Tag Archives: health

Yes, Stress Really Can Make You Sick —Here’s Why

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Can Stress Really Make Us Sick? Understanding the Mind-Body Connection

Yes—chronic stress can absolutely impact your physical health. In fact, 60% to 80% of primary care visits involve stress-related concerns. Health psychologists like Dr. Julia Kogan and functional medicine specialists like Dr. Patricia Mills explain that prolonged stress elevates cortisol levels, which can weaken the immune system, trigger inflammation, and exacerbate chronic conditions like arthritis, IBS, and fibromyalgia. Chronic stress also decreases white blood cells, disrupts sleep, and interferes with hormone production—leading to issues with menstruation, fertility, and even testosterone levels in men. Symptoms of stress-related illness include headaches, high blood pressure, lowered immunity, sleep disturbances, and reduced sex drive.

Key Facts:

  • Chronic stress weakens the immune system and increases inflammation.
  • Cortisol overproduction impacts hormone balance and immunity.
  • Stress can worsen chronic conditions like arthritis, IBS, and fibromyalgia.
  • Symptoms of stress-related illness include fatigue, poor sleep, tension, and frequent infections.
  • Activities like meditation, breathwork, yoga, walking, dancing, and aromatherapy can naturally increase oxytocin, the relaxation hormone.

While we can’t eliminate all stress from our lives, we can choose how we respond to it. Tuning into our bodies and incorporating daily oxytocin-boosting habits like mindful breathing, gentle movement, and social connection can help us build resilience. If stress is taking a toll on your body, it’s not just in your head—and it’s worth taking seriously. Prioritize your well-being and reach out to a healthcare provider if stress is affecting your quality of life.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/yes-stress-can-really-make-you-sick-this-is-why-8350874

The Colors of Resilience: Taiwan’s Rainbow Village and Its Artistic Legacy

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Tucked away in the Nantun District of Taichung, Taiwan, Rainbow Village is more than just a vibrant collection of street art — it’s a living canvas that tells a story of resilience, hope, and the unyielding power of creativity. Originally a military dependents’ village destined for demolition, it became an artistic sanctuary thanks to the tireless brush of Huang Yung-Fu, affectionately known as “Grandpa Rainbow.” His whimsical paintings of birds, animals, and cheerful human figures transformed crumbling walls into radiant symbols of life and joy, turning an abandoned settlement into a celebration of color and imagination.

Beyond its bright facades, Rainbow Village reflects a poignant cultural narrative. The walls whisper stories of Taiwan’s history — from war and displacement to the creation of tight-knit military communities. Huang’s art preserves not just fading structures, but the collective memory of thousands of families who once called these streets home. Each painted figure honors the past, offering both locals and visitors a reminder of perseverance and cultural identity amid modernization.

Today, Rainbow Village stands as both a tourist destination and a cultural treasure, drawing visitors from around the world who marvel at its authenticity and artistic spirit. Huang’s legacy lives on through each brushstroke, a testament to how art can protect heritage, inspire connection, and turn ordinary places into extraordinary landmarks. In every corner of this colorful village, the heart of Taiwan continues to shine.

Reference:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rainbow_Village

The Beauty of Cross-Cultural Friendships: Expanding Horizons & Building Bridges

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Friendships that bridge different cultures, languages, and backgrounds offer a unique and enriching perspective on the world. When we connect with people who have different life experiences, we expand our understanding, challenge stereotypes, and develop greater empathy. Learning about another person’s traditions, beliefs, and customs firsthand allows us to see the world from a more inclusive and informed perspective. These friendships break down barriers and foster global awareness, making us more adaptable and open-minded individuals.

Cross-cultural and bilingual friendships also provide tangible cognitive and linguistic benefits. Engaging with a friend who speaks another language or comes from a different background naturally enhances our communication skills and deepens our cultural intelligence. Exposure to different languages, even informally, can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and creativity. Additionally, bilingual friendships can encourage us to learn a new language, making us more effective communicators and strengthening connections across diverse communities.

Beyond personal growth, bicultural and multilingual friendships create stronger, more inclusive communities. These friendships promote cross-cultural appreciation and foster an environment of mutual respect and understanding. In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to navigate cultural differences with empathy and curiosity is invaluable. By embracing friendships that span cultural and linguistic boundaries, we build bridges instead of walls, fostering a world that thrives on diversity, connection, and shared humanity.

Jarrelle ( 杰遨 ）Jieao

Here Are 4 Ways to Cope With Existential Dread

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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

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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.


