Nurture of Alabama believes Birmingham can thrive, especially if communities address the mental health crisis experienced in our neighborhoods. Through the event Friday, May 19th, Nurture’s goals are to: 1) remove the stigma of mental health support, 2) improve mental health services accessibility, and 3) provide community education on mental health & wellness.
The event will have chair massages, a licensed professional counselor providing depression screenings, speakers, free resources, giveaways, local food trucks, yoga sessions, line dancing, blood pressure checks and more. So come out, have a good time, and let’s engage in mental wellness!
Shame is a painful, self-critical emotion; A feeling of humiliation or distress caused by the consciousness of wrong or foolish behavior. When we feel shame, it is common to think of ourselves in a negative light. We begin to think that we are ugly, incompetent, or stupid (The psychology of shame, 2023). The moment we begin having these thoughts, we separate our true selves with an ideal image of who we aspire to be. Our ideal image is usually represented by a strong figure, not someone who drowns themselves in self-pity.
Shame is associated with many mental health disorders. The most common mental health disorder that shame is correlated with is suicide, which is often seen as a motive for suicidal behavior. In 2021, 47,646 people died by suicide (CDC, 2022). Suicide rates have been skyrocketing for years and there is evidence that social factors such as loniless, financial ruin and shame are more direct causes of this dramatic increase.
The most common questions we are asked in the United States are “What do you do?” or “Are you seeing anyone?” or “When are you going to have kids?” Oftentimes, when we are being asked these questions, we judge ourselves before anyone else gets a chance to. But what would happen if we let others judge us without judging ourselves? When we leave this world, we aren’t going to care what people say about us.
So how can we learn let go of our shamefulness?
Admit when you feel shame and explore why.
Talk to someone you trust about what you are feeling.
Find compassion for yourself.
Remember that your opinion of yourself matters the most!
We do not feel ashamed because of our actions, but because of who we are (The psychology of shame, 2023).
By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern
Photo by Olia Danilevich on Pexels.com
The use of diabetes medication for weight loss is a growing trend among people facing obesity risks. A drug called semaglutide is used to help individuals manage their body mass. Based on existing studies, this medication is effective for weight loss. Its criticality is also based on limiting the development of type 2 diabetes (Singh et al., 2021). Patients receiving a dose of semaglutide medication have a higher chance of maintaining a desirable body mass index. Thus, the use of diabetes medications provides leverage for weight loss. This efficacy also makes it possible to mitigate the development and effects tied to type 2 diabetes. Therefore, the medication is a critical intervention for weight-related risk factors.
Even though diabetes medications such as semaglutide and liraglutide have positive effects on weight loss, they have negative implications. For example, their use curbs cravings for certain foods critical for relevant nutrients. The medications also lead to side effects like diarrhea and bloating (Singh et al., 2021). These issues may limit the achievement of the desired life quality. As such, there is a need to consider the reduction of side effects tied to diabetes medications. This stance would increase their efficacy in the advancement of weight loss. Thus, the interventions instigate the limitation of obesity-related issues that may reduce one’s quality of life.
Based on the review of existing studies, diabetes medication for weight loss is effective in mitigating weight-related issues. They also protect against the development of type 2 diabetes among at-risk populations (Singh et al., 2021). Thus, drugs, such as semaglutide, are instrumental to be applied in the weight loss process. They are effective in handling the risk of obesity and diabetes. Despite their side effects, the positive aspects are immense. Therefore, diabetes medication should be used to promote weight loss among at-risk patients.
Reference
Singh, G., Krauthamer, M., & Bjalme-Evans, M. (2021). Wegovy (semaglutide): A new weight loss drug for chronic weight management. Journal of Investigative Medicine, 70(1), 5–13. https://doi.org/10.1136/jim-2021-001952
Tension headaches affect the overall well-being of a person. The provision of interventions that relieve them advances the quality of life. One common way to relieve tension headaches is by using painkillers. (Hassan & Asaad, 2020). Medication is the first choice since it relieves pain. Physical exercises, such as yoga, provide leverage for the relaxation of the body, which can help to relieve tension headaches (Hassan & Asaad, 2020). Massages are also used to loosen tension in the head and neck muscles. This intervention is necessary because it stretches tight and shortened muscles, which aids in releasing tension in the head.
