Ahead of the upcoming US presidential election, NO MORE is committed to helping survivors of domestic violence and stalking participate safely in the democratic process. This month we launched a new State Voting Guide for Survivors, outlining key options to help survivors protect their privacy and security while making their voices heard.
By consolidating this critical information in one place, the guide simplifies the voting process every step of the way. NO MORE will continue to provide information for survivors, as well as for their friends, employers, and communities to help support them.
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight John Malone and his blog. We haven’t followed each other long but we have become fast friends and I feel like a kindred spirit to him. John has brought my sense of creativity alive, he’s whip-smart, funny, and knows how to express himself through words. I could sit and talk with John for hours and would still have more questions, he’s interesting.
except I no longer have a wife or pets, except a cat called Rosco, but have accrued numerous grandchildren and yes, I still whistle while I walk 🙂
I have five books of poetry published, two of which have been self published and many , many poems anthologized. Between 2000 and 2012 I had over 170 childrens’ poems published in major magazines, in the North America, NZ and here in Oz, some of which are still earning royalties from being republished.
I also have three educational titles with major publishers, guides to creative writing in classrooms which schools use, written during the same period.
I sometimes think I should write children’s poems again but I wrote them for/with my grandchildren while they grew up in my presence.
To dig deeper into John’s career accomplishments click here.
I asked John three questions:
What was your first job and what did you learn from it?
A secondary English teacher; learnt how to ;handle’ teenagers, not always successfully; learnt how to impart my love of literature and get them to write poetry themselves: we were a vibrant writing community.
What is your greatest career accomplishment?
My first book of poems by a major publisher was a thrill. Also between 2001 and 2013 I had over 70 children’s poems published in literary magazines for children in Australia, the Us and NZ. The three poems I’m proudest of are ‘Fork’, ‘Fearless’ and ‘The Mothering Tree’
Did you have a goal for your blog and have you achieved it?
As for the blog I just wanted to get my stuff out there and get immediate feedback instead of going through the delayed process of magazine submissions. I’ve built a lively following and feel part of a vibrant ever evolving literary community: a tribe !
John’s post New Direction was a surprise and a day to rejoice. We had been talking about his accomplishments which I greatly admire and later this post arrived. I’m thrilled John gave me some credit but most importantly, he wrote a new short story after taking many years off from writing. I’m counting the days until it’s published so we can read it on his blog. I look forward to new stories as John has his mojo back.
This post makes me think of all the journals and notebooks I carried around for years, starting as a child, they included writings, drawings, goals, and daydreams. They were my calm, my comfort, they knew my inner thoughts and they never betrayed me. John’s notebook was no doubt just as special, holding his thoughts, stories, and many ideas. The cover is fitting with its lived-in look and who would want to change that?
One of John’s favorite tunes:
Paul Simon – Graceland (from The Concert in Hyde Park)
I set a goal in 5th or 6th grade to become a Journalist for Life Magazine, but that isn’t where my career took me for multiple reasons. John’s career accomplishments are not directly related to my goal but I can imagine that being published gives you the same high and sense of accomplishment. I admire his accomplishments but what’s more important is that John is humble, no boasting, there are no airs about him and I admire him for that.
Be sure to stop by and say hello to John and while there browse through his extensive archives. You will not be disappointed and you may find yourself following John as well.
If you haven’t followed me long, you may not be aware of the health struggles I’ve had dating back to 2010. Not only have I had a major run-in with what might have been the end of my life, but since 2012 I’ve suffered with severe balance issues and cognitive impairment. Although I don’t have a clue what The Mayo will diagnose me with, I am totally confident in their ability to find answers and get me the right treatment.
This post is something I’ve been laughing so hard about because it can only be funny. I’ve been wishing this one plant to have babies for the past year or two to no avail. Today, I was looking at it again, trying to understand why it hasn’t had a baby. Then the brick hit me, it’s an artificial plant! It makes me laugh every time I think about it. Apparently, I was very sick when I planted it thinking it was a live plant only to find today, that it won’t have any babies. HAHA!!!!!!!
I chose to find it funny, how could I not? I won’t kick myself for being too sick to know the difference. I believe this general attitude is why I keep pushing forward in life and can deal with what comes my way. Who needs a kick in the ass?
When you’re living with depression, sleeping doesn’t always come easily. Here are my go-to tricks when I can’t seem to wind down.
When my psychiatrist is worried about me, she always asks me how I’m sleeping. When my depression is getting the best of me, I tend to thrash around on my bed for hours. I seem to wake up every hour.
Here are some tips that have helped me get the sleep that I need so I can function throughout the day.
1. Listen to music
I’ve found that listening to music can relax me to the point that I drift off. I have a playlist on Pandora filled with familiar songs that I really like.
It’s fun to take an hour or two to sort out the songs that work best for you. They can be anything: alternative, pop, classical. You might even want to listen to nature sounds or recordings from the ocean.
The point is that you find something that makes yourelax and that youwant to hear. There are some phone apps that you can use that have relaxing sounds, too. I also have a clock with recorded songs on it that help me relax.
2. Take a hot shower before bed
When I’m getting ready to fall asleep, I have a routine that always includes a hot shower. This helps me relax.
Routines like these are helpful for depression. It might also be helpful to use body wash with scents that you like.
When you’re living with depression, you can find ways to fight back at it with all the five senses.
3. Try anxiety reduction techniques
Anxiety and depression can be related. There are times when I can’t sleep because I’m so worried about something. This feeds into my depression.
There are many techniques to help reduce anxiety. One thing I do is take deep breaths, slowly and gently. I notice that when I’m anxious, it feels harder to breathe, so this really helps.
I may also try writing a list of all the things that I’m worried about — just to get them out of my head so I can focus more on sleep. Identifying what you’re anxious about is an important step in combatting it.
4. Use positive self-talk
When I’m depressed and having trouble sleeping, I start getting very frustrated. I also tend to think negatively about myself. Everything I do is wrong. If I can do something to reverse this, it really helps.
The goal is to counter the depression with everything that is positive. It might sound wild, but one really good way to do this is to talk to yourself. I try to speak calmly and gently to myself all the time.
I acknowledge that,yes, I’m in a depressed mood. But I need to take care of myself and get the sleep I need to be able to function in the morning.
5. Believe that it will get better
One of the hardest parts of coping with depression is feeling like it will go on forever. This can make trying to fall asleep more complicated and overwhelming.
Keep reminding yourself that depression often comes in waves and things will get better. This is one thing that always helps me when I’m struggling to fall asleep and worrying about it being a never-ending problem.
The takeaway
When it comes down to it, it’s important to take care of yourself with self-compassion. Depression can make it harder to fall asleep, but you don’t need to just accept that. Fight back with whatever works best for you.
Try to include things that engage the five senses. Also, keep track of your sleep and tell a mental health professional if you’re unable to sleep. Sometimes, medication is a necessary step. There have been times when my doctor needed to prescribe medication to help me get some sleep.
What matters is finding ways that help you get the amount of sleep you need to feel rested and ready to take on the day.
The key is to do what works for you, give a suggestion a go, and if it doesn’t move to the next. As much as I love music, it doesn’t help me fall asleep, in fact just the opposite, it wakes my brain up. Going to bed earlier than my sleep time has been most helpful to me. I have the room quiet, pamper myself with some good lotion, and arthritis cream, and the air diffuser is on with Lavender oil which relaxes me. I relax between 45 minutes to an hour before sleep time and I’m ready to fall asleep the majority of the time.
