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Tag: mental health

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Image of a diverse group of teenagers talking. Text: National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month.
Image from https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/national-minority-mental-health-awareness-month-2024-toolkit

July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month! This important yearly observance aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges that impact the mental health of racial and ethnic minority populations. This year’s theme is Be the Source for Better Health: Improving Health Outcomes Through Our Cultures, Communities, and Connections, which emphasizes how the unique social determinants of health of racial and ethnic minority populations impact overall health, including mental health.

Social determinants of health have a profound impact on both physical and mental health. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) defines social determinants of health (SDOH) as “non-medical factors that affect health outcomes” and can include “the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live, and age” (CDC, 2024). Five key social determinants of health highlighted in Healthy People 2030 include education access and quality, health care and quality, the neighborhood and built environment, social and community context, and economic stability.

Image of icons used by the CDC for the 5 key social determinates of health.
(CDC, 2024)

Economic stability is a key determinant of mental health. According to Alegria et al. “unemployment, precarious employment, and employment conditions” are linked to “increased psychological distress, even in countries with universal healthcare, where employer-provided health insurance is less essential to accessing services” (Alegria et al., 2018). Economic stability, neighborhood, and the built environment play a role in food security. Lower-income people are more likely to live in food deserts (areas with limited access to plentiful, affordable, or nutritious food). According to a 2020 National Public Radio article, 19 million Americans, about 6% of Americans lived in a food desert in 2015 (Silva, 2020). Black and Hispanic Americans are disproportionately impacted by food insecurity, with 19.1% of Black households and 15.6% of Hispanic households experiencing food insecurity in 2019, compared to only 7.9% of White households (Silva, 2020). 

“Food insecurity and poor diet quality have also been linked to poorer mental health in the United States and Canada” (Alegria et al., 2018). Poor mental health outcomes associated with food insecurity include depression and anxiety. According to Morrison and Frank, there is “a dose-response relationship between the severity of food insecurity and the prevalence of depressive symptoms” (Morrison & Frank, 2023). Food insecurity can also lead to psychological stress responses including “higher levels of anxiety, frustration, and a sense of powerlessness” (Morrison & Frank, 2023). 

Social and community contexts also play a vital role in the social determinants of mental health. Violence within the community can have a large impact on mental health. “Direct and indirect experiences of community violence in adolescence have been significantly associated with elevated depressive, anxiety, and PTSD symptoms” (Alegria et al., 2018). Additionally, living in areas with high incarceration rates is associated with an increased risk of a major depressive or generalized anxiety disorder (Alegria et al., 2018). 

Some unchangeable, fixed characteristics, such as race/ethnicity, nationality, gender, and sexual orientation, also play an important role in mental health. The intersectionality between minority status of race, sexual orientation, and gender identity is an important consideration (Morrison & Frank, 2023). LGBT adults who are also racial/ethnic minorities reported poorer mental health than white respondents (Alegria et al., 2018). Higher rates of suicide have been reported among minority youth who were also marginalized due to sexual orientation and gender identity (Morrison & Frank, 2023). 

It’s important to understand the relationship between social determinants and mental health. “Poor mental health can aggravate personal choices and affect living conditions that limit opportunities” (Alegria et al., 2018). A focus on improving social determinants of health will help improve mental health for minorities who are often disproportionately impacted. “Multilevel interventions aimed at eliminating systemic social inequalities - such as access to educational and employment opportunities, healthy food, secure housing, and safe neighborhoods - are crucial” (Alegria et al., 2018). Primary care physicians can use validated screening tools such as the Social Needs Screening Tool developed by the American Academy of Family Physicians (Morrison & Frank, 2023). Social prescribing, linking patients to appropriate social and community services, is another option for physicians. By addressing the social determinants of health that impact minority mental health through a comprehensive approach, we can work to “advance health equity, reduce health disparities, and Be the Source for Better Health for racial and ethnic minority and American Indian and Alaska Native populations” (HHS, 2024).

