Is the Office Photocopier Making You Ill?

 

 

They’re a vital piece of equipment in many offices but some people worry about the potential health risks associated with photocopiers. If you only use one every now and again then there’s probably no need to be concerned but if you spend a large part of your day using the photocopier, you may want to take steps to make sure it is used safely.

 

Why do people worry about photocopiers?
Perhaps you’ve never stopped to think about the health problems a photocopier can cause. And from the outside it can seem like a harmless device. However, every time a photocopier fires into action, complex electrical and chemical processes takes place which could be harmful to health. Some of the common concerns include:

 

Toners – in older photocopiers, liquid toner may need to be changed by hand and this could cause skin or respiratory irritation. However, most modern photocopiers now use a toner cartridge which means you are less likely to come into direct contact with the toner.

 

Bright lights – when making a copy, photocopiers emit a bright light which could be harmful to your eyes. It’s therefore important to always keep the lid firmly closed when using the photocopier. Ultra-violet light may also be released when the copier is in use but usually at levels that pose no risk to health.

 

Electro-magnetic fields (EMFs) – as with many pieces of office equipment, photocopiers emit EMFs which some believe can be harmful to health. Research has so far not proven conclusively what harm can be caused by EMFs but if you are using a photocopier on a regular basis or for a long length of time, it makes sense to take a step back away from the machine whilst it is in use.

 

Gases – photocopiers have been found to emit gases such as Ozone. If these reach high levels, they could cause eye and respiratory irritation. In more serious cases, severe exposure could cause lung damage. Keeping photocopiers in a well-ventilated area can help prevent these problems.

 

Noise – older or larger photocopiers can be very noisy and if you have to work near one that is in use for much of the day it could cause headaches or concentration problems. If this is an issue, speak to your boss about moving your desk further away from the photocopier.

 

To help prevent health problems in the office caused by photocopiers, it’s worth taking some basic precautions:

• Update older photocopiers with modern versions and always buy new photocopiers from reputable suppliers


• Make sure photocopiers are serviced regularly


• Position photocopiers away from workstations. If possible, keep the photocopier in a separate room


• Make sure staff know how to use the photocopier safely – including how to change toner safely, and how to fix paper jams without causing injury


• Ensure there is adequate ventilation around the photocopier


• Avoid using the photocopier for extended periods of time

 

For more information about safety in the workplace, visit: www.hse.gov.uk

Categories: health, health problems, nbsp, older photocopiers, people worry, photocopier, photocopiers, photocopiers emit, respiratory irritation

Symptoms and Causes of Environmental Illness

 

The world is full of potential dangers that we are often unaware of. Sometimes, things that seem like errant health complaints can actually be the result of exposure to what are called environmental toxins. These include a variety of unpleasant substances that we come into contact with in the course of our daily lives. From tainted drinking water at one’s place of employment causing gastrointestinal issues, or a leaky furnace causing a homeowner headaches, environmental toxins are a real threat.

 

What Is Environmental Illness?

Environmental illness is a blanket term that refers to any number of different health complaints with roots in exposure to an environmental toxin. Environmental illness can range from mild to severe and exposure can occur in the home, on the job, or even regionally. While many environmental illnesses are more irritating than dangerous, there is potential of severe, long-term health risks associated with continued exposure to certain environmental toxins.

 

What Are the Symptoms?

The symptoms of this can be very widely varied. From things like headaches and rashes, to more serious issues like paralysis and respiratory problems, the potential symptoms from environmental illness are incredibly varied. Some of the most common causes of environmental illness, black mold and unsafe water, display symptoms similar to those of common illnesses. If you and those in your household suffer from chronic allergies, you should have your home inspected for mold. Chronic flu-like symptoms could indicate the presence of unclean drinking water, according to an expert from Brothers Plumbing Ltd. If you suspect your drinking water may be unsafe, have it tested immediately—contaminated water could lead to serious health complications.

 

Who Is At Risk?

Anyone can potentially be at risk for an environmental illness. Those whose jobs or homes leave them exposed to any number of well-known environmental contaminants will be at an increased risk for an environmental illness. Workers in mines, heavy industry, who are exposed to chemicals, and more, will be at a much higher risk of health problems that result from long-term exposure to environmental toxins.

 

Long-Term Implications

We all know of “black lung” and other types of diseases that notoriously effect those from certain industries and vocations, the number of different dangerous chemicals we are exposed to has dramatically increased in recent years, and the long-term effects of some of these chemicals, like asbestos, have only become well known after workers began to suffer from the related health problems.

 

Whether it be exposure on the job or in the home, long-term exposure to dangerous environmental toxins can cause a wide variety of potentially negative health effects. Being aware of the potential dangers, risk factors, and symptoms, can better help one protect themselves from potential dangers, or even identify the root cause of a lingering health complaint. Environmental illness is a general term for health complaints associated with exposure to certain environmental toxins, and taking heed of the information provided here is a way to stay in the best of health possible.

 

Categories: Causes, drinking water, environmental illness, environmental toxins, health complaints, health problems, Long term, potential dangers, Symptoms, term exposure, toxins nbsp

6 Easy Ways to Start Saving Money on Health Problems

 

 

In a perfect world, we would all have perfect health. Unfortunately, however, the world we live in is far from perfect, and many people do struggle with and have to manage various health problems on a daily basis. If you fit into that category, then you know all too well that managing your healthcare needs and costs can be difficult. The good news, however, is that there are several different things you can do to cut back on costs related to your health problem(s) and to reduce your chances of incurring new healthcare expenses as well.

 

 

1.Preventative Care is the Way to Go! 

You’ve probably heard the old saying, “it’s better to be safe than sorry.” Well, that’s certainly true, especially when it comes to your health. Just as you must have maintenance performed on your vehicle, you need to be keeping tabs on your own health and how it’s faring. The easiest way to do that is by scheduling and making sure you actually go to various health checkups as advised by medical professionals. The average person, for example, should be visiting an optometrist to have his or her eyes checked anywhere from once a year to once every two years, though those with vision or other eye problems should visit more frequently. Wake Ophthalmology  has a bunch of great information on eye health, and other surgeries that can help correct your vision.  Likewise, doctor’s appointments are recommended once yearly, and dental appointments are recommended twice yearly for healthy individuals with no known problems. Not only will you decrease your risk of developing serious health problems by attending all medical appointments regularly, but you will also decrease your risk of having to pay a lot of money toward health care expenses! When you take better care of yourself, your wallet and your body will thank you.

 

 

2. Go Generic

Sometimes, prescription drug users end up paying a lot more for their medications than they should simply because those medications have a fancy name and a fancy label. What these people often don’t realize, however, is that the generic version of the drugs they need is 100% identical to the name brand version; the only thing that’s different is the name and the price tag, which is drastically lowered. All prescription drug users are strongly encouraged to ask their prescribing doctors about switching to the generic versions of their medications if they haven’t already done so.

