What is Bicultural Healthy Living?

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Bicultural Healthy Living is the ability of immigrants and refugees to bridge two cultures, the American mainstream culture and their culture of origin, into one that allows them to live healthfully and happily.  By leading a bicultural healthy lifestyle, we hope that Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities can find a path that allow both their Asian/Pacific islander and American culture to co-exist with the ability to use one or both cultural protective factors when needed.  This blog will explore the various ways and strategies to improve the health of AAPIs and the community as a whole by living a bicultural healthy lifestyle.

Marijuana addiction increases risk for premature death, Canadian study finds

A new Canadian study published in JAMA Network Open highlights a troubling connection between cannabis use disorder and an elevated risk of premature death within five years. With marijuana use rising globally and daily consumption surpassing alcohol in Canada and the U.S., researchers stress the need to recognize cannabis use disorder as a significant public health issue. Dr. Daniel Myran, the study’s lead author and Canada Research Chair of Social Accountability at the University of Ottawa, emphasized that despite the increasing prevalence and potency of marijuana products, little is known about its long-term risks. This finding is especially concerning among young people, as cannabis legalization and commercial marketing continue to expand.

Key Factors

  • Large Study Population – The study analyzed data from 11.6 million people in Ontario over a median period of five years (2006–2021), covering individuals aged 15 to 105 years.
  • Increased Risk of Premature Death – Those who required hospital-based care for cannabis use disorder were at six times the risk of death within five years compared to people of the same age in the general population.
  • Major Causes of Death – After accounting for co-morbid health conditions, individuals with cannabis use disorder still faced nearly three times the risk of death from suicide, trauma, drug poisoning, and lung cancer.
  • Comparison with Alcohol Use Disorder – While alcohol use disorder posed a higher risk of death, the difference in mortality risk between cannabis and alcohol use disorders was not substantial.
  • Public Perception vs. Reality – Many do not perceive cannabis to have serious health risks, despite the evidence showing significant health dangers associated with cannabis use disorder.
  • Need for Public Health Intervention – Addressing this issue requires greater efforts in prevention, treatment, and support services for individuals struggling with cannabis addiction.

The findings of this study underscore the urgent need to re-evaluate public perceptions of cannabis use disorder and its associated risks. While many view cannabis as relatively harmless, the increased likelihood of premature death—especially from suicide, trauma, drug poisoning, and lung cancer—reveals the serious health consequences of heavy use. The comparison with alcohol use disorder further highlights the need for greater awareness, prevention, and accessible treatment options. As cannabis consumption continues to rise globally, public health efforts must prioritize education, early intervention, and support systems to mitigate the risks and protect vulnerable individuals.

Reference: https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2025/02/06/canada-marujuana-addition-premature-death-study/8111738854000/

Here Are 4 Ways to Cope With Existential Dread

Late at night, when the world quiets down, existential dread can creep in—the unsettling fear of uncertainty, of not knowing if you’re on the right path or if things will ever get better. It thrives in moments of doubt, feeding on the pressure to have everything figured out. But the truth is, no one does. Life isn’t a straight path; it’s a journey full of twists, detours, and discoveries. Instead of fearing the unknown, try embracing it. Ground yourself in the present, acknowledge your thoughts without judgment, and remember that uncertainty isn’t failure—it’s possibility. You are not lost; you are simply becoming.

Millennials and Zoomers (aka Gen-Z) May Be Feeling Existential Dread the Most

Existential dread is a common experience, especially among younger generations navigating an uncertain world. While feelings of stagnation and questioning one’s purpose can arise at any age, Millennials and Gen Z face unique challenges that contribute to this sense of unease. Economic instability, social media comparisons, and the pressure to find meaning in a fast-paced, ever-changing society all add to the weight of uncertainty. As traditional milestones become less linear, many struggle with doubts about where they should be in life, leading to a pervasive sense of anxiety about the future.

  • Climate anxiety: A 2021 report by the Pew Research Center found that Gen Z and Millennials are more engaged in addressing climate change than Gen X and Boomers. They are actively taking action, speaking about climate issues, and engaging with social media content about the changing planet at a higher rate than older generations. In other words, these generations are carrying the emotional burden of our planet’s uncertain future more than anyone else.
  • Financial stress: The anxiety doesn’t stop with climate change—Millennials alone hold nearly a third of all student loan debt, creating immense financial pressure. To cope with this stress, many young people turn to substances, smoking, and other unhealthy coping mechanisms, further impacting their well-being.
  • Poor mental health overall: When it comes to overall mental health, Gen Z has been found to have the poorest mental health outcomes compared to other generations. According to the American Psychological Association, both Gen Z and Millennials are also more likely to seek mental health treatment, highlighting the growing emotional and psychological strain these generations face.

