By Field Guide by Stampington
“I do not have the slightest clue what I’m doing…that’s the adventure…I stopped worrying about it…That’s the beauty.
Melinda
Thursday Thoughts
Category: Mental Health
Just Pondering
Who do you know has been a victim of Sex Trafficking- Guest Blogger My Story Is Far From Over
Sex trafficking is a devastating form of exploitation that affects millions of people around the world. It involves the use of force, fraud, or coercion to lure individuals (mainly younger aged kids) to engage in sex acts, often against their will. The impact of sex trafficking on mental health can be mentally traumatic and long-lasting. […]
Who do you know has been a victim of Sex Trafficking? — My Story Is Far From Over
Blogger Highlight-Holistic Health Talks
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 a new blogger, Holistic Health Talks.
Hello! I’m Jenna Lee, an Oily Gal that is all about natural skincare, holistic health, essential oils, and fun DIY recipes! I created HolisticHealthTalks.com to share alternative health topics and upcoming health talks!
Please check out her site, there is si much to offer.
Melinda
15 Painful Facts About Living With Chronic Illness by Guest Blogger Invisibly Me
15 painful facts about living with chronic illness that can help overcome stigma & ignorance around health conditions.
15 Painful Facts About Living With Chronic Illness — Invisibly Me
Jewish American Heritage Awareness Month #StopJewishHate
Jewish immigrants built their lives in America the same as European immigrants did, and they were welcome with open arms. They help build communities and expanded their families here. The Jewish immigrants are now residents and their children are born American.
Maybe I’m naive, but I seriously don’t understand why people have a problem with Jewish people or the Jewish Religion.
Unless the Religion is a terrorist group, a cult, or involved in illegal activity, we can not condemn a Religion because we don’t understand or agree with it. Who are we to judge?
About Jewish American Heritage Awareness Month
This month is a chance for Americans of every faith to appreciate the contributions of the Jewish people throughout our history –- often in the face of unspeakable discrimination and adversity. For hundreds of years, Jewish Americans have fought heroically in battle and inspired us to pursue peace. They’ve built our cities, cured our sick. They’ve paved the way in the sciences and the law, in our politics and in the arts. They remain our leaders, our teachers, our neighbors and our friends. Not bad for a band of believers who have been tested from the moment that they came together and professed their faith. The Jewish people have always persevered. And that’s why today is about celebrating the people in this room, the thousands who came before, the generations who will shape the future of our country and the future of the world.[13]
Let’s not forget the horrific trauma the Jewish families endured during the Holocaust, there is no way I know their pain but no doubt I pray to never see such carnage.
If someone can tell me what all the Jewish hate is about I would appreciate it.
Melinda
Reference:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewish_American_Heritage_Month
If YOU Think Someone Reblogging YOUR Post Is PLAGIARISM, Turn Off Reblog Button!
WordPress is at it again, making changes to something that’s not broken and not telling anyone about the changes, not to mention more changes are coming. So when the hell are they going to tell us?????
After close to 20 years with WP maybe it’s time to find another host. WP has the worst communication when it comes to keeping the Happiness Engineers and community up-to-date.
Here’s a glimpse of an email and current chat I’m on.
Me:
Since 5/11 my headlines and photos don’t show up when I reblog from Looking for the Light to Survivors Blog Here. I’ve been reblogging for 14 years to that site and have never had this problem. I emailed two days ago and haven’t heard back.
WordPress:
I’d be happy to help you with that. We have received feedback from numerous customers who feel that reblogging appears somewhat plagiaristic. To better follow the original intent of reblogging, which is to reshare content that users appreciate, we’ve implemented some recent changes. There are some changes that have been released and some others that are being implemented. If there is something you want to reshare tomorrow. You can add a featured image and title for this particular post.
In the meantime, I’ve reached out to the development team to get a better understanding of the upcoming changes to share with you. Please let us know if you have any questions about this.
Me:
If people don’t want their work reblogged they can turn off the button, that’s how it works. WP is now changing that?
It’s not a matter of working like it should, it’s that WP is saying people are complaining about plagiarism and have changed the process. But the process has not been released to the users. And more changes are coming.
WordPress:
I can confirm, the reblogging feature is being reworked and the hope is to have this resolved soon. The end result will be more of what you are used to which shows the title and image. In the meantime, things will be in this awkward stage. The developers are working to finish the updates as quickly as possible.
Yes and no. The underlying system and process is being updated but the end result will be more of what you are used to when it is finished. I have shared your feedback with the team. I realize this situation is not ideal!
Me:
Now I’m writing a post and can’t find the category section, are they messing with that too? What are bloggers to do, just stop until engineers finish their changes?
To make it worse, My Allow Comments and trackbacks were disabled. This is crazy! They are making your job much harder.
WordPress:
There should still be a Categories area in the sidebar settings of your Editor. But if you’re unable to find it, feel free to share the link to the post you’re working on, and I’ll take a closer look(edited)
Thanks for waiting, I see what you mean this far regarding the missing Categories area in both editors, that is strange! Mostly because Categories are still required for all posts, so that hasn’t changed.
