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Adulting Health Healthy Living Mental Health

Innovate the Healthier Self with Premium Self-Care Tips for the Elderly

self-care

Self-care for seniors shouldn’t sound weird. On the contrary, it should be something to promote because if there’s anyone who deserves the best self-care, it would be people above 50.

You see, most seniors go through life caring for others, and they become so used to it that caring for themselves sounds foreign. But no matter the age, caring for oneself can do a whole lot of good physically and mentally.

self-care
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Importance of self-care for older adults

Self-care is about caring for your physical, mental, and emotional needs so you can enjoy all-around wellness and happiness. No matter your age, it can help you:

  • Become more emotionally aware
  • Handle stress well and build healthy coping systems
  • Manage depression and anxiety
  • Build better relationships with yourself and others.

6 ways to practice self-care as an older adult

Now that you’ve crossed the 50s and are wondering what self-care for adults looks like, know that there are six ways to get started with making your health a top priority. Let’s get going with discovering what these are:

1. Move as often as possible

As you get older, you’d likely be inclined to sit more. But it would help if you didn’t give in because a sedentary life at this time may make you age faster than you’d want.

Instead, take a 30-minute walk daily around your neighborhood or park and see beautiful sceneries. Take a breath of fresh air and feel the sun’s warmth.

Spending time in nature offers a relaxing feeling and lowers your blood pressure. If you can jog, do so.

2. Eat healthy meals

Nutritious meals can help you feel happier and less irritable. Consume foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and healthy fat, and avoid red meat and fried foods.

Foods good for the skin, such as fatty fish, can help promote better-looking skin and slow down wrinkling as you age.

3. Do light to moderate-intensity exercises

Physical exercises are not for the youth alone; they keep you more energetic, irrespective of your age.
Engaging in about 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercises daily can:

  • Improve your mood, strength, and confidence
  • Boost immune function
  • Prevent chronic pain
  • Reduce your risk of getting diagnosed with heart diseases

And what’s more, scientists have found that women with physical activity are 90% less likely to get neurodegenerative disorders like dementia.

4. Don’t forget your skin

Your skin is the first part of your body where you begin to see signs of aging. But you can reduce those wrinkles and still glow by getting the right skin care treatment for your skin type and condition. From anti-wrinkle treatments to full-face rejuvenation, you can still look youthful even in your 60s.

5. Get a hobby

Hobbies offer a therapeutic escape away from the noise and unpleasant realities of life. Perhaps, you could join a yoga class or book club.

Whether you’re knitting, doing embroidery, or reading a book, a beloved hobby can help you rekindle that spark of joy when you do something you love.

This may seem trivial, but it’s one self-care practice with noticeable benefits. Indulging in something you love brings bring a sense of purpose to each day.

6. Connect socially and emotionally

A feeling of isolation is one factor that incredibly contributes to depression in seniors. To avoid that feeling of despair, spend time with loved ones. This could be other seniors in the neighborhood, especially when your family members are no longer around you.

Take time out to visit or invite your loved ones and distant relatives. You can even join a workout session just to be around people.

Connecting with people helps you avoid negative feelings replace them with positive ones, relieving stress and bolstering happiness.

Self-Care For Older People

Self-care is essential for everyone. And when you’ve lived a long life filled with work and responsibilities, it’s time to give yourself a break. Eat well, get sufficient sleep, make time for luxuriant relaxation, making the most of this fantastic life phase.

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Adulting

Life After First-Time Botox: 5 Ways Things Get Better

As people become more skin-conscious, the popularity of anti-aging procedures is on the rise. Botox is among the most widely-acclaimed ones as it works for everyone and offers effective outcomes. It is safe and simple, so you can go ahead without second thoughts just as millions in the country do. But first-timers are often apprehensive about life after Botox. The truth is that you can expect it to get better in more than one way. Here are some facts you must know to have clear and realistic expectations about first-time after Botox.

