Health Anxiety

plus 1 more, The “Mental Health Providers Should Prescribe Exercise More Often for Depression, Anxiety, Research Suggests - Science Daily”

2010-04-08T07:04:00.001-07:00

plus 1 more, The “Mental Health Providers Should Prescribe Exercise More Often for Depression, Anxiety, Research Suggests - Science Daily”

Mental Health Providers Should Prescribe Exercise More Often for Depression, Anxiety, Research Suggests - Science Daily

Posted: 05 Apr 2010 04:59 PM PDT

ScienceDaily (Apr. 6, 2010) Exercise is a magic drug for many people with depression and anxiety disorders, and it should be more widely prescribed by mental health care providers, according to researchers who analyzed the results of numerous published studies.

"Exercise has been shown to have tremendous benefits for mental health," says Jasper Smits, director of the Anxiety Research and Treatment Program at Southern Methodist University in Dallas. "The more therapists who are trained in exercise therapy, the better off patients will be."

Smits and Michael Otto, psychology professor at Boston University, based their finding on an analysis of dozens of population-based studies, clinical studies and meta-analytic reviews related to exercise and mental health, including the authors' meta-analysis of exercise interventions for mental health and studies on reducing anxiety sensitivity with exercise. The researchers' review demonstrated the efficacy of exercise programs in reducing depression and anxiety.

The traditional treatments of cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy don't reach everyone who needs them, says Smits, an associate professor of psychology.

"Exercise can fill the gap for people who can't receive traditional therapies because of cost or lack of access, or who don't want to because of the perceived social stigma associated with these treatments," he says. "Exercise also can supplement traditional treatments, helping patients become more focused and engaged."

The researchers presented their findings March 6 in Baltimore at the annual conference of the Anxiety Disorder Association of America. Their workshop was based on their therapist guide "Exercise for Mood and Anxiety Disorders," with accompanying patient workbook (Oxford University Press, September 2009). For links to more information see www.smuresearch.com.

"Individuals who exercise report fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression, and lower levels of stress and anger," Smits says. "Exercise appears to affect, like an antidepressant, particular neurotransmitter systems in the brain, and it helps patients with depression re-establish positive behaviors. For patients with anxiety disorders, exercise reduces their fears of fear and related bodily sensations such as a racing heart and rapid breathing."

After patients have passed a health assessment, Smits says, they should work up to the public health dose, which is 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity or 75 minutes a week of vigorous-intensity activity. At a time when 40 percent of Americans are sedentary, he says, mental health care providers can serve as their patients' exercise guides and motivators.

"Rather than emphasize the long-term health benefits of an exercise program -- which can be difficult to sustain -- we urge providers to focus with their patients on the immediate benefits," he says. "After just 25 minutes, your mood improves, you are less stressed, you have more energy -- and you'll be motivated to exercise again tomorrow. A bad mood is no longer a barrier to exercise; it is the very reason to exercise."

Smits says health care providers who prescribe exercise also must give their patients the tools they need to succeed, such as the daily schedules, problem-solving strategies and goal-setting featured in his guide for therapists.

"Therapists can help their patients take specific, achievable steps," he says. "This isn't about working out five times a week for the next year. It's about exercising for 20 or 30 minutes and feeling better today."

Story Source:

Adapted from materials provided by Southern Methodist University, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

Note: If no author is given, the source is cited instead.

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Exercise May Help Reduce Symptoms Related To Depression ... - Personal Liberty Digest

Posted: 08 Apr 2010 04:59 AM PDT

April 8, 2010 by Personal Liberty News Desk

Patients who are suffering from depression or anxiety disorders and who are not interested in traditional therapy options may be in luck. According to a recent analysis of numerous published studies, exercise may be a viable treatment alternative for those looking to improve their mental health.

Jasper Smits, director of the Anxiety Research and Treatment Program at Southern Methodist University in Dallas and lead author of the review, found that patients who exercise on a regular basis report significantly lower levels of anger and stress as well as fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Specifically, Smits and his colleagues found that exercise positively affects neurotransmitter systems in the brain and reduces feelings of a racing heart or rapid breathing—two symptoms commonly reported by those suffering from severe anxiety.

"Exercise also can supplement traditional treatments, helping patients become more focused and engaged," he added.

For most patients, the researchers recommend a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week.

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The “Mental Health Providers Should Prescribe Exercise More ... - Science Daily”

2010-04-07T07:31:00.001-07:00

The “Mental Health Providers Should Prescribe Exercise More ... - Science Daily”

Mental Health Providers Should Prescribe Exercise More ... - Science Daily

Posted: 06 Apr 2010 11:57 AM PDT

The traditional treatments of cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy don't reach everyone who needs them, says Smits, an associate professor of psychology.

Story Source:

Adapted from materials provided by Southern Methodist University, via EurekAlert!, a service of AAAS.

Note: If no author is given, the source is cited instead.

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plus 1 more, The “Mental health providers should prescribe exercise more often for depression, anxiety - Genetic Engineering News”

2010-04-06T07:41:00.001-07:00

plus 1 more, The “Mental health providers should prescribe exercise more often for depression, anxiety - Genetic Engineering News”

Mental health providers should prescribe exercise more often for depression, anxiety - Genetic Engineering News

Posted: 05 Apr 2010 09:35 AM PDT

Apr 5 2010, 12:20 PM EST

Mental health providers should prescribe exercise more often for depression, anxiety

EUREKALERT

Contact: Kim Cobb
cobbk@mail.smu.edu
214-768-7654
Southern Methodist University

Traditional treatments of cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy don't reach everyone

Exercise is a magic drug for many people with depression and anxiety disorders, and it should be more widely prescribed by mental health care providers, according to researchers who analyzed the results of numerous published studies.

The traditional treatments of cognitive behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy don't reach everyone who needs them, says Smits, an associate professor of psychology.

"Rather than emphasize the long-term health benefits of an exercise program which can be difficult to sustain we urge providers to focus with their patients on the immediate benefits," he says. "After just 25 minutes, your mood improves, you are less stressed, you have more energy and you'll be motivated to exercise again tomorrow. A bad mood is no longer a barrier to exercise; it is the very reason to exercise."

SMU is a private university in Dallas where nearly 11,000 students benefit from the national opportunities and international reach of SMU's seven degree-granting schools. For more information see www.smu.edu.

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Health Calendar: Anxiety, cancer, stroke - Dallas Morning News

Posted: 05 Apr 2010 09:59 PM PDT

Dallas Appliance Repair

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Dallas Landscape Contractors

plus 1 more, The “Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - The Province”

2010-04-05T07:32:00.000-07:00

plus 1 more, The “Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - The Province”

Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - The Province

Posted: 05 Apr 2010 02:47 AM PDT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Among women undergoing fertility treatment, symptoms of anxiety and depression do not seem to reduce their chances of becoming pregnant, a new study suggests.

The findings, say researchers, should offer women some reassurance that such psychological symptoms do not have a strong effect on in vitro fertilization (IVF) success.

The multicenter study enrolled 783 Dutch women having their first fertility treatment. The women were asked to complete a questionnaire to assess anxiety and depression symptoms when they were put on the waiting list, 1 or 2 months before the procedure, and 1 day before the treatment.

A total of 421 women had complete information available for analysis. Overall, anxiety and depression symptoms were unrelated to the odds of becoming pregnant. These signs of psychological distress were also unrelated to the cancellation rates.

The findings do not minimize the importance of psychological well-being in women having IVF, the researchers report in the journal Human Reproduction. Studies show that many women suffer anxiety and depression after a failed IVF attempt, and research is still needed to see how to best identify and treat these women.

What's more, "stress" should be considered a "wide concept," and this study did not look at all the forms stress can take -- or the possible impact on IVF success, explained lead researcher Dr. Bea Lintsen of Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Center in the Netherlands.

Still, Lintsen told Reuters Health, "The message can be reassuring.

The chance of pregnancy seems not be influenced by anxiety or depression."

Some past studies have linked psychological distress to a lower likelihood of IVF success, while others have found no such connection. This study, according to the researchers, appears to be the largest one to date to look at this relationship.

They point out, however, that further large studies are needed to "reveal more information about the interrelationship between emotions and fertility."

For now, Lintsen said, it's possible that counseling women that there is a low likelihood that depression or anxiety symptoms will harm their IVF success may actually improve their mental health.

SOURCE: Human Reproduction, January 29, 2009.

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Exercising With Anxiety and Depression: Prescription ... - Medscape News

Posted: 28 Mar 2010 04:54 PM PDT

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plus 1 more, The “Anxiety to overtake depression as key complaint - Stuff”

2010-04-04T07:35:00.001-07:00

plus 1 more, The “Anxiety to overtake depression as key complaint - Stuff”

Anxiety to overtake depression as key complaint - Stuff

Posted: 03 Apr 2010 09:33 PM PDT

By CATHERINE WOULFE - Sunday Star Times

A US expert is predicting anxiety disorders are about to overtake depression as society's No 1 mental health worry.

Anxiety disorders affect 15% of New Zealanders and range from obsessive-compulsive disorders, phobias (usually of leaving the house or social situations), to generalised anxiety or post- traumatic stress disorders.

Statistically, these disorders are twice as common as depression in New Zealand. But the focus of most public health campaigns is depression.

US sociologist Allan Horwitz, dean of the social and behavioural sciences at Rutgers University, has just published a paper predicting that is about to change.

The paper says depression and anxiety disorders are closely linked "stress conditions" and many people who suffer from one will also be affected by the other.

It says that the condition such people are actually diagnosed with depends largely on which psychological theory is fashionable at the time and which drugs pharmaceutical companies want to push.

The paper says the pendulum is swinging towards anxiety, because questions are now being raised about the "efficacy, side effects, potential addictiveness and safety" of the popular family of antidepressants called SSRIs.

