Tag: Medical Care

Dec 09

What to Know About Body Acne

Acne, a chronic skin condition, is a prevalent concern affecting people worldwide. Research indicates that up to 9.4% of the global population has encountered acne at some point in their lives. The spectrum of acne varies, from mild cases to severe inflammation and cyst formation, and it primarily involves the blockage or inflammation of pilosebaceous units, which are hair follicles found throughout the body. In the United States, more than 50 million people grapple with acne every year, yet only 5.1 million of them actively seek dermatological treatment. This discrepancy between the large number of individuals affected by acne and those who receive professional care underscores the need for increased awareness and access to effective treatments. Notably, the frequency of acne in adults, including body acne, has been on the rise since 2013, with approximately 15% of individuals with this skin condition being women. This shift in demographics emphasizes that acne is not solely a concern of adolescence, and its impact is felt across a broader age spectrum, potentially due to the complex interplay of factors like hormonal fluctuations, lifestyle changes, and environmental influences. Raising awareness about the availability of effective treatments and the importance of seeking professional advice can go a long way in improving the quality of life for those affected by this common dermatological condition. Understanding the Causes of Body Acne The development and severity of body acne can be influenced by a broad spectrum of factors, encompassing age, dietary habits, stress levels, sleep patterns, weight, drug and alcohol consumption, genetic predisposition, and the regularity of the menstrual cycle. These multifaceted factors interact in various ways, shaping the manifestation and persistence of acne on the body. While acne is commonly associated with the teenage years, it can also affect individuals well into their early adulthood, between the ages of 21 and 25, particularly those with naturally oily skin. Moreover, it’s crucial to recognize that body acne is not solely limited to these age groups, as it can afflict individuals of all ages. The impact of body acne extends beyond its physical aspects; it often becomes a source of low self-esteem, heightened anxiety, and even clinical depression, underscoring the significance of addressing this condition to improve not only skin health but also overall well-being. Varieties of Body Acne 1. Acne Mechanica: This type of body acne is often triggered by continuous contact with sports equipment, a condition referred to as acne mechanica. Intense physical activity combined with sweat and friction from sports gear can lead to skin irritation, resulting in rashes and breakouts. The location of these breakouts varies according to the specific sports equipment used. For example, athletes who wear helmets, such as cyclists or football players, may develop pimples on their forehead, scalp, neck, and chin. Hikers might experience acne on their shoulders and back due to the weight of heavy backpacks. Dancers and gymnasts can develop acne on their backs and chests, especially when wearing synthetic fabrics for extended periods. Symptoms of acne mechanica range from small, colorless skin bumps to painful cysts, but with proper treatment, it usually clears up in about six weeks. 2. Acne Cosmetica: This form of body acne is caused by certain hair products that clog pores, typically appearing along the hairline and the back of the neck, but it may extend to the back, shoulders, and chest depending on hair length. Dermatologists identify this condition as acne cosmetica. Many shampoos, conditioners, and styling products contain oils and silicones, which can lead to the development of bumps and whiteheads. The most effective remedy for this type of body acne is discontinuing the use of the product responsible for the breakouts. 3. Other Causes of Body Acne: Poor hygiene and excessive sweating are common culprits for body acne. Sweating can clear pores, but when dirt, oil, and dead skin cells block them, body acne can emerge. Regularly cleaning your skin is the primary way to address this issue. Sun exposure can also trigger body acne, as sunburned skin tends to dry out, leading the body to produce more oil, which can clog pores and cause acne in the affected areas. Treating and Preventing Body Acne Managing mild body acne can be achieved through various methods without the need for dermatological intervention. Once the underlying cause of the breakouts is identified, you can choose from these acne-clearing strategies: 1. Avoid Pore-Clogging Cosmetic Products: Examine the hair and body products you regularly use and reduce those that contain oils, waxes, or silicones. Opt for grooming products labeled as non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. 2. Maintain Clean Fabrics: Ensure that items such as pillowcases, bedsheets, caps, hats, headbands, sportswear, and sports gear are regularly laundered to prevent cosmetic products, sweat, and dead skin cells from accumulating. 3. Prevent Acne Mechanica: Athletes can enjoy sports without acne mechanica by paying attention to certain details, such as using padding to reduce friction, wearing dry-fit sportswear, choosing loose-fitting clothing when possible, avoiding the sharing of protective gear, changing into clean clothes regularly, and wiping down communal workout equipment. 4. Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen generously when spending time outdoors, opting for an oil-free option with the following characteristics: non-comedogenic and broad-spectrum with SPF 30 or higher. 5. Maintain Skin Hygiene: Regular showers, especially after using heavy products or excessive sweating, are crucial. Use a gentle cleanser with non-comedogenic ingredients, wash your skin gently, and pat it dry with a clean towel. Changing into clean, dry clothes, if unable to shower immediately after physical activity, is advisable. When to Consult a Dermatologist While mild body acne can often be effectively managed through self-care, there are instances where it persists despite these efforts. If your skin remains bumpy and prone to breakouts after several weeks of implementing the aforementioned measures, it’s advisable to seek professional medical advice. Dermatologists, who specialize in skin health, may recommend over-the-counter products containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, as these topical treatments are highly effective in treating body acne and usually do not require a prescription.

