Latest news with #Affective
Daily Mirror
01-08-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Mrs Brown's Boys makes return to BBC tonight as controversial show divides viewers
It's the shows that divides the nation. Mrs Brown's Boys is back for a new series - whether you like it or not... The garish opening theme titles of Mrs Brown's Boys (Friday, BBC1, 9.30pm) will either spark joy or set your teeth on edge - it's the return of the Marmite show that splits the nation. From the moment 'Mammy' (Brendan O'Carroll) appears like a Pantomime Dame in her floral dress and cardigan, millions of viewers fall about laughing. The other half of the nation scrambles for the remote and switches off immediately. For every person who loves the crude innuendo, toilet humour and expletive-filled slapstick, there is another who would rather gouge their eyes out of their head than watch a single second. As this four-part series arrives, you can expect more of the same. Agnes continues to meddle in the lives of her nearest and dearest, with plotlines including helping Winnie to pass her driving test and Agnes discovering a passion for erotic fiction. Meanwhile Grandad has SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) and won't move out of his chair, while Buster (Brendan's son Danny O'Carroll) tries to start a new dog walking business. The jokes are so well signposted that the studio audience is ready to cheer or boo at every line, with bloopers kept in for extra gag points. There's also the usual monologue message at the end, with a wink to camera. In this episode, Agnes unwittingly becomes the subject of a new podcast, sending her daughter Cathy (Brendan's wife Jennifer Ann O'Carroll) into a tailspin. Agnes says of the podcast: 'Who in their right mind is going to listen to that? What a load of Sh***!'... an observation that some viewers of this sitcom may well relate to. Mrs Brown's Boys is airing on BBC One tonight at 9.30pm There's plenty more on TV tonight - here's the best of the rest... FIRST DATES, CHANNEL 4, 10pm Former banished Traitors contestant Ash Bibi is in the restaurant for a date, though she admits she's hopeless at flirting. Fortunately Fred Sirieix is on hand to give her a crash course in romantic banter. Ash's date is Miguel, a 46-year-old self-confessed cheesy Spanish poet, but will the pair enter into a 'faithful' relationship? Also in the restaurant is 22-year-old luxury sales assistant Dominic, who is looking for a geek with heart who can handle his big personality. Enter Stephen, a sound engineer armed with a library of one-liners. Self-proclaimed smoothie Wayne from Kent is a handyman who can fix almost anything... except his love life. With a ukulele in hand he's hoping to serenade music-lover Teresa. And superyacht steward Natasha is back for the second time, still on the lookout for a man who can sweep her off her feet. Her date, Jack from Ipswich, is a prison manager who insists that he's more of a lover than a fighter. CHIEF OF WAR, APPLE TV+ Who else could play Hawaii's ferocious warrior than Hawaiian-born American movie star Jason Momoa? Even on a normal day, he looks like a warrior. Based on true events, this epic saga follows what happens with Hawaii's four kingdoms divided by war. Told from an indigenous perspective, with a predominantly Polynesian cast, this is a passion project for creators, Momoa and Thomas Pa'a Sibbett, who both have native Hawaiian heritage. Set against the stunning backdrop of the islands of Hawaii, the nine episode large-scale production tells the story of the unification and colonisation of Hawaii at the turn of the 18th century. Momoa leads the show as warrior Ka'iana, who embarks on a mission to unite his people as an existential threat approaches their shores. Expect stunning scenery, epic battles, heartfelt emotion, tribal allegiances and a fight for peace. Momoa says: 'It's a story rooted in my home, my culture, and my heart.' EMMERDALE, ITV1, 7.30pm After John planted a listening device and discovered some dirt on his brother, things are going from bad to worse for Robert. After being stabbed in the leg by Kyle, Dylan is in a bad way but refuses to talk to anyone. Celia feels annoyed with Kim for raising the rent. Now she just needs a plan to retaliate. Lewis encourages Ross to stop wasting his time and win Steph back. Will Ross take his brother's advice on board? CORONATION STREET, ITV1, 8pm It's the anniversary of Becky's death and Lisa is struggling. At a therapy session, she admits that she thinks there was more to it than meets the eye and wonders if Becky was in some way corrupt. At the garage, Kevin tells Carl he's sacked as he simply can't trust him anymore. Todd plays it down when Billy calls round and sees bedding on the sofa. Bernie and Aadi go over the wedding plans, trying to keep the cost down.
