Eating Disorders, Men's Issues, Sleep Difficulties-Adults Counsellors

Eating Disorders, Men's Issues, Sleep Difficulties-Adults

Eating disorders comprise a range of attitudes and behaviors relating to food and body-image. The three main eating disorders are Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia, and ED NOS (eating disorder not otherwise specified). These conditions manifest to different degrees in different people and can sometimes be mistakenly judged as poor eating habits, or a lack of willpower.

People with eating disorders don't eat in harmony with their bodies' needs, instead, people with Anorexia Nervosa eat much less than they need, while Bulimia sufferers binge and then induce vomiting. They may also do other things to compensate for overeating, including exercising or fasting. ED NOS combines any combination of the other two conditions.

Apart from the physical symptoms and behaviors above, someone with an eating disorder will generally also have poor self-esteem and obsessively research or talk about food, dieting or exercise. Poor body image will cause them to either wear clothes that cover up every inch of their bodies, or flaunt  in order to attract attention. They will find it hard to accept criticism and compliments.

Therapy for eating disorders depend on the patient. While some people respond well to short term outpatient treatment, others respond better to long-term inpatient treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy are long term treatments that have been proven to be effective, while group therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapies and feminist therapies work for people who will respond well to short term therapy.

Family therapy is often advised for children and adolescents who are experiencing eating disorders. Research has also shown dialectical behavioral therapy to be effective.

If you are looking for a counsellor or psychologist who addresses eating disorders, you may want to search the directory to find a professional whose approach will suit you best.

For centuries, men were defined as warriors who were responsible for providing and protecting their families, tribes and communities. Those restraining limitations that were imposed by cultural traditions limited men as far as emotions are concerned.However, modern psychology has rediscovered the differences between men and women and the role of male emotions, relationship dynamics and behaviour in men's issues.

The expectations and demands of our new modern world result in increasing stress levels, often related to relationships and work. Symptoms of male issues that are commonly seen in therapists' offices, include stress, anger, addiction, depression, relationship issues, and work adjustment issues.

A large percentage of men feel that they are inadequate in relationships and at work, and this leads to negative emotional states, shame and fear. These emotions usually stem from negative messages at home and at work. It is harder than ever for men to fulfill their traditional roles, as being the sole bread winner is unrealistic in today's economy, and more men are staying home while women are sole breadwinners.

Traditional roles, particularly in men who were predominantly raised by women, dictate that men are not supposed to show certain emotions. Men who feel the need for nurturance, feel ashamed at their display of emotion and vulnerability. If he experienced childhood abuse, or was raised by an overprotective mother, he may become excessively angry or hurt at perceived criticism, complaints or insults.

Men often perceive asking for help as shameful, or a sign of weakness. Therapy for men's issues was designed for men to vocally express their problems, in individual counselling, couples counselling or group therapy settings.

If you are looking for a counsellor or psychologist who offers men's issues to help with your stress and related issues you may want to search the directory to find a professional whose approach will suit you best.

Sleep difficulties in adults can occur for a great number of reasons, both common and unusual.  For most people, sleep is a routine, but many people experience sleep difficulties, such as insomnia on a fairly regular basis. While it usually clears us in a short while, it can become a long-term problem, because sleep is important for our bodies and minds to stay healthy.

Sleep difficulties can, after a few weeks, cause a person to feel tired all the time, and cause them to nod off during the day. Difficulty concentrating, making decisions and feeling depressed are some of the symptoms of sleep difficulties. People who perform jobs that require a lot of concentration, such as operating heavy machinery or driving, can pose a danger to themselves and others if they suffer from sleep difficulties. Over time, sleep difficulties can lead to high blood pressure, overweight and diabetes.

Many situations can contribute to sleep difficulties, including too much noise or  light in the bedroom, a bed that is too small or uncomfortable, or a partner with a different sleep pattern. Lifestyle choices such as smoking, going to bed too late, lack of exercise, consuming caffeine, no set bedtime routine, and illness can also cause insomnia.

A therapist can help you deal with sleep difficulties, by using progressive muscle relaxation therapy, sleep restriction and cognitive therapy.

If you are looking for a counsellor or psychologist who offers sleep disorders counselling to address sleep difficulties you may want to search the directory to find a professional whose approach will suit you best.

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Gerry Bock

M.A., RCC
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Gerry Bock earned his Masters degree in 1990. He has been practicing as a Registered Clinical Counsellor for over 30 years (since 1991).  The practice environment and philosophy offers committed, accountable,... Read more