How My Lyme Doctor diagnosed the first HIV/Aids patient in North Carolina
A second-generation physician from Illinois, curious about medical mysteries (“It’s just like detective work!”), young Dr. Joe Jemsek became an infectious diseases fellow in 1977. In 1979, Jemsek and his young family resettled in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he began a promising infectious disease practice at the renowned Nalle Clinic. Intrigued by reports of a “gay cancer,” Joe’s “detective” instincts led him to diagnose North Carolina’s first case of what would soon be known as HIV/AIDS. As the years went by, he grew absorbed by the AIDS epidemic, bearing witness to some of its most dire casualties — losing patient after patient to opportunistic infections — as well as to the first signs of hope with the advent of life-saving drugs in 1995.
I’m so proud of Dr. Jemsek, he took his knowledge as an Infectious Disease doctor and made history. Due to his commitment more research has been done and the lives on people with HIV/AIDS have improved.
What is HIV?
The human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells (or T cells).
The virus is transmitted through bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, anal fluids, and breast milk. Historically, HIV has most often been spread through unprotected sex, the sharing of needles for drug use, and through birth.
Over time, HIV can destroy so many CD4 cells that the body can’t fight infections and diseases, eventually leading to the most severe form of an HIV infection: acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS. A person with AIDS is very vulnerable to cancer and to life-threatening infections, such as pneumonia.
Though there is no cure for HIV or AIDS, a person with HIV who receives treatment early can live nearly as long as someone without the virus. And a study in 2019 in the medical journal, Lancet, showed that an anti-viral treatment effectively halted the spread of HIV.
In September of 1982, the CDC used the term AIDS to describe the disease for the first time. By the end of the year, AIDS cases were also reported in a number of European countries.
Where Did AIDS Come From?
Scientists have traced the origin of HIV back to chimpanzees and simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV), an HIV-like virus that attacks the immune system of monkeys and apes.
In 1999, researchers identified a strain of chimpanzee SIV called SIVcpz, which was nearly identical to HIV. Chimps, the scientist later discovered, hunt and eat two smaller species of monkeys—red-capped mangabeys and greater spot-nosed monkeys—that carry and infect the chimps with two strains of SIV. These two strains likely combined to form SIVcpz, which can spread between chimpanzees and humans.
SIVcpz likely jumped to humans when hunters in Africa ate infected chimps, or the chimps’ infected blood got into the cuts or wounds of hunters. Researchers believe the first transmission of SIV to HIV in humans that then led to the global pandemic occurred in 1920 in Kinshasa, the capital and largest city in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The virus spread may have spread from Kinshasa along infrastructure routes (roads, railways, and rivers) via migrants and the sex trade.
In the 1960s, HIV spread from Africa to Haiti and the Caribbean when Haitian professionals in the colonial Democratic Republic of Congo returned home. The virus then moved from the Caribbean to New York City around 1970 and then to San Francisco later in the decade.
International travel from the United States helped the virus spread across the rest of the globe.
Men, women, and people of all gender identities may experience depression at some point in their lives. Depression is a serious condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and acts.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), women seem to experience depression at a higher rate than men. However, it’s thought that men may be underrepresented in these numbers.
This may be due to mix of social and biological factors that make it more challenging to notice and diagnose depression in men. They may also feel culturally pressured to act “manly” by hiding their emotions.
Because of this, it’s more common for men to have depression with symptoms that are different and sometimes harder to identify.
If you think that you or someone you love may be struggling with depression, read on to learn about the signs and symptoms that men may experience and what you can do next.
Men with depression may first notice its physical effects. While depression is thought of as a mental health disorder, it can also manifest in the body.
Many men are more likely to visit their doctors for physical issues than for emotional issues.
Some common physical signs of depression in men include:
When most people hear the word “depression,” they think of a person who seems very sad. However, sadness is just one of many possible emotions depression can cause.
In addition to sadness, men may experience the following emotional symptoms of depression:
agitation
aggression
anger
emotional withdrawal from friends, family, and colleagues
hopelessness
lack of interest in family, community, hobbies, and work
The mental, physical, and emotional symptoms of depression in men can also affect behavior. Because some men resist discussing their emotions, it’s often their behavioral symptoms of depression that are most apparent to others.
In men, the behavioral symptoms of depression most commonly include:
difficulty meeting work, family, and other personal responsibilities
drug misuse
drinking alcohol in excess
engaging in risky activities, such as driving recklessly or having unprotected sex
While discussions around mental health seem to be expanding in reach and compassion, there’s still some cultural and social stigma around depression— particularly among men.
Generally, men are socialized by society to hold in their emotions, though we know doing so isn’t healthy. In their efforts to maintain these social norms, many men may be compromising their emotional, physical, and mental well-being.
In addition, many men are never taught to recognize the less typical signs of depression that they’re more likely than others to experience.
Some men never seek help for their depression because they never recognize the signs. On the other hand, some men who do recognize the signs may struggle to discuss their experience because they fear the judgment of others.
As a result, when many men experience the signs of depression, they begin to work long hours or otherwise fill their time to stay busy, instead of addressing the depression itself.
Diagnosing depression and seeking treatment can help save lives. Suicide rates are high among men, especially those who have served or currently serve in the military. Additionally, men are three to four times more likely than women to complete suicide.
In continuing to open up the conversation, we can help men with depression recognize the signs. By seeking treatment, men with depression can live their fullest possible lives.
Depression is most often treated with talk therapy, medications, or both of these things together. A healthcare professional can help create a personalized treatment plan that works best for you.
Many men begin treatment for moderate cases of depression by scheduling an appointment with a talk therapist (psychotherapist). From there, the therapist might suggest specific types of care, such as:
However, for more severe cases, medication might be prescribed right away to help alleviate some of the physical, mental, emotional, and behavioral symptoms of depression. This may be the case for someone with suicidal thoughts or who has attempted suicide.
Be aware that these medications often take several weeks to months or begin making a noticeable difference in the way you feel. Be patient and stick closely to the treatment plan.
When to seek help
If you’re experiencing one or more of the above symptoms of depression to the point that it interferes with your daily life, consider scheduling an appointment to meet with a mental health counselor.
Most insurance plans provide coverage for such counseling, and receiving care is discreet and confidential.
If you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts, plan to attempt, or have attempted suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255, or dial 911.
While recent conversations around mental health have become more candid and inclusive, many men still find it difficult to talk about their emotions in a society that upholds traditional views about men.
It can also be challenging to identify the symptoms of depression in men, which are influenced by those same social factors as well as male biology.
By sharing knowledge about the symptoms of depression in men, we can help clear a pathway toward better, more inclusive mental healthcare.
With talk therapy, medication, or a combination of these two things, depression becomes a much more manageable part of the human experience.
That is one of the smartest things I’ve heard from any President.
Many will vote for a Presidential candidate and only for a particular party, not looking at both candidates to see who is best for America. For America to shift gears, we all must vote for who we think is best for America for the next four years. Every voice needs to be heard.
Be aware of
Last Presidential election some Republican volunteers were very aggressive at some polling places across the country. The worst story I saw on the news was about volunteers being aggressive by taking photos of people’s vehicles and license tags, taking photos of their children, getting in their faces yelling obscenities, and making threats. I didn’t experience that and I don’t think it was widespread but it is clearly voter intimidation. If you experience any intimidation tell the Polling Manager and call the police. We can’t tolerate this type of behavior.
Every American has the right to vote, please use your voice to help shape the next four years.
We are all different, yet we’re the same. I understand that many religions condemn any behavior that doesn’t fit their box and some are driven strongly by their religion. What we must not lose sight of is that we are equal.
