From Alcoholic To Freedom

October 6, 2023October 11, 2023 Looking for the Light7 Comments

I’m a recovering Alcoholic and stopped drinking about 15 years ago. Everyone is different in their recovery. I went cold turkey because of my Mental Illness. My Psychiatrist at the time knew I drank, and we talked about it. During a very difficult time, I asked my doctor if stopping drinking would help my meds, and he said yes. I need to have all of my medications to work as well as possible.

I started drinking at 9 years old, lived in domestic abuse, and child abuse and my step-father was a mean drunk. He beat my mother often and she would in turn beat me.

My father was also an alcoholic so my growing up was chaotic.

Alcohol made me act differently, especially at events for work. All memories are in the past and rarely think of the spectacle I made.

Today is the perfect day to stop drinking or at least go to one AA meeting to see if they can give you support. I hear great things about AA making people whole.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Mental Health

Overthinking: The Silent Thief of Mental Peace! Guest Blogger My Mind Strength

October 3, 2023 Looking for the LightLeave a comment

http://mindstrengthorg.in/combatting-overthinking-for-a-calm-mind/

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

What Would You Say To A Special Person If You Could Go Back In Time

October 2, 2023October 2, 2023 Looking for the Light8 Comments

I thought about my grandparents the other day and thought of all the questions I would ask if I had a chance.

I was like a child to my grandparents due to traumatic experiences. I was 14 years old when I went to live with them permanently.

This photo is of granny, step-brother Ricki, and me, dig that shirt!

My granny looked from afar when I was very young, looking for abuse. My granny knew child abuse was happening but could not a finger on anything. She probably saved my life at six months old. My mother left me in the tub full of water and went downstairs to talk with my granny, after a few minutes of talking my granny asked where I was. Oh, she is upstairs in the bathroom.

I would ask my granny how being legally blind has affected her life.

Was it frustrating always to have to have someone take you?

I would ask about how she survived the war while raising a child by herself.

My grandparents were so good to me and my friends at boarding school. Every Wednesday was parents group. They were there every week for the full years I was there. She even sent brownies to our dorm or loads of candy, everyone in my hall looked forward to Wednesday nights.

My granny was the strongest person I know, she could do anything except prevent her death.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Blogger Highlight-Jennifer Pentland

October 2, 2023 Looking for the Light2 Comments

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 the blog of Jennifer Pentland.

Jennifer Pentland

Welcome to my creative space!

My name is Jennifer Pentland, and I’m a self-taught artist who found solace and passion in art after experiencing the loss of a loved one. Through art therapy, I discovered an incredible love for the world of creativity.

Art has become my faithful companion on this journey of healing and self-discovery. It has provided me with a means to confront and navigate the depths of my anxiety, offering a sanctuary where my emotions can find expression and release without judgment or restraint. In the process, I have learned that art has an incredible power to heal and transform, both for the artist and those who connect with the artwork.

You will come back to her site because it’s addicting.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Why Adventure is an Essential Tool on the Path to Mental Wellness

October 2, 2023 Looking for the Light6 Comments

If there is one thing about our lives, it’s that if we are experiencing one of the many aspects of the mental health umbrella, it’s that it forces us to retreat into our shell. Mental wellness is not something that is defined as the absence of mental illness but about learning to thrive in a mind state where you can realize your potential, cope with those everyday stresses, and make those meaningful contributions. This is why something like adventuring may seem completely anathema to the idea of self-care. But here are some. Adventure can be an amazing catalyst to improve our wellness. Let’s show you why.

Connection with Nature

While so many people instantly connect the idea of mental wellness with being out in nature, not everybody experiences that stereotypical sense of calm that is out in nature. However, if you attempt to get yourself off the beaten track and make the most of your time in nature, it instantly gives you a sense of grounding and a soothing effect that could be very therapeutic.

Because being in nature can improve our mental well-being, we can stand to benefit not just from being surrounded by trees but actually using these approaches as a way to get as far away from the rat race as humanly possible. We can all struggle to deal with those daily pressures. This is why potentially opting for more hiking and biking can make a big difference. You can easily purchase an electric off road bike for adults or a backpack and a new pair of boots and venture into nature.

The Attention It Demands of You

This is a very important thing to remember, especially when we are consumed by anxiety. We hear so much about the benefits of mindfulness, but rather than something like a body scan meditation or sitting there trying to think of nothing, lots of people make the mistake of thinking that mindfulness is supposed to be a welcome distraction. It should be something that nourishes you, and often when we’re feeling like there is nothing to live for, no matter what we have in our lives, doing something that simultaneously nourishes us but also is challenging enough to take our attention off our thoughts for even a split second is an amazing solution.

Something like scuba diving or rock climbing requires you to be present in the moment because it demands so much of your attention. But you can apply this to other parts of your life as well. For example, going to the gym can be as much of an adventure as doing something as stereotypical as climbing trees or flying. When we feel anxious, we ruminate. There is a reason why those adventurers feel addicted to those practices, and that’s because they’re not consumed by those thoughts that everybody has at one point or another.

Social Connection

Finding someone who is doing exactly the same thing as you, especially when it’s a very unique or left-field practice, could foster a sense of belonging. This is absolutely ideal for mental wellness. As people, it’s deeply ingrained in us that we practice socializing. Being a part of a group of people allows us to be simultaneously involved but also blend into something, and when we participate in an activity where there are only a few people, this instantly creates a sense of trust because you’re both on the same page with the same shared goal.