"If this backlash against the SSRIs grows, drug companies could develop a marketing strategy that will once again emphasise the anxiolytic [anxiety disorder] drugs as first-line stress treatments. "Anxiety has never gone away, and it will be surprising if such a universal condition does not once again come to the forefront of the stress condition."

Horwitz writes that in the 1950s and 60s anxiety disorders or "nerves" were society's main mental health worry, and were treated with tranquilisers such as Valium.

But as concerns about those medications grew, Horwitz says, pharmaceutical companies pushed the focus to depression, for which they invented a range of drugs.

Horwitz writes that in 1962, 12 million Americans were diagnosed with anxiety disorders compared to just four million with depression. By 1975, the numbers diagnosed with depression had rocketed to 18m, overtaking anxiety diagnoses on 13m.

Registered clinical psychologist Richard Wheeler, who practices in Christchurch, says depression has been a deliberate focus in New Zealand because our youth suicide rates were high - and climbing - and doctors had been missing diagnoses of depression.

Now, though, Wheeler thinks it is time for more education and awareness campaigns around anxiety disorders.

Marcia Read, CEO and founder of the New Zealand Phobic Trust, said: "[Anxiety] is the mental health issue of the future."

Read says it is estimated only 30% of those with anxiety disorders are diagnosed, and urges Kiwis to visit a GP if they believe they have an anxiety disorder.

See Sunday magazine for a first-hand account of what it's like to have an anxiety disorder.

SYMPTOMS

* Restlessness, exhaustion, headaches and backaches, irritability, trouble concentrating, lack of appetite, nausea, sweating, disgestion trouble, teeth grinding, broken sleep, numbness or pins and needles in arms and legs.

* Unreasonable fear of social situations or of leaving the house and/or a constant "on edge" feeling.

* Panic attacks are periods of intense fear, often mistaken for heart attacks. Symptoms include increased heart rate, dizziness, nausea, flushes, chest pains.

For help, visit your GP and/or call the Phobic Trust's 24-hour support line 0800 1426-94389. For information, see www.phobic.org.nz or www.mentalhealth.org.nz

plus 1 more, The “Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - Vancouver Sun”

2010-04-03T07:33:00.001-07:00

plus 1 more, The “Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - Vancouver Sun”

Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - Vancouver Sun

Posted: 03 Apr 2010 03:18 AM PDT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Among women undergoing fertility treatment, symptoms of anxiety and depression do not seem to reduce their chances of becoming pregnant, a new study suggests.

The findings, say researchers, should offer women some reassurance that such psychological symptoms do not have a strong effect on in vitro fertilization (IVF) success.

Still, Lintsen told Reuters Health, "The message can be reassuring.

The chance of pregnancy seems not be influenced by anxiety or depression."

They point out, however, that further large studies are needed to "reveal more information about the interrelationship between emotions and fertility."

For now, Lintsen said, it's possible that counseling women that there is a low likelihood that depression or anxiety symptoms will harm their IVF success may actually improve their mental health.

SOURCE: Human Reproduction, January 29, 2009.

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Teens' drinking linked to mental health problems - Regina Leader-Post

Posted: 03 Apr 2010 12:55 AM PDT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Teenagers who drink heavily are also more likely than their peers to have behavioural problems or symptoms of depression and anxiety, a new study finds.

The study, of nearly 9,000 Norwegian teenagers, found that those who said they had been drunk more than 10 times in their lives were more likely to have attention and conduct problems in school. Meanwhile, heavy-drinking girls showed higher rates of depression and anxiety symptoms.

The findings, published in the online journal Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, are based on a one-time survey. They do not, therefore, show whether the drinking came before or after the teenagers' other problems.

"We can say that mental health problems (are) closely connected to alcohol drinking and intoxication, but we cannot from these data say anything about which comes first," explained lead researcher Dr. Arve Strandheim, of the Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim.

That said, conduct and attention problems do tend to develop early in childhood, and would be less likely to arise in adolescence, Strandheim told Reuters Health.

But regardless of whether drinking problems or other issues come first, the bottom line is that parents should be aware that they often go hand-in-hand, according to the researcher.

The findings are based on a survey of 8,983 13- to 19-year-olds. Eighty percent said they had tried drinking, while 57 percent had gotten drunk at least once.

Among teens who said they had attention problems at school, roughly 43 percent had been drunk more than 10 times -- versus 25 percent of those with little difficulty concentrating in class.

Similarly, 35 percent of teenagers who acknowledged conduct problems -- getting into fights or clashing with teachers -- also admitted to getting drunk frequently. That compared with roughly 27 percent of teens with few conduct problems.

Anxiety and depression symptoms were also linked to more-frequent drinking binges, but only among girls.

It's important to intervene early to keep all teenagers from abusing alcohol, Strandheim stressed. However, the researcher said, it may be particularly important to pay attention to girls with signs of depression or anxiety, and all teens with attention problems or behaviour issues.

SOURCE: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, online June 23, 2009.

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plus 1 more, The “Health Anxiety - HealthCentral.com”

2010-04-02T07:30:00.001-07:00

plus 1 more, The “Health Anxiety - HealthCentral.com”

Health Anxiety - HealthCentral.com

Posted: 01 Apr 2010 12:03 PM PDT

By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2005-2010. The HealthCentral Network, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Anxiety disorders linked to high blood pressure - Regina Leader-Post

Posted: 01 Apr 2010 09:00 PM PDT

Amid worldwide financial uncertainty comes new Canadian research linking chronic anxiety with a fourfold increased risk for high blood pressure.

The Montreal researchers say it's possible anxiety disorders cause changes in how blood vessels and the heart's pumping chamber function.

About 12% of the population suffers an anxiety disorder. People experience intense fear and stress out of proportion to the actual threat or danger, says Simon Bacon, a Heart and Stroke Foundation researcher at the Montreal Heart Institute. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety -- exaggerated worry about everyday things -- panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder and social phobia.

Questions on an anxiety scale include, 'I feel tense or wound up," or "I get a sort of frightened feeling, as if something awful is about to happen." Feeling this way most, or a lot of the time, "is probably indicative of an anxiety disorder," Bacon says.

Many people are worried about the economic downturn.

"It's an appropriate level of anxiety," Bacon says. But the current financial crisis may be enough to trigger an anxiety disorder in vulnerable individuals, doctors say.

The study, to be presented today at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress in Toronto, involved 185 patients, average age 58, with no previous history of high blood pressure. Sixteen per cent had an anxiety disorder; 14% had depression or other mood disorder.

After one year, 14% of those with an anxiety disorder had developed high blood pressure,

compared to four per cent who were anxiety free. Elevated blood pressure is a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke.

Patients with mood disorders were not at higher risk of hypertension.

"We all know that anxiety, sudden stress, earthquakes, 9/11, will all cause the blood pressure to rise temporarily," says Dr. Brian Baker, associate professor in the department of psychiatry at the University of Toronto and a psychiatrist who treats patients with cardiovascular disorders.

"The question is, will it stay raised over time?"

This is one of the few studies linking an emotional state with persistent hypertension.

"One of the things about anxiety is that it has a very, very pronounced physiological effect," Bacon says. "You tend to have an increase in heart rate, palpitations, people feel sweaty. Obviously the body is reacting to that."

"We need to identify those people who have anxiety disorders because clearly they're at higher risk. The goods news is, there are lots of very good treatments out there. It's at treatable disorder."

skirkey@canwest.com

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plus 2 more, The “US STOCKS-Job anxiety hits Wall St; RIM sinks late - Reuters”

2010-04-01T07:28:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “US STOCKS-Job anxiety hits Wall St; RIM sinks late - Reuters”

US STOCKS-Job anxiety hits Wall St; RIM sinks late - Reuters
Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - Windsor Star
Depression, anxiety major factors in neck pain - Windsor Star

US STOCKS-Job anxiety hits Wall St; RIM sinks late - Reuters

Posted: 31 Mar 2010 02:34 PM PDT

* Data spurs unease about labor market's recovery

* US Midwest business activity expands less than expected

* Dow and Nasdaq each off 0.5 pct; S&P 500 off 0.3 pct

* For up-to-the-minute market news, click [STXNEWS/US] (Adds volume, more on energy stocks)

By Ellis Mnyandu

NEW YORK, March 31 (Reuters) - U.S. stocks fell on Wednesday as a report showing a surprising drop in private- sector employment stoked concerns about the health of the labor market two days before the government's key jobs data.

Wall Street took a one-two punch from ADP Employer Services data showing U.S. private-sector employers unexpectedly cut jobs in March and a separate report that showed U.S. Midwest business activity expanded less than expected last month. For details, see [ID:nN31218176]

The news was a setback for investors anxious for more evidence that the economic recovery is gaining strength and led investors to lock in profits in strong-performing sectors, such as consumer discretionary shares, which rose more than 10 percent for the quarter.

The ADP report "is not a good sign. We want to see some job growth," said Sasha Kostadinov, portfolio manager at Shaker Investments in Cleveland. "Friday's jobs data is going to be a big number because people are starting to get anxious to see some growth."

Even so, the benchmark S&P 500 .SPX racked up its fourth straight quarterly advance.

Analysts expect the second quarter to get off on solid footing if the upcoming earnings season proves stronger than expected.

The session's laggards included this quarter's best performers such as Boeing Co (BA.N), which fell 1.3 percent on Wednesday to $72.61, and consumer discretionary stocks, with Home Depot (HD.N) off 1.04 percent at $32.35, and Macy's Inc (M.N), down 1.6 percent at $21.77.

