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Eating and emotions go hand-in-hand for many who are trying to drop a few pounds and also, for people who find themselves losing weight unintentionally. Many people report eating when they’re anxious, sad, depressed, lonely or worried. In fact, a new, online poll of psychologists, affiliated with the American Psychological Association, strongly indicates that emotions are a significant obstacle to weight loss, for some people.

From the dawn of civilization, there has been evidence of people's struggles to understand and come to terms with the fact that they are going to die. For some, the fear of death, or "death anxiety," is so crippling, it interferes with their ability to live a normal life. However, it is possible to manage this anxiety and keep the fear of death from gripping your life.

The benefits of meditation – a calmer mind, less stress and enhanced, overall health, are of benefit to everyone. Starting a meditation practice, however, requires more than simply sitting cross legged in a quiet room and closing your eyes, although that’s a good place to start. Engaging in mindfulness and meditation takes some effort, as all meaningful endeavors do and is more easily grasped, and most effective, when guided by seasoned teachers. These five books, specifically geared towards individuals new to the practice, are a great place to start.

One distinctive symptom of depression is a feeling of helplessness and despair. Many people who suffer from depression report feeling a lack of control over their symptoms or the situation that they believe is causing their depression. If left untreated, these feelings of lack of control can become worse, and may lead to other symptoms, such as suicidal thoughts. Learn more about how depression can overtake your sense of control as well as what you can do about it.