How to become a social prescriber?

Social prescribing is a key component of Universal Personalized Care. It is an approach that connects people to activities, groups, and services in their community to meet the practical, social and emotional needs that affect their health and wellbeing.

In social prescribing, local agencies such as local charities, social care and health services refer people to a social prescribing link worker. Social prescribing link workers give people time, focusing on ‘what matters to me?’ to coproduce a simple personalized care and support plan, and support people to take control of their health and wellbeing.

Social prescribing link workers also support existing community groups to be accessible and sustainable, and help people to start new groups, working collaboratively with all local partners.

Social prescribing is an all-age, whole population approach that works particularly well for people who:

• have one or more long term conditions
• who need support with low level mental health issues
• who are lonely or isolated
• who have complex social needs which affect their wellbeing.

Social prescribing complements other approaches in a local area such as active signposting, where existing staff in local agencies provide information to signpost people to services, using local knowledge and resource directories.

Social prescribing enables all local agencies to refer people to a link worker. Link workers give people time and focus on what matters to the person as identified through shared decision making or personalized care and support planning. They connect people to community groups and agencies for practical and emotional support. 

Link workers collaborate with local partners to help community groups be accessible and sustainable and support people starting new groups.

Referrals to link workers can come from a wide range of local agencies, including general practice, local authorities, pharmacies, multi-disciplinary teams, hospital discharge teams, allied health professionals, fire service, police, job centres, social care services, housing associations and voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations. Self-referral is also encouraged. Some health and care professionals whose roles involve long-term intensive support may undertake social prescribing directly.

Social prescribing improves outcomes for people by giving more choice and control over their lives and an improved sense of belonging when people get involved in community groups. It is also effective at targeting the causes of health inequalities and is an important facet of community-centered practice. It is particularly useful for people who need more support with their mental health, have one or more long-term conditions, are lonely or isolated, or have complex social needs that affect their wellbeing.

Social prescribing can meet many different types of non-clinical need, ranging from support and advice for individuals experiencing debt, unemployment, housing or mobility issues to tackling loneliness by building social connections through joining local community groups, such as walking, singing or gardening groups.

The core principles of social prescribing are that it:

• is a holistic approach focusing on individual need
• promotes health and wellbeing and reduces health inequalities in a community setting, using non-clinical methods
• addresses barriers to engagement and enables people to play an active part in their care
• utilises and builds on the local community assets in developing and delivering the service or activity
• aims to increase people’s control over their health and lives

If you’re a front-line health professional:

• adopt person-centered and strengths-based practice when communicating with patients to ascertain whether they have non-clinical needs that may be met through social prescribing. See the person-centered care framework
• consider how people’s social and emotional needs are affecting their health, for example, their relationships, social networks, and support in their neighborhood
• find out whether your local link workers have referral criteria
• if you are a health and care professional providing a socially prescribed service, ensure that local health and care professionals and link workers are aware of the service and its referral criteria

If you’re a team leader or manager:

• ensure the teams you manage are aware of the social prescribing services and groups in your local area
• promote a culture where social prescribing is encouraged as part of ‘What matters to you?’ conversations
• encourage collaborative relationships between health and care professionals, link workers and service providers
• consider how community centred approaches can be adopted by your team to strengthen communities and build local services and groups
• create a culture where all staff understand the benefits of measuring the impact and demonstrating the value of their social prescribing work
• support your team to access making every contact count training

If you’re a senior or strategic leader:

• work to ensure social prescribing is promoted prominently within commissioned health and care services
• look at the education and training needs of the workforce to equip them to deliver high quality social prescribing advice and interventions
• link social prescribing and making every contact count to support staff to see the range of opportunities to support improvements in health and wellbeing

A good understanding of local needs in relation to community life is best collected locally by:

• speaking to communities
• listening to patients and carers
• conducting local research to gain insight

Local needs include, but are not limited to, social isolation, neighborhood belonging, housing, debt and unemployment, and people’s emotional wellbeing and resilience.

The local authority and voluntary, community and social enterprise organizations (including faith-based) can be a good source of information. Health and care professionals are in a good position to listen and learn about what’s happening locally in their patch.

Related measures include:

• self-reported wellbeing
• social connectedness
• wider determinants data, which will give an indication of the level of need in the community and populations

A common outcomes framework for measuring the impact of social prescribing has been developed, based on the impact of social prescribing on the person, the health and care system and community groups.

Link workers will be well placed to know what services and groups are available locally and to share information with patients about the specific services and groups available. Some local groups may have produced their own leaflets and have their own websites that can be shared with patients.

Link Workers are champions of social prescribing. Proactive and flexible, they empower people to take control of their wellbeing journey, offering continuous support and motivation along the way.

Social prescribing link workers are at the core of most social prescribing schemes. Building on personal and community assets, they enable people to have greater control over their health and lives.

Social prescribers reduce health inequalities by supporting people to unravel complex issues affecting wellbeing. They support people to develop skills, friendships and resilience through involvement in community groups.

Link workers are most commonly pioneered by voluntary sector organizations. Yet, they often work in partnership with GP practices and other referral agencies. Given the nature of their work, a good social prescriber needs person-centred skills and attributes. In general, these entail active listening skills, empathy, and an innate ability to support people.

Any individual working in the social and health care sector should have a set of basic skills and knowledge. 

For social prescribers, in particular, these may include:

• good working knowledge of community services in a given locality;
• good IT skills to research local groups online;
• adequate writing skills to develop plans and reports.

Unlike a primary healthcare professional, however, there are no formal qualifications to be a social prescriber. Prior experience in social and/or healthcare settings is ideal. Still, this can either be in a professional or voluntary capacity.

A skilled link worker is non-clinically trained. Given the person-centered ethos of the role, it is more important for link workers to have the right values and behaviors. These include empathic qualities, effective listening skills, and the ability to put people at ease and gain their trust.

Social prescribers spend time with a person to work out their preferences, strengths and goals. Their role is to motivate and support. They are here to empower people to take control of their wellbeing journey.

For one, link workers have to be proactive. They must dedicate their time and effort to the service user. There is a need to refrain from making assumptions about their wants and needs. A related attribute would then be flexibility. Social prescribers need to be open to revisiting personalized plans. Ensuring these are tailored to the changing needs of clients and the local area is important.

In this case, link workers also need a strong ability to identify and assess risk. That is, having an acute awareness of when it may be appropriate to refer people back to primary healthcare. For instance, where there is a mental health need beyond the scope of their role and demands a qualified practitioner.

Given the complex varied circumstances of those they will encounter, social prescribers ought to have a non-judgmental approach:

• Getting along with people from all backgrounds and communities
• Respecting all lifestyles and diversity

A key struggle link workers will face in their work is local gaps in service provision. In other words, a lack of community services to refer clients to. Social prescribers thus need problem-solving and innovative skills to circumvent these obstacles.

What to eat when constipated and bloated? And know more about constipation with its symptoms and treatment !!!

Constipation can cause discomfort and may lead to health complications. High-fibre fruits, probiotics, whole grains, pulses, and many other options can help ease and prevent constipation.

Constipation is the medical term for when a person has a reduction in bowel movements or difficulty passing stool.

Everyone’s bowel habits are different, but constipated people usually have fewer than three bowel movements per week.

Constipation is common. In the United States, around 16 in 100 adults Trusted Source experience symptoms of constipation. The risk increases with age, with constipation affecting approximately 33 in 100 adults aged 60 or older.

