The COVID-19 pandemic has induced stress in everyone this year, but for those marginalized by disabilities, and especially those already dealing with social inequity and poverty, the pandemic has dealt additional blows.

In a November article published in Rehabilitation Psychology, Anjali J. Forber-Pratt, assistant professor of human and organizational development, reviews research on disabilities and COVID-19 to help rehabilitation psychologists mitigate the effects of the added stress of the pandemic. In addition, the work addressed how systemic discrimination against people with disabilities intersects with other forms of inequity.

Forber-Pratt co-authored the research with lead author Emily M. Lund, an assistant professor in the Department of Educational Studies in Psychology, Research Methodology and Counseling at the University of Alabama; Catherine Wilson, a board-certified rehabilitation psychologist; and Linda R. Mona, who is with the VA Long Beach Healthcare System.

As disabled people and scholars ourselves, we noticed that the disability community, including disabled people with multiple marginalized identities, were being uniquely impacted by the pandemic, and that their stories were often being pushed to the side, Lund said. We wanted to document what our communities are experiencing.

Forber-Pratt, who holds secondary appointments as assistant professor of special education at Peabody and assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at the School of Medicine, said people with disabilities are facing additional barriers and concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic due to longstanding patterns of discrimination and marginalization. Our research examines the physical, mental, social and economic implications of the pandemic on people with disabilities and provides solutions for the disabled community, as well as for psychologists working with these clients, during this time, she said.

People with disabilities account for more than 25 percent of American adults, making them one of the largest marginalized groups in the United States. Yet research shows they are routinely left out of conversations about social policy having to do with disabilities, which perpetuates discrimination, particularly in social institutionsincluding health care. The pandemic has stoked fears about health care rationing and concerns that in-person care for daily needs and assistive technology used by those with disabilities could be declared nonessential by governing bodies. In addition, those with developmental disabilities often live in group homes and other congregate settings where there is an increased risk of the spread of COVID-19. Prolonged isolation due to physical distancing and the restriction of visitors to group settings has increased depression and exacerbated cognitive, physical and mental health issues.

Those with disabilities are already more likely to be economically disadvantaged by increased medical costs, and they are three times more likely to be unemployed. As a result, the pandemic has exacerbated poverty among this group. In addition, issues of racial inequity in the health care system and other societal institutions has caused trauma and stress in the disabled community to rise disproportionally during the pandemic.

In their review of the research, the authors found strategies for addressing these stressors with their clients. While those in the general population and those with disabilities can benefit from some of the same self-care activities that have been encouraged during the pandemic (being physically active, finding virtual connections with family and friends, and seeing a mental health professional for support, to name a few), rehabilitation psychologists can help their clients create disability-specific strategies for coping. Planning ahead for communication needs, back-up caregivers, medical supplies and food delivery was found to be therapeutic for the client in and of itself.

Research confirms that instilling pride in individuals who identify as disabled, known as disability-affirmative therapy, has been found to lessen the negative effects of stigma. And psychologists can look for opportunities for advocacy in combating discrimination against the disabled through legislative and political means, through social media and within the profession.

While systemic ableism and racism are not new, it is hoped that rehabilitation psychologists and other professionals working with disabled clients can better understand the unique challenges and stressors facing those of us with disabilities during the pandemic, said Forber-Pratt. Further, we need professionals to take this awareness and turn it into action advocating for disabled clients, naming these additional stressors and helping to work together toward solutions.

Lund added, The disability community has experiencedand continues to experiencea lot of discrimination and trauma, and we are also proud and resilient. The world needs to recognize all of that.

Read The COVID-19 Pandemic, Stress, and Trauma in the Disability Community: A Call to Action

Watch an Ask an Expert video with Forber-Pratt about the challenges people with disabilities face during the pandemic.

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New research documents how COVID-19 multiplies stress and trauma for people with disabilities - Vanderbilt University News

In an already high-stress year, this week just might take the top spot. Theres no easy way to calm down fast, but taking time to do some guided breathingwith the help of handy breathing videosmight help you feel a little better.

For many of us, the months leading up to Election Day have been a source of long-term, slow-burning stress, Christiane Brems, Ph.D., a registered yoga teacher, clinical professor, and director of YogaX at Stanford Psychiatry, tells SELF. This type of stresssustained and low gradecan wreak havoc on our nervous system, she says.

When your body is stressed, it releases the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol, kicking off your fight-flight-freeze response, Manuela Kogon, M.D., clinical associate professor at the Stanford Center for Integrative Medicine, tells SELF. But purposeful breathing can trigger your parasympathetic system, or the part of your autonomic nervous system that opposes the fight-flight-freeze response. As a result, it may help you feel rested and relaxed.

Breathing is so powerful because unlike so many things in life, it's something we have control over, Rachel Allyn, Ph.D., a psychologist and yoga teacher based in Minneapolis, tells SELF. By improving the way you breathe, you can shift your nervous system from the stress-response mode to a state of regulation and relaxation.

And the good news is you dont need to do an extensive breathing routine to get the benefitsand you dont need to do them for a prolonged amount of time, either.

In fact, you can feel calming benefits in as little as 30 seconds of purposeful breathing exercises, Catherine Cook-Cottone, Ph.D. a licensed psychologist and registered yoga instructor based in Buffalo, New York, tells SELF. It doesnt need to be complicated, she says. Orienting back to your own breathjust noticing itis a powerful first step.

For a little more structure, check out these 17 expert-approved breathing videos to help you get started.

Length: 9 minutes

What to expect: This guided meditation cultivates focus and stability through concentration and mindfulness with breathing.

I like this simple technique of paying attention to the gap between your exhale and inhale. It is so calming and the time floats by, leaving you feeling clear and aware when complete. Diane Malaspina, Ph.D, psychologist, yoga teacher, and therapeutic specialist in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Try the breathing routine.

Length: 3 minutes

What to expect: Gabby Bernstein, New York Times best-selling author and kundalini yoga and meditation teacher, shares a calming five-count breathing technique.

This three-minute video is great for a technique called box breath, where we silently count to five on the inhale, hold the inhale to a count of five, exhale for five, and hold our breath for a count of five (before the next inhale to a count of five). Beyond the immediate sense of calm it brings, the box breath is easy to do anywhere and enhances feelings of relaxation and peace. Diane Malaspina

Try the breathing routine.

Length: 4 minutes

What to expect: Thich Nhat Hanh guides you through the first exercises of mindful breathing, from following the in breath and out breath all the way through to generating the energy of mindfulness by being with your body.

I love this video because Thich Nhat Nahn, one of the most profound teachers, makes the breathing exercises simple and approachable. With these practices, we find the magic in the simple act of breathing. Laurasia Mattingly, meditation and mindfulness teacher and founder of the Sit Society in Los Angeles

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17 Breathing Videos That Will Help You Relax and Unwind - Self

Having been the main caregiver to her 87-year-old mother who has dementia for eight years, Ms Kris Foo's constant companion has been emotional, mental and financial stress.

The self-employed branding designer suffered from caregiver burnout in 2015, after facing daily bouts of tantrums that stemmed from her mother's depression and anxiety.

"I woke up one day and I just started crying. But looking back now, there were telltale signs - I was getting increasingly irritable and lost my focus on everything else besides caregiving," said Ms Foo, 53, who is single and has an older sister. Her mother has been divorced for 40 years.

"My business suffered as a result of this, and I had to start drawing on my mother's savings to cover her medical and household expenses," she added.

Ms Foo also grappled with negative feelings such as the loss of self-identity, suicidal thoughts and the harrowing reality that dementia patients will never "get better", as their condition worsens over time.

In 2018, Ms Foo began sending her mother to daycare - which gave her five extra hours each day to catch up on her work and sleep.

Seeing a counsellor also helped her to better identify and cope with stress, though she now finds herself grappling with the larger issue of self-care.

For instance, uncertainty over her future and retirement plans has weighed on her.

During a visit to a geriatrician in July, she was told that it was time to "care for the caregiver", as the doctor could tell she was heading towards another burnout.

Applications were made to send her mum to a nursing home and they are awaiting the outcome.

Although Ms Foo knew that such a decision would be crucial for her mental well-being, it is one that she made while ridden with guilt.

"There's always that sense of abandonment tied to nursing homes. It has not been easy warming her up to the idea of moving to some place else that isn't her own home, and for her to understand that I can't look after her by myself any more," she said.

While Ms Foo yearns to restart her own life, the guilt is not easy to deal with.

"The shift in reality and embracing a lifestyle of not living with my mother will be a huge adjustment for me, and counselling and social support will be important as I make these transitions in life," she added.

Caregiver guilt is a familiar feeling for many, as the deeply entrenched values of filial piety and duty often come at the expense of self-care, said experts here.

Dr Annabelle Chow, principal clinical psychologist at Annabelle Psychology, noted that as society's view of familial caregivers is centred on duty and obligation, those who need help are worried of being dismissed or shunned.

In addition, many caregivers tend to under-report feelings of stress because of the guilt that they face.

"Caregivers are often used to a constant routine of caring, and when they are not, they feel guilty for being away, and that they are not doing their job well or fulfilling their duty.

"This worsens if they decide to take time off to recuperate, where they may feel 'selfish' for doing so," she added.

Very few caregivers seek help for themselves at her clinic, Dr Chow noted. Rather, they often accompany those they are caring for, and would confide their difficulties with the psychologist in passing during a consultation.

Social entrepreneur and former Nominated Member of Parliament (NMP) Anthea Ong said it is common for many caregivers to de-prioritise their own emotional needs out of guilt.

"Some think that it is their responsibility as a family member, and that asking for support is too difficult.

"But it is not mutually exclusive to be filial and still look after our own well-being, so caregiver education is paramount in making sense of these ideas and feelings," she noted.

Assistance and resources for caregivers could be made available and more visible at all general practitioner and other clinics, along with caregiver support offices at polyclinics, suggested Ms Ong.

Peer support training and caregiving classes could also be held at community centres, she added.

The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) said SG Enable, a disability service and support organisation, has worked with social service agencies and the community to organise peer-to-peer mentor training for caregivers of persons with disabilities.

According to five agencies and support groups which The Straits Times spoke to, caregiving stress has been on the rise during the Covid-19 pandemic, a result of work-from-home arrangements, a lack of caregiving reprieve, and financial stress from reduced incomes and loss of jobs.

