The Link Between Weight Gain and Depression

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Andres Ayrton on Pexels.com

Mental health disorders such as depression can result from body image issues. Societal expectations about beauty influence how some people think or view their physical appearance. For instance, an individual may feel less attractive due to their complexion or body size. However, societal beauty standards are not always accurate. People struggling with negative body image issues need assurance that size, skin color, or shape do not dictate attractiveness. If one has negative feelings and thoughts about their physique, they may stop caring for themselves. For example, neglecting skincare routines or overindulging in fast food may become the norm. In the long run, individuals become depressed because their appearance worsens, and salvaging the situation is challenging.

The standards of beauty set by society affect people’s self-esteem. Most media platforms use slender models in advertisements. This move makes plump individuals feel unseen and left out. Further, many enterprises stock small, medium, and large-sized clothing. Thus, plus-size persons encounter difficulties when shopping as they cannot find fitting apparel. Also, some people make snide comments about those with weight issues. Labeling individuals as obese or greedy affect their feelings concerning their appearance (Blasco, 2020). Thus, if one tries to lose weight in an unfavorable environment but it proves challenging, they may become depressed.

There are numerous ways that persons battling mental health issues can find healing. Due to mood fluctuations, some people lack appetite and lose excess weight. However, others overindulge in comfort food. To avoid this, patients battling depression can engage in affirmation activities where they complement themselves. By so doing, an individual assures themselves that despite weighing more, they are still beautiful. Essentially, self-affirmations help in raising esteem. Patients can also attend therapy or counseling sessions to identify the root cause of the problem. Lastly, consulting the doctor enables patients to receive proper diagnoses and prescriptions.

References

Blasco, B. V., García-Jiménez, J., Bodoano, I., & Gutiérrez-Rojas, L. (2020). Obesity and depression: Its prevalence and influence as a prognostic factor: A systematic review. Psychiatry Investigation, 17(8), 715–724. https://doi.org/10.30773/pi.2020.0099

What Every Parent Should Know About Rotavirus

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By Ashley Peoples| UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.com

Many children under five experience diarrheal disease, which comes from different conditions. Rotavirus can be transmitted to infants and children by not washing their hands when they have a bowel movement or putting fingers in their mouth after touching objects that are not clean. Rotavirus is released through bowel movements. According to the CDC (2021), rotavirus is spread without complications among infants and children. The CDC states, “They can spread rotavirus to family members and other people with whom they have close contact.”

There are symptoms to look out for if you think your child may have rotavirus: diarrheal and vomiting. This can cause dehydration due to the loss of body fluids. The CDC mentions, “Since rotavirus disease can cause severe vomiting and diarrhea, it can lead to dehydration (loss of body fluids).” Symptoms of dehydration caused by rotavirus include:

  • decreased urination.
  • dry mouth and throat
  • feeling dizzy when standing up
  • crying with few or no tears and
  • unusual sleepiness or fussiness.

It is essential to know the symptoms of dehydration if your child has rotavirus. Treatment for dehydration may consist of IV fluids. The CDC suggests, “Severe dehydration may require hospitalization for treatment with intravenous (IV) fluids that patients receive directly through their veins.” Hand hygiene is essential to help stop the spread of rotavirus. Washing your hands can also prevent your child from developing rotavirus.

According to the CDC, “Good hygiene like handwashing and cleanliness are important but are not enough to control the spread of the disease.” The best way to stop rotavirus is with the vaccination. Two vaccinations that can prevent rotavirus are the RotaTeq and Rotarix. RotaTeq is given in three doses at ages two months, four months, and six months. Rotarix is given in two doses at ages two months and four months. Most children (about 9 out of 10) who get the vaccine will be protected from severe rotavirus disease. About 7 out of 10 children will be protected from rotavirus disease of any severity (CDC, 2021). The first dose of either vaccine should be given before a child is 15 weeks of age and they should receive all doses of rotavirus vaccine before they turn eight months old. Both vaccines are given by putting drops in the child’s mouth.