How Things Get Better After Botox

Results are visible within a few days

When you get your first Botox injections, you may have a miracle in mind. But the results may not be visible right away and appear only after a few days. The first treatment takes time to act, so you must be patient about it. You will see full effects within a few days or a couple of weeks, though timelines may vary from person to person. But you will have ageless and beautiful skin eventually, so go ahead without thinking twice.

Pain isn’t a concern

As a first-timer, you will probably worry about the treatment being painful. But it does not hurt because Botox needles are small, and most patients do not even feel anything. Everything depends on the skills and experience of the practitioner as they know where to inject using the right technique. Opting for Botox at Rana Facial Plastic Surgery covers you on all fronts. Even if you may experience some discomfort, it should be only minimal.

Minor after-effects may occur

While pain is not a reason to worry, you may experience minor after-effects following the injection. Small red bumps may appear immediately after your treatment, but these go within half an hour. You may notice minimal bruising, but it resolves within a couple of days. Your Botox specialist will suggest medication to address these possibilities. However, you must avoid aspirin after the injection.

A little after-care goes a long way

Botox injections make you look youthful, but there’s very little the procedure requires in the name of after-care. You can expect it to take only 20 minutes to an hour, and even go to work right after your appointment. Just make sure you do not lie down for four hours. You will also have to avoid touching or massaging the area, working out, being in the heat, and drinking alcohol for a day after the procedure.

Results stay for several months

Another good thing that comes after Botox is that results stay for several months. Typically, the effects of Botox remain for three to four months, though the period may vary for individuals. It means you do not have to worry about forehead wrinkles, frown lines, or crow’s feet for months. Even when the effects start waning, schedule another appointment and restore the look.

Life After Botox

Life after Botox makes you more beautiful and confident as aging is no longer a concern. All you need to do is schedule regular visits to the clinic, spend a bit on the treatment, and bask in the glory.

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Health Healthy Living

Why Biltong Can Be A Great Weight Loss Snack

When we talk about weight loss and healthy living, snacks are often a subject of focus, but on the negative. We hear, “Stay off snacks if you want to lose weight.” But it ideally should be, “stay off unhealthy snacks if you want to lose weight and live a healthy lifestyle.” Emphasis on unhealthy. That’s because there are indeed healthy snacks. One healthy snack that has recently gained prominence among Americans is Biltong.

What is biltong?

Biltong is a form of dried, cured meat originating from South Africa. Different kinds of meat sources are used, including beef and game meat. It is sliced into strips before cooking and then drying. It is air-dried.

Due to the preparation process, biltong is typically softer than beef jerky. They are quite similar but are not the same thing.

What makes it the ideal weight-loss snack?

Biltong is one of the healthiest snacks known for weight loss. Its low-fat content of about 3% and high protein content make it great for building healthy muscles while losing weight. But that’s not all.

By snacking on this protein treat, you feel less hungry for some time (protein makes you feel full for longer than carbs). This prevents you from craving food or other unhealthy snacks. So it’s a great treat to chew on between meals to keep you full and increase your protein consumption while losing weight.

What makes it better than other healthy snacks?

Biltong typically contains fewer kilojoules than other snacks such as chocolate and chips. It has only about 75 calories per 25-gram serving. One serving also provides about 50% of your daily protein requirements. That’s significantly better than most snacks you’ll come across.

Additionally, it helps you stay full longer than fruits and vegetables, which are also healthy. Biltong is one snack you wouldn’t be afraid to buy and stock your fridge with.

Should you eat biltong every day?

Although it’s a great snack that can be eaten every day, it should be consumed in moderation.

Is it healthier than jerky?

According to their nutritional facts, biltong is noticeably healthier than beef jerky because it’s typically leaner. Also, while jerky is smoked, the other isn’t, making its flavor more decadent and satisfying.

What are some other health benefits of biltong?

The tiny cured strips are also an excellent source of:

  • Iron
  • Vitamin B12
  • Zinc
  • Creatine

This treat makes for a great post-workout snack to help your muscles develop. It offers a better taste than supplements, so you might want to carefully consider what your next purchase should be.