I don’t know if this is actually being caused by changes from our developers or from a conflict from another area of your site, so I’ll do a bit of troubleshooting to confirm this first. This may take me a few minutes, but I’ll reply in the chat with any progress.
The Happiness Engineer solved the problem with the Category Section, no clue on when Reblogging will return to the new normal.
Melinda
I’m Talking with Amy Gamble-Olympian, Speaker & Mental Health Advocate
I have the pleasure of talking with Amy Gamble today about her struggle with the highs and lows of mental illness. I’m proud to call her a friend and she is a true inspiration. I’ve had my own difficult journey with Bipolar Disorder and when I tell you it’s a miracle Amy came out alive, it’s 100% true. Not only did Amy survive, but she also took charge of her life and went on to write her first book Bipolar Disorder, My Biggest Competitor: An Olympian’s Journey with Mental Illness.
Background on Amy*
Gamble tells how the illness also affects her mother, pitched her head first into a nightmare of highs and lows. While it robbed her of her dreams of playing Division 1 ball, it also helped vault her to the U.S. Olympic handball team, leading her to travel the world and compete at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. She was a top performer in sales for Merck, the pharmaceutical giant, but ironically her untreated illness plunged her to the bottom rungs of society. She became stuck in a revolving door of mental hospitals, doctors’ offices and even jails across the U.S., discovering deep-rooted deficiencies in the systems that are supposed to help the country’s most vulnerable citizens.
At the scariest point, she found herself wandering aimlessly at night in a snow-covered mountain forest on the Montana/Idaho border with only moccasins on her feet and a sweatshirt to keep her warm. She was hopelessly lost, freezing and not in her right mind. *
Thank you, Amy, for talking with me today. I learned more about Amy from the AP overview, so I’ll start there.
What positives came out of being in a Psychiatric Hospital?
My last psychiatric hospitalization was 12 years ago. It was a hospital far away from my hometown, but the care I received was excellent. I was put on a regiment of medications that got me started on the right track and helped immensely in my recovery journey. The staff members at the hospital were encouraging and really believed in recovery. Overall, it was a really positive experience for me.
Did your mental illness impact your Olympic dream?
I made the 1988 Olympic Team in Team Handball. While I struggled at times with depression, I was able to overcome my challenges and become an Olympian.
You have a successful career as Mental Health Advocate and Speaker, how did your Speaking career start.
I began speaking to groups through a local NAMI chapter. My third talk was an interview at a large church with an audience of 300 people. Once I started speaking I began to attend a Toastmasters group and was coached and encouraged by members of the toastmaster group. From 2015 – 2023, I’ve given over 250 talks and mental health trainings reaching over 15,000 people.
You have a passion for advocating for Mental Illness, what organizations do you belong to?
I’m a local NAMI member and I support DBSA (Depression Bipolar Support Alliance)
How did you keep motivated while working your first jobs after the crash?
I felt like working would give me a sense of purpose, a reason to get out of bed in the morning. I looked forward to going to my jobs, even if sometimes I had a little struggle in getting there. Maybe I’d have a rough day or just felt tired. But it didn’t matter because I was driven to get better and work helped me to do that.
Do you have any words of wisdom on life with a mental illness?
Be a student of your mental illness. Learn everything you can learn on how the illness affects you, what are the common symptoms and how can I alleviate most of my symptoms. Make sure you’re getting better or improving under the care of mental health care professionals, whether that’s a psychiatrist or therapist, or both.
Why did you stop blogging for 2 years?
I took a break from social media. I took time out to reflect and work on some other things.
What are your hobbies and what type of books/magazines do you read for fun?
My number one hobby is reading. I love to read! I’m currently reading “Atlas of the Heart,” by Brene Brown. I’ve also recently finished reading “Wild,” by Cheryl Strayed. Usually, I have two or three books I’m reading at the same time.
I also enjoy exercising, though I’m not always on schedule. I’ve really tried to get into a good habit since April of this year. So far, so good.
I know you are writing a new book about your PTSD, without giving too much information, what can you share with us.
I’m so excited about my new book. The book is really about resilience, as illustrated by how the impact of past traumas (primarily sexual assault) interrupted my life and caused symptoms of PTSD, even though the traumatic events had occurred decades prior. I talk about the collision course between bipolar disorder and PTSD and how my past traumas were overlooked by many mental health care professionals until they couldn’t be overlooked anymore. My number one goal is to give a voice to a woman who may not have had one.
Listen to a great interview with Amy by NAMI
Please follow Amy at Shedding A Light On Mental Illness and be sure to tell her I said Hello!
Amy’s second book covers her PTSD and more of her journey not shared in the first book. Here are a few questions Amy answers with her second book.
How she got down from the mountain?
What happened next?
How did She end up in jail? More than once?
