What is Depression?

Depression for Children and Teens
Depression for Adults
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Guided Imagery Can Help

What Is Depression?

Depression may be described as feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods. But true clinical depression is a mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger or frustration interfere with everyday life for an extended time.

Often a symptom of Depression is Anger, which is often held inside and repressed.

Depression Statistics:

Depression is a common condition. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) estimates that about 10 percent of American adults experience some form of depression. For people with chronic illnesses, the number can be higher.

For example, NIMH estimates that about 25 percent of people with cancer have depression, and one study of people with multiple sclerosis found that 41.8 percent had significant symptoms of depression.

The symptoms of depression can be mild, moderate or severe. But even when symptoms are mild, the condition is not the same as temporarily having the blues. People cannot snap out of depression by force of their will. And while practicing healthy habits may help, getting regular exercise, eating right or taking a vacation may not completely alleviate depression.

Depression is more common in women than men and is especially common during the teen years. Men seem to seek help for feelings of depression less often than women.

Therefore, women may only have more documented cases of depression.

What Causes Depression?

Depression often runs in families and may be due to heredity, learned behavior or both. Even with a genetic predisposition, it is usually a stressful or unhappy life event that triggers the onset of a depressive episode. While the exact causes of depression are unknown, several factors appear to affect its onset:

• Biochemistry: Nerve cells in the brain send and receive messages that control your emotions and feelings, with the help of chemicals called neurotransmitters. Scientists believe that depression symptoms occur when some of these neurotransmitters, including serotonin and norepinephrene, are not delivered correctly, causing a chemical imbalance, leading to depression..
• Genetics: A family history of depressive disorder puts people at greater risk, but depression also strikes people who have no family members with the illness. Depression that results from a person’s biology or genetic inheritance is sometimes referred to as endogenous depression.
• Personality: People who are pessimistic or have low self-esteem or low tolerance for stress are more likely to develop depression symptoms..
• Difficult life situations: Depression may be more likely in people who are facing serious problems in their lives, such as abuse, violence or poverty. Difficult times, such as divorce, the death of a loved one, financial problems or moving from your home can also contribute to depression. This type of depression is sometimes referred to as reactive depression.
• Other illnesses: People who have certain other medical conditions – such as cancer, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and hormonal disorders – are more likely to develop depression.
• Caregivers: Caregivers often have resentments deep inside for giving so much of themselves "away", and not allowing time for themselves. Depression in Caregivers is becoming more and more an issue.

Depression may also be brought on by:

• Disappointment at home, work, or school (in teens, this may be breaking up with a boyfriend or girlfriend, failing a class or parents divorcing)
• Feeling that "they can never do anything right" is a common statement of depressed people
• Chronic Drugs such as sedatives and high blood pressure medications
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Chronic stress
• Childhood events like abuse or neglect
• Social isolation (common in the elderly)
• Nutritional deficiencies (such as folate and omega-3 fatty acids)
• Sleeping problems
  

What Are the Symptoms of Depression?

Not everyone who is diagnosed with depression has the same symptoms. Some experience only a few symptoms, others have most of them.

To be diagnosed with major depression, a person must have at least five of the following symptoms nearly every day for at least two weeks:

• Feeling sad or empty
• Decreased interest or pleasure in activities
• Appetite change with weight loss or weight gain
• Decreased or increased sleeping
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feeling worthless or guilty
• Being either agitated or slowed down
• Difficulty thinking or concentrating
• Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide

Low self-esteem is common with depression, so are sudden bursts of anger and lack of pleasure from activities that normally make you happy, including sex.

Depressed children may not have the classic symptoms of adult depression. Watch especially for changes in school performance, sleep and behavior. If you wonder whether your child might be depressed, it’s worth bringing to a doctor’s attention.

Types of Depression

As with other types of illness, depression takes different forms. Some of the most common depressive disorders are:

• Major depression is characterized by symptoms that affect a person’s work, sleep, eating habits, and interest in activities he or she once enjoyed. Episodes of major depression can last for six months or more.
• Dysthymia is a low-intensity mood disorder characterized by similar but less severe symptoms than major depression, but the condition is longer-lasting (the symptoms must be present for two years to receive the diagnosis). While not totally disabling, dysthymia makes it difficult for a person to feel good or function normally. Many people who have dysthymia also have periods of major depression.
• Bipolar disorder: which is sometimes called manic-depressive illness, is much less common than other types of depressive disorders. It is marked by cycles of intense highs, called manias, followed by intense lows, or depressions.

Other common forms of depression include:

Postpartum depression is depression after the birth of a baby. Between 10 and 15 percent of women who give birth are clinically diagnosed with this form of depression.

Brooke Shield recently came forward and published a book about her personal post part um depression story.

(Postpartum psychosis, which is sometimes confused with postpartum depression in the media, is a rarer and much more serious mood disorder that requires immediate medical care.)