Top ways to enjoy biltong

Aside from snacking, you can pair it with certain dishes for a wholesome treat. Below are some ideas:

  • Paired with boiled eggs
  • Together with some jacket potato
  • Add to cheesy dishes
  • Baked breakfast goodies
  • Paired with roasted vegetables
  • As droppings in a quiche
  • To spice up a sarmie
  • Salami alternative in pizza
  • As a garnish

Wrapping up

Whether you’re eating it alone or paired with a dish, biltong is a great and healthy keto snack for everyone. But like with everything else, try to keep moderacy in mind.

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Adulting Health Healthy Living Mental Health

How to Support a Loved One Struggling with Addiction

Struggling with Addiction

When someone you care about has an addiction, it can be difficult to know how to support them. You want to help, but you don’t know what to do. If a friend or family member is struggling with addiction, the best thing you can do is offer your love and support. Addiction is a painful and difficult journey for everyone involved. 

You may feel overwhelmed by the situation or scared for your loved one. It’s okay to feel this way; as long as you continue supporting your friend or family member in small ways, they will have a better chance of recovery.

If you’re worried about your loved one’s health or safety, there are many ways that you can help. The most important thing is to check in on them and let them know that they have someone who cares about them. Next, offer to listen and to talk through the issue with them. Finally, if you feel like they need more help or you don’t feel comfortable talking with them anymore, encourage them to speak with an addiction counselor. 

Struggling with Addiction
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What is Addiction?

Addiction is a disease of the mind and body. Addiction can be defined as any behavior that leads to repeated use of alcohol, drugs, or other substances despite their negative consequences. The addicted individual will compulsively pursue substance use though it may cause them harm. They may constantly crave their drug of choice and often be unable to stop using it. 

It’s not uncommon for those around an addict to feel anger, confusion, and frustration with the disease. However, it’s important to know that addiction isn’t a character flaw or moral failing, and there are many things you can do to help someone struggling with addiction. Addiction can be successfully treated, but it requires time and patience. 

How to Be There for Someone with an Addiction

It can be difficult to know how to support someone with an addiction. They’re going through a tough time, and you want to help, but you don’t know what to do. If a friend or family member is struggling with addiction, the best thing you can do is offer your love and support. Addiction is a painful and challenging journey for everyone involved.

You may feel overwhelmed by the situation or scared for your loved one. It’s okay to feel this way; as long as you continue supporting your friend or family member in small ways, they will have a better chance of recovery.

How Can an Addiction Counselor Help?

An addiction counselor will be able to help your loved one by providing them with guidance and support. They will be able to take the time to listen to your loved one and give them strategies for how they can stop using drugs. They may also provide referrals for treatment if necessary. There are many options for American Addiction Centers that may be able to help your loved one overcome their addiction.

Your loved one knows best what they need from you, so be open to their needs as well as yours. Remember that each person’s journey is different. Let them know that they are never alone in this process while continuing to offer a listening ear when needed. Above all, remember to love them unconditionally and be there for them when they need you most.

Support a Loved One Struggling with Addiction

Addiction is a complicated and pervasive problem that affects many people and their loved ones. There are many ways to help someone struggling with addiction, but the most important thing you can do is be supportive and encourage them to get professional help if they need it. Remember that with time and patience, addiction can be treated successfully. 

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Adulting

A Quick Guide to Hiring a Criminal Defense Firm

A criminal charge is a life-altering event that could jeopardize your reputation and career. When you or your loved ones face this kind of charge, one of the most important questions to answer is whether or not you intend to hire an attorney. Time might not be on your side, so you need to act fast and hire someone who will help exonerate you or lessen your charges. This quick guide to hiring a criminal defense firm can make the process a little easier.

Hiring a Criminal Defense Firm, Criminal Defense Firm
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Tips For Hiring a Criminal Defense Firm

Maintain an open line of communication

The criminal process can be very draining and complicated. Since you cannot navigate the murky waters of the law by yourself, you need to hire a good defense firm to lead you every step of the way. Hire a defense firm that provides multiple channels of communication such as email, text messages, and calls. With different methods, you can reach out in case of any queries.

