Monsters to be Ganked

select your monster for combat strategies

• Abandonment

• Abuse

• Addiction

• ADHD

• Alcoholism

• Allergies – Food

• Allergies – General

• Amputation

• Anorexia Nervosa

• Anxiety

• Apathy/Numbness

• Arthritis

• Asthma

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Bipolar Disorder

• Bisexuality

• Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors

• Borderline Personality Disorder

• Bullying

• Cardiovascular Disease

• Chronic Neurological Lyme Disease

• Chronic Pain

• Constant Relocation

• Cooking (I @*#$ Can’t)

• Crohn’s Disease

• Cystic Fibrosis

• Depression

• Diabetes Type 1

• Diabetes Type 2

• Diet

• Discouragement

• Dissociation

• Divorce

• Domestic Violence

• Dyslexia

• Eating Disorder

• Emotional Abuse

• Epilepsy

• Estrangement

• Exhaustion

• Failure

• Family vs. Deployment

• Fear

• Fibromyalgia

• Fitness

• Gastroparesis

• Grief and Loss

• Guilt

• Heartbreak

• Homelessness

• Homesickness

• Hopelessness

• Infant Loss

• Infertility

• Insomnia

• Life Support Decision

• Loneliness

• Lousy Day

• Low Self-Esteem

• Lung Cancer

• Lupus

• Marriage Troubles

• Mental Illness

• Migraines

• Miscarriage

• Multiple Sclerosis

• Narcissistic Abuse

• Nasty Breakup

• Neuromuscular Disease

• Night Terrors

• Nightmares

• Obesity

• OCD

• Panic Attacks

• Physical Injury/Recovery

• Poor Grades

• Poverty

• Primary Ciliary Diskinesia

• Psychosis

• PTSD

• Rage

• Relationship Struggles

• Retirement

• Scleroderma

• Selective Mutism

• Self-Harm

• Self-Hatred

• Sexual Assault/Rape

• Sexuality

• Skin Troubles

• Spina Bifidia

• Stalking

• Stress

• Suicide

• Teething Child

• Terminal Illness

• Things Breaking in My @!*&^# House

• Things Breaking on My &*^@#$ Car

• Thyroid Disease(s)

• Tight Income

• Time Management

• Undiagnosed Illness

• Unemployment

• Unfulfillment

• Unhealthy Relationship

• Unplanned Pregnancy

• Weight Issues/Body Image

• Abandonment

  "You matter, idjit. You're fightin' a jerk of a monster, so be generous to yourself an' get help. ...And watch yourself: if you ain't careful, this beast'll make you a monster, too."

  • Research
  • Combat strategies
  • Salt circle

• Abuse

  "It ain't your fault. And there ain't no excuse. End it."

  • Call these people
  • Salt circle
  • For women
  • For men
  • For teens

  *see Emotional Abuse

• Addiction

  "This beast'll keep y'down by shaming you when y'relapse. Flip it the birdie, give yourself a pat on the back, and keep swingin'."

  • Start here
  • If someone you love is an addict
  • Salt circles for any addiction situation
  • The bunker

  *see Alcoholism, Self Harm

• ADHD

  "This monster will have you chasin' your tail and gettin' nowhere fast.  Good thing we got just the tools fer taming this critter."

  • Is this your monster (adult)?
  • Is this your monster (child)?
  • Silver bullets for parents/caregivers
  • Battle strategies
  • Battle buddy 1
  • Battle buddy 2
  • Resources for USA, UK, Canada
  • Poison the monster

• Alcoholism

  "I've seen the bottom of too many bottles to count, but that don't mean it's right.  My old man was a mean, drunk cuss and one of my biggest fears was turning out just like him. There's a crap ton of reasons to drink, but there's just as many to quit. Check out the arsenal, there's a stockpile of good tools.  If at first ya don't succeed, try again, ya idjit."

  • Is this your monster?
  • Research
  • Combat strategies
  • Cover your six
  • Salt circle 1
  • Salt circle 2 (for teens)
  • Holy water
  • Battle Buddies: 1  2  3 4

• Allergies – Food

  "We all gotta eat. Your body just knows what it likes better'n the rest of ours do. Here's some tips to keep you movin' and chowin' down on the good stuff."

  • Silver bullets
  • Combat strategies
  • Eat out
  • Salt circle
  • Gluten Battle Buddy
  • Dairy Battle Buddy
  • Battle Buddy for parents

• Allergies – General

  "When the world's out to get ya, y'gotta move real careful-like. Here's some info to give you a strong start. At the end of the day, you're still here, kid, an' that's a victory. Keep moving; you got this."

  • Do your research
  • Get the big picture
  • Combat strategies
  • Salt circle
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Battle Buddy 3

• Amputation

  "I been stuck in a chair with two legs - useless as a DVD rewinder. It ain't no picnic feeling like a part of you just ain't there no more. I'll let you in on a little secret: ain't nobody's life a bed of roses all the time. Get your head in the right place and know that you've got an slew of battle hardened-buddies ready and willing to help you through. "

  • Silver bullets
  • For kids
  • International resources
  • Stay current
  • Battle Buddy 1

• Anorexia Nervosa

  "Being eaten from the inside out ain't no way to live.  This monster straight up lies to yer face no matter what ya see in the mirror. It's time to quit buyin' what it's sellin' and get to gankin'.  There are people who cherish you; hell, I'm one of 'em.  You ain't on this hunt alone.  I'll rally an army if need be, but we'll beat this together.  That's what family is here for, kid."

