What Causes Depression?
Depression is not just about feeling sad. Depression is defined as a mental disorder characterized by an all-encompassing low mood accompanied by low self esteem and loss of interest or pleasure in normally enjoyable activities. It is like being caught in between life and death. The body is alive, but the spirit feels dead and does not want to engage in the outside world and/or relationships with others. Depression seems to be custom made for different people. Different things can cause depression. Chemical and/or hormonal balances, prolonged sadness or grief due to a death of a loved one or other tragedy, financial problems, abusive relationships, alcohol/drug abuse, pregnancy, loss of sleep, and medical related side affects from another condition are just a few factors that can lead to depression. Typically speaking, there is a cause which triggered the onset of depression, which then in turn leads to a chemical/hormonal imbalance in the body. Due to this imbalance, it is only rational to think that the answer would be simply to resolve the imbalance via medication. Hence the end result is that millions of depressed people are taking medications for their infliction, thinking that their Prozac, Xanax, Effexor, or Paxil will work like an antibiotic treats an infection. But that is not how it works.
Prescription Drugs: A Viscious Cycle
Suppose a loved one dies, and you are stricken with grief. Weeks have gone by, and you are now back at work and have a family to take care of. Somehow you continue to go through the motions of your duties. As time goes on though, you become less and less social. You do not go to dinner with friends, you do not take your kids to the park, you do not read, you do not laugh. You start to resemble a zombie in both physical appearance and in personality. You start making mistakes at work, and you don't care. You get laid off. You don't care. People ask if you are okay. You say yes, simply because you don't know how to honestly answer that question and it's just easier. Soon, you have financial problems. Big problems. Now, you are a zombie who never sleeps and is constantly agitated. You are pretty much mean to everyone. You need a job, and realize you have a problem. You need to be functional again. You have Cobra - great - so you go see a psychologist and the next thing you know you are on drugs but it's okay because they are prescribed by a doctor. Things improve. You get a job again. You are functioning. You are going to dinners and the park. You even laugh once in a while. Things are looking up. Then one day, you come crashing down. Laying comatosed on the couch you find yourself wondering what is going on. You see your doctor, and then you recall in your conversation that you drank some wine at dinner the other night, or ate alot of chocolate, or got back on birth control pills which have affected the efficacy of your anti-depressant. So maybe you try another kind, and another and yet another. Eventually, you come to the realization that you are now dependent on a drug (perhaps more than just one) to prevent you from crashing and becoming suicidal. THIS IS NOT NORMAL BUT IS BECOMING MORE AND MORE COMMON.
So What is the Solution Then?
The solution, my friends, is to find out what has caused your depression, and learning to live with it if you have to. You cannot change the past. You cannot make people come back to life. You cannot force people to stop abusing you. You can learn to let go of the past. You can learn to accept the death of a loved one and carry that person with you always. You can leave people who are abusive. Further, you can learn, with the help of a good doctor, how to re-balance the chemical and hormonal levels in your body so that you are healthy. Yes, sometimes, drugs can help but only in limited cases do people need lifelong medication for their depression. But mostly, it's diet, sleep, exercise and laughter that will do the trick. The fact is, prescription drugs are overprescribed and cause physical dependencies that literally can cause and DO cause DEATH. For more information, read this site regarding the adrenal glands to get a good sense of what is going on in the body (Please note: I am not endorsing this product and do not know anything about it. Apparently it's some type of system developed for people suffering from prescription drug withdrawals. I just found the information about the body very interesting and helpful.): www.labelmesane.com/adrenal_fatigue.html.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
How to be Rosy with Rosacea
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea (pronounced roh-ZAY-sha), is an inflammation disorder of the facial skin, and is commonly misdiagnosed. It affects an estimated 14 million Americans, and because of its red-faced, acne-like affects on personal appearance, it can cause pyschological, social and occupational problems if left untreated. Rosacea affects both sexes, but is almost three times more common in women (aren't we lucky?), and has a peak age of onset between 30 and 60. The cause of this disorder is unknown and there is no cure, however it can be controlled. Here is my story about how I discovered my own infliction with Rosacea, and how I did learn to live with it and control its devastating affects.
Misdiagnosed: Growing up with "Acne".
