Category: Mental Health Blog

Anxiety often requires a multifaceted approach to management. Traditional methods include medication and therapy, yet alternative strategies are increasingly capturing interest. One such approach is vaping, particularly vaping substances such as CBD, which some individuals report helps mitigate anxiety symptoms.

According to Emixologies, a leading research organization in the field, understanding the scientific underpinnings of how vaping might assist in anxiety management is crucial.

In this article, we’re going to delve into the scientific underpinnings of how vaping might assist in anxiety management, focusing on relevant studies and avoiding conjecture or subjective claims.

Understanding Anxiety and Its Traditional Management

Anxiety disorders represent a widespread group of conditions where excessive worry, fear, and nervousness dominate the person’s mental landscape.

Conventional treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy, like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and medications such as benzodiazepines or SSRIs. However, concerns about medication side effects or a preference for natural remedies have steered some individuals towards alternative options, including vaping.

Central to the discussion of vaping as a tool for anxiety management is cannabidiol (CBD). Unlike THC, another cannabinoid, CBD doesn’t produce psychoactive effects but has been noted for its potential therapeutic benefits, including anxiety reduction.

One notable study underscoring CBD’s anxiolytic properties is by Crippa et al., published in “Frontiers in Pharmacology.” This study highlighted CBD’s interaction with the 5-HT1A serotonin receptor, often implicated in mood regulation.

Participants with Social Anxiety Disorder were given CBD, after which researchers observed decreased subjective anxiety levels, an assertion supported by brain scans indicating patterns consistent with reduced anxiety.

The significance of vaping CBD lies in its bioavailability, which refers to how quickly and efficiently a substance enters the bloodstream. Vaping CBD allows for direct absorption into the bloodstream via the lungs, resulting in a faster onset of effects compared to other methods of consumption.

This rapid action is particularly beneficial for those seeking immediate relief during acute anxiety episodes.
Reinforcing this, Linares et al., in their study published in the “Brazilian Journal of Psychiatry,” compared the bioavailability of vaped CBD to oral routes. Their findings suggested that inhalation leads to quicker absorption, with effects manifesting within minutes.

This immediacy provides individuals with a sense of control over their anxiety symptoms, offering comfort during unexpected bouts of anxiety.

The Psychological Comfort of the Vaping Ritual

Beyond the physiological impact of CBD, the physical act of vaping itself can be psychologically soothing. The ritualistic aspects of vaping, including preparation, hand-to-mouth action, and rhythmic inhalation and exhalation, can contribute to a state of calmness and mental distraction from stressors.

Specific research on vaping’s ritual and anxiety is sparse. However, its resemblance to deep breathing practices, proven to alleviate anxiety, provides a logical foundation for its calming effects.

A study by Ma et al. in the “Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine” demonstrated that deep diaphragmatic breathing reduces cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone, thereby inducing relaxation. The act of vaping mimics this deep breathing, potentially triggering a similar relaxation response.

Furthermore, a 2020 study by Schonfeld, published in “Behavioral Sciences,” explored the psychological benefits of behavioral rituals in mental health management. While not about vaping explicitly, the study found that repetitive, ritualistic behaviors could create a sense of predictability and control, significantly beneficial for anxiety management.

These findings suggest that the habitual act of vaping may offer similar psychological comforts, providing a buffer of stability for individuals grappling with anxiety.

A study by Papworth et al., published in “Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice” in 2013, highlighted that specific controlled breathing techniques could significantly reduce symptoms of anxiety.
The rhythmic, controlled breathing involved in vaping can mirror these techniques, potentially inducing a calming effect.

Also, in a comprehensive review by Sussman and Garcia, published in “Substance Use & Misuse” in 2020, the authors explored the ritualistic behavior of e-cigarette use. They found that for some individuals, the habitual nature, along with the hand-to-mouth action, provided a sense of familiarity and routine that could be psychologically reassuring, much like traditional cigarette smoking.

This predictable ritual potentially provides a sense of control, thereby reducing anxiety.

The Community Aspect of Vaping

Another angle to consider is the communal aspects of vaping. For some, being part of a vaping community or sharing the experience with friends can create a sense of belonging or a support system that helps manage anxiety-inducing situations.

While studies on vaping’s social aspect are limited, extensive research indicates that a strong social support network can be integral in managing mental health issues, including anxiety.

