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10 Vegan Celebrity Role Models

Posted on February 7, 2013 by Joan Landino in Vegan Leave a comment

When you’re in the public eye, there is little that can be hidden from criticism. Choices that seem personal turn into public scrutiny easily, specifically for celebrities. Recently, many pop culture icons have evolved and transitioned to a plant-based diet, or a vegan lifestyle. Some already living as vegetarians for years witnessed the overwhelming evidence in documentaries such as “Forks Over Knives” (one of my personal favorites as well) and felt compelled to make the change towards a completely plant-based diet. I commend those who have made the transition, as I spoke about in my recent video, transitioning to a plant-based diet is simple. It can be done easily-I promise-Im a Leo!! Understanding others values and thoughts that go into the transition to a vegan diet is a huge part of the process and because we are a society who is easily impressed by “Celebrity” I believe it is important to recognize the choices of the following celebrity vegans! Remember: Humans, like other Animals, are social-pleasure seeking Beings who enjoy impressing each other……

10 Vegan Celebrity Role Models:

 

1. Moby, musician

Moby, a musician who has been vegan for 24 years said to me after I had the privilege of meeting him on 2 occasions, that one of the most influential reasons he became vegan was after reading “A Diet For a New America” by John Robbins (which happens to be the book that changed my life as well) I consider him to be an excellent role model. His veganism is purely rooted in his love for animals, while he also works hard as an animal rights activist. Moby is famous in his own right although it is important to consider all the work he does to protect and care for animals.

“When I think of the fact that literally tens of billions of animals are killed every year for human purposes,” he says softly, “part of me wants to go out and join the Animal Liberation Front [a militant group that breaks into labs and factory farms to release the animals held there]. But on a utilitarian level, I realize that to try to accomplish the greatest good for the greatest number of people, sometimes we have to become salesmen for what we believe, and part of being a salesman is being effective.” (quote from Home and Garden Article)

In his blog post, Moby addresses individuals who disagree with his vegan choice with a quote from Genesis: 1:29..” and god said ‘behold i have given you every plant yielding seed which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit; you shall have them for food…i have given every green plant for food’. See the blog post here!

 

2. MariLu Henner, actress and author

 

The 60-year-old popular author of “MariLu Henner’s Total Health Makeover” pays tribute to her youthful appearance completely to her vegan lifestyle. As an American actress, known for her role in Taxi, Marilu has turned into a nutrition and health advocate using her books and website as a platform. She went vegan after doing the research and finding out that “meat and diary kill!” For more information on Marilu, check out her website!

3. Woody Harrelson, actor and peace activist

As a raw/vegan food enthusiast and yoga instructor along with his many other hobbies and knowledge, Woody understands the value of a plant-based diet. The former “Cheers” star has done much to help rid the world of animal cruelty with his PETA campaigns and activism.

“Because superior non-animal methods are used for this exact training by military and civilian programs around the world, animals are clearly not required to meet your objectives. … I’m sure you agree that our military personnel deserve state-of-the-art training and that our country deserves to be respected for its civilized treatment of animals” - Woody Harrelson , VeganPeace Article

“Raw food is the best way to have the cleanest energy. We take so much care about what kind of fuel we put in our car, what kind of oil. We care about that sometimes more than the fuel that we’re looking at putting in our bodies. It’s cleaner burning fuel.” - Woody Harrelson, VeganPeace Article

 

 

4. Russel Brand, comedian and actor

The 36-year -old actor also known as PETA’s “Sexiest Vegetarian Celebrity of 2011” transitioned to his vegan diet after viewing the documentary “Forks Over Knives” with his former wife, Katy Perry.

After being a practicing vegetarian since he was just 14 years old, going vegan was easy for him after seeing the health risks involved with non-vegan diets portrayed in the film. After a simple tweet to Ellen Degeneres, Russel turned vegan!

 

 

5. Ellen Degeneres, talk-show host and comedian

 

As you already may know, Ellen is pretty much the poster girl for veganism. She works closely with many animal rights and vegan organizations in order to promote plant-based diets. Recently, she has been getting some slack for admitting that she does in fact eat eggs, but only from “happy chickens”. Although many fellow vegans were shocked and angry about this comment, I commend Ellen for practicing veganism as much as she does. Remember, as David Bowie says, “Even just for one day…”. You can get great vegan tips and recipes on Ellen’s site under her “Going Vegan With Ellen” page.