The Early Gay Rights Movement in America
In 1924, Henry Gerber, a German immigrant, founded in Chicago the Society for Human Rights, the first documented gay rights organization in the United States. During his U.S. Army service in World War I, Gerber was inspired to create his organization by the Scientific-Humanitarian Committee, a “homosexual emancipation” group in Germany.
Gerber’s small group published a few issues of its newsletter “Friendship and Freedom,” the country’s first gay-interest newsletter. Police raids caused the group to disband in 1925—but 90 years later, the U.S. government designated Gerber’s Chicago house a National Historic Landmark.
Where and when is LGBTQ History Month Celebrated?
In the United States, LGBTQ History Month is celebrated every October. Canada and Australia also celebrate it this month. It is also recognized in the United Kingdom (in February), Hungary (in February), Finland (in November), and Berlin (in June).
And this past year in May, Cuba became the first country in Latin America to celebrate it. Italy also celebrated its first one this year in April.
How It Started
Every October, people around the world celebrate LGBT History Month, a time to honor the contributions and achievements of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people.
The first LGBT History Month wound up sparking over 150 events across the country in its first year, and the rest, as they say, is history.
In 2005, the UK became the first country to celebrate LGBT+ History Month, starting the journey towards a more inclusive world.
While it was first known as Lesbian and Gay History Month, the coordinating committee soon added “bisexual” to the title. It has subsequently become known as LGBTQ+ History Month.
Iconic Queer Figures to Honor
There are endless LGBTQ figures to honor this month, but here a few icons to start with:
Bayard Rustin, who organized the March on Washington in 1963, where Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech took place
Rape victims receiving closure is important to me and I hope to you too. Below is the background of Joyful Heart Foundation and how they started the initiative to End the Backlog. At the bottom, you will see why I’m flaming mad due to an unacceptable situation not far from where I live. Not to mention the atrociously high numbers of backlogged rape kits in Texas.
In 2015, the Joyful Heart Foundation played a fundamental role in the creation of the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI), an important federal initiative for rape kit reform with then Vice President Biden. This program provided grants to communities to inventory untested rape kits, analyze those kits, investigate the resulting cases, prosecute offenders, and support survivors. This federal program has allowed jurisdictions to inventory more than 183,000 untested kits and send 90,000 kits for testing, resulting in more than 15,700 CODIS hits, almost 8,200 to serial violent offenders and 2,200 to serial sex offenders.
In 2016, the Joyful Heart Foundation launched its six pillar campaign to improve the way rape kits are handled nationwide and end the backlog of untested rape kits. Since then, we have helped pass 130 bills in 46 states affecting more than 321 million people and more than 136,000 survivors of reported rapes every year. Our campaign is one of the most successful state-level campaigns in history.
What is Joyful Heart Foundation
The Joyful Heart Foundation was founded in 2004 by Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU) actress, director, and advocate, Mariska Hargitay. While playing Detective Olivia Benson on Law & Order SVU, Ms. Hargitay learned a tremendous amount about the crime of sexual assault. Letters from fans of the show poured in across the years; many were testimonies from survivors sharing their stories of abuse, isolation, fear, hope, and courage. As Hargitay became more informed about the topic, she was shocked and saddened by the prevalence of sexually-based crimes and how trauma impacts survivors, many for their entire lives. She felt she had to answer these survivor letters in a meaningful way. Her response was to create the Joyful Heart Foundation with the mission to transform society’s response to sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, support survivors, and end this violence forever. Ms. Hargitay wanted to help survivors heal and reclaim joy in their lives.
What is the Rape Kit Backlog?
“To me, the backlog is one of the clearest and most shocking demonstrations of how we regard these crimes in our society. Testing rape kits sends a fundamental and crucial message to victims of sexual violence: You matter. What happened to you matters. Your case matters. For that reason, the Joyful Heart Foundation, which I founded in 2004, has made ending the rape kit backlog our #1 advocacy priority.”
Mariska Hargitay, Founder of The Joyful Heart Foundation
While the number of untested rape kits has decreased over the last decade – the backlog was once deemed to be 400,000 – today, we estimate that there are still 100,000 untested rape kits yet to be discovered.
You can clearly see the states who have tackled the backlog and those who have not. I’m ashamed of Texas, my home state, and these numbers send a clear message that women are not valued in Texas. A message coming from Governor Greg Abbott.
Let me give you an example and you will see what set me off last night.
Fort Worth is a smaller sister city to Dallas but this week, there was improper behavior with the law enforcement. I question if the entire city is flying blind. Last light at a City Council meeting the Chief of Police admitted that the deadline for clearing rape kits had once again not been met. He took responsibility and committed to correct the situation. I won’t hold my breath on that commitment. What shocked me even more was how the City Council acted like this was the first time they had heard about it. Who is overseeing the police????
The information only came out because the local news station invested. Here’s one of the findings.
On Wednesday, an NBC 5 Investigates series, “Justice Shelved”, revealed that more than 760 times in five years, Fort Worth police were late to submit rape kits to a lab in the state required 30 days.
New state records provided by the Department of Public Safety show Fort Worth police currently have 901 untested kits that are already past the 90-day mark, leaving victims who reported sexual assaults waiting for answers.
This is unacceptable and I think many heads need to roll and many more fired.
I always wanted everything my Gramps had, so when I was still in the bottle, he put a small amount of coffee in it. I slurped with joy and still do.
In high school, I was not interested in being popular or joining a sorority but somehow, I got talked into rushing for a sorority. During rush week we had to go a week without washing our hair. It nearly killed me, but one night we all spent the night at the so-called leader’s house and it was the last straw for me. They spent the night talking about their boyfriends, drinking, sex, and how they were popular at school. I couldn’t care less and left and turned the page on that experience.
I was naive in high school, thinking the cheerleaders were all goody-two-shoes and virgins. Not so much! One night while hanging out at the library, our hang spot, a cheerleader I only knew from class asked me if I would drive her around to smoke a joint. SURE! I hadn’t smoked a joint in years. We parked not far from the library and stoked away, the whole time she talked about how all her boyfriend wanted was sex. Sex and smoking a joint, wow my eyes were opened.
The high school football quarterback wouldn’t even speak to me, I was friends with almost everyone but not him. He was above mere mortals. At the 20-year high school reunion, I looked very different than in high school and all he wanted to do was dance and get me to leave with him. It was funny. I was there with my future husband. Men tend to think with the wrong head.
I’m keeping this post short since the other topics were too heavy for this one. You can look forward to topics like agoraphobia, dementia, driving my husband’s truck the size of an aircraft carrier, and forgetting how to drive.
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series. I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their blog with you. This week, we highlight the blog Essence of Me. I only started following Jeiyanni in September and we struck up a conversation and I felt a connection to her. I think part of the reason is her personality, she’s positive but realistic, ambitious but knows she’s on the ground floor in her career and has big goals. She accomplished so much for her younger age and that tells me shows going straight up. She is a hard-working woman who graduated from Columbia and as she builds her career she works part-time at TJ Maxx and part-time teaching an after-school program.
I write because I have an overwhelming desire to immortalize whatever happens, or could possibly happen, onto the page. The act of writing is like a release, a form of physical therapy. I realize that one of the most prominent themes in my work is the idea of complex human emotions, circumstances, words, and actions. With my writing I feel that it is my duty to express all the things that are interesting, confusing, and difficult. I use my point of view to display a unique perspective in my pieces and characters. Overall, I just want to showcase the realities of people and human-to-human connection. I want to focus in on specific point-of-views of different characters- who’s the current main character of the story, and why do we care about their particular situation?
In this blog, you can find any and everything that embodies the essence of who I am. That includes thoughts, beliefs, pictures, pieces of writing, analytical essays, etc. If you’re interested in who I am as a person and a writer, I hope you’ll embark on this wonderful journey with me.