This doesn’t just mean that you then achieve the goal itself, but because you’re doing something that actively nourishes you in a group of people who are thinking the same way, you instantly feel part of a team, part of a greater purpose, and this means that you will begin to feel more inclined to pursue the things that make you feel this way. It’s like an addiction but with a more positive spin.

Increased Resilience

Going on any form of adventure is, first and foremost, about taking you out of your comfort zone. We all need to push our upper limits so we are better equipped to handle the ups and downs that life throws at us.

We can feel so much guilt that we’re alive if we’ve gone through an incredibly tough time, but we also need to remember that life is not purely about happiness, which is a major misconception, it’s about remembering those challenges can boost our resilience and remember that adversity is something that we all overcome in any different form.

If there’s one thing about life that we should all maintain, it’s a sense of curiosity. This is why going on any form of adventure is an amazing solution, not just for the sake of mental wellness, but for every aspect of our existence.

This is a collaborative post

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Survivor

Has Your Shower Curtin Ever Given You A Concussion?

September 30, 2023 Looking for the Light9 Comments

It happened roughly 2 weeks ago. Please note that I have several chronic illnesses and balance issues. Taking a shower is always a risk. I’m careful and stopped using my chair last year. Big mistake! I do have a safety handle on the tub and it hurt so bad falling on top of it.

While grabbing for the shampoo the shower rod fell and hit me in the back of my head and threw me on top of the safety handle then pushed and pinned me in the corner with the water still running.

I managed to get the rod off of me and tried to get up. It took many tries to pull myself out of the tub. I didn’t have the strength to push and pull myself out of the bathtub. I was in the bathroom upstairs and he was downstairs in his office. I yelled for my husband several times but he could not hear me.

The back of my head was hit hard and now I have a concussion. My jaw hurts, my neck hurts, my ears clogged up, and have some of the biggest bruises I’ve seen. I have had several concussions over the years, like when I fell down the stairs and broke my wrist.

I’m at the point where there’s nothing to do but wait, someone mentioned 3-4 months to heal. That is news to me. I can’t image living this way for 3-4 months.

I’ve since purchased a full-size tub mat and a suction safety bar. I’m still nervous but you have to go forward. The reason I decided to get a suction cup bar vs. a permanent one is that we are moving soon and the new owners may not want it and taking it off the wall will leave a hole in the tiles

I’m looking for a portable alert that is really loud, might try my clip-on alarm for cycling. I may get several and hang in a few places because you never know where you’re going to land.

Be safe! :)

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Just Pondering

September 27, 2023 Looking for the Light4 Comments

Though you may not be in school anyone, it’s still fun to learn about new topics.

What is something unique you’re fascinated by and would you would love to learn more about?

Don’t forget to check out free college courses.

Melinda

Reference:

Field Guide by Stampington

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

My No Diet Weight Loss Journey To Losing 40 Pounds

September 26, 2023October 4, 2023 Looking for the Light9 Comments

I’m not selling anything, just sharing my journey. There are so many DIET plans on the Internet, choose wisely. Losing weight is a long-term commitment with ups and downs.

I started my journey after being weighed at a doctor’s office. WOW, what a shock! I have lost 40 pounds in the last 14 months.

At first, I did not count calories and focused on reducing my eating. Now I’m down to one piece of pizza, unlike the three pieces in the past. I eat almost everything he eats in much smaller pieces. I have a calorie amount in my head and work with that number but I’m not too strict on myself. I eat 2-4 pieces of small caramel chocolate squares, 2 squares if I’m on the top limit of calories, and 4 if I am under the calories for the day. I love sweets so much that I allow myself a cookie or cupcake a month.

Due to the calories, I found some rootbeer and sparkling flavored water, drinking a rootbeer once or twice a week. Everything else has very few calories. I drink lots of water right before eating and you will eat less. I drink 60-70 oz of water a day.

My weight stalled at 20 lbs and it felt like forever but the weight started to go lower and I’ve settled with 40 lbs. lost. I’m happy where I am, now it’s buying new clothes to fit.

My weight loss is not based on eating healthy, no salads, carrots, or any other item that will feel like a diet. I do eat a salad sometimes, and eat a piece of salmon each week, and eat yogurt several times each week.

I weighed myself every day, now mostly at the doctor’s office. Don’t worry about gaining 3-5 pounds as long as your weight goes back down. If not check the calories of what you’re eating. Remember pizza and other items are full of salt and will add water weight.

My concussion is better but still has a hold on me and my brain fog. I hope the post flows correctly and makes sense. :)

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Blogger Highlight-Run Away Widow

September 25, 2023 Looking for the LightLeave a comment

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 the blog of Run Away Widow.

Join me, Kristin, on my journey to adjust to the sudden death of my husband and learn to live as a young, middle-aged, remarried widow.

Mike was killed in August 2015. After the police investigation fades, details of the ‘accident’ become suspicious. When the medical examiner determines the cause of death is HOMICIDE, I hire a team of investigators and lawyers to discover what really happened that night.

I started writing my blog during the summer when I ran away to avoid my first wedding anniversary without my husband as well as the one year anniversary of his passing. I fled around the world to Thailand.

Her site is a joy to read.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

Once Upon a Relapse By Guest Blogger Hope Whispers

September 25, 2023 Looking for the Light3 Comments

She shares an important story about her addiction and recovery, it’s a powerful post. Read for yourself, friends, and children, the time may come when you can use some of her techniques.

https://hopewhisperstoday.wordpress.com/2023/09/24/once-upon-a-relapse/

Celebrate Life · Fun · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Just Pondering

September 23, 2023 Looking for the Light8 Comments

What are your favorite ways to do nothing?

