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    Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

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  • Stress blog

  • Jan. 10, 2013

    Adversity offers opportunity for personal growth

    By Edward T. Creagan, M.D.

6 comments posted

Recent reader comments tell of challenging and sometimes painful experiences — stories of loss, betrayal and fractured relationships. We don't "get over" this stuff.

Need more help?

If the stress in your life is more than you can cope with, get help right away.

  • National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
    1-800-273-TALK (8255)
  • Go to the nearest hospital or emergency room
  • Call your physician, health provider or clergy
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness
    www.nami.org
    1-800-950-NAMI (6264)

We have to deal with it. We have to go "through it" and, if we're lucky, we arrive on the other side as more empowered and insightful people. Life never quite gets back to normal. There's a time of recalibration and eventually something like a new normal emerges.

If we stay the course with the help of people we can count on, we develop a heightened sensitivity and empathy for others going through adversity.

Yes, time does help, but it isn't always enough. Having someone who can relate to your loss, whether it's a professional counselor, friend or family member, can be lifesaving.

Follow me on Twitter at @EdwardCreagan. Join the discussion at #Stress.

6 comments posted

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MY02342 Jan. 10, 2013

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