Seasonal affective disorder can be treated and managed with the use of light therapy and medicines.
The winter season brings chilly days and cozy vibes, but for some, it also ushers in a condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a form of depression that kicks in during late fall and winter, easing off with the arrival of spring. While the exact cause remains a mystery, researchers believe a lack of sunlight plays a pivotal role.
Dr. Richard Schwartz, an associate professor of psychiatry at Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital, emphasizes the significance of recognizing SAD as a serious condition. He notes, "People should not ignore the signs of SAD and should seek treatment if they appear, as left alone, SAD can escalate to serious health issues."
Sunlight and Your Mood
Sunlight exposure has a profound impact on our brains. It stimulates the hypothalamus, a brain region housing our internal sleep-wake clock. Insufficient light disrupts this clock, leading to an overproduction of the sleep hormone melatonin and a decrease in serotonin, the feel-good brain chemical. This chemical imbalance can result in feelings of low energy, lethargy, and depression.
SAD comes with other telltale signs, including diminished sexual desire, an inclination to overeat (especially comfort foods), and sleep disturbances. It also correlates with cognitive challenges like difficulties in concentration and memory. Dr. Schwartz adds, "As you become more lethargic from SAD, you are also less likely to exercise or socialize."
Several factors heighten the risk of SAD, such as a family history of SAD or depression and geographic location. People residing in northern states, where daylight diminishes significantly in fall and winter, are more prone to SAD than those in the south.
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How to keep people from getting too angry at gatherings.
The holidays, envisioned as a time of joy, love, and festive lights, sometimes take an unexpected turn into disagreements when family and friends gather. However, with a little planning and awareness of potential triggers, you can avoid getting caught up in arguments.
Understanding Holiday Stress
The holiday season can be stressful due to financial worries, colder weather, and the juggling act of work and time off. Emotional vulnerability is heightened during this time, making it challenging to manage feelings and communicate effectively. Factors like painful memories or a lack of family support can add to the emotional strain.
Alcohol consumption during holiday gatherings can escalate tensions, as it lowers inhibitions and makes it harder to stay calm. In a survey, 57% of respondents noted family members becoming argumentative after consuming too much alcohol.
Two days ago, I attended the conference at the Center for Contemporary Art, marking the end of the Anti-Racism Interim Governance Group (AIGG) and the sharing of their recommendations for the vision, mission, and structure of the Anti-Racism Observatory for Scotland.
It was very insightful, and people had the opportunity to ask many questions. Racism hasn't been adequately addressed in many countries and has often been taken lightly. A great-grandmother from India, who has lived in Scotland for a long time and has three generations here, shared accounts of how racism hasn't shown significant improvement for a long time.
Another person spoke up and said if there were not significant changes and accountability for those who engage in racist behavior, then she didn't want to be part of this movement.
Individuals from diverse racial backgrounds were in attendance and poured out their heavy hearts.
The event was attended by the Minister for Equalities, Migration, and Refugees, Emma Roddick, and provided an opportunity to hear from them, ask questions, and engage in conversation with the Co-Chairs of the AIGG.
The event also marked the publication of the AIGG community research report, which contributed in various ways. The community research mapped to the AIGG’s work.
Here is the significant question people want answers to:
Observatory Accountability
We would like to know who will be held accountable for how the anti-racist strategy is implemented.
What are your thoughts?
#AntiRacismConference #EqualityInAction #AIGGEvent #InclusiveScotland #RacismAwareness #CommunityResearch #EqualityAdvocacy #AccountabilityMatters #AntiRacistStrategy #EmpowerChange
Sometimes, certain thoughts just won't leave us alone – they keep playing over and over, like a song stuck in your head. If it's just a random tune, it's annoying but not a big deal. But a sticky thought is different; it causes distress, you can't shake it off, and it messes with your day, explains a mental health expert.
These persistent thoughts can pop up due to stress or an underlying issue like anxiety, depression, OCD, or PTSD. For example, if you're dealing with generalized anxiety, you might have sticky thoughts about upcoming events or financial worries. Depression can bring on thoughts of failure or loneliness, while OCD might have you obsessing over germs. PTSD, linked to traumatic experiences, can replay distressing scenes in your mind.
