THE ISLAND
Check Up YOUR LOCAL HEALTH & WELLNESS GUIDE • PUBLISHED BY LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP
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HIGHLIGHTS
Welcome to THE ISLAND
Check Up Health and wellness has always been very significant, however, recently more than ever it seems to be front and center in all of our lives. This industry encompasses many different businesses, whether it be a yoga studio, dentist, veterinarian or senior living community, there is one thing in common; one's well being. The Island Check Up is a brand new magazine published by Long Island Media Group, which focuses on health and wellness. This publication is mailed in 12 local editions to a total of over 100,000 homes. Looking to view all of the editions? Not a problem. Visit www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu today!
Healthy Habits Can Become Part Of Your Daily Routine Simple Ways To Maintain Memory As You Age How To Eat To Improve Your Energy Levels Brush Up On Pet Dental Health Strategies To Protect Your Mental Health
08 12 14 18 20
PUBLISHED BY LONG ISLAND MEDIA GROUP Publisher: Jeff Lambert • Art Director: Josh Marlowe Editor: Felicia Edwards • Marketing Manager: Noelle Stanuch 565 Broadhollow Road, Suite 3, Farmingdale, NY 11735 631.226.2636 • info@longislandmediagroup.com www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
Copyright © 2021 by Long Island Media Group, LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The publisher will not be responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error, and such responsibility, if any, shall be limited to the first use of advertising, in the case of repeated use. The publisher reserves the right to edit or reject any advertising at its sole discretion. The advertiser shall represent that all artwork and copy provided by the advertiser is owned by the advertiser, and it has the right to utilize such in this publication.
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Healthy Habits Can Become Part Of Your Daily Routine
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person’s habits can have a strong impact on his or her overall health. Unhealthy habits like smoking and living a sedentary lifestyle can increase a person’s risk for various conditions and diseases. On the flip side, healthy habits like eating a nutritious diet and getting enough sleep can bolster a person’s immune system and reduce his or her risk for various ailments. Some healthy habits, like daily exercise, can be time-consuming. Busy adults may not have time to exercise vigorously each day, though the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services urges men and women to find time for at least 150 minutes of moderateintensity aerobic activity each week. But not all healthy habits take up time. In fact, adults can incorporate various healthy practices into their daily routines without skipping a beat.
per day can contribute to six pounds of weight loss over the course of a single year. In addition, a study from the North American Menopause Society found that stair climbing can help postmenopausal women reduce their risk for osteoporosis and help them lower their blood pressure.
• Drink more water. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that water helps the body maintain a normal temperature, lubricates and cushions joints, protects the spinal cord and other sensitive tissues, and helps to rid the body of waste through urination, perspiration and bowel movements. Adults who are thirsty can choose water over soda or other sugary beverages. The CDC notes that sugary beverages like soda and sports drinks contain calories but little nutritional value, making water • Take the stairs. Taking the a healthier way for individuals to stairs instead of the elevator quench their thirst. can have a profound effect on • Go for daily walks. overall health. According to Walking benefits the body in Duke University, climbing just myriad ways. For example, the two flights of stairs combined Harvard School of Public Health
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notes that women who walk 30 minutes per day can reduce their risk of stroke by 20 percent and potentially by 40 percent if they walk briskly. In addition, researchers at the University of Virginia Health System found that men between the ages of 71 and 93 who walked more than a quarter mile per day had
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half the incidence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease as men who walked less. A 15-minute walk around the neighborhood each morning coupled with a 15-minute walk after dinner can help adults dramatically improve their overall health. • Eat more greens. Eating more greens is another healthy habit that doesn’t require a major overhaul of an individual’s lifestyle. The U.S. Department of Agriculture notes that dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, are rich in vitamins A,C, E, and K. The Mayo Clinic notes that vitamin E alone can help people maintain their vision and promote a healthy reproductive system while also improving the health of the blood, brain and skin. The USDA also notes that green vegetables contain very little carbohydrates, sodium and cholesterol. Adults won’t have to reinvent the dietary wheel to incorporate more greens into their diets, and the results of doing so can have a significant, positive effect on their overall health. The right habits can help people live healthier lives, and such habits need not require any major life changes.
