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Investors have reacted favorably to the recent release of the government’s stress test results. But skeptics still abound. Dan Alpert, managing director of Westwood Capital, is one of them. His specific worry: he isn’t so sure that the Fed’s ...

After Bank Stress Tests, Worries About Earnings - BusinessWeek

Banks that were deemed capital deficient as part of the 'stress-test' program, may have little choice but to shake up their boardroom lin the coming months, experts note. NEW YORK (CNNMoney.com) -- The nation's leading banks may have been deemed ...

Bank execs face new 'stress' - CNN Money

As if losing your job isn't bad enough, a new study suggests that people who are laid off are at higher risk of being diagnosed with health conditions such as hypertension, heart disease, and even arthritis than those who keep their jobs. Life ...

Study: Job loss associated with health problems - CNN

Few tests have been so maligned. Almost from the outset when the bank stress-test plans were announced, critics have given the plans a failing grade. Now that the official results are out , how is the financial blogosphere reacting? Here’s a look ...

Noontime Reading: Stress Test Edition - Wall Street Journal

A: The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. guarantees your deposits and some bank-issued retirement accounts up to $250,000. If your bank participates in the FDIC’s Temporary Liquidity Guarantee Program, your non-interest-bearing and low-interest ...

How the stress test affects your bank - Atlanta Journal Constitution

FOWLER, Ind. (WLFI) - When the bills start piling up, it can be difficult to determine which are priorities. Food, gas, rent, they are all necessities. And some people are turning to financial coaches for a better understanding of managing their ...

Financial coaches - WLFI.com

– Mark T. Williams, who teaches finance at Boston University’s School of Management, is a former Federal Reserve bank examiner. The views expressed are his own. – The market has anxiously waited over two months. With the stress test results ...

Stress tests: The results are in, now what? - Reuters Blogs

The Alabama Department of Public Health Office of Women's Health is joining the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to celebrate the 10th annual National Women's Health Week that will kick off on Mother's Day, May 10, through May 16, 2009 ...

Office Of Women's Health Celebrates National Women's Health Week - Medical News Today

May 15 (Bloomberg) -- U.S. regulators are arguing over how much influence the government should wield over bank management, pitting taxpayer protection against concern at roiling fragile financial markets. The clash intensified as supervisors ...

U.S. Regulators Clash Over Holding Banks Accountable (Update1) - Bloomberg

Open Question: I am nearly 6 wks pregnant and finding it hard?

I have a first baby she is now 1yrs old, i have just found out that i am pregnant with my second baby. The problem is that i am trying to get rest and look after my self but it is extremely impossible with my first child as she is at a demanding age, and she seems to be asking for my attention too much, she does not sleep during the day that much probably altogther about 2 hours, and i don't really get a minute breather to myself, and because of this i am finding it hard to cope. I am just wondering will i be able to manage the preganancy fine or not, i am really worried about how to get rest and stay stress free, i don't have any family or friends support, my husband try's to help me but sometimes he can't do much and i have to deal with my little one. Anyone in the same boat as me been through this before, any advice will be appreciated. Thank you for all your answers!!! more

Open Question: Working alone during new job - advice?

So, I'm a ResortQuest employee, and I started about a month ago (my job is seasonal). I've worked a few days alone before at this job - since one of my supervisor's days off is one of my work days. They've been relatively tame, though. Nice and quiet, little fuss. Today's stressful. A few guest complaints - one I managed to handle, and one I couldn't, which has been ongoing. I've even tried my best, requested the assistance of managers who know what to do, and I basically feel frazzled and worried that I'm going to have an anxiety attack under all this stress. Any advice on how to stay calm under pressure like this? I know the basics of nearly everything else, but the customer service aspect and dealing with its various incarnations in this particular industry feels new and scary.Also, I wish I could relax, but when there are angry, stressed, dissatisfied guests and condo owners standing before you and demanding immediate gratification, it can be tough to not freak out, despite my attempts to be polite, sympathize, and empathize.Plus, again, it is my supervisor's day off, and I feel bad constantly calling her for help (though she is very patient about it), or the other managers (thankfully, the people I work with are quite nice, but it's still scary). more

Open Question: I want to seek help for suicidal thoughts?

I don't think admitting my self to anything will help. I have thought this through. I have alot of younger peers that would be so dissappointed, it would hurt them so much. currently I i got an EEG taken and have talked to my doctors about my adhd. I refrain from telling them about my suicidal thoughts, because I fear their solution would be overexaggerated and may hurt me and others down the road. Who can i communicate this to? I failed at suicide once, none know this. I do not believe I am in immediate danger to myself. but i still get thoughts. I have been through alot in the past year (brain tumor, college troubles 3 deaths in the family and the loss of a friend). who do i open to? where can i seek help without harming my composure or future? i honestly think managing the stress and adhd is the answer to all of it, but how do control that, i need help with. more

Open Question: uhg so stress! Need to vent?

My daughter's cotillion is suppose to happened in July, but it turns out we might to push the day back. Every friend and family member that either offered or we asked to sponsor her have yet to give me any money. I've called, visited and sent thank you cards to remind them. Why would you agree to something and then back off. I know times are hard but we asked back in Jan 09, and we even opened a bank account for this so no one would have to go out of their way and can go to their nearest bank and deposit it. Idk am I over reacting? I'm just annoyed and a bit disappointed because we are that one couple every one always ask and we always manage to figure out how to contribute to help others.Thanks for reading. more

Open Question: How to find free time and eliminate personal goals?

I'm not sure how this has happened, but I currently have way too many things to do, from planning my wedding, to cleaning, to practicing singing, piano, the violin, starting my own business, working full time, preparing to move, trying to lose weight, running, etc, I am getting myself really stressed out. It really does make me sad to think that I can't do any one of these things, but I know there are just not enough hours in a day. What is the best way to manage my time and eliminate some of my hobbies and goals? more

Open Question: I am so fed of people trying to drag me down and drain my positive ENERGY?

I had a really happy life till the age of 35 with at least five friends and there family that i could trust 100% and had never been hurt really badly in my entire life .Then at 35 i met a group of work mates that thought where nice .I met a man there that going though a divorce and started going out with him he was really nice in being but started messing about later on .so i git really mad one day and we ended the relationship .Thing that hurt very badly was want he and is works mates did next to get revenge on and get out of the job they put me on false charge and frightened the life out of me .I so stressed i was shaking .Then after that they said i was not guilty .Then i was working with boyfriend mate who said he aways get is own back and threaded me if told any body worst would come .I had enough by this time and walked out .I went to the people i had aways know as friends and could not believe what there where doing there mentally abusing and sticking up for my work mates that had hurt me .I was also getting horrible names said to by yobs in area can i look like a man and lesbian which where not true so nasty rumours where spread .This was all happening 11 years ago and destroyed me at the time .I managed to get over that and tried to rebuild my life and got different job but did get close to any one .I needed more out life that that so desided to try and met new friend may be even a new man and went to single clubs and there again met what thought where nice people including a man,I fell in love with him and we did get married .Then just when i was happy again the guy tuned abrusive and called me to all his friends which took his side .I not go in all detail but was abusive and got me into debt which he said nothing to do with him.I am 47 got job on my own but do care elderly family .I feel so alone and would like to meet new friend and a new man but don,t want to start of good and tuned bad again and me get blame again .I am really that kind of person i like to make people feel good and hope they will do that to me as well .I never knock people when down like a lot people do in today society .I hate the feeling where i don,t trust people and they don,t trust me .I also because of what i been very frightened of other people actions and if let them get close i will get hurt .What advice can you give please i need a answer to all thisPlease help i am so fed up of being on my own all with people i can not trust more

Open Question: Worth going to the doctors?

