Category Archives: Health: Mental Health

Mental Health Press Releases, bring us the latest cutting edge research, and therapies to help Mental Health in our modern society.

New Research to Use Brain Imaging to Measure Human-Dog Interaction


HABRI logo

In supporting this project, HABRI and Pet Partners hope to not only advance the field of human-animal interaction but to also help support the proliferation of safe, effective animal-assisted interventions for people of all ages and health conditions.

The Human Animal Bond Research Institute (HABRI) and Pet Partners announced today a grant to Purdue University for a research project that will investigate the impact interacting with a dog has on human brain activity. Researchers will use Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS) to measure the neural responses correlating with human-dog interaction, and potential factors that influence these responses.

“We hear stories every day about how our Pet Partners registered therapy dogs and their handlers make a positive difference in peoples’ lives,” said C. Annie Peters, President & CEO of Pet Partners. “We’re proud to fund this research project, which will use imaging technology to gain a deeper understanding of what happens inside the brain when a dog brings comfort to someone in need.”

A large body of research demonstrates the benefits of the human-animal bond for the mental and physical health and wellbeing of people. The most typically deployed measures of these benefits are self-reporting and psychological evaluation, which do not reveal the underlying mechanisms of the human-animal bond, such as changes in brain activity. fNIRS is one of the most common non-invasive functional imaging methods, which uses near-infrared light to estimate neural or brain activity.

“Despite analyzing inter-species interactions and dealing with social behaviors, human-animal interaction research from the neuroscience approach is scarce,” said the study’s lead investigator, Dr. Niwako Ogata, associate professor of animal behavior at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. “With the brain imaging expertise of Dr. Yunjie Tong, assistant professor in Purdue’s Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, and our collaborators on our inter-disciplinary team approach, we will produce methodologically rigorous evidence regarding the neural correlates of the human-animal bond, enhancing our understanding of the human-animal bond and serving as the basis of future research.”

This project will enroll healthy, dog-owning adult participants to undergo a psychosocial and physiological stress test in a controlled laboratory setting. Participants will interact with both a familiar and unfamiliar dog during the recovery period from the stress test as researchers evaluate the neural response using fNIRS, in addition to more standard saliva testing and self-reports to verify the fNIRS findings. Researchers will also observe canine behavior and heart rate variability to analyze how the dog processes this interaction.

“This study represents important foundational science on the underpinnings of the human-animal bond,” said Steven Feldman, President of HABRI. “In supporting this project, HABRI and Pet Partners hope to not only advance the field of human-animal interaction but to also help support the proliferation of safe, effective animal-assisted interventions for people of all ages and health conditions.”

About HABRI

HABRI is a not-for-profit organization that maintains the world’s largest online library of human-animal bond research and information, HABRI Central (http://www.habricentral.org); funds innovative research projects to scientifically document the health benefits of companion animals; and informs the public about human-animal bond research and the beneficial role of companion animals in society. HABRI Central is housed at Purdue University as a joint effort of the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine and Purdue University Libraries.

For more information about HABRI, please visit http://www.habri.org.

About Pet Partners

Pet Partners is the leader in the therapy animal field for registering volunteer teams. Since 1977, we have supported thousands of teams in making millions of safe, effective visits across the country and around the world. Through the human-animal bond, we can improve the physical, social, and emotional lives of both the people and animals involved. Pet Partners supports volunteer teams by offering the highest quality preparation, an unmatched approach to evaluation and registration—for nine different types of animals, and a focus on connections. We elevate the importance of therapy animal visits, and our teams help build a healthier and happier world for us all. Whether or not you have a pet, learn more about sharing the human-animal bond by visiting http://www.petpartners.org.

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The Answer to Treating PTSD in Combat Veterans is to Treat it Completely


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This book is designed for the person who knows someone suffering from PTSD, is curious about it, or wants to help a sufferer.

