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Autoimmune diseases and depression

Life with Lupus can be challenging. With symptoms coming and going to flare ups, the disease can cause normal feelings of like frustration and sadness.

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Autoimmune Disease and Depression
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Life with an autoimmune disease can be challenging. With symptoms coming and going to flare ups, my disease, mixed connective tissue disease, can cause normal feelings of frustration, sadness and anger. Anxiety, panic attacks, and depression can also be a side effect of Lupus.

According to The Johns Hopkins Lupus Center, approximately one-third of all people with lupus experience depression and anxiety. Why are the statistics so high? The Lupus Foundation of America compiled these and other helpful facts about lupus and depression:

  • Clinical depression may be a result of the ways in which lupus physically affects your body.
  • Some of the medicines to treat lupus — especially corticosteroids such as prednisone (and at higher doses of 20 mg or more) — play a role in causing clinical depression.
  • Clinical depression may be a result of the continuous series of emotional and psychological stressors associated with living with a chronic illness.
  • Two common feelings associated with clinical depression [and lupus] are hopelessness and helplessness. People who feel hopeless believe that their distressing symptoms may never improve. People who feel helpless believe they are beyond help — that no one cares enough to help them or could succeed in helping, even if they tried

In understanding lupus, the most common cause is the emotional drain from the stress of coping with the complications of physical illness. Add to that economic, social, and workplace concerns. Moreover, various medications used to treat lupus—especially corticosteroids—may cause clinical depression. When certain organs or organ systems are affected by lupus (such as the brain, heart, or kidneys), clinical depression may occur.

I am not afraid to say that I have dealt with bouts of depression on and off. There is a stigma that goes with dealing with depression. Living as a black woman, I have often found my community is afraid to talk about depression. We are often told to “pray it away” instead of taking the proper steps to get treatment.

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What can you do? 

We all deal with life differently, but if you ever feel like you have reached your breaking point, please don’t be afraid to ask for help. I have found this great resource from Lupus.org that I would like to share.

Seek psychotherapy. You should not feel embarrassed or hesitant about asking your doctor for a referral to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist. Psychotherapy, under the guidance of a trained professional, can help you learn to understand your feelings, your illness, and your relationships, and to cope more effectively with stress. Cognitive behavioral therapy—a special type of psychotherapy—can be very helpful when you are living with chronic illness. Support groups led by a therapist or trained counselor, such as those organized by the Foundation’s national network of chapters and affiliates, also can be instrumental in helping you deal with symptoms of clinical depression.

Take antidepressant medications. Several types of prescribed drugs can help ease the effects of clinical depression. Anti-anxiety medicines are also available to reduce worry and fearful feelings. In some people, improvements can occur in a matter of weeks once medication is started.

Find ways to reduce pain. Chronic pain can be a factor in the development of clinical depression. Besides medication (which can also play a role in clinical depression), experts often recommend non-medication ways to conquer—or at least reduce—chronic pain, such as yoga, Tai Chi, Pilates, acupuncture, biofeedback, meditation, behavioral changes, play therapy, and chiropractic care.

You may consider over-the-counter treatments for your depression and/or pain. It is important to discuss all herbs and supplements with your rheumatologist or primary care provider before trying them as certain ingredients can cause reactions with your prescribed medications.

Get more exercise. If you are physically able, take part in some sort of physical activity every day. This can be as simple as walking the dog, yard work or gardening, or window shopping at the mall.

Improve your sleep habits. Not getting enough restful sleep can cause many health problems, including symptoms of clinical depression. To improve your sleep, and, in turn, your mental well-being, try to:

  • Get seven to eight hours of sleep in a 24-hour period.
  • Do aerobic exercise every day, such as brisk walking—or whatever you can manage.
  • Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol several hours before bedtime.
  • Know which medications keep you from sleeping and take those early in the day.
  • Have a good mattress, comfortable bed linens, the right room temperature, and the right amount of darkness.
  • Include rest periods throughout your day when needed.

If you still aren’t getting enough sleep, find a reputable sleep center and talk to your doctor about sleep medications and/or possible physical causes for your sleeplessness.

Build a support system. Stay in touch with family members, former work buddies, or long-time friends. Make phone calls, join Facebook, try videoconferencing, or consider adding an animal companion to your family.

Change your self-talk. Feelings of anger and self-pity can bring on unproductive thoughts; for example, “It’s not fair. I haven’t done anything wrong. Why me? Or I’m too weak even to fight off this illness.” Replace negative, self-defeating inner language with truthful, productive thoughts, such as: “I feel lousy, but I have many blessings.”

You can also list the people and things in your life for which you are grateful: A loving spouse or significant other; your children, and the children of your extended family; caring relatives; good friends; a beloved pet; work or hobbies you enjoy and are able to do; a home you love; volunteer activities; fellowship at school, at a place of worship, or at a community center. Try to add to this list every day!