Other intervention measures that can be used to advance the relief of tension headaches include getting adequate sleep, using cold ice packs, etc. Changing sleep habits can help limit the experience of sleep apnea or insomnia. Cold packs can also be placed on the head to reduce tension headaches (Hassan & Asaad, 2020). The cooling effect reduces pain and minimizes headaches. If an individual has a tension headache, they are encouraged to stay at home and avoid taxing activities. They would also provide leverage for long-term quality health since they limit the experience of pain.
The application of non-evidence-based intervention measures may also relieve tension headaches. One relevant suggestion is to avoid stressful situations. The probability of having tension headaches are higher when we are stressed, or in noisy environments. That risk decreases when surroundings are conductive. In turn, calm environments are guaranteed to relieve tension headaches.
Reference
Hassan, M., & Asaad, T. (2020). Tension-type headache, its relation to stress, and how to relieve it by cryotherapy among academic students. Middle East Current Psychiatry, 27(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s43045-020-00030-3
By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern
Credit: Britney Griner Instagram
The release of Brittney Griner from Russian imprisonment garnered a great deal of attention from around the nation. Brittney Griner is a two-time Olympic gold medalist and WNBA athlete that was detained at a Russian airport in 2022. Russian officials accused Griner of being in possession of CBD cartridges which is illegal in the country. However, 10 months after being sentenced to nine years in prison, she is back on America soil thanks to a highly controversial prison swap. As such, her homecoming is both joy-filled and packed with the reality of possible lifelong mental health implications.
CNN Reporters Salahieh and Yan shared Griner was held in an imprisonment camp for women that provided beds insufficient for a small child. Standing six feet nine inches tall, this was one component of her captivity that prevented her from getting sleep. Additionally, the camp forced women to sew as a form of intensive labor. However, Griner was too tall to sit at the tables and her hands were too large for the sewing machines. As a last resort, she was assigned to carrying the fabric used to create various garments. Most notably, Griner was forced to cut her signature locs which nearly reached her waistline. This was considered necessary since Griner could not dry her hair in the frigid temperatures of Russia and constantly battled the flu and pneumonia from exposed, wet hair. Along with these inconveniences, there were numerous aspects of the experience that would cause Griner to need the professional help of a therapist to strengthen her mental state.
As such, it is highly recommended that Griner and her loved ones that have been a part of the journey receive psychological counseling to address any emergent issues. Acknowledging being imprisoned in another country, serving as a political pawn for world leaders, being deemed unworthy for a prisoner swap, and being separated from family; it is imperative that Griner gets the supports she may need. Griner and her family may need to unpack the difficulties of being detained in another country, serving in a penal colony, and dealing with the anxiety of release. This can be achieved in individual counseling, group counseling, and trauma therapy. All parties can also join online support groups, perform community service, and connect with or advocate for Americans still in captivity.
Have you been impacted by a traumatic event? Was your family also impacted? Be encouraged and seek support for yourself and your family. For resources in your community, use the FindTreatment.gov to find the closest treatment location.
Plastic surgery, also commonly referred to as cosmetic surgery, is increasing in popularity throughout the United States. This practice can be defined as trying to uniquely enhance one’s physical appearance by undergoing surgical or medical procedures. According to Theunissen Aesthetic Plastic Surgery of Baton Rouge, some of the most frequently received plastic surgery requests are for nose enhancements, breast augmentations, and butt enlargements. Additionally, people often make surgical changes to their cheekbones, stomach area, and arms. Individuals are spending thousands, and sometimes having multiple surgeries, to look younger, more attractive, and socially appealing, often at great risk. The prevalence of butt injections has resulted in numerous deaths with several individuals being incarcerated for illegally providing them. For example, journalist Adriana Diaz of the Daily Mail wrote about the case of Maxine Messam of Bridgeport, New York, who died after receiving botched injections and being driven to the hospital unconscious.
Theunissen Aesthetic Plastic Surgery warns there are repercussions people far too often overlook. While the obvious benefits of altering one’s individual look can be achieved, undergoing plastic surgery procedures can lead to major health issues. This may include developing bacterial infections, having surgical complications, and/or experiencing unforeseen illnesses. Also, some candidates for surgery may be high risk for problems due to their current health state while others may encounter lasting scars, viruses, and/or a diversity of other lifetime consequences.
As such, it is highly suggested people explore healthier alternatives before seeking plastic surgery. If not, there can be significant psychological issues that accompany any operations. Specifically, Michael Reilly and Karen Parsa of Psychology Today warn people that they may develop body dysmorphic disorder (BDD). This is a mental illness individuals develop after becoming addicted to plastic surgery. People with this issue are obsessive in their thinking or compulsive in their actions. Additionally, researchers Randy and Lori Sansone of Psychiatry (Edgmont) found there is a stark rise in patients of primary care physicians and mental health professionals that have undergone cosmetic surgery. These individuals are often at a higher risk for suicide, BDD, and other psychiatric comorbidities. However, there are healthy ways of preventing these mental illnesses. The most beneficial steps individuals can take is to work on their self-esteem and level of confidence.