Sticky thoughts aren't just a mental annoyance – they can mess with your concentration, fuel feelings of shame and fear, and even harm your self-esteem. Over time, they might lead to social isolation, making some folks reluctant to leave home.
Sticky thoughts aren't just a mental annoyance – they can mess with your concentration, fuel feelings of shame and fear, and even harm your self-esteem. Over time, they might lead to social isolation, making some folks reluctant to leave home.
Making friends and improving health by getting over loneliness
It's hard to be lonely. It's possible to feel lonely when you don't have any friends and are missing someone to talk to, or when you are with people you can talk to, or even your family and friends.
In either case, being alone for a long time can be very bad for your health. It makes you more likely to get coronary artery disease, a stroke, depression, high blood pressure, memory loss, failure to do daily tasks, and even early death.
Here are three ways to make new friends and feel less lonely, which will make you happier.
Getting started
You can't always get over being alone by going out to meet new people. If you feel lonely even though you have relationships, you might need to talk to a therapist and check yourself from within.
For people who feel lonely because they don't have enough friends, meeting new people is more of an outward journey for them. As people get older, they tend to become less flexible in the way they live their lives. These days, making friends is harder than it used to be in the past.
These are the tips that will help you.
1. Look for people with similar beliefs.You can make friends more quickly with people who like the same things you do.
First, think about what you like. Do you read a lot, watch a lot of movies, study history, farm, eat a lot, have a dog, or play sports? Are you really interested in a good cause, your neighborhood, or your history? Do you collect things? Are you crazy about old cars? Do you like changing the way old furniture looks? You might want to learn something new, like how to cook a Nigerian dish or speak a new language. If you are interested in any of these hobbies or things you want to try, Look for clubs, charity workshops, classes, or online groups that can help you achieve them.
When you join a group, you have to keep going to it so that you can make friends. It would be great if you could be there in person.
2. Learn how to get along with others.
Sometimes the simple social skills that help us really connect with other people get rusty over time. You'll be happier if you're not just hoping that someone will notice how interesting you are.
How to get better:
Make more smiles. When you smile, you make other people feel welcome and at ease.
Make things interesting. Are you ready to talk or ask something? One idea is to talk about the news or why everyone is here (if it's a class, ask someone how long they've been interested in the subject). Or, find something to talk about. That person may be wearing a pretty pin. See if there's a story behind it.
Try your best to listen. As you listen, show that you are interested in what they have to say. You can look at them, nod your head, or say "Mmm" while they talk to help. Feel like everyone is waiting to hear what you have to say.
There are more things you should ask. Don't go away when someone tells you they have an interesting story. If they hint at something, show that you're interested and ask them to go into more detail. They're leaving clues that will lead to a more in-depth talk.
3. Make chances happen.
If you don't want to join someone else's group, make your own. Hold events at your home or somewhere else. It only takes three people. You can say something like, "Let's read books, talk about a TV show, or have dinner together every week."
Here are some other ideas for weekly or monthly get-togethers:
- Nights with games
- A night of trivia
- Hiking in beautiful parks, walks on the beach, trips to museums, cooking, knitting, sewing, or crafting, shopping, day trips to nearby towns, making jewelry, collecting comic books, old dolls, and baseball cards, and showing off your collection
If they want to, set up times and places to get together regularly. The idea might only be thought about unless something changes. Don't be shy.
Even if you don't become friends, chatting can still be useful. The people who interacted with strangers, coworkers, friends, and family the most were happier than the people who interacted with the fewest types of people. This was found in a study from 2022.
Finally, talking to a lot of different people is good for your health, whether it's the cashier at the grocery store, a neighbor, an old friend, or a new friend. All of these connections might make you feel less lonely.
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Embarking on the journey to overcome addiction can be tough, and having a roadmap can make a significant difference. Research indicates that the following steps can guide you toward your recovery goals. Success is more likely when you embrace all five steps.
