Given continued economic uncertainty, the holidays have the potential to create additional challenges this year. Families are cutting back, people are worrying about job security or unemployment, and seniors are concerned about their retirement. Such worries are stressful, and the American Psychological Association (APA)'s 2011 Stress in America survey found that 22 percent of Americans report an extreme level [...]
During the holidays, a variety of seasonal toys, decorations, and other items can be potentially hazardous to your family. Here’s what you can do to help keep the season merry and safe. Don’t toy around with toy safety Choose toys appropriate for the age, abilities, and skills of your kids. Check the toy’s packaging for [...]
Here are five tactics to help you steer clear of putting on weight during the holiday season: 1. Be realistic. It’s no fun to be stressed out and trying to lose weight during the holidays. Instead, aim to hold the line at your current weight. 2. Shop smart. Celebrate the season with festive and healthy [...]
Around the holidays, step-family life can become particularly stressful, especially for children who'll spend time at more than one household. Circumstances vary depending on each situation. In general, households separated by a short distance in which both sides of the family see the child/children frequently have different issues than those separated by long distances where [...]
In 2007, over 34,000 Americans committed suicide, making it the tenth leading cause of death. At one person every 16 minutes, it’s a national tragedy, but one each of us can help prevent. Depression is the major underlying cause of suicide. Understanding and recognizing the warning signs of depression, and suicidal behavior, are helpful in [...]
Many teen suicides can be prevented if warning signs are detected and appropriate intervention is conducted. The reasons No two teenagers are alike, but there are some common reasons they consider suicide. Many teens who attempt suicide do so during an acute crisis in reaction to some conflict with peers or parents. Such conflicts are [...]
More Americans now commit suicide than die in car crashes, making suicide the leading cause of injury deaths, according to a new study. In addition, over the last 10 years, while the number of deaths from car crashes has declined, deaths from poisoning and falls increased significantly, the researchers report. "Suicides are terribly undercounted; I [...]
More than 90 percent of people who commit suicide have a diagnose-able mental disorder, most commonly a depressive disorder or a substance abuse disorder. Warning signs of suicidal feelings, thoughts, or behavior Many of the warning signs of possible suicidal feelings are also symptoms of depression. Observations of the following behaviors may be helpful in [...]
Wellness has three basic components: a balanced diet, regular exercise, and wise lifestyle choices. Incorporating all three into your daily routine can help you live a longer, healthier life. Adopting even one of them can improve your well-being. Eating healthy A healthful diet can reduce your risk for heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. According [...]