MEN'S HEALTH AWARENESS NEEDS SOME ATTENTION

 

The month of June has been dedicated to the awareness regarding Men's health which also included June 14 as being Men's Mental Health Day. As your advocate I believe that this is a platform to discuss ways in which we can improve the lives for all. The purpose of Men’s Health Month is to increase the awareness of preventable health problems and encourage early detection and treatment of diseases amongst men and boys. During my working career, It has always been heart wrenching to watch families go through a health crisis, whether it is caused by a Mother or a Father. But let's face the facts women tend to have a better relationship with going to their Dr's at the first sign or symptom of a health concern. Going to the doctor isn’t everyone’s favourite thing in the world, but it’s important, both when you are sick and for preventive care. Men, however, are much more reluctant than women to go to the doctor, whether it’s for a regular checkup or for a pressing health concern. This is something that I have observed first hand with being a Nurse. Those who believe that the ideal man is the strong, silent type who does not complain about pain may lead to not seeking out preventative measures to keep your health on track. I understand that the not the fear of finding out what’s wrong holds merits for both men and women. In the spirit of men's health month, it is also important to develop conversations and practice regarding good health especially with young boys. You can do this by teaching young boys that it's ok to speak up about how they are feeling both physically and mentally. Remember healthy habits start early.


Ignoring even a mild health concern until it goes away could actually make it worse if treatment is required. The most commonly cited reasons as to why men don't seek medical attention or change unhealthy habits is normally because men have stated that they didn’t feel sick, or sick enough, to seek medical help. The problem with this reasoning, is feeling healthy doesn’t necessarily mean you are healthy. High blood pressure and high cholesterol don’t have obvious symptoms, but these conditions put men at risk for potentially fatal medical problems, such as cardiovascular disease or stroke. Many cancers are easy to miss until they progress and become difficult to treat.


Let's not forget to include that mental health is also a big part of men’s health concerns it has been cited that men are almost four times more likely than women to die by suicide. One reason is that men are more likely to use deadlier means — such as firearms. Treating mental illness and substance abuse can lower the risk of suicide. Men get treatment less often than women, though It's important to remember that mental health disorders are real medical illnesses that can't be wished away. This factor can change outcomes based on one's culture as well.

Some common mental health issues  include.

• Alcohol and drug abuse
• Anxiety disorders and PTSD
• Body image and eating disorders
• Depression

Other mental health conditions include bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

With June being the start of bbq season, there is  no time like the present to remind the men and boys in your lives that their health is important. It has been cited that Colon and prostate cancers are associated with diets high in fat and red meat.  It has also  been cited  that Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common form of cancer in men and the third most common form of cancer, after breast and lung cancer in women. The summer months are a great time to start  healthy changes like switching your steak  for chicken, making homemade burgers instead of processed burgers, adding veggies to the grill and of course we can’t forget about choosing healthier hot dogs which is always  a staple for any bbq grill. Another step that you can take should be reading the labels when buying hot dogs  and other products keeping in mind, that you want to use  brands with less sodium, less fat and less processing. Sounds hard? I know, but it can be done.

Tips for the guy in your life

• Eat healthy. Nutritious foods give you energy and may lower your risk of certain diseases. Focus on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat or fat-free milk products. Learn nutrition basics and how to read a food label.

• Stay at a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can raise your risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Find out your body mass index, or BMI, to see if you're at risk. Eat healthy foods, control portion sizes, and be active to keep your weight in check.

• Get moving. Regular exercise is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Find out how much physical activity you need.

• Be smoke-free. Smoking is linked to many of the leading causes of death, including cancer, lung disease, and stroke. If you smoke, quit today! Also, avoid secondhand smoke.
• Get routine exams and screenings. Ask your doctor how often you need to be examined. Ask about screening tests for certain diseases and conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, sexually transmitted infections, and certain types of cancer.

