Month: September 2022

What to Do When a Loved One Suffers from Manic Episodes

Manic episodes are particular periods of time where someone experiences mania, or “high highs.” People in this state often feel elated or exhibit an over-the-top energy level, emotion, and mood. Having manic episodes can cause harm and sometimes, lead to hospitalization. People experiencing these episodes do not always have complete control of what they are thinking and doing, hence it is important to provide them with the care and support they need until the episode passes.

Manic episodes are often associated with bipolar disorder, a condition where a person experiences both positive and negative ends of the emotional spectrum at an extreme level. They will have high highs and low lows—both have their challenges to manage. But manic episodes cause very visible changes in someone’s mood and overall behavior. Hence it can be a bit easier to notice and act on. 

It can be difficult to witness a loved one experience a manic episode or go through other effects of being bipolar. If you have a family or a friend suffering from bipolar disorder or experiencing manic episodes, there are ways you can effectively help them. 

The Right Diagnosis

The first and most important step to helping a loved one go through a manic phase is by helping them get the right diagnosis for their condition. This is so they can access accurate treatment that might be available for them. This way, as a family or their friend, you will also know how to help them better.  

Knowing what is causing their manic episode and its triggers can help manage the condition in a healthier manner. It is important to pay close attention to loved ones who are having heavy fluctuations in their moods or sudden changes in behavior. This can be evident, especially in those who are going through difficult life situations, grief or trauma, or those with conditions like bipolar disorder. However, some of its symptoms like engaging in extreme behaviors and irritability can overlap with that of post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. This condition will require different treatment and care. It is important to get the right diagnosis first.  

There are clinics, psychiatric centers, and treatment facilities that can diagnose if a person’s having manic episodes. Depending on the signs they exhibit, you can also get a diagnosis from PTSD inpatient treatment centers. This facility can help you and your loved ones assess, address, and manage manic episodes and/or other mental health issues and illnesses that might be causing extreme changes in their behavior.

Professionals may even discover a different mental health problem than originally expected. In this case, it is critical to find an inpatient program for your relative. For example, inpatient treatment for schizoaffective disorder can help your relative, while also educating you on the disorder. 

Dealing with mental health problems is not that easy. Not everyone can acknowledge and admit that they are suffering. Even so, not everyone has access to or the courage to find the right resources and healthcare services that they need. A loved one or a strong support system is important to ensure that the person can take the first step toward addressing their condition and getting professional help. They also need sufficient support to continuously receive proper treatment as well as assistance in recognizing and attending to their changing needs. 

Recognizing Symptoms 

A manic episode can last for weeks or months. For people with bipolar disorder, it can last up to six months and is a regular part of the condition’s cycle. But it can be improved and managed if addressed the right way. 

As someone supporting a loved one suffering from a manic episode, you can help them watch out for early signs or prodromal symptoms, so they can prepare to control it as it happens. Here are some symptoms you should watch out for when a manic episode is about to occur: 

  • Having abnormally elevated expression of emotion and energy levels every day for about a week
  • A sudden shift in behavior and being irritable
  • Showing mood disturbance and impulsive behavior
  • Being restless and doing purposeless movements
  • Not sleeping for long periods or only getting minimal sleep
  • Engaging in extreme activities to an extent that can cause harm to them or to others

Supportive Through It All 

Psychiatrist
A psychiatrist is doing an interview with person that suffers from manic episodes

Manic episodes can be treated through medication or through talk therapy, including psychotherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. But these treatments are difficult to access without a proper diagnosis from a professional. Hence, it is recommended to take someone suffering from a manic episode to a psychologist and psychiatrist who can assess their condition better. If your loved one is a veteran, you may want to seek assistance from a military lawyer, as they can help to fight for the benefits and compensation that are due. This additional help can be vital for securing the medical help your loved one requires. 

Moreover, manic tendencies can also be managed without medication, but this can be more challenging. Either way, those who want to support a person who experiences manic episodes should be prepared to provide consistent support throughout the process. 