  • Get a clear view with a quiz
  • Do your research
  • Additional info for males
  • For family and friends
  • Battle Buddy
  • Get immediate backup U.S. / U.K. / Australia

• Anxiety

   "The secret this monster wants t'keep from you is this: since the day you were born, you've been bigger'n the bumps in the road or the snags in your mind."

  • Understand this monster
  • Research
  • Silver bullets
  • For panic attacks
  • The bunker

• Apathy/Numbness

  "You'll be hollowed like a Thanksgivin' turkey by this one if you ain't careful. You'll feel you got nothin', but it ain't true. Don't let it twist your head -- get backup. This ain't over."

  • Daily motivators
  • Combat strategy 1
  • Combat strategy 2
  • Battle Buddy

• Arthritis

  "Your joints squeaking louder'n the doors on Baby?  It's hell to get old, but don't let yourself rustn' fall apart. Squeak loud enough an' you get the oil. Go for it." 

  • Know your monster
  • Silver bullets
  • Iron fire poker
  • For kids
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2

• Asthma

  "About as welcome as a leper in a hot tub, this monster sucks the life outta the party.  Have a plan; stick to it.  You ain't doin' anyone any favors if you're gulpin' air like a fish outta water.  You may not know when this monster is gonna show up, but be ready to show it the business side of yer boot."

  • Is this your monster?
  • Research
  • Cover your six
  • Make an action plan
  • For family/caregivers
  • Salt circles
  • Holy water
  • Battle Buddy 

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

  " Autism didn’t stop Einstein. Listen here, you’ve got greatness inside you, too. Learnin’ differently means you’re determined, and that’s the first step to beating the tar outta this slippery devil. Here are some tools to stock yer trunk. Keep yer backup close and remember I’m always right here."

  • Combat strategies
  • For friends and family
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Literature & database
  • Response Team
  • Get tech on your side

• Bipolar Disorder

  "Flyin' high and feelin' fine is one thing but crashin' n burnin' is a whole other.  Livin' on a tilt-o-whirl ain't no way to keep yer feet under ya so let's throw a wrench in the works and get you back on track."

  • Get the facts
  • Stock up on ammo
  • For family and friends
  • Salt circle
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Get tech on your side
  • Go for a drive in Baby

• Bisexuality

  "First off, you are you, kid.  Yer loved and cherished, and I don't give two hoots who you make your life with so long as it's a good life. As for telling others or not, that's up ta you, too.  You've got all the power here. Help yerself to some kickass body armor and don't feel fer a second that yer less than ready."

  • Focus your sight
  • Combat strategies
  • For parents and family
  • Crisis backup
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Sawed-off shotgun

• Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors

  "I know I've yanked myself fist fulls of hair dealing with more than my share of idijits.  Tell this twitchy, itchy SOB to pack its sorry ass back to Scabville.  I've done the research; it's gonna be a hard beast to evict, but each day y'keep it away is a victory.  I'll stand right here with the rock salt locked and loaded."

  • Learn the bastard's secrets
  • Load the silver bullets
  • Salt circle
  • Rescue other Hunters

• Borderline Personality Disorder

  "Y'got your hands full with this one, kid. But part of being a Hunter is goin' after monsters nobody thinks can be caught. Don't go alone, and keep your knives sharp. You got this."

  • Delve into this database
  • Get a clear view of your prey
  • Silver bullets
  • For the friend/relative of someone on this Hunt
  • Salt circle 1
  • Salt circle 2

• Bullying

  "This monster has an expiration date and a trunkload of vulnerabilities. Don't hunt it alone. And make damn sure it doesn't bite you'n turn you into one of its own"

  • Silver bullets
  • Resources for victims and advocates
  • Cyberbullying
  • Sawed-off shotgun
  • If you're feeling suicidal
  • Are you a bully?

• Cardiovascular Disease

  "A bum ticker's nothin' to joke about. Don't shove it to the back burner and forget about it...if ya do, don't come lookin' for me when everything goes up in flames.  Get yerself checked out. Regularly. I wouldn't chance it, and you shouldn't either.  The clock's ticking...don't be an idjit."

  • Research
  • Battle strategies - women
  • Battle strategies - men
  • Silver bullets
  • Cover your six
  • Breathe
  • Salt circle
  • Get tech on your side

• Chronic Neurological Lyme Disease

  "Talk about biting off more than you can chew ... this little critter packs a punch that can leave ya spinnin' your wheels.  Hit the brakes, kiddo. This hunt will take some time, and you gotta get organized and be kind to yourself while yer at it."

  • Identify the monster
  • Understand the monster
  • Bulk up your defenses
  • Battle Buddy

• Chronic Pain

  "This ain't no 'pop two aspirin' kinda pain.  This monster stakes a claim and sets up shop.  Kick his sorry keister to the curb with these strategies."

  • Identify the bastard
  • Stand your ground
  • Consider teaming up
  • Silver bullets
  • For friends and family
  • Salt circles - U.S.A. / International
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Get music on your side
  • Flick on a lighter

• Constant Relocation

  "Home don’t gotta be four walls and a roof.  Hell, just look at my boys; they made that old Impala their home. But it ain't home 'cause they sleep cold nights on those bench seats. It's a touchstone, a talisman, a symbol reassuring that all the shit's gonna get handled and they'll wake up swingin’. Find your Impala, kid."