Hindustan Times
30-07-2025
- Climate
- Hindustan Times
Seasonal anxiety during monsoon: Psychologist shares 5 causes and 7 tips to manage it efficiently
Monsoon's gloomy skies are contagious and not in a good sense either, as they are making people gloomy too. Often we don't talk about uncomfortable truths (universal coping mechanism!) and like to view monsoon as poetic, and choose to write lyrical pieces about the wind, petrichor and the sound of rain. But this is just surface-level romanticisation, because deep down, the monsoon season brings seasonal anxiety as well. During monsoon, many people experience mood and anxiety.(Shutterstock) Narendra Kinger, Consultant Clinical Psychologist & Psychotherapist at Holy Family Hospital, Bandra, Mumbai, shared with HT Lifestyle how people get anxious, to the point of getting anxiety attacks. He said, 'A growing number of individuals, this season marks a rise in unease, mood fluctuations, and even anxiety attacks. We often see a notable uptick in mental health consultations during the monsoon months, and there's a strong physiological and psychological basis behind this trend.' While having tea and fritters by a window on a rainy day may sound like a reasonable option (the way it's romanticised, tea and monsoon are practically married), it still may not fill the void left by the changes brought on by the season. Understanding the reasons behind this emotional shift and actively attempting to reduce its impact (not just by retreating to comfort foods) is the solution to navigating monsoon-induced anxiety with more clarity. ALSO READ: Beyond chai, pakoras this monsoon: Try these 9 recipes and snack pairings for rainy days Narendra Kinger shared a guide covering the reasons why monsoon triggers anxiety and what one can do to reduce it: Reasons why people are more anxious in monsoon AI can help personalise treatment for anxiety.(Shutterstock) 1. Reduced sunlight and disrupted circadian rhythms Less exposure to natural sunlight affects serotonin production, a key neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation. Diminished daylight also disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to poor sleep, which is directly linked to increased anxiety. 2. Barometric pressure and sensory overload Shifts in barometric pressure can affect inner ear balance and trigger a physical sense of unease. Persistent rain sounds, dark skies, and damp environments create sensory stressors that may exacerbate symptoms in those already prone to anxiety. 3. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) with an anxious edge While SAD is more commonly associated with winter, it is also seen in the monsoon. Its monsoon variant in tropical climates often includes symptoms like restlessness, irritability, and agitation, a departure from the typical depressive presentation. These signs are often misread or dismissed as mood swings. 4. Increased isolation and lifestyle changes Frequent rains can restrict social interaction and physical activity, especially for the elderly or those with chronic illnesses. A lack of movement and socialisation contributes to feelings of loneliness and rumination, fertile ground for anxiety disorders. 5. Mould, dampness, and respiratory sensitivity Poor ventilation and damp indoor conditions foster mould growth, which has been linked in recent studies to neuropsychiatric symptoms, including anxiety. Those with allergies or asthma are particularly vulnerable, as respiratory distress can mimic or trigger panic attacks. How can you prevent anxiety in monsoon? Sleep helps to make you less anxious, so avoid scrolling on your phone 1-2 hours before bedtime.(Pexels.) 1. Prioritise Light Therapy Use daylight-spectrum lamps in the early morning to simulate sunlight and stabilise circadian rhythms. Even a 20-minute session can help restore energy and reduce mood disturbances. 2. Establish a sleep discipline Avoid irregular sleeping hours. Maintain a fixed bedtime, limit screen use 1–2 hours before sleeping, and consider melatonin supplements after medical consultation if insomnia persists. 3. Introduce structured movement indoors Even 15 minutes of yoga, resistance band workouts, or dance therapy can stimulate endorphins and decrease cortisol levels. Avoid skipping workouts simply because of weather limitations. 4. Limit caffeine and monitor your diet Caffeine, often consumed more during rainy, cosy days, can worsen palpitations and restlessness. Swap with calming herbal teas like chamomile or lemon balm. Avoid foods high in refined sugars that spike and crash energy levels. 5. Practice sensory grounding techniques For those experiencing anxiety spikes, grounding exercises, such as the 5-4-3-2-1 technique, help reorient the mind. Keep lavender or peppermint essential oils at hand for olfactory calming. 6. Monitor indoor environment Use dehumidifiers or anti-fungal agents to prevent mould growth. Ensure your home is well-ventilated and clean air filters regularly. Healthy air quality directly contributes to better mental clarity. 7. Visit an expert Don't wait for symptoms to escalate. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT.) It is highly effective in addressing seasonal and weather-related anxiety. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