Oct 13

How Is a Yeast Infection Treated?

Yeast infections, caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast, can manifest in various parts of the body, including the skin, mouth, throat, or vagina. The symptoms of yeast infections depend on their location and may include inflamed and itchy skin, white patches in the mouth, or thick white vaginal discharge. These infections can be effectively treated with antifungal medications, available as creams, suppositories, or oral tablets, either over-the-counter or by prescription. Before attempting to self-treat a yeast infection, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Whether it’s a vaginal yeast infection or another type, a healthcare provider can perform an examination and oversee the appropriate treatment. Treatment options vary depending on the type, area, and severity of the yeast infection. Vaginal Yeast Infections Vaginal yeast infections occur when natural yeast in the vagina overgrows, leading to an infection. The primary medications used to treat vaginal yeast infections belong to the azole drug class of antifungals, including: Lotrimin, Micatin, and Trosyd are available as over-the-counter vaginal creams or suppositories. These treatments come in one-, three-, or seven-day courses. Terazol 7 and Gynazole 1 are prescription alternatives typically used for more severe infections. Diflucan, an oral medication, is particularly effective for severe yeast infections or recurrent cases. However, it is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the developing fetus. Diflucan may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners. For some individuals, Diflucan can cause mild side effects like headaches, rashes, or upset stomach. For recurrent vaginal yeast infections, healthcare providers may suggest using boric acid suppositories, although this use is not currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Research has indicated that combining antifungal treatment with boric acid suppositories can be effective in treating recurrent yeast infections. Skin Yeast Infections Yeast infections on the skin often occur in areas with moisture and skin folds. These infections can also affect the groin, penis, or fingernails. Treatment involves keeping the infected skin clean and dry and applying a cream azole antifungal for approximately two weeks. Commonly used medicated creams include: In cases where the infection is close to a wetter area like the mouth, Nystop (nystatin), a different type of antifungal called polyenes, may be recommended. Severe skin infections might require oral tablets such as Diflucan or Sporanox (itraconazole). For individuals with uncircumcised penises experiencing recurrent yeast infections, healthcare providers may suggest hygiene practices, including daily cleansing under the foreskin. In some cases, foreskin tightness may contribute to the infections, requiring different treatment approaches. Oral Thrush Oral thrush results from yeast overgrowth in the mouth or throat, leading to white patches and a sore throat. Treatment typically involves the use of azoles or polyenes, including: Micatin and Nystop liquids are commonly used for thrush, applied to the mouth or throat four times daily for seven to 14 days. Nystop tablets may also be prescribed for oral yeast infections. In rare cases, severe oral thrush or non-responsive infections may