Certain people are more likely to become constipated, including:

• women, especially during pregnancy or after giving birth
• older adults
• non-Caucasians
• people who eat little to no fiber
• people who take certain medicines or dietary supplements NIH external link
• people with certain health problems, including functional gastrointestinal disorders

Symptoms of constipation may include:

• fewer than three bowel movements a week
• stools that are hard, dry, or lumpy
• stools that are difficult or painful to pass
• a feeling that not all stool has passed

You should see a doctor if your symptoms do not go away with self-care or you have a family history of colon or rectal cancer NIH external link.

You should see a doctor right away if you have constipation and any of the following symptoms

• bleeding from your rectum
• blood in your stool
• constant pain in your abdomen
• inability to pass gas
• vomiting
• fever
• lower back pain
• losing weight without trying

You may be constipated for many reasons, and constipation may have more than one cause at a time. Causes of constipation may include:

• slow movement of stool through your colon
• delayed emptying of the colon from pelvic floor disorders NIH external link, especially in women, and colon surgery
• functional gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel syndrome

Constipation can happen when your life or daily routine changes. For example, your bowel movements can change:

• if you become pregnant
• as you get older
• when you travel
• when you ignore the urge to have a bowel movement
• if you change your medicines
• if you change how much and what you eat

Certain health and nutrition problems can cause constipation:

• not eating enough fiber
• not drinking enough liquids, or dehydration
• not getting enough physical activity External link
• celiac disease
• disorders that affect your brain and spine, such as Parkinson’s disease
• spinal cord or brain injuries
• conditions that affect your metabolism, such as diabetes
• conditions that affect your hormones, such as hypothyroidism
• inflammation linked to diverticular disease or proctitis
• intestinal obstructions, including anorectal blockage and tumors
• anatomic problems of your digestive tract

Doctors use your medical and family history, a physical exam, or medical tests to diagnose and find the cause of your constipation.

Your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history, such as:

• whether you have ever had surgery to your digestive tract
• if you have recently lost or gained weight
• if you have a history of anemia

Your doctor also is likely to ask questions about your symptoms, such as:

• How often do you have a bowel movement?
• How long have you had symptoms?
• What do your stools look like?
• Do your stools have red streaks in them?
• Are there streaks of blood on your toilet paper when you wipe?

Your doctor is likely to ask questions about your routines, such as:

• What are your eating habits?
• What is your level of physical activity?
• What medicines, including supplements, and complementary and alternative medicines NIH external link, do you take?

You may want to track your bowel movements and what your stools look like for several days or weeks before your doctor’s visit. Write down or record the information so you can share it with your doctor.

If you’ve been constipated a long time, your health care professional may ask whether anyone in your family has a history of conditions that may cause long-lasting constipation, such as:

• anatomic problems of the digestive tract
• intestinal obstruction
• diverticular disease
• colon or rectal cancer

During a physical exam, a health care professional may:

• check your blood pressure, temperature, and heart rate
• check for dehydration
• use a stethoscope to listen to sounds in your abdomen

Check your abdomen for:

• swelling
• tenderness or pain
• masses, or lumps

Perform a rectal exam

You should drink water and other liquids, such as naturally sweetened fruit and vegetable juices and clear soups, to help the fiber work better. This change should make your stools softer and easier to pass.

Drinking enough water and other liquids is also a good way to avoid dehydration. Staying hydrated is good for your overall health and can help you avoid getting constipated. Ask a health care professional how much liquid you should drink each day based on your size, health, activity level, and where you live.

To help prevent or relieve constipation, avoid foods with little to no fiber, such as:

• chips
• fast food
• meat
• prepared foods, such as some frozen meals and snack foods
• processed foods, such as hot dogs or some microwavable dinners

7 foods and drinks that can ease constipation

People’s bowels respond to foods differently. However, the following may help to relieve constipation.

1. Olive and flaxseed oils

Olive and flaxseed oils have a mild laxative effect, helping to ease the flow of materials through the intestines.

These oils also contain compounds that improve digestion and have antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

A 2015 randomized controlled trial found that olive and flaxseed oils help relieve constipation in people undergoing hemodialysis — blood filtering.

In this study, the effects of both olive oil and flaxseed oil were comparable to those of mineral oil, which is a laxative that medical professionals sometimes recommend to treat constipation.

2. Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that may help to improve gut health and soften stools.

A 2017 systematic review of four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigated the effectiveness of probiotics as a treatment for constipation among elderly adults. Overall, the analysis suggested that probiotics improved constipation by 10–40% compared with a placebo.

The authors noted that most RCTs involved the probiotic strain Bifidobacterium longum. Further RCTs are necessary to determine the most effective probiotic strains, doses, and treatment durations.

Yogurt and kefir: Many dairy products, including yogurt and kefir, contain probiotics.

A 2017 studyTrusted Source investigated the effectiveness of kefir for preventing constipation in people with mental and physical disabilities. For 12 weeks, participants each received 2 grams (g) of freeze-dried or “lyophilized” kefir with their meals.

The study found that kefir significantly reduced constipation. However, while some individuals experienced complete constipation relief, others experienced no effect. The authors concluded that daily consumption of kefir could help to prevent constipation.

Sauerkraut: Sauerkraut is a fermented cabbage dish containing probiotic bacteria that may help to boost gut health and alleviate constipation.

A 2016 study found that two tablespoons of homemade sauerkraut contain around the same amount of bacteria as probiotic supplements.

3. Vegetables and legumes

Vegetables are high in insoluble fiber. This type of fiber adds bulk to stools, which helps to promote more regular bowel movements.

Broccoli: Broccoli contains sulforaphane, a substance that may protect the gut and ease digestion.

Sulforaphane: may also help to prevent the overgrowth of some intestinal microorganisms that can interfere with healthy digestion.

In a 2017 studyTrusted Source, healthy people ate either 20 g of raw broccoli sprouts or 20 g of alfalfa sprouts every day for four weeks. The researchers found that the people who ate broccoli sprouts had fewer symptoms of constipation and quicker bowel movements.

4. Pulses

Most beans, lentils, and peas are very high in fiber.

A 2017 studyTrusted Source found that 100 g of cooked pulses provides around 26% of the daily fiber intake that doctors recommend in the U.S.

A 100 g serving of pulses also contains substantial quantities of other nutrients that help to ease constipation, such as:

• potassium
• folate
• zinc
• vitamin B6

5. Fruits

Fruits are also rich in insoluble fiber, and many also have high water content. This makes fruit particularly effective at easing constipation. Below are some fruits that people can try for symptom relief.

High-fiber fruits: High-fiber fruits that may help to ease constipation include:

• Kiwifruit: On average, 100 g of kiwifruit contains around 3 gTrusted Source of fiber. Kiwifruit also contains the enzyme actinidine, which alleviatesTrusted

Source upper gastrointestinal symptoms such as:

• abdominal discomfort
• pain
• indigestion
• reflux

• Apples and pears: These fruits contain high levels of water, which can help to ease digestion and prevent constipation. To get the most benefit from apples and pears, a person should eat them raw and whole, with the skin intact.

These fruits contain several compounds that improve digestion, including:

1. fiber
2. sorbitol
3. fructose

• Grapes: These fruits have a high skin-to-flesh ratio and are rich in fiber. They also contain a lot of water, which helps to add moisture to hard stools.

• Blackberries and raspberries: These fruits are rich in fiber and water, which can ease constipation. A person can try eating a handful or two of raw, washed blackberries or raspberries a day.

Prunes

Aside from containing a lot of fiber, prunes also contain sorbitol and phenolic compounds that may have gastrointestinal benefits.

A 2018 study investigated the effect of prunes on constipation severity in women aged 60 years and older. The researchers divided the 60 participants into two groups of 30.

