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

Blogger Highlight-You Really Reddit

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 I highlight a new blogger, You Really Reddit.

YouReallyReddit

Amanda Redd holds a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education. She is a fourth-grade teacher in Florida. Amongst teaching, she is a wife est. 2013, and a mother of two boys.

Amanda enjoys writing specifically about life experiences that she believes that others can relate to and benefit from.

This blog is a no-judgment zone where you can get an honest take on all things that life throws your way. 

 Be sure to check out her blog.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

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

These Habits will Help you to Become More Financially Stable

Do you want to try and make sure that you are as financially stable as possible? If so, you have come to the right place. This guide will tell you everything you need to know about the changes you should be making, while also helping you to be much more aware of how your finances are affecting you.

Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com

Get an Emergency Fund

You have to do whatever you can to keep your family as secure as possible. The first step here would be for you to build an emergency fund. If you can do this, then you know that if anything happens, you have the money. If you have dependents, then you should think about taking out life insurance and even getting a will. If you need to make some changes here because you are going through a divorce, then it could be worth trying to hire a divorce financial analyst.

Avoid Debt

You have to do what you can to avoid debt where possible. If you have a credit card, a personal loan, or other kinds of debt, then now would be the time for you to try and get a debt elimination plan. You need to arrange your debts from the smallest to the biggest too. You can then focus on paying off the most important ones. When you have cleared one debt, you then need to put that money towards paying off the next one. If you can do this, then you will soon find that it is easier than ever for you to become more financially stable, so be mindful of this if you can.

Use the Envelope System

This is a brilliant way for you to try and keep track of how much money you have when it comes to spending. If you can make three envelopes when it comes to your payday, then you will have one for your groceries, one for your gas, and one for luxuries. If you can withdraw this amount on payday, then you will be able to make sure that you do not go over. If you run out of money, then you will find out immediately and this will help you to no end.

Pay your Bills

You have to pay your bills right away. One very good habit for you to get into would be for you to pay your bills ASAP. You also need to try and have as many of your bills paid automatically, as this will stop you from forgetting about them. Use your bank’s online checking system so you can make a lot of regular payments. If you can do this, then you know that you have everything taken care of and this will work in your favor overall.

Grow your Worth

Another thing that you need to do is try and grow your net worth. One way that you can do this would be for you to reduce your debt while also increasing your savings. Look out for various ways to make money or to get paid more for the work that you do. If you can do this, then you will soon find that it is easier than ever for you to get the result you are looking for.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

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

My Top 4 Money Saving Tips In 2022 — Guest Blogger Olivia Lucie Blake

Recently we have all been hit with rising bill prices, along with petrol and general the cost of living, which is why it’s important now more than ever that we really learn how to get into money saving. 762 more words

My Top 4 Money Saving Tips In 2022 — Olivia Lucie Blake
Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

5 Ways to Make an Old House Look Modern

If you live in an old house, you might be wondering how you can bring it into the modern age. With a few home improvement tips and some additional accessories, you can turn a traditional building full of rich history into a place that looks brand new. Follow these five tips to add value to your property and impress friends and family with your sleek, stylish living space.

Photo by Vecislavas Popa on Pexels.com

Remove old decor

If your rooms are covered in peeling wallpaper and your ancient floorboards are warped and cracked, it’s time to get rid of them. Replacing a few old furnishings with modern upgrades will make a big difference. Get rid of wallpaper and paint over your walls with bright colors that stand out instead. Hire a flooring company to rip up your floorboards and install shinty hardwood floors or plush carpets for optimum comfort. If you have unfashionable popcorn ceilings, you can call a firm that specializes in popcorn ceiling removal to replace them.

Repair any damage

It’s important to deal with any issues before you start to upgrade your home. Fix any cracks in your walls or flaws, and deal with any structural issues that might cause further problems later down the line. Don’t neglect the exterior of your house. Go over any peeling paint and repair damaged window frames that might be affecting your home’s curb appeal.

Add some color

Modern decor is all about stark whites and chromes or bright, vibrant colors. When painting walls, installing flooring, or buying furniture, make sure you pick a color scheme and stick to it. You can use different shades to create any mood you like in your home. Light, pastel blues, and pinks are fantastic for establishing a sense of calm and tranquility, while bold bright reds and oranges create an upbeat, cheerful mood.

Update fixtures

Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest difference. All the small fixtures around your home like light switches, brackets, cupboard handles, and taps are probably old-fashioned and keep your house looking older. By replacing these with modern versions, you can transform every room of your house. Just take a trip down to your local hardware store and find sleek, metallic versions of your existing furnishings and your home will be transported into the 21st century.

Buy new appliances

The bathroom and the kitchen are the two most important rooms in your house. If either of them looks old and tired it can affect the appeal of your entire home. If you are really committed to modernizing your home, you might have to spend a little money on new appliances. A brand new fridge-freezer can completely transform any kitchen while replacing your old bathtub with a modern rainfall shower will change your life.

These five tips are just a few of the ways in which you can modernize your old home. It will take a lot of work and potentially a lot of money to get there, but it’s ultimately cheaper and easier than buying a brand new house. Just remember to be patient and you will achieve your beautiful modern home in the end.


This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

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

Book Review for Amie’s Party by Iain Lauchlan

I want to give a special thanks to Andrea Marchiano at Cherish Editions for sending the book Amie’s Party by Iain Lauchian for review. 

Publication date: 04/08/2022
ISBN: 9781913615642 32 pages

About the Author 

Iain has been an actor and TV presenter. After graduating from art college has been a producer for more than 40 years. 

About the Illustrator

Nik Afia has appeared in many TV dramas, before being the artist on Teletubbies. He went on to character designs and has also presented a number of production well-loved children’s programs. Iain also created Playschool, Fingermouse, and Playdays. 

Blurb

It’s another peaceful day in the village for the Mood Bears – until Happy Bear spots a yellow cloud on the horizon and knows someone needs her help. The cloud takes Happy Bear to Amie, who feels lonely and sad after moving to a new flat far away from her friends. She has no one to celebrate her birthday with her, either. So, Happy Bear throws a party for Amie’s big day and invites some very special guests to remind her that she is never alone.

Amie’s Party is a sensitively written and beautifully illustrated children’s book, designed to help children deal with change and feelings of loneliness.

My Thoughts

This is an excellent Children’s book. I love how they dig deep into the emotions and provide a dialog to help children work thru their emotions. 

I am so happy to see children’s books that are focused on children’s mental health. Children can learn at a very young age about emotions. This knowledge will help them thru every stage in life.