Author Scott Jimenez shares expertise garnered from years working with combat veterans in PTSD: A Theological Approach ($15.99, paperback, 9781662863912; $24.99, 9781662863929; $7.99, e-book, 9781662863943; audiobook, 9781662863950).

While serving as a chaplain, both to Marines and veterans, Jimenez realized that many veterans suffer from PTSD, which is often masked as substance abuse, and that many treatment options are incomplete because they do not address the theological aspects of guilt, shame, forgiveness, and identity. He uses existing research, interviews with veterans and a study of the Bible to produce his holistic answer to this dilemma.

“This book is designed for the person who knows someone suffering from PTSD, is curious about it, or wants to help a sufferer,” said Jimenez.

Scott Jimenez earned a Doctor of Ministry (DMin) with a specialty in the spiritual effects of PTSD. He is a US Navy chaplain (Retired), with previous war-time experience as an officer of Marines. Jimenez also served as a VA chaplain (Retired), working with victims of PTSD and Substance Use Disorder (SUD).

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Xulon Press, a division of Salem Media Group, is the world’s largest Christian self-publisher, with more than 15,000 titles published to date. PTSD: A Theological Approach is available online through xulonpress.com/bookstore, amazon.com, and barnesandnoble.com.

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New book presents a visualization of poetry and shorts that tells the story of a young man finding his path alongside humanity


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Andrew Joseph Zaragoza Jr. announces his return into the publishing scene with the release of “Second Chances in The Fall: An Account of Hope” (published by Archway Publishing), a visualization of poetry and shorts that tell the story of a young man finding his path alongside humanity.

In his sophomore collection of prose and poetry, Zaragoza begins to unravel his story further as he recounts his time as an emerging adult into the world of mental health and finding his purpose. After experiencing loss from family member’s passing, displacement, and experiencing the reformation of his family unit as well as unrequited love, the main character aspires for something greater as he embarks into his own psyche and a relationship to the outer world of Los Angeles.

“Readers need a space to feel comfortable when exploring pain, grief, and essentially an experience where hope arrives in the subtlest of places throughout it all,” Zaragoza says. He adds, “It is different because it was written by me, a Los Angeles based bicultural man of color. I am someone who has had both personal and vocational experiences in a mental health journey. I want to share more on it.”

When asked what he wants readers to take away from the book, Zaragoza answers, “I want readers to have a sense of hope. Something that returned from all the times of darkness and to carry with them as they return to their lives after reading the book. Given throughout challenges in school, work, relationships, or just trying to make sense of it all, that there is something bigger than us that we should look forward to.” For more details about the book, please visit https://www.archwaypublishing.com/en/bookstore/bookdetails/825582-second-chances-in-the-fall

“Second Chances in The Fall: An Account of Hope”

By Andrew Joseph Zaragoza Jr.

Hardcover | 6 x 9in | 214 pages | ISBN 9781665726702

Softcover | 6 x 9in | 214 pages | ISBN 9781665726726

E-Book | 214 pages | ISBN 9781665726719

Available at Amazon and Barnes & Noble

About the Author

Andrew Joseph Zaragoza is a fellow Angeleno born in Lakewood, California and graduated from California State University, Dominguez Hills. His work can be found via two internationally published collections titled “XI: A Collection of Poetry on Being Human” and “Second Chances in the Fall: An Account of Hope.” Notable collaborations include Simon and Schuster’s imprint Archway Publishing, Sim’s Library of Poetry, Field Trip Health, The Walt Disney Company, and local organizers in the Los Angeles, Orange County, and Long Beach regions

Simon & Schuster, a company with nearly ninety years of publishing experience, has teamed up with Author Solutions, LLC, the worldwide leader in self-publishing, to create Archway Publishing. With unique resources to support books of all kind, Archway Publishing offers a specialized approach to help every author reach his or her desired audience. For more information, visit archwaypublishing.com or call 844-669-3957.