As soon as I hit puberty, I developed very oily and "problematic" skin. I dreaded summertime because no matter how much powder I caked on my face, I inevitably felt and looked like a shiny grease monkey. (I lived on the east coast where summers are extremely hot and humid). Things only became worse as time progressed, and in addition to the extreme shine, I would sometimes break out in small bumps and large, painful, unsightly pimples. The only thing that seemed to help were long afternoons spent under the summer sun, which would dry out my face and give me a "sun kissed glow" (at the ripe age of 38, this past behavior makes me cringe now!). Little did I know that what I was really doing was further exasperating my problem. I always assumed that the red blotchiness was a little sunburn, but later learned that it was more than that. Family members tried to warn me to stay out of the sun due to its aging affects (which I ignored because of course as a teenager I was sure that aging would never happen to me!), and they tried to reassure me that as a I grew older I would appreciate having oily skin because my skin would dry up as I aged and that moisture helps reduce wrinkles. They also warned me how the sun would damage my skin and cause me to age more quickly. I thought that I would be spared the reality of aging, and of course I was wrong!
Can I get a second opinion, please?
In my mid-twenties, I was living in New York city. I decided to see a dermatologist because of the "second head" which had made its home on my chin for several months. It was August, and impossible to walk down the street without breaking out into a major sweat. Even though I knew I had problematic skin, I was still surprised when my doctor asked me if I had ever taken medication for my "acne" problem. I guess I was still in denial. I had not realized how bad the problem was until this moment. The doctor gave me some kind of shot into the huge cyst-like pimple, and then prescribed me some antibiotics, which temporarily helped. As I pursued my creative talents as a make-up artist, I learned how to care for oily skin by using purifying masks, purifying cleansers and oil-free moisturizers. Finally, for a short period of time, my skin appeared flawless and shine-free.
Then, at the ripe age of 30, something terrible happened. Indeed my skin had become drier as my family had predicted, but my "acne" suddenly resurfaced at an alarming rate. Small, red bumps spread all over with larger pimples appearing sporadically. Convinced that this was the result of oily skin and acne, I continuously exfoliated and scrubbed my face with oil-control toners, serums and acne products. The problem just became worse. My whole face turned bright red and painful "acne" bumps spread all over my cheeks and forehead. Inflammation (and depression) took over and consumed me. My face became so disfigured that I could not leave the house without theatrical face make-up on which I was using as a foundation. Again, I sought the attention of a dermatologist, who this time around, properly diagnosed me with Rosacea.
I had always had Rosacea but didn't know it. Now that I know what to look for, I can see that some of my other family members have it, too. After I received proper medication and started researching my condition, I learned how to control it and have not had a major flare up in at least a couple of years. Aside from the normal affects of aging, I have to say that my skin looks pretty good.
What to do if you think you may have Rosacea:
If you think you have Rosacea, I strongly recommend that you see a Dermatologist right away and receive a prescription for antibiotics. If you do not have a Dermatologis, then see a primary care provider, or even go walk to a clinic. Prescription medication (i.e., Tetracyclene or Oracea) is the only measure for getting this disease under control. Tetracyclene is probably the cheapest and most effective considering the cost.
Effective treatment suggestions:
Some doctors will prescribe some sort of "metronidazole" gel, but I found this product to be fairly weak, and only effective for maintenance. Stronger oral medications really work the best. Once the face clears up, Rosacea can be fairly easy to maintain. Alcoholic beverages, spicy foods and stress can be major triggers. For me personally, I now avoid red wine at all costs - one glass of it and one hour later there are little red dots forming all over my face and nose!
My personal remedy:
If I have a flare up, I immediately take my prescribed oral medication. I always have some Tetracyclene or Oracea around. I consistently make sure that I use gentle, yet effective products for my skin. I cleanse my face (cold water only!) with "Cetaphil," (normal to dry skin formula), once in the morning and once in the evening, and then I use a nice oil-free moisturizer from a professional cosmetic company. I especially like products from Dr. Brandt. For example, one product from that line which works great on Rosacea skin is "Laser Relief." While it's not a moisturize, this product really helps reduce inflammation and redness and feels really great on the skin. I also like Bobbi Brown's "Vitamin Enriched Face Base," which is an oil-free moisturizer containing shea butter, carrot extract and vitamins A, C and E. This product is non-greasy and will make your foundation look perfect! Finally, I always ensure that I get enough rest (with a four year old this can be very challenging!), and try to keep stress at a minimum. A healthy lifestyle is key.
Make-Up Tips:
Rosacea sufferers tend to have a "rosy" complexion, which turns an ugly blotchy red when Rosacea "activates." That's why it's important to use a nice, lightweight yet effective foundation that has a "yellow" base to help counter the redness. Good foundations to try are Bobbi Brown, Stila, and some shades of Laura Mercier. Rosacea sufferers have the same disease, but still possess different skin types, therefore you may have to sample different foundations until you find one that has the right consistency, coverage, and tone for your skin type. Next, always "set" your foundation with a loose powder. Again, the powder should have yellow base. Clinique just came out with one specifically to counter red, blotchy skin. When working on your eyes (Rosacea can sometimes effect the eyes so always pay attention to eye irritation), you first use a an all over shadow that is white or close to it as a base. The will brighten the eye area and help "pop" any color pigments you may choose to use to enhance your look. Finally, most "sparkly" cosmetic products contain a large amount of a product called "mica," which can potentially flare Rosacea due to its rough and irritating texture. Therefore, try to avoid using too many "sparkly" cosmetics and stick to shadows, blushers and bronzers that are "mica" free.
Rosacea (pronounced roh-ZAY-sha), is an inflammation disorder of the facial skin, and is commonly misdiagnosed. It affects an estimated 14 million Americans, and because of its red-faced, acne-like affects on personal appearance, it can cause pyschological, social and occupational problems if left untreated. Rosacea affects both sexes, but is almost three times more common in women (aren't we lucky?), and has a peak age of onset between 30 and 60. The cause of this disorder is unknown and there is no cure, however it can be controlled. Here is my story about how I discovered my own infliction with Rosacea, and how I did learn to live with it and control its devastating affects.
Misdiagnosed: Growing up with "Acne".
As soon as I hit puberty, I developed very oily and "problematic" skin. I dreaded summertime because no matter how much powder I caked on my face, I inevitably felt and looked like a shiny grease monkey. (I lived on the east coast where summers are extremely hot and humid). Things only became worse as time progressed, and in addition to the extreme shine, I would sometimes break out in small bumps and large, painful, unsightly pimples. The only thing that seemed to help were long afternoons spent under the summer sun, which would dry out my face and give me a "sun kissed glow" (at the ripe age of 38, this past behavior makes me cringe now!). Little did I know that what I was really doing was further exasperating my problem. I always assumed that the red blotchiness was a little sunburn, but later learned that it was more than that. Family members tried to warn me to stay out of the sun due to its aging affects (which I ignored because of course as a teenager I was sure that aging would never happen to me!), and they tried to reassure me that as a I grew older I would appreciate having oily skin because my skin would dry up as I aged and that moisture helps reduce wrinkles. They also warned me how the sun would damage my skin and cause me to age more quickly. I thought that I would be spared the reality of aging, and of course I was wrong!
Can I get a second opinion, please?
In my mid-twenties, I was living in New York city. I decided to see a dermatologist because of the "second head" which had made its home on my chin for several months. It was August, and impossible to walk down the street without breaking out into a major sweat. Even though I knew I had problematic skin, I was still surprised when my doctor asked me if I had ever taken medication for my "acne" problem. I guess I was still in denial. I had not realized how bad the problem was until this moment. The doctor gave me some kind of shot into the huge cyst-like pimple, and then prescribed me some antibiotics, which temporarily helped. As I pursued my creative talents as a make-up artist, I learned how to care for oily skin by using purifying masks, purifying cleansers and oil-free moisturizers. Finally, for a short period of time, my skin appeared flawless and shine-free.
Then, at the ripe age of 30, something terrible happened. Indeed my skin had become drier as my family had predicted, but my "acne" suddenly resurfaced at an alarming rate. Small, red bumps spread all over with larger pimples appearing sporadically. Convinced that this was the result of oily skin and acne, I continuously exfoliated and scrubbed my face with oil-control toners, serums and acne products. The problem just became worse. My whole face turned bright red and painful "acne" bumps spread all over my cheeks and forehead. Inflammation (and depression) took over and consumed me. My face became so disfigured that I could not leave the house without theatrical face make-up on which I was using as a foundation. Again, I sought the attention of a dermatologist, who this time around, properly diagnosed me with Rosacea.
I had always had Rosacea but didn't know it. Now that I know what to look for, I can see that some of my other family members have it, too. After I received proper medication and started researching my condition, I learned how to control it and have not had a major flare up in at least a couple of years. Aside from the normal affects of aging, I have to say that my skin looks pretty good.
What to do if you think you may have Rosacea:
If you think you have Rosacea, I strongly recommend that you see a Dermatologist right away and receive a prescription for antibiotics. If you do not have a Dermatologis, then see a primary care provider, or even go walk to a clinic. Prescription medication (i.e., Tetracyclene or Oracea) is the only measure for getting this disease under control. Tetracyclene is probably the cheapest and most effective considering the cost.