Melinda

Reference:

Field Guide by Stampington

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Moving Forward

How Parents Can Help Their Teens Overcome Depression

September 21, 2023September 21, 2023 Looking for the Light15 Comments

Children are heavily influenced by their surroundings. When we lavish them with positivity, they often grow up with a positive mindset and a can-do attitude. However, if we subject them to certain difficulties, they can be a lot more hardened as they approach their teenage years. The trials and challenges children face during their teenage years can often define who they are once they bloom into young adults.

While our formative years are usually between the ages of 0 and 8, children start to develop complex emotions and feelings when they begin entering high school. This is made even more difficult for certain children when they’re exposed to the internet and vastly different opinions and takes on life. When your child mingles with different cultures and personalities in school, it can trigger a lot of realizations and changes that ultimately change the way they think.

As such, a common occurrence in young teenagers is depression. This isn’t just a feeling of sadness that occurs now and then, but a recurring emotion that can make them feel hopeless and helpless. To help your child break out of these feelings, it’s essential to take a delicate approach so you don’t agitate them further.

Source: https://unsplash.com/photos/qYanN54gIrI (CC0)

Understanding the signs and symptoms of teenage depression

It’s hard to explain what depression feels like as it differs from person to person. However, there are a couple of common signs that you should look out for:

Unable to enjoy things as they used to.
Feeling worthless or guilty for things they can’t directly affect.
Sleeping too little or too much.
Abusing drugs or alcohol to help with their feelings.
Frequent crying.
Mood swings.
Constantly irritable or frustrated.
Losing or gaining a lot of weight.
Having trouble concentrating in school.
Falling grades and difficulty at school.
Feeling hopeless and/or helpless.

If you notice these signs in your children then you may want to speak to them first. You could consult depression treatment centers for teenagers if they’ve harmed themselves or have turned to alcohol or drugs to help with their feelings. However, if they’re only occasionally showing these symptoms, you may still be able to speak with them and encourage them to break out of those negative feelings.

How to approach your child if you think they’re depressed

You must take your child seriously when they’re feeling depressed. You want to give them space to deal with their problems and listen to everything they say. They may give clues on why they’re feeling depressed and how you could help them. If they’re not willing to speak to you, then you may find it easier to encourage them to speak to a friend or family member. Whatever you do, don’t brush aside their feelings and chalk it up to a “phase”.

While there are many ways to improve your child’s mental health, it’s important to understand that there’s no easy fix that can be applied to all children. Every child deals with depression differently. You also shouldn’t blame yourself if your child feels depressed. While there is certainly a parenting factor, it’s also heavily dependent on their environment and school conditions too.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

Lost in Caregiver Twilight Zone

September 19, 2023September 19, 2023 Looking for the Light30 Comments

Repost from 2009

We learned my gramps had months to live during a hospital stay. One very important piece of information the doctor did not share is people his age die much quicker. My gramps died in February 2010. We knew the end was near yet you were never ready. For me, times were challenging and emotions raw. You look at your loved one knowing they are dying yet you don’t want them to know you see death when you look at them. My gramps had Prostate Cancer, Bladder Cancer, and Chronic Kidney Failure. His breathing labored from not getting enough oxygen in the blood. Partially brought on by not using his oxygen. Kidney Failure caused severe anemia, and he took shots once a month to help with energy.

*******************

December 2009

I’ve been caring for my 92-year-old grandfather for five weeks following three surgeries within seven days. I’m so tired it’s numbing. My grandfather is a man of habits driven by the time of day, maybe from his military background. One morning he was upset when the hospital had not brought his coffee and could not see he was the problem. We’re in a hospital, not the Hilton. At home, it was far worse. It does not matter that I have changed the sheets again this morning, changed his soiled underpants more than once, and got him dressed for the day. If the coffee is not ready when he expects it or I don’t have the newspaper yet, I hear about it. My grandparents raised me and I love my grandfather dearly but it’s hard to bite my tongue. I want to ask if doesn’t he realize or care that I’ve been moving since 5:00 a.m. to take care of him.

At 92 he lives at home alone, still drives (very limited), and goes to the local Senior Center several times a week to play dominos. He amazes me with each year. He is the healthiest dying person I know and in his mind, he is much younger and more capable. This makes it impossible for him to understand recovery will take several more weeks at least. I catch him doing things he shouldn’t and I get the standard “I can do it”. He also acts like a child when he doesn’t want to do something, most of the time it’s taking his medicine or getting up to move around.

I push him gently but firmly to get up and move around. Laying in bed or sleeping in the chair all day will not improve his strength. He does not like being told what to do. You learn what you’re made of in stressful times. Our minds and bodies can withstand so much to help someone we love. All I know is tomorrow is a new day.

I grew up in their house and it feels strange to stay in my old bedroom at 46. The house built in 1950, is in the hood, has no dishwasher, internet, or privacy. I am going crazy without my internet escape. I’m in the twilight zone, washing dishes by hand three times a day, and the room is the same as it was when I left home in 1981.

Tomorrow is a new day.

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

Suicide Awareness Month-My Story & Tips

September 18, 2023September 22, 2023 Looking for the Light10 Comments

Every day is Suicide Awareness for me, suicide happens every day leaving friends and family to pick up the pieces. My father committed suicide in 1992 at 52 years old. The first time I attempted suicide was nine years old and the last time I was suicidal was last month.

