With this, a pattern is evident and quite alarming for medical professionals, they wrote…reports Asian Lite News
People who live sedentary lives and have unhealthy lifestyles are more prone to Covid-related long negative health outcomes, including deaths, a new study has revealed.
The authors of the study, published in American Journal of Medicine, compared geographic maps of the US outlining Covid-19 deaths, several lifestyle behaviours, obesity and chronic conditions.
The study recognised the link between unhealthy lifestyle behaviours and the one million Covid-19 deaths in the US.
It stated there is a significant association between unhealthy behaviours and conditions such as low physician activity, obesity, diabetes and smoking, and poorer outcomes from Covid-19 infections.
With this, a pattern is evident and quite alarming for medical professionals, they wrote.
The study explained that the current state of health outcomes has been building for decades and should be considered a “syndemic”, which is the simultaneous occurrence of two prevalent health conditions or endemics.A
“The reality of this comparison should be quite eye-opening for many,” said Dr Carl Lavie, Medical Director, Cardiac Rehabilitation and Prevention at the John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute.
“The only way to combat the asyndemic’ we are experiencing is to promote healthy lifestyles and address the health needs of all, especially those in underserved communities who have been disproportionately impacted by poor outcomes related to chronic conditions and Covid-19,” Lavie stressed.
Clinicians have long been aware of the link between increased mortality rates and unhealthy lifestyles.
“Individuals who live sedentary lives with poor eating habits and multiple chronic conditions are always more prone to negative health outcomes,” said Lavie.
Naturopathy and Yoga to treat Diabetic Neuropathy(IANSLIFE)
There is no cure available for diabetic neuropathy. The key to managing it and stopping its progression is maintaining healthy blood glucose levels. Here’s how naturopathy can help achieve that…writes Dr Vinodha Kumari
Diabetic neuropathy refers to nerve damage that is caused by diabetes. Diabetes is an extremely common chronic disease and diabetic neuropathy is one of the most likely conditions to develop as its side effect. In fact, India now has the largest population of people with type 2 diabetes mellitus internationally, with a 10.4 per cent prevalence.
Diabetic neuropathy doesn’t affect all with diabetes but many do. Nearly 60-70 per cent of people with diabetes can experience some type of diabetic neuropathy. While some people may experience mild symptoms of nerve damage like numbness or tingle in the hands, feet, and legs, others can experience more severe symptoms like digestive issues, pain, issues with the blood vessels and heart, and the inability to lead a normal, healthy life. Fortunately, it is possible to prevent diabetic neuropathy by maintaining blood sugar levels on a daily basis. Complementary therapies like naturopathy and yoga can help achieve normal blood sugar levels. Naturopathy and yoga may contribute to controlling the condition, as well as reduce side effects and the need for medications or drugs, by providing specific dietary practices, physical activity, and stress reduction.
What Leads to Diabetic Neuropathy: Over time, high blood sugar and high levels of fats, like triglycerides resulting from diabetes can damage the nerves. High blood sugar levels can also damage the small blood vessels that nourish the nerves with oxygen and nutrients. Without enough amount of oxygen and nutrients, the nerves are not able to function properly.
How Naturopathy helps in Diabetic Neuropathy: There is no cure available for diabetic neuropathy. The key to managing it and stopping its progression is maintaining healthy blood glucose levels. Here’s how naturopathy can help achieve that:
Maintain a Healthy Diet: Diet plays a crucial role in naturopathy treatments and it recommends an alkaline diet rich in complex carbohydrates, fibre, and low fat for people with diabetes mellitus. People with diabetes should limit their intake of added sugars, refined carbs, and sugary drinks to help stabilize blood sugar levels. Here are some of the foods advisable for people with high blood sugar levels:
Include green leafy vegetables along with whole fruits that are high in fibre, antioxidants, vitamins, and essential electrolytes like potassium and minerals
Consume avocado, butter, olive oil, seeds and nuts, whole-fat dairy products, cheese, and yoghurt
Avoid most grains if possible, especially those made with refined wheat flour
Also, limit the intake of high-sodium foods
Hydrotherapy: In this type of therapy, a combination of baths, packs, and warm water enema is given to the patient as a remedy. Hydrotherapy helps improve metabolism and controls blood sugar levels. It also enhances the capability of the body to use glucose and the enema helps cleanse toxins from the colon and detoxify the system.