Existing help that caregivers can tap includes an annual $200 Caregivers Training Grant administered by the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC) to offset the cost of enrolling for courses.

Such courses could help caregivers build their capabilities and reduce the level of stress that they face, agencies said.

Caregivers of disabled persons may also be eligible for levy concessions if they wish to hire a foreign domestic worker (FDW), and a Home Caregiving Grant, a $200 monthly cash payout to defray the costs of caregiving.

The grant can also be used for hiring a FDW, said the MSF.

A survey by the Association of Women for Action and Research (Aware) last year showed that caregivers of elderly patients who employ FDWs spent an average of almost $1,300 monthly, whereas the monthly expenses without an FDW were around $380, with the difference likely due to greater caregiving needs.

However, Aware noted that FDWs themselves suffer stress and burnout, due to factors such as overwork and inadequate training for eldercare jobs.

Agreeing, Ms Foo noted that some of her FDWs had quit as they felt that they lacked training and were not equipped to provide eldercare.

The $200 Home Caregiving Grant also covers just a fraction of expenses, and does not apply to medical expenses for care recipients, she added.

Respite care services should also be more affordable and accessible, she said. Ms Foo considered night respite care for her mum, who regularly wakes up six to eight times a night, but the cost of $100 to $150 each night is prohibitive in the long term.

One way to improve affordability would be to allow payment for such services through Medisave or Medifund, she said.

A Caregiver Support Grant that provides additional financial aid from the Government would be helpful, said Ms Shailey Hingorani, Aware's head of research and advocacy.

Ms Ong agreed and called for employers to offer more flexible work arrangements and support programmes centred on the well-being of staff who are caregivers.

But more pressing is the need for a societal shift towards valuing the work of caregivers "as no less essential" than that provided by healthcare workers and other front liners.

"More visibility, appreciation and recognition should be given to them for the critical role that they play in society," she added.

Caregiver burnout refers to a point where a caregiver reaches his or her threshold, leading to physical, emotional and mental exhaustion.

According to Dr Annabelle Chow, principal clinical psychologist at Annabelle Psychology, signs of burnout include the lack of energy even with sufficient rest, having trouble relaxing, insomnia or hypersomnia, and diminished interest in activities that one used to enjoy.

These signs persist nearly every day for two weeks or more.

Those experiencing burnout tend to be more irritable and are susceptible to developing a mental health condition.

To take care of one's mental health, Dr Chow has the following tips:

1 Accept that everyone has limits to the stress he or she can take, and give yourself the permission to rest, feel and cry.

2 Ask for help when you need it. This is not just limited to respite care, but can be for small things like getting help to buy groceries or taking time off to go for a walk. Small "wins" are better than holding out for a "big break".

3 Join a caregiver support group. Having a group of caregiving friends to share stories and tips with could make a lot of difference.

4 Try mindfulness exercises. Mindfulness is a form of meditation which focuses on being aware of what you are sensing and feeling in the moment, without judging yourself.

There are plenty of free exercises online, and these practices take only a few minutes each day.

5 Make some time for yourself. Recall the things you enjoyed doing to relax, and try to engage in these activities. If you still feel burnt out after taking time off, you should seek help from a mental health professional.

Continued here:
Give more help to caregivers who often ignore self-care: Experts - The Straits Times

November 04, 2020 04:59 ET | Source: Neocase Software

This position within the 2020 Fosway 9-Grid for Cloud HR confirms the importance of HR Service Management solutions in the Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS). Today, HR Service Management solutions play a key role in the digital transformation of HR. This is because they digitize everyday HR functions such as, Employee Relationship Management, HR processes and document management. According to Fosway, Neocase is positioned as a specialist within this landscape due to its focus on HR Service Management digitizing and automating HR processes.

Neocase is a Cloud HRCore Challenger Today, HR Service Delivery serves as a strategic lever for Human Capital Management (HCM). Neocase confirmed its performance in the market through innovative solutions and modules such as the digital self-service portal for ERM (Employee Relationship Management), BPA (Business Process Automation) and EDM (Employee Document Management).

Fosway recognized Neocases performance as well as its strong potential, thanks to regular innovations which led to it being positioned as a Core Challenger in the Fosway 9-Grid for Cloud HR, mentioned alongside its key partners, including Talentsoft and Access Group. According toDavid Wilson, CEO at Fosway,

It is key that HR Service Delivery is included as a specialism in the 2020 9-Grid for Cloud HR. The importance of automation and its role in the ongoing digital transformation of HR cannot be underestimated. And it is equally important that providers like Neocase are represented in this years analysis, helping mid-size companies as well as large organisations enhance their HR and employee experience with a low total cost of ownership.

Our goal is to lead our clients to operational excellence, help them lower and control their operational costs by digitizing their business processes and documentation, and lastly, to improve employee satisfaction. Whats important for us is that our customers spend more time with their employees than managing their admin tasks.We work closely with our customers in order to offer them the most personalized and adapted solution available. Jrme Mnard, Chief Product Officer.