A study by Kawachi and Berkman in 2001, published in “Social Epidemiology,” indicated that individuals with robust social ties have better mental health outcomes. This principle could extend to communities formed around activities like vaping, where shared experiences and camaraderie might foster a supportive environment conducive to anxiety management.

There’s also another study by Umberson and Montez, published in “Journal of Health and Social Behavior” in 2010, that emphasized the profound impact of social relationships on health outcomes, including mental health.

Vaping, often done socially, might help form a communal bond that provides emotional support and camaraderie, which can be instrumental in coping with anxiety.

The Key Takeaway

The intersection of vaping and anxiety management is a complex convergence of direct physiological effects, psychological comfort from ritualistic behavior, and potential social support benefits.

Scientific studies, particularly those focusing on CBD, indicate that vaping can play a role in immediate anxiety reduction, thanks to the rapid bioavailability of inhaled CBD and the calming effects of the vaping act. The communal aspects of vaping also suggest a potential buffer against anxiety through social connectivity.

While these observations are promising, they underscore the need for further, in-depth research to fully understand vaping’s role in anxiety management and establish comprehensive guidelines for its effective use.

Though more research is needed to know the benefits and effects of CBD and mushroom gummies, it’s believed to help in dealing with mental health conditions. Some studies mention that cannabidiol can be promising in treating conditions such as anxiety and depression.

In fact, cannabidiol has been stated to be useful in several mental health conditions which are as follows:

Epilepsy

Cannabidiol seems to offer a lot of benefits in treating neurologic conditions such as lessening the severity and frequency of seizures. In recent years, there have been clips circulating on social media that show cannabidiol effectively alleviating seizures. Even research has also backed its effectiveness.

Anxiety

There are studies suggesting that cannabidiol can relieve anxiety symptoms. A study done in 2015 which was published in the Neurotherapeutics Journal examined the preclinical studies on how cannabidiol deals with anxiety.

It was discovered that it was effective in dealing with some anxiety conditions such as OCD or obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, PTSD or post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, and generalized anxiety disorder.

It’s important to keep in mind that while cannabidiol has potential, more studies are needed to know its long-term benefits and effects.

Depression

There are many effective methods available to treat depression such as medication and psychotherapy. However, there’s a growing interest in alternative and complementary treatments in recent years.

Research has been conducted on the possible antidepressant properties of cannabidiol. Animal studies show that cannabidiol could affect serotonin receptors in the brain which can give antidepressant effects.

In 2018, a study reported that the antidepressant effects of cannabidiol depend on the amount of serotonin in the brain. This suggests that cannabidiol doesn’t boost serotonin levels; rather it works on the response of the brain to serotonin that is already in the body.

Sleep Problems

Since cannabidiol can make users feel calm, it’s also promising in helping people with sleeping problems. Sleep is crucial for mental health and health in general, and not getting enough quality sleep has been connected to conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, and depression.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that further research is still needed to know the benefits of cannabidiol to sleep.

PTSD

An individual who has post-traumatic stress disorder has symptoms such as experiencing traumatic events again, nightmares, avoiding things that could trigger their trauma, and intrusive thoughts.

Studies report that cannabidiol can help lessen the occurrence of these symptoms. Researchers in a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine discovered that taking cannabidiol orally on top of routine treatment for PTSP was linked to less manifestation of symptoms.

Detailed Research Findings

While the article mentions various studies about CBD’s potential in mental health, delving deeper into specific research findings can enhance understanding. For instance, explore the methodologies, sample sizes, and detailed outcomes of studies that have investigated CBD’s impact on anxiety and depression. Highlight any significant breakthroughs and also discuss areas where findings may be inconclusive or where further research is needed.

Personal Testimonies

Incorporating personal stories can offer readers a firsthand look at the experiences of individuals who have utilized CBD for mental health. For example, share narratives of people who have used CBD to manage anxiety or sleep issues, discussing their journeys, the dosages used, and the impacts observed. Ensure to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of individuals while sharing such stories.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Navigating through the legal frameworks surrounding CBD use, especially in the context of mental health, is crucial. Discuss the legal status of CBD in various regions, exploring how it is regulated and prescribed. Address ethical considerations, such as ensuring informed consent, maintaining transparency about potential side effects, and ensuring that CBD use does not inhibit conventional treatments.

