Behavior Health and Wellness Blog

Behavior Health
and Wellness Blog

Smoking During Pregnancy

Smoking tobacco during pregnancy is a serious public health problem due to its negative affects on fetal development and the health of the mother in pregnancy. During this time, it is important for mothers to focus on cessation of smoking, quitting smoking programs may be useful, and educating oneself on the risks associated with smoking […]

The Cultural Relevance of Mindfulness Meditation as a Health Intervention for African Americans

Meditation offers great potential in helping the African American community by fostering holistic well-being, resilience and empowerment. In our society there are many systematic inequalities, and racial injustices, meditation provides an incredibly transformative practice that promotes healing for individuals and also healing for community. The National Center for Biotechnology Information has stated “African Americans experience […]

BIPOC WELLNESS

Our communities are diverse, our cultures and our identities make up who we are. In order for our BIPOC communities to heal, grow, and thrive, we must have the proper resources. It is crucial of us as a community to have a global and bicultural view, we must not only focus on ourselves, but also […]

Tobacco

Killing around 8 million people every year, estimated 1.2 million have died from second hand exposure, the tobacco epidemic is one of the greatest health threats the world has faced. Despite awareness campaigns and efforts to curb smoking, the number of smokers greatly increased, which contributed to a surge in tobacco related health issues and […]

Is Marijuana Addictive?

Although marijuana has become a legal drug for recreational and medical use, it still poses health risks and can be easily addictive. The addictive nature of marijuana comes from the psychoactive compound known as THC or delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. Not only does THC pose the risk of addiction, but it may also carry the possibility of leading […]

A Healthy Childhood and Lifelong Health

“Early experience literally is built into our bodies, for better or for worse.” ~InBrief: The Foundations of Lifelong Health A childs childhood experiences profoundly impact their lifelong health in many ways. Positive experiences such as secure attachments, nurturing relationships, and a healthy and supportive environment lay the base for healthy development and resilience in life. […]

The Role Of Art Therapy In Mental Health

Art can serve as a profound therapeutic vehicle in treating and enhancing mental health. Through various methods such as painting, music, drawing, and writing, individuals are able to express and explore their emotions, thoughts and experiences in a non-verbal and non judgmental manner. Art therapy offers a safe space for individuals with mental health conditions […]

What is Menthol

Menthol is a naturally found compound, it’s found in plants of the mint family (Lamiaceae), scientific name Mentha. It is used widely in consumer products such as cough drops, cigarettes, flavored cigars and topical creams, due to its cooling and soothing qualities. Menthol can provide a refreshing sensation from ailments like coughing, congestion, and sore […]

Substance Abuse and Mental Health

Substance abuse along with co-occuring mental health disorders represent a complex and intertwined challenge that impacts countless people throughout the world. When substance abuse intersects with mental health disorders the consequence can be severe and debilitating. Substance abuse such as drugs or alcohol often exacerbates existing mental health conditions, or may trigger the emergency of […]

Tobacco Use and Behavioral Health

An estimated 35% of cigarette smokers have a behavioral health disorder and also account for 38% of all U.S. cigarette consumption. The use of tobacco and mental health are quite intricately linked together, with some evidence showing a strong association between the two. Individuals with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse […]