Tag Archives: healthy habits

Mental Health: Common Symptoms That Work Together

Photo by Daniel Reche on Pexels.com

Mental health is a very important part of overall health and wellness. It is not something that you can see or feel, but it is a very real condition that affects every individual in their own way. Mental illnesses are highly treatable with therapy, medication or both. However, there are some warning signs that indicate you should seek help immediately if you notice them in yourself or others:

Self-destructive behavior

You might be tempted to think that self-destructive behavior is a symptom of a mental health problem. But it’s actually the opposite: self-destructive behavior is a trigger for other concerns.

It’s true that in some cases, people with mental health issues are more likely to engage in self-destructive behavior like substance abuse or risky sex because they’re trying to cope with the symptoms of their disorder. But in many other cases, self-destructive behaviors can cause or exacerbate mental health issues.

Drug use can lead to addiction and make it harder for you to focus on your work or other activities. Sexual promiscuity can lead to STDs and unwanted pregnancies. These things can also drain your finances, making it harder for you to pay bills and buy food—which could cause stress and anxiety, which could lead to depression.

Self-destructive behaviors are not caused by mental health problems—they are triggered by them. When you’re feeling stressed out or anxious or depressed, it’s important not only to get help from professionals who specialize in treating those issues but also to take steps that reduce your stress levels and increase your happiness levels!

Avoiding friends and family

Avoiding friends and family is a sign of depression, PTSD and bipolar disorder.

If you are avoiding friends and family, this could be your first clue that you have a mental health issue such as depression or PTSD. It may also be the result of dealing with an ongoing crisis, such as being in an abusive relationship or caring for someone who has cancer. You don’t have to feel guilty about it—it’s normal to withdraw from people when we are struggling with our own problems.

Trouble concentrating

Difficulty concentrating is a common symptom of many mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. It can be difficult for you to focus on your schoolwork or work responsibilities, or it may be difficult for you to attend to conversations with family members or friends. You might also have trouble paying attention during conversations with others.

How can I get help?

If you are suffering from difficulty concentrating, there are many ways that you can find support and treatment. You should start by talking with a trusted adult, who can help guide you through the process of getting treatment. If this is not an option, consider calling one of the hotlines listed at the end of this document; they offer free services that will connect people in need of help with counselors who can provide information about available resources in their area

Sudden weight loss or gain

  • Sudden weight loss or gain can be a sign of an eating disorder. If you’ve lost a lot of weight suddenly, it could be that you’re suffering from an eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia are both serious mental illnesses that negatively affect your body image and food intake. They can also lead to other health problems if left untreated for long periods of time, so if this is happening to you, see a professional immediately!
  • Gaining too much weight might be a sign of depression or another medical condition. While gaining weight does not necessarily mean that someone is depressed or has another mental illness—sometimes people just gain more muscle mass than usual—it could still indicate something serious going on in their life that needs attention right away! If this happens often enough over time without any explanation, then there may indeed be some underlying issue causing this behavior pattern to manifest itself outwardly on such regular basis; it might be worth checking into further before deciding whether or not treatment is necessary at all

Withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed

Mental health is about more than just being well. It’s about being well and feeling content with yourself, your life, and the way you’re living it. The best way to achieve this is by staying active in hobbies or activities that make you happy.

For example: if you used to enjoy playing video games but find yourself losing interest in them lately (or have stopped playing altogether), then maybe it’s time for a change of pace! What else do you enjoy? Do some research online or ask around until something catches your eye—you may be surprised by what comes up! Once you’ve found something that interests you enough to make an effort at pursuing it, try setting aside time each day—even if only for 20 minutes at first—to devote yourself fully while doing so. This will help ensure success with sticking with it long term as well as provide incentive to keep making time for those things important enough not only for mental health but also overall wellbeing in general.”

Loss of energy or fatigue

This one is a no-brainer. If you’re feeling tired, it’s probably because you’ve been up all night worrying about something. Anxiety and depression can both cause this, as well as many other issues like stress and fear.

If you’re constantly experiencing feelings of exhaustion and have trouble getting out of bed in the morning, it could be an indicator that something else is going on with your mental health.

Feeling restless, fidgety, or irritable

If you are feeling restless, fidgety, or irritable, this may be a sign that you have depression. It is common for people who are depressed to feel restless and irritated. These feelings can make it hard for them to sit still or concentrate on anything for long periods of time. In some cases, these feelings may be a symptom of bipolar disorder (which causes extreme mood swings). Restlessness and irritability are also signs of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), a mental illness that occurs after someone experiences trauma such as war or abuse.

If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or others, get help right away.

If you notice any of the following symptoms in yourself or in others, get help right away:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Flashbacks, nightmares and other repetitive thoughts or memories
  • Substance abuse/alcoholism. If you’re drinking more than usual, taking drugs or medications to cope with your feelings, experiencing withdrawal symptoms from substance abuse/alcoholism (e.g., seizures), or feeling particularly “high” after using substances like marijuana for a long time without stopping—these are all signs that you might need help coping with addiction issues. In addition to counseling and therapy sessions with an addiction therapist who specializes in PTSD treatment methods, many veterans also find that peer support groups are helpful for overcoming their addictions so they can focus on healing properly instead of just managing their symptoms.

If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or others, get help right away. Mental health is too important to ignore and should be treated as soon as possible. There are many ways to deal with these issues from therapy to medication but always remember that your mental health is worth it!