Potential Side Effects

While CBD is often well-tolerated, discussing potential side effects is vital to ensure informed decision-making. Explore possible side effects like fatigue, appetite changes, or interactions with other medications. Discuss how side effects might manifest and provide guidance on what to do should they occur.

Guidelines for Safe Use

Offering a guide for safe CBD use, discuss aspects like starting with a low dosage and gradually increasing it, monitoring for any adverse reactions, and consulting healthcare professionals. Emphasize the importance of sourcing CBD products from reputable suppliers to ensure quality and purity.

Future Implications

Exploring the horizon of CBD use in mental health, discuss ongoing research, potential developments in CBD-based treatments, and how legal and social perspectives are evolving. Highlight any upcoming trials, emerging CBD products, or therapies, and discuss how these could shape the future landscape of mental health management.

Now that you’ve understood some of the mental health uses of cannabidiol, it’s still better to consult a specialist if you or someone you know experiences symptoms of a mental health disorder.

Trying to do self-medication with cannabidiol or other supplements can cause a delay in your treatment and make your symptoms worse. It also has to be used with caution since it can aggravate other symptoms.

How adept are you at responding to what is happening in your environment? Do you get distracted from your train of thoughts very often? How do you cope with these changing times?

Today, more than ever, is the best time to think about your emotional health. By being emotionally healthy, you can do things more effectively. Supplements that help in increasing low testosterone improve your emotional health.

How is improving your emotional health related to knowing how to boost testosterone levels?

Apparently, some studies have figured out that when a person has low testosterone levels, that same person is prone to emotional distress. There would then be low energy levels to do work, lesser inclination to do exercise, mood swings, and even depression.

That’s why you need to take note of how to boost testosterone levels in order to live a better, happier, and more satisfactory life.

Easy ways to boost testosterone

Assessment of health habits

Some symptoms of having low testosterone can be quite evident. For example, if you are obese or if you feel inactive, then that may perhaps be caused by low testosterone levels. You have to assess yourself about your lifestyle. Do you exercise regularly? Do you get sufficient sleep? Do you eat healthy foods? These can be crucial for your emotional well-being.

Lifestyle improvement

Once you have assessed your health habits, you can already figure out which aspects of your lifestyle needs to be improved. It could be your exercise routine, diet, and even your sleep cycle.

For your exercise, it would be best to have a regular schedule. This will help your body to adapt to your routine better, which means fewer muscle pains and strains.

For your diet, it is important to watch what you consume. It would be great to take foods that will help you focus on your daily work schedule and your exercise regimen as well.

For your sleep cycle, a good six to eight hours of sleep is enough to make you feel better and have a good mood for the next day. It would relieve the tension from the previous day and be ready for the new challenges of the present.

Stress management

In order for you to further boost testosterone levels, you need to be able to handle stress. This could not be done overnight. Stress from work or from your environment can cause a testosterone dive which may result in a nasty outburst.

Testosterone replacement

Aside from doing manual labor to boost testosterone levels, you could also seek the help of a health expert. There is now a testosterone replacement therapy that makes it possible for you to improve your testosterone level.

Now that you have an idea of how to boost testosterone, you can already look forward to improved emotional health. When you start doing these easy steps, you will notice a sudden shift in your mood caused by the boost in your testosterone levels. Be ready to make the most of your days better!

Mental health is a growing concern worldwide. Researchers have been in high gear to find a safe and effective treatment to save millions of people. The trend of buying delta 8 flower online is rising and most recently, researchers discovered that Cannabidiol (CBD), a chemical compound found in marijuana and hemp plants, has potential therapeutic benefits for mental disorders.

This article will explore the role of CBD in treating mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety.

What is Cannabidiol?

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in the Cannabis Sativa plant. It is one of the plant’s more than 100 cannabinoids. According to numerous research types, this compound has shown therapeutic effects on mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis.

How Cannabidiol Works in the Brain

It is essential to understand that Cannabidiol does not have psychoactive properties, so it does not make someone feel high. Instead, it has the opposite effect and makes you feel more relaxed, less anxious, and less likely to get a panic attack.

