Mental health is a topic that has become increasingly supported the world over in post-pandemic living. The pandemic’s effect on people mentally is just as far-reaching as the physical effects of the illness they were being protected against.
Overall, mental health issues account for over 10% of untreated health conditions worldwide, and the actual reporting of mental health concerns has risen dramatically in recent years.
Does this mean we are in the midst of a mental health crisis or that more people are aware of their feelings and willing to seek help and support? The answer can be unclear, and it’s likely to be a mix of both. After all, as science evolves and we learn more about the body and the mind, it becomes more evident that people are struggling below the surface and need help. But that’s not to discredit those who are advocating for themselves and speak out when they don’t feel themselves, or they are struggling. Regardless of how issues come to light, support should be readily available and understanding offered as standard.
But what are the implications of not accepting help for your mental health?
At a low level, it will simply take away the joy from your life. Depression can affect people to various degrees, and it can merely be the thief of joy and make the world seem more gray than it is. In severe cases, mental health problems that are left untreated can have catastrophic results on the person in question, their family, and/or their local community.
Seeking Help. It’s Not As Easy As It Looks
You only have to look at the increasing suicide rates of men worldwide to realize how hard it is for some people to speak up and admit that something is wrong. The popular campaign “It’s OK not to be OK” is well known, but there is a difference between taking action on this stance and supporting it from a distance.
But what is it that stops people from seeking the help they need? For some, men in particular, it is admitting they are struggling and cannot express their emotions instead of bottling things up as generations before them have done. For others, it’s an inability to realize something is going on, and they might not recognize the signs themselves to seek the treatment they need.
Sadly, in too many cases, it is not being able to afford or access the services they need, whether it’s psychological testing and counseling, being prescribed medications, or treatment to address symptoms and address what is going on mentally.
Shame, money, lack of awareness, lack of support, and fear or distrust are the main barriers that need to be addressed when helping people get the treatment and care they need to address their mental health concerns. Until these barriers are removed or at least lowered, and the stigma of struggling with mental health has been eradicated, it’s likely that those who are more vulnerable and need help won’t step forward and access the services at their disposal to help them get well.
Who says pajamas are just for bedtime? Embracing comfort and style, feather pajamas are the latest trend that effortlessly transitions from the bedroom to the party scene. If you want to make a statement at your next gathering while feeling as cozy as possible, here’s your guide to styling feather pajamas for parties. Our partner Plume by AF Designs has the most beautiful selection of feather pajamas. The founder Anca has a special story behind the brand:
The concept of Plume is very special to me personally, since 2016, I was diagnosed with advanced-stage breast cancer, and my whole world went upside down. Aside from the journey I had to face an emotional and physical roller coaster, I felt like I would never be “me” again. Before this, I was very girlie and fluffy, along with my 3 little daughters at the time, we spent many days in tutus and hair bows. Once I started my journey to recovery, I felt completely like another person, I couldn’t find anything that would make me feel fabulous and fashionable. I have worked in the fashion industry for over 20 years, and just wanted to be me again and not look at myself as a “cancer patient”. I spent a lot of time at home in pajamas and never found something that made me feel good or that I looked good in. That’s when I said if the day came that I can look back and help another fellow warrior to make this journey a little more tolerable, then that was my mission. And today I want every beautiful soul to Feel & Look Fabulous through the night! As in some way or another, we all are warriors for our own jour
See ways to wear your own feather party PJs and view the entire collection HERE.
1. Accessorize to Mesmerize:
Amp up your feathered look with the right accessories. A statement clutch, bold earrings, or a chic headband can elevate your ensemble, turning casual pajamas into a party-ready outfit. Choose accessories that complement the color of your feathers for a cohesive and put-together look.
2. Heels for Height:
While slippers are perfect for lounging, swap them out for a stylish pair of heels to add a touch of glamour. Strappy sandals, classic pumps, or even ankle boots can instantly transform your feather pajamas into a fashionable ensemble fit for a night out.