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Signs Your Young Child Is Having Vision Problems
Simple Ways To Maintain Memory As You Age
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dults confront various agerelated side effects as they transition from middle age to their golden years. Skin may begin to wrinkle and hair may turn gray, but those are just the visible side effects of aging. Many additional effects are unseen, but those changes can have a profound effect on adults’ quality of life. According to the Mayo Clinic, various parts of the body are affected by aging. For example, the cardiovascular system changes as people grow older. Blood vessels and arteries stiffen
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s many a parent can attest, decoding a youngster’s needs can be challenging when that child is not yet able to fully communicate. Diagnosing health issues may require a little trial and error. So it’s no wonder many parents are not aware if their children are having issues with vision. Routine wellness exams by your child’s physician can help to determine if a child is having problems with his or her vision. Doctors may detect subtleties that parents may not see, including signs that suggest kids are having trouble with their vision. The American Optometric Association recommends vision exams at age six months, three years and before entering first grade, as well as every two years thereafter until age 18. Initial vision assessments typically take place in a pediatrician’s office. Parents can speak with their children’s pediatrician and ask if he or she can look for signs of vision trouble in their sons or daughters. Some pediatricians may recommend children visit an optometrist or ophthalmologist. In addition to speaking with their children’s pediatricians, parents can keep an eye out for the following warning signs children may exhibit when they’re www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
experiencing vision disorders. • Squinting, which can be a sign of compensating for poor vision. • Sitting too close to the television or holding a tablet screen close to the face. • Covering or shutting one eye. • Rubbing eyes due to visual fatigue and not general fatigue. • Pulling toys or other objects closer. • Head tilting, which could be a signal that vision may be better in one eye than the other. • Inability to make steady eye contact or track an object in an infant older than three months of age. • Crossed or misaligned eyes after age four months. • Children who are easily distracted in learning situations or have difficulty paying attention may be losing interest due to trouble with their vision. A proactive approach to eye health by parents when children are young can help correct problems early on and ensure children can see and function successfully through the years. Early treatment can lead to major, long-term improvements in vision.
as adults age, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through them. Though many changes are linked to aging, other changes commonly associated with aging, such as a decline in memory, reasoning and other thinking skills, are not natural. The Alzheimer’s Association® notes that dementia is not a normal part of aging. There are many different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, and these are the result of damage to brain cells that affect a person’s ability to communicate. That damage is not inevitable, even if it’s commonly associated with aging. The Harvard Medical School notes that fleeting memory problems experienced with aging often reflect normal changes in the structure and function of the brain. It’s important that those changes not be mistaken for dementia, and
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it’s equally important that adults recognize there are many ways they can protect and sharpen their minds as they age. • Continue learning. HMS notes that a higher level of education is associated with improved mental functioning in old age. The reasons for that are unknown, but experts theorize that advanced education compels people to remain mentally active, which in turn helps them maintain a strong memory. Even aging men and women who are still working in challenging fields can benefit from pursuing a new hobby or learning a new skill. • Use the tools at your disposal. It may seem counterintuitive to suggest that organizational tools like planners, maps and lists can help people maintain their memories. However, HMS notes that expending mental energy on finding car keys or trying to remember what to buy at the store makes it harder to learn new and important things. • Let all your senses play a role. HMS reports that the more senses a person uses to learn something, the more his or her brain is involved in retaining a memory. HMS cites one study in which adults were shown a series of emotionally neutral images that were each presented along with a smell. Participants were not asked to recall what they saw, but were later shown a set of images and asked to indicate which they had previously seen. The participants had excellent recall for the odorpaired images, and researchers believe that’s because additional parts of the brain were activated when participants were asked to use more than one sense. Memory loss is not an inevitable side effect of aging, especially for adults who take steps to maintain their memories as they age.
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Invest in your spiritual health... ...it will change your life! Sunday Service: 11AM •Casual Atmosphere •Live Worship Band •Fun Kids Programs •Small Groups •Authentic Community •Food Pantry Plus, you can scan and watch our services online!
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How To Eat To Improve Your Energy Levels
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little extra energy during the day could benefit just about anyone. Late morning mental fatigue and the post-lunch yawns may seem unavoidable, but there are plenty of ways to improve energy levels throughout the day. One such means to getting an extra hop in your step involves utilizing food. The health care experts at Kaiser Permanente® note that every part of the body, including the brain and heart, require energy to work. The body gets that energy from food. According to the National Health Service, the publicly funded health care system of the United Kingdom, a healthy, balanced diet is the best way to maintain sufficient energy levels throughout the day. A dietary approach rooted in eating to energize can change the way people eat, potentially helping them avoid unhealthy foods that won’t give them the boost they need. The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics echoes the sentiments of the NHS, noting that eating better is an effective way to improve energy levels. The AAND also recommends additional strategies for people looking to foods to provide an energy boost.