Research on the therapeutic role of Cannabidiol in mental health is ongoing. Nonetheless, there are already a few hypotheses about how it works in the brain. CBD may work by blocking the serotonin transporter, increasing serotonin levels in the synapse, and decreasing serotonin production. This could lead to reduced anxiety or depression. It may also be that Cannabidiol interacts with enzymes that break down neurotransmitters like dopamine, which could make you less anxious or depressed. Research on Cannabidiol  claims that it is a safe and effective treatment for mental health conditions such as:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder(OCD)
• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder(ADHD)
• Anxiety Disorders

Benefits of CBD for Mental Health

Recently, there has been a surge of interest in CBD’s potential mental health benefits. Studies suggest that mental health patients can benefit from Cannabidiol in the following ways.

It is a potent anti-inflammatory agent, and it has the potential to reduce pain and nausea.

It reduces symptoms of social anxiety disorder such as performance anxiety or public speaking fear.

It helps overcome addiction by influencing brain receptors responsible for alcohol, opiates, or nicotine addictions.

Types of Cannabidiol

The Cannabidiol compound exists in different products and forms. Cannabidiol’s primary sources are the marijuana and hemp plants. However, the quantities of Cannabidiol extracted from both plants differ.

Hemp plants contain small amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a compound responsible for psychoactive effects. On the other hand, varying quantities of THC obtained from marijuana plants are likely to cause undesirable effects.

The main Cannabidiol types available  include:

• Broad-spectrum – contains most compounds from the cannabis plant apart from THC
• Isolates – contain only CBD and not cannabinoids or THC.
• Full-spectrum – contains all cannabis plant compounds, including THC

Mental health disorders affect people from all walks of life, and it is often difficult to find treatment options that work for all. In fact, there is no one-size-fits-all solution in matters of mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, CBD may help. Ensure you speak with a mental health professional for proper dosage prescriptions.

You’ve probably heard that eating chocolate makes you feel better. This isn’t just an allusion to its sweetness—there’s science behind it. Researchers from UCalgary and AHS found the motivation to eat chocolate is caused by its psychoactive ingredients, such as flavonoids or phenylethylamine, which are believed to improve inflammatory profiles and help regulate people’s moods.

Does this sound surprising? The battle to recognize mental health awareness has been going on for years. Today, however, it’s widely recognized that our physical well-being affects how we think, feel, and act. This means that our diet, a crucial component to our bodies and everyday living, can directly and indirectly impact our mental health as well.

Let’s take a closer look at the relationship between the two.

Negative cycle of unhealthy food choices

When stressed, we tend to rely on comfort meals that are sugary, fatty, or salty. These foods immediately trigger serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins in our brain.

However, this is temporary. Psychiatrist James Gordon says unhealthy diets actually cause severe drops in these neurotransmitters, while significantly increasing cortisol or the primary stress hormone in our bodies over the long run. This creates a cycle of poor mental health, that many in the world are unfortunately susceptible to, and a reliance on temporary solutions like sugary foods.

Proactive care of our mental health

Taking the step to provide our bodies with good quality food is the key to protecting the brain from further damage like oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is caused by free radicals that can damage cells, affecting various control centres in the brain such as the amygdala. This can impair the brain’s capacity to regulate one’s hormones, leaving one vulnerable to mood disorders.

Focusing our meals around balanced diets that are inclusive of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is crucial. For those new to mindful food consumption, consulting with experts may be a big help. A guide to how WeightWatchers’ weight loss plans work notes that they get guidance from licensed nutritionists which helps many beginners to nutrition stay on track. This also encourages them to feel more satisfied with their newfangled healthy habits.

Proper sleep and hydration comes naturally with a healthy diet. Researchers from Toronto explain that our diets or rhythms of feeding behaviour send feedback to the peripheral molecular clocks of our body. When our eating pattern is stable, the body’s ability to maintain homeostasis or increase metabolism stabilizes as well.

Hence, our ability to maintain a work-life balance while keeping our bodies fit and energetic increases with every consistently healthy meal. Committing to a nutritious diet will start a positive cycle of better mental health.

Best diets for good mental health

Every individual’s body and experience is different and we all have unique needs. For example, we’ve discussed in Anxiety 101 how anxiety attacks can be triggered by even the smallest inconveniences and dietary changes. While eating vegetables and fruits is often encouraged for their high nutritional value, people with anxiety may need to more strictly watch their intake due their high glycemic indexes.

