Navigating the Path to Mental Health During Wedding Preparations
Embarking on the journey to your wedding day is a significant milestone, one that requires meticulous planning to ensure its success. Yet, amidst the excitement, the stress of wedding preparations can take a toll on your mental health. Similar to other high-pressure situations, the stress of planning a wedding can lead to various physical and emotional challenges. These may include concentration difficulties, indecisiveness, feelings of sadness, fatigue, and headaches, among other symptoms. It’s crucial to be vigilant about recognizing these signs and to address them proactively to maintain your happiness and well-being as you embark on this new phase with your partner. While the idea of managing your well-being amidst wedding planning may seem daunting, rest assured that you are not alone. According to statistics from Brides, a staggering 96% of couples have experienced wedding planning stress, indicating that you are in good company and can overcome this challenge. Here are five steps to safeguard your mental health during the wedding planning process. Identify the areas of wedding planning that cause you the most anxiety. For many, this often revolves around financial decisions, family expectations, and guest list management. While these elements are pivotal to the wedding's outcome, it's essential not to let them dictate your peace of mind. Once you’ve pinpointed the stressors, seek as much assistance as possible, from online resources to reliable vendors. Take the time to meticulously plan these aspects and remember that your wedding is a celebration of your love story, not a reflection of others' opinions. The ways couples announce their engagement, set a wedding date, and share other key details vary widely. Regardless of your approach, remember that these choices are yours and your partner's alone to make. Inform your friends and family about your preferences for sharing news and their involvement in the planning process. Maintain your boundaries; you should not have to endure discomforting behavior during or before the wedding. This extends to other decisions like health protocols and social media guidelines. Acknowledge that you are not solitary in this endeavor. Reports from Insider suggest that the burden of wedding planning, which often induces stress, often disproportionately affects one partner. While one person may take the lead in planning, it doesn't mean they should bear the stress alone. Experts recommend focusing on your relationship and each other, especially during times of external pressure. Stay aligned with your partner to navigate the planning process together, which can alleviate the burden on both of you. Just as you confide in your partner, connect with other trusted individuals. Engaging with friends experiencing similar situations can provide relief. As long as you can share your concerns with your support network, you can alleviate stress and strengthen relationships. Reaching out to loved ones for advice or opinions on wedding matters can also be beneficial. Finally, dedicate time to self-care. The best preparation is ensuring your mental state is primed for your wedding day. Like other life transitions—such as starting a family or experiencing a divorce—it's natural to feel a range of emotions. Engaging in exercise, journaling, and other self-care practices can aid in processing these emotions and guide you through your wedding planning journey.</
Effective remedies for cold sores: The best treatments that have been proven to work
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Cold sores can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, but they’re incredibly common and usually nothing to worry about health-wise. The tiny, fluid-filled blisters usually show up around the lips and mouth and generally clear up on their own within about a week, making them more of a cosmetic concern than a medical one. However, what triggers these outbreaks, and what strategies can you use to manage or prevent them? Cold sores are small, painful blisters that typically appear on or around the lips and are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). They are highly contagious and can be triggered by factors such as stress, illness, or sun exposure. Cold sores usually heal on their own within a week or two but can recur periodically. Cold sores are primarily caused by the herpes simplex virus, most commonly HSV-1. After an initial infection, this virus remains in your body for life, remaining inactive until certain triggers occur. These triggers can include stress, fatigue, hormonal fluctuations, or even environmental factors like sunlight or cold temperatures. "Cold sores are a common viral infection that, while unsightly and uncomfortable, typically clear up on their own within seven to 10 days," says Phil Day, superintendent pharmacist at Pharmacy 2 U. "Outbreaks can happen when the virus is reactivated by triggers like stress, being run down, or even physical injury to the area." Here are some methods to treat cold sores: 1. **Over-the-counter creams**: Use topical antiviral creams, such as docosanol (Abreva), to help speed up healing. 