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Tough Questions to Ask: Can Mental Illnesses Run in My Family?

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Mental health disorders are surrounded by many misconceptions and a social stigma that make it difficult for people with a mental illness to openly talk about their struggle. For many people, even discussing this issue with their family members can be a problem.

However, if you want to learn more about the root causes of mental illness, talking to your relatives might be a good decision. Some mental health disorders run in families so they can be caused not only by environmental factors but also by genetic factors, as well.

For example, bipolar disorder, major depression, autism, schizophrenia, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are some of the most common mental health issues that are associated with genetic risk factors.

According to statistics, about 10% of Americans live with major depression, and people with a family history of depression are up to three times more likely to develop depression than others.

Research data also indicates that one-third of people whose parents had major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia develop the same mental health problems. At the same time, the history of mental illness in the family remains a very sensitive subject for many.

Mental Issues Are Health Issues

Quite often, people with mental health issues go to therapy to deal with their problems and understand the emotional and environmental roots of their problem but don’t share their struggles with relatives. However, when their children develop mental disorders, such a person may experience a lot of anger and frustration because their family didn’t inform them about the risks.

Obviously, the main reason for such miscommunication is a shame. If you or your close relatives struggle with mental health issues, it’s important to understand that such problems are no different from any other health problems, and there’s nothing to be ashamed of. 

Mental illnesses are similar to other family-linked health problems, so if more than one person in a family has such issues, this means that they can support each other. There’s no sense in hiding such facts because, one day, they may become obvious, anyway. 

Does Mental Illness Run in Families?

The short answer is yes, but it’s important to keep in mind that there are many kinds of mental disorders, and in most cases, environmental factors can be no less or even more important than genetic ones.

While some diseases, like Huntington’s disease or cystic fibrosis, develop because of problems with a single gene, mental health disorders are not so easy to predict through a genetic test. 

Generally, only 5% of health problems are determined by genetics, with the remaining 95% of diseases being environmentally-based.

The complexity of mental health genetics can be perfectly illustrated by the history of the so-called “depression gene” — a serotonin transporter gene. When researchers discovered the 5-HTTLPR gene back in the 1990s, they concluded that it’s responsible for the development of depression.

However, in 2003, new research data demonstrated that the effects of this gene depend on environmental factors, such as stressful events and trauma, and the gene alone doesn’t lead to major depressive disorder. The very nature of mental health disorders suggests that biological factors are not the only thing we should consider when talking about mental illnesses in families.

Nevertheless, there is a clear connection between the five major mental health disorders (depression, autism, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and ADHD) and genetic anomalies. For instance, research data shows that variation in the CACNA1C gene, which affects emotions, memory, attention, and thinking, as well as the CACNB2 gene, are linked to all five disorders.

Environmental Factors Matter

It would be great if one could learn about the probability of developing mental health issues through a single genetic test. Unfortunately, there is no genetic test that would predict mental health issues because that’s not the way mental illnesses work.

Think of mental illness in the family as any other disease, like diabetes or high blood pressure. If your close relatives have such diseases, you have an increased risk of developing them, but this doesn’t mean a 100% probability.

Therefore, if you know that a certain mental health disorder runs in your family, it’s important to keep in mind that mental health is not only about genetics but also environment, self-care, and lifestyle.

Although one may have a genetic predisposition to a certain mental health disorder, this person may not develop it unless many other factors come into play. For instance, such factors as traumas, abuse, and drug use can play a key role in the development of various mental health disorders, especially if a person has been exposed to these factors as a child.

What to Do If You Have a History of Mental Illness in the Family

Every year, one in five adults experience some mental health problems. Not everyone who deals with mental health issues has relatives with the same problem, and if your parents have depression or schizophrenia, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you will develop it or that the severity of your symptoms will be the same.

Many people who have a history of mental illness in the family start to worry about their children’s mental health. They are afraid that their genes can cause the development of mental health disorders in their kids, and such a fear isn’t completely irrational. However, it’s important to keep in mind that environmental factors play a crucial role in such cases.

Given that a child’s brain actively grows and develops, the things that we experience as children are the key factors that determine whether or not we will have mental health problems as adults.

According to statistics, as much as 50% of mental health disorders manifest themselves by age 14, and 75% appear before the age of 24. Most scientists agree that the human brain fully develops at the age of 25, so if a person hasn’t been diagnosed with mental illnesses at this age, this is definitely a good sign.

