Gene for Borderline Personality

A large scale study across numerous countries has revealed genetic material on chromosome nine was linked to Borderline Personality Disorder . BPD is characterized by pervasive instability in moods, interpersonal relationships, self-image and behavior, and can lead to suicidal behavior, substance abuse and failed relationships, among other things.

According to researchers, "The highest linkage peak was found on chromosome 9p at marker D9S286 with a logarithm of odds score of 3.548 (empirical P=0.0001). "

Yeah, I don't know what that means either, but it implies that genetic origins continue to underscore mental illness as a real thing. So take that, nonbelievers!

For more, check out the Science Daily article here

Distel, M., Hottenga, J., Trull, T., & Boomsma, D. (2008). Chromosome 9: linkage for borderline personality disorder features Psychiatric Genetics, 18 (6), 302-307 DOI: 10.1097/YPG.0b013e3283118468

"Normal's Overrated" ~ House & N.A.M.I Take On Stigma

Fox's mega-hit drama House has taken up residence with the National Alliance of Mental Illness to address the stigma of mental illness. The show is selling t-shirts with the slogan Normal's Overrated - with all benefits going NAMI. I believe, if my Internet researching is correct, that the House T-Shirt Project has netted over $300,000.000 so far.

Laurie, a truly dynamic individual, has been quite open about his clinical depression. It's always great when a high profile person can help educate and debunk mental health issues. So, kudos to Mr. Laurie, everyone at Fox and N.A.M.I.

And while we're on the topic, "What is normal anyway?"

Surfing the Net is Great for the Mind

Brain activity reading

Brain activity surfing the net

Scientists at the UCLA Semel Institute Memory & Aging Center have found that using the Internet increases neural activity in the brain - and triggers key centers in control decision-making and complex reasoning. The findings demonstrate that a good surf through the net may improve brain function.

The study, the first of its kind to assess the impact of Internet searching on brain performance, is to be in an upcoming American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry .

I'd write more, but me and my big brain are gonna go surfing now...

Small, G., Moody, T., Siddarth, P., & Bookheimer, S. (2009). Your Brain on Google: Patterns of Cerebral Activation during Internet Searching American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 17 (2), 116-126 DOI: 10.1097/JGP.0b013e3181953a02

Appetite For Destruction?

Ever get so mad that you want to break something?

Do pent up feelings have you twisted in a knot?

Is your inner grief in need of an expressive outlet?

Well, you might want to head over to Sarah's Smash Shack - where you can relieve such feelings by hurling breakables in specially designed "break rooms".  San Diego entrepreneur, Sarah Lavely, charges clients $10 and up to pulverize plates, grate glass, break bric-a-brac and express emotions. You can bring your own stuff to destroy or buy things there to break. Music is available, either your own or house supplied, as well as protective gear and clean up services.

I think that using physical force to release emotions can be cathartic. This idea reminds me of aspects of Gestalt Therapy. My two cents would be to keep in mind that the smashing experience should have a verbal element to it - expressing the feelings and thoughts with words as well as with physicality. Constructive destruction, so to speak. Otherwise, it's senseless violence.

I wonder if this trend will soon be seen in a franchise near you.

What do you think?

January is National Mentoring Month

I have had many a mentor in my life growing up. A person who took a unique interest in me, fostered my growth and guided me onward. I am forever grateful to have known each of them.

As an adult, I have been a mentor to young children and young adults. The experience is so rewarding and meaningful. A grand way of nurturing a young soul.

January is National Mentoring Month . If you live anywhere in the world and are interested in being a mentor, or becoming a mentee, go here or here -- or for that matter, here!