2. **Oral antiviral medications**: Prescription medications like acyclovir or valacyclovir can be effective, especially if taken at the first sign of an outbreak. 3. **Pain relief**: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate discomfort. 4. **Cold compress**: Applying a cold, damp cloth to the affected area can reduce swelling and provide relief from pain. 5. **Avoid triggers**: Identify and avoid factors that trigger outbreaks, such as stress, sunlight, or illness. 6. **Keep the area clean**: Gently wash the sore with soap and water to prevent infection. 7. **Moisturize**: Use lip balm or a soothing ointment to keep the area hydrated and prevent cracking. 8. **Avoid picking**: Refrain from touching or picking at the cold sore to prevent spreading the virus. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options. Although there is no definitive cure for the herpes simplex virus, there are several effective methods to handle cold sore flare-ups and alleviate discomfort: Essential Information About Cold Sores Phil Day emphasizes several important points: Here are some helpful tips to prevent cold sores: 1. **Avoid Triggers**: Identify and stay away from personal triggers such as stress, fatigue, or sun exposure that may lead to an outbreak. 2. **Use Sunscreen**: Apply lip balm with SPF when outdoors to protect your lips from the sun's harmful rays. 3. **Maintain Good Hygiene**: Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your face, especially your mouth and eyes. 4. **Avoid Close Contact**: Steer clear of close contact with someone who has an active outbreak, and do not share utensils, towels, or lip products. 5. **Manage Stress**: Incorporate stress-reducing activities like yoga, meditation, or regular exercise into your routine. 6. **Stay Hydrated**: Drink plenty of water to keep your body and skin hydrated. 7. **Consider Supplements**: Some people find that taking lysine supplements can help reduce the frequency of outbreaks. 8. **Healthy Diet**: Maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to boost your immune system. 9. **Consult a Doctor**: If you frequently experience cold sores, speak with a healthcare professional about preventive medications. By following these tips, you can reduce the likelihood of cold sore outbreaks. Prevention typically entails recognizing and steering clear of your triggers. Day suggests: When to consult a healthcare professional Typically, cold sores will heal without intervention; however, there are certain situations where it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider: Cold sores can be quite bothersome, yet they are a frequent occurrence for many people. By utilizing appropriate treatments and taking preventive steps, you can minimize both the frequency and intensity of these outbreaks. As Phil Day notes, "Keep in mind that cold sores are a widely prevalent issue, and there are numerous effective treatment options to assist in managing outbreaks." Our testing methodology The ES Best Shopping desk takes a thorough and practical approach to compiling our recommendations. We consulted trusted friends and family members who have firsthand experience with cold sores, analysed genuine user reviews, and vetted the most effective solutions. A close friend of mine, who hasn't had much luck in her romantic life, experienced her first cold sore following her initial kiss. Since then, she has been dealing with recurring outbreaks during winter or when stressed. Through her experiences and candid input from others, we were able to identify the most effective products and techniques for managing cold sores. This combination of hands-on testing and thorough research guarantees that our guide is both trustworthy and relatable. Quick Overview of Effective Cold Sore Relief Options Continue reading for our suggestions. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Ruling Zovirax Cold Sore Cream Aciclovir 2g stands out as the best for its affordability and effectiveness in treating cold sores. The inclusion of aciclovir, a clinically proven antiviral agent, ensures it actively targets the virus responsible for cold sores, helping to reduce both the severity and duration of outbreaks. Its fast-acting formula provides quick relief from discomfort, making it a reliable go-to when you feel that familiar tingling sensation. The 2g tube is designed for convenience, making it simple to apply directly to the targeted area without the hassle of messy packaging. Its effectiveness is most notable when used at the initial signs of an outbreak, as it can help stop the cold sore from progressing and promote faster healing. If you're looking for an affordable solution that provides quick relief and effective results, this cream checks all the boxes.