There’s much that is outside of our control, but focusing on what you can control may be the relief your mind needs right now.

Here are some small ways to make a positive impact in your community:

  • Stock up on water and granola bars at the grocery store and distribute them to unhoused individuals in your area.
  • Volunteer at an organization that aligns with the change you want to see in the world.

If your existential dread stems from loneliness, consider these steps:

  • Sign up for a ceramics class or another hobby-based activity.
  • Attend a local event to meet new people.
  • Invite a new coworker out to lunch.

While existential dread can feel overwhelming, shifting your focus to what you can control can make a world of difference. Whether it’s giving back to your community, fostering new connections, or engaging in activities that bring you joy, small, intentional actions can help ground you in the present and remind you of your own agency. The world may be uncertain, but by taking steps toward positive change—both for yourself and those around you—you can cultivate a sense of purpose, connection, and hope in the midst of the unknown.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/coping-with-existential-dread-7972035

7 Ways Spring Cleaning Is Good for Your Mental Health

As winter fades and spring emerges, many embrace the tradition of spring cleaning—not just as a household chore but as an act of self-care. Beyond the obvious physical benefits of a cleaner space, research suggests that decluttering can significantly boost mental well-being. Many people report feeling less stressed and more accomplished after tidying up, making it a popular practice—nearly 8 in 10 Americans participate in this annual ritual. While scrubbing, sorting, and organizing might not be the most exciting weekend activities, the mental clarity and renewed energy that come from a refreshed space make it all worthwhile.

  • Spring Cleaning Signals a Fresh Start
    It acts as a psychological reset, helping the brain recognize a transition into a new season and fostering a sense of renewal.
  • Relief from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
    The act of cleaning can serve as a tangible way to mark the shift from winter to spring, bringing a sense of relief and a brighter outlook.
  • A Sense of Control
    Organizing and tidying up allows individuals to focus on what they can control, reducing anxiety and providing a sense of stability.
  • A Sense of Accomplishment
    Completing cleaning tasks can boost confidence and motivation, reinforcing the ability to tackle other personal and professional goals.
  • Decreased Financial Stress
    Organizing spaces can help people keep track of important financial documents, avoid unnecessary spending, and reduce money-related anxiety.
  • Improved Social Life
    A cleaner, more organized home encourages social interactions, making it easier to invite guests without stress or embarrassment.
  • It May Set Other Good Habits in Motion
    Spring cleaning can lead to positive lifestyle changes, such as exercising more, maintaining better sleep habits, and improving focus by reducing clutter.

Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s a powerful tool for improving mental well-being. From providing a fresh start and easing seasonal depression to fostering a sense of control and accomplishment, the benefits go beyond a clean home. By decluttering and organizing, you may also reduce financial stress, enhance your social life, and set the stage for other positive habits. As you refresh your space this season, remember that you’re also refreshing your mind, making way for a healthier and happier you.


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Positive self-talk can help improve your mood.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/why-spring-cleaning-is-good-for-your-mental-health-7372064

Bullying

The CDC defines bullying as unwanted aggressive behavior by youth or groups of youths, excluding siblings or current dating partners, that involves a power imbalance and is repeated or highly likely to be repeated. Bullying can cause harm or distress to victims, whether physical, psychological, social, or educational. It takes many forms, including physical aggression like hitting or tripping, verbal attacks such as name-calling or teasing, relational bullying like spreading rumors or exclusion, and damage to property. With the rise of technology, bullying now extends to cyberbullying, where harmful behaviors occur online. Youth can find themselves as perpetrators, victims, or both, highlighting the complex dynamics of bullying and its far-reaching impact.

Key Facts About Bullying in the United States

Bullying as an Adverse Childhood Experience: Bullying negatively impacts all youth involved, including victims, perpetrators, and bystanders.

Prevalence of Bullying:

  • About 1 in 5 high school students reported being bullied on school property in the past year.
  • Over 1 in 6 high school students reported experiencing electronic bullying via texting or social media.

Disparities in Bullying:

  • Female students are more likely than male students to experience both in-person and electronic bullying.
  • LGBTQ+ students are at higher risk of being bullied compared to their cisgender, heterosexual peers.
  • Asian and Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander students report lower rates of school bullying compared to Hispanic, White, and Multiracial students. Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander students also experience lower rates of electronic bullying compared to most other racial/ethnic groups.

