We learn to read, drive a car, and manage our schedules. Similarly, we can learn to manage our emotions toward a happier, more productive life. As I tell my patients-an antidepressant, or any drug, works for as long as you take it. Investing in learning emotional skills, is education that will last a lifetime. Some specific psychotherapies, for example, work as well as medications, according to lots of research-and they're drug-free, and everlasting.

In my Weekly Wellness Tips, I'll be posting advice I commonly give my patients. This advice is based on studies, as well as my years of experience as a psychiatrist. Many of these tips are simple, even obvious. They can make a big difference.