Yoga Asanas for Diabetics: The age-old practice of yoga can provide plenty of benefits, especially for those living with diabetes. Here are some yoga asanas that can lead to significant transformations in those suffering from high blood sugar levels:
Dhanurasana: This asana strengthens and regulates the pancreas. As a result, this asana is recommended for diabetics. It also strengthens the abdominal muscles, improves digestion, and helps avoid abdominal cramps.
ViparitaKarani: This restorative inversion asana allows for relaxation. It helps lower stress levels, which assists in lowering blood pressure and blood sugar levels. It can also boost energy, help relieve headaches and increase blood circulation.
Balasana: This asana works on the rotator cuff, hamstrings, and spinal extensors. It promotes relaxation, which assists in the formation of insulin-producing beta cells.
Yoga (IANSLIFE)
Halasana: This inversion pose helps increase circulation, stimulates the thyroid gland, and reduces stress. Its therapeutic effects may also help relieve backache, headache, and insomnia. It also aids in the reduction of fat from the abdominal area and increases insulin secretion in the body.
Kapalbhati Pranayama: It is a breathing technique that improves pancreatic effectiveness. As a result, it increases the release of insulin in the body which keeps the blood glucose levels stable.
People with diabetes often find it difficult to control their blood sugar levels which can lead to issues like diabetic neuropathy. With the help of these naturopathic tips and yoga asanas, it is possible to maintain good blood sugar levels and live a happy, healthy life.
More than 12,000 participate in Landmark Group’s flagship annual Beat Diabetes Walk at Safa Park in Dubai
More than 12,000 participate in Landmark Group’s flagship annual Beat Diabetes Walk at Safa Park in Dubai
Landmark Group’s flagship annual Beat Diabetes Walk succeeds in bringing together more than 12,000 individuals who joined its social impact campaign. The event, in its 13th edition, which was held two days prior to World Diabetes Day took place at Safa Park in Dubai from 7am to 2pm.
The day was inaugurated with the 3.8-km walk around the Dubai Water Canal led by Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group. She was joined by Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of the Council, Dubai Sports Council, Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, Acting CEO of Al Jalila Foundation and Dr. Hend Al Awadhi, Head of Health Promotion and Education at the DHA along with representatives from Emirates Diabetes & Endocrine Society and over 30 private and public sectors partners.
The event coincides with the Dubai Fitness Challenge and encourages residents to increase their daily physical activity. It also brought to life many activities for the entire family, including Human Foosball, Bungee Run, Obstacle Course, Giant Jenga, Bollywood & Zumba Dancing and Live Music. Participants also were able get free blood sugar testing and BMI testing conducted by Dubai Health Authority and had access as well as health and nutrition consultations. Participants this year were encouraged to dress up in blue to represent the cause.
More than 12,000 participate in Landmark Group’s flagship annual Beat Diabetes Walk at Safa Park in Dubai
The Group has also partnered this year again with STEPPI. For every 10,000 steps participants completed through the STEPPI app, Landmark will donate 10 AED towards the Beat Diabetes Fund, facilitated by Al Jalila Foundation, for the medical treatment of patients suffering from diabetes complications.
All proceeds from this charity event will be donated to Al Jalila Foundation, a UAE-based not-for-profit organization established by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
Last year, the Group became the first and only corporate from the GCC to join the WHO’s Global Diabetes Compact Forum.
Since the launch of the campaign in 2009, Landmark Group has partnered with various public, private, and non-profit organisations, and been supported by over 125,000 participants [including 30,000 children] across the GCC and beyond.
Prof. Humaid Al- Shamsi and Dr MK Muneer releasing the book
Sharjah International Book Fair hosts an event to release a unique book on paediatric oncology. The book titled Childhood Cancer, written by Dr. Zainul Aabideen, will help parents and siblings deal with the shocking news.
Dr Aabideen, Head of Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplantation, Burjeel Medical City, said the book would help families handle childhood cancer in a most compassionate and balanced way.