necessitate oral Diflucan tablets. Yeast Diaper Rash Yeast diaper rashes, often characterized by scaly yellow or red patches in the diaper area and skin folds, should be managed by frequent diaper changes, maintaining dryness, and applying antifungal polyene or azole creams such as: Nystop, a prescription cream, is typically applied four times daily for two weeks. If there is no improvement within three days, healthcare providers may recommend switching to an azole antifungal. Over-the-counter options like Lotrimin and Micatin are applied twice daily for up to 10 days. In severe cases of yeast diaper rash, healthcare providers may suggest the use of a 1% hydrocortisone topical steroid ointment. Esophageal Candidiasis Individuals with compromised immune systems are susceptible to yeast infections in the esophagus. Treatment involves oral or intravenous (IV) medications such as: Diflucan tablets are the primary choice for treating esophageal yeast infections and are typically taken for 14 to 21 days. In cases where swallowing medication is uncomfortable, daily Diflucan IVs may be administered until oral medications are tolerable. Mycamine daily IVs for two weeks or once-daily Sporanox or twice-daily Vfend tablets for 14 to 21 days are alternative options. Invasive Candidiasis Invasive candidiasis, a rare but severe yeast infection affecting the bloodstream or internal organs, is treated with IV antifungal medications, including echinocandins (e.g., Cancidas and Mycamine), Diflucan (fluconazole), or Abelcet (amphotericin B). Diflucan is commonly the initial treatment choice, with blood yeast infections treated for about two weeks until symptoms and blood tests indicate the absence of Candida yeasts. Invasive candidiasis affecting bones, joints, heart, or the central nervous system requires longer treatment durations. Some Candida yeast strains have developed resistance to common treatments like Diflucan, leading to reduced effectiveness. In such cases, echinocandin IVs may be employed, as they can combat some azole-resistant yeasts while causing fewer side effects and drug interactions. Abelcet, an option for life-threatening fungal infections, is used with caution due to potential kidney damage and is not typically the first choice of treatment. Living With and Managing Yeast Infections Yeast infections, while uncomfortable, are typically not emergencies and can be effectively managed with appropriate treatment. Consulting a healthcare provider is crucial for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. In cases of recurrent yeast infections (four or more per year), underlying health conditions like diabetes or weakened immune systems may be contributing factors, and lifestyle changes or alternative treatments may be recommended. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as changing out of sweaty clothes and avoiding hot baths, can help prevent vaginal yeast infections. For individuals prone to recurrent infections, healthcare providers may offer guidance on additional measures to reduce their occurrence. In summary, yeast infections, although common and often treatable with antifungal medications, require careful diagnosis and treatment tailored to the specific type and severity of the infection. Seeking medical guidance ensures effective management and, when necessary, prevents complications associated with severe yeast infections.