1. Set a meaningful quit date: Choose a date tied to a special event, birthday, or anniversary to mark the beginning of your journey.
2. Change your surroundings: Clear your home and workplace of any reminders of your addiction. Distance yourself from influences that might encourage your involvement with the substance or behavior you're trying to leave behind. Whether it's alcohol, drugs, or a specific behavior, eliminate related items from your space. If it's about quitting drinking, bid farewell to alcohol, bottle openers, wine glasses, and corkscrews. If it's gambling, remove playing cards, scratch tickets, or poker chips. Ensure others around you also respect your decision.
3. Distract yourself during cravings: Instead of succumbing to urges, engage in alternative activities. Take a walk, call a friend, or connect with family to stay occupied until the craving subsides. Be ready to face situations that trigger cravings, especially environments where others are using.
4. Reflect on past quitting attempts: Evaluate what worked and what didn't in previous attempts to quit. Understand the factors that may have led to relapse and make adjustments accordingly.
5. Build a support network: Open up to your family and friends about your journey and seek their encouragement and support. Make it clear that you're quitting, and if they are using the addictive substance, ask them to avoid doing so in your presence. If your addiction involves buying drugs, communicate with your dealer about your decision to quit and ask them not to contact you or sell you drugs. Additionally, consider consulting your healthcare provider to explore the most suitable quitting method for you, including potential medications that could ease the process and increase your chances of success.
For more insights on navigating the path to recovery, explore "Overcoming Addiction," a Special Health Report from Harvard Medical School.
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In the demanding world of healthcare, taking care of your own well-being can often be a challenge. To ensure that you can provide the best care for others, it's crucial to prioritize self-care. In this article, i'll share some valuable self-care tips for healthcare workers that will help you focus on your wellness and overall health.
1. Engage in Exercise
Exercise is a cornerstone of self-care for healthcare workers. Just 30 minutes of physical activity per day can work wonders for your body and mind. Whether it's a brisk walk outdoors or a quick workout session, regular exercise can reduce stress levels, elevate your mood, and boost energy. Moreover, it can improve your sleep quality.
To make exercise a part of your daily routine, you don't need to allocate a continuous 30 minutes. Short bursts of activity throughout the day, such as walking to or from a shift, can be just as effective. Enhance your exercise experience by listening to your favorite music or podcasts, inviting a friend or colleague to join you, or trying different activities for variety.
2. Eat Well and Drink lots of water
In a busy work schedule, finding time for meals and staying hydrated is essential. Proper nutrition and hydration are fundamental for maintaining energy levels and concentration. Start your day with a nutritious meal, snack on healthy options like fruits and nuts, and keep a refillable water bottle on hand. Preparing balanced meals in advance can help you avoid resorting to unhealthy snacks when you're too exhausted to cook.
3. Get Quality Sleep
Quality sleep is a potent tool for overall well-being, but healthcare professionals often struggle to unwind after demanding shifts. It's vital to avoid caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and heavy meals before bedtime, as these stimulants can disrupt your sleep. Putting your phone away 30 minutes before bedtime can aid in relaxation.
If racing thoughts keep you awake, try reading or listening to soothing music to calm your mind. You can also use ambient sounds like white noise or rainfall to drown out distractions and ease into sleep.
4. Schedule Self-Care Time
Dedicating time for self-care is non-negotiable. This time is your opportunity to engage in activities that bring you joy, whether it's reading, crafting, or indulging in a relaxing bath. Additionally, consider incorporating calming wellness practices like meditation, breathing exercises, or muscle relaxation into your routine.
Self-care time can also include journaling and practicing gratitude, both of which can enhance your mental well-being. Focusing on the things you're thankful for, expressing gratitude to loved ones and colleagues, and documenting positive thoughts can foster optimism, and joy, and reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
5. Take Time to Talk
Engaging in social interactions can provide an instant mood boost and is a vital aspect of self-care for healthcare workers. Conversations with friends, family, or colleagues can improve your mental health and reduce feelings of depression. Whether it's sharing a meal with loved ones, meeting a friend for coffee, or connecting with a colleague during a break, socializing is beneficial for overall well-being.