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Pittsburgh, PA Organization, Women Against Abusive Relationships, Launches Project for Males and Transgender Victims of Abuse


Roxanne Epperson

Founder, Women Against Abusive Relationships.

This year we are expanding our services to men and the transgender community through the ASK Project ((After Shelter Kare). ASK will provide services and resources that will hopefully prevent victims from returning to an abusive situation once they leave..

Roxanne Elizabeth Epperson, founder of Women Against Abusive Relationships (WAAR), knows the patterns of abuse which started when she was a child.

At age 7, a babysitter forced Roxanne to suckle her breast.

At age 13, she was raped three times by her 19-year-old boyfriend, a heroin user.

At age 16, an older family friend raped her.

At age 18, a jitney driver drove her to the dark woods, parked, and forced her to fondle him.

It’s not surprising that Roxanne, like many other victims of abuse, didn’t feel good about herself. “I hated my body and nose for various reasons stemming from negative external messengers. My mother told me my nose was too broad. An ex-boyfriend told me I shouldn’t wear my hair short because my nose was too big. I felt he confirmed what my mother had said.” Roxanne continues: “I thought I was in love, yet it was not love because he hurt me, and love should not hurt. One night he spat in my face, dragged me down the hallway, punched, and strangled me. I began a new life by almost losing my life,” Roxanne concludes.

Roxanne’s new life began by saying no more to abuse and changing the lives of victims with similar stories when she launched WAAR in 1999. The organization helps women and girls to heal from abuse by taking a journey inward, discovering their authentic selves, and loving themselves. “We create products and services that encourage self-love and have support groups, a podcast, and a guide that help our clients to know how to leave unhealthy relationships. We are in schools, churches, community centers, and other safe locations. In 2001 we started offering workshops and conferences for women, teens, and service providers throughout Allegheny County. In 2004, we launched a partnership with UPMC Magee-Women’s Hospital where our Healing Space initiative was born,” Roxanne says. “This year we are expanding our services to men and the transgender community through the ASK Project ((After Shelter Kare).” This latest initiative is Roxanne’s response to learning more about others affected by domestic violence. ASK will provide services and resources that will hopefully prevent victims from returning to an abusive situation once they leave the shelter.

“If you love yourself, you minimize your chances of being in an unhealthy relationship,” Roxanne offers. She also reflects on domestic violence and how it, as a public health crisis, leads women to depression and suicidal thoughts. In addition, only 34% of people injured by partners receive medical care. In recognition of her work, last year Roxanne received a Survivor of the Year Award presented by Theresa’s Fund. The fund is an Arizona-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that focuses on changing the landscape of domestic violence services. Though grateful for the recognition, Roxanne feels everyone in the domestic violence movement is a hero. “I am thankful for the honor, yet much work remains. I am on a personal and professional mission to help one million women and girls to heal after experiencing domestic or sexual violence trauma. I pray for the day that women and girls are no longer beaten, raped, and disrespected. As we begin serving men and transgender populations through ASK, we will advocate as strongly for them as well,” Roxanne concludes.

To learn more about WAAR, visit their website at https://waarheals.org/. You can also contact Roxanne at info@waarheals.org or 412-723-2320.

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Experience Daily Love and Affirmation with Pink Kisses App


"Experience the Joy of Daily Affirmations with Pink Kisses App, Where You Can Customize Your Simulator Sweetie"

Customize Your Virtual Sweetheart with Pink Kisses App

“We see the Pink Kisses app as something fun, flirty, and not to be taken too seriously. It’s really you sending yourself a fun, loving message each day,” says Alison Chace, the actress and entrepreneur behind Pink Wisdom.

Pink Wisdom, a premier digital destination for career and relationship advice, is excited to announce the launch of their first app, Pink Kisses. This unique app sends one or two positive texts per day to a user’s phone for only $20.99 a year.