3. Mix and Match Textures:
Feather pajamas already bring a unique texture to the table, but don’t be afraid to mix and match with other textures for added depth. A faux fur jacket or a velvet blazer can create a luxurious and stylish contrast, making your outfit stand out even more.
4. Bold Makeup Choices:
Go bold with your makeup to complement the playful vibe of feathered pajamas. Experiment with vibrant eyeshadows, bold lip colors, or even a touch of glitter to add some party-ready flair. A confident makeup look will tie everything together seamlessly.
5. Haute Hairdos:
Your hairstyle can make or break your party look. Opt for chic updos, loose waves, or sleek ponytails that match the overall vibe you’re going for. Consider hair accessories like embellished clips or headbands to add an extra touch of glamour.
6. Monochrome Magic:
Stick to a monochrome color scheme for a sophisticated and cohesive appearance. This doesn’t mean you have to limit yourself to one color—experiment with different shades of the same color family for a visually pleasing and put-together look.
7. Confidence is Key:
The most important accessory you can wear is confidence. Own your feather pajama look with a smile and a positive attitude. Confidence not only makes you look good but also makes you the life of the party.
Remember, fashion is about expressing yourself, and feather pajamas offer a playful and daring canvas. So, the next time you’re invited to a party, consider ditching the traditional cocktail dress and opting for the comfort and style of feathered sleepwear. Who says you can’t be the trendsetter at the party while feeling like you’re wrapped in a cloud of feathers?
Being diagnosed with a health condition can be an unnerving time for anyone. It’s natural to care for your health and to worry when a particular issue affects it. That said, there are millions of people around the world living full, rich, dignified lives despite having to manage a particular health setback. To give examples here would be disrespectful to those who live well with their condition, not necessarily despite it, as they know how to maximize their good days and limit the effects of the tough ones.
We suggest this to give you hope that yes, you can excel and find a forward path even if you have a health condition you may feel concerned about. In this post, we’ll discuss a few steps you can take to live with a new condition, how to avoid making the problem worse, and tips for getting through that adjustment period over time.
With a little care and attention, you’ll see that you were never defined by your health situation after all:
Set Realistic Goals & Be Kind To Yourself
Life changes when you have a health condition, and it’s okay to admit that. For some, the effects may be minimal. It might be that you have to avoid certain foods, quit bad habits like alcohol entirely, or wear high-quality hearing aids and get used to their daily integration into your lifestyle.
From there, it’s essential to set realistic goals and expectations for yourself while remaining flexible with them. Identify your limits and understand that it’s okay to ask for help when needed. Set achievable goals that align with your condition, breaking them down into smaller steps to make progress more manageable.
For example, you might head to physio on one day, go to the gym for strengthening exercises on others, or simply get enough sleep and adapt to the side effects of your new medication. Small goals can mean the world to you. For example, if you’ve recently started using a wheelchair, then heading to the grocery store for the first time might require some planning, but can be a great achievement once you do it.
Those incremental goals help you feel confident in your achievements, as they should in every way.
It’s All About Connections
Lean on your close circle of family and friends for emotional support, communicate your needs and challenges, and let them be part of your journey. Maintain open and honest communication with your healthcare providers too, because they’ll want to keep up on the progression of your condition.
The more you can connect with those who want the best for you, the more comfortable you’ll feel knowing you’re never alone. To go through a health condition alone can be more difficult than you would have otherwise assumed, and so if you need to reach out to charitable resources, local support groups, or even online groups that discuss your health condition, you can lean on the advice you need.
Learn About Your Condition
For many people, knowing everything about an issue facing them can help them feel a sense of control over it. Learn about its symptoms, how it could progress, and how others with the condition might manage it.
Remember that medical science is constantly evolving, and new treatments, therapies, and management strategies may emerge too. By actively seeking knowledge about your condition, you equip yourself with the tools needed to navigate the challenges and uncertainties that may lie ahead and may be able to find a treatment pathway that helps you more.
