Relationship Health + Original Articles

Want to have a great evening together? Here’s what to talk about. You've made a restaurant reservation, switched in and out of three different outfits, and inspected your appearance so many times you've lost count. You're about to spend your first evening ever with someone with potential, but you feel tongue-tied. What can you find to talk about that will be mutually interesting? "Keep it light, fun, entertaining and interesting," advises Stacy Kaiser, licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert.

How to heat up your sex life once the nest empties out. Since the kids moved out, the house is quiet, the kitchen always looks neat, and you're not forever running out of clean towels. You're alone and together with a spouse who may have been swept to the side for years as the children's demands took up a lot of your time.

How to whip up the perfect recipe for a stress-free and enjoyable evening. The time is set, the meeting place arranged. The mirror confirms that your hair and outfit look great. Then what's with the butterflies in your stomach? The perfect date is well within your grasp, experts say, whether you're single or married. You just need to keep a few pointers in mind.

Every marriage has challenges even among the most healthy, well-adjusted adults. When you add a mental health condition such as bipolar disorder into the mix, it can really strain a relationship. If you or your significant other has bipolar disorder, you can still make your relationship work. Every marriage has challenges even among the most healthy, well-adjusted adults. When you add a mental health condition such as bipolar disorder into the mix, it can really strain a relationship. If you or your significant other has bipolar disorder, you can still make your relationship work.

Considering 10 to 25 percent of the population experiences depression at some point, it’s not surprising that this disorder takes a toll on marriage. Considering 10 to 25 percent of the population experiences depression at some point, it's not surprising that this disorder takes a toll on marriage. In fact, research suggests that one spouse in 50 percent of all distressed couples is clinically depressed.

Are you overly concerned about your partner’s sexual past? Insecurity may be behind your need to know everything. You may have caught yourself speculating about your partner's former flames and wondering whether they've enjoyed the same intimacy that the two of you do now. You may also wonder whether your partner thinks the sex is better this time around. Somewhere there may even be that lingering worry as to whether you can keep things hot between the two of you.

When it comes to sex, women and men truly do seem to inhabit different planets. When it comes to sex, women and men truly do seem to inhabit different planets. Women tend to have a very strong emotional connection to sex that men simply aren't saddled with, explains Cheryl Pappas, Ph.D., a psychotherapist and social commentator. Men just do not have the need to be as connected emotionally to a partner as a woman does when having sex, she says.

Killer abs may not be linked to better sex, but another body part is. Disappointed that you don't have time to both spend at the gym and in bed with your sweetie? That's not to say that you can't occasionally use sex as a form of exercise, says Cathie Helfand, MS, a marriage and sex therapist. "Using sex as a workout from time to time can help trim the body," she explains.

Learn how to get it right when you want easier intimacy with the guy in your life. If sex unsatisfying, don't rush to point the finger your male partner. In fact, the blame could be put on none other than yourself. All too often, sexual misunderstandings can be cleared up by better communication, experts say. If you want to jump start your sex life, see which of these mistakes you're guilty of, and what you can do to right them.

Forensic psychologist Debra Warner explains how love and passion can give way to depression and how you can negotiate a balance between your relationship and your emotions. It can be easy to fall into the trap of comparing a current relationship to some romantic ideal and feeling dissatisfied if what you have doesn't compare to what you think it should be. With that dissatisfaction you can experience some depression.  However, you should understand that there are different t types of love that match an individual's needs.

It can make sex better for both of you, if he doesn’t overdo. If your partner likes watching porn occasionally, it's probably nothing to worry about. But if he's obsessive about it, hunkering down at his computer in another room for hours on end, then there may be a problem. The Upside Pornography is a visual medium, explains Peter Kanaris, Ph.

Your sex drive’s not gone, it just needs revving up. Rekindle romance in your relationship. If you're feeling apathetic and disinterested in intimacy with your partner these days, the first person to call is your doctor. A variety of prescription medications as well as even small illnesses can kill off sexual desire—and once it happens, you can start to lose confidence in the bedroom.

Can kissing help you pick a compatible mate? Studies say it could. Kissing feels good, but it serves even more of a purpose than that. It's a great way to check out how compatible you are with the one you're kissing, says Tina B. Tessina, Ph.D., LMFT, and author of The Unofficial Guide to Dating Again. "Kissing is a way to tell if you fit together physically," she says.

Kindle a romance by knowing when to smile and when to start up a conversation. We've all done it--cast an extra glance at a person who looks attractive, occasionally smiling, maybe striking up a conversation. Flirting is fun, it's sociable, and it can lead to an enduring romance. That said, there's an unwritten code of behavior that should be followed when you flirt.

Taking part in a healthy marriage may make you happier in all aspects of your life. Think about this next time you and your spouse are in an argument. Despite all your squabbling and minor skirmishes, marriage is actually good for you. That's the result of a study of 34,493 people in 15 countries over a 10 year period. The study was based on surveys conducted by the World Health Organization's World Mental Health (WMH) which appeared in the journal Psychological Medicine.

Stuck in a sexual rut? Read these tips to rev up your sex life with your partner. Yes, it is often true that the heat of passion dips in even great relationships.  The first two years of dating and marriage are usually the hottest--sexually speaking.  Your love hormone, oxytocin, is high, and you feel close, alive, special, and very sexual.

You’re suspicious your partner may be cheating. What comes next? Here, mind-calming strategies for uncovering the truth without a blow-up. You've noticed some telltale and very disturbing signs, yet you can't put the full picture together. Your spouse seems to have a lot of late-night meetings, he seems disinterested in you, and he's distracted much of the time. On occasion, you've caught him furtively texting from his cell phone.

You’ll both experience sexual satisfaction when you tell each other what feels good. It's an all-too-common scenario: A spouse feels overworked, underappreciated and overwhelmed with a job, household and kids to care for. Resentment and exhaustion take their toll, and she feels less and less like having sex. With a busy life, there just isn't time for everything, let alone having an all night lovefest.

Instead of stuffing your feelings or squelching your intuition, learn to follow through on your 'no' signals. Have you ever gone along with something--or someone--despite that little voice in your head or flop in your stomach that screamed 'no' at you?  Of course you have.  In fact, most of us have ignored those signals.  Like it or not, we are social animals who often like to please, be liked and included.

The hormones in oral contraceptives may make boyish-looking guys more attractive to women. Pretty boys like Zac Ephron and Chace Crawford are modern-day sex symbols, which is quite a switch from the 1950s and 1960s. Back then, the rugged, very masculine look was in vogue, and Sean Connery, Marlon Brandon and Steve McQueen were considered the heart stoppers of the day.

The hands-on approach for those who need help rekindling their sex life isn’t as hot as it was in the 1970s. Many couples who reach an impasse in their sex life begin seeing a sex therapist who can help them learn how to love and care for each other the way they did when they were first together. The sex therapist may give them "homework" to do--like giving each other massages, for instance, or taking a warm bath together.

Watch out for signs of stress. They can hurt your relationship more than you think. Stress has gotten a bad rap. Sometimes it's necessary. Stressful situations trigger physical reactions such as increased adrenalin and our fight or flight response.  We rely on these reactions to help us cope with all kinds of threatening situations, including daily ones.

Monogamy’s not for everyone, with some people preferring multiple intimate relationships. While polyamory is taboo for most of America, a large number of people are finding that it works for them. In its simplest form, polyamory refers to nonmonogamy, or having more than one serious partner at a time. The practice is described in depth by Peter J.

Good health ups the odds that you and your partner will have a better time in bed. It's hard to get revved up for sex if you're not feeling well. Before you start blaming your less than vigorous libido on getting older or becoming disinterested in your partner, take a long, hard look at your health profile. Medications used to treat...

If your relationship feels “flat”, add new activities and re-kindle forgotten, pleasurable ones. All relationships get into ruts because, in part, we all need some degree of order. Eventually, we trade a little excitement for balance, calm and peace.  But this sense of predictability and control extracts a price by dimming those sparks of love that brought you together.

Here’s all you need to know--and why you need to talk to your teen. There's a lot of misinformation floating around about STDs these days, and it's a subject no one likes to broach with their teenager. Regardless of how uncomfortable it may be, it's a conversation that needs to happen, since teens who are sexually active are at high risk for an STD.