The Mood Bears are ingenious and in Amie’s case, Happy Bear comes to her rescue in a big way as she’s feeling lonely and friendless after moving. 

The book discusses emotions like loneliness and how to deal with change. Amie’s Party is the perfect book for parents, grandparents, and teachers alike. I believe if we start teaching our children about emotions at a young age it will build a foundation for them to build on as they age. 

The book is beautifully illustrated and kids will instantly relate to the story. 

Cherish Editions

Cherish Editions is the self-publishing division of the TriggerHub group, the world’s leading platform for books that encourage mental health recovery and wellbeing.

We are experienced in creating and selling positive, responsible, important and inspirational books, which work to de-stigmatise the issues around mental health, as well as helping people who read them to maintain and improve their mental health and wellbeing. By choosing to publish through Cherish Editions, you will get the expertise of the dedicated TriggerHub Team at every step of the process.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

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

Blogger Highlight-A Girl Seeking Joy and Serenity

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 I highlight a new blogger, A Girl Seeking Joy, and Serenity.

A girl seeking joy and serenity

Hi there! I am 40-something-year-old on her quest of self-discovery and self-betterment. I am hoping to use this blog as a means of finding myself and connecting with others. I have a little to say on lots of things, and a lot of thoughts that I am hoping to further develop along the way.

Oh, and the basics! I’m married, I teach, and I drink way too much coffee. I am currently reading “The Book of Joy” (Dalai Lama, Desmond Tutu, Douglas Abrams), On Writing (Stephen King), and RASL (Jeff Smith). I am currently watching Outlander with the hubs, who is developing quite the Scottish accent. 

And I LOVE my dogs.

Please stop by and say hello 

Finding my sparkle,

 Be sure to stop by and say hello.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

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

Deep Thoughts

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 or questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!

My First Job:

My First thing I do at night?

My First secret:

My First toy:

Enjoy!

Melinda

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

August Awareness Days

So glad you are enjoying and participating in monthly awareness days. They have been very educational for me. 

August Awareness Days

Psoriasis Awareness

National Immunization Awareness Month

National CBD Day 8th

International Cat Day 8th

International Left-handers Day 13th

National Airborne Day 16th

National Wellness Month

World Humanitarian Day 19th

 

Melinda

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

The Ultimate Guide to Becoming Healthier and Happier

Health and happiness are both essential aspects of our lives, but it can be easy to let one take precedence over the other. We all lead busy lives, so putting our needs on the back burner can be easy. But there are ways you can help both your health and happiness levels rise by making small changes in your day-to-day life. Making some small positive changes in your life can not only help your physical health but your mental health as well. The good news is that there are a lot of ways you can be happier and healthier in your life. Here are three simple tricks that will make you feel healthier and happier.

 

Photo by Christina Morillo on Pexels.com

Take Care of Your Body

The mind and the body are closely linked, and each can impact the other. You can improve your mental well-being by caring for your body, from working out to eating healthy foods. Exercising can help you sleep better and improve your self-esteem, which can lead to a happier, healthier you. Eating a healthy diet can also significantly impact your mental health. If you consistently eat foods that are bad for your body, you may have less energy and feel more lethargic throughout the day. It is also essential to meet with your doctor and dentist yearly for checkups to ensure that your body is healthy and you are not currently having any health issues.

Have a Consistent Sleep Schedule

Having enough sleep is essential for good mental and physical health. Getting consistent sleep every night is linked to better mental health, higher productivity, and improved mood. Getting enough sleep can be a challenge for lots of people, though. If you have trouble sleeping, there are many ways to improve your sleep quality, from making changes to your diet to using sleep aids like weighted blankets and earplugs. A consistent sleep schedule can significantly increase your chances of getting the right amount of sleep and improve your mental and physical health.

Find Time to Relax and Unwind

Being happy doesn’t just come from having a healthy body — it also comes from having a healthy mind. One of the easiest ways to improve your mental well-being is by finding ways to relax and unwind that work for you. It can be helpful to have a few different ways to relax built into your schedule. This way, you ensure that you always have time to relax, even with a busy schedule. You can be creative, meditate, or even spend time in nature to help calm your mind and allow you to decompress and unwind. Finding time to relax is essential for good mental and physical health, especially for people with busy schedules.

Conclusion

Improving your mental and physical health doesn’t have to be complicated. You can start living a healthier, happier life by taking care of your body, having a consistent sleep schedule, and finding time to relax and unwind. There are many more ways to improve your mental and physical health, but these are a great start. To feel healthier and happier, looking after your mental and physical well-being is essential.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

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

5 Ways to Improve Your Confidence

In today’s world, confidence has become an important quality to have. Whether applying for a job, going on a date, or making new friends, having the right confidence level can help ease nervousness and make interactions much easier. Furthermore, having enough confidence can have numerous benefits in your life: it makes you more attractive to others, helps you take risks without fear of failure, and makes you believe in yourself. Being more confident might even lead to getting your dream job!

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio on Pexels.com

Check your thoughts

We often have thoughts that make us feel less confident than we are. An excellent way to check these thoughts is to write them down. After that, could you read them and decide how true they are? Doing this will help you feel more positive about yourself and will able to build up your confidence. As with everything in life, practice makes perfect. The more you practice, the easier it will be to catch and change your negative thoughts, and the more confident you will feel.

Exercise regularly

Exercising regularly has many benefits, and improving your confidence is one of them. Exercising regularly helps boost your mood and improves your self-esteem and ability to communicate with others. Exercising regularly can also help you sleep better and improve your focus, making you more productive at work.

Take time to care for yourself.

Taking time to care for yourself is essential in increasing your confidence. Taking care of yourself doesn’t just mean eating healthy and sleeping enough. It also means taking some time to relax and unwind. Taking time to relax and unwind can help you reduce stress, sleep better and improve your mood. This is important because stress and anxiety can reduce your confidence and prevent you from reaching your potential. Taking time to relax and unwind is something that everyone should do. It doesn’t matter what you do, as long as it helps you relax and unwind. Some examples include reading a book, meditating, or going for a walk. You should also ensure you are visiting your doctor and Dentist to discuss any health concerns you have or to help you improve the look of your teeth if this affects your confidence.

Learn from your mistakes

As with anything in life, making mistakes is inevitable. However, when it comes to confidence, errors are critical. Mistakes are what allow us to learn and grow as individuals. They allow us to understand our strengths and weaknesses and how to improve upon them. Experiencing failure and mistakes can be scary and can reduce your confidence. However, you can learn from your mistakes by paying attention to them. This will help you to understand what you did wrong and prevent you from making the same mistake again.