Vet your attorney during your initial consultation

Before hiring a criminal defense firm, consider how accessible they are over the phone the first time you reach out. Avoid a defense lawyer who takes too long to call back or those who seem disrespectful and unwilling to listen. The first consultation via a phone call should give you a clear picture of your attorney’s tone and communication skills.

Determine whether you will hire a solo attorney or a law firm

There is also a question of picking a team or a solo attorney. Frankly, there are pros and cons in going for either a solo attorney or a firm. According to criminal lawyers at Hickey & Chung, a reputable firm will have a team of top attorneys who can put their heads and resources together and develop a solution for a complicated case. That said, do your due diligence before picking any firm or solo attorney to avoid frustrations after signing a contract.

Visit their website and read testimonials and reviews

After you have met with your criminal lawyer in person, go a step further and dig into their website. Reading testimonials and online reviews on their website will give you a clear picture of their professionalism and ability to handle cases. Steer clear of defense firms with negative reviews or multiple complaints.

Make sure they have many years of experience before hiring a criminal defense firm

An experienced law firm has had many years to familiarize itself with the judicial system. Chances are, they have dealt with a case similar to yours and know exactly what to do to help you. Ask them up front if you are unsure about their experience in defending criminal cases or their website doesn’t have a clear indication.

Hiring a Criminal Defense Firm

Depending on your case, a good defense attorney can protect your future and advise you on the best possible outcome. Just steer clear of attorneys who promise you a silver lining only for them to run off with your money. It would be best to compare the prices of various defense firms to find the one that fits your budget.

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Parenting

How to Balance Parenting and Caring for Your Own Parents

Having both children still at home and elderly parents can be hard to handle. If you have one or more parents who need some extra support and care, it’s tough to balance parenting and taking care of your own parents. You need to know how to use your time wisely if you want to manage everything that’s on your plate while also having your own life. It’s a stressful thing to do, but it’s not impossible if you know when to ask for help and how you can make the most of the time and energy that you have available.

If you’re trying to balance both parenting your children and caring for your parents, here are some of the things that you can do to make it work.

Balance Parenting

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How to Balance Parenting and Caring for Your Own Parents

Ensure You’re Not Doing It Alone

One of the toughest things about parenting and looking out for your own parents is trying to do it alone. You might feel like you have to take on all the responsibility yourself, but there’s almost always help available. First, you should ensure you’re asking for help from family and friends. If you have siblings to help care for your parents or a partner who can share the load of childcare, make sure they do their fair share. Even if you don’t have friends or family to help out, you can often find organizations that offer support.

Schedule Your Time

You only have a limited amount of time available on any given day or week. Trying to get everything done can be pretty tricky when you have a lot of things to do. Being able to schedule your time effectively is important if you have to balance being a parent and caring for your own parents. Getting onto a good schedule or routine can be helpful if you want to manage your time effectively. It can help to lower stress and even show you that you have more time than you think you have.

Get Professional Help with Care

Sometimes it’s not enough to rally the troops and get your friends and family to help you out. There are times when you need to seek professional help in caring for either your children, your parents, or both. You might consider looking for more help with babysitting or even hiring a nanny if you can afford to. If your parents need more care than you can give, there are various options. You could consider home care, assisted living, and nursing homes. Just be sure to thoroughly check any services you’re considering using. If anything goes wrong, you may have to connect with a nursing home abuse lawyer to protect your family member. You need a reliable service with experienced and trustworthy staff.

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Practice Self-Care

When you’re busy caring for other people, it can be hard to stop and take time for yourself. But it’s just as important to take care of yourself as it is to look after others. In fact, it’s difficult to provide adequate care for other people if you’re not at your best. Taking time out for self-care is essential, and it’s something you can include in your routine. As well as doing small things each day to take care of yourself, you can make arrangements so you can take a break. For example, you could arrange for respite care to free up some of your time.

Prioritize in a Healthy Way

Being able to prioritize all of the things that you have to do is a must. You might have multiple things to juggle, but some of them can afford to be dropped sometimes. It’s ok to not do some things or to do the minimum if it means you can focus on the more important things. Knowing how to prioritize can really help save your sanity and it can help you to not feel guilty when you don’t do everything perfectly.