News18
01-05-2025
- Health
- News18
Mental Health In A Heatwave: The Hidden Impact of Rising Temperatures
Last Updated: Extreme summer heat doesn't just tax the body — it deeply affects our sleep, mood, and mental resilience. The most crucial thing to know about our bodies is that good health and holistic wellness are not characterized by the absence of sickness but by a harmonious balance among body, mind, and environment. With climate change causing spikes in global temperatures, the summer heat has become an emergent public health concern. Dr. Mukesh Batra, Founder & Chairman Emeritus, Dr Batra's Healthcare, shares all you need to know: Biologically, our bodies are finely tuned to nature's rhythms, adapting not only to daily and seasonal shifts in light, temperature, and food availability but also in subtle ways that affect our emotional and cognitive states. Just as we adjust our clothing or diet to match the weather, our mental and emotional needs also fluctuate with the seasons. According to research published in ScienceDirect, there is a 2.2% increase in mental health-related mortality and a 0.9% rise in illnesses linked to mental health for every degree Celsius that the temperature increases. Changes in daylight and temperature can influence mood, energy levels, and cognitive functions — highlighting the importance of aligning our emotional and intellectual habits with these natural cycles. Harsh weather seasons, especially the extreme heat of summer, place particular demands on both our physiological and psychological functioning. The climatic extremes of soaring temperatures, extended days, and increased environmental stress tend to disrupt this delicate balance, often leading to emotional disturbances, mental exhaustion, and sometimes, severe mood disorders. Recognizing and understanding these seasonal energies is crucial for preserving emotional resilience and mental clarity. Tapping into our body's natural responses and working in conjunction with them through holistic methods — such as lifestyle adjustments, mind-body techniques, and gentle treatment approaches — can help us navigate even the most difficult seasons with inner strength and reduced mental and emotional stress. Nighttime temperatures above 25°C significantly reduce slow-wave and REM sleep cycles, which are vital for emotional processing and memory consolidation. Sleep fragmentation during summer months creates a neurobiological vulnerability to mood disorders. Epidemiologic data show a 28% increase in depression diagnoses following heatwaves lasting more than five days, with insomnia severity mediating this relationship. 2. Summer-Onset Depression Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is commonly associated with cold winters, though a lesser-known variant occurs in summer. Summer SAD presents with agitation, insomnia, and appetite suppression — unlike winter SAD, which involves hypersomnia and carbohydrate cravings. Neurobiological models suggest that extended photoperiods disrupt melatonin synthesis, while excessive light exposure downregulates serotonin receptors in the dorsal raphe nucleus. Clinicians report a 140% increase in summer-SAD cases since 2010, especially in regions experiencing more than 20 days annually above 35°C. 3. Cognitive Fatigue Long-term exposure to heat reduces cognitive processing speed. It impairs memory, concentration, and decision-making. Combined with environmental hazards such as pollution — a major issue in densely populated countries like India — the overall cognitive load may rise, making it harder to stay focused and emotionally resilient. 4. Increased Anxiety The physical response to excessive heat, such as a heightened heart rate and shortness of breath, can mimic symptoms of anxiety. For those already susceptible to panic attacks or chronic stress, this physiological crossover can trigger more frequent episodes of anxiety during summer. Mental Health Is Not Separate from Holistic Wellness Before considering specific interventions, it's important to acknowledge that mental health cannot be separated from overall wellness. True well-being stems from a dynamic balance between physical, emotional, mental, and environmental factors. During summer, when external stressors are high, this balance can easily be disrupted. Prioritizing a holistic lifestyle — with mindful hydration, nourishing foods, physical movement, emotional self-care, restorative sleep, and meaningful social connections — lays the foundation for stronger mental resilience. Supporting the body and mind as a connected system helps individuals adapt to seasonal extremes and maintain emotional stability. Homeopathy's Role in Supporting Mental Health During Summer While holistic wellness practices provide a foundation for emotional resilience, supplementary support from therapeutic systems like homeopathy can further strengthen the