Make small changes regularly.

You don’t need to change your entire life to increase your confidence. Small changes, such as improving your diet, getting enough sleep, and taking up a new hobby, can significantly impact your confidence. Although these changes won’t make you instantly more confident, they will help you build your confidence over time. They will help you feel better, which will make you more confident.

Conclusion

Building up your confidence might seem like an impossible task. However, it’s not as hard as you might think. All you need to do is check your thoughts, exercise regularly, take time to care for yourself, learn from your mistakes and make small changes regularly. If you want to improve your confidence, you need to do things that make you feel good about yourself. You need to focus on the things you like about yourself and make sure you are surrounded by people who appreciate you for who you are.

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

How To Push Your Shoulders Back and Say Bring It On!

Everyone, rich or poor has setbacks in life. What makes the difference is what you do next. If you tend to have a pity party and like to stay there, this post isn’t for you. I’m writing to people who want to help change the situation. The post is about communication, personality types, and soul searching. 

We are born to survive, it’s the negative talk in our brain that holds us down.


This post may be especially helpful for people who are anxious or new in their careers. I have spent my life facing huge obstacles such as child abuse, alcoholism, drug addiction, and my father’s suicide. 


It can be easy to catastrophize your obstacles if you don’t see them for what they are, an individual obstacles. If you deal with Anxiety, this acknowledgment is paramount. The way to deal with multiple obstacles is to take the Top 3, most challenging obstacles and write them down.  


We are not capable of tackling every obstacle in our life, some obstacles aren’t a priority and some can’t be resolved. That is why this process is so important. 


I’m old school and believe you can’t accomplish your goals if you aren’t focused on them every day. This method I learned from a mentor and thru reading motivational books. Once you’ve taken out a piece of paper and written down your Top 3 priorities, stick them on your bathroom mirror or somewhere you will see them several times a day. Then you write down paper or a computer “Which ones can you do something about”. If you can’t do something about it, mark off and add a new priority. 

Now you take each obstacle and write down “What you can do about the obstacle”. If nothing comes to mind, this is a plan to get you past the obstacle. It may take several attempts to add the “Can Do” list. 

Now that you have steps that you do to mark the obstacle off the list. 


For the hardest and most satisfying part. You write out a plan for each obstacle and work the plan. 
When you look at your Top 3 in your mirror it will trigger you to think about your plan and ask yourself honestly, “Am I working on the plan?


If you’re not working on the plan or for that matter don’t have a plan, you have to ask yourself why. One thing to look at is your plan, is it realistic, have you made a huge list of what to do, maybe your expectations need a check. Only you can answer that.  

Communication

One of the greatest lessons I learned early in my career in sales, is you have to understand and recognize which type of person you are talking to. If you understand personality types you will know how to have a productive conversation. Understanding how best to communicate applies to your personal life, and work life.

Four Personality Types

Sanguine

The first of four personality types is the sanguine type. This type is described as spontaneous, optimistic, and enthusiastic. Sanguine types love adventure and experiencing new things in life. They have high energy and curiosity. With the positive aspects also comes the fact they are impulsive and often make decisions on a whim.

Social

Sanguine types can be described as having extroverted personality traits. The more people around them, the more fun they are having. Social interactions recharge their batteries and they welcome new friends at a moment’s notice. Sanguine personalities also have a reputation to love listening to themselves talk. If they don’t find a person new or exciting, they move on to someone else.

Emotional

Sanguine people are expressive and energetic to be around. They are often playful and enigmatic and can start up a conversation with anybody. They are also very extreme with their emotions. Their highs are very high and their lows are very low. If you are sanguine, you should be conscious of controlling your emotions, as they can often be a cause of regret.

Entertainers

Sanguine types are natural-born entertainers. They love the spotlight and they love the attention. They often do things to differentiate themselves from the norm and flaunt their individuality.

Phlegmatic


The second of four personality types is the phlegmatic type, defined by having exceptional social skills. These kinds of people have a higher emotional intelligence than others and are able to express themselves more effectively. They are sympathetic towards others and often well-liked by many people. Phlegmatic folks are good at connecting facts and understanding the way humans think and behave.

Caring

Phlegmatic people are not easily angered. They like to live a life of serene peacefulness, free of surprises. They are quiet most of the time and are good listeners. In the same time these people are generally supportive of others and don’t resort to criticizing their peers. They are very kind, thus are the type to be taken advantage of often.

Obedient

Phlegmatic individuals are good at following orders. They are hard workers and make up the backbone of society. You want to work with them because they are reliable and can get the job done.

Cautious

Phlegmatic people can’t easily to say what’s on their mind, especially if it could have negative consequences. Rather than making a mistake, they will work around the possibility of a mistake or just avoid the mistake by doing or saying nothing at all.

Choleric


The third of four personality types is the choleric type. The people belonging to this type are direct, focused, and tough. They are mentally stronger than most other humans and have a knack for critical thinking and problem solving. Choleric people are also the most courageous and have a high competitive drive.

Determined

Choleric people are not afraid to speak their mind. They seek and excel in new situations. They are out to prove themselves to everyone they come across. Choleric types are strong and have an innate desire to be dominant. When they have a goal in mind, it is very difficult to drive them off of their path toward achieving that goal. They know what they want and they go after it.

Courageous

Choleric personalities aren’t afraid of anything or anyone. If they are afraid, they won’t let you know it. Choleric people consistently show they have the highest self-esteem out of any of the four personality types and ooze confidence out of every pore.

Born Leaders

People described as choleric are often the movers and shakers of society. They are very assertive and sometimes bossy with their demands. They are quick to overreact and often let their emotions guide them to intimidate others. They will always get what they want in any circumstance.

Melancholic


The fourth and final of the four personality types is the melancholic type. Melancholic types are calm, cool, and collected. They hold family in high regard and respect honesty and loyalty. These types of people are fiercely loyal to the ones they love. They have good values and understand how to show respect for others.

Sensitive

Melancholic types are known for being emotional. They laugh and cry and the drop of a hat and wear their emotions on their sleeves. Sometimes it is difficult for this type of personality to open up to others. The more they are hurt by others, the more they keep their guards up.

Loyal

Melancholic people would prefer having a few close friends rather than many acquaintances. They put a lot of effort into their relationships; so much so that they often tend to forget about their own needs. These types of people are likely to search for the ideal partner and often dream about the moment the right partner will show up in their lives.