The Dow Jones industrial average .DJI dropped 50.79 points, or 0.47 percent, to close at 10,856.63. The Standard & Poor's 500 Index .SPX shed 3.84 points, or 0.33 percent, to 1,169.43. The Nasdaq Composite Index .IXIC fell 12.73 points, or 0.53 percent, to end at 2,397.96.

RESEARCH IN MOTION DROPS LATE

Technology shares, which have also underpinned the market's run-up, sold off as well.

After the bell, Research In Motion (RIM.TO)(RIMM.O) shares fell 7.4 percent to $68.50 after the BlackBerry maker posted quarterly results that lagged expectations. [ID:nN31237883] The stock had ended at $73.97 on Nasdaq, down 1.3 percent ahead of the earnings report.

The Chicago Purchasing Managers Index showed business activity in the U.S. Midwest slipped to 58.8 in March -- falling short of economists' consensus forecast.

Investors were looking to the ADP report for insight into the coming March non-farm payroll number, which will be released on Good Friday, when the U.S. stock market will be closed.

The median projection from the 20 economists who have forecast payrolls most accurately over the past year predicts 200,000 jobs were created in March -- slightly above the 190,000 median forecast from a broader sample of 82 economists -- according to a Reuters poll. [ID:nLDE62S1PW]

Boeing, a big manufacturer, was a top drag on the Dow. But it remained the Dow's best-performing stock so far this year, up about 34.1 percent.

3M Co (MMM.N), off 0.8 percent at $83.57, was the Dow's second-worst drag behind Boeing.

On Nasdaq, shares of Microsoft Corp (MSFT.O) declined 1.6 percent to $29.2875, while Apple Inc (AAPL.O) dropped 0.4 percent to $235.00, pausing after a string of record closes for the iPhone maker in recent days.

A legal ruling in U.S. oil giant Chevron's (CVX.N) favor drove the Dow component's stock up 0.7 percent to $75.83, which helped limit the Dow's decline and prompted investors to buy some energy-related shares. [ID:nN30158290] A jump in oil's price above $83 a barrel to its highest close since October 2008 also helped the energy sector. [ID:nN31227126]

President Barack Obama's announcement of a broad expansion of offshore oil and gas drilling also gave investors a reason to scoop up energy shares, with oil drillers like Apache Corp (APA.N) up 1.8 percent at $101.50. [ID:nN31367614]

WINNING QUARTER AND STRONG MARCH

The S&P 500 is up 72.9 percent from the March 2009 bottom.

For the first quarter, and for the year as well, the Dow is up 4.1 percent, while the S&P 500 is up 4.9 percent, and Nasdaq is up 5.7 percent.

For a factbox on the first-quarter performance of the S&P 500 sectors, see [ID:nN31229335]

For the month of March alone, the Dow advanced 5.1 percent, the S&P 500 rose 5.9 percent and the Nasdaq climbed 7.1 percent.

This rally has spurred some investors to trim some of their stock bets, however. Investors pulled $926 million from domestic stock funds in the week ending March 24, the first drawdown since the week ended March 3, according to the Investment Company Institute.

About 8.47 billion shares traded on the New York Stock Exchange, the American Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, below last year's estimated daily average of 9.65 billion.

Declining stocks beat advancers on the New York Stock Exchange by a ratio of about 3 to 2, while on the Nasdaq, about eight stocks fell for every five stocks that rose. (Reporting by Ellis Mnyandu; Editing by Jan Paschal)

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Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - Windsor Star

Posted: 31 Mar 2010 06:59 PM PDT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Among women undergoing fertility treatment, symptoms of anxiety and depression do not seem to reduce their chances of becoming pregnant, a new study suggests.

The findings, say researchers, should offer women some reassurance that such psychological symptoms do not have a strong effect on in vitro fertilization (IVF) success.

Still, Lintsen told Reuters Health, "The message can be reassuring.

The chance of pregnancy seems not be influenced by anxiety or depression."

They point out, however, that further large studies are needed to "reveal more information about the interrelationship between emotions and fertility."

For now, Lintsen said, it's possible that counseling women that there is a low likelihood that depression or anxiety symptoms will harm their IVF success may actually improve their mental health.

SOURCE: Human Reproduction, January 29, 2009.

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Depression, anxiety major factors in neck pain - Windsor Star

Posted: 31 Mar 2010 06:59 PM PDT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - The cause of neck pain is not just physical, doctors in Germany have shown. They say that psychological distress -- particularly depression and anxiety -- are closely linked to persistent neck pain.

When people with neck pain seek treatment, Dr. Martin Scherer told Reuters Health, "for successful long-term results, it is essential to consider psychosocial factors and to include them into therapeutic strategies."

Scherer, at the University of Gottingen, and his associated studied 448 patients in Germany who had suffered at least one episode of neck pain. More than half of the subjects (56 percent) reported neck pain on the day they completed the questionnaire and 26 percent had constant neck pain during the past year.

Based on their responses to a standard assessment questionnaire, 20 percent of subjects were classified as having depressive mood, and 28 percent were found to be anxious, the investigators report in the journal BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders.

According to Scherer and colleagues, individuals with depressive mood or anxiety were highly likely to have the highest levels of neck pain.

The results, the researchers say, suggest that the degree of neck pain is related to the degree of psychological distress. "To put it in other words," they write, "the higher the pain level in patients with (neck) problems, the more attention should be paid to psychosocial distress as an additional burden."

The findings, Scherer told Reuters Health, "underline that neck pain therapies are more likely to be (effective) if care for chronic patients is not only symptom-oriented but focuses on psychosocial factors that have been proved to be central for development and prognosis of neck pain."

SOURCE: BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, online January 26, 2009.

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plus 3 more, The “Exercising With Anxiety and Depression: Prescription ... - Medscape News”

2010-03-31T07:36:00.001-07:00

plus 3 more, The “Exercising With Anxiety and Depression: Prescription ... - Medscape News”

Exercising With Anxiety and Depression: Prescription ... - Medscape News
Girls react more to peer judgment as they age - Edmonton Journal
Abby Ham updates you on the latest health news - WBIR
Acupuncture Treats Anxiety at the Dentist - eMaxHealth.com

Exercising With Anxiety and Depression: Prescription ... - Medscape News

Posted: 28 Mar 2010 04:54 PM PDT

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Girls react more to peer judgment as they age - Edmonton Journal

Posted: 31 Mar 2010 03:29 AM PDT

NEW YORK - It's no secret that teens care a lot about what other people think of them. And new research using brain scans suggests that girls' response to the prospect of being sized up by a peer gets stronger as they progress through adolescence.

The current findings offer a hint about why girls' risk of depression and anxiety rises as they enter adolescence-and why these mental health issues are often centered on how others perceive them, according to Dr. Amanda E. Guyer, who led the study, and her colleagues.

In her research at the National Institute of Mental Health in Bethesda, Maryland, Guyer used a technique called functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to look at oxygen consumption within specific regions of the brain, with the goal of finding out how teens' brain activity corresponds to the dramatic changes that are happening in their social behaviour.

In this study, she and her colleagues were looking at a group of structures deep within the brain -- including the nucleus accumbens, insula, hypothalamus, hippocampus, and amygdala -- that are involved in emotion and social interactions.

She and her colleagues hypothesized that these brain regions would be activated more strongly in response to being evaluated by one's peers as teens got older, and that this activation would be stronger in girls than in boys.

To investigate, she and her colleagues had 34 boys and girls ranging in age from 9 to 17 participate in a two-part "Chatroom Task." In the first phase, study participants, all of whom were in good mental health, were told they'd be participating in an investigation of how teens communicate in online chatrooms.

While in the fMRI scanner, they looked at 40 different photographs of teens and rated each from 0 to 100 based on how interested they were in interacting with that person.

Researchers told them that their pictures would also be evaluated by other teens as part of the study, and that they would be matched up with a "mutually high-interest 'participant'" later on. Two weeks later, the study participants looked at the photos again, but this time researchers asked them how interested they thought that the person in the photo would be in interacting with them.

Among the girls, the researchers found, the difference in activation of emotion-related brain areas between when they thought about a "high-interest" peer evaluating them and when they thought about a "low-interest" peer doing so increased as a girl got older.

While a younger girl's "socioeconomic calculus" might be directed toward avoiding low-interest peers, the researchers suggest, older girls may focus more on approaching high-interest peers.

While the findings suggest a maturation in social relationships that happens in the female brain in adolescence, the fact that these changes didn't happen in boys shouldn't be seen as meaning that males are socially immature, Guyer told Reuters Health.

An individual peer's perception "just might not hit home in the same way as it does for girls," added Guyer, who is now at the University of California at Davis. Boys "might just be focused on other aspects of social relationships."

SOURCE: Child Development, July/August 2009.

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Abby Ham updates you on the latest health news - WBIR

Posted: 31 Mar 2010 03:36 AM PDT

These are the headlines that are topping today's health news:

Junk food can have the same effect on your brain as cocaine or heroin, according to a new study.
Researchers from the American Diabetes Association say they've found the most cost-effective screening strategy for Type II Diabetes.
A trip to the dentist might give you anxiety but a new method could ease your worries.

Tune into Ten News at Five to learn more about these and other health related topics.

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Acupuncture Treats Anxiety at the Dentist - eMaxHealth.com

Posted: 30 Mar 2010 07:58 PM PDT

Acupuncture might be a new treatment option for anxiety at the dentist, suggests findings from a small study. For one in twenty individuals who experience extreme anxiety sitting in the dentist chair, acupuncture, performed by the dentist's themselves, was found to reduce anxiety, assessed by the Back Anxiety Inventory (BAI) questionnaire.

The study included 16 men and 4 women who reported being moderately or extremely anxious from treatment at the dentist. Using the BAI questionnaire, researchers found a reduction in anxiety scores that fell from an average of BAI score of 26.5 fell to 11.5. All twenty patients were able to have their dental treatment following acupuncture treatment.

