Author: abenko2016

Advocacy Profiles

Selena Gomez opens up about mental health challenges while living with Lupus

By abenko2016 on

By Ashley Peoples | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo: @selenagomez/INSTAGRAM

In 2016 Selena Gomez, a singer, and actor, decided to take some time for herself to focus on challenges she was experiencing due to the medical condition, Lupus. According to the CDC (2023), Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system sees the body’s healthy cells as foreign invaders and attacks them, causing inflammation and harm to the affected organs. Selena learned that the anxiety and depression she was dealing with was a side effect of lupus. Per an interview through CNN, Ms. Gomez stated, “I’ve discovered that anxiety, panic attacks, and depression can be side effects of Lupus, which can present their own challenges”. Her experience with Lupus has motivated her to focus more on her health.

Ms. Gomez discussed the treatment that she received to manage her symptoms. Interestingly, she uses chemotherapy in her treatment. She mentioned, “I was diagnosed with Lupus, and I’ve been through chemotherapy.” Ms. Gomez’s story can foster more understanding regarding Lupus, as many are not aware of the medical condition. According to the Lupus Foundation of America, Lupus impacts 1.5 million Americans. 90% (9 out of 10) people with Lupus are women, many ages 15 – 44. Individuals diagnosed with Lupus may experience symptoms such as pain, tiredness, hair loss, cognitive issues, cardiovascular disease, strokes, disfiguring rashes, and painful joints.

If you are wondering if health challenges you are experiencing may be Lupus, it is important to know the signs. Symptoms to be aware of include:

  • “Butterfly Wings” rash on face
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Stiffness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest Pain
  • Dry Eyes

Although Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease, it is a fight every day by celebrities and many in our communities experience. Be encouraged and talk to your doctor if you believe you are experiencing symptoms of Lupus. Also, if you have been diagnosed with Lupus, check out the Lupus Foundation of American website here to locate a support group near you. You can also find support groups on Facebook and other forms of social media.

References:

Centers for Disease Control & Prevention. (2023). Lupus. https://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/factsheets/lupus.htm

Kounang, N. (2016, August 31). Selena Gomez’s disease: What is lupus? CNN. https://www.cnn.com/2015/10/08/health/selena-gomez-reveals-she-has-lupus/index.html

Lupus Foundation of America. (2023). Lupus facts and statistics. https://www.lupus.org/resources/lupus-facts-and-statistics

Yahoo! (n.d.). Selena Gomez calls lupus an “everyday struggle”: What are the signs and symptoms? Yahoo! News. https://news.yahoo.com/selena-gomez-lupus-awareness-month-125648535.html?fr=yhssrp_catchall

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Advocacy Encouragement Family (PHAMILY) Hopeful Prevention Promotion

Light of the World, LLC. – Birmingham business aiming to bring light to mental health issues.

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

Last weekend I had the pleasure of meeting with Mr. Xavien Tate, Chief Executive Officer for a local business called “Light of the World.” At his launch party, Mr. Tate was kind enough to inform us of the many services offered by his group. Everything from travel therapy, financial therapy, peer coaching, life coaching (individual and group setting), and much more. Mr. Tate says his inspiration comes from the Bible; “Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5:16

What impressed me most was that he offers cleaning therapy. Not many people realize that there is a correlation between mental health and cleanliness in the home. Often when mental health issues take over, the home can become overwhelmingly daunting and thus only worsen. Mr. Tate recognizes an issue and a need for these matters. Check out the live video on Wilkinson’s Wellness Lab for an interview with Mr. Tate and his staff. Please check out this local business, and help be the light of the world.

To learn more or seek assistance, please check out lwicorp.org or follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LWICORPLLC or visit: https://www.lwicorp.org/

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Prevention Profiles Protection Understanding (Insight & Wisdom)

Beach safety and awareness after the loss of former NFL Quarterback Ryan Mallett

By abenko2016 on

By Amanda Benko | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo: Courtesy of County Website: coab.us

The gulf coast has seen at least 11 drowning deaths in the last month. The death of former Houston Texans quarterback, Ryan Mallett, is bringing new attention to these tragedies. Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford states on Facebook, “I am beyond frustrated at the situation that we have with tragic and unnecessary deaths in the Gulf.” He goes on to say that he has witnessed lifeguards, firefighters, and deputies all risking their lives to save strangers. He remarks on two different events where fathers drown (on Father’s Day), trying to save their kids from the Gulf of Mexico rip currents. Ford goes on to mention that they have been using the double red flags but do not have the resources to sight everyone who enters the water. Over 113 people died in 2021 due to rip currents.  