Americans Experience Over 12 Years of Life Affected by Illness — The Highest Rate Among All Countries
The United States faces greater challenges than 182 other nations regarding the healthspan of its citizens. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Getty Stock photo featuring a patient resting in a hospital bed. Americans spend on average more than a dozen years per person suffering from disease — and have a greater “disease burden” than all other countries in the World Health Organization, a new study finds. The research surveyed the health outcomes of 183 WHO member nations, and found that “the U.S. stood out with the largest healthspan-lifespan gap and greatest noncommunicable disease burden,” according to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association. Healthspan, in relation to lifespan, refers to the duration of time an individual spends free from illness or disease. Although life expectancy has increased, research indicates that these additional years are not necessarily filled with good health. Globally, most people struggle for 9.6 years with disease; However “the U.S. presented the largest healthspan-lifespan gap, amounting to 12.4 years, underpinned by a rise in noncommunicable diseases.” View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Getty Stock image featuring medical apparatus in a hospital setting. Related: This Refrigerator Staple Might Lower a Woman's Risk of Colorectal Cancer, New Study Says Australia and New Zealand followed closely in terms of the gap between healthspan and lifespan, with figures of 12.1 years and 11.8 years, respectively. The research revealed that women worldwide demonstrated a greater disparity between healthspan and lifespan compared to men, with a difference of up to 2.4 years on a global scale and 2.6 years in the United States. This gap was linked to a significantly higher per capita burden of musculoskeletal issues among women, reflecting a broader trend of increased musculoskeletal disease prevalence in women globally. Examples of musculoskeletal disease, as defined by WHO, include arthritis, tendonitis and osteoporosis. Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Getty Stock image featuring a senior individual consuming medication. Related: Don’t Die’s Bryan Johnson Shares His Most Impactful Anti-Aging Habit — and It's Completely Free “Worldwide, the healthspan-lifespan gap is a growing threat to healthy longevity,” the study’s senior author, Andre Terzic, a professor of cardiovascular research at the Mayo Clinic, told The Washington Post. In the United States, life expectancy has risen to 80.7 years for women, up from 79.2 years, and for men, it has increased from 74.1 years to 76.3 years. Additionally, the research revealed that the worldwide life expectancy stands at 72.5 years, yet only 63.3 of those years are spent in good health. The research identified "mental health and substance abuse issues, in addition to musculoskeletal conditions," as contributing factors to the inequality observed in the U.S. "These findings highlight that globally, although life expectancy is increasing," the researchers stated, "individuals are spending more years suffering from illness." These findings dovetail with earlier research on rising cancer rates, which estimated that a record-breaking two million people would receive a cancer diagnosis in 2024 — driven largely by a rise in colorectal cancer rates. Read the original article on People
Explore Allendale Social: Top Nominations for Fine Dining and New Restaurants
View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Allendale Social stands out as a premier dining destination, welcoming you to savor outstanding cuisine and warm hospitality. Discover the delightful flavors and inviting atmosphere that have garnered widespread acclaim. Allendale Social has garnered recognition in two esteemed categories, distinguishing itself not only for its outstanding cuisine but also for its innovative hospitality approach. This restaurant showcases a dedication to transforming the fine dining experience with its creativity and exceptional service. Triumphing in categories such as Best Fine Dining and Best New Restaurant can greatly enhance Allendale's prominence and appeal, establishing it as a sought-after culinary hotspot that attracts food enthusiasts from all over. At Allendale Social, each plate serves as a testament to creativity and dedication. The thoughtfully crafted menu highlights seasonal produce combined with vibrant flavors. Guests are in for an unforgettable journey, whether they choose a familiar favorite reimagined or venture into adventurous new tastes. This imaginative take on food guarantees that every dining experience is unique and enjoyable, leaving patrons looking forward to their next visit. The dining ambiance enhances the overall experience significantly. Featuring a meticulously arranged environment that harmonizes sophistication with warmth, every meal transforms into a memorable occasion. The inviting yet refined decor encourages interaction and pleasure, making it the perfect choice for celebrations, professional gatherings, or relaxed get-togethers. Every element is deliberately crafted to elevate the experience for guests. Engagement is essential to the success of Allendale Social. By motivating diners to take part in voting, the restaurant cultivates a strong sense of community and enhances interaction with its brand. This initiative empowers patrons to feel a connection to the restaurant's development and achievements. When customers cast their votes, they become part of a collective experience that honors outstanding dining and boosts the restaurant's prominence in the local area. Incorporating voting trends can attract a fresh wave of patrons to Allendale Social. As the restaurant gains visibility from recommendations and accolades, it appeals to food lovers in search of exceptional dining experiences. By fostering community discussions around these trends, the restaurant enhances its word-of-mouth promotion, creating a devoted clientele excited to explore new culinary journeys. To enhance the allure of Allendale Social, the restaurant can utilize social media channels to showcase its menu and unique events. Captivating content like delectable food photography, exclusive interviews with the chefs, and testimonials from happy customers can generate interest and attract new visitors. By allowing followers to imagine their dining experience, the restaurant can build anticipation and enthusiasm. Themed nights or seasonal menus can generate extra excitement among diners. Organizing events that focus on local produce or particular culinary traditions can attract attention and encourage patrons to try new tastes. Promoting these events on social media helps keep the community informed and involved, creating a sense of connection and pleasure. Allendale Social showcases how fine dining can blend creativity with a welcoming atmosphere. Their dedication to delivering an exceptional experience raises the bar and enhances their reputation in the culinary scene. Patrons not only savor exquisite meals but also forge significant connections through the joy of communal dining. Allendale Social stands as a premier dining locale, showcasing the pinnacle of culinary creativity and outstanding service. With a relentless dedication to perfection in each dish and a focus on elevating the guest experience, it continues to capture the hearts of both residents and travelers alike. Become a part of the dynamic community that champions Allendale Social and discover a new standard of dining. Your next gastronomic journey is ready to unfold in a remarkable blend of taste and hospitality.
