How Do Mental Health Conditions Affect the African American Community? Medicine for the Family Not Just For Kids Vacation ideas the whole family will enjoy
Living Well Through Awareness By Cathy Nedd Chief Operating Officer Michigan Chronicle
Welcome to Living Well. Recognized as the single most credible source of fitness, health and nutrition information for African Americans, each edition is crafted to provide insight into health disparities impacting African Americans and methods of prevention and treatment. There is a growing need for health awareness in our community. The mission of Living Well is to provide our readers with a wealth of information that enables them to live healthier and happier lives. On these pages you will find content on health issues, healthy lifestyles and relatable personal stories from people in our community. Mental health awareness is very important in the African American community. Taking time to listen to a friend with concerns or inviting someone who has been withdrawing out to dinner are simple steps to ensuring that our community thrives. According to Nami.org, “In the African American community, family, community and spiritual beliefs tend to be great sources of strength and support. However, research has found that many African Americans rely on faith, family and social communities for emotional support rather than turning to health care professionals, even though medical and/ or therapeutic treatment may be necessary. This month Living Well spoke with Dr. Denise White-Perkins, family doctor at Henry Ford Health Systems. She explains the importance of knowing the warning signs and how a family doctor is able to identify mental illness. This month’s issue also includes great ways to stay active with family and friend while maintaining a work life balance. Living Well isn’t just words on a page, it’s a lifestyle and the Michigan Chronicle takes pride in helping lead the way. Be healthy and Live Well.
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How Do Mental Health Conditions Affect the African American Community? Not Just For Kids Vacation ideas the whole family will enjoy Medicine for the Family
Publisher | Hiram E. Jackson Managing Editor | Tatiana Jackson Graphic Designer | Juan Sifuentes 2 LivingWELL • July 2015
Michigan Chronicle 479 Ledyard St. Detroit, MI 48201 Phone: (313) 963-8100 Ext. 301
Symptoms of Major Depression The following symptoms are present during the same two-week period and represent a change from previous functioning: • Depressed mood as indicated by the person or by others; experienced or observed by markedly decreased interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities most of the day. • Significant weight loss (more than 5 percent of body weight in one month) • Decreased or increased appetite nearly every day. • Insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day • Psychomotor agitation or retardation observable by others • Feeling of worthlessness, helpless, hopeless or inappropriate guilt about being sick. • Recurrent thoughts of death (not just fear of dying), recurrent suicidal thoughts, a suicide attempt or a specific plan to commit suicide. Bipolar disorder This disorder includes bipolar I and bipolar II. Both are preceded by and followed by hypomanic or major depressive disorder. Family history and genetics play a role in the development of the illness. The hypomanic episode is characterized by a period of abnormally and persistently elevated, expansive or irritable mood. There is increased goal-directed activity or energy lasting one week and present most of the day. During that period three or more of the following symptoms are present and represent a noticeable change from usual behavior: • Inflated self-esteem or grandiosity • Decreased need for sleep • More talkative than usual or pressure to keep talking • Flight of ideas (jumping from one idea to the next) • Subjective feeling that thoughts are racing • Distractibility • Increase goal directed activity, sexually, socially or work • Excessive involvement in activities that have a high potential for painful consequences (buying spree, unsafe sex, foolish business investments) There are clinical differences between bipolar I and bipolar II. Most common disadvantages to access to mental health • Treatment is very expensive • Need is not always clear until major complications arise. • Stigma is another barrier to access of mental health, particularly the African American community. Education and individual insurance coverage will erase stigma There is great hope now with the Affordable Care Act. Governor Sydney had accepted the federal exchange. The changes are already being seen. There are many facilities around the Detroit metropolitan area such as the Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority, providing and facilitating access to mental health treatment. For services call 800-214-4949.
How Do Mental Health Conditions Affect the African American Community?
Although anyone can develop a mental health problem, African Americans sometimes experience more severe forms of mental health conditions due to unmet needs and other barriers. According to the Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health, African Americans are 20 percent more likely to experience serious mental health problems than the general population. Common mental health disorders among African Americans include: •Major depression •Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) •Suicide, among young African American men •Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), because African Americans are more likely to be victims of violent crime African Americans are also more likely to experience certain factors that increase the risk for developing a mental health condition: •Homelessness. People experiencing home- lessness are at a greater risk of developing
a mental health condition. African Americans make up 40 percent of the homeless popula- tion. •Exposure to violence. Increases the risk of developing a mental health condition such as depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. African American children are more like to be exposed to violence than other chil- dren. It is recommend you see a mental health professional since this is their area of expertise. If you do not feel comfortable right away, a primary care doctor is a great place to start. He or she may be able to start the assessment process to determine if you have a mental health condition or assist you in getting a referral to a mental health professional. See more at https://www.nami.org/ Find-Support/Diverse-Communities/AfricanAmericans#sthash.OQUmDzFK.dpuf.