The beach flags are an example of strategies to reduce cases of drownings. When rip currents are present, lifesaving techniques increase public confidence, preventing drowning (Locknick, 2020). The hazards on the beach include marine life and various hazardous conditions. The red flag is a significant beach flag indicating that entering the water is discouraged for the public since dangerous currents or high surf is present. Other beach flags include the red over the red flag (or double-red), yellow, and purple flag. The double red flag indicates that the public should not enter the water; the beach is closed. Beachgoers need to exercise caution and abide by the warnings that flags signify. The ocean has an unpredictable nature and many potential dangers.

Ryan Mallett had recently accepted a job as a head coach in White Hall, Arkansas. His example for young athletes will be greatly missed and the community was deeply saddened by his loss. His death is a tragic reminder for us to take the beach warnings provided by the warning flags seriously. Many of us are not current or former elite athletes and his death reminds us of the strength of the ocean current. Please be safe and educate yourself and your family on beach warning flags, beach etiquette, and beach safety. For these and more tips, please visit the American Red Cross and the United States Lifesaving Association.

References:

Field Jr, G. (2023). Water Safety Education in Michigan: Teachers as Navigators Towards Water Safety for Children and Youth (Doctoral dissertation, Michigan State University).

Fisher, M. (2023, June 28). Ryan Mallett’s Death: New Details Emerge; Sheriff “Frustrated” About “Deadliest Beach.” Fan Nation. https://www.si.com/nfl/texans/news/ryan-mallett-death-new-details-emerge-sheriff-deadly-beach-obit-houston-texans-tom-brady-rip-gulf

Locknick, S. (2020). Correspondence of Beach User Perception, Lifesaving Strategies and Rip Currents at Brackley Beach and Cavendish Beach Prince Edward Island (Doctoral dissertation, University of Windsor (Canada)).

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Family (PHAMILY) PHAITH (Faith) Solidarity (Commonality, Humanity)

Watching Violent Crime on the News – Does It Impact Your Health?

By abenko2016 on

Angela R. Wilson | Intern UAB School of Education | CHHS

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

We see it every day, it is on the local news, it is on social media, radio stations and even discussed on college campuses and work sites.  Violent Crime seems to be trending in an upward trajectory across the country. Mass shootings, murders, rapes, assaults, and robberies; it is paramount that we remain vigilant of our surroundings to try to stay safe. With violent crimes increasing since the pandemic, many people are afraid to do simple things like go shopping, go to the movies, or even sit on their front porches.  Obviously, crime is affecting how people work in their daily lives, but does it also impact your health?  The short answer is Yes.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, violent crime not only contributes to physical injuries, but also can manifest other mental health diseases such as anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, (PTSD), feelings of distress, and depression. Additionally, there is a strong correlation between violent crime and the development of diseases like obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, gastrointestinal disorders, neurological and musculoskeletal disease, and lung disease. These conditions can have significant detrimental consequences on the health and well-being of people, families, and communities.   People who see violence regularly may also experience loneliness and isolation and may resort to binge drinking and indulging in tobacco products. They are less likely to participate in healthy behaviors, such as bicycling, walking, using parks, and other recreational spaces and may not invest in proper nutrition or take prescribed medication.

As many local, state, federal agencies and politicians’ network to find viable strategies to quell some of the violence, it is extremely important to employ coping mechanisms to protect your physical and emotional health.  Identifying support systems, resources, self-care, deep breathing, meditation and participating in faith-based activities are a few strategies that may be beneficial. Also, while we need to be aware of things that happen in our communities that may be violent in nature, we must be careful not to become overly consumed. Taking the necessary steps to protect your physical, emotional, and mental health, are paramount, even if that means not watching the news sometimes.

References

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Community Violence Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov.

Vinney, C. (2022). What is the Impact of Violent Media on Mental Health? https://www.verywellmind.com.

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Encouragement Hopeful Prevention Protection

John Mulaney’s Battle with Addiction – Turning Darkness into Laughs

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | UAB School of Education Intern – Community Health & Human Services

John Mulaney is a popular stand-up comedian who has famously used his difficult past experiences as the subject of much of his routine, which includes a new relationship, birth of his son, and most notably addiction to cocaine, alcohol, and prescription medications. Most fans are aware of Mulaney’s past issues with drugs and alcohol, shedding light on his sober life and turbulent relationship with narcotics. When you watch Mulaney’s comedy, you’ll see a courageous man whose comedy is rooted in his personal experience.

