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Article Category: Highlights

Maintain Your Mental Health During the Holidays

Published on December 16, 2021

Last updated 01:29 PM December 09, 2022

Illustration of a woman practicing yoga under a rainbow.

If you find the holiday season overwhelming, you’re not alone.

Wellstar experts say many people may have strong emotions at this time of year, especially since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak.

"For many people, COVID-19 was a catalyst for alienation and isolation – further magnified at times by the loss of friends and family members," said Dr. Ryan Breshears, chief behavioral health officer with Wellstar Health System. "The research is unequivocal – loneliness is a driver of morbidity and mortality. Whereas feelings of grief are normal and understandable following loss, during the holiday season, it is imperative that we connect back to meaning, purpose and relationships. Prioritizing that human connection with others can, in essence, be a life-saving measure."

Tips to take care of your mental health

Difficult emotions may be unwelcome visitors this time of year, but you can take steps to help yourself feel better.

  • Connect to purpose. Make time for meaningful activities and loved ones who bring joy to your life.
  • Prioritize social interactions. Research indicates that just being around other people can generate a sense of belongingness that is therapeutically helpful. Activities that provide opportunities for human interaction (such as going to a local coffee shop, attending a sporting event, etc.) have the potential to mitigate the focus on what we’ve lost.
  • Spend time with pets. When human companionship is limited, finding ways to connect with animals can also be healing.
  • Use a gratitude journal.  The effects of gratitude are powerful. Shifting focus from what we have lost to the meaningful things and relationships we possess can help us manage the emotional residue of grief.
  • Reach out for support. If you’re feeling isolated, connect with family and friends by setting up plans, speaking on the phone or sending a text message.
  • Validate your emotions. Honor your feelings. There is no way we “should” or “should not” feel. Feelings are simply a byproduct of our experience. The way we feel always makes sense, even if we don’t understand why.
  • Release expectations. Sometimes traditions change over time. Try not to worry if things don’t go as planned or exactly how they were in the past.
  • Embrace self-care. Recharge and renew your spirit by making time for yourself this season.
  • Plan ahead. Whether it’s gift-giving or holiday baking, planning in advance can alleviate last-minute stress.
  • It’s okay to say no. If you are feeling overwhelmed, remember that you don’t have to be involved in every activity of the season.
  • Manage social media. Social media can help to drive a sense of connection with others, but it can also have drawbacks. Know yourself and your triggers. If it’s hard to manage your feelings when people portray a picture-perfect version of the holidays, take a step back and limit screen time.
  • Limit media coverage. If news is upsetting, take breaks and limit your exposure.
  • Seek professional help, if needed. If you are having a difficult time coping, find support from a behavioral health specialist.

Looking for more ways to stay well? Learn how to give yourself the gift of health and partner with a Wellstar primary care provider.

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Ryan Edward Breshears Mental Health COVID-19
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Highlights

Wellstar Team Members Voted Best of Cobb

The care teams at Wellstar are dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of everyone we serve, and we thank our team members for their commitment to world-class care. We also thank Cobb residents for trusting the expertise of Wellstar to keep their families healthy and provide them with more than healthcare, PeopleCare.
Several Wellstar team members have been voted among the Best of Cobb:

  • Bruce Alayof, MD
    Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care
    Best Cardiac/Vascular Specialist, Second Place

  • Kyle Brown
    Wellstar Health Place
    Best Personal Trainer, Second Place

  • Ryan Breshears, PhD
    Wellstar Clinical Psychology
    Best Psychologist, Second Place

  • Ryan Cantwell, MD
    Wellstar Internal Medicine
    Best Family Physician, First Place
    Best General Practice Doctor, Second Place

  • Kozue Cunningham
    Wellstar Health Place
    Best Massage Therapist, First Place

  • Diedre Greene, MD
    Wellstar Pediatrics
    Best Pediatrician, Second Place

  • Amy Gross
    Wellstar Outpatient Rehabilitation
    Best Physical Therapist, First Place

  • Ashish Kapila, DPM
    Wellstar Podiatry
    Best Podiatry, Third Place

  • Amy Kewin, MD
    Wellstar Pediatrics
    Best Pediatrician, First Place

  • Keisha McClure
    Wellstar Health Place
    Best Massage Therapist, Third Place

  • Eduardo Molinary, MD
    Wellstar Pulmonary Medicine
    Best Pulmonary Medicine, Third Place

  • David Parks, MD
    Wellstar ENT
    Best ENT Specialist, First Place

  • Dhaval Patel, MD
    Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care
    Best Cardiac/Vascular Specialist, Third Place