 

 

3. Compare Prices

 

Everyone needs health insurance in this day and age, but it’s important to understand that not all insurance providers are the same. In fact, rates can vary drastically from one insurance provider to the next, so shopping around and comparing rates and overall plans from different providers in order to find the best deal is strongly encouraged. Do keep in mind, however, that while it’s certainly nice to save money, getting adequate coverage is even more important.

 

 

4. Up Your Dosage

 

Don’t panic- we don’t mean that you should literally up your personal dosage of the prescription medication you require! What we do mean is that you should consider buying higher dosages of your necessary medications and then splitting each pill to get multiple uses out of each pill. See, pricing for prescription medications isn’t generally based on the dosage but on the number of pills in a bottle, so you could get the same number of pills and twice the uses out of a higher dose of your current medication. Dosage splitting isn’t safe or even possible with all medications, but if you ask your doctor about this option and he or she gives you the okay, then go for it!

 

5. Save Samples

 

Doctors love giving out samples of medications that they think may help or benefit their patients in some way, so take advantage of this fact! Regularly ask your doctor for samples of any medications you use or are considering using in the future. Doctors rarely say no to sample requests, and you can easily stockpile your necessary medications for emergencies and keep yourself from spending money on a product that you end up not liking!

 

6. Know When to Stop

 

People often take certain prescription medications long after they actually need them. If you’re just taking a medication because you’re used to it or because you haven’t been to a doctor to change your prescription yet, stop if your doctor gives you the go-ahead! Don’t take medicine you don’t actually need. Not only is it dangerous and potentially addictive to use unnecessary medications, but it’s also expensive!

 

As you can see, there are lots of ways to cut costs related to your healthcare needs. Whether you save money by getting to the optometrist or other doctor’s office more often or by rethinking your prescription medication usage, the important thing is that you do everything you can to reduce your costs and get more joy out of your life!

Categories: easy, health problems, money, Saving

Mutual Orgasms: Do You Climax at the Same Time?

Having an orgasm at the same time as your partner can be an amazing experience, but some women feel bad that they can’t achieve it every time. Is mutual climaxing key to sexual wellness? Or is there more to sex than that? We spoke to sexual health columnist Candy Kane for her answers on the elusive dual orgasm. The key things to remember are lubrication, focus, foreplay, communication and taking note of any health problems you might have. If you sort out these things, you’ll be having more mutual satisfaction in no time. It’s not going to be perfect every time, but you can take these steps to try to make it so.

 

1. What Gets in the Way of Mutual Climaxing? ‘A number of factors can affect how sex goes,’ says Kane. ‘Maybe you or your partner are too stressed because of a busy schedule. The brain plays a role during sex, as well as the genitals. It registers the sensations and interprets them for you. If you’re lying there thinking about a homework assignment, you will lose the mood and you might not get it back until you let go and ignore it. You have time to do your homework later. During sex, think about sex. Focus on your body, your partner’s body, the way he or she feels. Change positions if you need to. It can bring you back to thinking about the act, and some positions are better for stimulation, anyway.’

 

2. What Role Does Foreplay Play in Mutual Climaxing? According to Kane, ‘If you are a female and you wonder why you don’t orgasm all the time, perhaps it’s because you’re not being properly primed during foreplay. An article on Cosmopolitan.com quoted a sexologist who stated, “Most women need about 20 minutes of arousal time to reach the ‘orgasmic platform.’” Ask your partner if he or she will spend 20 minutes on just you. They’re most likely going to enjoy themselves, as well, if they can have their way with you (with consent, of course!). My boyfriend certainly enjoys getting to tease me.’

 

3. What Do You Do When Your Lack of Orgasm Gets Frustrating (In More Ways than One)? ‘Always be aware of the other factors like stress, proper lubrication and the position before you get frustrated and place blame,’ Kane advises. ‘But remember, it’s nobody’s fault if one or both of you can’t orgasm. Be sensitive to the man in the partnership, as well. Men might be subconsciously worrying about their performance. Tell them when they’re doing something for you. Communication is key during sex. It’s not a silent act where one position always makes something happen. This is real life, not the movies. Everybody is different. You have to experiment and find out what works for you, and it could be different in every relationship you have. Just don’t worry about being perfect the first time or every time. Everyone should be comfortable telling their partner what’s going on for them and you can work out how to help it from there. Don’t get mad at your partner or yourself. Try again.’

 

4. Could a Health Problem Be at Play? ‘Some other things that could be affecting your performance are health problems,’ says Kane. ‘If you have a cold, if you have an orgasmic disorder or if you take birth control pills or other medicine that affects sexual stimulation, see a doctor or do some research. There are some reliable sources online that can give you a general idea of your problem so you know what to ask your doctor about.’

Categories: Foreplay, health conditions, health problems, kane, mutual, mutual climaxing, mutual orgasm, orgasm, partner, time

Dual Diagnosis: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Problems

A mental health issue – such as depression, bipolar disorder, or anxiety – is hard enough on your wellness, but when this coincides with a substance abuse problem, your wellbeing really is at risk. The same can be said if this co-occurring disorder or dual diagnosis starts with addiction, and incurs a mental health problem, but the good news is that there are treatments that can help.

 

With a dual diagnosis, your mental health issue and substance abuse problem have their own unique symptoms that interfere with your ability to handle life’s difficulties, interact with others and basically function. On top of this, the co-occurring disorders intermingle and affect each other, which further compounds the problem. When one issue increases, the other one usually increases also, and if one problem goes untreated, this will ultimately make the other problem worse too. According to research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, roughly half of people with severe mental disorders are affected by substance abuse, while 37% of alcohol abusers and 53% of drug abusers also have at least one serious mental illness. Of all people diagnosed as mentally ill, 29% abuse either alcohol or drugs.

 

While it’s common for people with mental health problems to experience addiction, but one issue does not directly cause the other. If you have depression or anxiety, you might turn to alcohol or drugs as a means of self-medication. However, the unfortunate side of this is that substance abuse causes side effects and eventually stops helping your symptoms and actually makes them worse. On the other hand, alcohol and drug abuse can increase your underlying risk for mental disorders, a complex interplay of genetics, the environment, and other outside factors. This can make it difficult to recognise or diagnose a co-occurring disorder.

 

Determining what might be a mental disorder and what might be a drug or alcohol problem can take time to tease out, especially because denial often clouds and complicates the issue. Denial is a common occurrence in substance abuse, as it’s difficult to admit to yourself – and those around you – how much alcohol or drugs affect your life and how dependent on them you have become. As the symptoms of depression or anxiety can be frightening, denial is also common in mental health problems, and you may choose to ignore them and hope they go away. Those who suffer from mental health issues often fear stigma, discrimination, or being viewed as week.