I hope this post inspires, encourages you to keep going, or gives you information to help others with Mental Health challenges.
Thank you, Amy, for your insight.
Melinda
References:
Blogger Highlight-Unravelling My Own Bulls#*t!
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 a new blogger, Unravelling My Own Bulls#*t.
Unravelling My Own Bulls#*t!
There’s never an easy way to start something new. There’s often an anxious part of you which battles the negative thoughts that ask questions like “What if its rubbish?”, “What if no one is interested in what you have to say?” or ” What if they laugh at you?”. Often that internal narrative is enough to stop you in your tracks and for that idea to be parked for now or maybe even forever.
Not today though, not this time. Today I have tentatively taken the first steps too putting my thoughts on paper. To unravelling my own bullshit on this journey. A journey after a divorce of almost 25 years of marriage and for the first time ever really understanding why I am the way I am, what parts of my life shaped me and working through healing them to be authentic and true to myself.
Be sure to check out her thought’s on Growing, Healing, and Living Life.
Melinda
Happy Mother’s Day Granny
Happy Mother’s Day Granny. Without your love and support, I would not be alive today. I went to live with my grandparents at 14 years old, a troubled teen with a traumatic background I kept secret from them.
Being raised by people from the “Great Generation” was a blessing to me. Hard work, accountability, honesty, and doing your part were some of the core beliefs. I believe the example they set for me has helped me greatly in life.
My Granny’s life was especially difficult, she lost her eyesight at age 3, and her father died at age 9, and after my father was born, her husband left her with no support.
When my dad was young, She had two dresses, she would come home from her shift and wash the dress she wore. The next day she had a clean one while the other dried. She walked miles to the trolly every day, I can only imagine how dreadful the cold months were for her.
She raised my father alone for 10 years until she married my Gramps. She was in love with my Gramps until the day she died.
My Granny looked after me from the day I was born and is the only mother I acknowledge.
I miss you from the bottom of my heart and will see you soon.
She loved her purple rose bush and the photo reminded me of her.
Melinda
Mental Health Awareness Month
While I’m glad there is Mental Health Awareness Month, I would love to see more discussion on the topic throughout the year. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is an outstanding resource for all topics on Mental Illness.
Warning Signs and Symptoms
Each illness has its own symptoms, but common signs of mental illness in adults and adolescents can include the following:
- Excessive worrying or fear
- Feeling excessively sad or low
- Confused thinking or problems concentrating and learning
- Extreme mood changes, including uncontrollable “highs” or feelings of euphoria
- Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger
- Avoiding friends and social activities
- Difficulties understanding or relating to other people
- Changes in sleeping habits or feeling tired and low energy
- Changes in eating habits such as increased hunger or lack of appetite
- Changes in sex drive
- Difficulty perceiving reality (delusions or hallucinations, in which a person experiences and senses things that don’t exist in objective reality)
- Inability to perceive changes in one’s own feelings, behavior or personality (”lack of insight” or anosognosia)
- Overuse of substances like alcohol or drugs
- Multiple physical ailments without obvious causes (such as headaches, stomach aches, vague and ongoing “aches and pains”)
- Thinking about suicide
- Inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress
- An intense fear of weight gain or concern with appearance
Mental health conditions can also begin to develop in young children. Because they’re still learning how to identify and talk about thoughts and emotions, their most obvious symptoms are behavioral. Symptoms in children may include the following:
- Changes in school performance
- Excessive worry or anxiety, for instance fighting to avoid bed or school
- Hyperactive behavior
- Frequent nightmares
- Frequent disobedience or aggression
- Frequent temper tantrums
Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by mental illness each year. It’s important to measure how common mental illness is, so we can understand its physical, social and financial impact — and so we can show that no one is alone. These numbers are also powerful tools for raising public awareness, stigma-busting and advocating for better health care.
Looking for signs and symptoms in children can head off larger problems as they age. One great resource for feedback on your child’s behavior is to talk with their teachers. Any new information will add to the puzzle of your child’s behavior.
I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder at 19 years old but didn’t start taking my Mental Illness seriously until my father committed suicide. I read there is was a hereditary link to Mental Illness and did some research. The research and my father’s death convinced me to take my Bipolar Disorder seriously. At 60 years old, I’ve had my ups and downs but have also had a life worth living.
You can find posts about Mental Illness on my site, just click on the topic you’re looking for in the Cloud Category on my front page.
Melinda
References:
Blogger Highlight-Cultivating Calm Within
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 a new blogger, Cultivating Calm Within.
Cultivating Calm Within
Reboot the Brain. Find Inner Peace. Drive Ambition. Live Successfully.
Here at Cultivating Calm Within, Linda is a storyteller and despite everything she has experienced, she’s down to earth and relatable. Probably because she’s experienced life the hard way in her own life. Discovering tools and research that transformed her own personal life.
Be sure to check out Linda’s podcast.
