Courtney Nugent struggled with anxiety so debilitating it led to multiple hospitalizations.

(NAPSI)—The latest GeneSight® Mental Health Monitor survey shows that nearly half of Americans feel they have lost time in their lives due to poor mental health.

Courtney Nugent suffered a decade-long struggle with anxiety. At first, medication helped manage her anxiety. However, after a surgery, she found her medication was no longer keeping her anxiety in check. She began a trial-and-error journey of seven different medications to try to get back to “normal.”

“I had to call off my wedding to focus on my mental health,” said Nugent. “My mental health crisis was six months on paper, but for every second of every day, I was fighting to stay alive. That’s time I can’t get back.”

Of those diagnosed with anxiety and/or depression, 50 percent said they have lost years of their lifetime because of poor mental health—and 12 percent said they’ve lost decades.

About a third of those with anxiety and/or depression said they’ve missed significant events due to ineffective mental health treatments. The “treatment as usual” approach to mental health conditions, like depression and anxiety, is often associated with medication trial-and-error, which can also add to lost time. The GeneSight test is a tool clinicians can use to inform mental health medication treatment plans and may help shorten their patients’ road to wellness.

“Patients who have lost time due to depressive episodes or periods of anxiety often feel a sense of loss, which further complicates their mental health situation,” said Sharon Philbin, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse.

A person’s genes may play a role in their outcomes to certain mental health medications. Practitioners like Philbin order the GeneSight test (a simple cheek swab) to help patients understand how they may metabolize or respond to several mental health medications based on their individual genetics.

“GeneSight has been one of the tools I’ve used to help my patients feel better and take control of lost time so that those living with anxiety and depression can enjoy their lives,” said Philbin.
Courtney was prescribed a new medication based partly on her GeneSight test results and began to feel like herself again. “I have a new job and a new lease on life. I do not think I would be alive without the GeneSight test,” said Courtney.

It wasn’t until her clinician personalized her mental health medication treatment with the help of the GeneSight test that she got back on track. Learn more at https://genesight.com/mental-health-monitor/.

While the Healthy Eating Pyramid is a good indicator of the types (and quantities) of foods we should eat to stay healthy, there are certain foods that are healthier than others when it comes to our eyes.

Do you remember being told as a child that carrots are good for your vision? Ever wondered why that is? Well, it’s because they are full of nutrients such as vitamin A and beta carotene (a plant pigment that helps our body synthesize vitamin A), both of which are essential for your eye health.

As well as carrots, there are lots of foods and different nutrients that are important for your vision. Here’s a list of the 10 best foods that will boost your intake of the above nutrients. Consider adding these foods to your diet to help avoid or delay eye conditions such as cataract, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.

1. LEAFY GREENS

Easy to digest, easy to include into every meal, and readily available, leafy greens are great not just for your eyes, but for your overall health. Also remember, the darker the green, the better they are for you. So things like kale, collard greens and spinach are excellent because of their high vitamin C levels.

2. LEAN MEAT

We have some good news for meat lovers. Protein from lean meats such as beef, poultry (chicken, turkey, duck, etc.) or pork can be very beneficial to your eyesight.

Beef is rich in vitamin A and zinc, both of which are beneficial to your cornea (the clear protective outer layer of the eye) and your retina. Poultry and pork are also good sources of zinc. 3. FISH Fish is a very good source of omega-3, which is an important nutrient for eye health. Omega-3 is a polyunsaturated fatty acid that is important for your retina. Oily fish such as salmon, trout, tuna, swordfish, sardines, anchovies and mackerel are all great options, and should be included in at least one or two meals every week, if possible.

4. LEGUMES & PULSES

Legumes are plants, pods and seeds that belong to the Fabaceae family. They refer to things like peas and beans (for example: green beans, broad beans, snake beans).

5. SEEDS

Seeds contain high levels of vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, and they can help fight age-related eye health issues. These days chia seeds, pepitas, flaxseed, hemp seeds and sunflower seeds are all readily available in the health food section of your local supermarket.

6. NUTS

Nuts are also rich in vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids. Almonds, cashews, peanuts, walnuts, pistachios and brazil nuts are all great for your eyesight.

7. CITRUS

During the cold and flu season, we all turn to oranges, mandarin, grapefruit, and lemon or lime to up our vitamin C intake. But did you know these zesty citrus fruits are also great for your eye health? 8. EGGS Whether you like them poached, boiled or scrambled, eggs are great for your eye health, which is eggscellent news!