In addition to the mental health benefits, socializing has been found to strengthen the immune system, helping your body ward off illnesses. While face-to-face conversations are ideal, connecting with others through technology, such as video calls, can also be effective.
Incorporating these self-care tips into your busy work schedule can have a profound impact on your overall well-being. By prioritizing your self-care, you'll be better equipped to provide high-quality care to your patients and maintain a healthier work-life balance. Your well-being matters and these strategies are here to support you in your healthcare journey.
For more insights on taking care of your mental health, check out our blog post on How to Take Care of Your Mental Health.
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Good morning everyone! Today, I am excited to discuss the fascinating topic of intergenerational friendships and the unexpected health benefits they bring. We often find comfort and companionship within our own age group, but what happens when we step out of our comfort zones and form connections with individuals who are much older or younger than us? These unique friendships can be like rare birds, offering a stimulating blend of experiences, attitudes, and approaches that have the potential to greatly enhance our lives. Not only do these friendships transcend age barriers, but they also contribute to our overall well-being. So, let's dive into the captivating world of intergenerational friendships.
1. Breaking Down Age Barriers:
As Dr. Ronald Siegel, an assistant professor of psychology at Harvard Medical School, states, confining ourselves to alliances within our peer group can be a limiting experience. Embracing intergenerational friendships requires us to let go of biases about generations and approach others with curiosity. By doing so, we open ourselves up to a whole new world of intelligence, insights, and awareness that exist across different eras. These friendships allow us to learn and grow as individuals.
2. The Impact on Mind and Body:
Research published in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science reveals that friendships, regardless of age, have a positive impact on our physical and mental health. Trust and mutual support in these relationships have been found to lower stress levels and blood pressure, as well as help regulate blood pressure during stressful periods. Dr. Siegel emphasizes that when people have relationships built on trust, they thrive.
3. Embracing a Youthful Outlook:
Interestingly, intergenerational friendships can also influence our perception of age. A study published in the European Journal of Aging shows that older adults with friends who are more than 10 years younger tend to feel younger themselves and have greater satisfaction with the aging process. This self-perception can potentially lead to health advantages and longer life expectancy, as earlier research suggests.
Hey everyone! Today, I want to talk to you about something fascinating: the idea that you can feel younger than your actual age. You may have come across older people who exclaim, "I feel like I'm 30!" or "I don't feel my age!" and exude positivity, energy, and optimism. But is it just wishful thinking, or can our mindset actually impact how young and healthy we feel? Well, research suggests that having a positive attitude about aging can lead to longer and healthier lives. So, let's explore the power of positive aging and how it can benefit our minds, bodies, and spirits!
1. The Science Behind Positive Aging:
Studies, like the one published in JAMA Network Open, have shown that individuals with a greater satisfaction with aging have a significantly lower risk of dying from any cause. These individuals also have a reduced risk of diabetes, stroke, cancer, and heart disease. Not only that, but they also experience better cognitive functioning, reduced feelings of loneliness and depression, increased physical activity, and improved sleep. It's amazing how our mindset can influence our overall well-being and contribute to a longer, healthier life!
2. Tips for Embracing Positive Aging:
Now that we understand the benefits of a positive mindset, let's explore some practical ways to cultivate a youthful outlook:
- Managing Anxiety: As we age, anxiety can become more common. To combat it, try incorporating daily meditation, exploring stoicism (a philosophy that teaches how to maximize positive emotions and reduce negative ones), or simply spending quiet time each day expressing gratitude. These practices can help alleviate anxiety and promote a positive mindset.
- Finding a Sense of Purpose: Having a strong sense of purpose allows us to continue pursuing goals and finding meaning in life. Engage in activities centered around self-development, growth, and connecting with others. Learn a new instrument or language, volunteer for a cause you care about, mentor someone younger, or take college classes that stimulate your mind. Revisiting activities you enjoyed in your youth can also spark joy and a sense of purpose.