The rotavirus vaccine is the best way to protect your child against rotavirus infections, which are the leading cause of severe diarrhea and vomiting among young children. Contact your child’s healthcare provider if you notice rotavirus symptoms.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, March 26). Rotavirus. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/rotavirus/index.html

Caregiving For the Elderly and Managing Caregiver Fatigue

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Angela Wilson | UAB Community Health and Human Services Intern

Photo by Andrea

Seniors are living longer these days, and more people live to be 100 years old. That is excellent news regarding longevity, reducing loneliness, and having a sense of purpose. Many of our elderly are cared for in the comfort of their homes by their children, grandchildren, or other family members or friends.  They are often loved, admired, and even cherished by their caregivers, but caring for them sometimes can become exhausting.

As more adult children choose to take care of their aging parents and opt out of nursing homes, the stress, fatigue, and physical demands put upon them can be wearing. Caregivers have many responsibilities when providing for the elderly. They must ensure they take their medications, prepare food, clean, and maintain their rooms, ensure they are bathed, and perform a plethora of other tasks daily.  With all these obligations, it can be easy for caregivers to neglect their own needs.   Caregivers are often sleep-deprived and tired; some even forget to eat. They can experience anger, sadness, frustration, isolation, depression, and resentment toward their loved ones. When this happens, it is usually time for the caregiver to take a break and care for themselves.  After all, if the caregiver is not taking care of themselves, they will be unable to provide adequate care for their loved one.

Caregivers should ask for help.  There are usually siblings or other family members or friends who can watch their loved one so they can walk outside, have dinner with friends, or see a movie. There are also local support groups that can provide encouragement, validation, and other viable resources.  Most communities offer respite care, including in-home help from health care aides, adult centers, and even short-term nursing homes so the caregiver can get away. Getting help and addressing your needs as a caregiver may make you feel recharged and give you a much-needed energy boost to manage your caregiver duties better. So, not only does taking care of yourself benefit the caregiver, but your loved one will also benefit from it!

References

Robinson, L. et al. (2023). Family Caregiving. Helpguide.org. https://www.helpguide.org.

American Psychological Association. (2014). Positive Aspects of Caregiving. https://www.apa.org

The Benefits of Honey

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Angela R. Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by ROMAN ODINTSOV on Pexels.com

Honey is sweet and pleasing to the pallet, but taste is not the only good thing about this viscous substance. Although honey has more calories than typical white sugar, it offers more flavor and usually requires a smaller amount when cooking and baking.  Raw honey is an unprocessed food that comes straight from a beehive.  The honey sold in stores is less sticky and easier to serve after increased heat temperatures. 

Honey has antioxidants known as phenolic and flavonoid acids that help the body keep various health issues at bay, like heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and cancer. There are many types of honey.  Clover Honey, Wildflower Honey, Acacia Honey, Alfalfa Honey, and Manuka Honey are a few of the more popular sorts. The darker the honey, the greater the antioxidant. The antioxidants and nutrients in honey can also help facilitate a healthy diet and help manage diabetes.

Honey is also medicinal and has long been used to treat wounds and burns. When applied to wounds, the micronutrients nourish the unhealthy tissue and stimulate tissue growth while promoting healing. Honey also moisturizes the skin while giving it a protective barrier.  A medical grade of honey can be used to treat first and second-degree burns, pressure ulcers, and leg and foot ulcers.  This sterilized form of honey comes from bees that gather honey from trees in New Zealand and Australia.  Medical grade honey can be in the form of gels, dressings, and pastes and added into adhesives.  Make sure you consult your physician before using medical grades of honey on any cuts, wounds, or burns. 

Honey is also known to soothe a sore throat when added to warm lemon water or hot tea. It may also be used as a cough suppressant for children between 1-5 years old. Although studies have shown that honey can be just as effective as cough medicine for children, giving honey to infants under one is not wise due to the risk of infant botulism.

If you have honey at home and are considering using it for healing purposes, do your research and consult your doctor or physician to increase your knowledge and maximize honey’s benefits.

