Tag Archives: Mental Health

IBS vs Lactose Intolerance

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Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and lactose intolerance can cause similar symptoms in the digestive system. They include: 

  • Diarrhea  
  • Abdominal pain 
  • Gas 
  • Bloating 

Although their symptoms overlap, they are separate conditions with differences in how they are diagnosed and treated. 

IBS is a common condition that affects the stomach and intestines. It causes various symptoms, including: 

  • Cramping that is related to the urge to poop 
  • Excess gas 
  • Mucus in the poop 
  • Alternating diarrhea and constipation 
  • The feeling of being unable to empty the bowels after pooping 

There are three types of irritable bowel syndrome, which are categorized based on how poops look on the days of having symptom flare-ups. They include: 

  • IBS with constipation (IBS-C) causes most poop to be hard and lumpy 
  • IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) causes most poop to be watery and loose 
  • IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M) causes hard and lumpy, as well as watery and loose bowel movements 

Unfortunately, researchers don’t know what causes IBS. However, IBS is classified as a neurogastrointestinal disorder or a gut-brain interaction. A gut-brain interaction means there are problems with how the gut and brain coordinate to help the digestive system work. IBS can also be caused by: 

  • An imbalance in the microbes that normally live in the digestive system 
  • Emotional stress and adverse life events 
  • An infection of the digestive tract, which includes common stomach bugs 

Lactose intolerance is a condition that occurs when people lack the enzyme lactase. This makes it difficult to digest lactose, which is the sugar present in milk and milk products.  

Lactose malabsorption is the inability to break down and absorb lactose molecules in the digestive system. Lactose malabsorption is common, as about 65% of adults worldwide can’t break down and absorb lactose.  

Lactose intolerance symptoms can appear inside and outside of the digestive system. Symptoms include: 

  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Headaches 
  • Fatigue 
  • Joint pain 
  • Problems concentrating 
  • Mouth ulcers 

Primary lactose intolerance is inherited and is more common in certain ethnicities and parts of the world. In the U.S., African Americans, Latinx, Asian Americans, and Native Americans are more likely to suffer from lactose intolerance.  

Although it is uncommon, other forms of lactose intolerance are caused by disease or medications.  

IBS and lactose intolerance can be diagnosed without testing. A person’s health history is an important part of diagnosing these conditions.  

An IBS diagnosis is based on symptoms described in the Rome criteria, the guidelines used to diagnose gut-brain interaction, which includes stool changes, such as diarrhea, constipation, or a combination, and abdominal pain for at least one day each week during the previous three months. 

If these symptoms meet the Rome criteria, an IBS diagnosis can be made without the need for an invasive test such as a colonoscopy.  

However, further diagnostic testing would be needed if symptoms include blood in the stool, fever, and weight loss to determine if these are symptoms of another condition. 

The first steps in diagnosing lactose intolerance include a health history and physical exam. In some cases, a clear connection between a person consuming dairy products and symptoms can suggest a diagnosis of lactose intolerance.  

In certain cases, a breath test to diagnose lactose intolerance is available. During this test, a person drinks a solution that contains lactose and breathes to have their breath captured and measured for hydrogen. A higher level of hydrogen in the breath can indicate lactose intolerance. 

IBS treatment starts with diet and lifestyle changes, including: 

  • Adopting a low-FODMAP diet, which is a diet that is low in certain carbohydrates such as fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols 
  • Eating more fiber 
  • Avoiding caffeine and alcohol 
  • Decreasing and managing stress 
  • Identifying and avoiding foods that cause symptoms 
  • Eating small meals on a regular schedule 
  • Treating mental health conditions 
  • Increasing physical activity 
  • Trying a peppermint oil supplement 

If lifestyle and diet changes don’t help, many drugs could help, including: 

  • Antidiarrheals 
  • Antispasmodics 
  • Laxatives 
  • Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) 
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) 
  • Other prescription drugs 

Treating lactose intolerance consists of avoiding foods that cause symptoms, dairy products that have less lactose or are lactose-free, or taking a supplement that breaks down lactose. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms associated with IBS or lactose intolerance, you can receive treatment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

How Having a Sedentary Job Contributes to a Higher Risk of Insomnia

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According to a study published on January 7th, 2025, by the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, people with sedentary jobs, an estimated 80% of the workforce, have a much higher risk of experiencing insomnia compared with people who are active at work. Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. A sedentary job is any job that requires an employee to sit for about six hours of an eight-hour workday.