Prof. Humaid Al- Shamsi, Director of Oncology Services at Burjeel Holding, UAE, the President of the Emirates Oncology Society, and Dr. M. K. Munneer, MLA from the south Indian state of Kerala, jointly released the book. Zerin compered the event.
Dr Aabideen, a native of Kerala’s Mattool village in Kannur district, completed his MBBS from Calicut Medical College and gained a post-graduate degree in Paediatrics from the LTM Medical College, Mumbai. He then moved to the United Kingdom to specialise in pediatric hematology, paediatric oncology, and pediatric bone marrow transplantation in various hospitals in the UK including Royal Marsden Hospital, UCLH, Imperial College, Manchester Children’s Hospital, and Alder Hey Children Hospital.
Sharjah Book Fair Hosts Event to Release Handbook on Childhood Cancer
Advocate YA Raheem, President Sharjah Indian Association, Mr. Basheer Thikkodi, Social worker & Writer, Mr. Chacko, Social Worker, Mr. Haris Kattakath , Chairman HOPE Foundation and Mr. Hashim P Aboobacker, Director HOPE Foundation, were present. Zerin compered the event.
Patient Teacher coverDr. Zainul Aabideen and Dr Saudabi Valappil during the book launchSharjah Book Fair Hosts Event to Release Handbook on Childhood CancerSharjah Book Fair Hosts Event to Release Handbook on Childhood CancerSharjah Book Fair Hosts Event to Release Handbook on Childhood CancerSharjah Book Fair Hosts Event to Release Handbook on Childhood CancerDr MK Munir, MLA from south Indian state of Kerala, at the eventDr. Zainul Aabideen and Prof. Humaid Al- Shamsi at the book launch Prof. Humaid Al- Shamsi and Dr MK Muneer releasing the book Sharjah Book Fair Hosts Event to Release Handbook on Childhood Cancer
Diabetes, a silent disease with life-threatening complications.(photo;IANSLIFE)
All forms of exercise such as aerobic, resistance, or doing both in a structured workout regime has shown to lower HbA1c values in people with diabetes…writes Chandni Haldurai
Physical activity or a regular workout regime is a key element in managing type 2 diabetes. Until recently studies showing the significance of exercise to manage diabetes were very less. However, now we can see that there is plenty of research highlighting the importance of exercise to manage blood glucose levels effectively.
The research indicates that participation in a regular workout regime improves blood glucose control, preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes, and boosts your body’s sensitivity to insulin, countering insulin resistance.
Also, regular physical activity positively affects blood pressure, and cardiovascular health, lower harmful LDL cholesterol and triglycerides raise healthy HDL cholesterol, strengthens muscles and bones, reduces anxiety, and improves your general well-being. How does exercise affect blood glucose levels?
Early in the exercise, the glycogen stores are utilized as fuel. Further when the glycogen stores are depleted, the muscles increase the uptake of blood glucose along with the free fatty acids released from the adipose tissues.
Muscles can utilize your blood glucose without insulin intervention when you’re doing physical activity. What type of activity helps in diabetes management?
All forms of exercise such as aerobic, resistance, or doing both in a structured workout regime has shown to lower HbA1c values in people with diabetes.
Resistance training and aerobic exercise both help to lower insulin resistance, however, combining the two types of exercise proved more beneficial than doing either one alone. In a recent meta-analysis, aerobic, resistance, and combined exercise training were found to be associated with HbA1c reductions of 0.67 per cent following 12 or more weeks of training.
Hence people with diabetes need to maintain a healthy workout regime. Resistance training for diabetes
70-80 per cent of the glucose in your body after a meal goes into the muscles. Maintaining a good muscle mass is essential for better glucose uptake. Hence adding resistance training to the workout regime becomes highly important.
Emerging research suggests that resistance training has the power to combat metabolic dysfunction in patients with Type 2 Diabetes and seems to be an effective measure to improve lower metabolic risk factors in diabetes individuals and improve overall metabolic health. A meta-analysis of 10 included supervised resistance exercise studies, RT reduced HbA1c by 0.48 per cent.
Resistance exercise further increases excess post-exercise oxygen consumption (EPOC). EPOC after exercise is related to the utilization of fat as fuel which is beneficial for weight loss.
