Studies who that stress, life crises, and negative emotional states increase the risk of acute respiratory infections like colds, flu, and similar conditions. Could stress reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and physical exercise have a preventive effect? The U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) decided to find out. Nearly 400 study participants completed a stress management training program, and the results were positive. Participants did experience fewer flu, colds, and…

Mental health provider often see clients with varied concerns and life challenges who may also have undiagnosed depression. Symptoms can last so long that a state of depression become "normal." Some clients may struggle to recall what not feeling depressed is even like. Words such as cheerful, content, happy and hopeful may feel foreign and out of place in their day to day life. If you can relate to this description, please know you are not alone. Many people are suffering silently and there is…