Anxiety medications, counseling, hypnosis, biofeedback and behavioral therapy to ease anxiety from dental treatment are all useful, but can be time consuming, unlike acupuncture.

Targeting two specific acupuncture points (GV20 and EX6), on the top of the head, was found to require considerably less effort and was effective for easing anxiety at the dentist office within five minutes after treatment.

The study participants had been dealing with anxiety associated with treatments at the dentist between two and 30 years. The authors conclude that acupuncture "may offer a simple and inexpensive method of treatment" for anxiety from dental treatment.

BMJ-British Medical Journal

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plus 2 more, The “Teens' drinking linked to mental health problems - Vancouver Sun”

2010-03-29T07:04:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “Teens' drinking linked to mental health problems - Vancouver Sun”

Teens' drinking linked to mental health problems - Vancouver Sun
Economic woes take toll on workers' mental health - The Province
Diagnostic Trends in Mental Health - Psych Centra

Teens' drinking linked to mental health problems - Vancouver Sun

Posted: 29 Mar 2010 05:11 AM PDT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Teenagers who drink heavily are also more likely than their peers to have behavioural problems or symptoms of depression and anxiety, a new study finds.

That said, conduct and attention problems do tend to develop early in childhood, and would be less likely to arise in adolescence, Strandheim told Reuters Health.

But regardless of whether drinking problems or other issues come first, the bottom line is that parents should be aware that they often go hand-in-hand, according to the researcher.

The findings are based on a survey of 8,983 13- to 19-year-olds. Eighty percent said they had tried drinking, while 57 percent had gotten drunk at least once.

Among teens who said they had attention problems at school, roughly 43 percent had been drunk more than 10 times -- versus 25 percent of those with little difficulty concentrating in class.

Anxiety and depression symptoms were also linked to more-frequent drinking binges, but only among girls.

SOURCE: Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health, online June 23, 2009.

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Economic woes take toll on workers' mental health - The Province

Posted: 29 Mar 2010 03:02 AM PDT

NEW YORK (Reuters) - One in five U.S. workers say the recession is causing them mental health problems, as they battle anxiety and fear over the potential loss of their jobs, new research shows.

Among 1,068 employed adults surveyed, 215 said the economic situation has had a negative impact on their mental health, while another 359 workers said their on-the-job stress level has increased. The survey was conducted online for employment agency Adecco USA from February 25-27.

"There's certainly been a pretty severe increase in stress, and stress is a precursor to anxiety and panic," said Dr. Elisha Goldstein, a Los Angeles-based psychologist who specializes in stress issues.

Workers are distracted as well, worrying about keeping their jobs, when layoffs might come or the fate of colleagues who already lost their jobs, he said.

"Companies start to become less effective. It starts to become a downward spiral, where an economic recession starts to become more of an emotional and mental recession," Goldstein said.

With job losses growing, company coffers shrinking and budgets tight, it's no wonder workers' mental health is taking a hit, public relations executive and lecturer Terrie Williams said.

WORRIED SICK

"What's really difficult and very isolating about this experience is that people are walking around with that stuff inside of them. It's pretending that you're fine when you're really worried sick," said Williams, who suffered from depression and wrote about it in her book "Black Pain."

She suggested workers repeat the following mantra to themselves -- "Everybody else is losing their job, but I'm not that one. That's for somebody else. I'm not going to be that one."

Employees can handle workplace anxiety better if a company is frank about how it is faring and if managers are visible, said Bernadette Kenny, chief career officer at Adecco USA, which commissioned the mental health survey.

Canadian motivational speaker Mike Moore had some advice for employers: Be appreciative of employees.

"The thing I hear most is that nobody ever thanks us," he said. "People will walk over miles of razor blades in bare feet for you if they know you appreciate them and tell them."

Business etiquette expert Barbara Pachter cautioned that tempers can wear thin in a workplace filled with stressed-out, anxious employees.

"The important thing to remember when you are harassed or attacked by someone is not to react in a way you will regret later," she said.

"Though it may feel good to say, 'Well, what do you know, you idiot?' it's not going to build your credibility or accomplish anything," she said.

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Diagnostic Trends in Mental Health - Psych Centra

Posted: 29 Mar 2010 04:43 AM PDT

A fascinating new article traces psychoanalytical and pharmacological trends for the diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders.

Historically, the 1950s and 1960s were characterized by the fear of communism and nuclear war and, at the time, anxiety disorders were the most commonly diagnosed mental illnesses.

However, by the 1990s, American psychiatry was enamored with depression and a new class of pharmacological medications emerged – the Prozac revolution.

Now, however, a new article in the The Milbank Quarterly by sociologist Allan Horwitz, suggests anxiety could rise again.

Although conditions involving anxiety and depression are currently divided into several different disorders in psychiatry's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), most people who suffer from depression also experience anxiety — and vice versa.

As a result, prevailing psychological theories and pharmaceutical industry marketing have tended to determine which diagnosis predominates.

"In the 1950s and '60s, anxiety was the core non-psychotic condition for psychodynamic theory which was by far the dominant theory," said Horwitz, referring to therapy based on the ideas of Sigmund Freud.

At the same time, drug companies were beginning to market drugs known as "tranquilizers"— like Miltown, Valium and Librium — as anxiety treatments.

By the 1980s, however, a backlash against both Freud and tranquilizers had developed, Horwitz said, and a media panic over the idea of addiction to tranquilizers captivated the public.

"In my opinion, this is a bad rap," said Edward Shorter, professor of the history of medicine and psychiatry at the University of Toronto. While benzodiazepine drugs like Valium can be addictive, research shows that the vast majority of people who become addicted to them are users of multiple other drugs as well — not people using them medically.

Rather than fight the growing stigma attached to anxiety drugs however, manufacturers started heavily advertising antidepressants like Elavil (amitriptyline).

Then, in 1987, they introduced Prozac — and marketed it and similar drugs as fixing the "brain imbalance" associated with depression.

In 1962, 12 million people had been diagnosed with anxiety disorders and just 4 million were labeled depressed—but by 1975, 18 million people were diagnosed as depressed, compared with just 13 million with anxiety disorders.

According to Horwitz, by 2000, 10 percent of the American population received antidepressant prescriptions.

Recently, however, there has been somewhat of a backlash.

"You are starting to see some reaction against them," Horwitz said, noting the recent controversy over whether antidepressants are even superior to placebo.

"There's also the corruption of psychiatrists collaborating with the pharmaceutical industry, the suppression of negative results, the suppression of things like the data on these drugs raising suicidal ideation," Horowitz said.

Consequently, he predicts a shift back to a focus on anxiety, with the panic over tranquilizers largely forgotten.

"This makes physicians sound like idiots," Shorter said.

"But they are very much the prey of drug-company advertising. Whatever diagnosis is being advertised will end up as the diagnosis given clinically. That is the reality."

Source: Health Behavior News Service

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plus 2 more, The “Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - StarPhoenix”

2010-03-28T07:01:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - StarPhoenix”

Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - StarPhoenix
Help for a 14 year old female who suffers with off & on ... - HealthCentral.com
Biometric technology lets BayCare Health System protect ... - St. Petersburg Times

Anxiety, depression may not hinder IVF success - StarPhoenix

Posted: 28 Mar 2010 02:49 AM PDT

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) - Among women undergoing fertility treatment, symptoms of anxiety and depression do not seem to reduce their chances of becoming pregnant, a new study suggests.

The findings, say researchers, should offer women some reassurance that such psychological symptoms do not have a strong effect on in vitro fertilization (IVF) success.

Still, Lintsen told Reuters Health, "The message can be reassuring.

The chance of pregnancy seems not be influenced by anxiety or depression."

They point out, however, that further large studies are needed to "reveal more information about the interrelationship between emotions and fertility."

For now, Lintsen said, it's possible that counseling women that there is a low likelihood that depression or anxiety symptoms will harm their IVF success may actually improve their mental health.

SOURCE: Human Reproduction, January 29, 2009.

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Help for a 14 year old female who suffers with off & on ... - HealthCentral.com

Posted: 28 Mar 2010 05:27 AM PDT

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Biometric technology lets BayCare Health System protect ... - St. Petersburg Times

Posted: 28 Mar 2010 01:31 AM PDT

By Ivan Penn, Times Staff Writer
In Print: Monday, March 29, 2010

Along with the growing concern about financial identity theft is rising anxiety about the pilfering of your medical identity.

BayCare Health System, based in Clearwater, offers a noninvasive technique to help combat the trend. BayCare is the first in the state and among the first in the nation to use a scanner that simply identifies you by the veins in the palm of your hand — a unique identifier just like your fingerprint.

BayCare, with 18,300 team members in the Tampa Bay area, is composed of 11 not-for-profit hospitals, outpatient facilities and other services such as imaging, lab, behavioral health and home health care. The system counted about 2.4 million patient encounters in 2009.

The Times talked with Jim Schwamb, vice president of financial services for BayCare, about the company and the use of the groundbreaking technology.

Medical identity theft has become another troubling form of consumer fraud. What is medical identity theft and what kinds of problems is it creating for consumers and the health care industry?

Medical identity theft involves using someone else's identity and insurance coverage to access health care services. It is sometimes difficult for hospitals to catch identity theft because we treat all patients, many times in emergency situations and sometimes without identification to verify their identity.

While rare, victims of identity theft may have their insurance company incorrectly billed and then begin to receive bills from the provider. In such a situation, the providers would not hold the victim liable once they were notified. As health care providers move to electronic medical records, and previous medical histories are immediately available to care givers, identity theft could also intermingle with medical information and become a patient safety issue if not discovered.

BayCare now uses some cutting-edge technology to help combat medical identity theft. How does the technology work?