9. CARROT

The hype is true, carrots are good for your eyes. These crunchy root vegetables are a great source of vitamin A, which is important for keeping your cornea clear.

Other foods rich in beta carotene include sweet potatoes, pumpkin, capsicum, mangoes, apricots and rockmelon (and any other bright yellow or orange fruits and veggies you can get your hands on).

10. WATER

Water may not be food per se but it makes an important part of a healthy diet.

When you don’t get enough water, your body suffers from dehydration. This also means your eyes. So if your eyes are feeling a bit dry, as well as applying eye drops to them, guzzle down a tall glass of water.

Sugary drinks should also be avoided because they lead to diabetes, and that can cause diabetic retinopathy, which can then lead to blindness.

Professionally cleaned air ducts can cut down on allergens in your home.

Regular cleaning can help protect your home from dust, dander, pollen, mold and other allergen.

(NAPSI)—As the warmer seasons unfold, a host of allergens and irritants become more prevalent, potentially disrupting your daily life and health – especially if you have asthma and allergies. According to the Allergy and Asthma Foundation of America (AAFA), millions of people are affected by allergies, and understanding how to control your environment can significantly improve your quality of life during this beautiful but challenging season. Here are effective strategies and types of products that can help reduce allergens and irritants in your home:

1. Prioritize Indoor Air Quality

Air Purifiers – Invest in a good air purifier. Devices with HEPA filters are especially effective at trapping allergens such as pollen, pet dander, and dust mites. To maximize their effectiveness, put air purifiers in commonly used areas such as bedrooms and living rooms.
Humidity Control – Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30 percent and 50 percent. Humidifiers can add moisture to dry air, while dehumidifiers can help control mold growth and dust mites by reducing excess moisture. Both tools are essential in creating a balanced indoor environment.

2. Keep It Clean

Regular Cleaning – Weekly cleaning can significantly reduce the presence of allergens. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to capture the fine particles that traditional vacuums may recirculate into the air. Remember to wear a dust mask while cleaning to avoid inhaling allergens.
Bedding and Upholstery – Encase mattresses and pillows in dust mite-proof covers. Wash bedding weekly in hot water to kill dust mites and remove allergens. Additionally, consider washing or replacing curtains and deep cleaning upholstery where allergens can linger.

3. Filter and Ventilate

Replace HVAC Filters – Regularly replace the filters in your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. Opt for filters with a high MERV (Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value) rating that can capture smaller particles, thus improving indoor air quality. Check with your manufacturer to ensure you’re using the right MERV rating for your system. Using a filter with too high a rating for your system can cause more harm than good, taxing your system and shortening its lifespan.

Enhance Ventilation – Improve your home’s ventilation by opening windows when the pollen count is low or using exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathrooms to reduce moisture and cooking fumes, which can exacerbate asthma symptoms.

Air Duct Cleaning – Consider having your air ducts cleaned by a NADCA-certified professional. Over time, dust, mold, and other allergens can accumulate in your duct system, affecting the overall air quality and efficiency of your HVAC system. Cleaning your air ducts can help ensure that these irritants are removed, providing cleaner, fresher airflow throughout your home.

4. Create a Pollen-Free Zone

Keep windows and doors closed during high pollen days. Use air conditioning in your home and car to keep pollen out. Remove shoes at the door and shower after being outdoors to wash pollen off your skin and hair.

5. Control Pet Dander

If you have pets, groom them regularly to reduce the dander they shed. Also, establish pet-free zones, especially in bedrooms, to minimize allergy exposure while sleeping.

6. Consider Indoor Plants

Some plants can help improve indoor air quality. However, it’s important to choose wisely, as some plants can also be sources of mold or pollen. Spider plants and ferns are good options for improving air without increasing allergens.

By integrating these strategies and using effective products, you can significantly reduce the impact of allergens and irritants during the allergy and asthma season. Living with allergies and asthma can be challenging, but with these tips from BreathingClean.com, you can enjoy the season without the sneeze.

(NAPSI)—When it comes to mental health, many people across the U.S. have experienced their share of challenges–but help may be at hand.

The Problem

The issue is especially concerning in rural America, where more than 60 percent of people report having a mental health condition – such as anxiety or depression – yet less than half of them get the help or treatment they need. Rural Americans face unique mental health stressors and barriers to accessing care, but those living in rural communities also boast unique support mechanisms that they can tap into to flip the script on mental health stigma.