Both groups continued to consume their usual diet. However, the treatment group received 50g of rehydrated prunes every morning for three weeks.

Unlike the control group, the treatment group showed a significant reduction in the severity of constipation symptoms. These changes began at the end of the first week and continued to the end of the third week.

The authors concluded that prunes could be an effective complementary treatment for reducing constipation severity in older women.

6. Whole wheat bread, cereals, and pasta

Whole wheat products are an excellent source of insoluble fiber. To get the most nutrients from whole wheat products, a person should eat them raw or lightly cooked.

Wheat bran: Wheat bran is the hard outer layer of the wheat kernel. It is rich in insoluble fiber.

A 2017 study investigated the effectiveness of wheat bran as a treatment for constipation in infants and older children. Researchers assessed 51 children for seven months.

Over this period, researchers associated increases in bran intake with significant improvements in bowel habits. At the end of the study, 86% of children had improved bowel habits.

7. Liquids

Liquids add moisture to stools, making them softer and easier to pass. Below are some liquids that people can try for constipation.

Water: Dehydration is a common cause of constipation. When a person becomes dehydrated, their intestines cannot add enough water to stools. Dehydration results in hard, dry, lumpy stools that are difficult to pass.

Drinking plenty of water can help to ease or resolve the symptoms and avoidTrusted Source a person getting constipated.

Clear soups: Clear soups may be particularly effective at easing constipation since warm liquids and foods are generally good for easing the system.

Healthy Eating: Tips for developing healthy eating habits

Emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products includes a variety of protein foods such as seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, legumes (beans and peas), soy products, nuts, and seeds. Is low in added sugars, sodium, saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol.

An eating plan that helps promote health and manage your weight includes a variety of healthy foods. Add an array of colors to your plate and think of it as eating the rainbow. Dark, leafy greens, oranges, and tomatoes—even fresh herbs—are loaded with vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Adding frozen peppers, broccoli, or onions to stews and omelets gives them a quick and convenient boost of color and nutrients.

Fruit - Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits are great choices. Try fruits beyond apples and bananas such as mango, pineapple or kiwi fruit. When fresh fruit is not in season, try a frozen, canned, or dried variety. Be aware that dried and canned fruit may contain added sugars or syrups. Choose canned varieties of fruit packed in water or in its own juice.

Vegetables - Add variety to grilled or steamed vegetables with an herb such as rosemary. You can also sauté (panfry) vegetables in a non-stick pan with a small amount of cooking spray. Or try frozen or canned vegetables for a quick side dish—just microwave and serve. Look for canned vegetables without added salt, butter, or cream sauces. For variety, try a new vegetable each week.

Calcium-rich foods - In addition to fat-free and low-fat milk, consider low-fat and fat-free yogurts without added sugars. These come in a variety of flavors and can be a great dessert substitute.

Meats - If your favorite recipe calls for frying fish or breaded chicken, try healthier variations by baking or grilling. Maybe even try dry beans in place of meats. Ask friends and search the internet and magazines for recipes with fewer calories ― you might be surprised to find you have a new favorite dish!

Comfort Foods - You can still enjoy your favorite foods, even if they are high in calories, fat or added sugars. The key is eating them only once in a while.

Some general tips for comfort foods:

Eat them less often. If you normally eat these foods every day, cut back to once a week or once a month.

Eat smaller amounts. If your favorite higher-calorie food is a chocolate bar, have a smaller size or only half a bar.

Try a lower-calorie version. Use lower-calorie ingredients or prepare food differently. For example, if your macaroni and cheese recipe includes whole milk, butter, and full-fat cheese, try remaking it with non-fat milk, less butter, low-fat cheese, fresh spinach and tomatoes. Just remember to not increase your portion size.

When it comes to eating, many of us have developed habits. Some are good (“I always eat fruit as a dessert”), and some are not so good (“I always have a sugary drink after work as a reward”). Even if you’ve had the same eating pattern for years, it’s not too late to make improvements.

Making sudden, radical changes, such as eating nothing but cabbage soup, can lead to short term weight loss. However, such radical changes are neither healthy nor a good idea and won’t be successful in the long run.

Permanently improving your eating habits requires a thoughtful approach in which you reflect, replace, and reinforce.

Reflect:
Create a list of your eating and drinking habits. Keep a food and beverage diary for a few days. Write down everything you eat and drink, including sugary drinks and alcohol. Write down the time of day you ate or drank the item. This will help you uncover your habits. For example, you might discover that you always seek a sweet snack to get you through the mid-afternoon energy slump.

It’s good to note how you were feeling when you decided to eat, especially if you were eating when not hungry. Were you tired? Stressed out?

Highlight the habits on your list that may be leading you to overeat.

Common eating habits that can lead to weight gain are:

• Eating too fast
• Always cleaning your plate
• Eating when not hungry
• Eating while standing up (may lead to eating mindlessly or too quickly)
• Always eating dessert
• Skipping meals (or maybe just breakfast)
• Create a list of “cues” by reviewing your food diary to become more aware of when and where you’re “triggered” to eat for reasons other than hunger. Note how you are typically feeling at those times. Often an environmental “cue”, or a particular emotional state, is what encourages eating for non-hunger reasons.

Common triggers for eating when not hungry are:

• Opening up the cabinet and seeing your favorite snack food.
• Sitting at home watching television.
• Before or after a stressful meeting or situation at work.
• Coming home after work and having no idea what’s for dinner.
• Having someone offer you a dish they made “just for you!”
• Walking past a candy dish on the counter.
• Sitting in the break room beside the vending machine.
• Seeing a plate of doughnuts at the morning staff meeting.
• Swinging through your favorite drive-through every morning.
• Feeling bored or tired and thinking food might offer a pick-me-up.

Replace:
Replace unhealthy habits with new, healthy ones. For example, in reflecting upon your eating habits, you may realize that you eat too fast when you eat alone. So, make a commitment to share a lunch each week with a colleague, or have a neighbor over for dinner one night a week. Another strategy is to put your fork down between bites. Also, minimize distractions, such as watching the news while you eat. Such distractions keep you from paying attention to how quickly and how much you’re eating.

Eat more slowly. If you eat too quickly, you may “clean your plate” instead of paying attention to whether your hunger is satisfied.

Eat only when you’re truly hungry instead of when you are tired, anxious, or feeling an emotion besides hunger. If you find yourself eating when you are experiencing an emotion besides hunger, such as boredom or anxiety, try to find a non-eating activity to do instead. You may find a quick walk or phone call with a friend helps you feel better. Plan the meal ahead of time to ensure that you eat a healthy well-balanced meal.

Reinforce:
Reinforce your new, healthy habits and be patient with yourself. Habits take time to develop. It doesn’t happen overnight. When you do find yourself engaging in an unhealthy habit, stop as quickly as possible and ask yourself: Why do I do this? When did I start doing this? What changes do I need to make? Be careful not to berate yourself or think that one mistake “blows” a whole day’s worth of healthy habits. You can do it! It just takes one day at a time!

You eat in a variety of places – your home, work, restaurants, maybe even your car. For some of these places, you have more control over what choices are available than others. Since high-calorie foods are everywhere, it’s important to take the time to plan ahead to make sure you have healthy options available.

Meals at Home
Whether you are cooking for just yourself, one to two people, or a larger group, planning meals is a good place to start improving your food choices. Taking the time to plan a healthy evening meal can help you avoid a less healthful “drive-through” dinner.

To start, grab a pencil and paper and list your favorite meals. It may help to talk to your family or thumb through a favorite cook book. Some of the meals will be healthier than others, but for now, just write them all down.

Once you’ve planned your meals, make a grocery list. Take some time on your visit to the grocery store to choose lower-calorie ingredients.

