A Healthy Approach to Video Games

In the past, parents worried about their kids spending too much in front of the television. Now we face the all-encompassing “screen time” struggle for kids who inevitably rely on their computers, tablets, phones and other devices for learning and entertainment. Video games have been especially controversial. The Benefits Despite data showing that video games […]

Ask Dr. Lowenstein: Do comfort foods improve your mood?

This year is coming to a close and many of us are looking forward to spending time with family and friends. More often than not, those gatherings involve traditional meals and dishes. It may feel like you’re surrounded by special holiday treats and sweets the entire season. But do you pay a price physically—and mentally—when […]

Understanding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Most people experience trauma at some point in their lives. Based on the current state of affairs you may be grappling with several factors that have created trauma in your life, from climate change and the ensuing natural disasters to a high rate of COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths. Now that November is here, we recognize […]

Ask Dr. Lowenstein: Is there any truth to the 7-year itch?

According to popular belief, the 7-year-itch takes place when happiness in a marriage or long-term relationship declines after about seven years. But is there any truth to it? Let’s take a closer look. In the early years of a relationship, most couples experience a kind of marital bliss when mutual infatuation is the norm. These […]

Be Mindful of the Mental Health Stigma This Halloween

Whether you love a good scare or you’re just in it for the candy, there’s something for everybody on Halloween. Young children look forward to costumes and trick-or-treat while older kids seek out the scariest haunted houses. No other holiday brings neighborhoods and communities together in quite the same way. Despite all the hoopla, however, […]

Ask Dr. Lowenstein: Do mental health apps actually help?

They say there’s an app for everything–even boosting your mental health. Whether you struggle with a disorder or you’re simply looking to improve your mood, you can find help right on your smartphone or tablet. As many people continue to deal with pandemic stress, the convenience and low cost of apps is good news in […]

A Closer Look at Teletherapy

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has radically changed the way Americans work, shop, socialize and navigate daily life. Now, with the introduction of telehealth, it is also changing how they meet and interact with their health care professionals. Social distancing and quarantines have dramatically accelerated the use of telehealth as a way for patients to safely […]

Ask Dr. Lowenstein: How can I protect my child from cyberbullying?

The internet allows children and teens to connect, learn and play in amazing ways. When school buildings closed last year to minimize the spread of COVID-19, the internet also made it possible for many kids to attend classes online with their own teachers and classmates. But despite the many advantages, the internet still poses a […]

Returning to school amid ongoing COVID-19 concerns

It’s almost time for a new school year to begin, and there’s still a great deal of uncertainty related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Parents are paying close attention to guidance from their school district on masks, social distancing and other precautions to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Concerns about protecting the health and safety […]

Ask Dr. Lowenstein: When should I consider therapy?

One in 5 U.S. adults experience mental illness each year. It’s good to know that mental health treatment is available, making recovery a reality for most of these individuals. Unfortunately, taking the initial steps to seek treatment can be confusing, difficult and even daunting for some. It’s no wonder the average delay between symptom onset […]