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Category: Behavioral Health

Substance Use Disorders: Understanding the Impact and Path to Recovery

Posted on by Community Health Net in , ,

Substance use disorders, involving alcohol, opioids, and increasingly cannabis, are major public health concerns. These disorders can lead to dependency, serious health problems, and increased risk of overdose. Understanding substance use disorders and finding effective treatments is crucial for overall well-being.

 

What are Substance Use Disorders?

Substance use disorders happen when regular use of alcohol or drugs causes problems in a person’s life. Common signs include:

  • Strong cravings to use the substance
  • Difficulty controlling or stopping use
  • Spending a lot of time getting, using, or recovering from the substance
  • Ignoring responsibilities at home, work, or school
  • Continuing use despite health problems

 

Causes of Substance Use Disorders

Several factors can contribute to substance use disorders:

  • Genetics: A family history of substance abuse increases the risk.
  • Environment: Peer pressure, exposure to drugs, and stress.
  • Psychological factors: Trauma, mental health disorders, and low self-esteem.

 

Health Risks and Consequences

Substance use disorders can lead to:

  • Dependency: Relying on the substance physically and emotionally.
  • Health issues: Problems with the liver, heart, breathing, and mental health.
  • Risk of overdose: Especially with opioids, which can be very dangerous.

 

Prevention and Recovery

Preventing and recovering from substance use disorders includes:

  • Prevention programs: Teaching people about the dangers of substance abuse.
  • Recovery programs: Rehab centers and support groups that help people recover.
  • Mental health support: Counseling and therapy to deal with mental health issues.

 

Showing Up for Your Family

Substance use disorders can hurt relationships and affect family life. Seeking help and focusing on recovery can make a big difference. By addressing these disorders and taking care of mental health, people can improve their lives and be there for their loved ones.

 

To schedule an appointment today, just dial (814) 455-7222. Our representatives will be happy to assist you. Or click here to send an email to our team.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

 

Sources

  1. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (n.d.). Substance Use and Co-Occurring Mental Disorders. Retrieved from
    https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/substance-use-and-mental-health
  2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (n.d.). Alcohol Use and Your Health. Retrieved from
    https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/about-alcohol-use/index.html
  3. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Drug Addiction (Substance Use Disorder). Retrieved from
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112

Depression: Understanding Its Impact and the Road to Recovery

Posted on by Community Health Net in , ,

Depression affects millions of people worldwide and is one of the leading causes of disability in the U.S. It can range from mild to severe, and can be influenced by genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Understanding depression and finding the right treatment is crucial for overall well-being.

 

What is Depression?

Depression is more than just feeling sad. It affects a person’s thoughts, feelings, and actions. Some common symptoms include:

  • Feeling hopeless or worthless
  • Losing interest in activities once enjoyed
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
  • Difficulty concentrating

 

Causes of Depression

Depression can be caused by:

  • Genetics: Family history of depression increases the risk.
  • Psychological factors: Trauma, low self-esteem, and chronic stress.
  • Environmental factors: Major life changes, financial problems, and lack of social support.

 

Treatments and Support

Depression is treatable with:

  • Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps change negative thoughts and behaviors.
  • Medication: Antidepressants help balance brain chemicals that affect mood.
  • Support Systems: Family, friends, and support groups offer emotional and practical support.

 

Showing Up for Your Family

Good health is not only about feeling better, but also about being present for your loved ones. Addressing mental health, particularly depression, allows you to engage more fully with family and improve the quality of your relationships. Depression is a serious condition that affects many, but by understanding its causes and symptoms and seeking treatment, individuals can manage their depression and enhance their well-being. Ultimately, good health is about showing up for the people who matter most.

 

To schedule an appointment today, just dial (814) 455-7222. Our representatives will be happy to assist you. Or click here to send an email to our team.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

 

Sources

  1. National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (n.d.). Depression. Retrieved from
    https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression/index.shtml
  2. American Psychological Association (APA). (n.d.). Depression. Retrieved from
    https://www.apa.org/topics/depression
  3. Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Depression (major depressive disorder). Retrieved from
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007

Understanding Anxiety Disorders

Posted on by Community Health Net in , , ,

Anxiety disorders are common mental health issues that many people face today. These include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. Each of these conditions can affect a person’s daily life and their ability to be there for their loved ones. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments of anxiety disorders can help those affected manage their conditions better, so they can be more present and supportive for their families.

 

What Are Anxiety Disorders?

Anxiety disorders involve too much fear or anxiety. Unlike normal anxiety, which everyone feels from time to time, anxiety disorders are more intense and long-lasting. They can interfere with daily activities like work, school, and relationships.

  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Involves chronic anxiety, exaggerated worry, and tension, even when there is little or nothing to cause it.
  • Social Anxiety Disorder: Characterized by intense fear of social situations.
  • Panic Disorder: Involves sudden attacks of fear and anxiety that can happen unexpectedly.