  • Daniel Saade, MD
    Wellstar Pediatrics
    Best Pediatrician, Third Place

  • Carolyn Smallwood, DO
    Wellstar Primary Care
    Best General Practice Doctor, First Place
    Best Family Physician, Second Place

  • Randall Webb, MD
    Wellstar OB/GYN
    Best OB/GYN, Third Place

  • Wellstar Atherton Place
    Senior Living and Memory Care
    Best Nursing Home, Third Place

  • Wellstar Health Place
    Best Fitness Center/Gym, First Place

  • Wellstar Health Place
    Best Yoga/Barre/Pilates Studio, Third Place

  • Wellstar Health Place
    A Healthier You- Medical Fitness
    Best Weight Loss Clinic, Third Place

  • Wellstar Pediatrics at 3707 Largent Way
    Best Pediatric Group, First Place

  • Wellstar Pediatrics at 760 Kennesaw Avenue
    Best Pediatric Group, Second Place

  • Wellstar Pediatrics at 121 Marble Mill Road
    Best Pediatric Group, Third Place
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Illustration of person with thought bubbles representing staying home, pharmacies, virtual care, primary care and emergency care

Highlights

Feeling Sick? Know Where to Go to Get Care

Whether you experience an injury, minor illness or simply need a wellness exam, the most important step you can take is getting the care you need. That way, you can find trained experts for your specific medical needs, stay ahead of potential health issues or even help prevent your condition from worsening. 

With primary, virtual, urgent and emergency care services available, as well as retail pharmacies, how do you decide which type of care is best for your medical situation? Learn the differences between each type of medical service so you don’t delay and get care right away. 

I have been exposed to COVID-19 and I want a test: local pharmacy, stay home. I have a runny nose and fatigue: WellstarON virtual care, Wellstar primary care/pediatrician, Wellstar Urgent Care, local pharmacy, stay home. My child has a fever, decreased appetite and/or is wheezing: Wellstar primary care/pediatrician, Wellstar Urgent Care, Wellstar emergency room. I’m COVID-19 positive and have mild symptoms: WellstarON virtual care, Wellstar primary care/pediatrician, Wellstar Urgent Care, local pharmacy, stay home. I’m COVID-19 positive and have severe symptoms: Wellstar emergency room. I’m having trouble breathing: Wellstar emergency room. My child is having trouble breathing: Wellstar emergency room.   

Local Pharmacies 

If you are ill and have minor symptoms, over-the-counter medications can help you feel better. At your local retail pharmacy, you can find over-the-counter treatments for minor conditions like colds. If your symptoms worsen or do not go away with over-the-counter treatments, contact your primary care provider or visit an urgent care location. 

Local pharmacies also carry at-home COVID-19 tests, offering a convenient testing option for people who have been exposed or are experiencing mild symptoms of COVID-19. 

Virtual Care 

Whether you have a busy schedule or are just looking for a more convenient option, virtual appointments are an easy way to keep up with your health from anywhere. 

At Wellstar, we offer virtual visits with both primary care providers and specialists — no matter if you are an established patient or not. Connect with your Wellstar provider over the phone or with video on a computer, smartphone or tablet. 

If you’re an established patient, simply request a virtual visit through MyChart. If you don’t have an account, it’s easy to sign up for MyChart and keep all of your important health information in one secure space. You can also call your physician’s office directly and request a virtual appointment over the phone. 

These days, many types of appointments can be done virtually, including consultations, care for chronic conditions and prescription management. In addition to virtual primary and specialty care appointments, we also provide virtual urgent care through WellstarON for minor medical concerns. 

While virtual care is a convenient way to stay well, it should never be used in place of emergency care. If you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, call 911 right away. 

Primary Care 

Primary care is ongoing, comprehensive care and preventative medicine that helps you live a full, healthy life. 

Your primary care provider — either an internal or family medicine physician, pediatrician or OB/GYN, depending on your age and medical needs — gets to know you and your health history on a deeper level. That means they have a more accurate view of your overall wellness. 

Services include: 

  • Annual wellness exams 
  • Health screenings, labs and imaging 
  • Care for chronic conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure 
  • Immunizations for children and adults 
  • Treatment for acute illness, such as the flu or colds 
  • Coordinating care with other specialists 
  • Physical and mental health concerns, such as weight loss or anxiety 

Find a Wellstar primary care provider in your neighborhood. 

Urgent Care 

If you’re dealing with a minor injury or illness or need care after your physician’s regular office hours, going to urgent care is often the right choice. Wellstar Urgent Care Centers provide quick, convenient care for non-emergency medical conditions. 

We also offer urgent care through WellstarON, which provides virtual health visits for minor medical concerns from the comfort and convenience of home. 

