The Positive Mind

Keyword: agitated depression

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Shelf Life of Mental Health September 20, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Lauren Sykes, Linda Vanella
Category: Personal Growth and Awareness

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of mental health having a ‘shelf life’ and how past issues can resurface unexpectedly. He discusses the phenomenon of recidivism in mental health, where individuals may revert to old behaviors or fears despite having previously overcome them. Through personal anecdotes and insights from guests Linda Vanella Vanella Vanella and Lauren Sykes, the conversation delves into the complexities of mental health, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of external factors in triggering past traumas. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and consider the ongoing journey of mental well-being.

Bringing You Ideas for a Positively Minded Life September 1, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Emotional Communication Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the importance of emotional variation in life and how our childhood experiences shape our coping strategies. He explores various defense mechanisms such as repression, regression, and dissociation, emphasizing how these adaptations can lead to emotional struggles in adulthood. Armand encourages listeners to reflect on their own emotional responses and the impact of societal pressures on their mental well-being. The program also touches on the significance of communication in relationships, particularly in the age of text messaging, and how it can affect emotional connections.

Protecting Others and Ourselves August 10, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Joseph, Linda Vanella, Lynn, Tom Bond, Yvonne
Category: Emotional and Social Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the complex motivations behind the desire to protect others, often stemming from our own insecurities and fears. He discusses how individuals may attach themselves to those they feel compelled to protect, sometimes as a means of safeguarding their own emotional well-being. Through various anecdotes and examples, including relationships affected by addiction and mental health challenges, Armand encourages listeners to reflect on their protective instincts and the potential consequences of overextending themselves. The conversation delves into the Enneagram’s three instincts—self-preservation, social, and sexual—and how they influence our relationships and sense of safety.

Emotions and Aging July 12, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella
Category: Mind and Mood Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complex relationship between serotonin levels and depression, particularly in the elderly. He explores the concept of neurogenesis—the birth of new brain cells—as a potential key to understanding and treating depression. Armand challenges the traditional view that low serotonin levels are the primary cause of depression, highlighting that many people with low serotonin do not experience depression. He emphasizes the importance of exercise, learning, and enriched environments in promoting neurogenesis and improving emotional well-being. The episode also touches on the role of fear and obsessive-compulsive behaviors in managing depression.

Altered Personalities and the Real You March 30, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Personal Growth and Awareness

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of altered personalities and how they affect our perception of self. He discusses the idea that many people carry around different versions of themselves, often shaped by experiences and societal expectations. Through engaging dialogue, he examines how these alter selves can emerge in various situations, such as during moments of fear or when facing life changes. Armand encourages listeners to reflect on their own alter personalities and the impact they have on their lives, relationships, and overall well-being.

Infectious Moods and Mental Health January 19, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Mind and Mood Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the intriguing connection between the immune system and mental health. Recent research suggests that infections can influence mood and behavior, potentially triggering conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder and Tourette’s syndrome. The discussion includes real-life examples, such as the case of a young boy whose personality changed drastically due to a streptococcal infection. DeMille emphasizes the importance of understanding these links, as they could lead to new treatments for various mental health disorders. The episode highlights the evolving view of the brain’s relationship with the immune system and the implications for mental well-being.

Affection January 18, 2011

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Emotional Communication Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of affection and its significance in relationships. He discusses the various forms of affection, including nurturing, play, and the importance of touch, particularly for the elderly. The conversation highlights how affection can impact mental health and the ways in which cultural differences shape our understanding of affection. Armand encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with affection and its role in their lives, emphasizing the need for connection and the potential consequences of its absence.

Grief and Healing January 4, 2011

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Linda Vanella, Nicole Alston
Category: Family and Relationship Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the complexities of grief with guests Linda Vanella Vanella Vanella and Nicole Alston, who share their experiences and insights on coping with loss. They explore the five stages of grief, the impact of complicated grief, and the importance of processing emotions. The conversation highlights the need for support systems and the role of counseling in navigating grief, particularly for parents who have lost children. The episode emphasizes the significance of acknowledging and expressing feelings of anger and sadness as part of the healing journey.

Year-End Reflections on Family and Friends December 30, 2010

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Gratitude and Mindfulness

In this year-end edition, Armand DiMele explores the significance of resolutions, particularly the common desire to spend more time with family and friends. He discusses the feelings of loneliness and depression that often accompany the holiday season and emphasizes the importance of nurturing connections. Armand reflects on the complexities of friendships and family dynamics, highlighting how relationships can change over time. He encourages listeners to reach out to friends and maintain positive connections, suggesting that meaningful interactions can enhance well-being. As the year closes, he invites everyone to reflect on their relationships and the importance of community.