A Picture Really is Worth a Thousand Words

We have all heard the phrase, “a picture is worth a thousand words”. Instinctively, we acknowledge the wisdom this phrase shares because we have all been touched by a special photo.

Because of this intangible property, the use of photography has been used for decades in the field of psychology. Psychiatrists often use photos to initiate discussions and generate communication about one’s feelings. Described as “PhotoTherapy”, the use of photos can both evoke and document emotions.

In the same way, photos generate many emotions that can be beneficial to your families’ mental health. Photos have been noted by many psychiatrists for their “modeling” purposes. Displaying self portraits allows you to see yourself in the light that others often see you—smiling and beautiful—or in other words, exhibiting a positive mood. This visualization reinforces our tendencies to maintain a positive mood. Displaying family portraits allows for role rehearsal or modeling of future parenting roles. David Krauss, Ph.D., states that family photographs promote the transition to parenthood via modeling or ritualization which enhances commitment to the parenting role. No wonder those poses we hang on our walls exhibit our best faces and behaviors. Happy faces with family members sitting close by with arms around each other. These are the type of behaviors we want to our children to emulate.

When it comes to children, photos may even have a greater affect. As early as 1978, therapist used Polaroid cameras to make portraits of children in therapy. Dr. Smith relates, “the contributions of photographing a child as part of therapy include giving the child a greater sense of power and self determination, affirming identity and creating a better self image”.

And if a picture is really worth a thousand words, then imagine a child’s feeling of well being when he sees his own image reflected all around the house. Dr. Krauss author of Photo Therapy in Mental Health, also says “Photos should be displayed because kids who see themselves on view, feel loved and valued. What it says to a child is ‘I am important’ to the extent my parents acknowledge and honor my presence with wall space.

The portraits on display in my home often evoke warm emotions and generate family conversation. They include our extended family and remind my children that they are surrounded by people who love them. With this in mind, I would like to invite each of you to schedule a portrait session with Michaelangelo’s. Cheryl DeBono is the photographer that captured the wonderful portraits of my children on display in my office (and home). I have asked Cheryl to be your families’ “photo-therapist”.

This portrait session and a 8 x 10 photo are a gift from my office in support of your families’ emotional health. I hope it gives you and your children a thousand words worth of happiness.

You may contact Michaelangelo’s at 440-846-8900. Please tell them that you are scheduling for your free portrait session and 8 x 10 photo courtesy of Dr. Viscomi. Call now to schedule, but I suggest that you arrange this appointment around your birthday. As with your annual physical exam, your birthday will serve to remind you that it is time for another session of PhotoTherapy.

HOUSE CALLs

Page Three

The Newsletter of Jeffrey J. Viscomi, M.D.

In This Issue:

· Minding Your Mind’s Own Business

· Five prescriptions for Happiness

· A Picture Really is Worth a Thousand Words

· Exercising Your Mind

· Nutrition for your Mental Health