Discerning the difference between viral and bacterial infections makes all the difference in the treatment advice your doctor will give you. No amount of antibiotics will make a dent in a viral infection.

When we move beyond matter, we see a similarity in the way some of us turn to mood enhancing substances, both licit and illicit, to deal with "soul pain". Of course just as there is a legitimate use of antibiotics to fight bacterial infections, there is a legitimate use of many medications prescribed by doctors to deal with physiological problems that have psychological manifestations.

The catch comes in psychological discomfort or "soul pain" which has no physiological basis. There is a strong tendency for us to turn to medication, either professionally- or self-prescribed, to help us cope. The fact is, no amount of mood altering or enhancing substances will ever make a difference in the underlying problems we’re trying to deal with.

Recognizing the true source of our pain and dealing with it appropriately is far better in the long run than medicating the symptoms.

For Reflection:

• How do you feel about doing the observation and reflection needed to discover the real source of any psychological distress you may be experiencing?
• What are some concrete steps you could take to deal with personal soul pain or friction spots in relationships?