That’s why many opt to tailor diets to their lifestyles. As a rule of thumb, avoid processed foods that increase inflammation in the body and disturb the normal gut microbiome because of the lack of fibre. Instead, stick to highly nutritious ingredients such as whole and organic foods, and regularly consult your healthcare provider.

A healthy diet means a healthier mentality. Lucky for us, that means that we’re capable of exerting a degree of control over our mental wellness. Start making the right food choices today and live not just longer, but happier lives as well.

Cannabidiol, also called CBD, is one of many cannabinoids seen in the cannabis plant. CBD is one of the most known cannabinoids. The other is THC, a psychoactive compound that produces a high feeling.

Anxiety disorders are one of the most notable mental health issues. In the United States, it has affected approximately 31.1% and rising. CBD products such as CBD north’s cbd cream have been found to have potent pharmacological effects on the brain and body. From having anti-inflammatory properties to anxiolytic effects.

How Does CBD work

CBD communicates with cannabinoids type 1 receptors and the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor. These receptors in the brain and many others help control fear and anxiety-induced behaviours. Thus, CBD has been established as a treatment for different anxiety disorders, such as:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Panic disorder (PD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)

A recent study done in 2020 accessed CBD’s effects on 397 participants in New Zealand. The people who took CBD treatment for anxiety, depression, or pain improved their quality of life and reduced pain, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. The results also showed that 70% of the participants were satisfied with the treatment.

Nevertheless, researchers have not yet found standardized dosing for CBD treatment of anxiety. A person’s dosage to relieve pressure depends on the CBD product and route of administration.

Administration routes include:

• Sublingual
• Topical
• Oral
• Nasal

The administration route controls the effect of CBD. The effects of orally administered CBD, such as oils, edibles, or capsules, begin working within 30 minutes to 2 hours. Smoking or vaping CBD oil or cannabis buds results in more immediate effects.

The oral route, e.g., capsules, takes 30 minutes to 2 hours. Smoking, however, has more immediate effects. Thus, smoking or vaping CBD oil can give immediate relaxation for stressful events. However, they have a shorter duration.

CBD oil and tinctures can be consumed through the mouth. They have a longer duration but a more prolonged onset. If you want a more localized effect, e.g., muscle relaxation, use creams and gels. You may have to explore different forms to know what works for you.

For example, vaping is faster absorption into the bloodstream than edibles.

CBD Dosage

• 600 mg for people with SAD
• 25 – 75 mg for generalized anxiety or sleep problems
• 33 to 49 mg/day for PTSD,

Note that CBD is not an alternative to routine psychotherapy. Works best simultaneously

Potential Risks and Side Effects

Side effects of CBD are mild but range from dry mouth to fatigue and diarrhea. Also, people should buy from trusted brands and consult physicians before taking CBD. People with liver issues should apply caution too.

Also, CBD can have interactions with other drugs, such as:

• Anticoagulant, e.g. warfarin
• Antidepressants
• Antihistamines
• Opioid
• Benzodiazepines
• Antipsychotics
• Calcium channel blockers

Note that Pure CBD should not get you high. If it does, you should stop immediately. It may mean that it was cut with something else or there is the presence of THC. THC can induce anxiety.

In 2017, the Our World and Data, an online publication that covered global problems, reported that 3.8% of the population globally suffered from anxiety disorders.

According to CBD buying guide, one out of ten people is diagnosed with having mental health disorder. Instead of using commonly suggested treatments, some people turn to CBD products to treat these mental disorders.

CBD Oil and Anxiety

A survey in 2017 reported that 41% of marijuana users were swapping their anti-anxiety medicines for cannabis. Around 40% of these people claimed that CBD was more effective for relieving their anxiety.

The cost of treatment for anxiety disorders in the US can be high. In fact, treatment options such as cognitive-behavioral therapies can cost around $100-$120 or more per hour.

People who have an average minimum wage may need to take on many jobs to afford just one session. That is why most people suffering from anxiety turn down the expensive treatments and therapies and turn to CBD to help them manage the symptoms.

Is CBD Oil Effective for Treating Mental Health Disorders?

According to some research, CBD oil can help treat various medical conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, cancer, depression, and anxiety.