Until our beautiful minds meet again. Be safe out there. Many blessings snd much love. Remember Everyday Minds Matter – Della 💞 🦋

👁️ My Story My Version – 💫 Finding My Way – Caregiver

Where we land – a Foundation Forms

Oh! What a beautiful world we live in. The creation of humans, an honest act of intimate sexual behavior. The need to look around, isn’t necessary. The sexual act to reproduce is going strong. 😋 Though have you ever just got stumped and wondered- what if lives came with instructions, a blue print to our lives? The mystery to living would be pretty simple, boring, and overall faulty. Yes, I said faulty.😊 Nothing would be realistic to operate and function. Guidelines responsible for behavior, intelligence, growth, appearance would be the same. An most importantly, different is what makes the beautiful characters we have designed ourselves. The moment one takes that first breathe of life, everyday moment matters. By experience, environment, and one’s developmental growth, character begins to form one’s inner core – the foundation. Mental and physical health are priority to ones foundation that give us insight into adulthood.

Our instruction are clear as children that are unconsciously presented young. The core foundation had developed before our actual future was present.

A business – foundation who we are, what one becomes, The core purpose to life. We sell ourselves to the world everyday: the product. -“You”. Once you look back the whole process can be impressive. My foundation My Story My Version – Finding My Way.

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Finding My Way – Caregiver

My business became natural to my routine as a young girl. My neighbors were an older couple, Clyde and Evaline. An older model trailer renovated on my parents property. If they were here to tell the story, they enjoyed my company. Or I would of assumed for the most part.. I can only remember it being late 80’s. It was daily my brother and I would visit Clyde. As he would sit out back with Shep his Collie dog and piddle in his shed. Many things he taught us, or talked about his life. Kids being kids we would eat the cherry tomatoes from his garden. I would go in and talk with Evaline or help her do little chores. A quick friendship formed being that close to them on a regular basis.

One day my brother and I were outside playing, when we heard a loud explosion. Running to see what happend, the shed was on fire. Clyde’s pants were burnt off and he was standing by the shed.. I ran back home and got my uncle. Evaline called the fire department, as my uncle was trying to put out the fire. Clyde was disoriented, the pain on his face was heart felt. Evaline was scared with the shed built next to their mobile home trailer. Clyde explained the cause of the fire. Working on repairing a lawn mower, Clyde was trying to see if the spark plug had fire. A spark hit a gas can nearby causing the explosion. Once fire department arrived my uncle had smothered out most the fire. Clyde was livid as burns on his legs were 3rd degree, refusing to go for treatment. But after long negotiation, he was taken to the hospital. It seemed as he was away a long time for treatment. Once returning home, I would visit helping Evaline to treat the wounds. As a child it was such sight to see the burnt skin. The higher degree burn areas were freshly open wounds. Skin drafts from other areas of the body to aide healing. Wrapping and cleaning the burn wounds was a natural for me. I took pride in my ability to help Clyde in his recovery.

Unconscious act as a child, my learning and willingness – a core foundation – to being a natural born caregiver. Clyde had started to recover quickly, his ambition to get back in the shed was intense. Even with the wounds healing the process took quite sometime.. Evaline had days she seemed very unhappy. The relationship had some arguing regularly and ups and downs.

One day after school, I knocked on the door. Clyde said Evaline had fell hanging curtains. He said when she got home he would call and I could visit. A few days later a van showed up. Delivering a hospital bed, that was put in the living room. I knew Evaline was coming home soon I was very excited. Waiting for her to arrive, that day sitting on the porch. She gave me a hug and I had to know everything, for her best recovery.. That mid-day her daughter told me she fell broke her hip. Evaline did a lot of crying, her pain was very intense. Didn’t realize the medicine just never gave her much relief. She refused pain medicine at first, until. I told her it would help her as much as possible. To get up was impossible, so helping her on a bed pan wa normal but it surely put pain in her hip..

Caregiver become priority each day, after school. Positioning pillows, laundry, or help with other household chores, I was there. Helping her with therapy to mobilize WA fun and rewarding. Watching her take steps and being able to dress herself with little if my assistance. Just as her strength improved, she started using a walker, happiness covered my face.  Her recovery gave me joy since it took a lot of work.  Friendship had a special place deep in the heart. 

One afternoon after school; knocking on the door- no answer. The car was gone but she was always home. Something was different. Mom was outside as I walked down the driveway. Starting to cry, mom hugged me saying she will write or call. She went to live with her daughter in Indiana.  Her husband Clyde wasn’t home. They argued a lot so I didn’t understand that situation.

Unable to say good-bye, my heart broke, thinking my best friend didn’t say good-bye.  Days walking past the trailer, wondering if she thought of me. Being a young girl, I didn’t like the feeling of emotions, a smothering anxiety that just happens or just the sadness overall was uncomfortable. That day carried a weight–; good-bye’s hold so much emotion of love and friendship– bring tears to my eyes.  Clyde had moved away when I was in school, not long after Evaline moved.

Good-byes was hard to understand. We cry happy tears and painful tears connected to good-byes. Reunited visits with family or friends capture the heartfelt love of joy. And we all know the final days of life (death) good-bye’s, can’t be prepared for – create endless tears….

As a young girl, everything inside torn apart. Weak feeling, crying, and angry, wanting to be alone. What had happened? Kids aren’t suppose to be sad.  Every part of me, from the experience, hurt. Waiting for a letter or phone call from my friend. Mom and I had tried a few times, to contact her. The phone number she left– no answer.  Not a single letter in the mail.

To ease the pain, I wrote my friend many letters.  With no response, writing in a journal gave my heart relief. Over time, thinking about her well- being. In my world, I knew she lost my address and number, to me she lived forever somewhere.

A plan was created written in crayon, marker, sealed with stickers and pink nail polish. Written by a brown eyed, brown haired 7-year-old- just in case she forgot about me.

  Everyday Minds Matter – mental health and well-being set the path for everyone. Establish practice to focus, retention, and concentration; healthy habits to prevent obstacles in mental status.  Overcome mental health challenges faced that affect daily routine. 

Writing that filled notebooks, diaries, and scrap paper- focused on my future dream.