Effective treatment suggestions:
Some doctors will prescribe some sort of "metronidazole" gel, but I found this product to be fairly weak, and only effective for maintenance. Stronger oral medications really work the best. Once the face clears up, Rosacea can be fairly easy to maintain. Alcoholic beverages, spicy foods and stress can be major triggers. For me personally, I now avoid red wine at all costs - one glass of it and one hour later there are little red dots forming all over my face and nose!
My personal remedy:
If I have a flare up, I immediately take my prescribed oral medication. I always have some Tetracyclene or Oracea around. I consistently make sure that I use gentle, yet effective products for my skin. I cleanse my face (cold water only!) with "Cetaphil," (normal to dry skin formula), once in the morning and once in the evening, and then I use a nice oil-free moisturizer from a professional cosmetic company. I especially like products from Dr. Brandt. For example, one product from that line which works great on Rosacea skin is "Laser Relief." While it's not a moisturize, this product really helps reduce inflammation and redness and feels really great on the skin. I also like Bobbi Brown's "Vitamin Enriched Face Base," which is an oil-free moisturizer containing shea butter, carrot extract and vitamins A, C and E. This product is non-greasy and will make your foundation look perfect! Finally, I always ensure that I get enough rest (with a four year old this can be very challenging!), and try to keep stress at a minimum. A healthy lifestyle is key.
Make-Up Tips:
Rosacea sufferers tend to have a "rosy" complexion, which turns an ugly blotchy red when Rosacea "activates." That's why it's important to use a nice, lightweight yet effective foundation that has a "yellow" base to help counter the redness. Good foundations to try are Bobbi Brown, Stila, and some shades of Laura Mercier. Rosacea sufferers have the same disease, but still possess different skin types, therefore you may have to sample different foundations until you find one that has the right consistency, coverage, and tone for your skin type. Next, always "set" your foundation with a loose powder. Again, the powder should have yellow base. Clinique just came out with one specifically to counter red, blotchy skin. When working on your eyes (Rosacea can sometimes effect the eyes so always pay attention to eye irritation), you first use a an all over shadow that is white or close to it as a base. The will brighten the eye area and help "pop" any color pigments you may choose to use to enhance your look. Finally, most "sparkly" cosmetic products contain a large amount of a product called "mica," which can potentially flare Rosacea due to its rough and irritating texture. Therefore, try to avoid using too many "sparkly" cosmetics and stick to shadows, blushers and bronzers that are "mica" free.
Monday, March 1, 2010
"Let's Have Lunch!" The reality of lunching in Beverly Hills.
Here I am working in a "prime location" of Beverly Hills (Wilshire Boulevard and Doheny). One would think this would be pretty exciting stuff, and that every day I'd be bouncing along Rodeo Drive, happily making some purchases at Tiffany's, and taking a quick martini break while nibbling on jumbo shrimp cocktail. Well as previously mentioned - I'm a working girl. Even executives I know earning half a mil per year in my office aren't doing that at lunchtime. So what is the reality? What are our choices for lunch here in this super "posh"area? You'd be surprised to know that most of the choices are definitely sub-par. Let me review:
1. Cafe Connection
This place is TERRIBLE. I still order from here from time to time but only due to a loud growling stomach and the speedy convenience of delivery and halfway normal prices. Honestly, McDonald's is cheaper and probably better for you. The best thing on the menu has to be the french fries. The worst thing on the menu has to be the chicken. One time I ordered a rotiserrie chicken meal and I swear it must have been an anorexic, previously freeze dried chicken. It was disgusting. The hamburger, turkey burger, hot dog and all "grilled" foods are marinated in extra grease before served. If you decide to eat here, a healthy dosage of Pepto Bismol is highly recommended. Something relatively safe is the pesto turkey breast sandwich but I always take off like half the turkey and ask for extra cheese. Their BLT's seem okay and if you add avocado it is doable.
2. Beverly Hills Market & Deli Connection
Okay. This place is smack dab in the middle of major Beverly Hills shopping. When you think of "Beverly Hills Deli," you think of a charming little bistro, with only the best deli meats and excellent all white meat chicken salad which would have some fancy ingredients such as cranberries, walnuts or brie. Nope. It's just another version of Cafe Connection. While it's menu may offer more choices - again, the quality of the food itself is pretty terrible.
3. Lazy Daisy of Beverly Hills "Organic Eatery" (organic, my a$$!)
Again, terrible, and not cheap! Just do not waste your time or money here. Go to CVS and get a frozen Lean Cuisine meal and save yourself money and stomach problems.