Bullying as a Discipline Issue:

  • National surveys indicate bullying occurs weekly in 28% of middle schools, 15% of high schools, and 10% of elementary schools.
  • Cyberbullying is reported weekly by 37% of middle schools, 25% of high schools, and 6% of elementary schools.

Bullying is a pervasive issue with serious consequences for all involved, but it can be addressed through awareness, prevention, and intervention. Key signs of bullying include unexplained injuries, lost or damaged belongings, changes in eating or sleeping habits, withdrawal from friends or activities, and declining academic performance. Preventing bullying requires fostering a positive, inclusive environment where differences are celebrated, and open communication is encouraged. Peers can stand up for victims by showing support and reporting incidents, while adults and school staff must remain vigilant, establish clear anti-bullying policies, and provide safe spaces for students to seek help. By working together, communities can create a culture of respect and kindness, ensuring every child feels safe and valued.

Reference:https://www.cdc.gov/youth-violence/about/about-bullying.html

How marijuana impacts pain, sleep, anxiety and more, according to the latest science

Are you turning to marijuana to manage anxiety, pain, muscle spasms, pregnancy-related nausea, sleep issues, or other challenges? You might be surprised to learn that a comprehensive review of over 100 clinical trials and meta-analyses reveals limited high-quality evidence supporting its effectiveness for these purposes.

“After applying very strict quantitative criteria, and accounting for both observational studies and experimental trials, most of the associations between cannabis and health outcomes were supported by very low or low credibility,” â€“ Dr. Marco Solmi

Key Facts About Marijuana Use:

1. Mental Health Risks:

  • Cannabis shows no benefits for easing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or other mental disorders.
  • It increases the risk of developing psychotic or mental health disorders.
  • Cannabis worsens clinical outcomes in people with pre-existing mental conditions like psychosis, increasing the risk of relapse and impairing cognition.

2. Impact During Pregnancy:

  • Cannabis use during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is linked to low birth weight and potentially harmful effects on the fetal brain.
  • THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, can be passed to the baby during breastfeeding.

3. Adolescents and Young Adults:

  • Cannabis use in developing brains (adolescence through early adulthood) negatively impacts cognition and mental health.
  • It is linked to poorer memory, verbal cognition, and visual recall.
  • Young users should stop cannabis use if they experience declines in educational, social, or mental health functioning.

4. General Cognitive Effects:

  • Cannabis use can worsen multiple cognitive domains, including memory and problem-solving skills.
  • The permanence of these effects is still unclear, requiring further research.

While marijuana is often perceived as a remedy for various physical and mental health challenges, the evidence reveals significant risks, particularly for mental health, pregnancy, and young people. Its use can exacerbate mental disorders, impair cognition, and pose developmental risks to unborn and breastfeeding children. For adolescents and young adults, cannabis can hinder brain development, memory, and overall functioning, with lasting consequences still under study. Given these findings, it’s crucial to approach cannabis use with caution and prioritize safer, evidence-based alternatives for managing health concerns.

**èżœçŠ»ć€§éș»ïŒŒäżæŒć„ćș·ă€‚Stay away from cannabis, maintain your health.**

Reference: https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/30/health/marijuana-pros-and-cons-wellness/index.html

A Taste of Fusion: Exploring McDonald’s in Thailand

McDonald’s in Thailand is a unique blend of Western fast food and Thai culinary traditions, offering visitors and locals alike a menu that celebrates the best of both worlds. While you can still enjoy classic favorites like burgers and fries, what truly stands out are the Thai-inspired options that reflect the nation’s rich food culture. From the spicy and savory Kaprao Crispy Chicken Rice to the popular Pad Kaprao Rice, McDonald’s has seamlessly incorporated beloved Thai street food into its menu, giving a fresh twist to its global appeal.

Photo Credit: Menuinthai.com

The fusion of Western and Asian food cultures is particularly evident in the creative additions to the menu. Items like the Samurai Burger, inspired by Asian flavors, and free hot and spicy sauces ensure that every meal can be tailored to local tastes. These offerings go beyond novelty, showcasing the adaptability of a global brand to embrace and celebrate local traditions. Moreover, with prices starting at just 65 baht, McDonald’s offers an affordable and accessible way to experience the fusion of flavors, making it a hit among both budget-conscious travelers and locals.