Drug-related deaths accounted for over 109,000 US deaths in 2021 according to the NIH. Statistics include the fact that just in the last year, over 9.2 million people over the age of 12 admitted to using opioids (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), 2023). Drug abuse and addiction are anything but funny. If you are like me and have lost friends and loved ones to the disease of addiction, you certainly understand there is nothing comical about it. This is an epidemic the White House has attempted to tackle, along with the medical community, law makers, and countless civilians. Mulaney makes jokes about how absurd he behaved on drugs, not about addiction itself.

He publicly thanks those who were there and those who have had a hand in his intervention and recovery. As most addicts know, recovery is a journey; and Mulaney is still here making us laugh because his friends cared enough to step in (with help of professionals). Watching his show, the part of his act that stood
out most were the words of Mulaney’s friend, actress Natasha Lyonne. When he tells this story, he is not going for a punchline, he is getting vulnerable about how bad things were. Though not a direct quote, the message stuck with me. Lyonne: Johnny, You gotta go to rehab honey. Your life is in shambles, your career is in shambles. I know you think going to rehab would be embarrassing, but the way you’re living right now is embarrassing. Once you’re out, you can chain-smoke around the streets of New York like you’re the g*d-damn Bob Fosse of your generation. We can walk around dreaming big dreams, like we’re high as a kite; but instead, you’ll be alive, and we’ll be sober together. Mulaney credits Lyonne’s words for being the final straw helping him commit to rehab. His friends saved his life, and because of them, he is still here entertaining us all. As a fan, I am grateful.

If you want to hear more, check out “Baby J” on Netflix, where Mulaney gives his personal account.

If you or someone you know is battling addiction, please call 888.844.9121 for help, or reach out to Narcotic Anonymous at 818.773.9999 or visit na.org.

References: 

Carcieri, R., & Johnston, C. (2022, March 21). John Mulaney’s “from scratch” successfully tackles heavy issues with Grace. The Brown Daily Herald. https://www.browndailyherald.com/article/2022/03/john-mulaneys-from-scratch-successfully-tackles-heavy-issues-with-grace

Grebenyuk, Y. (2023, May 4). Everything John Mulaney has said about drug addiction, recovery. Us Weekly. https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/pictures/everything-john-mulaney-has-said-about-drug-addiction-recovery/

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2023, January 4). Samhsa announces National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) results detailing mental illness and substance use levels in 2021. HHS.gov. https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2023, March 31). Drug overdose death rates. National Institutes of Health. https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates

The United States Government. (2022, April 21). Fact sheet: White House releases 2022 National Drug Control Strategy that outlines comprehensive path forward to address addiction and the overdose epidemic. The White House. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/04/21/fact-sheet-white-house-releases-2022-national-drug-control-strategy-that-outlines-comprehensive-path-forward-to-address-addiction-and-the-overdose-epidemic/

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Prevention Promotion Protection

Remembering CJ Harris – Alabama Native and American Idol – The Importance of Heart Health

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

PHOTO: @CJHarrisMusic / INSTAGRAM

The unexpected passing of CJ Harris, a talented Jasper, Alabama native who gained recognition through his appearance on season 13 of American Idol, is truly tragic. Fans and the music industry have felt mourning after its departure. At only 31 years old, Harris’ death serves as a reminder to prioritize heart health regardless of age.

Harris, recognized for his sincere character and compelling stage aura, made a memorable impact on the show and his fans’ hearts. Even though he was young, his performances highlighted great musical maturity and brought happiness to countless people (11Alive, 2023). CJ Harris, who died on 01/15/2023, went under a medical emergency with family confirming that he had a heart attack that led to his death.

The Importance of Heart Health at Any Age

CJ Harris’s heart condition led to his death since it was asymptomatic and late recognized. Preventing complications and saving lives can be achieved by detecting and addressing heart issues early despite individuals’ age. A healthy heart reduces the chances for complications, which can be achieved by regular medical check-ups, blood pressure screenings, and cholesterol level assessments that can identify potential risks, allowing for timely intervention and lifestyle modifications in all stages of life (World Health Organization, 2021). In addition, awareness about heart-healthy practices from an early stage can imbue lifelong customs that foster well-being.

