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Connecting Children with Nature to Improve Mental Well-Being
Children and teens face a variety of stressors and concern about youth mental health has increased in recent years. These issues were highlighted in the Surgeon General’s advisories on Protecting Youth Mental Health, Social Media and Youth Mental Health and Loneliness and Isolation. One approach gaining more attention is tapping into the health benefits of spending time outdoors in nature.
How Pets Can Protect Cognitive Health in Older Adults
Pets offer a range of benefits for our physical and mental health. Several recent studies add to the list, finding that pet ownership can help slow cognitive decline and prevent dementia in older adults.
Mental Health Equity Champion Spotlight: Mary Hasbah Roessel, M.D.
Welcome to Women’s History Month. This month, we highlight a phenomenal mental health equity champion, Mary Hasbah Roessel, M.D. Dr. Roessel is a Navajo psychiatrist and a Distinguished Life Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (APA). She shares her experience on how to infuse cultural considerations of Indigenous peoples into psychiatric treatment.
New Podcast Features Conversations with Leading Women Psychiatrists
The field of psychiatry has greatly benefited from the contributions of women, who have played a crucial role in advancing research and clinical practice. Women psychiatrists have made significant strides in understanding mental illnesses and developing effective treatments. One such pioneer is Helen Mayberg, M.D., whose groundbreaking work on deep brain stimulation for treatment-resistant depression has transformed the field. Nada Stotland, M.D., a former president of the APA, is another remarkable trailblazer who has played an instrumental role in advocating for policy changes that reduce stigma and improve access to mental health care. There are countless women like Dr. Mayberg and Dr. Stotland who have furthered the field of psychiatry in so many ways.
Relaxation Techniques for Mental Wellness
“Just relax.” While it sounds simple, it is often quite difficult to calm our minds and relax the tension in our bodies. However, the ability to relax and destress is important for maintaining mental health and can be very helpful for lessening symptoms of many mental and physical health conditions. For example, relaxation can improve focus and mood, improve sleep quality, lower blood pressure and improve digestion.