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Figuring hr 3200
note: This will appear to be an alarmist reading. It is. If you can read a peice of legislation in an alarmist way, that is exactly what is says. By streaching the language, government entities can remain within the law.
ORIGINAL TEXT - make your own judgement. post comments of what you think it means.
SEC. 100. PURPOSE; TABLE OF CONTENTS OF DIVISION; GENERAL DEFINITIONS.
(a) Purpose-
(1) IN GENERAL- The purpose of this division is to provide affordable, quality health care for all Americans and reduce the growth in health care spending.
(2) BUILDING ON CURRENT SYSTEM- This division achieves this purpose by building on what works in today's health care system, while repairing the aspects that are broken.
(3) INSURANCE REFORMS- This division--
(A) enacts strong insurance market reforms;
(B) creates a new Health Insurance Exchange, with a public health insurance option alongside private plans;
(C) includes sliding scale affordability credits; and
(D) initiates shared responsibility among workers, employers, and the government;
so that all Americans have coverage of essential health benefits.
(4) HEALTH DELIVERY REFORM- This division institutes health delivery system reforms both to increase quality and to reduce growth in health spending so that health care becomes more affordable for businesses, families, and government.
(b) Table of Contents of Division- The table of contents of this division is as follows:
Sec. 100. Purpose; table of contents of division; general definitions.
MY INTERPRITATION
SEC. 100. PURPOSE; TABLE OF CONTENTS OF DIVISION; GENERAL DEFINITIONS.
(a) Purpose-
(1) IN GENERAL- To provide good, affordable health care for all Americans (this means all americans will have to have health care) and reduce the growth in health care spending.(it does not say that it will be adjusted for inflation or population growth. Also, covering more people will be more expensive, especcially when we realize that the poorest have the worst health.
(2) BUILDING ON CURRENT SYSTEM- Build on what works(what is the defintion of something that works? who makes this determination?) in today's health care system, fix what is broken(what is the definition of broken? who makes this determination?).
(3) INSURANCE REFORMS- This division--
(A) enacts strong (what is strong?) insurance market (what kind of insurance?) reforms;
(B) creates a new Health Insurance Exchange, with a public health insurance option alongside private plans;
(C) includes sliding scale affordability credits(credits? who assigns them? what are the criteria?who will oversee possible abuses?); and
(D) initiates shared responsibility (what responsibilites?) among workers, employers, and the government;
so that all (this means all must have this, or comprable) Americans have coverage of essential (what is essential?) health benefits.
(4) HEALTH DELIVERY REFORM- This division institutes health delivery system (what falls under this? do schools?) reforms both to increase quality and to reduce growth in health spending (again, what about pop growth and inflation, and the number of people covered?) so that health care becomes more affordable for businesses, families, and government.
(b) Table of Contents of Division- The table of contents of this division is as follows:
Sec. 100. Purpose; table of contents of division; general definitions.
SO, WHAT DO YOU THINK?
ORIGINAL TEXT - make your own judgement. post comments of what you think it means.
SEC. 100. PURPOSE; TABLE OF CONTENTS OF DIVISION; GENERAL DEFINITIONS.
(a) Purpose-
(1) IN GENERAL- The purpose of this division is to provide affordable, quality health care for all Americans and reduce the growth in health care spending.
(2) BUILDING ON CURRENT SYSTEM- This division achieves this purpose by building on what works in today's health care system, while repairing the aspects that are broken.
(3) INSURANCE REFORMS- This division--
(A) enacts strong insurance market reforms;
(B) creates a new Health Insurance Exchange, with a public health insurance option alongside private plans;
(C) includes sliding scale affordability credits; and
(D) initiates shared responsibility among workers, employers, and the government;
so that all Americans have coverage of essential health benefits.
(4) HEALTH DELIVERY REFORM- This division institutes health delivery system reforms both to increase quality and to reduce growth in health spending so that health care becomes more affordable for businesses, families, and government.
(b) Table of Contents of Division- The table of contents of this division is as follows:
Sec. 100. Purpose; table of contents of division; general definitions.
MY INTERPRITATION
SEC. 100. PURPOSE; TABLE OF CONTENTS OF DIVISION; GENERAL DEFINITIONS.
(a) Purpose-
(1) IN GENERAL- To provide good, affordable health care for all Americans (this means all americans will have to have health care) and reduce the growth in health care spending.(it does not say that it will be adjusted for inflation or population growth. Also, covering more people will be more expensive, especcially when we realize that the poorest have the worst health.
(2) BUILDING ON CURRENT SYSTEM- Build on what works(what is the defintion of something that works? who makes this determination?) in today's health care system, fix what is broken(what is the definition of broken? who makes this determination?).
(3) INSURANCE REFORMS- This division--
(A) enacts strong (what is strong?) insurance market (what kind of insurance?) reforms;
(B) creates a new Health Insurance Exchange, with a public health insurance option alongside private plans;
(C) includes sliding scale affordability credits(credits? who assigns them? what are the criteria?who will oversee possible abuses?); and
(D) initiates shared responsibility (what responsibilites?) among workers, employers, and the government;
so that all (this means all must have this, or comprable) Americans have coverage of essential (what is essential?) health benefits.
(4) HEALTH DELIVERY REFORM- This division institutes health delivery system (what falls under this? do schools?) reforms both to increase quality and to reduce growth in health spending (again, what about pop growth and inflation, and the number of people covered?) so that health care becomes more affordable for businesses, families, and government.