mind-body balance. Homeopathy approaches health by treating the individual as a whole — considering physical symptoms alongside emotional and mental states. Seasonal aggravations, like those triggered by extreme heat, are key indicators in remedy selection. Homeopathy offers a gentle way to aid the body's natural functions without harsh chemicals, making it particularly useful when the body is under prolonged external stress. Glonoinum is used when heat exposure leads to pulsating headaches, confusion, and irritability. Natrum Muraticum suits individuals who become emotionally sensitive, withdrawn, or dehydrated in summer. Gelsemium is ideal for those who feel mentally dull, fatigued, or overwhelmed. Aurum Metallicum helps stabilize deeper emotional upsets such as intense sadness or hopelessness. Ignatia Amara addresses emotional shocks, bereavement, and mood swings aggravated by environmental stressors. Kali Phos 6X is a natural de-stressor for mental and emotional exhaustion during long, sweltering days. These individualized remedies offer a subtle, non-intrusive means of helping individuals maintain equilibrium amid summer's challenges. Holistic Approaches for Stress Management in Summer Combining conscious lifestyle practices with homeopathy can significantly enhance mental wellness during summer. Staying hydrated with water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelons, and oranges helps stabilize energy and supports brain function. Environmental adjustments, such as limiting outdoor activities to cooler times of the day and using sun protection, reduce physical and mental stress. Prioritizing sleep with cooling solutions and soothing bedtime routines ensures more restful nights. Stress-management techniques like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing cultivate emotional resilience. Coping with urban stress — especially during summer commutes — is made easier with calming music, relaxation exercises, and proper hydration. Seeking professional support provides personalized care to maintain mental balance throughout the season. Parting Thoughts top videos View all India's intense summer heat and extended daylight hours demand more than just physical endurance — they call for mindful mental care. The combination of heat, sleep disruption, environmental stress, and social pressure can significantly affect cognitive and emotional well-being. Adopting a holistic lifestyle that acknowledges the interconnectedness of body, mind, and environment allows us not only to survive but also to flourish during the harshest months. By tuning into the body's signals, making thoughtful adjustments, and incorporating supportive therapies, we can navigate the summer season with increased vitality, emotional stability, and inner calm. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : beat the heat Better Mental Health delhi heatwave heatwave heatwave alert Heatwave delhi mental health conditions Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: May 01, 2025, 21:51 IST News lifestyle » health-and-fitness Mental Health In A Heatwave: The Hidden Impact of Rising Temperatures
Time Business News
25-04-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Sober Celebrations: How to Navigate Holidays in Recovery
The High Stakes of Holiday Season in Recovery The holidays, cloaked in shimmering lights and familial expectations, can be treacherous terrain for those in recovery. Amid the carols and clinking glasses lies a psychological minefield—ripe with emotional triggers, nostalgic yearnings, and subtle social coercion. For individuals navigating sobriety, these weeks aren't merely festive; they are litmus tests of resilience. Understanding how to thrive—not just survive—during this season requires intentionality, clarity of purpose, and a fortified sense of self. Balancing multiple medications demands careful consideration and expert guidance, as each therapy brings unique benefits and risks. When managing attention-deficit challenges alongside recovery protocols, it's crucial to understand how different agents work in tandem. In the heart of such treatment plans, 'suboxone and adderall' may be prescribed concurrently to address distinct aspects of brain chemistry, yet this combination requires vigilant monitoring for side effects like increased heart rate or mood fluctuations. Collaboration with healthcare providers, including pharmacists and specialists, ensures dosages are optimized for safety and efficacy. By staying informed and communicating openly, patients can navigate complex regimens with confidence and resilience. Understanding Holiday Triggers and Emotional Undercurrents Social Pressures and Cultural Norms In many circles, celebration is synonymous with indulgence. Eggnog spiked with bourbon, champagne flutes at midnight, and the unspoken expectation to 'loosen up' create an atmosphere where abstinence can feel alien. The societal script often positions sobriety as a buzzkill rather than a badge of strength. This dynamic can isolate those in recovery, pushing them toward the margins of merriment. Loneliness and Seasonal Affective Influences For others, holidays resurrect the ghosts of fractured relationships and lost time. The weight of nostalgia, compounded by shorter days and colder nights, can spiral into melancholy or relapse ideation. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which peaks in winter, exacerbates feelings of isolation, especially for those distanced from family or estranged due to the consequences of past substance use. Strategies for Safeguarding Sobriety Crafting a Detailed Holiday Plan Sobriety thrives on structure. A premeditated holiday itinerary—complete with exit strategies, recovery meetings, and sober companions—can inoculate against unforeseen stressors. Identifying high-risk events and replacing them with intentional, recovery-aligned activities empowers individuals to reclaim the season on their terms. Choosing Sober-Friendly Environments Vigilant curation of social settings is paramount. Opting for gatherings that do not center around alcohol or drugs—like potluck dinners, nature hikes, or volunteer events—provides safe harbor. When in unavoidable mixed settings, carrying a non-alcoholic beverage can neutralize peer pressure and reduce awkward inquiries. The Power of a Support System During Festivities Leveraging Peer Networks and Recovery Communities There is strength in solidarity. Regular check-ins with sponsors, virtual recovery meetings, and engagement with sober communities act as lifelines. These connections offer empathy untainted by judgment and provide a compass when old temptations resurface. Communicating Boundaries with Family and Friends Clear, proactive communication defuses potential conflict. Expressing preferences—such as requesting alcohol-free zones or declining certain traditions—signals self-respect and sets the tone for meaningful connection. Boundary-setting is not a confrontation; it's an act of self-preservation. Navigating Family Dynamics with Grace Identifying Toxic Patterns and Protecting Energy Family gatherings can stir dormant dysfunctions. Old roles, expectations, and unresolved tensions often resurface. Recognizing these patterns allows for proactive boundary implementation, such as limiting time with certain individuals or having a private space to decompress. Practicing Assertiveness and Emotional Self-Regulation Assertiveness is not aggression; it's clarity with kindness. Calmly stating needs or stepping away from volatile conversations prevents emotional derailment. Techniques such as deep breathing, visualization, or grounding exercises can anchor the mind amidst chaos. Finding Joy in New Holiday Traditions Reimagining Rituals: From Toasts to Traditions The absence of alcohol or substances does not signal the absence of joy. Creating new rituals—mocktail crafting, gratitude journaling, or attending sunrise services—imbues the season with fresh meaning. Rituals rooted in mindfulness and connection cultivate authentic celebration. Acts of Service and Mindful Festivities Giving back transforms focus from self to others. Volunteering at shelters, assembling care packages, or writing letters to isolated seniors fosters gratitude and purpose. These acts not only counteract isolation but also rekindle the human spirit. When Slips Happen: Responding to Relapse with Compassion Embracing Accountability, Not Shame Relapse, while painful, is not synonymous with failure. It signals areas requiring support and reflection. Shame immobilizes, but accountability propels forward movement. Sharing the experience with a sponsor or therapist can turn a setback into a pivotal learning moment. Getting Back on Track with Constructive Tools Revisiting foundational recovery tools—daily reflections, step work, support meetings—restores alignment. Immediate re-engagement with the recovery network and re-establishing daily routines can arrest the spiral of relapse and reignite commitment. When it comes to managing opioid dependence, knowing exactly what medication you're using is essential for safety and effectiveness. One commonly prescribed option is the Suboxone round orange pill , a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone designed to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent misuse. Recognizable by its distinctive shape and color, this pill plays a key role in many medication-assisted treatment plans. Patients are encouraged to follow their provider's guidance closely and be aware of how the medication works. Education and proper usage can significantly improve treatment outcomes and support a smoother journey toward long-term recovery. Conclusion: Redefining Celebration Through a Sober Lens Sobriety does not exile one from joy—it redefines it. Holidays in recovery are not lesser; they are intentional. Through thoughtful planning, boundaries, and community, individuals can experience profound connection, authenticity, and peace. In embracing sober celebrations, the holiday season becomes not a gauntlet, but a gateway—to renewal, resilience, and radiant self-respect. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
