For many, living though a stroke is an emotionally traumatic experience. Historically, traumatic stress-related mood disorders, such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), have been thought of as occurring after an external event like war, sexual assault, natural disaster or car accident. However, in the past 10 to 15 years, these stress conditions have been…
Category: Articles
Five Ways to Take Control of Your Psychological Triggers
Any stimulus such as a smell, sound, or image that consciously or unconsciously reminds you of a traumatic event from your past can “trigger” feelings of severe anxiety and protective behaviors like anger and emotional numbness. The stimulus itself doesn’t need to be inherently menacing or disturbing and may only indirectly remind you of an…
Minding Your Diet for Brain Benefits
With the variety of popular diets touting specific benefits, there is one brain-centric option that researchers believe provides a better option for a healthy brain and body in the MIND diet. An aptly named acronym for Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, this diet combines the ideals of whole and natural foods and those lower in…
10 Ways to Start Improving Your Sleep for Better Brain Health
As we age, our ability to get a deep, continuous night’s sleep decreases due to the brain’s reduced production of human growth hormone and melatonin, and changes in our circadian rhythm (the body’s “internal clock”). These changes, combined with more frequent trips to the bathroom due to an enlarged prostate in men or decline in…
The Brain Benefits of Intimacy
You may remember the days when the word “pregnant” had to be whispered in mixed company, and the extent of public discussion on sex was nil. Times have certainly changed and it has been recognized for many decades now that sexual intimacy is a healthy and normal part of consensual adult relationships. More progressive views…
Reduce Your Pain for a Better Memory
It is estimated that one in three older adults lives with chronic pain due to common age-related conditions, such as osteoarthritis and peripheral vascular disease. Chronic pain is defined as an unpleasant physical sensation that lasts more than three months and reduces daily functioning and well-being. In the last few years, neuropsychologists have recommended that…
Stay Social for Optimal Brain Health
The value of remaining physically and mentally active as we age seems to get all the attention; however, maintaining a satisfying social life is just as important to successful aging. As social beings, we have a fundamental need to belong and contribute in meaningful ways with other people. Having a diverse social network with frequent…
Reduce Use of Pain Medication with Cognitive Strategies
Traditional treatments for pain relief have not changed much in the past 100 years, and we continue to use anti-inflammatories, sedatives, muscle relaxants and opiates. When taken properly, these medicines can be lifesavers. However, the increasing use of powerful opioid pain medications (hydrocodone, oxycodone and Fentanyl are some of the most common), particularly in older…
What Happens If I Do Not Treat My High Blood Pressure?
High blood pressure or hypertension dramatically adds to the workload of your heart, arteries and veins. Your heart must pump harder, and the arteries and veins that carry and return the blood to the heart are functioning under greater strain. If high blood pressure continues for a long time, your cardiovascular system, including the blood…
Feed Your Brain with an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
The connection between poor diet and reduced physical health has been scientifically established since the 1980s. Conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, most cancers and stroke have been strongly linked to lifestyle factors, particularly a diet high in saturated animal fats and simple carbohydrates. Vegetables, fruits, nuts and fish are commonly associated with…