Sometimes I feel very dizzy, so that I'll be walking down the street and feel like I'm going to collapse. Once I was walking along the cliffs of Cornwall and began to feel dizzy - the next moment I realized I had slided part-way down the cliff and was very close to falling off the overhang. I managed to clamber up by myself eventually, it took about half and hour because I kept sliding... I was really out of it and I've never taken drugs :s On top of this people comment on my poor memory and shaking, they often think I'm on drugs or I'm an alcoholic. I have odd sleep patterns and I've even seen strange things out the corner of my eye and can get quite paranoid sometimes... This could be a blood sugar problem perhaps? I had a normal blood test a few weeks ago and it came back fine, I don't want people to think I'm a hypochondriac but on the other hand I worry that the dizziness is going to be a problem, people say to me "have you remembered to eat?" - but I'm not sure the dizziness just doesn't happen randomly even when I have eaten an hour before... then again I often can't remember whether I've eaten or not :D So far I've only gone to the uni nurse - she referred me to the blood test and suggested I do some yoga or something because of exam stress, when I mentioned that I'd had these problems for a long time that made her more skeptical I think but then I didn't mention the nearly falling down a cliff and paranoia out of embarrassment (I often feel like people are reading my mind, although I hear this can be common it might just be that I'm embarrassed about what I'm thinking about!) I could also try going to the uni counselor I suppose, maybe I have a mental problem... cos also I'm not very sociable which is probably unusual for a 20 year old student right? Suggestions? more

Open Question: Check my essay for grammar mistakes and punctuation?

Hello, I am en English learner, and I need my essay to be checked on grammar and punctuation. Please help! Due today. - - - Main Benefits of a Regular Exercise It is never too late to start doing something for yourself! World around us gives endless opportunities to take our lives to a new level. A daily workout is a key! There should be no excuses due to its vital importance. There are one thousand four hundred and forty minutes a day, so it is possible to schedule thirty of them for physical activity. Exercising regularly has three main benefits: physical health and strength, emotional firmness and fortitude, and, of course, great looks! The most important benefit of regular exercise is physical health and strength. First, regular exercise makes muscles strong, and it helps us to stay active for longer period of time. Regular exercise makes our heart stronger, and chances it of getting any heart diseases are greatly reduced. Also, exercising helps an entire cardiovascular system: the circulation of blood through heart and blood vessels. It keeps blood flowing smoothly by lowering the buildup of plaques in arteries and providing more oxygen to a human’s body. To all that exercising combats chronic diseases: heart disease and also much more. It benefits cholesterol, helps to manage high blood pressure, and above all it helps to prevent type “2” diabetes, osteoporosis, and certain types of cancer. A second important benefit of regular exercise is emotional firmness and fortitude. First, exercising it is a perfect and natural therapy that will calm us down after a stressful day. Not only all negative energy finds its way out through physical work, but also the nervous system become steadier and less likely to get exposure by daily stress. Besides, physical activity causes the body to produce endorphins that can help a person feel more enthusiastic and happy. That is why it is such a great treatment for depression and anxiety. At the same time, exercising will extend strength of will and will make a person much more disciplined. Building mental fortitude and self-discipline through regular exercise will benefit other areas of life as well. Regular exercise can help a person to become much more productive in his daily activities. A third important benefit of regular exercise is a great looks. It is perfectly clear that when a person exercises he burns calories. This leads to two things: he looks toned and and can maintain his healthy weight. Both of this things are important for pleasant living. As a matter of fact, exercising not only helps us fit in our favorite pair of jeans, but also helps our skin and improves bones. Exercising increase bloodstream to skin, and as a result, ridding the body of toxins and fat, and giving the skin all the nourishments it needs. In a similar manner weight bearing exercises, like jumping, running or brisk walking, make our bones stronger. What is more, regular exercise brings grace and confidence to our life! The better we feel, the better we look, and when it comes to confidence – it will get boosted as well! People around will start noticing a light step, majestic bearing and complacency a person might have after working out. And it is so great! After all, no matter what is the age, body type or a certain goal of a person – exercising it is a key that will open a door to a better life! It empowers anyone’s living in so many ways that it is not wise to disregard it. And the great thing about exercising that it is never too late to start. So, no more excuses for sitting on a couch and eating cookies! Gym is calling, so get out there! more

Resolved Question: Can anyone PLEASE help guide me in the right direction!?

I am seriously stressed out, and I just have no idea what to do anymore. I have been married for three years, and my husband and I would like to have children someday. I'm 21 and he is 24. Anyway, I have two choices. I really want to join the air force....not forever, but just one term. My husband is already in, and I think it would be a good jump start for me to better myself, make money, and pay for college. Anyway, I also feel like I am running behind on having kids. I would be happy to have one now, but then again there are still things I feel like I need to do first. People keep telling me not to worry about money, but I do anyway. I want to be able to afford decent things, and not have that worry while Im pregnant. I don't need to be rich to make it, but I would at least like to go shopping occasionally when I have a baby, and after the baby is born still be able to do things as a family....Im sure we would manage now though...I just don't know. Anyway, I really dont know what to do. I don't want to be old when my kids are teenagers, and I don't want my parents to be too old...they are 45 and 47 now. If I joined the Air Force I would most likely get pregnant during my first contract, and I would be around 23-24...hubby 26-27. I know it's not old, but since I have friends younger than me with two kids already I feel ancient! Ah! \ I guess I don't know what my exact question is, but can anyone make me calm down a little, and how do I stop worrying about these things?Yes, that's exactly what I think too. I always thought that it would be best to do these things first before having kids, but I'm so confused because everyone my age has kids already?! My husband dosn't care either way. We got married really young, so we didn't think that it would be a big deal to rush to have children, but it seems like everyone does, and now I feel the rush..it's annoying.I've never met a mil to mil couple that got seperated unless they joined together, or had weird jobs.Haha...my husband and I have spent so much time apart..it dosn't phase us. We spend a year apart because I moved in high school...peopel are still shocked that we stayed together at such a young age. But, most military couples I know live together, so I'm not too worried about that anyway...lol..thanks though. more

Open Question: Can someone please give me advice? I'm really depressed, and i dont know what to do?

Hey. Well, this isn't the total reason for my depression, but it's just one of my many problems. Ok, so I have a best guy friend, we'll refer to him as 'Justin'. :] So for the past three? years, I've been secretly crushing on him, but never got the courage to tell him. One day, about a year ago, I told him. He liked me too, and I know he wasn't lying. However, we decided it'd be ebst to just stay friends. I wasn't necessarily looking for a relationship, just wnated to get it off my chest. The feelings never went away though, and now after all this time, I'm beginning to believe I'm seriously, practically in love with him. He was complaining about being single, and once again I mentioned how I liekd him. He said he did too. He said he really liked me, and could honestly see himself marrying me one day. He told me he knows I'm the best girl he's ever going to find, and that I'm amazing and beautiful. He said, however, he doesn't want a relationship just yet because he's afraid of risking our friendship since we're young, 15. (dont judge,please.) He said he couldn'yt manage to possibly loose me, and he's scared, since he's been so stressed out lately, that he would wind up flipping out on me and hurting me (emotionally, not physically). So as much as I like him, and he liked me, we didn't take this anywhere. Now he has a girlfriend, and I know he's with her just for the sake of having a girlfriend, and she's doing the same with him. I asked him..why? Why he was with her, and not me? and he said he could loose her, he wouldn't care. but he couldn't go a second without me. He knows how much he's upsetting me by being with her, and he says he really likes me (he doesn't lie to me, so don't sya that he's juts showing pity). So why would he be with her, if he really lieks me, and knows I'm practically in love with him? He knows he's tearing me apart, and making me cry, yet he says he never wants to hurt me. If he's willing to date just anyone, and he likes me, and knows I reallly like him, why is he doing this to me? I don't understand why he won't just take the risk and be with me. I told him he'd never loose me. I'ms orry this was so long, but I'm really, really upset. And to whoever read this all, I can't thank you enough! -Kelly. more

Open Question: thesis on stress management?

so i did a research topic which is stress management in the workplace. through interviews and observations i found that workers are able to manage stress more if they develop a good relationship with their bosses and coworkers. problem is i dont know how exactly to word the thesis so that it sounds like a thesis. can anyone help? more

Open Question: How many teens do you know that don't know how to manage their everyday stress?

This is a poll question for a project for school. Please let me know how many teens, specifically, you know or even yourself that don't know how to manage their or your everyday stress. Whether it's with school, family, friends, ect. more

Resolved Question: How much homework can I do in day?