Resistance training appears to be a useful strategy to enhance overall metabolic health and lower metabolic risk factors in diabetic patients since it appears to improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance.
Aerobic training for diabetes
In both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, moderate to high levels of aerobic activity are significantly linked to decrease cardiovascular and total mortality risks.
In type 2 diabetes, therapies using aerobic exercise have dominated the research about the impact of exercise on glycemic indices. Large muscular groups are moved continuously and rhythmically during aerobic activity, which includes activities like cycling, jogging, and walking. According to the most recent ADA recommendations, individual aerobic activity sessions should preferably last at least 30 minutes each day and be carried out 3 to 7 days a week.
Moderate to vigorous (65 per cent-90 per cent of maximum heart rate) aerobic exercise training improves VO2max cardiac output, which is associated with substantially reduced cardiovascular and overall mortality risk in patients with type 2 diabetes.
In individuals with type 2 diabetes, regular training reduces hbA1c and insulin resistance Alternatively, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) promotes insulin sensitivity and glycemic control in adults with type 2 diabetes.
Aerobic exercise boosts the number of mitochondria, insulin sensitivity, oxidative enzymes, blood vessel compliance and responsiveness, immune system activity, lung function, and cardiac output.
While aerobic exercises are good on their account, it is important to make sure there is a combined activity of both aerobic and resistance training for better benefits.
What precautionary measures should I take before exercising?
Checking your blood sugars before your workouts can help you understand your body better and start taking necessary precautions.
When your blood sugars are lower than 100 mg/dL, it may be too low to exercise safely. Eat a small snack containing 15 to 30 grams of carbohydrates, such as a fruit (banana or apple- they digest quickly and give you better energy) before you begin your workout.
When your blood sugars are 100 to 250 mg/dL You’re good to go. This is a safe blood sugar range before exercise for the majority of people. If you feel like you need extra energy, you can still eat fruit before working out.
When your blood sugars are 250 mg/dL or higher, then it’s not safe to exercise as the blood sugars are too high. Consult with your physician for controlling the blood sugars and then follow their instructions before doing any activity because exercise can sometimes raise blood sugar even higher.
Exercise plays a critical role in the prevention and treatment of insulin resistance, prediabetes, GDM, type 2 diabetes, and diabetes-related health issues. Hence, it’s ideal to follow a regular workout regime to maintain healthy blood glucose levels and thereby manage diabetes.
Some iPhone users report Face ID not working post iOS 15.7.1 upgrade
Synchron has six patients using the Synchron Switch device and Gorham is the first ever to use it with an Apple product…reports Asian Lite News
Synchron, a New York-based company, has created a device called “Synchron Switch” that allows patients to control an iPhone or iPad using their brain.
According to Semafor, an array of sensors known as a “Stentrode” is inserted into the top of the brain via a blood vessel. It is controlled wirelessly using the Synchron Switch from the patient’s chest.
Rodney Gorham, a retired software salesman in Melbourne,has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, a nervous system disease that severely impacts physical functioning.
Synchron has six patients using the Synchron Switch device and Gorham is the first ever to use it with an Apple product, according to a report.
“We’re excited about iOS and Apple products because they’re so ubiquitous, and this would be the first brain switch input into the device,” Tom Oxley, Synchron’s co-founder and CEO was quoted as saying.
With the Synchron Switch, Gorham’s thoughts are turned into action on the iPad.
The iPad registers Gorham’s foot tapping as a finger tap when he thinks about tapping his foot.
Using his Synchron Switch, Gorham is able to send single-word text messages from his iPad, reports Semafor.
Synchron is also the first company to receive approval from the US Food and Drug Administration to conduct clinical trials for a computer-brain implant.
The company which has raised $70 million in venture and other funding, foots the cost of implanting and maintaining the device, it added.
5 lifestyle changes to keep sickness at bay .(photo:IANSLIFE)
Walking is a great form of exercise that moves every muscle in your body. chances are you feel fatigued through the day if you are looking for a lifestyle change…writes N. LOTHUNGBENI HUMTSOE
Staying fit and healthy is essential for living life to the fullest. But there are times when we all get sick, such as when the seasons change. But did you know that there are certain techniques to keep the sickness at bay regardless of many other circumstances? This can be accomplished by eating the correct foods.