You often hear it said that the person looked fine before committing suicide. We’ve listened to those words many times this year and lost several celebrities that shocked the community. Rich or poor, anyone can be affected by suicide.

You have to look for small changes, not big ones.

How is their appearance?

Are they wearing dirty clothes?

Not returning your call or answering the door.

Do they appear tired from not sleeping?

Are they completing tasks they have put off in the past?

If they avoid eye contact ask them what you can do to help?

Here’s an example of completing the task before committing suicide.

My father’s roommate found his gun, then returned everything he borrowed from my dad, mowed the yard, and by the time the Police arrived at his door hours later, the gun fired. The same story from my dad, he had no idea that his roommate was suicidal. This was the first time I had to clean up after someone killed themselves. It was so sad that his life fit in three bags of clothes and four pennies. That image will never leave.

Let’s Look At The Numbers.

If you or someone you know is suicidal please contact:

Call or text 988
Chat at 988lifeline.org

Connect with a trained crisis counselor. 988 is confidential, free, and available 24/7/365.

CDC developed the Suicide Prevention Resource for Action (Prevention Resource), which provides information on the best available evidence for suicide prevention.

Over 48,000 Americans died by suicide in 2021 according to the CDC. It’s difficult to get my head around that one suicide happens every 11 minutes. These numbers are before the Pandemic, and I believe the number is much higher.

I will say that guilt goes with the grieving. Grieving is different for everyone and there is no time frame, when your heart starts to heal you are close to the light.

Melinda

References:

https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Blogger Highlight-Dawn Pisturino’s Blog

September 18, 2023 Looking for the LightLeave a comment

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 the blog of Dawn Pisturino’s Blog.

Hello,

I am a retired registered nurse in Arizona with a B.S. in Natural Health. My publishing credits include poems, limericks, short stories, and articles. Every writer undergoes a unique and wonderful journey. Let me share mine with you.

Official Author website (desktop or laptop work best): http://www.dawnpisturino.org

Member of Mystery Writers of America, Arizona Authors Association, and The Black List.

AAA author page: http://www.arizonaauthors.org/members/dawn-pisturino

My poem, Nature’s Child, won Honorable Mention in the Arizona Authors Association 2022 Literary Contest.

Enjoy the journey.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Deep Thoughts

September 16, 2023 Looking for the Light35 Comments

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 these quotes and questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!

Continue reading “Deep Thoughts” →

Celebrate Life · Family · Health and Wellbeing · Holiday · Men & Womens Health

I’m Sending You Joy This Rosh Hashanah-Sunset September 23, 2025 –

September 15, 2023September 18, 2025 Looking for the LightLeave a comment

Happy New Year! I pray you’re surrounded by friends, family and good food. As I understand it, Rosh Hashanah starts the New Year and many rituals follow back to the bible.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Moving Forward

Why Do People Blame The Survivor by Guest Blogger DocTalk, Explorations in Psycotherapy

September 14, 2023 Looking for the Light2 Comments

https://psychotherapyexplorations.org/2023/09/13/why-do-people-blame-the-survivor/

My Thoughts

Blaming the survivor is still commonplace in America and probably in many countries. This stigma toward survivors is still in the dark ages at times. Like women walking home from work and stopping in for a drink. She makes her way home and is raped. The stigma is she was drinking and had on a short short, she was asking for sex. Total crap!

If rape is the case, go to the hospital right away, get a rape kit done, and call the police. Give them everything you remember and don’t for one minute let anyone point the finger back at you, shut it down. If a department doesn’t treat you with respect, call the Captain or go to another police station. I know it’s a hassle going through the questioning while you’re distraught but hang in there.

Don’t let the assailant get away with the crime.

You’re a Survivor!

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

How to Protect an Aging Parent

September 13, 2023 Looking for the Light2 Comments

Do you want to make sure that your aging parents are being taken care of? If so then this is the guide for you. Here you will find out what steps you can take to protect those who you love, today.

Photo by RDNE Stock project on Pexels.com

Know the Signs of Trouble

The first thing you need to do is know the signs of trouble. If you are a caregiver, then you have to remember that there is a limit to what you can do alone. The best thing you can do is reach out for help. Keep an eye on your loved one’s health and their living conditions. It may be that they are no longer able to keep up with activities, such as bathing, walking, cooking or even cleaning. If you notice a drastic change in your loved one’s living environment, for example, if things become cluttered or dangerous then this can also signify that something is wrong. With that in mind, taking care of yourself is also very important. If you feel angry or irritable all the time or if you are losing sleep over things then this is a sign that you are overwhelming yourself. If you want to protect your loved one even more, consider looking at our team page from Montana Elder Law.

Protect your Health

As a loving caregiver, it is all too easy for you to devote all of your time and attention to the ones you are actively trying to support. At times, you may find that it is too easy to overlook your health along the way. Don’t let your standard of health suffer. Be sure to check in with yourself and your family so you can make sure that everyone is feeling good. Drink lots of water, make time to exercise, and also talk to someone if you need it.

Give Yourself a Break

If you are a caregiver then it’s easy for you to feel as though the weight of the world is resting on your shoulders. This is especially the case if you are part of the sandwich generation. This generation often finds that they are looking after younger and older people at the same time. It is very natural for you to want to fill up your schedule and take care of everyone. That being said, you need to cut yourself some slack sometimes. As you build out your calendar, make sure that you have enough time for yourself and that you are giving your body a chance to rest and recharge, free from stress.

