Springtime Renewal

March 21st, 2012 | Leave a comment »
Published by

For many, Spring is a time for renewal and revitalization. Just as in nature, rebirth and renewal are a standard part of life; we all can benefit from this period of new growth. In fact, the Renewed Freedom Center was created specifically with this intention in mind… to help anxiety sufferers experience relief and renewed freedom.

I consider myself a freedom connoisseur. After having lived many years as a prisoner to OCD and panic attacks, freedom from anxiety is certainly not something I take for granted. And I’m constantly reminded of that when anxiety sufferers share their own personal stories with me. It may surprise you to learn that anxiety disorders are the number one mental health problem in nearly every country and affect over 28% of Americans alone. Sadly, this sobering fact reveals that many individuals all over the world struggle with the crippling effects of anxiety, and experience little, if any, relief. The good news is that you don’t have to suffer from debilitating anxiety, because evidence-based treatment exists. It’s called Cognitive-Behavior Therapy (CBT), and more specifically: Exposure Therapy.
Read the rest of this entry »

Misdiagnosis is A Serious Problem: Ensure That Your Child is Correctly Diagnosed

March 21st, 2012 | Leave a comment »
Published by

Many parents and teachers assume that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is the most prevalent childhood mental health disorder. In fact, anxiety is the most prevalent mental health disorder in children. Studies indicate that 13 out of every 100 children ages 9 through 17 experiences some kind of anxiety disorder. Furthermore, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), 25% of 13-18 year olds will experience an anxiety disorder during their adolescence. Anxiety disorders include Separation Anxiety Disorder (SAD) and Specific Phobias, which often occur in younger children, as well as Social Phobia, Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), and Panic Disorder, which typically occur in older children or adolescents. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) also has a childhood onset, with varying degrees of severity.
Read the rest of this entry »

Helping Your Anxious Child: 10 Common Mistakes to Avoid

March 21st, 2012 | Leave a comment »
Published by

1. Feeling the need to “rescue” your child from discomfort:
Although it can be heart wrenching to see your child in any kind of pain, teaching them that pain is an inevitable part of life is one of the most critical lessons a parent can impart. Popular culture sends a message that any discomfort is to be quickly and easily ameliorated. However, this type of thinking leads to great suffering when parents see their child in pain, despite the fact that enduring suffering is essential for growth. In fact, children need to be able to sit-with, accept, and push-through discomfort in order to gain the confidence, independence, and feelings of self-efficacy that is required for true success.
Read the rest of this entry »

Hoarding & Relationships – CBS Interview

March 21st, 2012 | Leave a comment »
Published by

Hoarding has been a hidden condition for a long time, and many sufferers experience shame and embarrassment from it. Hoarding is not just clutter, and often has a negative impact on people’s social and personal relationships. Take a look at this clip and share with others to help us raise awareness about the debilitating effects of hoarding.