Many factors contribute significantly to the prevention of illness. According to Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS, and CEO of Nutracy Lifestyle, making the following adjustments in your life will help you avoid being sick as frequently.
Having 3 balanced meals a day: Skipping meals can become a huge mess for you if you are working throughout the day. The main function of the meals themselves is to sustain energy. A well-balanced diet will keep you energetic throughout the day. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and calcium in your meals as these reduce your heart disease risk by maintaining blood pressure and calcium will keep your teeth and bones strong. You can get calcium from dark green vegetables like kale and broccoli. Walking 30 mins every day: Walking is a great form of exercise that moves every muscle in your body. chances are you feel fatigued through the day if you are looking for a lifestyle change. Walking helps in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, which leads to heart diseases. It not only improves brain performance and productivity but also is a great way to destress. You don’t have to run or play, just walk for 30 minutes and you’ll see changes in your life. It helps you in strengthening bones and boosts muscles. Starting small with a daily walk is the best way to do so.
Hydrate Regularly: Water is a very essential mineral for the body. It is vital for sustaining a healthy body. It helps in regulating body temperature, keeps those joints well lubricated, prevents infections, and ensures your organs function optimally. Drink at least 2 liters of water every day. If you are not fam with plain water, add lemon, mint, and cucumber to it.
Prioritizing mental health: Numerous factors like heavy workloads, long shifts, lack of physical and psychological safety, lack of social support, and many more can be the reason behind your stress. These can have a negative impact on your health and lifestyle. Stress can increase your blood pressure, obesity, and heart disease. It also causes depression which will impact your health badly, so the best thing you can do is avoid stress. Taking stress won’t change anything, just relax and solve your problems calmly.
(IANSLIFE)
Good quality sleep: You might have heard that it’s necessary to take 8 hours of sleep every day but rather than just 8 hours of bad sleep get a good quality of sleep. Don’t compromise your sleep ever. Maintain a proper schedule or time and never have heavy meals at night. Proper sleep decreases the risk of heart ailments, depression, and obesity.
Nothing happens overnight, everything takes time. Making changes in your daily lifestyle can be tough for you but you have to be realistic. Good days and bad all are part of life, maybe sometimes you are very strong and sometimes you don’t even want to get up from bed. You need to stay on track and be consistent. Try with small changes and surely it’ll become your habit.
Taking short and frequent breaks can help in reducing both work-related mental stress, as well as the physical stress on our spines…writes DR. UMESH SRIKANTHA
Back pain today and especially lower back pain have become a chronic ailment in India. The disease is no longer limited to the elderly but is also increasing among the youth. Long working hours along with a sedentary lifestyle is putting too much strain on our spinal discs and back muscles and has highlighted the need for us to take steps and prevent any long-term complications.
Several reasons like sports injuries, excessive stress over flexible joints and congenital spinal problems can cause chronic back pain among children and teenagers. Additionally, substance abuse too can cause adolescents to experience back pain. According to several recent studies, it has been found that adolescents who smoke cigarettes, drink alcohol and are suffering from mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are likely to suffer from back pain more frequently. For instance, 14-15-year-olds who consume alcohol and smoke tobacco experience back pain more than once a week than those who rarely or never had pain.
This combination of back pain along with unhealthy habits also creates long-term complications in adulthood. The use of toxic substances in early adolescence increases the risk of substance abuse and mental health problems in adulthood and makes the developing brain more susceptible to the negative influences of these substances which also has consequences on our spine.
Chronically poor posture during adolescence in rare cases can stretch the ligaments and can give rise to curved or slightly humped back called kyphosis. In a few cases, back pain can also indicate the emergence of unrelated problems to the spine such as Kidney problems that can cause lower back pain problems on either side of the spine. In certain rare cases, back pain can also be caused by a tumour. Therefore, on this world spine day, we share a few tips that can help you maintain spinal health and can prevent back pain. Maintain a good posture
People who work long hours on their computers usually slouch a lot which puts pressure on their back muscles, spine and neck and causes pain. Similarly, the ones who are on their mobile phones, often lie on their stomachs with their necks arched upwards which can lead to spine damage. Hence, maintaining an upright posture in alignment with the neck and the lower back and following the correct desktop monitor or laptop level can prevent damage to their spines.