can find its way onto your plate, which should include a combination of whole grains, lean protein, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, and fat-free or low-fat dairy. If that’s too much for a single sitting, ensure these food groups are represented on your plate at some point during the day. • Avoid added sugars. Added sugars can adversely affect energy levels. In addition, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that consuming too many added sugars, which are found in sugar-sweetened beverages like soda and iced tea and sweet snacks like candy, increases a person’s risk for obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The AAND notes that the energy provided by foods with added sugars is typically misleading, as it wears off quickly and ultimately leads to an energy crash. If you’re looking to eat and drink for energy, then choose water or low-fat milk instead of coffee and soda and replace sweet snacks with fruit.
approach also can prevent the between-meal hunger pangs that compel many people to reach for whatever food is readily available, even if it’s unhealthy. When eating every three to four hours, remember to prepare smaller portions than you would if you were eating three meals per day. The AAND points out • Choose the right snacks. The AAND that feeling comfortably full but not stuffed is recommends snacks have lean protein and a good indicator that you’ve eaten enough. fiber-rich carbohydrates. Low-fat Greek yogurt, • Eat every three to four hours. The • Aim for balance. A balanced plate should apples, a handful of unsalted nuts, and carrots AAND notes that eating every three to four include foods from multiple food groups. The are some examples of healthy snacks that will hours helps to fuel a healthy metabolism. This AAND notes that even a small amount of fat provide an energy boost between meals.
How Adults Can Take Active Roles In Their Health Care
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dults play a significant role in their own health care. Adults focused on getting fit may visit various fitness facilities before signing up for a membership, and individuals who want to improve their diets may spend countless hours poring over healthy recipes and the latest trends in nutrition. Such research pays dividends, and the same commitment can be applied to choosing the right health care services.
Adults who are enrolled in employersponsored health insurance plans may feel as though their options are limited in regard to their health care services. However, there are many ways for patients to get more out of their health care plans. • Shop around for a primary care physician. It’s easy to be overwhelmed when perusing lists of in-network primary care physicians provided by insurance companies. Such lists can seem endless and it can be hard to distinguish one physician from another. Adults in need of new primary care physicians can ask neighbors or family and friends who live nearby for recommendations. It’s www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
mammograms have reduced breast cancer mortality in the United States by 40 percent since 1990. Many insurance providers cover annual physicals at no cost to the patient, and screenings can catch diseases early when they’re at their most treatable and treatment is less expensive and less time-consuming. • Be a prepared patient. Prepare a list of questions prior to a scheduled doctor’s appointment. Jot questions down as they come to you in the weeks leading up to the appointment and don’t hesitate to ask important to put the time in when choosing questions during the visit. a primary care physician, as people who are comfortable with their physicians are • Be open and honest with your more likely to schedule annual wellness physician. Concealing behaviors from visits or book appointments when they your physician will negate some of the aren’t feeling well. Such visits can be life- benefits of visiting the doctor. For example, if you live a largely sedentary lifestyle but saving. tell your doctor you’re physically active, he • Schedule annual wellness visits. or she won’t offer advice on how to make Annual wellness visits are very important, exercise a bigger part of your life. Being even for health-conscious individuals who open and honest with a physician enables are not experiencing any signs of illness the doctor to give the best medical advice. or injury. Regular checkups and screenings Taking an active role in their health can uncover health problems even when care is a great way for adults to no symptoms are present, potentially improve their overall health and can saving patients’ lives. For example, Hackensack Meridian Health reports that help them reduce their risk for illness. EDITION TWELVE
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“
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Mental health is just as important as physical health. Many people are aware of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, a mental health problem that some individuals develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event. However, for some, it can be hard to understand just how serious this disorder can be. While it has been noted that a diagnosis of PTSD requires exposure to an upsetting traumatic event, that exposure can be indirect rather than firsthand. PTSD is not exclusive to those who have served in the military, however, it has long been linked to combat veterans. At Paws of War, we provide essential and supportive services to our heroes in need by incorporating the love of pets. For example, service dogs can help combat the daily symptoms of PTSD. They can be trained to pick up stress signals and intervene with their owner to shift focus back to a positive environment.
Please visit us on Facebook to see what we are doing throughout our community. To help support our mission, visit www.pawsofwar.org and donate today.