Discover the values of volunteerism. Volunteerism can provide real emotional benefits. Helping with a charitable cause that is meaningful to you can create social, supportive connections. Helping others can have a positive impact on your sense of well-being.

Strive to accept the new “you.” Pace yourself, and don’t feel badly about delegating some of your responsibilities. Ask for help, and accept help graciously. Finally, focus on what you have and what you can do, rather than on what you don’t have and can’t do.


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Health & Wellness

Amber Nicole Thurman died from delayed care due to Georgia’s abortion laws, says family

Thurman died after waiting 20 hours in pain for a hospital to treat a rare complication from taking an abortion pill, she had to obtain in North Carolina.

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Amber Nicole Thurman
Amber Nicole Thurman (Photo Source: GoFundMe)

Amber Nicole Thurman was a vibrant, healthy 28-year-old Georgia woman who tragically died due to abortion laws and medical neglect, her family says.

Amber Nicole Thurman’s life could have been preventable

According to reports, Thurman died after waiting 20 hours in pain for a hospital to treat a rare complication from taking an abortion pill that she had to obtain in North Carolina. She needed a routine procedure, a dilation and curettage (D&C), to clear residual tissue from her uterus.

Did abortion laws cause problems for the mother?

But she reportedly couldn’t get the help she needed. New abortion laws in Georgia made conducting this essential medical procedure a felony unless in an emergency situation.

Georgia’s LIFE Act took effect after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe vs. Wade in 2022 and banned abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, effectively prohibiting abortions beyond around six weeks of pregnancy, and criminalized performing one with limited exceptions.

Thurman had sought help at a local hospital in Stockbridge, Georgia. Even as Thurman developed sepsis, her family says doctors at the hospital did not evacuate the remaining fetal tissue in her uterus with the (D&C). Unfortunately, she later died on the operating table, reports ProPublica.

After Thurman’s death, a Fulton County Superior Court judge struck down the law, stating the law violates Georgia’s Constitution, reports NewsWeek.

ProPublica reported that Georgia’s maternal mortality committee also found that Thurman’s death was completely preventable. When her family learned this, they were devastated once again and their grief intensified affirming that Amber should not have died.

GoFundMe

As Thurman’s family struggles to cope with their grief and anger, they are striving to care for Amber’s son the way she wanted and have started a GoFundMe.

“The funds through this site will support Amber’s son for his immediate needs and for his future. This includes mental health and grief counseling for him and Amber’s family,” the GoFundMe reads.

According to the family, the funds will also support the family’s fight for justice for Amber and women’s rights over their own bodies.

“Amber was a devoted mother to her 6-year-old son and had dreams of becoming a nurse while she worked as a medical assistant. Amber hoped to provide a bright future for herself and her son, but that was stolen from her, and we cannot stand by as this happens to more women.”

Visit the GoFundMe to donate and for more information.


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Health & Wellness

7 myths about Prostate Cancer debunked by #BlackProstateCheckChallenge

In honor of Prostate Awareness Month, the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge initiative has created 7 myths about the afflicting disease. 

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prostate cancer myths
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-man-with-stethoscope-around-neck-covering-mouth-with-his-hand-5452255/

September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, and just like any other diseases, there are myths about this one.

Stats

According to Zero Prostate, Black and African American men are much more likely to develop prostate cancer. One in six Black men will develop prostate cancer in his lifetime—compared to one in eight men overall. Black men are 1.7 times more likely to be diagnosed with—and 2.1 times more likely to die from—prostate cancer than white men.

Prostate Cancer awareness challenge

Civil Rights icon Charles D. Neblett, PhD.’s family nonprofit organization Community Projects, Inc. has created a new initiative, the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge, asking Black prostate cancer survivors and patients to post their journeys using the hashtag simply.

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The purpose of the initiative is to open dialogue, overcome stigmas and fears, capture snapshots of experiences, and share information and resources to reveal the complex issues of health equity concerns among Black men.

In honor of Prostate Awareness Month, the #BlackProstateCheckChallenge initiative has created 7 myths about the afflicting disease.