References:

Alegría, M., NeMoyer, A., Falgàs Bagué, I., Wang, Y., & Alvarez, K. (2018). Social Determinants of Mental Health: Where We Are and Where We Need to Go. Current psychiatry reports, 20(11), 95. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11920-018-0969-9 

Centers for Disease Control (CDC). (2024). Social Determinants of Health. https://www.cdc.gov/public-health-gateway/php/about/social-determinants-of-health.html

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Minority Health (HHS). (2024). National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month 2024 Toolkit. https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/national-minority-mental-health-awareness-month-2024-toolkit

Morrison, L., & Frank, C. J. (2023). Social Determinants of Mental and Behavioral Health. Primary care, 50(4), 679–688. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pop.2023.04.003

Silva, C. (September 27, 2020). Food insecurity in the U.S. by the numbers. National Public Radio (NPR). https://www.npr.org/2020/09/27/912486921/food-insecurity-in-the-u-s-by-the-numbers

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An image from NAMI (the national alliance on mental illness) that says "small steps can lead to big progress in mental health"

When we talk about illnesses, one of the many things that might first come to mind is symptoms. A friend complains about a sore throat, a fever and white patches on the tonsils? We might advise them to go see a doctor about a strep test. A child complains of a headache and starts sporting a rash made of tiny red dots? It wouldn’t be outrageous to consider chicken pox the culprit. Of course, disease presentation can vary and many illnesses share symptoms, but at the end of the day, many illnesses provide a visible clue that something is wrong. 

Mental illness is far less visible to the naked eye. There is no rash that accompanies depression, nor is there a wheezing cough that comes with anxiety. The symptoms of mental illness, as the name implies, are often found in thought patterns and behaviors of those who have them. And while these thought patterns and behaviors can be observed, it often far more than a passing glance to properly diagnose someone. The average delay in treatment after a person starts showing symptoms of a mental illness is 11 years (1). 

Just because the symptoms of mental illness might not be as clear as other illnesses, they are just as debilitating. 

While mental illness may be hard to spot, that doesn’t mean it isn’t common. While one in five adults in the United States experience mental illness, only half of them receive treatment (1). The statistics for children are even more dire: nearly 70% don’t receive treatment (2).  

Treatment in itself is often difficult to access, with long wait lists to see a provider and spotty insurance coverage among other issues. 

To help raise awareness about mental illness, May is Mental Health Awareness Month. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) is celebrating with the campaign “Take the Moment” which aims to highlight programs NAMI provides for patients and their loved ones dealing with mental illness, as well as working to erase stigma around mental health. Here at GW, our Resiliency and Well-Being Center has its own list of topics it will be discussing both this month and the month of June.

  1. Mindfulness and Stress Management (May 8-21)
  2. Healthy Eating (May 22 - June 4)
  3. Restorative Sleep (June 5-18)
  4. Physical Activity: Improving Movement  and Exercise (June 19 - July 2)

The center will also be offering classes about practicing mindfulness both online and in person. 

Here are some ways you can decrease stigma around mental illness: 

  • Language really matters. Terms like “bipolar” and “OCD” can be thrown around as slang for being “moody” or “neat” respectively, despite being terms for serious mental conditions. Don’t perpetuate stigma and stereotypes about these conditions: use different words rather than conditions to describe what you mean. 
  • Reach out to others: It’s okay to need help. If you haven’t been feeling well, you can find help. The school’s Resiliency and Well-Being Center provides resources to support those who are coping. There are also plenty of national resources one can use: NAMI offers a variety of resources in-house and also curates outside resources for those who either need help or want to help someone else.
  • Know mental health is for everyone: stigma about mental health implies that those who have mental illness are simply “not trying hard enough” or “seeking attention.” This couldn’t be further from the truth: mental health conditions are caused by a variety of factors including genetics and environment.  

1. Mental Health Awareness Month. NAMI. Accessed May 6, 2024. https://www.nami.org/get-involved/awareness-events/mental-health-awareness-month/

2. House TW. A Proclamation on National Mental Health Awareness Month, 2024. The White House. Published April 30, 2024. Accessed May 6, 2024. https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2024/04/30/a-proclamation-on-national-mental-health-awareness-month-2024/

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Picture of a sign that says "You Matter. Text. Call. Chat. 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline."

Mental health is a vital contributor to our overall physical health and well-being. However, the stigma surrounding mental health can prevent us from seeking out resources and reaching out for help during times of mental health struggles. If you or someone you know needs support, help and resources are available. Please know that you matter. You are not alone.