Combine Your Family to Help Balance Parenting

If you have to care for both your children and your parents, consider whether you can combine your family branches. Having everyone live in the same place as a multigenerational family could really help you. If everyone wants their own space, you could have a separate living space for your parents so they can remain independent. It could save you a lot of time and money too.

Balance Parenting and Caring for Your Own Parents

Having to both be a parent and care for your parents is a tough job. But there are ways to manage your time and make it work.

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Decor For the Home Home Parenting

3 Cute and Adorable Decor Ideas for Your Baby’s Room That Are Still Practical

You’ve spent countless hours surrounding yourself with beautiful things that make you feel good and inspired. But did you do the same for your little one? From nursery to playroom, your child’s room serves multiple purposes. As an integral part of your child’s daily life, the interior decor of their room is important, regardless of their age. Creating a welcoming and calming environment for your baby can also make them feel relaxed and comfortable. Utilizing a few decor ideas for your baby’s room can make all the difference in the process, giving you a place to start as you create a beautiful space for your little one.

However, you have many things to keep in mind while decorating your baby’s room. When choosing color combinations for decor elements, you may feel a little overwhelmed and confused about where to start.

These decor ideas for your baby’s room can help take some pressure off your shoulders. Read on for some cute and adorable decor ideas that can help create a perfect living space for your baby.

Decor Ideas for Your Baby’s Room
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Decor Ideas for Your Baby’s Room

Incorporate Fun Lighting Fixtures

Lighting is one of the most important elements of design. Do it right, and it can add charm and personality to the interior decor. But when it comes to your baby’s room, you need to be a bit strategic about it.

Although bringing in natural lighting is one of the best ways to light up your baby’s room, too much of it can disturb their sleep. So, make sure you incorporate window treatments in your childproofing plan to control natural lighting in your baby’s room.

Once you finish that, you can use dramatic ceiling fixtures such as oversized pendant lights or elegant chandeliers. Get them customized with a fun theme and create a perfect focal point for your baby’s room. You can also set the ceiling ablaze using LED starlights or add a magical glow with twinkling fairy lights.

Invest in Soft Furnishings

The best part about introducing soft furnishings to your baby’s room is that you get to use your creativity and imagination. From printed baby blankets to colorful curtains, you have a wide range of elements to choose from. For instance, adding a moon and star pillow in your baby’s room can help you add coziness and texture to the living space. Likewise, you can use printed bed linens and rugs to the room’s decor. Remember that babies under 12-months old shouldn’t have pillows or blankets in their cribs, so adding these aspects to the seating or play area is best.

Experiment With the Color Palette

Gone are the days when the color palette for baby’s room required blue and pink. Know that paint color is one of the essential elements that can make all the difference to your little one’s room.

From soft shades such as yellow and peach to airy neutral tones such as beiges, grays, and whites, you have unlimited options to explore.

You can also go in another direction with printed wallpaper to decorate those walls. The wallpaper will help in adding a unique flair to the room.

Do You Need a Changing Table? Find Out Here: 4 of the Best Reasons You Should Consider a Changing Table For Your Baby’s Nursery

Cute And Adorable Decor Ideas for Your Baby’s Room

Decorating the baby’s room can be exciting as well as challenging. So, use the cute and adorable decor ideas mentioned above and create a perfect living space for your little munchkin.

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Adulting Business Finances How To

4 Smart Ways to Seek Funding for Your Business

To grow a business, you need to have the appropriate funding. Some people may choose to grow their business slowly and organically by putting their profits back into their business growth. However, if you want to speed up the pace, you must consider how to seek funding for your business. You can find ways to borrow money, or you might find people willing to invest in your business if they get something in return. If you’re thinking about how to fund your business and its growth, here are some of the funding options you can consider.

How to Seek Funding for Your Business

Apply for Grants

Business grants are available for some businesses to help them accelerate their growth. You might be able to get a general grant or one to help you complete a specific project. Some of these are specific to organizations doing certain types of work. One example is that the Global Institute for Disease Elimination awards grants to organizations in endemic countries helping to combat disease. Or, you might find options offered to specific groups of people. You might be eligible due to your age, gender, ethnicity, or other factors. Obtaining a grant means you can fund your business without borrowing money.