Here are some ideas that may help:

Many casseroles and meat sauces use cream soups as a base. Use a low-fat cream soup.

Substitute a low-fat cheese in casseroles and vegetable sauces. When using sharply flavored cheese, such as cheddar and parmesan, you can usually reduce the amount in a recipe to save calories without sacrificing flavor.

Try a non-stick cooking spray or a small amount of cooking oil for sautéing instead of frying with solid fat.

If you’re using ground beef for tacos or meat sauce for spaghetti, look for a lower-fat variety such as ground round or ground sirloin or try using skinless ground turkey breast. Once you’ve browned the meat, drain to remove excess fat.

Instead of full-fat versions of mayonnaises, butter, and salad dressings, try those that are lower in calories, total fat, saturated fat, and trans fat.

Check out the frozen food aisles for quick, low-calorie vegetable side dishes. You can find cut green beans, sliced carrots, and other chopped vegetables in the frozen food section.

Avoid the ones with added cream, butter, or cheese sauces as these ingredients can add calories. You can steam these vegetables quickly in the microwave.

In some soups and entrees, you may also be able to add dry beans to extend the recipe and improve the nutritional value. This is easy to do in vegetable-based soups and chili. You can just add a cup of canned white beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans to the recipe. As another example, if you are making enchiladas, rinse a can of black beans and add these to the ground meat.

Meals on the Go
For the places where you might grab a snack or have a meal on the go (such as the car or at your desk), make sure you have nutritious snacks available or at home that you can take with you. For example:

“Grab-and-go” fruits: apples, oranges, bananas, canned fruit without added sugars, and raisins

Washed and chopped fresh vegetables: celery, carrots, and cucumbers

Low-fat and fat-free milk products: yogurt without added sugars, milk, and low-fat cheeses

Whole-grain crackers and breads: Protein choices such as low-fat deli turkey slices or almonds and other nuts and seeds Take the time to make a shopping list and re-stock your cabinets and fridge with healthy options. It’s also a good idea to think about stocking your office cabinet or car glove box with healthy shelf-stable treats if these are places where you snack. You’ll find it’s easier to make better choices when you have a good variety of nutritious foods available in the places where you eat.

The Benefits of Unplugging !!! How Taking a Break from Technology Can Improve Your Mental Health?

Various studies show that unplugging from technology can do wonders for your interpersonal relationships and in-person communication. It encourages you to connect with others off screen and to compose your thoughts, instead of relying on a text-based medium

We all know the extensive benefits of technology. It makes it easier to catch up with loved ones, makes work more efficient, serves as an outlet for creativity, and the list goes on!

Despite all these positives, there is a lot to be gained from occasionally unplugging. It gives you the chance to relax, reflect, enjoy the outdoors, and catch up with family and friends in person.

You may even find that you enjoy disconnecting and having the opportunity to recharge more often. The scientifically- proven benefits of taking a break from technology can be taken advantage of at any time. You can do so for an hour in the morning, in the evening before bed, or during meal times. The specific time is insignificant, the most important thing is having the discipline to know when and how to disconnect.

Did you know the average adult spends as much as 12 hours a day in front of TV and computer screens? Between your favorite television shows, shopping or paying bills online, and video chatting with your children and grandchildren, your devices have practically become an extension of yourself to make life easier and more entertaining.

It’s true that technology offers incredible value and can help us connect in ways like never before – especially during this time of social distancing. But taking regular breaks from all the screens in our lives offers many health benefits for a happy, fulfilling life.

As the saying goes, everything in moderation. While technology can make life easier in so many ways, too much screen time can actually negatively impact our physical, mental and emotional health:

• Inactivity. Too much time on laptops and phones encourages a sedentary lifestyle. The longer you go without exercising, the harder it is to get back into an active routine.

• Insomnia. Spending too much time looking at a digital screen can disrupt your brain’s sleep cycles, leaving you feeling restless and exhausted.

• Vision Troubles. Staring at screens for too long each day can trigger a range of vision issues including dry eyes, blurred vision and headaches.

• Inability to Express Empathy. Technology may actually impair parts of the brain responsible for compassion and empathy, making it harder for you to build and maintain relationships.

Screen-free breaks can help you avoid the negative side effects mentioned above, and can also do wonders for your emotional and mental health:

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety. Unplugging from technology is like a reboot for your brain. When you’re not bombarded by dozens of emails, constantly looking at news alerts on your phone or mindlessly scrolling through channels or movie titles to find something to watch, your mind can slow down, relax and be in the present moment.

2. Opportunity to Focus on Appreciation and Gratitude. Social media helps you stay up-to-date on what your grandchildren are doing. However, it also shows you the latest expensive vacation your cousin took or the new home your old classmate from high school purchased. Social media may help you connect to loved ones, but it also opens the door to unnecessary comparison, jealousy and envy. Powering down from time to time allows you to reset and refocus appreciation and gratitude for all you’ve been given.

3. Provides More Time for Simple Pleasures. Time away from technology paves the way for simple pleasures. Watching TV or browsing online is time you could spend participating in a stimulating activity like puzzle building or reading. You can cook, write a letter to a loved one or play with your pet without any distractions. Doing more of what you enjoy can significantly improve your wellbeing and help you enjoy life to its fullest.

4. Reduces Feelings of Loneliness. Technology has made it faster to communicate with people and establish “virtual” relationships. But this lack of physical contact with others can leave you feeling lonely and unfulfilled. Closing your laptop or putting your phone away allows you to focus on building real, in-person relationships and communicating with others face-to-face.

5. Connect with the Natural World. Did you know there’s a natural urge to go outside when you choose to disconnect from technology? Breathe in the fresh air, take in the scenery around you and exercise without distraction. Plus, being outside gives you much-needed vitamin D which can help you avoid long-term health problems like heart disease and diabetes.

6. Allows You to Be Present. Life is happening in front of you every day; if you don’t pay attention you can miss a wonderful opportunity to connect. Powering down and disconnecting from the devices we’ve become so dependent on means less fragmented moments throughout the day. Your attention span will increase, your self-awareness and mindfulness will grow, and you’ll be able to appreciate and savor your time and the people you encounter throughout the day.

Our kids are spending eight hours on electronics every single day. Some say this number is conservative once you add all the time they spend in front of computers and tablets at school.

While there’s no doubt technology is a wonderful tool for education, more reports, studies, and experts are saying we’ve gone too far. In fact, our always-stimulated brains are leading experts to use dramatic terms like digital heroin. It’s not hard to understand the reaction—technology is definitely addictive.

Below, we share some of the powerful brain benefits of unplugging as well as ways to create device-free time in your classroom.

1. Unplugging encourages people to actually talk to each other.

Think about how much teens “talk” to each other electronically. Sometimes they’ll be sitting in the same room but never speak a word to one another. This is hurting social and communication, which are essential building blocks for long-term success.

Try this: Have students put away their phones during class for an entire week. Encourage them to try to use them less often outside of class, too. Then organize group work and rotate members of the groups at mid-week. The conversations students will have while they work together will be surprising.

2. Unplugging encourages good old-fashioned handwriting.

A report that says students who write things down usually outperform students who take notes electronically. Time to put your students to the test

Try this: Run your own research experiment: Start a new unit and have half the students take notes electronically and the other half take notes on paper. Then give a quiz (you can keep it anonymous). Compare the results between the two groups.

3. Unplugging forces students to look you in the eye.

When electronics are in full force, it’s pretty common to have students always looking down. But if you take devices away, kids look up a lot more.

The Visual Teaching Alliance reports that our eyes can register 36,000 visual messages an hour, which means there’s a lot of opportunity to reach students on a deeper level.