Socializing has been linked to a lower chance of dying young, among other health benefits. However, how much socialization might prolong one's life? On March 6, 2023, the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health published a sizable Chinese study online that suggests—possibly not at all. Researchers assessed the well-being, way of life, and self-reported social engagement of almost 28,000 individuals (average age: 89) whose survival was monitored for a mean of five years or until they passed away. People lived longer during the first five years of life, the more socialized they were. The people who socialized daily, weekly, monthly, or infrequently all lived longer than the previous group.
What is and isn't normal? Learn to recognize this dangerous mental health condition.
Hoarding disorder: what is it?
An incapacity to part with some possessions to the point of unhealthy accumulation is the hallmark of hoarding disorder, a mental health illness.
Even though the goods being hoarded may seem insignificant to others—old clothing, boxes, documents, junk mail, or even expired food or trash—the individual hoarding the stuff is certain that they will come in handy at some point. The thought of leaving them behind is deeply upsetting. Over time, items accumulate in the house to create mountains of disorderly clutter that clog halls and rooms, hinder daily activities, and endanger safety.
Dr. Stephanie Collier, a psychiatrist at McLean Hospital, which is connected with Harvard, says, "There might be clutter blocking the stove so you can't prepare meals, or blocking the door so you can't get to work or get out in an emergency."
What makes someone hoard?
The etiology of hoarding disorder is unknown. Although it usually appears in adolescence, hoarding may also manifest in later life because of its correlation with certain mental health issues. These include attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anxiety, dementia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Sometimes certain situations' characteristics lead to hoarding behavior.
People suffering from anxiety disorders, for instance, may worry excessively that they won't have enough of a specific item. They feel more in control when they have a larger supply, according to Dr. Collier. "There may be persistent notions in the minds of OCD sufferers concerning the quantity of stuff they need. Despite their desire not to, individuals are constantly driven to keep the items."
Additional examples: Individuals with ADHD may struggle to decide what should be thrown out first. Additionally, because they can't remember if they need certain things, like bills, people with cognitive impairment may be reluctant to part with them.
How to deal with sadness?
Sadness is a natural and common human emotion that we all experience at different points in our lives. While it can be challenging and overwhelming, it is important to remember that sadness is a normal part of the human experience. Lets explore the causes of sadness, its impact on our mental and physical health, and provide practical strategies for coping and finding emotional well-being.
1. Understanding Sadness:
- Defining sadness: Sadness is a complex emotional state characterized by feelings of sorrow, grief, or unhappiness. It can be triggered by various factors such as loss, disappointment, loneliness, or even hormonal changes.
- Causes of sadness: Sadness can stem from a wide range of experiences, including the loss of a loved one, relationship difficulties, work-related stress, or personal setbacks. Recognizing the root causes of our sadness is crucial for effectively addressing and managing it.
2. Impact of Sadness on Mental and Physical Health:
- Emotional well-being: Prolonged sadness can have a significant impact on our mental health, leading to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and a decreased quality of life. It is essential to recognize the signs and seek support when needed.
- Physical health: Sadness can also affect our physical well-being. It can lead to fatigue, changes in appetite, disrupted sleep patterns, and weakened immune function. Taking care of our bodies is just as important as addressing our emotional state.
3. Coping Strategies and Self-Care:
- Reach out for support: Sharing your feelings with trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional can provide comfort, reassurance, and perspective. They can offer guidance and help you navigate through your emotions.
- Practice self-care: Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. This could include hobbies, exercise, spending time in nature, or practicing mindfulness and meditation. Prioritizing self-care is crucial for emotional well-being.
- Seek professional help if needed: If sadness persists or becomes overwhelming, it is important to seek professional help. Mental health professionals can provide guidance, therapy, and support tailored to your specific needs.
You can become more adept at managing challenging conversations by cultivating the ability to listen to others and recognize their experiences and perspectives.