Perfectionist

As well as being very idealistic, melancholic personality types are known for thinking too much. They are naturally gifted empaths who read body language better than most people. They hold others to very high standards and are easily disappointed when these standards are not met.

Respectful

Melancholic types are more likely to be respectful of others regardless of the way they were raised. They have mature manners from childhood to adulthood and don’t take other human lives for granted.


Once you understand each personality type it will give you insight as to how to have an effective conversation.


This is another style of grouping personality traits and this site digs deeper into each personality. I find this one very helpful. https://www.hiresuccess.com/help/understanding-the-4-personality-types.


Once you are able to identify the personality traits, you can look at yourself and see where you fall in the four types. One thing to remember is your personality change as you age so you’ll have to reassess. 


Melinda

References:

https://slism.com/girlstalk/four-personality-types.html

 

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

3 Things A Positive Appearance Can Do For Your Mental Health

Looking good and feeling good often go hand in hand. When you feel attractive, it can boost your confidence and make you feel better about yourself. This is why taking care of your appearance is important – not for others but, most importantly, for yourself! This blog post will discuss three things a positive appearance can do for your mental health.

Photo by Guilherme Almeida on Pexels.com

1. Feel More Confident.

If you feel good about the way you look, it will show in your confidence level. You’ll be more likely to approach people and strike up conversations. You’ll also be less likely to get nervous in social situations. All of these things can lead to improved mental health. Confidence is key when it comes to mental health. It shows in your interactions with others when you feel good about yourself. You’re more likely to approach people and strike up conversations. You’re also less likely to get nervous in social situations. All of these things can lead to improved mental health.

2. Feel More Upbeat.

When you look good, you often feel better about yourself. This can lead to a more positive outlook on life, which can, in turn, lead to improved mental health. Studies have shown that when people feel better about their appearance, they are more likely to have positive interactions with others and feel more confident in social situations. A positive appearance can also make you feel more physically comfortable. If you feel good about your appearance, you’re more likely to want to be active and take care of yourself. This can lead to improved mental health by increasing your endorphins (feel-good hormones) and helping you sleep better. In addition, a positive appearance can help reduce stress. If you feel good about the way you look, you’re less likely to feel self-conscious or anxious in social situations. This can lead to improved mental health by reducing your stress levels and helping you relax.

3. Feel More Motivated.

You will feel more motivated to get out and about if you look your best. This can lead to increased motivation in all areas of your life. If you feel good about your appearance, you’re more likely to want to take care of yourself and live a healthier lifestyle. For example, visiting a dentist can improve your self-esteem and make you feel better about yourself if you have bad teeth. Once you feel better, you will be more motivated to do things you enjoy and take care of your health. In addition, if you are overweight, making an effort to lose weight will improve your appearance and health. Your physical health and appearance have a significant link to your mental health; therefore, you must make an effort to improve both.

Taking care of your appearance can have a positive impact on your mental health. When you look good, you feel good. Don’t ever feel there is nothing you can do to change how you feel; there is always something you can do to improve your physical and mental health!

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

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

Blogger Highlight-Sunny Daze Ahead

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 I highlight a new blogger, Sunny Daze Ahead.

Sunny Daze Ahead (Probably)

The face behind the blog is… hard to put into words and words are “kinda” my thing. I am loud, I am outspoken, I am silly, I am sarcastic. I am wildly defensive of my loved ones. I have an anxious mind and I spend far too much time trying to keep my brain from spiraling into worst case scenarios. I work diligently to keep my mind a happy, optimistic place, which I have come to realize is not my mind’s natural habitat.

I spend almost all my time with my three dogs: Lucy, Brantley, and Zeppelyn, who I am convinced are the greatest beings on the planet. I probably love my parents TOO much, but I am blessed to share a very close friendship with both. I love a boy, I have loved the same boy for years now, I moved STATES for him, and honestly; home is where he is. Fine, his name is Matt, and he is most definitely TAKEN, so back off ladies. I have friends: close and far. Maybe they will make a cameo too.

You’ll never know what you’ll find on her blog and that’s the fun part. 

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

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

Deep Thoughts

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 or questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!

If You Think You Can’t, You’re Right!

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Vital Field’s Balance FrequenCell Helps Your Peace Of Mind & Stop Addictions

Vital Field has introduced a Balance FreqenCell to help you find peace of mind and overcome addictions. 

What if there was a genuine way to shackle that one secret gremlin that takes a toll on your life?

Introducing the Balance FrequenCell – the perfect accompaniment to a mindset that has already decided to change but lacks an energetic kick in the proverbial butt to complete the mission.

The Balance Cell leverages an energetic cocktail of neurotransmitters and Amazonian herbs to help the brain regulate unnecessary peaks and troughs in GABA, dopamine, and oxytocin. By only working with subtle fields, we don’t mess with the chemicals but manage to nudge the energetic system towards more balance.  

Tested over two years in labs and users in Europe, we are confident today that at least 80 percent of users will experience a significant benefit in balancing their life better. 

Commitment, the will to change, and discipline must come first thought. It’s never easy, which is why the Balance Cell may give the friendly support we sometimes need to reach the next level… of balance.

Just stopping one addiction with hardcore discipline doesn’t usually work, as the body tends to find another replacement addiction. Addictions are a multispectral menu, from the chemical variety (e.g., alcohol, drugs, painkillers, food) to the gadget (e.g., cellphone, computer, video console), mental (e.g., negative emotions), and behavioral variety (e.g., excess exercise, or no exercise at all) – but for the energetic mind-body they all represent the escape from the present. 

The Balance Cell is a tool to help you journey back to the center, the place where you can stay still, present, calm, and energized. 

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Do You Have The Summer Time Blues?

Ah, the joys of summer: The withering heat and school vacations, when your kids give you minute-to-minute updates on their boredom levels. Isn’t summer supposed to be fun and relaxing? If you’ve got summer depression, it isn’t.

For some people, summer depression has a biological cause, says Ian A. Cook, MD, the director of the Depression Research Program at UCLA. For others, the particular stresses of summer can pile up and make them feel miserable.

Especially hard is that you feel like you’re supposed to be having a great time. Everyone else seems so happy splashing in the water and sweating in their lawn chairs. So why can’t you? And more importantly, what can you do to make this summer easier? Here’s what you need to know about summer depression.