The Fosway 9-Grid is a five-dimensional model that can be used to understand the relative position of solutions and providers. It allows potential customers to compare different solutions based on their performance, potential, market presence, Total Cost of Ownership and Future Trajectories. Download the full report from the Fosway website :https://www.fosway.com/9-grid/cloud-hr/

About the Fosway 9-Grid Fosway Group is Europes #1 HR Industry Analyst. The Fosway 9-Grid provides a unique assessment of the principal learning and talent supply options available to organisations in EMEA. Now in its sixth year, the analysis is based on extensive independent research and insights from the Fosways Corporate Research Network of over 150 customer organisations, including BP, HSBC, PwC, RBS, Sanofi, Shell and Vodafone.

Visit the Fosway website athttp://www.fosway.comfor more information on Fosway Groups research and services.

To learn more about Neocase and our solutions, do not hesitate to visit our website :https://www.neocasesoftware.com/

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Neocase, leader in cloud-based HR Service Management solutions, has been named a Core Challenger in the EMEA market by Fosway. - GlobeNewswire

New Delhi: The women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Uttar Pradesh are setting new precedents of development and doing wonders, not just locally but globally. In a major milestone, the handicraft products made by them are set to be showcased in an exhibition in Japan.

Uttar Pradeshs Mirzapur city, in particular, will feature in Japan Carpet Fair as the latter will exhibit world-famous foot-mats and wall hangings made by women of Self-Help Group named Gareeb Prerana Swayam Sahayta Samuh in Khajuri village of the city.

The Rugs and mats weaved by the local artisans in Mirzapur have already grabbed accolade from across the globe for its excellence. The local weavers amalgamate new perspectives on traditional crafts with state-of-the-art design technology to create authentic designs and visual masterpieces that will be now be displayed on a global platform. The stunning work is infused with vibrant colours and soft lustre.

The organisers of the fair were so impressed by the talents of these women that they invited the entire group to Japan and gave them an opportunity to sell their products at the Japan Carpet Fair which will be held in 2021.

Director of Poor Motivation Self-Help Group, Afsana Begum said, The group is making the business of Rs. 2.5 lakh per year. The women have also started to sell wall hanging, foot mats, and show-pieces across the state which also benefitted the ODOP scheme launched by the Uttar Pradesh government.

This is just one SHG. Thousands of such SHGs were created during Covid times to provide employment to women in Uttar Pradesh.

The local weavers of the handicraft product here inherit the century old legacy, which should be sustained. We are consistently engaged in providing a platform to these women through various programs. Not only the group under the National Rural Livelihood Mission has made themselves financially stable but gave a major boost to the carpet business, said Ramesh Priyadarshi, District Mission Director.

Earlier, the handicrafts of Mirzapur were also exhibited in Kashmir, Lucknow, and Hyderabad and it found strong connect with buyers.

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UPs Mirzapur goes global, handicrafts made by citys self-help groups to be exhibited in Japan - Newsroompost

Mumbai: Union Minister of State for Education, Sanjay Dhotre launched a self-help website Bandhu for students of IIT Bombay today at 11 am in the presence of Director of IIT Bombay Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri.

Appreciating the efforts of alumni of IIT Bombay, the Minister said, A good education institution is one in which every student feels welcomed and cared for, where a safe and stimulating learning environment exists, where a wide range of learning experiences are offered, and where good physical infrastructure and appropriate resources conducive to learning are available to all students. Students are the prime stakeholders in the education system. Vibrant campus life is essential for high-quality teaching-learning processes. Towards this end, students should be given plenty of opportunities for participation in sports, culture/arts clubs, eco-clubs, activity clubs, community service projects etc.

While talking about the significance of counselling systems in educational institutions, he mentioned that National Education Policy 2020 says that in every education institution, there shall be counselling systems for handling stress and emotional adjustments. Furthermore, a systematized arrangement shall be created to provide the requisite support to students from rural backgrounds, including increasing hostel facilities as needed. All higher education institutions will ensure quality medical facilities for all students in their institutions.

I am sure that the academic leaders at IIT Bombay are looking into these aspects also, along with imparting top class education. I am sure the BANDHU initiative will help our students to travel on their respective chosen paths in a stress free manner, ensuring the emotional well being, he added.

Bandhu has been designed in conjunction with the counsellors at IIT Bombay along with external experts with support from Prof. T. Kundu, Dean (Student Affairs) and Prof. Suhas Joshi, Dean (Alumni and Corporate Relations). It addresses challenges ranging from adjustment to college life, academic stress, and mental health. Bandhu has curated reads, motivational alumni journeys, expert podcasts and tools for self-exploration. Project Bandhu was initiated by alumni of the Class of 1992, as a part of their silver jubilee reunion in 2017. They pledged to support IIT Bombay and help students enhance their emotional well-being. The self-help website is one of the first steps in this direction. They have been closely involved with execution of the project.We live in a time where we are prone to stress. The students of IIT Bombay need to stay strong, both physically and emotionally to construct and pursue their dreams, said Director of IIT Bombay Prof. Subhasis Chaudhuri. The pandemic has also increased stress in the lives of the students. We are happy to announce the timely launch of Bandhu at IIT Bombay, he added.