Its symptoms can occur even in the most unexpected moments. For people with bipolar disorder, it is a part of the regular cycle and is likely to recur more often. Watching your loved ones close and checking on them regularly can help you determine the type of support you can give. 

Know them and look for early signs of a manic episode that they often exhibit. It is also important to ask them how they want to be supported. People who are dealing with a mental health problem need patience and a great deal of consideration. They need space to process their own emotion as well as moral support. Communicating with your loved ones can help you and them to manage their manic tendencies better. 

Be There Through Ups and Downs

It is important to recognize that manic episodes are just a phase. It does not define who a person is. It is rather a condition that can be a threat to that person and the people around him/her.  Though it is a very difficult phase, it can be treated. If your loved one is suffering from manic episodes or is showing manic tendencies, it is important to be there for them. Let them know that they are not alone and that it is okay to get help for their condition. 

 

5 Steps to Better Parenting

Nowadays, parents have been making many mistakes that affect their children dramatically. These mistakes could seem trivial, but they actually do more harm than one expects.

Kids depend on their parents and their environment to teach them the necessary life skills needed for the home, school, and the outside world. 

There are 5 easy steps to better parenting. Many parents can change simple factors in their daily life to help their children develop physically and mentally. If you are interested in knowing these steps, continue reading.

5 Steps to Better Parenting

●      Create a Well-Balanced Play and Sleep Schedule

Children need a well-balanced sleep and play schedule. Schedules help children feel safe. Children love familiarity and by knowing what to expect in their day, they become calmer and happier.

Creating schedules also indirectly disciplines children. Your child needs to understand that they are expected to do certain things at certain times and follow rules.

By creating a sleep schedule, you and your child would get better sleep. I personally follow the moms on call schedule. Sleep schedules will become easier as your children’s bodies get used to sleep and wake times. This will help them grow healthily. You would also get uninterrupted sleep by following the sleep schedule day after day.

●      Trust Your Children

Trust your child. Tell them what is wrong and what is right, then watch. Children need to be able to make choices on their own. Over-monitoring children are one of the biggest parenting mistakes.

Give your children the freedom they need to learn from their mistakes. If they make a mistake, talk to them about it and tell them what they did wrong.

If you over-monitor your child, they will feel untrusted. If you want your child to be able to come to you and tell you everything, trusting them is a major step towards that.

Trust your instinct in knowing when to interfere and when not to. Sometimes, if your child’s life is at risk, you must interfere and over-monitor.

●      Share Sensitive Information with Your Child

Parents hide things from their children because they think their children are not ready for it or are too young. Sometimes, that is true. But, that does not mean you should hide information all the time and forever.

Most of the time children find out things on their own, and this negatively affects the relationship between them and their parents. You need to make a good decision on when and how to tell children different types of life-changing information.

For example, some parents hide the fact they are going to get divorced. Your child should know that, but when the divorce is finalized or a definite matter. Also, some parents hide the fact they are pregnant. Your child should know that not from the very start of the pregnancy but when you are in your second trimester because losing the child may affect them negatively.

●      Recognize their Feelings

Children tend to find difficulty in expressing their feelings. They may cry a lot, and you may even think they are a bit dramatic.

Do not underestimate their feelings. You must show them that their feelings matter and that you care about how they feel.

By doing this, they will be able to confide in you. You would be able to influence their decisions and show them that you would always be there for them.

In contrast, if you do not recognize their feelings, they will always feel that their emotions do not matter. This may influence their actions in school when problems rise among their peers.

●      Praise You Child

Daycare
A young woman is taking care of a toddler

When your child does something right, praise them. Always look for the positive things they do, and show them you recognize them. Never compare them to other children.

They need to be confident that they are perfect the way they are. By doing this, they will grow up to be successful, independent, and confident adults. Your child needs to be able to express themselves positively and be comfortable in their own skin. By accepting themselves, others will recognize their worth and respect them.