This Weekend Music share is dedicated to my friend John Malone and his blog of the same name. On Monday the Blogger Highlight post on John and his blog will be published, and I’ve enjoyed asking him some questions. I asked about his music choices and found one from The Rolling Stones I had forgotten about. Enjoy!
It’s the weekend!!!!!!
I’m glad you joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share, the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the Weekend Music Share banner in your post, and use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Physical therapy may be used alongside other treatments to help reduce fibromyalgia pain and improve mental health.
Chronic pain and fatigue are common symptoms of fibromyalgia. You may also experience sleep, memory, or mood issues as a result of this condition.
There’s no cure yet for fibromyalgia, but doctors may recommend physical therapy in addition to medications and alternative therapies, like massage and acupuncture, to help with your symptoms.
As part of a holistic plan, physical therapy can help you cope with your pain. It may also reduce the frequency and intensity of your symptoms.
This article examines how physical therapy and the right exercise program might help those with fibromyalgia.
Research has found that individuals with fibromyalgia may have difficulty with lower aerobic endurance and muscle strength. They are also likely to live a sedentary life because of their pain. This can increase their likelihood of developing other health complications.
With the help of physical therapy, quality of life and productivity can improve.
Doctors highly recommend that those with fibromyalgia participate in aerobic and strength training activities. While current research does not offer as much support for flexibility exercises, these exercises may also prove beneficial, especially as part of a warm-up or cool-down routine.
Types of exercise frequently recommended if you have fibromyalgia include:
If you’ve received a diagnosis of fibromyalgia, a licensed physical therapist can design or tailor a holistic program specifically for you.
To create your personalized exercise program, a physical therapist will consider your overall health and exercise level. They’ll work with you to develop a workout that is sufficiently challenging but also comfortable enough to do several times per week.
Because fibromyalgia symptoms can fluctuate, your physical therapist may need to make frequent adjustments to your program.
Working out consistently is important, but it can be difficult, especially if you have a painful flare.
Your physical therapist may ask questions about the types of activities you enjoy doing to find ways to motivate you. They may also begin slowly and build up the intensity of your workouts over time to help prevent pain and burnout.
In addition to exercises on land, your physical therapist may suggest aquatic therapy. The warmer water in therapy pools can relax muscles, offer joint relief, and improve circulation.
A physical therapy treatment plan for fibromyalgia may also include massage, the use of a TENS machine, or hot/cold packs to prevent and treat your muscle pain.
In addition to an exercise plan, your physical therapist can provide helpful education about pain management. The skills they teach can be useful in coping with your fibromyalgia symptoms.
Your doctor may be able to provide a referral to a local physical therapist who has worked with individuals with fibromyalgia in the past.
Another place you may potentially be able to get referrals is through a local fibromyalgia support group.
If you choose to do your own research, you may wish to look online for a local physical therapist who advertises their work with fibromyalgia and has articles or blogs on their website demonstrating their knowledge of the connection between physical therapy and fibromyalgia.
It’s also usually a good idea to check out their reviews.
If you have fibromyalgia, it’s important to have the support of others who understand what you’re going through. Your doctor or local hospital may be able to suggest an in-person support group near you.
Another place where you can connect with other people with fibromyalgia is in Meta groups. Research indicates Meta (formerly Facebook) groups can be a source of support for those living with fibromyalgia. But remember that these groups may not always encourage evidence-based approaches to fibromyalgia care.
If you have fibromyalgia, chronic pain can be debilitating. Physical therapy may help reduce your pain, increase your range of motion, and improve your mental well-being. Your doctor may recommend it in combination with medication and alternative therapies.
A physical therapist can help with pain management and develop an individualized exercise plan that includes a mixture of aerobic and strength-building activities. Tai chi, walking, and swimming are some exercises that may be particularly beneficial if you have fibromyalgia.
“September is Suicide Prevention Month, when we work to raise awareness about this urgent crisis. Like mental health conditions, suicidal thoughts can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background. But suicidal thoughts should not be considered normal and often indicate more serious issues.”
Fast Facts:
Individual Impact
79% of all people who die by suicide are male.
Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are 4x more likely to die by suicide.
In the U.S., suicide is the second leading cause of death among people aged 10-14, the 3rd leading cause of death among those aged 15-24, and the 12th leading cause of death overall.
46% of people who die by suicide had a diagnosed mental health condition — but research suggests that 90% may have experienced symptoms of a mental health condition.
Community Impact:
Annual prevalence of serious thoughts of suicide, by U.S. demographic group:
8% of all adults
4% Native Hawaiian/other Pacific Islander
2% Mixed/Multiracial
5% American Indian/Alaska Native
13% of young adults aged 18-25
22% of high school students
41% of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth
The highest rates of suicide in the U.S. are among American Indian/Alaskan Natives, followed by non-Hispanic white people.
Lesbian, gay, and bisexual youth are 4x more likely to attempt suicide than straight youth.
Transgender adults are nearly 9x more likely to attempt suicide at some point in their life compared to their peers.
Suicide is the leading cause of death for people held in local jails.
This Suicide Prevention Month, check in on your loved ones. Knowing the risk factors and warning signs can assist you in finding help for yourself, a loved one, or a friend. You can learn more about this here.
For the complete list of Awareness Months click on the link under references. Below are the issues that are most important to me or ones I have a personal connection to for which there are several.
ADHD Awareness Month
AIDS Awareness Month
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
National Depression Education and Awareness Month
National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month
As Dave Martz lay dying, an idea serpentined around his mind and would not loosen its grip: Despite the absolute diagnosis and the insistence of the doctors, including a world expert, that he was dying of ALS, despite his own vow to face things head-on and reject the lure of denial, Martz couldn’t shake the notion that possibly, just maybe, he actually had Lyme disease. (from Cure Unknown: Inside the Lyme Epidemic by Pamela Weintraub.)
One of the earliest Lyme conferences I ever attended featured Dr. Dave Martz and the story of his remarkable recovery from what had been diagnosed as ALS–a fatal condition.
I would later write this about him in my blog:
Kind of a rock star
Dr. David Martz is kind of a rock star in the Lyme world. You may have read about him in Pam Weintraub’s Cure Unknown and seen footage of him in the documentary Under Our Skin.
His story is riveting. He had a lifetime of good health and a successful career as a physician practicing internal medicine-hematology-oncology for 30 years. Then, in 2003, Martz suddenly started experiencing strange symptoms. First deep fatigue, then profound muscle aches and body-wide pain. Soon he was too weak to get out of bed. As his condition rapidly deteriorated, his physicians gave him a devastating diagnosis: ALS (aka Lou Gehrig’s Disease). They said nothing could stem his physical decline and he would likely be dead within two years.
But events went in a different direction. As his health spiraled downward, Martz connected with a Lyme disease specialist who prescribed hard-hitting, long-term antibiotics. The gamble paid off. By the end of 2004, Martz was a new man. In fact, the doctor who had diagnosed him so definitively with ALS, now pronounced that condition completely gone.
Martz devoted the next two and a half years to a project that gave extended antibiotics to about 90 ALS patients and demonstrated objective improvements in 15% of them. He has also treated more than 800 chronic Lyme patients, with good response and minimal side effects.
A message of hope
In 2010, I helped organize a Lyme patient education conference in the San Francisco Bay Area and we had Dr. Martz as our keynote speaker. He was a kind, thoughtful man who offered a message of hope to an audience which sorely needed it.