After pregnancy, signs of depression may also include being afraid of hurting the baby or oneself and not having any interest in the baby.

What is the difference between “baby blues,”postpartum depression, and postpartum psychosis?

The baby blues can happen in the days right after childbirth and normally go away within a few days to a week. A new mother can have sudden mood swings, sadness, crying spells, loss of appetite, sleeping problems, and feel irritable, restless, anxious, and lonely.

Postpartum depression can happen anytime within the first year after childbirth. A woman may have a number of symptoms such as sadness, lack of energy, trouble concentrating, anxiety, and feelings of guilt and worthlessness.

The difference between postpartum depression and the baby blues is that postpartum depression often affects a woman’s well-being and keeps her from functioning well for a longer period of time.

Postpartum depression needs to be treated by a doctor. Counseling, support groups, and medicines are things that can help. Guided Imagery has shown to be of great assistance to a woman experiencing postpartum depression symptoms.

Postpartum psychosis is rare. It occurs in 1 or 2 out of every 1000 births and usually begins in the first 6 weeks postpartum. Women who have bipolar disorder or another psychiatric problem called schizoaffective disorder have a higher risk for developing postpartum psychosis. Symptoms may include delusions, hallucinations, sleep disturbances, and obsessive thoughts about the baby. A woman may have rapid mood swings, from depression to irritability to euphoria.

Post part um depression is diagnosed if a new mother develops a major depressive episode within one month after delivery. It is estimated that 10 to 15 percent of women experience postpartum depression after giving birth.

Any of these symptoms during and after pregnancy that last longer than two weeks are signs of depression:

• Feeling restless or irritable
• Feeling sad, hopeless, and overwhelmed
• Crying a lot
• Having no energy or motivation
• Eating too little or too much
• Sleeping too little or too much
• Trouble focusing, remembering, or making decisions
• Feeling worthless and guilty
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Having headaches, chest pains, heart palpitations (the heart beating fast and feeling like it is skipping beats), or hyperventilation (fast and shallow breathing)

Guided Imagery for Postpartum depression:

The use of Guided Imagery C. CD's has made a significant impact nationally on post part um depression.

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) refers to depressive symptoms that occur about one week prior to menstruation and disappear after you menstruate.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) occurs during the fall-winter season and disappears during the spring-summer season. It’s likely due to lack of sunlight.

The depression generally lifts during spring and summer. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) may be effectively treated with light therapy,

but nearly half of those with Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) do not respond to light therapy alone.

Guided Imagery has made a significant difference with those suffering from Seasonal affective disorder.

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Adult Depression
Post Traumatic Disorder
Guided Imagery Can Help

Post Traumatic Stress

Imagine seeing a fellow soldier killed by a roadside bomb. Or searching through the rubble of the World Trade Center for survivors.

Or being sexually assulted. You're probably trying to push those images out of your head as you want to go on with your life.

These feelings have been going through people's minds for centuries. We are now realizing that it affects people other than just those who've been through war. It involves anyone that has experienced a severe trauma in their life.

A national study of American civilians conducted in 2002 reported that PTSD occurs in about 47% of all Americans.

Most survivors of trauma return to normal given a time to heal emotionally and physically. However, there are a small percentage of people that will have stress reactions that do not go away on their own, or may even get worse over time. These individuals may develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. (PTSD).

Post Traumatic Stress is not just for those in or returning from the military.

Traumatic events can be the loss of a loved one or family instabilities. However, even hearing about a major illness or death of a spouse is often enough to put a person into Post Traumatic Stress.

Many instances have been the cause of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (P.T.S.D.) Trauma either presumed or real is a common factor. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (P.T.S.D.) is marked by clear biological changes as well as psychological symptoms. PTSD is complicated by the fact that it frequently occurs in conjunction with related disorders such as depression, substance abuse, problems of memory and cognition, and other problems of physical and mental health.

It is important that people become aware of the issues and reasons that are causing the person's stress. Everything that they are feeling is ok. However, becoming "stuck" in those feelings is not. It is important to become aware of them then work through them.

STUDY BY DUKE:

Guided Imagery for Military Sexual Trauma-Related Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (P.T.S.D.)

(This study is currently recruiting participants, verified by Duke University, March, 2008. Sponsor: The National Institutes of Health (NIH). Military sexual trauma (MST) is a significant women's mental health issue. There is a crucial need for effective therapies for Military sexual trauma (MST) that are well-tolerated and can be flexibly administered in a variety of treatment settings. Guided Imagery is a novel, transportable intervention technique that meets these requirements and warrants research in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.

Guided Imagery for Trauma (GIFT) intervention for women veterans with Military sexual trauma (MST) has already been demostrated to have positive and promising initial results in the first part, pilot study of 15 women veterans according to Duke.

A larger research study is currently underway.

Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress

Dr. Matthew Friedman, Director of the National Center for PTSD, has recently published a book on PTSD called The Infinite Mind, which defines the disorder of post traumatic stress syndrom.

He says that the kind of trauma experience determines the likelihood that Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) will occur. For example, experiences of interpersonal violence and assault are much more likely to produce Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) than a natural disorder like a volcano or earthquake.

The symptoms may include:

• Intrusive recollections, including nightmares as well as flashbacks, where the person feels like they are actually back in the situation
• "Avoidant numbing symptoms," where the person does everything they can to avoid situations that might provoke these thoughts or memories, and which includes psychic numbing which wards off fear and guilt, but which can also shut down the capacity to love and be intimate
• Arousal symptoms, similar to anxiety, which can cause the person to be jumpy, have trouble sleeping, be hyper vigilant and also irritable

Guided Imagery and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (P.T.S.D.)

It is important to face one's issues, work through them, and then move forward. That is why Guided Imagery has become so valuable.

It is important not to hold feelings inside. Reach out to others. There are many people that love you and want to help. Get the support that you need. Our Guided Imagery C.D.'s have given courage, strength, and hope to anyone that has experienced a traumatic issue in their life. It may stem from a severe childhood crisis. Guided Imagery has been clinically shown to keep a person focused and centers on utilizing all a person's senses, allowing them to become calm, centered, and at peace.

According to The National Institute of Mental Health 2 out of 10 people suffer from some sort of depression.

Major depressive disorder, also called major depression, is characterized by a combination of symptoms that interfere with a person's ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy once–pleasurable activities.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, unfortunately has become increasingly prominent in our soldiers going to and returning from Iraq. Many of our soldiers being redeployed are suffering from depression and fear. Guided Imagery has made a significant impact on Combat Stress and Deployment Stress.

Major depression is disabling and prevents a person from functioning normally. An episode of major depression may occur only once in a person's lifetime, but more often, it recurs throughout a person's life.

Dysthymic disorder, also called Dysthymic, is characterized by long–term (two years or longer) but less severe symptoms that may not disable a person but can prevent one from functioning normally or feeling well.

Some forms of depression (depressive disorder) exhibit slightly different characteristics than those described above, or they may develop under unique circumstances.

How Do I Get Help for Depression?

Without treatment, depression can be extremely serious, and even life-threatening if a person has thoughts of suicide, so it’s extremely important to seek help if you are having depression symptoms. Effective treatments are available, and the National Institute of Mental Health estimates that more than 80 percent of people who seek treatment find relief from their symptoms.

Can Depression Be Prevented?

Healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent depression, or lessen the chances of it happening again. Regardless of whether you have mild or major depression, the following self-care steps are recommended:

• Get enough sleep.
• Follow a healthy, nutritious diet.
• Exercise regularly.
• Avoid alcohol, marijuana and other recreational drugs.
• Get involved in activities that make you happy, even if you don’t feel like it.
• Spend time with family and friends.
• Try talking to clergy or spiritual advisors who may help give meaning to painful experiences.
• Consider prayer, meditation, tai chi or biofeedback as ways to relax or draw on your inner strengths.
• Add omega-3 fatty acids to your diet, which you can get from cold-water fish like tuna, salmon or mackerel.
• Take folate (vitamin B9) in the form of a multivitamin (400 to 800 micrograms).
• Try light therapy using a special lamp that mimics the sun for seasonal affective disorder.
• Get counseling during times of grief, stress or low mood. Family therapy may be particularly important for teens who feel blue.

Medical Reference Sources: National Institute of Mental Health, The National Association for Depression, Med line Plus, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic, Psych Central, Health Talk

Depression in Children and Teens

The amount of pressure put on children and teens today is enormous. They are trying so hard to please everyone, they in fact are often worn out emotionally and physically.

They are embarrassed to seek help, so they hold their feelings inside.

Guided Imagery is a simple, valuable and enjoyable tool to allow a person to come to grips with what they are feeling.

The use of our two CDs, Guided Imagery for Children through Adolescence and Courage, Strength, and Hope for Teens and Preteens, have been of great benefit to children and teens all over the world to help them find balance, peace, and tranquility in their lives.

Our Guided Imagery CDs for children and teens are currently used in over 600 schools in health classes to teach healthy coping techniques.

Guided Imagery has been shown to have a significant impact on decreasing stress, anxiety, depression, anger, pain, insomnia. It has a positive impact on enhancing self confidence and overall well being. self confidence, and pain, and can have a significant impact on sleep.

Guided Imagery teaches strategies to help children and teens come to grips with their emotions and gives them an outlet to move forward in their lives.

Children and teens are taught resiliency and self confidence, as well as how to take responsibility for their thoughts, behaviors, and actions.