References

WebMD. (2022). Honey: Are There Health Benefits? https://www.webmd.com.

Sass, C. (2023). What Are the Health Benefits of Honey? https.//www.health.com

Cleveland Clinic Health Essentials. (2023). The Benefits of Honey. How to Incorporate It You’re your Diet. https://health.clevelandclinic.org.

Food Poisoning During the Summer

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By Ashley Peoples| UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Sora Shimazaki on Pexels.com

It is summertime, and we will attend cookouts at our family’s homes. Food will be served while we are there, and many of us will be excited to participate in the prepared meals. However, we must be aware that some foods being prepared may cause food poisoning. Food poisoning comes from contaminated foods that are not cooked all the way through. Several foods can cause food poisoning—for example, eating raw food such as beef, eggs, chicken, and seafood. For example, meat is a product that can cause food poisoning, better known as salmonella, e-coli, and yersinia. Salmonella comes from chicken not being cooked all the way through.

There are ways to prevent food poisoning, which can be done by washing your hands before and after preparing food. According to the CDC (2022), your hands should be washed with soap and water for 20 seconds. When cooking meat, it should be cooked to a safe temperature. After the meat is cooked, clean and disinfect the surface. If the surface is unclean and someone touches it, they can develop food poison.

 So, when you are at the family cookout, ensure your hands are clean before and after preparing meals. Be aware of how thoroughly the meat is cooked before you serve it. It may help if you ask the person to cook your meat well done. For instance, some people like their beef cooked medium rare. However, if you are at a cookout, ask the person to cook your meat well done. Remember to wash your hands before and after eating so that germs do not enter your mouth. If we utilize the methods described in this blog, we can prevent food poisoning. Remember, prevention is key.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022b, December 7). Food poisoning symptoms. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/symptoms.html

The Importance of Prostate Screening

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Angela R. Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Karolina Grabowska on Pexels.co

Many men prolong getting a prostate exam or do not get one at all.  The reasons vary and include things like thinking they are not old enough to have a prostate exam or believing there is no reason for a prostate exam because they feel okay.  This approach can adversely impact your health by increasing your risk of prostate cancer.  

According to the American Cancer Society (2023), men should start screening for prostate cancer at 50.  However, African American men and men with a history of first-degree relatives, like a father or a brother, who have been diagnosed with Prostate cancer are at a higher risk. They should begin screening as early as 45. Men who have more than one first-degree relative should start their screening by the time they reach age 40. Although cancer screenings are essential, they are not recommended for men 75 and older because the risks outweigh the benefit in this age group.

So, what is a prostate exam? A prostate exam allows a doctor to check the male’s prostate by carefully inserting a gloved finger into his rectum. This allows the doctor to check for abnormalities, lumps, tenderness, hard spots, or swelling in a male’s prostate. The screening is quick (usually lasting only a few seconds) and not painful, although men have complained that it is relatively uncomfortable. If your results are abnormal, your doctor may need to conduct further testing like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or a prostate biopsy to look for signs of cancer (John Hopkins Medicine, 2023).

Prostate screening allows cancer to be detected in its infancy, offering more treatment options, improving survivability, and extending life expectancy.  Prostate screening is one of the most essential things a male can do to find cancers before they spread, so please get in touch with your doctor to schedule an appointment. Remember that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure!

References

 American Cancer Society. (2023). American Cancer Society Recommendationos For Prostate Cancer. https://www.cancer.org.

John Hopkins Medicine.  (2023). Prostate Cancer Screening.  https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org.

Rochester Regional Health. (2021). Prostate Exams: Do You Really Need One?. https://hive.rochesterregional.org.

The Unsung Hero of Self Care : Get Your ZZZzzzzz’s!

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Angela R. Wilson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Photo by Rachel Claire on Pexels.com

Seems like everyone has a busy life these days.  Some adults work two jobs and have children participating in sports, band, or other extracurricular activities. We are constantly on the go with our hectic schedules, and we rely on our bodies to continue to function properly amidst our many physician demands. One of the most important things we can do for our bodies is to ensure that we get enough sleep.  The significance of sleep is often underrated and not thought of as a necessity. But not getting enough sleep can have detrimental consequences. 