Sometimes it’s as simple as just listening--and offering her a warm hug. When your woman is feeling stressed, here’s how to help. Sure, you can't take your woman's stress away. However, you can often lift her spirits and make her feel better, experts say, by offering a sympathetic ear, solace, and an embrace. "I tell men, if you want to score points with her, you have to learn to just listen," says Ingrid Schweiger, Ph.

Does having sex make women happy or is being happy a natural aphrodisiac? Clearly, there’s a link between sex and happiness for women. What’s less clear is whether there is a cause and effect relationship. A new study funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia is the most recent to draw a connection between sex and happiness. There have been numerous scientific studies and polls on women, sex and happiness in recent years. A study at Dartmouth College found women retrospectively rated sex as the activity that produced the single largest amount of happiness.

Don’t be fooled by using chemistry—or lack of it--to rule a partner in or out. Chemistry usually takes time. See if these situations sound like you-or your friends: Michael passed up a wonderful woman because he wasn't immediately attracted to her.  He always preferred dark, voluptuous beauties.  After a few more failed relationships, Michael's colleague announced his engagement to "the kindest and funniest woman" he ever met.

Find out how communication breakdowns can cause real emotional issues down the road. Studies have shown that men and women have very different communication styles.  Some experts have even gone so far as to describe these different styles as completely different languages. Many authorities attribute communication differences to disparities in the way that men and women think.

Five classic excuses that scream insincerity. Honesty is always the best approach when considering a breakup. But it's difficult because the person who's doing the breaking up doesn't want to hurt the other person's feelings, explains relationship expert Ingrid Schweiger, Ph.D. "We are afraid to be honest and we fear confrontation," she says.

The disturbing truth about emotional affairs is that they’re harder on a marriage than purely physical flings. If you've ever wondered whether an emotional affair is as damaging as one that involves mostly sex, the answer is yes--maybe even more so. That's the word from relationship experts, who say it can be harder to break off an affair when it's purely an emotional thing.

Don’t be tempted to tell your life story at the beginning of a relationship. It seems so difficult today to find someone you really like to the point that, when you do, you are tempted to rush the connection by telling too much too quickly about yourself.  But don't act on this impulse.  Here are the dangers of moving too hastily and how to handle revealing details about your past.

When the two of you can’t hear what the other one is saying, you may need to address your communication skills. Men and women communicate differently, experts say. When we talk with each other, men tend to sit side by side rather than face to face, which seems unconfrontational to them, says Mary Jo Rapini, LPC, an intimacy/sex relationship psychotherapist. And men often don't make eye contact when they talk, she says, because they find it "threatening.

From money to sex, certain subjects are simply off the table for discussion. What are the most common topics that wives tend to keep mum about? "Usually money and sex," says Sheenah Hankin, Ph.D., a psychotherapist and the author of Complete Confidence.  "Women spend money on things like shoes, facials and hair coloring, and then they feel guilty about what they spent.

Don’t kick yourself for making mistakes. We all do. Learn these tricks for overcoming regret. Uh-oh. It's that time of year again. No matter how good or bad your past twelve months have been for you, the reality of starting a new year almost automatically trips off feelings of sadness or regret.  And in these tough economic times, it's easy to fall into the "I Shoulda/Why Did I?" trap.

Some of the best and most thoughtful gifts can come during crunch time. With decking the halls, shopping in crowded malls, wrapping gifts, baking cookies, and trying to keep the peace among all the family members. With all that pressure it's no wonder the holiday season can be a time to feel a little underappreciated. If your special someone is a little out of sorts these days, there are small but meaningful ways to tell her or him that you think they're wonderful.

Don’t go back with a previous partner until you’ve developed new solutions for old problems. It's very tempting to go back with a previous partner. After all, there might be very good reasons why you were attracted to this person in the first place as well as very understandable reasons why you broke up. But can you really re-kindle old love?  Unfortunately, there is no right answer for everyone.

The holidays can bring out the best in a relationship. Similarly, the increased stress and pressure of the holiday can bring out the lesser points of the partnership as well. Didn't we just put away the holiday decorations, make New Year resolutions and resume our normal, everyday lives? Believe it or not, it's that time of year again. Chances are you've had a challenge or two navigating your relationship through the (sometimes) stormy holiday season without springing a few leaks.

Do the holidays take a toll on your mood year after year? Put into practice some proven tools to combat holiday depression and you could make this holiday season one of the best ones yet. Holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, right? So why does the depression rate soar at thisl time of celebration? If the holidays have taken an emotional toll on you in the past, tune into the some of the tools below to combat holiday depression this season.

While celebrity hijinks seems to be part and parcel of American culture, there are lessons to be learned. Here, relationships expert LeslieBeth Wish, Ed. D. MSS examines golf great Tiger Woods' infidelity. Like most revelations about the rich and famous, the news about Tiger Woods' early morning car crash on Friday, November 27, 2009, and alleged extra-marital activities can turn the best of us into scandal junkies. We like--and don't like--to see prominent people falter.

If your partner's stress makes you stressed, then fights and disagreements are probably in abundance. Here, learn how to better cope with your loved one's mood. Since bad moods and stress seem to be contagious, it's easy to be brought down by and enmeshed in your partner's negativity, says Debbie Mandel, the author of Addicted to Stress. Furthermore, she adds that men and women experience stress very differently, so it can be difficult to react and respond to your partner's stress in a way that disables it.

Food and sex are two of life's great pleasures. However, sustained overeating leads to unwanted weight gain. This often produces unexpected consequences such as squelching your interest in sex. Prolonged stress--such as many of us are experiencing during the current recession--increases the likelihood we will develop unhealthy ways to cope. These inadequate behaviors take a toll on our overall health and vitality and may even put the kibosh on our sex drive.

The body’s sexy zones can be just about anywhere you can reach. It's easy for men to become sexually aroused. For women, though, sex may seem like just another "task" in their busy day-to-day. This can be because of their crazy schedules and an unwillingness to ask for what they want in the bedroom, according to LiveScience, and so women may tend to just settle for so-so sex.

ED may be even more serious than it first seemed. At some time in their life, all men will experience erectile dysfunction (ED), the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough to engage in sexual intercourse. Although erectile dysfunction is sometimes called "impotence," impotence refers to other problems that interfere with the sexual act, such as low libido, or lack of sexual desire, and problems with ejaculation or orgasm.

Don’t let life’s stresses tempt you to settle in love. Give and take, yes. Settle, no. Tough times often make us choose or stay with partners we might not select when our lives are more stable. Increased family responsibilities and long hours at work leave less time and energy to meet new potential dates and mates. Furthermore the economic downturn puts greater financial burdens on singles and main earners.

If you and your spouse are in a sexless union, you might need some relationship Rx. A sexless marriage. While it's not something you'd want to participate in, experts estimate that nearly 15 to 20 percent of American couples aren't being inimate regularly. It's the very rare marriage in which both spouses are happy with a no-sex policy, says Israel Helfand, marriage counselor, sex therapist and member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.

Don’t turn most of your communication into professions of love. Instead, be sure your contacts resemble real life. Long-distance relationships require commitment, patience and a rich imagination.  But love can grow and thrive--even if it has to travel far.  Here are some do's and don'ts about how to make your long distance relationship a success.  These skills are especially important now because one partner might be serving time in the military or have to move away from home for a job.

Tips for enhancing the experience for both of you. Whether or not foreplay is important is controversial these days. Some people say it's overrated. In fact, a survey in the Journal of Sexual Medicine, says that women apparently think foreplay doesn't really add all that much to the experience and that they would rather just concentrate on intercourse.

Don’t let being alone or unhappy in love at the holidays ruin your mood. Use your discontent to kick-start changes. All that tinsel, holiday music and ads for the perfect gift--it's enough to make the happiest of us feel the pressure of shopping, wrapping, decorating and returning.  Imagine how it feels when you're going through tough economic times.  Now add being single, divorced or unhappy in love and having to answer the yearly question:  What are you doing for the holidays?  Be careful before you answer.