 

The important thing to take away from this is that substance abuse problems and mental health issues don’t get better when they’re ignored; they get much worse. You need to admit you have a problem before you can move on with your life and live it to the fullest. Start by taking a look at your family history – has someone related to you grappled with either a mental disorder such as depression or alcohol abuse or drug addiction? Genes and family history do play a role in your risk for developing these problems, so if a family member has suffered a mental health or substance abuse problem, it may help to open your mind to the possibility that you may likewise be affected.

 

Take a look at your own life: Are you highly sensitive to the effects of alcohol or drugs, and have you noticed a relationship between your substance use and your mental health? Getting depressed when you drink is an example of this. Moreover, while it’s normal to experience a small amount of depression or anxiety after you’ve stopped drinking or doing drugs, if the symptoms are still there once you’ve sobered up, you may be dealing with a mental health problem.

Categories: abuse problem, Dual Diagnosis, health issues, health problem, health problems, mental disorder, Mental disorders, Mental Health, Mental Health Problems, substance abuse

Can Mental Health Problems Be Prevented?

How do you spot someone who is mentally healthy? Researchers state that those who are emotionally healthy are in control of their emotions and behaviour, able to face the challenges of life, maintain and build strong relationships and recover easily from setbacks. Your mental health isn’t a given though – it requires as much effort and work as your physical health. There are many benefits to good mental health, such as a lowered risk of depression, a contented outlook and the ability to cope with the ups and downs of life. It will also boost your overall mood and well-being, build up resilience and lead to a more contented life overall. The term mental health refers to our overall psychological well-being, including your self esteem, the quality of your relationships, and how you cope with your feelings and any difficulties in your life. There’s more to good mental health that just being free of mental health problems – it encapsulates far more than people realise. Depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns all come under the umbrella term ‘mental health problems’, but just because you don’t have these doesn’t necessarily mean that you have good mental health.

 

So how do you know if you’re mentally well? People who have good emotional and mental health generally have a sense of contentment, a zest for life and the ability to have fun. They are able to deal well with adversity and stress, rather than succumbing to anger and upset easily. They have a healthy balance between work and play, finding equal time for activity and rest. These people are able to maintain good, fulfilling relationships, and have a strong sense of confidence in their bodies and actions. They find it easy to adapt to change, learn new things and take up new routines without worry or difficulty. While generalised, these features are common in people who have a sound, healthy mental health. All in all, positive mental health helps you to make the most of life and all it offers, enabling you to lead a full lifestyle with strong relationships, fulfilling activities and a productive work life. Life can be difficult, angering and stressful, but if you’re mentally fit and agile, you can bounce back and learn from it.

There are a number of ways of improving how you live your life and the effects your lifestyle has on your mental health. For example, connecting with others is a great way to do this. Why not volunteer and help someone out just for the pleasure of making life easier for them? Spend time with friends and family, rather than spending time at home on your own. Join groups and clubs in your local area, learn a new skill and make friends with new people – these are all things that can help you to feel more fulfilled. You can also make positive changes to your lifestyle, such as limiting alcohol, quitting drugs and smoking, and getting plenty of exercise. Taking better care of yourself isn’t just a change you make when you want physical adaptations – it can do wonders for how you feel as well. It will also help you to manage your stress levels, something that can have a negative impact on your mental health. Staying calm, relaxing more often, and doing things that make you happy will all have a positive effect. If you’re worried about your mental health, speak to your GP who can advise you of ways you can make a positive impact on how you feel.

Categories: depression, health, health problems, Healthy, life, mental, Mental Health, people, Positivity, strong relationships, term mental

Pet Food: What’s Your Dog Really Eating?

Pet food is primarily made up of leftovers from human food production, such as the animal products that aren’t wanted or those which are considered unfit for human consumption. The type of ingredients and their quality can vary widely. Naturally, you get what you pay for, as the cheapest pet food is likely to contain lesser quality ingredients. But in some cases you may be paying a premium price for mediocre foods that have simply got a great marketing promotion. There are a few ingredients to look out for on a pet food label that could give a good indication of the food’s overall quality. These could not only prevent your pet from eating foods that may make them ill over time, but will also stop you paying premium prices for foods that are harming your pets’ health.

Animal Fat

Also known as tallow, animal fat is a product of rendering. In this process, parts and pieces of animals (and sometimes the whole animal) are put through a giant grinder and then boiled for 30 minutes to several hours in large vats. The high heat is necessary to kill off bacteria, viruses and moulds, along with other pathogens. This also enables the fat to separate and float to the top, where it is then skimmed and used in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. When pet food companies use fat from a single species, they will label it as such. However, when its a mixture, it is labelled as general ‘animal fat. The latter is not something you want your pet to be eating.

Meat and Bone Meal

Meat and bone meal, known as MBM, is yet another product of rendering. This single ingredient doesn’t refer to a combination of meat meal and bone meal. The remaining material from rendering is pressed and dried to create a fluffy brown powder, which is MBM. It’s a high protein powder that is commonly used to bulk out low cost pet foods. It’s also a generic term that could include any one species or a variety. For years, it was rumoured that euthanised cats and dogs were processed into pet foods, but this was denied by the pet food industry. In tests, no samples of either species were found but it was found that meat and bone meal were the ingredients most likely to be associated with the presence of sodium pentobarbital – the drug used for euthanasia.

Animal Digest

This is a common flavouring agent that is sprayed onto dry kibbles to make them more appealing to pets. It’s made from a stew of animal parts than are broken down with enzymes and chemicals. As before, the term ‘animal’ could refer to anything. If you pet is allergic to a certain animal protein, this could be a problem.

Corn Products

Corn products are often found in pet foods, including whole grain corn, ground corn and corn bran. It’s used to provide a source of energy, but the vast majority of corn in the U.S is genetically modified – 85 per cent, in fact. Corn gluten is especially problematic as it is a cheap substitute for meat. Cats and dogs require a meat based diet, so this can lead to health problems.

Chemical Preservatives

Mny pet food companies use synthetic preservatives, such as BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin. These have been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer. Try to opt for foods that offer natural preservatives, such as ascorbic acid (vitamin C), tocopherols (vitamin E) and rosemary oil.

Categories: animal, bone meal, corn, corn products, Food, food companies, health, health problems, pet food, pet foods, pets

What Are the Effects of Fizzy Drinks on Kids?