BayCare's Patient Secure Identity (PSI) is a biometric technology that identifies patients through special features of the veins in the palm that are unique identifiers for each individual. Patients initially enroll by using a photo ID and other verification data. Once enrolled, patients no longer have to give their Social Security or photo ID when accessing any BayCare facility for services.

When the patient arrives, he/she puts her right palm on a reader, and it immediately identifies him/her accurately in our database and brings up the correct record. Anyone in the future who attempts to use the identity of someone who is enrolled in PSI will be rejected when his/her palm is read. Palm Vein (also known as vascular recognition) was originally invented by Fujitsu for identity purposes, such as access to a vault or ATM.

What are the advantages of using the technology?

The patient experiences a quick registration with fast and simple return visits anywhere in BayCare's system. The PSI system allows for greater accuracy with less information shared, so there is less chance of duplicate patient records or the misuse of Social Security numbers and insurance cards. PSI integrates with our electronic medical record system, so the patients' records are brought up with the scan of their palm. Patients also can be quickly identified in case of an emergency, without having to say anything.

Was there any particular issue that prompted BayCare to move toward this technology?

Over the past several years, we listened to our patients' concern about medical identity theft and their wish to not provide sensitive identifying information, such as Social Security number, each time they access our facilities.

How have patients reacted to use of this technology? And what can we expect in terms of future steps to protect consumer medical records?

The response from our patients has been overwhelmingly positive. We have enrolled 360,000 patients in the first year and a half of the PSI program and the patients' compliance rate is over 99 percent. We are evaluating adding patients' photos to our PSI database in the future to make the identification process even stronger.

Ivan Penn can be reached at ipenn@sptimes.com or (727) 892-2332. Follow him on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Consumers_Edge and become a fan of the Consumer's Edge on Facebook.

[Last modified: Mar 26, 2010 11:44 PM]

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plus 2 more, The “Health care shares pull market higher - Columbia Daily Tribune”

2010-03-27T07:14:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “Health care shares pull market higher - Columbia Daily Tribune”

Health care shares pull market higher - Columbia Daily Tribune
Health reform from scientists - Examiner
Overcoming Social Anxiety through use of the 12 Steps ... - HealthCentral.com

Health care shares pull market higher - Columbia Daily Tribune

Posted: 23 Mar 2010 12:06 PM PDT

NEW YORK (AP) — Drug and hospital companies led stocks higher yesterday after lawmakers ended months of uncertainty and approved the health care overhaul bill.

Investors had expected the health care bill would pass the House, but the approval late Sunday removed some of the anxiety that has dogged stocks of hospitals and drug makers.

The 10-year, $938 billion bill will extend benefits to 32 million uninsured Americans. That will have far-reaching effects on health companies.

Two stocks rose for every one that fell yesterday on the New York Stock Exchange, where consolidated volume came to 4.3 billion shares, compared with 5.7 billion Friday.

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Health reform from scientists - Examiner

Posted: 23 Mar 2010 04:53 PM PDT

Comment Subscribe

These articles have been published since March 24, 2010. The articles address health care reform from the perspective of clinical trials and patient analysis.

1) Mayo Clinic researchers published in the current issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association have found that "Our research shows that in most cases early stopping of clinical trials resulted in misleading estimates of treatment effects. These misleading estimates are likely to result in misguided decisions about the trade-off between risks and benefits of a therapy," says Victor Montori, M.D., Mayo Clinic endocrinologist and corresponding author of the study. "On average, treatments with no effect would show a reduction in relative risk of almost 30 percent in stopped early trials. Treatments with a true relative risk reduction of 20 percent would show a reduction of over 40 percent."

http://www.innovations-report.com/html/reports/studies/stopping_clinical_trials_early_exaggerates_treatment_151420.html

2) Italian news reporting of health matter is faulty according to research.

"Consistent with prior research on health science communication in other countries, we report undisclosed costs and risks, emphasized benefits, unrevealed financial conflicts of interest and exaggerated claims in Italian print media. In addition, we show that the risk for a story about a new medical approach to be unbalanced is almost 9 times higher with respect to stories about any other kind of health science-related topics. These findings raise again the fundamental issue whether popular media is detrimental rather than useful to public health."

http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0009829

One can assume the same applies to the United States.

The Unbearable Lightness of Health Science Reporting: A Week Examining Italian Print Media
Luca Iaboli1#, Luana Caselli2#*, Angelina Filice3, Gianpaolo Russi4, Eleonora Belletti5
1 Department of Emergency Medicine, Santa Maria Nuova Hospital, Reggio Emilia, Italy, 2 Department of Biomedical Sciences and Advanced Therapies, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy, 3 Department of Nuclear Medicine, Santa Maria Nuova Hospital, Reggio Emilia, Italy, 4 Department of Transfusion Medicine, Santa Maria Nuova Hospital, Reggio Emilia, Italy, 5 Health Science Library, S. Anna Hospital, Ferrara, Italy

Citation: Iaboli L, Caselli L, Filice A, Russi G, Belletti E (2010) The Unbearable Lightness of Health Science Reporting: A Week Examining Italian Print Media. PLoS ONE 5(3): e9829. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0009829

3) Patient hypochondria increases health care costs

"Severe Health anxiety was found to be a disturbing and persistent condition. It is costly for the health care system and must be taken seriously, i.e. diagnosed and treated. This study supports the validity of recently introduced new criteria for Health anxiety."

http://www.plosone.org/article/info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0009873

The Outcome of Health Anxiety in Primary Care. A Two-Year Follow-up Study on Health Care Costs and Self-Rated Health

Per Fink1*, Eva rnbl1, Kaj Sparle Christensen2
1 The Research Clinic for Functional Disorders and Psychosomatics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark, 2 The Research Unit for General Practice, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark

Citation: Fink P, rnbl E, Christensen KS (2010) The Outcome of Health Anxiety in Primary Care. A Two-Year Follow-up Study on Health Care Costs and Self-Rated Health. PLoS ONE 5(3): e9873. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0009873

Apparently health care reform is more complex than the recent legislation has assumed.

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Overcoming Social Anxiety through use of the 12 Steps ... - HealthCentral.com

Posted: 26 Mar 2010 10:54 PM PDT

Social Anxiety Anonymous is a Nonprofit organization that provides free support groups and a free ebook to people struggling with social anxiety problems (including social phobia, social agoraphobia, avoidant personality disorder, Shyness Problems and Paruresis). Social Anxiety Anonymous has a 12 Step program of recovery (with some additional tools included, some of which are very similar to CBT and some of which are very different), called the Social Anxiety Anonymous 12 Steps and Tools of recovery that are discussed in it's support groups.

These support groups are gentle, non-pressuring, and participants have shared that they can help enormously in overcoming one's social anxiety symptoms. To make progress with ones Social Anxiety Problem, the suggestion is to attend Social Anxiety Anonymous support groups on a consistent basis. It is also suggested that one read Social Anxiety Anonymous free ebook and other recommended literature on an ongoing basis.

The overall tone of Social Anxiety Anonymous is non-pressuring. A supportive and gentle environment in the support groups is reflective of the literature, allowing for gentle progress in overcoming social anxiety problems. A key part of the program of recovery is learning to let go of being extremely hard on oneself (which can be a root source of the Social Anxiety problem, along with control issues).

Subjects worked on include perfectionism and it's relationship to social anxiety; understanding the relationship between trust (or faith) and social anxiety is also explored, and also the utilization of social anxiety and dream work-- learning how to connect with one's dreams for a better life (many with chronic social anxiety have given up on such dreams for a better life, believing that their social anxiety will never get better. In particular, claiming ones dreams of a better life are seen as a key key part of overcoming social anxiety.

Social Anxiety Anonymous is a nonprofit organization. Click here see the Social Anxiety Anonymous (free) ebook or to attend it's (free) support groups for overcoming social anxiety.

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plus 2 more, The “Herbal Remedies to Improve Women's Health - Associated Content”

2010-03-26T07:14:00.000-07:00

plus 2 more, The “Herbal Remedies to Improve Women's Health - Associated Content”

Herbal Remedies to Improve Women's Health - Associated Content
Springfield, MO seminar looks to tackle anxiety ... - KYTV
Job stress and anxiety - Examiner

Herbal Remedies to Improve Women's Health - Associated Content

Posted: 26 Mar 2010 04:18 AM PDT

Herbal Options Targeted for Women's Specific Needs

When it comes to help from mother nature for the things that ail us, we're in luck. There's a litany of very effective herbal remedies to improve women's health for ladies to find comfort in.. For afflictions like premenstrual syndrome, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, and menstrual cramps, mother earth has provided all things necessary to help improve women's health. While herbal remedies may not cure all of these illnesses completely, they will assist us in a natural way to ease our discomfort. Here's a few herbal remedies that can bring some much needed relief to common health issues that seem to be more linked to women.

Herbal Remedies For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Many women suffering from diarrhea dominant IBS can find a bit of relief in and enteric coated form of peppermint oil capsules. Peppermint is very soothing to the gut starting with the stomach and beyond into the intestinal track. In an IBS flare up, beginning with constipation, herbs made from three fruit extracts called Triphala can also be quite beneficial. Psyllium fiber is another option for women with the desire to treat their condition with more fiber content in the diet.

Herbal Remedies For Anxiety

If you're looking for an anxiety remedy that takes the edge off, a combination of lemon balm and valerian can be just what the doctor ordered. This traditional treatment for anxiety can help women find a calmer place, without the fogginess that a drug can cause. A product by Nature's Way called Valerian Nighttime with Lemon Balm has proven to be an effective product for many.

Herbal Remedies For Menstrual Cramps

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Springfield, MO seminar looks to tackle anxiety ... - KYTV

Posted: 26 Mar 2010 03:42 AM PDT

SPRINGFIELD, Mo.-- A growing number of Americans are suffering from anxiety, the most common mental illness in the US.