Validation is a way to make people feel heard and understood, especially in emotionally charged situations. Even if you disagree with someone, validating them means you acknowledge their feelings and perspective. This builds trust and makes the other person feel supported, making it easier to find solutions together.
But many people struggle with validation. They might try to validate someone but then immediately jump into problem-solving or giving advice. This doesn't allow the validation to sink in. It's like putting on anti-itch cream and immediately washing it off.
Here are some tips for offering validation:
1. Give your full attention.
2. Make eye contact and show interest with nods and "uh huh."
3. Repeat what you've heard to show that you understand.
4. Verbalize their unspoken feelings or frustrations.
5. Give it time to sink in before trying to solve the problem.
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As women, we have been conditioned to constantly strive for the unrealistic beauty standards set by society. We often forget that caring for our physical selves goes beyond physical appearance. Physical self-care includes nourishing our bodies with proper nutrition, engaging in regular physical activity, and prioritizing our mental health. In this blog post, we will shift the focus from societal beauty standards to physical self-care that promotes health, fitness, and self-confidence. Let's take a step towards embracing and celebrating ourselves just as we are.
Nourishing Our Bodies
Nourishing our bodies with proper nutrition helps maintain our overall health and well-being. It is important to listen to our bodies and fuel them with foods that provide us with the necessary nutrients. Emphasizing nutrient-dense food options such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help us maintain a healthy weight, boost our energy levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Making small changes to our diet, like drinking more water, reducing our caffeine intake, and avoiding processed foods, can significantly impact our physical and mental health.
Regular Physical Activity
Engaging in regular physical activity is essential for maintaining our physical and mental health. Exercise not only helps in maintaining a healthy weight but also helps in managing stress and boosting mood. Finding an activity that we enjoy can make it easier to incorporate exercise into our routine. Activities like dancing, yoga, or strength training can be fun and help us feel more confident in our bodies. Incorporating walking or cycling into our daily routine can make a big difference and help us stay active throughout the day.
Everyone experiences denial at some point in their lives; it's a normal reaction when you're unable to face the truth. Not all denial is negative. However, it could be simpler to spot it in someone else than in yourself.
"It's challenging to take an honest inventory of your life and how things are going. It requires a lot of effort.
Here is some information on denial, including how to recognise it in others and in yourself, as well as what you might wish to do about it.
What is denial?
Denial is a psychological defence mechanism, a clever technique the mind can use when circumstances are challenging. It keeps us safe, in my opinion, and I regard it as a barrier of protection that we may or may not be conscious of. Additionally, it prevents us from examining our own behaviour or changing the environment.
Denial can be a response to something that challenges firmly held ideas or something that you're not ready to accept or confess.
Common reasons for denial include
- Abuse (including physical, sexual, financial, emotional, mental, and other forms)
- Excessive consumption of alcohol, drug abuse, or other substance use disorders
- Politics
- Family or lifestyle concerns
- Medical findings
- Smoking
- Mental illness problems
- Weight gain
How might we benefit from denial?
We can hide behind denial to avoid unpleasant emotions. It might be beneficial in the short run and offer relief to people who lack the time or capacity to deal with an issue.
For instance, even if someone is dissatisfied in a relationship, the prospect of being alone could be worse than the alternative. Or perhaps someone lacks the strength or emotional capacity to accept what is happening because they are exhausted or overburdened. " Someone may feel it's better to not think about the circumstance and let it go because they believe it's too much to bear at this time.
How is denial harmful to us?
Denial can be harmful when we are in risky or unhealthy situations.
For instance, failing to acknowledge the truth about a medical or mental ailment might have detrimental effects on our health. "A lot of teenagers have depression and substance use issues, and some parents downplay the issue out of concern for their children. "But denying problems can hurt children and prevent them from making significant change," the statement begins.
When it comes to addiction or abuse, denial can be harmful as well. All members of a family are impacted by these issues, which can result in unhealthy practises being passed down from one generation to the next.
Owners of dogs are likely to have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease than non-owners, according to research. Having a canine friend may help avoid high blood pressure and may help those with the condition better control their blood pressure, according to a study that was published in the August 2022 issue of Current Hypertension Reports.