“I personally chose to go vegan because I educated myself on factory farming and cruelty to animals, and I suddenly realized that what was on my plate were living things, with feelings. And I just couldn’t disconnect myself from it any longer. I read books like “Diet for a New America” and saw documentaries like “Earthlings” and “Meet your Meat,” and it became an easy choice for me. - Ellen Degeneres in Ecorazzi Article

 

6. Dax Shepard and Kristen Bell, actors

This celebrity couple recently announced not only their pregnancy but also their switch to a plant-based diet. Kristen Bell, after being vegetarian since she was just 11 years old, made the switch to “veganism” after viewing “Forks Over Knives” as well. Soon after, she convinced her loving husband to transition from being a meat-eater to a vegan, just like that!

”It’s more about the health benefits than the ethics. But it’s compounded by the fact that I love animals and feel better not eating them.” - Kristen Bell (interview in woman’s health)

He said, “It’s nothing like the pill in The Matrix but damn good, like 15 percent across the board in every respect. I sleep 15 percent better. My allergies are at least 15 percent better. I have fewer body aches. My skin looks better. I’m never starving, and I never need to ride the couch feeling completely full and disgusting.” – Dax Shepard

 

 

7. Alanis Morissette, singer and actress

 

After reading Dr. Fuhrman’s “Eat To Live”, the singer of “Ironic” decided making the switch to a vegan diet was right for her. She tells those interested in the transition that she lost 20 lbs. in 3 months after making the change!

”I used to get out of bed in the morning and things were aching, and I just thought, this is what happens when you get into your 30s. But now I jump out of bed and have so much energy. I feel very alive. I have no more aches and pains, and my allergies are gone, too.” - Alanis Morissette, interview from Vegan Nutritionista

“I realized I want to live till I’m 120. There’s a lifestyle that I am now happily creating that can, as best as is possible, prevent most forms of cancer and other diseases.”

 

8. Carrie Underwood, singer

A vegetarian for 7 years, the American Idol star switched to the vegan lifestyle recently. However, she admits that considers herself 95% vegan because she just can’t resist eating cake during holidays and birthdays! Underwood is interested in one day having her own farm.

“My veganism is based on a concern about where my food is coming from. In my perfect world, I’d have webcams wherever food is processed so I’d know how clean it is.” - Carrie Underwood, Interview in Taste Of Country

 

9. Casey Affleck, actor and film director

vegan celebrities

The Good Will Hunting and Ocean’s Eleven star is not only well known because of his family’s fame (he is brother of Ben Affleck) but also for his contributions for animal rights. He preaches that individuals should try the vegan lifestyle, even for just for one day to make a difference.

“Be good to the ones around you, the ones you see. They need your help. They need you to butt in, to intervene, to be nosy, to be a busybody, to be confrontational with those who are abusing them. People should try eating no animal products for just ONE DAY a week. People should read Diet for a New America. I haven’t read all of it, but I have read some, and it was very informative, and I am very grateful to the person who gave it to me.”

“When people ask me why I don’t eat meat or any other animal products, I say, “Because they are unhealthy and they are the product of a violent and inhumane industry”. … Chickens, cows, and pigs in factory farms spend their whole lives in filthy, cramped conditions, only to die a prolonged and painful death.”

- Quotes from Interviews with PETA

 

10. Daryl Hannah, actress and environmental activist

The 1984 “Splash” star has been a vegetarian since age 11 and recently transitioned to a plant-based diet based on her love and passion for protecting animals. Her video-blogs include fun and interesting information on vegan junk food!

When asked what “fortifies her activism” -” My love of life and the wonderful creatures on this amazing planet; some of them are humans.” - Daryl Hannah in Vegetarian Times Article

 

 

 

 

 

 

When it comes to making life choices, healthy eating is a must. As seen in episode 4 of Joan Landino Says, food really does matter! Make a difference, even if it’s just for one day or for a lifetime.

 

 

Have Questions About Vegan Diets?

ASK JOAN.

 

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Want to share who your Vegan role models are? Comment below!