Try this: Challenge your students to look you in the eye when you teach. And look them in the eye, too. This will help them grasp concepts and will also allow you to see who is understanding concepts overall.

4. Unplugging helps battle FOMO.

Fear of missing out is a real struggle, especially with teens. And social media only exacerbates FOMO, which can lead to depression and anxiety.

Try this: Have a classroom discussion about how FOMO feels. Help them identify coping techniques for dealing with FOMO—including spending less time on their phones.

5. Unplugging can give students a challenge.

Adults know just as well as teens that it’s a challenge to cut back on technology use. But when students try to reduce their device time and are successful, they learn that hard work can pay off.

Try this: Join students in a one-, two-, or three-day tech-free challenge and have everyone compare how cutting down on screen time affected their lives.

6. Unplugging helps you connect to different learning styles.

Modern technology can help with comprehension for many students, but for others, it doesn’t work that way. By not planning every lesson around technology, you’re actually supporting different types of learning styles.

Try this: Talk with students about times in their academic careers when it was good to have technology and other times when it worked to be more hands-on. This will help students see that a balance is good.

7. Unplugging encourages students to think outside of the box.

We don’t realize how reliant we are on technology until it is taken away. The term Google it is something many of us live by, and for good reason—it works. But it’s good to know that there are other options, like looking up information in books, asking experts, or doing our own calculations. Plus, the journal Educational Psychology cites resourcefulness as an important characteristic when dealing with long-term stress and academic performance.

Try this: Give students a topic and challenge them to come up with five different ways to solve it, which should also include some non-tech solutions.

8. Unplugging fosters emotional intelligence.

Technology is such an integral part of our lives that we often forget that there are other options available—like common sense, problem solving, and reading human emotions.

Try this: Put students into groups and challenge them to solve everyday problems and concerns by interviewing people. Encourage them to use those skills related to problem-solving and human emotion to find answers.

9. Unplugging might help you get more vitamin D.

It’s not hard to understand that when you put down the electronics, you go outside more. This increase in vitamin D is hugely important. Doctors are actually prescribing outdoor time to some patients because of long-term health problems stemming from vitamin D deficiency, like diabetes and heart disease. According to research from Harvard University, nearly 50 percent of the population has a vitamin D deficiency.

Try this: Build in more outside time for your students, whether it’s holding class outside, a field trip to a local nature park, or even a class trip to the other side of the globe. Remember to leave the devices indoors!

10. Unplugging gives us a better relationship with the natural world.

Have you ever gone on a school trip and noticed that students aren’t paying any attention to the attractions, or even to one another, because their noses are in their phones? It turns out that even having a phone in a bag may be distracting.

Try this: Plan an unplugged trip for your students, whether it’s a local outing or a trip to another country. Challenge your students to go device-free during your journey and encourage students to connect with a new culture the “old-school” way. For instance, have your students observe the art and architecture of the places you visit, interact with nature and the environment around you, engage in conversation with locals, sample new foods, and more. This is what travel is all about—learning by experiencing things first-hand.

11. Unplugging helps us all focus on the RIGHT NOW.

It can be challenging to focus on the moment. Social media keeps distracting us, and research shows that average American is checking their phone more than 46 times a day!

Try this: This is one where recognition is the first step. Challenge your students to keep track of how many times they get distracted by social media or electronics and then discuss as a group. Together, come up with ways to stay in the NOW instead of letting the mind wander.

So, Brain scans show that spending time on screens activates the same neural loops that narcotics do. Unplugging once a week helps break these patterns.

The Joy of Movement !!!

The Joy Of Movement is just what you need to finally find the motivation to get out and exercise more often by teaching you the scientific reasons why it's good for you and why your body is designed to enjoy it.

Joyful Movement means you move because it feels good, not because it makes you "look good."

Joyful movement is an approach to physical activity that emphasizes finding pleasure in the way we move our bodies. Physical activity offers a variety of physical and mental health benefits aside from weight loss such as:

• Aiding in digestive support

• Improvements in metabolism

• Lowering of insulin levels

• Enhancing muscle tone, strength, and flexibility

• Helping us build motivation

• Lowering stress levels

• Promoting cardiovascular health

By engaging in movement that you enjoy and makes you feel better, you are more likely to move your body regularly. Often times it is easy to find ourselves focusing on a number whether it is the number of reps, calories, or time spent engaging in exercise. By changing our thought process from “it doesn’t count because it wasn’t an hour” or “I didn’t burn that many calories” to focusing on how our body feels after the movement, it starts to create a sustainable behavior. This shift in mindset can make the difference between going for a walk after dinner or sitting down in front of the TV.

Instead of thinking about ways to exercise, come up with ways to move your body. Ways to do this are as simple as dancing to your favorite music while you vacuum your house or walking your dogs or with a good friend. Exercise doesn’t have to be a grueling feat, limited to the confines of a weight room that leaves you worn down for days. Instead, simply get up and move your body in ways that you enjoy. All kinds of movement are valid. Some ways to move your body include:

• Riding your bike

• Taking the stairs

• Dance lessons

• Walk your dog (or cat)

• Gardening

• Dancing while doing chores

• Short walks after meals

• Playing with your children or grandchildren

The next time you find yourself wanting to move but dreading the idea of going to the gym, stop and think about what kind of movement would actually make you feel good. Whether it’s going on a walk outside to get some fresh air or cranking up your favorite playlist and having a dance party, these movements all have the same benefits of exercise without compromising your mental sanity.

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Being physically active can improve your brain health, help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities.

Adults who sit less and do any amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity gain some health benefits. Only a few lifestyle choices have as large an impact on your health as physical activity.

Everyone can experience the health benefits of physical activity – age, abilities, ethnicity, shape, or size do not matter.

Joyful movement means moving your body in a way that is enjoyable for you. Some days you may want to get your heart pumping, while other days you might want to take a more leisurely approach. Other days you may decide to rest, and that's ok too! There are no rules. It's all about what is best for you in that moment.

Everyone, regardless of body size, ability level, age, race or gender, deserves the opportunity to move if they choose.

7 tips for starting a joyful movement practice

Try activities that are fun. At the very least, pick something that you don't dread doing. Exercising does not need to feel like punishment. You don't have to go for a run if you hate it just because you want to lose weight. You don't have to lift weights if you hate it just because you want to gain muscle. It also means that you should absolutely run and lift weights if it makes you feel great! One of my go-to activities is hula hooping - it's not only for kids!

Focus on improving health markers, not manipulating your body size. Movement is beneficial for so many reasons aside from changing your body. It helps lower your blood pressure, opens a new window and blood sugar levels, opens a new window. It reduces stress, opens a new window, improves digestion, opens a new window, and helps you sleep, opens a new window. You never have to "work off" food that you have eaten, no matter what our diet-obsessed culture tells you.

Do it with a buddy. My favorite aspect of movement is sharing it with my loved ones. Now that it's summer, it's easier to be outside with friends or family in a safe way. I love dancing to Baby Shark with my nieces and nephews and taking walks with friends by the Charles River.

Set realistic goals that are not attached to calories or body size. Use metrics that are attainable for you, like minutes exercised or increasing the intensity. For example, your initial goal might be to walk for 10 minutes on your lunch break, but your final goal is to get up to 30 minutes. Gradually increase the number of minutes you walk over time until you reach your goal. Listen to your body and take days off. Don't beat yourself up if it takes longer than you'd like. You are not in competition with yourself or anyone else!