Melinda
The Organizations That Can Help Page Has Been Updated
I’ve updated several categories on the Organizations That Can Help page with the most changes to Elder Care and Sexual Assault support. I’m including the Elder Care and Sexual Assault categories in the post and encourage you to check out the page if you haven’t been in a while. 
Elder Care
- National Institute on Aging (NIA)
- Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA)
- Eldercare Locator
- AgingCare
- National Caregivers Library
- NextAvenue
- Administration for Community Living (ACL)
- Next Step in Care
- Caring.com
- Caregiver Action Network (CAN)
- Ageless Alliance: United Against Elder Abuse
- Commission on Law and Aging, American Bar Association
- Minnesota Elder Justice Center
- National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-term Care (formerly NCCNHR)
- Splaine Consulting
- retireguide.com/medicare/
- Care Talk Health
- Aging With Care
Women & Men’s Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault
If Assaulted call 911, go to the closest Police Station or Emergency Room
RAINN.org has provided support to the National Assault Hotline since 1994 Many other services are provided and available in English & Spanish
National Domestic Hotline Resources/Support 24/7 1-800-799-7233 Live Chat Daily from 7am-2am Central Standard Time 1-800-787-3224
1 in 6 Supports Male Survivors of Sexual Assault as a Child or an Adult
If you know of other resources for these or any page please let me know. More support available could change someone’s life.
Melinda
Pay attention to Mental Health warning signs and make the turn! — Friend & Guest Blogger Shedding Light on Mental Health
You’re driving down a road and suddenly see a sign indicating a sharp turn. Do you slow down? If you don’t you risk going over a steep cliff. It doesn’t mean you “will” go over the cliff…it’s importantly a warning sign to prevent an accident or death. I’ve been a person in the past who […]
Pay attention to Mental Health warning signs and make the turn! — Shedding Light on Mental Health
Tips For Leaving Your Pet Behind When You Travel
Traveling is exciting, but for pet owners, it may come with some guilt and anxiety about leaving a pet behind. Whether it’s a short weekend trip or a long vacation, leaving your pet can be difficult. But doing this is a great option if you’re worried about your pet not adjusting well to new surroundings. Thankfully, with proper preparation and planning, you can ensure your pet is safe, comfortable, and happy while away. Here are some tips for leaving your pet at home when traveling.
Update your pet’s ID
You may think you have your pet secured indoors before you leave home, but some pets always have a way of sneaking out. So, before setting off, you should ensure your pet is wearing a collar with updated ID information on their tag. This way, you wouldn’t worry too much about your pet not returning home if it gets lost. Updating your pet’s ID tag information gives it a better chance of being returned home when it gets lost.
Leave your pet with someone they know
There are countless reasons why you shouldn’t leave your pet at home alone. A better and safer option is to send them to someone they know. But if you choose to leave them at home, have a friend, family member, or a neighbor your pet knows and recognizes to come around. Better still, leave your pet with them at their home. And be sure to provide some supplies like food, water, waste bags, a pet first aid kit, etc. It’s important to leave your pet with someone they already know or at least someone they see regularly.
Provide your pet sitter with the updated information
After updating your pet’s ID information, be sure to tell your pet sitter if you’re opting for one. Also, please provide them with any other information they need to care for your pet in your absence. For example, what personality does your pet have? Is it quirky? Does it struggle with anxiety? Are there any health issues the pet sitter should know about?
You might also want to allow your pet sitter to meet with your pet several times before you leave. They way, the two will establish a good relationship and get to know each other. That makes it easier for both parties to get along in your absence.
Assess your pet’s needs
Different pets have different personalities. And while some pets do well when left alone, other pets will pretty much get depressed without the presence of their caretakers, especially if it’s a long absence. In general, pets that are used to having a lot of interactions with others may struggle on their own when left alone for longer periods, while pets that prefer isolation will not mind (perhaps not even notice) your absence. Dogs, for example, are very social, with most breeds experiencing separation anxiety when left alone for longer periods. If your dog does not do well alone, consider hiring a dog sitter or enrolling them in a boarding school for dogs. Also, younger pets may not do well alone, compared to older ones, as they still need a lot of interaction.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
How to Help Your Elderly Parents Thrive
The subject of getting older is something that many people try to avoid thinking about too often. In our society, the growing older and the aging process is generally viewed negatively. After all, a thriving industry based on people wanting to look and feel younger. But, when your parents reach their senior years, the subject of old age becomes impossible to avoid.
Noticing that your parents are now elderly and their needs are changing can be challenging. Whereas they were once the caregiver, you may now find the roles are reversed. While they may not be able to do all the things they once could, you may be keen to help your parents live life to the full. If you want your aging parents to get the most out of life and thrive in their senior years, the following tips should help you make it happen:
Be Ready to Listen
As your parents grow older, it is easy to assume you know best and to take on the role of decision-maker. However, it is essential that you discuss your thoughts with your parents before you make decisions on their behalf.
Listening to your parent’s needs and concerns is essential if you want them to thrive in their later years. So, ensuring you keep the lines of communication open and being ready to listen is vital.