In little time, old man Clyde move away. To my surprise my mamaw- (fathers’ mom) moved in the trailer.  The void was filled. Not skipping a beat; my brother and I had mamaw to aggravate.  With no time to waste, enjoying my childhood– documented every step of the way. It was nice to spend time with mamaw. After all I was named after her and my mothers mom. – Della Louise – Mamaw was teaching me to crochet. I was about eight years old, so learning to make a baby blanket was exciting. She was teaching me how to fix mess ups, then one day after school. Knocking on the door as it was slightly open. Suddenly noticing it was very hot in there. Mamaw was in the kitchen, every burner – red hot. Nothing on the burners, which was freighting. Calling mom and dad I told them what was happening. Dad said my aunt and uncle from Florida were coming to visit. Mamaw wanted to cook for them, something wasn’t right . All four stovetop burners on high, potato peelings on the floor, and so hot in there. Dad came up told mamaw that she needed to go o the doctor. That evening my other aunt came to stay the night to help take care of mamaw, since my mom had pneumonia. Doctor visit that day indicated mamaw had several mini strokes. Then she had a stroke on the right side. Which effected the opposite side of the body and motor skills. I still remember she didnt have much or little feeling on her left side. At times she would smile, as her mouth and eye was effected. I was able to help her as much as possible. That night my aunt slept in th room with mamaw as it shared two beds. I slept on the couch an was woken by my dad on the phone talking.

It was about 2 am in the morning, my dad was standing in the doorway were my mamaw slept. I stood beside the dresser, when I seen my aunt seating on the bed with mamaws head on her lap. As she rubbed mamaws head talking to her. Dad told me to stay back, mamaw said let her here. Standing next to her and my aunt. My aunt put my hand with hers. Mamaw said ” no matter what I will always be with you, you carry my name”. She said “I love you.” My aunt was talking to her and when I walked away. She took her last breathe and passed. My dad had called mamaws sisters in Ohio to let her know of mamaw passing. Mary one the sisters answered the phone saying Georgia the other sister had been up but didnt feel well and went back to sleep. They would tell her after while since she hadn’t felt well. Mamaw passed about 3 am. Aunt Mary called back about 5 am – deciding to wake Georgia to let her know of mamaw passing. Only to discover Georgia had died in her sleep. Same day, a couple hours apart and not knowing of each others death.

As the world then had a reason for two sisters to pass the same day. With a higher power to have such occurrence for such to take place. From that day forward life had calling to care and love for those around you. Naturally as I grew older I had cared for others and watched as loved one passed. A moment that set life apart is that life is so precious. Having the blessing to be there every step of the hell of one’s final days. The good, the bad, and pain of loss and endless tears. Those moments are raw footage to living and experiencing life. Experience that root into our core to create the beautiful person we become. And with the finding my way as a caregiver. I can say by experience the days might be challenging. That’s okay! Because when life plays its role and those final days have come and gone. One thing I know for sure, the inner peace to love and grief hurt. But that hurt is a special blessing. That says im content with the experience. As it helps us grow and learn to accept death and the ability to grieve and be okay.. I hope that doesn’t sound bad. I guess once you have that understand through experience. One day it might give hope to those that are grieving. However, I will write on grieving and loss of loved ones in time.

Until our beautiful minds meet again. Be safe out there. Many blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Minds Matter – Della 🦋

The next My Story My Version soon to be coming.. May of 1987, celebrating my cousins first birthday. One step in the street- – Touched by An Angel. .stay toned for updates to come soon.

Until our minds meet again.. Be safe out there and remember Everyday Minds Matter – Della🦋

🧭 Anxiety

    An unsettling moment when the chest and body become tight clammy, warm feeling that smothers the body unexpectedly, making it difficult to breathe, just like gasping for air. The feeling is unpleasant, uncomfortable as anxiety just shows up. Uninvited with a struggling intense fear, emotion, or trigger induced anxiety attack.

Learn to Recognize the Signs of Excessive Worry Anxiety disorder is the most common mental disorder in the United States, affecting up to 18 percent of the population. Anxiety disorders are a category of mental health diagnoses that result in excessive nervousness, fear, apprehension, and worry. These disorders change the way a person processes emotions and behaves, as well as causing physical symptoms. People with these disorders experience feelings of fear and insecurity that interfere with daily activities and last for 6 months or more.    

People with anxiety disorders often experience intense, excessive, and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. People with GAD worry endlessly about everyday issues such as health, money, or family issues, even when they realize there is little reason to worry.    

Anxiety is an intense feeling of anxiety or discomfort, often a situation with uncertain outcomes, when we are faced with something stressful. At lower levels, anxiety, often referred to as “stress,” can be a healthy and motivating response to a specific life situation.    

It can be difficult to relate to these issues, and as a result, many people don’t know how best to help a person with anxiety. If you feel that your anxiety is excessive, distressing, and/or interfering with your daily activities or functioning, it is important to see a mental health professional. When anxiety is frequent, intense, severe, and prolonged, causing constant discomfort and suffering, it is important to discuss this with your doctor. Illness-induced anxiety disorder includes symptoms of severe anxiety or panic that are directly related to health problems.    

Typically, anxiety disorders involve recurring episodes of intense anxiety and sudden bouts of fear or terror that peak within minutes (panic attacks). Everyone experiences these panic attacks from time to time, but with panic disorder, the attacks are regular and a source of anxiety in themselves. When a person experiences repeated panic attacks and is concerned about future panic attacks or their consequences (e.g.    

It’s not always easy to recognize when anxiety is causing you to feel or act differently. If you’re feeling anxious, it’s important to understand what’s causing it, how it’s different from normal stress, and what types of anxiety you might be experiencing.    