(b) Table of Contents of Division- The table of contents of this division is as follows:
Sec. 100. Purpose; table of contents of division; general definitions.
SO, WHAT DO YOU THINK?
Letter to PMHS principle
Dear Dr. Charmichael:
It is important to start the new year off right, and I thank you for reading this letter, which is perhaps rather lengthy. I noted inadequate information on suicide and self-injury prevention, combined with no in-depth information on mental illnesses that affect the student body (eating disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.) These issues, some of which were barely touched in HOPE (if at all), are very important to the school’s health and functioning.
The pep rallies, at the beginning of the 2008-2009 school year, were completely ineffective. Please bear in mind that the gym has horrible acoustics, so we could not hear, or understand, anything spoken. It would have been more efficient to utilize the auditorium, using a period for each grade level. (2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th would be most effective). These periods would have to rotate between the grades so that a relatively equal number of classes were missed.
A main reason that I am so keen on this issue is that I suffers from cyclical Major Depressive Disorder, and two of my very close friends suffer from Bipolar Disorder, one who will be a freshman this year at Pedro. Early-onset schizophrenia begins at our age, and is chronic. Obsessive-compulsive disorder also begins to manifest in our age group, as do many anxiety and eating disorders.
Nearly all mental disorders have a peak or typical onset in the college age range, or above, clearly outside of the high school population. However, these orders DO occur in our age group, and when they do, they are more severe than their typical onset counterparts, and chronic. The longer these conditions occur, the more severe they become, and the lesser the likelihood of full recovery.
These disorders can be debilitating, even at our age. I, for example, could hardly concentrate, and slept fourteen to sixteen hours a day. During class I would struggle to stay awake. I couldn't muster the energy to do 'homework' in class, and I was too busy sleeping when I got home. In no way was it conductive to my GPA.
I don’t propose expensive guest speakers as a solution to this problem, though I do know an L.C.S.W. who would be willing to do a presentation for free. I suggest that more emphasis get put on these conditions. I believe that only eating disorders and depression were covered in the HOPE textbook, but I would have to check to be sure.
I also want a slick, colorful, informative presentation given jointly by school authority figures and interested students. While students doing it themselves would be ideal, this would carry many unacceptable risks. Administrators, in this instance, are there to say, ‘no, you can’t do that‘, or, ‘no, saying that is unacceptable’. Administrators would not put the program or presentation together, but their input would be used to guide the students.
High hopes for 2009-2010,
___________________________________
Sabrina R. Ballard
It is important to start the new year off right, and I thank you for reading this letter, which is perhaps rather lengthy. I noted inadequate information on suicide and self-injury prevention, combined with no in-depth information on mental illnesses that affect the student body (eating disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.) These issues, some of which were barely touched in HOPE (if at all), are very important to the school’s health and functioning.
The pep rallies, at the beginning of the 2008-2009 school year, were completely ineffective. Please bear in mind that the gym has horrible acoustics, so we could not hear, or understand, anything spoken. It would have been more efficient to utilize the auditorium, using a period for each grade level. (2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th would be most effective). These periods would have to rotate between the grades so that a relatively equal number of classes were missed.
A main reason that I am so keen on this issue is that I suffers from cyclical Major Depressive Disorder, and two of my very close friends suffer from Bipolar Disorder, one who will be a freshman this year at Pedro. Early-onset schizophrenia begins at our age, and is chronic. Obsessive-compulsive disorder also begins to manifest in our age group, as do many anxiety and eating disorders.
Nearly all mental disorders have a peak or typical onset in the college age range, or above, clearly outside of the high school population. However, these orders DO occur in our age group, and when they do, they are more severe than their typical onset counterparts, and chronic. The longer these conditions occur, the more severe they become, and the lesser the likelihood of full recovery.
These disorders can be debilitating, even at our age. I, for example, could hardly concentrate, and slept fourteen to sixteen hours a day. During class I would struggle to stay awake. I couldn't muster the energy to do 'homework' in class, and I was too busy sleeping when I got home. In no way was it conductive to my GPA.
I don’t propose expensive guest speakers as a solution to this problem, though I do know an L.C.S.W. who would be willing to do a presentation for free. I suggest that more emphasis get put on these conditions. I believe that only eating disorders and depression were covered in the HOPE textbook, but I would have to check to be sure.
I also want a slick, colorful, informative presentation given jointly by school authority figures and interested students. While students doing it themselves would be ideal, this would carry many unacceptable risks. Administrators, in this instance, are there to say, ‘no, you can’t do that‘, or, ‘no, saying that is unacceptable’. Administrators would not put the program or presentation together, but their input would be used to guide the students.
High hopes for 2009-2010,
___________________________________
Sabrina R. Ballard
More than Moody: Bipolar Disorder
What are other names for this disorder? Manic Depression, Manic Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Affective Disorder are all names for this condition.
What is Bipolar Disorder? Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder where there are multiple episodes of mania or the milder hypomania, and there are almost always depressive episodes or mixed episodes. It is most common to have periods of normal mood between episodes, but in certain forms of the disorder, such as Rapid-cycling, these episodes alternate without any normal mood.
What causes Bipolar Disorder? There are a number of factors that combine to create Bipolar Disorder. Having any one of these factors does not mean that you will develop Bipolar Disorder, it simply means that your risk is greater.
