Good Health May 2011

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Catherine Zeta-Jones’ brave step forward

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Catherine Zeta-Jones’ brave public acknowledgement of her mental health problems, including appearing on the cover of People Magazine, invited people all over the world to identify with her problem and recognize they or their loved ones are not alone if they are suffering with emotional problems. “This is a disorder that affects millions of people and I am one of them” and “if my revelation of having bipolar II has encouraged just one person to seek help, then it is worth it.” Her announcement is a landmark in public health awareness. That someone as beautiful and successful as Katherine Zeta-Jones

CATHERINE ZETA-JONES’ public revelation of her recent diagnosis has brought needed public awareness to mental health issues. can struggle with a serious mental health issue and feel comfortable enough to share it with the world will certainly motivate others to emulate her strength and intelligence, “there’s no need to suffer silently and there is no shame in seeking help.” Very fortunately, because of people in the limelight who share their struggles, the stigma once attached to seeking therapy has greatly diminished. No doubt, if your throat hurts, you break a bone, suffer any aches and pains or show signs of illness that require medical attention, you’re on it. You make an appointment with your doctor, get a diagnosis, and ultimately fill the prescription that will heal you. The responsible adult takes great pains to stay healthy by eating well, exercising, taking supplements and recommended medications and making sure to have a complete physical every year. But, taking care of your emotional health is often last on your list, until like Catherine Zeta-Jones, you realize you have no choice. Neither fame, wealth, nor talent immunizes anyone against the vicissitudes of physical and mental illness.

aging, dealing with troubled children or other family members, addictions, abuse, bereavement or anything that gets in the way of your emotional health and happiness. However, many people resist seeking help. If you have a weak heart, you control

Issues that can stop you in your tracks and prohibit everyday function as a parent, a partner or on the job include panic attacks, depression, unemployment, marital discord, eating disorders, coping with

your diet, exercise more, take prescribed medication and follow doctor’s orders. If you have a broken heart, there’s more to it. Sometimes, making that first call and findContinued on GOOD HEALTH page 2

“I use the latest techniques to fight cancer in the operating room … and answer every question a patient may have before we get here.” Dr. Datta is a board-certified, fellowship-trained cancer surgeon who’s known for his skills in the operating room and for taking the time to sit with a patient while providing support before and after surgery. A specialist in tumors of the head and neck, breast, endocrine system, colon and soft tissue as well as melanoma, he’s also a Castle Connolly top doctor, so you can be confident you’re getting quality, compassionate care every step of the way.

Rajiv Datta, MD, FACS, FRCS, FICS Chair, Department of Surgery Medical Director, South Nassau’s Cancer Center Director, Surgical Oncology/Head & Neck Castle Connolly “Top Doctor” since 2006

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Datta, call 516.632.3350 or visit www.southnassau.org for more information.

SOUTH NASSAU COMMUNITIES HOSPITAL

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ONE HEALTHY WAY, OCEANSIDE, NY 11572

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877-SOUTH-NASSAU

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WWW.SOUTHNASSAU.ORG 467687

By JOHN KASTAN, Ph.D & AUDREY GOODMAN

May 5, 2011 — HERALD COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS — GOOD HEALTH

Overcoming the stigma of dealing with emotional issues


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