Photo Credit: Menuinthai.com

This harmonious blending of food cultures reflects Thailand’s openness to innovation while staying rooted in its culinary heritage. McDonald’s has not only adapted to local tastes but also elevated fast food by integrating the authenticity of Thai cuisine. Whether you’re craving rice dishes, crispy chicken, or desserts with a unique twist, McDonald’s in Thailand is more than just a fast-food stop—it’s a cultural experience that delights the palate and bridges the gap between East and West.

Reference: https://thaiest.com/thai-food/reviews/mcdonald-s-in-thailand

Jarrelle ( Jie ao, 杰遚 ) Barton

Cannabis and mental health

In the 1990s, cannabis use among young people saw a significant rise, becoming more common than tobacco smoking in some countries. Several factors may contribute to this shift, including the drug’s ready availability, growing social disapproval of cigarette smoking, stricter drink-driving laws, and perceptions that cannabis is safer or less harmful than cigarettes or alcohol. This trend raises concerns, as cannabis use is linked to being a potential gateway to other drugs and is associated with psychiatric conditions. Research has established a connection between cannabis use and psychosis, with some studies also linking it to depression. While it remains unclear whether cannabis causes these conditions or if individuals use it to alleviate existing distress, the prevailing explanation is that cannabis may trigger the onset or relapse of schizophrenia in predisposed individuals and worsen symptoms overall. However, establishing clear causality is challenging due to methodological limitations, including the low incidence of schizophrenia and the common use of multiple substances among drug users.

Key Facts About Cannabis and Mental Health Risks

  1. Increased Risk of Schizophrenia:
    • A Swedish study tracking 50,000 conscripts for 15 years found that adolescent cannabis use increases the risk of schizophrenia in a dose-response relationship.
    • Follow-up analysis confirmed that cannabis, not other drugs, was linked to later schizophrenia and was not due to pre-existing symptoms.
    • Longer cannabis exposure predicted greater psychosis severity.
  2. Worse Outcomes for Those with Symptoms:
    • Cannabis use in individuals with baseline psychotic symptoms worsened outcomes, suggesting an additive effect.
    • A New Zealand study linked frequent cannabis use by age 18 to increased schizophrenia symptoms by age 26.
  3. Risk of Depression:
    • A U.S. study showed cannabis use increased the risk of major depression fourfold over 15 years.
    • Cannabis was associated with suicidal ideation and anhedonia.
    • An Australian study found a dose-response link between cannabis use and anxiety or depression, with stronger effects on young women.
  4. Self-Medication Hypothesis Disputed:
    • Studies found no evidence that baseline depression or psychosis predicts cannabis use, suggesting cannabis use is more likely a cause rather than a coping mechanism.
  5. Developmental Stage Matters:
    • Cannabis use during adolescence is more likely linked to later mental health problems, whereas mental disorders may lead to cannabis use in early adulthood.
  6. Public Health Implications:
    • Reducing cannabis use could significantly lower rates of schizophrenia and depression.
    • Dutch data suggests up to a 50% reduction in psychosis requiring treatment if cannabis exposure was eliminated.
    • Swedish data indicates a 30% increased risk of schizophrenia associated with cannabis use.
  7. Legislative and Clinical Considerations:
    • The surprising magnitude of cannabis’ impact on psychosis and depression underscores the need for preventive measures and policy discussions.

The evidence is clear: cannabis use, especially during adolescence, significantly increases the risk of mental health complications such as schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety. While the long-term effects vary by individual, the dose-response relationship highlights the importance of reducing or avoiding cannabis use altogether to protect mental well-being. Prevention is key, as studies show that eliminating cannabis exposure could drastically reduce the incidence of psychosis and depressive disorders. By making informed choices and understanding the risks, you can prioritize your mental health and help build a healthier future for yourself and your community.

Reference: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1124674/

Vision Loss, Blindness, and Smoking

Smoking harms your eyes just as much as it harms the rest of your body, increasing your risk of serious eye conditions that can lead to vision loss or blindness. Two major threats to your eyesight are macular degeneration and cataracts. Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), affects central vision, which is essential for tasks like reading, recognizing faces, and driving. AMD starts in its dry form but can progress to the wet form, causing rapid vision loss if untreated. Cataracts cause blurry vision that worsens over time, and without surgery, they can result in severe vision impairment. The best way to protect your eyes from smoking-related damage is to quit or never start smoking.

Symptoms of Eye Diseases Related to Smoking

Symptoms of AMD may include:

  • Blurred vision or a blurry spot in your central vision
  • The need for more light to read or do other tasks
  • Straight lines that look wavy
  • Trouble recognizing faces

How Does Smoking Affect Your Eyes?

