Eating Disorders

From my own personal experience I, Lily, know the overwhelming challenges of dealing with an eating disorder.  Getting help is a vital part of healing this intense addiction, doing it alone makes it far harder than it has to be, and a much, much longer process as well.  I can’t stress enough the importance of reaching out and making contact with an individual or organization that specializes in treatment.

The Eating Disorder Referral and Information Service is dedicated to the prevention and treatment of eating disorders. EDReferral.com provides information and treatment resources for all forms of eating disorders (bulimia, compulsive overeating and anorexia). Their goal is to provide assistance, in the form of information and resources, to those suffering with eating disorders to get them started on the road to recovery and healthy living.

 Website: EdReferral.com or e-mail them at edreferral@aol.com

Physical Abuse

We believe is it NEVER, EVER appropriate that any human being is violated by someone who is abusing you physically or mentally. Violence against women in any form is a crime, regardless of who committed the violent act. It is always wrong, whether the abuser is a family member; someone you date; a current or past spouse, boyfriend, or girlfriend; an acquaintance; or a stranger. You are not at fault. You did not cause the abuse to occur, and you are not responsible for the violent behavior of someone else. If you or someone you know has been sexually, physically, or emotionally abused, seek help, reach out for support or counseling. If you find yourself in a relationship where abuse is taking place, contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

For more information check out the womenshealth.gov website.

Marital Challenges

Your relationship with your significant other can be the most challenging in your life, but it also holds the potential for the greatest levels of joy

Communication problems in relationships often erode the passion and hope that we first feel when we fall in love. Imago communications skills can help you revive that passion, and reconnect with your partner. Building trust in relationships is an important part of what is offered through Imago therapy, so that you can feel safe enough to truly understand your partner, and once again appreciate them fully. It’s unlikely things will change without effort if you are experiencing marital challenges and no one gives us the “ideal relationship manual” when we get married.  This program is one of many offered out there, and if couples counseling is a viable option for you, go for it.  The payoffs for investing in your relationship are huge and your children (if you have them) are the beneficiaries. 

Check out Imagorelationships.org for more information

Drug Addiction

Drug addiction is a problem that devastates families everywhere, regardless of race, religion or social and economic status.  Often, the process of finding drug addiction treatment that works when the addict is reaching for help can be overwhelming.  Addiction Referral can help by providing information on over 11,000 drug addiction treatment and rehabilitation centers throughout the United States.  Whether it’s in patient or out patient, government funded or private, they can assist you in finding the facility that is right for you or your loved one. 

You can call them directly at 1-888-781-7060 or by visiting their website

www.addictionreferral.com

Child Abuse 

There is nothing more important than ensuring the health and safety of the children of this world. If you or someone you love is struggling with child abuse issues, the National Abuse Hotline is a wonderful resource. 

The mission of Childhelp is to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of abused and neglected children. Studies prove that child abuse has lifetime effects on its victims and society. While there are 3 million cases of child abuse reported every year, experts estimate that the actual number of incidents of abuse is three times greater.  Victims of abuse are far from alone.  Childhelp has a national database of support services to guide you as well as a hotline for urgent cases (which we believe they all are).  Call ChildHelp at 1-800-4-A- CHILD and check out their website at www.childhelp.org.

Alcoholism

A recent study by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) shows that one in every twelve adults has an addictive relationship to alcohol. Whether you are an alcoholic yourself, or have a family member who is struggling with alcoholism, it is vital you get support.  If you are an alcoholic, chances are good you are aware of how it is dramatically inhibiting your ability to live life fully, and that you are impacting those around you in a far more damaging fashion than you can possibly imagine, especially if you have children.

The SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)

has a substance abuse treatment facility locator and they can help you find a treatment facility close to your home.  It is run by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and offers a comprehensive listing of facilities nationwide.  They have recommendations for those with no money and no insurance as well.

Taking care of yourself by seeking help will guarantee an improvement in the quality of your life and the lives of those around you.  With support, you will move beyond your addiction and start living the life you were meant to experience. 

Check them out online at dasis3.samhsa.gov

Debt Problems 

If you find yourself in a desperate financial state you may be tempted to respond to the advertisements that claim that they can get you out of debt. Beware! Everyday, companies nationwide appeal to consumers with poor credit histories. They promise, for a fee, to clean up your credit report so you can get a car loan, a home mortgage, insurance, or even a job. The truth is, in the great majority of cases they can’t deliver. After you pay them hundreds or thousands of dollars in fees, these companies often do nothing to improve your credit report; and many simply vanish with your money.

The Federal Trade Commission has a link that contains a brochure which explains how you can improve your creditworthiness. It also gives legitimate resources for low or no-cost help.  Free yourself from the overwhelming anxiety that accompanies carrying debt and empower yourself to live abundantly.

Website:  http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/credit/repair.htm