One of the biggest crazes to recently hit America is to drink bottled water. It’s available everywhere, in a variety of flavours – so instead of a glass of coke with your burger, you can now have a bottle of water instead. However, despite this craze, fizzy drinks are still ranked as the number one drink amongst teens and children. With this in mind, should we be questioning what fizzy drinks are doing to childrens’ health? What’s really in these beverages and could it be putting the youthful generations health at risk? Whatever the flavour, soda pop is basically a mix of sugar and water. But there are hidden dangers besides these basic ingredients, such as caffeine and phosphoric acid. Sugar is the leading cause of a number of health problems, such as tooth decay and obesity. A twelve-ounce can of fizzy drink contains around 39g of sugar. This means that with children and teens drinking such large quantities the obesity crisis continues. Sugar is just empty calories and simply leads to health problems. But what you may not know is that fizzy drinks are harmful to kids because sugar lowers the immunity system – for five or more hours after consuming sugar, the white blood cells have a lower ability to kill bacteria. Kids have a developing immune system and giving them fizzy drinks which lower their ability to fight disease could result in them catching colds and other illnesses.

Carbonated water is the key ingredient in fizzy drinks, which is what gives it the fizz we crave. Research shows that when you drink a twelve-ounce can of fizzy drink, the oxygen level in your body reduces by up to 25 percent for up to three hours. This is bad enough for adults, but in children who need oxygen for their bodily development, it could be more damaging. Likewise, caffeine is a known stimulant which raises one’s blood pressure, level of acids in the stomach and pulse rate. It’s also incredibly addictive, causes dehydration and leads to restlessness. In children, this is a damaging combination and can stop your kids being able to concentrate and can make them restless. Children have increased energy levels anyway but giving them a product that makes concentration even more difficult could affect their ability to learn and pay attention in school.

Healthy bones are made with a mix of calcium, phosphorous and magnesium. However, if there’s too much phosphorous the calcium can be taken from the bones, leading to weakening osteoporosis. Many fizzy drinks contain phosphoric acid which could be harmful to their skeletal structure, a vital development in children. The occasional drink of coke certainly won’t do any harm, but relying on it as a daily beverage could be leading to a number of health problems in young children. There aren’t any nutrients in fizzy drinks, meaning that it can’t be labelled as ‘good for you’. The best thing to do is to limit the consumption of fizzy drinks in your kids’ diet, so that they rely more on water and natural fruit juices to keep them hydrated and healthy. You should also be a good role model for your children in highlighting the importance of a healthy diet for good health and wellbeing. A balanced diet is important for kids and adults alike, and the benefits of this should be explained to children so that they understand why they need to limit unhealthy goods such as fizzy drinks.

Categories: Children, diet, drink, Drinks, fizzy, fizzy drink, fizzy drinks, health, health problems, phosphoric acid

How The Thigh Gap Craze Could Be Hurting You

In the modern world, it often seems that there is a prescribed way that people consider that they have to look like. People are obsessed with their own body image and are constantly thinking about ways that they can change their appearance to become more like what they perceive they should look like. This might seem harmless on the surface, but the truth is that striving for a particular appearance can be very damaging to your health. Just take a look at the problems of an eating disorder such as anorexia.

 

In this case, it is clear to see that as young girls (and women and men) strive to look a certain way, they put their body at risk by starving it and forcing it to vomit. These are highly unhealthy things that are extremely bad for your overall wellness. And it is caused by bad body image and the belief that the only way to be attractive to mirror the hyper-slim image of models, most of whom are either suffering from the condition themselves or have been airbrushed to appear thinner than they actually are. This represents a very worrying trend for young people who are being manipulated by an impossible body image as well as their own vanity to make themselves unhealthy.

 

The latest craze that is starting to cause health problems for young people is the concept of the thigh gap. The desire here is to have thighs that do not touch when your legs are together. This clearly means having very slim thighs, perhaps to the point of being unhealthy. Girls who attempt to get this look use extreme and over-the-top tactics in their attempts to get their way to the thigh gap and this can include starving themselves, throwing up or even excessively exercising. While these may work and give the girl the look that she might want, it will also cause long-term health problems which will be very bad for wellbeing.

 

The first thing it is important to remember is that people have different body types and bone structures, and for some it would be impossible to have thighs that do not touch without being seriously underweight and ill. For others it is simply a more natural look due to the way that their bodies accumulate fat or due to a high metabolism. In short, it is not healthy for everyone to have a gap between their thighs and in fact for many people it is highly unhealthy and should not be attempted.

 

Unfortunately this is a symptom of the fact that young people are so obsessed with body image and can’t seem to understand that it is fine to look different. This is hardly something new – just think about how women use high heels in their attempts to look good even though it is very bad for their feet. The problem with this new obsession is that modern fashion accentuates skin-tight clothing, forcing women and girls to reveal how thin or otherwise their thighs are. This can lead to a highly self-conscious situation where they are constantly comparing themselves to others and begin to see themselves as inadequate.

 

Clearly this is a society-wide problem that we need to deal with, rather than assuming that it will be able to fix itself. Too many girls and women are finding themselves in the situation where they seem themselves as inferior to others and it is causing to use unhealthy techniques to achieve the look that they believe that they need to have. This needs to change.

Categories: body, Body image, Body type, girls, health problems, highly unhealthy, image, nbsp, people, thigh, thigh gap, young people

Seven Questions Your Fitness Trainer Needs the Answers To

Choosing the right professional fitness trainer is an important step in your wellness programme, but how do you know which one is right for you? As a general rule, the best trainers will – on the first meeting – sit you down and ask you lots of questions so that they can determine exactly what you need to enhance your wellbeing. Before you even touch a weight, your trainer should be able to devise the exercise programme that suits your needs best—and one that will give you the best results. To do that, he or she has to ask you the following questions:

 

1. Have you ever had health problems? There is a broad list of health problems that will affect your exercise programme, so never leave anything out, no matter how small a health concern it may seem. The main players include:

• Cardiovascular problems – Heart attacks, cardiac surgery, chest pains, high blood pressure (over 140/90), high blood cholesterol (more than 200 mg/dl), heart murmurs, arrhythmia, vascular diseases, phlebitis, stroke, and high blood fat levels.


• Breathing problems – Smoking problems, fainting, shortness of breath, bronchitis, asthma, and emphysema.


• Joint and bone problems – Ankle swelling, rheumatic fever, arthritis, and orthopaedic problems.


• Miscellaneous problems – Emotional disorders, recent illnesses or hospitalisations, drug allergies, etc.

 

2. Do you have diabetes? This one deserves a special question all of its own as diabetes is a major health risk factor. Many professional trainers are not qualified to train you if you have such a risk factor, so make sure your trainer is adequately prepared to take you on.

 

3. What is your waist size? As with diabetes and other major health risk factors, many trainers aren’t certified to train obese people. You’re considered to be obese if you’re a man with a girth of 40 inches or greater or a woman with a girth of 35 inches or greater, so make sure you measure yourself before your interview, and choose a trainer who is properly trained to help you lose weight.