Find the Ideal Living Arrangements
Your elderly parent’s living arrangements may be a cause of concern for you. Maybe you are worried about them living alone and trying to keep up with daily tasks around the house. Or, maybe you are concerned you will need to move back into the family home to care for your parents. Unfortunately, finding the perfect living arrangements for your elderly parents can be a tricky subject to navigate. Nobody wants to lose their independence as they age, but trying to tackle all the chores and run a household is a challenging task.
Choosing the best senior living community offers the perfect solution, allowing elderly parents to live life to the full while maintaining their independence. While your parents can enjoy the best of senior living, you will have the peace of mind of knowing they can enjoy life without worrying about maintaining a home. You should notice your parents have a renewed lust for life and a feeling of freedom when they settle into their new community and begin enjoying their exciting new lifestyle.
Have Fun Together
When you are helping to care for your parents, you may find the time you spend together is very task-focused. Helping your parents with practical tasks, such as running errands or doing odd jobs, is important. However, it is crucial to also make time to have fun together. You may choose to visit a coffee shop together, watch a movie, or simply chat about past times. Whatever you choose to do, these moments are the perfect opportunity to reconnect and enjoy each other’s company while making new precious memories along the way.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
May Awareness Days
It’s a new month and new awareness days. Listed are just a few, you can find a complete list online.
Maternal Mental Health Awareness Month
Deaf Awareness Week 1st-7th
Clean Air Month
ALS Awareness Month
Arthritis Awareness Month
Bladder Cancer Awareness Month
Borderline Personality Disorder Awareness Month
Jewish American Awareness Month
Lupus Awareness Month
Mental Health Awareness Month
Fibromyalgia Awareness Month
Melinda
Book Review for The Compulsion Cloud by Averi Ridge Castaneda
I want to thank Editor Andrea Marchiano from Trigger Publishing for sending me The Compulsion Cloud to review. Mental Health books written for children teach by writing at a level they understand and will help you start a conversation on the subject.
Blurb
Holly’s story starts with a cloud – and it’s not a fluffy, white one you’d see on a sunny day. Instead, it’s a scary, dark cloud that looms over her and makes anxiety-provoking demands, which, if disobeyed, could cause bad things to happen to her loved ones. but fortunately for Holly, she is seeing a therapist who has a plan to help her get rid of this bullying cloud, once and for all.
You may have guessed that Holly’s cloud is a manifestation of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and her therapist aims to treat it with Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy (ERP). These terms can be confusing for children having their first OCD symptoms, so The Compulsion Cloud – written by social worker Averi Ridge Castaneda – introduces both concepts in a kid-friendly manner. Ultimately, this story provides a blueprint for recovery, which shows young readers that standing up to their compulsion clouds will bring them back to the light.
My Thoughts
Holly is a young girl who is experiencing obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) that comes over her in the form of a dark cloud. She’s exhausted and anxious, her mind is always going. She’s afraid if she doesn’t do what the cloud tells her to do her family may get hurt.
Holly met with Anna a therapist to help her understand the disorder and how to break the chains that bind her. Anna makes Holly feel comfortable enough to share her story. She explains all the tasks the cloud has her do and how it makes her feel. Like tap her fingers three times, wash her hands three times and the list of commands goes on.
Anna introduces her to Exposure and Response Prevention Therapy which is a proven therapy for OCD. She tells Holly to do the opposite of what the cloud tells her to do in order to take control back. It takes baby steps but with time the cloud would go away for good. She sent Holly home with some tools to help her.
Holly feels conflicted once home when the cloud arrives but she remembers the tools that Anna introduced her to. With practice comes confidence and Holly went on to live a full life with friends and family.
Obsessive Compulsive Disorder is widespread and requires treatment to break its hold. I would recommend this to parents and grandparents so they can better understand what is happening and the importance of treatment. Another reason it’s good for grandparents to read is they may have a shake-it-off philosophy. The Compulsion Cloud shares real-life experiences that all can learn from.
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
Blogger Highlight-Matt’s Plants & Co
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 a new blogger, Matt’s Plants & Co.
Matt’s Plants & Co
I’m Matt, a newbie gardener based in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia. Here, I share my experiences in the garden – with greenhouses, indoor plants, vegetables, fruit, natives and more.
I hope others can learn from my mistakes in the garden as I try to create a water-efficient, sustainable garden which supports native wildlife while decreasing the need to buy produce from the supermarket.
Check out Matt’s blog and grow your gardening skills.
Melinda
Reclaiming Mental Health – P1 — Guest Blogger Shedding Light on Mental Health
In the beginning of January 2023, I woke up about 5am and walked downstairs to my office. I sat there for a moment and then went over to the bookcase and picked up a copy of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM V). It’s the book mental health care professionals use as […]
Reclaiming Mental Health – P1 — Shedding Light on Mental Health
Just Pondering
Is Your Personal Information Safe On Health Apps?