• Genetic. There is a definite genetic component to Bipolar Disorder. Children who only have one Bipolar parent have their first episode sooner and their disorder also tends to be severe. Half-siblings of this child and first degree relations of the parent also show a significantly greater risk of developing Bipolar Disorder.
• Childhood and Life Events. In their childhood, those latter diagnosed as Bipolar may show certain traits such as: abnormal mood cycles, major depressive episodes, ADHD with mood fluctuations, hypersensitivity, irritability and stimulant use. Abusive or traumatic events in childhood, isolation and poverty put people at increased risk not only for Bipolar Disorder but also for mental disorders in general.
• Neural Processes. Differences in the construction and physical function of the brain, such as blood flow and chemical regulation, is also thought to contribute to the development of Bipolar Disorder. Brain scans show that those with Bipolar Disorder are two and a half times more likely to have brain hyperintensities, or overactive groups of brain synapses, than the regular population. These imbalances are likely to lead to erratic or unpredictable behavior, or to cause chemical disregulation in both the body and the brain. These hyper activities may also lead to erratic thought processes.
• Melatonin. Related to brain function in the hypersensitivity of the melatonin receptors in the eyes. It has been shown that many people who suffer from Bipolar Disorder have less than average Melatonin level while sleep when compare
• Psychological Processes. There is evidence that those with Bipolar Disorder hold beliefs about themselves, their internal states and their mental activities that make them venerable to mood changes. Some areas of the brain (the parts of the brain used for planning, emotional regulation and attention control) may be imbalanced.
What are the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder? The symptoms of Bipolar Disorder rely on the phase or episode that the person is currently experiencing.
Depressive Episode.
• More time is spent in a depressed mood than not or is complaining of aches, pains or headaches without physical causes.
• More time is spent with decreased pleasure (anhedonia) in, or decreased interest (amotivational) in, activities once found enjoyable, than without.
• Marked weight loss/gain or marked increased/decreased appetite.
• Nearly every day has hypersomnia or insomnia.
• Nearly every day has quickened or lethargic actions, this must be observable by others.
• Nearly every day the person experiences extreme fatigue.
• Nearly every gay the person feels worthless or inappropriately guilty.
• Nearly every day there is difficulty with concentrating or thinking.
• Repeated thoughts of death or suicide, or has made a suicide attempt
Manic Episode.
• Rapid Speech, talkativeness
• Racing thoughts, misperceptions
• Decreased need for sleep (feels rested after only two to four hours) which may lead to sleep-deprived psychosis
• Increased libido (hypersexuality)
• Euphoria OR Irritability, anger, rage, billeragence
• Impulsiveness, obsessiveness
• Grandiose ideas or plans, or Increased goal-directed behavior
• Delusions, hypersensitivity
Hypomanic Episode.
• Pressured speech, rapid talking
• Inflated self-esteem, grandiose ideas or plans
• Flight of ideas, rapid thinking
• Distractibility, difficulty concentrating
• Moveing or acting faster
• Incresced involvement in pleasureable activities that may or may not be socially unacceptable
• Lacks delusions or hallucinations, do not lose touch with reality
• Less need for sleep
Mixed Episode or Mixed Affective Episode. An episode which has symptoms of both depressive and manic phases. These are the most dangerous episodes, and most people who commit suicide while Bipolar, do it in a mixed state. Based on the mix of depressive and manic features determines the form of mixed episode.
• Dysphoric Mania. A mixed episode that is more manic than depressive.
• Agitated Depression. A mixed episode that is more depressed than manic.
Bipolar I v. Bipolar II. Those who have mania suffer from Bipolar I, while those who only experience hypomania have Bipolar II. Bipolar I is more severe than Bipolar II.
Gender Differences in First Episodes. The first episodes of men tend to be manic, while the first episodes of women then to be depressive. This means women are more likely to be misdiagnosed as having depressive disorder than men. The prescribed antidepressants may trigger an intense manic phase.
Age Differences in Onset. Men tend to have their first episode younger than women.
What other conditions are confused with Bipolar Disorder? Because of the nature of Bipolar Disorder it is often confused with a number of different conditions.
• Hyperthyroidism.
• Hypothyroidism.
• Borderline Personality Disorder.
• Schizoaffective Disorder.
• Major Depressive Disorder.
• Schizophrenia.
• Delusional Disorder.
• ADHD.
• Conduct Disorder.
• Antisocial Personality Disorder.
• Psychotic Disorder NOS.
• Schizophreniform disorder.
• Dysthymic Disorder.
• Cyclothymic Disorder.
• Myalgia.
• Neuralgia.
• Bereavement.
What is comorbidity? Comorbidity is when two contidions occur at the same time. With Bipolar Disorder, co-occuring conditions are the norm rather than the exceptions.
• Anorexia.
• Bulemia.
• Binge Eating Disorder.
• ADD or ADHD.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders.
• Tourette’s.
• Migrane.
• Obesity.
• Type II diabetes.
• Panic Disorder.
• Social Phobia.
• Substance Abuse.
• Self-injury or self-mutilation or cutting.
What are common treatments for Bipolar Disorder?
• Medication. Can be used by itself, or in combination with psychotherapy.
o Mood Stabilizers such as lithium.
o Atypical Anti-psychotics such as Wellbutrin. These are often taken in conjunction with mood stabilizers.
o Anti-depressants, such as Prozac, are rarely taken without the presence of a mood stabilizer because they can trigger manic episodes.
• Psychotherapy or Talk Therapy. Almost always used in conjunction with medication.