 

4. What is your resting heart rate? If you have an abnormal resting heart rate, this is another major risk factor that many trainers aren’t qualified to deal with. Make sure your trainer is certified to train you.

 

5. What are your goals? This is perhaps the most important question your trainer can ask you, as your goals provide a direction for your training programme. With your answer to this question, your trainer will be able to create a diet and exercise regime specifically for you and what you want out of it. In order to do a good job of this, your trainer will need to take into account both your long-term and short-term goals, so come to your interview prepared to answer this question as fully as possible.

 

6. What are your eating habits? If one of your fitness focuses is on your weight – whether you want to bulk up, slim down or maintain the healthy weight you’re at – your trainer will ask about your current eating habits to see how they can be adjusted to help you achieve your weight goals. Go to your interview knowing the number of calories you consume, the types of foods you eat, the timing and size of your meals, your number of meals per day and any supplements you’re taking.

 

7. Have you done resistance exercise before? In order to create a programme that delivers optimum results, trainers will want to know about your resistance exercise past. This means telling your trainer the type of routines you have done, what time of the day you are usually train, how long you work out for, how you target your various muscles, and what kind of exercise you prefer.

Categories: eating habits, Fitness Trainer, health problems, Heart Rate, high blood, Interview, major health, prepare, resistance exercise, risk factor, trainers aren

Natural Healing: 5 Remedies to Control Common Health Problems

With health costs soaring, people are increasingly turning to natural remedies to prevent and cure many common health problems. There are a variety of herbs, natural foods and other healthy substances that can help you maintain optimum health. The following are five of nature’s most powerful healers:

 

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

 

Apple cider vinegar has an amazing number of health benefits. Using a small amount on a daily basis is a good tonic for your entire body, and it supports the immune system. It’s also an effective remedy for heartburn or indigestion. In addition to taking it when you have stomach problems, you can take some prior to eating foods that you know cause you distress to avoid the effects it might typically have on your body. Apple cider vinegar is also good to use when you have cold or flu symptoms, since it is known to help clear congestion and relieve a sore throat.

 

 

2. Aloe Vera

 

Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for many different ailments throughout history. Used topically, it can soothe burns and skin problems. Consumed as a juice, it’s very high in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and healthy fatty acids. Many people take aloe vera to aid with digestion as well. It has helped many who suffer from acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. Aloe vera also helps balance the body’s pH levels since it is more alkaline, which will help your body ward off illness and disease.

 

3. Garlic

 

Garlic is not only a flavoring for many dishes, it’s also a powerful natural remedy. One of the main reasons for taking garlic is to control blood pressure. The anti-inflammatory properties of garlic make it effective for treating or preventing colds as well. Health.com lists garlic as one of nature’s best remedies for the cold and flu. If you are using it for colds, it’s best to eat the garlic raw in small pieces or minced in your food. Garlic loses many of its helpful properties when it is cooked. Used on the skin, it can also help clear up acne and psoriasis.

 

4. Green Tea

 

This is a beverage that has been popular in many Asian countries for centuries. Recently, however, the many health benefits of green tea have been discovered by the rest of the world. The antioxidants in green tea are helpful for supporting heart health. It’s a gentler stimulant than coffee. There is evidence that regular consumption of green tea can aid with weight loss. It may also be helpful for treating or preventing gum disease. For a good selection of natural and healthy green tea products, click here.

 

5. Cayenne Pepper

 

Cayenne is used to make food more spicy and flavorful, but it also has many medicinal uses. It has anti-fungal and anti-allergen properties that can help to clear up many conditions. Some migraine headache sufferers find that cayenne is useful for preventing headaches. It also stimulates the circulatory and digestive systems.

 

Nature is a vast medicine chest that has many helpful plants, herbs and other beneficial substances. The above are some of the most powerful natural remedies you can find. They are all relatively inexpensive and easy to find as well.

Categories: Aloe Vera, apple cider, cider vinegar, common health, green tea, healing, health, Health Benefits, health problems, Natural, natural remedies, powerful natural

Constant Corporate Communication: Has 9 to 5 become 24/7?

These days, your corporate wellness is almost inextricably linked to your entire wellbeing; if things are going well at work your home life is better, while workplace stress sneakily feeds its way into your relationships and personal time. Somehow, work has infiltrated your entire life, whether it’s because of the constant emails to your smart phone, or the joint efforts of the media and your education which urges you to become as good as or better than the next person. It’s not the nine to five anymore; work is omnipresent.

 

It’s easy to see how this inability to escape the stresses of work can wreak havoc on your wellness; persistent high levels of stress can result in all kinds of health problems such as a weaker immune system, headaches, stiff muscles and even issues with your sexual health. Then there are the mental health problems; feelings of insecurity, exhaustion, difficulty concentrating and growing dependence on unhealthy coping mechanisms (e.g. smoking, drinking and overeating.) Put that all together, and you’ve got the recipe for a downfall.

 

According to Michael Hogg, author of The Age-Nostic Man: The Secrets of Anti-Ageing for Men, some employers believe that workers should reduce their own stress levels by making more of an effort to care for their own health and simplify their lives. ‘I have certainly seen cases where the chief cause of stress has been a company and the behaviour of its management,’ Hogg notes. ‘More men are realising that work is not the only source of fulfillment in their life, which can be a major help in fighting against stress. More of us are looking for greater flexibility just as much as women. However, with an ever-changing society, flexibility is becoming much more apparent and not always easy to organise.’

 

The truth is it’s not as simple as pointing the finger at your work and shouting “that’s the culprit”. You mental health is a balancing act which is affected by a number of different factors. For example, you may have been born with less favourable genes when it comes to mental health, or you may have experienced a major emotional trauma such as losing your job or a loved one. Then there’s the inward pressure you put on yourself – how often do you push yourself to achieve unattainable goals and targets? You may be surrounded by others who inadvertently add to your stress by pressuring you to achieve or do things. Your partner, family members or friends want the best for you, but may be taxing your mental health by encouraging this.

 

While there are these factors at play in your mental health, there are elements that you can control. As a society, we celebrate “hard workers” and, in this economy, working as hard as you can and getting enough money to support your family is certainly a concern. However, as this inward and outward pressure is taking its toll on your health and personal life, you need to find a happy medium. Hogg elucidates, ‘I did meet a business author and small-time entrepreneur recently who started his own business in his late 30s just so he could have greater control over his own work-life relationship. He had several opportunities to grow the small central operation but declined each time…Making it larger would mean him spending more time doing the things he didn’t want to do.’

 

You don’t have to quit and start a business just to get a better work-life balance. This weekend, try to cut yourself off from all technology, and take the time to think and re-set your priorities. List the things that make up your life, and prioritise them in terms of what will be important to you over the next 10 years. You won’t have solved your problems by Sunday evening, but focusing on what’s important to you will help to frame your future behaviours.