Researchers surveyed nearly 1,300 people twice over a span of ten years, inquiring about their job schedules and physical activity levels while at work. They also asked about the participants’ sleep habits, identifying three sleep health categories: good sleepers, insomnia-like sleepers, and catch-up sleepers.

Good sleepers are people who exhibit optimal sleep patterns, such as regular sleep cycles with low levels of daytime tiredness.

Insomnia-like sleepers are people who experience short sleep cycles and higher levels of daytime fatigue.

Catch-up sleepers fall between both groups and often rely on naps or extra weekend sleep to compensate for irregular sleeping patterns.

Compared to active work, sedentary work was 37% likely to lead to a variety of insomnia symptoms, such as difficulty falling asleep, interrupted sleep, and frequent daytime tiredness. The findings of the study also indicated that workers who fall into a pattern of poor sleep due to their job design (defined as elements such as the amount of technology used at work, levels of physical activity, and work schedules, and specifically the time of day when the employee works) can end up stuck in such unhealthy patterns for many years. Insomnia-like sleepers, for example, reported their symptoms persisted ten years later, at the end of the study.

Those experiencing insomnia may have the following symptoms:

  • Having a hard time falling asleep at night
  • Waking up during the night
  • Waking up too early
  • Feeling tired or sleepy during the day
  • Feeling cranky, depressed, or anxious
  • Having a hard time paying attention, focusing on tasks, or remembering
  • Making more errors or having more accidents
  • Having ongoing worries about sleep

If you are experiencing insomnia, there are several ways you can improve your sleep, including:

  • Taking short breaks throughout the day to move
  • Unplugging smartphones and computers two hours before bedtime
  • Using light exposure to readjust your circadian rhythms if you work a night shift

If you are experiencing symptoms of insomnia, you can learn more about our outpatient mental health services at Flushing Hospital Medical Center. To schedule a virtual appointment, please call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

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September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. It is a time to raise awareness, promote hope, and normalize seeking help.

Suicide is a leading cause of preventable death in the United States. It affects millions of people every year, yet too many struggle in silence. Here are some key facts about suicide:

  • 1 in 20 (5%) U.S. adults have serious thoughts of suicide each year
  • About one person dies by suicide in the U.S. every 11 minutes
  • 79% of all people who die by suicide in the U.S. are male
  • Although more women than men attempt suicide, men are four times more likely to die by suicide
  • In the U.S., suicide is the second leading cause of death among people ages 10-14 and among people ages 15-24, and the 11th leading cause of death overall

Adult suicide warning signs include:

  • Talking about or making plans for suicide
  • Acting anxious, agitated, or behaving recklessly
  • Talking about being a burden to others
  • Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
  • Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
  • Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Withdrawing or feeling isolated
  • Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
  • Displaying extreme mood swings
  • Chronic illness or serious physical health conditions

Youth suicide warning signs:

  • Expressing hopelessness about the future
  • Displaying severe or overwhelming emotional pain or distress
  • Increased physical symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, and stomachaches, are commonly associated with emotional distress
  • Changing or withdrawing from social connections or situations
  • Sleeping too little or too much
  • Anger or hostility that seems out of character or out of context
  • Recent increased agitation or irritability

Talking about suicide isn’t harmful. Silence is. Opening up about your mental health journey, good, bad, or otherwise, can create a space for healing. One honest and caring conversation can make a difference and save a life. Studies show that people who are having thoughts of suicide feel relief when someone asks about them in a caring way.

Call, text, or chat 988 to speak to a trained crisis counselor offering support 24/7/365. And to learn more about our outpatient mental health services at Flushing Hospital Medical Center or to schedule a virtual appointment, please call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Healthy Aging Month

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September is Healthy Aging Month, a month observed to encourage people to focus on their health and take steps to help them face the challenges that come with aging.