• Exercise. It helps the body increase happy chemicals. It is advised to be increased when depressive and cut back when manic. It is rarely used alone.
• Electroconvulsive therapy or ECT. A therapy of last resort when nearly all other options are exhausted. Much safer than it used to be. There is still both long and short term memory loss associated with this form of therapy.
What should I do if I think I have Bipolar Disorder? You should see your doctor.
What should I do if I think a friend has Bipolar Disorder? You should talk with your friend about their life, suggest that they should see a doctor and support them through their journey.
Where can I go to find more information on Bipolar Disorder? You can look in the DSM-IV-TR or the ICD-9. There are also a lot of sites on the internet devoted specifically to Bipolar Disorder. You can also ask your doctor or mental health professional.
What are the subsets of Bipolar Disorder?
• Bipolar I. Manic episodes and depressive episodes.
• Bipolar II. Hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes.
• Bipolar N
OS. Neither I or II, or does not met the full criteria for I or II.
• Rapid Cycling. Has more than four episodes in a year.
• Ultra-rapid Cycling. Has episodes more than eight to ten times a year.
• Ultradian Cycling. Has episodes more than twelve to thirteen times a year.
• Mixed Bipolar. Any form of bipolar disorder with mixed episodes.
What is Bipolar Disorder? Bipolar Disorder is a mood disorder where there are multiple episodes of mania or the milder hypomania, and there are almost always depressive episodes or mixed episodes. It is most common to have periods of normal mood between episodes, but in certain forms of the disorder, such as Rapid-cycling, these episodes alternate without any normal mood.
What causes Bipolar Disorder? There are a number of factors that combine to create Bipolar Disorder. Having any one of these factors does not mean that you will develop Bipolar Disorder, it simply means that your risk is greater.
• Genetic. There is a definite genetic component to Bipolar Disorder. Children who only have one Bipolar parent have their first episode sooner and their disorder also tends to be severe. Half-siblings of this child and first degree relations of the parent also show a significantly greater risk of developing Bipolar Disorder.
• Childhood and Life Events. In their childhood, those latter diagnosed as Bipolar may show certain traits such as: abnormal mood cycles, major depressive episodes, ADHD with mood fluctuations, hypersensitivity, irritability and stimulant use. Abusive or traumatic events in childhood, isolation and poverty put people at increased risk not only for Bipolar Disorder but also for mental disorders in general.
• Neural Processes. Differences in the construction and physical function of the brain, such as blood flow and chemical regulation, is also thought to contribute to the development of Bipolar Disorder. Brain scans show that those with Bipolar Disorder are two and a half times more likely to have brain hyperintensities, or overactive groups of brain synapses, than the regular population. These imbalances are likely to lead to erratic or unpredictable behavior, or to cause chemical disregulation in both the body and the brain. These hyper activities may also lead to erratic thought processes.
• Melatonin. Related to brain function in the hypersensitivity of the melatonin receptors in the eyes. It has been shown that many people who suffer from Bipolar Disorder have less than average Melatonin level while sleep when compare
• Psychological Processes. There is evidence that those with Bipolar Disorder hold beliefs about themselves, their internal states and their mental activities that make them venerable to mood changes. Some areas of the brain (the parts of the brain used for planning, emotional regulation and attention control) may be imbalanced.
What are the symptoms of Bipolar Disorder? The symptoms of Bipolar Disorder rely on the phase or episode that the person is currently experiencing.
Depressive Episode.
• More time is spent in a depressed mood than not or is complaining of aches, pains or headaches without physical causes.
• More time is spent with decreased pleasure (anhedonia) in, or decreased interest (amotivational) in, activities once found enjoyable, than without.
• Marked weight loss/gain or marked increased/decreased appetite.
• Nearly every day has hypersomnia or insomnia.
• Nearly every day has quickened or lethargic actions, this must be observable by others.
• Nearly every day the person experiences extreme fatigue.
• Nearly every gay the person feels worthless or inappropriately guilty.
• Nearly every day there is difficulty with concentrating or thinking.
• Repeated thoughts of death or suicide, or has made a suicide attempt
Manic Episode.
• Rapid Speech, talkativeness
• Racing thoughts, misperceptions
• Decreased need for sleep (feels rested after only two to four hours) which may lead to sleep-deprived psychosis
• Increased libido (hypersexuality)
• Euphoria OR Irritability, anger, rage, billeragence
• Impulsiveness, obsessiveness
• Grandiose ideas or plans, or Increased goal-directed behavior
• Delusions, hypersensitivity
Hypomanic Episode.
• Pressured speech, rapid talking
• Inflated self-esteem, grandiose ideas or plans
• Flight of ideas, rapid thinking
• Distractibility, difficulty concentrating
• Moveing or acting faster
• Incresced involvement in pleasureable activities that may or may not be socially unacceptable
• Lacks delusions or hallucinations, do not lose touch with reality
• Less need for sleep
Mixed Episode or Mixed Affective Episode. An episode which has symptoms of both depressive and manic phases. These are the most dangerous episodes, and most people who commit suicide while Bipolar, do it in a mixed state. Based on the mix of depressive and manic features determines the form of mixed episode.
• Dysphoric Mania. A mixed episode that is more manic than depressive.
• Agitated Depression. A mixed episode that is more depressed than manic.
Bipolar I v. Bipolar II. Those who have mania suffer from Bipolar I, while those who only experience hypomania have Bipolar II. Bipolar I is more severe than Bipolar II.