Anxiety disorders affect some 40 million American adults. And often times, people cope by turning to drugs or alcohol. But there is free help Friday night at the Burrell Behavioral Health Center in Springfield.

One of the most well-known experts in the world of psychology will be on-hand to talk about what anxiety disorders mean, how you know if you or your loved one has one, and how do you cope with it.

Some of the more common anxiety disorders are panic attacks, Post Traumatic stress disorder, and Obsessive Compulsive disorder.

Doctors say these things can be treated. And with that, you can greatly improve your quality of life. It starts with facing your fears.

"It's an avoidance of the trigger, an avoidance of whatever it is that increases their anxiety," said Rachael Herrington, Licensed Psychologist. "For example, I have some clients who will fail a class rather than give a presentation in front of the class, and so they avoid the issue of public speaking, which only serves to maintain the anxiety that's associated with that speaking"

The seminar is at 6:30 p.m. Friday. It's free and open to the public. To register, call 417-269-7288. The Burrell Behavioral Health Center is near the intersection of National and Primrose.

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Job stress and anxiety - Examiner

Posted: 26 Mar 2010 02:23 AM PDT

1 comment Subscribe

According to the American Institute of Stress (AIS), job stress is by far the leading source of stress for adults. Both the employed and unemployed encounter other external sources of stress related to employment, including finances, health, personal safety, and fear of failure. The unemployed have the additional stress of health insurance, rejection, and loss of identity.

Even though we have no control over stress, it is how we deal with stress internally—anxiety—that makes the difference, says Kim Radison, SPHR, Certified Dream Manager, and Leadership Consultant with Columbus, Ohio-based Integrated Leadership Systems, which provides executive coaching, organizational development services, consulting, workshops, and public speaking. "We can only control our reaction."

That action/reaction is what Radison refers to as the ABCs of anxiety:

Activating event (external)
Belief systems (internal)
Consequent emotions (internal)
Dependent behavior (external)

Radison says followers focus on the activating event, such as encountering a rattlesnake, while leaders focus on internal belief systems and consequent emotions. "Rarely do we ask 'why do I fear the rattlesnake?' Or, better yet, is this even a rattlesnake I am encountering? We spend too much time worried about the rattlesnakes of our lives that turn out to be inch worms."

Citing the book "Stress Less," by Don Colbert (Siloam Press, 290 pages), Radison points out that 75 to 90 percent of all U.S. primary care physician office visits are stress related, 19 million Americans have anxiety disorders, and Americans consume $13 billion a year in tranquilizers, barbiturates, and amphetamines, as well as 16 tons of aspirin.

Radison says there are lots of ways to deal with stress and lower anxiety, and many of them are inexpensive or free, including:

Yoga
Tai chi
Meditating
Jogging
Walking
Laughing
Reading
Listening to music
Engaging in hobbies

Radison also suggests developing friendships, setting aside some quiet time, eating healthful foods, and avoiding caffeine. And, to always look at the positive side, especially right before bed.

***
Radison recently spoke at a weekly SUCCESS meeting.

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The “New Research Hopes to Rid Brain of Anxiety - ABC News”

2010-03-25T07:03:00.001-07:00

The “New Research Hopes to Rid Brain of Anxiety - ABC News”

New Research Hopes to Rid Brain of Anxiety - ABC News

Posted: 25 Mar 2010 05:23 AM PDT

Getting on an airplane, lying still in an MRI machine or even public speaking can paralyze Helen Resneck-Sannes' patients, whose arousal systems are in full-fear mode.

"They take beta blockers or valium and it really doesn't stop the fear," the Santa Cruz, Calif., psychologist said. "The next time they are on the airplane or speaking or claustrophobic, they are still afraid."

Drugs to treat those who suffer from phobias and anxiety disorders have been used for decades with some success, but there is still no medical silver bullet for those who are irrationally afraid or traumatized.

Just this week, scientists at the University of Hiroshima in Japan found a way to switch off the fear center in the brain by injecting a shot of lidocaine, an anesthetic, to the brain -- of goldfish, that is.

The brains of goldfish share many similarities with those of mammals, including humans, according to researchers, who hope to understand more about biological and chemical processes that cause humans to be afraid.

"I think it would be great if someone needs to get an MRI if you could give them a shot of lidocaine," said Resneck, who wrote the 2002 book, "There Really Is Something to Be Afraid Of: Treatment of Panic Disorder."

"On the other hand, if you can find out the reasons for the claustrophobia, it would be better," she said. "But in an emergency, that would be a really good idea."

Fear is the most primal of all emotions, the lynchpin of the "fight or flight" response that protects human beings against danger. But in about 40 million Americans, that mechanism is out of control.

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting about 18 percent of the population, according to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA).

Only about one third of those who are suffering receive treatment, which is usually a combination of drugs and behavioral therapies. They are three to five times more likely to go to the doctor and six times more likely to be hospitalized for psychiatric disorders than those who do not suffer from anxiety disorders, according to the ADAA.

Anxiety disorders develop from a complex set of risk factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, personality and life events.

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plus 2 more, The “Health care shares pull market higher - Columbia Daily Tribune”

2010-03-24T07:41:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “Health care shares pull market higher - Columbia Daily Tribune”

Health care shares pull market higher - Columbia Daily Tribune
Medication Concerns for the Elderly with Anxiety - HealthCentral.com
With Health Bill’s Approval, Some Anxiety Is Eased - New York Times

Health care shares pull market higher - Columbia Daily Tribune

Posted: 23 Mar 2010 12:06 PM PDT

NEW YORK (AP) — Drug and hospital companies led stocks higher yesterday after lawmakers ended months of uncertainty and approved the health care overhaul bill.

Investors had expected the health care bill would pass the House, but the approval late Sunday removed some of the anxiety that has dogged stocks of hospitals and drug makers.

The 10-year, $938 billion bill will extend benefits to 32 million uninsured Americans. That will have far-reaching effects on health companies.

Two stocks rose for every one that fell yesterday on the New York Stock Exchange, where consolidated volume came to 4.3 billion shares, compared with 5.7 billion Friday.

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Medication Concerns for the Elderly with Anxiety - HealthCentral.com

Posted: 24 Mar 2010 05:39 AM PDT

Approximately 20 percent of elderly persons experience anxiet y severe enough to warrant treatment, including medication. The Anxiety Disorders Association of America indicates that "anxiety is as common in the old as in the young..."

Because the elderly also have additional medical conditions and take more medications (prescription, over-the-counter and herbal supplements) than younger anxiety sufferers, they are at a higher risk for complications due to anxiety medications, for example:

Drug interactions - Anti-anxiety medications , such as Xanax or Valium, rarely lead to fatal overdose, when used alone. However, these types of medications can be dangerous when combined with painkillers, sleeping pills or alcohol can be fatal. Combining these medications with antidepressants can cause severe interactions .Even over-the-counter medications, such as antihistamines (found in many cold and allergy medications) can cause dangerous interactions when combined with anxiety medications

Overdosing - Older adults metabolize medications slower than younger adults. The functions of both the liver and kidneys slow down, possibly causing a build-up of medication in the body. Overdosing can occur even when older adults take medication as prescribed. Doctors must pay attention to determine if dosage should be lowered as a patient ages. In addition, the elderly have a higher risk of forgetting they took their medication and taking it again.

Unintentionally skipping doses - Antidepressants and other similar medications work best when taken on a regular basis. Skipping medications can create or increase anxiety. Older adults may be at risk for forgetting to take medication.

May be more sensitive to medications - Older adults can be more sensitive to medication, especially to those that cause drowsiness or have sedating effects. These medications can cause confusion, loss of balance and cognitive impairment. These types of effects are sometimes misdiagnosed as dementia.

Anti-anxiety medications can cause drowsiness and poor coordination and have been linked to falling down, broken hips or legs and an increased risk of having a car accident.

In addition, side-effects of some medications can mistakenly be thought to be a new illness. For example, anti-anxiety medications can cause confusion and be diagnosed as dementia. Other medications, such as blood pressure medication, can cause side-effects that may appear to be depression. Rather than lowering doses or discontinuing medications, doctors may misdiagnose and prescribe even more medication.

Some tips to help manage medication in the elderly:

Make sure doctors are aware of all current medications, this includes prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements and vitamins. Ask your doctor to review medications on a regular basis, including side-effects and possible interactions.

When new symptoms appear, discuss the possibility of the symptoms being caused by or a side-effect of medications.

Always ask about the possible side-effects of new medications. Be aware if medications cause drowsiness or dizziness and do not drive until you are sure of your reaction to a medication.

Make sure you eat right and exercise each day (talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise program) to help counter act some of the effects of the medication.

Clarify how and when you are to take prescription medication, including whether medication should be taken with or without food, how many times per day and how long you should continue the medication to be sure you understand the dosing instructions.

Use a 7 day medication case to avoid missing doses or taking more medication than prescribed.

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With Health Bill’s Approval, Some Anxiety Is Eased - New York Times

Posted: 22 Mar 2010 04:47 PM PDT

The Dow Jones industrial average rose about 44 points. Broader indexes also climbed.

Investors had expected the health care bill would pass the House, but the approval late Sunday removed some of the anxiety that has dogged stocks of hospitals and drug makers. A bill with changes made by the House now goes back to the Senate for approval. Debate could begin on Tuesday.

The 10-year, $938 billion bill will extend benefits to 32 million uninsured Americans. That will have far-reaching effects on health companies.

Hospital stocks rose on expectations they would have more business and increased revenue. Some insurers fell because of greater restrictions imposed by the changes.

The hospital operator Tenet Healthcare rose 9 percent, and the insurer UnitedHealth Group fell 3.2 percent.