This week, I learned that Dr. Martz passed away last month at the age of 83. Rest in peace, Dr. Martz, rest in peace.
Life with chronic discomfort can feel like living out an endless drama, yet its protagonist (that would be you), deserves smoother scenes. Luckily, there are multiple techniques to alleviate persistent pain, providing pockets of relief from daily struggle into a manageable storyline.
Exercise may make your spine shudder, but physical activity is an excellent way to manage chronic pain. Engaging in low-impact activities such as swimming, yoga, or tai chi can improve circulation, and flexibility and release endorphins. Natural painkillers are made available without an expectation of compensation.
Endorphins Are Like Comedians
Your body’s endorphins act like the stand-up comedians of its own world, helping lighten the mood and make things bearable. Movement produces endorphins which in turn reduce perceptions of pain. So whether it’s taking a daily stroll around your neighborhood or doing some light stretching exercises, find something that makes you want to move, even if that means dancing awkwardly without anyone watching.
Mind Over Matter: Mental Techniques for Relief
Your mind can be used as an effective weapon, all it needs to be properly deployed. Practices such as mindfulness meditation, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and guided imagery can have profound effects on pain perception while changing our relationship to discomfort.
Mindfulness Magic: Transforming Present into Peace
Engaging in mindful practice means staying present to each moment without judgment, helping to ease stress and anxiety that exacerbate pain. Apps or online resources designed to guide this process could prove invaluable, and your mind and body will thank you.
Harnessing Nature for Alternative Therapies
Incorporating natural methods can often provide what is needed for living with chronic pain. Acupuncture, chiropractic care, and herbal remedies may complement other pain management approaches by offering more holistic approaches.
Pricking Away the Pain: An Acupuncture Adventure
While Acupuncture may seem strangely offbeat for television dramas, its roots lie deep within traditional Chinese medicine. By strategically placing needles along nerve pathways to reduce pain and promote healing.
Medical Marijuana as a Natural Alternative
Medical marijuana has emerged as an attractive solution for chronic pain sufferers, thanks to cannabinoids found within cannabis which interact with our bodies’ endocannabinoid system and modulate pain and inflammation. While legal challenges have historically limited medical marijuana’s use, studies show its efficacy for various forms of pain such as neuropathic and arthritis pain relief. Patients often find medical cannabis helps them decrease reliance on traditional painkillers while potentially decreasing adverse side effects. You must consult your healthcare professionals regarding appropriate usage as soon as possible before beginning.
Becoming a Master Chef: Nutritional Tweaks
No one’s suggesting an appearance on a cooking show, rather, what you eat has more power to affect pain levels than you realize. An anti-inflammatory diet may work wonders. Try including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids like fish, flax seeds, and walnuts in your daily meal plans to reduce inflammation and pain levels. Remember: balance doesn’t mean balancing pizza slices between both hands.
Spice It Up: The Turmeric Tale
Turmeric is one of the greatest spices imaginable, boasting powerful anti-inflammatory effects and rich with curcumin. Add turmeric to dishes, smoothies, or teas for an intoxicating flavor and potential pain relief. But be careful not to mistake it for its competitor, saffron. They both love taking center stage but serve distinct functions.
Conclusion
Chronic pain may be a constant part of life, but exploring different strategies may provide relief. Pain management becomes less exhausting with laughter as your guide and professionalism as your shield. Embrace these tips as creative tools to write a narrative that features discomfort less prominently in it.
In this fast-paced social media world, it can be difficult to find the time to look within or back in time. I hope you find the quotes or questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!
We are all far more fascinating than we give ourselves credit for.
What is one thing about you that others would be surprised and delighted to know?
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight Mum Cee. I have followed Cecilia for years, her writing is raw, powerful, from the heart, and often relevant to her country, Ghana. She is a strong voice for women, and I love that about her, she is wise beyond her years.
Just a simple Ghanaian trying to find the best in our society. I may be fun, I may be interesting, I may be funny, I may even be foolish or intelligent, but it is all based on the mood in which you find yourself. I believe our minds make us who we are. Know that, pain, no matter its ‘unbearability’, is transient. Unburden or delight yourself for a while in my writings please. And all corrections, advice and opinions are welcome. Know that you are the king, queen or royal on this blog.
If you are looking for a good book to read, get ready to be rather read by Cecilia’s art through her heart. Wilson Ayinbangya Amooro Author of ‘Love Letters’ book series Amoafowaa Sefa Cecilia is a poet, novelist and an occasional dabbler in article writing. A passionate writer all her life, Amoafowaa holds a BA in English Language from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. She is a feminist who seeks equity for women, justice for the abused and hopes for happiness and safety for all children through her writings. Amoafowaa is eclectic in her writings – from the beauty of the sun to the deception of politics; nothing escapes her literary brush, only feeling complete when her works touch hearts. She has worked at Bishara Radio in news casting, lunch time programs which are more song-driven, and hosted some literary programmes. Amoafowaa Sefa Cecilia is currently an English Teacher at Tamale Secondary High School.
Ashawo Diaries raises queries on why young girls should experience sexual suppression in a cultural context like Ghana where children are valued, moral standards are held high and sexual discussions silenced. – Dr. Georgina Yaa Oduro, Director, Centre for Gender Research, Advocacy and Documentation (CEGRAD), University of Cape Coast
The titillating intrigues of a good bad girl…delightful reading: sometimes light, sometimes dark; always with ponderous insights! – Koku Dotse Ashawo Diaries is a text that challenges sanitized perspectives of Ghana. – Kwabena Opoku-Agyemang, Lecturer, Department of English, University of Ghana, Legon
Ashawo Diaries will surely leave readers scratching their heads with excitement. – Dr (Mrs.) Nana Ama Pokuaa Arthur, Lecturer, KNUST
A thrilling page-turner. Amoafowaa is fluid in narration, and succinct in description. – Rebecca Obuobisa-Darko, Personnel Officer, Ga East Municipal Education Directorate
Cecila’s Ashawo Diaries is storytelling meddled in art, obviously, science and a game of the protagonist. Daring diary entries with erotic sprinkles, gripping and sustaining…Poetically written and with a feminist undertone. – Grace Ihejiamaizu, Lecturer, University of Calabar, Founder of IKapture and Opportunity Desk, Nigeria
Be sure to stop by and say hello to Cecilia and while there pull up a chair and read through her archives. You will find many gems on her site which will make you happy that you visited.
My husband was diagnosed last year with Leukemia and it was a total shock to the system. He’s been healthy our entire 22-year marriage only having a cold a few times, this diagnosis rocked me hard. One blessing is that he has a team of doctors who he sees regularly and so far his cancer is growing very slowly. Skin Cancer can also pop up with Leukemia and he has been diagnosed with that as well. He goes every three months and usually has a new spot removed or scrapped and burned. Sunscreen is more important than ever but he hasn’t bought into that yet.
As scary as it was in the beginning, after educating ourselves and him seeing a doctor every three months we are more comfortable about where his health is at.
This Is Blood Cancer
Blood Cancer Awareness Month is a global event helping to raise awareness of one of the world’s most prevalent and dangerous cancers: blood cancer.
September turns red each year as the spotlight is put firmly on blood cancer and the impact it has on our communities and the urgent need for more action.
Raising awareness of blood cancer, its signs and symptoms, and its impact, will help to improve early diagnosis, encourage policymakers to prioritize the disease, as well as help everyone with blood cancer feel connected and heard.
Tricia Hernandez with the Leukemia Lymphoma Society says many blood cancers are treatable through chemotherapy, stem cell transplants, and surgery.