Comprehensively, Melissa Dittmann from the American Psychological Association (APA) states, it is imperative more psychologists start to evaluate issues related to cosmetic surgery. The importance arises from a major increase in popularity of cosmetic surgery and a rise in the number of people dissatisfied with their appearance and body image.” As such, it is not advantageous to try to keep up with societal norms and magazine standards for beauty. These industries use manipulation tactics to alter the appearance of models, actors, and tv personalities in a way that does not align with their natural state. This makes it important for people to know what they see is not real. Instead, we should embrace our own beauty and not allow society to make them feel less than. Still, for people that choose to pursue plastic surgery for other reasons, it is important to do research on the procedure and the professionals performing it. Per, Theunissen Aesthetic Plastic Surgery following all post-op care orders to prevent complications, infections, or life-long difficulties is imperative.
So what about you? Have you considered cosmetic surgery? Are you working to improve your appearance? Leave a comment on this blog and/or join us on Facebook.
References
Dittmann, Melissa. (2005). Plastic surgery: Beauty or beast? American Psychological
By Jaelyn Copeland | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern
Vitamins and minerals are critical for several important bodily functions. Often referred to as micronutrients, vitamins and minerals are not produced in the body. Instead they are commonly consumed through food or supplements (CDC, 2022).
The berry of the black elder tree, or Sambucus nigra, known as elderberry, is full of antioxidants that we need to sustain a healthy lifestyle. Although it is native to Europe, the black elder tree can also be found in North America, some regions of Asia, and Africa. Elderberry has been used in traditional medicine to promote general health for years. Whether it is used as an extract or juice concentrate from the whole fruit, elderberry is now frequently used in dietary supplements. Products containing elderberry are primarily marketed to support immune health. It also helps alleviate symptoms of respiratory illnesses, including the common cold, the flu, and COVID-19.
There are several different formulations of elderberry supplements; including syrups, pills, and lozenges. Numerous goods are sold expressly to children, notably those that come in chewable or gummy form. Additionally, some products combine the berries with other components of the black elder tree, most frequently elderflower. Elderberry may be hazardous if improperly prepared.
The stems and leaves of the elder tree, as well as unripe elderberries, contain cyanide-producing substances that can be poisonous if consumed. These chemicals can be eliminated through cooking, but many homemade elderberry recipes do not call for enough heat to completely evaporate all toxins, making them more likely to have negative effects than over-the-counter remedies.
There have been more complaints of elderberry products recently being contaminated. If you’re thinking about taking an elderberry supplement, please talk to your doctor first make sure the product you choose has received third-party certification.
By Jaelyn Copeland| UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern
In today’s hectic environment, yoga, an age-old practice of meditation, has grown in popularity. Yoga began as a spiritual practice but has become popular as a way of promoting physical and mental well-being (Yoga: What you need to know, 2023). It also offers many people a respite from their hectic and stressful life. This holds true whether you’re doing downward dog on a mat in your bedroom, an ashram in India, or even Times Square in New York City. Numerous other psychological and physical advantages of yoga exist. Some of these reach the dining room table.
Inner awareness is developed through yoga. It directs your attention to the capabilities of your body right now. It enhances physical and mental stamina and breath. It has nothing to do with appearance.
Mirrors are often absent from yoga studios. This allows people to concentrate on themselves instead of how they seem in a stance or in relation to others. According to surveys, persons who practiced yoga were more conscious of their bodies than those who didn’t. Additionally, they felt better about and were less critical of their bodies. Due to these factors, yoga is now a crucial component of programs that support a good body image and sense of self-worth as well as the treatment of eating disorders.
According to their results, the researchers discovered that those who practiced yoga were more conscious eaters. Better mindful eating scores were correlated with years of yoga practice as well as weekly minutes of practice. You become more conscious of how your body feels as you practice yoga. When eating, you can use this increased awareness to savor each bite or drink and pay attention to how the food feels, tastes, and smells in your mouth.
Yoga is more complex than it looks, however, you are guaranteed to feel rejuvenated after one session. This type of movement stretches your muscles and aids in increasing blood flow going needed when performing physical activity.
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