Wrong Section but you guys are always nice and supportive I have anxiety problem and I am homesick so I haven't been able to focus lately. My stress caused me to stop eating and lose touch with the rest of the world. Everything has to be ready for tomorrow otherwise, I will be a dead cookie. Please be nice :) Tell me how efficiently manage to do all the stuff So I have a to give: two research papers two take home quizzes one Essay 4 drawing ( Almost done) Study for an exam for tomorrow If I start doing them now, do you think that I might be able to finish everything by tomorrow morning? I plan on staying up all night, drink some coffee or coke. thanksthanks every one. I am going to finish eating something (energy) then kick it all. My research papers are not too long.Thanks for the music suggestion (L) more

Resolved Question: who is stressing you out today?

...my ex never goes away...he's like an incurable disease that can sometimes be "managed" but never CURED! more

Open Question: Please help me! Proofread my paper (quicky)?

“Unnatural Causes” is a documentary that purports to bring attention to health disparities that exist in the United States of America. The United States government fails to provide tax-paying citizens with a fair and equal distribution of health care services, despite its wealthy status. “Unnatural Causes” proves that race and class status are key determinants of health, and thus life expectancy rates. It argues further that access to essential health services can be determined by zip code. Accordingly, wealthier Americans have increased access to preventative health care, quality of life, and healthier food. The reality of health disparities translate into race and class specific afflictions. Research studies show that African-Americans suffer higher rate of chronic disease than whites. African-American’s die earlier, and develop diabetes at two times the rate than their white counterparts. High blood pressure, infant death and coronary heart disease are prevalent in African-American communities proving that health status is heavily influenced by race. It is determined that that class may also determine the likely hood that a person will be diagnosed with diabetes: Research concludes that 13.9% Americans that living with diabetes earn under $20,000 annually while only 6.5 percent of Americans earning $80,000 annually live with diabetes. The same is true for Heart Disease. Poorer Americans are more likely to develop heart disease than are their white counter parts. The documentary asserts that public policy initiatives can help to better manage health disparities in the United States. Economic policy is health policy. Health experts suggest that narrowing the income gap may help to reduce health disparities. Policy makers must find creative ways to constrain the way hierarchy effects human beings. Health experts advocate for preventative measure to improve the quality of life of less affluent Americans. Social conditions need to improve and public health officials argue that the way to accomplish this is by taking the pressure off of the individual and pressuring the government to change social conditions that contribute to poverty and stress. more

Open Question: how can i help my boyfriend?

me and my boyfriend have just found out i have had a missed miscarriage. i now have to go back to hospital for a medically managed miscarriage where i have to take two lots of tablets to help me pass the foetus and empty my womb. the thing is when i had the scan and they found that the baby had no heartbeat it actually looked like a little tiny baby with arms and legs and everything and now my boyfriend is extremely upset and i cant seem to comfort him. at the hospital they seem to be focusing on how it is affecting me without much regard to how he is coping. he is blaming himself and saying it is all his fault because we had a couple of rows during the pregnancy and he said it was because he was stressing me out. the consultant told us to focus on the fact that we could actually get pregnant and that some people don't even get this far but he is really beating himself up over this. has anyone experienced the same thing? and how did you help your partner get through it? more

Open Question: how long does it take to get over a phobia yourself?

I have developed some sort of phobia of food or more specifically of having an allergic reaction and getting anapylactic shock. As you might guess, the symptoms of anxiety are similar, and I try to remain calm yet every time I eat (or drink too) I start thinking I am having an allergic reaction and that my throat is closing and I literally can't breathe, but that's because i'm forgetting to due to anxiety. No matter what I do, it just keeps getting worse. If I remember to breathe, and breathe slow and controlled, my mouth is bone dry and that weird sticky way when you are nervous, and also my throat still feels swollen. Basically I am having severe stress everytime I try to eat. Doesn't make sense as it happens every single meal and I know I survived this morning, and 3 hours ago (LOL) but yet I still get it. I try to distract myself but no, still happens. For a while I cut out like a whole bunch of foods I deemed risky. The usual risky foods such as nuts and peanuts- oh boy I was terried of them, would not touch them, shaking, everything. Then all fish, milk, anything with milk, anything with spices, anything with too much ingredients, any sauces and so on. I managed to get a hold of myself but i'm still having so much drama trying to eat and it would be easier to not eat at all. It's such a struggle and so how do I get over this? I am forcing myself to have some stuff, have even a peanut like once a month now, but it's so scary I actually think i'm making my health/sanity worse by confronting my phobia. I know why I'm scared and i'm not actually allergic to anything that I know of (well I have hay fever in some form) so I don't see what good a psychologist can do. I saw one before for this when it was mild and she didn't do anything at all, I mean it was ridiculously useless, so i'm on my own. But this can't be healthy. But I mean phobia... it is irrational, I know that but it won't stop. How long do you reckon before I stop freaking out? I do it every SINGLE day, every time I eat. I think it's maybe so bad just now because I am somewhat itchy and my throat bothers me a lot due to the hay fever despite taking antihistamines. But it's been like this all year, and it was really bad in January, before my hay fever symptoms started.I mean I know EXACTLY why I have my phobia but how does knowing that help me? I also had this fear when I was a child about choking on my tongue or swallowing my tongue in my sleep. I know why, it started (the tongue thing) after me and my friend accidently swallowed a piece of candy whole whilst on a roundabout. It freaked us out and I was scared of candy for a while, then the tongue thing. Now, when i'm an adult, the food phobia. more

Resolved Question: What should I do to wicked workmate?

M former boss & I were the first team who established the technical unit in our organisation. Than after 12 months, this person joined us. He is from Pakistan. In our unit, I am the only female. He is good in IT/software and I have my own area such as Logistics, Heavy Trucks systems, and humanitarian business. We are working with the most decent humanitarian organisation in our sphere. Anyway, I am the only staff who allowed travelling out of office in regular basis. I am not saying to give credit to myself but I been working since long in our office and I had the chance to know all the staff around and have good connection them. This person is great sucker and I found out lately from some workmates that he is planning to frustrate me so I can resign my job, because he does not like to work with female (He is Muslim). I been supportive to him, I even trained him on our unit process/systems. Within short notice, he managed to get promotion so he can get to my level. Now he is really stressing me out and I do not know what to do. PS: I am from SA. more

Resolved Question: A question I'd like those who believe in Jesus Christ to answer.?

When people die, they either enter purgatory, heaven or hell right? Well think about this. When a guy dies due to brain damage, senile old age, in a coma, sudden car accident, blows himself up with a shotgun after shooting 13 others, or is a amputee that dies of old age..... many other possibilities. What happens? Does he get his memory back in heaven? Highly improbably, the mental stress will kill him again in heaven. Does he get an arm back in heaven? He'd most probably wouldn't use it since he has managed without it. Does he appear as a young man again?Jeez, half of you aren't even answering the question. Only attempting to to delude yourself by stating purgatory doesn't exist. Fine, it doesn't. Now what? You still can't answer the question? Your faith are so incomplete.Jeez, half of you aren't even answering the question. Only attempting to to delude yourself by stating purgatory doesn't exist. Fine, it doesn't. Now what? You still can't answer the question? Your faiths are so incomplete. more

Voting Question: How to manage things??????(in life)?

My life is very stressful right now. I am dealing with a lot of things. I get very mad very easily. I dont like being around people. For example I share a room with my little brother and I always kick him out when I am in here. I feel stress and wired and tired and depressed and down and pissed etc. So I want to know how to manage things in life. How to deal with my stress. And how to relax every now and then. Thanks for the help. more

Voting Question: In the dark over boyfriend's respond to breaking up?