In severe cases, such as some we’ll see below, anxiety can lead to uncontrollable disorientation, fear or anxiety, and the inability to think clearly or make good decisions. Social anxiety disorder causes people to avoid social situations and interpersonal contact so that everyday life becomes extremely difficult.    

Each person experience anxiety in different ways. Knowing how your situation can be triggered can reduce future attacks. Once you are aware of the intensity of your anxiety attack. Different medications and techniques can help prevent future anxiety attacks. Its okay to ask for help. Take care of yourself.

Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there. Blessings and much love.. Remember Everyday Minds Matter 🦋

📻Music Shrinks Anxiety, Depression And Even Obesity

Music
Photo by Victoria Art on Pexels.com

I can remember as a kid, a radio played in the kitchen morning til late evening. Frankly music had an impact on my mental health and mood. The background music benefits to concentrate and focus, was unconscious yet impressive results. Read more on ways music can benefit your life.

Music is a powerful tool in our lives. It can make us feel happy, sad, anxious and even remember certain moments in time. There are many benefits of listening to music and it has been shown that music decreases stress, anxiety, and depression which can help promote a positive mood.

The power of music

We all know that music has the power to soothe the soul. But did you know that it can also have a positive effect on your physical health? Studies have shown that music can help reduce anxiety, depression and even obesity.

So if you’re feeling stressed or down, put on your favorite tunes and let the music work its magic. And if you’re trying to lose weight, consider making music a part of your workout routine. It’ll make the time fly by and may even help you burn more calories.

Benefits of Music on Mood

It’s no secret that music can have a powerful effect on our mood. Uplifting tunes can boost our spirits and help us to feel more positive, while depressing songs can cause us to feel down and low. But did you know that music can also help to reduce anxiety, depression and even obesity?

Studies have shown that listening to music can help to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. This in turn can lead to reduced levels of anxiety and depression. In one study, patients who listened to music for just 30 minutes per day experienced a significant reduction in their symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Music can also help us to control our emotions. When we feel angry or stressed, listening to calming music can help us to relax and feel more in control. By reducing the level of cortisol in our bodies, music can also help us to reduce our appetite and lose weight.

So if you’re feeling anxious, depressed or even obese, don’t reach for the pills – reach for your iPod!

How to Deal with Stress

It’s no secret that music has the power to affect our moods. Uplifting tunes can boost our spirits and calm us down when we’re feeling stressed. But did you know that music can also help reduce anxiety, depression and even obesity?

A recent study found that listening to music for just 30 minutes a day can help shrink your anxiety levels by up to 21%. Other research has shown that music therapy can be an effective treatment for depression, with patients reporting lower levels of anxiety and stress after just eight weeks of treatment.

And if you’re trying to lose weight, don’t forget to add some music to your workout routine! Resources indicate people who listen to music while exercising burn more calories and enjoy their workouts more than those who don’t.

So next time you’re feeling stressed, anxious or down, reach for your favorite tunes and let the healing power of music work its magic!

Different types of music that can help

When it comes to music and its ability to help people, there are many different genres that can provide assistance. From classical to alternative rock, different types of music can have a positive impact on those struggling with anxiety, depression, and even obesity. While everyone may have their own personal favorite type of music, the following genres have all been shown to be effective in helping people:

  1. Classical Music: One of the most popular genres for its ability to help with focus and concentration, classical music has also been shown to be helpful in reducing anxiety and depression. Resources prove that patients who listen to classical music prior to surgery have less anxiety and pain afterwards.
  2. Jazz: Often thought of as happy and upbeat, jazz has also been found to be helpful in fighting depression. An interesting study, even found that jazz was more effective than medication in treating patients with mild-to-moderate depression.
  3. Pop: While some may find pop music to be too “happy”, the genre has actually been shown to be beneficial for those struggling with anxiety and depression. The positive and optimistic messages in pop songs can help boost mood and provide a much-needed distraction from negative thoughts.

There is no doubt that music has a powerful effect on the human mind and body. From reducing anxiety and depression to shrinking obesity, music can have a profound impact on our overall health. If you are struggling with any of these issues, we encourage you to give music a try. You might be surprised at just how much it can help.

We all know that music has the power to soothe the soul, but did you know that it can also have a positive impact on your physical health? From reducing anxiety and depression to even shrinking obesity, music is a powerful tool that should not be underestimated. If you are struggling with any of these issues, consider incorporating music into your life and see how it can help you achieve better health.

Until our minds meet again, be safe out there. Blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter 🦋 🌼- Della 🦋

🦋Minding My Business – May 28th, 2022

Waking up on the weekend. A nice pretty day, in Kentucky. The roses around the community are blooming. Such a beautiful creation, pink rose bushes at full of bloom. All the recent rain did a great job!

Smell of spare ribs and collard greens fill the air, balcony door open, birds chirping. 🐦 Surrounded by tranqility, at times we forget to enjoy the moment. For me it puts a soft smile on my face and a cozy feeling. With several projects at hand, its a sense of ” Me time”. As I refer to as “Minding My Business.”

Having projects, errands, and always tons to do. I still get the happy feeling when minding my business. I doubt anyone ever complains about having time to themselves, then again some people can’t be alone.

Since that subject is not my sytle, I will ✂ subject back to minding my businesd.

“Quiet” just feels good! This was pretty neat, as I looked out the balcony door two birds sat. Captured picture: one in air flying away. Just neat the picture did not blur, screen is almost unnoticed.

Birds – enjoying the day too

My crafty projects – if I have a bad day, crafts pulls my head out of my ass. Something with crafts make me perk up, focus, concentrate and create decoratives or door wreaths. Hobbies should be part of everyone’s routine. Either once a week or few times a month.

Why not mind your business doing something you love, and relieve mental stress? If you dont have a hobby; look into an assortment of interest. We tend to be good at a lot of things, just grabbing time to find the fit – excuse vs. effort. Once that minding my business hobby is found, happiness is an added bonus.