Wellstar Urgent Care provides: 

  • Care for minor illnesses and injuries, such as coughs, colds, sprains and broken bones 
  • Treatment for medical issues like bites, burns and cuts 
  • COVID-19 testing and evaluation for patients 12 and older 
  • Lab and X-rays 
  • Sports physicals 
  • Occupational health services 
  • Worker’s compensation services 

Find a Wellstar urgent care location near you or make a virtual urgent care appointment. 

Emergency Care 

In a life-threatening medical emergency, every second counts. Never put off getting the proper care when lives are on the line. Remember, driving yourself to the emergency department (ED) may delay care, so call 911 for the fastest access to emergency care. 

When the unexpected happens, Wellstar is always ready in a medical emergency. Our trained team provides expert emergency care 24 hours a day for people of all ages. We even have several pediatric emergency room locations, specifically designed to treat children. 

Recognize the signs of a medical emergency: 

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 
  • Chest discomfort or pain 
  • Severe abdominal pain 
  • Fainting or loss of consciousness 
  • Sudden dizziness, weakness or vision changes 
  • Sudden, severe pain 
  • Uncontrolled or severe bleeding 
  • Choking, coughing up blood or severe vomiting 
  • Suicidal or homicidal thoughts 
  • Changes in mental status, such as confusion or unusual behavior 
  • Traumatic injury due to a motor vehicle or other accidents 

Find a Wellstar emergency department close to you. Remember, call 911 right away in a medical emergency. That way, care can begin sooner during the crucial time it takes to be transported to the hospital. 

Keep reading
Illustration of students talking and using computer

Highlights

BacktoCampusCare: What to Know About Anxiety

Whether it’s your first time on campus or you’re a seasoned college student, the start of a new school semester can be exciting, stressful and a little scary all at the same time.

Between finding classes on campus and fitting in with new friends, you may be feeling anxious about the upcoming semester. Keep in mind, new-school-year nerves are normal and there are resources to help you—including a check-up with your Wellstar primary care physician as well as on-campus counselors.

“Anxiety often goes unrecognized and undiagnosed,” said Wellstar Physician Dr. Andrew Doyle. “It’s not always recognized or talked about because people think it’s a normal part of life. But when anxiety interferes with completing homework, socializing or working at your job, it’s not necessarily normal. It’s helpful to have someone check it out.”

Signs of anxiety can also include difficulty sleeping, abdominal pain, headaches, significant changes in appetite or an explosive temper.

“There are effective treatments that make a difference for students including lifestyle changes, medication and therapy,” Dr. Doyle said.

Getting enough sleep, exercise and healthy food are highly important, and Dr. Doyle also recommends planning downtime from social media and life responsibilities.

“Therapy and role-playing can help you recognize your stressors and think through how to handle them ahead of time so you can face those situations,” he said. “For example, on exam day, start with positive self-talk. You can say, ‘I’m feeling nervous. I have a headache and an upset stomach. I know that’s because I’m anxious. I’ve taken many tests before and I can do this so I don’t need to worry about it.’ Breathing exercises before the test can help you stay calm. You can also plan ahead of the test to do something enjoyable afterward and to focus on that instead of the stressor.”

To help you start the semester off feeling mentally strong and physically healthy, here are some wellness tips to get you off to your best school year yet.

Study guide to stay healthy

From medical appointments to personal safety, follow our tips to prepare for college and prioritize your health.

  • Take control of your health. Book your annual physical with your primary care physician at the start of the semester.
  • Make mental health a priority. Get sufficient sleep, exercise and nutrition. Bring up any questions or concerns about stress, anxiety and depression with your primary care provider.
  • Recognize anxiety and manage it. When you recognize a situation that triggers anxiety, start positive self-talk and deep breathing. 
  • Schedule in self-care. College can be intense. Make time for yourself to do things you enjoy for your mental and physical well-being.
  • Stay organized. Use a planner or calendar to schedule classes, exams and study time to keep yourself on track.
  • Set roommate rules. If you’re living with roommates, create clear rules for your space like noise levels, chores and when other friends are allowed over.
  • Know your surroundings. Get familiar with the campus layout and where the security station or emergency phones are located.
  • Use the buddy system. Stay alert on campus and walk with a friend when possible, especially at night.
  • Protect yourself at parties. Never leave drinks unattended, whether you’re hanging out at a bar, party or other gathering with friends.

Get ready for campus life

Heading to college can be a big transition, and you may feel anxiety about the upcoming changes, especially during a pandemic. But don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need help getting ready or adjusting.

Talking to your Wellstar is a great place to start, whether your concerns are about physical, emotional or mental health. Our health partners are here to support you and can connect you with specialists to keep you feeling well.

Book your annual physical today and be sure to bring up any questions or concerns you have with your doctor.

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