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Teen Stress and Anxiety and Depression
Child Stress and Anxiety and Depression
Guided Imagery Can Help

Pressures, expectations, and temptations for our children and teens are greater than ever. A poll from The National Association of Pediatrics stated that 85% of teens polled felt that they were stressed out, overwhelmed and depressed at times. .

Pressures may come from many sources including:

• Internal sources - teens often create pressures themselves by procrastinating or taking more than they can handle
  
  
• External sources - family, peers, teachers, and employers
  
  
• The strong need to fit in

Beyond the basics of love and attention that everyone craves, all kids are primarily motivated to reach one of three goals:

• Need for achievement / reward (these are often considered high achievers or perfectionists)
• Need for peer approval or friendships that they can rely on
• Need to feel in control of their lives and not be overpowered by family, teachers, etc. (these children/teens are usually defiant, hard-headed or strong-willed).

Mood swings, acting out, anger, slamming doors, changes in sleep patterns, grades, personality, such as being withdrawn and sad are often indicators of teenage stress.

In order for our children or teens to cope, they need down time to be alone, think and just rejuvenate. They are very resilient and can bounce back quickly if just given the quiet time that they need. They often just want to do nothing and chill. Give them that time.

The key to surviving the teen years, is to have a release from all the pressures and challenges that they have everyday in their life. Encourage them to follow their dreams and passions. Keep them involved in some sort of social activity, perhaps sports or clubs or music.

Life isn't all about being organized and structured. It is important to take time out and just be yourself.

Children and teens are stressed because they feel that they are always doing what others want rather than what they want for themselves. They feel pressured and trapped.

Children and teens need and want to have fun with their friends, and find a strong support group that they can count on.

Let them know that is is ok to be different. It is ok to be their own person.

Our children/teens are exposed to a great deal of negative media exposure. It is up to us to refocus their thoughts and mind on what is real on positive and safe thoughts.

There is a strong importance in the value of imagination. Encourage them to use the wisdom of their imagination to solve their own problems. They do this by creating pictures in their mind’s eye that help them learn how to reach a desired goal. 

The use of Guided Imagery Meditation CD's have been shown to have a remarkable way of refocusing a child or teen's thoughts and calming down their minds.

Sometimes their images show them a new way to solve their problem – other times they may call upon an inner guide (e.g., animal friend, wizard, or wise person) who shares knowledge or gives imaginary gifts to help overcome their concerns.

Play is not just important for its own sake – for fun – but because it develops, as one example, important social skills in learning to understand oneself and others.

Play can also be restorative in releasing stress, and working through trauma and grief. When a child or teen feels the outside pressures, it is then that they can utilize the full effects of guided imagery.

There are enough pressures out in the world for them. Let them have fun.

Guided Imagery for Child and Teenage Stress

Guided Imagery for children and teens has been a very effective tool to allow them to come to grips with what they are feeling. Often they are confused by their feelings and embarrassed to talk about them.

That is where Guided Imagery helps the most. It is an inner communication with a person's feelings, fears and uncertainties. Guided Imagery gives them the change to work through them and move on with life.

Guided Imagery is equally effective for boys or girls. The main focus is learning to identify when a person is under stress and then coping in a healthy and safe way. They then can get back to doing the things their love to do and have fun. They are able to succeed in the things that they need to accomplish, whether it be school, relationships or sports.

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Stress and Learning Disabilities
Guided Imagery Can Help

According to the National Association of Learning Disabilities, families with a member with a Learning Disability, (i.e. Attention Deficit, Attention Deficit DIsorder with Hyperactivity, dyslexia, bipolar disease, Autism, Anxiety Disorder, etc) experience more challenges and stress than others. The stress of being diagnosed with having a learning disability can initially be overwhelming. 

It can upset the entire family dynamics, often turning a home that is typically a secure, comfortable, and safe place into a place of frustration, anxiety, chaos and despair.

Individuals diagnosed with a Learning Disability, (i.e., Attention Deficit, or Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity Disorder, Dyslexia, Autism, Bipolar Disease, etc) often have difficulty paying attention to tedious tasks such as work, everyday activities, chores, schoolwork, etc.

Often individuals diagnosed with a Learning Disability are more spontaneous and do or say things without considering the consequences. They are not lazy, insensitive or rude. They just need to be taught a a sense of of direction, focus, and purpose. Having a loving, nurturing and supportive environment is the key.

Children with Learning Disability in a classroom setting
(Attention Deficit, and Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity Disorder)

Children diagnosed with Attention Deficit and other forms of a learning disability are often said as having 'attention problems' in the classroom.

Students with ADD or ADHD account for a significant number of our population often coupled with other learning differences that impact language learning or processing.

Often, these students are incorrectly described as having behavior or motivation issues when the truth is that these students often put far more effort into their academic endeavors, and have less to show for it at the end of the day, than their peers who don't have the same challenges and obstacles in their path. 

