Behavior Health and Wellness Blog

Behavior Health
and Wellness Blog

Community and Mental Health

There are many great benefits community can serve in ones mental health. As social beings we need some amount of social interaction, and finding that perfect balance is important to us. Community takes away the loneliness, removes isolation, and gives us the support we need to function throughout our lives. When one is stressed, struggles […]

Dangers of Tobacco Farming

Tobacco Tobacco is a plant that is grown for its leaves. The leaves are dried, fermented or cured to be used in different products such as cigarettes, cigars, chew and many more tobacco products. The leaves of the tobacco plant are very high in nicotine and this can lead to addiction. Nicotine addiction is known […]

Recognition of depression in people of different cultures

“Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” ~ Nelson Mandela Depression in minorities There are many minority patients who attend primary health care and struggle with the weight of depression. It may be a great challenge for GP’s to understand and […]

Second-hand Smoke and It’s Ignored Implications

An average of 5.5 minutes of life is lost per each cigarette that is smoked. Tobacco smokers also have a risk that is 10 times greater in acquiring lung cancer, two times greater risk of myocardial infarction, and a risk six times greater at developing COPD or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. The economic costs of […]

Young Men at Highest Risk of Schizophrenia From Cannabis Use

Studies led by researchers at the Mental Health Services in the capitol region of Denmark and the NIDA or National Institute on Drug Abuse at the National Institutes on Health have found that young men with cannabis use disorder are at the highest risk of developing Schizophrenia. The study was published in Psychological Medicine, and […]

Mental Health Resources For Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders

Since the covid 19 pandemic many AAPI individuals have experienced higher rates of racism, discrimination and xenophobia. Many AAPI individuals experienced a complex range of emotions from stress to PTSD. Below is a list of resources compiled for your ease, dont hesitate to reach out and seek support if you are in need of specialized […]

Treatments for Marijuana Use Disorders

Marijuana use may lead to a substance use disorder, and is very similar to other substance use disorders, but with less severe side effects. Studies have shown that adults who use marijuana everyday for 10 years have attempted quitting more than 6 times. Psychiatric disorders have shown to be prominent in adolescents and adults who […]

Cognitive Distortions and Mental Health

Cognitive distortions are thoughts that are not based in reality, or are negative thoughts about oneself, others, or the future. This way of thinking reinforces negative emotions which may worsen preexisting mental health conditions, self-esteem, and behavior. A person who suffers from social anxiety may have cognitive distortions, and these cognitive distortions reinforces their negative […]

African American Mental Health Disparities

As a member of the black community, unique challenges may arise in mental health. The Black\ African American experience varies greatly amongst individuals, and amongst communities. Having outlets for support can greatly help individuals who may suffer from mental health conditions, outlets for support may be spiritual or artistic, or support from family and friends. […]

Smoking Marijuana During Pregnancy

Smoking marijuana during pregnancy poses risks and concerns, smoking during pregnancy should be avoided. The active component THC in marijuana can cross through the placental barrier, reaching the developing infant and impact development. Lower birthrate and issues with neurological development have also been noted. Breathing smoke from marijuana is bad for both the mother and […]