This can be good, but remember the disclaimer to take anything you read online with a hefty pinch of salt. More often than not, half-truths, studies that haven’t been peer-reviewed or anecdotal evidence aren’t worth keeping on top of. That doesn’t mean your individual story is meaningless. In fact, you might even post videos online talking about your challenges and how you’ve overcome them. This may give others inspiration and allow you to get something off your chest. Advocating for yourself can be a fantastic tool in your arsenal.
To conclude, life changes when you have a health condition. Even if it’s slight and almost imperceptible, it’s good to be aware of your new responsibilities to your wellbeing, and seek support when you need it.
The more you can do that, the better off you’ll be, and the more you’ll focus on your path forward. With a careful approach, you may be surprised just how well this works. We wish you the best of luck going forward.
Selecting the best architects’ firm near you is critical for any construction or conversion project. People often ignore the need to hire an architect with the idea of saving money or slashing project costs. However, this can be a risky move, especially for a massive project with an intricate design.
Architects are vital in turning your vision into reality and ensuring that your project meets your aesthetic and functional requirements. Choosing the right architect for your project can be challenging, especially if you are on a limited budget. Below are essential tips and considerations when searching for the best architectural firm.
Set Your Project Goals
Before searching for an architect, define your project’s goals and needs. Note everything that comes to mind including design, colors, budget, and the type of roof you want. Defining your objectives will help you find an architect whose expertise aligns with your vision.
Some architects specialize in distinct design philosophies and approaches. We recommend going with a firm whose design style aligns with your vision. Having your project goals on paper will also help you during the design meetings with your architect and structural engineer.
Review Credentials and Licensing
Once you have a list of architectural firms that fit your project goals, the next step is to verify their credentials. Ensure that the architects have the necessary credentials to practice in your region.
Licensed professionals know everything about the building regulations in your region. This will come in handy when applying for planning permissions and building regulations approval before breaking ground.
Read Reviews and Check Portfolios
Searching “architects’ firms near me” on the internet will lead you to websites and social media pages of architects. Visit the websites and check out some of the projects they have worked on. This will give you a look into the architect’s design philosophies and approach.
Reviews are crucial as they will help you learn more about the architect’s professionalism and customer service. Look at what other past clients are saying about the architectural firm. You will spend big bucks, so it’s only fair that you work with the best professionals in the field.
Ask for recommendations from friends or family who have used architect services before. Recommendations are great, especially if you don’t have too much time. If you cannot find recommendations, contact past clients from an architect you are interested in.
Consider Your Budget
Budget is crucial when hiring an architect for your project. Experienced architects are expensive and bring more than just design ideas to the table. Discuss the firm’s fee structure and contract terms in detail.
Ensure that you have a clear understanding of how fees are calculated and what services are included. Ask about any additional costs that may come up during the project.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the right architect firm near you is a critical decision that can impact the outcome of your construction or extension project. A well-qualified and experienced architect can turn your dreams into reality while ensuring a smooth and successful construction journey.
As we start thinking about future travel plans, our travel expert Carrie Mandala recommends the beautiful location of Patagonia. Carrie is a Virtuoso travel agent. She has first-hand knowledge of properties, tour companies, cruise lines, and more. It is beneficial to use a Virtuoso agent, like Carrie, because she can provide a glimpse into a world of in-the-know expertise, unbelievable travel perks, provide superior support throughout your travels, and – most importantly – a warmer welcome, deeper connections, and superior experiences in the places you choose to visit. You can contact Carrie HERE to start planning your trip!!! Now let’s go to Patagonia!!!!
Los Cuernos over Lake Pehoe, Torres del Paine National ParkPatagonia: Discover Two Countries In OnePatagonia, a stunning gem in South America stretching from Chile to Argentina, is a must-see destination teeming with fjords, glaciers, deserts, lakes, mountains, and vast untouched nature. This expansive, beautiful region is best experienced from September to February, during the continent’s spring and summer. 