Having several hobbies and interest, rarely am I bored. A completed project just minding my business, can be a feeling of being productive. With totes of supplies and a mind full of ideas.. – time can be limited.

Picture owned by Della Lonaker🦋

A Saturday minding my business. I would like to encourage you to mind your business😁 What does Minding My Business look like for you? lt only takes a million thoughts or a good idea, to make one nice finished project. Share your happiness with us.. To continue my day, and until our minds meet again. Be safe out there, blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter🦋

🎭Mental Health Challenges🎭

Be Priority

Hello and welcome🌼 Thank you for visiting Everyday Mind’s Matter. We all face mental health obstacles. Today and forward it’s okay to not be okay. Never feel ashamed or alone for mental health help. Many resources are available. Mental health is crucial to a stable health life. As inflation now controls finances, employment, daycare, grocery shopping, transportation, and housing needs mental health challenges rise. Stress and anxiety increase daily as our world is unpredictable.. We fear the unknown since covid-19 , a year of social distancing & world shutdown / lockdown – an unforgettable experience.

No one wanted to be unemployed, or homeless, as a new world evolved.- Communicating and interacting with others We all adjusted our routine to be safe. Adapting to a new world, that has challenged our well-being daily. We don’t wake up and say, “I think, I will skip coffee, have brain fog, and anxiety with depression today”.

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health disorders that includes generalized anxiety disorders, social phobias, specific phobias (eg, agoraphobia and claustrophobia), panic disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-stress stress disorder, traumatic. Untreated anxiety disorders can lead to a significant deterioration in people’s daily lives. Some common mental health issues are anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance use, and trauma. Signs of fatigue, social isolation, or mood swings may indicate a developing mental health problem, such as depression or a substance use disorder. As before the COVID-19 pandemic, adults with poor general health (which may reflect physical and mental health) continue to report higher rates of anxiety and/or depression than adults with generally good health. The likelihood of having comorbid mental disorders may be heightened by their vulnerability to severe illness caused by the coronavirus. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, some populations are at greater risk of worsening mental health and may struggle to get the care they need. A major challenge in integrating care for central nervous system disorders with other chronic disease treatments. Despite the growing burden of central nervous system diseases worldwide and affecting people often do not have access to mental health care in upper, middle and low-income countries. To address this issue, the Great Challenges in Global Mental Health initiative has set priorities for research over the next 10 years that will impact the lives of people living with disorders of the central nervous system. Even incremental gains in addressing serious global mental health problems could result in significant economic benefits and improvements in quality of life, including a reduction in the misuse of health services and increased productivity in the coming years, far outweighing the long-term investment costs. Mental disorder care should be integrated into primary health care and other priority global health plans. With proper care and treatment, people can learn to cope with mental illness or mental health problems and, in many cases, recover. With proper care and treatment, many teens with mental health or substance abuse problems can recover. A mental illness or mental health problem is something that causes mild or severe disturbances in thinking and/or behavior resulting in an inability to successfully cope with normal life demands and routines. Mental illness is a general term for a group of illnesses that may include symptoms that affect a person’s thinking, perception, mood, or behavior.

Adolescents with mental health problems themselves are particularly vulnerable to social exclusion, discrimination, stigmatization (which affects their willingness to seek help), learning difficulties, risky behaviour, poor physical health and human rights violations. The well-being of the most vulnerable users of the health care system, for whom symptoms of mental or somatic disorders lead to permanent disability, can be a sensitive indicator of the need of society for comprehensive care. A mental health issue left unaddressed can become a bigger issue that also affects physical health: think about how substance use and changes in sleep and eating habits affect the body and mind. In addition to depression or anxiety, adolescents with emotional disorders may also experience excessive irritability, frustration, or anger. Most mental illnesses are treatable, and effective treatments are available. Most mental illness cases are preventable. However, mental disorders are associated with high economic costs, as they cause major economic losses due to lost work productivity, increased.

Take care of yourself. When you feel somethings not right, it most likely isn’t. It’s okay to reach out for help and use resources.. Make mental health a priority so future issues can be avoided. Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there, blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter 🌸

Journaling Daily 🌺

Paper, Pen, & Positive Results

Today we are going to talk about the benefits of daily journaling that will change your life so you can improve yourself. Keeping a daily diary can help you become more self-aware, which will help you increase your knowledge of what is right for you. One aspect of journaling that makes it so effective is that journaling can become a key habit to help you focus your energy and attention on where it will be most effective. Of course, every time you can keep an effective diary, that time is well spent, but the best practice is to keep a regular daily diary.    

It’s often helpful if you keep a journal regularly, even if you don’t have to do it every day. You can certainly learn more about yourself by looking back at what you do every day, but journaling is often more than just recording everyday events. As mentioned, journaling can help you reflect on yourself, sort out your feelings, and gain a deeper understanding of the various events that occur in your daily life. Let’s look at the importance of journaling and how to incorporate this powerful habit into your daily routine.    

You can use a diary to write down affirmations that will help you reach your goals or keep track of memories so you can reflect on how your life is going. Journaling allows us to put our emotions on paper, separate them from ourselves, organize our thoughts, our days, our intentions. Writing about feelings, environment, and activities without judgment can help you be more present in everyday life. Simply writing about your feelings and frustrations will help you focus on what is really going on in your life and mind so you can find solutions to your problems.  Most importantly, journaling can help problem solve situations. Fixing relationships or issues by understanding the problem. Then a solution can be organized and resolved.  You are more aware of the thoughts and feelings now they are written out.Most importantly, journaling can help problem solve situations.  Fixing relationships or issues by understanding the problem. Then a solution can be organized and resolved.  You are more aware of the thoughts and feelings now they are written out.

