Blog

The “functional” addict

One of my favorite things to talk about with patients is their perspectives on functional alcoholism or addiction — whether in their own selves, their parents, or others in authority such as bosses, or the President. I ask with a curious mind, what is the definition of functional? Most people define functional as the ability … Read More

The Dangers of Ignoring Mental Health & Addiction History in Prescribing Opiates to Women

According to a CDC report released earlier this month, 6,631 women died of opioid overdoses in 2010, five times more than a decade ago. The rate surpassed the increase seen in men over the same time period. In a NY Times article about the study, researchers hypothesized that it might be because conditions associated with chronic pain, … Read More

Excitement around Binge Eating Disorder and a Reminder that Treatment Saves Lives

I was recently in Bethesda Maryland, home of many respected national institutes of health, attending the 3rd annual Binge Eating Disorder Association (BEDA) conference. Of all of the eating disorder conferences, this one is a favorite of mine. In part because it’s close to its roots, as a relatively new organization: in part because its … Read More

Participate in National Eating Disorders Awareness Week 2013

National Eating Disorders Awareness week is here. This week is a collective effort of volunteers, including eating disorder professionals, health care providers, students, educators, families and individuals. The goal is to raise awareness of the dangers surrounding eating disorders and the need for early intervention and appropriate treatment. This year’s theme is “Everybody Knows Somebody.” At … Read More

Celebrate a New Type of Love on Valentine’s Day

C.S. Lewis, the prolific British author, philosopher and theologian identified four kinds of that special “feeling” that we celebrate February 14th – love. He says there are four loves: affection, friendship, eros (romance) and agape (unconditional love). During the month of February, card and chocolate companies glorify eros, romantic love. Many girls grow up dreaming of … Read More