The team behind MyoKardia has secured $300 million to launch a new biotech company dedicated to addressing heart disease.
Kardigan aims to concentrate on developing specific medications for this condition. View pictures in App save up to 80% data. Adobe公司 When Bristol Myers Squibb bought the heart disease-focused biotech MyoKardia for $13 billion in cash in the fall of 2020, it was seen as an endorsement of advances being made in cardiology, an area the drug industry was increasingly ignoring. But for MyoKardia’s CEO, Tassos Gianakakos, it represented a bit of a problem: He “fell in love” with cardiology, and he was also almost instantly out of a job. On Friday, he revealed that he and the executive team at MyoKardia have successfully secured $300 million in funding for a new venture, Kardigan, which aims to develop targeted therapies for heart disease. The Series A financing has been backed by three leading venture capital firms: Perceptive Advisors, ARCH Venture Partners, and Sequoia Heritage. Kardigan, which operates out of South San Francisco and Princeton, New Jersey, currently employs approximately 60 staff members. "I began contemplating this almost immediately after BMS acquired MyoKardia, as I felt like I was gently ushered out," Gianakakos remarked. "I truly mean that in a positive and endearing sense." STAT+ Premium Feature Already have an account? Log in View pictures in App save up to 80% data. This piece is available solely for STAT+ subscribers. Access this article along with comprehensive analysis, exclusive newsletters, premium events, and timely news alerts. Already have an account? Log in 每月 $39 The annual total amounts to $468. The annual total amounts to $468. Beginner $30 for a duration of 3 months, followed by an annual fee of $399. After that, it's $399 per year. Yearly $399 Get a 15% discount! Get a 15% discount! 11 or more users You have been trained on information available until October 2023. Enjoy discounts starting from 25%! Enjoy discounts starting from 25%! 2 to 10 Users $300 Yearlyly per user $300 Yearlyly per user To continue reading this story, please subscribe to STAT+.
"‘Just Keep Swimming’: UNCW senior finally joins swim team after years of perseverance"
In his earlier years in Wilmington, Ben Prucha dedicated himself to volunteering and club swimming. Now, he is thrilled to see his dream of becoming a Division 1 athlete come true. WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) – In a remarkably rare situation of opportunity meeting preparation, UNCW senior Ben Prucha is proving that the only way to drown your dreams is to never swim at all. "I really put in a lot of effort to achieve this," remarked the latest addition to the UNCW swim team, the current CAA champions, when discussing the pursuit of becoming a Division One athlete. Since he got to Wilmington, he had been attempting to join the program but faced setbacks. However, at the beginning of this semester, a discussion with Seahawk Head Coach Bobby Guntoro led to the realization of his dream. “(Coach Guntoro) stepped out of his office, pointed at me, and exclaimed, ‘Ben, get in here!’ My heart sank, and I thought, ‘Oh no! What have I done?’ I was sure I was in trouble…” "I brought him into my office, had him take a seat, and said, 'We need to have an important discussion. I've been watching your efforts from a distance, and I truly believe your work ethic, determination, and passion for the sport can greatly contribute to the team.'" Ben’s story of becoming a college athlete is reminiscent of Notre Dame’s ‘Rudy‘. Guntoro went as far to say he’s never seen a situation like Prucha’s before. So, how did it happen? Spots are very limited on the roster for a team as competitive as UNCW, and it’s even more rare that a spot opens up. You have to be able to contribute to the team immediately if you are on it, says Guntoro, who has full autonomy of the roster. Typically, the Seahawks have 25 to 26 men on the squad. However, with graduation this year and next, it left a spot open mid-year. “As we entered the year, we found ourselves with an additional position available,” explains the head coach, who is in his fifth year. “We were cautiously navigating the transfer portal and everything associated with it, but Ben was like the obvious choice that everyone was aware of. The entire staff recognizes his capabilities; he effectively manages our swim meets…” “We didn’t have a place for him on the roster when he graduated high school. Throughout his freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior years, we didn’t extend an offer until