For example, talking about specific relationship problems can help you better understand your emotional needs and how to meet them. Writing can help you tune into the situation and “feel” if something is wrong with the other person or situation. A journal is also a useful tool to help you make emotionally clouded decisions and know when it’s time to make changes because you’ve been writing the same thing day in and day out for weeks at a time. Creating a writing routine and scheduling time for journaling can help keep you on track even on days when you don’t feel inspired.    

One of the best things you can do to set yourself up for success when you figure out how to start a daily diary (or any other habit) is to make it as accessible as possible. If you want to make it a habit, choose a time of day for journaling and make it a non-negotiable in your life. 

When we have a daily journaling routine, we reap the many benefits of journaling, such as increased self-esteem, self-awareness, awareness, and positivity, every single day. A diary should not be just the act of writing paper on paper and recording the mundane events of your day. For example, incorporating a 20-minute diary into your nightly routine can help you relieve heavy feelings of stress before bed.  

Importance of journaling has so many benefits. Time is only your favor to journal in habit. Once routine takes place, in no time you can better understand yourself. Having opportunity to feel, and acknowledge your needs and desires are rewarding.

Until next, keep that pen moving, enjoy the writing experience- of journaling. Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there, blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter.🌸👣

🌱How Schizophrenia is misrepresented in TV and film — and how we can do better

Over the years or even current mental health has lingered with much stigma. Reality, helping to encourage recovery or treatment should be priority, yet create entertainment is the wrong way. TV has shook the self- imagine and twisted the reality for entertainment purpose. Here you will learn we can do better with misrepresentation of mental health.

Misrepresented by TV

From Yellowjackets to Criminal Minds, the schizophrenic charaQcters we see onscreen are usually supernatural villains, criminals, or inspirational fodder.Courtney Eaton as Lottie in Yellowjackets. (Showtime)

We’ve all seen popular movies and TV shows that have used schizophrenia to drive a story forward. But how often do we stop to consider what those representations actually mean? How do they portray the experience of actually living with schizophrenia, and how do the stereotypes that these representations lean on come back around to harm mad and disabled people?

A 2021 GLAAD report found that disabled characters made up only 2.8 per cent of all series regular characters in the 2021-22 television season in the U.S. That’s roughly 22 characters out of 775 total examined. When looking at that figure, especially considering that 22 per cent of Canadians and 26 per cent of Americans live with visible and invisible disabilities, people with disabilities are shockingly underrepresented onscreen.

What’s even worse is that the few representations of disability and madness that we do see are wrapped up in stereotypes which impact how we view mad and disabled people around us. Schizophrenia is one of the conditions that the general public views most negatively, according to a 2014 study published in the journal Psychiatry Research. The prevalence of stereotypes also creates internalized stigma that impacts the self-image of disabled people. Jake Gyllenhaal as Donnie Darko, Jena Malone as Gretchen Ross, and James Duval as Frank in Donnie Darko. (Newmarket Films)

A commonly observed trope in TV and movies represents schizophrenia as criminal and violent. (Think Norman Bates in Psycho, Mr. Cleg in Spider, or any of the dozens of characters from shows like Criminal Minds’ endless carousels of violent depictions of madness and neurodiversity.) Horror, thrillers, and true crime often frame mad people as villains whose motivations are blamed on conditions like schizophrenia, which perpetuates the idea that people who have those conditions are a danger to others. 

Another common representation of schizophrenia makes the condition out to be supernatural or magical, like in the show Yellowjackets or the film Donnie Darko. When schizophrenia is placed in the supernatural or fantasy realms, it diminishes the real-life experience of living with schizophrenia and suggests that it is beyond humanity or our understanding. By aligning schizophrenia with demonic entities and malicious spirits, these supernatural representations similarly perpetuate the idea of schizophrenic people as “other,” which can ostracize them and negatively impact their self-perception.

Not every trope makes people with schizophrenia look like villains, but even the more well-intentioned attempts can be harmful in their own way. Take, for instance, the portrayal of the “supercrip” as seen in A Beautiful Mind, The Soloist, or the show Legion. “Supercrip” is a term used by the disabled community to refer to stories where people “overcome” their disability. Although these depictions are sometimes created to challenge the perceptions of what mad and disabled people can and can’t do, as explained by Stella Young, they “objectify disabled people for the benefit of nondisabled people.”

This trope also suggests madness and disability exist entirely within a person instead of engaging with the oppressive social, legal, and medical conditions that create barriers for mad and disabled people. “Supercrip” stories can act as a defense mechanism for the status quo — because if one mad or disabled person could beat the odds and live happily in our current society, ostensibly, all mad and disabled people should have it within themselves to do the same. Criminal and violent representation in Criminal Minds Joe Adler as Danny Lee Stokes, a schizophrenic serial killer, in Criminal Minds. (CBS)

A 2012 study found that, in 41 movies studied, a majority of schizophrenic characters displayed violent behaviour toward others and themselves, and almost a third of those characters displayed homicidal tendencies. The same study also found that causation is hardly discussed in those films.

Shows like Criminal Minds, which follow a procedural format where a new weekly suspect is pursued by federal officers and caught by the end of the episode, are chock full of exaggerated depictions of schizophrenia. The formulaic approach of Criminal Minds made the show easy to watch, but to keep viewers from getting bored, it had to continue to shock them with more and more gruesome stories. Crimes committed by supposedly schizophrenic people ranged from cannibalism to necrophilia.

Even if the viewer knows to take these stories with a grain of salt, the depiction of these horrific crimes and lack of exploration into a character’s motives — coupled with zero follow-up on their fates after they are caught (or often, killed) — reinforced an “us vs. them” mentality that creates a fearsome idea of schizophrenia. This is bolstered by storylines that continuously ask the viewer to sympathize with the neurotypical, non-disabled police, who are billed as heroes for tracking down and capturing the suspects. 