Emotions run high after recovering from breast cancer and rightfully so. Here, a guide to coping with changes in body image and treatment-related sexual problems. The National Cancer Institute reports that about half of women treated for breast cancer experience some form of long-term sexual dysfunction. Increasingly, younger women are being diagnosed with breast cancer. These women are particularly vulnerable to, or distressed by, treatment-related sexual problems.

Don’t rely on holiday family get-togethers to “settle the score” or “get things off your mind.” Even the best families have unresolved issues.  And the holidays seem like a convenient time to address them.  Everyone's together, you've got allies, more time to talk and high hopes that the holiday spirit will bring out the best in people.

You may be pleasantly surprised to learn how easy it is. If you have trouble attaining orgasm, you're far from alone. Surveys show that about a quarter of American women report they have some sort of orgasm related problems. Some women say they can't have one at all, which is called anorgasmia, while others can only get close but can't seem to climax.

In some instances, refraining from sex may benefit your love life. Generally, the lack of sex in a relationship signals a problem. "People can rationalize it away, but when couples stop having sex it often means there is conflict," says Dr. Scott Wetzler, a psychologist at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. "Our sexuality is part of who we are and it's healthy to have sex.

An uncommon condition in some women causes itching and burning, but it is treatable. Not tonight, dear, I'm allergic. This excuse sounds even less plausible than a headache but it can actually be a valid one: a small number of women actually are allergic to their partner's seminal fluid. In fact, between 20,000 and 40,000 women in the United States may have this allergy, Dr.

General health problems that put your sexual health at risk — and what you can do about it. Consider this: Thirty to 50 percent of men with diabetes suffer from erectile dysfunction. Men in their 40s who have erectile dysfunction (ED) are twice as likely to develop cardiovascular disease compared to men without ED. These are just a few examples of how your sexual health relates to overall health.

If your partner—or you—cheat, don’t assume that it’s over between the two of you. See the incident as a wake up call. First, let's look at why most partners cheat. To feel connected to someone. Since cheating involves sexual intensity, the brain's love and attachment chemicals such as oxytocin and endorphin increase—which make you feel close. To feel appreciated and to matter to someone.

Experts say that fighting (fair) actually may help you live longer. No one's telling you to rush out and engage in a below-the-belt, no-holds-barred battle with your mate. But getting those mutual feelings of anger out in the open can have a beneficial effect on your health. The stress that is caused by unresolved anger can result in emotional and physical problems, says psychotherapist Joanne Stern.

Despite our modern American society, experts say emotions are perceived differently. Male versus female: It's definitely a gender thing when it comes to showing one's feelings. Men tend to hold their feelings close and be stoic while women tend to express themselves more openly. The bottom line, experts say, is that males and females are hardwired to respond differently.

The timing varies, but experts say it can be the best medicine of all. If you've had a heart attack or heart surgery, you've probably wondered when, if ever, it's okay to resume sexual activity. And if you're the partner of a heart attack victim, you may be scared to initiate anything for fear of causing another attack. Well, worry not.

Egg donation provides couples with infertility other options to have a child. Learn more about how egg donation works. In 2005 there were nearly 39,000 live births resulting from assisted reproductive technology in the United States. Egg donation plays an integral part of this process, helping many couples to finally realize their dream of having a child. Although egg donation increases yearly, many of us are probably more familiar with the process of sperm donation.

Men and women need to get some “Income Etiquette” no matter who makes more money! Because men generally make more money than women, today's economic crisis has created more lay offs for men—and more "stuck in the same old job/same pay" for women.  Furthermore, since men still put more of their "identity eggs" in the work basket, when a man loses his job or has to work for less pay and status, he is also likely to lose some self-esteem.

Genetics may be why some guys get cold feet. A gene variant may explain why some males want to maintain their single-forever status. Men with one or two copies of the "allele 334" have trouble committing to a relationship, according to a Swedish study. When the researchers looked at 500 couples, they found that men with this variant not only were commitment-phobic but also had marital troubles if they tied the knot.

Here, the facts and myths surrounding why couples are unfaithful. Take a poll on what people believe is the most common reason for an extramarital affair and the answer you are likely to get from the majority is: sex. While this may be a common belief, it's not necessarily true, says Andrea Syrtash, a dating and relationships expert.

Don’t speak first and think later. Here are some tips for those times when your reactions rule. Almost all of us have been in situations when we said or did the wrong thing.  You might feel the response coming on, but by then it's too late.  Your slip up behavior is already a runaway train.  Besides being embarrassed and ashamed, you worry about giving your date the wrong impression or hurting the feelings of your partner.

Having sex on a daily basis may be just what the doctor ordered. Frequent sexual activity improves the quality of a man's sperm and may even help couples conceive a baby, according to new research reported by Reuters. Genetic defects in men's sperm dropped significantly after they embarked on a regimen of daily sex, according to a study of men attending a fertility clinic.

Snoring ranks among the top three things people want to change in their mate. If you lie awake at night as your partner saws the log, you're far from alone. Although snoring can affect anyone, it's most common in males and those who are overweight. According to the National Sleep Foundation, this nighttime disturbance affects 37 million Americans on a regular basis.

Research shows that certain foods make sperm healthier and improve reproductive ability. You may never complain about eating a bunch of broccoli or filling up on fruits again. There's new evidence that antioxidants may be the best foods for healthy sperm and improve the ability to reproduce. Scientists have been trying to get to the bottom of a worrying trend--the decline in the quality of semen and sperm, and male fertility in recent decades.

Feeling anxious? Regain a sense of calm with these easy tips. Anxiety can strike at any time, and some of us are more susceptible than others. Family issues, workplace worries, and the day-to-day obligations of our busy schedules can take a toll on how we feel, both physically and emotionally. To ease feelings of anxiety or tension, try these easy methods for stress reduction.

Don’t overlook the importance of your partner’s siblings and best friend. You might need them as allies. It's difficult enough to get along with your mate's parents.  In the movie Meet the Parents, actor Ben Stiller has to earn the acceptance of his future father-in-law, played by Robert de Niro.  At times, it seems like Stiller's task is impossible.

An overview of the side effects of the birth control pill and the birth control patch. You may be relieved to learn that the risk of breast cancer from taking the birth control pill is very small, as revealed in research from the Mayo Clinic. However, there are many other side effects associated with the pill and the birth control patch.

Postpone those candlelight dinners and sex too soon. The flame and the rush can trick you into falling in love quickly—and too often with the wrong person. Most of us want to feel romantic because it makes us feel valued, special and less alone.  At the beginning of a relationship, great sex and the thrills and chills of exciting activities can fool you into feeling that you've really found that special someone this time.

Victoria Zdrok, Ph.D., answers a reader's question about whether his sex life with his wife is normal. Q: I'm a 45 year old male and have been happily married to my wife for over 20 years.  One of our few points of contention is the fact that we only have sex once or twice a month. This is fine for her, but I have a higher sex drive, and this sometimes isn't enough for me.

Is there sex after menopause? You bet, say doctors and sexual health educators. Reports that women's sexuality ends with menopause now fall into the category of urban myth or old wives' tale. While some women do experience sexual problems in menopause, many don't. Also, many women discover that sex after menopause is more pleasurable and gratifying than ever before.

Don’t think you’re being weak if you have trouble recovering from a short-term relationship break up. These break ups can hurt in different but important ways. People most likely offer you sympathy when your long-term relationship ends.  Few know why or how the short-term ones hurt so much, too.  Here, the top reasons why you might be feeling hurt when these briefer love connections fall apart: These relationships are often more intense and passionate.

Are you feeling too tired for sex? Survey after survey shows that busy couples are choosing sleep over sex. Try these tips to reawaken your love life. It's a broken refrain: Americans are just too tired for sex. In the Romance and Parenting poll conducted last month by AreYouRomantic.com, 63 percent of women and 49 percent of men admitted to being too tired for sex. In this year's National Sleep Foundation "Sleep in America" poll, sleep-deprived people were more likely to not have sex (18 percent) compared to better sleepers (6 percent).