Sep 05

This summer, some people with ADHD are going on “medication holidays”—but is that wise?

Some TikTok producers are bragging about the positive effects of taking a break from their ADHD medication, which is also known as a “medication holiday,” “medication vacation,” or “drug holiday.” Taking a break from medication over the weekend may provide some persons with ADHD with a welcome change of pace. However, some TikTok parents are advocating for a lengthy break from their child’s ADHD medication throughout the summer months. Anish Ranjan Dube, MD, head of the Council on Children, Adolescents, and Their Families at the American Psychiatric Association, noted that the decision to take such a break from doctor-prescribed medicine is not one-size-fits-all and should not be swayed by individuals on social media platforms. Because of differences in biology, severity of the pathology, and circumstances, “recommendations by individual users or content based on the personal experiences of such users may have social value in that others may relate to them,” he told Health. Dr. David Goodman, an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Johns Hopkins University, concurs. He pointed out that many of the individuals sharing their personal experiences on social media have had really unusual ones. Goodman, director of the Adult Attention Deficit Disorder Center of Maryland, told Health that “all those lived experiences are very individual and so what one person says has worked or hasn’t worked for them doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s going to work or not work for you.” Call your doctor or pharmacist for guidance regularly. Possible Consequences of Abandoning ADHD Medication Many TikTok users with ADHD create the idea in their “medication vacations” that the medicine’s effects would disappear as soon as they stop taking it. According to Goodman, stimulant medicine, the standard treatment for ADHD, fits this description. Stopping the usage of a stimulant drug will have little to no effect on your condition. “In terms of how long it will be in your system, it will be gone from your body after a day following your final dose. “The benefit is recaptured when you use it again,” he explained. Goodman, however, cautioned that it takes a few of weeks to detect an impact if you quit using non-stimulants like atomoxetine or viloxazine.1 It takes two weeks for the effects of non-stimulants to become noticeable, and even after discontinuing use, the effects might linger for up to two weeks. This is similar to the mechanism of action of antidepressants. The Case for Taking a Break From Medicating Their Kids There are a number of scenarios in which parents could consider temporarily suspending their child’s ADHD medication treatment. Some parents have taken to TikTok to announce that they are weaning their child off of ADHD medication so that the youngster may be more like their “true self.” Goodman suggested that parents’ concerns about their children’s “muted down” emotional reactions and social participation may be what they mean. To combat their focus problems in the classroom, some kids take medication for ADHD.2 Dube speculated that these children would be able to handle a pharmaceutical break throughout the summer without suffering any ill effects. In any case, he emphasized that certain people (particularly teenagers) may have symptoms of ADHD that are debilitating while activities such as driving, causing easy distractibility or carelessness, thus it is necessary for them to continue taking their meds. A pharmaceutical holiday may trigger a return of symptoms and accompanying impairment “if the medication is helping treat a symptom (or symptoms) that severely affect(s) multiple aspects of one’s life,” as stated by Dube. According to the article, “in such cases, it may be more beneficial to remain on the medication.” Goodman said that stimulants can cause children and teenagers to lose weight and height, which is another reason why parents would want their children to take a break from the medicine.3 The idea is that “the impact on appetite and weight will be less if you decrease the exposure [of medication] over time,” he added. Do Adults Benefit from Taking a Break from Their Medications? Goodman stressed the need of maintaining regular dosing for people who have been diagnosed with ADHD and provided medication. Because “ADHD symptoms show up in work, social relationships, and emotional control,” he advised taking medication around the clock. “Adults are also not as worried about their size as kids are.” However, he did say that there are times when pausing or changing medication is required. Reducing Adverse Reactions to ADHD Drugs According to Goodman, people can experiment with different dosages of ADHD medicine until they discover the optimal one. However, if undesirable symptoms emerge, doctors may reduce the dosage. “Before you change the dose, you have to figure out if the side effects are from the ADHD medication or are a function of additional medication that was added that is now having an interaction with your ADHD medication,” he said. Avoiding withdrawal symptoms by suddenly quitting pharmaceutical use is not recommended. Goodman claims that “more than 30 different stimulant preparations are available.” As the prognosis goes, “it’s very likely you can find something that you can take that does what it’s supposed to do, that lasts as long as you’d like it to last, and doesn’t cause problems.” Preventing Problems with Tolerance Tolerance problems are cited by several TikTokers as the cause for their drug break. Goodman, however, claims that most persons suffer micro-tolerance, meaning that the following day’s dose has a greater impact if the previous day’s dose was missed. According to Goodman, when tolerance becomes a major problem requiring additional review, this is known as macro-tolerance and is related to the gradual increase in dosage over time. That’s physiologic tolerance, where you need a higher dose to get the same effect, which is why you went from 10 mg to 20 mg to 116 mg after five years. That’s a major issue,” he remarked. It’s Important to See a Doctor Goodman recommended discussing the possibility of getting a tattoo with a physician before giving in to peer

Sep 05

Is Adderall in Short Supply? Challenges: What You Need to Know Taking the ADD Drugs