Seek Funding for Your Business
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Get Family and Friends Involved

Sometimes when you want to start a business, your friends and family are willing to support you. Not everyone can offer you financial support, but many people can and will. One thing to think about is what’s in it for them if your friends and family help fund your business growth. Maybe they get their money back plus interest once your business has reached a certain point. Or perhaps they even get a share of your business if they contribute a significant amount to help you grow it.

Consider a Traditional Bank Loan

Traditional bank loans can sometimes be difficult to secure, especially for a new business. However, they are an option that many people are familiar with. If you’re considering a bank loan, do some research on what’s available, including interest rates and loan terms, to find one that could work for you. It’s a good idea to have a business plan prepared and some financial information that you can use as evidence to help show that you’re capable of repaying the loan.

Look for Startup Incubators and Accelerators

Incubator and accelerator programs give startups a push to help them grow. In addition to providing investment for growth, they also include mentoring from experienced business people. You can benefit from the support of people who know what they’re doing and how to get more from your business. However, the competition can be tough, and the application process is pretty difficult. 

Seek Funding for Your Business

These options can help you get the funding your business needs. Then, you can focus on growth and achieving your goals.

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Health Healthy Living

Quickly Ease Tense Muscles with This Muscle Stimulator Machine

If you suffer from tense muscles, you likely want to find relief. Professional massages can be time-consuming and expensive, and home remedies may not always do the trick. However, you can ease tense muscles using a muscle stimulator machine right at home or while you work.

Before getting started, I want to note that I received this product at no cost in exchange for an honest review. My thoughts on the AUVON muscle stimulator machine are my honest opinions. This post contains affiliate links. It costs you nothing extra, but I may receive a small commission.

Muscle Stimulator Machine
AUVON 24 Modes TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator Machine

Ease Tense Muscles With This AUVON 24 Modes TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator Machine: A Product Review

What It Includes

The AUVON TENS device come with the following:

  • (8) TENS Unit Pads
  • (2) Lead Wires with Cable Ties
  • USB Cable for Charging
  • User Manual
  • Dust Proof Bag
  • Belt Clip

Benefits of the Muscle Stimulator Machine

  • It Relieves Muscle Pain

This muscle stimulator machine relieves muscle pain caused by muscle spasms and tenseness. It can help with back, neck, or knee pain, arrthritis, period pain, injuries, and more. I experience intense back pain, and I haven’t had nearly as many issues since using this product.

  • It Triggers Muscle Contraction

It works by using electrical impulses to trigger muscle contraction. The stimulator can activate muscles used during exercise, promoting increased strength and endurance.

  • Many Options to Choose From

The AUVON TENS muscle stimulator machine has 24 modes to choose from, including steady wave modes. You can use it on many parts of your body, with different options for each area. Plus, you can change the type of stimulation you receive.

  • It Has Time Control

It also has time congrol ranging from ten to 90 minutes of activation. You can also choose to put it on the continuous setting so that it doesn’t shut off until you want it to.

  • It Has Extended Battery Life

The battery seems to last forever. I haven’t had to recharge it in the two weeks I’ve had it, which is handy because I don’t always remember to charge things (oops lol). It didn’t come changed, so I had to change it the first time but not at all since then. The charger can connect to wall chargers, power banks, or laptops, so it’s easy to charge.

  • It Has a Lock Setting

The lock setting ensures you don’t accidentally turn the intensity all the way up. It won’t affect the machine if you bump the buttons, allowing you to use it in any situation.

  • It’s Easy to Learn and Use

The user manual is easy to read, so you can quickly learn how to use the muscle stimulator machine. Plus, once you’ve done it once, it’s a piece of cake after that. I love the simplicity because I was worried it would be difficult to figure out.

Things to Consider

While the device comes with eight pads, you’ll eventually have to buy more. The replacement pads aren’t expensive, but you’ll have to plan so you don’t run out.