Ta-ta for now!
-Jeiyanni
I asked Jeiyanni a couple of questions:
M. What made you pursue a career in writing and why Columbia?
J. I think I just believed that since writing was my passion, that was what I should be doing with my life. My wish was (and still is) to be an author. So I went to Columbia College Chicago because it was a liberal arts school that was geared towards what I wanted to do in life. Because I don’t want to necessarily just be an author, but I also want to do different types of writing as well.
M. You started writing a young age, what was the draw to writing and what did you write about?
J. Initially I was drawn to writing in the second grade when I was talking crap about some classmates I didn’t like in my Winnie the Pooh journal 😆 but Idk, I think I just enjoyed that medium of being able to express myself and thus my passion for writing stories blossomed as well. But when I was younger, I would write stories on whatever topics came to mind from my little elementary school world. For example, some short books I wrote as a young child were “Granny’s Burgers” and “How to Avoid Arguments” lol.
We all feel hopeless at times throughout our lives, it is a natural part of growing but it’s a tad bit better if we have someone who understands and is in our corner. I think you will relate to her feelings on that day. Second-guessing ourselves is also a part of being young with so many directions and goals in front of us.
Be sure to stop by, say hello to Jeiyanni, pull up a chair, and stay awhile. Her personality will pull you in!
I get bored easily so I work hard at keeping my content fresh and up-to-date. Most of the changes are esthetic but I think they add some flair into who the person behind the words are. Please check out the updated page and share the good, bad, and ugly, I can take it.
I want to take one minute to thank all that have stopped by my blog over the years, left comments, the good conversations we’ve had, what we’ve learned from each other, and most importantly your friendship. The past 24 years of my life has been a learning journey, full of ups and downs but many of you have been there throughout the years and I send a special hug to you.
If you think something is missing in my description of my blog or about myself, please let me know that as well, that’s important information to have.
Thanks for coming along for the ride. What a ride it’s been.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a month that has received a great deal of attention over the years due to the tremendous donations to support new treatment options. That does not mean we should look the other way and think it has enough attention. The success rate of survival has increased but there is still so much to know about Breast Cancer.
NBCF is dedicated to delivering comprehensive, educational information on breast health and healthy living. From understanding the importance of early detection, to knowing how to prepare for a mammogram, NBCF’s online resources and guides aim to empower women and men with useful information. View guides. Click here to learn more about breast self-examination steps.
The Patient Navigator Program is a proactive approach to helping patients overcome the barriers of cost, fear, and misinformation surrounding a disease and its prevention. Find a facility.
Other Resources
In addition to the breast care services that NBCF provides to women in need, the following resources offer financial assistance for breast cancer patients.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides access to breast cancer screening services to underserved women in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, 5 U.S. territories, and 12 tribal organizations.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) provides resource lists for free or low-cost mammograms and financial assitance based on your location. When you go to their website, Cancer.org, look for the “About Us” tab in the top right corner. When you click on that, select your state in the “Where We Help” menu to be directed to a list of local resources.
Breast and Cervical Cancer Treatment Program (BCCTP)
This state program is funded through Medicaid to provide underserved women free healthcare throughout treatment. The program is available in all 50 states. For the application process, contact your local hospital and ask to speak to a nurse or patient navigator regarding the program.
The CFAC is a coalition of organizations that help patients reduce financial barriers during cancer treatment. When you visit their website, select the type of assistance needed and enter your zip code to find resources near your area.
The Mammography Facility Database is updated periodically based on information received from the three FDA-approved accreditation bodies: the American College of Radiology (ACR), and the states of Arkansas and Texas to provide a list of facilities where mammography services are available based on your location.
Breast Cancer needs to be taken seriously by all and it starts with self-exams and reaching out at the first sign of trouble. You also need to keep your doctor aware of your family history because it can play a big role in whether to not you have the DNA makers for Breast Cancer. Always air on the cautious side.
This is some very serious news for ALL WordPress bloggers! Educate yourself and BE SURE to back up all your data. Be sure to read the link in Daniels’s post, all the facts and details are spelled out there. So many concerns.
I recently discovered that the WordPress project owned by Automattik is in a complicated battle with its Hosting company WP. The integrated aspect of WordPress with Automattik and WP is complex and currently under threat. WordPress represents about 40% of all websites on the Internet and a punitive legal battle could drastically affect the Internet … Continue reading
The memorial is very nice, it was opened in 1996 and Rochester is very proud of the soldiers who gave all.
The day was extremely windy so I was not able to get many photographs but I’m thrilled with the ones I did, The images itched into the granite are breathtakingly real.
This awareness month is critical for all ages, even the youngest of children can feel depression and even though you may think they should blow it off, it’s not that easy and you can alienate them from talking to you again. Today life is so hard on kids, from an early age they are judged for the way they look, and who their friends are, for any reason because there are so many who don’t know who to communicate with and are haters. Kids also mimic their parents, if your child is having problems, look at your own behavior.
Young girls are fed to believe that these so-called influencers are real perfect-looking people who are pumping the greatest products they have to have. It never crosses their mind that the person is not an influencer, they are made up to look like the girls want to be and they are selling a product they make money on. They don’t get it or don’t want to. They are bullied for being a certain weight or not looking like someone else’s unrealistic standards.
Mix in real life as they get older and a deeper depression may present itself, it could be short-term term or it could be from unresolved issues, one you may not even know about. The key is to get your children the help they need at every step. As they age, professional help may be the answer. Don’t let stigma keep your child from getting the help they need.
As for adults, life can get messy, people can hurt you deeply, someone you trusted can betray you and family can hurt the worst. Some people may be more predisposed to depression whereas others may be situational driven. Adults have their own stigma and don’t seek out help, some men don’t think they need help and some just don’t know where to turn because the answer is not their parents. This is where a therapist comes in, therapy can be short-term just to get over a hump or more long-term because you have many buried issues that need to be addressed.
—
October is recognized as Depression Awareness Month each year. The purpose is to increase understanding, decrease stereotypes, and help educate on how depression and other mental health issues impact people.
Awareness months give people affected by a specific condition a chance to share their stories. The goal is to help increase the overall understanding of depression or other conditions and help overcome stereotypes.
Depression is a common mental health concern in America and throughout the world. Far more than just “feeling sad,” depression negatively impacts how a person feels, thinks, and acts. It can cause disruption to school, work, and personal interests.
Misconceptions and misunderstandings of depression contribute to continuing stigmas about people living with the condition, the reasons it occurs, and their willingness to seek care.
In a 2018 study, researchers conducted a survey to assess the public’s knowledge of depression and the severity of the stigma surrounding it. Key findings included:
30% reported believing a “weak personality” causes depression
58.9% reported believing that pharmaceutical interventions or medications are not an effective treatment
over 70% reported understanding the importance of rest and that a person may appear happier than they actually are when living with depression
Depression can wear you out at the exact time you need all of your strength to fight. Trying to cope is extremely tiring — and it’s often difficult to know when others are suffering. That’s why, during October, we observe National Depression Education & Awareness Month. This important holiday helps teach us about the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for depression. It also lets all of us know that seeking help — either from a counselor, a trusted friend, or your community — is a sign of hope and strength.
Signs of Depression to look for
Feeling sad, hopeless, or empty.
Losing interest in activities that you used to enjoy.
Changes in appetite, weight loss, or weight gain.
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much.
Feeling tired and lacking energy.
Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
Feeling irritable or restless.
Thoughts of death or suicide.
Withdrawing from social activities and isolating themselves from others.
Difficulty performing daily activities and taking care of themselves.
Feeling guilty or worthless.