Gender Differences in First Episodes. The first episodes of men tend to be manic, while the first episodes of women then to be depressive. This means women are more likely to be misdiagnosed as having depressive disorder than men. The prescribed antidepressants may trigger an intense manic phase.
Age Differences in Onset. Men tend to have their first episode younger than women.
What other conditions are confused with Bipolar Disorder? Because of the nature of Bipolar Disorder it is often confused with a number of different conditions.
• Hyperthyroidism.
• Hypothyroidism.
• Borderline Personality Disorder.
• Schizoaffective Disorder.
• Major Depressive Disorder.
• Schizophrenia.
• Delusional Disorder.
• ADHD.
• Conduct Disorder.
• Antisocial Personality Disorder.
• Psychotic Disorder NOS.
• Schizophreniform disorder.
• Dysthymic Disorder.
• Cyclothymic Disorder.
• Myalgia.
• Neuralgia.
• Bereavement.
What is comorbidity? Comorbidity is when two contidions occur at the same time. With Bipolar Disorder, co-occuring conditions are the norm rather than the exceptions.
• Anorexia.
• Bulemia.
• Binge Eating Disorder.
• ADD or ADHD.
• Autism Spectrum Disorders.
• Tourette’s.
• Migrane.
• Obesity.
• Type II diabetes.
• Panic Disorder.
• Social Phobia.
• Substance Abuse.
• Self-injury or self-mutilation or cutting.
What are common treatments for Bipolar Disorder?
• Medication. Can be used by itself, or in combination with psychotherapy.
o Mood Stabilizers such as lithium.
o Atypical Anti-psychotics such as Wellbutrin. These are often taken in conjunction with mood stabilizers.
o Anti-depressants, such as Prozac, are rarely taken without the presence of a mood stabilizer because they can trigger manic episodes.
• Psychotherapy or Talk Therapy. Almost always used in conjunction with medication.
• Exercise. It helps the body increase happy chemicals. It is advised to be increased when depressive and cut back when manic. It is rarely used alone.
• Electroconvulsive therapy or ECT. A therapy of last resort when nearly all other options are exhausted. Much safer than it used to be. There is still both long and short term memory loss associated with this form of therapy.
What should I do if I think I have Bipolar Disorder? You should see your doctor.
What should I do if I think a friend has Bipolar Disorder? You should talk with your friend about their life, suggest that they should see a doctor and support them through their journey.
Where can I go to find more information on Bipolar Disorder? You can look in the DSM-IV-TR or the ICD-9. There are also a lot of sites on the internet devoted specifically to Bipolar Disorder. You can also ask your doctor or mental health professional.
What are the subsets of Bipolar Disorder?
• Bipolar I. Manic episodes and depressive episodes.
• Bipolar II. Hypomanic episodes and depressive episodes.
• Bipolar N
OS. Neither I or II, or does not met the full criteria for I or II.• Rapid Cycling. Has more than four episodes in a year.
• Ultra-rapid Cycling. Has episodes more than eight to ten times a year.
• Ultradian Cycling. Has episodes more than twelve to thirteen times a year.
• Mixed Bipolar. Any form of bipolar disorder with mixed episodes.
More than Blue: Major Depressive Disorder
What other names are there for this? Depression, unipolar depression, clinical depression, major depression and unipolar disorder are all names for MDD.
What is Major Depressive Disorder? MDD is a mental disorder. Its traits are pervasive low moods, loss of intrest or pleasure and low self esteem. It affect all parts of a suffers life, and low moods cannot be ‘turned off’ at will, though many people try to keep others from noticing.
What causes MDD? There are many causes for depression. Some factors are genetic, and therefore inheritable, but just because family history shows MDD does not mean that someone will get MDD. There are a lot of factors that interact on top of this biological predisposition.
Psychological. Traumatic life events have been correlated with depression, as have distorted thinking and low self-esteem. Correcting these thoughts and ending thoughts of helplessness often create drastic improvements.
Social. Child abuse, isolation, disturbances in family life and poverty all increase a person’s risk of developing MDD along with many other mental disorders.
How is it different than sadness? Sadness is something that has a cause, like a dead dog. Depression is more intense than sadness, and it lasts a lot longer. A depressed person is sad or low more in a day than they are not.
Situational Depression v. Organic Depression. Situational depression is dependent on a life situation, such as abuse or terminal illness. Situational depression will go away when the life situation goes away. Organic depression stems from a chemical imbalance in the brain, but it can be confused with situational depression because it is often triggered by a life event.
What are the symptoms of MDD?
· Depressed mood (feelings of emptiness or sadness)
· Reduced interest in activity (amotivational) or decreased pleasure in activity (anhedonia)
· Sleeping disturbances, either too much (hypersomnia) or too little (insomnia)
· Loss of energy, significant reduction in energy levels, or fatigue
· Difficulty concentrating, holding a conversation, paying attention, or making decisions that were once easy
· Suicidal thoughts (passive or active) or intentions
· Significant weight loss or gain
· Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
What other conditions can be confused with MDD?
Dysthemia. A milder, chronic form of depression. It is possible to have both at the same time. This is referred to as ‘Double Depression’.
Adjustment Disorder with Depressed mood. It is a psychological response to an event or stressor where there are symptoms of depression, but not enough to warrant an MDD or Dysthemia diagnosis.