  • Combat strategies
  • Silver bullets
  • Moving for work?
  • Moving for the military?
  • Get technology on your side
  • Helpful database

• Cooking (I @*#$ Can’t)

  "Seems a simple thing. Isn't, though. Found these for ya. Should take the head-scratchin' right outta things."

  • This lady can help you
  • Keep it simple
  • You can't (hopefully) mess these recipes up

• Crohn’s Disease

  "Sittin' on the crapper is no way to spend yer day!  Between the cramps and the fatigue, you got enough reasons to send this monster back to the sewers where he belongs."

  • Load up on ammo
  • Salt circles and iron clubs
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Angel blade

• Cystic Fibrosis

  "The way I see it, you're gonna wanna give up. Don't. Keep hunting for the right combination that unlocks the chains that this monster has on ya.  I want ya to repeat after me: I CAN DO THIS. Now don't prove us wrong, ya moron."

  • Research
  • Silver bullets
  • Fund the hunt
  • For caregivers/parents
  • Salt circle
  • Battle Buddy
  • Amulets
  • Get tech on your side IOS Google

• Depression

  "This one will make ya feel the fight's gone right outta you. But it ain't. Don't let it push ya into givin' up. Take it from someone who knows: givin' up ain't worth it. Keep swingin'."

  • Are you depressed?
  • Research
  • The bunker
  • Keep moving
  • Angel Blade 1
  • Angel Blade 2
  • For friends/family

• Diabetes Type 1

  "People have been fighting demons from the inside for a long time and Diabetes don't fight fair.  You start feelin' woozie or cranky it ain't you...it's the monster. Stay steady and do what needs to be done, kid."

  • Study up on the bastard
  • Stockpile weapons
  • Connect with experienced Hunters: a / b / c
  • Cover your six
  • Track new weaponry
  • Encouragement

• Diabetes Type 2

  "When yer body can't keep up with ya, nobody's at their best.  Here's a game plan that'll get you runnin' in top fightin' form.  Don't overthink it, ya idjit.  Moderation is the key to snuffing this beast."

  • Learn your monster inside and out
  • Get dependable backup
  • Don't travel alone
  • Angel blade
  • Ammo
  • Encouragement

• Diet

  "Seems like you should be able to do whatever ... and then ya can't. Big deal. Re-assess. Get new information. Make a new plan. You ain't beat just yet."

  • Combat options
  • Salt circle
  • Battle Buddy
  • An ally: your phone

• Discouragement

  "Everybody fights this jerk, but some fight it better'n others. They sit the heck down and breathe. They're patient. They ask for help. Now, these ain't an innate skills -- they're practiced -- so don't worry if y'fail. And so help me -- if you get discouraged about being discouraged, I will come 'round and smack you upside the noggin. You're bigger'n this rat!"

  • Combat strategies
  • Silver bullets
  • Visit the bunker (esp. "the comfort spot")

• Dissociation

  "Are ya looking at a stranger in the mirror? Recovery is your best revenge, kiddo.  I don't know what went down to yank a knot in your tail, but that beast is working on borrowed time. From here on out, you quit buyin' what it's sellin, ya hear me? Give that nasty a one-fingered salute from me and both the boys. You've got a family at yer back and that's a hell of'a lot bigger, badder and stronger than any monster yer hunting."

  • Get the bastard in your sights
  • Research
  • The devil's in the details
  • Cover your six
  • Salt circle
  • Battle Buddy
  • For family and friends
  • Angel blade

• Divorce

  "Kid, some battles just ain't meant to be won. Don't mean anythin' about your worth or skills. Even the best hunter can't save everyone. What y'can do is take care of yourself. Don't think too hard -- just do it."

  • Silver bullets
  • Combat strategies
  • For parents
  • For youth
  • For friends/family
  • The bunker

• Domestic Violence

  "This...is pain an' betrayal beyond...anything. Know that it ain't your fault. Know you have more allies an' resources than you realize. And, for the love of god, don't let it turn you into itself later in life."

  • Refuse to be alone in this
  • Research and resources
  • Combat strategies
  • When you see abuse

• Dyslexia

  "Readin' and book learnin'  just don't come easy to some. Don't beat yourself up about it, kid. This hunt is won by makin' the effort, not just by the results at the end of one day. I ain't puttin' on no mini skirt or wavin' fool Pom Poms, but I'm rootin' for ya just the same."

  • Is this your monster?
  • Check the research
  • Silver bullets
  • Resources for parents
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2

• Eating Disorder

  "Know that you're fightin' a monster who'll never play fair. Make it your mission t'be unrealistically, stupidly kind to yourself. And don't hunt alone."

  • Research and resources
  • Get a mentor
  • Salt circle for eating disorders
  • Salt circle for food addiction
  • Specifically for men
  • Angel blade

• Emotional Abuse

  "This bastard's invisible. But it's like a ghost - it has obvious signs, so don't ignore 'em. Get help. An'remember: you deserve kindness. This ain't your fault." 

  • Are you being emotionally abused?
  • Are you the abuser? (signs for men and women)
  • Identify this monster
  • Relationship Bill of Rights
  • Silver bullets

• Epilepsy

  "This twitchy bastard'll scramble yer melon quicker than ya can blink. It ain't no walk in the park for those around, neither.  Stay sharp and exorcise this beastie.  You're in fer a fight, but stay smart and keep hackin' away."

  • Learn the bastard's secrets
  • Get the big picture
  • Silver bullets
  • Explore and expand the archives
  • For family and friends
  • 24/7 backup

• Estrangement

  "Trust me, this one'll burn like air on an open blister some days ... an' other days, it'll feel like a cold beer on a hot afternoon. Remember what got you here and use your backup."

