The memory bridge: Caring for mind, caring for future

 

Trainee Medical Writer, Natasha Das MedComm

“Memory is the diary we all carry about with us.” — Oscar Wilde.

But what happens when the pages of that diary begin to fade? 

On World Alzheimer’s Day, we pause to reflect not only on the science of memory loss but also on its profound impact on families, communities and the stories that shape us.

For many families, Alzheimer’s is not an abstract medical term, it is the grandmother who no longer recalls her wedding day or the father who forgets his daughter’s name. Behind the medical statistics are millions of stories of resilience, heartbreak, and love.

What is Alzheimer’s really about?

Alzheimer’s disease is not just normal aging. Occasional forgetfulness happens to everyone, losing keys, misplacing glasses, or forgetting a name for a moment. But Alzheimer’s is different. It is a progressive brain disorder that damages memory, thinking, and behavior to the point where daily life becomes difficult. It accounts for 60–70% of all dementia cases worldwide [1].

Think of the brain as a bustling city. In Alzheimer’s, the roads (nerve connections) get blocked by plaques and tangles, slowing signals. Amyloid plaques are sticky clumps of protein that interrupt cell communication. Tau tangles are abnormal accumulation of the protein tau that form inside brain cells and  disrupt transport of essential nutrients within brain cells [2]. Over time, entire neighborhoods - memories, language, reasoning grow dark.

But Alzheimer’s is more than biology. It is a disease that tests human relationships, patience, and endurance. Families often say they feel like they lose their loved ones twice, once to the disease and then to age.

Why should younger people care?

It’s easy to think Alzheimer’s is an old person’s disease, but brain health is a lifelong investment. Habits we build today from diet to sleep to stress management play a role in keeping the brain resilient tomorrow.

So, when we talk about Alzheimer’s, we aren’t just talking about their future. We are talking about ours as well.

Risk factors you can’t ignore

The greatest risk factor is age. Most people diagnosed are over 65. But aging alone does not cause Alzheimer’s. Genetics also play a role, certain variants, like the APOE ε4 gene, increases the risk of developing the disease [3].

Lifestyle and environment also significantly influence the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, depression, and smoking are linked with higher chances of dementia [4]. In fact, a Lancet Commission report estimated that addressing modifiable risk factors could prevent or delay up to 40% of dementia cases worldwide [5].

This means that while we cannot change our genes, we can change our choices.

Building a brain-healthy life

“What’s good for the heart is good for the head.”

The same habits that protect our hearts also protect our brains. Research shows that:

●     Movement matters – Regular physical activity improves blood flow, reduces inflammation, and boosts brain resilience [5]. Even walking, dancing, or gardening can help.

●     Food fuels memory – Diets rich in leafy greens, berries, olive oil, nuts and fish are linked with slower cognitive decline [7].

●     Sleep clears the brain – Deep sleep helps flush out toxic proteins like amyloid. Chronic sleep deprivation increases Alzheimer’s risk [8].

●     Challenge the mind – Reading, solving puzzles, learning a language, or even playing an instrument builds cognitive reserve, giving the brain backup strength [9].

●     Stay connected – Social interaction is a powerful buffer against dementia. Conversations, friendships, and community activities stimulate memory and lift mood [4].

●     Prioritize oral health – Regular dental care reduces inflammation that can help lower the burden on the brain.

In simple words: move, eat well, rest, learn, and connect.

For families and caregivers

Alzheimer’s does not just affect individuals; it reshapes entire families. Caregivers often face exhaustion, guilt, and grief. The CDC highlights the need for support systems, caregiver education, and counseling [4].Just as patients deserve dignity, caregivers deserve compassion and rest.

One of the most important steps is early diagnosis. Detecting Alzheimer’s in its early stages allows for better management, planning, and support. Memory clinics, cognitive screening, and timely medical guidance can make a significant difference.

A collective responsibility

Alzheimer’s is not just a medical challenge; it is a societal one. With population aging, the numbers are rising sharply. The WHO projects that by 2050, the number of people living with dementia could reach 139 million globally [10]. Without awareness and preventive action, health systems may struggle to cope.

World Alzheimer’s Day reminds us that awareness is the seed of change. If younger generations adopt brain-healthy habits today, the burden tomorrow may be lighter. If families and communities speak openly about dementia, the stigma begins to fade. If we listen with patience and care, we give dignity to those whose words may falter.