Summertime SAD. You’ve probably heard about seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, which affects about 4% to 6% of the U.S. population. SAD typically causes depression as the days get shorter and colder. But about 10% of people with SAD get it in the reverse — the onset of summer triggers their depression symptoms. Cook notes that some studies have shown that in countries near the equator – such as India – summer SAD is more common than winter SAD. Why do seasonal changes cause depression? Experts aren’t sure, but the longer days, and increasing heat and humidity may play a role. Specific symptoms of summer depression often include loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, weight loss, and anxiety.

References:

https://www.webmd.com/depression/summer-depression

 Melinda

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

The Go For Broke Cost Of Lyme Disease

I stumbled upon my diagnosis of Lyme Disease in 2013 after my Neurologist spent a year giving me every test she could to find the answer to my symptoms. When I say stumbled upon, I mean it. When she shook her head and referred me to a Rheumatologist, I decided to take to the Internet. I had all the test results, and every test was abnormal so I started searching for different combinations of my abnormal results. After a few attempts, I landed on the list of autoimmune illnesses that included Lyme.

I made the deduction of other illnesses based on the previous testing and the symptoms didn’t fit. After landing on Lyme, my research began. It took no time to figure out what was wrong.

Photo by Erik Karits on Pexels.com

This is the easiest part of having Lyme disease, from here it’s a nightmare to get treatment. First and foremost insurance companies don’t cover the cost of IV Antibody Therapy. The only cost covered by insurance was prescriptions. Thank goodness because the total cost would really blow your mind.

For 18 months we flew to Washington, DC every month to start a new protocol. Every appointment with my Lyme doctor cost 6K plus. Add that number up and you see how devastating the cost is.

We took out a home loan for the cost but not everyone is able to do that. None of the cost for my doctor visits or the treatments was covered by insurance.

My treatment ended in 2017, unfortunately, many new conditions were caused by Lyme that plague me today.

Today I thought about how long ago we took out the loan and what we still owe. We paid our house off over the weekend but it’s not paid for until this loan is paid. It’s not the same type of paid-off when you have a home loan. 

It still chaps me that the CDC and insurance companies are turning their back on Lyme patients, even today!

Melinda

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

My Interview for Carenity with Berthe Nkok

A special thanks to Berthe Nkok of Carenity for taking the time to interview me. 

FIBROMYALGIA, LYME DISEASE, CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME, BIPOLAR DISORDER AND DEMENTIA: “BE HONEST WITH YOURSELF AND YOUR LOVED ONES!”

Published Jul 27, 2022 • By Berthe Nkok

Melinda was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, bipolar disorder and dementia.

A few years later, she launched her blog, Looking for the Light, to share her story, advocate for her causes and hopefully, help a few along the way.

Read her story below!

Fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, bipolar disorder and dementia: “Be honest with yourself and your loved ones!”

Hello Melinda, thank you for agreeing to talk to Carenity. 

First of all, could you tell us more about yourself?

I’m a lively woman going on 60 years old who has been married to her sweetheart for 20 years. I love my blog, photography, helping othersadvocating for my causes like mental health and chronic illnesses. And I can’t forget my two dogs. 

You have several illnesses. Could you tell us which ones? When were you diagnosed with each of them? What were the first signs of each?

I have fibromyalgiaLyme diseasechronic fatigue syndromebipolar disorder and dementia.  

Lyme disease was very difficult to diagnose, it took me 1.5 years which is quick compared to many. It caused my fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and dementia. This was 2015

As for my mental illness, I was diagnosed at 19 years old.

What is life like with fibromyalgia, Lyme disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, bipolar disorder and dementia? Do you receive comprehensive care, or do you see several specialists? How do you feel about your current management? What are your treatments?

Life can be a total challenge some days and not so bad others. One thing I believe in is self-care. This extra hour or so a day helps me get in touch with my body, to nourish it, unwind and help my body regenerate. I see several specialists and have a varied treatment plan. The treatment plan that can change the most is for my mental illness.

According to you or to the doctors, is there a link between your conditions?

Lyme disease was caused my fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome and dementia. The rest have not been linked.

On a daily basis, which condition requires the most follow-up or is the most disabling? Why?

My mental illness requires the most attention because I must be aware of my moods throughout the day, take medication several times a day and keep my doctor informed if having a problem with medication.

Do you have a family history of any of your conditions?

I have a family history of dementia, but it was caused by a stroke.

Do you feel supported by your family and friends? Do they understand your daily life with the disease?

Yes! The key to that is taking my husband or another person with me to my critical appointments. That way I have two sets of ears, someone to take notes, who can mention a symptom I may have forgotten or help me clarify what the doctor is saying.

What is the impact of your conditions on your private and professional life? What misconceptions do you frequently hear about your so-called “invisible” diseases?

I don’t really hear anything about invisible illness, but my lifestyle doesn’t allow me to interact with many people. Personally, the biggest toll has been on my freedom and the intimacy with my husband.

Shortly after, you decided to launch your blog “Looking for the Light”. Why did you make this choice? What messages do you want to convey to your readers?

The mission of the blog was to share my story, advocate for my causes and hopefully help a few along the way. The key message I have for everyone is to keep moving forward.

What are your plans for the future?

Continue on as I’m already retired, work and family caused me to leave my career early.

Finally, what advice would you give to Carenity members who, like you, are affected themselves or have a loved one affected by one or many invisible chronic illnesses?

The key is understanding, if you care about the person, do your homework, learn about the illnessDon’t judge when they have to bow out or cancel plans. And if it’s a partner I highly recommend including them in your doctors’ appointments. This has helped me so much.

There’s no trying to repeat or ask questions about what the doctor said because they are right there and since they are hearing from the doctor’s mouth, you don’t have to tell them.

Any last words?

Be honest with yourself and your loved ones! There will be those that don’t listen, that’s their problem. Communicate how you’re doing without the complaining tone. If you’re struggling either physically or mentally you need to reach out. Both can cause depression.

Many thanks to Melinda for sharing her story with us on Carenity! 

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

Wake Up! It’s Not An Opioid Crisis, It’s A Fentanyl Crisis

Since the war on Opioids began, fewer and fewer prescriptions for pain medication have been written yet the number of Fentanyl overdoses continues to rise exponentially. Like many other crises in our country, lawmakers point the finger instead of solving the problem.

Instead of more law enforcement and stiffer jail terms to deal with the street drug crisis they keep pounding on doctors about writing prescriptions for millions of pain patients every day. 

The problem has gotten so bad that more doctors have stopped writing pain med prescriptions, others refusing to give pain meds after surgery, and two weeks ago I read where a woman who was dying of cancer who was refused pain medication. 