  • Research
  • Silver bullets
  • Strategies for parents

• Exhaustion

  "I'm sorry honey, but you ain't the Energizer Bunny. Lack of rest don't equal toughness. I know life boxes us in, but if you're carryin' so many layers of weariness y'can't even express it ... it ain't normal. Get backup." 

  • Research
  • Silver bullets
  • Combat strategies

• Failure

  "Failure is part of life, kiddo. If you don't fail, you don't learn, and let's face it, if you don't learn, y'never change. What I'm trying to say is, don't let success go to yer head and don't let failure get to yer heart.  You can change yer path without changing your goal." 

  • Get ganking
  • Silver bullets
  • Salt rounds
  • Sawed-off shotgun
  • Holy water
  • Angel blade

  *see Self-Hatred, Discouragement, Anxiety, Guilt, Lousy Day

• Family vs. Deployment

  "Shipping out ain't just about the person deployin'; it throws a wrench in the works fer those you're leaving in yer wake.  There's a mess of hunters who've been on the same trip and know the lay of the land.  Let yer brothers and sisters lend a hand and help guide ya through, kid, 'cause Family don't end with blood."

  • Silver bullets
  • Iron crowbar
  • Get your ducks in a row
  • Balance the books
  • Be smart
  • Free comfort kits for kids
  • Support for kids
  • Salt circles
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • More Battle Buddies
  • Give back

• Fear

  "This bastard can be discouraging as hell. Take your hunt one day at a time, an' don't be hard on yourself. Fears ain't actually invincible, no matter how big they seem. They're just doin' the monster thing and trying to seem invincible in order to survive. Fightin' this beast is worth it. Keep goin'."

  • Research
  • Combat strategies
  • Silver bullets
  • Fear after trauma
  • The bunker

• Fibromyalgia

  "I got a lotta respect for you if you're hunting this bastard. It's a long-term hunt, which drains a person. Thing is, you're still here, which means your whooping its stupid ass. Keep paddling, kid. Thinking of ya."

  • Research
  • Make a backup plan
  • Salt circle
  • Battle Buddies

   

• Fitness

  "Way I see it, fitness is a conversation y'can have with your body. Get away from everyone so you'n your body can get to know each other. Talk about challenges y'both like. Don't let others intrude unless they're allies."

  • Stay motivated
  • 60 allies
  • This is recommended by Charlie Bradbury

• Gastroparesis

  "Feelin' full but not so fine? This monster's got a roadblock up set up inside ya and it's gumming up the works. Let's get your motor runnin' right."

  • Understand the monster
  • Salt circle
  • Salt circle for parents
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Poison the monster
  • Take a breather

• Grief and Loss

  "Know a few boys that fought this son of a b*tch. Real piece of work. Makes you feel like the world's endin' and you're the only thing breathin'. Fought it myself few years back. Don't walk into this one blind, kid. You're gonna need a good team to make it through this one."

  • Research
  • Silver bullets
  • For friends and family
  • Salt circle
  • Battle Buddy

• Guilt

  "This is a tireless monster that'll get outta hand if you don't whoop its ass STAT. Do your absolute best with what you control, whether it's words, actions ... whatever. Make the apology. Make it as right as you can. An' then forgive yourself and move on. A guilt-ridden hunter is a distracted one, and lord knows, none of us can afford that these days."

  • Research and combat strategies
  • Hunt guilt
  • Poison the monster

  *see Self-Hatred

• Heartbreak

  "Awww, kid, these hurts can burn like the devil. No knowin' how long they'll be either ... but lettin' them take over the rest of your life ain't the answer. Take your time, let it teach ya, and celebrate happiness where ya find it."

  • Combat strategies
  • Silver bullets for romantic heartbreak
  • Combat strategies for unrequited feelings
  • The bunker

  *see Nasty Breakup

• Homelessness

  "Sh*t happens, kid. If the sh*t has happened, watch yourself -- you're huntin' a hard hitter. If it can beat homelessness into who you are, you'll never get free. Don't let circumstances and identity muddle together -- they're two separate things. An' don't hunt alone. Truth is, from where you are, the only way is up."

  • Find general help and info
  • Resources by state
  • If you are considering running away
  • Shelter directory

• Homesickness

  "Not much for the idea of home since Karen passed, but I sure as hell know what it is to miss it. Feels like a piece of ya is missin'. But it ain't. You're still here. And you're still kickin'. Maybe someday, we'll both find our way home."

  • Research and combat strategies
  • Specifically for adults

• Hopelessness

  "Nobody wakes up one morning an' decides to be hopeless. This monster is just quietly there. But don't be tricked into ignoring it. It's the slow-warmin' water an' you're the froggy dinner. You gotta get outta the pot. The key to this hunt is not to jump or struggle, but to swim. And be patient. Rest when ya need to. This jerk can only kill you if you go still an' stay that way. Keep kickin'!"

  • Understand this monster
  • Read this carefully
  • Hang out in the bunker

• Infant Loss

  "My wife, Karen, called me a heartbreaker for not wantin' a house full of rugrats.  It's one of my worse memories.  And here ya are, you've managed to bring this beautiful gift into the world and now yer left holding nothing but memories. Don't matter if you're Dad or Mom - you're feelin' something nobody should ever have to feel. Don't mean it's hopeless, though.  Ain't nowhere to go but up. Get movin', kid."