Suicide Prevention Resources:

  • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: The Lifeline provides 24/7 access to free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources, and best practices information for health and mental health professionals.
  • Student Health Center (SHC): If you are thinking about suicide, call 202-994-5300 (option 2). Counselors are available 24 hours a day. If you believe someone you know is in danger of suicide, call GW Emergency Services at 202-994-6111, 911, or seek help at the nearest Emergency Room.
  • National Suicide Prevention Resources:
  • District of Columbia Suicide Helpline:

Resources for Students: 

  • GW Listens: This student-run anonymous hotline (202-902-8255) is a place where students can talk to peers about struggles. Hotline hours are from Sunday through Thursday, from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am.
  • Student Health Center (SHC): If you are thinking about suicide, call 202-994-5300 (option 2). Counselors are available 24 hours a day. If you believe someone you know is in danger of suicide, call GW Emergency Services at 202-994-6111, 911, or seek help at the nearest Emergency Room.
  • TimelyCare: All GW students have free, 24/7 access to virtual care services with TimelyCare, a virtual health and well-being platform designed for college students.
  • Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Part of the Colonial Health Center, CAPS is GW’s center for mental health treatment. Telehealth and in-person counseling appointments are available.

Resources for Medical Residents and Fellows:

Resources for GW Employees:

Himmelfarb Library Mental Health Resources:

Himmelfarb’s Healthy Living @ Himmelfarb Collection includes several mental health-focused titles including:

Take Care of Yourself and Those Around You

While it’s vital to take care of your mental health, it’s equally important to look out for one another. Check in with your friends, colleagues, and loved ones. Listen without judgment and offer support as you are able. Mental health involves taking care of yourself and those around you.

If someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, reach out for help. Take advantage of the resources listed in this post. Don’t forget that the GW Resilience and Well-Being Center and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (call or text 988 for help) are always available.

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Image of scrabble tiles that spell out "Mental Health" and a leaf on the upper right side.
Photo by Total Shape on Unsplash

Mental health is an essential part of overall physical health and well-being. Yet, the stigma surrounding mental health prevents many people from seeking help when they experience mental health struggles. If you or someone you know needs support, there are resources available to help.

Suicide Prevention Resources:

  • 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: The Lifeline provides 24/7 access to free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources, and best practices information for health and mental health professionals.
  • Student Health Center (SHC): If you are thinking about suicide, call 202-994-5300 (option 2). Counselors are available 24 hours a day. If you think someone you know is in danger of suicide, call GW Emergency Services at 202-994-6111, call 911, or seek help at the nearest Emergency Room.
  • National Suicide Prevention Resources:
  • District of Columbia Suicide Helpline:

Resources for Students:

  • Anxiety Toolbox: This virtual workshop consists of three, one-hour sessions for students who want to gain an understanding of anxiety and learn skills to recognize and manage anxiety symptoms. 
  • AcademicLiveCare: AcademicLiveCare offers unlimited, no-cost virtual telehealth appointments for full-time GW students. Available visit options include on-demand urgent care, and scheduled appointments for psychiatry, therapy, and nutrition counseling.
  • Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): Part of the Colonial Health Center, CAPS is GW’s center for mental health treatment. Telehealth and in-person counseling appointments are available. 
  • SilverCloud: All GW students have free access to SilverCloud’s Digital Mental Wellbeing Platform, which is fully confidential and available 24/7. Programs address a wide range of mental health challenges including stress, depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
  • GW Listens: This student-run anonymous hotline (202-902-8255) is a place where students can talk to peers about struggles. Hotline hours are from Sunday through Thursday, from 9:00pm to 1:00am.

Resources for Medical Residents and Fellows:

Resources for GW Employees:

Himmelfarb Library Mental Health Resources:

Himmelfarb’s Healthy Living @ Himmelfarb Collection includes a number of mental health-focused titles including:

Taking care of your mental health is an essential part of physical health. Make your mental health a priority and take advantage of the resources available to you. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. Everyone faces their own mental health struggles, and there is no shame in asking for help and relying on available resources when needed.

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Did you know that May is Mental Health Awareness Month? Mental health is a key player in overall health, and can impact how we handle stress and influence the healthy (or unhealthy) choices we make every day. The field of medicine is critical to ensure wellness; it's also our responsibility as individuals to prioritize our mental health. Even daily stressors can hinder our physical health. 

Every year, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) leads the Mental Health Awareness Month campaign, which aims to increase public understanding of mental health and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. Through this campaign, #morethanenough, NAMI encourages individuals to share their stories, raise awareness in their communities, and advocate for better access to mental health resources and services.

Anxiety, depression, or trauma can greatly affect one’s ability to live a productive life. Mental Health Awareness Month is an opportunity to educate and inform the public about the importance of mental health and the impact of mental illness on individuals, families, and society as a whole. As the country is facing a shortage of practicing psychiatrists, sharing our knowledge, and supporting those we love has become a topic that is needed, but not often addressed. 