Can long distance relationships work? For millions of modern couples, they do. For millions of couples there truly is no mountain high enough or river wide enough to keep them apart. They're living proof that a long distance relationship works. In 2005, there were about 3.5 million people in long distance marriages, a 30 percent increase since 2000, according to the Center for the Study of Long Distance Relationships, an online information clearinghouse.

After a break up, avoid rebound love by not falling for someone new too quickly or by not choosing someone who is too opposite. Rebounds are only good in sports.  But when it comes to break ups, the word "rebound" should be flashing in your mind as a big, red warning sign about your next attempts at love. But how do you know if you are falling into the top traps of rebound love?  If you've just ended a relationship, here are the top two missteps to recognize.

Thinking of moving in with your partner? Don’t—until you’ve answered the questions below. Pick the choices that apply. Or, add your own. The Living Together Quiz  1.  Why are we moving in together?   ___Because of having financial issues ___We're trying out a "pre-marriage" ___I'm hoping that living together will "fix" a problem ___I fear I'll lose my partner ___We feel like it's the "next step" 2.

New study suggests that women with high emotional intelligence get more enjoyment from sex. Want to improve your sex life? Scientists believe they have once again discovered an important factor in a woman reaching her sexual peak. According to a study conducted by the Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology at King's College London, emotional intelligence in a woman (or the ability to monitor her own and others' feelings and emotions) appears to increase the number of orgasms she can have.

What you don’t know can hurt you. Here we clear up some contraception confusion. Your reproductive system is one of the most fragile systems in the body, according to the Office of Women's Health (OWH). Yet, every day women make birth control decisions without all the facts. Your gynecologist is one of your best allies when it comes to choosing contraception.

Money worries keeping you up at night? Follow these seven steps to help you relax and take control of your stress. It seems like there's more bad news about the economy every day. Stock values are plummeting, some people owe more money for their home than it's worth, and big banks are going under. So it's no wonder that almost everyone is worried about their bank...

Lying isn't always a bad thing. Q: I've always been taught that lying is wrong. When is it okay, or even beneficial, to lie? A: When we were young, we were taught not to lie.  Yet, as it turns out, there are benefits of lying—and sometimes it's even a necessity. The "white lies" we tell to others serve as the social glue that allows us to sustain and enrich our relationships.

Get the truth about sex during pregnancy. The myths surrounding sex during pregnancy are endless. Sex can hurt the baby. The baby will know what's happening. Sex can cause a miscarriage. What's an expectant mom or dad to believe? Here, we separate fact from fiction. Q. Can you have sex during pregnancy? A.

Many women find it difficult to leave an abusive relationship. Here are 13 ways to make the break easier. Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the United States. Every year more than one million women seek medical assistance for injuries sustained in an abusive relationship. And about one in five female high school students have been physically or sexually abused by someone they're dating.

So, your ex found love in what seems like no time at all. Don't fret. The reasons behind it may reassure you. When your ex finds love, gets engaged, married or moves in with someone else within months of your break up, your ex could be dealing with emotional issues that are--and were--beyond your influence.  It's a tough truth to accept, but an ex's new love does not have to conquer you.

New study finds that a bad marriage takes a toll on a woman’s health increasing their risk of heart disease and diabetes. A recent study from the University of Utah revealed that a woman in a strained or bad marriage is at risk for depressed mood, hypertension, obesity and other signs of metabolic syndrome. This makes women  more vulnerable to diabetes, heart disease and stroke.

You may not want to think about sex when PMS symptoms take over. But sex may be just what you need. Premenstrual syndrome isn't an aphrodisiac, to say the least. Symptoms like bloating, cramps, fatigue and depression hardly arouse sexual desire. So it seems like a cruel joke that when you're in a sexiness slump, sex is one of the PMS remedies you need.

Still in search of the big “O”? Learn about the surprising factors that affect female orgasms. For many women sexual satisfaction can be as elusive as post-coital cuddling. While the anatomy of male orgasms are better understood, many studies and popular literature still refer to the female orgasm as "a mystery" or "misunderstood." Scientists - from Freud to Kinsey - have attempted to shed light on women's sexuality.

How long of a break from dating should you take between a break up? Find out here. Failed love hurts.  And it hurts so bad that you might swear off marriage and relationships, loathe the thought of dating and close your heart and mind to finding love ever again.  The glass of life feels half empty, and you've just joined the unofficial Club of Love Pessimists.

Unhappy in your marriage? Don’t rush the decision to get divorced. Once you open that door and go out, you might not be able to return—or choose wisely the next time. If you're thinking of getting divorced, think some more.  After all, you could choose to split up later. Hasty decisions can lead to regret, and if you don't understand how you got into this situation, then you might repeat the same love problem with someone else.

New poll shows that women suffering relationship challenges during the economic downturn. While investors are busy wondering how to recession-proof their portfolios, many couples are struggling to recession-proof their relationships. A survey commissioned by Caron Treatment Centers, one of the nation's leading non-profit addiction treatment centers, revealed that the economy is having a profound impact on relationships—from decreasing intimacy to eroding  communication.

Here, a guide for how to know you are in love and have chosen the right person to marry. Marriage is scary.  We're too good at hiding our fears, feelings and secrets from our partners—and ourselves.  So, it's no wonder so many people are putting off finding a mate until later in life. There is no guaranteed list of do's and don'ts about making a wise choice, but relationship research provides some sound advice.

Nice girls do have sex on first dates. And few men would turn down an offer. But if you set aside issues of morality and values, then what could be wrong about having sex at the beginning of a relationship? Most of us want to feel chosen, connected and cared for. Unfortunately, it's easy to be fooled into thinking you are falling in love, and one of the sure ways to cloud your judgment about your new partner is having sex too soon.  Here are the top reasons how a hasty decision to have sex endangers your relationship health.

The word is out — sex can be great for your health in more ways than you can imagine. Looking for the secret to a better quality of life, or longer life? Some of us think the answer lies in a bottle of herbal pills, a better diet, or more aerobic exercise. Few of us would think sex could have the same benefits. But according to research, sex does much more than satisfy desire - it can have a significant impact on your health and increase your lifespan.

Boredom? Conflict? Communication breakdown? Learn how to solve some of the most common relationship-killers. Few feelings in the world can top the sheer exhilaration of finding your other half or soul mate. But unlike the blissful Hollywood portrayals, romance isn't always all it's cracked up to be. In real life, love can be challenging and difficult. Has your relationship taken a few wrong turns? These six couple-saving strategies can help you get your love life back on track.

Get the basics on sex addiction, the consequences and the treatment. In the past few years sex addiction has garnered lots of attention, mostly because of celebrities such as David Duchovny and Eric Bénet (Halle Berry's ex). While sexual desire and sexual activity is a natural, healthy part of life, sex addiction isn't.

If you’re dating someone with HIV, or considering it, here are a few important things for you to know. Relationships where one person is HIV-positive and the other isn't are commonly referred to as serodiscordant relationships. If you're in a serodiscordant relationship, you want to enjoy the same intimacy and sexuality of couples not coping with HIV, but it's natural for you to have concerns about your partner's health - and about your risk of HIV infection.

See what the studies are saying. Depression is a real illness that causes real suffering. But depression sufferers who are married or in committed relationships don't suffer alone. People living in close quarters are quite sensitized to each other's moods and actions, and when one spouse spends most of his or her time depressed, with the attendant complaining, moping, worrying, criticizing, crying or complete withdrawal, it's not surprising that the other spouse's emotional state will be negatively affected as well.

Don’t cut corners when deciding on this permanent form of birth control. Here’s what you need to know about the vasectomy procedure. Approximately 500,000 to 600,000 vasectomy procedures are performed annually in the America. Now sources such as the Cleveland Clinic and The New York Times report that the recession has sparked an increase in the number of vasectomies. The decision to have a vasectomy procedure shouldn't be taken lightly, even though vasectomy reversals are possible.

Psychologist and relationship expert Dr. LeslieBeth Wish answers a reader's question about maintaining distance in a healthy partnership. Q:  How do you manage emotional and physical space in a relationship? A:  If you're lucky in love, then you've probably found someone with problem-solving abilities and what I call  the "relationship rhythm range" of time alone and time as one that mesh with yours—two things that are necessary to resolve emotional and physical space issues.