Pink Kisses sends users daily fun and flirty messages, such as “I woke up thinking about you” or “How do you manage to look so stunning every day?” Users can name the sender whatever they desire, whether it’s the name of their crush, a friend they’re secretly daydreaming about, or even their own name as a reminder to treat themselves with kindness. Although the app isn’t designed to provide a direct reply, users are free to respond if they wish. Pink Kisses is available in English, Mandarin, and Japanese.

The Pink Kisses app incorporates the idea that receiving a text message can release dopamine, which can improve one’s mood and well-being. Although not scientifically proven, this feature is intended for those interested in digital self-care and is not intended to replace real-life relationships.

Pink Kisses isn’t quite an AI partner, and isn’t quite an affirmations app — it lives somewhere between the two, in a fanciful home all its own. Alison Chace, the actress and entrepreneur behind Pink Wisdom, sees the app as a lighthearted novelty item — and also as a wink reminding the user is worthy of love, whether coupled up or soaring on her own.

According to Pink Wisdom, their new app, Pink Kisses, can help improve relationships. Users can send the texts to themselves or forward them to a loved one as a way to strengthen their bond and deepen their connection.

Pink Kisses is available for iOS devices and can be downloaded for free for the first three days, with a subscription of $2.49 per month or $20.99 per year thereafter.

“Pink Wisdom’s tagline is ‘sugar, spice, and expert advice,’ and we especially love the ‘spice’ part,” says Alison Chace, the actress and entrepreneur behind Pink Wisdom. “We see the app as something fun, flirty, and not to be taken too seriously. It’s really you sending yourself a fun, loving message each day.”

Pink Kisses is the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day (or any day) and practice digital self-care in a fun and lighthearted way.

How does it work?

Download the Pink Kisses app from the Apple Store.

Sign up to receive one or two texts each day.

Name the Simulator Sweetie who will send the juicy messages.

User begins receiving Pink Kisses the following day.

Contact Pink Wisdom founder Alison Chace at alison@pinkwisdom.com or 917-821-8931 for more information, or visit https://www.pinkwisdom.com/pink-kisses and follow @pinkwisdomdotcom,

@pinkkissesapp, and @alisonchace on social media for all the latest updates

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Vector Solutions Offers Free Training In Honor Of Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month in January


Today, Vector Solutions, the leading provider of training and compliance-based software solutions for public safety agencies, announced a major education initiative. Two of its most important National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) training courses will be complimentary in honor of Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month. Vector Solutions is offering these courses free of charge during the month of January for fire service members in an effort to raise awareness about the critical health issues affecting firefighters.

Firefighting is an overall dangerous profession, not only on the fireground where the risks are obvious, but also in terms of the occupational hazard of cancer-causing substances. Over time, increasing evidence validates the risk of developing cancer for those in the fire service. Vector Solutions takes these risks seriously and is tackling the problem head on with its training management programs.

“While being a firefighter is a calling for many men and women, it’s a profession that comes with tremendous risks, both mentally and physically,” said Jonathan Cherins, CEO at Vector Solutions. “In recent years we’ve learned more about the cancer-related health threats firefighters face, as well as the mental anguish they endure. Our team at Vector Solutions is in awe of the commitment and sacrifice these heroes make. We’re pleased to make these courses available at no cost to help raise awareness on these critical topics.”

Both courses are video-based online NFPA trainings compliant with NFPA standards. The courses include engaging interactions, real-life case studies, critical lessons and prevention strategies for first responders. NFPA 1851: Cancer-Related Risks of Firefighter provides a thorough understanding of fire-service related cancer risks for today’s firefighter and fire personnel. NFPA 1500: PTSD in the Fire Industry provides a better understanding of PTSD, how to cope with symptoms and suicidal thoughts, and how to identify them in peers who may be struggling.