The FDA reported a shortage of Adderall, a medicine used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The announcement follows weeks of complaints from customers and pharmacists about difficulties obtaining the medication. This is the second time in recent years that the government agency has recognized a scarcity of Adderall, also known as amphetamine mixed salts pills. The FDA detected a shortage in September of 2019, but by May of 2022, the problem had been remedied. Aurobindo Pharma, Lannett Company, Milan Pharmaceuticals, Sandoz, and Teva Pharmaceuticals were the five drug manufacturers hit by the Adderall shortage. Teva, one of these pharmaceutical firms, is suffering manufacturing delays that are generating the current shortage, as was indicated in the FDA’s press statement reinstating the formal shortage. In September, an FDA spokeswoman assured Health that the agency still anticipated having sufficient supply to fulfill demand, despite the difficulties that Teva would be experiencing over the following months. The agency, however, now claims that rival producers are falling behind. The FDA noted in a news statement that while “other manufacturers continue to produce amphetamine mixed salts,” their output is insufficient to fulfill the current demand in the United States. Teva, the leading U.S. supplier of both original and generic Adderall, acknowledged delays of the medicine in September and stated that they should be temporary. A representative for Teva, Kelly Dougherty, told Health that while certain customers “may encounter a backorder (intermittently) based on timing and demand,” such delays are usually short-lived. “We are actively shipping both branded and generic Adderall to customers,” the company said, adding that “we expect full recovery for all inventory and orders in the coming weeks, at which point we expect no disruption at the pharmacy level.” Before the announcement on Wednesday, doctors and patients have been sounding the alarm in interviews with media sites including BuzzFeed News, Bloomberg, and NBC News about the difficulty of maintaining enough supplies of Adderall. Sixty-four percent of community pharmacists surveyed by the National Community Pharmacists Association in August said they had trouble getting Adderall in for their patients. The FDA has verified the accounts of patients and clinicians, yet many still have trouble getting their hands on life-changing medications. What you need to know about buying Adderall and what to do if you run across problems doing so are detailed below. Increased demand complicates already challenging supply conditions. Limited availability of the medicine was reportedly caused by a manpower shortfall at Teva, as reported by Bloomberg. Dougherty stated that there is “no product shortage on our end,” and that “any noted delays are the downstream effect of a past labor shortage on the packaging line which has since been resolved.” More people using Adderall at the same time has led to shortages in recent years. The use of amphetamines like Adderall was already on the rise before to the COVID-19 epidemic, with consumption tripling between 2006 and 2016; nevertheless, the pandemic accelerated the trend. Iqvia Holdings found that prescriptions for Adderall climbed by more than 10% between 2020 and 2021 as a result of lockdowns, and that the number of telemedicine visits, especially those dealing with mental health difficulties, increased. The New York Times noted that several of the start-up businesses that began offering telemedicine mental health services during the epidemic, such as Cerebral Inc. and Done Global Inc., have come under fire for potentially overprescribing the ADHD medicines. In May, Cerebral announced that they will “indefinitely” discontinue dispensing restricted medications including Adderall, Ritalin, and others. The Wall Street Journal states that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is also looking into the prescription procedures of Done. If Your Pharmacy Is Out of Your Medications, What to Do The best way to avoid having to go without Adderall is to get your prescription refilled as soon as possible. “That way you have time to find another pharmacy that stocks your medication if your usual pharmacy is out-of-stock,” Farah Khorassani, PharmD, associate clinical professor at the University of California, Irvine School of drugstore & Pharmaceutical Sciences told Health. If your pharmacy is out of Adderall, Khorassani suggests calling around to other pharmacies in the area, or having your pharmacist do so on your behalf. Alex Dimitriu, MD, founder of Menlo Park Psychiatry & Sleep Medicine and BrainfoodMD, advised checking into mobile or mail-order pharmacies if your regular drugstore was out of stock. According to Sonia Gaur, MD, a psychiatrist at Stanford Health Care, you may wish to urge your healthcare physician to phone your prescription into a new pharmacy. If the drug becomes increasingly difficult to obtain due to the shortage, you and your doctor may want to consider switching to a different type of stimulant prescription. As part of its shortage statement, the FDA suggested that patients who were unable to obtain Adderall consult with their doctors about using other forms of medication, such as extended-release forms of amphetamine mixed salts. However, because withdrawal symptoms from stopping Adderall or any other medicine can be severe, it’s not a good idea to do so without first consulting a doctor. According to Guar, “the risk profile is based on multiple factors,” including “comorbid diagnoses,” “length of taking medications,” and “medication dose.” In addition to affecting your energy and mood, abruptly changing your drug regimen may cause you to feel more exhausted and hungry than normal. Dr. Dimitriu says that fortunately, you should only have these symptoms for approximately a week. If you forget to refill your prescription in time and run out of medicine, Dr. Dimitriu advises starting with a lesser dosage and gradually building back up. If you have tried everything and can’t find your medication, talk to your doctor about other possibilities and make getting enough sleep a top priority. “Sleep is essential to ADHD and our attention, focus, and impulse control,” Dr. Dimitriu stated, “so make sure you keep sleeping well (over seven hours) whether on meds or off.”

Sep 05

What Is COVID-19 Anxiety?