PAWS OF WAR 127 Smithtown Blvd., Nesconset
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AUGUST 2021
Add Spark to Salad Dishes with Fresh Veggies
S
alads are a dietary staple across the globe. Salads are traditionally served chilled or at room temperature, and many are enhanced by oil, vinegar or another dressing. Many people are quick to think of certain varieties of lettuce as the prime base for salads. However, just about any fruit or vegetable can serve as a foundation for a tasty salad. Zucchini and tomato provide excellent nutrition and can be very hydrating. These versatile ingredients can be combined to form a robust salad to accompany any meal or one that can be enjoyed on its own. Such is the case with this recipe for “Raw Zucchini Salad” from “The Mediterranean Diet Cookbook” (Rockridge Press) by the editors of the Rockridge Press. Refreshing and filling, this salad may quickly become a staple of your diet.
Raw Zucchini Salad Serves 2 1 medium zucchini, shredded or sliced paper thin 6 cherry tomatoes, halved 3 tablespoons olive oil Juice of 1 lemon Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 3 to 4 basil leaves, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons freshly grated low-fat Parmesan cheese
Directions Layer the zucchini slices on two plates in even layers. Top with the tomatoes. Drizzle with the olive oil and lemon juice. Season to taste. Top with the basil and sprinkle with cheese before serving.
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Six Things You Should Be Asking Your Pharmacist …But Aren’t
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n estimated 4.5 billion prescriptions will be filled this year in the United States, with about half of consumers taking at least one prescription medication over the past 30 days. “You’d think we would be better at communicating with our pharmacists – just as we do with our other health care providers, like doctors, nurses, and dentists,” says Susan Peppers, R.Ph., vice president of Pharmacy Practice at Express Scripts. “Unfortunately, it’s just not the case.” In fact, a JD Power study shows that only 10% of people talk to a pharmacist when ordering or receiving their medications. Express Scripts pharmacists were asked what are the top six questions patients should be asking their pharmacists, but don’t. Their answers offer insights into why we should take the time to ask these questions and why pharmacists play an important role in our health care. • Could this medication interact with my vitamins and supplements? Nonprescription medications and supplements can interfere with your prescription or cause unnecessary side effects. Talk to a pharmacist about all the medications you take, especially when you are prescribed any new medication. • I’m taking multiple meds. What do I need to know? If you are on multiple medications for one or more chronic conditions you should speak with a pharmacist any time there is a change to your medication regimen to check for potential drug-drug interactions, medication overlap or gaps in care. • What should I do if I forget to take my medication? Always consult with your prescriber on what to do if this happens. Having access to your pharmacist 24/7 is particularly important when you forget to take a dosage at the scheduled time. He or she can help you get back on track so that you get the
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full benefits of your medication. Having access to your pharmacist from the privacy of your home is another great reason to look for this 24/7 convenience. • Could this prescription make me unsteady on my feet? Some medications can make you dizzy or drowsy, and there are other hazards in the home that can cause a fall, especially as one ages and needs to get up frequently during the night. A pharmacist can provide home safety tips to avoid an accident. • I sometimes forget to take my meds. What’s a reminder that works? Taking medications regularly can help avoid complications. When having trouble remembering to take your medications, turn to pharmacists, who can suggest tech solutions that will work for you, such as reminder apps. They can also help you manage side effects you may be having and identify alternatives that you can discuss with your prescriber, when needed. • Is there a more affordable option for my prescription? If you are having trouble affording your medication, your pharmacists can help with more affordable options and recommendations, such as generics or less expensive formulary options. For more tips and resources, visit www.esrx.com/ AskYourPharmacist. (StatePoint)
H
Health Screenings
ealth screenings are a vital component of preventative health care. Specific screenings for older adults can help them stay healthy. Healthline and WebMD recommend older adults schedule these routine tests. The frequency of the screenings may depend on individuals’ health histories, so each test should be discussed with a physician during adults’ annual checkups. • Blood pressure check • Blood test to check cholesterol and triglyceride levels • Colorectal cancer exam starting at age 50 • Weight screening to check for gains or losses • Prostate cancer screening for men age 70 and older • Breast exam and mammogram for women, starting at age 40 • Pap smear and HPV tests at the recommended intervals advised by a doctor • Hearing test • Osteoporosis test • Shingles and pneumococcal vaccines • Eye exam • Periodontal exam once per year
Home Care by Seniors for Seniors There’s a huge difference in the kind of home care you can receive from someone who really understands what your life is like as a senior. The concerns you have. The need for independence. Someone who, like you, has a little living under his or her belt. Our loving, caring, compassionate seniors are there to help. We offer all the services you need to stay in your own home, living independently. • Companion Care • Housekeeping Services • Meal Preparation/Cooking • Personal Care • Overnight and 24-Hour Care • Transportation • Shopping • Doctor Appointments
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Brush Up On Pet Dental Health
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• Start brushing pets’ teeth. Brushing a pet’s teeth can promote good oral health and potentially prevent serious problems along the way. Always use a pet-safe toothpaste, and talk to a veterinarian about a special dental diet.