Movement comes in all forms. You don't need to have dedicated set-aside time for exercising to get the benefits of movement. Do you like gardening? That's movement! Do you take your dog for walks? That's movement too. It can simply be a part of your daily life. All movement is valid. It doesn't matter how intense it is or how long you do it for.

Read real-life inspirational stories by those in the inclusive fitness world. Many people have overcome discrimination and fitness industry bias. BPL has books by fitness experts and regular folks who discovered joyful movement. Their stories can give you confidence and new ideas for activities you might like to try.

Joyful movement is a way of approaching physical activity that emphasizes pleasure. We know that physical activity offers a host of physical and mental health benefits, and by emphasizing pleasure, you’re more likely to regularly move your body.

Joyful movement also emphasizes choice. Exercise often feels compulsory - it’s done to earn food or burn off food, to punish the body for not fitting into arbitrary and unrealistic ideals. Joyful movement recognizes the right to rest, as well as the benefits of it, and your choice in whether to engage with it or not.

With joyful movement, all kinds of movement are valid. Not only do different people have different preferences when it comes to movement, but different abilities as well. To make joyful movement inclusive, all types of movement must be morally equal, even if they may have different purposes.

If you’re trying to learn how to like exercise again, it’s helpful to think of it like that broccoli. Consider ways you can introduce it in a more pleasure-focused way, and you’re much more likely to have a good experience with it. Because you’re not necessarily someone who hates movement, you’re someone who hates exercise, and that’s really understandable when you’ve only had the soggy frozen broccoli version of movement!

Tips for Rediscovering Joyful Movement:

Take a break.

Sometimes rediscovering joyful movement means taking a break from it for awhile - sometimes a long while! It’s OK to hang up your running shoes for a bit. Taking a break can bring clarity, and is especially helpful if you struggle with compulsive exercise. If exercise has become your go-to for dealing with body discomfort, taking a pause allows you to learn other ways of coping. My friend Kylie has written beautifully on her experience taking a break from exercise.

What did you like as a child?

Think about what types of movement you liked as a child. Group sports, and things like gymnastics, roller skating, dance and riding a bike may be more divorced from weight control than other kinds of movement. Or maybe not - I know a lot of people had really toxic experiences in dance and gymnastics. But in general, these more child-like and playful kinds of physical activity can be fun to incorporate.

Incorporate mindfulness

Mindfulness can be a useful tool for fostering embodiment during exercise, and getting out of your head. Tuning into physical sensations or the environment around you can turn movement into almost a meditative experience. Here’s a post I wrote with tips for how to practice mindful movement.

Gentle movement

Don’t forget gentle movement! With exercise, the focus is often on calorie burning, so movement that isn’t intense may feel like it “doesn’t count.” In reality, gentle movement offers a host of benefits to your body and mind, and most certainly counts - although you really don’t need to be counting! Here’s a post I wrote with ideas for gentle movement.

Everyday movement

You don’t have to be in a gym to get your body moving! Think about ways you can incorporate movement into your everyday life. Gardening, walking the dog, taking stairs at work (super cliche and I know this is often used as diety advice, but I also found it woke me up from my afternoon slump), cleaning, and playing with your kids are all ways to incorporate movement in a setting that isn’t a gym.

Consider safety

Unfortunately, we live in a world where all types of movement aren’t safe for all people. Whether it’s street harassment for female runners, or larger bodied people receiving stares or comments at the gym, feeling unsafe will make even the most enjoyable type of movement feel stressful. Consider what you need to do to feel safe, whether that means running in a well lit neighborhood, finding a more inclusive space to work out, a workout buddy, or even working out at home.

I think it’s important to note that while I value and promote joyful movement, sometimes movement isn’t so joyful, and that’s OK too! I’m thinking of friends and clients who have required physical therapy to heal from injuries, to aid mobility or symptoms with chronic medical conditions, or sometimes had to train for an event that meant working out at times that they really weren’t into it. It’s OK if it’s not always joyful, as long as it’s not punishing.

I also want to point out that exercise is not a moral obligation. Just like some people might try the crispy roasted broccoli and decide they actually like it, others might not. If that’s you, that’s OK! You don’t have to be one of those people who likes exercise, or engages with it. While movement certainly offers health benefits, there’s lots of other things that offer health benefits too. At the end of the day, it is 100% your decision whether or not you want to pursue health, and in what ways.

Healing Power of Nature !!!

Given the chance, most people would happily spend the afternoon strolling beneath shady trees, in a blooming wildflower meadow, or along a beach listening to the surf. But what if such experiences had an actual effect on our physical health and wellbeing?

The meaning of nature therapy can vary from person to person, but in general, nature therapy involves: a trained, supportive professional, like a therapist a green environment appreciating and exploring nature Recent science is finding evidence that they do. Being active in nature can help fight chronic diseases, relieve stress and depression, promote faster healing, stronger immune systems, and more. And new research is beginning to reveal why: Contact with nature affects us, mentally and physically, right down to our cells.

Ah, nature. It can be peaceful, romantic and refreshing. And, as we’ve recently been reminded, it also has another face, one that’s violent, powerful and destructive.

Most of the time, we’re protected from nature's darker side by our advanced technologies and modern urban life. Where wildfires once raced through every decade or so, for the most part, they’ve been blunted and suppressed.

But while our modern lifestyle keeps us safer, it also increasingly separates us from direct contact with nature. This human/nature separation, a growing number of medical experts say, is contributing to declines in physical and mental health. And, it can leave us especially vulnerable to stress, trauma and anxiety when nature does disrupt daily life, as it recently did here.

In the raw, nature is formidable and challenging. But can nature also be a resource for health and healing? Intuitively, most of us sense it can. Now, science is beginning to bear that out.

What about mental health? If you’ve ever come back from time outdoors feeling happier, less stressed, revitalized and more focused, you’re not alone. A growing body of science is finding there’s a measurable difference when we perform activities out in nature versus indoors.

Multiple studies have shown that adults who exercised in nature had lower levels of tension, confusion, anger and depression than when they exercised indoors. A recent Australian and UK study similarly found that people who visited parks for 30 minutes or more each week were much less likely to have high blood pressure or poor mental health than those who didn’t.

But why? Some of the effects appear to be psychological in origin. Natural scenes and activities can stimulate our sense of awe, making our concerns seem less significant, while stimulating the feeling that we’re part of something larger and grander. This can measurably reduce stress, anxiety and depression.

Scientists also now have tools that allow them to peer in on brain activity, to see what’s actually happening when we’re exposed to nature.

In one South Korean study, scientists used MRI to examine participants’ brains as they viewed either nature scenes or urban scenes. While scenes of nature activated regions of the brain linked to happiness, insight and free-thinking, urban images stimulated regions associated with stress, fear and anxiety.

A recent Stanford study looked at the brains of volunteers who walked in a field of oak trees or along a busy road. No change was observed in the urban walkers, but the nature walkers had suppressed activity in a region of the brain associated with rumination, which frequently occurs with depression.

Natural environments can also aid victims of disasters. People suffering from trauma or life-disrupting events such as hurricanes, floods and fires may benefit from time and activity in nature. In its handbook on psychological recovery for survivors, the National Child Traumatic Stress Network recommends the value of outdoor activities, particularly in groups. Likewise, studies of soldiers suffering from PTSD have shown lasting relief and improvement after participating in nature activities like backpacking and river rafting

Health in nature is also a specific focus at Sonoma County Regional Parks, which in recent years has prioritized culturally relevant and accessible programs to involve children, youth, and families with natural spaces.

Many of us crave the peace and quiet that comes with open, outdoor spaces — and for good reason. Nature allows us to step away from the demands of daily life. It comforts us and calms our nervous system. Being outside renews our spirits, encouraging us to look beyond our immediate circumstances. It also allows us to process difficult feelings in a judgment-free zone, playing a particularly important role with emotional regulation. Quite simply, nature is restorative.