6 Tips For Successful Vegan Travel

Posted on January 25, 2013 by Joan Landino in Vegan Leave a comment

 

There is no reason that vegans cannot keep on eating a vegan diet even while out on the road! Even if vegans cannot find shops and restaurants catering to their needs, fruits and vegetables can be purchased and prepared at almost all possible destinations on the globe. However, it is simple to remember these few tips for successful travel while living the vegan lifestyle!

Tips For Vegans While Traveling

 

#1: Do Your Research

In the modern age, there is no excuse for travelers not taking the time to research their destination. For vegans, one of the most important concerns is finding suitable shops and restaurants. There are many websites devoted to aiding vegans in finding appropriate eateries. Happy Cow is a great example of an online resource that lists vegan shops and restaurants found in cities around the globe.

Tip #2: Consult Local Vegans

As the case in many instances during travel, the locals make up one of the most useful resources available to visitors! Residents of the destination can tell travelers about local shops, local restaurants, and other important amenities. Social media sites are some of the best sources to find local residents, but there are also sites dedicated to helping vegans meet up.If you’re planning on traveling, check out Vegan Meetup Groups and Vegan Around the World Network!

 

Tip #3: Bring Your Own Food

At times and depending on your destination, travelers might not be able to find appropriate vegan food. As a result, travelers should always consider bringing along their own food just in case! Think ahead and pack travel friendly snacks that make it easy to stay on track while traveling.

 

Tip #5: Customize Menu Items

In my own experience, restaurant chefs and owners are always willing to be considerate to vegan and vegetarian diets. Simply ask! You may be traveling with non-vegans and have to compromise restaurant choices during many times in travel, ask the waitress if there are vegan options (if the menu doesn’t show them clearly labeled).

 

Tip #6: Learn to Communicate

Learning some of the relevant terms and phrases in the local language can help vegan travelers headed to foreign countries. Make sure you are to pick up on mention of meats, eggs, cheeses, and other animal products in menu items. Also, practice asking important food-related questions in the country’s language.

Make sure you are creative and accommodating and enjoy your travels!

 

Questions about Vegan Diets? ASK JOAN.


Link Between Unemployment and Mental Illness

Posted on January 23, 2013 by Joan Landino in Depression, Disorders, Mental Health Care, Uncategorized 4 Comments

 

Mental health is a subject which has virtually become a household topic of late. Society as a whole seems concerned, on an increasing basis, about the cases of mental illness that continue to plague our twenty-first century world and with ongoing fears about continued global economic difficulties, these concerns are only deepening. The global economic crisis has had a significant impact on our employability; jobs are not as plentiful as they once were and people are starting to find their mental health is being significantly impacted as a result.

Is There a Connection Between Unemployment and Mental Illness?

In fact, there are a growing number of studies which indicate there is a startling link between mental illness and unemployment. Certainly, it should come as no surprise that the unemployed may struggle to maintain a positive mental outlook; finding a job can be stressful in a healthy economy, let alone in one that’s currently struggling. However, the impact goes beyond simply the individual. Communities and relationships both falter when the unemployment rate starts to climb, and self-esteem, life satisfaction, and sense of purpose in life all fall accordingly. There is also a perceived loss of control over what’s going to come next that can really have a significant impact on a person’s sense of mental well being.

 

Depression and Unemployment: The Vicious Cycle

When someone’s unemployed, they are four times as likely to be depressed as their employed peers. This, in turn, kicks off a vicious cycle; the person feels depressed and is encouraged to go out and try to stay active, but has no real want to do so. As a result, he or she tends to look at life as it is as a depressed, unemployed person and really begins a downward spiral as far as his or her self-esteem or sense of self-worth goes. There is an increased tendency to look at life through a sense of being incapable of doing things rather than being motivated to move on and grow towards new challenges.

 

How Gender Impacts The Link

Mental health and unemployment tends to cross genders as well, with men tending to be more negatively impacted if they are unemployed. This could be perhaps due to the gender-socialized role of men needing to be the “hunter-gatherer” of the family; as the chief breadwinners, men are expected to be able to provide for their family and when they’re not able to do so, they may view it as a failure as a man rather than a simple reflection of tough economic times. Women tend not to be as significantly impacted in terms of their mental health, and this is possibly due to them taking on a more nurturing role in the family unit, and perhaps more readily accepting of returning home rather than going to work.