Recognizing their worth is a very important skill they need in life, especially when searching for careers or confronting someone who belittles them.

In Conclusion

Parents commit major mistakes that negatively influence their kids. They must try to prevent these mistakes in order to help their children grow up to their utmost potential.

However, by following steps, parents can raise healthy and happy children. These steps may seem very simple, but they have a great influence on the development of children’s minds.

Parenting is a major factor in who our children become. It could be very difficult, but following certain steps and tricks, it is possible to parent effectively.

About the Author

Halimeh Salem is the founder of the Crying Toddlers Blog. She loves helping moms overcome the obstacles they may face during the journey of pregnancy and motherhood. During her free time, she loves playing with her two children, Sama and Basem. 

 

Four Smart Money-Saving Tips to Help You Deal With the Rising Cost of Living

Even without a degree in economics or business, people are noticing that prices for just about everything is going through the roof. The amount we pay for groceries or gas could change or more specifically rise at any given moment. While we could debate the socio-political reasons behind this shift for days on end, the more pressing matter is what to do about it.

Regardless of their size, families will need to adjust and learn to budget their spending, at least for the time being. Of course, cutting down costs is never easy, especially for growing families already living on a budget. To help out in these trying times, this article takes a deep dive into just some of the ways that families can cut their spending and save a little money on the side!

Clothing stores – (still) dressing to impress 

Even though inflation is hitting us hard, the world keeps turning and bringing the usual expenses along for the ride. Thus, as the school year begins, the kids come to need new shoes, clothes, and backpacks – all these expenses are known to put a strain on a budget even during the best of times. However, there are a few ways to work around these expenses. 

For one, there are always second-hand shops. These stores are filled with nearly unworn items at half the price. As kids grow out of their clothes in a season, buying them second-hand may be more beneficial than you first thought. Once they’ve outgrown them, it won’t feel so hard letting them go or throwing them out altogether. Along with second-hand shops, another great way to save money on clothing is hand-me-down. Someone in your friend group or family will surely have a child that’s a grade or two ahead of your own and willing to give you the clothes they no longer need. This way, you’ll not only save some money but keep the planet greener as well. 

Wholesale shopping – buying on a budget

As grocery prices continue to soar it’s getting harder and harder to find products that fit into our weekly and monthly budgets. However, while our go-to supermarket may no longer be below budget, the local wholesale store certainly will be. These markets offer items with a long shelf life and give you the chance to buy them in bulk. This means that your family will be able to stock up on groceries without feeling the full effect of the market.

Moreover, whenever you feel like cooking a quick meal for the family, you’ll have an entire pantry of options to choose from. This will also help you avoid running down to the store every minute and save up a bit of gas money in the process.  In short, buying wholesale will keep your pantry full, and your family fed without a drop in quality or savings. 

Fine dining – going out while saving up

Preparing your own meals and staying in is an undeniable money saver. With that said, even the best of us need a night away from the kitchen every once in a while. Unfortunately, in an effort to save up, people often avoid going out for a meal or even a cup of coffee. However, while dining out can usually cost a pretty penny, it is achievable with a bit of knowledge of financial literacy. 

As most drinks will be overpriced regardless of the restaurant, a solid budgeting tip is to stick with water – this will keep the final bill down and will be a much better alternative than any soft drink on the menu. Another way to go out and save up is by doing a bit of recon ahead of time. Check out the restaurant’s website and see what deals they offer. Some establishments even have slow days when they reduce prices or let the kids eat for free to attract more customers. 

Car insurance – rereading the fine print

Car
Inside look of a car from the back seat perspective view

Insurance companies often sell policies in which they hide additional expenses in the fine print. Without even knowing it, you may be paying for car services you would never actually need. Thus, in an effort to save money, consider renegotiating your car insurance policy. 

One of the first things you could do is raise your deductible and thus reduce your monthly insurance payments. Another is of course negotiating a safe driving discount with the insurance company. Finally, if you believe it to be necessary, reduce the insurance coverage after consulting with the insurance company. All these suggestions will save you valuable dollars down the road. 

