Blog for Better Living

Depression: A problem for many older adults

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | March 19, 2015

Depression is a common problem in older adults. The symptoms of depression affect every aspect of life, including one’s energy, appetite, sleep, and interest in work, hobbies, and relationships. Unfortunately, senior depression is often overlooked, and many depressed seniors do not get the help that they need. Depression in older adults is often overlooked for […]

Depression, Family

Finding Perspective

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | February 17, 2015

I recently came back from a dirtbiking trip to Death Valley and the surrounding area refreshed and refocused. There are many things that I love about dirtbiking like the opportunity to explore new places and be physically challenged. However, the aspect of the sport that appeals to me the most is the ability to Find […]

Surviving the Holidays after Divorce

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | December 24, 2014

The holiday season is typically a time of great anticipation and excitement. But for those who are in the early stages of transitioning through divorce, the prospect of facing the holidays without your partner or children may cause some anxiety and sadness. It is okay to accept the difficulty of this time of year and […]

Children, Family, Relationships, Stress

Getting Married on Your Terms

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | July 30, 2014

Recently I had the privilege of traveling to Alaska for my very first “Extra Tuff Wedding”. Extra Tuffs, for those of us in the lower 48, are the footwear of choice for South East Alaskan natives. The big brown boots are clunky, rubber and not very attractive at first glance – but to those who […]

Family, Relationships

Becoming a Caregiver of Elderly Parents

By: Other | June 10, 2014

Written by Francine Martinez, Ph.D. Earlier this week we met with the Director of Community Relations for The Glenner Memory Care Centers, Mr. Marshall Stanek. The meeting’s focus was on networking and identifying how we can support each other with our respective clientele; the meeting, however, had a secondary impact on me, namely thinking about […]

Family

Need a vacation from your vacation?

By: Other | April 11, 2014

Written by Missy Betts Many of us either just got back or are getting ready to leave work or school for a week-long Spring break. During long vacations, we can sometimes load ourselves up with activities to utilize and take advantage of all that free time. This can lead to coming back from your vacation […]

Raising Emotionally Confident Children: 5 Do’s and Don’ts

By: Other | March 27, 2014

Written by Francine Martinez, Ph.D. One of the things that commonly happens when people become parents is this introspection about how they want to influence the life of their child. We can talk idealistically about the values we want to model and instill, yet we are all tested at one time or another, sometimes seeing […]

Children, Family, Relationships

When the Question “How was your Day?” Isn’t Enough for Couples

By: Other | February 7, 2014

Written by Francine Martinez, Ph.D. “When my kids become wild and unruly, I use a nice, safe playpen. When they’re finished, I climb out.” ~Erma Bombeck Parenthood is one of the most challenging, rewarding, confusing and personal growth experiences someone can have. Having recently become a grandparent and having had some time between my daughter’s […]

Children, Family

How to Deal with your (Difficult) Family this Holiday Season

By: Rochelle Perper, Ph.D. | December 18, 2013

The holiday season is a time of joy and togetherness but it can also come with increased stress, conflict and family tension. When families gather, members may not get along, causing tension and awkward interactions. One option is to avoid holiday gatherings altogether. However, this too can create conflict in the family. If you are […]

Family