Finding Hope by Asking for Help: Amanda’s Mental Health Journey

Content Warning: This article discusses suicide, suicidal thoughts, depression, anxiety and mental health treatment. These topics may be difficult for some readers. Please take care while reading and consider stepping away if needed. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis or having thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for free, confidential support … Continue reading Finding Hope by Asking for Help: Amanda’s Mental Health Journey

Keep Thanksgiving stress-free

Ah, Thanksgiving — a wonderful mix of delicious food, cherished family moments and a heart full of gratitude. But let’s be honest: it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Fear not. A few small, mindful choices can help you savor the day without stress. First, the star of the show: food. Yes, indulge in your favorite Thanksgiving dishes (hello, pumpkin pie!) but try not to … Continue reading Keep Thanksgiving stress-free

Support and Self-Care for a Less-Stressful Holiday

Here’s How to Beat 4 of the Top Holiday Stressors The holiday season often brings a mix of emotions. It can be joyful and comforting — filled with beautiful lights and decorations, nostalgic traditions and precious time with loved ones. But it can also feel hectic, expensive and emotionally draining. For many, this time of year is both heartwarming and hard. Nearly nine in 10 … Continue reading Support and Self-Care for a Less-Stressful Holiday

From Burnout to Breakthrough — A mental health journey

When Sonia Jordan, Health Equity Manager, began her career in public health, she never imagined how deeply personal the work would become. Before joining BCBSKS, she served as the Director of Informatics at the Lawrence-Douglas County Health Department, where she led the development of the county’s first comprehensive Health Equity Report. It was a labor of love: data-driven, community-informed and deeply necessary. But when a board … Continue reading From Burnout to Breakthrough — A mental health journey

Helping a Loved One Through Addiction

Caring for a loved one who is also an addict can put a huge strain on you and your lifestyle. If an addicted close friend or family member is suffering with addiction it can often leave you feeling frustrated, sad or even guilty that your loved one is going through this trying time. Unfortunately, there is little one can do on his/her own to try … Continue reading Helping a Loved One Through Addiction

Protect your mental health on hot days

Dehydration, heatstroke and cramps aren’t the only health risks that rise along with temperatures. A recent study found emergency room visits for mental health illnesses also increase on extremely hot days. The mental conditions prone to heat-related spikes in emergency medical visits included: How overheating affects your mind Health experts cite several possible reasons for the link between hot weather and more intense mental health … Continue reading Protect your mental health on hot days