As we age, we become aware of changes in our mental and physical health, as well as shifts in our social needs. You can take charge of your well-being by taking steps to age with a healthy mind and body. Flushing Hospital Medical Center would like to offer these tips to help boost your health as you age:

  • Get moving
    • It is important to consult your doctor before exercising. Start slow, know your limitations, and modify activities if needed
    • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week
  • Maintain a healthy diet
  • Eat proper portion sizes
  • Avoid excess processed foods
  • Stay hydrated
  • Stay socially active
    • Stay in touch with friends and family
    • Try doing something new that interests you
  • Balance your body and mind
    • Keep a positive attitude
    • Keep your mind active by reading or doing puzzles
    • Keep your body active with yoga and stretches
  • Be proactive
    • Receive regular checkups, physicals, and medical tests when needed
    • Take vitamins, supplements, and medications as prescribed or needed

Healthy Aging Month is a time to celebrate life and the positive aspects of growing older. Healthy living is healthy aging. Developing and maintaining healthy aging practices throughout your life contributes to greater resilience and opportunities to thrive as we age. Making small changes in your daily life can help you live longer and better.

If you have questions about any medical issues that may arise as you age, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Services Chemical Dependence Unit Offers Treatment for Opioid Addiction

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Opioid overdose deaths are a major public health problem in America. More than 107,000 people lost their lives to a drug overdose in 2023, with 70% of those deaths attributed to opioids such as fentanyl.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more deadly than heroin. One gram of fentanyl, which is equivalent to the size of a sugar packet, has the potential to kill up to five hundred people.

There was a 14.5% decrease in opioid overdose deaths in 2024 due to public health measures.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Psychiatry and Addiction Services provides care and support to help people recover from opioid addiction. The department has the only medically managed detoxification unit in Queens County.

The unit, called the Chemical Dependence Unit, is a 30-bed medically managed detoxification unit that helps people safely withdraw from opioids, alcohol, and benzodiazepines. Under the direction of the Medical Director for Addiction Services and Unit Chief, staff includes physicians board-certified in addiction medicine, physician assistants, nurses, addiction counselors, psychotherapists, and creative arts therapists.

In addition to medical treatment such as Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction, the unit provides nursing care, individual and group counseling, creative arts therapy, self-help groups, and, very importantly, discharge and aftercare planning to help people continue their Recovery Journey, with follow-up calls after discharge.

For additional admission information, please call the Addiction Treatment Unit at 718-670-4524.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Anorexia #NationalEatingDisorderAwarenessMonth

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Anorexia nervosa, more commonly known as anorexia, is an eating disorder that involves severe calorie restriction and often a low body weight based on personal weight history. It is a complex condition that has mental, behavioral, and physical symptoms.

People who have anorexia often have a strong fear of gaining weight and may think they’re overweight, even if they are not. To prevent gaining weight or to continue to lose weight, people with anorexia often limit the amount or type of food they eat. They do this by restricting the number of calories they consume, resulting in a nutrient deficit and usually, but not always, a very low body weight.

Anorexia can cause changes in the brain due to malnutrition. If left untreated, weight loss can get to a point where people with anorexia are at high risk of serious physical harm or death. Anorexia has the second-highest death rate of any mental illness, surpassed only by opioid overdoses. Most anorexia-related deaths stem from heart conditions and suicide.

There are two subtypes of anorexia nervosa based on eating behaviors:

Restrictive anorexia– the person severely limits the amount and type of food they eat

Binge-purge anorexia– the person greatly restricts the amount and type of food they eat. However, they also have binge-eating and purging episodes where they eat large amounts of food in a short time and then intentionally vomit or use laxatives or diuretics to get rid of what they consumed.

Anorexia involves physical, behavioral, and emotional and mental signs and symptoms.

Emotional and mental signs of anorexia include:

  • Intense fear of gaining weight
  • Body dysmorphia
  • Obsessive interest in food, calories, and dieting
  • Fear of certain foods or food groups
  • Being very self-critical
  • Denying the seriousness of your low body weight and/or food restriction
  • Feeling a strong need to be in control
  • Insomnia

It is common to have other mental health conditions alongside anorexia, you may have additional mental and emotional symptoms.

Behavioral signs of anorexia include:

  • Changes in eating habits or routines, such as eating foods in a certain order or rearranging foods on a plate
  • A sudden change in food preferences, such as eliminating certain food types or food groups
  • Making frequent comments about feeling “fat” or being overweight despite weight loss
  • Purging through intentional vomiting and/or misusing laxatives or diuretics
  • Going to the bathroom right after eating
  • Misusing diet pills or appetite suppressants
  • Compulsive and/or excessive exercising
  • Continuing to limit calories even when your weight is love for your sex, height, and age
  • Wearing loose clothing and/or wearing layers to hide weight loss and stay warm
  • Withdrawing from loved ones and social events

Physical signs and symptoms of anorexia can include:

