Current
Issue - Spring 2009FEATURES
Physical Exercise Benefits Brain Health
Exercise has long been equated with better physical health. There is now growing evidence to suggest that it also has substantial benefits for brain health as well.
By Dr. Qiang Ma and Dr. Jing Wang
Identifying Conduct Problems in Young Children
Every child acts up from time to time. This article will enlighten parents as to making the distinction between typical and concerning behaviours.
By Dr. Kimberley Renk
Forgiveness and Your Health
Forgiveness can be an important component in our personality, a part of the complex characteristics that help define who we are. More forgiving individuals report fewer physical symptoms of illness, take fewer medications, smoke fewer cigarettes, and drink fewer alcoholic drinks.
By Dr. Kathleen A. Lawlor-Row
Estrogen
and the Female BrainWhile estrogen has many positive benefits, its fluctuation during some life stages, unfortunately, can have undesirable consequences. The complex interplay between estrogen and the brain can produce mood swings during the reproductive years and a potential decline in cognitive function during menopause.
By Dr. Miranda Farage, Dr. Thomas W. Osborn, and Dr. Allan B. MacLean
Getting the Most out of Life
Some individuals appear to maintain high levels of happiness despite their circumstances while others wallow in their misery for long periods of time. This article reviews some of the psychological research findings on happiness—what it is, and what it is not.
By Dr. Kari Tucker
ALSO IN THIS ISSUE
Editor’s Message
A Slow Ascent back to Sanity: Living with Schizophrenia
This is an inspirational yet sincere reflection of the struggles and accomplishments of an individual living with schizophrenia.
By Dr. Austin Mardon
Why
do we Sabotage Success?
Why would anyone sabotage their chances for success? Oddly, self-handicapping preserves self-esteem and beliefs in one’s ability despite task failure. This article explores this protective yet maladaptive mechanism.
By Dr. Edward R. Hirt and Dr. Kristin S. Hendrix
Perfectionism and Exercise Dependence
Although the benefits of regular exercise are well established, this article examines the consequences of excessive exercise. Researchers have speculated that certain personality characteristics may predispose individuals toward exercise dependence.
By Dr. Howard K. Hall, Dr. Andrew P. Hill, and Dr. Paul R. Appleton
iBrain:
Surviving the Technological Alteration of the Modern Mind
Besides influencing how we think, digital technology is altering how we feel, how we behave, and the way in which our brains function.
By Rose Marie Donovan based on the book by Dr. Gary Small and Gigi Vorgan
Personal Goals, Well-Being and Health
An increasing amount of attention has been devoted to understanding the role of psychological factors in physical health. This article examines how two different forms of well-being, namely, happiness and self-realization, can contribute to physical health.
By Dr. Paule Miquelon and Dr. Robert J. Vallerand
Film Reviews
Resources
Advertiser Showcase:
vivi mind
Canadian Psychiatric Research Foundation
This issue of Mental Notes was sponsored by:
Canadian Association Publishers
Mental Health Canada
Toronto Psychoanalytic Society & Institute
Published by Canadian Association Publishers