Bipolar disorder or Manic-Depressive Disorder. Depressive phases alternate with those of mania or hypomania (mild mania).
What are common treatments for MDD?
Psychotherapy or Talk Therapy. It can be delivered individually or to groups. The idea is to ‘talk it out’, to discover the reasons for the sadness, and that because of their recognition they won’t have as much power over a person.
Anti-depressants. These work under the principal of correcting faulty brain chemisty. It is almost always combined with psychotherapy.
Electroconvulsive Therapy or ECT. This form of therapy is becoming increasingly uncommon because of short and long term memory loss. It is not like it used to be and is a very safe procedure. It is used to treat unresponsive depression.
Exercise. It helps produce ‘happy chemicals’ in the brain, most well known of these would be serotonin and dopamine.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy or CBT. This focuses on correcting faulty thought and behavior problems, often using the ABC method.
What should I do if I think I have MDD? You should talk to a friend about how you feel and get an appointment with a mental health professional. If you are feeling suicidal call 911 (or your equivalent).
What should I do if I think a friend has MDD? You should talk with them, be supportive and try to convince them to see a mental health professional. If they are suicidal call 911 (or your equivalent).
Where can I go for more information on MDD? You can search online, look at the DSM-IV, DSM-IV-TR or look at the ICD-10. You can also talk to your doctor.
What are the subsets of MDD?
Melancholic Depression. Loss of pleasure in activities, depressed mood, symptoms are worse in the morning, early morning waking (late insomnia), fatigue or slowed activity, excessive weight loss (not anorexia) or excessive guilt.
Atypical Depression. Agitation (paradoxical anhedonia) and positivity, significant weight gain or increased appetite (comfort eating), excessive sleep or sleepiness (hypersomnia), heaviness in the limbs (leaden paralysis) significant social impairment (dues to hypersensitivity to perceived rejection).
Catatonic Depression. Rare and severe form. Mute, immobile, purposeless or bizarre movements. Can be confused with schizophrenia and nueroleptic malignant syndrome.
Postpartum Depression. Intense, sometimes disabling depression experienced after giving birth.
Seasonal affective disorder or SAD or Winter Doldrums. Depressive episodes begin in the autumn or winter and end in spring.
What is Major Depressive Disorder? MDD is a mental disorder. Its traits are pervasive low moods, loss of intrest or pleasure and low self esteem. It affect all parts of a suffers life, and low moods cannot be ‘turned off’ at will, though many people try to keep others from noticing.
What causes MDD? There are many causes for depression. Some factors are genetic, and therefore inheritable, but just because family history shows MDD does not mean that someone will get MDD. There are a lot of factors that interact on top of this biological predisposition.
Psychological. Traumatic life events have been correlated with depression, as have distorted thinking and low self-esteem. Correcting these thoughts and ending thoughts of helplessness often create drastic improvements.
Social. Child abuse, isolation, disturbances in family life and poverty all increase a person’s risk of developing MDD along with many other mental disorders.
How is it different than sadness? Sadness is something that has a cause, like a dead dog. Depression is more intense than sadness, and it lasts a lot longer. A depressed person is sad or low more in a day than they are not.
Situational Depression v. Organic Depression. Situational depression is dependent on a life situation, such as abuse or terminal illness. Situational depression will go away when the life situation goes away. Organic depression stems from a chemical imbalance in the brain, but it can be confused with situational depression because it is often triggered by a life event.
What are the symptoms of MDD?
· Depressed mood (feelings of emptiness or sadness)
· Reduced interest in activity (amotivational) or decreased pleasure in activity (anhedonia)
· Sleeping disturbances, either too much (hypersomnia) or too little (insomnia)
· Loss of energy, significant reduction in energy levels, or fatigue
· Difficulty concentrating, holding a conversation, paying attention, or making decisions that were once easy
· Suicidal thoughts (passive or active) or intentions
· Significant weight loss or gain
· Feelings of worthlessness or inappropriate guilt
What other conditions can be confused with MDD?
Dysthemia. A milder, chronic form of depression. It is possible to have both at the same time. This is referred to as ‘Double Depression’.
Adjustment Disorder with Depressed mood. It is a psychological response to an event or stressor where there are symptoms of depression, but not enough to warrant an MDD or Dysthemia diagnosis.
Bipolar disorder or Manic-Depressive Disorder. Depressive phases alternate with those of mania or hypomania (mild mania).
What are common treatments for MDD?
Psychotherapy or Talk Therapy. It can be delivered individually or to groups. The idea is to ‘talk it out’, to discover the reasons for the sadness, and that because of their recognition they won’t have as much power over a person.
Anti-depressants. These work under the principal of correcting faulty brain chemisty. It is almost always combined with psychotherapy.
Electroconvulsive Therapy or ECT. This form of therapy is becoming increasingly uncommon because of short and long term memory loss. It is not like it used to be and is a very safe procedure. It is used to treat unresponsive depression.
Exercise. It helps produce ‘happy chemicals’ in the brain, most well known of these would be serotonin and dopamine.
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy or CBT. This focuses on correcting faulty thought and behavior problems, often using the ABC method.
What should I do if I think I have MDD? You should talk to a friend about how you feel and get an appointment with a mental health professional. If you are feeling suicidal call 911 (or your equivalent).
What should I do if I think a friend has MDD? You should talk with them, be supportive and try to convince them to see a mental health professional. If they are suicidal call 911 (or your equivalent).
