mental health Archives - Page 4 of 6

Mental Health Issues On The Rise

Mental illness does not discriminate. It affects people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and socio-economic classes. Health insurance claims for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and other mental disorders have been steadily rising over the years. Recent job losses and stay-at-home orders have made things even worse, with federal agencies and experts warning that a wave of depression, substance abuse, PTSD, and suicide is on its way. Our already underfunded mental health system is at risk of being overwhelmed.

“If we don’t do something about it now, people are going to be suffering from these mental-health impacts for years to come,” said Paul Gionfriddo, president of the advocacy group Mental Health America. “That could further harm the economy as stress and anxiety debilitate some workers and further strain the medical system as people go to emergency rooms with panic attacks, overdoses and depression.”

High Numbers Among Young Adults & Adolescents

While mental health claims among all Americans have been going up, data reported by FAIR health, a nonprofit database of more than 28 billion private healthcare claim records, shows that they are shockingly high among young adults and adolescents, Between 2007 and 2017, mental health claims relating to depression and anxiety in young people were especially high.

In 2007, young people accounted for 15% of all claims tied to serious depression. By 2017, they accounted for 23%. Claims for anxiety also grew more common among young people. Between 2007 and 2017, claim lines for generalized anxiety disorder rose 441% among young people ages 19-22. The report also found that behavioral health diagnoses rose 108% from 2007 to 2017.

Suicide Numbers Rising

Suicide rates are also on the rise, with many worried that an increase in mental health issues combined with our current stressful environment could make things worse. A report issued by the CDC found that suicides are up 30% since 1999, and only half of those who died were diagnosed with a mental health disorder prior to their deaths. Unfortunately, many people suffer in silence, and added stresses such as job loss, or relationship, financial, or health problems, can lead to disastrous consequences.

Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute, a Texas nonprofit, created models estimating that if unemployment rates continue to rise to a level similar to the Great Recession, then an additional 4,000 people could die by suicide and an additional 4,800 could die from drug overdoses.

Mental Health Coverage

two men sitting down, one man with a hand on his chin and the other man with his hands on his head. — *All ACA-approved plans must cover behavioral health treatment, such as psychotherapy and counseling.*

Some experts point out that it’s unclear whether more people are suffering from mental illnesses, or whether we’re getting better at talking about it, recognizing it, and treating it. According to Dr. Stephen Strakowski, a psychiatrist at the University of Texas at Austin’s medical school, “It’s very hard to disentangle [increased prevalence] from increased recognition, more people accessing care, and people being willing to fill out forms more honestly.”

Research shows that people who need mental health care are more likely to get it now than they were at any time in the past, but things are not perfect. There are still many people who aren’t getting the help they need because they don’t have mental health insurance coverage. Fortunately, as of 2014, the ACA requires all Marketplace healthcare plans to cover mental health and substance abuse services.

All ACA-approved plans must cover:

Behavioral health treatment, such as psychotherapy and counseling
Mental and behavioral health inpatient services
Substance use/abuse disorder treatment

Employer-based health insurance, Medicaid and Medicare all offer mental health and substance abuse coverage. It is important that people are encouraged to use this coverage to get screened for suicidal thoughts, to treat any underlying mental conditions, and to access therapy. Seeking help makes a difference.

If you or someone you know is showing warning signs of suicide, help is one call away. For free 24/7 crisis support:

Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255.
Text Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Call Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: 1-800-662-4357

The Secret To Living Longer: Optimism

If you want to increase longevity, research suggests optimism could be the cheat code. A new study finds that people who are optimistic and have a cheerful outlook on life are more likely to live about 10% longer–making it to the age of 85!

Genetics play a part in how long a person will live, but how you live your life and take care of it will play a bigger role. Even for people that find it hard to maintain a cheery outlook, with practice, you can enhance its role in your life.

Positivity training also reduces depression, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses. This might be one of the biggest reasons people are pushing for a happy cure-all!

woman using a mirror for optimism — *Quick tip: smile at yourself in the mirror and think of something you’re grateful for.*

The New Study

This new study we’re talking about started with researchers from Boston University School of Medicine; Lee (and colleagues) tracked optimism levels and overall health and health habits in 69,744 women and 1,429 men with questionnaires. They followed up with the women for 10 years, and the men for 30 years. Then the researchers looked to see whether higher optimism levels were linked to living longer. The analysis also took into consideration behaviors that would likely impact longevity such as smoking, diet, and exercise routines.

The outcome came out to be that the most optimistic men and women displayed an average of about 15% longer lifespan, and had 50-70% greater odds of reaching 85 years old and older.

The Reason?

