When dealing with stress, anxiety, and mental health, it’s easy to feel like it’s all in your head and in your head alone. But if you’re working to navigate high stress levels, you have a lot more company, and a lot more support, than you may realize. We are seeing stress levels rising everywhere. It’s time to learn more about what causes stress, who it impacts, and what you can do to help change it.
When you think of Colorado, it’s understandable if images of the Rocky Mountains, ski resorts, and national parks come to mind. The 38th state in the Union, also known as the Centennial State, is noted for a wide range of landscapes that include not just mountains but forests, canyons, mesas, and deserts. While cities like Aspen and Vail are popular winter playgrounds for the rich and famous, outdoor activities abound all across the state in both summer and winter. Then there’s Denver, aka “the mile-high city,” which is the state capital and Colorado’s most populous city.
What turns a protest into a riot? Studies on the psychology of crowd behavior have revealed a number of important factors that cause demonstrations to become violent. According to a report published by the American Psychological Association (APA), violent acts can at times be related to psychological disorders, but many people with mental health issues don’t become violent. Are riots and mental health actually connected? Is there a realistic link between riots and trauma?
The last two decades have seen explosive growth of broadcast and digital media platforms, making the news infinitely more accessible. According to TIME, one in 10 adults checks the news every hour, and 20% of Americans report “constantly” monitoring their social media accounts, which can also serve as sources of news information.
Is it possible that constant exposure to information about wars, riots, shootings, natural disasters, catastrophes, and other devastating world events can take a toll on us mentally? Is the daily barrage of negative news healthy for our overall well-being? And, if not, exactly how much news is too much?
Accessing mental healthcare can be challenging. You need a provider who offers the specific care you need, who clicks with you on a personal level, and fits with your finances. Even if you live in a city with lots of choices, the task of finding the right care can seem overwhelming. If you live in a rural area where choices are few and far between, it can feel impossible. But you can find access to mental healthcare in rural areas.
Taking care of senior parents isn’t something most adults think about until there is little choice but to think about it. A medical event happens, and suddenly, our once vibrant and independent parent requires daily assistance. Or there is a slow decline in physical or cognitive ability. Over time, you may recognize the day is coming when, prepared or not, you will assume the role of caregiver.