  • Research
  • Grenade launcher
  • Salt circle 1
  • Salt circle 2
  • For family and friends
  • Battle Buddy
  • The bunker
  • Light a candle

  *see Grief

  *see Depression

• Infertility

  "Chasin' after somethin' just outta reach is enough to run ya ragged. I hear ya, kid.  Findin' a way to get to that happy place ain't always a picnic, but it's worth fightin' for.  Listen here, you want kids? You keep after it. Don't listen to the hateful whispers of this monster.  That's no way to beat it.  Be smart.  Rest up, study up, and keep your defenses up. There's a whole family rootin' fer ya and I am, too."

  • Get the bastard in your sights
  • Cover your six
  • Silver bullets for: Women Men LGBTQ
  • Sawed-off shotgun
  • Backup strategies for family and friends
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Get tech on your side

• Insomnia

  "Nothin' more frustrating than not resting when it's time to rest. Figure out what gets ya calm without bein' an idjit and try again. You ain't alone, kid."

  • Research
  • Strategy database
  • Sounds to sleep to

• Life Support Decision

  "When y'get yer noggin' ventilated by a Leviathan, it makes ya ponder the benefits of life support.  I'm glad I had a few extra moments with my boys, but that don't mean you're in the same place. You've got some big decisions up ahead, and only you can make that call. " 

  • Research
  • Cover your six
  • Salt rounds
  • For family and caretakers
  • Salt circles
  • Salt circles for children/teens

• Loneliness

  "You're not the only one to have faced this monster. Family don't end with blood, kid. Even if it feels like nobody understands, keep tryin'. Someday, someone's gonna get it, and your monster's gonna melt like butter on a griddle."

  • Snuggle at the bunker
  • Silver bullets
  • Help a lonely friend

• Lousy Day

  "C'mere, kid; tell me about it. I can be a calloused son of a b*tch sometimes, but I know we all have those days the sh*t just don't quit. Get it offa your chest. And do yourself a favor: learn to laugh. Laughter is poison to this monster, so dose it up good."

  • Oatmeal Angel Blade
  • Vagrant Angel Blade
  • Hyperbole Angel Blade
  • Blogging Twilight Angel Blade
  • HISHE Angel Blade

• Low Self-Esteem

  "This asshole is the biggest lyin', cheatin', manipulative pile of manure you'll ever meet. It'll tell ya the good things about you ain't true and y'don't deserve 'em. If you hear this, don't even pause, idjit -- step into the good things and enjoy listening to this monster drown. It may stick to ya the first few times you soak it, but try again. It'll lose its grip. Promise."

  • 17 combat strategies
  • When strategies aren't working
  • Shotgun 1
  • Shotgun 2
  • Angel blade

• Lung Cancer

  "Quit swingin' at windmills, ya fool.  This monster robs ya of yer breath and strangles yer airways.  Don't play around and let this monster get a stranglehold on ya.  Start fightin' early and fight smart."

  • Do your research
  • Salt rounds
  • For family and friends
  • Get a guide
  • Take ground back
  • Battle Buddy
  • Attack smoking

• Lupus

  "Often called the Cruel Mystery, this monster is more than an oddity at The Mystery Spot.  Don't let your life turn into a series of Tuesdays.  The on-again-off-again nature of this fickle fiend can make ya think you're chasin' your tail.  Get yer facts straight and know I'm coverin' yer six."

  • Do your research
  • Extra research for men
  • Insights for teens
  • Silver bullets
  • Iron crowbar
  • For friends and family
  • Battle Buddy
  • For international Hunters
  • Get tech on your side

• Marriage Troubles

  "Damn, I remember these. Just seein' my parents in their best moments was enough ... and their worst ... well.... Look. You're in one of the highest-stake hunts there is. You gotta find what's good an' be stubborn about it. Be patient. Take the high ground. An' you get every bit of help you can, hear me? If you don't, I swear I'll come 'round and kick your ass!"

  • Get a clear picture
  • Combat strategies

• Mental Illness

  "Toughest monsters can be the ones that live in your skull. These monsters are best not fought solo. Know that you ain't alone. Lots of us out here are fightin' the bastards in our heads. An' we don't want you fightin' alone, either. Come on in. There's help for ya."

  • Clearly identify your monster(s)
  • Go here
  • Allies
  • The bunker

• Migraines

  "If you're feelin' like you've got supersonic hearing, and yer so sensitive to light y'start looking for fang marks, it might be a migraine.  Don't stand around like the ugly girl at prom; hit the books.  If you're not ready for that just yet, rest up at the bunker and then hit the bricks running."

  • Combat strategies
  • Silver bullets
  • Triggers
  • Salt circles
  • Battle Buddy 1

• Miscarriage

  "Feeling like a failure ain't no way to whoop this beast.  I know ya feel robbed 'n heartbroken, kid, but keeping all them feelins inside don't help nobody. "

  • Study up on this bastard
  • Ammo for parents
  • Ammo for family/friends
  • Battle buddy
  • 24/7 backup
  • Worldwide resources
  • Get your head straight

• Multiple Sclerosis

  "There ain't many things that'll jerk yer tail in a knot quicker than yer body giving up before the rest of ya.  This monster deep fries your wiring faster than an Oreo at a carnival.  Keep yer socks on and start puzzlin' a plan together.  Here's a whole heap of pieces to get you started."