积极的自我对话有助于改善心情。
Positive self-talk can help improve your mood.

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

Cannabis and mental health

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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

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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

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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

Asthma and Secondhand Smoke

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Asthma is a chronic disease that affects the airways in the lungs, causing them to swell and narrow during an asthma attack, which makes breathing difficult. This swelling reduces the flow of air in and out of the lungs, and the cells in the airways may produce excess mucus—a thick, sticky substance—that further obstructs airflow and exacerbates breathing challenges. If you have asthma, an attack can occur when something irritates your airways and triggers symptoms, which can vary from person to person. Tobacco smoke, including secondhand smoke, is a common trigger and is particularly harmful to individuals with asthma, though it is unhealthy for everyone.

Symptoms of an asthma attack may include:

  • Coughing
  • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
  • Wheezing
  • Tightness or pain in the chest

Secondhand smoke consists of a combination of gases and fine particles, including:

  • Smoke from burning tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, or pipes
  • Smoke that has been exhaled (breathed out) by someone who smokes

To reduce the risk of asthma attacks, it is crucial to identify and avoid personal triggers, such as tobacco smoke, which is not only harmful to individuals with asthma but also to everyone exposed to it. Preventative measures include maintaining a smoke-free environment, minimizing exposure to pollutants, and following a treatment plan prescribed by a healthcare provider. Quitting smoking is one of the most effective ways to protect your health and the health of those around you, especially children and individuals with asthma. By making these changes, you can create a healthier, safer space for everyone while managing asthma more effectively.

**Studies show that flavors such as fruit, candy, and menthol are particularly appealing to adolescents.**

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/diseases/secondhand-smoke-asthma.html

Can You Have a Delayed Reaction to Grief?

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Grief typically unfolds through five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. While it begins with denial and ends with acceptance, the journey is rarely linear. According to San Francisco therapist Dr. Avigail Lev, individuals often move back and forth between stages—shifting from anger to bargaining, returning to depression, and so on. These stages provide a framework for processing loss, confronting emotions, and moving toward healing. However, in delayed grief, denial persists, leaving unresolved feelings that can complicate the path to recovery.

“In delayed grieving, the denial stage lasts longer, meaning the person remains in denial for a more extended period.” — Dr. Avigail Lev

Signs and Symptoms of Delayed Grief

Delayed grief varies from person to person, with symptoms that can manifest both emotionally and physically. Signs of delayed grief on an emotional level include:

  • A sense of numbness or detachment
  • Intense emotional reactions in response to things that remind you of the loss
  • Feelings of persistent sadness
  • Intrusive thoughts or memories about your loved one
  • Problem enjoying things that used to bring you pleasure
  • Changes in how you feel about yourself, your purpose, or your identity
  • Feelings of guilt or regret

Physical symptoms of delayed grief can include:

  • Changes in sleep, appetite, or body weight
  • Feeling tired or unmotivated
  • Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, muscle tension, frequent illness, and digestive issues

Self-Care Practices to Support the Grieving Process

If you’re dealing with delayed grief, there are strategies to help you reconnect with your emotions and process them more deeply. Consider trying the following techniques:

  • Journaling: Expressive writing can be a therapeutic way to work through the difficult emotions you are feeling. Consider writing a letter to your loved one or write down your favorite memories of that person.
  • Mindfulness practices: Mindfulness is all about centering your attention on the here and now. It can be a way to connect with what you are feeling and what these feelings mean. Research suggests it can help bereaved people improve emotional regulation and executive function.
  • Stick to a routine: Keeping a regular routine is important when you are dealing with stressful experiences. It can help you maintain a sense of consistency and normalcy, which may help you feel more in control even when things seem hectic or tumultuous.
  • Learn about grief: Spend some time learning about what the normal grieving process looks like, including the stages of grief that people typically experience. It can be comforting to know that what you are experiencing is normal and expected.
  • Honor your loved one: Find meaningful ways to honor the memory of the person you have lost. For example, you might create a memorial or participate in rituals to honor their life.

Healing from grief, especially delayed grief, takes time and patience, but it’s important to know that support and effective treatment options are available. Strategies like grief counseling, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and expressive arts therapy can help you process your emotions, reconnect with your feelings, and navigate your journey toward acceptance. Whether through talking, mindfulness, creative expression, or structured therapeutic approaches, these options provide valuable tools to address your grief and move forward with greater clarity and resilience.

Reference: https://www.verywellmind.com/can-you-have-a-delayed-reaction-to-grief-8425426