If you start to experience mental health problems, the best solution is therapy. For professional help in navigating these issues, local therapists are readily available and equipped to provide the support you need. A licensed therapist can help you figure out the reasons behind your mental health struggles and overcome them. Of course, people with busy schedules may find it difficult to visit a therapist in person, but online therapy platforms like Calmerry enable everyone to get the necessary help in a more flexible way.

What to Do If You’re a Parent

If you have concerns about your child’s genetic predispositions to mental issues, the main thing is to create a healthy emotional environment at home and to make sure that your child can get the necessary emotional support from you. Even though you cannot prevent a mental health disorder, if your child develops it, you can create the right environment to minimize the severity of symptoms.

Here are a few simple things you can do as a parent:

1. Talk to your child

Your child should feel comfortable about discussing their thoughts and emotions. As we’ve already mentioned above, the shame and stigma that surround mental health are real problems. 

If your child cannot share their emotions with you, they might get used to keeping their problems to themselves and hesitate to ask for help in the future. Ask your kids about their thoughts and emotions and be supportive. 

2. Teach your child to stay grounded

If you’re afraid that the history of mental illness in the family may affect your child, you can teach them to deal with difficult emotions. Perhaps, the best approach is to teach your child to stay grounded and present in the current moment. 

Talk to them about different grounding practices, such as breathing exercises, mindfulness, positive affirmations, etc.

3. Provide encouragement

If some situations make your child feel uncomfortable, teach them to lean in instead of avoiding such situations. For instance, if your child is afraid to speak in front of a big audience, encourage them to try it and challenge their negative thoughts.

4. Don’t be overprotective

You won’t be able to protect your child from stress and negative experiences forever. Eventually, they will need to learn how to deal with such situations on their own, and it’s better to let them develop coping skills early. 

Make sure to provide the necessary emotional support but don’t be overprotective because, this way, you may only make things worse.

Wrapping Up

Is mental illness hereditary? Well, the right question would be: “Do genetic factors contribute to the development of mental illnesses?” Yes, people with a family history of mental health issues are more likely to develop certain disorders, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that children of parents with mental health issues will develop the same problems.

All mental health issues develop for different reasons, and environmental factors play a key role. If you’re concerned about your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Licensed therapists can help you. Learn more about the benefits of therapy if you’re not sure whether or not you need it.

Leonardo, a visionary entrepreneur and digital innovator, is the proud owner and mastermind behind chatonic.net. Born and raised in the heart of the Silicon Valley, he has always been fascinated by the potential of technology and its ability to transform the way we communicate and interact with one another.

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How to Be a Better Therapist

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How to Be a Better Therapist

The world of mental health is constantly evolving. As a therapist, it’s crucial that you are always on top of your game, always learning, and always challenging yourself to be better. This helps ensure you provide clients with the best possible care to help them live happy, healthy lives with good mental health and well-being. Whether you are newly qualified or a seasoned professional, here are some ways to become a better therapist. 

Specialize

There’s nothing wrong with being a general therapist but having a specialism (even if you don’t choose to practice it) is a fantastic way to hone your skills and become an expert in your field. Studying for a masters in marriage and family therapy can be a great way to further your career.  

Study

To be a better therapist, you need to keep learning. This could involve taking a course so that you can specialize in a specific field, but it also includes things like reading new studies and materials, going to seminars, attending workshops, and sharing knowledge with colleagues and other people in the field. 

Practice Empathy

Empathy is an incredibly important skill for all therapists, but while many start out filled with empathy and compassion, it can dwindle over time. Practicing empathy in your day-to-day life and challenging yourself to put yourself in other people’s shoes every day, in various situations, will help keep your empathy skills fresh and active. 

Practice Your Listening Skills

Listening is another key skill, and perhaps the most important one of all. Check yourself after every conversation, both at work and in your personal life. Did you interrupt? What did you learn from the conversation? Were there any clues in the speaker’s tone or body language that could help you gain more information?

Improve Cultural Competence

Culture can have a big impact on lifestyle, feelings, and worries. People from different cultures may respond to stressors and events differently, so understanding cultural variables will make you a better therapist who is able to offer a tailored service. 

To improve your cultural competence, you should:

  • Educate yourself. Read, attend workshops, and spend time with people from other cultures to learn more.
  • Speak to your clients about their cultures and backgrounds. It’s ok to ask questions. 
  • Avoid assumptions and challenge your own stereotypes. Try to recognize differences within individual cultures and get to know each client before making assumptions about how their culture affects their mental health.  