Rick Lavoie, a former teacher and Head of Riverview School in Massachusetts, and author and speaker about children with learning differences, recently published a book on motivation called The Motivation Breakthrough: 6 Secrets to Turning On the Tuned-Out Child in which he observes that in all the years he worked with LD and ADD he never met a student that didn't want to do 'his work' - but met lots who didn't want to do "our work!' 

There's the rub for lots of our students--they can focus on the tasks and activities that give something back to them and reward them for their efforts, but they are less successful working on the things WE want them to do that are difficult for them and unrewarding to their efforts.

Watch a youngster at a skate park rehearse a trick on his skateboard.  They will practice the sequence over and over, perfecting every detail of the move, sometimes in the face of painful falls and frustrating mistakes. They will allow others to comment and give suggestions, but there's camaraderie even though there are different levels of accomplishment and skill around the park.

It is a culture of achievement! There is no way we would describe such kids as unfocused or unmotivated.  But that same child confronted with a sheet of math programs in school where he must be still and quiet might face withering discouragement fueled by delays for processing, poor memory for math facts, and feelings of defeat even before he starts.

Are our children any different from us? In our careers, we tend to "play" in our areas of strength - and avoid those tasks and activities where we feel ill-suited or poorly equipped to compete. I realize we all need to do things we don't like or may not be good at, but what if we were stuck in a situation where most of the day we were confronted with such tasks and then judged by how well we accomplished them? What if we were called lazy or unmotivated because it took us longer than someone else to complete such a task? 

We all realize that this is exactly what so many of our kids experience, and it is clear to me that it is our job as teachers and parents to help get our kids through this experience uninjured and whole.  How do we do that?!

The first thing I suggest is to change the way look at these kids and their struggles. And perhaps as Wayne Dyer says"

"When we change the way we look at things, the things we look at change!"

According to Dr. Edward Hallowell, in his book, Driven to Distraction, "there are some people who "chronically daydream. They are often very bright, but they have trouble attending to one topic for very long. They are full of energy and have trouble staying put. They can be quite impulsive in saying or doing whatever comes to mind, and they find distractions impossible to resist."

Although Attention Deficit Disorders (Attention Deficit with or without Hyperactivity, Dyslexia, Autism, Anxiety Disorders, etc.) and other forms of learning disabilities often result in frustrations and many behavior issues. However, a learning disability has also been described as a gift. It does have many positive benefits. Individuals are usually loving, compassionate, funny, creative, loyal and have tons of enthusiasm and energy.

It is ok to be different, what is important is that a person tries their hardest at whatever they try to do. Then, be proud of themselves for having tried their best.

What is vital for a person with a Learning Disability is to learn in a quiet, peaceful environment, avoiding too many distractions.

It is important that they are given additional time and patience to complete projects.

Common symptoms of Attention Deficit or Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity may include:

• Difficulty with coping skills, feeling overwhelmed
• Difficulty solving problems and coping
• Spontaneity, not thinking of consequences
• Difficulty with time management
• Procrastination
• Distraction, forgetfulness, tendency to lose things
• Disruption in sleep patterns
• Difficulty with motivation and following through
• Difficulty in work, school, and job
• Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships
• Messy
• Hyperactivity, rebelliousness, anger, need for control, irritability Behavior is often impulsive and may be daring or unpredictable to the point of danger
• Stubborn, talk too much, easily frustrated
• Impatient, destructive behavior to self or family
• Difficulty adapting to change

One of the greatest desires that anyone has, especially a person with a learning disability is to fit in and to be accepted by others.

Encourage them to keep positive and surround themselves with positive things and people.

Find out what they like to do best and focus on their strengths, talents and passions and encourage them to follow their dreams.

Guided Imagery for Child Stress and Teen Stress:  

Guided Imagery (i.e. Guided Meditation, Guided Visualization, Imagery) is a simple, well researched relaxation technique aimed at easing stress and promoting a sense of peace and tranquility at a stressful or difficult time in a person's life.  Guided Imagery Meditation can be used by young children all the way up through the elderly.

Guided Imagery Research has also shown that stimulating the brain through imagery may have a direct effect on both the endocrine and nervous systems, which lead to changes in immune system function.  The use of a Guided Imagery CD is a simple, low cost, and effective tool for stress reduction and stress management.

Guided Imagery (i.e. Guided Meditation, Guided Visualization, Imagery,) is a relaxation technique aimed at easing stress and promoting a sense of peace and tranquility at a stressful or difficult time in a person's life.

Guided Imagery can be used on a one on one process. However, most individuals choose to experience Guided Imagery by way of a Guided Imagery CD. (i.e. Guided Meditation CD, Guided Visualization CD).

It has been clinically proven to promote wellness and optimize overall health. 

The use of a Guided Imagery CD for assistance with a Learning Disability Attention Deficit, Attention Deficit DIsorder with Hyperactivity, dyslexia, bipolar disease, Autism, Anxiety Disorder, etc) has been shown to be not only highly effective, but provides a sense of self confidence, pride, and comfort. The individual is led to feel that they are no different than anyone else. They just learn in a different way and often are even more successful than other children their own age.