  • Significant weight loss over several weeks or months
  • Not maintaining an appropriate body weight based on your height, age, sex, stature, and physical health
  • Unexplained change in growth curve or body mass index (BMI) in children and still-growing adolescents

Physical signs and symptoms of anorexia that are side effects of starvation and malnutrition include:

  • Dizziness and/or fainting
  • Fatigue
  • Abnormal heart rhythm
  • Low blood pressure
  • Feeling cold all the time
  • Absent periods or irregular menstrual periods
  • Bloating and/or abdominal pain
  • Muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass
  • Dry skin, brittle nails, and/or thinning hair
  • Poor wound healing and frequent illness

Anorexia is a complex condition with no singular cause. Research suggests that a combination of certain factors may be responsible, such as:

  • Genetics
  • Brain changes
  • Trauma
  • Environment and culture
  • Peer pressure
  • Emotional health

Anorexia nervosa affects all gender identities, races, ages, incomes, and body types. It is also more common among teenagers, although people of any age can develop anorexia. Teens can be more at risk due to all of the changes their bodies go through during puberty. They also face peer pressure and can be more sensitive to criticism or casual comments about weight or body shape. Certain factors can raise the risk of anorexia and other eating disorders, including:

  • Family history
  • A history of weight bullying
  • A history of dieting
  • Transitions

A healthcare provider can diagnose anorexia nervosa based on the criteria listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The three criteria include:

  • Restriction of calorie consumption that leads to weight loss or a failure to gain weight. This results in a significantly low body weight based on your age, sex, height, and stage of growth.
  • Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat
  • Having a distorted view of yourself and the seriousness of the state of your health

If you have signs and symptoms of anorexia, a healthcare provider will do a complete medical history and physical exam. They will ask questions about your:

  • Dietary history
  • Exercise history
  • Psychological history
  • Body image
  • Purging frequency and elimination habits (use of pills, laxatives, and diuretics)
  • Family history of eating disorders

Treatment for anorexia varies depending on the person’s needs. They may receive treatment through inpatient or outpatient care based on their current medical and mental state. Treatment for anorexia most often involves a combination of:

  • Individual and group psychotherapy
  • Medication
  • Hospitalization

A person with anorexia or any eating disorder will have the best recovery outcome if they receive an early diagnosis. If you or someone you know are experiencing signs and symptoms of anorexia, be sure to talk to a provider as soon as possible.

To find out more about our mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or call (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

 

 

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Making Your Mental Health a Priority for the New Year

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Anxiety and depression are mental health issues that many people face daily. As we begin a new year, it is important to identify any mental health issues you are experiencing, the potential causes of those issues, and what you can do to improve them.

Some steps you can take to make positive changes for your mental health include:

  • Improving your physical health – your mental and physical health are closely connected as they can impact each other. Exercising regularly, eating a balanced diet, and getting a good night’s sleep can greatly improve your mood, outlook, ability to focus, and cope more effectively when mental health challenges arise.
  • Recognizing the positive things in your life – if you begin to have negative emotions or thoughts, it is important to recognize and be grateful for the positive things you have in your life.
  • Developing healthy and effective coping mechanisms – coping mechanisms are an important tool for those who experience mental health issues. They allow you to adjust how you process things that distress you, making them easier to deal with. Some healthy coping mechanisms include:
    • Finding ways to resolve what is causing the distress
    • Looking at the problem(s) from a different point of view
    • Talking to someone in your support system

You can make positive, effective changes to improve your mental health this year with help from the outpatient mental health services at Flushing Hospital Medical Center. To schedule a virtual appointment, please call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator, or call (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Coping with Depression during the Holiday Season

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The holiday season is filled with bright lights and festive cheer. However, this time of year can, unfortunately, bring feelings of loneliness, isolation, grief, and sadness for both those with clinical depression as well as those who aren’t depressed.

Holiday depression feels a lot like regular depression, but it is triggered by the onset of the holidays, holiday get-togethers, large family gatherings, and attending or hosting social events. Holiday depression is similar to the “winter blues”, but it may come and go in quick bursts as one event ends and another begins, or it can linger for the days or weeks leading up to and beyond the holiday season.