Closing thought

Alzheimer’s is often called the long goodbye. Yet, within that long journey, lies a profound truth. While memories may fade, emotions remain. A person with Alzheimer’s may forget a name but still feel the warmth of a hug, the joy of music, or the comfort of kindness.

On this World Alzheimer’s Day, let us promise two things - to protect our own brain health and to stand beside those who cannot fight alone. Because in the end, every memory matters, and every person deserves to be remembered with love.

References

1. Alzheimer’s Association. Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. Alzheimers Dement. 2024.
2. Mayo Clinic. Alzheimer’s disease – Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic; 2024.
3. National Institute on Aging. Alzheimer’s Disease Genetics Fact Sheet. NIH; 2022.
4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What is Alzheimer’s Disease? CDC; 2023.
5. Livingston G, et al. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2020 report of the Lancet Commission. Lancet. 2020;396(10248):413–446.
6. Kamer AR, et al. Periodontal disease and risk of dementia. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. 2020.
7. Morris MC, et al. MIND diet associated with reduced incidence of Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimers Dement. 2015;11(9):1007–1014.
8. Spira AP, et al. Self-reported sleep and β-amyloid deposition in community-dwelling older adults. JAMA Neurol. 2013;70(12):1537–1543.
9. Stern Y. Cognitive reserve in ageing and Alzheimer’s disease. Lancet Neurol. 2012;11(11):1006–1012.
10. World Health Organization. Dementia fact sheet. WHO; 2023.

 

Smiles that age well: Why oral health matters for older adults

Trainee Medical Writer, Natasha Das MedComm

A smile is often the first thing people notice and one of the last things we want to lose with age. Growing older brings wisdom and experience, but it can also bring loose teeth, gum problems, and dry mouth. Many people accept these changes as just part of aging, but that’s not true. With the right care, our teeth and gums can remain strong well into our later years.

Oral health care in older adults is not just about vanity, it's about eating comfortably, speaking clearly, and living confidently. Let’s explore why oral health matters, and more importantly, how to protect it.

Mouth as the gateway to health

Our mouth is the entry point for food, water, and even medicine. When it functions well, life feels effortless. But when it falters, the ripple effects are far-reaching:

●     Nutrition and digestion: Chewing is the first step of digestion. Weak or missing teeth make chewing difficult forcing people to avoid crunchy nutritious foods s apples, carrots, or nuts and rely on softer, less nutritious meals. Over time, this can lead to deficiencies, weakness, and even weight loss (1).

●     Speech and confidence: Teeth and tongue shape our words. Loose dentures or missing teeth can make it harder to pronounce sounds clearly, which can affect confidence in social settings.

●     Defence against disease: The mouth is also home to trillions of bacteria. Healthy gums and saliva keep them in balance. But poor oral hygiene lets harmful bacteria multiply, increasing the risk of gum disease and spreading inflammation to other parts of the body via the bloodstream. (2,3).

Simply put, the mouth is not a small corner of the body. It is the front door to overall health.

Oral health is linked to overall health

Research has shown that oral health is deeply linked to whole-body wellness. Gum disease and tooth infections aren’t isolated; they are associated with heart disease, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and even dementia (4).

Inflamed gums – which are red, swollen, and/or painful – release chemicals into the bloodstream, fueling chronic inflammation over time. In older adults, where immunity is already lower, this adds an extra burden on the body. Protecting oral health is therefore, not just about saving teeth; it is about safeguarding the heart, lungs, brain, and overall well-being.

 Everyday prevention: Habits that keep smiles strong

The good news is preventing oral problems in older age is simple and it doesn’t require expensive treatments. A few daily habits can keep the smile healthy:

1. Brush gently but thoroughly – Twice a day with a soft-bristle or electric toothbrush to avoid gum damage.
2. Don’t skip the spaces – Flossing or using a water flosser helps clean between teeth and around dental bridges or implants, where food easily gets stuck.
3. Use fluoride toothpaste – Fluoride toothpaste strengthens enamel and helps prevent cavities, even in seniors.
4. Stay hydrated – Regular sips of water prevent dry mouth and wash away bacteria. Many medicines taken in older age can cause dry mouth. Hydration, sugar-free gum, or dentist-recommended rinses help keep saliva flowing. Alcohol and tobacco use also make dryness worse.
5. Eat smart – Include calcium-rich foods (such as curd, paneer, and leafy greens) for stronger teeth, and crunchy fruits or veggies to stimulate saliva.
6. Care for dentures – Dentures must be cleaned daily, soaked overnight, and checked by a dentist regularly to avoid irritation or fungal infections.
7. Watch out for warning signs – Bleeding gums, loose teeth, mouth sores, or persistent bad breath are never normal with age. They should be checked promptly.
8. Visit the dentist once a year – Even without pain, a yearly dental check-up can prevent bigger problems and save both discomfort and money (5,6).