Many issues, when tackled effectively at the initial stages, can help students overcome challenges in a timely manner before a domino effect starts coming into play. Moreover, it will also point out when it could be time to seek help from the support structure available at IIT Bombay, said Rekha

Koita, alumni of IIT Bombay from the Class of 1992.

Eminent film maker, Mr. Nitesh Tiwari who is also an IIT Bombay alumni was the Guest of Honour for this occasion.

Originally posted here:
IIT Bombay launches a self- help website to enhance emotional wellbeing of its students The website is supported by the alumni of Class of 1992 -...

Newswise In the first of its kind for the tiniest stroke survivors, researchers at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) will lead a stroke rehabilitation clinical trial in the state of Texas through a multi-institutional NIH StrokeNet initiative.

Children who have suffered a perinatal arterial ischemic stroke (PAIS) that has left them with weakness on one side of their body may be eligible for enrollment in Phase III of the clinical trial,I-ACQUIRE, by researchers from theUTHealth Institute for Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease.

NIHStrokeNetwas created by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as a network of centers that conduct multi-site clinical trials to advance acute stroke treatment, stroke prevention, treatment, and recovery. UTHealth is overseeing the largest of the 27 coordinating centers established throughout the country. McGovern Medical School Department of Pediatrics, UTHealth Neurosciences, Childrens Memorial Hermann Hospital, Memorial Hermann TIRR and Texas Childrens Hospital, are part of the collaborative StrokeNet team for the study.

Pediatric ischemic stroke is understudied, so we are excited to work with all of our partners to examine an intense therapy for infants and toddlers with stroke, saidSean I. Savitz, principal investigator for the UTHealth Regional Coordinating Center in StrokeNet. Savitz is the Frank M. Yatsu, M.D. Chair in Neurology at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, director of the Institute for Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease, and director of the Stroke Program for UTHealth Neurosciences and Memorial Hermann Health System.

Pediatric arterial (PAS) is a condition in which infants experience a stroke in utero or in the first 28 days after birth. According to the NIH, it occurs in about 1 of 1,150 live births in the U.S. It is often caused by a blockage in a blood vessel in the brain, and can lead to lifelong impairments, especially if left untreated. For newborns, common signs of a stroke include seizures, brain damage that is assessed via imaging, and/or a decrease in muscle movement.

I-ACQUIRE will use constraint-induced movement therapy on a childs good arm encourage them to use their weaker arm. Treatment will occur in the home with trained therapists using techniques to shape upper extremity skills through fun games, and self-help activities.

I-ACQUIRE will be used to treat children in two levels of therapy: three hours/day (moderate dose), six hours/day (high dose) compared to the usual and customary treatment.

Because the brain is still developing, this type of therapy can help patients to regain better control and strength on the weaker side, saidNivedita Thakur, MD, principle investigator of the study and assistant professor in the Department of Pediatrics at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth and a member of the stroke institute. There is evidence of altered brain structure and function due to neuroplasticity of the developing brain.

Sharon Landesman Ramey, PhD, a professor and distinguished research scholar at Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech; andWarren Lo, MD, a pediatric neurologist at Nationwide Childrens Hospital and a clinical professor of pediatrics and neurology at The Ohio State University College of Medicine, are principal investigators for the five-year study, funded with a $13.5 million grant from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke of the National Institutes of Health - 1U01NS106655-01A1.

For more information on enrollment for I-ACQUIRE, call Dory Parker, research coordinator, at 713-500-7085 or emailDorothea.M.Parker@uth.tmc.edu.

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Clinical trial to assess rehabilitation treatment for infants and toddlers after stroke - Newswise

By Derek Price

Saturday, Sept. 26, 2020 | 2 a.m.

In many ways, exercise can be life-changing, and even life-saving. I know because Ive been there.

Id been a standout athlete my entire life, working out and playing sports since I was 13. Sports had become my entire identity, and I was finally living my dream, playing as a tight end for the Detroit Lions, when a severe neck injury forced me into retirement after just two seasons.

Unable to play or work out for what seemed like an eternity, I was devastated, depressed and miserable. After months of depression, body dysmorphia and feeling lost, I finally dragged myself back into the gym. And it was truly life-changing.

Exercise became my path to restoring my self-worth, my pride and my identity. I finally felt like myself again, and Im convinced it saved me from going down a dangerous path. So many people have turned to alcohol or substances to cope with challenging times, and that could easily have been me too.

Having seen the power of exercise bring me back from rock bottom, Ive made it a personal mission to help others realize the healing power of exercise. Because mental health is such a critical factor in addiction recovery, exercise is becoming a top priority in the way we treat and manage both short- and long-term recovery here at Desert Hope, an American Addiction Centers facility in Las Vegas. And were also working to incorporate physical fitness as part of our treatment regimen across our entire network of recovery centers.

Heres why were making exercise a key priority to help patients find and stay on a path of self-care and sobriety. Many of these same benefits apply to anyone struggling with anxiety, depression or other issues that have intensified due to COVID-19 isolation.

Natural mood booster: Its well-documented that the hormones released during exercise, including endorphins and serotonin, can enhance mood and alleviate anxiety, fear and depression. This can help to offset symptoms of withdrawal and provide a natural fix without the use of substances that cause harm. For this reason, exercise also addresses some of the underlying mental conditions that lead to substance use.