Mad and disabled people are actually more likely to be victims of violence rather than the perpetrators of it. And in a study in which 46 mad people were interviewed about the stigma they have experienced, people with schizophrenia reported more verbal and physical abuse than any other group in the study.

The show’s less overtly negative representations are few and far in between. Spencer Reid’s mother Diana, one of the rare recurring characters with schizophrenia, is shown to have a loving relationship with her son. But even though the show sympathizes with her, it also makes her out to be one of the “good ones” against a backdrop of countless violent mad characters; ultimately, whatever positive representation Diana provides is completely overshadowed by an overrepresentation of schizophrenic killers.Supernatural representation in Yellowjackets Courtney Eaton as Lottie in Yellowjackets. (Showtime)

Another common stereotype in TV and movies suggests that schizophrenia is the result of some kind of supernatural force. This trope depicts schizophrenia as something that possesses a person and forces them to do things that they have no control over, often harming others in the process.

Showtime’s critically acclaimed 2021 psychological drama Yellowjackets depicts a character named Lottie who experiences hallucinations after running out of her medication for an unnamed condition. While the show was praised for its representation of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it slips into problematic territory with the way Lottie transforms from a sweet background character to becoming possessed, experiencing premonitions and visions of death, and calling on the girls around her to hurt one of their own. Since this transformation happens after Lottie runs out of her medication, the implication is that she is this way when untreated, which reduces a complex condition to a clichéd representation. Yet again, a mad character becomes a villain or someone to be feared, and the only explanation for their motivation is their madness. 

With just one season out so far, the show is still well-positioned to turn this representation on its head and provide useful commentary about the way Lottie was medicalized at a young age for her apparently atypical behaviour. But if it continues along the same path, Yellowjackets will become another representation of schizophrenia that dehumanizes mad people and causes the viewer to fear them.”Supercrip” representation in A Beautiful Mind Russell Crowe as John Nash in A Beautiful Mind. (Universal Pictures)

“Supercrip” stories rely on narratives of inspiration and overcoming adversity. One of the most well-known depictions of schizophrenia is A Beautiful Mind, the 2001 film starring Russell Crowe. A Beautiful Mind won four of the eight Academy Awards it was nominated for, including Best Picture

and is based on the life of mathematician John Nash as told through Sylvia Nasar’s unauthorized biography of him. Throughout the film, Nash experiences hallucinations that lead him to be forcibly institutionalized; his condition also inadvertently causes him to put his infant son in danger. But Nash is later able to overcome his hallucinations by sheer willpower and return to his work, eventually going on to win the Nobel Prize. 

Some have noted that schizophrenia is generally well-represented in A Beautiful Mind, and the viewer is certainly meant to sympathize with John Nash instead of seeing him as a violent person or a criminal. Nash’s ability to exercise control over his life and learn to live with schizophrenia, especially with the support of his loved ones, can be an empowering thing for mad people to see on screen. But nevertheless, this type of story paints madness and disabilities as individual “problems” that need to be fixed and overcome in order to live “normally.”How can we represent schizophrenia more thoughtfully? Matthew Gray Gubler as Spencer Reid and Jane Lynch as Diana Reid in Criminal Minds. (CBS)

As with so many movies and TV shows about marginalized people, stories about people with schizophrenia are rarely told with mad people in control of the narrative, and the actors who play them are not part of mad and/or disabled communities. While neurotypical and non-disabled actors take home awards and accolades for their portrayals of madness and disability, real mad and disabled people feel the repercussions of these stereotypical depictions reverberating in their everyday lives. 

Mad and disabled people deserve to see themselves represented wholly, not as punchlines, lazy plot points, or inspirational fodder for the benefit of the able-bodied. Our experiences are all unique and multi-faceted, yet the stories told about us are too often boiled down to stereotypes instead of embracing neurodivergence, madness, and disabilities. 

Increasing or improving representation of schizophrenia in the media will not immediately change societally-rooted ableist attitudes. But empathetic and informed storytelling can help to counteract and correct the misinformation that is shared through TV and movies. With stories about schizophrenia still so deeply entrenched in stereotypes that impact the real-life treatment of mad people and the inequities they face, the need to tell better stories isn’t just critical — it could be life-saving.

Until our minds meet again. Be safe out there with blessings and much love. Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter 💕😇

☀️6 Reasons Why Minding Your Business: Can Help You Live a Happier Life💫

Happiness

Modern life can be incredibly busy and stressful, and it’s easy to forget how important taking care of your well-being really is. Minding your business isn’t just about getting things done; it’s also about staying healthy, productive, and happy in the long run. Having knowledge and understanding, so you can live the life you want to live. The benefits of incorporating positive habits to minding your business daily adds to one’s quality of life. To enhance a happier lifestyle start by reading more..

Living with Purpose

Everyone wants to live with purpose, but not everyone understands how important it is. Successful people know that living with purpose is absolutely vital to their happiness. When you’re fulfilled by your work and are driven by clear goals, there’s no room for regret or guilt about past choices. It’s also easier to make decisions because you have more clarity around what matters most. Once you figure out what drives you, don’t be afraid to follow it. The only way to find out if something works is by doing it. It might take some time before purpose starts falling into place, but once they do, life will never be dull again!

Getting Organized

Organizing your life is much easier if you organize your things first. This can be as simple as cleaning out one drawer, or it can mean getting rid of several boxes of junk. It’s often said that we’re most productive when our surroundings are organized and tidy—so get to work! Clean up your act literally by giving yourself that clean slate you need to make progress in every other area of your life. An organized area brings in positive thinking, to clear thoughts for productivity.