Changes in behavior, such as increased substance use or reckless behavior.
Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or stomachaches.
This is not an exhaustive list but it’s a good start to start looking for when you or your child it not themselves. It’s sometimes hard to see depression in yourself and you need someone you trust to give you feedback and it can be hard to hear. Work to have an open mind.
The newsletter talks about how to vote, the players in Texas who are up for election, and additional resources. Sometimes these newsletters publish a link, not sure why I can see the content but WordPress turns it to a link. Please click on the link or copy in paste on your computer to read. This message is important to all Texans.
October 2024
We are less than one month out from General Election Day! It is critical that Texans get out and vote as policymakers elected in 2024 will make major decisions regarding individuals and families affected by mental health conditions. Furthermore, exercising your right to vote ensures representation, the individuals we elect will be our voice at the local, state, and federal levels. When you participate in elections, we hold our elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions. Additionally, voting has the ability to drive social change as voters have the opportunity to advocate for policy reform and issues that are important to us.
Finally, voting promotes equality, providing an opportunity for all citizens to have a say in the decision-making process. Important Dates:General Election Day: Tuesday, November 5th, 2024 Early Voting: Monday, October 21st-Friday, November 1st, 2024 Last day counties can receive mail-in ballot requests: Friday, October 25th, 2024 Find out what’s on your personalized ballot by checking out Vote411.
Get involved & encourage others to do so too! The NAMI Texas team encourages you to check out NAMI National’s #Vote4MentalHealthcampaign webpage where you can pledge to vote for mental health, learn more about why mental health is more than a single policy issue and several ways to get engaged. Furthermore, the campaign provides resources like finding your voting options, requesting an absentee ballot, and planning to vote.
#Vote4MentalHealth Videos Check out this videothat highlights the importance of voting in all elections, from those at the White House to local school board elections. Additionally, watch this educational video on how votes for education, economy, and healthcare all impact mental health!
Please note: #Vote4MentalHealth is nonpartisan – the NAMI Alliance will never tell people what party or candidate to vote for; instead, it focuses on understanding how every person’s vote impacts mental health. NAMI Texas Voter Guide:
Additionally, check out NAMI Texas’ General Election 2024 Voter Guides! The Policy Team has collected information from Texas candidates on various mental health topics. This guide can be used to help you gather information regarding where candidates stand on various mental health systems and what they hope to improve upon if they are elected. Please note, that all candidates were contacted and only those who responded are in the guides.
Losing a baby is a very personal matter and one that we don’t often hear or talk about unless you’re close to someone who has experienced that loss. At 19 I had a miscarriage at 4-5 months along and my then-husband didn’t even acknowledge the child or the death, we never talked about the entire night it happened. Instead, he went out of town with the guys the next morning and there was no conversation when he returned. I was devastated, had no ride home, and didn’t have anyone to help me with the pain. I was in shock seeing the baby in the toilet at the hospital but I never grieved.
I can’t imagine the grief of carrying a baby close to term or full term and then watching them die, it has to be gutwrenching. There are many children born with diseases or a defect and they fight for their lives, but it was not to be. The overwhelming pain can only be felt by the parents who lost their baby. Think about the pain felt when the parents get home to see the baby’s nursery they planned so carefully without their baby.
These are my thoughts on what Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month is, let’s see the official meaning of the day.
When Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month was proclaimed.
In 1988, President Ronald Regan proclaimed October Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is observed on October 15th each year and includes the International Wave of Light.
In the United States, 1 out of every 4 pregnancies ends in miscarriage and 1 and every 160 pregnancies end in stillbirth. These numbers do not include infant death from preterm labor, diagnosis of life-limiting conditions, or SIDS.
What is Pregnancy Loss and Infant Loss Awareness Month?
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, observed every October, is dedicated to raising awareness about the grief and challenges faced by families who have experienced miscarriage, stillbirth, or the death of an infant. The month provides a platform for breaking the silence surrounding these often stigmatized and unspoken losses. Through various events, campaigns, and remembrance activities, it seeks to honor the lives lost, offer support to grieving parents, and educate the public on the impact of pregnancy and infant loss. It also encourages open conversations and fosters a sense of community among those affected.
When is National Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day?
Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day is observed on October 15th each year. It is a day dedicated to honoring and remembering babies who have passed away due to miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant death. Many people participate in the global “Wave of Light” by lighting candles at 7 PM in their local time zone to create a continuous wave of light across the world.
If you’ve lost a baby or know someone who has and wants to share their memory, consider setting up a memorial website on Ever Loved. Memorial websites are free, simple to use, and a beautiful place to share your baby’s obituary, event information, collect memories, and more.
I think the timing of Sober October is perfect, it comes right before the holidays and there is plenty of alcohol flowing at that time of year. Being or getting sober is damn hard any time of the year but during the holidays your endurance can get tested. For me to remain sober, I made it known that I had stopped drinking, that didn’t mean that others needed to stop but I wanted it known that this was a commitment to me and it was serious. I stopped drinking close to 20 years ago, went cold turkey, and never attended a meeting and my husband still drinks. Actually, he’s an alcoholic but that’s his choice. I had the strength to do it so quickly because it was affecting the medications for my mental illness and it’s hard to live without stability of the mind.
Don’t convince yourself that you can only have fun while drinking and stand firm that you can hang out with family or friends without drinking. One line to draw is that no one badgers you or says something negative because you’re not drinking. Give them one chance, stop the conversation, and set a boundary. If they can’t respect that, they are not your friend nor do they care about you. Parents and family can be the worst, hold the line clearly and if they break your boundary again don’t be around them. The psychology behind what they are doing quite frankly is disrespecting you.
Alcohol is like a drug, and you become addicted to it, it’s also easy to see alcohol as a comfort that makes the day easier. I get that, I understand that and I know that when you are ready to quit drinking YOU CAN. Seek out all the support you need, just don’t turn to a replacement addiction. Everyone is different and how we move past an addiction is different, don’t compare yourself to others, or buy into that you have to recover a certain way. There is no certain way, you have to make your own, just don’t do it alone.
Thanks to the incredible efforts of campaign groups, individuals, healthcare companies and charities, the world knows more about stomas. With that increased awareness comes a lot of good things, but unfortunately there’s still many ways in which those with an ostomy can feel ignored, misunderstood or sidelined. Here are just 5 ways in which we can be left feeling invisible with a stoma.
[ This post is in honour of 5th October Stoma Awareness Day 2024, the theme of which is “Do You See Me?”]
I had only heard of Ukraine a couple of times before Putin attacked Ukraine and knew nothing about Russia stealing Crimea away years prior. Since the war began, I think of Ukraine multiple times a day. The Ukrainian people are an example of community, love your neighbor, help one, help all, and they are strong to the core.
I’ve heard Ukrainians talk to reporters and talk about what happened to their house or how a family member was killed but one thing I DON”T hear is complaining. I believe in my heart that someone would share their last meal, true humanity.
I admire President Zelenski, he’s on the ground with the soldiers, and he talks about reality, he appears to be a humble man but with the strength of a million bulls. His determination and commitment to his country is why so many soldiers from other countries, including America came to fight in the war. He doesn’t put on airs, blow smoke, or play games. I love how he dresses the same regardless of who he meets, that tells me so much about him. He’s focused on the war, winning, and building a better life for all Ukrainians.
I have seen many interviews since the war started and I’m always struck by the resilience of the Ukrainian people. I see the sadness in their eyes yet I see hope. They have faith in a brighter day and make the best of every moment, and no doubt it’s much worse than what I see on television. To see neighbors taking care of a child who lost his mother while his father is on the front line is overwhelming heartbreaking and joyful, the child is not left aside, it’s loved and cared for. It’s a miracle.