Where can I go for more information on MDD? You can search online, look at the DSM-IV, DSM-IV-TR or look at the ICD-10. You can also talk to your doctor.
What are the subsets of MDD?
Melancholic Depression. Loss of pleasure in activities, depressed mood, symptoms are worse in the morning, early morning waking (late insomnia), fatigue or slowed activity, excessive weight loss (not anorexia) or excessive guilt.
Atypical Depression. Agitation (paradoxical anhedonia) and positivity, significant weight gain or increased appetite (comfort eating), excessive sleep or sleepiness (hypersomnia), heaviness in the limbs (leaden paralysis) significant social impairment (dues to hypersensitivity to perceived rejection).
Catatonic Depression. Rare and severe form. Mute, immobile, purposeless or bizarre movements. Can be confused with schizophrenia and nueroleptic malignant syndrome.
Postpartum Depression. Intense, sometimes disabling depression experienced after giving birth.
Seasonal affective disorder or SAD or Winter Doldrums. Depressive episodes begin in the autumn or winter and end in spring.
2009 Hands Off Our Healthcare Rally
I found about this rally online at historicity.com. It was July 17th at Rep. John Mica’s office (3000 N. Ponce De Leon Blvd., Ste. 1, St. Augustine, FL 32084) to voice decent about the health care reform bill in the congress. The rally was from noon to one, organized jointly by the St. Augustine and St. Johns County local Tea Party network.
The rally at Rep. Mica’s office was small, less than two dozen people, but it was part of a larger network of rallys (there were six locations to choose from), so it is hard to know how many people actually attended the rallys.
Mrs. BreeLee Johnston, who informed HistoricCity, is a very dynamic and active woman, who’s website is www.justpatriots.com. The Tea Party’s site is http://www.unitedamericanteaparty.ning.com/.
The rally at Rep. Mica’s office was small, less than two dozen people, but it was part of a larger network of rallys (there were six locations to choose from), so it is hard to know how many people actually attended the rallys.
Mrs. BreeLee Johnston, who informed HistoricCity, is a very dynamic and active woman, who’s website is www.justpatriots.com. The Tea Party’s site is http://www.unitedamericanteaparty.ning.com/.
Stunning Gaul : Bush v. Posse Comitatus
What is Posse Comitatus? The Posse Comitatus Act is a peace of legislation passed to keep the government from using the military to intimidate and control the population, so that an authoritarian and/or totalitarian dictatorship would not gain control of the United States. The military is banned from active duty on US soil except with express authorization of the Congress.
When was it passed? It was passed June 18, 1878 after the reconstruction that followed the Civil War.
When was it repealed? It was partially repealed in 2006, but it was completely done away with in 2008. This means that the insurrection act is what is now in effect.
What does that mean exactly? This means that the president can deploy the military for lawlessness. What exactly does ‘lawlessness’ mean? The president is really the only person that can make that decision based on the Insurrection Act.
Ok, so why should I care? A US Army brigade has been deployed on US soil from October 1, 2008 to October 1, 2009. http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/09/army_homeland_090708w/ Their mission is to keep lawful order. Can anyone think of a usage for this? I think just about any activist can.
What should I do about this? Write your representatives! This may sound like a really old and overused peice of advise, but when was the last time you did it? Another thing to do, tell your friends!
When was it passed? It was passed June 18, 1878 after the reconstruction that followed the Civil War.
When was it repealed? It was partially repealed in 2006, but it was completely done away with in 2008. This means that the insurrection act is what is now in effect.
What does that mean exactly? This means that the president can deploy the military for lawlessness. What exactly does ‘lawlessness’ mean? The president is really the only person that can make that decision based on the Insurrection Act.
Ok, so why should I care? A US Army brigade has been deployed on US soil from October 1, 2008 to October 1, 2009. http://www.armytimes.com/news/2008/09/army_homeland_090708w/ Their mission is to keep lawful order. Can anyone think of a usage for this? I think just about any activist can.
What should I do about this? Write your representatives! This may sound like a really old and overused peice of advise, but when was the last time you did it? Another thing to do, tell your friends!
Some Blogs You Might Find Interesting
Follow me on twitter @StAugYAction. Anyways.
http://365daysofactivism.blogspot.com/
I just wanted to point our a blogger that might inspire you. They are both a teacher and a blogger, and their blog is great! Their posts are not as frequent as they once were, but I think that they just need a nudge in the right direction with some comments.
http://austrianeconomists.typepad.com/weblog/
A good bit about economics
http://www.theagitator.com/
Good mix of links. Trys to make you think
http://thesociologicalimagination.com/
Good blog on the mind and social interactions
http://n-k-1.blogspot.com/
Covers philosophy, politics and economics
http://www.jasonhayes.org/
Interesting view point
Have I missed any good blogs? Please let me know!
http://365daysofactivism.blogspot.com/
I just wanted to point our a blogger that might inspire you. They are both a teacher and a blogger, and their blog is great! Their posts are not as frequent as they once were, but I think that they just need a nudge in the right direction with some comments.
http://austrianeconomists.typepad.com/weblog/
A good bit about economics
http://www.theagitator.com/
Good mix of links. Trys to make you think
http://thesociologicalimagination.com/
Good blog on the mind and social interactions
http://n-k-1.blogspot.com/
Covers philosophy, politics and economics
http://www.jasonhayes.org/
Interesting view point
Have I missed any good blogs? Please let me know!