Create a Judgement Free Environment and Keep an Open Mind

It’s easy to become judgmental when you have seen and heard a lot. Make sure you look at each client individually while learning from past experiences. 

Maintain Boundaries

Another thing that can creep in is issues with boundaries, especially with long-term clients. Some of the best ways to maintain boundaries are:

  • Avoid dual relationships. If you are someone’s therapist, that’s all you should be. Don’t let clients become friends, and don’t be tempted to treat people you’ve met in other areas of life. 
  • Be strict with timing. Make sure each session has a clear start and finish time. 
  • Be professional in everything from how you dress to how you speak to people. 
  • Use office layout to create a physical distance.

Over time, in every career, we can start to take things for granted. We can develop preconceptions, our standards can slide, and the little details, like how we dress and our body language, can become less polished. To be a better therapist, it’s important that you are constantly learning and pulling yourself up on your ideas and behaviors.

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Treating Heartburn: Strategies for Relief and Management

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Treating Heartburn

Heartburn, a common condition medically known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is characterized by a burning sensation in the chest or throat caused by stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. While occasional heartburn is a normal occurrence, chronic or severe symptoms can significantly impact daily life and warrant treatment. Fortunately, there are various approaches available to manage and alleviate heartburn, ranging from lifestyle modifications to medical interventions.

Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Dietary Changes: Certain foods and beverages can trigger heartburn. Individuals are advised to avoid spicy, fatty, and acidic foods, as well as caffeine, carbonated drinks, and citrus fruits. Consuming smaller meals throughout the day instead of large meals can also help reduce the risk of acid reflux.
  • Elevating the Head of the Bed: Elevating the head of the bed by around 6 to 8 inches can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus during sleep. This elevation assists in maintaining the downward flow of gastric contents.
  • Weight Management: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can contribute to increased pressure on the stomach and promote acid reflux. Engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight can alleviate this pressure and reduce the occurrence of heartburn.
  • Meal Timing: Avoiding large meals close to bedtime can minimize the chances of experiencing heartburn during the night. Individuals are encouraged to have their last meal of the day at least three hours before going to bed.
  • Tobacco and Alcohol Reduction: Both tobacco and alcohol can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that normally prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Cutting down on or quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption can help alleviate heartburn symptoms.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications:

  • Antacids: These are readily available medications that provide quick relief by neutralizing stomach acid. They are suitable for occasional heartburn and can be taken as needed. However, they are not ideal for long-term use, as excessive reliance on antacids can lead to potential side effects like diarrhea or constipation.
  • H2 Blockers: Histamine-2 receptor blockers work by reducing the production of stomach acid. They offer longer-lasting relief than antacids and are often taken before meals to prevent heartburn symptoms. Popular examples include ranitidine and famotidine.
  • Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): PPIs are potent medications that suppress stomach acid production by blocking the proton pump responsible for acid secretion. They are highly effective for managing frequent or severe heartburn symptoms. However, PPIs should be used under medical supervision due to potential risks associated with long-term use, such as nutrient deficiencies and increased risk of infections.

Prescription Medications:

For individuals with severe or persistent heartburn that does not respond to OTC medications, doctors may prescribe stronger medications.

Surgical Interventions:

In cases where lifestyle modifications and medications fail to adequately manage heartburn, surgical options may be considered. These procedures aim to strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent acid reflux.

Monitoring and Follow-up:

It’s essential for individuals with heartburn to work closely with their Gastroenterologist to find the most appropriate treatment plan. Regular check-ups and follow-up appointments allow healthcare professionals to monitor progress, adjust medications, and address any concerns or potential complications.

Heartburn, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. The treatment approach should be tailored to the severity and frequency of symptoms. Lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes and weight management, play a crucial role in managing heartburn. Over-the-counter medications like antacids, H2 blockers, and prescription medications such as PPIs offer relief for many individuals.

In more severe cases, surgical interventions may be considered. With the right combination of strategies and medical guidance, individuals can find relief from heartburn and minimize its impact on their daily lives. You can refer to a Best Gastroenterologist in Islamabad for the treatment of heartburn

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Updated Features of Lookah Unicorn Coil – Unique & Portable 

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Lookah Unicorn Coil

Lookah is the first company to ever provide its consumers a wide range of options from which to choose. So, there were previously just a few options available for coils used in vaporizers or e-cigarettes. The best nectar from the jar is only provided by these coils for use in smoking dabs. Therefore, if these coils are of poor quality, your smoking experience will be poor.