"You've got some uncertainty here lifted," Jack Ablin, chief investment officer at Harris Private Bank in Chicago, said.

Mr. Ablin added, however, that other industries would face higher costs to pay for wider coverage. "What it really comes down to is that as a result of this bill, health care is a beneficiary at the expense of every other sector."

The Dow rose 43.91, or 0.41 percent, to 10,785.89. It has risen 14 of the last 17 trading days and stands at its highest level since October 2008.

The Standard & Poor's 500-stock index rose 5.91, or 0.51 percent, to 1,165.81. The Nasdaq composite index rose 20.99, or 0.88 percent, to 2,395.40. It closed at a high for the year and is at its best level since August 2008.

Bond prices rose and yields fell. The Treasury's benchmark 10-year note rose 9/32, to 99 23/32, and the yield fell to 3.66 percent, from 3.69 percent late Friday.

The dollar fell against other major currencies, and gold also fell. Crude oil rose 57 cents, to $81.25 a barrel, on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Stocks fell on Friday because of renewed concerns about budget problems in Greece. More questions about Greece hurt stocks early Monday. The country's debt troubles have dragged down global stock markets on and off for nearly two months as the country tries to cut its budget deficit.

Questions about Greece arose again when Germany's chancellor said on Sunday that a bailout for Greece would not be discussed at a European summit meeting this week. But concern eased after the president of the European Central Bank, Jean-Claude Trichet, said Monday that Greece would not be able to dump the euro as its currency.

Meanwhile, retailers signaled that affluent consumers were stepping up spending. The jeweler Tiffany said its fourth-quarter profit quadrupled, though earnings fell short of analysts' forecasts.

Williams-Sonoma said increased revenue raised profit by more than sevenfold from a year ago, when one-time costs dented results. The company, which sells kitchenware, forecast stronger results for its current fiscal quarter.

Richard E. Cripps, chief market strategist for Stifel Nicolaus in Baltimore, said he was encouraged that expectations were growing for first-quarter profits. Corporate earnings are the biggest driver of the stock market.

"More analysts than not are choosing to increase their estimates, and that's a good thing," Mr. Cripps said.

Tiffany rose 16 cents to $47.41, and Williams-Sonoma advanced $2.96, or 12.3 percent, to $27.10.

Google fell $2.50, or 0.5 percent, to $557.50 after the company stopped censoring the Internet in China by moving its search engine off the mainland. Visitors to Google's China service were redirected to Google's Chinese-language service based in Hong Kong.

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plus 2 more, The “With Health Bill’s Approval, Some Anxiety Is Eased - New York Times”

2010-03-23T07:33:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “With Health Bill’s Approval, Some Anxiety Is Eased - New York Times”

With Health Bill’s Approval, Some Anxiety Is Eased - New York Times
Health companies pull stocks higher - Traverse City Record-Eagle
Health care passage pushes markets up - Honolulu Advertiser

With Health Bill’s Approval, Some Anxiety Is Eased - New York Times

Posted: 22 Mar 2010 09:26 PM PDT

The Dow Jones industrial average rose about 44 points. Broader indexes also climbed.

The 10-year, $938 billion bill will extend benefits to 32 million uninsured Americans. That will have far-reaching effects on health companies.

Hospital stocks rose on expectations they would have more business and increased revenue. Some insurers fell because of greater restrictions imposed by the changes.

The hospital operator Tenet Healthcare rose 9 percent, and the insurer UnitedHealth Group fell 3.2 percent.

"You've got some uncertainty here lifted," Jack Ablin, chief investment officer at Harris Private Bank in Chicago, said.

The Dow rose 43.91, or 0.41 percent, to 10,785.89. It has risen 14 of the last 17 trading days and stands at its highest level since October 2008.

Bond prices rose and yields fell. The Treasury's benchmark 10-year note rose 9/32, to 99 23/32, and the yield fell to 3.66 percent, from 3.69 percent late Friday.

The dollar fell against other major currencies, and gold also fell. Crude oil rose 57 cents, to $81.25 a barrel, on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

Meanwhile, retailers signaled that affluent consumers were stepping up spending. The jeweler Tiffany said its fourth-quarter profit quadrupled, though earnings fell short of analysts' forecasts.

"More analysts than not are choosing to increase their estimates, and that's a good thing," Mr. Cripps said.

Tiffany rose 16 cents to $47.41, and Williams-Sonoma advanced $2.96, or 12.3 percent, to $27.10.

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Health companies pull stocks higher - Traverse City Record-Eagle

Posted: 23 Mar 2010 04:35 AM PDT

NEW YORK (AP) -- Drug and hospital companies led stocks higher Monday after lawmakers ended months of uncertainty and approved the health care overhaul bill.

The Dow Jones industrial average rose about 44 points. Broader indexes also climbed.

Investors had expected the health care bill would pass the House, but the approval late Sunday removed some of the anxiety about health care that has dogged stocks of hospitals and drug makers. A bill with changes made by the House now goes back to the Senate for approval. Debate could begin today.

The 10-year, $938 billion bill will extend benefits to 32 million uninsured Americans. That will have far-reaching effects on health companies. With the bill in hand, investors could place bets on winners and losers. Hospital stocks rose on expectations they would see more business and increased revenue. Some insurers fell because of greater restrictions imposed by the changes.

Many key points of the bill will not take effect for several years, though others like provisions allowing children to remain on their parents' insurance until age 26 will kick in this year.

Hospital operator Tenet Healthcare Corp. rose 9 percent, while insurer UnitedHealth Group Inc. fell 3.2 percent.

"You've got some uncertainty here lifted," said Jack Ablin, chief investment officer at Harris Private Bank in Chicago. Ablin noted, however, that other industries will face higher costs to pay for wider coverage. "What it really comes down to is that as a result of this bill health care is a beneficiary at the expense of every other sector."

Stocks have been rising steadily in recent weeks as investors grow more confident in a rebound following a string of improved economic reports. At the same time, much of the advance has come on light trading volume. That signals that not all the gains are tied to increasing expectations about the economy. Some analysts say that stocks are rising in a vacuum rather than because investors strongly believe that the market is poised to go higher.

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Health care passage pushes markets up - Honolulu Advertiser

Posted: 23 Mar 2010 04:57 AM PDT

NEW YORK — Drug and hospital companies led stocks higher yesterday after House lawmakers ended months of uncertainty and approved the health care overhaul bill. Investors had expected the health care bill would pass the House, but the approval Sunday removed some of the anxiety that has dogged stocks of hospitals and drug makers.

The $938 billion bill, which extends benefits to 32 million uninsured Americans, will have far-reaching effects on health companies. Hospital stocks rose on expectations they would see more business and increased revenue. Some insurers fell because of greater restrictions imposed by the changes.

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plus 2 more, The “My Take on Anxiety & Exercise - HealthCentral.com”

2010-03-22T07:03:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “My Take on Anxiety & Exercise - HealthCentral.com”

My Take on Anxiety & Exercise - HealthCentral.com
Anxiety Herbal Remedy – The Top 2 herbs for Anxiety ... - HealthCentral.com
So There Was Some Kind Of Health Care Thing That ... - The Awl

My Take on Anxiety & Exercise - HealthCentral.com

Posted: 22 Mar 2010 06:24 AM PDT

One of the consistent themes to have emerged from expert Shareposts is the very positive effect that physical exercise has on reducing anxiety. Jerilyn Ross, for example has written on Stress, Anxiety & Exercise and Eileen Bailey on Treating Anxiety Through Exercise and Exercise and Anxiety and there are plenty more besides. Needless to say I endorse their sentiments.

I think there are plenty of reasons to wax lyrical about exercise and it's not because I'm an avid exerciser. I take no formal exercise in the sense that I'm not a member of a gym, I don't have a personal trainer and I don't own exercise equipment, unless you count the bicycle that I ride from time to time. In that regard I'm no different from countless thousands of other people, but I do see the sense in regular physical activity. It's free, it's completely natural, your body and mind want it, and there are no side effects.

I suppose I should confess to once having joined a fitness center. As I signed the membership form the member of staff hoped I would manage to progress beyond the average stay of three months. At the time I remember wondering why most people dropped out so soon. Before three months had lapsed I'd dropped out. I know why it didn't work for me and I'm guessing some of these reasons (you might feel excuses) affect other people too. First, and probably foremost, was the commitment factor. It seemed easy at first but maintaining enthusiasm became increasingly difficult. Secondly there was the traveling. Stupidly I'd signed up for a place about five miles from where I live. It sounds nothing, but it meant I had to cross the city. Depending on the time of day the journey could add an hour each way. There was of course the 'me' factor. Sustaining motivation was, as I've mentioned, a problem. I had to find extra umph after a long day at work. This frequently competed with the opportunity to relax with a glass of wine (guess which one I found most appealing). In no time at all my membership was as useful as one of those kitchen gadgets you buy and never use.

Failing with my fitness membership did leave me with a sense of - well - failure. I felt guilty about wasting money but, like failing at sticking to a diet, there followed the 'what the hell' effect. Sit down, watch a DVD, eat cake. I later realized this was a silly way to think about it. Practicing a little of what I preach I turned the negative thinking around by focusing on the positive things I actually did with regard to physical exercise. I walk, I climb stairs rather than use the elevator, I ride a bicycle, I garden in the summer, I do DIY activities. I even have my father-in-laws old golf clubs. Yesterday I went with a friend to the local driving range where we attempted to smash balls into the distance. Most ended up in a pile just a few yards in front of us. But the point is, it was fun, it was in the fresh air and it was physical activity. Combined with good diet, no smoking, modest drinking and regular sleep I feel I do o.k., even though there's still room for improvement.