Networking - Following up
Following up is the practice of contacting someone shortly after meeting them. If you don’t contact them within a day or two, you may forget to, or worse, the person may not remember you! That’s certainly not the best way to start a relationship. Following up is crucial because it allows you to build relationships with people before you need them because, lets face it, no one likes a leech. We all know what happens to leeches.
A follow-up notebook is a useful tool. On the upper hand corner of each page, write the date. Write each call you make or receive, write any actions you may need to take. Also note each new contact you have made as soon after as is reasonable so that you don’t forget to contact anyone. It is helpful to attach deadlines to each action, and to cross them of after completion. If you pre-date pages, it may be helpful to write the deadlines on the final day.
Touching base is where a plan is useful. Touching base regularly is important, and needs to be done frequently (at least once a month). It is important to make this a plan, because otherwise you might forget, because it isn’t something you do constantly. How often you talk to someone really depends on how important they are to you, and how useful they could be.
What have I missed? Are there any systems or tools for following up that I haven't covered? How can I make this article better?
I thank you for taking the time to read this, and any in-put you can give would be greatly appreciated.
A follow-up notebook is a useful tool. On the upper hand corner of each page, write the date. Write each call you make or receive, write any actions you may need to take. Also note each new contact you have made as soon after as is reasonable so that you don’t forget to contact anyone. It is helpful to attach deadlines to each action, and to cross them of after completion. If you pre-date pages, it may be helpful to write the deadlines on the final day.
Touching base is where a plan is useful. Touching base regularly is important, and needs to be done frequently (at least once a month). It is important to make this a plan, because otherwise you might forget, because it isn’t something you do constantly. How often you talk to someone really depends on how important they are to you, and how useful they could be.
What have I missed? Are there any systems or tools for following up that I haven't covered? How can I make this article better?
I thank you for taking the time to read this, and any in-put you can give would be greatly appreciated.
Networking
Since Sunday, so I suppose that is four days, I have realized how important networking really is. I've also realized that my networking skills are... lacking. Lacking a lot.
This is a realtor trick. Get a notebook with lots of space (such as a spiral from the corner store), and write the date on the upper corner of the page. Write down all the calls you make and receive. During these calls it is important to jot down actions to be taken or delegated (if you have this option). It is also helpful to attach deadlines to these actions, and if you pre-date entries, write the deadline on the correct day. Be sure to cross off items when you complete them. And remember, every page is a new day!
Following up on contacts is essential, especially to say thank you, give congratulations and touch base. This fosters a strong, healthy two-sided relationship. You must be consistent.
A well designed business card is a must. A poorly designed card, such as one that has no contact information or errors is unprofessional and can turn the receiver off. They view you as immature and incapable of paying attention to detail.
An eye-catching name tag, while perhaps not necessary in everyday life, is a useful tool at social functions where lots of people are meeting you, perhaps without the aid of an introduction. The question, "So, what's your name?" is a but awkward for most people, so you might never get to meet people that you should have.
The elevator speech is a simple tool that isn't as difficult or useless as it as first sounds. This little blurb is useful for two reasons. When you have to create it, you have to figure out what you actually are, so you're less likely to mis-sell yourself. Second, when you or others use it, a lot of critical information is transmitted quickly, cutting down on a lot of wasted time for both parties.
A networking plan is nearly mandatory. What do you want out of this? If you don't know, you won't get it, and you won't be satisfied, no matter how hard you try.
Referrals. Ask to receive them, and always give them out. Promoting others can serve at the best promotional tool.
What networking tools am I leaving out? Please tell me!
~ Ballard
These topics weren't covered in depth. I won't apologise for that. Each of these topics will find its way into the title of the next few posts. I just wanted to give everyone a taste, and enough time to tell me what I'm missing.
This is a realtor trick. Get a notebook with lots of space (such as a spiral from the corner store), and write the date on the upper corner of the page. Write down all the calls you make and receive. During these calls it is important to jot down actions to be taken or delegated (if you have this option). It is also helpful to attach deadlines to these actions, and if you pre-date entries, write the deadline on the correct day. Be sure to cross off items when you complete them. And remember, every page is a new day!
Following up on contacts is essential, especially to say thank you, give congratulations and touch base. This fosters a strong, healthy two-sided relationship. You must be consistent.
A well designed business card is a must. A poorly designed card, such as one that has no contact information or errors is unprofessional and can turn the receiver off. They view you as immature and incapable of paying attention to detail.
An eye-catching name tag, while perhaps not necessary in everyday life, is a useful tool at social functions where lots of people are meeting you, perhaps without the aid of an introduction. The question, "So, what's your name?" is a but awkward for most people, so you might never get to meet people that you should have.
The elevator speech is a simple tool that isn't as difficult or useless as it as first sounds. This little blurb is useful for two reasons. When you have to create it, you have to figure out what you actually are, so you're less likely to mis-sell yourself. Second, when you or others use it, a lot of critical information is transmitted quickly, cutting down on a lot of wasted time for both parties.
A networking plan is nearly mandatory. What do you want out of this? If you don't know, you won't get it, and you won't be satisfied, no matter how hard you try.
Referrals. Ask to receive them, and always give them out. Promoting others can serve at the best promotional tool.
What networking tools am I leaving out? Please tell me!
~ Ballard
These topics weren't covered in depth. I won't apologise for that. Each of these topics will find its way into the title of the next few posts. I just wanted to give everyone a taste, and enough time to tell me what I'm missing.
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