Quality sleep improves your health, mood, and brain performance. It can also help you avoid certain diseases and disorders.  Getting the proper amount of sleep can reduce your chances of getting heart disease, stroke, obesity, high blood pressure, dementia, and diabetes. According to News in Health, healthy sleep consists of three things; how much sleep you get, sleep quality, and consistent sleep. (Bryant & Reynolds, 2022). Just because you are sleeping does not mean that your brain is sleeping too. As a matter of fact, just the opposite is true.  Your brain is constantly working during the time that you are sleeping and is preparing your brain to create, learn, and remember.  Sleep also allows your blood vessels, immune systems, and other metabolic processes to repair. Without proper sleep, these processes will be disturbed, and the body does not reset. Experts recommend that school-age children get at least nine hours of sleep per night. Teenagers should get at least eight to ten hours a night, and most adults should get at least seven or more hours of sleep per night. 

If you are having trouble getting to sleep at night, try making small changes in your sleep routine.  Doing things like lowering your thermostat and cutting off all electronic devices like cell phones, computers, and televisions can facilitate a quiet, peaceful place free of distractions. Going to sleep and waking up at the same time every night can help your internal clock maintain a regular schedule. Avoid taking naps throughout the day so that your body is fully prepared to rest when you finally call it a day.  Avoid caffeine, chocolate, beverages, and energy drinks after lunch due to their ability to stimulate alertness. Try visualizing things that make you happy or reading from a traditional paper book, (not an e-book). And lastly, talk to your doctor about using sleep enhancing supplements like melatonin, magnesium, or 5-HTP, (an amino acid that boosts serotonin production).

Hopefully, you will find a viable solution to help you get the proper amount of sleep you need, and the saying, “out like a light” will be your new reality.  Good night!

 References

Bryant, E., & Reynolds, S. (2022, July 15). Good sleep for good health. National Institutes of Health. https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2021/04/good-sleep-good-health

Dasgupta, R. and Semeco, A. (2023). Healthline. 20 Tips That Help You Fall Asleep Quickly. https://www.healthline.com.

Let’s Beat Depression by Eating Healthy

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by Darina Belonogova on Pexels.com

There is a connection between depression and diet. Overindulging in processed and fast foods may result in this mental health issue. Aubrey and Chatterjee (2019) opine that it is critical to embrace healthy eating habits to improve outcomes. Also, individuals who mask their feelings through overeating should seek professional help and adhere to the doctor’s instructions. For example, attending therapy sessions can ascertain why a patient prefers fast foods to a healthy diet. After identifying the cause, a healthcare practitioner can advise the patient concerning the best intervention.

Overconsuming processed food increases the chance of contracting depression. An individual becomes susceptible to recurring mood swings and a heightened inability to focus (Aubrey & Chatterjee, 2019). Subsequently, these behaviors make them unable to concentrate on critical issues and affect their relationships. A person becomes withdrawn and shuns their loved ones, resulting in loneliness which could lead to depression. Thus, individuals should consume nutrient-rich foods that improve concentration and limit mood swings. Wholegrain, unprocessed meals allow one to balance vitamins, nutrients, fiber, minerals, and fatty acids. Thus, an individual stays healthy and feels good.

The type of food a person indulges in determines their general well-being. Mentally, overconsuming saturated and refined fats worsens the symptoms of depression and impairs brain function (Aubrey & Chatterjee, 2019). Therefore, one cannot make appropriate decisions and lacks concentration. An unhealthy diet also affects an individual physically. For instance, often consuming fast food leads to excessive weight gain. This aspect leads to a negative body image which affects one’s self-esteem. To alter the situation, a patient should embrace a healthy diet alongside seeking professional health.

We can beat depression by eating healthily. Ensuring that meals are balanced and eliminating overprocessed foods will enhance patient outcomes. Avoiding instances that lead to binge eating will shape our consumption habits and prevent us from contracting depression. Subsequently, healthy eating should be encouraged because it helps beat depression.