Improved sleep: Getting adequate sleep can be a huge problem for people in recovery. By fatiguing the body and setting up a healthy cortisol/melatonin cycle, exercise supports the bodys natural circadian rhythm, which can help offset sleep disturbances common during detox, ongoing recovery and for those dealing with mental health issues. If youre worn out from a great workout, its pretty hard to lie awake all night with worry and anxiety.

Patterns of healthy behavior: Many individuals in recovery need to fill the gap created when they shift away from a lifestyle of substance use. Trading addictive behaviors for exercise establishes a pattern of healthy behavior that has been shown to minimize the risk of relapse and decrease compulsion and cravings.

A win for the day: Those who are dealing with mental health issues or substance use often feel hopeless, lacking a sense of meaning or purpose. A single workout, even just going for a walk around the block, creates a sense of accomplishment you did something good today. That sets up a pattern of wins that can help individuals start to build a healthy self-image.

Reduced stress and improved cognition: Working through mental health challenges and tackling addiction are extremely stressful, and its easy to get caught up in a pattern of toxic thinking, where your first instinct is to doubt yourself, overanalyze and make mountains out of molehills in your head. By getting your blood pumping, exercise channels that energy toward physical effort, which reduces mental stress and helps your brain function more efficiently and clearly. Ask anyone who exercises regularly, and theyll confirm they often find answers to their biggest challenges and questions during a workout, thanks to the ability to think more clearly and get out of their own head.

Improved self-confidence: Depression, lack of self-confidence and substance use often go hand-in-hand. When people dont feel good about themselves, whether due to life trauma or a chemical imbalance, substance use can easily become a coping mechanism. Exercise can turn that around: When you feel physically stronger and more capable, it helps you to feel mentally stronger and more capable.

Adding an exercise component to a robust addiction and mental health treatment program is a tremendous benefit for patients in helping them overcome some of the underlying challenges surrounding recovery. By establishing healthy habits, an exercise program can become a powerful coping mechanism that can help those in recovery navigate tough times and challenging situations that might otherwise put their recovery at risk.

Derek Price is the CEO of Desert Hope Treatment Center.

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Exercise plays a key role in addiction recovery, stresses of pandemic - Las Vegas Sun

This week on the Code Switch podcast, we tried to settle a months-long debate we've been having on the team: Which kind of books are best to read during the pandemic? Ones that help you escape our current reality? Or ones that connect you to it on a deeper level? In doing so, we got a chance to catch up with the authors of some of our favorite pandemic reads. We'll be sharing interviews with those authors throughout the week. Today, in our final installment, we have a conversation with Kwana Jackson, author of Real Men Knit.

The cover of Kwana Jackson's Real Men Knit. kmjackson.com hide caption

The cover of Kwana Jackson's Real Men Knit.

For a romance novel, Real Men Knit is full of some not-so-romantic issues: gentrification, rapidly changing demographics, the sudden death of a family member. But author Kwana Jackson says that her books don't take place on deserted islands so even in her fiction, she never leaves real life behind.

Despite all the seeming heaviness, though, Real Men Knit is a true love story yes, in the romantic love sense. But it's also a story about love for family and community. It takes place in Jackson's native Harlem, and is full of inspiration and references from her childhood. And for anyone wondering, it does have the calling card of a true romance: the mandatory Happily Ever After.

I spoke to Kwana Jackson about the romance industry, her characters, and how Harlem shows up in the book. Our conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

Without giving anything away of coursewhat is Real Men Knit about?

Real Men Knit is the story of four brothers fighting to keep their family's knitting shop open after their adoptive mother suddenly passes away. And it's also the love story of Jesse, who is the youngest brother, and Kerry, who is a part time shopkeeper. It's their story of the two of them coming together. Unbeknownst to Jesse, Kerry has had a long-time crush on him for forever.

Tell us a bit more about Mama Joy, the mother of these four boys.

I chose Mama Joy as their adoptive mother because growing up, a native Harlemite, born and raised in New York, I saw lots of women, lots of Black women taking care of not just their own kids, but kids in the neighborhood. It was sort of an it takes a village situation.

There are a lot of real life issues in this book. How did you think about folding that heaviness into a genre that's typically perceived as more lighthearted?

I'm not writing in a setting set on a deserted island, you know, so I can't write in for another person's novel. Maybe it wouldn't be in there. But for me, as a black writer who was born and raised in Harlem, I mean, the fictional Strong Knits shop that I've written is pretty much around the corner, in my head, from where I grew up. And I don't even know if I've ever said this in an interview, but when my grandmother passed away, she had on her dresser notices from the housing department wanting her to move out of her longtime home of over 40 years. So that's something I can't escape. Though I am a fiction writer, I cannot escape. Reality in my fiction is just, you know, it might not be romantic, but it's real.

In the non-romance world, a lot of people refer to romance novels as "bodice-rippers," a term you find offensive and misogynist. Why?

I think that's a way to put down an industry run by women, and put down women and just sort of squash it aside. That's not something I can get behind. I have been a romance fan since I was 11 or 12 years old, and I've learned so much from back-in-the-day romance about what I want to take away and what I would expect and demand in relationships. Though they say "bodice rippers" and "escapism" and "guilty pleasure," there are no guilty pleasureswhat's your pleasure is your pleasure.