Remember that it's okay not to be okay, and it's okay to ask for help. You deserve to receive the support and care you need to prioritize your mental health and well-being Don’t forget: you are #morethanenough. 

Mental Health Support:

Mental Health resources at Himmelfarb: 

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An African-American man dressed in a white shirt and grey pants is seated crossed legged on brown rocks and looks over a green, hilly landscape

“Winter blues” is a colloquial term people use when describing the general sense of sluggishness, mental/emotional fatigue and lack of interest in normal hobbies or activities during the winter months. Many people self-report mood or behavior changes during the late fall and winter seasons. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression “characterized by its recurrent seasonal pattern, with symptoms lasting about 4 to 5 months per year.” (National Institute of Mental Health, n.d., para. 4)  It may be difficult for people to openly discuss their mental health or seek out help for severe symptoms. January is Mental Wellness Month and an opportune time to have open, honest conversations about mental health care with your patients and social circle. 

Despite many people reporting lower energy levels and experiencing extended periods of sadness or loss of interest in daily activities during the winter season, people may be unaware of the symptoms of SAD or how to treat it. Have conversations with your patients about their mood and engagement with hobbies during the late fall and winter period. Ask if they have access to a mental health specialist or if they’re interested in working with a specialist. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has a webpage dedicated to SAD including a thorough explanation of the disorder, common symptoms associated with it and potential treatment options. Sharing this information with patients will help them learn that SAD is a common experience and may reduce shame people experience when discussing their mental health. 

Knowing how to connect patients with mental health resources is important. The NIMH’s Help for Mental Illnesses page offers mental health hotlines, ways to evaluate if a mental health specialist is a good fit and federal resources that connect people with low-cost health services. Websites such as Psychology Today, Therapy for Black Girls, American Psychological Association’s Psychologist Locator and the National Register of Health Service Psychologists allow users to search for a mental health specialist that meets their needs. Encourage your patients to speak with their friends or family about their experiences with therapy or other mental health services. 

If a professional mental health specialist is not an option for your patients, work with them to develop a management plan that prioritizes their mental well-being. Ask about their sleeping habits, how often they exercise and their social connections. Share research findings that discuss the importance of developing healthier habits and how these habits can reduce stress and improve moods. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Service has accessible pages that include practical tips on how to develop better nutrition, physical activity and sleep habits. This is a great resource to share with your patients. 

Just as it is important to discuss mental health with your patients, it is equally important to take care of your own health. The Healthy Living @ Himmelfarb Guide has resources, services, wellness apps and more that are available for you to use. Connect with GW services such as the Student Health Center, GW Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) or the GW Resiliency & Well Being Center. The Books & Library Resources page includes books, exercise equipment, games and more that are available for checkout from the library. Lastly, the Wellness Apps page lists smart device apps such as Calm, Mint, Daily Yoga and more to help you incorporate more movement into your life, develop a meditation practice or manage your finances. 

Taking care of our mental health allows us to stay present and not feel overwhelmed by the difficult periods we encounter. Mental health is just as important as physical health. For Mental Wellness Month, spend time evaluating your current mental health and make changes by incorporating more self-care into your routine. Ask for help if you need it and explore one of the many resources listed above to begin your journey towards mental wellness. 

References:

National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Seasonal Affective Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/seasonal-affective-disorder

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You may have already heard, May is Mental Health Awareness Month. In order to cultivate a better understanding and to educate theGW community, GW is hosting interviews with a panel of experts available throughout the month of May. These professionals are well equipped to answer questions on various topics that may relate to marginalized populations, teacher/student, adolescent and youth health, war and conflict, and more. If you are interested in scheduling an interview with one of GW’s experts, please contact GW Media relations at gwmedia@gwu.edu. 

It is also critical to understand that your mental health matters, and GW cares. If you feel like you are overwhelmed or stressed, GW offers Counseling & Psychological services that are confidential and safe for our students, staff and faculty members. No appointment is necessary; walk-ins are welcome. 

The GW Office of Integrative Medicine and Health offers a number of resources to GW employees through its GW Resiliency and Well Being Center.  Contact them to schedule educational talks, group workshops, or individual coaching on a number of topics including stress management, substance abuse, self-care and lifestyle (mindful eating, restorative sleep, etc.). And check out theOffice of Integrative Medicine and Health’s weekly A Mindfulness Experience online sessions on Fridays from 2-3 pm addressing online stress relief, immune system support, and evidence based answers to COVID-19 questions. The sessions include a 30 minute mind-body practice.