Enhancing Long and Healthy Life

Heart health should never be underestimated, regardless of one’s age – and the untimely death of Harris serves as a poignant reminder. A healthy heart enhances long and healthy life for people by reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases in all stages of life. Globally, heart disease remains the primary reason for mortality, affecting individuals from various walks of life. Reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications later in life requires prioritizing heart health regardless of an individual’s age (World Health Organization, 2021). Evidence consistently reveals the interconnection between heart health and overall well-being. Reflecting on Harris’s death, he had a long life to live, only his heart health was not considered (due to his young age), leading to his death at 31. It is essential for individuals to have healthy hearts of all ages.

Reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and enjoying a healthier, more fulfilling life is possible for individuals by taking proactive measures and making informed lifestyle choices. Both individuals and society must promote heart health through education, awareness campaigns, and accessible healthcare services. A good and prosperous life depends on having a healthy heart. Have you talked to your doctor about heart health?

References

C.J. Harris, former “American Idol” contestant, dies at 31. (2023a). Retrieved June 21, 2023, from 11Alive.com website: https://www.11alive.com/article/news/nation-world/cj-harris-dies-at-31/507-7e872522-cc82-4919-8b09-d4a7fcbb9428

World Health Organization. (2021). Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs). Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cardiovascular-diseases-(vcds)

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Promotion

OUT OF THE WOODS – Taylor Swift Talks About Eating Disorders

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | Intern UAB School of Education-CHHS

Taylor Swift performs at the BBC Radio 1 Teen Awards 2012 at Wembley Arena on Oct. 7, 2012 in London.Dave J Hogan/Getty Images

Taylor Swift and the Dangers of Eating Disorders

Taylor Swift courageously discusses her struggles with body image and highlights the risks associated with eating disorders in the documentary “Miss Americana,” recently made available on Netflix. This article promotes awareness about the dangers associated with eating disorders by examining Taylor Swift’s road towards recovery from one of these conditions and delving into her personal experiences along the way.

An eating disorder severely impacts the mental and emotional well-being of a person. The fight to regain control over one’s eating habits can cause severe anxiety, concern, and depression. Mental health issues are made worse because people with these conditions often have a negative view of their bodies, low self-esteem, and strong feelings of guilt and shame (Willman, 2020). Sometimes, people can have problems connecting with others, leading to feelings of isolation and depression.

The road to recovery from an eating disorder is a challenging one that calls for assistance from trained professionals, encouragement from loved ones, and a dedication to one’s self-care. Swift strongly emphasizes the importance of getting professional help and locating good coping techniques (Garvey, 2020). She eventually learned to prioritize her well-being, build a more positive picture of her body, and establish a healthy relationship with food with the assistance of specialists in the field of mental health.

It is of the utmost importance that we inform ourselves and others of the risks associated with eating disorders. Recognizing the warning signals, providing assistance to individuals who are struggling, and cultivating a culture that places importance on one’s mental and physical health, are all things that may contribute to a society that is both healthier and more accepting of its diverse members. The path that Taylor Swift has been on serves as a powerful illustration of the fortitude and resiliency necessary to triumph over obstacles of this nature, while also serving as a call to all of us to prioritize self-care and compassion for ourselves and others.

References:

Garvey, M. (2020). Taylor Swift shares she struggled with an eating disorder. https://edition.cnn.com/2020/01/24/entertainment/taylor-swift-documentary/index.html

Willman, C. (2020). Taylor Swift Opens Up About Overcoming Struggle With Eating Disorder (EXCLUSIVE). https://variety.com/2020/music/news/taylor-swift-eating-disorder-netflix-documentary-miss-americana-1203478047/

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Advocacy Prevention

What Tina Turner Wanted You To Know About Prevention.

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | Intern UAB School of Education – CHHS

Tina Turner in 2018. Photo: FRANZISKA KRUG/GETTY

News of the death of Tina Turner broke the hearts of people worldwide. An inspiration to many, and a legend to all. “Turner was the first black artist and the first female artist to feature on the cover of Rolling Stone, according to the music publishing company BMG.” (Powell et al., 2023) The renowned singer and actress had been secretly battling illness. She had reportedly survived a stroke, kidney disease, and other conditions, such as intestinal cancer, which she was diagnosed with in 2016. A few days before her passing, Tina Turner warned her fans to look after themselves and listen to their bodies as she raised awareness of the common issue of kidney failure. In her social media post, Tina Turner wrote, “My kidneys are victims of me not realizing that my high blood pressure should have been treated with conventional medicine. I have put myself in great danger by refusing to face the reality that I need daily, lifelong therapy with medication. For far too long, I believed that my body was an untouchable and indestructible bastion,” (Whitman, 2023). Turner had been suffering from a kidney disease before her 2016 cancer diagnosis.