 

Final Note…

Unemployment and mental health issues are inextricably linked, largely due to the social influence about the importance of being employed. We all need to survive; because of the capitalist society in which we live, we very much need jobs. Not having one means not being able to provide for ourselves or our families; small wonder that this would have a significant impact on our mental health.

Questions about Mental Health? ASK JOAN.


The 10 Myths of Bipolar Disorder

Posted on January 21, 2013 by Joan Landino in Disorders, Mental Illness Stigmas Leave a comment

 

Bipolar disorder is a relatively common psychiatric disorder, but there still are a lot of myths and misconceptions about it and its impact on one’s mental health. Even doctors working in non-psychiatric medical specialties often make wrong claims when it comes to bipolar disorder. The myths may become even more distant from the truth and some are hilarious when they are generated by common people with no medical or healthcare education.

10 Myths about Bipolar Disorder

 

Myth #1: Bipolar Disorder Diagnosis Means The Person Is “Crazy”

 

This misconception is not surprising since many psychiatric disorders are associated with craziness. However, it is not true in the case of bipolar disorder. What people consider “craziness” is actually a medical term called psychosis, which is the most prominent symptom of schizophrenia and not bipolar disorder. Moreover, not all schizophrenics have persistent psychosis episodes, and even people with no psychiatric disorders may experience temporary “craziness” after drug intake, alcohol or acute mental trauma.

 

Myth #2: Bipolar is A Rare Psychiatric Disorder

 

Almost 6 million adults in the United States meet the diagnosis criteria for bipolar disorder, which is about 2.6 percent of the American adult population. Many celebrities and famous people admit having bipolar disorder and are receiving professional treatment.

 

Myth #3: Only Adults Are Affected By Bipolar Disorder

 

There is a type of bipolar called early-onset bipolar disorder that can affect children. In fact, this type of bipolar is considered more severe and may cause more intense symptoms once the person reaches adulthood.

 

Myth #4: If The Person Experiences No Symptoms, No Medication Is Required

 

People affected by bipolar disorder may enter a remission stage when they don’t have any symptoms for up to several years. Usually, medical professionals don’t stop medication if they have reasons to believe that a relapse is highly probable. However, it is possible to eliminate medication completely provided one has a mild form of bipolar disorder.

Myth #5: The Manic Stage Of Bipolar Disorder Is A Pleasant, Fun Experience

 

For some reason, people believe that being excessively enthusiastic, agitated and hyperactive during the mania stage of bipolar is pleasant. Individuals may have a lot of energy and enthusiasm, but the rapid thoughts generate inefficient action, and they may experience anxiety, irritation and even aggressive behavior.

 

Myth #6: A Bipolar Sufferer Will Take Medication For The Rest Of His Or Her Life

 

It is actually true in most cases because bipolar is considered a chronic psychiatric disorder. However, if the mood swings become less prominent and intense over time and the person responds well to treatment, a dosage reduction and even drug discontinuation is a valid possibility.

 

Myth #7: Bipolar Disorder Simply Consists Of Mood Swings

 

That is an oversimplification. Bipolar disorder involves the alternation of depressive and manic episodes, which are more intense than simple mood swings and can dramatically affects one’s life.

 

Myth #8: Atypical Antipsychotics Are Used Only For Schizophrenia

 

Although the typical usage for antipsychotics is psychosis episodes in schizophrenics, they are employed in a great variety of other psychiatric disorders. Besides their antipsychotic effects, some can stabilize the mood and reduce excessive anxiety, which may be experienced by bipolar sufferers.

Myth #9: Psychotherapy Is Not Effective For Bipolar Disorder

 

Although psychotherapy is substantially more effective for depression and anxiety disorders, it can be successfully used to reduce the symptoms of bipolar and achieve an enhanced self-control. Every individual has his or her own response to psychotherapy, so it should not be neglected at all.

 

Myth #10: There Is A Diagnostic Test For Bipolar Disorder

 

The diagnosis of bipolar is based solely on the professional evaluation of symptoms, behavior and family history performed by a qualified mental health professional. There is no blood or imaging test that can identify bipolar in susceptible individuals.

 

 

Questions about Bipolar Disorder or any other Mental Illness?

 

ASK JOAN.

 


Is Ketamine The Solution For Depression?