Contrary to popular belief, sex therapy isn’t just for sex addicts. Learn about how sex therapy can help you in your relationship and life. Most of us became familiar with the term "sex therapist" when the frank, bubbly Dr. Ruth Westheimer appeared on the scene. Her debut book Dr. Ruth's Guide to Good Sex was an international bestseller; yet many of us still couldn't explain what sex therapy is or what a sex therapist does.

When you’re going through menopause, sex may take a backseat to coping with hot flashes, mood swings and other menopause symptoms. Learn how to cope and keep your sex life alive. Few positive images come to mind when you think of menopause. Bouts of moodiness, hot flashes, increased weight, sleeplessness, menstrual changes, and vaginal changes seem to define the process. Then there are all the myths surrounding menopause and sex.

Some researchers believe the connection between human pheromones and attraction is nothing to scoff at. Can a perfume or cologne with pheromones turn you into a love magnet? The prevailing wisdom is that you should hold on tightly to your purse for now. Pheromones are defined as chemicals secreted by an individual that produces a change in the sexual or social behavior of another individual of the same species.

Researchers say, despite commonly held beliefs, romance can thrive in long-term relationships. Find out how. Most of us are in awe - or disbelief - when we hear that a couple has been married for 50 years or longer. These days few marriages, let alone relationships, last that long. For instance, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, 76 percent of men who married in 1955 to 1959 stayed married for at least 20 years, while only 58 percent of men who married in 1975 to 1979 stayed married as long.

It turns out that women aren’t looking for just a pretty face when it comes to choosing a mate. What researchers have discovered will surprise you. Not so long ago society was abuzz with the discovery that women preferred more feminine features in male partners - think Brad Pitt. Researches found that women associated less masculine features in a man - rounder face and fuller lips - with being a good husband and provider, a good parent, and emotionally supportive.

Sexually transmitted diseases are on the rise in America. Emerging research points to possible new treatments and better ways of controlling the STD epidemic. There are approximately 19 million new STD infections each year in the United States, reports the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Nearly 50 percent of sexually transmitted diseases occur among people between ages 15 and 24; however, women and minorities are also severely affected.

Thanks to Viagra, erectile dysfunction is out of the closet forever. However, medications aren’t the only way to treat this common health problem — interventions range from lifestyle changes to injections and sex therapy. Erectile dysfunction (ED) affects between 15 to 30 million men in the United States, preventing them from being able to get or keep an erection. The National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NKUDIC) explains that ED is sometimes called "impotence," but this term includes other sexual problems such as lack of sexual desire or premature ejaculation.

Dr. Jeff Aroesty answers a reader's question about snoring and discusses the innovative Pillar® Procedure. Q: My husband has always been a snorer, but over the past few years it seems to have gotten worse. It's to the point where I'm often forced to get up in the middle of the night to sleep in the guest room. We're both in our fifties and extremely health conscious.

Discover some of the most common reasons for a lagging libido. Remember when you were young and crazy in love, and the world revolved around your mate? Now think about your marriage or partnership today--notice any difference in your sex life? For many women, sex takes more of a back seat as time goes on. This can be due to family pressures, work stress, and physiological changes.

Sure, sex is enjoyable, but could it turn deadly? Find out here. It’s not something most of us want to think about. After all society — from alcohol commercials to Dr. Ruth—promotes sex as a pleasurable activity that’s a natural part of life. For the most part, they’re right. Unfortunately, in some cases sex can lead to conditions that will kill you.

I took the NavigenicsTM test around holiday time, during the hustle and bustle of the season. Providing the sample was so easy-it was just a small saliva sample. Then off it went to the lab, where my DNA would be analyzed. Soon I'd have a window into the future of my health.

Recent research has shown that those with a sunnier disposition may live longer. We all have that one co-worker, friend, or neighbor who is constantly (and maybe even annoyingly) happy.  And while some believe that people are just born optimists, recent exciting studies have shown that happiness is learned-much like crocheting or table tennis.

Friendships come and go. Learn how to regain the meaningful ones. A difficult truth to cope with is the fact that friendships fade. Distance takes its toll, disagreements happens, priorities shift and change. Life adjusts course. As we grow, friendships are gained and lost, and although it may seem easy, maintaining healthy, lasting friendships take a lot of commitment and energy.

With the right knowledge and preparation, you can properly care for your condition while on the job. If you think you're the only person with diabetes in your workplace, odds are you're mistaken. The most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) shows that diabetes now affects nearly 24 million people, or 8 percent of the population, in the United States.

Sometimes the things your partner does drive you crazy. Learn how to thwart the bad habits. For any couple, compromise is vital to maintaining a healthy relationship. Individuals who are committed to each other give and take in a way that is balanced and fair. Compromising becomes difficult, however, when it seems to infringe on who the individual is.

You steal blankets like you should be on “America’s Most Wanted” and the sounds that come from him are akin to a freight train. Because the phrase "sleeping together" is usually used as a euphemism for having sex, we rarely talk about actually sleeping next to a loved one. However, sharing a bed with someone special can be one of the most reassuring and comforting aspects of your day.

Sometimes escaping the daily grind doesn’t require a tropical vacation. Being stressed is an awful feeling. It can toy with your mental state ("I'll never get my work done") and can affect your physical well-being: according to a recent study, being stressed can actually make you itchy. But the secret to stress management may lie in an activity that involves fundamental human actions: stretching, breathing, and relaxation.

Follow these tips on how to actually keep your New Year's Resolutions. Everyone makes them, few keep them. That's right, it's the New Year Resolution, so popular that it has its own Wikipedia entry and a page on the government's Web site. Come January 1, everyone wants to lose weight, pay off debts, and quit smoking. But we're not interested in which resolution you're making or which one is most popular.

Your goals for the New Year shouldn't be costly. Read on for some tips on how to make the most of your resolution without spending a penny. It's undeniable that most of us have made New Year's resolutions that we didn't keep. Along with requiring extra time and scheduling changes, resolutions also frequently entail forking over extra cash-something that is far from easy in our current economical climate.

Follow these tips to keep your fitness levels up when temperatures drop. When the temperature drops and the snow begins to fall outside, it's hard to justify a good reason for getting off the couch. But even though lounging in front of the television feels a lot more tempting than taking a jog or even driving to the gym, there's no reason you have to completely surrender your fitness goals until spring.

Parkinson's disease touches more than just the person with the disease; family members and close friends must alter their lifestyles, too. Use this guide to help prepare for the changes ahead. Accepting that you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease is a process. Learn more about the steps most people go through, and what adjustments to expect at home and at work. Dealing With the Diagnosis It's normal to feel overwhelmed and anxious after learning that you've been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Not surprisingly, married couples flock to the suburbs, while singles are clustered in college towns across the U.S. Where does your town fall? Ever feel like everyone you know is married? Or perhaps you have the opposite sensation: that all your friends are single? Well, it might be more than just your imagination. It might have to do with where you live. According to statistics from the U.S.

Here, we explore some of the most common misconceptions surrounding the season. Are the holidays really the happiest time of the year? Does everyone really gain at least five pounds between Thanksgiving and New Year's? During a season ripe with fantasy, it can be hard to separate myths from reality. Here, we dispel four bogus holiday health myths.

Give your loved ones a head start on their New Years resolutions by offering gifts that will help keep them fit and healthy all year ‘round. If you were a child who often got gifts of socks and underwear, giving or receiving healthy holiday gifts may not sound much more exciting. Fortunately, these five gifts are not only good for the person receiving them, but they're better than tube socks.

Sometimes you can get a little more than free coffee and bathroom privileges. As the saying goes, "Choose a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life." But when you're picking between two very similar jobs, how do you know which one you'll love? One key difference to consider is benefits. Do you need health care coverage? Dental? Paid vacation days? With the job market the way it is, it seems like you may not have much choice.

When it comes to intimacy, misinformation abounds. Here, we put the 10 biggest sexual myths to bed. When it comes to sex, most of us think we know it all--or at least enough that we don't need further education. But no matter what your background or relationship status, you've probably heard (and believed) a sexual falsehood somewhere along the line.