Budgeting out your family spending is by no means easy. However, right now it’s something that may be necessary and with our suggestions above also doable. Nevertheless, it’s important to remember that budgeting shouldn’t lead to self-denial – treating yourself and your family is important and should never be avoided altogether!

Written by Lucas Bergman

Rewarding Jobs for Moms Who Want to Help Others

Being a mom is one of the most exciting things in the world and it’s one of those things that will help you learn a bit more about who you are as a person, what your interests are, and what you’d like to do with the rest of your life. Moms are on duty all the time, no matter how many kids they have and how old their kids are, and that means that they have so much time to relax and take their minds off their everyday problems. However, that doesn’t mean that you can’t find some time for yourself and others, especially if you’re one of those moms who love helping others and doing something good for the world around you. In case you’re such a mom too, you might consider finding a few new business ideas that will give you a chance to help lots of other people around you at the same time. Therefore, here’s how you can do that and what you need to do to find a job that will help you combine your altruism and your love for making money. 

Writing tasks

This might not sound like the easiest thing in the world, but if you’re creative, imaginative, and ready to think outside the box, writing different sorts of things is one of those ideas that will work for you to the fullest. And if you want to help other people during this process as well, you can do that quite easily, thus reaching a win-win solution that’s going to work for everyone involved. However, if you want to be great at writing different things, you need to know lots of things about different writing techniques and get prepared on time. This is especially true when writing essays, for instance, but it goes for other writing projects too, so start learning how to make the most of your writing and how to help the biggest number of people possible.

Working with people with disabilities

Working with people with disabilities is one of the most rewarding things in the world, but it’s also among the hardest and most challenging things you’ll ever do. People with disabilities require a special kind of care and affection, and that means you have to be fully invested in this process. From providing the physical care and emotional support needed to complete the complex paperwork and progress notes that are required (you can see a free progress note template here), it isn’t always the easiest thing to do. However, if you’re truly focused and determined to do that, you won’t have a problem spending your time helping people with disabilities. Of course, you’ll have to find a platform that’s going to help you do that, so check out an NDIS service provider right now and you’ll soon start helping people with disabilities on a whole new level!

Tutoring children

This is one of the oldest ideas in the world, but it’s also among the most beautiful things to do. If you love helping other people and enjoy spending your time with children, you should look into this idea and think about tutoring children. It doesn’t matter how old you are, what you do, and how many kids you have – you’ll always find some time for tutoring. This is going to help other kids get better at school and you’ll also earn some money along the way, which makes this a great solution for you all.

Helping people with finances

Finances
A woman is helping a person next to her to create a successful financial plan

In case you’re a financial expert and know how to work with numbers, you may not be able to find children who need tutoring – unless they need some help solving math problems at school – but that doesn’t mean that you won’t be able to do something useful with your knowledge. On the contrary, you can always work with adults who need help with their finances and need someone to teach them how to spend their money more rationally. You can also work with young adults because they usually need help with their money and they need a few financial lessons to make that happen.

Being a passionate and altruistic person who’s always ready to help is great, and if you wish to take your love for other people to the next level, you should think about turning one of these ideas into reality. They may not all work for you, but at least one probably will, so focus on the approach that suits you the most and start helping people around you!

5 Lovely Gifts That Your Mom Would Appreciate on Her Birthday

A mother’s love is unconditional and never asks for anything in return. She would do anything for her child, so it is only fair that we give her something on her birthday. It doesn’t have to be expensive; a card or a bouquet could be enough to make your mom happy.

We should never underestimate the power of words, so why not send your mom a heartfelt message on her birthday? You can use these messages as inspiration:

Of course, you might ask yourself, what gift should you give your mom for her birthday?

This question is one that every son or daughter needs to ask themselves before picking out a gift for their mom on her birthday. It is not easy to pick the perfect gift for your mom. It takes time and consideration, but it also carries an understanding of what she likes to do, what she wants to eat, and what she likes to wear.

