Posts in "Uncategorized"

The 2024 Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters Final Rule is a federal policy that expands access to behavioral health services. The goal is to advance in creating a healthcare system that prioritizes equity, access, and affordability.   The policy changed special enrollment period qualifications on the public marketplace in 2024. Starting January 1, 2024, […]

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For many individuals, the start of a new year is an exciting time for resolutions and life improvements. For others, this time of year is filled with anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns. These issues typically are worsened as the holiday festivities end and the winter cold and darkness take over.   As a […]

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Although the holiday season can be magical, it also can be stressful. Many individuals experience significantly greater loneliness, isolation, and grief over the loss of a loved one during this time.   The holidays often are filled with family gatherings, work potlucks, and travel to visit loved ones. These activities divert from usual routines and […]

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For many individuals, the holiday season brings increased familial tension and financial stress. Other issues include feelings of loneliness and isolation, especially for individuals who have limited holiday visits and travel options. These wintertime stressors often increase anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns.   As a result, mental health care professionals should take additional […]

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Epigenetics is the study of how genes might be impacted by people’s experiences and be passed down to future generations. Ongoing research suggests that trauma can impact the genes of future generations.   For instance, a 2019 study examined how psychological interventions that are customized to meet a client’s needs could improve epigenetic processes in […]

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Do You Use Art to Benefit Your Mental Health?

Do you use art to benefit your mental health? If not, you might want to consider it. Creating art can lead to feelings of inspiration, happiness, calm, and relaxation. The ability to express yourself can help you feel more connected to the world. Expression through art can help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression. As a […]

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The existing crisis care continuum does not effectively meet the needs of individuals experiencing behavioral health crises. The lack of intervention training for first responders often leads to negative outcomes. These negative outcomes especially impact communities that experience the most trauma: People who identify as Black or Indigenous People of color LGBTQIA+ individuals People with […]

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The increasing number of individuals with substance use disorder is worsening the addiction epidemic. This disorder continues to overwhelm the healthcare system and negatively impact society.   The American Medical Association (AMA) reported over 105,000 overdose deaths in the U.S. between December 2021 and December 2022. Also, research shows that individuals with a mental health […]

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The coronavirus pandemic’s impacts are changing how people view mental health care. These changes help individuals better understand themselves and their shared experiences. They also are shaping what the future of mental health care could look like.   As mental health care continues to evolve, there is curiosity about where the field may be headed. […]

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As a behavioral health professional, you understand that a client’s behavioral health conditions can affect their medical illnesses. As a result, integrated behavioral healthcare might benefit your clients.   Integrated behavioral healthcare involves providing care for behavioral health factors and related medical conditions in one setting. This type of care focuses on the whole person […]

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