Learn about the symptoms of alcoholism and what kinds of treatment are available for this disease. Most Americans can't go a whole day without viewing a beer ad on the television, passing the neon signs of a bar, or glimpsing a billboard promoting the newest brand of vodka. Alcohol permeates American culture, and it's unlikely to change anytime soon.

Ending a relationship can be a painful. Follow these tips to bounce back from a broken heart. It's often said that breaking up is hard to do--and anyone who's been through a split, separation, or divorce knows exactly how hard it can be. You might feel hurt, lonely, resentful, angry, confused, or jealous. And what's worse, you may experience all of these emotions at the same time.

The National Alliance for Caregiving and MetLife Foundation honored innovative programs for caregivers. Caregivers are most often family members of the person for whom they are caring. Currently there are 44.4 million family caregivers in the United States, and experts anticipate that family caregiving will continue to grow in the years ahead. Because nearly 60 percent of caregivers work and 40 percent have children under the age of 18, it can often result in caregiver stress, burnout, and other health problems.

Find out what the statistics about teen pregnancy means for you and your teenager. It may seem as though stories about teen pregnancy--both fictional and real--are everywhere. First, there was the news about a Massachusetts high school where 17 girls under the age of 18 had become pregnant on purpose. Then, it was news that Bristol Palin, the teenage daughter of Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin, was expecting a baby with her boyfriend.

May-December romances are on the rise. Here, we explore the chances for success. Older men have dated younger women for centuries, but in the past decade, the tables have turned: Older women are now coupling with younger men in droves. In fact, a National Association of Retired Persons survey found that one-third of single women between 40 and 60 are currently dating younger men—and for some very interesting reasons.

It's not just good looks that make some people appear more attractive than others. Wouldn't it be great if there really was such a thing as a love potion? Take a few sips, and magically, potential dates appear everywhere. Without a true love potion, we're resigned to attracting future mates with nothing but our own charming personalities—and perhaps a few pointers from self-help books, late-night infomercials, and reality TV shows.

Late-shift workers put themselves at risk for certain illnesses. Is there anything they can do to protect their health? Trying to get enough sleep while working the late shift can feel like trying to swim upstream. Simply put, the human body is meant to be active during the daytime hours. In fact, humans' circadian rhythms (the body's biological sleep clock) are naturally programmed to promote sleep at night.

When you've been wronged, can you forgive and forget, or do you need to exact revenge? Many of us love good revenge stories—tales in which victims ultimately become victors by wielding vengeance on all who've wronged them. But in real life, retribution isn't always all it's cracked up to be. In fact, according to experts, letting go of revenge fantasies may be one of the best things you can do for your health.

These surefire strategies can help you win every debate—without losing your cool. Whether it's a friend, a family member, or a coworker, we all know someone who manages to win every argument, even when they're in the wrong. How do they do it without raising their voice or coming to blows? According to psychologists, it's simple: These master debaters have perfected the art of persuasion—knowing what to say and how to say it in every situation.

From gossip and bullying to chronic lateness, we reveal seven things you should never do on the job. Sexual harassment, profanity, and absenteeism were probably all covered in your company orientation. But chances are, a few egregious behaviors-like gossiping and bullying-didn't make their way into the employee handbook. Even so, these missteps might be grounds for immediate dismissal.

Looking to keep your love alive? Avoid these missteps at all costs. Happily married couples usually credit love, tolerance, and devotion as the secrets to their success. But when a relationship goes sour, people often find themselves wondering what went wrong. According to experts, there are several common mistakes—from infidelity and neglect to communication breakdown—that can cause a once-loving partnership to end in a bitter breakup.

When it comes to certain topics, "mum's the word" for many men. Conventional wisdom holds that men are simple creatures, whose needs and desires can be handily pegged. There's just one catch: Guys often prefer to keep quiet about their health concerns and problems. To promote better communication (and better health), it's important to encourage the men in your life to open up, but don't be surprised if they're reluctant to share the following seven secrets.

From stress, suicide, and substance abuse to joint and back injuries, these jobs may be hazardous to your health. Most jobs come with some form of stress, but some are known to carry more physical and mental risks than others. While you probably rely on your job to pay your rent or mortgage and other bills, the stress and possible dangers could be doing you more harm than good.

As if dating isn't difficult enough, these popular misconceptions can make navigating the singles circle even more challenging. Myth: Men are from Mars Fact: Contrary to popular literature, men and women are both from planet Earth. You probably already knew this one was a myth, but some of the other falsehoods we'll expose here might surprise you. Find out how much you really know about the desires and motivations of the opposite sex.

The day-to-day commute is hard enough without having to pay $4 a gallon gas prices. It's not news that ever-rising gas prices can be a burden on your bank account. According to the New Jersey Public Interest Group (NJPIRG), the average family spends about $100 a week on gasoline-which is almost as much as what the average household spends on food.

Certain things are better left unsaid—especially these six bombshells. You can't stand your spouse's family. You make more money than your coworker. You've been sleeping with your boss for months. It's often said that honesty is the best policy, but by spilling certain secrets, you could be opening a Pandora's box. Which...

Don't let these toxic types bring you down. There are probably a few people you wish you could avoid--your mother-in-law, your nosy neighbor, or the woman at church who always asks you for a favor. Although you may not always enjoy their company, you know in your heart they mean well and that you shouldn't stay away from them entirely.

Here, some of the most unbelievable reasons people have found themselves searching for new employment. If there was ever a time when simply being qualified for a position was enough to prevent you from being fired, this most certainly is not it. In fact, there are entire websites devoted to people telling their most ridiculous stories of being let go. From posting a comic strip to talking behind a coworker's back, here are six of the craziest reasons people have ended up on the unemployment line: 1.

Although the holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, they can also be a time of stress and depression. Find out how you can avoid the holiday blues. Many of us will attend or host a winter holiday party this season. We have to balance normal work and home demands with special holiday events and shopping for gifts. Festive lights, warm fires, and family gatherings are common during the holidays, but unfortunately so are stress, anxiety, and sometimes, depression.

Learn about the key factors that will help you determine when you can set off on the road to retirement. Have you spent your entire working life dreaming of the time you could retire to worry-free, unscheduled existence? If so, it's important to remember that retirement isn't always that simple. It an emotional, financial, and physical change—and is not a decision that should be taken lightly.

Gain a spouse...and gain weight, too? Learn why tying the knot can contribute to unwanted pounds. You may have heard of the freshman 15-those inevitable pounds college students are likely to gain in their first year. But what about the newlywed 30? In a recent University of North Carolina study, which tracked 1,200 couples over a five-year period, married people gained six to nine pounds more than their single counterparts.

Don't worry, be happy. And you can be—if you follow these helpful tips. With the cost of living skyrocketing, the stock market plummeting, and a recession looming, it can be pretty hard to stay optimistic these days.  Yet according to ongoing research, a positive point of view will not only help you cope with adversity, it can also keep you healthier than your pessimistic peers.

It's all about her--or at least she thinks so. Learn how to spot the signs of an out-of-control bride. Every year, an estimated 2.3 million couples get married in the United States. And it's safe to assume that many of the brides have been dreaming about their perfect wedding day since they were little girls. Add to those already high expectations a sizable...

As these true stories prove, getting hitched doesn't always go off without a hitch. Every bride should look beautiful on her wedding day. Every groom should show up on time. And every couple should create memories they'll treasure for a lifetime. But certain wedding calamities-like food poisoning, last-minute cancellations, and run-ins with the law-can quickly transform a couple's dream day into a nuptial nightmare.

Learn how to navigate through minefields of misinformation and uncover the truth. Honesty may be the best policy, but it's not a policy people follow very often. In fact, according to a Cornell University study, people lie in roughly 25 percent of their daily interactions. How can you detect dishonesty in relationships, friendships, and business? It's easy, if you know how to spot the clues.

From matters of size to sex addiction, we answer your most blushworthy questions. How often do most people make love? Do certain foods boost your libido? Can men really have multiple orgasms? When it comes to copulation, there are probably lots of things you always wanted to know but were afraid to ask. That's why we've grilled the experts with your most intimate questions.