Posted on January 16, 2013 by Joan Landino in Depression, Medication, Treatment, Uncategorized Leave a comment

“In the 1976 film, Family Plot, Alfred Hitchcock depicted a kidnap victim

sedated with a little-known drug called ketamine. Once again, the cultural

productions of man acted as a barometer of the social times.. . .” (Siegal,

1978, p. 132).

 

The World Health Organization estimates that 121 million people suffer from some form of depression. Unfortunately, only about 25 percent of those have access to treatment in the form of drug therapy. Even those who have been prescribed Serotonin Selective Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) don’t always have positive results. Why? They can take several weeks to kick in, if they even kick in at all. It’s reported that about 33 percent of people on drug therapy sense no improvement. You can see how a potential breakthrough in an acutely effective drug therapy could bring much needed aid to many people worldwide. Enter Ketamine, which is now thought to be the biggest breakthrough in a very long time. But if the drug is so promising, why are members of the medical community proceeding with caution?

 

The Rap on Ketamine

picture courtesy of drugfree.org

Ketamine, also known as “Kit Kat” and “Special K,” among other street monikers, is an illegal drug without the prescription of a medical doctor. Known as a hallucinogenic, it is closely associated with club or dance culture, which is either snorted (in powder form) or injected (in liquid form.) Those who become addicted chase the “high,” which is said to last about two hours. The body is said to build a quick tolerance to the drug, causing users to consistently up their dosage. It’s at this point that many users become addicted causing the adverse effects to the body and mind often associated with other illicit drugs.

 

 

Your Body on Ketamine

photo courtesy of guardian.co.uk

 

In general, small doses of ketamine produce an unsteady or intoxicated state with lack of coordination, although some subjects report an excitability comparable to that induced by cocaine. Moderate doses produce analgesia and anesthesia (Siegal, 1978). In high doses, ketamine may produce convulsions and seizures and is known to possess similar local anesthetic properties to procaine (Hirota & Lambert, 1996).

 

The Pro Argument

 

The drug is currently approved by the FDA as an injected anesthetic.With the growing practice more recently among emergency departments of using analgesic and anesthetic compounds that previously had been administered primarily by anesthesia departments, ketamine’s popularity is again on the increase. The most beneficial properties of ketamine use in emergency surgical care are the analgesia and amnesia it confers intensely enough to allow for otherwise painful or distressing procedures such as burn dressing changes, bone marrow biopsies, laceration repair and dental work. But further testing revealed that the effects of the drug might prove far more beneficial to those individuals who get no relief from SSRIs. When used now, SSRIs are said to raise serotonin levels. At one point it was thought that low serotonin levels alone were responsible for depression. However, it has now been documented that depression may also stem from damage to the brain cells responsible for mood. Ketamine has been known to repair the neurons associated with these cells, thus lifting an individual’s mood.

 

Caution For Ketamine

 

Members of the medical community caution that this treatment could only be a short-term option.Concerns about ketamine’s adverse psychopharmacologic actions have limited its use in electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). But because the ideal duration of induced seizure activity in ECT is limited and specific, ketamine, which is less prone to truncate a seizure event, was examined and is for some patients an alternative treatment to methohexital, a barbiturate general anesthetic (Rasmussen et al., 1996). Aside from the body building a strong tolerance, there is a risk to both the kidneys and bladders of chronic users, though, some agree that a short-term, controlled dose of Ketamine just might do the trick.

 

History of Ketamine Use

 

The Israel Defense Forces Medical Corps, Tel Aviv University, assessed the use of ketamine as a pre-intubation anesthetic for wounded soldiers in field treatment settings.Ketamine was distributed to air medical rescue teams and trained reserve army volunteers among various medical specialties. Treaters were instructed to administer ketamine intravenously when a non-anesthetic attempt failed. Intubation was indicated for 161 air-evacuated patients; twenty-nine of which were given ketamine after a routine intubation attempt failed. Intubation was successful in 19 of the 29 patients, all 29 of whom had failed the initial attempt to induce intubation because of tonic muscle contractions or agitation. Anatomical damage rendered ketamine augmented intubation attempts unsuccessful in the remaining ten patients (Cofrit et al., 1997). Ketamine is estimated to have been administered medically wipe than twelve thousand times throughout the developing world. A Loma Linda University School of Medical survey of 172 missionary physicians in rural hospitals indicated that 55 respondents had treated with ketamine. Death or serious complications were rare, indicating a high margin of safety even allowing for the scientific and statistical limitations of the survey data. These results underscore some of the advantages for the continued use of ketamine in less technologically sophisticated and less controlled medical settings (Green et al., 1996).