This is what happens when pain patients aren’t taken care of. Recently in Tulsa, OK a man went into his surgeon’s office and killed him and three others. The man had back surgery early in May and had been calling the office repeatedly due to his pain levels. He called that morning again trying to get some pain relief. A couple of hours later four people are dead. I later heard a doctor on the news saying that the man should have been on pain medication for at least another month for the type of back surgery he had. I think we’ll see more of these types of crimes as the DEA pushes harder on doctors to stop writing pain prescriptions. 

I know there are always a few bad apples and yes, there were and are doctors out there who are overprescribing but not enough to create this monster on our hands. I believe overall doctors are professional when it comes to pain management, not only from the stories I’ve heard but from my own experience as a pain patient. 

I’ve only had two pain management doctors and they were the polar opposite but had measures in place to manage your medication. Both doctors required face-to-face appointments with the doctor to refill your prescription and most required a urine sample. The urine sample is how you know and control what your patients are taking. They test for many drugs, not just pain medication. 

It’s not just doctors, pharmacies have gotten into the action! It stems from a bill that was spearheaded by Elizabeth Warren that stated among other things that doctors could write a two-week prescription. Why this was in there is beyond me because I’ve had doctors write two weeks or fewer prescriptions before. Not to mention that doctors know how they can write prescriptions. This is how lawmakers knowingly or not open the door to interpretation by other non-lawmakers. 

CVS took it upon itself to conquer the opioid crisis by setting its own initiatives on how to tackle the problem. One of the issues was pharmacists started to decide on their own to only fill for two weeks at a time or make the person wait until they had only one day left to pick up their medication. You can see the huge problem here. CVS finally pays for its poor judgment with a small slap on the wrist. 

This is an example of how far back the problems go and it started long before. Here’s a post I wrote in 2017 about CVS’s policy on Opioids. CVS was hit with an individual lawsuit and after years of litigation has to pay $1,190,000 in damages including $550k for pain and suffering + $300k for future medical expenses for taking matters and the law into their own hands. 

Please read the reference material, it is a good look inside the problem. 

We’re all tired of hearing about the problem, getting no answers, and our government blindly doubling down but we have to keep raising our voices or nothing changes and only gets worse. If you are not treated properly by a doctor of any type, write to the State Medical Board and your state representatives.  

References:

Prescription Opioids Aren’t Driving the Overdose Crisis. Illicitly Manufactured Synthetic Opioids Are.

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

Blogger Highlight-Books & Poems Coffee & Teas

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 I highlight a new blogger, Books & Poems Cofee & Teas.

Books & Poems Coffee & Teas

poems, coffee, teas, stories, beautiful images

I‘m an elderly lady with three grown children, two teenage granddaughters, two great grandkids, and two cats. I love to listen to the news, while I work on my four blogs and my poems website. I paint ( watercolors ) and I read, write poetry, and eat lots of junk food and love my morning cup of coffee. I do container gardening on my deck and porch. I have rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia and I’m somewhat housebound but still very positive. I like to watch old and new movies that are clean funny and sad but with a happy ending. 

Be sure to read her latest post. 

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

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

Book Review for Degloved: Every Scar has a Story 

 I want to say a special thank you to Laura Sebright, Marketing & Ecommerce Executive at Trigger Publishing for sending this very interesting book for review.

About the Author

On October 18th 2014, Adelaide was in a bike crash that would change her life. She went through the driver’s side window of a car that pulled in front of her, suffering injuries that almost killed her – and emotional trauma that would continue for years to come. In addition to facing the physical injuries and PTSD, Adelaide worried about how the crash would affect her ability to cope with her bipolar II. After an arduous recovery, she returned to riding, eventually qualifying to become a professional triathlete. She is an advocate for cyclists’ safety and strives to help others who have suffered life-threatening crashes. Adelaide lives with her husband Kennett and their dog Maybellene. 

Blurb

When the red Fiat pulled out in front of Adelaide, she squeezed her bike’s brakes so hard that she left 50 feet of skid marks along the highway. The last thing she remembers is being lifted into the ambulance and someone saying, “Her face is peeled off.”

She spent five days in a medically-induced coma, during which surgeons picked glass from her face, reconstructed bones and inserted a stomach tube. She spent another six days unable to talk, at times gasping for air, enduring leech treatments to keep her necrotizing lip alive, and fearing a crippling bipolar episode. Without knowing what neurological damage or permanent disfigurement she’d be left with, her boyfriend Kennett proposed to Adelaide daily in the hospital, until she became conscious. But her recovery would extend far beyond the hospital and the visible physical injuries. 

DEGLOVED is about perseverance as well as failure, written to give hope to those living with mental illness, and anyone who has had a traumatic event thrust upon them, which threatened to destroy their lives.

My Thoughts

Where do you go after an accident almost cost took your life? For Adelaide, it’s moving forward slowly with an eye on recovery and sharing her story to help others. Not only was she in a coma, but also had reconstructive surgery, leech treatments, and fears that her Bipolar Disorder will pop its ugly head.

When you suffer from a traumatic injury it can cause PTSD and slow the recovery process. It can be more complicated if you have a mental illness, like Bipolar Disorder. For me, stress is a huge trigger for my Bipolar Disorder and it’s something I have to keep an eye on. It can throw me into depression very quickly.

Degloved is a book of tragedy and triumph with great lessons to learn about life after unsurmountable odds. Adelaide is a strong person and her perseverance against the odds gave her life back. She’s also a walking example of what our body can do when it comes back from hell.

Adelaide pushes herself thru unimaginable odds to go on to not only compete again but is now a professional Triathlete.

This book is for anyone who has been involved in a traumatic event or knows someone that has. The book is great for caregivers.

I recommend the book hands down. It’s a great read and a very inspiring story.

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

Repost

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

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

Deep Thoughts

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 questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today!

“My First”

My First Boyfriend/Girlfriend:

My first love:

My first kiss:

Melinda

Reference:

The book 200 Deep Questions

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

Just Pondering

Bella Grace Field Guide by Stampington

What’s something that you’re currently holding on to that it’s time to put down?

Melinda

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

Book Review 365 Quotes to Accelerate Your Career and Find Balance in Life by James Espey

 I want to give a special thanks to Editor Andrea Marchiano of Cherish Editions for sending me an advanced copy of 365 Quotes to Accelerate Your Career and Find Balance for review.

Blurb

Dr James Espey OBE is ready to be your mentor. His second book 365 Quotes to Accelerate Your Career and Find Balance in Your Life contains the wisdom gleaned from his half-century career in business and marketing. It’s all presented in short, easy-to-digest quotes from James, as well as from other figures who have inspired him along the way.