Why prevention is better than cure

Dental treatments can become more complicated with age, especially for those with diabetes, heart disease, or other health conditions. Preventive care like daily brushing, regular cleaning, and lifestyle choices goes a long way in avoiding the need for extractions or major dental work later.

Think of prevention as maintaining not just your teeth, but your independence and comfort in everyday life.

A smile worth keeping

A healthy smile is more than cosmetic. It is freedom – the freedom to enjoy your favorite foods, to share laughter without hesitation, and to age with confidence. Oral health does not decline automatically with age; it declines only when neglected. With simple habits and a little attention, older adults can keep their smiles strong for decades to come.

References

1. Janto M. Oral health and malnutrition in older adults. BMC Geriatrics. 2022.
2. Lipsky MS. Oral health and systemic disease in aging populations. Journal of Aging Research. 2024.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Oral health of older Americans. CDC, 2023.
4. Kamer AR, et al. Periodontal disease and risk of dementia. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. 2020.
5. American Dental Association. Aging and dental health. ADA, 2024.
6. World Health Organization. Oral health fact sheet. WHO, 2022.

 

No symptoms. Normal hormone levels. And then, one scan changed my life.

 

Dr. Natasha Das,

Consultant, Medical Communications

A papillary thyroid carcinoma patient

On the 16^th of July, I mark one year since a diagnosis that shook my near and dear ones. Until then, I was a doctor and a medical communications professional leading a normal ‘healthy’ life and conducting outreach programs and training people how to do a self-examination of the breast and the oral cavity for early detection of cancer.  

I have always believed in the power of early detection. Now, I have lived it.

The clue I missed – and my friends did not

A year ago, a friend, who is also a doctor, noticed something I hadn’t – a slight swelling on my neck. I had no symptoms. No pain. No voice changes. No trouble swallowing. And like many patients, I could have dismissed the swelling as harmless, especially in the absence of symptoms. But as a doctor, I knew better.

It turned out later, my thyroid hormone levels also were within normal limits. All that I had was just a visible lump that I had not known of till then.  

A few weeks later, another friend nudged me to get a scan to check if it was only a cyst (a fluid filled sac) or a solid tumor. 

The clinical examination

Next, I got myself clinically examined by a physician friend. She examined the swelling and said it felt like a cyst and there may not be much to worry. She insisted that in spite of the normal hormone levels, a swelling is an abnormality. She advised me to get an ultrasound scan followed by a fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) to be sure it was a benign cyst.

The ultrasound that revealed a silent story in the other lobe

I went in expecting the scan to confirm a benign nodule in the area of the swelling. Instead, the ultrasonologist noticed something entirely different.

He didn’t just scan the obvious lump. He thoroughly examined the entire neck. His attention to detail changed the course of my care.

Yes, there was a cyst in the right lobe of the thyroid that did seem to be benign. But the ultrasonologist found foci of microcalcification in the left lobe of the thyroid. Microcalcifications are detected by the ultrasound as small, bright spots – a red flag for thyroid cancer. The ultrasonologist insisted that I get an FNAC from the left side rather than the right.

I cannot emphasize this enough. It was his skill and thorough examination that brought the true picture to light.

A quick and conclusive FNAC report

While the tiny bright spots (less than a mm in diameter) detected by ultrasound were a strong indication of thyroid cancer, they could also have been due to benign conditions such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Because of its association with cancer, since microcalcifications were identified, a thorough evaluation was crucial.

Although I was advised to get an FNAC done with a sample from the left lobe, there was no lump on the left that could be seen or felt. The pathologist therefore, went in for an ultrasound-guided FNAC. The ultrasound was used to locate the position of the microcalcifications. A fine needle was used to withdraw cells from there. These cells were then examined under the microscope to determine if there were any cancerous cells.

It was the FNAC that confirmed the diagnosis of papillary thyroid cancer.

Ultrasound to detect the spread of the cancer

Once the diagnosis was confirmed, a surgery was planned. But before that, the cancer surgeon needed to know about the spread of the cancer.