“The Firefighter Cancer Support Network is excited to support the educational opportunities that Vector Solutions is bringing to Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month in January by offering two very important NFPA courses free of charge,” said Bryan Frieders, FCSN CEO/President and retired Fire Chief. “Cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths in the fire service. Together, through increased public awareness, support and education, we can provide firefighters the necessary tools and guidance to develop life-saving protocols for cancer prevention and to support those with a cancer diagnosis within their departments.”

Vector Solutions is committed to raising awareness and keeping firefighters safe. As a part of this campaign to benefit the American Cancer Society and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, Vector Solutions is pleased to donate $1 to the American Cancer Society and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network for every completion of the NFPA 1851: Cancer-Related Risks of Firefighting course. The donation is $1 per course completion up to $3,000 to each organization for every course completed before March 30, 2023.

Learn more about the complementary NFPA training from Vector Solutions here.

ABOUT VECTOR SOLUTIONS

Vector Solutions is the leading provider of award-winning, intelligent SaaS solutions that help organizations and individuals operate at the highest level and prepare for more challenging workplaces and environments. Providing industry-focused solutions that connect information and technology, its unique product set includes training management, continuing education (CE), compliance training, workforce scheduling, safety management, and more. Reaching approximately 31 million users and more than 35 thousand clients worldwide, Vector’s mission is to serve everyday heroes by delivering intelligent software solutions that empower them to make safer, smarter, better decisions. For more information, visit http://www.vectorsolutions.com.

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The Ketamine Healing Clinic of Los Angeles and Orange County Announces the Launch of a Brand New Membership Program


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“Our new six-session membership plan provides a significant value for people seeking affordable maintenance sessions following their initial infusion series,” says Dr. David Mahjoubi.

With their latest membership option, The Ketamine Healing Clinic of Los Angeles and Orange County hopes to make ongoing maintenance, aka “booster,” infusions more cost-effective for patients. Ketamine is a powerful tool that can help those battling the symptoms of various physical and mental health conditions. The new six-session membership plan is affordably priced at $2580 and includes six IV ketamine infusions at $430 per infusion. Patients do not need to be concerned with the expiration of the sessions, as they do not have to be used within six months. Another benefit to the plan is that the ketamine infusion treatments can be redeemed at both clinic locations. The Ketamine Healing Clinic’s membership programs are for patients who have completed at least five ketamine infusions either with Dr. David Mahjoubi or at another clinic. There is also a twelve-session membership option, for those needing extra ketamine treatments, as well as a home infusion membership plan. Plan details can be found at https://www.ketaminehealing.com/cost/.

The Ketamine Healing Clinic of Los Angeles and Orange County is led by Dr. David Mahjoubi. With sixteen years of practice and over 10,000 ketamine infusions administered, he is the most experienced ketamine infusion provider in the world. The Ketamine Healing Clinic of Los Angeles and Orange County offers patients a tailored approach to using ketamine as an effective alternative therapy to fight major depression, anxiety, PTSD and chronic pain. It is also recognized as a new treatment option for alcoholism or to help significantly reduce alcohol or marijuana use. From IV placement to the post-infusion experience review, the medical staff at both the Ketamine Healing Center of Los Angeles and the Orange County location strive to provide the best possible experience for patients receiving the latest in ketamine therapy.

“Our new six-session membership plan provides a significant value for people seeking affordable maintenance sessions following their initial infusion series,” says Dr. David Mahjoubi.

More about Dr. David Mahjoubi:

David Mahjoubi, M.D. is a board-certified anesthesiologist. He earned his medical degree from The Chicago Medical School and completed his residency training at the University of Southern California (USC) and Los Angeles County Medical Center. Dr. Mahjoubi has administered IV ketamine for 16 years and was one of the first clinicians to open a clinic solely devoted to the use of ketamine for mental health. For information on the Ketamine Healing Clinic of Los Angeles and the Ketamine Healing Clinic of Orange County please visit the website at http://www.ketaminehealing.com, or call or text (424) 278-4241.

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