Experiencing anxiety related to COVID-19 is a normal response to the various challenges and uncertainties brought about by the pandemic. The disruptions in daily life, social isolation, and concerns about the health and well-being of oneself and loved ones can trigger feelings of anxiety and stress. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on society since its onset in March 2020. The highly contagious nature of the SARS-CoV-2 virus has necessitated significant changes in how people interact, work, and travel. The widespread transmission of the virus has placed a strain on healthcare systems, leading to overwhelmed hospitals and increased anxiety in the population.1 The mental health implications of the pandemic are substantial. From March 2020 to January 2021, an estimated 76 million people were diagnosed with anxiety, representing a 25% increase compared to the period from 2010 to 2019 when 30 million people were diagnosed. These statistics highlight the significant impact of the pandemic on mental well-being and the prevalence of anxiety-related concerns. COVID-19 Anxiety Symptoms Anxiety is a prevalent mental health condition characterized by intense feelings of fear and apprehension in response to perceived threats. There are various types of anxiety disorders, including phobias, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Despite their distinct features, these disorders often share common symptoms and manifestations.3 Individuals with anxiety disorders commonly experience symptoms such as: Additionally, anxiety can lead to the avoidance of situations or activities that were once enjoyable or deemed as safe. These symptoms can significantly impact an individual’s daily functioning and overall quality of life.3 What Causes COVID-19 Anxiety? The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on mental health, leading to the development or exacerbation of anxiety symptoms in many individuals. Various factors related to the pandemic have contributed to heightened anxiety levels among the population. One prominent factor is the pervasive uncertainty surrounding the virus itself. During the early stages of the pandemic, there was limited knowledge about the novel coronavirus, including its transmission, treatment, and long-term effects. The uncertainty surrounding these aspects created a sense of fear and concern among individuals, leading to increased anxiety. Social isolation and disrupted daily routines have also played a significant role in anxiety development. The necessary measures to contain the spread of the virus, such as lockdowns and physical distancing, resulted in limited social interactions and disrupted regular activities. The prolonged periods of isolation and the loss of familiar routines have contributed to feelings of loneliness, distress, and heightened anxiety. Financial worries have been another significant stressor for many individuals during the pandemic. The economic impact of the crisis, including job losses, reduced income, and financial instability, has caused significant distress and anxiety for individuals and families. The uncertainty surrounding employment and financial security has added an additional layer of anxiety to the already challenging circumstances. Healthcare providers and frontline workers have faced immense stress and anxiety throughout the pandemic. Overwhelmed healthcare systems, increased workload, and the risk of exposure to the virus have taken a toll on the mental health of these individuals. The constant pressure and demands placed on healthcare professionals have contributed to heightened anxiety levels. While the availability of COVID-19 vaccines and improved treatment options may have alleviated some of the initial uncertainties and stress, new variants such as Delta and Omicron have introduced new concerns and anxieties. The ever-evolving nature of the virus and its potential impact on public health can contribute to ongoing anxiety among individuals. Risk Factors Certain factors can increase an individual’s vulnerability to developing anxiety in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Understanding these risk factors can help identify individuals who may require additional support and intervention. Some key risk factors include: How Is COVID-19 Anxiety Diagnosed? Healthcare providers play a crucial role in identifying and assessing anxiety disorders. During a screening or evaluation, they may employ various methods to gather information and determine the presence of anxiety. Here is a general outline of the process: Treatments for COVID-19 Anxiety Treating anxiety often involves an interdisciplinary approach. For example, a healthcare provider may advise a mix of psychotherapy, medication, support groups, or stress management techniques. Psychotherapy Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is an effective treatment option for addressing anxiety related to COVID-19 and other concerns. Here are some common types of psychotherapy used to alleviate anxiety: Medication Medications can be a valuable tool in managing anxiety symptoms, although they do not provide a cure for anxiety. Here are some classes of medications commonly prescribed for anxiety: Support Groups Support groups can be a valuable resource for individuals with anxiety. Connecting with others who share similar experiences and concerns can provide a sense of belonging, validation, and support. Here are some key benefits of joining a support group: In addition to in-person support groups, many organizations offer virtual support groups, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Online support groups can provide a convenient and accessible way to connect with others, particularly for individuals who may have limited access to local support groups or prefer the anonymity of virtual interactions. The Anxiety & Depression Association of America (ADAA) is a reputable resource that offers a directory of support groups, both in-person and online. Exploring their directory or reaching out to mental health organizations in your area can help you find a support group that aligns with your needs and preferences. Stress Management Techniques Stress management techniques are valuable tools for reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being. Here are some commonly recommended techniques that can help alleviate stress: How To Prevent COVID-19 Anxiety Taking proactive steps to prevent stress and fear related to COVID-19 can be empowering and help alleviate anxiety. Here are some precautions you can take: Assess Your Risk Assessing your risk of contracting COVID-19 can indeed empower you and help alleviate anxiety. Here are some steps you can take to determine your risk: Remember that assessing risk is about gaining a sense of control and making informed decisions rather than increasing anxiety. By actively engaging in this process,