Guided Imagery is a simple, low cost, and effective tool for stress reduction and stress management. Guided Imagery has been around for centuries, it has been termed by many words:

• Guided Meditation
• Guided Visualization
• Visualization
• Biofeedback
• Relaxation Technique
• Stress Management Technique
• Guided Meditation

"...Guided imagery is a program of directed thoughts and suggestions that guide your imagination toward a relaxed, focused state. You can use an instructor, tapes, or scripts to help you through this process.

Guided imagery is based on the concept that your body and mind are connected. Using all of your senses, your body seems to respond as though what you are imagining is real. An example often used is to imagine an orange or a lemon in great detail-the smell, the color, the texture of the peel.

Continue to imagine the smell of the lemon, and then see yourself taking a bite of the lemon and feel the juice squirting into your mouth.

Many people salivate when they do this. This exercise demonstrates how your body can respond to what you are imagining. You can achieve a relaxed state when you imagine all the details of a safe, comfortable place, such as a beach or a garden. This relaxed state may aid healing, learning, creativity, and performance.

It may help you feel more in control of your emotions and thought processes, which may improve your attitudes, health, and sense of well-being. You can also use it to help reach goals (such as losing weight or quitting smoking), manage pain, and promote healing.

Using guided imagery can even help you to prepare for an athletic event or for public speaking." Web Md

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Guided Imagery Meditations is a simple, safe tool to aid in relaxation. There are no known risks are associated with it. Guided imagery is a process of directed thoughts and suggestions that guide your imagination toward a relaxed, focused state. (It can be done one-on-one or by way of a Guided Imagery CD

Guided imagery is based on the concept that your body and mind are connected. Using all of your senses, your body seems to respond as though what you are imagining is real. An example often used is to imagine an orange or a lemon in great detail-the smell, the color, the texture of the peel.

Guided Imagery may help you feel more in control of your emotions and thought processes, which may improve your attitudes, health, and sense of well-being. Guided Imagery CD's assist individuals to reflect on where they are in life, evaluate where they want to be and gently "guide them" to the place that they want to be.

Guided Imagery Meditations have many uses. You can use it to promote relaxation, which can lower blood pressure and reduce other problems related to stress and anxiety.

You can also use it to help reach goals (such as losing weight or quitting smoking), manage pain, and promote healing.

Using guided imagery can even help you to prepare for an athletic event or for public speaking.

Is Guided Imagery Safe?

The use of Guided imagery techniques is safe. No known risks are associated with it.

It is not safe or recommended to replace your regular medical treatment. Guided Imagery (i.e. Guided Imagery (ie. Guided Meditation / Guided Visualization / Imagery) meant to be used in addition as an extra tool to enhance a person's relaxation or outcome of surgery.

How to let your body experience the full benefits of a Guided Imagery CD:

1. There is no right or wrong way. There is really no such thing as right or wrong, successful or unsuccessful way to use the visualization technique of Guided Imagery. Each person is unique.

2. There is not one specific result that you are supposed to have when you use Guided Imagery Meditations.  There is an endless list of possible experiences.  Just know that they are all ok. Everything is meant to be.

 3. Don't try so hard.  Be gentle on yourself.  Your goal is to slow down and quiet your mind.  Don’t try so hard, just let the story guide you. 

4. Each Guided Imagery meditation experience will be different and unique. 

Guided Imagery and Learning Disabilities

A person with a learning disability (Attention Deficit, Attention Deficit DIsorder with Hyperactivity, dyslexia, bipolar disease, Autism, Anxiety Disorder, etc). often has many bottled-up feelings and frustrations such as anger, insecurities, fears and even depression.

Guided Imagery is the perfect tool to help them to identify with their feelings, frustrations and emotions. By the way of the words on the story, work through them and move on with their life with the zest and energy that they were blessed with.

Guided Imagery provides them with the support and self confidence that they need. They realize that they are not alone and that no matter what, they are loved unconditionally for who they are, and that they are going to be ok.

The use of Guided Imagery provides a sense of relaxation and peaceful tranquility. They are taught healthy coping strategies that they can use for the rest of their lives.

Individuals learning with learning disabilities (Attention Deficit, Autism, Dyslexia, Bipolar Disease, Anxiety Disorder) may experience disability-related stress. However, it with proper means of support they can succeed in the world the same, and often more as they learn to work on their strengths.

Children and teens develop effective means of reducing and coping with stress, frustration, and the emotional aspects of their learning disabilities. 

Norman Doidge, M.D., author of a book entitled, The Brain that Changes Itself, states the brain is like a muscle that grows when you stimulate it under the right conditions.