Did you know? According to MentalHealth.Gov, on average, 100 Americans die by suicide each day. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among 15-24 year olds and more than 8 million adults in the United States had serious thoughts of suicide within the past 12 months. — #LetsTalkAboutIt Warning S.O.S Signs of Suicide Contemplation •Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself •Looking for a way to kill oneself •Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live •Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain •Talking about being a burden to others •Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs •Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly •Sleeping too little or too much •Withdrawing or feeling isolated •Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge • Displaying extreme mood swings
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Plan and Buy Ahead Consider buying tickets to attractions in advance. By buying online, you can avoid standing in line and wearing out young legs before you even get through the gate. Oftentimes you can find great discounts on entry prices if you plan ahead and bundle together various local sites.
Traveling with the family? The most common challenge these days is finding a destination that makes everyone happy, and then striking a balance between activities for the kids and fun for adults. But there are now plenty of destinations designed to make family travel easy. For example, Orlando, Florida, which unsurprisingly takes the title as number one “hot spot” for domestic travel, according to a new survey by Priceline, has become more than just a classic vacation for families. An explosion of new offerings has made it an ideal destination for all ages. To juggle your family members’ competing interests, look over these travel tips: New Attractions You may have some favorite destinations you’ve 4 LivingWELL • July 2015
traveled to repeatedly. Be sure to keep things new and exciting by tossing out your outdated guidebook. Your vacation this year should include some fresh attractions. For example, those who’ve traveled to Orlando in the past are unlikely to have visited the brand new IDrive 360, an entertainment complex. At its heart lies the Orlando Eye, a 400-foot-tall observation wheel providing breathtaking Central Florida views. Between taking snapshots with Mickey and traveling the world at Epcot, explore the big changes happening at Orlando theme parks, including Walt Disney World Resort, which is transforming Downtown Disney into Disney Springs, doubling the number of shops and other venues.
Dining The entire vacation doesn’t have to revolve around the kids menu. Parents on vacation need some time to explore and indulge in local cuisines. And it’s no surprise that the top family travel destinations have been expanding their dining offerings. If you’re headed to Orlando, learn about sophisticated dining options from James Beard nominated chefs at restaurants like Ravenous Pig, Victoria & Albert’s or Rusty Spoon. For dinner with a view, Capa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando provides guests with breathtaking views of local theme parks’ fireworks. Craving food, cocktails and entertainment? Combine your evening activities at a single venue like The Whiskey, welcoming lovers of gourmet burgers, craft cocktails and rock and roll, with over 100 brands of whiskey. The Great Indoors Long days in the sun can take their toll, particularly on younger children. If you’re heading somewhere
sunny, stay safe with sunscreen and by drinking plenty of water. Plus, don’t forget to mix it up with some indoor culture as well. From performing arts centers to indoor theme parks to museums, there are plenty of ways to see the town from the inside out. Go Mobile New apps can make navigating your destination easier. From theme park and restaurant guides to a parking finder, let technology help you save time and money. And be sure to visit your destination’s official tourism website for trip-planning resources and to download free apps. For instance, the VisitOrlando. com site aggregates some of the best new offers and has the latest information on new attractions. With the right destination and smart advance planning, family travel can be stress-free and fun for kids and their adult chaperones. (StatePoint) Family Staycations African World Festival — Celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, Friday–Sunday, August 14–16, 11a m-11 pm daily. For more information call (313) 494-5824. The Beach — Enjoy the beach at Campus Martius Park this summer. Hours: Monday- Thursday, 11 am-10 pm, Friday, 11 am-midnight, Saturday, 11 am-11 pm, Sunday, 1-8 pm. Mt. Elliot Park — The park is beautifully landscaped, complete with fishing piers, winding walkways, LED lighting, restrooms and a café. 110 Mt. Elliott Street Detroit, 10 am- 9 pm. Outdoor Adventure Center — Experience exciting outdoor adventures with hands-on activities, exhibits and simulators; walk behind and touch a waterfall; climb the roots and explore the canopy of a massive bur oak tree; hop aboard a real airplane; walk across a suspension bridge; step into a fishing boat and reel in a big fish; hit the trail on a mountain bike or snowmobile. See fish native to Michigan in a giant aquarium and much more. 1801 Atwater St. Detroit. Wednesday-Friday, 10 am-4 pm, Saturday, 10 am-5 pm, Sunday, noon–5 pm. Adults, age 13 and up, $5; Children, age 2-12, $3; children under age 2, free.
Your child has rights The Revised School Code (Excerpt) Act 451 of 1976
380.1310b policy prohibiting bullying; adoption and implementation by board of school district or intermediate school district or board of directors of public school academy; public hearing; submission of policy to department; contents of policy; annual report of incidents of bullying; form and procedure; school employee, school volunteer, pupil, or parent or guardian reporting act of bullying to school official; modified policy; definitions; section to be known as “Matt Epling Safe School Law.” Read more at http://legislature.mi.gov/doc. aspx?mcl-380-1310b.