Trekking Perito Moreno Glacier | EOLO – Patagonia’s Spirit Hotel – Relais & ChateauxOn the Argentinian side, explore the Perito Moreno Glacier with crampons, or take in its chilly grandeur from the water on a boat cruise. The village of El Chaltren, found in the UNESCO-ranked Los Glaciares National Park, is where you gear up before hiking closer to the peaks of Fitz Roy and reaching the Laguna de los Tres viewpoint. If you want to extend your stay in this magnificent area consider eco-dome glamping, with panoramic views of Fitz Roy, just six miles outside of town. For a more glam stay, the Relais & Chateaux finery of the 17-room Eolo lodge offers a tranquil escape.
Bariloche | Cerro Catedral Ski ResortFor an urban fix, make the charming four-season town of Bariloche, Argentina, your base. Travel & Leisure magazine recently crowned it Patagonia’s “most charming town.” It’s also considered the chocolate capital of the country, so make sure to pick up a few artisanal bars while exploring the main shopping street, La Calle Mitre. Visit July through September if you are a skier – nearby, Cerro Catedral is a large and modern ski resort. Summer visitors can enjoy the natural charms of Nahuel Huapi National Park, where the largest and deepest lake of the region has long lured outdoor explorers.In a world where wellness trends come and go, one particular therapy is gaining steady attention for its promising benefits—Red Light Therapy. Imagine lying down on a bed that bathes you in a gentle, warm glow, providing not just relaxation but a myriad of health advantages. Welcome to the world of Red Light Therapy beds, where science meets serenity. The House of Hush in Greenwich offers Red Light Therapy. I recently visited their beautiful new Glenville location and used the Red Light Therapy Bed. For those interested here is more information about this amazing service:
Understanding Red Light Therapy:
Red Light Therapy, also known as Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or photobiomodulation, involves exposure to low levels of red or near-infrared light. This non-invasive treatment has been praised for its ability to penetrate the skin and stimulate a variety of cellular processes.
How does it work?
At its core, Red Light Therapy harnesses the power of specific wavelengths of light to interact with cells. When these wavelengths penetrate the skin, they are absorbed by mitochondria, the powerhouse of our cells. This interaction sparks a cascade of cellular events, promoting increased energy production, improved circulation, and enhanced cellular repair.
Benefits of Red Light Therapy Beds:
- Skin Rejuvenation: Red Light Therapy is a go-to for those seeking youthful, radiant skin. By stimulating collagen production and promoting tissue repair, it reduces wrinkles, fine lines, and promotes a more even skin tone.
- Muscle Recovery: Athletes and fitness enthusiasts are turning to Red Light Therapy for accelerated muscle recovery. The increased circulation and reduced inflammation contribute to faster healing after intense workouts or injuries.
- Pain Relief: Chronic pain sufferers find relief in Red Light Therapy. The anti-inflammatory effects of the treatment can alleviate pain associated with conditions such as arthritis, joint disorders, and muscle strains.
- Improved Sleep: The calming effect of Red Light Therapy on the nervous system can contribute to better sleep quality. Many users report improved sleep patterns and a reduction in insomnia symptoms.
- Mood Enhancement: Light has a profound impact on our mood, and Red Light Therapy is no exception. The treatment has been linked to increased production of serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, promoting an overall sense of well-being.
- Wound Healing: Red Light Therapy has shown promise in accelerating wound healing and tissue repair. It can be a valuable addition to post-surgery recovery protocols.
In the pursuit of holistic well-being, Red Light Therapy beds emerge as a beacon of hope, combining scientific principles with the blissful experience of relaxation. Whether seeking youthful skin, faster recovery, or relief from chronic pain, the warm embrace of red and near-infrared light might just be the answer. As we bask in the glow of this innovative therapy, the future of wellness looks illuminated and promising.
To contact the House of Hush or to book your own appointment click HERE.