Ditch the Kids and Go!

It's summer time and that means vacation time!  Here's a thought: plan a quick getaway for just the two of you.  Yes, that means ditch the kiddos and go.  I know there's a guilt factor that weighs heavy for some, but as they say: "If momma (or daddy) ain't happy, ain't nobody happy."

As a basic rule in relationships, you must prioritize your relationship with your partner and in doing so you, your spouse, and the kids will benefit and thrive.  Most often parents get caught up in their children's activities, needs, and playing the role of mom and dad in general and slowly neglect their role as wife or husband.  You are your children's main model of what a healthy relationship looks like, so teach them well and show them how important it is to maintain a close connection. 

Do it for the kids.  Plan a mini-vacation and let the kids hang out with grandma and grandpa for a few days.  After all, wouldn't it be nice to have a quiet meal, maybe a glass of wine and be able to return to a peaceful hotel/home and not wake up to a little munchkin at your bedside asking for breakfast at 6:30 in the morning.  And I'm sure your spouse would appreciate your full attention and actual adult conversation as well as some much needed non planned or penciled-in intimacy.

Psychotropics vs. Psychotherapy

You've heard the story, or maybe you've lived it: someone makes an appointment with their doctor hoping to get that magic "happy pill" that will make their life better.  Most often people expect a prescription to instantly lift their mood or calm their anxiety and when it stops working they simply double the dosage and endure the side effects.  No doubt there is a scientific perspective to depression and anxiety which psychotropics aid in balancing, but don't forget the emotional aspect of it as well.  In most cases when someone is feeling at their rock-bottom or extremely anxious beyond functionability there are events, people, or situations that trigger these negative emotions.  That's where psychotherapy comes in.  Learning coping skills and becoming more self-aware along with taking mood stabilizers and anti-depressants can work twice as well and cover all scientific and emotional grounds.  There is no quick fix or magic pill.  Like anything of value it takes work and time, but in the end so worth it.