Taking short breaks
Taking short and frequent breaks can help in reducing both work-related mental stress, as well as the physical stress on our spines. Sitting in one position for extended hours is unhealthy and can worsen back pain. Thus, movement while working for longer periods is recommended as it can strengthen the muscles and nerves.
Exercise
Our sedentary jobs weaken our trunk, core and lumbar muscles, and spine and cause back pain. Exercises like partial crunches, bridge, hamstring stretches, knee-to-chest, cat stretch, and shoulder and neck rolls can help restore the fluidity of our muscles, joints, and spinal discs and can alleviate the pain.
Regular brisk walking too is an easy-to-do and effective way to relieve back and spine pain. Walking and exercising can also help in reducing weight, increasing blood flow to the muscles of the spine and raising the oxygen and nutrient levels in the blood which rejuvenates the muscles and relieves pain.
Back Pain, a global burden.
Adopting a balanced diet
Avoid fatty foods and consuming plenty of water can also help you avoid back and spine problems. Consuming low-fat, calcium and protein-rich diets that are filled with essential minerals can help you in keeping your weight in check and can reduce the overall pressure on your spine.
Our spine is a marvel of engineering that consists of a series of vertebrae which extend from the skull to the small back, enclosing the spinal cord and providing support for our thorax and abdomen. It comprises basic structures such as vertebrae, disks, cervical spine, thoracic spine, lumbar spine and coccyx which are held erect to provide balance to our body. Living in constant pain for a longer period can have a debilitating impact on the quality of life for many patients. Even the simple daily chores will seem like a huge task When the pain becomes persistent even after months of conventional treatments. So, let us pledge this world spine day, that we will take care of our spine and take steps that can help us in leading a healthy life.
New NHS recruitment campaign launches to encourage South Asian community to consider nursing career. Now in its fifth year, NHS England’s ‘We Are The NHS’ campaign has been revamped to champion the extraordinary work of South Asian nurses and inspire a new cohort to consider a career in the health service
Now in its fifth year, NHS England’s ‘We Are The NHS’ campaign has been revamped to champion the extraordinary work of South Asian nurses and inspire a new cohort to consider a career in the health service.
The campaign highlights the range of nursing specialisms across the NHS, including in learning disabilities, mental health, adult and children’s nursing. It features a South Asian nurse, who is proud to showcase the many ways that nursing has a positive impact every day, on patients and on himself.
Pratap Perseeddoss, a nurse at Oxleas NHS Foundation Trust, and now star of the new ‘We Are The NHS’ campaign said: “It’s a very rewarding role. I enjoy interacting with patients and listening to any concerns or feedback they might have – this is absolutely crucial to ensuring you can provide the best possible care.”
After completing his nursing degree at London South Bank University, Pratap is now a Nurse Consultant. Candidates for university nursing courses have access to a support system to guide them step by step through the application process, alongside tailored support. Annual payments of at least £5,000 are also available to help nursing students with their studies.
“A career in nursing is one of the most dynamic and rewarding roles the NHS has to offer,” said Pratap. “With ongoing training and endless opportunities to progress, I am sure a career in nursing will transform your life, as it has done mine. Being in a workplace that allows you to grow and bring your whole authentic self to work everyday is what enables me to deliver the best possible healthcare.”
After graduating, nursing is the UK’s most employable profession with 94% of graduates gaining employment within the first six months of leaving university. Once qualified, there are many opportunities to further develop through additional training or by focusing on specific areas, such as trauma, orthopaedics or neonatal care.
To help those who are unsure of what to specialise in, the ‘We Are The NHS’ campaign has also launched a quiz to raise awareness of the plethora of nursing roles available and to help people find out which nursing role they would be best suited to which is available here
The campaign aims to increase applications for both degree courses and direct entry jobs, seeking to build upon the existing 1.2 million-strong workforce and to shine a light on the incredible work they do in multicultural adverts across TV, cinemas, radio and billboards.