As it turns out, some U.S. locations are more lustful than others. Read on to see how your city stacks up. How often do you have sex? The answer may depend partly on where you live. As it turns out, some U.S. cities are hotbeds for love-making, while others are less than lustful. And where people are making the most whoopee might surprise you ("sin cities" like Las Vegas, Miami, and New York didn't even make our list).

Gruesome accidents and injuries run rampant on Independence Day. Find out how to keep your family safe. Fourth of July is a time for picnics, parades, and of course, patriotism. But for many Americans, the holiday may end very differently than it began--with a terrifying trip to the emergency room. In addition to common culprits like fireworks and grilling, Independence Day injuries often arise from seemingly safe sources, such as foods, drinks, and fun in the sun.

Sure, your diet and exercise schedules can contribute to your weight. But who knew that your job could, too? Ever-improving technology has replaced manual labor at many American jobs, making sedentary lifestyles commonplace. A whopping 60 percent of the population is overweight or obese, and occupations that require little or no movement certainly haven't helped.

Could you have cause for concern? What ever happened to the notion of "'Til death do us part"? With America's divorce rate sitting at sky-high levels, "'Til divorce do us part" is perhaps a more realistic wedding day exchange. But amid the startling statistics, it's important to remember that marriages rarely die overnight.

Every year, more than 5,000 people die from injuries sustained on the job. Find out who is most at risk. Who do you think has the most dangerous job in the world? Could it be the window washer, who dangles dozens of stories above the concrete? Perhaps it's the circus lion tamer, who regularly sticks his head in the mouths of roaring animals. Or maybe the people who perform wild stunts for action-packed movies.

By giving thanks for what you have and not dwelling on what you don't, you'll be happier this holiday season. Thanksgiving is supposed to be a time to reflect on people and events you are grateful for, but this year, with so much bad news about home mortgages, increased heating prices, and the reality of job cuts, it may seem hard to find reasons to be thankful.

It's important to begin capturing memories to pass along to the next generations of your family. The holidays are the perfect time to get started. Many of us congregate around the dining room table during the holidays, whether it's Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, or New Years. These are the times when families come together in the spirit of reunion and caring. We listen to Grandpa's stories about the good old days, and we watch Grandma put together that memorable recipe as no one else can.

Ending a friendship is never an easy decision. Here, what to do when a relationship isn't working anymore. Whether your buddy is behaving badly or you've simply grown apart, sometimes friendships must come to an end. But how can you conclude your relationship without starting a fight? The key, experts say, is to behave maturely, be as honest as possible, and follow a few strategies for a smooth transition.

Genetics plays a role in many of our health matters and actions, including learning from out mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes from time to time. But the way people deal with their errors is often vastly different. While some people dwell on their missteps or simply refuse to acknowledge them, others view their blunders as unique opportunities for self-improvement and personal growth.

A sense of humor and perspective can help you maintain your dignity—even in the most humiliating circumstances. You mistakenly sent a scandalous email about your love life to your entire company. Your mother-in-law accidentally walked in on you in the bathroom. You received an award, then tripped and fell on your way to the podium. Some embarrassing scenarios are unavoidable, while others can be prevented.

Can elective procedures boost your confidence and enhance your self-esteem? Over the past decade, television has been infiltrated by shows about elective surgery. Whether it's fictional dramas like Nip/Tuck or reality shows like Dr. 90210, cosmetic surgery seems to be everywhere. In fact, these shows' popularity has risen about as quickly as the popularity of plastic surgery itself.

When it comes to decision-making, relationships, and even health, intuition may be one of the greatest tools we have. Do you trust your gut instead of rationalizing your way through problems? Are you likely to stick with your first instincts about people rather than waiting to make character judgments? Do you ever question the beliefs of others because you had a hunch that you were right? If you answered yes to two or more of the above, chances are, you're an intuitive person.

Skepticism and pessimism can wreak havoc on your health. Here, how to make some important attitude adjustments. We all know someone who is deeply cynical: a friend, a relative, or perhaps even ourselves. A cynic is someone with an attitude of scornful or jaded negativity, who usually doesn't hide their feelings from anyone. In fact, cynics seem to be almost compelled to make others feel negative about their own lives as well.

Before you jump into an office relationship, ask yourself these important questions. Jim and Pam from The Office, Sam and Diane from Cheers, Meredith and Derek from Grey's Anatomy. They're all workplace sweethearts whose relationships, albeit fictional, have met with varying degrees of success. But what about in the real worldare office romances a good idea or an automatic career buster? A Common Occurrence According to a 2006 CareerBuilder.

As it turns out, heartbreak may be more than just a metaphor. You've seen the movies, read the books, and heard the stories of love and loss of people not being able to go on without their significant others. But is there really such a thing as a broken heart? A growing body of research suggests that the emotional trauma of losing someone you love may lay the groundwork for a genuine medical condition.

Are men really from Mars and women from Venus? Here, we explore the most common assumptions surrounding the sexes. Men are obsessed with sports, cars, and the remote control. Women are hopeless romantics who can't do math. These are just a few common myths about men and women. Are they just gender stereotypes, or do they contain nuggets of truth? Some studies suggest there are, in fact, distinct differences between the sexes.

An addiction to your job could compromise your health. Find out whether you're workaholic, and get on the road to recovery. Lately, your spouse has been complaining about the long hours you're putting in at work. Maybe you really want that promotion, or perhaps you just don't trust anyone else to get the job done. Whatever the reason, you've been glued to your desk for weeks, and your personal relationships are starting to suffer.

Do people walk all over you? Follow these tips to start becoming more assertive. We've all met those people who can't stand up for themselves. Even when they know they should be assertive, they can't express their opinions. When others try to take advantage of them, they can't seem to take charge of the situation. And no matter how overwhelmed they are, they'll never say no or ask others for help.

Keep these tips in mind to find the right nursery or day-care center for your child. No one can care for your child the same way that you do, but there are many care providers who can offer a safe, comfortable atmosphere for kids. The key, of course, is finding the right provider for your child. As a parent, keep in mind that you aren't just looking for a babysitter to stay next to your kids while they watch TV and become couch potatoes.

Do you see the glass as half-empty or half-full? Your answer could have major effects on your health. They're like night and day: Optimists manage to maintain a sunny outlook, even in the worst of times; pessimists assume the darkest possible outcomes, even when things are going their way. Which one are you? A growing body of research suggests that your answer could affect not only your attitude, but also your health, success, and longevity.

An ever-growing topic among psychologists, emotional intelligence can play a significant role in your job, your relationships, and your own self-worth. Emotional intelligence (EI) is a hot topic these days. But what exactly is emotional intelligence, and why is it so important? According to Daniel Goleman's groundbreaking book, Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ, while intelligence quotient (IQ) is a measurement of cognitive abilities, emotional intelligence is more difficult to quantify.

Want to lose weight, quit smoking, or start saving this year? These simple tips can help you achieve your goals. New Year's is a time for fresh beginnings and lifestyle changes. So, making resolutions and sticking with them may seem easy for the first few weeks of the year. Once February rolls around, however, willpower often lags, and New Year's goals generally fall by the wayside.

Follow these 10 tips to live a healthier lifestyle in the new year and beyond. Many people ring in the new year with the best of intentions. They resolve to hit the gym, improve their eating patterns, and kick their bad habits to the curb. But just a few weeks later, those resolutions are usually forgotten, and they've reverted to their old ways.

Nearly everyone has procrastinated, perhaps putting off a load of laundry, but for some, procrastination rules their lives. Here are five reasons people procrastinate. Did you put off going to the gym last week? Is there an unfinished scrapbook buried in your closet or an expired gift card in your wallet? We're all guilty of occasional procrastination, but some people become what experts call chronic procrastinators.

Our warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season and a happy new year. 'Tis the season for gratitudeand here at QualityHealth, we're truly grateful for all the kindness, goodwill, and cheer you've shown us throughout the year. From emailing us your most pressing health questions to providing support in our forums and sharing...

To keep your family out of harm's way, follow these simple guidelines. December is the time of year for decorations, houseguests, and lots of parties. But along with fun and festivities, it can also bring about potential hazards. Follow these tips for a safe holiday season: Keep trees fresh. Choose a fresh Christmas tree, and secure it in a sturdy stand.