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Medicine for the Family From birth, many people have a primary care physician to call when “feeling under the weather,” but who does one call when feeling “blue”? The relationship between a primary care doctor and a patient can be one that builds trust and lasts many years. When the family practitioner asks, “How are you feeling today?” the answer should be a sum total of mind and body. Living WELL spoke with Dr. Denise White-Perkins, family medicine doctor and director of The Institute on Multicultural Health. In her role as director, she develops innovative research, Dr. Denise White-Perkins educational and community based programs aimed at eliminating health and healthcare disparities. Dr. White-Perkins’ research subjects include medical education on health disparities, the impact of social determinants of health on chronic disease management, and the influence of culture and religion on health. She is committed to increasing the cultural sensitivity and responsiveness of health providers and healthcare systems as they care for patients, particularly those in urban underserved communities. We took a look inside family medicine and how we can combat stigmas on mental health in the African American community. Dr. White- Perkins specializes in a holistic approach to healing. Family medicine is comprised of biological, psychological and social behaviors which make it easier to identify and address behavioral issues during regular primary care visits. “Family medicine pays attention to the whole person,” said Dr. White– Perkins. She takes special interest in understanding all the factors that are contributing to her patients’ health problems. Family medicine doctors have additional training in behavioral health. Many patients 6 LivingWELL • July 2015
may not have the level of self- awareness and selfinitiative to address a possible mental health issue. “Often there is a stigma in the African American community around mental health issues, and seeking a psychologist requires a certain level of acknowledgment,” she said. She recommends seeking a doctor who expresses care for you as a person, not only the health challenges. The physician should understand your situation. Dr. White-Perkins has provided ways to reduce stigmas and help those in our community who may be suffering from mental illness open up and seek medical attention: •Don’t let them isolate themselves •Talk about issues involving mental illness in a caring and compassionate way. •Normalize their situation. This let’s them knowhelp is available. •Don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions. Are they not eating, not sleeping, overeating, not taking an interest in their appearance? The hotline number for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1.800.273.TALK (8255).
Most victims shot by police are mentally ill or in Crisis By Lynette Holloway So far this year, police around the country have shot and killed 462 people, 124 of whom were armed and in the midst of a mental or emotional crisis, reports the Washington Post. The number accounts for a quarter of the nearly 500 people fatally shot by police in the first six months of 2015, the report says. Mental health experts say the statistics raise questions about whether police are properly trained and equipped to deal with people who are unstable. The Post says the numbers reflect the overall population of police shooting victims: “They were overwhelmingly men, more than half of them White. nine in 10 were armed with some kind of weapon, and most died close to home.” From The Washington Post: “The vast majority were armed, but in most cases, the police officers who shot them were not responding to reports of a crime. More often, the police officers were called by relatives, neighbors or other bystanders worried that a mentally fragile person was behaving erratically, reports show. More than 50 people were suicidal. More than half the killings involved police agencies that have not provided their officers with state-of-the-art training to deal with the mentally ill. And in many cases, officers responded with tactics that quickly made a volatile situation even more dangerous. The Post analysis provides for the first time a national, real-time tally of the shooting deaths of mentally distraught individuals at the hands of law enforcement. Criminal justice experts say that police are often ill- equipped to respond to such individuals, and that the encounters too often end in needless violence. Chuck Wexler, executive director of the Police Executive Research Forum, an independent research organization devoted to improving policing, described the shootings as a national crisis, the Post says. “We have to get American police to rethink how they handle encounters with the mentally ill. Training has to change,” he said. Source: The Washington Post
Tips for Balancing Family and Work Life
Professional obligations and family commitments can be at odds, particularly for those who hold leadership positions or have jobs with long hours. And many people learn that the hard way. “At one point, I became quite one-dimensional. It was all work and I had little time for family or other activities,” said Charles D. Morgan, CEO of PrivacyStar, who served as CEO of Acxiom Corporation from 1972 to 2008, overseeing the pioneering database marketing services and technology provider’s growth from 25 employees to 7000. Morgan, a longtime entrepreneur, reveals his work-life balance struggles in his new memoir, “Matters of Life and Data: The Remarkable Journey of a Big Data Visionary
Whose Work Impacted Millions (Including You).” While working at his first job at IBM as a systems engineer, Morgan was called back just a few days into his honeymoon due to an urgent office matter, marking the beginning of an all-consuming career. Despite ups and downs in both the professional and personal arenas, he eventually hammered out a successful career and a peaceful family life. Morgan is now sharing some insights into the eternal challenge of striking the balance between competing interests. While you may feel compelled to be involved in every aspect of the business, delegating tasks to the people who can do a better job than you can will benefit both you and the company. Know your strengths
and weaknesses for better time management. Find systems that simplify operations and make things happen faster, even if it means rocking the boat. For example, when titles were eliminated at Acxiom, the cultural shift didn’t make everyone happy, but in the end, the company became more efficient and flexible, giving everyone more time at the end of the day. No matter what you are wrestling with at work, be available for your children during the day. Make sure your kids know that they are important to you. Attend their recitals and ball games and find hobbies that you can share with them. Be reachable as much as possible. More information about the book can be found at www.mattersoflifeanddata.com. (StatePoint) LivingWELL • July 2015 7
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