  • Know your monster
  • Research
  • Silver bullets
  • Fuel
  • Cover your six
  • For family/caregivers
  • Battle Buddy database
  • Holy water
  • Get tech on your side

• Narcissistic Abuse

  "This is a monster lost in its own world. Y'ain't gotta take the crap it dishes out. Defense's the name of the game - that and calling bullshit. Y'got this, kid."

  • Understand this monster and its strategies
  • Build up your silver bullets
  • Study this database

• Nasty Breakup

  "Best-laid plans, yeah? If this sh*t-monster's hit the fan, you gotta stick to the high ground. I don't give a damn how mad you are. Keep. To. The. High. Ground. Get backup. And then get more backup. And honey ... be kind to yourself. Take time to recharge, to escape. This too shall pass -- I mean it."

  • Research and silver bullets
  • For men
  • For women
  • Help a friend through a breakup
  • You're safe at the bunker

  *see Heartbreak

• Neuromuscular Disease

  "This bastard'll make you feel like your body ain't yer own. It's clever, too. But it ain't more clever'n you. At the end of the day, yer body is yours. Stay rested, don't back down, and do what y'can with what you control, idjit."

  • Know your monster
  • Combat strategies
  • Silver bullets
  • Cover your six
  • Sawed-off shotgun
  • For family/caregivers
  • Breathe

• Night Terrors

  "You'd think goin' through shit once would be enough - but sometimes, you get that dream root in yer system and your worst nightmares come to life. I can't visit yer dreams to save ya, but I've got some weapons y'can take in with you. Get gankin', kid."

  • Research
  • Combat strategies
  • Silver bullets
  • For family and friends
  • Amulet

• Nightmares

  "Nightmares are the bogeymen of the meanest kind. Can't actually get a piece of ya, but make it feel like they did. If none of your regular tools're workin', might be time to bring in support. It's there for ya."

  • Research
  • Brother on your six
  • Sister on your six

• Obesity

  "So many of these bastards alienate us from our own bodies - the only real estate we really got. Be kind to yourself and brutal to the monster whispering in your ear. Start there. And then be patient. These things take time, but your victory's inevitable, kid."

  • Understand what you're dealing with
  • Silver bullets
  • Salt circle
  • Connect with this aggressive database
  • Iron blades
  • If you've been pregnant

• OCD

  "This humdinger of a monster can get your knickers in a twist and keep them that way.  Lord knows those thoughts ya just can't shake can really stir the pot.  There ain't nothing wrong with sorting books for eight hours if ya work in a library, but there might be if ya don't!  Put down the book and pick up a double barrel.  Between you and me, the only thing that will be triggered is gonna be this sawed off shotgun.  Aim true and let's get hunting!"

  • Make sure this is the monster you're hunting
  • Silver bullets
  • USA salt circle
  • UK salt circle
  • For young Hunters / their loved ones
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Strategies for the heat of the moment

• Panic Attacks

  "These'll come outta nowhere and make you weak as a newborn kitten. Get support to help ya figure out what the warnin' signs are so you ain't caught with your pants down. An' call if ya need me."

  • The bunker
  • Research
  • Combat strategies
  • Optional combat strategies from nature

• Physical Injury/Recovery

  "Rest up, kid. Won't help anybody runnin' off half-cocked. Take the time you need. Ain't easy, but it sure beats gettin' your ass handed to ya by some critter. 'Sides, reading'll do you some good."

  • Combat strategies (not just for athletes)
  • Resources for veterans
  • The bunker

• Poor Grades

  "Everyone ain't cut from the same cloth.  There's 'Men and Women of Letters smart', there's 'Hunter smart,' and everything in between. I'm just sayin', figure out how best you learn and keep at it."

  • Get ganking
  • Combat strategy
  • Silver bullets
  • Salt rounds
  • Cover your six
  • Breathe
  • Get tech on your side
  • For parents/guardians

• Poverty

  "Y'know, my boy Dean got stuck in a place called Purgatory. Nasty, dead place filled with hungry monsters. Easy to get lost, to go in circles. Lemme tell ya, if Dean hadn't kept moving, found a friend, and kept swingin' ... he woulda been dead when an angel came to free him. Poverty's the same way. It ain't endless. But you gotta keep movin' and get help. There is a way out. Come on. You got this."

  • Research and silver bullets
  • Sibling covering your six
  • Scholastic combat strategy 1
  • Scholastic combat research

• Primary Ciliary Diskinesia

  "When breathin's tougher than a two dollar steak, it's past time to start looking for answers. Take this bull by the horns and work out a plan that'll get you heading in the right direction."

  • Research
  • Identify the bastard
  • Silver bullets
  • Cover your six
  • Salt circle
  • Get tech on your side

• Psychosis

  "My boys've had a hard time feelin' out what's real more than a time or two.  When yer own eyes and mind are playing tricks on ya, it's hard to find the truth.  This monster warps reality and anyone'll fall prey to it.  Don't quit swingin' till you can see yer way clear again.  I'll keep ya grounded."

  • Is this your monster?
  • Study up
  • For family and friends
  • Silver bullets
  • Iron poker
  • For veterans and active duty members
  • Salt circle

• PTSD

  "This monster can hit ya months after scary shit goes down and leave ya swingin' at air.  It's a sneaky beast that'll knock out even the bravest hunter.  Don't worry, kid.  I've got lore on how to gank it right here."

