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Carol's Corner by Carol Ziolo

May 2008 - Medication Adherence

Getting on board with the treatment plan is often the biggest roadblock to recovery from any kind of illness.

The former U.S. Surgeon General, C. Everett Koop, MD, once said “Drugs don’t work in patients who don’t take them. Medication adherence can be a real problem in any medical condition including hypertension, diabetes, epilepsy, asthma, and brain disorders. However, the failure of individuals with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder to continue taking meds is one of the most serious issues in psychiatric care (Treatment Advocacy Center). continue

April 2008 - Violence

The tragedy that occurred at Northern Illinois University on Valentine’s Day may be viewed at senseless and violent. I have heard many “theories” of how we as a society can prevent similar future occurrences. The suggestions range from tougher gun control, more security on campus, and housing all people with a mental illness in an institution! continue

March 2008 - Changing of the Seasons

One of my Christmas presents this past season was a desk calendar that has daily words of wisdom. One of the days reflected on ALONE TIME and says, “During our uninterrupted alone time this month, how about taking a walk and seeing if you can feel – actually feel - the changing of the seasons.” I thought about this suggestion and realized that for some people the changing of the seasons may be a very difficult time. continue

February 2008 - Dealing with Illness

Dealing with the emotions of illness can be very draining, both physically and psychologically. The thoughts a person experiences when he or she is told that some part of his or her body is ill can be one of many including disappointment, guilt, anger, denial, and fear. These thoughts will affect the way a person feels which can determine how the person behaves. continue

January 2008 - Workable Resolutions

It’s that time of year when people think about change. The holidays are behind us and the future looks promising. That brings us to the ever-popular “New Year’s Resolution”. Many times resolutions revolve around diets, exercise, and alcohol and/or substance abstinence. Out of curiosity, I searched Wikipedia and found the definition of “New Year’s Resolutions” that talks about making a commitment for a life style change that is positive. This sounds like something that should not be taken lightly! continue

December 2007 - Stress and Mental Health

Please allow me to introduce myself as a new member of NAMI-Barrington and a family member. Hugh Brady asked if I would follow Dr. Grace and write this column.

My name is Carol Ziolo and I am a Registered Nurse at Northwest Community Hospital where I work as the Clinical Educator for the Mental Health Network. Previously, I worked as the Coordinator of the Mental Health Liaison Team and was in the Emergency Department caring for consumers and families during a mental health crisis. I have a Masters in Clinical Psychology and am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. I have a counseling practice in Mount Prospect where I use my Certificate in Stress Management to assist client’s deal with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and dual diagnosis disorders. It is my pleasure to join your affiliate and I will try to bring you continued knowledge and wisdom. I hope you will find this column useful and good reading. continue

Gracenotes by Dr. Barbara Grace

August 2007 - Moving ON

June 2007 - Self Care Strategies

May 2007 - Stress Management Ideas

March 2007 - Family-Focused Treatment for Bipolar Disorder

Febuary 2007 - Wishing things into your life
Our words, thoughts, and the pictures we paint in our minds actually attract people, things and events into our lives. If you want to lead a happy, peaceful, prosperous life, then focus on having happy, peaceful and prosperous thoughts.

January 2007 - Thoughts on reenergizing ourselves
Are you sacrificing your own fun and social experiences to care for your loved one? We need to replenish our energy often so that we have the energy, stamina, and kindness that is necessary to keep going.

December 2006 - Taking care of yourself in times of stress
Here are a few suggestions for stress management during the holidays (and any other time for that matter).

November 2006 - Handling the joy and stress of the holidays
This article has some suggestions for getting through the holidays in a happier and more fulfilling way.

October 2006 - Handling Crisis Situations
This month’s column is about handling those crisis situations which come up with your loved one.

September 2006 - An Introduction to Dr. Barbara Grace