And according to data published in the October 2019 issue of Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, people who own dogs are 31% less likely than non-owners to pass away from a heart attack or stroke.
In the event that you experience a heart attack or stroke, having a dog may prolong your life. Another study published in the same issue of Circulation revealed that among those who experienced a heart attack or stroke, dog owners had a 33% lower mortality rate in the 12-year period following a heart attack and a 27% lower death rate after a stroke than those who did not own a dog.
Due in part to the ritual of daily walks, dogs encourage their owners to be more active, which may help enhance heart health. In fact, studies show that people who own dogs walk for an additional 20 minutes each day on average compared to those who don't.
Stress reduction
Ever ponder why it is so enjoyable to pet a dog? According to a study that was made available online on October 5, 2022, by PLOS One, interacting with dogs in particular stimulates the prefrontal cortex of the human brain, which is involved in controlling emotions. Additionally, petting increases oxytocin, the feel-good hormone, and lowers cortisol, the stress hormone. Long after the dog has left the room, the effect may still be felt.
Dogs can also show us how to practise mindfulness to reduce stress. Dogs focus on the many smells, sights, and sounds of their surroundings while out for a stroll because they are present in the now.
Dogs can even serve as therapists. There's always someone to chat with when you have a dog, since they make excellent listeners. Additionally, most dogs are adept at interpreting body language and picking up on your emotions. A dog may occasionally sense your distress and leap up onto your lap or sit next to you out of the blue.
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One of the biggest health problems older people face is loneliness. More social interaction is the best way to be more social, which is the best method for overcoming loneliness. Being more socially active is made simpler by retaining and making new acquaintances, as friendships frequently entail engaging in activities alone or with others. Read how to communicate with your friends.
Friendship-free zone
Compared to women, men experience more difficulty making and keeping friends as they get older. The issue is that many men find lifelong companions through activities they have in common, such as sports, the military, and employment. "A man's circle of friends gets smaller as those sources are eliminated over time—through retirement, life changes, and death."
Replicating circumstances and environments that encourage male bonding is the best strategy for establishing friends and preserving current relationships, he continues. For instance:
Learn about group dynamics. Consider joining a walking group, a golf or bowling league, a card, book, or chess club, or a continuing education course at an adult education facility. Or invite an existing friend to join you so you both can add more people to your friend list. It is frequently simpler to communicate with others who share your passions, so find something you enjoy, and chances are there are others who share your interest.
Friendship-free zone
Compared to women, men experience more difficulty making and keeping friends as they get older. The issue is that many men find lifelong companions through activities they have in common, such as sports, the military, and employment. "A man's circle of friends gets smaller as those sources are eliminated over time—through retirement, life changes, and death."
Replicating circumstances and environments that encourage male bonding is the best strategy for establishing friends and preserving current relationships, he continues. For instance:
Learn about group dynamics. Consider joining a walking group, a golf or bowling league, a card, book, or chess club, or a continuing education course at an adult education facility. Or invite an existing friend to join you so you both can add more people to your friend list. It is frequently simpler to communicate with others who share your passions, so find something you enjoy, and chances are there are others who share your interest.
It's unlikely that our physical health is the only aspect that affects how long we live. According to a recent study, social aspects of older individuals' lives may have an impact on their longevity.
Researchers questioned 8,250 people 65 and older for the Harvard-led study, which was published online by Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on February 7, 2023. 22% passed away in the subsequent four years. Eight out of 183 potential characteristics were shown to be stronger predictors of participant fatalities during those four years, according to the researchers. These included living in an unclean neighbourhood, feeling little control over their financial situation, not working for pay, not volunteering, and receiving less courtesy or respect from others. They also included feeling isolated, seeing their kids less than once a year, and not being involved in their lives.