 

Causes of Anxiety Disorders

There is no single cause of anxiety disorders. Instead, they often result from a combination of factors:

  • Genetics: People with a family history of anxiety disorders are more likely to develop them.
  • Traumatic Experiences: Events like abuse or the death of a loved one can trigger anxiety disorders.
  • Daily Life Stress: Financial worries or job pressure can contribute to anxiety.

 

Symptoms of Anxiety Disorders

Symptoms of anxiety disorders can vary, but they often include:

  • Feelings of nervousness, restlessness, or being tense.
  • A sense of impending danger, panic, or doom.
  • Physical symptoms like increased heart rate, rapid breathing, sweating, trembling, and feeling weak or tired.
  • Avoiding social situations or enduring them with intense fear (in social anxiety disorder).
  • Sudden and repeated attacks of intense fear, palpitations, and a feeling of being out of control (in panic disorder).

 

Managing Anxiety Disorders

Managing anxiety disorders often involves a combination of therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes:

  • Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments. It helps individuals change their patterns of thinking and behavior that contribute to their anxiety.
  • Medications: Antidepressants and benzodiazepines can be prescribed to help manage symptoms.
  • Lifestyle Changes:
    • Regular Exercise: Can reduce symptoms of anxiety and improve overall well-being.
    • Healthy Eating: Supports a healthy body and mind.
    • Adequate Sleep: Important for mental and physical health.
    • Mindfulness Practices: Meditation and deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and reduce anxiety.

 

Seeking Help

Anxiety disorders are common but manageable. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatments can help those affected find effective ways to cope. By seeking professional help and making positive lifestyle changes, individuals with anxiety disorders can lead fulfilling lives and be there for their families when they are needed most.

 

To schedule an appointment today, just dial (814) 455-7222. Our representatives will be happy to assist you. Or click here to send an email to our team.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

 

Sources

  1. National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from
    https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/anxiety-disorders
  2. American Psychiatric Association. (2023). What Are Anxiety Disorders? Retrieved from
    https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/anxiety-disorders/what-are-anxiety-disorders
  3. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Anxiety Disorders. Retrieved from
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961

QUARTERLY BLOG: The Importance of Behavioral Health Awareness in Our Community

Posted on by Community Health Net in , ,

Behavioral health refers to how our thoughts, feelings, and actions affect our overall well-being. It includes mental health issues like anxiety and depression, as well as substance use disorders. Promoting awareness of behavioral health is essential for creating a healthy and supportive community. Here are some reasons why it matters so much.

 

1. Understanding Mental Health:

Many people don’t understand what mental health really means. Just like physical health, mental health is important for everyone. When we educate ourselves and others, we can recognize the signs that someone might be struggling and offer support.

 

2. Reducing Stigma:

There is still a lot of stigma around mental health issues. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their struggles. This stigma can prevent individuals from seeking help when they need it. When people see that it’s okay to talk about their feelings, they are more likely to reach out for support.

 

3. Supporting Those in Need:

Awareness can help connect people to the resources they need. Whether it’s counseling, support groups, or hotlines, knowing where to find help is crucial. By creating a community that encourages open discussions about behavioral health, we can ensure that everyone knows where to turn when they need assistance. Support can make a big difference in someone’s life.

 

4. Encouraging Healthy Coping Strategies:

Behavioral health awareness can also teach people how to cope with stress and emotional challenges. This includes learning about healthy habits like exercise, mindfulness, and effective communication. When individuals have the tools to manage their emotions, they are better equipped to handle life’s ups and downs. Communities can promote workshops and activities that help everyone build these essential skills.

 

5. Building Stronger Connections:

Talking about behavioral health can bring people together. When community members share their experiences, it fosters understanding and empathy. This can create stronger bonds between friends, families, and neighbors. Feeling connected to others helps reduce feelings of isolation, which is especially important for those struggling with behavioral health issues.

 

6. Creating a Healthier Community:

When we prioritize behavioral health awareness, we create a healthier community for everyone. People who feel supported and understood are more likely to contribute positively to their families and neighborhoods. By working together to prioritize behavioral health, we can reduce the impact of mental health issues and create a happier, more vibrant community.

 

Behavioral health awareness is essential for the well-being of our community. By understanding mental health, reducing stigma, supporting those in need, encouraging healthy coping strategies, building connections, and creating a healthier environment, we can make a positive impact on everyone’s lives. Let’s work together to promote awareness and support one another on our journeys toward better mental health!

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If you or a loved one are currently experiencing a crisis such as depression, anxiety, or thoughts of suicide, please call Erie County Crisis Services at 814-456-2014 or 1-800-300-9558.