Health Apps have become critical to our daily lives but do you know if your personal information is shared? I recently read that some Apps use your information for research, or sell the information to a third party. Everyone needs to know how their personal information is used, there are enough security risks in life.
Be sure to read the Privacy Policy of any App that collects sensitive information. I’ve written several posts about Health Apps and didn’t know information sharing was an issue at the time. Now I’m informed and so are you.
Read the Privacy Policies of all Apps that capture your personal information. You don’t want an App that is a front for gathering information and passing it along.
Melinda
How to avoid Chronic Kidney Disease
In the earliest stages of Chronic Kidney Disease, you can make changes to your diet that will help your kidneys stave off/or slow the progression of the disease.
I’ve only included the basics, so please go to the sites referenced for complete information.
The time to make changes is now, before you get Kidney Disease or if you’ve been diagnosed at the earliest stages.
What is a Kidney Friendly Diet
A kidney-friendly diet should limit sodium, cholesterol, and fat, and instead focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy, and lean meats (seafood, poultry, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds, and soy products), says Maruschak. People who have already been diagnosed with CKD may also need to limit certain other nutrients, she adds.
Here are the basics of diet changes
Portion Your Plate
Limit Your Salt Intake
Be Mindful of Protein
Choose Complex Carbs Over Simple Carbs
Limit Saturated Fats and Avoid Trans Fat
Watch Your Alcohol Intake
Talk to Your Doctor About Whether You Need to Limit Phosphorus and Potassium
Work With a Dietitian
The changes required can seem overwhelming but you can start one at a time until all are part of your Kidney healthy diet.
For detailed information about diet changes, you can visit The Kidney Foundation.
I was recently diagnosed with Stage 3 Kidney Disease, which means my kidneys are working at 50% and my kidneys are too damaged for them to heal. As I research my own Kidney Disease, I’ll pass along anything important.
Melinda
References:
Your Mental Health Is Important: Tips On Moving To A New Town
Moving to a new town can be challenging. You’re uprooting your life and starting over in unfamiliar surroundings where no one knows you or where no familiar faces exist. However, with an open mind and positive approach, moving can be both enjoyable and beneficial for your mental well-being. It will help to expose you to new people from various walks of life, and there may be exciting opportunities out there that lead to improved quality of life. Here, we will cover everything from how to find housing in a new town to practical advice for making it feel like home in your new environment. So read on for advice on settling comfortably into life in a brand new city and its potential impact on mental health.
Research Your Options
A new town can be both exciting and overwhelming. Before making the leap, it is wise to research its characteristics – neighborhoods, parks, and community events are good places to begin exploring your options, as are local schools and businesses. Spend some time getting acquainted with its amenities, such as shopping centers, medical facilities, and recreational activities, so you can form positive associations between yourself and the place you will soon call home.
Find An Experienced Realtor
Whether selling or renting out your current home, consulting with a realtor can be invaluable in the process. Their expertise and market knowledge will ensure you obtain the maximum return for your property sale or rental investment. Finding the best realtor for yourself is key; seek someone who understands your individual needs, who will guide the process in an optimal way, and who will help you find a home in your new town that fits both your requirements and budget.
Declutter Before Moving
Moving can introduce feelings of excitement and anxiety all at once, and decluttering before the big day can make all the difference. While it might be tempting to simply pack everything up and deal with it later, reducing clutter will create a more organized and soothing atmosphere when you arrive in your new home. Not only will you have less to unpack, but you’ll be able to easily find what you need and avoid feeling overwhelmed in your new surroundings.
Get To Know Your Neighbors
Making new friends in a new town may be daunting, but getting to know your neighbors can be one of the easiest ways to build a new community. Remember that building relationships take time; one way of making this transition more manageable is by getting acquainted with your neighbors – they may become your close friends, gym partners, or trusted pet sitters! So take the time to introduce yourself, invite them over for a meal, or offer to lend a hand whenever they need it.
Make Time For Yourself
Take time for yourself by participating in yoga classes, going for leisurely walks, or sitting quietly and meditating – however, you choose. Doing this will allow you to unwind, assess your emotions, and process changes in life more easily. Making this investment in yourself will reduce stress while improving your overall well-being; your mental well-being should be treated just as seriously as your physical well-being, so take the time needed for both!
Technology Makes Making Friends Easier
Moving away from those you love and places you are familiar with can be daunting, particularly when you don’t know anyone in your new town. But thanks to technology, making friends has never been simpler: friendship apps such as Bumble BFF are a great way to meet people who share similar interests or hobbies – you could meet potential friends within seconds by signing up. And who knows, you might just find your soulmate!
Explore Local Attractions
One of the best ways to familiarize yourself with a new town is by visiting its attractions. Take time out to visit landmarks, take part in outdoor activities, and try local eateries; doing this can quickly break down any barriers you might be feeling around meeting new people. It will also provide the opportunity for you to socialize with locals as well as learn about the town’s history while discovering hidden gems that will enhance your life experience.