Researchers questioned 8,250 people 65 and older for the Harvard-led study, which was published online by Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on February 7, 2023. 22% passed away in the subsequent four years. Eight out of 183 potential characteristics were shown to be stronger predictors of participant fatalities during those four years, according to the researchers. These included living in an unclean neighbourhood, feeling little control over their financial situation, not working for pay, not volunteering, and receiving less courtesy or respect from others. They also included feeling isolated, seeing their kids less than once a year, and not being involved in their lives.
Are you experiencing workplace discrimination? A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association in 2023 found that individuals who reported experiencing high levels of workplace discrimination were more likely to develop high blood pressure than those who reported experiencing low levels of workplace discrimination.
Discrimination in the workplace refers to unjust conditions or unfavourable treatment based on personal characteristics, especially race, sex, or age.
How can discrimination impact our health?
Despite this, multiple studies have shown that discrimination increases the risk of developing a wide spectrum of heart disease risk factors. This can also include chronic low-grade inflammation, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, in addition to hypertension.
Who participated in the work discrimination research?
The survey followed a national sample of 1,246 adults from a variety of occupations and educational levels, with roughly equal proportions of men and women.
The majority were Caucasian, middle-aged, and married. They were predominantly nonsmokers who consumed low to moderate quantities of alcohol and engaged in moderate to vigorous exercise. None of the participants had elevated blood pressure based on the initial measurements.
Discrimination in the workplace refers to unjust conditions or unfavourable treatment based on personal characteristics, especially race, sex, or age.
How can discrimination impact our health?
Despite this, multiple studies have shown that discrimination increases the risk of developing a wide spectrum of heart disease risk factors. This can also include chronic low-grade inflammation, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, in addition to hypertension.
Who participated in the work discrimination research?
The survey followed a national sample of 1,246 adults from a variety of occupations and educational levels, with roughly equal proportions of men and women.
The majority were Caucasian, middle-aged, and married. They were predominantly nonsmokers who consumed low to moderate quantities of alcohol and engaged in moderate to vigorous exercise. None of the participants had elevated blood pressure based on the initial measurements.
Mindfulness exercises may help with Overeating.
Everyone has indulgent periods that lead to overeating. If it occurs occasionally, there is no cause for alarm. If it occurs frequently, you may question whether you have a problem with excess or a "food addiction." Before you become alarmed, know that neither of these is a recognised medical diagnosis. In fact, the existence of food addiction is the subject of intense debate.
If food addiction exists, it would be induced by a physiological process, and you would experience withdrawal symptoms if you stopped eating certain foods, such as those containing sugar. Helen Burton Murray, a psychologist and director of the Gastrointestinal Behavioural Health Programme at the Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital's Centre for Neurointestinal Health's Gastrointestinal Behavioural Health Programme, makes the distinction.
Many individuals do not realise they have overeaten until after they have finished their meal. Consequently, mindfulness exercises can assist you in maintaining reasonable portion sizes.
However, she urges you to seek professional assistance if your eating-related thoughts interfere with your daily functioning. Your primary care physician is an excellent starting point.
Mindfulness is the practise of being present in the present moment and observing the sensory inputs that bombard you. "At mealtime, consider how the food appears, tastes, and smells. What is the feel? What recollections does it evoke? How does it make you feel?" Burton Murray inquires.
By being mindful during meals, you will slow down your eating, pay closer attention to your body's hunger and fullness signals, and possibly avoid overeating.
"It forces you to pause and consider what you're eating, rather than going through the automatic process of seeing food, taking food, and eating it," says Burton Murray.
Prepare yourself for success in eating mindfully by:
Eliminating interruptions. Turn off your phones, televisions, and computers. Eat in a tranquil, uncluttered space.
Pace yourself during a twenty-minute supper. Slowly chew your food and rest your fork between pieces.
Additional mindfulness practises to attempt
Practise mindfulness when you are not consuming to strengthen your mindfulness "muscles." Here are exercises to help you do so.
Concentrated breathing.
"Inhale slowly and exhale slowly. With each inhalation, enable your stomach to expand. Allow your abdomen to expand with each exhalation, as Burton Murray explains. "This engages the diaphragm, which is connected to nerves between the brain and gut, and promotes relaxation."
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