She says in Maine, nearly 900 people have been diagnosed with blood cancer this year.
“A person is diagnosed with a blood cancer approximately every three minutes. So, it’s quite a large number although a rare disease than other cancers. There are hundreds of thousands of people affected by this,” said Hernandez.
Lymphomas begin in cells of the lymph system, which is a part of the immune system. Lymph tissue is found throughout the body. As a result, lymphoma can begin almost anywhere. The disease occurs in two types: Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
Both types can occur in adults and children. An estimated 80,620 people in the United States will develop non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2024, according to the NCI. Approximately 20,140 people will die from non-Hodgkin lymphoma. For Hodgkin lymphoma, 8,570 new cases and 910 deaths are estimated for 2024, according to the NCI.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
There are many different types of leukemia and lymphoma in adults and children. For more information on these different diseases, please see:
Learn about testing for chromosomal abnormalities and gene mutations that can help direct treatment for patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) inCancer Today magazine, published by the AACR.
What a great awareness month, we all age so why not age healthy. Below are tips you can apply to your life today for better physical and mental health Here’s to our future.
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It’s time to celebrate September Healthy Aging® Month, the annual observance month designed to focus national attention on the positive aspects of growing older.
What is September is Healthy Aging Month All About?
The observance month began more than 30 years ago as part of our National Healthy Aging® Campaign to continue to draw attention to healthy, active lifestyles at any age.
Carolyn Worthington, president of Healthy Aging®, the official multi-media platform promoting the month, created it in 1992.
“Our goal in creating the month was to draw attention to the positive sides of growing older. We felt there needed to be a second time during the year in addition to May is Older Americans Month. September was chosen because so many people felt they could “get started” more easily at that time. Maybe the back-to-school routine never really goes away.”
Now, after more than thirty years, Worthington sees the national interest in continuing healthy lifestyles well into old age as never been stronger.
“We were pleased to announce that the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the resolution marking September as National Healthy Aging Month in 2021,” Worthington said. Numerous governors before that proclaimed the national observance month for their states as well.
“We are proud of our efforts to continue to build awareness for healthy lifestyles. Since we kicked off the observance month, the myths of aging have been chipping away,” Worthington said. “We are also proud to say the month we started is now on most national health observance calendars.”
“Of course, there are still stereotypes about older adults,” Worthington said. Perhaps the baby boomers embracing aging like no other generation started turning the tide. Seeing people in their 80s and 90s doing spectacular things today is not unusual.”
10 Tips for Healthy Aging®
The four main components of a healthy lifestyle fall into four main categories: physical, social, mental, and financial wellness.
Move more, sit less. Why? Physical activity is your weapon to help control blood pressure, help prevent heart disease and stroke, and possibly lower your risk for depression, anxiety, and conditions like certain cancers and type 2 diabetes. What to do? Choose something fun so you can keep at it, like cycling, walking, dancing, swimming, or aerobics.
How much do you need to do? Current national recommendations are 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week and two days of muscle-strengthening training. That’s only 20 minutes a day, 7 days a week, or around an hour a day if you do three days a week.
Get Those Annual Check-Ups. Make this month the time to set up your annual physical and other health screenings. Go to the appointments, and then, hopefully, you can stop worrying about ailments for a while.
Volunteer. ..Being of service is an excellent way to bring happiness into your life and not focus on yourself. Refocus on others and volunteer your time and expertise. United Way, the American Red Cross, VolunteerMatch, and AmeriCorps are all helpful resources.
Beat back loneliness. Don’t wait for the phone to ring. Be proactive and call someone for a lunch date. Set up a calendar of lunch dates and challenge yourself to have at least two lunch dates per month (once a week is even better!) It doesn’t have to be expensive … pack a picnic, and head to a park. Try to mix up your get-togethers with old friends and new acquaintances.
Rekindle or follow a new passion. Take a hard look at what you like to do rather than what other people tell you to do to meet new people. Pick some activities where you might meet new friends.
Get a dog. If you don’t have one, get one and walk. You will be amazed how many people you will meet through your dog. Can’t have one? Check your local humane society to see if they need dog walkers
Be realistic about what you can accomplish. Learn to say no …, and don’t overwhelm yourself with a to-do list. The non-profit Mental Health America offers more tips for reducing or controlling stress.
Plan for your next passage. Capitalize on your career experience and start a new one. Yes, enjoy a brief “retirement.” Travel, and spend more time with family and friends. Develop new hobbies. Redefining your purpose to maintain a sense of identity and purpose is essential to a healthy lifestyle.
This a great reference it’s given me many ideas on how I can improve my life.
My husband sent me this video and the first thing I said was, “Who knew Eddie could play the piano?” I don’t buy into aliens but I like the song played this way, I didn’t listen to the original version because I wanted to remember this special occasion. You can tell they were having fun and really enjoyed each other’s company. I still love Sammy’s voice, his club in Cabo, not so much.
A tidbit about the Bridge School Benefit.
The Bridge School Benefit was an annual charity concert usually held in Mountain View, California, every October at the Shoreline Amphitheatre from 1986 until 2016 with the exception of 1987. The concerts lasted the entire weekend and were organized by musicians Neil Young and Pegi Young. An annual Bay Area highlight, the concerts were billed online as the primary means of funding for The Bridge School; over both days, the reserved seats alone brought in well over a million dollars every year.
Organized by musicians Neil Young and Pegi Young, the Bridge School Benefit Concert is an annual, all acoustic, non-profit charity event held every October at Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California. All proceeds directly benefit the operations of The Bridge School.
Our Mission
The Bridge School is a non-profit organization whose mission is to ensure that individuals with severe speech and physical impairments achieve full participation in their communities through the use of augmentative & alternative means of communication (AAC) and assistive technology (AT) applications and through the development, implementation and dissemination of innovative life-long educational strategies. The Bridge School is an internationally recognized leader in the education of children who use augmentative and alternative communication and has developed unique programs and trained highly skilled professionals in the use of state of the art assistive technology.
I’m glad you joined me this week for another edition of Weekend Music Share.
Have a great weekend!
Melinda
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share, the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the Weekend Music Share banner in your post, and use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Hi, I’m glad you stopped by and I look forward to seeing you soon.
If you had to make a decision in life that would change the quality of life in your future and potentially wipe out your savings, how would you approach it?
America’s leading menopause advocates lead the way for changing the way we speak about menopause.
The black box warning labels on local estrogen products are costing menopausal women their wellbeing, and their money, and HELLO’s not-for-profit partner, Let’s Talk Menopause is on a mission to remove them.
Along with the Menopause Advocacy Working Group, Let’s Talk Menopause is calling for the removal of the outdated FDA-mandated boxed warning from local vaginal estrogen products used to treat Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).
GSM is a condition that affects up to 84% of menopausal women, manifesting in symptoms such as vaginal dryness, urinary urgency, and recurrent urinary tract infections, aka UTIs. Despite the proven effectiveness of local vaginal estrogen in treating GSM, an outdated boxed warning prevents many women from accessing this essential treatment.
The black box warning labels on local estrogen products are costing menopausal women their wellbeing, and their money, and HELLO’s not-for-profit partner, Let’s Talk Menopause is on a mission to remove them.
Along with the Menopause Advocacy Working Group, Let’s Talk Menopause is calling for the removal of the outdated FDA-mandated boxed warning from local vaginal estrogen products used to treat Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).