People who are more optimistic are more likely to stick to a goal, such as their diet and exercise routines. These people are also inclined to recover from stress quicker, and seek healthier alternatives than those who are not optimistic. They are less likely to smoke or drink alcohol, which can hinder a person’s lifespan and longevity.

Most of the population studied were white and of higher socioeconomic class, and these two factors are tied to higher optimism levels in general. But the authors stick by the fact that the study’s purpose was to show a way to live longer. Lee adds, “Our study contributes to scientific knowledge on health assets that may protect against mortality risk and promote resilient aging. We hope that our findings will inspire further research on interventions to enhance positive health assets that may improve the public’s health with aging.”

How Can You Boost Positivity?

Clinical health psychologist Natalie Dattilo, with Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, says even if it doesn’t come naturally, optimism can be taught. Dattilo works mostly with adults who struggle with depression and anxiety — “a lot of folks who worry,” she says. Many are pessimistic and “tend to see things through a half-empty glass and typically expect negative outcomes.”

man living better with optimism — *Even if this isn’t the secret, don’t you want a better quality of life?*

There are some simple ways that you can boost optimism in your life. You can take on exercising, since working out releases feel-good endorphins to your brain, or you can meditate. There are numerous ways to become a more positive person. Writing exercises can help, and if you want more professional help, then look into cognitive behavioral therapy. Some other techniques to consider are:

Get over the past and accept your imperfections
Be thankful for the small things
Stop complaining, it gets you nowhere and just causes negativity
Remember there will always be ups and downs, even in a positive person’s life
Use positive affirmations
Surround yourself with positive people
Reminisce- thinking about happy times can boost your mood for the future.

Life is already hard enough to try and survive through. Do not let the half-full glass become half-empty. Instead, seek ways to become a more positive person, smile more, and do things that make you a better person and healthier. After all, studies suggest that becoming more optimistic is the key to a longer life!

5 Tips for Surviving Family Stress During The Holidays

The holiday season means time for celebrating with those closest to you. Whichever definition you choose, this usually means family–and family stress.

Family can be many things and if the movies teach us one thing–it’s that a holiday trip can be annoying but end with a loveable lesson. Here is what we do to make it past the awkward hugs, the eye-rolls, and weird, invasive questions about your love life.

holiday wreath and presents outside a front door — *The holiday season means different things to different people–but the main theme is time with family.*

1. Don’t Let Guilt Control You

Guilt is a great tactic to get people to do what you want. While this is taken to an extreme in abusive relationships, it’s usually just a mild bit of stress when it comes to family. However, stress can build up over time, especially when you have other things to do.

Need to get a ham on the table, but also have to hold a conversation with Mom? Dinner time can get hectic. Just remember, those closest to you generally have your well-being in mind.

If they are guilting you, determine what it is they actually want. Do they want to spend more time with you? Address this. Get it out in the open, and don’t let the age-old tactic control you.

2. One Day at a Time

Have a two-week trip to stay with your relatives? Just take it one day at a time. This can work even if you’re not on an extended stay. One hour at a time, one moment at a time. Just focus on the task at hand, and give it your full attention. Don’t worry about the rest of it.

With stressful times, it helps to use these bite-size moments. If you worry too much about the future, you’re going to put more stress on the present moment. This is where meditation comes in. You can use this tool to help calm your mind and increase your patience.

3. Organize your Giftlist (and Budget)

Organization will set you free! Think you have an insurmountable pile of tasks? Break them up, just like the previous step. It’s going to stress you out much more if you have this cloud of ideas floating over your head.

baby with santa hat with a lit tree in the background — *Practice gratitude! Be thankful for the time you have with your family.*

Here are some steps to help with that to-do list:

Write them all down – Get everything out of your head and onto paper (or screen). Make sure you have access to your notes so you can edit them as needed.
Organize by priority – You’ll see some relatives first and others later. Rearrange your gift list in order of whom you will be running into throughout the months.
Organize again by gift – After you know who you’ll be getting gifts for, you can start assigning gift ideas to each person. Brainstorm with some warm cocoa for bonus points!
Set realistic goals – You probably have a good idea of your budget for these things, but price check each item first and get yourself a total. It’s easier to plan with concrete numbers to work with.
Finalize it with a checklist – For some, the act of checking things off a list imparts a sense of satisfaction. Grab a big marker and put a check next to everything you accomplish.

4. Be Realistic with Family Expectations

It may seem counterintuitive, but saying “no” to people will actually foster healthier relationships. Your family and friends will want to see as much of you as possible over the season, and that pressure can stress you out!

champagne glasses with holiday decor for surviving family stress — *Bonus tip: making drinks or cooking can be a great way to cool down and stay present.*

Think about what you can realistically accomplish. Take the checklist from earlier but instead of gifts put family members you wish to see. Then, instead of gift prices, place trip prices for each one.