James says, “I believe that in the modern world, people are looking for short, pertinent, succinct bits of advice. That is why I decided to write this book: to give you guidance and to encourage you to make the right decisions on your journey through life.”

What people are saying

“A unique take on the wisdom of quotes. Entertaining and makes you think!”
Neville Isdell, former global chairman and CEO of The Coca-Cola Company


“James has spent his career observing, thinking and summing things up succinctly. These quotes provide moments to reflect and be guided by someone who has seen around a few of the bends in the road ahead.”
Peter Bauer, CEO of Mimecast


“James’s ability to draw a quote or a one-liner to sum up a ‘situation’ – tricky, funny or even just routine – has always been a feature of his management and leadership. This unique, spontaneous communication style provides inspiration to all who deal with him.”
Michael Keiller, former CEO of Morrison Bowmore Distillers Ltd

Excerpt From
365 Quotes to Accelerate Your Career and Find Balance in Life
James Espey OBE
This material may be protected by copyright.

My Thoughts

In a work environment, it can be difficult to have a mentor, this book is what is missing to help you chart the course. 365 Quotes to Accelerate Your Career and Find Balance is a book I wished was available during my career. No matter where you’re at in life/career this book will help you ask yourself some tough questions that can propel your career and in turn life. 

The chapters are divided based on where you are in your career, like helping you build your brand. I like Part 3 Personal Values the best because I believe that this is the foundation of who we are as a person which spills over to who we are at work. 

In Chapter 11    

 “If you do not manage your time, time will manage you.
Ten ways to make the most of your working day:”

I love this quote and was so lucky to learn this early in my career from my mentor. The quote is followed by 10 solutions to accomplish this goal. Time management can be difficult to manage and the solutions are easy to understand and implement.

I highly recommend this book to anyone and would make a great graduation gift. 

Cherish Editions 

Cherish Editions is the self-publishing division of the TriggerHub group, the world’s leading platform for books that encourage mental health recovery and wellbeing.

We are experienced in creating and selling positive, responsible, important and inspirational books, which work to de-stigmatise the issues around mental health, as well as helping people who read them to maintain and improve their mental health and wellbeing. By choosing to publish through Cherish Editions, you will get the expertise of the dedicated TriggerHub Team at every step of the process.

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

How To Set Boundaries With Children

Setting boundaries is no more than communicating what you expect from the other person. All people need boundaries in their life. Some boundaries are harder to set than others say like the Internet and Cell Phones for that raging hormone peer-pleasing teen.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.com

The difficulty with setting boundaries gets harder when your children are adults however if you’ve set clear boundaries growing up it isn’t a problem, maybe a conversation or to reclarify.

As a teen I was raised by my grandparents so I skipped a generation, meaning my parents were from deep poverty and the war generation. I went to live with them at 14 years old as a troubled teen. Boundaries were clearly needed.

Here are just a few

No phone calls after 9PM

In bed by 10PM

No leaving the house after 9PM

Curfew was midnight sharp!

Doors to the room were left open unless needed for privacy

Could only drive the car to take Granny shopping, run family errands, to school and back, basketball, special school dances, to write for school or local newspaper.

Once I started working I had to pay Gramps $8 a week for gas and the extra $50 a year it cost to add me to the insurance policy.

No sleepovers

Had to meet every date and friends

Today’s challenges

The biggest challenge faced by a pre-teen and teen is the Internet and Social media. Neither was around in my day. I didn’t buy my first computer until 1991.

If you start setting boundaries very early in life with will be much easier to set them with an emotional teen. One of the biggest challenges is peer pressure at this age and you will have to stand on what is appropriate for your specific child, are responsible enough, and is there a reason.

Now there are a few things to remember, I grew up in a strict environment and believe the boundaries and consequences are appropriate for a healthy relationship.

You have the opportunity to set boundaries are soon as your child is a toddler and the more boundaries as they get older. Be prepared for meltdowns, calling names, which is another boundary to set, and being mad at you.

If you want to try to be a friend to your child all their life you can stop reading here. I don’t buy into that style of parenting.

One of the first things that might come up is what language is appropriate to use in the house, for example calling names.

We’ll eat at dinner time and not in the bedroom. Even if your child is studying, they need a break from the books and this is your time to communicate with your child. How was their day?

A big bone of contention is the Internet and Cell phones. This is where you will get the most push because this is one huge peer pressure in your pre/teen’s life.

If your child is under 16 years old, but the computer is in an open but quiet part of the house to use. After they reach 16 or are very mature and responsible for their age you can move into their bedroom. The key here is, having a tracking device and blocking sites and apps they can use. Also, give them a limit to how long they have per day to use the computer. If the whole time is taken up for doing school work, too bad they have to wait until the next day.

The other teaching experience is learning responsibility and this can be done by boundaries. If you give your child an allowance, determine how much they should pay you for the computer and phone. Make them save for it. If they don’t save, it’s not that important or they are not responsible enough.

My granny knew how bad I wanted a camera, she said if I would save half she would pay for the other half. That was so appreciated because I didn’t expect it. Those lessons from my grandparents set me up for some great lessons in life. 

Like I said, I’m strict and believe that many problems today are created by the Internet and children’s exposure at too young of an age.

Photo by PhotoMIX Company on Pexels.com

Cell phones are another battle with children. There is so much peer pressure. You have to decide if the phone is needed, are they responsible enough to keep up with it or buy a new one themselves. Same if they lose it. If the child is working, I would have them pay a portion of the bill.

Make sure you buy the lowest Data plan, put a tracker on, and block sites. You are to have the code to the phone at all times and be free to read text. This is not only setting boundaries it’s teaching them responsibility.

A crucial part of setting boundaries is there will be times when they need to be broken, that’s life and you have to monitor the reasons. If there is a mass shooting, they can use all the data they have in one day! The key is communication and understanding why they ran out of data if it’s not apparent. It’s critical that you let your child know you are monitoring their computer and phone activity. If you sneak around you’ll have a hard time gaining their trust again. If they know up front, they have to make wise decisions or not be smart enough to try. It’s that simple. 

As your children move out and learn to spread their wings, you’ll have to set new boundaries. But that’s for another post.

Melinda

 

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

4 Professionals You May Need In Your Life And How They Can Help

We all know that we can’t do everything alone. At some point in our lives, we will need the help of professionals to get us through a tough time. Here are four professionals you may need and how they can help you:

Photo by nicollazzi xiong on Pexels.com

Need Someone To Talk To?