GSM is a condition that affects up to 84% of menopausal women, manifesting in symptoms such as vaginal dryness, urinary urgency, and recurrent urinary tract infections, aka UTIs. Despite the proven effectiveness of local vaginal estrogen in treating GSM, an outdated boxed warning prevents many women from accessing this essential treatment.
Get involved and learn more by visiting the Unboxing Menopause campaign website and sign the consumer advocacy letter to the FDA.
The Real Cost of the Boxed Warning
The boxed warning on local vaginal estrogen has caused unnecessary fear and confusion for millions of women suffering from GSM. This barrier to treatment has led to higher healthcare costs, multiple doctor visits, and prolonged discomfort.
“The boxed warning poses a massive economic burden on women — and on society,” said Jen Weiss-Wolf, Let’s Talk Menopause Board Member, author, and Executive Director at Birnbaum Women’s Leadership Center. “Untreated GSM leads to higher healthcare costs, lost productivity, and unnecessary suffering.”
Advocating for Change
Let’s Talk Menopause and the Menopause Advocacy Working Group are calling on women and healthcare providers to join their campaign to demand the FDA remove the boxed warning from local vaginal estrogen products.
“Vaginal estrogen is the gold standard treatment for GSM,” Dr. Robin Noble, an OBGYN and Let’s Talk Menopause’s Chief Medical Advisor tells HELLO! “It targets the problem at the source, helping women regain their comfort, their sexual function, and their quality of life with minimal risk.”
“Fear shouldn’t dictate our health choices,” explains Tamsen Fadal, author, journalist, filmmaker, and Let’s Talk Menopause board member. “The black box warning is costing us our well-being and our money.”
Join the Campaign
Let’s Talk Menopause and the Menopause Advocacy Working Group urge women and healthcare providers to advocate for removing the outdated boxed warning, making local vaginal estrogen more accessible. For more information on how to get involved or to learn more about GSM and local vaginal estrogen, visit the Unboxing Menopause campaign website and sign the consumer advocacy letter to the FDA.
Women have the right to know how Box Warnings are decided upon by the FDA. There have been several occasions that I’m aware of where the data has been misapplied and it can take many years before the correct information comes to light.
The topic of suicide is not the easiest conversation but one that is often important. One misconception is that only people with mental illness commit suicide and that is far from the truth. People commit suicide for many reasons and they are deeply personal, like the person dying of cancer and in immense pain or someone who has a chronic health condition that is debilitating and greatly limits their ability to take care of themselves or leave the house. There are many reasons people get deeply depressed and look to suicide as a way out. Yes, there are people with mental illness who commit suicide but I think the media has a role in highlighting these deaths over the other circumstances. Those types of stories get more traffic and unfortunately, keep the stigma alive.
Although I feel that you can’t stop a person determined to commit suicide, I do believe the strategies used long before the person reaches that point are critical and can save lives.
Here are the CDC’s recommended strategies to prevent suicide
Strengthen economic supports
Improve household financial security
Stabilize housing
Create protective environments
Reduce access to lethal means among persons at risk of suicide
Create healthy organizational policies and culture
Reduce substance use through community-based policies and practices
Improve access and delivery of suicide care
Cover mental health conditions in health insurance policies
Increase provider availability in underserved areas
Provide rapid and remote access to help
Create safer suicide care through systems change
Promote healthy connections
Promote healthy peer norms
Engage community members in shared activities
Teach coping and problem-solving skills
Support social-emotional learning programs
Teach parenting skills to improve family relationships
Contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline if you are experiencing mental health-related distress or are worried about a loved one who may need crisis support.
I have a serious mental illness, Treatment-Resistant Bipolar Disorder and it can be difficult to manage, it takes a village and commitment on my part to keep my mood stable. The first time I tried to commit suicide was at nine years old, it wasn’t due to my illness it was due to the abuse and living in a house with Domestic Violence. It’s hard to watch your mother get beaten to a pulp almost daily even if you hate her. I’ve tried many other times and got close a few times all for the same reason.
The suicidal thoughts and plans from my Bipolar Disorder are different in that the Black Dog can sneak up on you slowly and before you realize it, you’re down the rabbit hole. Fortunately, I’ve been aware enough to call my Psychiatrist and to tell my husband. That’s when I know it’s time to visit the Psych Hospital. There are many treatments Psychiatrists can use to help you when you’re at the bottom and can’t see the light. The technology has advanced so much even since I had my first ECT treatment, for which I’ve had 27, six last summer. The great news is there are other treatments now that are proven and cause less memory loss.
My father committed suicide in 1992 and it came as no surprise in that he told me for months he was going to kill himself. My father and I were estranged since I was a teen and yet he started calling me months before he died. I begged, cried, tried to reason, and even paid his bills for a couple of months thinking the financial relief might help. The bottom line is, you can not stop someone who is determined to commit suicide. My father was mentally ill and refused to go to the doctor, his decision and he fell too far down to even think of living. The key point here is that you can’t stop someone who is determined to commit suicide. I’m not saying don’t try, try like hell but you have to accept the facts and not carry the quilt around.
I carried that quilt for seven years before I sought out a Therapist to help me work through the pain and childhood trauma. I didn’t seek help for my Bipolar Disorder until after my father’s death. While reading about his disorder I read that 75% of children of parents who commit suicide will as well. That woke me up! It wasn’t easy, in fact, it was very difficult because medicine after medicine didn’t work. It was very frustrating but I had the greatest Psychiatrist and we finally found a protocol that worked. It was tweaked many times because the medications would stop working but he had enough history on me that he could react quickly to build another protocol. This rebuilding of medication protocols is a part of my disease and one I’m used to. After 32 years, I’m better equipped to explain what is happening and how I feel which helps get to a better treatment faster. Even though I talk quite a bit about mental illness there are many reasons people without a mental illness commit suicide.
The only words of wisdom I can part with is to pay attention to a person’s change in behavior, often you will see one. One example is, hurriedly someone gets all their chores done, cleans the house, and returns items borrowed. That’s called getting things in order and is a good indicator they plan to commit suicide. I encourage you to read more about why people commit suicide to acquaint yourself, just make sure you don’t over-focus. The last thing you want to do is push hard on someone who is feeling suicidal or has a plan. It’s a natural reaction, I know but they can shut you out.
If you are feeling suicidal or have questions you can reach out to these resources:
People who walk away while you’re talking to them are not interested in what you have to say. No need to get angry, they are self-centered and will not change.
People who ignore your no-soliciting sign are morons and wasting their money because who would buy from them.
If your lawn crew speaks Spanish and sprays poison on your beloved rose bush, have custom signs made that say “Do Not Spray Poison In The Flower Beds” in Spanish.
If your partner thinks that certain tasks are your responsibility, you have a choice, stop doing the other task or have a serious talk about their logic.
If there is something you’re good at whether it be a hobby or otherwise, don’t stop because you have other responsibilities. You have to make time for yourself every day for your mental health to enjoy the time you have available and celebrate your skill and the joy it brings you.
If you don’t think you’re important, people will not treat you that way. Grow your confidence and project it. Never let anyone put you down.
If a loved one puts you down or expresses shame about you, stop it right away. Set boundaries. Have a serious talk with them about how they talk to and about you. If they don’t understand or refuse to change, don’t go around them. If your partner or spouse doesn’t stand on your side they are confirming what others are saying, and the abuse will continue. After a talk with them, and they don’t get it, it’s time to move on. You deserve better and will thank yourself later.