Keep an eye out for my next blog article about Substance Dependence!

I mention Ketamine in a positive light!

 

What side of the argument are you on? Is Ketamine the solution?

 

 

Questions about Mental Health? ASK JOAN!

 


8 Must-Follow Mental Health Influencers on Twitter

Posted on January 14, 2013 by Joan Landino in Mental Health Care, Uncategorized Leave a comment

Twitter has become an increasingly popular resource for information of all kinds. With the rapid growth of social media, influencers in different fields, even mental health, have been popping up left and right. In the mental health industry, there are many professionals and organizations who take to tweeting for sharing unique and important information. It’s simple to take a peek at your Twitter feed once or twice a day and find mind-boggling facts from the simple 140 character limit. Personally, Twitter has become a go-to for myself and many others I know in keeping up with the latest mental health news and trends. However, it is difficult to sift through all the “know-it-all” tweeters out there and find who really knows their stuff. You may recognize some of the following list from my retweets and mentions on my very own Twitter page, here are just some of my favorite mental health influencers on Twitter…(in no particular order).

 

#1 Mental Health Influencer on Twitter: PsychCentral, @PsychCentral

PsychCentral’s tweets link mostly to their amazing website where you will find information on all things mental health including Q&A, Blogs, Quizzes and even a Community page. With over 35,000 twitter followers, PsychCentral is a must-follow for anyone interested in psychology, mental illness and even dating and love advice. The have over 180+ support groups located within their web page, with commentary by different therapists and other mental health professionals. PsychCentral tweets mostly blog article content while also engaging their followers with Q&A interaction.

 

#2 Mental Health Influencer on Twitter: National Institute of Mental Health, @NIMHgov

The National Institute of Mental Health tweets to over 300,000 followers on Twitter about various mental health topics. As a scientific organization dedicated specifically to mental health research, the NIMH’s resources are very valuable to anyone interested in the field. I enjoy their tweets because they make sure to stay engaged with other mental health professionals with retweets and replies while keeping their followers updated on the latest research in the mental health industry. A must-follow for accurate information!

 

#3 Mental Health Influencer on Twitter: Time To Change, @timetochange

One of my main focuses as a Mental Health professional is to end the stigma of mental illness. When taking the time to write about mental health stigma history and other related topics, it’s always refreshing to see organizations on social networks taking the time to do the same. Time To Change, an England based organization is focused on “ending mental health discrimination” and inspires it’s audience of over 25,000 followers. Their website is full of tips and advice on how to talk about mental health and ways to get involved. Their blog stories are must-reads with information about depression and reactions to the latest mental health news and trends. It’s great to see tweets from @timetochange asking for follower’s reactions to events along with with questions like “In your experience, what are the best ways friends can help support someone who might have a mental health problem?”. Their hashtag #timetotalk is a great motivator for others to ask mental health questions all across the Twitter community.

 

#4 Mental Health Influencer on Twitter: CAMH Foundation, @endstigma

The Centre For Addiction and Mental Health influences it’s 9,000 followers with it’s message to transform health care. Their website is filled with inspiring personal stories that really pull on the heart strings. Primarily located in Canada, the CAMH Foundation is concerned with changing the lives of those with mental illness and addiction. Follow them to stay up to date on latest events, speeches and seminars along with engagement with many followers and helpful mental illness information.

#5 Mental Health Influencer on Twitter: Mental Health America, @MentalHealthAm

Mental Health America, out of Virginia influences over 12,000 followers with information on mental illness and substance use. Working as advocates for quality behavioral health services, Mental Health America uses Twitter as an outlet to inspire others to work for a change in the health care system. With retweets of popular mental health news posts from valuable resources such as @HuffPostEdu and @USAToday this organization works towards the education of others for a healthy and humane society. I am always eager to look at the information tweeted by Mental Health America and I can promise you will be too!