• Take any medications you need. Thousands of deaths could be prevented each year by taking medications properly. Make sure to follow your doctor's instructions for all medications, including those that help control conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes. Learn about medication safety.
• Avoid heavy drinking. Heavy drinking can lead to many problems, including high blood pressure, various cancers, psychological problems, and accidents. For men 65 and younger, drinking in moderation means no more than two drinks per day. Men older than 65 should have no more than one drink a day. Find out about drink serving sizes.

• Manage stress. Balancing work and family obligations can be challenging. But it's important to protect your mental and physical health. Find healthy ways to cope with stress.

• Get enough sleep. Not getting enough sleep can affect your mood and your health. Try certain changes that can improve your sleep. See your doctor if you think you have a serious problem. Sleep apnea, a common problem in which your breathing stops briefly, can increase the risk of accidents and certain health problems.

• Know your risks. Learn how your lifestyle affects your risk of health problems. For example, people who work with certain chemicals need to take protective steps, and men who have sex with men should talk with their doctors about particular concerns. You also should keep track of your family medical history and share it with your doctor.

• Stay safe. Safety means many things, like wearing seatbelts and helmets, having working smoke detectors, and following safety rules at work. It also means using condoms, washing your hands, taking care of your teeth, and wearing sunscreen. Take steps to protect yourself and others.

Men’s Health is  a family issue that shouldn’t be done alone. We should all  take steps to be healthier, Whether it’s your husband, partner, dad, brother, son, or friend you can help support the health and safety of the men in your life. This has been watching out for your health with
Michelle Smith Your Health And Social Advocate

I  take pride in working with adults – by helping them to recognize that character equals destiny…that success in careers, relationships, and life can be determined by the actions we choose to take or not take; that ultimately we are the architects of our own lives. As human beings, we have a tendency to concentrate on all the ways life can beat us up. I encourage people to shift to an “attitude of gratitude”, and to open up to the good fortune that surrounds all of us.
stay connected I am also available to speak at your next event learn more

RESOURCES 

http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/youth-mental-health-clinics-1.3654095

http://www.womenshealth.gov/mens-health/mental-health-for-men/index.html

http://www.womenshealth.gov/mens-health/tips-for-men-for-a-healthly-life/

http://www.eatingwell.com/healthy_cooking/healthy_cooking_101/shopping_cooking_guides/buyers_guide_to_healthier_hot_dogs?slide=2

Can we really avoid Cancer ?  early detection is  essential. That’s why knowing your risk is so important. 
take the quiz.....

https://www.mycanceriq.ca/?gclid=CNy3rqHnocQCFVKAaQod1VEANA

Colorectal cancer FAQs 
Red meat possibly linked to breast cancer


  http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/red-meat-possibly-linked-to-breast-cancer-1.2671915

http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/meat-cancer-world-health-organization-1.3288355

http://www.cbc.ca/news/health/red-meat-eaten-daily-raises-early-death-risk-1.1145553
 http://www.cbcf.org/ontario/Pages/default.aspx

http://janursing.blogspot.ca/2015/02/metime-did-you-pick-your-day-yet.html

KICK YOUR BLUES TO THE CURB WITH THESE 5 STEPS YOUR MENTAL WELLNESS MATTERS

Winter may be almost over  but these house rules for your mind and body should be all year round. Rules should include routine visits with your physician, consulting with a health advocate, eating right and staying active especially as the season changes. Did you know that between 60% and 90% of people with SAD are women? It’s true. If you are a female between fifteen and fifty five, you are more likely to develop S.A.D.

It’s been noted that during the winter months we all tend to get comfortable, let’s remember that those yummy comfort foods help to add those extra winter pounds.  It also  has been noted that during the winter  higher incidences of S.A.D and depression have been found but before you start self diagnosing   your self let's go over S.A.D 

What is S.A.D – Seasonal Affective Disorder? Many people experience seasonal changes in feelings of well-being and in energy, sleep patterns and eating patterns, to a greater or lesser degree generally called the “Winter Blues”.  But some people experience powerful changes to the degree that it becomes a form of clinical depression, called Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D).

It has been cited that about 2% to 6% of Canadians will experience S.A.D. in their lifetime. Another 15% will experience a milder form of S.A.D.