The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline offers confidential help from trained counselors and is available to anyone experiencing a behavioral health, substance abuse or suicidal crisis. Call 988 or go to 988lifeline.org for 24/7, free and confidential support today.

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To schedule an appointment today, just dial (814) 455-7222. Our representatives will be happy to assist you. Or click here to send an email to our team.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Helping Good People Feel Great!

Posted on by Community Health Net in , , , ,

Be your best self, live healthy and strong, and see clearly what’s ahead while showing your beautiful smile!

At Community Health Net, we love to help good people feel great every day! We provide top-quality medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, behavioral health, and other specialized health services, regardless of your ability to pay, insurance status, or type!

Did You Know?
Community Health Net has happily provided great healthcare to individuals and families in Erie for over 35 years. We are home to about 100 staff and clinicians who love the place we call home. Experience the care of our team at Community Health Net! Make an appointment today!  Call 814-455-7222 or click here to request an appointment online!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month

Posted on by Community Health Net in ,

Mental health is a huge part of overall health and should be a priority for everyone.

Each year, millions of people in the U.S. face the reality of living with a mental health condition.

Get the Facts

A mental illness is a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feeling, or mood. Such conditions may affect someone’s ability to relate to others and function each day. Each person will have different experiences, even people with the same diagnosis.

A mental health condition isn’t the result of one event. Research suggests multiple, linking causes. Genetics, environment, and lifestyle influence whether someone develops a mental health condition. A stressful job or home life makes some people more susceptible, as do traumatic life events. Biochemical processes and circuits and basic brain structure may play a role, too.

Mental health conditions are far more common than you think, mainly because people don’t like to, or are scared to, talk about them.

  • 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year.
  • 1 in 20 U.S. adults experiences serious mental illness each year.
  • 1 in 6 U.S. youth aged 6-17 experience a mental health disorder each year.
  • 50% of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and 75% by age 24.

Symptoms may include:

  • Excessive worrying or fear.
  • Feeling excessively sad or low.
  • Confused thinking or problems concentrating and learning..
    Extreme mood changes, including uncontrollable “highs” or feelings of euphoria.
  • Prolonged or strong feelings of irritability or anger.
  • Avoiding friends and social activities.
  • Difficulties understanding or relating to other people.
  • Changes in sleeping habits or feeling tired and low energy.
  • Changes in eating habits such as increased hunger or lack of appetite.
  • Changes in sex drive.
  • Difficulty perceiving reality (delusions or hallucinations, in which a person experiences and senses things that don’t exist in objective reality).
  • Inability to perceive changes in one’s own feelings, behavior or personality (”lack of insight” or anosognosia).
  • Overuse of substances like alcohol or drugs.
  • Multiple physical ailments without obvious causes (such as headaches, stomach aches, vague and ongoing “aches and pains”)
    Thinking about suicide.
  • Inability to carry out daily activities or handle daily problems and stress.
  • An intense fear of weight gain or concern with appearance.

Take Action

If you or someone you know needs help now, you should immediately call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or call 911.

If you are thinking of harming yourself or others, or are having thoughts of suicide, don’t be afraid to speak openly and honestly if you need help. You are not alone and there is support available.

Mental illness is not your fault or that of the people around you.

Don’t be afraid to reach out if you or someone you know needs help. Learning all you can about mental health is an important first step.

It’s crucial that you advocate for your own health so you can receive the best care possible.

Unlike diabetes or cancer, there is no medical test that can accurately diagnose mental illness. A mental health professional will assess symptoms and make a diagnosis.

After diagnosis, a health care provider can help develop a treatment plan that could include medication, therapy, or other lifestyle changes.

When people are directly involved in designing their own treatment plan, including defining recovery and wellness goals, choosing services that support them, and evaluating treatment decisions and progress, the experience of care and outcomes are improved.

Find a Doctor

Call Community Health Net to schedule an appointment with a provider today: (814) 455-7222. Or visit www.communityhealthnet.org for more information.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public to learn more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Health Facts is a public service partnership of Community Health Net and CF Cares of Country Fair Stores, Inc.

Get Your Health Back on Track!

Posted on by Community Health Net in , ,

 

During the last few months, has your healthcare taken a backseat? Yet, would you agree that your overall wellness is more important than ever before? Well, why not make your health a priority today?

“Get Your Health Back On Track!” by calling Community Health Net! We offer quality Medical, Dental, Vision, Behavioral Health, and Pharmacy services, regardless of your ability to pay! In addition to COVID-19 testing and vaccination services, we have vaccine educational resources to help you make an informed decision about your family’s health!. And we have a great team of healthcare providers that care and will give you the dignity and respect that YOU expect!

To schedule an appointment today, just dial (814) 455-7222. Our representatives will be happy to assist you. Or, click here to send an email to our team.

 

Schedule an Appointment Today!

Learn More about Our COVID-19 Resources.

 

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