 

#6 Mental Health Influencer on Twitter: Katie Cadigan, @whenmedicine

As the director of PBS’ “When Medicine Got It Wrong”, Katie Cadigan knows about fighting for better mental health care and research. Follow her for great retweets about interesting mental health care topics from all different types of resources. She constantly engages with her 5,000 followers and her tweets are always positive and understandable, like mental health professionals should!

 

#7 Mental Health Influencer on Twitter: Mental Health Social, @MentalHealthSoc

Ran by Colin Spencer Wood, Mental Health Social is a growing community on twitter with a following of over 15,000! Wood, who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 1999 developed this free network in order to create a safe and understanding community for mental illness. The site and community has since been acquired by PsychCentral and has become even larger since it’s beginning. Since the transition most of @MentalHealthSoc’s tweets are blog posts and information from one of our other favorite Twitter users, @PsychCentral. However, it is still beneficial to follow and join this community in order to have a support system for any type of mental health issue.

#8 Mental Health Influencer on Twitter: Grey Thinking, @greythinking

Grey Thinking is a MUST follow on Twitter. With over 100,000 followers and counting, this influencer gives unique commentary on every mental health issue including eating disorders, anxiety, depression and psychotherapy. They give followers great information from retweets and their very own blog posts. What I like most about Grey Thinking is the mix of biological, psychological, and sociological information they tweet on a daily basis. It’s interesting to see the type of engagement they get from followers also, proving that they have really formed a community around “Grey Thinking”.

 

Who do you follow?

Social media outlets such as Twitter have become such a popular form of community that it is hard to ignore their impact on mental health. If you are interested in the field of mental health or are in the need of information on a specific mental illness, take the time to follow and stay updated with these mental health influencers on Twitter. However, if you have any questions or concerns related to mental health do not hesitate to ASK.

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Exploring “The Protein Myth” of Vegan Diets

Posted on January 8, 2013 by Joan Landino in Uncategorized, Vegan Leave a comment

 

Vegan diets consist of no food that is made up of animal substances. Since vegans do not consume any sort of meat, many individuals think that they are not getting enough protein in their diet. However this is a myth. When thinking about a vegan diet and protein, there are some things that should be considered.

 

Plant Based Forms Of Protein Are Enough

Many vegetables are excellent forms of protein. Broccoli, carrots and cucumbers are all sources of complete protein. By consuming these items daily, vegans can get an adequate amount of protein that they need. It is not necessary to take a multivitamin or consume an animal product to get protein into a vegan’s daily diet.

 

The Amount Of Protein Needed Is Less Than Most People Think

Many individuals have the wrong idea that a lot of protein is needed in a person’s daily diet. This is far from the truth. No more than 11% of our daily diet needs to be made of from protein. In fact, getting only 2.5% of protein in our daily diet is sufficient. This small amount of protein needed can easily be eaten in just one meal or can be spread out in snacks and meals throughout the day.

 

Vegans Will Not Suffer Ill Effects From Eating Just Plant Based Protein

Many individuals have the wrong idea that vegans aren’t as healthy as those that eat protein from animals. In reality, if vegans have a well-balanced diet of fruits and vegetables, their health can actually exceed those who consume a diet filled with meat. Even though meat does contain a lot of protein, it does also contain unhealthy things such as fat that is harmful to your health.

 

Simply Just a Myth?

The myth of individuals that practice this type of diet of are not getting enough protein is simply a myth. Vegans can get all of the vitamins, minerals and nutrients that they need by eating the right amount of items. You do not need to consume meat to fuel your body with the right foods it needs to function properly. If you are considering trying a vegan diet and whether or not you will be able to get enough protein you should remember that.

 

Final Note From Joan…

The average American diet that includes meat & dairy often results in too much protein which leads to many health problems such as kidney disease, osteoporosis, & cancers-among others. Recently more athletes & body builders are introducing more plant based foods as well….So remember to eat a variety of grains, vegetables, fruit& legumes(beans-peas-lentils)…Enjoy!!

 

 

ASK JOAN!

If you have any questions about a healthful Vegan diet for you or any of your family members please ask!