My boyfriend and I have dated a little over 7 months. Like every couple, we squabbled over little things. Never over money, drugs or over the opposite sex. Lately, he has been going over a rough patch and has acknowledge that he is trying be back to his normal self due to stress over work and his obligations towards his friends. Most of our squabbles are mostly over how I felt that he was being more receptive towards doing things for his friends and not over me ( I never want to be first, just to be on the equal side). He broke out once with me in Feb, and after one week of no communication from me, he called for a break and asked me to wait while he sort out some rough areas in his life. But we never really did have that break and sort of go back within, two/three weeks. Never would we go more than just a week without communicating, even if he was pissed off at me, he always calls me back to talk. He is not one who will walk off without trying to talk after a fight. Basically the last fight we had needless to say was so trivial but I think we were both tired of the same arguments over again. Pretty much within the last few fights, I would just try to moderate the situation and apologize for my side of the fight. But this time, he didn't call me until 7 days later and I managed to see him and we didn't had the chance to talk about the situation. He said that he has a lot of thinking to do and the relationship is "hanging by a thread". I left and never heard from him. Left a text on Friday telling him that we have to hear me out before we meet again. I didn't get a respond. Knowing his character well, I just leave him be. Then by next Tuesday, I gave him an ultimatum by writing an email, describing over what actually went wrong that day. I explain carefully and not pointing fingers at him. I also included that if he think i was making excuses or if he think that after what I have done for him and he still think I am in the wrong, we should just end this and leave my stuff with the doorman and email me the date as to when to pick it up. This was last Tuesday and I haven't heard from him. A little more infor is that he knew if he returned and end this for good, I will never see or talk to him again and deep down, he won't like it. So I am clueless to why he is not responding. I know he is a very sensitive person by nature and he hates to be pushed and pressure since work and other obligations is driving him nuts. What should I do? Thanks for reading this long question, btw. more

Voting Question: What the heck is going on in my brain?

Ok, I'm 19 years old and in my freshman year of college. I failed five courses last semester and i don't know why. I have always had a hard time learning but just in the last two years everything has gotten so much better, it's like a light bulb is finally on. My parents thought I would never be able to drive, play the piano, or go to college way back when. Now I'm a piano major on my way to becoming a concert pianist. Still today I think my main problem is focus/concentration and managing stress. But it varies from day to day, mostly depending on the weather . Sometimes it is so so hard to concentrate in class lectures I just want to go somewhere and scream my lungs out. My teachers have noticed this also and some look at me as the slow kid. I want to learn and excel so bad I can hardly stand it. I just really don't know what is wrong with me. My parents said I had a very bad reaction to vaccinations and that is why I have trouble. Autism also runs in our family, so that is a possible factor as well. But I know there are different kinds of Autism, and I know something has happened in my brain in the last couple years to have allowed me to suddenly excel. Do you think my brain is late maturing or what? Is there hope for me to be an A student? more

Open Question: Dancer Advice - what should I do about a chronic ankle problem?

Ok, so this is an issue that has been going on a while. Please answer only if you know what you are talking about - as I am a dancer and pre-med AND have been dealing with this a long time, I know all the obvious advice already... so please, refrain. Thanks! As a dancer and a former gymnast, I injured my right ankle first about 10 years ago. I've spained it a totla of 9 times, not counting other injuries, and the left 3 times as well. Three years ago I sustained a serious sprain - a third degree - to the right ankle in dress rehearsal for a performance. I had to perform - it was my senior showcase - even though the doctor had advised restraining from dance for six weeks and given me an aircast and crutches. I was in 11 pieces and had choreographed 6, so there was no dropping out at the last minute. I used a brace and cortisone for the 6 performances (along with rigorous PT during the days), and even though it was excruciating I managed to make it through. After the show was over, I took three weeks off and went to physical therapy, etc. Since then, however, I have had constant problems with the ankle. It sprains easily, and after every gym workout and dance class it swells as if its injured again (even though it wasn't injured in the class) and turns purply, and I can't bear weight well for several hours. I always wear a brace, I always ice, and I elevate, etc. when the class/workout is over. I take every precaution. But it's very painful, and very annoying, as it gives out almost every day. The worst part of it is, my other ankle (left) has started acting up as well - which I think is a reaction to always bearing more weight when my right has been injured. I'm worried that I may have developed stress fractures in my right ankle, and that the same problem may be starting on the left. Am I over-reacting? Or what should i do?Thanks to the first two answers - but I do already wear a brace (a splinted one for workouts and jazz, a cloth for ballet and modern), and I ice after every practice and class (though before sounds like a good idea too). more

Resolved Question: Atheists: Would you consider the possibility of a god like I had due to my hypothesis below (below)?

I used to be an atheist, but just recently I decided that there is probably a god(s). Let me explain and then I'd love to hear your input on the matter. First, do you think that this universe is the only one in existence or are there others? If you think it is the only one then I ask you, why would it be the only universe? (analogous to "why would the life on Earth be the only life in existence in the vastness of the universe?"). I guess that what I'm saying is, wouldn't it be kind of odd that our very limited universe is the only thing in existence? If our universe can exist (which obviously it can), then shouldn't other universes be able to exist too just like life other than that on Earth probably exists elsewhere in the unvierse? I think so. These other universes may be independent of ours, but believing that there are other universes leads me to believe that perhaps another universe created ours (this would be the same thing as if we invented a supercomputer with the capacity to create a world that could evolve beings capable of questioning their own existence/origin as we have). If this is so, then whoever or whatever created our universe in that other universe would be "god". I would guess that the "god" in the other universe simply defined the properties of our universe and then allowed it to proceed on its own (starting at the Big Bang (or some other beginning) through evolution by natural selection --- simply changing through time due to the universe's defined laws). Personally, because I am a hard determinist (I believe in absolute fate and believe that we do not have free will) it seems to me that my aims in life ought not to be selfish, but ought to be to promote the objective of this universe. If some "god" in another universe created this one then why did he create this universe? By putting myself in "god's" shoes I can guess that this "god" most likely wanted this universe to accomplish some great feat. I know that I have evolved by means of natural selection to want to live and do great things because only those who want to live and strive to be great do so and manage to live and reproduce, thus continuing the characteristics of wanting to exist. Nevertheless, I still think that seeing the universe as a whole as a creation with an objective of the accomplishing as much as possible then it allows us to put aside our individual emotions, desires, and selfish "wants" in order to help promote the overall prosperity of the universe. Looking at the universe like this also promotes pacifism, peace, and reduces stress and tension between individuals because it shows us that what matters is not what an individual accomplishes in his life time, but what the universe accomplishes. There is obviously a great deal of violence in the world, which I would say is largely due to lack of education and understanding of this universe. If everybody learned to see the physical universe as it truly is, perhaps we could avoid this and learn to work together. Some of you who disagree with what I said above might ask, "If some god in another universe created this one, then who created that god's universe?" I answer that I believe that it makes much more sense that absolutely everything exists (everything in this universe as well as everything that we can imagine that's not in this universe, as well as everything that we can't imagine) rather than believing that only this universe exists. Perhaps there is an Everything World (EW) (as I'll call it) that contains all other universes including our own. Perhaps in the EW created some worlds which in turn created more universes which in turn created more, etc, until our universe was created, then perhaps we will be able to one day create a universe that is complex enough to evolve conscious beings that can perceive their own existence and question whether or not there is a "god" in which case the answer would be yes, we would be the gods. I'll stop writing for now, but if you have any questions about what I have said, put them in your answers and I will try to reply by means of the "add details" feature so that you can check back and see what else I said below my question so that you can proceed to add to your answer. Thanks.SHORTENED VERSION OF ABOVE: -This universe is strangely limited, perhaps there are other universes -Perhaps one of these other universes created our universe -If so, whoever/whatever in that other universe created our universe would be "god" -This would lead us to change our goals in life to suit the objective of this universe that the "god" had in mind when he created this universe more

Resolved Question: What can I do to help my horse be more confident?

My horse, a paint mare, was living in the pen next to her colt for two years before I got her...meaning, he was never really, properly weaned. She is, by nature a nervous, unconfident horse, and the stress of losing her foal at the same time she changed owners, barns, and, well...universes, really, is making her very nervous. In the outdoor arena, and in open spaces, when there are no other horses around, she is uncontrollable, frantic, and jumpy. I have now managed to get her reasonably comfortable in the indoor arena, and as long as there are other horses in there, she is a gem, but once we are alone, she gets nervous, bolts to the gate, and calls out repeatedly. She is actually pretty well bonded with me, and a lot of times, particularly on the trail, she is fine with just her and me, but she also has "home sick" and almost" herd-bound" moments. Like yesterday, I was riding her inside with a few other horses, and she was great. Then the other horses left, and she was fine for almost another half an hour. Then she got nervous,. there was another horse being loaded in a trailer outside the arena, and that horse called out, which got my horse in a vocal frenzy, charging the gait, and just being very uncomfortable, I tried to calm her by walking tight circles, talking to her, and keeping her engaged, but eventually, I had to get off, and get her to a calmer state. I did that by turning her out in the round pen, and letting her roll a bit, but then another horse came over, and all she wanted to do was get right up next to him and stay there! How can I help her be more confident, and comfortable with me vs. other horses? (She had not been handled much, except for turnout for about 6 or 7 months before I got her, so I under stand it's going to take time.)devil, I see what you mean, and that is how I treat barn or buddy sour horses, but she is not buddy sour, she's just scared, and unsure, plain and simple. "smacking her butt" and "working her right then and there" only makes her more scared. more

Voting Question: how can i manage stress after leaving my boyfriend?

just 5 months after our romance he got married to a girl of his parents choice, we both could not accept it as i refused proposals at my end and he told his parents and wife for second marriage with me. now i am in real fix as my parents are not willing and i also think that i can't manage to live a frustrated life, on the other hand i really feel very hard to stay away from him for even a single day as i am madly in love with him. Please can anyone has good suggestion for me what should i do? more

Resolved Question: I have quit my job due to mentally disabled, any help?