The Permanente Journal published a study about the positive effects of using CBD oil in treating anxiety.

According to their study, around 79% of the participants reported that they experience anxiety reduction. That is why mental health advocates are considering CBD because of its positive effects.

Even though the effectiveness of CBD oil to treat anxiety is not fully understood, many people are still using it as a way to relieve symptoms. Additionally, according to the 2019 Gallup Poll, around 14% of Americans used CBD oil.

Thorough Research Is Needed

There is still insufficient research about the long-term effects of using CBD oil to improve mental health. So far, no long-term solutions have been identified, but that doesn’t mean there are none.

Most people who use CBD oil do not experience extreme effects. Still, some people are sensitive to CBD oil that could lead to diarrhea and fatigue. Some people experienced this side effect because some CBD oil products do not have the purported CBD levels.

Even though CBD is popular, you still need to know many things about it and keep that in mind before using it to treat anxiety. Also, you need to know CBD is not a replacement for your anti-psychotics or anti-depressants.

Conclusion

It is known to most people that CBD oil can be a health remedy. That is why many people turn to this product.

However, always keep in mind that you need to consult your doctor before using anything because it might have harmful effects, especially if you’re taking another medication.

Some research shows that CBD oil can help in treating various medical conditions, including anxiety. However, always keep in mind that the use of it is not entirely recommended. Thorough research is still needed to know the safety and the effectiveness of CBD oil.

Dealing with anxiety can be challenging in many, many ways. There are tons of tools and gadgets fashioned to relieve anxiety in whatever little ways they can. Anti-anxiety rings, stress balls, and even bean bag chairs do the trick for some people.

Bean bag chairs have been around for much longer than many people know. However, they have recently been discovered as essential tools in dealing with anxiety. Even schools found the benefits of offering bean bag chairs in classrooms as destressing and flexible seating options for students.

Anti-anxiety bean bag chairs have become a staple that every mental health enthusiast should consider.

How Do Anti-Anxiety Bean Bag Chairs Work

Bean bag chairs started in a humble form. They generally come in the shape of large sack-like structures, filled with tiny little beads on the inside. As with nearly everything else, evolution has taken place in the past couple of years, and they are not quite the same as before. One of their most popular updated evolved versions is none other than the anti-anxiety bean bag chair.

Also referred to as an anti-anxiety float chair, this specific type of bean bag chair uses the illusion of floatation therapy to give maximum comfort and support. Floatation therapy is typically done in water tanks.

The weightless feeling of floating around and simply ridding your body of stressful sensations soothes anxiety and stress. The wonder is truly in the details, as the fillings of these anti-anxiety bean bag chairs are quite different from others.

These bean bags are filled with sensory foam and high responsive high-density beads. This specific engineering gives you a calming, sinking feeling when settling into the bean bag. This calming sinking sensation is responsible for soothing anxiety and body and joint pain and even improving moods in adults and children.

As mentioned above, anti-anxiety bean bags are filled with responsive high-density beads. This filling is much more flexible and lighter than the filling found in regular bean bag chairs. This soft, comfortable, and light design is precisely how the bean bag works.

The bean bag has adaptive flexibility and intuitive ergonomic support. Therefore, you can trust that the tension in your body will melt away. Many people have described laying in this bean bag chair as what they imagine sitting on a cloud would feel like.

Why You Should Get a Bean Bag Chair if You Suffer from Anxiety

If you struggle with anxiety or have difficulty relaxing, it would be a great idea to try anti-anxiety bean bag chairs. These bean bags can also be found in physiotherapy clinics, psychology clinics, and even facilities for individuals dealing with autism and common disorders.

Upon their introduction into popular use, occupational therapists were one of the first to adopt them. Seeing as they provide a sense of comfort and safety, these professionals agree that helping their patients is a lot easier. People are more likely to talk, ease their tension, and make progress while engaging with a specialist.

For people who have autism, anti-anxiety bean bag chairs can be specifically helpful. The soft and alterable shape of the bean bag chairs gives such patients a sense of control as they adjust and relax to this new but welcoming environment. Cushions, mats, manual cable raisers, and even sofas are now quickly being replaced by bean bag chairs.

Professional who works with patients that deal with varying degrees of anxiety agree to attest to the usefulness of bean bag chairs for anxiety. They are known for relaxing the stressed mind by regulating emotions and calming the nervous system.