When you are motivated to learn new things, the experience can physically change the structure of the brain. The desire to fit in is a key factor in all of our lives. However, it means so much more to those that feel that they may be just a bit different in some ways than others.

One very important factor to always remember is that there are no two people alike.

Each and everyone of us is special and unique in their own way.

There is no right or wrong way to learn. Individuals diagnosed with a Learning Disability (or difference) can learn to function and adapt in most situations.

They just have to do it in their own way!

There are three components of successful coping:

• Awareness of the situations that trigger stress
• Recognition of developing stress
• Availability/access to and use of coping strategies

Successful individuals have developed strategies for reducing stress and avoiding resulting psychological difficulties.  Such strategies may include:

• counseling
• asking others to do unmanageable tasks (in work and school)
• changing activities periodically to prevent the feeling of being overwhelmed
• learning to express feelings
• proper communication
• maintaining a safe emotional support group
• focusing on the positive
• staying away from negative or critical persons
• medication
• recognizing triggers that set off frustration and anger
• using proper coping strategies such as Guided Imagery (i.e. Guided Meditation, Guided Visualization, Imagery) to help regain control and self confidence

The use of Guided imagery has been clinically proven to be of great assistance in those suffering from the negative emotional feelings associated with learning disabilities such as (Autism, Attention Deficit, Attention Deficit with Hyperactivity, Dyslexia, Bipolar Disease, etc)

They realize that they are not alone and that no matter what, they are loved unconditionally for who they are. It gives a person a sense of security, self confidence and love.The use of Guided Imagery provides a sense of relaxation and peaceful tranquility.

It allows one to come to grips with what they are feeling, and through the story on the Guided Imagery CD, they are taught healthy coping strategies for dealing with any challenges in their life. They realize that they are no different than anybody else. .

Learning Disabilities (learning differences) can, in fact, be a blessing and a gift. Guided Imagery assists the cells in the brain to enhance emotional stability and helps a person to focus. 

It can raise a person's self confidence and helps with mental alertness. They are very sensitive to all senses, which can be a great advantage to them in life.

Guided Imagery can bring a person to a state of tranquil, peaceful serenity in a matter of minutes. It is a simple yet remarkable relaxation technique that has been around for hundreds of years to help people slow their racing, busy minds and become settled, relaxed, and at peace.

Our Guided Imagery CD's give you time to regroup with your thoughts and feelings. Guided imagery (Guided Meditation, Guided Visualization, Imagery) helps people, children through adults, identify their feelings, work through them, and let them go. Our Guided Imagery CDs,

Guided Imagery for Stressful and Difficult times and Guided Imagery for Courage, Strength, and Hope for Teens through Adults, have been a lifesaver to many.

The use of Guided Imagery for any situation in life, allows individuals to realize that there is nothing in the world they can't accomplish as long as they put their heart and soul into it. They can and will soar to heights that they never thought imaginable!

Guided Imagery (i,e. Guided Meditations, Guided Visualization) teaches inner strength and self confidence. It allows anyone, young or old the ability to connect with the inner feelings, and work through them feeling more self confident, proud and happy in life. They realize that they really are no different than anyone else. They just lean in a "different way".

It gives anyone, young or old the self confidence and belief that with true desire, dedication and commitment, anything is possible.  

Guided Imagery Process:

1. Go to a quiet room, free yourself of interruptions for approximately 25 minutes.
2. Get into a comfortable position.
3. Put on The Guided Imagery C.D. or Guided Imagery Tape
4. Simply, close your eyes, and follow the imagery story to a place of peace, tranquility and deep relaxation

Thousands of patients have stated that they instantly feel relaxed, tranquil and at peace while listening to a Guided Imagery CD as well as afterwards.

Guided Imagery is a simple relaxation technique that can teach a person healthy coping skills that can follow them through the rest of their life.

The use of a Guided Imagery CD has been clinically shown to bring an individual to a state of tranquil relaxation in a matter of minutes. It gives a person self confidence that they are able to take control over their mental and physical well being.

Research has Shown that Guided Imagery May:

• Decrease anxiety for Surgical Preparation
• Decrease stress and anxiety
• Decrease Depression symptoms
• Assist with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder symptoms
• Decrease symptoms of post part um depression
• Decrease panic attacks
• Decrease blood pressure, chest pain and angina
• Decrease the blood sugar for Diabetics
• Assist Coping strategies of Cancer patients
• Decrease headaches
• Enhance energy for Firma
• Strengthen the immune system
• Decrease anxiety for Burn patients
• Decrease side effects of treatments
• Decrease insomnia, Decrease pain
• Decrease symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
• Assist with stroke rehabilitation
• Assist with cardiac rehabilitation
• Decrease symptoms of asthma, allergies, and respiratory conditions
• Assist coping for surgical preparation
• Assist pre and post medical, dental and surgical treatments
• Assist people coping with losses:  (death, relationships, divorces, job)
• Assist patients during post operative Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
• Assist children with anxiety disorders and Learning disabilities such as Attention Deficit ADD, ADHD, bipolar disorders and dyslexia
• Assist teens with coping with every day stressors of life
• Assist with dealing with post traumatic stress syndromes
• Assist in infertility treatments and conception
• Allow relaxation for pregnancy and labor and delivery process

Most importantly, Guided Imagery (Meditations) by way of a Guided Imagery CD gives a person back control of their life. They feel a sense of deep relaxation, tranquility, and peace.