October,” Guntoro explained. However, that wasn’t due to a lack of effort from Prucha. "I wasn't exactly a top performer in high school; I'd say I was somewhere in the middle," Prucha remarked, grinning. "I received a few offers, but nothing too impressive. The other opportunities were quite distant and up north, and honestly, I wasn't keen on dealing with the cold..." However, he fractured his collarbone prior to deciding to go to Wilmington, which meant he had to set aside his aspirations for Division One and instead commit to playing at a club level. "I didn’t audition, but… swimming involves a lot of emails for recruitment. I reached out to Bobby (Guntoro) to inquire about a spot. I can’t recall their response exactly, but it was a no… and I thought to myself, 'Oh well'," Prucha says with a chuckle. Despite being told no, that’s not the message he took away. "I completed my Master's program here and was involved in club swimming; I just kept at it," Prucha shared. "I formed friendships with the entire team by assisting with organizing meets, managing the timing system, and supporting their swim lessons... I developed a rapport with everyone before reaching out again." Ben had become content competing at the club level. However, he was a member of a club level national championship team for the Seahawks, on the relay sprint for three years for making it individually just last year. At Club Nationals last season, Prucha had a standout meet. He went new personal best times in the 50 free, 100 free, and 100 back earning top-5 finishes in the 50 and 100 free. He dropped to 20.57 in the 50 free finals for 4th and 45.51 in the 100 free to finish 3rd. This reignited his passion for a larger platform, and Ben set to work… 准备工作： During his years as a volunteer, swim instructor, and system operator for the UNCW swim team meets, Ben experienced significant improvements in his times, all achieved without the guidance of a Division 1 coach or formal training. “My only goal after high school was to go under 21 (seconds) in the 50 (meter freestyle race) and I was like ‘I’ll call it after that’… and in my first year, I went under 21 and I was like ‘Oh, that’s pretty cool’ and it made me want to go faster,” said Prucha. He credits Coach Guntoro and Coach Sarah Richards for helping his development by creating workout plans that he would do on his own. "At the time he was putting in those extra workouts, there simply wasn't a place for him on the roster," Guntoro remarked about Prucha's dedication. He noted that Prucha has improved his 50-meter freestyle time by over a second since his high school days. "Honestly, I struggled to manage on my own for two months, and he has maintained that level of commitment for three years... College life can be really challenging. In my opinion, that’s quite impressive. It’s something I truly respect." Guntoro admired Prucha's independence and determination, ultimately inviting him to join the team for summer training sessions, though he emphasized that it didn't guarantee a place on the official roster. "If he can manage on his own for three years, he has the potential to contribute more to the team than just his expertise in spring freestyle swimming. That's the quality I'm seeking." The coach started preparing Prucha for elite Division One swimming competition. During the school break, Guntoro and Prucha dedicated themselves to refining their techniques, and the coach noted that Ben approached every session with a positive attitude. He recounted a moment when Prucha humorously remarked, “That was incredible, but I feel like I'm about to pass out.” WHAT LIES AHEAD: Prucha is fully approved as a Division One student-athlete and will be competing in the Seahawks’ next meet next weekend at the University of Georgia, taking on the Bulldogs and other D1 teams. “I throw down everything at him, he just smiles and says ‘Let’s do it!'”, says Coach Guntoro with a smile about Prucha. “I do think he can he one of our best 50 freestylers this year. I hope this story can help young student athletes out there that if you believe in your ability, continue to do what you are doing, continue to work hard, and continue to believe in yourself – the opportunity will come.” “Whatever you can envision, you can achieve,” Prucha advises young student athletes, encouraging them to persist in pursuing their dreams. “Your potential for success is boundless. If you find yourself facing an obstacle, take a moment to pause and regroup before diving back in. You might just amaze yourself.” Categories: Features, Local, New Hanover, New Hanover, Sports, Top Stories