Categories: health, health problems, life, Mental Health, Priorities, Stress, technology, time, work, work life

Nine Foods That Fight Common Health Problems

People struggle with health problems every single day. It’s something that our lives will never allow us to get away from. Illness is just a natural part of life that we can’t avoid thanks to the myriad bacteria, viruses and the natural breakdown of cells in the body that contributes to serious problems throughout your life.

 

But while many people suffer with issues for their whole lives, there are actually simple and effective ways that you can deal with many problems. Primarily this can come through added certain foods into your diet. Here is our list of nine foods that can really help you out with certain health problems.

 

What is good for arthritis?

 

Ginger

Ginger is not only a delicious additive to many different foods such as soups and curries, but it can also be very beneficial to your health. It can work in a similar way to anti-inflammatory medicines and so can function as pain relief. It’s important to remember that it is also a blood thinner, so it shouldn’t be eaten too excessively or taken with other blood thinning medicine.

 

Pumpkin

According to recent research, the high levels of antioxidants in pumpkins can help to prevent arthritis and provide pain relief through anti-inflammatory methods. You could try eating pumpkin puree to get plenty of it on board. Pumpkin soup is highly delicious too and well worth eating to get your fix.

 

Red bell pepper

With a large amount of vitamin C and a good number of carotenoids, which are great for fighting inflammation, red peppers are very good for you. With regards to the vitamin C, it’s been shown in a number of studies that a lack of vitamin C in your diet can lead to an increased risk of arthritis. Given that peppers can be put in virtually anything, it’s easy to get more of them in your diet.

 

 

What is good for diabetes?

 

Beans

Beans are great for diabetes, whether they are kidney beans, pinto beans or anything of the other beans. They are able to stabilise the blood sugar levels which is exactly the problem that people with diabetes have.

 

Egg whites

We know the quality of eggs, but you might think that the yolk is the only way to get ideal nutrients. But it seems that egg whites are great for the battle against diabetes. This is because they are very low calorie but high in protein.

 

Nuts

Nuts are highly delicious and they are extremely versatile. There are many different types of nut including pistachios, brazils, almonds and peanuts. They are all great for fighting diabetes because of their high levels of protein. They are also packed with healthy fats that are actually good for you.

 

 

What’s good for PMS?

 

Cheese

Studies have shown that women who suffer from PMS often have low levels of calcium. There is no doubt that cheese has high levels of calcium and given that it’s very tasty you can add it to almost anything and it stays great.

 

Pineapple

Pineapple does a lot for you if you’re suffering from PMS. It’s a great source of manganese, which can help reduce mood swings in women with PMS. It’s high level of water can help reduce the bloating that many women experience during their struggles with PMS.

 

Almonds

Almonds are a fantastic source of magnesium which is a mineral that is known to relieve the symptoms of PMS. Almonds can be eaten simply as a great snack or can be put in salads and other dishes to eat as part of a main meal.

Categories: anti-inflammatory, Arthritis, Diabetes, egg whites, health problems, high levels, levels, nbsp, nbsp nbsp, Pain Relief, PMS, pms nbsp

How Can Healthcare Screening For Gay Men Be Improved?

Men who have sex with other men don’t often reveal their sexual practices or sexual orientation to their GP. But this lack of disclosure could lead to a number of health problems being overlooked, either through a lack of information or an inadequately trained physician. Because of the greater societal pressure and lack of emotional support leading to the practice of unsafe sex could puts the risk of sexually transmitted diseases higher. This is especially the case when combined with drug abuse, psychological issues and behavioural disorders. Recent trends show that an increasing rate of sexual risk takers among these men, especially among young men. Periodic screening is thought to be more successful the earlier it is started, to assess the health risks and current health state, as well as giving GPs a better understanding of their patients’ medical past for any future appointments. The physician should offer advice and question their sexual orientation in a non-judgemental and confidential manner, to ensure that their patient feels comfortable in talking about their sexual practices.

Targeted screening for depression, sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse, and a host of other disorders, should be performed routinely. The guidelines for these screenings do offer some suggestions for the care of men who have sex with other men, though they are inconsistent and subject to change. Men who have sex with men may identify themselves as heterosexual, homosexual or bisexual. Whatever label is used, it’s important to remember that these men are at an increased risk of HIV, anal cancer, and psychological or behavioural disorders. As such, their health care needs to be assessed differently regardless of how they classify their sexual orientation. The rate of men who had sex with men in the previous year was believed to be 1.7 to 2 per cent. However, surveys from 1996 to 200 show that this rate is at least 3.1 to 3.7 per cent. Previous estimates were, as a result, far too low and this could result in many men not being asked the right questions by their physician, leading to greater health risks.

 

This is something GPs need to consider when speaking to their male patients. Recent trends show that there has been a resurgence in the risky sexual practices that put men at risk of STDs and HIV infections. For example, the prevalence of men taking part in unprotected anal intercourse increased from 37 per cent to 50 per cent from 1993-94 to 1996-97. Particularly in the case of younger men, the disease risk isn’t assessed a lot of the time because if the numerous impediments to adequate care under the current healthcare system. Family GPs need to find an effective system in order to identify and assess the risk in men who have sex with men, so that the right screening can take place. Although men who have sex with men can be at a higher risk than other for preventable diseases and health problems, they don’t receive the appropriate preventative services. There are a number of hindrances for these screening guidelines, such as some physicians feeling uncomfortable discussing the concept of men having sex with men, or not understanding the issues these men face. As such, their patients will not feel comfortable in discussing these issues openly and that could put their health at risk. In creating a more in-depth and effective screening process, men who have sex with men won’t need to miss out on the health care services they require.

Categories: behavioural disorders, gay men, health care, health problems, Health Risks, risk, sexual, sexual orientation, sexual practices, sexually transmitted, STDs, transmitted diseases

Why are Young Adults at Risk for Mental Health Problems?

No period of your life has quite such an effect on your mental health as your teens and early twenties. Your wellbeing has to go through so much; dealing with your changing body and emerging love life, coping with peer pressure, facing the pressures of independence and responsibility, and joining the workforce. According to Patrick McGorry, professor of youth mental health at the University of Melbourne, and director of Orygen Youth Health, ‘Everyone who has been through that period of life will remember how difficult it was. It’s an incredibly stressful period.’

McGorry explains, ‘Very careful research has shown that if you follow young people from puberty through to their mid-twenties, 50% of them will at some point during that period experience a period of mental ill health, such as diagnosable anxiety, depression or some other mental disorder.’ But why are young adults so at risk of mental health problems? Wellness experts assert that drug and alcohol use are often at play in these situations.

