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Mental Health Archive

Articles

Are you healthy enough to age in place?

There are many health-related requirements for living independently in older age. For example, one needs sharp thinking skills in order to manage medications, pay bills, choose clothes for the day, and select and buy groceries; and one needs strength, balance, and flexibility in order to get up from a chair, cook, or clean. People with weakening aspects of health should talk to a doctor for potential solutions to improve or cope with health challenges in order to continue living independently.

Slowing down racing thoughts

Everyone has moments when their brain feels like it's gone haywire. When these racing thoughts take over the mind can't stay focused, feeding into a cycle of anxiety. But there are things you can do to break this cycle and regain control.

Anxiety overload

Anxiety often brings physical sensations ranging from dry mouth, nausea, or sweaty hands to more severe symptoms such as dizziness, shortness of breath, or a racing heart. Extreme symptoms can manifest as anxiety attacks and cause people to avoid everyday activities. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is considered the gold standard treatment for extreme anxiety. One common form of CBT involves exposing people to stressful situations to learn how to cope.

The dark side of daylight saving time

The start of daylight saving time in the spring can have a profound impact on people's well-being. Moving the clock ahead one hour can cause sleep deprivation, affect focus and concentration, and exacerbate existing problems like depression, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder. People can lessen the effect by taking steps a week prior to the time change, such as adjusting their sleep schedule, getting more light exposure, and cutting back on caffeine and alcohol.

Parents don't always realize that their teen is suicidal

Parents often think that they would know if their teen was suicidal. However, this is not always the case. Here's what to be aware of and watch for, and what to do if you see worrisome behavior.

How to identify anxiety disorders

Some degree of anxiety is normal, but people who regularly struggle with anxiety may have an anxiety disorder. Symptoms can be linked with life changes, a medical condition, and specific situations, like a fear of heights, crowds, and social situations. Recognizing the symptoms can help people seek medical care to find the source of their anxiety and adopt appropriate treatment. Treatment might include medications, psychotherapy, or both.

A pill-free way to treat anxiety

A 2022 study found that taking a mindfulness-based stress reduction course and meditating daily was about as effective as taking medication for reducing symptoms of anxiety. Both strategies seemed to reduce anxiety by about 30% after eight weeks.

Pouring from an empty cup? Three ways to refill emotionally

Burnout — whatever the cause — can lead to depression and anxiety, and affect your relationships and ability to function. But it's possible to replenish your energy and enjoyment of life.

Prolonged stress may increase the risk of death from cancer

People exposed to long-term stress have a higher risk of dying from cancer, according to a 2022 study. The connection may be related to high levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Reviewing your wellness portfolio

As with a financial portfolio, older adults should routinely review their wellness portfolio to ensure their health investments meet their short-and long-term goals. Working with their doctor, personal trainer, and nutritionist, they can identify areas that require changes and implement new strategies. Older men often don't make investments in strength training, balance, and their mental health, but should.

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