Reference

Aubrey, A., & Chatterjee, R. (2019, October 9). Changing your diet can help Tamp down depression, boost mood. NPR. https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2019/10/09/768665411/changing-your-diet-can-help-tamp-down-depression-boost-mood

Did You Know That Depression Can Cause Your Body to Ache?

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by cottonbro studio on Pexels.com

While depression is a mental health disorder, some physical symptoms exist in patients. Some signs are gastrointestinal issues, chronic pain, loss of appetite, irregular sleep patterns, and fatigue. Thus, healthcare practitioners may sometimes fail to diagnose this condition because most patients only report physical signs (Bruce, 2021). Also, individuals may not suspect experiencing this mental health issue and are surprised that chronic pain results from depression. For instance, one could attribute back pain to strenuous tasks. Hence, healthcare practitioners must conduct a series of tests to ascertain underlying issues linked to depression, including pain.

Chronic pain may lead to depression, and the reverse is true. Experts claim that continuous body aches make individuals develop low self-esteem. This aspect occurs if one cannot participate in social activities or fend for themselves. Ultimately, one becomes depressed, and prompt intervention is necessary. On the other hand, depression causes the body to ache, hence worsening a person’s mood. Bruce (2021) opines that depression magnifies pain, thus making everyday living more difficult. For instance, a patient who complains of migraines may report frequent and more painful episodes if they are depressed. Fortunately, some medications make chronic pain tolerable and relieve depression.

Besides the cause-and-effect explanation, depression and body aches share a deeper biological connection. In the human body, serotonin and norepinephrine regulate emotions and pain. Since depression is a mood disorder, if these neurotransmitters are dysregulated, a patient experiences this condition. Similarly, when norepinephrine and serotonin are interfered with, an individual feels pain. To ease aches during depression, healthcare practitioners administer antidepressants that prevent the reuptake of the neurotransmitters responsible for moods and pain (Bruce, 2021). These drugs work well and have fewer side effects. Further, they reduce the perception of pain.

Reference

Bruce, D. F. (2021, September 21). Depression and chronic pain. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/depression/depression-chronic-pain

Overcoming Depression

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By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Student

Photo by Klaus Nielsen on Pexels.com

Many people suffer from depression or its symptoms either unknowingly or knowingly. This mental health issue interferes with a patient’s ability to perform daily tasks and is accompanied by drastic mood changes. Subsequently, if you suspect you are depressed, seek professional aid promptly. By so doing, you get a proper diagnosis and commence treatment (Torres, 2020). Apart from medical interventions, you can overcome depression by focusing on what matters to you, setting achievable goals, and embracing a healthy lifestyle.

The effects of depression are severe, and patients are advised to seek treatment. By consulting a physician and getting the proper medication, you suppress the symptoms of this mental disorder. Consequently, you enjoy a good quality of life. Also, an individual can embrace psychotherapy and receive professional counseling (Torres, 2020). This move allows you to unpack what has been weighing you down. Subsequently, your mental burdens become lighter, and you can look beyond your problems.

Depression may result from one’s surroundings. For instance, if you are working in a toxic environment, you may gradually develop this mental disorder. Thus, after diagnosis, you can overcome depression by only focusing on what matters to you (Torres, 2020). For instance, you can quit your job or cut contact with people who worsen your situation. Sometimes, individuals get depressed because they set unrealistic goals. You can undo this by focusing on achievable objectives.

Lastly, embracing a healthy lifestyle is a catalyst for reducing the rate of depression. You can overcome depression by eating nutrition-dense food, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that make you happy (Torres, 2020). Some patients find comfort in fast foods that are detrimental to their well-being. If you are a victim, form healthy eating habits. Participating in sports or hiking allows your body to release feel-good hormones that lift your mood. Hence, both medical and alternative interventions will enable you to overcome depression.

Reference

Torres, F. (2020, October). What is depression? Psychiatry.org – What Is Depression? https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression