Parents often complain about how much time their kids spend on video games, social media, and screens in general. When they ask me what to do about the issue, my knee-jerk response is to discuss the use of behavioral interventions. This can include an establishment of schedules with time limits, positive reinforcement plans, and behavioral…
For years I have sat with anxious patients in my office mired by “what if” thinking. Their worried thoughts about every possible scenario of having a panic attack can cripple them. I have labeled this anticipatory anxiety and explained how this thinking could trigger anxiety symptoms like heart palpitations, trembling, dizziness, shortness of breath, and…
As we struggle to cope with entering the New Year with optimism that we’re in the last stretch of this pandemic, we search for ways to feel connected. The idea of social distancing, a fear of person-to-person contact, and “staying in” can prey on our sense of loneliness, boredom, and purpose. I have asked many…