Final Thoughts
Moving to a new city can be an immensely enriching experience for many, which is why it’s essential that it be done the correct way. Your mental health and well-being should always come first, so use the tips given above to make sure you have a successful transition into your new home. With a little effort, you’ll soon be feeling like a local in no time.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Book Review for The Marvelous Magical Door by Leo Perry
I want to thank Editor Andrea Marchiano from Trigger Publishing for sending me The Marvelous Magical Door to review. Mental Health books written for children teach by writing in a level they understand and will help you start a conversation on the subject.
About the Author
Leo is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts and has been working in community mental health. He and his wife, Deborah along with their vizsla dog, Scout live on Cape Cod in Massachusetts. They love spending family time with their children and grandson.
Blurb
Sally’s story starts like many children’s do these days: Her mind has started to swirl with negative thoughts, which stop her from sleeping, enjoying her favorite activities or even spending time with her friends. But luckily for Sally, her parents have a plan to make her feel safe and secure once again. All she has to do is step through a marvellous, magical door.
The Marvellous, Magical Door delicately deals with the anxiety and pressure that today’s kids feel. Even if you can’t build your children a magical door of their own, you can use the self-care tips shared in this book to make them feel better – and help them get back to being carefree kids again
My Thoughts
As a parent, you can see the bumps and bruises but not what is spinning in your child’s mind. Young Sally experiences anxiety from the scary images seen at night, loud noises, and even overhearing the evening news.
Growing concerned, her parents look for ways to calm her fears. A great idea is born and they build a magical door for Sally, a door to walk thru that will melt her anxiety away. When Sally opens the door, her mood is lifted by the positive energy surrounding her and the anxious feelings disappear.
In addition to the storyline, the self-care tips help your child to face the world confidently.
I would recommend The Marvellous Magical Door to parents and grandparents alike. The story will build on the foundation of your child’s mental health by getting the conversation started.
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
Blogger Highlight-Monicle’s Chronicles
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 a new blogger, Monicle’s Chronicles.
monicle’s chronicles
living well at 70
I’m sixty, single and surviving. Too old to work, to young to die. I love being retired and living this monotonous life. I waited a long time to live this way!
Stop by you’ll find interesting post and the prompts followed.
Melinda
Stream of Consciousness Saturday #SOCS Prompt is “scene.”
Your Friday prompt for Stream of Consciousness Saturday is “scene”. Use it any way you’d like. Enjoy!
At almost 60 with multiple chronic health problems, my days of drama are long behind me. I’ve met many good and not-so-good doctors over the years and have had two bad experiences in the past month.
I finally hit a wall and blew a gasket. My scene wasn’t in public, it was via computer. After being sick for more than half of my life, I’m very clear on what I expect from a doctor and the last two did not fit the criteria.
Melinda
Here are the rules:
1. Your post must be Stream of Consciousness writing, meaning no editing (typos can be fixed), and minimal planning on what you’re going to write. 2. Your post can be as long or as short as you want it to be. One sentence – one thousand words. Fact, fiction, poetry – it doesn’t matter. Just let the words carry you along until you’re ready to stop. 3. I will post the prompt here on my blog every Friday, along with a reminder for you to join in. The prompt will be one random thing, but it will not be a particular subject. For instance, I will not say “Write about dogs”; the prompt will be more like, “Make your first sentence a question,” “Begin with the word ‘The,’” or will simply be a single word to get you started. 4. Ping back! It’s important, so that I and other people can come and read your post! For example, in your post you can write “This post is part of SoCS:” and then copy and paste the URL found in your address bar at the top of this post into yours. Your link will show up in my comments for everyone to see. The most recent pingbacks will be found at the top. NOTE: Pingbacks only work from WordPress sites. If you’re self-hosted or are participating from another host, such as Blogger, please leave a link to your post in the comments below. 5. Read at least one other person’s blog who has linked back their post. Even better, read all of them! If you’re the first person to link back, you can check back later or go to the previous week by following my category, “Stream of Consciousness Saturday,” which you’ll find below the “Like” button on my post. 6. Copy and paste the rules (if you’d like to) in your post. The more people who join in, the more new bloggers you’ll meet and the bigger your community will get! 7. As a suggestion, tag your post “SoCS” and/or “#SoCS” for more exposure and more views. 8. Have fun!
For more streams, rules, and tips for Stream of Consciousness Saturday, visit our host, Linda at: Linda G Hill
Introducing Vital Field’s New Anti-Aging Cell
I want to send a special thank you to Vital Field’s Communications Director Nassia Bitha for sending me the New Anti-Aging Cell. If you’ve read my blog long enough you know that my relationship with Vital Field started over two years ago and I’ve reviewed many of their products. I don’t completely understand the science behind each Cell but all of the reviews I’ve done have been positive.
Who doesn’t want to add a Holistic approach to living your best life?