These bean bag chairs are so versatile and popularly appreciated. They can also be used by pregnant women who find traditional furniture uncomfortable. They can also be used to calm distressed pregnant women who are training for childbirth.

People who also suffer from a lot of unresolved tension knotted in their joints and muscles can use this. They come in different shapes, sizes, and colors, and you can get one that best suits your tastes and needs. Floatation therapy with this type of bean bag chair might be what you need.

In this article, we will discuss the meaning of dental anxiety, indications you have dental anxiety, triggers of dental anxiety, and tips on overcoming the fear of dental visits or dental treatment.

Dentist anxiety, also called dental anxiety, is that feeling of nervousness or uneasiness whenever you’re going to visit the dentist. You can overcome this fear by taking medications for anxiety or distracting yourself from what’s going on. It also helps to find a trustworthy dentist who gives you individual attention.

Dental Anxiety

This term is also referred to as dental phobia or dental fear (dentophobia). Dental anxiety is the feeling of intense discomfort, nervousness, fear, or even panic when you have a dental appointment or dental procedure.

Although dental anxiety in children is more severe than adult anxiety, all people with this condition dread the same when going to the dentist.

It comes in different degrees. For some, it can be mild, while for others, it can be pronounced and extreme. It is also a prevalent condition as a lot of people dread being on the dental chair.

Because of this phobia, a lot of people avoid going for dental care. They can procrastinate or put it on hold for a long time. They only decide to check their oral health when they experience severe pain or have a dental condition that can only be addressed by going to the dentist.

Unknown to many people, fear of going to the dentist and putting your dental care on hold can have consequences. Such health issues include cardiovascular disease, respiratory illness, premature delivery, and even diabetes.

Good oral health is key to avoiding other health complications and can only be achieved by going to the dentist regularly. It can be achieved by a regular dental cleaning, examinations, and other procedures that keep your teeth strong and healthy.

So what are the indications that you have dental anxiety?

Indications You Have Dental Anxiety

Experiencing one or two of these indications is not enough to say that you have dental anxiety. However, if the thought of a dental experience makes you exhibit a good number of them, then you have dental anxiety.

They include:

1. Lower blood pressure
2. Fainting
3. Uncomfortable feeling in your stomach
4. Enhanced heart rate
5. Sweating
6. Hyperventilating or experiencing shortness of breath
7. Panic attacks
8. Shaking
9. Crying
10. Not being able to sleep before the day you’re supposed to see your dentist
11. Total discomfort

Triggers of Dental Anxiety

People have different reasons why they get uncomfortable or panic at the thought of visiting the dentist. Some of these reasons may be related to the appointment, while others have no connection whatsoever.

Below are some of the reasons people with this condition fear the dentist:

Negative Events in the Past

Specific negative experiences are the reasons why some people have dental anxiety. Such an individual doesn’t even have to hear the sound of the drill to feel such fear. They can experience it through watching a horror movie during childhood or watching the activities of a creepy dentist.

Such an experience is enough to alter your perception of what happens at the dentist’s and makes you develop such anxiety.

Feeling a Loss of Control

People with this condition find it difficult to stay calm or get comfortable once they’re at the dentist. Because of this, they’re not willing to allow the dentist to carry out their procedure on their teeth.

Having a Phobia of Anesthetics and the Effects of their Usage

Some people with this condition are scared of anesthetics such as laughing gas or nitrous oxide, frequently used during a dentist’s appointment.

Aside from numbness which is commonly experienced, certain people feel other effects such as being drowsy, nauseous, and faint.

For others, it can be more severe. For example, it can be tongue swelling, pain in their muscles, ear, or joints, enhanced thirst, and drooling.

Experiencing the abovementioned effects when anesthetics were used on you is enough to trigger dental anxiety.

Other Types of Phobias

While this doesn’t directly trigger dental anxiety, it can trigger the fear you feel when you’re about to go to the dentist. Other types of phobias include claustrophobia (phobia of small or confined spaces), agoraphobia (phobia of crowded places), and so on.

Certain Sounds that can Trigger Dental Phobia

Admittedly, the sound of the drill can unnerve you. You may be thinking, “Is this thing entering my mouth?” Such a sound is enough to trigger your fear.