ompanionship, unconditional love and security are just some of the perks of pet ownership. People who bring pets into their homes understand that a certain commitment comes with becoming a pet owner. Pet owners recognize they need to provide food, shelter and basic healthcare for their pets, but they may not recognize the role dental health plays in helping pets be as healthy as possible. The American Animal Hospital Association notes that dental disease can start early in a pet’s life. By the age of three, most dogs and cats will have some level of dental disease. If dental disease is left untreated, pets may suffer from inflammation, infection and even chronic pain. The animal health and wellness site VetStreet says that more than 70 percent of cats and dogs over age four are affected by periodontal disease. Bacteria from poor dental health may spread to other organs and cause illnesses. Recognizing the signs of pet dental disease and taking steps to alleviate it can keep pets healthy.
• Invest in other dental products. Seek products that receive the approval of the Veterinary Oral Health Council to help maintain a pet’s oral hygiene. Avoid products like synthetic bones, antlers and other animal bones, which can fracture an animal’s teeth. • Work with your veterinarian. Vets typically use X-rays to diagnose dental disease, as teeth may appear normal to the naked eye but still be diseased. Anesthesia is frequently used in dental evaluations and cleanings. It makes it safer and less stressful for the animal and the vet. Speak with your vet about the frequency of dental cleanings and care, asking any questions you may have about the safety and efficacy of anesthesia use.
or cat’s mouth may indicate a problem such Pet owners must prioritize their furry friends’ • Acknowledge bad breath. Bad as stomatitis, a common feline condition that breath is not something that comes with the causes inflammation to the oral tissues and oral health. Though often overlooked, pets’ dental health is integral to their overall health. territory of having a pet. Odor from a dog gums.
Signs Dogs Are Having Vision Problems
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og owners take their furry friends’ health very seriously. Like their human companions, dogs can experience health problems that seemingly come out of nowhere. Unlike the men and women who take care of them, dogs cannot call the doctor when something is bothering them. That responsibility rests on the shoulders of their owners. A dog’s eyes can be a window into the animal’s overall health. According to the pet care professionals at Memphis Veterinary Specialists & Emergency, serious conditions such as liver disease, diabetes and autoimmune diseases can all present indicators in a dog’s eyes. The American Kennel Club Canine Health Foundation® says that dogs can experience physical and/or behavioral problems when they’re experiencing eye trouble. A host of factors can contribute to vision problems in dogs. Age is one such factor, but diseases such as diabetes and hereditary conditions, including progressive retinal atrophy, also can lead to visual impairment. Before dog owners can work with veterinarians to determine the cause of their furry friends’ vision loss, they must first learn to recognize signs of impairment. The AKC notes that some of these signs may be obvious while others are more subtle.
should book a vet appointment immediately. • Trouble locating food or toys: Most dogs love to eat and drink and play with their toys. So a sudden inability to find food or water bowls or a favorite toy could indicate the dog is having vision problems. • Reluctance to jump on or off a couch: This symptom can be less noticeable than bumping into furniture or having trouble finding food. Dogs that once loved to jump on or off a couch but now stick to the floor may be doing so due to impaired vision and the fear of not being able to see where they’re jumping. • Clinginess: The AKC notes that some dogs cling to their owners as they experience vision loss. • Aggressiveness: Dogs may begin to show aggression as they experience vision loss. That’s because the loss of their eyesight can make them feel vulnerable, leading some to act offensively as a defense mechanism.
• Physical indicators/behaviors: Dog owners should be on the lookout for red, puffy or swollen eyes. In addition, Memphis Veterinary Specialists & Emergency notes that some dogs may paw at their face • Bumping into walls or furniture: This is a clear indicator that in response to vision loss. a dog is experiencing vision problems. Dog owners who notice this Vision loss in dogs can be caused by many things. The first step to is happening even when there’s nothing to obstruct their dogs’ path helping dogs overcome diminished vision is recognizing its symptoms.