Professor Michael Farrell, director of the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, notes that as your brain is still developing and maturing until you reach your mid-twenties, until then your risk of taking drugs and drinking are particularly high. ‘We have concern that some of the patterns of substance use, particularly binge drinking and stimulants, may actually affect brain development, particularly of [regions] in the frontal lobe which are important in relation to forward planning and executive function and organization,’ he says.

However, McGorry asserts that the detection of early signs of trouble can prevent mental ill health in young people, especially with regards to psychosis. He comments, ‘These illnesses don’t appear overnight so there is what’s called a prodromal period where the person is clearly struggling with their relationships and their functioning and they do have subtle warning signs of impending psychosis. We’ve shown that we can actually predict with prescriptive criteria that people will have a one in three chance of becoming psychotic within a two to three year period, which is quite a potent predictor. Even if they don’t become psychotic, these patients are at higher risk for other forms of mental ill health like depression and anxiety, so we can recognise these early clinical stages of a need for care.’

Here are some common early warning symptoms of the prodromal phase to watch out for in your teenager:

• Anxiety, irritability and depression


• Difficulty in concentration or memory


• Preoccupation with new ideas often of an unusual nature


• Physical changes such as sleep disturbance and loss of energy


• Deterioration in school or work performance

Categories: drugs, health, health problems, ill health, mental, Mental Health, mental ill, mid twenties, psychosis, young adults, young people

Female-Targeted Supplements to Boost Women’s Health

With so many supplements on the market, it can be difficult knowing where to begin in finding one that suits your body and needs. A new range of female-targeted supplements known as femMED have been released that take the confusion out of these dietary additions and to deal with specific problems that women encounter every day. Using the highest quality ingredients possible and 100% natural, these supplements are backed by a wealth of research and clinical trials to ensure that they’re not only safe but also effective. Shawna Page, who created the line of supplements, says that she was inspired by natural health remedies but found that the range of supplements already on the market didn’t target the areas of her body that she wanted to improve. She wanted to create supplements for women at every stage of their lives, from teens to the elderly. Our health changes as we age, so it’s important that we reflect that with the supplements we take. FemMED has taken this into account and created a range that reflects how different women are at these stages of life.

 

Shawna claims that it’s important to take supplements in order to boost your health in areas that your diet is lacking. If everyone ate a balanced diet of nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats, dairy and whole grains every day, there would be no need for supplements. However, in today’s age of fast food and quick meals, most people are lacking in vitamins and minerals that will eventually lead to health problems, from dry skin and hair to more serious conditions. Supplements are a quick and easy way of preventing chronic disease, improving your wellbeing and filling in the gaps that your diet has left. While they are no replacement for a balanced diet, they certainly ensure that you remain healthy. FemMED is a line of 13 products which are specifically for women and take the worry out of choosing a supplement for your needs. Addressing the most common health problems that women face, these supplements are far more appealing that choosing from an extensive range of complex formulas. Not only that, but every product in the range can be combined to target multiple health concerns and they use vegetarian caps. The range was created with a selection of health professionals, from herbalists to gynaecologists and obstetricians, so that every health concern was considered. Research has been extensive so that Shawna could ensure they were safe and effective.

The philosophy behind the range was to allow women to take control of their health and wellness – education, Shawna believes, is the key to having the confidence to challenge suggestions and empower women to take control of their diets. Traditional allopathic doctors won’t necessarily lead to a completely fantastic diet, and they won’t have all the answers to your dietary questions. For example, it’s not always necessary to use medication for your condition if a supplement can do the same job. Your health plan for improved wellbeing should include a healthy and balanced diet, regular physical activity, no smoking and limited alcohol intake, plenty of sleep, well managed stress and nutritional supplements. Of course, if something doesn’t feel right or you’re worried about your health,  you should speak to your GP who can check for any serious conditions. It’s best to be aware of your body so that you can make a note of changes in your health and catch any potential health problems early before they develop.

Categories: balanced diet, diet, female targeted, health, health problems, New Solution, range, Supplements, targeted supplements, Women, women's health

Mental Health Issues: What’s Stopping You from Seeking Help?

No matter who you are, everyone needs a little help sometimes. That’s why free and confidential mental health care is easily available for anyone, but still you can be reluctant to take it. Shying away from seeking care can be really detrimental to your wellbeing, as treatment can prevent your condition from getting worse. If left untreated, mental health problems can cause trouble at work, in your relationship and even lead to drug abuse or suicide. So, what’s stopping you from getting the help you need?

 

Outlook: A 2007 study, entitled “Perceived Barriers to Mental Health Service Utilization in the United States, Ontario and the Netherlands,” found that barriers in attitude were the most common reason why Americans don’t seek mental healthcare. The researchers found that many Americans wrongly believe their mental wellness will sort itself out on its own, and that professional psychiatry does not work.

 

Social factors: According to a report by former Surgeon General David Satcher, MD, PhD, race, age, culture and gender discrimination are major causes for obstructions in seeking mental care.

 

Lack of Self-Perception: If someone you care about has a mental illness, he or she may be unaware of the fact that anything is wrong. Your loved one may assume that those erratic actions, behaviours and emotions are normal, which means he or she won’t be able to entertain any thoughts of seeking medical help for the problems. You and your collective loved ones may need to intervene here, as there’s no way for the patient to find a solution until he or she first acknowledges that there’s a problem.

 

Lack of Access: You may find it difficult accessing mental healthcare facilities if you live in a rural environment or village, which is even more worrying considering the fact that seclusion is very damaging to mental wellness. You may also be unable to access facilities if you don’t have adequate transport or if you have certain responsibilities at home.

 

Social Stigma: No one wants to be seen as crazy, and so a lot of people – and teenagers in particular – don’t talk about mental health problems, or seek the treatment they need.

Categories: health, health problems, mental, Mental Health, Mental Healthcare, Mental Wellness, nbsp, nbsp lack, nbsp social, self perception, social stigma

How you can boost emotions with your diet

Junk food might be the tastier option, but it does very little for our health, both mental and physical. Eating too many saturated and trans fats can lead to a high cholesterol, increased risk of coronary heart disease and other health problems. But what many people aren’t aware of is that a poor diet that’s high in these fats can also lead to depression. This is because trans fats cause inflammation in the heart and brain, which can lead to us feeling sad and withdrawn. Though researchers are unsure why these aspects of food lead to depression, there is a definite link to what we eat and how we feel. However, it’s not as easy as blaming it all on the crisps and biscuits. Nutritional deficiencies could also be connected to symptoms of depression.