Check out the 7 myths about prostate cancer debunked by #BlackProstateCheckChallenge

  1. Black men get prostate cancer just like every other race. No. According to the American Cancer Society, the prevalence of prostate cancer is greater in Black males, affecting one out of every six, compared to one out of every eight white men. In addition, black men experience a greater mortality rate from prostate cancer, which is twice as high as that of white men. White men have historically enjoyed the privilege of receiving cancer treatments, which accounts for the difference in mortality rates. A recent Keck School of Medicine of USC study found nine previously undiscovered genetic variants that increase the risk of prostate cancer in men of African ancestry, with seven of these variants being found mostly or exclusively in Black men.
  2. “I don’t have prostate cancer if I have no symptoms.” No. Black men are being diagnosed in later stages and with more specific aggressive prostate cancer. Sexual partners are key supporters to encourage men to notice symptoms like more frequent trips to restroom in middle of the night or a difference is sexual performance. By the time Black men notice symptoms, they could be in a later stage than white men. If a Black man has a grandfather or father who has prostate cancer, they should be getting a DRE exam by age 35-38 because they are now at risk.
  3. Every hospital lab has the same standard imaging equipment. No. You should ask what year your radiation machine was built. 30% of men getting radiated for prostate cancer are treated with older, lower energy machines. Patients should work with their doctor to stay on top of their imaging as well as their PSA test results.
  4. “There is one best way to treat prostate cancer.” No, a patient and a doctor should have “shared decision-making.” You should have an open, trusted relationship to decide the route that’s the best individualized for you based on your genetics, health history, age, stage, and lifestyle. Every prostate cancer patient should have access to a nutritionist.
  5. “Every male should get screening as soon as possible.” No. Black men have the highest false-positive results. There have not been enough Black men studied in clinical trials to support that early screening prevents prostate cancer.
  6. “Prayer and spirituality can’t help cancer.” Cancer can help patients to focus on what truly matters, and prompt us to live with a heightened consciousness of our ultimate priorities. The current data suggests that added stress or trauma can contribute to more aggressive cancer.
  7. Cancer care is covered by Medicare.” No. The average cost of Stage 4 prostate cancer is more than $93,000 annually, according to the American Cancer Society. The Medicare for All Act was introduced in Senate (05/17/2023). It would establish a national health insurance program that is administered by the Department of Health and Human Services. It has not passed.
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Health & Wellness

New survey reveals 43% of Black Gen Z singles are practicing celibacy

Celibacy Gains Momentum as Young Black Singles Seek Emotional Well-Being and Healthier Relationships Amidst Changing Dating Culture

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Black Gen Z celibacy
Photo by Andres Ayrton: https://www.pexels.com/photo/beloved-african-american-couple-cuddling-and-smiling-on-couch-6579051/

A recent survey conducted by BLK, the leading dating app for Black singles, has uncovered a significant trend among Black Gen Z daters—43% are currently practicing celibacy.

Black Gen Z celibacy

Among Black Gen Z women, the number is even higher, with 64% embracing this lifestyle choice. Interestingly, most of these women are new to celibacy, with 63% having adopted it in the past six months.

This shift reflects a growing focus on personal development and mental well-being among young Black daters. The survey found that the top reasons for choosing celibacy include personal growth and self-discovery (61%), as well as frustration with toxic dating culture.

Key Survey Findings:

  • 43% of Black Gen Z daters are practicing celibacy.
  • 64% of Black Gen Z women are celibate, with 63% having been celibate for less than six months.
  • 61% cited personal growth or self-discovery as their primary reason for celibacy.
  • 66% reported improved mental and emotional well-being due to celibacy.
  • 87% said celibacy has either positively impacted their dating life or made no difference.
  • 1 in 3 Black Gen Z daters believe celibacy is becoming more accepted, though 43% still feel there’s a stigma within the Black community.

Celibacy and Mental Health: A Positive Impact

Celibacy isn’t just about abstaining from physical intimacy; it’s become a means of emotional and mental self-care for many Gen Z daters. The survey revealed that 66% of respondents reported significant improvements in their mental and emotional well-being since becoming celibate. By focusing on their inner growth and avoiding the stress of toxic dating environments, young Black singles are finding greater peace and clarity.

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Contrary to concerns that celibacy might hinder dating success, 87% of those surveyed said it has either positively impacted their dating life or made no difference at all. In fact, many Black Gen Z daters prefer to discuss celibacy early in a relationship, creating transparency and fostering deeper connections.

Navigating Stigma: The Evolving Perception of Celibacy in the Black Community

While celibacy is becoming more accepted among Black Gen Z, with 1 in 3 feeling that it’s gaining acceptance, 43% believe that stigma or misunderstanding still exists within the broader Black community. These individuals are redefining what it means to date and thrive in relationships, challenging outdated societal norms in the process.

Jonathan Kirkland, Head of Brand and Marketing at BLK, highlights this cultural shift: “What we’re seeing with Black Gen Z singles is more than just a dating trend—it’s a movement towards personal empowerment and emotional well-being. This generation values authenticity and is reclaiming their narratives, prioritizing self-discovery over societal expectations. The rise in celibacy speaks to their desire for healthier relationships, both with themselves and others, and that’s a powerful statement.”

As more Black Gen Z daters follow this path, celibacy is emerging as a growing cultural trend, not just for dating but as a broader statement about self-worth, mental health, and emotional well-being.

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