  • The Dust Proof Bag Doesn’t Offer Much Protection

The probes on the machine can bend while in the bag, so you shouldn’t rely on it. I keep mine in the original box, which is small and easy to store.

  • You Can’t Have It On Two Different Settings

This machine has two leads so you can stimulate multiple muscles at one time. However, both leads must be on the same setting. I’d like to see a machine with the option to have two different settings going simultaneously.

  • It Isn’t Safe For Everyone

The product listing includes a legal disclaimer that it isn’t safe for everyone. If you have a defibrillator, pacemaker, or implanted metallic or electronic devices, you shouldn’t use it. Additionally, if you are pregnant or in labor, it’s not recommended. There are others who shouldn’t use it, too, so be sure to check out the disclaimer.

AUVON 24 Modes TENS Unit Muscle Stimulator Machine

The AUVON TENS muscle stimulator machine can help ease tense muscles and helps with your workout. While I was given this product in exchange for an honest review, I’d definitely buy it if I had known about it before.

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Mental Health Parenting

One In Six US Kids Now Has A Mental Illness. Here Are The Signs

A recent analysis showed that a whopping one in six US children now has a mental illness, the highest figure ever recorded. And it’s not just down to improved diagnostics. While there are more diseases listed in the DSM-5 than ever before, careful research shows that the trends we’re witnessing today are part of a broader deterioration in the health of kids under the age of 18. 

As a parent, these trends can be worrying. We don’t want our kids to get caught up in it and have to deal with a life of mental health problems. Unfortunately, though, these days they are difficult to ignore. 

North Kansas City Schools, an organization committed to supporting kids, is doing what it can to provide some relief. It is pushing for increased mental health services for young people so they can develop into healthy, positive, and productive members of society.

The problems are real, though, the organization says. Kids are experiencing depression, bullying, anxiety, and substance abuse at an alarming rate.

So what are the signs that parents should be on the lookout for in their children that might indicate emerging mental health problems?

Mental Illness
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Signs of Mental Illness In Kids

Regularly Getting Involved In Fights

If your kids regularly get involved in fights, it could be a sign of mental health issues. However, if they are on the receiving end of aggression, they are at higher risk of PTSD, depression, and other symptoms associated with physical bullying. If they are actively trying to attack other children, then it might indicate a psychiatric problem that needs addressing as soon as possible.

Repeated Use Of Substances

No child should be consuming alcohol or drugs, but it happens regularly, particularly during the teenage years. Kids begin experimenting and find themselves wrapped up in situations they don’t want to be in.

However, if a child regularly uses these substances, it could indicate a mental health issue. They may be trying to escape the pain they feel by putting alcohol or drugs in their body.

Not Eating

Not eating is another common sign of a mental health issue. Children will sometimes reject food to make themselves feel more powerful. They may also do it if they have body image issues or want to harm themselves. 

Overwhelming Fears Without An External Cause

It’s normal for children to feel fearful when confronted with a real threat to their health and wellbeing. However, if you notice that they seem to get scared for no reason, it might be a symptom of a psychiatric disorder. Worried parents should go to a psychiatrist for a proper evaluation. 

Difficulty Concentrating

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Trouble focusing on a particular task is another common sign of mental health issues. If you notice that your child seems to be constantly dozing off or daydreaming when they should be learning, then they may have ADHD. Again, you’ll need to take them to a specialist to confirm this. 

Drastic Changes In Personality Signifies Mental Illness In Kids

Lastly, you may notice drastic changes in your child’s personality. If this happens, it could indicate a severe psychiatric episode.

How to Help Your Child Cope With Mental Illness

If your child has a mental illness, you can help them cope. You can get through it together, and it’s best to involve your family in the process. Here are some of the ways you can help them cope:

  • Listen to what your child is telling you, and don’t try to convince them of anything else.
  • Remind them that you’re on a team as you get through the hard times
  • Remember that you might need outside help for them
  • Ask your child what they need to feel safer
  • Reassure them that you’re not going anywhere
  • Set boundaries