Long hours, market conditions and unpredictable weather can create stress for farmers and their families across central Illinois. “Farm life can be very rewarding, but it can also be very stressful, especially at times like planting and harvest,” said Kenny…
Finding a mental health professional who works well with you can be a challenging process. With one out of five U.S. adults and one out of six school-age students experiencing mental health struggles each year, the pressure is on to…
Interstate 55 may be open for traffic again after the deadly 70+ car pileup caused by a freak dust storm, but the lingering effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may impact involved drivers, rescue personnel and bystanders well beyond that…
You’ve probably heard “laughter is the best medicine,” but could laughing at a funny April Fools’ prank really improve your health? “Research has shown that laughter has benefits for mental and physical health,” said Kenny Dunn, MA, LCPC, and a…
Gambling entertains many with the excitement and anticipation of a potential big win. Illinois residents have more gambling opportunities than ever before with more than 36,000 video gaming terminals today and more planned. “A downside is that too many people…
Setting healthy boundaries in your life is one of the best gifts you can give yourself and those around you. Boundaries can help you promote meaningful and healthy connections with others. But what does a boundary look like? Tisha Bayless,…
Maybe you don’t jump over cracks in the sidewalk anymore to avoid breaking your mother’s back, but do you “knock on wood” when you anticipate something positive? Athletes from middle school to the pros will repeat the exact warm-up ritual…
When words fall short, there are many therapeutic benefits to creating art – no matter what form. Researchers have documented art’s power and potential to help people heal from traumatic circumstances. “When faced with trauma, it can often be difficult…
Workplace stress is highly personal. Some people thrive in fast-paced jobs, such as emergency room nurses, police officers and air-traffic controllers. These are stressful jobs where making a mistake can put people’s lives at risk. Some of us wouldn’t last…
The excitement for Halloween starts building early for most kids – costumes, candy and goosebumps. But for children with anxiety or sensory processing issues, Halloween presents a unique challenge for parents. Leaha Jones with Memorial Behavioral Health offers these…