If you can’t fit in everyone, make promises to visit instead after the holiday rush calms down. They’ll most likely understand, and if they don’t–well, unfortunately, we don’t have the answers to everything!

5. Keep Self-Care in Your Routine

This extends beyond simple meditation. If you have a fitness regimen, don’t fall behind during family visits. Try to get to a gym or do home exercises.

Sticking to your routines (self-care or otherwise) will not only give you a mental boost, but it also sets an internal standard. You’re going to give your time and energy this holiday season to those you care about, but don’t lose your own way in the process. Stay grounded.

Any visit is a chance for family stress. You want your parents/relatives to have a good time with you and enjoy your stay, but the holidays can add an entirely new dimension of pressure on the events. Keeping good friends and family have surprising health benefits, so these visits are definitely worth it in the long run.

Just remember these five rules and you should sail through with no problem. Don’t forget to refrigerate leftovers and keep receipts. Happy Holidays, everyone!

Why Are Senior Suicide Rates Rising?

Suicide is often associated with young people, but it is in fact much more common among seniors. The suicide risk increases with age, and is unfortunately hard to estimate the exact number due to “silent suicides.” Silent suicides are considered those of overdose, self-starvation, and self-dehydration.

Woman with gray hair sitting on a bench looking out into the dessert. — *Loneliness is a large problem for seniors and puts them at a higher risk.*

Seniors at long-term care facilities are taking their lives more than ever. Some can no longer accept the fact that they are slowly dying, while others have mental health issues. Most mental health issues do not get addressed for the elderly. Why? Either they do not speak up about it, or it is not covered by insurance. So, why is the suicide rate going up?

Loneliness & Depression

Losing a loved one and feeling alone contributes greatly to a person committing suicide. Extensive research shows that post-breakup or losing a spouse, elderly men are at a high risk of suicide. Loneliness is a large problem for seniors and puts them at a higher risk. They feel like they have no one to talk to and fall into depression.

Mental Health

The National Alliance on Mental Illness estimates that about 1 in 5 adults deal with some form of mental illness each year. About 20% of adults sixty-five and older in America are diagnosed with either schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety disorders such as OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), and/or certain phobias. Some seniors will not seek help, get it too late, or get misdiagnosed.

Substance Abuse

Once a senior has dealt with a life crisis such as the loss of their spouse, or falling into depression, they can turn to alcohol and drugs. This is the third most common risk factor of suicide in seniors. Substance abuse has been an issue for years, but recent rates show significant rises. The government is struggling to reduce the opioid issue in America, especially among seniors.

Physical Health

Physical ailments are hard to accept, Learning you can no longer function, or move around the same way, takes a toll on a person’s mental state. A research conducted in 2017 found that seniors with traumatic brain injury, sleep disorders, and HIV or AIDS had an increased suicide risk. Some seniors feel like they are better off gone than to need constant care. This is also a large reason as to why seniors in long-term care facilities will take their own life. Instead of waiting for death, they choose to meet it.

Finances

calculator balancinf a spoon with coins in it and a potato stuck on the other end. — *Many seniors struggle to pay their medical bills, housing costs, and daily living expenses, so they look for a way out with suicide.*

The National Council on Aging (NCOA) has found that more than 25 million Americans sixty years old and older are living at or below the federal poverty level. Many seniors struggle to pay their medical bills, housing costs, and daily living expenses. This stress leaves them feeling hopeless and considering suicide. That way they will no longer have to deal with the burden and will not have to put pressure on their family.

There is always an easier way to deal with stress. Seek help and talk to a professional if you feel suicidal. Reach out to your family, and know that you have a sense of purpose. If you or someone you know needs help, call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You can also text HELLO to 741-741 for free, 24-hour support from the Crisis Text Line.

Teen Suicide Rates At An All Time High! How Can We Help?

Suicide has been a hot topic due to the continual rise every year. The suicide rate rose in all the states between 1999 and 2016, except for Nevada, and continues to climb every year since. Suicide has no boundaries, showing an increase in all demographicsbut the sharpest rise is among teenage boys. The grim reality is that for people between

Chart showing a steady rise of an arrow. — *Suicide rate has been rising over the years, and is the second leading cause of death for people ages 10-34.*

the ages of 10-34, suicide is the second-leading cause of death.

A large percentage of people, especially teens who are dealing with a range of emotions, including depression and

stress, are just not getting the help that they need. In order to help people who are dealing with issues, it is important that we listen, and help teach people, especially young adults, with how to manage stress and stressors.