He advised another ultrasound of the neck. This time, with the cancer already diagnosed, the ultrasound was used to assess the lymph nodes in the neck for any signs of metastasis or spread of cancer.

When the cells in the lymph nodes die, the lymph nodes become what doctors call ‘necrotic’. Necrotic lymph nodes often appear darker on the ultrasound monitor.

This second ultrasound of my neck revealed several necrotic lymph nodes indicating spread of the cancer.

CE CT scan to rule out the rare possibility of abdominal or pelvic mass

In rare cases, follicular or papillary thyroid cancers have presented as pelvic masses or as asymptomatic pelvic bone metastases.

I also underwent a contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis to rule out any abnormality in these areas.

Surgery and biopsy that helped determine the staging of the cancer

Since one lobe of my thyroid had a large visible cystic swelling and the other lobe had cancer, the surgeon decided to remove the thyroid gland completely.

As ultrasound had revealed necrotic lymph nodes in the neck, the surgeon decided to clean the neck and remove the nearby lymph nodes.

The surgeon also decided to remove one of the four parathyroid glands as it was too close to the affected area and might harbor cancer cells.

While necrosis of lymph nodes on an ultrasound often points to spread of cancer, it is important to consider other possibilities such as tuberculosis, fungal infections and other chronic inflammatory disease.

The removed thyroid gland, parathyroid and neck lymph nodes were sent for biopsy. There were multiple cancerous nodules in the thyroid and the largest one had a diameter of over 2 cm. The cancer was confined to the thyroid. It had spread to four of the neck lymph nodes but there was no distant spread. The cancer was therefore, staged at T2N1M0. Since I was less than 55 y old at diagnosis, this was considered as stage I papillary thyroid cancer.

Adjuvant therapy after the surgery

After the surgery, I underwent adjuvant nuclear therapy in the form of radioactive iodine (RAI) therapy.

The RAI therapy ensured that any remnant thyroid tissue or microscopic disease was treated. It also completed the active phase of my treatment.

A follow-up scan after the RAI therapy ensured that all thyroid cells in my body had been killed.

A pill each morning – that’s all it takes to keep me going

Once the RAI therapy was done, it meant all my thyroid cells were killed – even that microscopic amount that have been left behind after the surgery.

I need thyroid hormones for overall functioning of my body. As my body no longer produces these hormones, I have been put on thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

This means every morning, I get up and take a pill that gives me enough thyroid hormones to allow my body to work to its optimum ability.

A final word – the power of looking closer and paying attention

When I reflect today, 1 year after the diagnosis, on what saved me – I believe it wasn’t just a machine and a test. It was the people behind them who looked closer and paid attention.

A friend who saw what I didn’t.  The ultrasonologist who paid attention to the left side too when the swelling was only on the right side. The pathologist who confirmed the diagnosis. The ultrasonologist who found the necrosed lymph nodes. The surgeon who carefully removed my thyroid gland without any damage to the nerve to my voice box, who removed the neck lymph nodes carefully and sent it for biopsy. The pathologists who did the biopsy and confirmed that the spread was limited only to a few nearby lymph nodes.

My case is a reminder that medicine is as much about vigilance and intuition as it is about technology.

So, if you—or someone you care about—has a neck swelling, don’t ignore it. Even if it is painless. Even if your lab tests are normal. Even if you feel fine. Ask your doctor about an ultrasound. Make sure the scan is detailed and done by someone experienced in thyroid imaging. And follow through if something looks suspicious.

Because early detection doesn’t just improve outcomes. Sometimes, as in my case, it changes everything.

 

P.S.

One year after the diagnosis, I am doing well. 

My last whole-body scan had shown no remnant thyroid cancer cells anywhere in my body.

As a panel moderator at the recently concluded DIA Medical Writing Conference 2025

Grateful to these people in my cancer journey

Dr. Sanjusmita Tripathy, Dr. Preeti Srivastava, Dr. Sharmistha Sarangi, Dr. Biswajit Mishra, Dr. Sandeep Mohanty, Dr. Ranjan Mohanty, Dr. Pradyumna Kumar Sahoo, Dr. Manas Ranjan Baisakh, Dr. Rabi Narayan Mallick, Dr. Manoranjan Mohapatra, Dr. Saroj Kumar Sahu, Dr. Tushar Mohapatra, Dr. Saurendra Das, Ar. Santrupthy Das, Mr. Animesh Das, Dr. Bibhupada Mohanty, Mrs. Yashodhara Das, Mrs. Alaka Das, Mr. Nilolohit Mohanty, Mrs. Mandakini Mohanty, Ms. Swetapadma Acharya, Dr. Purvish Parikh, Dr. Pratap K. Das, Dr. Ghanashyam Biswas, Dr. Soumya Surath Panda, Mr. Ravi Shankar Sharma, Mr. Debakanta Kar and many others.