Smoking causes changes in the eyes that may result in vision loss. If you smoke:

  • You are twice as likely to develop AMD compared with a people who do not smoke.2,8
  • You are two to three times more likely to develop cataracts compared with a people who do not smoke.

Smoking not only harms your overall health but also puts your vision at serious risk, leading to conditions like macular degeneration and cataracts. By choosing to quit smoking, you can protect your eyes and your health, ensuring a clearer, brighter future. Take control of your well-being today—embrace a healthier, more mindful lifestyle, and make the choice to live tobacco-free. Your body, mind, and eyes will thank you.

**By prioritizing the health and safety of its young residents, Minnesota is investing in a brighter, healthier future for all.**

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/vision-loss-blindness.html

How to Know If You Are in a Healthy Relationship

Relationships are rarely flawless; they’re a blend of both healthy and unhealthy elements. Yet, while we often discuss the warning signs of unhealthy relationships, we tend to overlook what defines a healthy one. Healthy relationships thrive on respect, trust, honest communication, and mutual support. Shifting our focus to these positive aspects helps us cultivate stronger, more meaningful connections.

To evaluate the health of your relationship, consider asking yourself questions like these:

  • Do you have trust in one another?
  • Do you respect each other?
  • Do you support each other’s interests and efforts?
  • Are you honest and open with each other?
  • Are you able to maintain your individual identity?
  • Do you talk about your feelings, hopes, fears, and dreams?
  • Do you feel and express fondness and affection?
  • Is there equality and fairness in your relationship?

Characteristics of Healthy Relationships

  • Trust
    Trust forms the foundation of any healthy relationship, built through mutual respect, dependability, and honest interactions over time.
  • Openness and Self-Disclosure
    Sharing thoughts, feelings, and experiences fosters connection and strengthens trust, while also respecting each other’s boundaries.
  • Healthy Boundaries
    Boundaries protect individuality and ensure mutual respect by defining acceptable behaviors and maintaining personal space and needs.
  • Mutual Respect
    Healthy relationships thrive on respect, shown through active listening, understanding, and supporting each other’s goals and individuality.
  • Love and Affection
    Genuine love evolves from passion to deep affection and trust, with each partner finding contentment in their shared emotional and physical connection.
  • Good Communication
    Open, respectful communication allows couples to resolve conflicts constructively and strengthen their bond.
  • Give-and-Take
    Reciprocity in relationships means giving and receiving support freely, balancing needs while nurturing each other.

Building a healthy relationship requires a balance of trust, respect, open communication, and mutual support. By fostering openness, setting healthy boundaries, and embracing love and affection, partners can create a nurturing connection that grows over time. Effective communication and a natural give-and-take ensure that both individuals feel valued and supported, even through challenges. While no relationship is perfect, focusing on these key elements can help strengthen your bond and pave the way for a fulfilling and lasting partnership.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/all-about-healthy-relationship-4774802

Narratives of Healing: How Our Elders Guide Us Beyond Borders

As a Black Buddhist who grew up studying Buddhism, classical Chinese music, and the art of Japanese Bonsai, I’ve often reflected on what it means to embrace traditions that are not rooted in my ancestry. At first, I felt like an outsider, but as I listened to the stories of my elders, I began to see that expression isn’t confined to bloodlines or geography. These stories with struggle, resilience, and love—are more than personal memories; they are bridges. They connect us to our roots, to our shared humanity, and to a deeper understanding of who we are. Listening to our elders allows us to step beyond limits, and into the universal truths that bind us all.

Our elders carry within them the echoes of countless generations, each story a thread in the fabric of our collective being. When I sat with my grandparents and listened to their stories of living in the south, the KKK, the fight for freedom, perseverance, and triumph, I realized these narratives were not just about them—they were about me, too. Their resilience became a lens through which I could make sense of my bicultural journey, blending my own me-ness with diverse philosophies and arts. The wisdom of our elders reminds us that culture is not a static inheritance but a living and breathing dialogue. By honoring their experiences, we create space for healing and understanding, for ourselves and for the communities we touch.

In Buddhism, we often speak of transcending the conventional world, but this does not mean abandoning it—it means transforming it. The stories of our elders are vehicles for that transformation. They teach us compassion, resilience, and interconnectedness, serving as a guide for navigating life’s complexities. When we take the time to listen deeply, we honor their sacrifices and create a legacy of healing for future generations. Their wisdom invites us to bridge divides, to embrace diversity, and to build communities rooted in love and understanding. In this way, the stories of the past become seeds of a more harmonious future.

Jarrelle ( Jie ao ) Barton