 

It seems that the more processed foods we eat, the more depressed we’re likely to become. Researchers believe that people who prefer to chow down on sweets over fruit and vegetables could be skipping vital antioxidants, which help to protect against depression. They will also be skimping on folate which protects the neurotransmitters in the brain. Studies claim that patients with depression have around 25 percent lower folate levels compared to healthy people. While scientists can’t say for sure that eating junk food for dinner is a direct link to mental health problems, there is evidence mounting that it doesn’t aid your emotional stability either. But knowing what to eat for a healthy mind is the difficult part – which nutrients offer the most effective results?

 

It’s difficult to know for sure which comes first, poor nutrition or depression, as the two are closely linked. It’s no surprise that depression leads to us making poorer diet choices though, so it stands to reason that improving your diet will help you make clearer choices when it comes to meal times. If you’re depressed, then you need to up your intake of vitamins and minerals which can fix the damage caused internally. B vitamins can start this process off, as they are essential for healthy and happy bodies. B12 can help to balance the chemicals in the brain to keep us calm and collected. These are found in fortified cereals and organ meats, such as turkey giblets and beef liver. Folate, which is another B vitamin, can be sourced from dark green leafy vegetables and citrus juices. Omega-3 fatty acids can help to lower the risk of depression and anxiety so make sure you add some fish into your diet, with salmon and mackerel being the best choices. Don’t eat fish? Walnuts, soybeans and flax seeds are great substitutes. Carbohydrates are also important, as these trigger the production of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter and regulates your mood. You want to add complex carbs, rather than sweets, to have a lasting effect on the chemistry in the brain.

 

People who eat more processed foods are far more likely to develop depression than those who opt for wholesome organic foods. A balanced diet can do wonders for your overall health and well-being, not least improving your mental health and fending off the blues. You should aim to for plenty of nutrients across the board, paying close attention to omega-3s, folates, B vitamins and complex carbs to make sure that the brain is releasing the hormones and chemicals it needs to stay happy. However, if you’re seriously depressed and your diet isn’t making a difference to your mood, you should speak to your GP who can devise a personalised plan for your treatment.

Categories: Complex Carbs, depression, diet, emotions, Food, health, health problems, junk food, Mental Health, processed foods, trans fats, vitamins

Why are GPs Increasingly Using Complementary Therapies?

Studies show that around half of the GPs in the UK are now providing access to different forms of therapy to their patients outside of the conventional routes of medicine and it seems that complementary therapies have soared in popularity in the past 10 years. The terms ‘alternative’ and ‘complementary’ medicine have long been associated with different forms of treatment, but the two offer varying methods – complementary treatments are used alongside conventional medicines, whereas alternative therapies refer to such treatments as Chinese medicine, and these replace conventional medicine.

GPs are now opting to include complementary therapies as part of their treatment for a variety of ailments. It seems that as many as one in three patients request these types of therapies when speaking to their GP. When used properly, these therapies can heighten the effectiveness of traditional methods – these include hypnotherapy, aromatherapy, acupuncture and osteotherapy. Many people don’t realise that there is a difference though, or the effect these methods can have.

GPs claim that there has been a high demand for therapies such as osteotherapy, chiropractors and acupuncture, but now nutritional therapies are also increasing in popularity. More GPs are also training in some of these therapies so that they can be offered within the surgery – for breast cancer patients, for example, nutrition, aromatherapy and shiatsu therapies are popular forms of treatment when used alongside more conventional medicines. Studies show that integrative medicines do bring a more positive effect to those using them, with the Haven Breast Cancer charity claiming that as many as 89 percent of patients said they felt better after receiving complementary therapies alongside their regular treatment. And because of the efficiency they offer, GPs are increasingly recommending them more and more.

The NHS and medical centres may begin offering more varied complementary therapies to patients. The Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine, which is the leading centre for complementary medicine in the NHS, offers treatments which include acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic, homeopathy, massage, clinical hypnotherapy and osteotherapy to help deal with the symptoms of a host of ailments and diseases. Your GP will only be able to recommend certain therapies depending on the area you live in though. Speak to your GP for advice on the therapies you’re able to receive, depending on your postcode and budget.

The five integrated therapies which are most popular amongst GPs include osteopathy, chiropractic care, acupuncture, hypnotherapy and art therapy. Osteopathy is ideal for back pain and can be use to detect, treat and prevent health problems. Chiropractic care is also used for back problems and can help alleviate issues with the spine and joints. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years, particularly in Chinese medicine, and uses fine needles which are inserted into pressure points in the body to help treat a variety of health concerns, from migraines to assisting with childbirth. Hypnotherapy involves putting patients into a trance-like state which can improve their well-being and control various symptoms. It is often associated with phobias, anxiety, fear, panic attacks and sleep problems. Finally, art therapy can help patients with mental health problems, as creating paintings and music can help people deal with their inner conflict and emotional turmoil.

 

Your GP will be able to advise you of the best treatments for your condition as there are many more besides these which could help you. Depending on what your budget and location is, as well as your symptoms, your GP can offer a selection of possible therapies which could help to work with your medicine for quicker or more effective treatments.

Categories: art therapy, breast cancer, Chinese medicine, chiropractic care, complementary medicine, complementary therapies, conventional medicines, GP, health problems, Therapies, Treatments

Has the Recession Hit Mental Health Sufferers Hardest?

When it comes to the fallout of the recession, it seems that those with mental health problems have been hit the hardest. This is according to a new study which looked at data on the rates of employment and mental health problems from 27 EU countries from 2006 and 2010 – both before and after the 2008 economic crisis. The study, published in the peer-reviewed open access medical journal PLOS One, found a consistent pattern; in both years, people with mental health problems were more likely to be unemployed. However, the unemployment gap between people with and without mental health problems had widened in 2010, implying that people with mental health problems may have been hit harder by the economic recession since 2008.

 

The study was carried out by researchers from King’s College London and the London School of Economics and Political Science in the UK, and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health in the US. You may have to take the findings with a pinch of salt, however, as the data was collected through brief, self-reported questionnaires, and diagnoses of mental health problems were not validated. This gives the study certain limitations, but still it is a valuable study overall. People with mental health problems may be more vulnerable to the risk of unemployment during times of economic recession, but the researchers need to further explore the reasons for this.

 

When you have mental health problems, unemployment can worsen your symptoms because it causes you to become more isolated and less sure of a regular income. This can lead to a vicious cycle in which you cannot get another job, so your symptoms worsen, so it becomes even harder to find employment etc. According to the study, people with mental health problems were more likely to be female, significantly older, more likely to have finished education prior to the age of 20 or had no further education, more likely to be unemployed/retired/unable to work through illness, and less likely to be in paid employment, a student or a home-maker. The researchers also found that the more mental health problems a person had, the more likely they were to be unemployed relative to the rest of the general population.

Categories: economic recession, health, health problems, mental, Mental Health, mental illness, people, problems, recession, Research, study