Who is at risk of developing Seasonal Affective Disorder? Women are up to eight times as likely as men to report having S.A.D.

People in northern countries are more likely to experience S.A.D. than those who live closer to the equator because the days get shorter the further north you go.

S.A.D. tends to run in families – most individuals with S.A.D. have at least one close relative with a history of depression.

What are the risk factors/triggers for Seasonal Affective Disorder? A variety of psychological, social and biological factors may contribute to S.A.D. Some known factors are:

• Inherent vulnerability
• Light deprivation
• Stress
• Biological factors unique to the individual, as well as hormonal changes due to physical conditions
• Early childhood trauma

What are the symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder?

• Oversleeping – sometimes an increase of two to four or more hours per day
• Lethargy (low energy)
• Intense craving for carbohydrates
• Weight gain
• Withdrawal from social contacts
• Depressed mood occurring over at least two consecutive winters, alternating with non-depressed periods in the spring and summer

What do I need to tell my doctor?

• Write down any symptoms you’ve had
• Write down key personal information
• Make a list of all medications you are taking
• Write down questions to ask your doctor
• Take a family member or friend along

Discuss all of your symptoms with your doctor and describe how they are affecting your life (e.g. sleeping several extra hours per day and missing work/school/appointments). Your doctor can suggest or provide appropriate therapy. Make sure to discuss all of the available treatments and medications and their benefits and side effects before making any decisions.

 Other treatment options such as massage therapy, music therapy, meditation, shiatsu, therapeutic touch, aromatherapy or tai chi, Pilates and yoga can also help to improve wellness.

Your Mental Wellness Check list for kicking the Winter blues 

• Stick to your treatment plan. Don’t skip psychotherapy sessions. Even if you’re
• feeling well, continue to take medication as prescribed.
• Learn about S.A.D. Empower yourself by learning about your condition.
• Pay attention to the warning signs. Find out what triggers your S.A.D. Make a plan so that you know what to do if your symptoms get worse. Contact your doctor, therapist or health advocate if you notice any changes. Ask friends or family to watch out for warning signs.
• Get exercise. Physical activity may help reduce the symptoms of S.A.D. Consider walking, jogging, swimming, gardening, or any other physical activity.
• Avoid alcohol and illicit drugs. It may seem like they lessen your problems, but in the long run, they generally worsen symptoms and make S.A.D. harder to treat.
• Get adequate sleep. This is especially important. If you’re having trouble sleeping, talk to your doctor about what you can do.

Maintain an adequate diet. The Canada Food Guide is a useful reference in helping you choose to eat well. Choose more protein and Omega 3. Eat fewer simple carbohydrates, substituting more complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains.

Remember you are the most important part of your health care team. For more information and Support Michelle Smith your Health care advocate is available for your next health care check

 Find me on twitter https://twitter.com/JaNursing Lets create awareness together




Thanks for sharing




























Resources









http://psychcentral.com/lib/10-things-you-dont-know-about-seasonal-affective-disorder/2/






https://www.mooddisorders.ca/faq/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad





Mayo Clinic, "Seasonal Affective Disorder," www.mayoclinic.com, accessed on July 15, 2013.








http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder/basics/definition/con-20021047










http://www.camh.ca/en/hospital/about_camh/newsroom/news_releases_media_advisories_and_backgrounders/current_year/Pages/Seasonal-depression,-winter-blues-and-seasonal-affective-disorder--CAMH-expert-available-for-interview-.aspx

People with depression are "crazy." The Myth

 

Hello all  It’s your girl JA Nursing here,  “Man flies plane into the Alps”. Let’s go over this story…

People with depression are “crazy”… fact vs. fiction

It all starts with the tragic tale of Andreas Lubitz – a 28-year-old pilot from the German town of Montabaur. It turns out that he had been diagnosed with depression, but  hid  his illness from his employer and colleagues. 