Yesterday was my last day at work after 4 years of putting up with my boss. It gave me a some knowledge but loads of mental problem not to mention including my own previous mentality issues too. Like anxiety, social interaction, BPD like behaviour at work. Right now its 6 in the morning and couldnt sleep properly anymore. I felt like it has always been difficult to manage my interaction with people. Though by saying that, i can still talk to them and fix myself to be better in social function but my other half of me - which are, learning, being creative and working efficiently will go down and become dull. SO in the end, Im either one way or another but cant be both. However, to work, we need these both... I left work yesterday with an awkward expression and my boss thinks im laughing at them and i see the disturbance on his face. Its like he doesnt want to look at me and tend to not to communicate with me anymore. I didnt mean anything intentionally, i was just too busy working yesterday rather than to be nice to people as it was my last. Im feeling really stuck at the moment and i dont have alot of cash with me due to mortgages. However, deep down no money wont matter but our own selves. Is there any advice that anyone can help me be open to life and to manage both stress and enjoyment as i seem to have a lot of problem balancing the both... Im really sorry if this is too long, hope you have time to answer if not that is ok too. Hope you all have a good day more

Resolved Question: Should I have this sex pain?

I'm a regular type of guy with a healthy appetite for sex. I usually start my day having sex with my gorgeous wife before breakfast, I then have a shower - she usually joins me and we have sex again before I head off for work. For the past 3 years I've been having a secret affair with my secretary, we meet before going into the office in a secluded woodland car park, we have great sex there I usually manage it a couple of times too. At coffee break there is a young woman in accounts who has this thing for me most days we disappear into the disabled toilet for some rather filthy sex, she is fantastic and gets me so aroused with her naughty antics, we normally have anal. Lunchtime I visit an old flame who lives a mile from the office, we discuss old times whilst she blows me, we don't usually have penetrative sex as she has a vaginal odour which is slightly unpleasant and I would not want anyone to smell it on my penis ( that's why we split up but that's another story ) Anyway it's back to work for more fun and frolics in the afternoon with 2 rather mature women who work in the post room - god, those two are so demanding, I come out of there feeling quite used and abused. As soon as I return home my wife drags me into the bedroom before dinner and we usually see the day out relaxing in out hot tub, it's a lovely stress relieving way to have sex. Here's my problem... Why does my cock hurt when I have a wank? more

Resolved Question: Will you read this please and tell me what you think?

Please read this. I was told by someoen that I was just a kid and could never compare to adult authors. What do you think about this? What could I do to make it sound more like the writing of a published author? I found the room easily. The words “Administrative Office” were etched into an aged, wooden door, which I opened after looking at it for a few seconds longer than necessary. I wasn’t greeted by smiling faces that said, “Hi, Jeremy! So nice to me meet you.” Instead I saw one really pissed off looking lady sitting at a desk, whose face seemed to say, “It better be important or I’m gonna punch you in the face.” “What are you here for?” she asked, with a strong sharpness in her tone. “Bet you’re from Portman’s class, aren’t you. She can never seem to manage her kids properly.” The woman muttered something unintelligible under her breath. I was confused. It was almost as if she didn’t like the kids. Then what was she doing working in a school? “I’d like to enroll here,” I replied. I ran my hand through my curly hair nervously. The woman who was surveyed me like a hungry lion and said, “Who put you up to this? Those devilish twins? I’m really not in the mood for this garbage today; I was just about to go on lunch break!” As she got louder I noticed how her voice had an accent to it but I wasn’t sure from where, exactly. I didn’t know what to say. Who did this lady think she was? How dare she try to crush my only hope in my world of boredom. I was ready to unleash a string of cruel words at the dumb, annoying, purple-dress-wearing, four-eyed, wrinkly, miserable lady who was sitting at the desk. Before I could open my mouth another door opened--from behind the hag-- and out came a tall woman wearing a pinstriped, navy blue suit. Her face was unblemished by wrinkles and only showed kindness unlike Old Dragonbreath. “Maxine, have you ever seen this boy before?” the woman asked. “He has no book bag and says he would like to enroll here. What makes you think he’s pulling a fast one?” Ms. Lunch Break/Maxine looked me over from head to toe and suddenly became red in the face. “Well, what did you expect me to think? All these kids be up to no good these days! Too much stress.” She made a “humph” sound and stood up, “I’m going on lunch break,” she said. She stormed out of the office with her heels clacking against the linoleum floor noisily. The woman turned to me and smiled, “Maxine gets cranky when she‘s hungry. Don’t pay her any mind, she didn’t mean any harm. Did you have something to discuss with me?” The woman gestured me into her office. I took a seat across from her and said for what felt like the millionth time, “I would like to enroll in this school.” “It’s kind of late for admission. Is there any particular reason for you wanting to enroll now?” Principal Teresa Westbury--according to her name plate-- wasn’t really prying; she was just curious. I told her the whole parents being abroad which she ate up quickly-- or so I thought. “I’m not going to ask you to tell me anything you don’t want to, but please don’t lie,” she said. My eyes opened wide in shock. “How did you know?” “Many, many years of experience,” she replied with an all knowing expression. “I hope you don’t mind but I really don’t want to tell you. I just know that being in a school would really benefit me.” I fidgeted in my chair nervously crinkling my khaki pants in the process. Principal Westbury didn’t ask anything else and after showing her the right documents, she made a few copies and said she would give the copies to Mrs. Caldwell aka Dragonbreath. She asked if I would wait until the end of the week to return for my schedule and if anything was wrong she would have someone call me. Before I left I filled out a blue card--with the help of the papers in my trusty, super-dooper envelope-- and left. On my way home I was bursting with excitement. Goodbye boredom, hello school. I suppose that now when I think about it, I had made a huge mistake. Who would have known that just by enrolling in some simple, run-of-the-mill school would I instantly bring doom upon every person within? Who would have known that just my very existence would trigger so much hatred and cruelty? I suppose it's something in my DNA. Maybe if I were someone different, then maybe, just maybe it could have all been different and I wouldn’t be where I am today. If only life were that simple…if anyone's wondering...i'm 14 more

Resolved Question: Do you ever get over true love?

Not sure how many guys have this issue, but I do: A few months back (August 2008) I dated a girl I went to high school with. She's smart, funny, sweet, and completely gorgeous, and, I've known her for six years now, and been in love with her pretty much from the moment I saw her. And I mean that. I didn't fall in love with her the MOMENT I saw her, but when I introduced myself and she touched my hand, I felt like I'd been struck by lightning. From then on, I've wanted to be with her every moment of my life. Unfortunately, when we dated, there was a little bit of stress (she was having work issues, it was my first relationship, all that fun stuff) and we had a bit of friction. We usually managed to work it out, so that was fine. All in all, the relationship was fun. We were always happy around each other, we were really close and affectionate, the sex was fantastic (and she was my first), and I'd never felt like my life was going so well. The bad part was that after a while of being together, she broke up with me, and told me "we're supposed to just be friends". To be honest, I cried. Now, its half a year later, I haven't even considered dating anyone new, we're still friends and she still has a place in my heart. I have no idea what to do. I think about her all the time, I dream about her every night, I get upset when she's dating someone new. I want her to be happy, so I suffer in silence and just try to be there for her, but I want her back so badly it literally makes me sick sometimes. Anyone have any advice for a hopeless guy? more

Resolved Question: Can someone help with me with a major depressive event?

I am a 16 year old student and over the last couple of months, I have determined that I am going through a major depressive episode. I'm in the International Baccalaureate Programme, which is sort of like the Advanced Placement classes except that you must take six courses from different areas. I'm currently taking Physics, English and Islamic History Higher Level and Chemistry, French and Math Methods SL. I only write final exams in one course, however, this year, whereas I will be writing approximately 15 papers at the end of next year. I have sevens (top marks) for English, French and History, at the moment, while I have fives and fours (pass marks) for Physics, Chemistry and Math. For example, every math test I study for well in advance and do EVERY question in the 800 page textbook, but somehow I still manage to barely pass. I even go for extra help constantly, but now I'm apprehensive because the questions are trying to trick me and I can't even tell sometimes. I'm a shy person, and typically I tend to get fairly lonely. Even the firends I do hang out with at lunch I don't associate with after school or on weekends. I normally just go to cafes by myself and work; I hardly ever have fun besides an occasional soccer practice or watching an episode of Lost. I'm kind of withdrawn from my old friends that I used to play video games and sports with; in fact, one of them doesn't even talk to me like he used to. It's depressing to me that I'm withdrawn from everything: piano, band, sports, school, video games and I know that reduced activity is not the answer either. I'm not even taking care of myself anymore: I finish homework well into the evening (11PM-12AM) and then I don't get to sleep until about 2AM--on Wednesdays, I wake up at 6AM for early morning band practice, so this has got to stop! I just have this huge pit of anxiety as well, like I can't stop being apprehensive towards my upcoming French SL exam and all the things I have on the go (an Extended Essay soon, community service hours, getting my wisdom teeth out)...I just feel empty and sad and desparate. At least my appetite and my nervous system haven't really changed, although every once in a while I will eat something to help calm my body down while under stress. I haven't had any thoughts of hurting myself or suicide or anything like that. I'm straight edge--don't abuse alcohol, drugs, substances like tobacco, so that's certainly not an issue. What do you think are some rational ideas to help me control this event and breach it? Thank you very much: 10 points to the best response. more

Voting Question: Help with falling asleep...?

What's the average time it takes? And tips on how to fall asleep quicker? It usually takes me about 1 and a half-2 hours, and it's ANNOYING. Sometimes it even takes me up to 3 and a half hours just to manage to fall asleep, even if I'm tired! I got a memory foam for my matress, and still I have trouble. Counting doesn't work for me! I'm usually pretty stressed out, but that's not something that I can change. Thanks so much :) more

Resolved Question: Stressed right out, what to do?

I guess I'll start from the beginning. I got into a relationship nine months ago. He says he hasn't cheated on me, and I believe him, and although he very well could have, let's suppose he didn't cheat on me. At the beginning of the relationship, after having sex with him once, he went to get tested. (I know, dumb on my part) He got the whole test, blood and everything and I know because I saw him. I was later diagnosed with chlamydia five months in. I assumed I had given it to him the second or third time we had sex, it just didn't catch the first time. He's assumed that I've cheated on him, due to the way guys have been trying to break me and him up for quite some time. I took antibiotics for chlamydia, but continued to have sex with him until I realized how stupid I was being and slowed down, but never stopped. (I know, dumb on my part again) He went and got his urine test done, I went and got another pap done, and we both have nothing. Tell me how this is possible, if I continued to have sex with him after I got treated. Did me being clean magically make him clean, or in nine months, sex three times a day, did I never give him this mysterious out-of-nowhere chlamydia? Okay, now that's not my main question, but if anyone has any input on that, it'd be great. Shortly after I got bacterial vaginosis, which makes sense because we were so sexually active...kinda dirty, yes. That got cured. Yet again, I get an infection. A nasty yeast infection, which I treated with two pills, but still have a slight itching (I'm sure that's just me being paranoid though). Right after my yeast, a cluster of skin colored bumps appeared in between my leg and vagina. They don't look like genital warts or any std, but more like a skin condition. Any input on that would also be helpful. So, being to the doctors so many times in the nine months, remember considering that he DIDN'T cheat on me (whether he did or not), is a bit stressful. Adding to that is something completely not to do with my health, but where I live. All there are here are bitches that are trying to make my life hell and embarrass me in front of my boyfriend. Girls randomly coming up to me calling down my MOM, just because she dated their dad for four and a half years... And if that's not enough, my boyfriend is very rough around the edges and is constantly trying to fight with me. Please, I know he's been terrible, this isn't the question so no input on this, lol thanks. But lately it's been driving me insane, because I feel like i'm not allowed to use my voice about anything. Then there's trying to finish school, get my license, seeing as I am nineteen, find my own place, and still manage enough money to do everyhting I want. Whew, got alot of my chest there. The point is, I'm STRESSED. What are some good ways to relax myself daily, and take the stress off. I don't really like baths, although I heard a hot one might make the stupid bumps go away. :P I just need some stress relievers, or any food ideas that can help regulate my thoughts, because I'm starting to not be able to sleep. I've had four hours so far, and I'm up for the day because my mind is spinning. Any input on the health issues as well would be good, thanks. :)) more

Resolved Question: Is this a good idea about getting a loan to pay off credit cards?

I have about 5,000 in credit card debt and a loan that I took out for 5,000 to pay off credit cards so that is 10,000 altogether although I think the loan is paid down a bit. Would a bank give me a loan to pay these off? I don't have a house and I have a car payment of 450 a month, I am managing to pay them at the moment but this would make it so less stress full if I had one payment. and I knew the amount. I have alot of credit cards but I canceled about 5 of them I have like 3 more that are paid off and 4 more that I am paying on, I know that's alot of credit cards that's why I canceled them. My credit score is somewhere in the mid 600's and I make 23,000 a year not including what my husband makes but he has bad credit so he will not be on the loan.Trust me I have learned my lessen, All my cards are cut up and I plan on canciling a few more cards, I will keep some of the older ones so I can keep my credit history but I as so sick of being in debt.the first loan didn't pay everything I had off, that is why I have 5,000. They would only give me 5,000 wich helped alot but this would help more because the loan I got was a very high interest rate. more

Voting Question: An Important Question For My Contacts And Everyone Else TTC.. Am I Forgiven?

Hi, First of all, I just want to say sorry to all my contacts and everyone else on here who's questions I could have answered but didn't. Before you guys think I am going crazy, just want to say that I am being very serious. I have been TTC for nearly 2 years now and was diagnosed with PCOS about a year ago. Without boring you too much, a quick summary of the last 2 years.. have not been coping well and nearly destroyed my relationship with my hubby. Acted on the wonderful advice you guys gave me at that time and have now got my relationship back on track. Have also got a history of depression and self harming. Have not cut myself in years and nearly went back to doing that again a few months ago. My in-laws also have a habit of stressing me. Started getting depressed again recently cos Clomid does not seem to be working. I am on the 4th Cycle and nothing! But somehow have managed to control the depression from getting worse.. hubby has been wonderful and very supportive. I have always asked questions on here and got great responses especially from my beautiful contacts.. [you know who you girls are!] But I never answer many questions.. Sumtimes it is cos I really don't know the answer and other times it is cos I am wallowing in self pity and can't be bothered. I apologise from the bottom of my heart for my behaviour and promise that I will be making more of a effore from now onwards. Thank you so much for being there for me when i needed you guys the most! Your kind words and advice has been really beneficial. TTC is hard and I still get upset about it but I just don't want to let it take over my life anymore. Just want to enjoy this journey. I know I will have a baby but only when I am destined to have one.. Thank you so much.. Guess I need to ask a question.. So am I forgiven???? more

Resolved Question: Family stress effecting me both physically and emotionally, i need help on how to manage.?

im 16 years old and you'd think the only things i would need to worry about would be school and chores. but that isn't the case. being home is literally driving me insane. with the failing economy and parents bad decisions i had to move into a smaller house and now share a room with two siblings. due to the move i had to give away both my dogs which kept me happy. my parents expect the chores to be done by everyone but them because they pay rent. which means they usually fall on my shoulders. and on top of that my father is an alcoholic and a smoker, so he is always drunk and the smoke interferes with my asthma. my mom tries to defend his actions which usually ends up creating tension and an arguement. i can barely keep up with my school work because i sleep all day long to avoid contact with anyone which drains all of my energy. & usually cry myself to sleep in the morning. i don't get along with my "family" and the only feeling i have for them is hate. my question is really: how can i find a way to seperate myself from everyone until i move out in a year and a half. i don't know how much of this i can actually take. more

Resolved Question: I need opinions on my work/holiday prediciment!?

Sorry this might be long. I just gave my boss 6 weeks notice for me going on holiday back to the uk for 2weeks (im living in australia) to go see family and to watch the grand prix (tickets weve had over a year btw). She took about a week of 'umming' and arring' due to the fact she didnt want me to go during a busy time of the year when they opening up a 'sale' store. (i work in chain store selling ladies clothes btw). I managed to get another manager from a near by store to cover my shifts with some of her staff whilst i was away, yet my own manager was still dubious and said shr needed to sort of dates with me so they didnt clash with other girls working. on two occassions i approached her trying to sort this out but firstly she was too busy and secondly she ddint come into work. finally one day when she called into work ill(due to her husband being ill) she told the supervisor to tell me my holiday dates are fine and to go ahead. which i think she only did b/c shes stressed out. my problem is i managed to finally get her to agree but my partner has just turned around and told me that i got the wrong dates and he actually wants to extend the holiday by one week. seems as the first bit was so hard and stressful I feel reluctant to ask her for even more time off! I feel as though she could fire me for even asking so im tempted to quit my job (which is only part time) in order to go on this trip that i do really want to go on. If i was to quit my partner will support me, but I hate having to do this, and it makes things so much easier when i do have my own money. what do you think i should do? more

Resolved Question: Clients involved in a music therapy group with a focus upon developing insight. Stress management,?

facilitating positive relationships with family members, promoting self-actualization, and promoting healthy living practices are all goals which the clients are addressing. The music therapist plans a music activity where clients listen to “Pressure” by Billy Joel so that they can discuss the lyrics and the musical instruments. Clients note the dissonance in the music and compare it to their lives. They also come to the realization that stress gradually builds and “sneaks” up on you. Each client makes a commitment to trying new behaviors to manage their own personal pressures. This lyric analysis activity is an activity is an example of which of which Unkefer taxonomy type? a.Music performing b.Music psychotherapy c.Music and movement d.Music combined with other expressive arts e.Music and relaxation more

Resolved Question: OK. I know it sounds bad, but can you help?

OK the problem is i am supposed to hand in an essay tomorrow and i have not done it. My exams are coming up in a matter of days and i have been studying for them all because they are all in a day of each other, but that's enough of my excuses... The thing is, i don't want to go into school tomorrow, what i usually do is pretend to sleep in and go in for lunch (about 1) but i cant to that tomorrow because i have a doctors appointment at half 8. I live 2 minutes around the corner from my docs, and about 8 from my school. I would go to the doctors and just go back home and study until lunch time, but i cant because my sister doesn't leave the house until half one and she'd kill me if she knew i was bunking off school. I need somebodys help and advice on what to do. I know that the right thing to do is to explain to the teacher how i didn't manage to do it because im stressed about the exams, but i can't do that. I'll feel like i've not only let myself down, but my teacher down too. So if i do it tomorrow night and hand it in on thursday then she'll not know any different...She gave us yesterday (Monday) and today (Tuesday) more

Voting Question: How do I manage my anxiety?

I have a really annoying on-call job and I never know what my schedule is going to be. I get called in while I am in the middle of things, or I will have already worked at one hospital earlier in the day and then get called into another. It causes me tremendous anxiety, never knowing what is coming next and never being able to plan anything. I have applied at a million other jobs and no luck yet. I just have to stick this one out for now. Any suggestions on how to put my mind at ease and not stress out when I get called in for these stupid shifts? more

Resolved Question: How can I achieve a smooth playing style on the piano?

It bugs me a little. When my friend plays, his hands manage to glide across the piano and seem so relaxed; however when I play, i'm not under stress or anything but my hands sort of shake very slightly and I look a bit uncomfortable, but I'm not, what's wrong? He does have bigger hands than me, but surely that can't be it can it? more

Resolved Question: what would you do in if you were in my shoes?

I am at a loss.. so out of the goodness of my Husband and myself hearts we let a 19yr old boy come stay with us back at the end of Jan (Oh we have 3 kids of our own) he had no where to go and his fam would not help him..OK so we told him when he moved in that he was to put his money in the bank (he was collecting unemployment) get a job, save for a car so he could get a better job, we also told him that we were not going to ask him for money while he was with us because the goal was to get him to save money so he could manage on his own.. Well we are going on 4months and he just now got a job, he is doing driveway sealing tough job but also a job that is seasonal and you don't work if it's raining. The problem!! boy hasn't saved a penny in almost 4months and he is still not putting his money away even now that he has a job!! we have told him that he needs to start finding another place to stay that we can't help him anymore because he is not helping himself! I am feeling as though everything we say to him goes in one ear and out the other.... short of putting his belongings on the curb I don't know what to do he has nowhere to go but I do know he can't stay here anymore. I just feel so used and taken advantage of, I had hoped we could have helped him but I am starting to understand why his own Family wont help him anymore...How do we make him understand he has overstayed his welcome. Sorry this is soooo long I could go on and on I am just so aggravated and stressedThanks everyone for your advise and I am going to sit down with him tonight and let him know he had 30days or less if he can find a place sooner than that... I am not going to ask him for rent cause I just don't want him here anymore ... more

Resolved Question: Tomato planting this weekend, tips?

My father and I planted out first tomato garden last spring. Though the outcome was more than I had ever expected, the pains of maintaining my sixteen plants and the stress that troubles caused lead me to feel a bit wary about planting again this year. I have a couple of questions that I would *love* some tips and experience on! 1. Our fertilizer (10-10-10) was sparingly sprinkled into our pots and mixed thoroughly. Three of our original plants ended up dying because it burnt right through the roots. Are there any tomato fertilizers besides this one which are gentle enough for the plants? 2. The only spot around the house where we can place our pots happen to be one of the sunniest areas. Because of the heat, I end up watering the plants a lot more then most people. It brings hordes of misquotes, and they took to nesting IN our plants last year. What can kill the misquotes without harming the plants, or making my family sick? 3. The area I live is has always been notorious for blight. The weeds in the neighborhood are out of control, and even though I try to remove them around the fenced area my tomatoes are planted in, the blight still managed to severely attack my plants last year. I know I was lucky to avoid a more harmful fungus, though. Does anyone have suggestions or tips on how to prevent the catch of these sicknesses; or stop them from spreading once one of the plants get them? Five blight leaves last year, in fourteen hours, had spread to seven of my sixteen plants. It was not very pretty. :O 4. Rabbits, the ninja killer. They're all over my yard. My grandmother built this house thirty-odd years ago, and the rabbits had fostered in the yard ever since. They've taken to birthing their babies behind my pots so the dogs cannot reach them (the pots are against a wall), and they massacred my peppers and my Pink Lady's last year. I cannot keep the dogs out all the time, it gets too hot for them. The little buggers have figured out how to get past my tomato cages. Any help that can be offered for fending them off? 5. Any general tips or advice that you guys may want to add will help me a lot! Thank you ahead of time for your support!TO DODICO: I can't remember too exactly, but I am almost positive the blight stuck during the middle of the summer. We rarely see rain, but I suppose it's possible. Does the wetness in the air make a difference? more

Voting Question: Please Help!! How can I get motivated to study extra hard?