The best way to find out what your mom wants as a present is by asking her directly. You can also look at the things around the house and try to match them up with something in one of her favorite stores. If unsure, you can always buy her something from her favorite store that you think will make sense for her.

However, if you want more ideas, here are five lovely gifts your mom would appreciate on her birthday.

1. Personalized book

If you’re planning on elevating a birthday or mothers day gift book, you should consider personalizing it in some way or another.

There are two ways to go about this. The first way is to create a personalized book for your mom, and the second is to buy one for her. The first option is more personal but requires more time and effort. The second option is less personal, but it’s easier and faster.

A personalized book is a thoughtful gift that will make your mom feel special. It is not just a book. It is a gift that she will cherish for the rest of her life.

You can make this gift with love and care and tailor it to your mom’s tastes. You can write a story about how you were when you were younger, or you could write about your favorite hobby or interest.

2. Handmade birthday box

You can give your mom a handmade birthday box that she would appreciate on her birthday.

A handmade birthday box is an excellent present for any occasion. It’s not only original but also has sentimental value and shows you put some time and effort into the gift. You can use it for any occasion, but it would work incredibly well for your mom’s birthday because she knows how much you care about her, and she will love knowing that you took the time to make something just for her.

It is the perfect time to show your mom that you care about her and that she is unique in your life. The best way to do it is by giving her a handmade birthday box on her birthday. It can be a small gift, but it will make her feel special and loved.

3. Customized jewelry

The best way to make your mom feel special on her birthday is by giving her something she will appreciate. For example, if you know that she loves to wear accessories, you can get her customized jewelry. This way, she can wear it and enjoy it every day.

Moreover, if you are unsure what type of jewelry your mom would like or what size of ring she wears, you can find out by asking her friends or family members about it.

The best way to find out what your mom likes is by asking her or checking out what she has in her jewelry box. You can also get an idea of what she would want if you look at the jewelry stores in your area or online.

A personalized piece of jewelry can be a thoughtful and memorable gift for any occasion. It can be a sentimental reminder of your love and care for your mom. You can customize it with her birthstone or a unique engraving on the back.

4. Poem birthday card

Birthday card
A birthday card is signed and ready to be given as a present

The best way to get your mom to feel loved on her birthday is by giving her a poem birthday card that she would appreciate.

A poem has a lot of sentimental value and will remind your mom of the time you spent together.

You can also write down everything you love about your mom and why she is so unique to you.

5. Stress Relief Card

This year, give your mom a stress relief card that she would appreciate on her birthday. You can personalize the card to show your love and appreciation for her. It can also have a fun message that will make her laugh and forget about the stresses of life.

These words of affirmation can help your mom destress, and it helps if you add a spa day coupon for her there too.

Conclusion

These gift ideas for your mom’s birthday can be an excellent way for you to make your mom feel appreciated. Of course, you shouldn’t only do that during their birthday, but it certainly will be good for them if they receive these gifts from you on their day, so try giving these gift ideas to them on their birthday.

7 Best Personalized Gift Ideas for the Holidays

As the calendar turns to the Fall months, we are getting closer and closer to the Holiday Season.  You can almost smell the piney aroma of Christmas Trees and the smell of those burning Hanukkah candles.  Not to give you anxiety, but it’s about time to start shopping for the most important people in your life.  Don’t worry though, there is plenty of time and we’ve got your back.  Below are seven of the best personalized Holiday gift ideas for this Holiday Season.  

1.  Engraved Decanter Set

Image source: groovyguygifts.co
Image source: groovyguygifts.com

This crystal clear personalized glass decanter holds 26 ounces of your guy’s favorite liquor, and the pair of personalized whiskey glasses will help your man empty it! Whether your guy chooses to class up a bottle of whiskey from the well or show off the top-shelf bourbon, every time they raise a glass, they’ll fondly remember this special personalized decanter gift set that you got for him.   