I’ve gone out of my way to purchase items from Ukraine to help the few who can work continue to make a living. Etsy.com has a large community of Ukrainian sellers and they truly appreciate your business. The homemade wool items I’ve purchased from Woven Wool Art are high-quality and the seller will take custom orders. The extra cost of postage is nothing compared to helping someone who needs to work. Check Etsy out, if you order fast enough your items will get here by the holidays.
I’m sending hugs to all the Ukrainian people. :)
America would be a great place to live if we had leadership like President Zelenski.
Life throws all kinds of challenges at us from the loss of loved ones to mental health issues that make us feel like we will never be happy again but you know what? No matter how hard life has been and no matter how challenging it continues to be, you should never give up on finding happiness. Here’s why:
1. New Treatments Are Popping Up Like Apps on Your Phone
Do you know how there’s always a new app for everything these days? Well, the same goes for treatments for depression. If traditional talk therapy and medication aren’t cutting it, don’t worry—science has got your back. Ketamine therapy, for instance, has been making waves as a game-changer for treating depression. Yep, you read that right. The same stuff that was once seen as party drug material is now helping people kick depression to the curb. And that’s just one example—there are new treatments being discovered all the time.
So, the next time you feel like you’ve exhausted all your options, remember: somewhere out there, someone’s cooking up a fresh, innovative approach that just might be your golden ticket to happiness.
2. Happiness Is Not One-Size-Fits-All
Let’s clear something up: happiness isn’t like a pair of skinny jeans that only fit one type of person. It’s more like sweatpants—different for everyone, and much more comfortable. So if what works for one person (say, mindfulness meditation or bubble baths) doesn’t work for you, don’t sweat it. Happiness comes in a million forms, and you just need to find the one that fits you best. Maybe it’s painting your dog’s toenails (no judgment) or starting a new hobby like indoor skydiving. Keep exploring until you stumble upon your happy place.
3. Happiness Is Closer Than You Think (No, Really)
I know, it’s cliché to say “happiness is right around the corner,” but sometimes it really is. It’s just that the corner might be at the end of a path you haven’t tried yet. Whether it’s giving a new therapist a shot, picking up that hobby you dropped in 2014, or even trying something as wild as ketamine therapy, there are countless avenues to happiness you might not have considered. Spoiler alert: happiness might be waiting for you at the next twist or turn.
4. Setbacks Don’t Mean Failure
Look, no one finds happiness on their first try—if they did, we’d all be running around like a bunch of overly enthusiastic puppies. Life has ups and downs, and yeah, sometimes it feels like you’re stuck in the downs. But remember, setbacks are just detours, not dead ends. It’s okay to feel frustrated, to take a break, or even to scream into a pillow (highly recommended, by the way). Just don’t give up on the journey entirely. You’re not finished yet.
5. Because You Deserve It
You’ve probably heard this a million times, but I’m going to say it again: you deserve to be happy. Full stop. It doesn’t matter how long it takes or how many times you stumble along the way—your happiness is worth fighting for.
Take a deep breath, and keep on pushing forward because who knows where it will take you?!
A consistently healthy diet may ease symptoms of depression. Here are experts’ in-season picks for your plate.
Fall and winter can be brutal for people with depression. It gets dark early, resulting in far less exposure to mood-brightening sunlight, plus colder temperatures can make you just want to stay in bed.
In addition, it’s a time of year filled with the sugar-laden, high-fat holiday foods that are often least likely to benefit our mental health. “It’s a challenging time for eaters,” says Drew Ramsey, MD, a nutritional psychiatrist based in Jackson, Wyoming. “There’s lots of delicious stuff that oftentimes isn’t so great for our mood.”
Atlanta-based Jerlyn Jones, RDN, agrees, pointing out that the relationship between an unhealthy diet and depression is often a vicious cycle. “If you have a poor diet, then you’re going to feel more depressed. And when you feel more depressed, you’re probably going to eat more of those types of foods,” says Jones.
The good news: Diet is a modifiable risk factor for depression. In other words, simply loading up on whole foods like fruits and vegetables, fish, nuts, legumes, and the like can improve symptoms of this mood disorder in some people, according to research.
The problem is that when people feel stressed and depressed, they tend to crave comforting foods that are higher in sugar, salt, and fat, Jones says. Unfortunately, the instant relief you experience from those foods — especially the sugar-laden ones — dissolves quickly, which then can cause your mood to crash.
Not to mention that filling up on so-called “junk food” can make it hard to receive enough of the essential nutrients that the brain needs to function at its best, including B vitamins, folate, and magnesium.
“These vitamins and minerals have been inversely associated with depressive disorders,” Jones says. “Foods that are high in different nutrients can make you feel so much better.”
Wondering which healthy cold-weather foods can improve your mood? Experts advise increasing your intake of these five.
Brussels Sprouts Are High in Folate
These cruciferous vegetables are rich in folate — a B vitamin that helps with mood regulation in the brain, Jones says. Studies have shown that B vitamins like folic acid — a form of folate — may benefit people with depression, according to a review article.
“This nutrient is linked to brain activity and increasing our moods,” says Jones. “Eating foods on a daily basis that are high in folate will help significantly improve the way you feel.”
Try adding raw, shredded Brussels sprouts to salads, or cut them in half, toss them with olive oil and spices, and roast them until brown.
Pomegranates Are Rich in Antioxidants
Another great fall food to eat regularly is pomegranate, a fruit high in antioxidants, Jones says. And it’s especially easy to reap this benefit because drinking pomegranate juice can significantly increase the number of antioxidants you take in, Jones notes.
In addition to their antioxidant content, pomegranates contain polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and antidepressant-like properties, according to a review article. “Inflammation is one of the root causes of depression, anxiety, and other mental health problems,” Dr. Ramsey says.
Pumpkins Boast a High Magnesium Content
These perennially popular fall fruits contain magnesium, which was linked to a lower risk of depressive symptoms and disorders in one systematic review.
Fitting this squash into your diet is easier than you may think — pumpkins are incredibly versatile. Try adding pureed pumpkin to soups, smoothies, and pasta sauces. Or simply snack on pumpkin seeds or toss them in a fall salad. “Pumpkin seeds are really one of our top [food] recommendations,” Ramsey says.
Sweet Potatoes Are Chock-Full of Vitamins
Usually harvested in September and October, sweet potatoes pack several essential nutrients — in particular, vitamin C. A meta-analysis concluded that higher levels of vitamin C are associated with reduced depressive symptoms, while lower levels of this vitamin are linked to increased symptoms, though more research is needed to confirm this association.
Winter Squash Is High in Vitamin B6
Winter squash comes in many forms — acorn squash, butternut squash, and spaghetti squash, to name a few. And each of them contain high amounts of vitamin B6, a nutrient shown to positively affect mood. One study found that a lower intake of vitamin B6 was associated with an increased risk of depression among more than 3,300 women.
More Tips for Healthy Seasonal Fare
Colder weather is a good time to consume more soup, especially clam chowders and seafood stews, says Ramsey. Dishes that contain mussels, clams, and oysters are dense with nutrients like magnesium, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, another nutrient that research suggests benefits people with depression.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Ramsey advises swapping sugary holiday desserts for dark chocolate, which is packed with antioxidants and fiber.
“There’s now some interesting data about how the nutrients in dark chocolate are stimulating but also good for the brain, in the sense that people who eat dark chocolatetend to have less depression,” Ramsey says.
Data from a survey of more than 13,000 U.S. adults showed that chocolate, especially dark chocolate, may be tied to a reduced risk of depressive symptoms.
Along with avoiding excess sugar, Ramsey advises being mindful of how much alcohol you consume around the holiday season.
