I call one of my relatives a “bad news bear.” Although he has good intentions, his spewing out the world’s greatest tragedies every few minutes does not help me. In fact, all that worrying and anxiety could hurt. After calling him out on it, he said his main intention was concern. I get that.

I think parents today are like him. They just want to protect their children from the onslaught of offenders who are posted up all over the news 24/7.

If you love someone, however, how do you best protect them?

I think there is a balance between caring and being overprotective. And everyone deals with this in their own way. Some loved ones may minimize your pain because they hurt seeing you upset. That’s why they say things like, “I’m sure you’ll feel better soon” or “Try to think more positively.” In a way, I think they are telling themselves that to lessen their own pain. I also think parents who are extra protective with their kids are only doing what they think is best.

Keep that in mind as you read our top 5 posts this week.

Practice compassion for yourself and compassion for others. Maybe then, and only then, we’ll eventually figure out a balance between caring for others and stifling them.

Toxic Thinking Patterns – How Pseudo “Feel-Goods” Put a Hold On Your Brain

(Neuroscience & Relationships) – Talk about perpetual worry and anxiety! This post explains why toxic thinking is so intoxicating.

Are Inconsistent Parenting Styles Harmful?

(Always Learning) – So he’s the disciplinarian and you’re the fun parent? Is the difference in the way you parent harmful for your kids? Don’t argue over who’s parenting styles is better yet! Read this instead.

Mindfulness and Addiction: Part I

(Mindfulness & Psychotherapy) -Did you know that one in eight Americans suffers with addictive behaviors regarding drugs or alcohol and it costs society approximately 250 billion dollars per year? As shocking as that is, know that whatever your addiction, being mindful can help.

The Downside of Protecting Our Kids

(Anxiety & OCD Exposed) – If you have been a parent for awhile, you may wonder why parents nowadays are so cautious with their kids. If you’re a new parent, you’ll relate with this post. The media perpetuates an increasing need for kid’s safety. But how far do we really need to go to keep them safe? This blogger contemplates the pros and cons of protecting our kids.

Healing the Emptiness Inside You

(The Therapist Within) – I used to have a stuffed dog that said, “I’m so lonely.” I couldn’t stand that thing. It reminded me of what most of us fear-the fear of feeling alone and empty. This post provides a fresh, more hopeful perspective to what we fear most.

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    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 26 Jul 2011
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.