One of the major causes of kidney failure is high blood pressure (Mirror, 2023). Despite knowing she had a problem with high blood pressure, Turner says she failed to treat it. Tina required daily medications to manage her blood pressure. However, she failed to implement medicine into her routine, believing that her body was an indestructible and invulnerable bastion. Despite the developing signs and symptoms, which she blamed on medications, Turner kept ignoring them, only to realize that her kidneys were entering their final stage. Turner’s kidneys had reached an irreversible stage since their functions had hit an all-time low due to the inconsistency in taking her medications. In 2017, her doctor advised her that she would need 9-month dialysis before undergoing a kidney transplant. One of the lessons we can learn from Turner’s final days is that we should not ignore the message our body is trying to communicate to us. Listen to Tina, and don’t be naïve about your health.

RIP Tina Turner – Thank you for all the years of entertainment and inspiration!

References

Gordon, L. (2023, May 24). Tina Turner said she put herself in “Great danger” weeks before her death. Mirror. https://www.mirror.co.uk/3am/us-celebrity-news/tina-turners-emotional-last-post-30069740

Powell, T., Chowdhury, M., & Vera, A. (2023, May 25). Tina Turner dies at 83 – News and Tributes. CNN. https://www.cnn.com/entertainment/live-news/singer-tina-turner-death-news/index.html

Whitman, S. (2023, May 25). Tina Turner’s health: Her cancer battle, Stroke & Kidney Disease before she died. Hollywood Life. https://hollywoodlife.com/feature/tina-turner-health-5106537/

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Advancement-oriented Especially for the Ladies Health(y) Mission-fulfillment Profiles Promotion

A Gallon a Day, Helps Beyoncé to SLAY!

By abenko2016 on

Amanda Benko | Intern UAB School of Education – CHHS

Image Source: Getty / Kevin Winter/BET

Staying Hydrated – Why is it important to drink enough H20

Beyoncé says, “I try to take care of myself, drinking at least a gallon of water with lemon a day” (Cut, 2016). Did you know that water makes up most of your body weight and involves several vital functions, including removing waste from the body, regulating your body temperature, and helping with brain function? It is essential to note that water plays an important part in our body’s functioning. According to the CDC, getting enough water daily is necessary for your health. Drinking water daily can help you stay hydrated (CDC, 2022). It can also help regulate body temperature, help keep our joints lubricated, prevent infections, deliver nutrients to cells, and ensure that organs function properly. Being well-hydrated can help you improve the quality of your sleep, mood, and cognition. According to experts, one should drink approximately 11 cups of water daily for an average woman and around 16 cups for men. Water plays a vital role in various body functions, such as the digestion of food, absorption, circulation, and excretion (Aschwanden, 2021). Research has shown that drinking plenty of water helps transport nutrients, oxygen, and hormones across the body.

Drinking plenty of water also helps in the hydration of cells and tissues. Our bodies are composed mainly of water. Every cell, tissue, and organ depends on water for proper functioning. Proper hydration can help you maintain the balance of fluids within the body, enabling you to maintain optimal energy levels, enhance concentration, and improve one’s overall productivity. Studies also reiterate that drinking plenty of water is good for skin health. It can help keep your skin hydrated and moisturized, reducing the risk of dryness, wrinkles, and disorders affecting the skin. This helps promote a healthy complexion, possibly contributing to a more youthful experience.

In conclusion, water is essential to almost every part of your body. Drinking the recommended daily amount of water will help you maintain your current state of health and improve your overall health. If you are exercising or living in hotter regions, it is essential to increase your water intake to avoid dehydration. What steps do you find helpful to keep hydrated?

References:

Aschwanden, C. (2021, September 17). How much water do you actually need?. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/17/well/live/how-much-water-should-I-drink.html

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, June 6). Water and healthier drinks. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html

Cut, T. (2016, January 14). 33 celebrities on drinking water. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/sites/thecut/2016/01/12/33-celebrities-on-drinking-water/?sh=22035d557d3d

Stay hydrated for Healthier Living. (2014). Nursing Standard, 28(47), 13–13. https://doi.org/10.7748/ns.28.47.13.s12

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