Lubitz certainly did suffer from a severe psychosomatic illness known as “severe subjective burnout syndrome” and severe depression, a source told the German newspaper, Die Welt. However, he had kept this information from his employer. German police had seized prescription drugs that he used to treat his condition while searching his apartment, and The New York Times also reported that.
 Investigators said they found a torn-up sick note for the day of the crash in the home of the German wings pilot who’s believed to have intentionally crashed a plane into the French alps.

CNN Reports: Antidepressants found at home of Germanwings co-pilot Andreas Lubitz

Authorities are trying to determine whether Lubitz’s relationship difficulties with his girlfriend played a role in his apparent decision to initiate the descent into the mountainside, taking 149 passengers and crew to their deaths on Germanwings Flight 9525, the newspaper reported.

 Pilots who work for Lufthansa, Germanwings’ parent company, are required to have medical checkups once a year, and according to his  records, his was not done since July 2014.  Annual checkups do not include mandatory psychological testing.  

More than 350 million people suffer from depression.

 Anxiety disorders often occur together with other medical conditions, such as depression, eating disorders, or substance use problems.

Anxiety disorders are the most common of all mental disorders. About 1 out of every 4 adults has an anxiety disorder sometime in their life and about 1 out of every 10 people currently has an anxiety disorder. They are more common in women and can affect children and adults.
Many people misunderstand these disorders and think they can get over them on their own (i.e., without treatment). This is usually not the case. Fortunately, there are many treatments available today to help.

But when anxiety becomes persistent and interferes with the ability to cope and disrupts daily life, the person may have an anxiety disorder. There are several types of anxiety disorders. They include:

• panic attack or panic disorder (sudden anxiety that occurs without warning) with or without agoraphobia (avoiding specific situations, such as public places or places where crowds gather, from which they can't easily escape)
• specific phobias (many types of intense fear reactions of specific objects or situations, such as fear of spiders, flying, or heights)
• social anxiety or social phobia (fear of being embarrassed in social situations)
• generalized anxiety disorder (general feeling of anxiety most of the time)

Everyone feels sad or down at times, especially after experiencing a disappointment such as not getting the job you interviewed for. However, these feelings of sadness are usually short-lived.
Depression, on the other hand, is a medical condition characterized by long-lasting feelings of intense sadness and hopelessness associated with additional mental and physical changes. Depression can affect someone's personal, social, and professional life.
About 1 in 5 women and 1 in 10 men will suffer from depression at some point in  their life.  Almost 1.5 million Canadians have serious depression at any given time, but less than one-third of these people seek medical help.

 The truth is that most people who are treated manage even serious mental illnesses remarkably well.

 RECAP..........

Depression symptoms 

• Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
• Feelings of worthlessness, helplessness, or excessive guilt
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex
• Social isolation, meaning the sufferer avoids interactions with family or friends
• Insomnia, early morning awakening, or oversleeping
• Decreased appetite and/or weight loss, or overeating and/or weight gain
• Fatigue, decreased energy, being "slowed down"
• Crying spells
• Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide
• Persistently sad, anxious, angry, irritable, or "empty" mood
• attempts
• Restlessness, irritability
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and/or chronic pain

  

Which jobs do you think should have mandatory psychological testing yearly?

 Leave a comment below...............................

If you think that someone you know is suffering from mental illness, never be afraid to start the conversation that may change their lives for the better! There is help out there – contact me if you have any questions about accessing help.

This has been watching out for your health with Michelle Smith  your Health and Social Advocate

Don't forget to share  

SNAPD  BraMPTON   Beamax Youth Foundation was proud to present #Notashamed: Mental Health Awareness: Breaking Through The Stigma With Facts, in partnership with the Canadian Mental Health Association (Peel) on February 23rd.  READ ARTICLE
https://brampton.snapd.com/event/806306#/

 RESOURCES.........

http://news.nationalpost.com/2015/03/26/germanwings-flight-9525-co-pilot-appeared-to-want-to-destroy-the-plane-prosecutor-says/


 http://www.cnn.com/2015/03/29/europe/france-germanwings-plane-crash-main/


http://www.medicinenet.com/depression/page4.htm


 http://www.beyondblue.org.au/the-facts/depression/types-of-depression