You can choose from six different designs that you can personalize. Please refer to the Design Options picture to see the different designs that you can choose from. 

You can order the full personalized decanter set (includes 2 personalized whiskey glasses)s, the personalized decanter by itself, or 2 personalized whiskey glasses (without the decanter). To personalize this decanter, please enter the name or initial in the personalization box that appears above the add-to-cart button.  If you pick a design that has the name and a large letter, please enter the name and we will use the first letter of the name as the large letter.

2. Personalized Family Sign

Image source: groovyguygifts.co
Image source: groovyguygifts.com

This Farmhouse Style Family Wall Sign is the perfect way to show your family some love! This beautiful sign is personalized with your family name and features a charming distressed finish. Perfect for any farmhouse-style home, this wall sign makes a wonderful addition to any room. Order yours today! This sign is made from 1/4″ birch plywood backing with 1/4″ raised lettering to give a 3D look that is perfect for any wall!  This sign is 18 inches in diameter and ½ inch in total thickness.

 3. Customized Cigar Set

Image source: groovyguygifts.co
Image source: groovyguygifts.com

This cigar set is as cool a gift as one can get.  This personalized gift set comes with up to 5 cigar gifts in 1 package, and all the items can be personalized with your man’s name or initials.

This cigar set comes with an engraved torch lighter to spark up some conversation around the fire with stogies in hand. It comes with a personalized flask and travel case so your man can take his whiskey and cigars on the go.  The personalized travel case comes with a stainless steel cutter which can be carried on the back of the case for quick and easy cutting and lighting.  And last but not least, the awesome wooden box that all the gifts come in is also a humidor.  

When entering your personalization, enter the name and initials that you would like engraved on the items.  Please enter the personalization as it appears below:

Name: Keklik

Initials: GMK

We laser engrave their name on the humidor.  We engrave the initials on the torch lighter and cigar carrying case.  On the flask, we engrave the name and take the first letter of the name and make it larger and engrave that above the name.

4. Embroidered Floral Robe

Image source: groovyguygifts.co
Image source: groovyguygifts.com

Gifting any woman in your life with one of these beautiful, comfortable floral cotton robes is the perfect way to show you appreciate them this holiday season.  With the soft touch of a warm spring or summer morning embodied in the pattern, you can pick the background color that is most flattering for each of your bridesmaids or make them all match to share in the fun. Set them off with an initial to represent each of your leading ladies, and you’re on the road to a lovely, but busy, day!

No matter how hectic life is, you’re sure that your girls are comfortably wearing this beautiful floral cotton robe. Definitely, a must-have gift for your lady.

5.  Engraved Watch

Image source: groovyguygifts.co
Image source: groovyguygifts.com

Struggling with a gift idea for the man in your life this holiday season? This stylish gift set contains a personalizable, tiger bamboo wooden watch with a leather band and a pair of personalizable cufflinks. Every well-dressed man should have a good-looking watch and at least one pair of cufflinks in his accessory wardrobe and now you can give it to him all situated in an engraved, wooden keepsake box. Give the gift of style and personalization easily to your favorite dude when you purchase this elegant set now! 

6. Holiday Bottle Stoppers

Image source: groovyguygifts.co
Image source: groovyguygifts.com

What a perfect stocking stuffer for the wine lover in your life! This winter theme stopper comes in a stylish gift box with a tag and is ready for presentation. Made of alloy metal and aluminum with chrome plating.  This elegant Snowflakes metal leaf stopper makes a thoughtful favor idea for special occasions featuring an outdoor or fall theme.

7. Engraved Cutting Boards

Image source: groovyguygifts.co
Image source: groovyguygifts.com

If you’re the king of the grill, this cutting board is a must-have for your domain. It’s made in America from sturdy maple wood and has a built-in juice groove to catch all the flavorful juices from your meats and veggies. Plus, it looks pretty badass with its black walnut finish and laser-etched “KING OF THE GRILL” title. Order yours today and reign supreme at your next cookout!