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…
Back-to-school transitions can cause stress for your kids as they anticipate big changes from the summer schedule to a school routine. For most students of all ages, there can be a mix of excitement and anxiety about reuniting with friends…
One size does not fit all, and that is especially true for people who seek mental health services. “People’s perceptions of the value of mental health services are uniquely shaped by racial or ethnic backgrounds and cultural experiences,” said Amber…
A three-digit dialing code number – 988 – strengthens and expands the reach of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Two essential elements are associated with the 988 number, which went live in 2022: Someone to call. Someone to respond. Dialing…
If filling up your car, grocery shopping or reviewing your retirement savings causes you stress, anxiety or even depression – you aren’t alone. Financial concerns trouble most of us right now, thanks to high inflation, rising interest rates and unpredictable…