Category: Mental Health
The Face of Suicide Deaths
The face of suicide deaths is rarely what we expect. This is as true of demographic groups as it is of the neighbor or friend whose tragic death we mourn. While many people mainly associate suicide with teenagers, this is a misleading stereotype. If suicide had a face, it would more likely be the face […]
Holiday Reflections: Prioritize Mental Health Amidst the Festivities
As Christmas Day draws near, it’s important to remember that the holiday season can be magical for some and challenging for others. When you’re at holiday gatherings, if you have the energy and feel up to it, take a moment to observe those around you. If you notice someone sitting alone, seemingly counting the minutes […]
RMH Behavioral and Mental Health Department Finds Opportunities for Service
RMH Behavioral and Mental Health Services have taken full advantage of having their new location. When asked about the changes that have occurred since the move, Susan Eakins, LCSW, said, “The department underwent a significant expansion prior to moving here, so we really needed the space. We have two full-time LCSW’s (Licensed Clinical Social Workers) […]
Running From Depression
Depression is an illness that harms both the mind and the body. People with depression are more likely to suffer from neck or back pain. They tend to have unhealthy habits leading to poor physical health. They may lead a sedentary lifestyle, eat poorly, smoke or drink alcohol in excess. Not everyone with depression has […]
Navigating Caregiving: Essential Support for Healthy Aging
Healthy aging can be a difficult topic for caregivers, especially those who are seniors themselves. Fortunately, caregiving resources are increasing. With a combination of in-person and online support, caregivers can get support for the many challenges they face. The Challenges and Rewards of Caregiving – Rush Memorial Hospital The “Home Alone Alliance” Multiple senior-focused organizations, […]
Coping With Unavoidable Stress
When stress pops up in our lives but quickly goes away, it doesn’t usually have any lasting effects. The more often it appears, however, and the longer it lasts, the greater the effect stress has on our physical and mental health. Our body’s stress response is designed to help us fight or flee when threatened. […]
Helping the Grieving Caregiver
Giving a caregiver advice on how to cope with grief is a bit like telling someone at a funeral that you’re sorry for their loss. Neither one is very helpful, but then, neither is silence. There is no way to tell someone how to move past the wound of loss when they spend every day […]
Limiting Lethal Means Saves Lives
The crisis that leads to suicide is intensely painful, but often very short-lived. This is one of the reasons it’s important to secure easily accessible suicide means. When someone suffers from suicidal ideation, removing or locking up lethal means (drugs, firearms, etc.) can help save a life. Hopefully, if lethal means are harder to obtain, […]
6 Ways to Give a Caregiver a Break
The life of a caregiver can be very difficult, particularly if they are in a 24/7 caregiving situation. Even if their commitment is only parttime, it can be very hard for them to get some time to themselves. If you’d like to help out, here are a few things you can do to make their […]
Research Shows Gratitude is Healthy
Both research and common sense tell us that people who practice gratitude are happier. As it turns out, they also tend to be healthier. Writing it Down Makes a Difference The Greater Good Science Center (GGSC) at the University of California, Berkeley, offers a free, online, gratitude journal Gratitude Journal | Practice | Greater Good […]