See if yours made the list. Are you a daycare worker, caregiver, or full-time waitress? If so, you may be at a higher risk of becoming depressed. A national survey recently examined 21 major occupational categories and found that people who change diapers, tend to the elderly, and wait tables have the highest rates of depression, while the lowest rates occur among engineers, architects, and surveyors.

Like many things in life, New Year's resolutions are easy to make but hard to keep. Follow these tips to make lasting changes. This year, you've vowed to lose weight, shape up, and cut back on caffeine. Or perhaps you're determined to quit smoking for good. Maybe you've decided it's time to get to bed early, no matter what. If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone—more than 100 million Americans make New Year's resolutions every year, according to researchers at the University of Washington.

Long hours, a heavy workload, and the office candy jar can all take a toll on your waistline. Follow these tips to stay slim on the job. You worked hard to land that dream job, and now you're looking forward to watching your bank account grow. But instead, it's your dress size that's been growing. Quick doughnuts on the way to work, snacks between meetings, and late-afternoon trips to the vending machine are all taking a toll on your waistline.

After getting no answers from doctors about her severe pain, numbness, and tingling, Karen Calvert finally discovered the cause of her problems: multiple sclerosis. Learn about her courageous journey. Karen Calvert, a retired educator, wife, and mother of two in Columbia, South Carolina, discusses her frustrating and agonizing journey with multiple sclerosisand explains how family, friends, and faith have kept her going. My life was very full and active.

For many, the holidays are a time to celebrate... For many, the holidays are a time to celebrate with family and friends. But for some, the season can bring on feelings of intense stress and sadness. In fact, an estimated 10 million Americans, or about 6 percent of the U.S. population, experience these feelings in their most extreme form--a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

No matter how far away you live, these strategies can help you improve the time spent with an aging loved one. An estimated 6.9 million Americans are struggling to care for an aging parent or loved one who lives far away, according to Caring from a Distance (CFAD), an independent, nonprofit organization created by men and women who personally struggled with the anguish, stress, and frustration of long-distance care.

Follow these steps to make the holiday season easier for you and a loved one who lives far away. If you're caring for an elderly parent or loved one who lives far away, you're not alone. According to the National Institute on Aging, approximately 7 million adults are long-distance caregivers. And perhaps at no time is the challenge of long-distance caregiving greater than when you can't be there for the holidays.

Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease can be a challenge. Follow these tips to make it easier. According to the National Alzheimer's Association, more than 10 million Americans are currently caring for a relative with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. Although the task can be challenging and even overwhelming at times, there are things you can do to ease the process.

Learn how to spot the warning signs--and break the vicious cycle. Controlling spouses, unstable siblings, friends you just can't trust. Does any of this sound familiar? If so, you may be in a toxic relationship--and you're not alone. According to experts, most Americans have struggled with at least one unhealthy social bond by the time they're in their late teens, and sadly, many continue to endure these connections throughout their lives.

Want to enjoy the festivities without piling on the pounds? Check out our top eight tips. It starts with Halloween and plastic pumpkins full of sugary treats, then continues through Thanksgiving weekend, with plentiful mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, pies, and leftover turkey sandwiches. And December is a minefield of high-calorie traps: office parties, cookie exchanges, and that food-filled week between Christmas and New Year's Day.

Find out if you're sending the right signals. According to a groundbreaking UCLA study, it takes just 30 seconds to make a lasting impression on someone—and 55 percent of that impression is based on a common set of nonverbal cues. For example, crossing your arms may be perceived as standoffish, while raising your eyebrows could gain you a reputation as a flirt.

Get the top eight signs, and learn how to break the cycle. Perfectionists often believe that doing everything right can win them success, acceptance, even love. But sadly, their seemingly flawless behavior can actually undermine their efforts. According to counselors at the University of Illinois, the desire to be perfect can rob people of their sense of personal satisfaction, preventing them from achieving as much as those with more realistic goals.

Are your feelings of discomfort just shyness, or a sign of a more serious health condition? Here's how to tell the difference. Imagine this: A woman hates to stand in line at the grocery store--not because she's impatient, but because she's afraid that everyone is watching her. As she approaches the clerk, she becomes anxious and self-conscious. Her heart begins to race, her face turns red, and she begins to sweat.

Desks and cubicles may seem benign, but they're often a breeding ground for bacteria. Follow these six tips to stay healthy at work. If you're like most Americans, you put in long hours at work--and you have less time off than anyone in the developed world (U.S. workers average 13 vacation days a year, while the Japanese have 25, the Canadians take 26, and the French enjoy 37). Is all that time at the office making you sick? It could be, according to a study conducted by the University of Arizona.

How sick is too sick for work? Follow our cold and flu guidelines. Everybody knows what it's like to wake up with a cold. You feel groggy, congested, and exhausted. In a perfect world, you could sleep the day away. But if you do that, your boss won't be happy. After all, you're not in grade school anymore, so when is it acceptable to call in sick to work? Could It Be Contagious? On average, adults get two to four colds a year, according to the American Lung Association.

It's often said that you can never be too rich or too thin--but can you be too nice? According to a recent University of Iowa study, excessively nice people often feel as if they have no control over their decisions, thoughts, or opinions. As a result, they can become resentful, frustrated, even depressed. Are you too nice for your own good? 10 Telltale Signs That You're Too Nice 1.

As the average life span continues to increase, more people are requiring caregivers in their later years. Here, a look at the trend by the numbers. At some point, most of us will care for an elderly loved one with a debilitating illness. In fact, an estimated 80 percent of all care received by older Americans is provided by family member spouses, children, grandchildren, and other relatives. Here, a look at the phenomenon by the numbers.

These strategies can help you cope with the most common caregiver emotions. When you're caring for an elderly loved one, it's normal to feel sad or discouraged from time to time. Ignoring your feelings won't make them go away; in fact, it may even make them grow stronger. Instead, try these six suggestions from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.

When it comes to assisted living, understanding all of the options available can be a challenge. Here, the most frequently asked questions and answers. It's never easy when an aging loved one needs to move to a residential facility. But understanding the basics in advance can help ease the transition when the time comes. As you and your loved one prepare for the future, refer to this Frequently Asked Questions guide provided by the national nonprofit Consumer Consortium on Assisted Living (CCAL).

A new study shows that preparedness makes all the difference when it comes to caregiving. Findings from the CVS/pharmacy and Caring Today 2007 "Caregiver Insights Study: Well-Being and Care Management" indicate that family caregivers find the caregiving experience more enjoyable than expected. Findings further revealed that those caregivers who were better prepared to fill the caregiver role and responsibilities had more positive experiences than those who were unprepared.

Millions of women and girls are affected by ADHD, but they're rarely diagnosed. Learn how to spot the symptoms. yes When most people hear the term "Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder" (ADHD), it conjures images of children, usually male ones. And there's some data to support that: According to the National Institute of Mental Health, experts estimate that ADHD affects 3 to 5 percent of school-age children, the majority of them boys.

Feeling stressed out? Regain your calm with these tips. Sometimes daily life can get the best of us, and our stress levels can zoom off the charts. With family issues, workplace worries, and day-to-day obligations, anxiety can take a toll on how we feel, both physically and emotionally. To ease feelings of anxiety or tension, try these methods of stress reduction: 1.

Understand your choices for better decision-making. It goes without saying that those of us who see our aging parents' needs change want for them exactly what we would want for ourselves. Quite simply, we want them to have the right care at the right time in the right place. But wanting it and knowing what it means specifically for our moms or dads, understanding what our options are, and knowing where to find reliable information on each option isn't at all simple.

12 Ways to Beat Exhaustion and Burnout For caregivers, juggling the demands of work and family with parenting our own parents can be a struggle. Just listen to the emotional turmoil expressed by fellow caregivers attempting to manage a turbulent, uncharted course and fill a role they most definitely never wished for In Their Own Words "It's like no experience I've ever had.

When it comes to caregiving, what you don't know can hurt you. None of us relishes the fact that our parents are getting older, their health conditions are getting more serious, and their needs are escalating. So many of us choose not to think about a time when they might need long-term care services, much less begin to plan for it.