Make the Most Out of Tech

In this day and age, there are all kinds of ways that you can put tech to work and make things way easier for yourself going forward. Add cameras and home security features if you want to keep your loved one safe when you are not home, and give your senior relative an alert button. If you do this then you give them the chance to alert an authority if something happens. Use a group chat too, so you can talk about your loved one with your sibling or other caregivers.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

Pain Awareness Month-Reality

September 13, 2023 Looking for the Light2 Comments

The number of people with chronic pain grows daily, and pain medication is hard to find in stock or doctors have stopped writing prescriptions due to the DEA. It’s a difficult time to have chronic pain, there are stories of people with cancer or other painful diseases being denied pain medication, It’s heartbreaking.

I have not taken Percocet for 3 years, It wasn’t an intentional choice, it was the choice of my doctor. I wasn’t in enough pain for him. Pain Doctors can be very strict due to the DEA breathing down their neck.

I’m not going to tell you about pain, you already know. I want to pass on a few tips about Pain Doctors.

The DEA is on a war path against pain medication (all controlled substances), and in the process has scared many doctors to no longer write prescriptions for their patients or have very strict rules you need to understand.

Taking pain medication long-term will require patience, compliance, and frustration. Appointments with your pain doctor are a top priority, do not miss an appointment. Call after if you have to but call the office right away and talk to the Office Manager. Most Pain Doctors have a contract saying you will do certain things and will not do certain things. In the contract, it could say two missed appointments and you’re fired. Read the contract!

If this is your first pain doctor, work hard to keep the relationship healthy, every time you change Pain Doctors it’s notated in your medical records. The more Pain Doctors you see, you run the risk of being labeled as a drug seeker.

When talking to your doctor always focus on the pain areas and other issues related. Don’t ask about medication, say instead, I’m hoping you can help me. Again, this is a measure to not be called a drug seeker.

Don’t complain about waiting or staff with the doctor, calmly talk with the Office Manager. They pull a ton of weight and are good to be friends with.

You can expect to give a urine sample every month or possibly every three, whatever the doctor decides.

The DEA will not allow pharmacies to fill certain medications, including pain meds until you’re down to your last pills, so expect to see your doctor every month to get a new prescription. It’s a crazy world. Do say what medication you pick up, just your name and how many prescriptions you have. Sad to say but someone may have a better idea of what to do with the meds. I know this sounds dramatic but have you watched the news this week?

My next tidbit will sound strange. I recommend keeping a backstock in case you are fired and left without medication. This happened to me and I was glad to have backstock to help ease the withdrawal. When it’s time to take your medication, ask yourself, do I really need it or all of it. If you can skip it, then put it in a bottle for the what-ifs. Always fill your prescription on time even if you have pills left, the leftovers can go to backstock.

I get addicted quickly to pain meds and the withdrawal is tough. Don’t deny yourself medication, at the same time, it’s tough to go cold turkey. That’s why I have a backstock. It goes without saying, don’t tell your doctor what you’re doing!

BEWARE! If you have constant pain and have not received relief from medication, the doctor may mention a Spine Stimulator. STOP!!!!! You can let them check your insurance coverage if you’re curious, but decide later. This medical device needs your research because the results are all over the board. Read until you are satisfied.

I had a bad fall over the weekend and the post was written with concussion fog. I apologize if it doesn’t flow.

I’m hoping you have many pain-free days.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Four Tips For Avoiding Unnecessary Stress In Life

September 12, 2023September 12, 2023 Looking for the Light15 Comments

Stress is a major thorn in the side for many people. While it is natural and beneficial in certain scenarios, chronic stress is very unhealthy. It can have negative effects on your physical and mental health. If you are regularly hampered by stress and anxiety, it’s important to address it. Failing to acknowledge continuous stress can trigger further problems.

Before taking action to combat stress, it’s important to acknowledge what it actually is. Stress is one of the body’s natural defense mechanisms. In times of danger, people generally react through a fight-or-flight response. Your mind and body recognize the danger and get prepared for you to either fight or flight.

When you’re body goes into fight or flight mode, it is in a state of stress. Your senses are heightened, your alertness and focus are peaked, and your energy leaves are fueled by adrenaline. While this is beneficial in times of true peril, stress does not add value to your life in most scenarios.

If you suffer from unnecessary stress, you should find some ways to manage it. With this in mind, here are four tips for avoiding unnecessary stress in life.

Get active

Exercise is a natural stress reliever. It provides a mental escape and keeps your body physically fit. During exercise, the human body produces endorphins. These have a tremendous impact on your mood and work wonders in battling stress. A natural release of endorphins can also help you sleep better, further reducing stress levels.

Make an effort to stay active as much as possible. Rhythmic exercises such as walking, biking, or running are particularly beneficial as they produce a meditative effect.

Work on time management

Time management is key when you live a busy lifestyle. Failing to effectively manage your regular workload can lead to long-term and chronic stress. At times when you’re under serious pressure, organization, and time management can guide you.

One of the best ways to get on top of time management is to schedule. Different scheduling styles work for different people. Some work best with extremely detailed plans, while others work best with more vague to-do lists.

Find out what you’re best suited to and start to manage your time more efficiently.

Beware of scams

In the technological era, there are countless manipulative scams out there that prey on the vulnerable. Having confidential information or money stolen from you can leave you in a financial predicament. What’s more, it can cause a great deal of stress and anxiety.

Do some research on how to prevent this from happening. DTSS reviews banking fraud and scams and is a great informational resource to consider.

Practice mindful activities

Mindfulness revolves around centering your mind and being present in the moment. This helps detach your mind from unnecessary stress and it relieves your consciousness of clutter, bringing clarity to your mental state.