“There’s a lot of drinking during the holidays, and alcohol can be awful if you have depression,” Ramsey says. “It tends to make people feel better in the short term, and then worse the next day.”
If you need help planning good-mood-friendly meals, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s online tool MyPlate offers quizzes and hundreds of recipes to get you started.
The Takeaway
Although diet isn’t a cure for depression, eating nutritious foods can help people with the condition feel better. This fall and winter, consider adding seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in mood-enhancing nutrients like folate, antioxidants, and magnesium to your plate (think Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, and sweet potatoes, for example).
“There’s a lot of drinking during the holidays, and alcohol can be awful if you have depression,” Ramsey says. “It tends to make people feel better in the short term, and then worse the next day.”
If you need help planning good-mood-friendly meals, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s online tool MyPlate offers quizzes and hundreds of recipes to get you started.
Hi, I’m glad you stopped by, and I look forward to seeing you soon.
No matter how busy or hectic life gets, we all need to let our hair down every now and then and have some fun. Stomping in puddles, going down a slide at the local playground…..
When was the last time you let loose?
Hiking Verna Falls Yosemite National Park
Playing in the rain sounds great to me, and so does playing on a slippery slide or swinging off a rope into the lake. As for the last time I let loose, who knows.
Domestic violence not only traumatizes the woman but also their children. My mother married my stepfather when I was seven years old and I watched him beat her to a pulp almost daily until I moved out at 12 years old. She screamed out in pain, begged for her life, and cared for her wounds privately to not set him off again. He was an alcoholic but that is not what made him an abuser, that came from within for reasons no one will know.
I watched him drag her down the hall, beating her head from side to side so she would hit both walls, all the while she was begging and crying for him to stop. What’s crazy is that I hated my mother, she was my abuser but down deep she was my mother and it pained me to watch her be treated that way. She stayed married to him until he was beating her and my brother took out a shotgun and made him leave.
You might ask “Why didn’t she just leave?” There are so many reasons women don’t leave, one is their children. How do you prepare to leave when you are watched like a hawk? How do you squirrel away enough money to live, relocate, move your kids out of school, and pay rent? It’s nearly impossible. One attitude the abuser takes is that they own the woman and they will go to any lengths to keep her. To get her to come back, the most common is the sweet personality change and wooing her back only to beat her more.
At the same time, they are beating a woman, they are also degrading her and some women think they deserve it over time which causes them to stay. Some women stay out of fear and others know they will be hunted down, some will have a child kidnapped or the abuser will call the police claiming she left with the kids and make up a wild story that the police have to check out.
I’ve met many women while blogging who were in violent relationships and saw what they went through to leave, the heartbreak after, and all the horrific acts towards them and each one was so traumatic you ask yourself, “How did they make it?” Each one is a survivor!
It’s important to know that men also have violent relationships. There can be shame involved and that is why many men don’t come forward but they are not forgotten. They are survivors as well and often carry a big burden by not seeking help or telling anyone.
Ahead of the upcoming US presidential election, NO MORE is committed to helping survivors of domestic violence and stalking participate safely in the democratic process. This month we launched a new State Voting Guide for Survivors, outlining key options to help survivors protect their privacy and security while making their voices heard.
By consolidating this critical information in one place, the guide simplifies the voting process every step of the way. NO MORE will continue to provide information for survivors, as well as for their friends, employers, and communities to help support them.
For the complete list of Awareness Months click on the link under references. Below are the issues that are most important to me or ones I have a personal connection to for which there are several.
ADHD Awareness Month
AIDS Awareness Month
National Breast Cancer Awareness Month
National Depression Education and Awareness Month
National Depression and Mental Health Screening Month
As Dave Martz lay dying, an idea serpentined around his mind and would not loosen its grip: Despite the absolute diagnosis and the insistence of the doctors, including a world expert, that he was dying of ALS, despite his own vow to face things head-on and reject the lure of denial, Martz couldn’t shake the notion that possibly, just maybe, he actually had Lyme disease. (from Cure Unknown: Inside the Lyme Epidemic by Pamela Weintraub.)
One of the earliest Lyme conferences I ever attended featured Dr. Dave Martz and the story of his remarkable recovery from what had been diagnosed as ALS–a fatal condition.
I would later write this about him in my blog:
Kind of a rock star
Dr. David Martz is kind of a rock star in the Lyme world. You may have read about him in Pam Weintraub’s Cure Unknown and seen footage of him in the documentary Under Our Skin.
His story is riveting. He had a lifetime of good health and a successful career as a physician practicing internal medicine-hematology-oncology for 30 years. Then, in 2003, Martz suddenly started experiencing strange symptoms. First deep fatigue, then profound muscle aches and body-wide pain. Soon he was too weak to get out of bed. As his condition rapidly deteriorated, his physicians gave him a devastating diagnosis: ALS (aka Lou Gehrig’s Disease). They said nothing could stem his physical decline and he would likely be dead within two years.
But events went in a different direction. As his health spiraled downward, Martz connected with a Lyme disease specialist who prescribed hard-hitting, long-term antibiotics. The gamble paid off. By the end of 2004, Martz was a new man. In fact, the doctor who had diagnosed him so definitively with ALS, now pronounced that condition completely gone.
Martz devoted the next two and a half years to a project that gave extended antibiotics to about 90 ALS patients and demonstrated objective improvements in 15% of them. He has also treated more than 800 chronic Lyme patients, with good response and minimal side effects.
A message of hope
In 2010, I helped organize a Lyme patient education conference in the San Francisco Bay Area and we had Dr. Martz as our keynote speaker. He was a kind, thoughtful man who offered a message of hope to an audience which sorely needed it.
This week, I learned that Dr. Martz passed away last month at the age of 83. Rest in peace, Dr. Martz, rest in peace.
Hi, I’m glad you stopped by and I look forward to seeing you soon.
If you had to make a decision in life that would change the quality of life in your future and potentially wipe out your savings, how would you approach it?
People who walk away while you’re talking to them are not interested in what you have to say. No need to get angry, they are self-centered and will not change.
People who ignore your no-soliciting sign are morons and wasting their money because who would buy from them.
If your lawn crew speaks Spanish and sprays poison on your beloved rose bush, have custom signs made that say “Do Not Spray Poison In The Flower Beds” in Spanish.
If your partner thinks that certain tasks are your responsibility, you have a choice, stop doing the other task or have a serious talk about their logic.
If there is something you’re good at whether it be a hobby or otherwise, don’t stop because you have other responsibilities. You have to make time for yourself every day for your mental health to enjoy the time you have available and celebrate your skill and the joy it brings you.
If you don’t think you’re important, people will not treat you that way. Grow your confidence and project it. Never let anyone put you down.
If a loved one puts you down or expresses shame about you, stop it right away. Set boundaries. Have a serious talk with them about how they talk to and about you. If they don’t understand or refuse to change, don’t go around them. If your partner or spouse doesn’t stand on your side they are confirming what others are saying, and the abuse will continue. After a talk with them, and they don’t get it, it’s time to move on. You deserve better and will thank yourself later.
If someone asks you to dress a certain way that is not your style, tell them you’re an individual and will dress the way you feel comfortable. If they insist, turn the tables and start telling them how to dress. The message will hit home or not. If not, they will want to control other parts of your life and you don’t need that from anyone. You are your own person. They are asking you to do something that makes them feel better about themselves because they have low confidence.
Beware of anyone who tries to pressure or guilt you into buying something. They are selling to make money only, not focused on what your needs are.
These rappers have shared their struggles with bipolar disorder, bringing awareness to their experiences within the rap community and beyond.