I have always been an extremely responsible person and a straight-A student. I am 17, so this year for me has been the hardest of my life. I am planning to apply for colleges both in the U.S. and Europe. I took the SAT multiple times, got an excellent score, now I am studying for 3 Subject Tests (in June). I also play the piano, I have been playing for 10 years and I am enrolled in a musical academy besides regular school. Also, I study French and Russian. In short, I am a very busy person. I have always been able to manage my hectic schedules for everything smoothly. But lately (it's been about a week) I have become really tired/stressed, and, as a result, unresponsible. I skipped piano practice today because I was just plain TIRED. I feel like the world's coming down on my shoulders and that there's no one there to help me bear that weight. I have become extremely irritable and even rude, though generally I'm very nice and friendly. I'm more quiet now then I used to be. I'm overstressed and overtired and it's beginning to show. All I want to do is SLEEP for forever. But rest is THE LAST THING I can do right now, as I have an exam in music in 1 month, and also 3 subject SAT's. I find I can't pick myself up anymore to study or practice. I have no time to spare for rest or relaxation, I NEED TO PASS THESE TESTS EXTREMELY WELL. I just cannot find the motivation. I apologize for this long rant, but I am in desperate need of advice: How should I get myself motivated to study harder? Thank you in advance!! I appreciate it very much. P.S. I am not American, so excuse any mistakes in spelling or grammar I have made. more

Voting Question: help with homework thank you for helping me?

1. Which of the following statements regarding psychological health is true? A) Psychological health is independent of physical health B) Psychological health is a myth C) Psychological health is freedom from disorders D) Psychological health and physical health are intertwined 2. Optimism, trust, and self-confidence are components of A) physical wellness B) emotional wellness C) spiritual wellness D) interpersonal wellness 3. A person who is aware of his feelings and is willing to express them can be described as A) authentic B) creative C) intimate. D) distressed 4. Which of the following statements is most true regarding psychological health? A) Being normal is the same as being psychologically healthy B) It is harder to define psychological health than it is to tell what is not psychologically healthy. C) Freedom from psychological disorders is a comprehensive definition of psychological health. D) Psychological health is the absence of anxiety 5. Situations that trigger physical and emotional reactions are termed A) stress responses B) stressors. C) unmanaged stress D) distress 6. Being self-actualized is characterized by A) passivity. B) good work habits C) good physical health D) realism. 7. Homeostasis A) is an state of unmanaged stress B) describes the body during the fight-or-flight reaction C) is a state in which the body strives for normal functions D) is the response of the body to prolonged exposure to stressors 8. The six dimensions of wellness include all of the following EXCEPT A) dietary wellness B) emotional wellness C) environmental, or planetary, wellness D) spiritual wellness 9. A demoralized person would do all of the following EXCEPT A) use all-or-nothing thinking B) minimize the success of others C) take responsibility for unfortunate situations D) engage in cognitive distortions 10. Which statement is FALSE regarding the development of self-esteem? A) It is based on experiences that occur within the family B) It is influenced by personality C) Rejected children may fail to develop feelings of self-worth D) Children knowingly build images of themselves based on the models of their parents 11. During the stress response, which of the following changes occur throughout the body as a result of epinephrine being released? A) Your hearing and vision become more acute B) Your bronchi dilate and allow more air is into the lungs C) Your liver releases more sugar into the blood D) d. Your hearing and vision become more acute, and your bronchi dilate and allow more air is into the lungs E) All of the choices are correct 12. If you were born in 1900, your life expectancy was approximately A) 62 B) 47 C) 75 D) 32 13. Which of the following is TRUE regarding the fight-or flight response? A) It is a relatively new human adaptation to modern day stress B) It enables our bodies to prepare quickly escape from an injury C) It prepares our bodies to engage in a physical battle D) d. It enables our bodies to prepare quickly escape from an injury and prepares our bodies to engage in a physical battle. E) All of these are true 14. Which one of the following qualities contributes positively to one’s physical wellness? A) eating a balanced diet B) maintaining an optimistic attitude C) being open to new ideas D) maintaining satisfying relationships 15. Which of the following body reactions is characteristic of the stress response? A) Your touch becomes more sensitive B) Your blood pressure increases C) Your digestion speeds up D) Your heart rate decreases 16. The average life span in the twentieth century A) did not change significantly B) increased slightly C) nearly doubled D) nearly tripled 17. The treatment considered to be the most effective against current-day health threats is A) prevention B) antibiotics C) surgery D) genetic testing 18. Which of the following statements is TRUE regarding stress and the lives of college students A) It is a period of low stress B) It is a period when stress is easily managed C) It may be one of the most stressful periods in one’s life D) It is a period where stress will have little impact on your sense of wellness 19. Which one of the following is a stressor A) bad grade B) sweaty palms C) fever D) rapid pulse 20. The six dimensions of wellness A) affect health independently of each other B) interact continuously C) seldom influence one another D) demonstrate the separateness of mind and body more

Voting Question: Will I be fit enough to graduate Air Force BMT?

OK, I've been semi-exercising for the Air Force's graduation requirements: 1.5 mile run in 11:57 mins., 50 sit ups, and 45 push ups. I can run a 1/4 mile lap in 1:57 mins, I smoke cigarettes, but I think I can manage the 1.5 mile run. I can do 50 push ups in 45 seconds. But I can only do 30 sit ups in 57 seconds. Being in boot camp for 8.5 weeks, with all the exercising they do, will I optimistically be able to graduate by then? Can you safely say I'll be able to make 50 sit ups by then? Because I'm stressing out, I want to be able to graduate. Any tips on how to improve my sit ups, like protein drinks or anything?I know about the smoking, I'm trying to stop right now. I don't exercise a whole lot, which I'm trying to improve right now so I won't be hurting when I get in. Any say on how many reps I should do with sit ups? more

Resolved Question: how should i act around him now?

my mate is in year 9. im in year 10 just over a year older than him. we are like exactly the same person. last night he told me he fancied me. i managed to get around it but to do that i had to tell him a really big secret of mine. he promised he wouldnt tell but now hes really worried about me and i didnt want to do that to him. were going out today. a whole bunch of us, but now i dont know how to act around him. should i be the same as before and act like nothing happened? or talk to him about it? or try to not talk to him at all? im really stressed out about it. and i kinda like his 16 year old friend. but anyway. more important thing is how should i act around him now? thanks more

Resolved Question: how did you manage through a time like this....?

ok, so im at a point in my life where iv just about had it. im hopeless, under sooo much stress and pressure. im losing it. im sick and tired. and falling into a deep severe depression. i am lost and alone. ive just gotten to a point where i feel like completely givin up. i feel like there is no one to care and listen. i dont know who to trust, where to turn. everyone seems to just turn their back on me. i feel like i am suffocating. everything,my entire life as i knew it, is falling apart. things wont ever be the same. im like watching my life go by me, and im a zombie. i cant control anything. my life is falling apart, and so am i. its too much to take. so tell me....about a time when you felt like this, why, and how you got through it...how u coped...tell me what you did to get out of your deep depression and not just completely give up on urself and your life... more

Resolved Question: Heeeelppppppp..........How do i discipline my self to study?

I can’t manage my time, I’ve tried making timetables etc but I always end up doing things on the last minute but still get a pretty decent mark, however I want to stop that habit I have been like this for 3 years in high school but now that I am studying at university and I want to change my study habits but I still can’t I handed in about 2 assessments which i did last minute also in uni, my exams are in about 6-8 weeks from now but I also have assessments due next week, I don’t know what to do please help I’m so stressed that I have to resolve to yahoo answers for help(don’t get me wrong I have asked many teacher, tutors and lecturers for advice but still no help) maybe it’s because I lack motivation I don’t know. Please help thank you. more

Resolved Question: What do these symptoms suggest?

My boyfriend was hit by a car 2 1/2 years ago. Before that he was randomly paranoid.. but his head injury made it worse. He refused to listen to doctors and all other professionals who urged him to take medication and he's gotten to the point where he stopped going to school, got fired from an easy job. His personal hyene also went to hell.. He's in constant pain, but doesnt manage it well. He "adjusts" himself and thinks that only he can cure his problem. He's been increasingly anxious. The other day, he thought that he felt the stress of everyone around him. All my and his mom and his brother's problems had supposedly accumulated onto him and he took it upon himself to "relieve" us of our stress so that he would feel better. He performed a deep muscle massage that he had previously recieved during physical therapy on us. He did it very hard and it was painful and he woudln't stop. It was freaking weird and so stupid. He was also screaming at the top of his lungs while furiously rubbing one of our arms. He lost his mind. He's in a mental hospital now where he still refuses all of his medication and will only take the stuff that gives him a "quick fix" Anybody recognize these symptoms? I apologize for the length and GREATLY appreciate any input.He is about to be 22 later this month... more