APA Blogs
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Discrimination and Racial Injustice: Are We Moving Forward, Backwards, or Marching in Place?
- By Jonathan J. Shepherd, M.D., FAPA, DFAACAP
Are we moving forward, backwards, or marching in place? Within a two-week time span, the United States of America celebrated the birth of the great civil rights leader, the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the start of Black History Month recognizing the achievements and contributions of Black individuals to the growth of our society. Ironic enough, our country witnessed the brutal beating and murder of an unarmed Black male during that same time frame by officers who pledged to serve and protect the citizens of our communities. Many people struggle with how such atrocities could take place when anti-racism conversations are gaining momentum in various corporate and institutional settings.
The Mental Health Benefits of Simple Acts of Kindness
There are many reasons acts of kindness are good for the giver and the receiver. New research looks at the mental health benefits, finding that performing acts of kindness may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.(1) “Acts of kindness” refer to benevolent and helpful actions intentionally directed towards another person, motivated by the desire to help another and not to gain reward or to avoid punishment
Taking on the Public Health Threat of Loneliness and Social Isolation
Loneliness is a significant and growing problem with substantial physical health and mental health impacts. Research has found that loneliness and social isolation may be as bad for your health as obesity or smoking 15 cigarettes a day and significantly impacts mental health. (1) The restrictions of the COVID-19 pandemic increased the problem and increased public awareness of the issue.
An Upcoming Storm: The Persistent Impacts of COVID-19 on the Black Community
- By Dimitry Francois, M.D.
The post-COVID impact on health in the Black community in the United States has been severe and widespread.
7 Tips for Using Social Media for Mental Well-being
Social wellness, a measure of connectedness with family, friends and community, is key in influencing happiness and positive mental health.(1,2) Research has shown social connection to be a protective factor against a host of mental health disorders, from depression to anxiety.(2) The quality and quantity of our social relationships can also impact our physical health.(3)