Here are some places I do recommend:
1. Kate Mantilini
Kate's is a nice restaurant right on the corner of Wilshire and Doheny. It can be a little pricey if you're just looking for a quick lunch but the food and atmosphere is very good. In contrast to the $10 anorexic rotisserie chicken being sold up the street at Cafe Connection, Kate's has the best rotisserie chicken I have ever had. You get a choice of either Rosemary or Garlic, and your bird will come smothered in herbs with a nice big serving of mashed potatoes. For lighter eaters, I highly recommend the "Life Chicken," which is chicken breast sauteed in some sort of special onion sauce over rice. Very tasty. If you're on a budget, you can always pick up an order of Macaroni & Cheese for $9.
2. The Chicken Lady
Nestled in a strip mall on the corner of San Vicente and La Cienega, this little gem is a great place for a casual, tasty and inexpensive lunch. "The Chicken Lady" is famous for catering to popular TV shows and movie sets and recently opened her own little shop to patrons such as myself. As the name suggests, she primarily serves all kinds of chicken dishes, sandwiches and salads. On Fridays, however, you can usually find a scrumptious Rib special. All meals are under $10.
3. La Gondola
A bit of an odd combination of Kosher Italian food, but pretty good. For those unfamiliar with kosher foods you will notice a difference in taste, but in my opinion it's not bad. I am especially fond of the "Spencer Steak" served over cabernet sauce.
1. Cafe Connection
This place is TERRIBLE. I still order from here from time to time but only due to a loud growling stomach and the speedy convenience of delivery and halfway normal prices. Honestly, McDonald's is cheaper and probably better for you. The best thing on the menu has to be the french fries. The worst thing on the menu has to be the chicken. One time I ordered a rotiserrie chicken meal and I swear it must have been an anorexic, previously freeze dried chicken. It was disgusting. The hamburger, turkey burger, hot dog and all "grilled" foods are marinated in extra grease before served. If you decide to eat here, a healthy dosage of Pepto Bismol is highly recommended. Something relatively safe is the pesto turkey breast sandwich but I always take off like half the turkey and ask for extra cheese. Their BLT's seem okay and if you add avocado it is doable.
2. Beverly Hills Market & Deli Connection
Okay. This place is smack dab in the middle of major Beverly Hills shopping. When you think of "Beverly Hills Deli," you think of a charming little bistro, with only the best deli meats and excellent all white meat chicken salad which would have some fancy ingredients such as cranberries, walnuts or brie. Nope. It's just another version of Cafe Connection. While it's menu may offer more choices - again, the quality of the food itself is pretty terrible.
3. Lazy Daisy of Beverly Hills "Organic Eatery" (organic, my a$$!)
Again, terrible, and not cheap! Just do not waste your time or money here. Go to CVS and get a frozen Lean Cuisine meal and save yourself money and stomach problems.
Here are some places I do recommend:
1. Kate Mantilini
Kate's is a nice restaurant right on the corner of Wilshire and Doheny. It can be a little pricey if you're just looking for a quick lunch but the food and atmosphere is very good. In contrast to the $10 anorexic rotisserie chicken being sold up the street at Cafe Connection, Kate's has the best rotisserie chicken I have ever had. You get a choice of either Rosemary or Garlic, and your bird will come smothered in herbs with a nice big serving of mashed potatoes. For lighter eaters, I highly recommend the "Life Chicken," which is chicken breast sauteed in some sort of special onion sauce over rice. Very tasty. If you're on a budget, you can always pick up an order of Macaroni & Cheese for $9.
2. The Chicken Lady
Nestled in a strip mall on the corner of San Vicente and La Cienega, this little gem is a great place for a casual, tasty and inexpensive lunch. "The Chicken Lady" is famous for catering to popular TV shows and movie sets and recently opened her own little shop to patrons such as myself. As the name suggests, she primarily serves all kinds of chicken dishes, sandwiches and salads. On Fridays, however, you can usually find a scrumptious Rib special. All meals are under $10.
3. La Gondola
A bit of an odd combination of Kosher Italian food, but pretty good. For those unfamiliar with kosher foods you will notice a difference in taste, but in my opinion it's not bad. I am especially fond of the "Spencer Steak" served over cabernet sauce.
About Bianca
Bianca Blahnik is a professional freelance make-up artist based out of Los Angeles, California. Specializing in weddings and other special events, Bianca's beauty philosophy is to create a flawless and stunning appearance by creating a beautiful look from a healthy foundation of glowing skin. This foundation is built upon to achieve anything from a minimal sunkissed glowing Malibu Beach Beauty to a full on glam and sexy Hollywood Diva.
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