Dr Navina Evans, recently appointed Chief Workforce Officer at NHSE, said: “I am proud to support this new recruitment campaign. The NHS’s greatest strength is in the diversity of our people. Nurses from multicultural communities across the UK are the backbone of our national health service and the contributions they make every day must be celebrated.”
Marimouttou Coumarassamy, Founder and Chair of the British Indian Nursing Association, said: “When I first arrived from India to work as a nurse in the UK, I was pleasantly surprised by the respect given to the nursing profession. Throughout my career, I have been supported through various learning opportunities, which have helped me to grow as a compassionate and inclusive leader. I am proud to be part of the NHS family and would encourage others to choose a career in nursing.”
Self Care Sundays encouraged to tackle anxiety as new research reveals 6 in 10 South Asians worry about the week ahead South Asian influencers and mental health advocates back new better health – every mind matters campaign calling on the community to be kind to their minds
Despite Sunday being the traditional day of rest and recreation for most, as the weekend draws to a close, many begin to worry about the week ahead with lack of sleep (57%), juggling family life (57%) and a looming to-do list (54%) reported as the top causes. New research released this week reveals almost 6 in 10 South Asians regularly experience anxiety (57%).
For many people around the country, a typical weekend ends with worry as thoughts turn to the week ahead; with Google searches around sadness spiking on a Sunday as people turn to the internet for help. Searches for ‘trouble sleeping’ also peak on a Monday, reflecting the nation’s struggle to unwind as the weekend draws to a close. In fact, searches for anxiety have increased 170% in the last 10 years.
Leading South Asian influencers and mental health advocates, including Parle Patel, Dr Tina Mistry and Ummar Sadique are supporting the Better Health – Every Mind Matters campaign, calling on the South Asian community to adopt Self Care Sundays to help deal with feelings of anxiety by doing small things that can make a big difference.
Despite a significant number of South Asians regularly experiencing anxiety (57%), 1 in 3 (35%) rarely or never prioritise self-care on a Sunday. Those that do like to unwind go for a walk (41%), clean their home (39%) and spend time with friends or family (37%).
To address this, Dr Tina Mistry, Ummar Sadique and Parle Patel, who are long-standing advocates for the importance of good mental health, are sharing their tips for alleviating anxiety and preparing for the week ahead.
Parle Patel, Influencer and Comedian, said: “Sundays are a particularly good day to be kind to yourself and get into the right frame of mind for the week ahead. Try adopting a Self Care Sunday routine that works for you – whether that’s mindful breathing exercises in your room or going for a run outdoors. Take time to think about the good things in your life and list the things you’re thankful for. It’s important to speak to someone if you’re struggling.”
Dr Tina Mistry, Clinical Psychologist, said: “Stress is the body’s reaction to feeling threatened or under pressure. It’s very common and can affect our mood, our body, and our relationships – especially when it feels out of our control. Try keeping a diary of what you are doing and how you are feeling at different times of the day to help identify what’s causing you anxiety – this will help you create simple steps to better manage it.”
Ummar Sadique, Senior Psychological Well-being Practitioner, said: “Trying to relax and enjoy the last few moments of the weekend on a Sunday can quickly become stressful, especially when you can’t help but worry about the week ahead! For me, reviewing my to-do list and breaking down my biggest tasks into smaller, easier-to-manage chunks really helps. Making a plan for managing upcoming stressful days or events can really help.”
Self Care Sundays encouraged as new research reveals almost 6 in 10 South Asians regularly experience anxiety about the week ahead
Top 3 causes identified as lack of sleep, juggling family life and a looming to-do list
Leading South Asian influencers and mental health advocates Parle Patel, Dr Tina Mistry and Ummar Sadique are supporting Better Health – Every Mind Matters, which offers NHS-approved tips and advice to improve mental health
Top Tip For Stopping AnxietyTop Tip For Stopping AnxietyTop Tip For Stopping AnxietyTop Tip For Stopping AnxietyTop Tip For Stopping AnxietyTop Tip For Stopping AnxietyTop Tip For Stopping AnxietyTop Tip For Stopping Anxiety
Influencers Support Self Care Sundays
Top Tip For Stopping Anxiety
Influencers Support Self Care Sundays