If someone asks you to dress a certain way that is not your style, tell them you’re an individual and will dress the way you feel comfortable. If they insist, turn the tables and start telling them how to dress. The message will hit home or not. If not, they will want to control other parts of your life and you don’t need that from anyone. You are your own person. They are asking you to do something that makes them feel better about themselves because they have low confidence.
Beware of anyone who tries to pressure or guilt you into buying something. They are selling to make money only, not focused on what your needs are.
These rappers have shared their struggles with bipolar disorder, bringing awareness to their experiences within the rap community and beyond.
In recent years, it has become more common for celebrities to talk openly about their mental health, and several well-known rappers have significantly contributed to this conversation over the years. Despite facing controversies and navigating the complexities of the public eye, these artists shared their own stories about living with bipolar disorder. Their honesty helps others feel less alone and sparks more conversations about mental health.
Whether discussing their experiences in interviews or incorporating them into their lyrics, these rappers contribute to a more extensive dialogue about mental health. They’re helping to shift perceptions and encourage a more accepting and informed conversation around bipolar disorder. Here are six rappers who are part of this critical conversation:
1. Krizz Kaliko
Samuel William Christopher Watson, who performs under the stage name Krizz Kaliko, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He has made significant contributions to the music industry as a longtime collaborator with Tech N9ne, another artist from his hometown. Initially signed to Strange Music, the label co-owned by Tech N9ne, Kaliko established his own label, Ear House Inc., in 2021.
Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Kaliko has openly addressed his mental health struggles in his music. Specifically, in his album Genius, he delves deep into his experiences on the track titled “Bipolar,” where he raps and sings about the challenges of living with the condition.
Beyond his music, Kaliko has spoken candidly about his use of psychotherapy and anti-anxiety medications as part of his ongoing effort to maintain emotional and mental stability. His openness about his struggles inspires and supports others facing similar battles.
2. Ye
Kanye West, now known as Ye, has been vocal about his bipolar disorder, referring to it as his “superpower.” He first revealed his diagnosis around the release of his 2018 album Ye, where he used his music and public statements to address the complexities of living with the condition. The album’s cover features the phrase, “I Hate Being Bipolar; it’s Awesome,” reflecting his struggle with the extremes of the disorder.
Ye has continued to discuss the impact of bipolar disorder on his life, comparing it to having a “sprained brain” and emphasizing the importance of proper care, even though he has openly struggled with staying on medication consistently.
In recent years, Ye has also opened up about the paranoia and erratic behavior that accompanies his manic episodes. He has criticized how people with mental health conditions are often mistreated, both by healthcare systems and society at large, contributing to the stigma around mental illness.
3. Charles Hamilton
Charles Eddie-Lee Hamilton, Jr., a Harlem, New York City native, is a recognized figure in the hip-hop community as a recording artist and record producer. His album The Pink Lavalamphas been hailed as one of the standout underground hip-hop releases of its time.
In a candid interview with Billboard, Hamilton discussed the personal struggles he faced due to his undiagnosed bipolar disorder. He described a period of intense isolation, where distrust of others led him to confine himself to his home, dedicating his time solely to music production as a way to combat his depression. “I just didn’t trust anybody,” he admitted. “I didn’t leave my house; I just made music all the time. I was fighting depression — I shut myself in.”
Over the years, Hamilton has been open about his mental health journey, using his platform to raise awareness about bipolar disorder and the importance of mental health care. His career has seen various ups and downs, including a brief retirement in 2016 followed by a return to music with new projects that reflect his ongoing battle with mental health and his resilience in the face of adversity. His candidness about his struggles has not only helped to destigmatize mental health issues among musicians and fans but also resonated with audiences worldwide.
4. DMX (Dark Man X)
Earl Simmons, known professionally as DMX, was a prominent figure in the music and acting industries, rising to fame in the late 1990s. His raw and emotional lyrical content often reflected the personal pain and struggles associated with bipolar disorder, which was especially evident in his groundbreaking album, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot.
DMX’s bold and unique contributions significantly shaped the music landscape, particularly as the only artist to debut his first two albums at number one in the same year.
His music not only captivated fans but also offered a visceral insight into his battles with mental health. Until his passing in 2021, DMX’s powerful voice in music and film left a lasting impact, celebrating the profound expressiveness of his work.
Adam Steven Deacon, an English talent celebrated as a film actor, rapper, writer, and director, shot to fame with his performance in the British film Kidulthood and his directorial debut, Anuvahood. In an interview with the BBC, Deacon discussed his initial fears that his bipolar disorder might derail his career. He described the condition’s impact, saying, “Bipolar life has two speeds: One minute, it’s all too fast. The next, everything becomes so slow that I can’t cope.”
This candid account of his daily struggles sheds light on the complexities of living with this brain-based disorder. Deacon has since learned to embrace and manage his conditioneffectively. His story of resilience and adaptability provides hope and insight, encouraging others to navigate similar challenges.
6. Yo Yo Honey Singh
Yo Yo Honey Singh, also known as Honey Singh, is a prominent Indian rapper, music producer, and film actor renowned for his contributions to Bollywood music. He rose to fame as one of the highest-paid music producers in Bollywood. But in late 2014, Singh took a sudden hiatus from the public eye, sparking concern among his fans. After a quiet return to the music scene in 2015, he maintained a low profile with the media. It was not until March 2016 that Singh revealed the reason for his 18-month absence: he had been battling bipolar disorder.
Since disclosing his diagnosis, Singh has gradually resumed his music career and has been involved in several new projects, adapting his workload to manage his health effectively. His openness about his mental health struggles has been instrumental in raising awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Tanya Hvilivitzky has spent more than 30 years in the communications field — a career that has included stints as an investigative journalist, managing editor for a lifestyle and wellness magazine, corporate communications director, and researcher/writer. She has been with bpHope (and bp Magazine) since 2016, serving in roles such as features editor, interim editor, and, currently, senior editor. She has been devoted to mental health awareness since she was the editor of Schizophrenia Digest in her early days, and now with a particular focus on highlighting the complexities of bipolar disorder through compassionate, service-based journalism. As an award-winning writer/editor, Tanya received the Beyond Borders Media Award for her 2012 investigative exposé about human trafficking for Niagara Magazine. Her work on this critical topic also earned the Media Freedom Award “Honouring Canada’s Heroes” from the Joy Smith Foundation to Stop Human Trafficking.
I recently wrote about how the new medication Trintellex for my Bipolar Disorder made me feel better than I had in years. It still has that effect on my life but it’s marred with new and ongoing health issues. Some have popped up in the past few weeks. It’s a woop on the head trying to understand what is happening to my body and messing up my ability to live my best life.
I’m very happy to report that The Mayo has accepted me as a patient and I will be flying to Rochester, MN in a few weeks. I trust them with my life and I am confident they will find what or what several issues are affecting my health. The first day will start with an Internal Medicine Doctor for an evaluation, later that day I pick up a Pulse Oximeter to wear overnight.
The second day starts early with a load of blood tests, the test appears to focus on my blood. Later that afternoon, there is a consultation with a Hematologist to discuss the lab results. Probably additional information as well. At this time my schedule is free on the third day and on Friday I return back to Internal Medicine for a readout.
The last time I went for my heart there were so many tests that we ran from one appointment to the next, sometimes without a breath. This trip is very different and I’m so glad due to the way I’m feeling. They did want me to come back in November for a Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue evaluation but I don’t see the need. I was diagnosed with both many years ago and I don’t need to fly up there for a day of testing and education. I canceled that appointment. The Mayo did send a video on Fibro & Chronic Fatigue I will watch as a fresher but I’m not flying up to get evaluated for something I already know. Unless they can give me a reason I can make logic out of, I’m not spending the money for a one-day trip.