A therapist can help you work through your problems by talking to them about what is going on in your life. They can help you figure out how to deal with your stressors and make positive changes in your life. A therapist can also provide you with tools and resources to help you cope with your problems. If you need help finding a therapist, many resources are available online. Mental health problems can be very serious and should not be taken lightly. If you are feeling like you are struggling, please reach out for help.

Maybe It’s A Water Problem?

You’re starting to notice that things just don’t seem quite right. Your once bright and airy home feels a little musty and damp. You notice some water spots on the ceiling, and your wood floors seem to be warping. Then you realize that you have a water problem. Water damage can come from various sources, including leaks in your plumbing, heavy rains, or even flood waters. No matter where the water comes from, it’s important to get it cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. That’s where a water damage cleaning and restoration company comes in. They have the experience and the equipment to quickly and efficiently remove all the water from your home, dry it out, and restore it to its pre-water damage condition.

Are The Lights Flickering?

If your lights are flickering or going out completely, it’s time to call an electrician. Many times, homeowners try to fix electrical problems themselves and end up making the situation worse. A professional electrician will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs. In addition to repairing electrical problems, electricians can help you upgrade your home’s electrical system. If you’re planning on adding new appliances or making other changes to improve your home’s energy usage, an electrician can ensure your electrical system is up to the task. No matter what your electrical needs are, an electrician can help.

Where Did The Money Go?

A financial planner can help you save for retirement, plan for large expenses, and make the most of your money. They can also offer guidance on investments and insurance. If you’re unsure where to start when saving or investing, a financial planner can be a valuable resource. When choosing a financial planner, it’s important to find someone who is a fiduciary. This means they are legally required to act in your best interest. You can also look for someone who is certified by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. A financial planner can help you get your finances in order and prepare you for the future!

These are only a few examples of the type of professionals you may need at some point in your life. So, if you find yourself in a difficult situation, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. There are people who can and will help you get through whatever problem you’re facing!

This is a collaborative post.

Melinda

Health and Wellbeing · Men & Womens Health · Mental Health

(Updated) What Depression Looks Like

Anyone can experience depression whether it’s situational, like the COVID crisis, chronic pain, illness, or mental illness. I have Bipolar Disorder, which means although my moods can swing from highs to lows, most of the time I’m depressed. I was first diagnosed at 19 years old but didn’t seek treatment until 28 years old after my father committed suicide.

A few examples of what depression has looked like for me

Your family sends someone over to check on you since they haven’t heard from you in days/weeks

Sleep for 22 hours a day

Don’t shower for weeks

Can’t remember when you ate

Your mailbox is so full the postman stops delivering mail

Emotional eating or buying

Feel deep guilt over lying to family and friends for years trying to hide your depression

You are numb, empty inside

It’s been eight months and five new prescriptions and still no improvement

The doctor tells you if you cancel another appointment he will fire you and you almost drive off the freeway on the way home

To depressed to take your medication no matter how bad you want to

Drink to much

Have a detailed plan on how you will commit suicide

The normal mood is depression, you are taking medication just to get you above the line to normal happy

Taken over 60 medications or combinations of medicines

Had 21 Electro Shock Treatments

Spent multiple weeks, multiple times in a Psychiatric hospital

Divorced because husband didn’t believe you were depressed

Cut off contact with everyone in an effort not to have to explain what’s going on or where you were

Lose your job on the third day because you can’t get out of bed

Don’t fill your prescriptions because you can’t drive one mile

These are a few examples of the struggles I’ve had with Bipolar Disorder for 40 years. The blessing is I have an exceptional Psychopharmacologist and Therapist who I’ve been seeing for 30 plus years. My doctor has been tough on me, never allowed me to make excuses, and taught me how to explain my feelings in an effort to prescribe the right type of medication. He strongly recommended I seek out therapy which I did and have never looked back.

Therapy doesn’t help control my depression but allows me to process the anxiety, guilt, and emotions I have from being depressed.

There is light

There is light at the end of the tunnel, sometimes you can’t even see a glimmer but there’s always light at the other end.

Please don’t try to deal with your depression alone, even if it’s situational depression, like a death or divorce, everyone needs emotional support. Go talk to someone.

Keep a log of your feelings by day the best you can in order to share those raw emotions with a Psychiatrist or Therapist. Raw feelings will help me get to the root of any issue much quicker than going to an appointment saying I’m depressed without clear examples.

If your general physician is prescribing your medication and you are still experiencing depression please seek out a professional with specialized training. A general doctor doesn’t have the in-depth knowledge of medications or about ongoing depression to get you to the other side.

A Psychopharmacologist is the best type of doctor if you have long-term or complex depression. They are a Psychiatrist with extra years of training in brain function among other things. The reason he has meant so much to me is he can determine what part of my brain needs stimulation and can prescribe very specific medications. They are more expensive and your insurance may not pay the entire amount but it’s worth every penny. I would not be alive today if it weren’t for my doctor.

If you don’t suffer from long-term depression I would start with a Psychiatrist and go from there.

Melinda

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

Blogger Highlight-The Sleepy Bookworm

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 I highlight a new blogger, The Sleepy Bookworm.

The Sleepy Bookworm

Like the blog title says, I’m a huge bookworm; a literature lover, bookishly bonkers and obsessed with amassing my own private library.  The ‘sleepy’ part of the title refers to the fact I’m constantly tired because I have a chronic illness called M.E (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis).  Living with a chronic illness is like living with a really demanding and clingy roommate; it’s restrictive and exhausting.  I don’t know why I started this blog but living with a chronic illness can be isolating and lonely; I think it’s important to write and share my experiences.  Through this blog I hope to raise awareness for those struggling with invisible and chronic illness; those with mental health problems and those that struggle to keep fighting their own body day in and day out.  Maybe my posts will go unread and just provide a mental and emotional catharsis; or maybe someone else suffering with chronic illness will read and relate to my experience and feel a little less lonely and isolated. 

Be sure to check out the latest posts. 

Melinda

Looking for the Light

@lookinglight

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

Can You Improve Your Gratitude? — Guest Blogger Damon Ashworth Psychology

Out of the 24 possible character strengths in the VIA Character Strengths Survey, only five are strongly associated with satisfaction with life. People with hope, zest, gratitude, curiosity and the ability to love and be loved as their top strengths seem to have higher life satisfaction. Gratitude has never been a strength of mine. Every […]

Can You Improve Your Gratitude? — Damon Ashworth Psychology