More specifically, research shows that natured-based therapy has a positive impact on eating disorder treatment outcomes. A 2018 study measured the impacts of nature-based therapy for 20 participants with binge eating disorder (BED) against another therapy modality, support group meetings. However, participants who engaged in nature-based therapy found that it was more relatable by them, leading to a clearer transfer of mental health skills into daily life.

Additionally, in 2020, clinicians interviewed eight individuals about their experiences with bulimia nervosa and BED.3 Participants reported that nature helped them reconnect with their bodies and led to greater feelings of calmness. They shared that nature is non-judgmental and engages all the senses. Based on their findings, the authors of this study encourage more research focused on the mind-body connection while in nature as well as the use of nature-based therapy to support patients with eating disorders.

At Hidden River, we provide patients with a beautifully designed facility in a peaceful and natural environment. Our treatment center is situated on 12 acres of rolling hills and large grass fields, speckled with decades-old oak and pine trees as well as a beautiful pond. While exploring the outdoors, patients often see wildlife, including deer, fox, geese, owls, hawks, and squirrels. Plus, our location in the charming and bucolic town of Chester, New Jersey, allows individuals to experience all four seasons and the weather that comes with them, including sunshine, wind, snow, and rain.

The buildings around our campus were built in the 1800s and 1920s and draw on Swiss-style architecture with facades made of various building materials and carved wooden accents. Natural elements, like rock walls and fences, brick drives, and tile roofs, are highlighted within each structure. The 15-bed house includes large windows with panoramic views of our surroundings as well as multiple patios for easy access to the outdoors. Interior features, such as wood balconies and pillars, old-world wood floors, and warm colors, allow patients to feel connected to nature throughout the day, including those cold or rainy days.

We also incorporate nature into our treatment program. Patients participate in mindfulness groups, including daily walks, as part of the psychotherapy component of their care. Moreover, they can join the greenhouse gardening group for additional time spent interacting with nature.

Nature therapy, also called ecotherapy, is the practice of being in nature to boost growth and healing, especially mental health. You might also hear it called green care, green exercise, green therapy, or horticulture therapy. Although people use those terms to describe lots of outdoor activities, they can also be examples of specific nature therapy programs.

Types of Nature Therapy

Because nature therapy programs can include many activities, there are different types of therapies. Some include:

Adventure therapy. This uses activities that explore nature and can be done in an individual or group setting. Rafting and rock climbing are good examples.

Animal-assisted interventions or therapy. Both of these options include spending time with animals. Animal-assisted interventions use locations like farms where you can pet or feed the animals. On the other hand, animal-assisted therapy focuses on building a therapeutic relationship with animals like dogs or houses.

Arts and crafts. Like the name suggests, this type combines creative crafts with nature. You might use your creative skills to paint in a green space, like a park or a forest. This type also includes using natural materials like clay, grass, or wood or using green spaces as inspiration for art.

Conservation. Conservation pairs protection spaces in nature with physical exercise.

Dark nature. Dark nature activities take place at night, so you might practice stargazing, for example.

Green exercise. Here, you’ll do physical activities in green spaces. That could be running, going on a walk, or taking a bike ride, for example.

Therapeutic farming. With this type, you’ll participate in farming activities, so you might grow crops or take care of farm animals.

Therapeutic horticulture. This involves gardening, so you might grow food in community gardens. Sometimes therapeutic horticulture leads to other activities, like selling home-grown crops at a farmer’s market.

Wilderness therapy. This type of therapy works well in a group. You’ll spend time in the wild doing activities like hiking or making shelters.

Not everyone who does nature therapy has a mental health condition. Anyone can reap the benefits of ecotherapy.

You can do nature therapy anywhere, whether you live in rural, suburban, or urban areas. For example, Lung’s practice is in a very urban area, but she often relies on county parks and nearby beaches.

Nature therapy might involve places like gardens, farms, forests, or parks. Usually, nature therapy involves experiencing nature (like taking a walk through the forest) or working in nature (like gardening).

The amount of physical activity you’ll get in nature therapy depends on the person.

Nature therapy can be paired with other options, like:

• Art and creative therapies
• Medication
• Talk therapy 
• “Ecotherapy is one tool that you have to draw on to strengthen and deepen the work that you’re doing with your clients or your patients”.

There's no denying that our health is intrinsically connected to the health of the planet. Without clean air to breathe, nutritious foods to eat, and biodiversity to keep the ecosystems functioning, we would cease to exist. Nature heals and grounds us after the stress of modern life pulls us further away from well-being. So when we think of wellness, Mother Earth is a necessary factor in the equation.

As we enter into warmer months, we'd like to encourage our community to harness the healing power of nature by practicing wellness outdoors and giving back. So we've rounded up three of our favorite ways to use nature for wellness, each accompanied by an action that supports the Earth in return.

Dimentia - Its nature, symptoms, diagnosing, precautions, care, medication and lastly seriousness !!!

Dementia is a term used to describe a set of symptoms that affect cognitive functioning, including memory, thinking, and communication. It is not a specific disease, but rather a general term used to describe a decline in cognitive functioning that is severe enough to interfere with daily activities.

There are several different types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, Lewy body dementia, and frontotemporal dementia. While each type of dementia has unique features, they all share the common characteristic of causing significant impairment in cognitive functioning.

The most common type of dementia is Alzheimer's disease, which accounts for approximately 60-80% of all dementia cases. Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain disorder that slowly destroys memory and thinking skills, eventually leading to an inability to perform even the simplest of daily tasks.

Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia, accounting for approximately 10% of all cases. This type of dementia is caused by damage to the blood vessels in the brain, which can occur as a result of a stroke or other cardiovascular disease.

Lewy body dementia is a type of dementia that is caused by the buildup of abnormal proteins in the brain, known as Lewy bodies. This type of dementia can cause visual hallucinations, fluctuations in alertness, and difficulty with movement.

Frontotemporal dementia is a type of dementia that is caused by damage to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. This type of dementia can cause changes in personality and behavior, as well as difficulty with language and movement.

While the specific causes of dementia vary depending on the type of dementia, all types of dementia involve damage to the brain that affects cognitive functioning. This damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, age, lifestyle factors, and underlying medical conditions.

Symptoms of dementia can vary depending on the type of dementia and the individual. However, common symptoms include:

• Memory loss
• Difficulty with language and communication
• Impaired judgment and decision-making
• Difficulty with daily tasks, such as dressing and bathing
• Changes in mood and personality
• Difficulty with problem-solving and planning
• Confusion and disorientation
• Hallucinations and delusions

Diagnosing dementia typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and cognitive tests. Imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, may also be used to assess brain function and rule out other conditions.

Treatment for dementia depends on the type of dementia and the individual. While there is currently no cure for dementia, there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. These may include medication, cognitive and behavioral therapies, and lifestyle modifications, such as exercise and healthy diet.

In summary, dementia is a term used to describe a set of symptoms that affect cognitive functioning, including memory, thinking, and communication. While there are several different types of dementia, all involve damage to the brain that affects cognitive functioning. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of dementia and the individual, and treatment options depend on the type of dementia and the individual.

Diagnosing dementia can be a complex process that involves a variety of medical and cognitive assessments. There is no single test that can definitively diagnose dementia, and the diagnosis is typically made based on a combination of factors, including medical history, physical examination, cognitive testing, and imaging studies.