This post contains affiliate links that may earn me a commission to fund my coffee habit.
About Vital Field
Vitalfield has collaborated extensively with expert scientists and healthcare practitioners in Germany, Switzerland and Austria, with a focus on biophysical and frequency medicine applications. Until early 2018, most of the technology in this field involved significant investments and training before it could be utilized in clinical environments.
Recent scientific breakthroughs have made this treatment accessible to the general public, in the form of miniature, portable and wearable applications that target specific health problems, such as chronic pain, inflammation, cell regeneration, metabolism, and detoxification of the body. Further patented technology discovered in recent years also enabled some of these natural treatment methods to be implanted into wearable materials that could localize the treatment for the long-term, in an extremely cost-effective manner.
About the Anti-Aging Cell
The Anti-Aging Cell actively supports and shows great results with:
- Skin tissue elasticity and structure
- Stimulation of the connective tissue
- Mind & body balance
- Flexibility and energy levels
You can read more information about the Anti-Ageing Cell and the complete product line of Frequencell’s here.
Use discount code LIGHT20 for 20% off any Vital Field product.
Once my health improves, I”ll let you know my thoughts. I have confidence in the product based on my experience.
Melinda
References:
4 Reasons Theray Is The Right Choice
The goal of each of the many available therapeutic approaches is the same: to facilitate the patient’s growth and development. Thankfully, the stigma surrounding treatment has decreased significantly in recent years. Remember that counseling is about making lasting improvements, not just temporary ones. Here are four positive outcomes that are common among those who participate in therapy.
Raised Confidence
Your sense of value and self-worth is typically formed at an early age. Life events have an impact, and you could develop a negative opinion of yourself as a result. Actually, many people visit therapists to improve their sense of self-worth; it has a significant impact on one’s quality of life. Having a positive self-image can provide you with the strength, confidence, kindness, motivation, and love you need to achieve your goals.
A therapist can assist you in recognizing and changing any destructive thought patterns or actions that may be contributing to your low self-esteem. In general, you’ll be able to improve your connections with yourself by doing things like learning to forgive your harsh judgments of the past. Quitting can be difficult, but professional assistance is available. Things such as The Insight Clinic Neurofeedback Therapy can massively help.
A Heightened Awareness Of Oneself
Self-awareness is a skill not everyone possesses, but therapists may help with that. Try to picture this as a form of “grip on reality.” But it’s not about the obvious, like eating your vegetables; it’s about the problems that may not seem so severe at first. Anyone who wants to get forward in life should work on developing their capacity for introspection. It helps you get insight into your inner workings and gain control over your life by shedding light on your feelings, character, and responses.
In a broad sense, it’s essential for progress. Setting appropriate boundaries and communicating your needs are facilitated by your increased ability to regulate your own emotions. In the end, this can help you feel more connected to your ideals and the people around you. Gaining a deeper understanding of yourself is one of the primary goals of therapy, and therapists may help by providing a secure environment in which you can do just that.
Facilitates The Formation Of Healthier Connections
It’s true that couples at any stage of their marriage or dating relationship can benefit from therapy. The choice to seek assistance rests with the individual, ultimately. knowledge of one’s own approach to others is essential, as is knowledge of how others may approach one. Developing one’s capacity for mutual understanding and improved communication is just the beginning. Improve your relationships by being self-aware about your behavior towards others.
Improved Capacity For Expression
Therapists will work with you to improve your communication skills and the way you interpret the words and tone of others as they relate to your interpersonal interactions. Successful people in business and in life possess strong communication abilities. These include the ability to express oneself clearly, listen carefully, and collaborate with others. You might use them to concentrate on listening carefully and asking pertinent follow-up questions. It will also involve some serious introspection, the likes of which you might not even be aware you’re capable of.
These are just four of the main benefits of therapy. Do you have any more? Please share them below.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
I’ve been diagnosed with a NEW Chronic Illness
I took a minute in the portal for my doctor to see what was new with the practice and discovered I have Stage 3 of 5 Chronic Kidney Disease. I had whiplash and then wrote my doctor. Yes, it’s true. She has told me several times after lab work that my Kidney Function was down but never netted it out. She never said you have Chronic Kidney Disease.
I know this disease intimately because my gramps died from it. He developed Chronic Kidney Disease from years of uncontrolled high blood pressure. This will sound crazy to some but Chronic Kidney Disease is the most peaceful way to die. How bad is falling asleep for two days, then meeting your maker.
It was really four days, two days he was very alert when people came to visit but did tire easily. One the third day we could tell he was going into a coma and said our final goodbyes. He died peacefully, with no pain at the end of the fourth day.
One point*
The doctor gave my gramps a month to live but it was really two weeks. The older you are, he was 92, the time frame may be much less. Talk to the Hospice Nurse and she can give you a better idea.
This was a shock. I went to bed for the afternoon to process everything. Today will be fine because he brought a cupcake home. They always get my mind off my diet and problems.
Melinda
lookingforthelight.blog 