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Dental Hygiene Is About Strategies To Protect Your More Than Just Your Teeth Mental Health because people with diabetes are more vulnerable to infections than those without diabetes. While that suggests periodontal disease is a byproduct of diabetes, the AAP notes that research points to the relationship being a two-way street. Periodontal disease may make it more difficult for people with diabetes to control their blood sugar, making dental hygiene an especially vital component of routine healthcare for people with diabetes.
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ndividuals tend to learn about dental hygiene at an early age. On the recommendation of their children’s pediatricians, parents may begin brushing their youngsters’ teeth the moment the first tooth breaks through the gums. While proper dental hygiene is vital to oral health, it also can have a profound effect on the rest of the body. According to the Mayo Clinic, poor oral health might contribute to various diseases and conditions. Periodontitis is a severe yet preventable gum infection that can lead to tooth loss if left untreated. But the threat of periodontitis doesn’t end in the mouth. The American Academy of Periodontology notes there’s a connection between periodontitis and several other diseases. While bacteria was long suspected to be the link between periodontitis and other diseases in the body, the AAP notes that recent research points to inflammation as the culprit that connects periodontitis with diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. • Diabetes: The AAP notes that people with diabetes are at increased risk for periodontal disease, speculating that diabetes patients’ risk is higher www.longislandmediagroup.com/ticu
• Heart disease: The AAP notes that research indicates periodontal disease increases a person’s risk for heart disease, with the inflammation caused by the former leading to the latter. People with existing heart conditions also may find that periodontal disease exacerbates those conditions. The Mayo Clinic notes that the link between heart disease and periodontal disease is not fully understood, but enough studies have been conducted for scientists to support the notion that the two are connected. • Can periodontal disease be prevented? Periodontal disease is preventable. A daily dental hygiene regimen that includes brushing after meals, flossing at least once per day and swishing with mouthwash are some simple, healthy habits that can prevent periodontal disease. In addition, the AAP recommends that people at increased risk for periodontal disease, including the elderly and smokers, should discuss their risk with their dental professionals. Dental hygiene can do more for individuals than produce a mouthful of pearly white teeth. In fact, people who prioritize dental hygiene may lower their risks for various diseases.
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mproving one’s overall health and maintaining that health over the long haul can have a profound impact on quality of life. For example, the Harvard Medical School notes that regular exercise can slow the natural decline in physical performance that occurs as people age. That means routine exercise can serve as something like a fountain of youth that allows people to keep their cardiovascular fitness, metabolism and muscle function on par with their younger counterparts.
reactions. The prefrontal cortex is another part of the brain that needs sufficient sleep to function properly. Without it, the prefrontal cortex, which is integral to impulse control, cannot function properly. Adults can speak with their physicians about how much sleep they should be getting each night. Those needs change as individuals age.
• Eat a balanced diet. A balanced, healthy diet doesn’t just benefit the waistline. According to the ADAA, a balanced diet that includes protein, healthy non-saturated fats, fiber, and When attempting to improve longsome simple carbohydrates can term health, it’s important that reduce the likelihood that mental people emphasize mental health health issues like fatigue, difficulty as much as they do their physical concentrating and irritability will health. The Anxiety & Depression arise during the day. Association of America notes the in your importance and effectiveness of • Volunteer preventive efforts in relation to community. A 2020 study depression and anxiety. In regard published in the Journal of to mental health, prevention efforts Happiness Studies found that can function in much the same way people who volunteered in the that exercise serves physical health. past were more satisfied with Routine exercise helps people to their lives and rated their overall maintain healthy weights, reducing health as much better than people their risk for various conditions who didn’t volunteer. Perhaps the and diseases. Preventive efforts most noteworthy finding in the designed to improve mental health study was that people who began can significantly reduce a person’s volunteering with lower levels of well-being tended to get the risk for anxiety and depression. biggest boost from volunteering. provides Various techniques and strategies Volunteering can be utilized to promote mental opportunities to socialize, which health, and these are simple and can help ward off the loneliness that can sometimes contribute to highly effective. anxiety and depression. •Get enough sleep. According to the Primary Care Collaborative, a not-for-profit member organization dedicated to advancing an effective and efficient health system, sleep and mental health are intimately related. Sleep loss can contribute to emotional instability. The amygdala is the part of the brain responsible for humans’ emotional responses. When an individual does not get enough sleep, his or her amygdala goes into overdrive, leading to more intense emotional
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