Practicing mindful techniques such as meditation and yoga can work wonders for reducing stress. There is a myriad of free online guides to help get you started. Meditation apps are a great way to get into a routine, as they have a number of guided sessions.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Blogger Highlight-Jay’s Sandbox

September 11, 2023 Looking for the LightLeave a comment

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 the blog of Jay’s Sandbox.

Jay’s Sandbox

A place for my million-mile-per-hour thoughts

Chris Ryan’s work has been translated into over twenty languages, and appeared just about everywhere, including Netflix, HBO, MSNBC, Fox News, CNN, NPR, The New York Times, The Times of London, Playboy, The Washington Post, Time, Newsweek, National Geographic, and The Atlantic. Chris has been a featured speaker at TED, SXSW, The Festival of Dangerous Ideas at the Sydney Opera House, the Portland Comedy Festival, the Einstein Forum in Pottsdam, Germany, and is a frequent guest on The Joe Rogan Experience, the Duncan Trussell Family Hour and many other podcasts. He’s provided expert testimony in a Canadian constitutional hearing, won a coveted AVN award (best non-sex performance, Marriage 2.0) and popped-up in dozens of documentary films and television shows.

Even before co-authoring the New York Times best-seller, Sex at Dawn: How We Mate, Why We Stray, and What it Means for Modern Relationships with Cacilda Jethá, MD in 2010, Chris was on a wild ride.

His blog is sweet on the eyes and full of great content. Check out his blog, it’s a must-see.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health · Moving Forward

Moving Beyond Anger

September 7, 2023December 22, 2023 Looking for the Light10 Comments

The word persistent has two meanings. Persistent as in great salesperson or persistent in that not give up on those who wronged me. I fit both and the second is not good when I’m wronged.

I’ve written several posts on my stay at UTSW Psych Hospital and my traumatic experience with one doctor. One day I found all of the doctor’s notes and almost had a coranary. I printed out 19 pages of notes and labs and then started marking all the half-truths, conversations that didn’t happen, and flat lies.

I was enraged! These notes were all negative toward me, I’ve never had a doctor act like this. These notes go on my medical records and all I wanted to do was attack him at all levels.

No one would validate my concerns, not even a blah blah We are aware of your concerns, that have sattified me. I did receive a letter about how to change my medical notes. It’s not a correction to the notes, it’s an amendment. I thought about it for two days and decided that adding my note of complaints would not help me and possibly hurt me down the road.

I also received a letter from Legal to acknowledge my concerns. I filed two complaints with the Texas Medical Board.

I’ve sent a few emails about my concerns but received no feedback. While resting today I decided the anger has to go for me to move on.

Getting letters from Medical Records and the Legal Dept. gave me what I needed, to validate my concerns. I realized it’s time to move beyond anger.

I felt lighter, not happy yet but the block around my ankle had been cut off.

Now comes the difficult process! It requires a clear picture in your head of where you’re going.

Here’s my plan

Grieve the pain I felt after being traumatized.

Acknowledge that I made the best decision by moving forward.

Prepare how you’re going to respond if anger creeps in.

Break down the tasks that need attention and accomplish at least one task a day.

Start to look for a new house.

Catch up on appointments I’ve been putting off.

I will keep looking for positive reinforcement.

Challenges

Only drive 3-5 miles from the house.

Have to check with my husband to see if the appointment date works for him, in case he has to drive me.

Cognitive issues

Agoraphobia

I dislike his huge truck. It’s hard to park if anyone is next to me, often causing me to park far from the building entrance. The guard rails on truck are not ergo and it takes precision to get in.

Spend less time on the computer.

I’m not a doctor as you know but at 60 years old, I’ve been around the block before and have a few ideas.

There will be ups and downs but I’m confident in success.

What do you do to move past anger?

Melinda

References:

https://academic.oup.com/book/25080/chapter-abstract/189217644?redirectedFrom=fulltext

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

September Awareness Days

September 6, 2023 Looking for the Light6 Comments

Hi,

I hope you are happy and healthy. The Awareness Days listed are for America. You would be shocked if you saw how many days are observed in the UK. September is a busy month for Awareness Days and maybe even get you to the doctor.

Blood Cancer Awareness Month

Childhood Cancer Awareness Month

Healthy Aging ® Month

National Atrial Fibrillation Awareness Month

National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month

National Cholesterol Education Month

National Sickle Cell Month

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Pain Awareness Month

Prostate Cancer Awareness Month

World Alzheimer’s Month

Melinda

References:

2023 Health Observances Calendar

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

What To Do If You Suspect You Have Allergies

September 5, 2023 Looking for the Light2 Comments

While over 100 million people in the US alone have allergies, not everyone is born with them, and they can develop as an adult, during childhood, or be present from birth. The only way to know you are truly allergic to something is to be exposed to the potential trigger. And, you can be allergic to thousands of different things. You can have pet allergies, be allergic to bee stings, severe food allergies, and common household materials and chemicals such as hair dyes and cleaning products

Talk to your doctor.

In the first instance, you should talk to your doctor if you are concerned you might have an allergy. Your doctor can arrange tests for you to identify if you are allergic to anything and exactly how you are allergic to it. Keep notes of any symptoms and potential triggers you voiced and how you feel. They can talk you through the allergy treatments available and get you started if needed.

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

Know Your Signs

Prevention is always better than a cure for allergic reactions, but knowing the signs and symptoms of an allergy attack can help you get the treatment you need fast. Some people only experience mild discomfort when coming into contact with their allergens, for others, it is an instant severe reaction that quickly becomes life-threatening. Know your signs, your triggers, and how best to help yourself. This is especially important if you have yet to be diagnosed, as medical professionals can use this information to analyze your allergy and treat your symptoms quickly.