 

Key Takeaways:

  • Plants can provide all the protein that you need. Vegetables such as potatoes and carrots are excellent food choices.
  • The amount of protein needed each day is a lot less than most individual’s think it is. In many cases, only 2.5% of your diet needs to be made up of protein.
  • Plant based proteins are actually better for you than traditional meat based proteins that tend to have a lot of fats and other unhealthy components.

 

(top photo courtesy of ”gobblegreen.com”)


Musical Forest Café

Posted on January 2, 2013 by Joan Landino in Awards, Vegan Leave a comment

 

Sausage and Peppers on Left, Homemade "Veggie Burger" on Right

When driving to work I noticed a new sign that said Vegan & Vegetarian Café inside. It was a music store that I have driven by every day for the past 7 years, I was a little confused. To my surprise it was a delightful and delicious new Vegan café! The owner of Musical Forest Café definitely outdid himself, he uses nothing that is processed. Other restaurant owners have gone in to try his homemade Veggie “Burgers” in order to incorporate it into their own menu!! The veggie “hotdog” with homemade ketchup is soooo good-even better than I think a hotdog used to taste like over 20 years ago!! Local restaurants better hurry up and get this on their menu. His soups of the day take you back to supper at grandmas! There are many different comfort foods, such as Mac & “cheese” on the menu that most vegetarians/vegans are thrilled to be able to eat again, this time healthier. Your afternoon or evening is topped off by the pastry’s chef’s vegan cookies with your choice of filling & my favorite - Green Infusion Tea!! There is live local music at night. Make sure you visit Musical Forest Café’s facebook page and follow them on Twitter for mouthwatering photos and specials for the day!

 

The gorgeous inside of the café

 

 

 


Mental Health Stigma In The Workplace

Posted on December 15, 2012 by Joan Landino in Mental Health Care, Mental Illness Stigmas, Uncategorized Leave a comment

Despite all the advances in psychiatry and behavioral medicine that have led to the ability of people with significant mental illness to lead rich and full lives as contributing members of society, many people still face the stigma associated with mental illness in the workplace. The history of mental health stigma is overwhelmingly filled with conceptions of misdiagnosis as well as other disturbing facts. Stigma presents itself as employers’ reservations about hiring people with mental illness and employees reluctant to disclose that they have mental health issues. These barriers result in costs to the employer in increased taxes to pay for Federal disability payments and lost productivity due to employees trying to struggle with depression, anxiety, and other behavioral health issues.

 

The Myths that Support the Stigma Associated with Mental Health Issues

Even though mental health organizations have run public information campaigns to educate people about mental illness and the advances in treatment, many employers still believe myths associated with mental illness. Some of the myths that support stigma include the following:

  • People with mental illness lack the ability to function and meet the demands of the work environment
  • People with mental health issues are dangerous to themselves and others.
  • People with psychiatric conditions behave in an unpredictable manner that is disruptive to the workplace.
  • Working is not healthy for people with mental health conditions.

The Many Costs of Stigma

Often people who experience the symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders are reluctant to take advantage of Employee Assistance Programs or the mental health benefits associated with their employer sponsored insurance programs. A study discussed in an editorial in the journal Occupational Medicine found that the majority of workers only disclose their mental health issues in a time of crisis because of their fear that their employer would act punitively once he or she knew about the employee’s condition. The delay in treatment can lead to the untreated symptoms becoming much more severe than if treatment was initiated earlier. Additionally, employees who are struggling with untreated mental health conditions are less productive than they usually are, which cause a loss to the business.

 

Key Takeaways:

 

  • Despite the fact that modern mental health intervention allows people with psychiatric disorders to function normally, mental health stigma still exists in the workplace.
  • This stigma is supported by widely held misconceptions about mental illness.
  • Stigma leads to financial losses for businesses and unnecessary suffering for those who are trying to cope with untreated psychiatric symptoms.

 

Read more of Joan’s articles: The History of Mental Health Stigma and An Introduction To Mental Health Stigma.

Questions? Ask Joan!


Joan Landino Says Episode 3 - “What Else Could be Causing my Depression?”

Posted on December 1, 2012 by Joan Landino in Depression, Medication, Symptoms, Videos Comments Off

In episode 3 of her video series “Joan Landino Says,” Joan brings on two guests to discuss What Else Could be Causing my Depression. Watch as Joan speaks on certain vitamin deficiencies and hormone fluctuations that may be the underlying cause of your depression.