What To Look For

Statistics show the number of teens experiencing depression has climbed by over 40% over the past couple of years. Of those numbers, nearly half of them were in the hospital for suicide attempts or thoughts. It is important for parents to identify if their kid is experiencing depression because if it is left unnoticed, it can be harmful, and even deadly. Recognizing irregular behavior, or something “not right” with a person can play a major role in getting them help before it ends fatally. Symptoms can include:

Irritability
Social withdrawal
Anger or agitation
Changes in appetite
Changes in sleep patterns
Difficulty concentrating
No motivation
Guilt or worthlessness
Poor school performance
Thoughts of death or suicide
Poems or writing about suicide

What You Can Do

Silhoutte og a person with their head in their hand and sad thoughts all around them. — *Look for irregular behavior in your children, and learn the different ways you can help.*

If your kids are acting differently, take the time to talk to them and find out what is bothering them. There are different approaches to take to provide support and help.

Pay attention- Ask questions and notice the signs of depression.
Listen- Take the time to listen to the teen’s problems, talking about their feelings. Do not lecture them, just listen, and offer help.
Exercise- Exercising promotes mental health. It releases hormones that make you feel good. Suggest going out together and get active.
One on One Time- Talking with your child helps to reconnect with them. Make them a priority.

In order to avoid feelings of depression, a lot of teens may experiment with drugs or alcohol, which can further aggravate the problem. Ask your kids how they are feeling, if those feelings are negative, or suicidal. The number of suicides in the U.S. is at a steady climb. As mentioned before, because it needs to be reiterated again, suicide is the SECOND leading cause of death in people aged 10-34. Listen to your kids, friends, and family. Pay attention, teach them ways to properly cope with what is going on in their lives, and help get the proper treatment before it is too late.

Seek help by contacting the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255, or to use the Crisis Text Line by texting “Home” to 741741 for immediate assistance.

Meditation, Why It’s a Good Idea?

People talk about meditation benefits all the time. We see it in the news, on our feeds, and from journals of alternative medicine, but where do they get these ideas from?

We live in a time where stress, anxiety, depression, and a ridiculous amount of information comes pouring at us from all sides. Our brains, or “monkey minds” as some industry experts call them, are put under more stress than ever. Why is meditation a good idea? Because it’s giving both mental and physical faculties a break. How does that work though, and what are the results? This is the time we need meditation benefits the most.

Lower Stress

person meditating in a wheat field — *This can happen wherever you feel safe. If you need to take a moment for self-care, you should.*

Studies conducted show meditation both reduces stress and helps us cope with it. These are all types of meditation from transcendental meditation to mindfulness-based or MBSR. Stress is terrible for your body. If you don’t meditate and take care of it, stress can lead to dangers like:

Early aging
Muscle tension
A compromised immune system
High blood pressure

People who practiced even guided meditation see an overall positive change in their lives, simply because their stress is being actively managed. If you practice, the meditation benefits will come.

monk meditating underneath a lamp — *People have been using this tool for thousands of years. Time to jump on board.*

Self-Awareness

This is a less popular meditation benefit. We’re taught about stress and mental disorders, but not usually about self-image. If you think about yourself, it leads to selfishness, or so we think. However, we need self-care now more than ever. A healthy sense of self leads to feelings of confidence and a sense of trust. Self-reliance is a key trait needed to operate well in the world. With a meditative practice like tai chi or yoga, you can build this skill.

Emotional Stability

Studies showed that anxiety plagues about one-fifth of the U.S. population. It’s the most common mental disorder, and one treatment is meditation. The practice teaches you to push your worries and concerns aside by living in the present moment. With focused attention, you learn to recognize which thoughts are helpful and which are not. Sound like a great meditation benefit? More likely than not, the worries and concerns we have are overblown.

A Physically Fit Brain

Your brain will thank you because a regular practice will reap additional health benefits such as:

More Blood– the practice increases blood flow to key areas. Blood is what keeps your brain going.
Thicker Matter– You want a thick brain. With this physiological change, you’ll see an increase in memory and attention span.
Less Cortisol – The stress chemical continues to sit in your brain. If you don’t rid yourself of it, it can cause feelings of anxiety for no apparent reason
More Serotonin -Serotonin is an important chemical relating to healthy mood, sexual desire, and others to keep balanced behavior.

While meditation won’t heal your existing medical conditions, it does provide alternative and complementary boosts to your wellness. I don’t think anyone would turn down the meditation benefits associated with a well-rounded life. It’s easy to start too. Just put yourself in a comfortable seat, close your eyes, and narrow your focus to just your breathing. Doing this for 15-20 minutes per day, with any form of meditation, will provide you with these advantages.

Tag: mental health