Common allergy symptoms include;

Runny nose or sneezing
Pain or tenderness in or around your face, nose, and throat
Bodily swelling
Difficulty breathing
Itchy skin or rash
Feeling sick

If you experience these symptoms, you should head to your doctor or pharmacist. In the event of more severe reactions, you should go to the nearest emergency room for immediate treatment.

Treatment Options

Some treatment options are available for people with allergies, from using an Epi-pen for more severe reactions, which can be life-saving, to using OTC allergy relief medication. Your doctor can advise you on the right type of medication for you. Be it antihistamines, topical creams for itch relief, desensitization, or immunotherapy to lessen the reaction or avoid the trigger altogether. You can work with them to help you develop a suitable treatment plan based on your lifestyle, specific triggers, and the severity of your reaction. From here, you can adjust your lifestyle to accommodate your allergy and live as healthy as possible.

It is vital that if you are diagnosed with an allergy, you take the proper steps to keep yourself safe. This can be via informing others of your allergy to reduce exposure, carrying around your medication should you need it, or being proactive in asking if your allergens are present in food or environments so you can make a more informed decision. Failure to do this can put you at risk of triggering an allergy, and you will likely suffer the consequences. Always remain vigilant regarding your allergies to ensure you are always prepared.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Blogger Highlight-The Amethyst Lamb

September 4, 2023 Looking for the Light2 Comments

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 the blog of The Amethyst Lamb.

The Amethyst Lamb

I’m a 29-year-old child advocate/social worker. I’m also a certified yoga teacher. I’m vegan and I love animals and nature. I mostly post poetry on my blog, but I also draw and am working on some stickers right now

Be sure to check out her interesting blog and say hi!

Melinda

Looking for the Light

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health

6 Signs You Are Dealing With Addiction

September 3, 2023September 3, 2023 Looking for the Light11 Comments

There is nothing funny about feeling compelled to drink, take drugs, or smoke. Addiction is not a joke, and if you are in the throes of one, there is every chance that you don’t even know it. Engaging in something that you find pleasurable is not inherently bad for you, but there is a very fine line between having fun and enjoying yourself and feeling an unavoidable compulsion to do something. One of these isn’t healthy, and I bet you could guess which one!

Whether it’s a compulsion to binge eat, watch Netflix, drink alcohol, or take prescription drugs, you need to know that your compulsion could get you into massive amounts of trouble. You could call Leyba Mathew if you find that your addiction has led you to dangerous territories, but before you get there, you need to know that you definitely are dealing with addiction. With that in mind, we’ve put together six clear signs that it’s an addiction that you’re dealing with. Let’s take a look:

Clear Wine Glass Filled With Purple Wine

Image Source: Pexels

It’s Become Something So Important To You

The importance of the thing that you are doing goes beyond your job, your family, and your friends. At any cost, you will do the thing you NEED to do. You can determine how important something is to you by how much you’re not doing other things in favor of that one thing you are doing. For example, if you’re not paying your mortgage to afford wine, there’s a problem!

You Feel Better When You Do It

The reason we call it being a shopaholic is that shopping triggers a relaxed, happy response. The endorphins released because we are shopping make us feel good. When you take drugs, you do it for the high. Of course, it doesn’t feel too good when you’re involved in a DUI, but it feels good at the moment. The reward response is a clear reason to continue to do it. And that’s when the issues arise.

There Is No “Enough”

The more you do the thing you are doing, the more you want to do it. It takes precedence over every other thing that you have in your life, and that’s becoming an issue. When you’re carving out more space in your day-to-day life for this new compulsion, you’re putting more emphasis on the thing you’re doing.

You Get Anxious When You Can’t

There is a reason that employers give their staff smoking breaks. A lack of nicotine leads to anxiety, irritability, and angst in someone addicted to cigarettes. Smoking breaks “take the edge off” the anxiety and make them feel better, so they are able to take paid breaks to have a cigarette. When you are feeling bad on the inside when you can’t binge eat, watch Netflix, or even shop, it’s a good sign you’re addicted to what you’re doing.

It’s Consuming Your Life

If drugs, alcohol, or even shopping are starting to consume everything else in your life, taking over your money and putting you into debt, there is a problem. You should be able to enjoy most things in moderation, but when you can’t help it and you MUST drink, you need to seek some help.

You Can’t Help Yourself

You wake up in the morning and say today is the day you won’t drink. Then you get to the evening and before you know it, you’re pouring out your third glass of wine, promising yourself that tomorrow is the day. The problem with addiction is that tomorrow is never the day, and you need to speak to the professionals to make sure that you can reach that tomorrow.

Getting help is vital before your addiction costs you your life or someone else’s life.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Review Of Vital Field’s Sleep Frequencell

August 31, 2023December 26, 2023 Looking for the LightLeave a comment

I want to send a special thanks to Communications Director Nassia Bitha for sending me a host of Vital Field Frequencells to try. Today I’m writing about the Sleep Frequencell and I’m excited to share with you my experience.

This post contains affiliate links that earn me a small commission to help cover my coffee habit.

About Vital Field

The cumulative expert knowledge and the science of using precisely targeted frequencies for health management and pain management are now, for the first time in history, available to end-users worldwide.

Vital Field applications don’t replace or compete with traditional medicine or conventional treatment methods. They are intended to provide an alternative treatment for pain and health when conventional methods fail to provide significant results on their own.