So maybe we're doing ourselves a favor, putting aside the COVID news for a bit, and reading a romance or two?

I have been tweeting and shouting, Romance Is Self-Care! And whatever you need for your emotional and mental self-care right now is absolutely fine, and there is absolutely no guilt about any of it.

You've written a number of romances, and your heroines, to date anyway, have all been Black. Is that because there weren't a lot of Black romance heroines years ago, when you were beginning to read them?

I won't say that was the reason I wanted to write romances featuring people of color. I just wanted to write romance! And the reason I feature people of color is because I'm a Black woman. So I couldn't imagine my heroines being anything but Black women. But that's not saying that I won't write romances in the future that don't have a Black woman. I write a lot of series romances, and there may be another character who is a different color and if that character is calling for a story, I may write that.

You have been very active on social media in the romance community about the need for more diversity in the genre. There is some, but as the big blowup earlier this year in RWARomance Writers of Americaover diversity proved, the industry as a whole has a way to go, in terms of equity in promotion of diverse books, in payment of its authors, and other things. Is it making progress?

I think it's coming to terms [with the need to be more racially aware, more equitable]. I think everyone is coming to termsromance, entertainment, etc., and I'm happy to see that they're coming to terms with it and that they're learning from it. In the romance industry, they're starting to value not only the feelings of the readers and the authors, but understand that our dollars have equal value, and that readers will take their dollars elsewhere if they see the inequality and the readers are starting to see the inequality that they didn't see before.

That could be critical, right? Isn't romance the most profitable sector of the publishing industry?

Exactly! That's what I understand. So if all those female writers packed up their laptops and went away, what would happen to the industry?

Readers, we want to hear from you! What books are you turning to right now? Are you team #EscapistReads or team #PandemicReads? Email us at CodeSwitch@npr.org and tell us your thoughts. And if you missed yesterday's conversation, click here to read our interview with Elisabeth Thomas, author of Catherine House.

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Romance Meets The Real World In 'Real Men Knit' - NPR

Author Hannah Chambley - September 28, 2020September 28, 2020 The kind of team that makes every day a good hair day. Photo via Matthew Niblett for Bham Now

Arcadia Salon is serving up all the style and good vibes in Avondale. From its dreamy salon interior to the stylists behind the chairs, Arcadia is doing something right. Get a look inside, and get to know the team making all the magic.

Located in the heart of Avondale, Arcadia Salon is truly a magical spot. The sleek exterior is eye-catching and stepping inside is like a dream. With plants hanging in every corner and a mid-century modern design feelthe space is warm and open, welcoming each guest with cozy accents and lighting.

Fittingly, the word Arcadia is Greek for a happy, serene placewhich the salon definitely achieves. And although I could go on about the stunning design and decor, its the people working inside that make it so magical.

A native of Anniston, AL, Christie J. White, always knew shed return to Birmingham. After working in independent music stores, she got her start in the salon industry as a manager at Van Michael Salon in Atlanta over two decades ago.

Fast forward to 2018, when she reconnected with an old friendTheo Pettwayfor a haircut on vacation. Shed never thought of opening her own salon until sitting in his chair. After a few meetings with Theo, Christie and her husband Bill set out to create Arcadia. They chose every element together and still do.

After deciding to open the salon we were struggling with the name.My husband asked me what I was searching for more than anything and I said happiness. A Google search later he suggested Arcadiathe Greek word for a happy, serene place.I knew that was it instantly.

The decor is inspired by Mid-Century Modern design and of the building itself, which I fell in love with.Plants are a big part of our culture.Taking care of them, having plant pop-ups with House Plant Collective, everyone sharing new plant acquisitions.

The old school way of doing hairshowing up every day just to do hair then go homeis a thing of the past.You gotta bring it! The industry has changed more with the evolution of social media than ever before.Before Instagram, you relied on word of mouth.Now you can actually SEE talent before booking and choose whos best for you.

Arcadias unique approach is that we place a huge emphasis on education as well as supporting one another. If someone is struggling with a cut, color, social media, we help them and assist in real time.We are a team, a true team, that works well together.Ive never, ever, worked with such a talented group of people who constantly work to get better, do better. Clients see that, they feel it and experience the vibe during their visit.

And Ill add: if we arent having fun were doing it wrong.

So many places! Favorites are: Cayo Coco, Crestwood Coffee, Urban Suburban Antiques, Tropicaleo and a neighborhood favorite El Cazador Restaurant in Irondale. Its family-owned and operated and they are such good people. Supporting local is a big one with my husband and me.

If you spot someone in leopard print at Arcadia Salon, its probably Mary. A Birmingham native and graduate of Aveda Institute Birmingham, Mary got her start styling hair for proms and weddings.

Now, shes an integral part of the Arcadia team as a Stylist/Color Educator and the Stylist Social Media Directorusing creativity and knowledge to create color stories with hair as the canvas.

I love to look at other stylists work on Instagram. I pick out an aspect that I like and want to incorporate and figure out how they achieved that look. You can always learn something from your peers.

The Arcadia Team is a very close-knit family. We help each other, from cleaning, to application, to education. It truly makes a difference in your life to have a team that is supportive. Our clients notice this connection too!