In recent years, it has become more common for celebrities to talk openly about their mental health, and several well-known rappers have significantly contributed to this conversation over the years. Despite facing controversies and navigating the complexities of the public eye, these artists shared their own stories about living with bipolar disorder. Their honesty helps others feel less alone and sparks more conversations about mental health.
Whether discussing their experiences in interviews or incorporating them into their lyrics, these rappers contribute to a more extensive dialogue about mental health. They’re helping to shift perceptions and encourage a more accepting and informed conversation around bipolar disorder. Here are six rappers who are part of this critical conversation:
1. Krizz Kaliko
Samuel William Christopher Watson, who performs under the stage name Krizz Kaliko, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter. He has made significant contributions to the music industry as a longtime collaborator with Tech N9ne, another artist from his hometown. Initially signed to Strange Music, the label co-owned by Tech N9ne, Kaliko established his own label, Ear House Inc., in 2021.
Diagnosed with bipolar disorder, Kaliko has openly addressed his mental health struggles in his music. Specifically, in his album Genius, he delves deep into his experiences on the track titled “Bipolar,” where he raps and sings about the challenges of living with the condition.
Beyond his music, Kaliko has spoken candidly about his use of psychotherapy and anti-anxiety medications as part of his ongoing effort to maintain emotional and mental stability. His openness about his struggles inspires and supports others facing similar battles.
2. Ye
Kanye West, now known as Ye, has been vocal about his bipolar disorder, referring to it as his “superpower.” He first revealed his diagnosis around the release of his 2018 album Ye, where he used his music and public statements to address the complexities of living with the condition. The album’s cover features the phrase, “I Hate Being Bipolar; it’s Awesome,” reflecting his struggle with the extremes of the disorder.
Ye has continued to discuss the impact of bipolar disorder on his life, comparing it to having a “sprained brain” and emphasizing the importance of proper care, even though he has openly struggled with staying on medication consistently.
In recent years, Ye has also opened up about the paranoia and erratic behavior that accompanies his manic episodes. He has criticized how people with mental health conditions are often mistreated, both by healthcare systems and society at large, contributing to the stigma around mental illness.
3. Charles Hamilton
Charles Eddie-Lee Hamilton, Jr., a Harlem, New York City native, is a recognized figure in the hip-hop community as a recording artist and record producer. His album The Pink Lavalamphas been hailed as one of the standout underground hip-hop releases of its time.
In a candid interview with Billboard, Hamilton discussed the personal struggles he faced due to his undiagnosed bipolar disorder. He described a period of intense isolation, where distrust of others led him to confine himself to his home, dedicating his time solely to music production as a way to combat his depression. “I just didn’t trust anybody,” he admitted. “I didn’t leave my house; I just made music all the time. I was fighting depression — I shut myself in.”
Over the years, Hamilton has been open about his mental health journey, using his platform to raise awareness about bipolar disorder and the importance of mental health care. His career has seen various ups and downs, including a brief retirement in 2016 followed by a return to music with new projects that reflect his ongoing battle with mental health and his resilience in the face of adversity. His candidness about his struggles has not only helped to destigmatize mental health issues among musicians and fans but also resonated with audiences worldwide.
4. DMX (Dark Man X)
Earl Simmons, known professionally as DMX, was a prominent figure in the music and acting industries, rising to fame in the late 1990s. His raw and emotional lyrical content often reflected the personal pain and struggles associated with bipolar disorder, which was especially evident in his groundbreaking album, It’s Dark and Hell Is Hot.
DMX’s bold and unique contributions significantly shaped the music landscape, particularly as the only artist to debut his first two albums at number one in the same year.
His music not only captivated fans but also offered a visceral insight into his battles with mental health. Until his passing in 2021, DMX’s powerful voice in music and film left a lasting impact, celebrating the profound expressiveness of his work.
Adam Steven Deacon, an English talent celebrated as a film actor, rapper, writer, and director, shot to fame with his performance in the British film Kidulthood and his directorial debut, Anuvahood. In an interview with the BBC, Deacon discussed his initial fears that his bipolar disorder might derail his career. He described the condition’s impact, saying, “Bipolar life has two speeds: One minute, it’s all too fast. The next, everything becomes so slow that I can’t cope.”
This candid account of his daily struggles sheds light on the complexities of living with this brain-based disorder. Deacon has since learned to embrace and manage his conditioneffectively. His story of resilience and adaptability provides hope and insight, encouraging others to navigate similar challenges.
6. Yo Yo Honey Singh
Yo Yo Honey Singh, also known as Honey Singh, is a prominent Indian rapper, music producer, and film actor renowned for his contributions to Bollywood music. He rose to fame as one of the highest-paid music producers in Bollywood. But in late 2014, Singh took a sudden hiatus from the public eye, sparking concern among his fans. After a quiet return to the music scene in 2015, he maintained a low profile with the media. It was not until March 2016 that Singh revealed the reason for his 18-month absence: he had been battling bipolar disorder.
Since disclosing his diagnosis, Singh has gradually resumed his music career and has been involved in several new projects, adapting his workload to manage his health effectively. His openness about his mental health struggles has been instrumental in raising awareness and reducing the stigma associated with mental health issues in the entertainment industry and beyond.
Tanya Hvilivitzky has spent more than 30 years in the communications field — a career that has included stints as an investigative journalist, managing editor for a lifestyle and wellness magazine, corporate communications director, and researcher/writer. She has been with bpHope (and bp Magazine) since 2016, serving in roles such as features editor, interim editor, and, currently, senior editor. She has been devoted to mental health awareness since she was the editor of Schizophrenia Digest in her early days, and now with a particular focus on highlighting the complexities of bipolar disorder through compassionate, service-based journalism. As an award-winning writer/editor, Tanya received the Beyond Borders Media Award for her 2012 investigative exposé about human trafficking for Niagara Magazine. Her work on this critical topic also earned the Media Freedom Award “Honouring Canada’s Heroes” from the Joy Smith Foundation to Stop Human Trafficking.
I recently wrote about how the new medication Trintellex for my Bipolar Disorder made me feel better than I had in years. It still has that effect on my life but it’s marred with new and ongoing health issues. Some have popped up in the past few weeks. It’s a woop on the head trying to understand what is happening to my body and messing up my ability to live my best life.
I’m very happy to report that The Mayo has accepted me as a patient and I will be flying to Rochester, MN in a few weeks. I trust them with my life and I am confident they will find what or what several issues are affecting my health. The first day will start with an Internal Medicine Doctor for an evaluation, later that day I pick up a Pulse Oximeter to wear overnight.
The second day starts early with a load of blood tests, the test appears to focus on my blood. Later that afternoon, there is a consultation with a Hematologist to discuss the lab results. Probably additional information as well. At this time my schedule is free on the third day and on Friday I return back to Internal Medicine for a readout.
The last time I went for my heart there were so many tests that we ran from one appointment to the next, sometimes without a breath. This trip is very different and I’m so glad due to the way I’m feeling. They did want me to come back in November for a Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue evaluation but I don’t see the need. I was diagnosed with both many years ago and I don’t need to fly up there for a day of testing and education. I canceled that appointment. The Mayo did send a video on Fibro & Chronic Fatigue I will watch as a fresher but I’m not flying up to get evaluated for something I already know. Unless they can give me a reason I can make logic out of, I’m not spending the money for a one-day trip.