I met with an Orthopedic Surgeon who specializes in hands and was not surprised to hear I had Carpal Tunnel in both hands, as well as arthritis but the diagnosis of Osteoarthritis in both thumbs was a shock. He is ordering a Nerve Conduction Study since I do have nerve issues in my hands. I thought a barnacle was growing on my wrist only to find out it was caused by the wrist plate put in when I broke my wrist years ago. When he does the carpal tunnel surgery on the left hand he will remove the wrist brace and I will have the right hand surgery after the left heals. The great news is that technology has improved so much that Carpal Tunnel surgery can be done with a very small incision, ultrasound is used and only a band ade is required after the surgery. It is said that most a back to full range of motion in three days. Boy, what a difference in the right hand Carpal Tunnel surgery I had years ago. It won’t be as easy on my left hand with the removal of the wrist plate but I have no doubt that surgery has improved in that area as well. I’m currently wearing a painful thrumb support that hurts other areas of my hand and it’s impossible to wear except when on the computer. I’ve asked for another option.
Just another interesting week in my life but I’m thankful I have a life and it’s great outside of the health conditions.
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week we highlight Alygeorges. We started following each other on September 15, 2016, long before she went to university. we’ve grown together and I’m proud to call her a friend.
I’m a free spirit, unbounded by any rules… but I do believe in RESPECTING ALL. I’ve been through so much in life, and I have reason to believe that there are many more people out there who have sailed in the same boat as I. it’s for that profound reason that I decided to share my experiences on this site, so I can motivate someone; and help them understand that there’s so much to life than just resigning oneself to misery…
This is the post we met over in September of 2016.
Be sure to check the post out and see how you react and if you understand her perspective. We agreed that the word subservient can suggest many things, and we didn’t care for the word at face value.
Aly’s posts are often driven by her religion and how people choose to live their lives differently than Jesus asked us to. She’s not preachy in any way and there is always a powerful message in the post. She’s forgiving even though she had her share of trauma. Everyone is loved by God the same way and it’s up to us to listen to the words and choose to live be they.
One of the things I love about Aly is we can have an open conversation about our different views on religion and the Catholic church in a logical way and it never affects our relationship. I’m so proud of her and what she has accomplished, she went to Law School and is now a Human Rights lawyer, a perfect fit for her. She cares deeply for people and justice for all.
She has been blogging on WordPress since May 2013 and over the years her blog has won many awards over the years when awards were more commonplace.
Aly is special to me, we’ve taught each other so much regardless of our age difference and backgrounds. She cherished her family, warts and all, and is close with them, especially her sister.
You would be remiss if you didn’t check out her blog and stay a while reading her archives. She has wisdom beyond her years.
Aly, so glad we know each other and have grown together all these years.
The posts included are linked to the site but when previewed they didn’t show linked, I hope they publish correctly.
This is a huge win for Lyme patients and may diagnose Lyme faster and save patients the cost and pain of long-term treatment. The key point is that the tests are only available from labs that perform Lyme testing and do not meet the CDC standards which means that insurance companies will not pay for the cost. I would encourage you to seek out a lab for the test regardless of insurance pay, IGeneX has led the way in Lyme testing for years and is the gold standard. Paying for the test is worth every penny because you are testing for even possible antigens out there and you won’t receive that from your doctor. This test could make a huge difference in your treatment by pinpointing the virus versus a cross-the-board method.
The Lyme ImmunoBlot test first introduced by IGeneX in 2017 has now been converted to a test kit–and has received FDA clearance.
The name of the test is iDart™ Lyme IgG ImmunoBlot Kit.
It’s a stand-alone test for the detection of IgG antibodies against Borrelia-causing Lyme disease.
The iDart ImmunoBlot Kit features 31 Lyme antigen bands, which are more antigen bands than any other Lyme immunoblot test on the market.
Moreover, it is the only immunoblot that includes Osp A (P31) and Osp B (P34). (Note: those are the two bands removed from other Lyme tests in the 1990s because of their use in the development of Lyme vaccines.)
The inclusion of 31 antigens improves the sensitivity of the detection of Lyme-specific IgG antibodies, which in turn will improve the sensitivity of the diagnosis of Lyme disease in suspected patients without sacrificing specificity.
“We are delighted to have received FDA clearance for our Lyme ImmunoBlot Kit,” said Dr. Jyotsna Shah, Ph.D., President and Director of IGeneX Labs.
These kits are not available for sale to consumers, but only to labs that perform Lyme diagnostic testing.
Key features of the iDart Lyme IgG ImmunoBlot kit
Results interpretation is based upon new criteria and not CDC criteria.
The bands are grouped according to their antigen groups. The test is considered positive if the Lyme Screen Antigen (LSA) band and one or more bands from at least two other groups are present on the ImmunoBlot.
Bands 31 and 34 are included, making this the only FDA-cleared Lyme serological test that includes these bands.
Regardless of your version of true happiness, living a happier, more satisfied life is within reach. A few tweaks to your regular habits like getting more sleep and exercise can help you get there.
Habits matter. If you’ve ever tried breaking a bad habit, you know all too well how engrained they are.
Well, good habits are deeply engrained, too. Why not work on making positive habits part of your routine?
Below, you’ll find suggestions for daily, monthly, and yearly habits to help kickstart your quest. Just remember that everyone’s version of happiness is a little different, and so is their path to achieving it.
If some of these habits create added stress or just don’t fit your lifestyle, ditch them. With a little time and practice, you’ll figure out what does and doesn’t work for you.
The following daily habits may help you achieve more happiness in your life.
1. Smile
You tend to smile when you’re happy. But it’s actually a two-way street.
We smile because we’re happy, and smiling causes the brain to release dopamine, which makes us happier.
While not completely foolproof, researchers have found that the link between smiling and happiness could be attributed to the “facial feedback hypothesis,” where facial expressions may have a modest influence on emotions.
That does not mean you have to go around with a fake smile plastered on your face all the time. But the next time you find yourself feeling low, crack a smile and see what happens. Or try starting each morning by smiling at yourself in the mirror.
2. Exercise
Exercise isn’t just for your body. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, feelings of anxiety, and symptoms of depression while boosting self-esteem and happiness.
Even a small amount of physical activity can make a difference. You don’t have to train for a triathlon or scale a cliff — unless that’s what makes you happy, of course.
The trick is to not overexert yourself. If you suddenly throw yourself into a strenuous routine, you may just end up frustrated (and sore).
Consider these exercise starters:
Take a walk around the block every night after dinner.
Sign up for a beginner’s class in yoga or tai chi.
Remind yourself of any fun activities you once enjoyed but that have fallen by the wayside. Or you could consider starting activities you always wanted to try, such as golf, bowling, or dancing.
3. Get plenty of sleep
Most adults need at least 7 hoursTrusted Source of sleep every night. If you find yourself fighting the urge to nap during the day or just generally feel like you’re in a fog, your body may be telling you it needs more rest.
Here are a few tips to help you build a better sleep routine:
Write down how many hours of sleep you get each night and how rested you feel. After a week, you should have a better idea how you’re doing. You can also try using an app to track your sleep.
Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including on weekends.
Reserve the hour before bed as quiet time. Take a bath, read, or do something relaxing. Avoid heavy eating and drinking.
Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet.