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Guided Imagery is a simple yet highly effective tool used for slowing a person's racing and busy lifestyle.

Guided Imagery has been clinically proven to help children and teens deal with the many issues and feelings that they are experiencing at a challenging and turbulent time in their lives.

When listening to the story on the Guided Imagery CD, children and teens become aware of the many emotions that they are feeling. They are encouraged by the words on the CD to confront them rather than bottle them inside, then work through them and let them go.

They realize that they no longer have to hold on to negative feelings or people. They are free to let them go.

They instantly feel relaxed and lighter as they imagine all those feelings glide up and away, farther and farther away from them.

They feel empowered and proud of themselves that they were able to work through difficulties in a healthy way. It gives them a sense of pride that they were able solve problems with their creative imagination.

We all want the same for our children. We want them to be respectful, to do well in school, and to be active in sports and outside activities. Most of all, we want our children to be happy.

Guided Imagery gives the child/teen back a sense of direction and control in their life. They no longer feel alone.

Guided Imagery has been shown to provide a safe, positive, and healthy way to deal with all the hectic pressures surrounding us all.

It brings a person to deep relaxation through the gentle soothing story that has a background of tranquil music and nature sounds.

Its purpose is to help a person turn off the racing busy mind and become focused on the present.

Guided Imagery gives a person an opportunity to embrace those feelings, and with the power of their own creative imagination work through the issues facing them and let them go.

On our CD, the story encourages a connection with those that have supported them through life:; their loved ones, friends, people that have inspired them, and perhaps even a person from their past.

They are also invited to feel the presence of a "warm, safe, loving spiritual being."

The main message is that they are not alone and it is ok to make mistakes because nobody is perfect. It gives them a sense of control that they are taking charge and at the same time feeling good about themselves again.

They are free to be themselves and to enjoy all the things in life that make it special. Their need to fit in and be accepted unconditionally is met.

Childhood and the teen years should be a time of fun and making memories. At this stage in a child's or teen's life, self esteem is the foundation to a happy and successful future.

They need to know that they have a strong and loyal support system. Guided Imagery is that support tool; it provides a sense of connection.

They learn to love themselves at a much deeper level. It gives them an opportunity to create a new, positive outlook on life.

Guided Imagery has also been used for insomnia. It allows children and teens to turn off their minds and fall into a deep and peaceful sleep.

The background to the story has soothing, tranquil music along with subtle nature sounds of cascading waterfalls and occasional chirping of birds.

Guided Imagery is especially successful with children and teens as they are used to daydreaming and using their imagination. When they have worked through any difficult or challenging times, they are then free to be the person that they want to be.

We recommend the Guided Imagery C. D. "Courage, Strength and Hope for teens and preteens for children and teens dealing with stress and depression symptoms:

Description:

Courage, Strength, and Hope for Teens and Preteens in Stressful and Challenging Times with nature sounds.

Everyone has times when things may seem rushed, pressured and overwhelmed. 

Sometimes, it can seem that life is a bit unfair.  Any feelings that they are dealing with are totally natural and ok.  What is most important is that they recognize and become aware of those feelings, and not hold them inside. 

This CD allows the listener to use their own internal strengths and find ways to work through and let them go.  They are taught skills that they can use for a lifetime to cope in a healthy and positive manner.

The setting for this imagery story is a quiet and peaceful meadow beside a gentle babbling brook. Listens become aware of the occasional sounds of birds as they playfully dart in and out of the leaves. 

 They imagine any feelings or things that may be upsetting them, (ie thoughts, feelings or people). 

Listeners visualize putting any of those things deep inside the balloons, and when they are ready, slowly release the balloons one by one, watching all those feelings and frustrations float up further and further into the sky. 

They notice how much better they feel when they are able let them go, up and way, letting them go. 

They may sense a connection from those that they could always depend on, either from their present, or their past; loved ones, dear friends, or perhaps, even a spiritual being. 

They are here, unconditionally, to offer wisdom, direction and unconditional support to let go and move forward in life.   Listeners feel a sense of pride and self confidence that they are able to take charge of things in the life. 
The listener realizes that nobody is perfect, it is ok to make mistakes, we all do, even adults. 

What is important is that they try their best and then be proud of themselves that we have given our best.  Listeners (young and old) are able to identify the new direction that they want for their life, with courage and determination they know that they can see it through.

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