Thus, there was a pressing need to develop something effective. Lookah moved forward and began investigating them. They consequently create this marvel, the lookah unicorn coil. These coils operate and exhibit incomparably well. So; use the coils since they produce the best smoke shots. The bubbler and coil cover are also included with the unicorn  coils as safety measures.

Lookah Unicorn Quartz Coil Properties 

Effective for extracting nectar

The greatest coils for extracting juice or nectar from a container are the latest lookah unicorn coils. Quartz is the material which is used to make these coils and it has the ideal properties for providing the greatest smoke flavors.

Furthermore, quartz is a harmless substance that never releases any dangerous substances in smoke. Thus, it is recognized as a product that may be used for smoking and has received approval from the drug authorization.

Bubbler as a secondary filter

The best lookah unicorn coils then brings a glass bubbler piece over to it. You will therefore be even more astounded to learn that this glass is actually borosilicate glass rather than just regular glass.

So, the extra vapor filter is made possible by the funnel-shaped borosilicate bubble. Hence, you’ll get a cloud of chilled vapes without any burnt flavor or aroma.

Cover to shield the coil

If the coils that are the source of the nectar extraction from the jar are covered in debris then, the vap cover protection is there. Therefore, a pair of coil covers with lookah unicorn premium coils are used to shield it from various pollutants.

This cover never allows the coil to dry out and always keeps it free of any contaminants or dirt. Thus, enjoy the ideal nectar shot right from the jar by using these coils in conjunction with the cup and hive caps.

No side effects

Lookah is a well-known and devoted company that always gives its consumers high-quality goods. Therefore, there are no adverse effects from this pair of quartz coils with the unicorn version.

In this regard, you can get enough smoke shots with a single unit and the most potent quartz units. These quartz unicorn coils aren’t allowed to have any harmful feature of the sort.

Absorbed odors and no emissions

The lookah unicorn quartz coils are advantageous for their unique flavors provision. These quartz coils have no taste or odor. Thus, these quartz materials prevent any interaction between the flavor of the coils and the smoke. Quartz is used in the lookah’s coils because it never absorbs or emits any blunt flavors that might interact with the smoke.

Quick thermal characteristics

Lookah quartz unicorn replacement coils are one of a select few coils that offer good thermal characteristics. These work well with all types of vapes and provide fast heat.

Therefore, unicorn quartz coils are renowned for their incredible capacity to deliver instant heat in a matter of seconds without leaving a scorching or burned taste. People want quick and simple vapes, which are made feasible by these coils.

How to set the temperature in Lookah unicorn coils?

Users can switch between the two operational modes by changing the coil heads. Once the coil head is in place, hitting the power button five times turns the dab rig on or off. Therefore, the Lookah Unicorn will move when it is turned on.

Furthermore, it also tells users when they can choose one of the three temperature settings that have already been loaded. You have to press the power button twice to switch between the three temperature settings. Different colors show the three settings and you will see green, blue or white.

Hence, the green color indicates hot, the blue light indicates mild hot while the white indicates the hottest. Once the user has chosen the temperature then, they can press and hold the button to use the hand coil or press the button three times to start the automatic mode. Thus, in manual mode you have to do the same pressing for at least five times.

How do lookah coils not offer any harm?

These coils can be made to operate effectively for a long time in a variety of ways. Therefore, the lookah unicorn coils are offered here along with a box of percolators or bubblers and covers. Keeping them covered with coil caps is the first step.

The second item is to employ a percolator in the shape of a funnel to enable improved filtration of smoke. Thus, this will clear the way for your next vape and provide you access to dab during the colder session.  The increased or additional qualities make the lookah unicorn coils pro edition distinctive.

Like the cups, hive caps and bubblers that make these coils more advantageous for use. Never compromise on quality as Lookah is the only company offering you the most recent technology at prices that are still fair and affordable. Therefore, order them right away for a flawless start with the ideal coils for dabbing.

Bottom Line 

All in all, lookah unicorn coil portable editions are among the top selling coils and are the best in terms of quality. These coils are safe and deliver the greatest shots with the longest taste recall. Therefore, even after several hours of dabbing, you can still appreciate the taste in your mouth.

There is a complete assurance that you won’t get tired of them. Because it comes in pairs, you can replace them and it can accommodate dual dab. What more is there to ask for when you have a platter full of mouthwatering choices? Hence, give them a try now and only make purchases here!

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