Being Mindful In All You Do

Mindfulness is all about being present in all you do. If you are distracted or lack focus, you are being unmindful and your success will suffer. It’s tempting to let thoughts about past or future things occupy your mind but by doing so, you’re not letting yourself enjoy what’s happening now. When you can fully be present in everything from conversations with friends to work meetings to workout sessions, life improves dramatically. You deserve to be acknowledge by your abilities. Be present and embrace happiness.

Focusing on the present moment

Living in an overwhelming, stressful, and hectic world can be a tough thing to do. It’s easy to get caught up in what-ifs and whys, but you need to live in what is. Being mindful of your thoughts, feelings, and actions will help keep you focused on what really matters – your own health and happiness. Here are some tips on how to stay mindfully present throughout each day What exactly does it mean to be mindful? Mindfulness means being fully aware of your surroundings and yourself. When you think about it, it’s pretty hard not to live in a mindless way. We often react automatically to our environment or lose ourselves in thought during everyday activities like brushing our teeth or walking from point A to point B. These habits don’t serve us well because they leave us feeling disconnected from ourselves and others around us.

Knowing what works best for you

Not all approaches to life work for everyone. Some methods that have worked for you may not be effective for others, and vice versa. By knowing what works best Cou, you can optimize your well-being and maximize your ability to pursue happiness. Knowing what doesn’t work for you is just as important—if not more so—as knowing what does. When you know where certain strategies fail, it’s easier to avoid them and find better ways of dealing with problems.

Putting yourself first

Most of us spend much of our lives running around, often doing things for other people—whether it’s family members, friends or colleagues. It’s only natural to put others first. But that means you have to find time to slow down and take care of yourself. Take some time out and figure out what you really want in life. If you need help prioritizing your personal needs, try creating a what-would-you-do list with three items: An item that will benefit someone else; an item that will benefit your career; and an item that will benefit you personally (such as sleeping more).

Everyday we focus on the world around us, neglecting our own well-being and happiness. At times by consideration know as selfish or selfless – by availability to others. It’s okay at times because you are minding your business. Handling your business give life purpose reality. Take care of yourself, and continue healthy habits to minding your business.

Until our beautiful minds meet again, Be safe out there. Blessings and much love, Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter 😇💗

5 Tips to Improve Memory and Focus🌻

Photo by Ksenia Chernaya on Pexels.com

Some people naturally have better memories than others, but that doesn’t mean we can’t all do our best to maintain and improve our memory skills as we age. The tips in this article are designed to give you some ideas on how to keep your mind sharp, while improving focus and overall brain function, no matter what your age or current mental state may be.

1) Maintain A Consistent Sleep Schedule
Studies have shown that sleep deprivation can lead to decreased memory, impaired attention span, brain fog, and slowed reaction time. If you’re having trouble focusing throughout your day, one of your first steps should be to establish a consistent sleep schedule. Getting between seven and nine hours of rest per night is ideal for most adults. And remember: no sleeping in on weekends! Sleeping in late might seem like an indulgence at first, but it quickly becomes a crutch that can make it harder to focus during waking hours.

2) Take Breaks
Studies have shown that taking breaks during learning can help us retain information more effectively. After each study session, give yourself a break from studying—whether it’s watching your favorite show or going for a walk. The brain needs its downtime in order to maintain focus. And there’s a good chance you’ll retain more information when you return to your studies. This is especially true if you were doing something unrelated to what you’re trying to learn, like reading a magazine. A new subject will likely jumpstart your brain and get it ready for further education. In fact, some research suggests we may even remember things better if we learn them with different senses (like sight and hearing). So try playing music while reading up on new information! You might just end up remembering more of what you read.

3) Exercise
Exercising improves your mental health by increasing blood flow, which increases oxygen in your brain. This creates a calming effect on your body, resulting in an increased ability to focus and remember information. If you feel like your mind is constantly filled with clutter or that you can’t get enough oxygen, exercise might be a great way for you to clear your head—literally!

4) Eat Healthy Foods
By far, nutrition is one of the most important things you can do to improve your memory and keep your brain healthyhealthy. An excellent diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will not only help keep your body strong, but it’ll give you all of those nutrients necessary for optimal brain function as well. Aim for a varied diet that includes foods from all four major food groups every day. For example, make sure you get plenty of vitamin C (in citrus fruits), vitamin E (in nuts), and magnesium (in green leafy vegetables). Not only are these essential vitamins good for your health, they’re also good for your memory. Vitamin C improves short-term recall; vitamin E helps with long-term recall; and magnesium keeps your neurons firing smoothly. You should also make sure you get enough zinc in your diet—this mineral helps regulate protein synthesis in brain cells and promotes neuron growth.

5) Develop Habits for Better Focus
A great way to ensure you’re maintaining focus at work is to build healthy habits. For example, if you find that your productivity suffers during afternoons, try having a protein bar available for an afternoon snack. This will help keep you going with sustained energy levels throughout your day. Keep distractions at bay: If there are certain people or things that distract you, distance yourself from them while trying to stay focused on work. You can do this by leaving your phone in another room, closing your email tab or wearing headphones. You might also consider keeping a Do Not Disturb sign by your desk so others know not to disturb you unless it’s urgent. Practice mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness has been shown to increase attention span and improve concentration levels. Try meditating for five minutes each morning before starting work; it will help clear your mind of distractions and prepare you for a productive day ahead. Get enough sleep: It might seem like common sense, but getting enough sleep is crucial when it comes to improving memory and focus at work. In fact, studies have shown that those who get less than six hours of sleep per night perform worse than those who get eight hours of sleep each night!

The daily routine to improve memory and focus are healthy habits for quality performance. As you create these new habits the change become routine. Start today and continue on the road to improved memory and focus goals.

Until our minds meet again, stay safe out there. Blessings and much love, Remember Everyday Mind’s Matter😇💕