APA Blogs
224 Results
Caring for Our Families in Difficult Times: Protecting Mental Health and Wellbeing During Terrorism, War, and other Disasters
- By Joshua Morganstein, M.D.
Disasters, like terrorism and war, are extremely disruptive and stressful events. The current conflict in the Middle East has impacted communities around the world, including those whose family members are directly involved. In addition, many people experienced increased discrimination in their home country following these events. Some people feel worried about how these disasters impact civil and political discourse or may alter events in the world.
8 Step Mental Health Checkup
We often focus more on treating illnesses, both physical and mental, than on staying healthy. But the absence of mental illness does not necessarily mean good mental health.
Overcoming Barriers to Mental Health Care for Spanish-Speakers
An estimated 14% of the U.S. population speaks Spanish at home, and 16 million Spanish speakers have limited English proficiency(1). In addition to the potential barrier of lack of language services, recent research has identified other factors contributing to inequities in access and outcomes for Spanish-speaking patients, including perceived discrimination, and mistrust and privacy concerns.(2)
Hispanic Heritage Month: Talking about Music, Music Therapy and Sharing Experiences in an Inpatient Setting
- By Ruby C. Castilla-Puentes, M.D., Dr.P.H., M.B.A.
During Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15 - Oct. 15) we celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from the Caribbean, Spain, Mexico and Central and South America. I would like to start this article by noting that I am not an expert in music therapy, so my perspective is quite narrow. However, I will share some background, history, my own experience and resources to hopefully spark some ideas for you to incorporate music from this rich and diverse cultural collective. I would like to share my experience with staff members and families in the acute patient unit of the Mental Health Unit at Santa Clara Hospital
How Dental Health and Mental Health Are Connected
While it may not be widely understood, there is a clear connection between a person’s dental health and their mental health. Numerous studies have identified associations between mental health and oral health(1), however, the interaction often does not get much attention, even among health care professionals.