An Answer

An example of those unique support mechanisms can be found in rural Georgia, where community leader Adaris Rivera has found hope in the resilience that living in a rural community presents. “Each person’s journey with mental health is deeply personal and unique, yet there’s a universal truth that support and hope are within reach for everyone. No one should feel isolated in their struggles,” she said. This is what inspired her to share her own story as part of a national public service advertisement (PSA) campaign called “Love, Your Mind” from Huntsman Mental Health Institute and the Ad Council.

Rivera experienced hardship while growing up in Puerto Rico, moving to the Midwest and eventually laying down roots in rural Georgia. In the PSA video, she talks about her story, saying “I’ve been through a lot” including trauma, anxiety and depression. For Rivera, the goal of sharing her story is to help others who may be going through the same thing. She advocates for people to seek professional help when needed, and shares how daily practices can also be helpful—such as spending time in nature, journaling and finding time for prayer or reflection.

On her mental health journey, Rivera found solace in one unique benefit of living in a rural place: easy access to nature. “When I come home exhausted, there’s nothing more rejuvenating than stepping into my backyard. Cooking with the door open, letting the breeze in and stealing a few moments on my deck to listen to a mental health podcast.”

Another benefit of rural living that has supported her healing: having a close-knit community. When it comes to mental health, one key step is finding people with whom you can talk openly. Rivera is a strong supporter of this idea, saying “Accepting help means that we are allowing somebody to bless our lives.”

She has also found ways to share that hope with her community. She organizes group activities to create “mental health boxes” for individuals who are struggling or being seen for inpatient mental health care. The boxes contain such things as reminders of family and loved ones, items to help with daily self-care and positive messages and quotes.

Expert Opinion

The notion of leaning into your community for support is one that’s also backed by experts. Dave Eldredge from Huntsman Mental Health Institute says, “The reality is, we all have mental health—just like we all have physical health. And when we take care of our minds, we can show up stronger in our work and for the people we care about.”

Eldredge grew up in both rural Utah and rural Idaho and knows that talking about mental health in rural communities can feel difficult at first. “A big part of the challenge can be our mindset. We pride ourselves on being self-reliant, and that can be a wonderful thing. But when we open up to others for a helping hand or just a listening ear, we can actually be stronger.”

These tips may help you stay on track with your plan to eat healthier.

Reduce the overall calories you consume.

If you consume more calories than you use through daily living, exercise, and other activities, it may lead to weight gain. If you consume fewer calories than you use through physical activity, it may lead to weight loss.

Have healthy snacks on hand.

Whether you are at home, at work, or on the go, healthy snacks may help combat hunger and prevent overeating. Look for snacks that are low in added sugar and salt. Your best bets are whole foods – like baby carrots, fresh fruit, or low-fat or fat-free yogurt instead of chips, cakes, or cookies – rather than packaged or processed foods.

Select a mix of colorful vegetables each day.

Choose dark, leafy greens – such as spinach, kale, collards, and mustard greens – and red and orange vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, red peppers, and tomatoes. If you have had kidney stones, be aware that some vegetables, like spinach and sweet potatoes, are high in oxalate, a chemical that combines with calcium in urine to form a common type of kidney stone. So, if you have kidney stones, you may need to watch how much of this you eat. But for others, these are great choices. Eat a rainbow of food colors!

Choose whole grains more often.

Try whole-grain breads and pastas, oatmeal, or brown rice.

Shift from solid fats to oils.

Try cooking with vegetable, olive, canola, or peanut oil instead of solid fats such as butter, stick margarine, shortening, lard, or coconut oil. Choose foods that naturally contain oils, such as seafood and nuts, instead of some meat and poultry. And use salad dressings and spreads that are made with oils rather than solid fats.

Switch from frying to baking or grilling.

Instead of fried chicken, try a salad topped with grilled chicken. Instead of ordering fries when eating out, ask for a side of steamed veggies.

Limit foods and beverages that are high in sugar and salt.

Avoid snack foods high in salt and added sugars; and keep away from sugary soft drinks.

Read the Nutrition Facts label on packaged foods. The Nutrition Facts label tells you how many calories and servings are in a box, package, or can. The label also shows how many ingredients, such as fat, fiber, sodium, and sugar—including added sugars – are in one serving of food. You can use these facts to make healthy food choices.