With zero negative side effects reported and over 80% reported satisfaction from customers, we are confident in offering a full money-back guarantee if our product does not work for you.

SLEEP Cell

The Sleep Cell actively helps with:

Difficulty falling asleep
Trouble staying sound asleep
Jet lag
Recuperating after birth when sleep schedules are erratic but the body needs to recover from the most intense physical challenge
Stress and insomnia
Signs of Anxiety
Mood swings

Since Vitalfield products are safe, natural, non-invasive, and non-chemical, you have nothing to lose by using their line of products. I am 100% confident in the technology and the complete line of products.

The Sleep Frequencell needs to be placed on the first vertebra on your back and only wear it overnight. I’m starting tonight and look forward to sharing the results in a few days.

The first night I felt the relaxing properties shortly after taping on which reduced my stress and helped me sleep deeply. The more nights I used the Sleep Frequencell the better it worked.

A couple of minutes after the Sleep Frequencell is in place you don’t even feel that it’s there. Vital Field includes tape to use with each Frequencell and you can purchase more from Vital Field or use another type of kinetic tape.

I love Vital Field’s innovative natural approach to designing each product which can be used over and over. Unlike traditional medicine, you don’t feel the cell working, but you see the results.

I’ve done several reviews for Vital Field products and have not been disappointed yet. I encourage everyone to check out the product line and purchase the Frequencells that fit your health needs.

You can find more information on all Frequencell’s here

Use discount code LIGHT20 for 20% off any Vital Field product.

I’m thrilled to find a product that works naturally and not have to take a sleeping pill.

Melinda

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Addiction Resources Available In Organizations That Can Page

August 30, 2023September 1, 2023 Looking for the LightLeave a comment

You can find resources on many topics under the Organizations That Can Help and click on Addiction. Thank you for visiting today.

Alcohol Help

.AlcoholRehabGuide.org

SouthJersey Recovery

Addiction Center

RehabSpot.com

Recovery Ohio

Addiction Rehab Treatment

Greenhillrecovery.com

DetoxRehabs.net,

StartYourRecovery.org

Addiction Group.org

Local Non Profit Addiction Treatment Directory

AddictionResouce.net

Addiction Center.com Find Rehab Clinics In Your Area

Recovery.Org Find Addiction Treatment Near You

Rehab Centers Nation Wide (Insurance Specific)

Help Guide.org – Addiction Information

Drug Abuse Resources for Parents

SMART Recovery.Org – Self Management and Recovery Training

StayHonest.org

An Article On Alcoholism

Melinda

Reference:

https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/understanding-alcohol-use-disorder

Celebrate Life · Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Book Review of Voices Off by Georgia Brask

August 29, 2023 Looking for the Light1 Comment

I want to give a special thanks to Andrea Marchiano, Editor from Trigger Publishing for sending the book Voices Off by Georgia Brask to read and review.

Blurb

Georgia has heard voices all her life – the voices of bullies who tormented her throughout her school years and the voices inside her head, which didn’t have many nice things to say, either. At the age of 17, she suffered a catastrophic psychotic breakdown that resulted in her being hospitalized for seven months and receiving a diagnosis of paranoid schizophrenia.

Now it’s time for Georgia to use her voice, which she does so with candour and humour to address the misconceptions and stigma associated with schizophrenia. She hopes that sharing what she has learned can help someone embarking on their own complicated conversation with this devastating illness.

My Thoughts

You know that little voice in our head, now imagine there are 200 voices in your head. That’s a heavy load to carry. The extra stress and all the extra input from people or television were too much for her to handle at the beginning. She’s completely honest about her illness and hopes to help others just as she did in her Danish blog.

Georgia had a psychotic breakdown at 17 years old, spent 7 months in a Psychiatric Hospital, and was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia. Although she had symptoms from an early age she didn’t tell anyone. When her behavior became so erratic, all the cards started to fall down.

Georgia’s parents and family supported her the best they could but she was coming unattached from reality.

One issue stuck in her mind, bullies! It was the relentless bullying at her new school when the family moved to London to a small Danish community. The teachers look the other way while she gets water bottles thrown at her, pulling her hair, and bullying her on Social Media. This had a big impact on her, all the name-calling and all the negative things that were said made her feel like an outsider.

Georgia talks openly about is the voices in her head and all the horrible things they say to her. Some voices are quiet, others mumbly, and the worst is yelling. She knew the voices were not real but they had beaten her down. Could you handle 200 voices telling you that nobody likes you and goes on with it repeating itself 24/7?

She covers 5 myths about Schizophrenia and each one is worth reading. I’m reminded of how important it is to stay strong in the storm and don’t let your illness hold you back.

Georgia is a very special person, She’s been down a rough road and yet she’s honest and determined to help others by sharing her story. It takes courage for Georgia to tell her story, and she has a story to tell.

Voices Off is a must-have for Therapists, parents, and patients grappling to understand Schizophrenia.

Trigger Publishing

TriggerHub.org is the first mental health organization of its kind. We are bringing mental health recovery and balance to millions of people worldwide through the power of our books.

We have built a first-class resource of curated books produced and published in-house to create a unique collection of mental health recovery titles unrivaled in quality and selection. We work with experts, psychologists, doctors, and coaches to produce our books, but we also work with real people looking to share their stories to reach out to others and provide hope, understanding, and compassion. These brave authors also aim to raise awareness of mental health’s “human” face and its impact on everyday lives.

Melinda

Looking for the Light