There are several causes of holiday depression including:

  • Stressful schedules
  • Putting pressure on yourself
  • Separation from loved ones
  • Loneliness
  • Family dynamics
  • Social anxiety
  • Holiday trauma

Signs of holiday depression may include:

  • Feeling depressed and hopeless for more days than not
  • Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
  • Constantly feeling anxious, nervous, or on edge more often
  • Trouble sleeping over an extended period
  • Intrusive thoughts that are difficult to manage on your own
  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

No matter the cause of your low mood or negative feelings, several healthy coping strategies can help you prepare for and get through the festive months when you’re managing depression. Here are some coping strategies to consider this holiday season:

  • Seek support and help from a mental health professional
  • Stay active and get outdoors
  • Share how you’re feeling with trusted loved ones
  • Assess your relationships and set boundaries
  • Limit social media use
  • Set aside time for yourself and prioritize self-care
  • Practice relaxation
  • Consider volunteering throughout the holiday season
  • Remember a cherished loved one who passed on
  • Create a coping sheet or depression toolkit

To learn more about our outpatient mental health services at Flushing Hospital Medical Center or to schedule a virtual appointment, please call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic.

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

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November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. It is important to understand what Alzheimer’s is and what steps you can use to take care of your brain.

Alzheimer’s disease is a degenerative brain disease and the most common type of dementia. It causes a slow decline in memory, thinking, and reasoning skills. Age is the biggest risk factor for the disease, followed by sex and family history.

Dementia is not a specific disease, but an overall term that describes a group of symptoms like memory loss and the loss of other mental abilities severe enough to interfere with daily life, caused by physical changes in the brain.

Different types of dementia include:

  • Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson’s Disease
  • Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease
  • Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Frontotempotal Dementia
  • Huntington’s Disease
  • Korsakoff Syndrome

There are many signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia, here are 10 early signs and symptoms:

  • Memory loss that disrupts daily life
  • Challenges in planning or solving problems
  • Difficulty completing familiar tasks
  • Confusion with time and place
  • Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships
  • New problems with words in speaking or writing
  • Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps
  • Decreased or poor judgment
  • Withdrawal from work or social activities
  • Changes in mood and personality

Even though there isn’t a cure for Alzheimer’s and many other types of dementia, there are many preventative measures you can take to care for your brain.

Here are five ways to care for your brain:

  1. Breaking a sweat: regular cardiovascular exercise elevates your heart rate and increases blood flow to the brain and body. Several studies have found an association between physical activity and reduced risk of cognitive decline.
  2. Fueling up right: Eat a healthy and balanced diet that is lower in fat and higher in vegetables and fruit to help reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Although research on diet and cognitive function is limited, certain diets like Mediterranean and Mediterranean-DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension), may help.
  3. Catching some ZZZs: Not getting enough sleep due to conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea may result in problems with memory and thinking.
  4. Taking care of your mental health: Some studies have linked a history of depression with an increased risk of cognitive decline. Seek medical treatment if you have experienced symptoms of depression, anxiety, or any other mental health concerns. Also, try to manage stress.
  5. Stumping yourself: Challenge and activate your mind. Try building furniture, completing a jigsaw puzzle, doing something artistic, or playing a strategy game. Challenging your mind may have short—and long-term benefits for your brain.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s, you can receive treatment from a neurologist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Tips To Cope With Loneliness

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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines loneliness as, “an emotion that comes from a lack of social connection.”

Almost everyone will experience feeling lonely at some point in their lives.  In fact, data from a 2020 survey concluded that approximately 60% of adults living in the United States experienced loneliness that year.

Loneliness can affect our health in different ways:

  1. It can lead to mental health issues such as depression
  2. It can affect concentration
  3. It can affect sleep health

What can you do to combat loneliness? The CDC has the following suggestions to help you cope:

  • Start a conversation.

Call, video chat, or text message friends, family, neighbors and co-workers. Write a letter or postcard.

  • Use social media and virtual technology.

Use your time online to connect and interact with others instead of scrolling through posts. Set limited timeframes for reading the news.

  • Try virtual volunteering to provide support in your community.

Many organizations, including faith-based organizations, offer online/virtual volunteer opportunities which can give you the chance to contribute to something that you find important.

  • Practice self-compassion and self-care.

Be gentle with yourself. Take time for yourself. Read, listen to music, exercise, or learn a new skill. Acknowledge your successes and give yourself a break. You are doing the best you can.

  • Seek help from a professional if your loneliness becomes overwhelming or feels unmanageable.

Talk to your doctor about how you are feeling.

To speak with a mental health provider at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call  (718) 670-5316.

 

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.