  • Research
  • Silver bullets
  • For military servicepeople
  • For family and friends
  • Battle Buddy
  • Holy water - civilian
  • Holy water - military
  • Hang out in the bunker

• Rage

  "My boys've struggled with this, and me ... well ...  watchin' my dad beat my ma ... even after endin' him, I had gunk in my gears for a long time. Felt like I'd always be mad, no matter what I did. Turns out, I was bigger'n my monster. Just took me a while to realize. Same goes for you, kid. Find someone to make you think twice when you're about to blow and keep walkin' the path. You'll get there."

  • Fully understand this monster
  • Combat strategies
  • Silver bullets

• Relationship Struggles

  "Damned irritating bastard, this one. Things in life that're worth somethin' are hard. That's part of what makes 'em so special. Ain't always gonna want to hug 'em, but they're still yours, and that's what matters in the end."

  • General research
  • Silver bullets to defend romantic relationships
  • Salt circle
  • The bunker

• Retirement

  "Retirement ain't always sippin' fruity drinks on some sandy beach.  Leavin' the workforce can feel like a big step into darkness.  Here's a light to keep ya from stumblin'.  You'll find yer way, and I'll be here t'help ya."

  • Silver bullets
  • Iron crowbar
  • Manage your supplies
  • Tackle insurance
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Join these hunts: B A M F

• Scleroderma

  "You're in for a long tussle with this nasty fella. Talk about being stuck between a rock and a hard place.  This beast tries it's best to turn ya to stone right where ya stand.  Take care of yourself, kid, and take a sledgehammer to this monster.  I keep a whole pile of 'em in the shed; help yerself and happy swinging."

  • Study up
  • Do thorough recon
  • Combat strategies (US)
  • Combat strategies (Canada)
  • For loved ones/caregivers
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Keep this in mind

• Selective Mutism

  "We can all get a bit tongue tied at times, but this one locks ya up tighter than gold at Fort Knox. Be kind to yourself, kid. You got this."

  • Understand what you're hunting
  • Cut it off at the knees
  • Hit it with this ammo
  • Poison it from the inside
  • Salt circle
  • Take a breather

• Self-Harm

  "A friend once told me that we all have ways of coping with sh*t; some ways're just worse than others. Lemme tell ya, kid, this is one of the worst. It gets into your veins and turns you into an addict. You hear me? An addict. This ain't a drill. It ain't gonna just go away. Don't friggin' hide it, idjit; it wants you alone and cornered. You gotta get help. Be patient. You gotta keep fighting, you hear me?"

  • Get connected
  • Research
  • Silver bullets
  • The bunker
  • For family and friends

• Self-Hatred

  "This here tulpa will suck you down faster than quicksand. It feeds off yer own thoughts. When you catch yourself in that downward cycle, that leads to guilt, loathing and more shame, and before you know it, this nasty bit of work is feasting at an all-it-can-eat buffet.  Hit the brakes, kiddo. Clear yer head and don't tolerate disrespect, even from yerself."

  • Identify the monster
  • Become an expert
  • Combat strategies
  • Crisis Hotline
  • Rebuild
  • Battle Buddy 1

• Sexual Assault/Rape

  "I ain't usually one for big words, but 'abomination' fits this monster too damn well. It's one of the only ones that makes its attack the victim's fault. And even if you kill the monster itself, it's got evil spawn that'll hang around and poison your future ... if y'don't take the right steps. Check out my research. Get backup -- there's lots available. And kid ... it ain't your fault. You hear me? I'm around -- call any time."

  • Immediate combat strategies
  • Talk to these people
  • For victims of rape, abuse, incest
  • Salt circle 1
  • Salt circle 2
  • Specifically for men
  • The bunker

• Sexuality

  "Don't be an idjit. Find somebody to talk to. I don't care how twisted, weird, or silly you think you are -- being alone in this hunt will tear you apart."

  • What is your sexual orientation?
  • Salt circle for LGBTQ
  • Help for LGBTQ in crisis
  • Where did my kink/fetish come from?
  • Is my kink/fetish bad? I want to talk about it.

• Skin Troubles

  "This monster'll drive you crazy by dancing beyond your control, and its goal is to poison your foundations. Shield yourself by taking care of what you can control. From there, know that you are more than a stupid little layer of cells. And be glad you aren't skinless like those Indiana Jones Nazis."

  • Research and silver bullets
  • Protect your self-esteem
  • Salt circle
  • Natural combat strategies

• Spina Bifidia

  "Takin' care of yourself is hard, but makin' choices for youngins can lead to a whole lotta 'shoulda, coulda, woulda'.  Keep informed, keep calm and keep looking for the right way to get on.  I'm here to help, and I may not have all the answers but I'll keep lookin' - even if means calling friggin' Hogwarts."

  • Study up
  • Get your questions answered
  • Combat strategies
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Breathe
  • Take a break

• Stalking

  "Ain't right. People who love you shouldn't be tracking you down like tonight's dinner. Need the big guns for this one. Be safe, kiddo."

  • Signs of this monster
  • Safe combat strategies
  • Research and silver bullets
  • Cyberstalking
  • Are you a stalker?

• Stress

  "We've all been workin' ourselves to the bone. Time to take a break. Get some sleep, drink a couple of cold ones -- do what ya need. And friggin' breathe, idjit! Can't run on fumes forever."

  • Visit the bunker ("Quiet Room" recommended)
  • Research and combat strategies
  • Train with these people
  • An ally: your body

• Suicide

  "You sit down right down and you look into my eyes, kid.