Here are some of the steps involved in diagnosing dementia:

Medical History: The first step in diagnosing dementia involves taking a detailed medical history, which may include information about the patient's symptoms, medical conditions, medications, and family history. The doctor may also ask about any recent changes in the patient's behavior or cognition.

Physical Examination: The doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination, which may include tests of reflexes, muscle strength, and coordination. They may also conduct neurological tests to evaluate brain function, such as tests of memory, language, and spatial skills.

Cognitive Testing: Cognitive testing involves a series of tests that evaluate a person's cognitive abilities, such as memory, language, attention, and problem-solving. These tests may include standardized tests, such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), or the Clock Drawing Test.

Imaging Studies: Imaging studies, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, can help identify any structural changes in the brain that may be contributing to cognitive impairment. These tests can also help rule out other conditions that can mimic dementia, such as brain tumors or infections.

Blood Tests: Blood tests may be used to evaluate for underlying medical conditions that can contribute to cognitive impairment, such as thyroid dysfunction, vitamin deficiencies, or infections.

Psychiatric Evaluation: In some cases, a psychiatric evaluation may be recommended to rule out any underlying psychiatric conditions, such as depression or anxiety, that can contribute to cognitive impairment.

Once a diagnosis of dementia has been made, the doctor will work with the patient and their family to develop a treatment plan that addresses their individual needs and goals. While there is currently no cure for dementia, there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, such as medications, cognitive and behavioral therapies, and lifestyle modifications

Dementia is a progressive condition that can have a significant impact on a person's daily life. While there is no cure for dementia, there are some precautions that can be taken to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Here are some precautions to take in dementia:

Safety Precautions: Dementia can impact a person's judgment, coordination, and ability to navigate their environment safely. To prevent falls, it is important to remove tripping hazards and ensure that the environment is well-lit. Installing grab bars in the bathroom and using non-slip mats can also help prevent accidents. Additionally, it may be helpful to install locks on doors and windows to prevent wandering.

Medication Management: Dementia can make it difficult to remember to take medications as prescribed. To help with medication management, it may be helpful to use pill organizers or medication reminders. It is also important to ensure that all medications are taken as prescribed and to report any side effects to a doctor.

Communication Strategies: As dementia progresses, communication can become more challenging. To improve communication, it is important to speak clearly and calmly, use simple language and short sentences, and provide visual cues when possible. Nonverbal communication, such as touch or facial expressions, can also be helpful.

Nutrition: Proper nutrition is important for overall health and well-being. In dementia, changes in appetite and difficulty with meal preparation can make it challenging to maintain a balanced diet. To promote good nutrition, it may be helpful to offer small, frequent meals throughout the day and to provide easy-to-eat foods that are high in nutrients.

Exercise: Exercise has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall health in people with dementia. Simple exercises, such as walking or stretching, can be helpful in maintaining physical and cognitive function. Exercise programs designed specifically for people with dementia may also be available in some communities.

Emotional Support: Dementia can be emotionally challenging for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. It is important to seek emotional support from friends, family, or a support group. Counseling or therapy may also be helpful in coping with the emotional challenges of dementia.

In addition to these precautions, it is important to work closely with a doctor or healthcare provider to manage symptoms and provide appropriate care for people with dementia

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be a challenging and emotional experience. Here are some tips on how to attend to a dementia patient:

Be Patient: Dementia can cause changes in behavior and personality, which can be frustrating and difficult to manage. It is important to be patient and understanding, and to avoid getting into arguments or conflicts with the person with dementia.

Use Simple Language: As dementia progresses, communication can become more difficult. Using simple, clear language can help to improve communication and reduce confusion. Avoid using complex sentences or abstract concepts.

Provide Structure and Routine: Dementia can disrupt a person's sense of time and space, leading to confusion and disorientation. Providing structure and routine can help to create a sense of familiarity and security. Establish regular routines for daily activities such as meals, bathing, and bedtime.

Provide Memory Aids: Memory loss is a common symptom of dementia. Providing memory aids such as notes or calendars can help the person with dementia to remember important information and appointments.

Ensure Safety: Dementia can increase the risk of accidents and falls. It is important to ensure that the person with dementia is in a safe environment, with no hazards such as loose rugs or sharp objects. Installing safety devices such as grab bars and non-slip mats can also help to prevent falls.

Provide Emotional Support: Dementia can be emotionally challenging for both the person with dementia and their caregivers. Providing emotional support such as a listening ear, a hug, or engaging in activities that the person with dementia enjoys can help to improve their quality of life.

Seek Help: Caring for a person with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding. It is important to seek help from family, friends, or professional caregivers when needed. Joining a support group can also be helpful in providing emotional support and practical advice.

In addition to these tips, it is important to work closely with a doctor or healthcare provider to manage symptoms and provide appropriate care for people with dementia.

There is currently no cure for dementia, and medications used to treat dementia do not cure the underlying disease but may help to manage symptoms. Here are some medications that may be used to treat dementia:

Cholinesterase Inhibitors: These medications increase the levels of a chemical messenger called acetylcholine in the brain. Acetylcholine is involved in learning and memory, and is often reduced in people with dementia. Cholinesterase inhibitors may help to improve cognitive function and reduce behavioral symptoms in some people with dementia. Examples of cholinesterase inhibitors include donepezil (Aricept), rivastigmine (Exelon), and galantamine (Razadyne).

NMDA Receptor Antagonists: NMDA receptor antagonists block the action of a chemical messenger called glutamate, which is involved in learning and memory. These medications may help to slow the progression of dementia and improve cognitive function. Memantine (Namenda) is an example of an NMDA receptor antagonist that may be used to treat dementia.

Antipsychotic Medications: Antipsychotic medications may be used to treat behavioral symptoms such as aggression, agitation, and psychosis in people with dementia. However, these medications should be used with caution as they can have serious side effects, including an increased risk of stroke, falls, and death.

Antidepressant Medications: Antidepressant medications may be used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders that can occur in people with dementia.

It is important to note that medications may not be suitable for everyone with dementia, and the decision to use medication should be made in consultation with a doctor or healthcare provider. The benefits and risks of medication should be carefully considered, and the medications should be closely monitored for effectiveness and side effects. In addition to medication, non-pharmacological interventions such as cognitive therapy, exercise, and social support may also be helpful in managing symptoms of dementia.

Dementia is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life. It is a progressive disease, which means that symptoms will get worse over time. The severity of dementia can vary depending on the type of dementia, the underlying cause, and the stage of the disease.

In the early stages of dementia, symptoms may be mild and may not significantly impact daily activities. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms can become more severe and can have a significant impact on a person's ability to function independently.

Advanced dementia can cause significant physical and cognitive impairment, including:

Loss of ability to communicate: People with advanced dementia may have difficulty communicating, and may become non-verbal. They may also lose the ability to recognize familiar faces and objects.

Loss of mobility: Advanced dementia can cause muscle weakness and loss of coordination, making it difficult to walk and perform daily activities.

Incontinence: People with advanced dementia may lose control of their bladder and bowel function.

Increased risk of infection: People with advanced dementia may be at increased risk of infections such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and skin infections.

Increased risk of falls: People with advanced dementia may be at increased risk of falls, which can result in serious injuries such as broken bones.

Behavioral changes: Advanced dementia can cause significant behavioral changes, including aggression, agitation, and wandering.

Loss of independence: As dementia progresses, people may become increasingly dependent on caregivers for assistance with daily activities such as eating, bathing, and dressing.

In addition to the impact on the person with dementia, the disease can also have a significant impact on caregivers and family members. Caring for a person with dementia can be physically and emotionally demanding, and can cause significant stress and burnout.

It is important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of dementia. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to slow the progression of the disease and improve quality of life