Invest in some good bedding.
If you have to take a nap, try limiting it to 20 minutes.
If you consistently have problems sleeping, consider talking with a doctor. You may have a sleep disorder that requires treatment.
Carbohydrates release serotonin, a “feel good” hormone. Just keep simple carbs — foods high in sugar and starch — to a minimum because that energy surge is short and you’ll crash. Choosing complex carbs, such as vegetables, beans, and whole grains, can help you avoid a crash while still providing serotonin.
Lean meat, poultry, legumes, and dairy are high in protein. Protein-rich foods release dopamine and norepinephrine, which boost energy and concentration.
Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fatty fish, have been found to have anti-inflammatory effectsTrusted Source that extend to your overall brain health. If you don’t eat fish, you might consider talking with a doctor about possible supplementation.
Highly processed or deep-fried foods tend to leave you feeling down and so will skipping meals.
If you want to eat with your mood in mind, consider starting with making one food choice for your mood each day.
For example, swap a big, sweet breakfast pastry for some Greek yogurt with fruit. You’ll still satisfy your sweet tooth, and the protein will help you avoid a midmorning energy crash. Consider adding in a new food swap each week.
5. Practice gratitude
Simply being grateful can give your mood a big boost, among other benefits. For example, a two-part study found that practicing gratitude can have a significant impact on feelings of hope and happiness.
You might try starting each day by acknowledging one thing you’re grateful for. You can do this while you’re brushing your teeth or just waiting for that snoozed alarm to go off.
As you go about your day, consider keeping an eye out for pleasant things in your life. They can be big things, such as knowing that someone loves you or getting a well-deserved promotion.
But they can also be little things, such as a co-worker who offered you a cup of coffee or the neighbor who waved to you. Maybe it could even just be the warmth of the sun on your skin.
With a little practice, you may even become more aware of all the positive things around you.
6. Give a compliment
Research shows that performing acts of kindness may also help promote your overall well-being.
Giving a sincere compliment is a quick, easy way to brighten someone’s day while giving your own happiness a boost.
Catch the person’s eye and say it with a smile so they know you mean it. You might be surprised by how good it makes you feel.
If you want to offer someone a compliment on their physical appearance, make sure to do it in a respectful way.
7. Breathe deeply
You’re tense, your shoulders are tight, and you feel as though you just might “lose it.” We all know that feeling.
Instinct may tell you to take a long, deep breath to calm yourself down.
Turns out, that instinct is a good one. ResearchTrusted Source supports the fact that slow breathing and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
The next time you feel stressed or are at your wit’s end, work through these steps:
Close your eyes. Try to envision a happy memory or beautiful place.
Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose.
Slowly breathe out through your mouth or nose.
Repeat this process several times until you start to feel yourself calm down.
If you’re having a hard time taking slow, deliberate breaths, try counting to 5 in your head with each inhale and exhale.
8. Acknowledge the unhappy moments
A positive attitude is generally a good thing, but bad things happen to everyone. It’s just part of life.
If you get some bad news, make a mistake, or just feel like you’re in a funk, don’t try to pretend you’re happy.
Acknowledge the feeling of unhappiness, letting yourself experience it for a moment. Then shift your focus toward what made you feel this way and what it might take to recover.
Would a deep breathing exercise help? A long walk outside? Talking it over with someone?
Let the moment pass and take care of yourself. Remember, no one’s happy all the time.
9. Keep a journal
A journal is a good way to organize your thoughts, analyze your feelings, and make plans. And you don’t have to be a literary genius or write volumes to benefit.
It can be as simple as jotting down a few thoughts before you go to bed. If putting certain things in writing makes you nervous, you can always shred it when you’ve finished. It’s the process that counts.
For those stressors you can’t avoid, remind yourself that everyone has stress — there’s no reason to think it’s all on you. And chances are, you’re stronger than you might think you are.
Instead of letting yourself get overwhelmed, try to address the stressor head-on. This might mean initiating an uncomfortable conversation or putting in some extra work, but the sooner you confront it, the sooner the pit in your stomach may start to shrink.
11. Avoid comparing yourself to others
Whether it happens on social media, at work, or even at a yoga class, it’s easy to fall into a place where you’re comparing yourself to others. The result? You may experienceTrusted Source more discontent, lower self-esteem, and even depression and anxiety.
It can take practice to stop comparing yourself to others, but it’s worth it for the benefit of having your inner peace and happiness.
You can start with some of the other tips on this list that can help draw your attention inward to yourself, such as deep breathing and journaling. You may also consider talking with a therapist for perspective.
Acute stress is a part of life, but when it turns into chronic stress, it can cause serious health concerns both mentally and physically.
Acute stress is the stress you feel as the direct result of a specific situation or event. For instance, it’s acute stress when you’re running late for an appointment and begin to feel symptoms of stress such as anxiety and difficulty focusing.
Chronic stress is the result of stress that builds up from repeated exposure to stressful situations and the hormones your body releases during each stressful episode. Many things can lead to chronic stress, including factors such as difficult relationships, job demands, and financial concerns.
Stress is a reaction that happens when something activates your body’s fight-or-flight response. It gets your heart racing and puts you on high alert. A wide range of things can cause acute stress.
Generally, acute stress is a reaction to situations that are challenging to manage but that are temporary, such as:
car accidents
medical emergencies
work deadlines
unexpected expenses
upcoming events
traffic
weather
travel
On the other hand, chronic stress is a reaction to long-term stressors. These long-term stressors keep your body on high alert for an extended time. Examples of situations that can lead to chronic stress include:
Treatment options for stress depend on the severity and how the stress is affecting your life. Acute stress doesn’t typically need treatment unless it’s making daily activities difficult.
If you’re experiencing episodes of acute stress frequently, your primary healthcare professional might recommend lifestyle treatments such as:
Increasing your physical activity:Exercise and an active lifestyle can help your body release stress-reducing hormones.
Cutting back on caffeine:Caffeine can increase the symptoms of stress. For some people, cutting back can help reduce episodes of acute stress.
Making time to relax: Taking time for self-care and relaxation through steps like hot showers and baths, yoga or meditation practice, and spending time with friends can reduce stress levels.
Avoiding stress triggers: If you’re able to avoid specific stressful situations, it can help lower your overall stress levels.
Lowering your sugar intake: Eating a healthy diet and reducing the amount of sugar you take in can help manage your body’s reaction to stress.
Disconnecting from phones and other devices: Cutting back on the amount of time you spend engaged with social media and news sources can help reduce stress levels.
Treatment options for chronic stress can be more complex. You might receive treatment to help you manage your stress and treatment to help alleviate your symptoms. Options can include:
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT):CBT is a therapy method that helps you identify your thought patterns and discover how they contribute to your stress levels. It can give you the tools you need to lower stress and cope with the difficulties in your life.
Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR): MBSR is a treatment that teaches mindfulness techniques to help manage responses to stress.
Medication: Sometimes, prescription medications for anxiety or depression can help with the symptoms of chronic stress. The right ones for you will depend on your symptoms and on factors such as any other medications you already take.
Symptom-specific treatment: Your doctor might prescribe medications for any complications and symptoms connected to your chronic stress. For instance, your treatment could include medications to help with insomnia or IBS.
Acute stress is the stress that results from a specific, temporary situation or event. It can cause symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia.
Chronic stress is stress that is the result of an ongoing situation such as a demanding job or chronic illness. It can lead to long lasting physical health compilations and sometimes needs treatments such as therapy and medication.
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