Casual, low maintenance + bohemian

My life is very busy and constant, so my personal style is easy to keep up with. My clients appreciate that I incorporate that same easy-going, low maintenance style into their hair because we all have busy lives.

At any House Plant Collective pop up or at home. Self-care is important to me so my happy place is my home and relaxing with my family.And I love plants!

From Gees Bend, AL, artistic ability runs in Theos family. As a graduate of Aveda Institute Birmingham and a Davines Educator, Theo has about 12 years of styling experience under his belt.

Hes been with Arcadia from the beginning and gets to pursue his two true passionsworking with hair and educationdaily. P.S. If you need a good cut or want to go red, Theo is your guy.

My students and co-workers, they continue to challenge me and inspire me.Im so lucky.

Special is the word I use to describe our team. We are a teaching salon where everyone takes part in education, we literally learn new things daily.

Classic, current + casual

I like to adapt to the needs of my clients based on their lifestyle and always considering their personal style.

You will find me at Botanica Downtown buying all the plants!

A Birmingham native, Disney fanatic and travel junkie, youll likely never run out of topics to chat about when sitting in Kistas chair. And thats the best part of being a stylist in her opiniongetting to know all kinds of people and helping them become the best version of themselves.

With 20 years in the business, various classes and advanced training in cutting, coloring + styling techniques, Kista is no stranger to the salon industry. Her specialties include highlights, natural color and short haircuts.

I love to scroll Instagram, but watching my coworkers is the best inspiration.

We have every kind of stylist for every kind of client. We are a diverse group that is incredibly passionate about our profession and about our Salon. And we genuinely like each other and frequently collaborate so each guest gets a great experience.

Grown up punk!

I love giving people classic, wearable styles with a touch of edge.

You can find me hanging at Sanctum Tattoos (my husbands shop) or scuba diving in our local quarries with my son.

Lis (pronounced Liz) is all about making her clients feel good about themselves and realizing how amazing they are simply through an edgy cut or new color.

Growing up in Calera, she always had a love for Birmingham. And after taking a leap of faith and enrolling in cosmetology school at Aveda Institute Birmingham after college, Lis finally found a way to help others feel confident through the creative process of changing their hair. Her specialties include cutting, balayage, fashion colors and full colors.

I find inspiration in my surroundings, especially nature. My favorite thing is to pick out colors/color schemes to use as inspiration for future projects.

The one word I would describe us as is a family. I have only been part of the Arcadia team since February, but I feel like I have known them for years. Within that time frame, they have helped me grow as an artist and a stylist. I think what sets us apart is that we go out of our way to make sure all of us have everything we need to create the best hair they can.

Boho, a splash of alternative + relaxed

The one thing that I try to incorporate from my personal style/lifestyle is to create a look that is going to manage and match their lifestyle. Something that looks effortless but also packs a punch.

Im usually out in nature with friends or hanging out at TrimTab.

With a passion for education, Jaisy is intentional about developing her skills and perfecting her craft. Originally from Paducah, KY, she apprenticed a master stylist in Kentucky for 2 years before becoming a stylist.

When it comes to her clients, communication is key. Jaisy believes each guest brings value to her chair and she looks to them for inspiration. Her specialties? Balayage, blonding + vivids.

I like to look at Pinterest & other social media platforms as a means of direction only, but I never try replicating exactly what I see.

Teamwork.Growing up, I heard a lot in dance classes, Youre only as strong as your weakest link. Thats especially true in a Salon atmosphere. Every person counts.Not many salons can say they have such strong stylists all with amazing people skills, great artistic abilities and sensitivity to others in need.

Its really encouraging whenever I see a stylist running behindanother stylist will step in to sweep, tone, sanitize and literally help in every way possible to set the stylist in need up for success for their next guest.

Hard to say in 3 words but I love the desert, fashionable and casual

I love seeing each of my clients have a look they feel most beautiful in and I always try to deliver.Thats my style: being true to yourself and expressing that through your aesthetic.

Seeds Coffee in Homewood or Cookie Dough Magic!

Ashley is the latest addition to the Arcadia team. After working in retail for 8 years, she decided to put her creative energy into hair and enrolled in Paul Mitchell the School Birmingham to pursue cosmetology.

Shes a Birmingham native who loves to help people feel good through their hair. When it comes to techniques and specialties, Ashley loves coloring hair and creating the perfect curls.

I love to explore social media and see what stylists in other countries are doing and their different techniques.

Im new with Arcadia but super excited to be a part of this salon. Everyone is super positive and friendly.

Fun, comfy, + a little adventurous

I always want clients to feel comfortable with their hairstyles but also how to have fun and work with what you got. I love figuring out what my clients can try thats new.

Queens Park, Le Fresca + Golden Age Wine

Head to their website to book your next appointment online, or give them a call or shoot them a text at (205) 777-5534. Theyll set you up with a stylist, or you can request the stylist you prefer. Before you book, make sure to read through their updated safety guidelines.

Most likely Instagrammin the Birmingham skyline, behind the camera shooting photos or writing stories (with too many puns) for Bham Now.

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Meet the team of Arcadia, the salon bringing style + color to Avondale - Bham Now