Rumination

I've always known rumination, constantly going over and over the same material in one's mind, was part of depression and that it made depression worse. Yet, I am finding it plays a bigger part in depression than I once thought.

In fact, from the clients I've had who suffered with depression, most were incessant ruminators. And the ones who had the worst depression were usually the clients who were unemployed, retired, or on SSI, and had lots of time to ruminate.

It's an ironic thing. The people we might think who would be the happiest--those not working the day-to-day grind--are actually among the most depressed.

Life can be counterintuitive that way, sometimes.

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The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work

I'm reading John Gottman's second edition of The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert. I had read most of the first edition, but since I have been recommending the second edition to clients, I've decided to get the edition they are reading.

I think the key thought of Gottman's philosophy of what makes marriage work is the following: "At the heart of the Seven Principles approach is the simple truth that happy marriages are based on a deep friendship. By this I mean a mutual respect for and enjoyment of each other's company" (p. 21).

And I think Dr. Gottman has a lot of research to back up his assertion. 

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Trauma and Recovery

I'm reading an excellent book--a classic in the field--by Judith Herman, M.D., Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence--From Domestic Abuse to Political Terror.

It's written in a delightfully user-friendly way. It covers the basics of trauma, with a new epilogue by the author. I find myself wanting to delve into the study of trauma because so many of my clients struggle with it.

It's hard to peg one major issue that plagues society, but trauma, in its various forms, is up there.

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Storming the Capitol

I saw some amazingly vivid video of the storming of the Capitol. It was presented at the second impeachment of former President Trump. 

I think if no more Republicans switch over toward impeachment it will indeed show that they have one goal--not working for their constituents, but keeping their jobs.

Sad. Very sad.

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