  "This monster’s a demon genie – instead of givin’ you a good dream while drainin' your life, it traps you in the worst. It's coverin’ the stuff worth livin’ for. It’s hidin’ folks ready to jump into your fight. It’s lyin’ to you about folks willing to listen. It's got you in a place where things can't get better, and as long as you stay, nothin's gonna change. You’re trapped in a bad dream, idjit. Of course things ain’t gonna get better here.

  "My boy Dean got trapped by a genie once. You gotta do like he did: refuse the dream. Look toward the folks you love - the things you love, and embrace the journey of it. And then partner with other hunters to take this son of a bitch down. You gotta keep fightin'!"

  • Go to the bunker
  • Call these people now
  • For youth
  • For veterans
  • For LGBTQ
  • For international sufferers
  • For family/friends
  • For survivors
  • If you're left behind

• Teething Child

  "Back when I was a pup, we just rubbed a little whiskey on that youngun's gums, but I ain't saying that's what you should do nowadays! Now, I'm not preachin' about how you should rear up your kids, that's entirely up to you, but here's some insight from others that have a heap more experience with kiddos teethin' than I ever will."

  • Research
  • Cover your six
  • Battle Buddy
  • Amulet
  • Angel blade
  • The bunker

• Terminal Illness

  "Don't you quit huntin' just cause the apocalypse is comin' sooner than later!  There's still plenty you can do fer yer own fool self and those that'll still be here when ya go. Some journey's are better when you know somebody's got yer back."

  • Raid a weapons cache
  • For family and friends
  • Shore up foundations
  • Include others
  • Angel blade

• Things Breaking in My @!*&^# House

  "Things break. They cost money. Now, just 'cause your daddy or mommy never taught you how to fix something don't mean y'can't. Dirty hands and willingness to try are your best defense against an empty bank account, so roll up those sleeves and get to work."

  • Should you try to fix this?
  • Fix it!
  • Improve it!
  • Maintain it!

• Things Breaking on My &*^@#$ Car

  "I know a boy who deals with this all the time -- happens when you got a classic. But no matter the car y'have, you can save a lotta money by investing in a tool set. No need to have some sloppy grease monkey scratchin' and messin' up your car if you can fix it yourself."

  • What is really going on?
  • Easy repairs 1
  • Easy repairs 2
  • Organized resources

• Thyroid Disease(s)

  "Feeling fatigued or tearing along at full throttle? Sounds like somethin’s outta whack.  This monster can send yer energy levels and bathroom scale spinning.  I hit the books and did some digging into the lore. Go into this hunt prepared.  If ya need to rest before ya do, take a breather and call for back up."

  • Get the right monster in your sights
  • Use your weapons right
  • Domestic and international salt circles
  • For family and friends
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Battle Buddy 3

• Tight Income

  "No matter what ya do, can't hustle pool and fake credit cards for everything. Times come when money ain't plentiful. Ain't a picnic, for sure. Cut back where you can, but don't be an idjit and refuse help when ya need it."

  • Eat well
  • Combat strategies
  • Build a bunker

• Time Management

  "What are you, in third grade? Prioritize, get information, make a list, do all of them, doesn't matter. You know what needs done. Now get to it."

  • Get a bird's-eye view
  • Train here
  • Silver bullets
  • An ally: your phone

• Undiagnosed Illness

  "I've hunted a few painful monsters I didn't understand in my day. Two things: don't go alone, and to keep searching for the solution. It's there, believe me. Where d'you think all the crap I know came from?"

  • Someone who understands
  • Stick to these strategies
  • Use these to stay strong
  • Salt circle 1
  • Salt circle 2

• Unemployment

  "Time between hunts can be a hunt itself. Stay outta trouble, kid. Keep your nose clean. Somethin' else will come along 'fore ya know it."

  • Grab this lifeline
  • Financial help
  • Silver bullets
  • Salt circle

• Unfulfillment

  " Are ya feelin' about as useful as a ashtray on a motorcycle? Don't rest on yer laurels. Everyone kin get in a funk sometimes but if you don't like what yer doing, make some changes.  Take a hard look and decide if it's time to piss or git off the pot. Here are some ideas to get you started down the right path, now git a'going already!"

  • Fill up the tank
  • Evaluate the hunt
  • Start punching
  • Bulk up your skill set
  • Keep your gaze high

• Unhealthy Relationship

  "Relationships keep us whole ... and they can gut us just the same. This monster moves like a shapeshifter -- keeps you thinkin' you know who you're talkin' to ... and then changes the rules. Don't be an idjit fighting alone. Another person can be as useful as silver to help you know what's what."

  • Is your relationship unhealthy?
  • Call these people
  • Silver bullets and bazookas
  • Help someone in a bad relationship
  • The bunker

• Unplanned Pregnancy

  "As a wise man once said, we men ain't the stronger sex. That bein' the case, I'm gonna refer you to folks who know more'n I do to guide you through this. Promise me you'll use 'em. Promise me you won't go alone. An' if you need me, I'm here. I'm here."

  • Research
  • Salt circles and support
  • Battle Buddy

• Weight Issues/Body Image

  "When ya look in the mirror and don't see what ya like, it can mess with yer head.  Don't buy into the lie; that dog won't hunt.  Stayin' healthy means stayin' strong.  Let's send this monster packin' so fast it'll make its head spin.  "

  • Get a good picture of what's going on
  • Learn the bastard's secrets
  • Get ganking
  • For LGBTQ
  • For males
  • For family/friends
  • Call veteran hunters
  • Battle Buddy 1
  • Battle Buddy 2
  • Battle Buddy 3

  *see Diet