Also, Zulie bhai (Late Dr. ZH Khan) who always encouraged me to spread awareness for early detection of cancer.

When you have cancer, you do not travel alone. And that’s what makes all the difference. I share my story now so others will listen sooner—to their bodies, to their instincts, and to those who care enough to speak up. Because sometimes, one scan and one set of careful eyes is all it takes to change the ending.

Anxiety in Teenagers: Signs Parents Shouldn't Ignore

- Medical Communication Intern, Summer 2025 Cohort

Teenage years are a rollercoaster — emotionally, socially, and physically. Today’s teens face an overwhelming mix of academic pressure, social media, and uncertainty about the future. It’s no surprise that anxiety in teenagers is on the rise.

WHO estimates that anxiety disorders affect about one in ten adolescents globally; yet, many go unnoticed or are brushed off as "just teen drama." As a parent or caregiver, knowing what to look for — and when to act — can make a world of difference.

What is teen anxiety, really?

Anxiety is our body’s natural response to stress or danger — the “fight or flight” instinct. But when that response gets triggered too often, too easily, or without a clear reason, it can become a problem.

According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), anxiety disorders in teens involve intense, excessive fear that doesn't go away on their own — and they interfere with school and personal relations.

Common types of anxiety in teens include:

I. Generalized Anxiety Disorder – constant worry about many aspects of life

II. Social Anxiety Disorder – fear of being judged or embarrassed in public

III. Panic Disorder – sudden, intense bouts of fear (panic attacks)

IV. Phobias – irrational fears of specific things (e.g., needles, elevators)

V. Separation Anxiety – fear of being apart from loved ones

Warning Signs Parents Shouldn’t Miss:

1. Constant worrying or overthinking

Your teen might seem stuck in their head — worrying about school, relationships, or the future — and it never seems to stop. It might seem out of proportion to what’s going on.

 2. Avoiding school or social situations

A teen with anxiety may start dodging school, refusing to go to events, or even avoiding friends. This is especially true with social anxiety or panic disorder.

 3. Physical Complaints with No Clear Cause

Stomach aches, headaches, chest pain, or even dizziness can all be signs of anxiety. These aren’t made up — anxiety can physically affect the body.

 4. Trouble Sleeping

Struggling to fall asleep, waking up frequently, or feeling tired all the time despite a full night’s sleep can be signs that something’s bothering your teen mentally.

 5. Irritability and Mood Swings

An anxious teen might snap more easily or seem more agitated. While mood changes are part of being a teen, persistent irritability can be a clue to deeper struggles.

 6. Perfectionism or Fear of Failing 

Some teens push themselves relentlessly, fearing any mistake. While ambition is healthy, constant self-criticism or burnout may signal anxiety.

 7. Changes in Eating Habits 

Eating much more or much less than usual, or unexplained weight changes, can also be linked to anxiety or emotional stress. 

Why Parents Should Take These Signs Seriously 

Ignoring these signs or dismissing them as “just a phase” can delay necessary intervention.

Early identification and appropriate treatment can significantly improve outcomes. Left untreated, anxiety disorders can persist into adulthood and increase the risk of substance abuse, self-harm, or suicide. 

When to Seek Professional Help 

Consult a mental health professional when: 

●      Symptoms persist for more than a few weeks 

●      Anxiety starts to interfere with school or personal life 

●      Your teen expresses feelings of hopelessness or talks about self-harm 

What Help Looks Like 

1. Therapy 

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps teens recognize and manage anxious thoughts and behaviours. It’s research-backed and widely considered the gold standard in treatment.

2. Medication 

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or anti-anxiety medications may be prescribed for moderate to severe cases but should always be managed by a licensed psychiatrist. 

3. Lifestyle Changes 

Regular sleep, physical activity, healthy meals, reducing screen time and practicing breathing exercises can help in the long run.

Guide Your Teen

You don’t need to have all the answers. What your teen needs most is to feel safe, heard, and not judged. 

• Ask open-ended questions. 

