Substance Abuse

Is it a sign of personal weakness or strength for a woman to admit that she has a problem with alcohol or drugs?

I believe it is a sign of personal strength to admit one has an addiction. Having personally known an alcoholic. I have seen the struggle to come out of the drunkenness, and face the reality they were trying to escape. The issue of addiction is a lack of control, and to admit to yourself and others that you are out of control is a sign of strength.

Eating Disorders

What should a woman do if she has a friend whom she suspects to have an eating disorder? What if the friend denies it? (Do not use this question again if you already answered it
With any type of personal issue with a friend the best way to address it honestly and directly. If the friend denies having a problem it is important to try to have your friend talk about what issues are going in their life, and try to get her to realize the changes that have occurred in her body from your point of view. If the friend remains in denial than professional help will need to be introduced in order to take the steps needed to help someone with an eating disorder.

CVD

Heart disease has claimed the life of quite a few members of my family, Including my mother and father. My father traveled most of the time for work and did not maintain a proper diet. My father was also overweight and had high cholesterol. I know, all of the typical warning signs right? At the age that my father passed I was unaware of what CVD was. From my own family history I must say that diet is a serious concern and would contribute greatly to the prevalence of the disease. I am not sure if father had any serious talks with his doctor regarding his heart health, but I am sure lack of education on the subject contributed to his early death. Since becoming an adult I have made serious efforts to protect my heart health of myself and my family.