Just as our physical health is vital to a healthy life, so is our mental health. Remember, GW is here for you. 

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Photo by Finn on Unsplash

We’ve all had a lot of handle this year, and we’ve had to learn how to manage our lives differently because of the pandemic. We’re all spending more time at home, and less time in a traditional office or classroom setting. Our lives at home may look very different than they did nine months ago. With everything going on in the world right now, it’s no wonder that many of us are feeling more stressed, anxious, depressed, socially isolated, having trouble sleeping, or all of the above. 

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the ways in which we would normally cope with these issues may not be available in the same way they were before the pandemic. It’s okay if you find yourself struggling with mental health right now - you are not alone.

Taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. GW provides resources to help you take care of your mental health. So take some time for yourself and explore these options:

Resources for Students:

Resources for GW Employees:

So whether you are a GW student, faculty or staff member, GW provides numerous resources that can help you focus on your mental health and help you manage life during the pandemic. Take some time to focus on yourself and your mental health. You are worth it! 

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bike

In 2020 we faced the challenge of a worldwide Pandemic that has changed many of our lives. From relocating ourselves and our belongings to other states to limiting our errands and taking extra sanitary precautions, being on lock-down has taken its toll on many not only physically, but mentally as well.

That being said, there are many ways that you can take care of your mental health while still abiding by social distancing guidelines. Unsure of what you can do? Here are some ideas:

  • Make a new daily outdoor resolution.

    • Does being indoors so frequently get you down? You are not alone, being inside for so long can make anyone restless! Make it a daily goal to get outside just once, even if it’s a short stroll to the mailbox or spending an afternoon out on your balcony or patio. Even a short time spent outdoors can help you reap the benefits of some fresh air and vitamin D. Want to avoid any crowds? Get outside early. Not sure where to go? You can always take a few laps around some of the city’s athletic fields which are open as of May 29th. 

  • Start a garden.

    • Never tried gardening before? What better time to start than now? There are a variety of flowers, herbs, and vegetables that can be grown both outdoors and indoors. Find seeds, plants and tools online or at your local grocer or hardware store. The internet has countless resources for gardening basics and tips, depending on what you would like to grow.

  • Stop by your local Public library.

    • While operating on a limited basis, there are several locations of the DC Public Library that are open for curbside pickup. Further information on which locations are open can be found on the Mayor’s Website. 

  • Try a new recipe.

    • Never had the time to bake or cook due to a busy schedule? Why not use this time to bust out those pots, pans and baking sheets and put them to good use! No recipe is too simple or complex. Treat yourself to some french toast, or homemade pizza. Impress your roommate and your pets with this simple two ingredient pizza dough recipe which will not only cost a fraction of standard delivery, but will taste delicious too!

These are challenging times for all. We cannot stress how important it is not only to be mindful of social distancing guidelines, but to take care of yourself too. Stay safe, and study hard. We are excited to be back and to see you at Himmelfarb!

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A sad face drawn in a frosted car window.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), an onset of depressive symptoms during winter months, affects an estimate of .4%-2.9% of the population. The causes of SAD are still unclear, however everything from genetics to diminished light may play a factor. While its seasonal nature means SAD symptoms abate in the Spring, that doesn’t mean you have to slog through the winter with symptoms like loss of interest, hypersomnia, or irritability. There are many treatments available, from light therapy to antidepressants.

Pjrek et al. (2019) conducted a systematic review of randomized controlled trials exploring the efficacy of bright light therapy (BLT) as a treatment for SAD. Their review found that these trials proved BLT an effective treatment for SAD, though these trials included smaller sample sizes and larger clinical trials would be preferable.

If you want to try BLT at home, The Cut published a list of the 6 best light therapy lamps available on Amazon. They range in price from $65 to $230 for a large floor lamp. The Strategist from New York Magazine also published their list of recommendations, and it includes two pairs of light therapy glasses! Light therapy glasses work just like light therapy lamps, but are more compact and portable.

Did you know? Light therapy can also help with morning drowsiness and even relieve jet lag symptoms.

Image Source: McCasland, J. (2013). Battling the winter blues [online image]. Retrieved December 11, 2019 from https://www.barksdale.af.mil/News/Photos/igphoto/2000887742/

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