Tips on How to Overcome Dental Anxiety

Knowing exactly what triggers your anxiety is a big step to learning how to overcome or, at the very least, cope with it. The following ways show you how to manage this anxiety.

Meditation

While having a dental procedure or dental visit, deep breathing can help you cope with your anxiety. You can stay calm and composed.

IV Sedation

Sedation dentistry is one way to help anxious patients. They simply sleep through the procedure and are spared the “agony” of watching the dentist work on their teeth.

Hand Gestures

You can indicate to the dentist when you’re feeling uncomfortable or overwhelmed by raising your hand to signal them to stop or pause the procedure. This way, you don’t feel out of control.

Talking to the Dentist

Talking about your fears is a great way to cope with them. It’s like a relief, and it reduces some of the tension about the procedure. So, do not hesitate to tell your dentist how you’re feeling. They can offer great advice on how to stayed and that the process is not as scary as it seems.

Be Very Intentional with your Oral Health

Being very thorough with your oral health is one great way to cope with your dental anxiety. People with good oral health only go for minor examinations and checkups. No invasive procedures are needed.

Listening to Music

Music has an undeniable therapeutic effect on people. For example, listening to low-pitched soothing music can help you feel at ease while the dentist is at work.

Taking Anxiety Medications Before Going to the Dentist

You can also opt for anxiety medications if you experience dental anxiety. You can take some medication just before your appointment or before the actual procedure starts. The medication will help calm your nerves and help you overcome or cope with dental anxiety for the time being.

Vaping is quite famed to the youths of today, and this has already been proven by the Market leaders statistics gathered by the World Health Organization (WHO). WHO stated that the number of vapers rapidly increases to 48 million people in 2018 from about 7 million in 2011. Vaping has been regarded as less risky by the youth than regular cigarettes. However, I am sure you still want to know if it is bad for you. Keep reading to know the answer to your question.

The Question: Vaping? Is it Bad for My Mental Health?

Vape is a battery-powered e-cigarette that heats the liquid into vapor for a vaper to inhale. The liquid may contain nicotine, chemicals, and flavors. Thus, vaping makes the number of young adults who use nicotine increase. Also, with or without nicotine, vaping directly affects impulse control, especially of adolescents whose brains are at the developing stage. Mood disorders, damage to brain parts responsible for critical thinking, emotion, and memory are just some of the risks that vaping may pose.

Is Using Vape as Bad as Using Cigarette?

Several tests and researches are conducted to determine the effect of vape on a person’s wellness. These found that the same dangerous chemicals used in cigarettes are present in a vape as well. There is chemical such as propylene glycol that turns into formaldehyde gas when evaporated and is dangerous to ingest. Here is the list of some dangerous content of Vape.

Nicotine: Some products are described as “nicotine-free” but still may contain nicotine. Statistics also show that 99.6% of vape contains nicotine.

UFP (PM0.1): Ultra Fine Particles may be inhaled and cause scarring to the lungs. Also, exposure to UFP can contribute to pulmonary diseases and increase cardiovascular and respiratory disease risks.

Heavy Metals: Aluminum, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, lead, magnesium, nickel, silicon, tin, and zinc are found in vapes which may pose serious health problems ingested.

Flavorings: Cherry, custard, and pastry flavored vape juices contain diacetyl which may cause permanent lung damage.

Volatile Organic Compounds: VOC, such as benzene, are carcinogens and are commonly found in paints, thinners, dry cleaning fluid as well as wood preservatives.

Negative Effects of Vaping in Mental Health

Nicotine damages the nervous and cardiovascular system affects cancerous tumor development and stillbirth in pregnant women. It also interferes with the development of the brain in the adolescent period, which hinders it from becoming healthy. Another health risk is the popcorn lung which is a medical condition caused by fumes inhaled that causes damages to the bronchioles and difficulty in breathing. Also, vapers are linked with depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Because of the nicotine consumption from vaping, mental health problems such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, impulsivity, and ADHD worsens.

This article shows the effects of vaping on the body. Since a small amount of nicotine is present on the vape, it causes a depressant effect. There are already some studies and researches related to this that are available online. However, because of the lack of concern, this problem is not widely arising and is not addressed properly, and hence, the youths of today still thought of it as less risky.