• Avoid dismissing their feelings with “just relax” or “you’ll be fine.” 

• Keep communication consistent, even if they push back. 

“Parents can be their teen’s first line of defense.” Knowing when to lean in — and when to get help — can change a young person’s life. 

Final Thought 

Teen anxiety isn’t just a phase. It's a real and growing concern. As a parent, your job isn’t to “fix” everything — but to listen, observe, and act when needed. The earlier anxiety is recognized and addressed, the better the chances for a happy, healthy future.

Resources

[WHO – Adolescent Mental Health](https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health) 

 [CDC – Anxiety and Depression in Children](https://www.cdc.gov/childrensmentalhealth/features/anxiety-depression-children.html) 

[Mayo Clinic – Teen Anxiety](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc-20350961)

[Cleveland Clinic – Anxiety in Teens](https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9632-anxiety-disorders) 

[NHS – Anxiety in Children and Teens](https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/feelings-symptoms-behaviours/behaviours/anxiety-in-children/)

The rising importance of mental health days at work

 - Medical Communication Intern, Summer2025 Cohort

With work demands increasing every day, it’s easy to overlook the importance of mental health. Since a long time, organizations have acknowledged that sick days were necessary for employees who were physically ill. However, they are only recently starting to realize that mental health days are just as needed.

 What is a mental health day?

A mental health day is a day when you use your time outside of work to focus on relaxing and caring for your mental wellness. It allows you to take a break from your routine stress and relax mentally and emotionally when you’re feeling too much stress or anxiety or are close to burnout.

If you slow down when you have the flu, it helps you bounce back faster and may stop you from infecting people. Similarly, taking a day out for your mind helps stop emotional stress in the long run.

Why mental health days are becoming more important

Several things are encouraging more companies to recognize mental health days.

In late 2019, the World Health Organization recognized _‘burnout’_ as the official name for ongoing stress at work.

Young people are recognizing and sharing their mental health needs more easily and organizations are responding.

Improved mental health allows workers to think creatively, choose wise goals and produce more effectively.

Every year, companies lose billions because of workers who have mental distress and perform less effectively on their jobs.

It can be hard to relax, but watching out for these signs is helpful.

• Burnout, weariness or tiredness
• Having trouble concentrating or deciding
• Worrying a lot, having a bad mood or feeling like no emotions exist
• Sleep problems or eating less
• Not wanting to do the things you usually pick as activities you find fun doing.

Ways employers can assist employees on mental health days

To make mental health days respected, it must start with the leaders themselves.

Organizations can help by providing the following:

• Normalize conversation about stress and burnout throughout the organization. 
• Modify current leave guidelines, if needed. Sick leaves should be used to address both physical and mental health problems. 
• Train supervisors. Supervisors should be able to recognize signs of stress presents and respond to workers with empathy.
• Encourage your staff to switch off after work and plan for time off.

When the organization helps their employees in this manner, it will also boost its own output and growth.

Ensure you have a happy and relaxing mental health day

• Disconnect from your job by turning off email and work chatting.
• Before going to bed, spend a few minutes in calm nature, read something heartening or meditate.
• Connect with someone you trust, whether it’s a friend or a therapist.

There’s no reason to feel guilty when you need a break from your feelings.

While mental health days won’t solve everything, they can be a real help if you use them right. 

Caring for your mental health is something you cannot ignore; it’s crucial. Taking a mental health day prevents exhaustion, energizes you and supports your productivity over the long run. Most importantly, they allow us to remain humane in a tough environment. Just like paid sick days, mental health days will soon be considered a requirement for companies.

References

Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/in-depth/burnout/art-20046642

World Health Organization (WHO): https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/mental-health-in-the-workplace

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://blogs.cdc.gov/niosh-science-blog/2024/04/15/workplace-mental-health-resources/

 

Parkinson's disease - What it is and how you can look after someone with Parkinson's disease

- Guest authored by B. Swain

Is buttoning a shirt or picking up and holding a cup of coffee often a challenge for you?

This is the reality for millions of people with Parkinson's disease, a neurological condition that impacts everything in your life. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, it is understandable to feel overwhelmed. But with the proper information and attention, individuals with Parkinson's disease can live a full and independent life for many years.

What is Parkinson's Disease?

