings, thereby making you psychologically balanced. For instance, if you are suffering from loneliness, anger, or depression, Hum meditation is the perfect choice that can transform you into a sensible human being.

Benefits:

  1. If you want to get rid of negative emotions, Hum meditation is the right option.
  2. Your restless mind gets pacified with such an effective meditation technique.
  3. Positive thoughts surround your mind and this keeps you happy and contented at the end of the day.
  • Mantra meditation – There are diverse applications and variations of Mantra meditation. If you want to gain psychic and intuitive powers, this is one of the best meditation techniques to go for. While chanting the word ‘AUM’, concentrate on the Third Eye Region. AUM is said to be one of the most powerful words having the most powerful effect in one’s mind and body.

Benefits:

  1. With Aum Mantra meditation, you can enhance your concentration level.
  2. You acquire a deep insight and your metal powers get augmented.

Meditation through Brainwave Technology

Apart from a wide range of meditation techniques, there are CDs which have been specially designed for people to meditate. It’s the magic of brainwave technology that can now let you meditate at any time of the day. Hemi sync CDs can be ordered online from any trustworthy website.

Listening to these special CDs will always take your mind to different worlds since the CDs are uploaded with different musical sounds. You may find some relating to nature while others come with soothing instrumentals. Once you get habituated in listening to these CDs, you are bound to remain miles from making blunders at your workplace as well as your domestic front.

So, make it a rule to meditate daily. In fact, if you stick to your rule, you will be the happiest person on earth without an inch of doubt.

About the Author

The author Miss Mily Smith is a health specialist. She writes about various meditation techniques that can help peeople improve their health standards.