I met with an Orthopedic Surgeon who specializes in hands and was not surprised to hear I had Carpal Tunnel in both hands, as well as arthritis but the diagnosis of Osteoarthritis in both thumbs was a shock. He is ordering a Nerve Conduction Study since I do have nerve issues in my hands. I thought a barnacle was growing on my wrist only to find out it was caused by the wrist plate put in when I broke my wrist years ago. When he does the carpal tunnel surgery on the left hand he will remove the wrist brace and I will have the right hand surgery after the left heals. The great news is that technology has improved so much that Carpal Tunnel surgery can be done with a very small incision, ultrasound is used and only a band ade is required after the surgery. It is said that most a back to full range of motion in three days. Boy, what a difference in the right hand Carpal Tunnel surgery I had years ago. It won’t be as easy on my left hand with the removal of the wrist plate but I have no doubt that surgery has improved in that area as well. I’m currently wearing a painful thrumb support that hurts other areas of my hand and it’s impossible to wear except when on the computer. I’ve asked for another option.
Just another interesting week in my life but I’m thankful I have a life and it’s great outside of the health conditions.
Regardless of your version of true happiness, living a happier, more satisfied life is within reach. A few tweaks to your regular habits like getting more sleep and exercise can help you get there.
Habits matter. If you’ve ever tried breaking a bad habit, you know all too well how engrained they are.
Well, good habits are deeply engrained, too. Why not work on making positive habits part of your routine?
Below, you’ll find suggestions for daily, monthly, and yearly habits to help kickstart your quest. Just remember that everyone’s version of happiness is a little different, and so is their path to achieving it.
If some of these habits create added stress or just don’t fit your lifestyle, ditch them. With a little time and practice, you’ll figure out what does and doesn’t work for you.
The following daily habits may help you achieve more happiness in your life.
1. Smile
You tend to smile when you’re happy. But it’s actually a two-way street.
We smile because we’re happy, and smiling causes the brain to release dopamine, which makes us happier.
While not completely foolproof, researchers have found that the link between smiling and happiness could be attributed to the “facial feedback hypothesis,” where facial expressions may have a modest influence on emotions.
That does not mean you have to go around with a fake smile plastered on your face all the time. But the next time you find yourself feeling low, crack a smile and see what happens. Or try starting each morning by smiling at yourself in the mirror.
2. Exercise
Exercise isn’t just for your body. Regular exercise can help reduce stress, feelings of anxiety, and symptoms of depression while boosting self-esteem and happiness.
Even a small amount of physical activity can make a difference. You don’t have to train for a triathlon or scale a cliff — unless that’s what makes you happy, of course.
The trick is to not overexert yourself. If you suddenly throw yourself into a strenuous routine, you may just end up frustrated (and sore).
Consider these exercise starters:
Take a walk around the block every night after dinner.
Sign up for a beginner’s class in yoga or tai chi.
Remind yourself of any fun activities you once enjoyed but that have fallen by the wayside. Or you could consider starting activities you always wanted to try, such as golf, bowling, or dancing.
3. Get plenty of sleep
Most adults need at least 7 hoursTrusted Source of sleep every night. If you find yourself fighting the urge to nap during the day or just generally feel like you’re in a fog, your body may be telling you it needs more rest.
Here are a few tips to help you build a better sleep routine:
Write down how many hours of sleep you get each night and how rested you feel. After a week, you should have a better idea how you’re doing. You can also try using an app to track your sleep.
Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, including on weekends.
Reserve the hour before bed as quiet time. Take a bath, read, or do something relaxing. Avoid heavy eating and drinking.
Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet.
Invest in some good bedding.
If you have to take a nap, try limiting it to 20 minutes.
If you consistently have problems sleeping, consider talking with a doctor. You may have a sleep disorder that requires treatment.
Carbohydrates release serotonin, a “feel good” hormone. Just keep simple carbs — foods high in sugar and starch — to a minimum because that energy surge is short and you’ll crash. Choosing complex carbs, such as vegetables, beans, and whole grains, can help you avoid a crash while still providing serotonin.
Lean meat, poultry, legumes, and dairy are high in protein. Protein-rich foods release dopamine and norepinephrine, which boost energy and concentration.
Omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fatty fish, have been found to have anti-inflammatory effectsTrusted Source that extend to your overall brain health. If you don’t eat fish, you might consider talking with a doctor about possible supplementation.
Highly processed or deep-fried foods tend to leave you feeling down and so will skipping meals.
If you want to eat with your mood in mind, consider starting with making one food choice for your mood each day.
For example, swap a big, sweet breakfast pastry for some Greek yogurt with fruit. You’ll still satisfy your sweet tooth, and the protein will help you avoid a midmorning energy crash. Consider adding in a new food swap each week.
5. Practice gratitude
Simply being grateful can give your mood a big boost, among other benefits. For example, a two-part study found that practicing gratitude can have a significant impact on feelings of hope and happiness.
You might try starting each day by acknowledging one thing you’re grateful for. You can do this while you’re brushing your teeth or just waiting for that snoozed alarm to go off.
As you go about your day, consider keeping an eye out for pleasant things in your life. They can be big things, such as knowing that someone loves you or getting a well-deserved promotion.
But they can also be little things, such as a co-worker who offered you a cup of coffee or the neighbor who waved to you. Maybe it could even just be the warmth of the sun on your skin.
With a little practice, you may even become more aware of all the positive things around you.
6. Give a compliment
Research shows that performing acts of kindness may also help promote your overall well-being.
Giving a sincere compliment is a quick, easy way to brighten someone’s day while giving your own happiness a boost.
Catch the person’s eye and say it with a smile so they know you mean it. You might be surprised by how good it makes you feel.
If you want to offer someone a compliment on their physical appearance, make sure to do it in a respectful way.
7. Breathe deeply
You’re tense, your shoulders are tight, and you feel as though you just might “lose it.” We all know that feeling.
Instinct may tell you to take a long, deep breath to calm yourself down.
Turns out, that instinct is a good one. ResearchTrusted Source supports the fact that slow breathing and deep breathing exercises can help reduce stress.
The next time you feel stressed or are at your wit’s end, work through these steps:
Close your eyes. Try to envision a happy memory or beautiful place.
Take a slow, deep breath in through your nose.
Slowly breathe out through your mouth or nose.
Repeat this process several times until you start to feel yourself calm down.
If you’re having a hard time taking slow, deliberate breaths, try counting to 5 in your head with each inhale and exhale.
8. Acknowledge the unhappy moments
A positive attitude is generally a good thing, but bad things happen to everyone. It’s just part of life.
If you get some bad news, make a mistake, or just feel like you’re in a funk, don’t try to pretend you’re happy.
Acknowledge the feeling of unhappiness, letting yourself experience it for a moment. Then shift your focus toward what made you feel this way and what it might take to recover.
Would a deep breathing exercise help? A long walk outside? Talking it over with someone?
Let the moment pass and take care of yourself. Remember, no one’s happy all the time.
9. Keep a journal
A journal is a good way to organize your thoughts, analyze your feelings, and make plans. And you don’t have to be a literary genius or write volumes to benefit.
It can be as simple as jotting down a few thoughts before you go to bed. If putting certain things in writing makes you nervous, you can always shred it when you’ve finished. It’s the process that counts.
For those stressors you can’t avoid, remind yourself that everyone has stress — there’s no reason to think it’s all on you. And chances are, you’re stronger than you might think you are.
Instead of letting yourself get overwhelmed, try to address the stressor head-on. This might mean initiating an uncomfortable conversation or putting in some extra work, but the sooner you confront it, the sooner the pit in your stomach may start to shrink.
11. Avoid comparing yourself to others
Whether it happens on social media, at work, or even at a yoga class, it’s easy to fall into a place where you’re comparing yourself to others. The result? You may experienceTrusted Source more discontent, lower self-esteem, and even depression and anxiety.
It can take practice to stop comparing yourself to others, but it’s worth it for the benefit of having your inner peace and happiness.
You can start with some of the other tips on this list that can help draw your attention inward to yourself, such as deep breathing and journaling. You may also consider talking with a therapist for perspective.
lookingforthelight.blog 