Parkinson's disease is a nervous system disorder that most directly impacts movement. It is caused by the slow deterioration or death of brain cells that produce dopamine, a chemical involved in carrying messages that govern movement and coordination. Parkinson's disease is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder and currently affects over 8 million people globally. Although the exact cause of Parkinson's disease still remains unknown, both genetics and environmental causes are believed to be involved.

Symptoms of Parkinson's Disease

The symptoms of Parkinson's disease typically appear gradually over a period of time and may differ from individual to individual. These typically can be divided into motor and non-motor symptoms.

Motor Symptoms:

• Tremors – Involuntary trembling, typically beginning in the hands or fingers.
• Bradykinesia (slowness of movement) – Reduction in spontaneous and voluntary movements.
• Muscle rigidity– Stiffness in the muscles, which causes difficulty in movement and pain.
• Postural instability– Balance and coordination impairments, increasing the risk of falls.
• Facial masking– Decreased facial expressions because of facial muscle stiffness.

Non-motor Symptoms:

• Cognitive changes– Memory impairment and difficulty in concentration.
• Depression and anxiety– Mood disorders 
• Sleep disturbances – Insomnia, restless legs syndrome, excessive daytime sleepiness
• Digestive problems – Difficulty in swallowing and constipation.
• Loss of smell – A less discussed, yet prevalent, early symptom of Parkinson's disease.

Caring for a Person with Parkinson's Disease

Caring for a loved one with Parkinson's disease demands patience, empathy, and an active attitude. Here are some practical tips on how to offer support:

1. Support Regular Exercise

Exercise is the most effective method of slowing down the progress of Parkinson's disease. Walking, swimming, and martial arts such as tai chi improve mobility, balance, and flexibility. Physical therapy can also be helpful in allowing movement and decreasing stiffness.

2. Offer a Balanced Diet

A healthy diet may assist in controlling symptoms and enhancing well-being. Foods high in antioxidants (e.g., berries, greens, and nuts) may protect the brain. Eating foods high in fiber and drinking plenty of water can aid digestive problems such as constipation.

3. Promote Adherence to Medication

Parkinson's medication, such as levodopa, replenishes the levels of dopamine in the body and controls the symptoms. Make sure your loved one is reminded to take medication at the proper time because omitting a single dose can easily affect their mobility and overall condition.

4. Ensure the Home is Safe and Accessible

Individuals suffering from Parkinson's disease are more susceptible to falls.Make your home a safe environment for such people. 

• Remove any loose rugs that may they are likely to trip over.
• Fix grab bars in the bathroom.
• Provide good lighting in the entire house.
• Use non-slip shoes and mats.

5. Provide Emotional Support

Managing Parkinson's disease is an emotional rollercoaster for the caregiver as well as the patient. Maintain open communication, hear them out, and make them understand they are not isolated. Support groups, counselling, and meditation can aid in dealing with stress and depression.

6. Assist in Daily Activities

As Parkinson's disease advances, everyday activities like dressing, eating, and bathing can be challenging. Assisting while promoting independence can preserve their dignity. Adaptive equipment, such as utensils with larger grips or clothing without buttons, can simplify daily tasks.

7. Watch for Cognitive Changes

Some people with Parkinson's disease may have cognitive decline as they age. Monitor any changes in memory, thinking, or behavior and talk to a healthcare provider when in doubt. Cognitive therapy and mental exercises, including puzzles and reading, will maintain brain function.

8. Promote Social Interaction

Loneliness and isolation can exacerbate the symptoms. Encourage them to engage in social activities, hobbies, or community participation. Talking and maintaining relationships with friends and family can enhance their emotional well-being.

Caring for Yourself as a Caregiver

• Caring for someone with Parkinson’s can be physically and emotionally exhausting. It’s important to take care of yourself as well. 
• Take breaks when needed and ask for help from other family members or professional caregivers.
• Join a caregiver support group to connect with others in similar situations.
• Prioritize self-care, including exercise, healthy eating, and relaxation.
• Most importantly, take care of your mental health. Ask for help if needed. Don’t let your energy be drained completely; take breaks.

Parkinson's disease is a difficult condition for the patient as well as the caregiver. Take care of both. With proper care and support, people can lead meaningful and productive lives. As a caregiver, your contribution is priceless in making those with Parkinson’s disease feel comfortable, safe, and emotionally sound.

By being well-informed, promoting independence, and creating a positive atmosphere, you can make a big difference in the life of a person with Parkinson's disease.

If you or a loved one is touched by Parkinson's disease, seek the advice of healthcare providers and support groups to sail through the journey together.