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Anxiety Herbal Remedy – The Top 2 herbs for Anxiety ... - HealthCentral.com

Posted: 22 Mar 2010 01:52 AM PDT

Nature has given us a remedy for every disease. Anxiety is one of the conditions that can be improved by anxiety herbal remedy. Some of the herbs that are used for anxiety for so many years have been lately clinically proven to be effective and an alternative to prescription medication. If you suffer from anxiety, like I did, you probably want to avoid taking prescription drugs to treat anxiety...And I know why:

2 Very-Good-Reasons to Avoid Prescription Drugs for Anxiety

1. Although certain cases of anxiety need the assistance of antidepressants, they are not always the best solution for anxiety. These drugs will probably only relieve symptoms rather than cure the problem that causes the symptoms. It's like taking Tylenol for headache caused by a tumor...As soon as you stop the medication, anxiety will return. Besides, like every drug, you can get addicted to it!
2. Prescription anxiety drugs have been found to cause some very serious side effects. Some of them are headaches, fatigue, stomach ache, sleeping problems and even manic episodes.

More and more people are starting to realize this, and turn to anxiety herbal remedy because it is natural, non-toxic and non-addictive. But, I would like to remind you that the following herbs WILL help naturally relieve stress and therefore anxiety, but they will not cure the problem from the root. While the best herbs for anxiety may be very useful to treat the problem, I recommend an overall program addressing the causes and the cycle of fear created in your brain. We'll get to that later.

The Top 2 Herbs for Anxiety Treatment

1. Valerian Root - Valerian's root is a proven herb to reduce anxiety. Valerian reduces anxiety, stress, tremors, agitation and disturbances. Valerian active components were proven to support: nervous tension, anxiety, moderate mood swings, and depressed mood. It promotes relaxation and good sleep (wouldn't that be great?). This herb can even help preventing night panic attacks.

Preparation

Take one teaspoon of powdered valerian root in one pint of boiling water. Leave it covered for 10 minutes. Have 1 cup a day before bed time.

Warning

If you are already taking a prescription medication, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor before starting to drink valerian tea. Consuming more valerian than recommended can cause headaches, nervousness, and vertigo

2.St. John's Wort

This anxiety herbal remedy has been around for a very long time. It was published that millions of Americans use st. john's wort to promote good mood daily. This anxiety herbal remedy id good for depressed mood, mood swings caused by everyday stress, occasional nervousness and of course anxiety. Some of this herbs' components have been proved to maintain a mental balance after taking it for 2 to 6 weeks.

Preparation

Add 1 to 2 cups of St John's Wort flowers to 1 cup of boiling water, simmer, strain and drink. You can have this tea 3 times a day. Warning

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So There Was Some Kind Of Health Care Thing That ... - The Awl

Posted: 22 Mar 2010 06:24 AM PDT

So There Was Some Kind Of Health Care Thing That Happened Last Night

It's strange to watch history being made. Prior to yesterday's passage of the health care reform bill I think the most significant legislation in my lifetime may have been the Americans with Disabilities Act, and I don't recall scrambling to the TV set to watch the roll call on C-Span. But there we were last night, after nearly a year and a half of invective, fear-mongering, hostility and the rest of it, encapsulated into a weekend where a prominent gay legislator was the recipient of anti-homosexual taunts and a genuine hero of the American civil rights movement was shouted at with a word that most publications refuse to print because it is so offensive and historically loaded. And then one congressman called another congressman—a congressman so intent on making sure that American women not have full access or control over their bodies that he demanded and received executive order as part of the price for his support of the bill—a "babykiller." It really makes you proud to be American.

But maybe that is part of watching history up close. Fifty years from now, if we are not a fully-owned subsidiary of the Chinese (we won't be) I suspect the story will be something much more bland: "Americans, in a time of economic turmoil, recognized the need for every citizen to have access to adequate health care, and despite several deep currents of anxiety, rallied to pass the first iteration of the current system." Etc. The jeers, the rancor, the lies about "death panels" will all be part of the small details that only the specialists pay attention to. Watching the process last night, watching each aye vote, you had the sense that, yes, these people knew they were making history. I'm not naive. I know the bill is flawed. I know there's a lot more to be done, and I know that the vicissitudes of the public mood may mean that it takes longer to get the important things fixed than it should. But last night was historic, and everybody knew it. So, actually, yes, it made me proud to be an American. We're slow to act, we're easily confused, we often fall prey to fears to which we should know better than be susceptible, but mostly we will do the right thing. Eventually. Piece by piece. And sometimes that's good enough.

And now, more process.

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plus 1 more, The “Bullies as Well as the Shy Type Suffer from Social ... - Med India”

2010-03-21T07:07:00.000-07:00

plus 1 more, The “Bullies as Well as the Shy Type Suffer from Social ... - Med India”

Bullies as Well as the Shy Type Suffer from Social ... - Med India

Posted: 21 Mar 2010 12:27 AM PDT

In the new study, psychologists Todd Kashdan and Patrick McKnight at George Mason University found evidence that a subset of adults diagnosed with Social Anxiety Disorder were prone to behaviors such as violence, substance abuse, unprotected sex and other risk-prone actions.

These actions caused positive experiences in the short-term, yet detracted from their quality of life in the longer-term.

"We often miss the underlying problems of people around us. Parents and teachers might think their kid is a bully, acts out and is a behavior problem because they have a conduct disorder or antisocial tendencies," Kashdan said.

"However, sometimes when we dive into the motive for their actions, we will find that they show extreme social anxiety and extreme fears of being judged. If social anxiety was the reason for their behavior, this would suggest an entirely different intervention," Kashdan added.

The researchers suggest that looking at the underlying cause of extreme behavior can help us understand the way people interact within society.

"In the adult world, the same can be said for managers, co-workers, romantic partners and friends. It is easy to misunderstand why people are behaving the way we do and far too often we assume that the aggressive, impulsive behaviors are the problem. What we are finding is that for a large minority of people, social anxiety underlies the problem," Kashdan said.

The researchers suggest that further studies of this subset group can help psychologists better understand and treat the behaviors.

The new research has been published in Current Directions in Psychological Science.

Source-ANI
TRI

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Hypnotherapy and Probiotics May Help Ease Irritable ... - eMaxHealth.com

Posted: 21 Mar 2010 04:45 AM PDT

In addition to making lifestyle changes such as adopting a special diet and performing stress reduction techniques, experts also suggest the use of hypnotherapy and probiotics to ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Professor Roland Valori, editor of the newly launched journal Frontline Gastroenterology and gastroenterologist at Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, has used hypnotherapy on over 100 patients and found that nine in ten experienced significant relief. Four out of ten had symptoms completely resolve.

Psychological treatments, such as the use of antidepressants, have often been useful in easing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Anxiety and depression worsen symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, and alternating constipation and diarrhea. Hypnotherapy works by relaxing patients, and seemed to work particularly well on young women, according to Professor Valori.

Hypnosis has been approved by the American Medical Association as a valid medical treatment since 1958. The concept behind the therapy is that by reaching the subconscious level of the mind, hypnotherapy can be used to alter the way a person consciously perceives heath problems and can promote new manners of response to them.

Hypnosis as a therapy for irritable bowel syndrome has been studied for about 15 years and appears to be a safe, effective, and inexpensive choice to alleviate symptoms.

Professor Quigley, of the University of Cork in Ireland and past president of the World Gastroenterology Organization, also suggests the use of probiotics for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome symptoms.

A recent study published in the March 2009 issue of Postgraduate Medicine found that Bacillus coagulans probiotic strain was effective in relieving abdominal pain and bloating. The study involved a specific supplement trademarked GanedenBC30, marketed as Digestive Advantage Irritable Bowel Syndrome and available at national retailers.

In 2008, several studies on the safety and efficacy of probiotics were presented at the American College of Gastroenterology's 73rd Annual Scientific Meeting. Most found probiotics to be effective for both adults and children with the condition.

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plus 2 more, The “Impending Health Care Reform in US: Reason for ... - TopNews United States”

2010-03-20T07:07:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “Impending Health Care Reform in US: Reason for ... - TopNews United States”

Impending Health Care Reform in US: Reason for ... - TopNews United States
Obama to stump for health care reform in Montco - Burlington County Times
Iraqis suffer from mental health problems - Investors Business Daily

Impending Health Care Reform in US: Reason for ... - TopNews United States

Posted: 20 Mar 2010 01:33 AM PDT

The health care reform bill that is being processed by the U. S. Congress is a cause of anxiety for state governments. The states fear that the new health reform will subjugate their power and add greater costs to their already extended budgets.

The plan will grant funds to states to help them in upgrading the healthcare industry. The arrangement aims at encouraging more American citizens to obtain health insurance. It plans on covering more people under the Medicaid system, which is designed for the economically backward and is administered by the states and the U. S. Government.

While some states may take legal action if the healthcare plan is approved, others are making an attempt to pass their own laws and constitutional amendments, to maintain status quo and keep health insurance non obligatory.

Robert Zirkelbach, Press Secretary for America's Health Insurance Plans said, "That is going to have a devastating impact".

According to Congressional Budget Office, the plan aims at reducing $117 billion in federal spending by 2019. Most reductions are aimed at high expenditure areas.

Many states will be affected if this plan gains approval. In Florida for example, seniors in Medicare Advantage will see higher premiums, reduced benefits, and many seniors will lose benefits entirely.

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Obama to stump for health care reform in Montco - Burlington County Times

Posted: 20 Mar 2010 03:49 AM PDT

President Barack Obama is coming to Montgomery County Monday to drum up public support for health insurance reform legislation.

Obama will headline an 11 a.m. rally that will be held in the Kuch Recreation and Athletic Center at Arcadia University in the Glenside section of Cheltenham Township.

While the event is free and open to the public, tickets are required. Tickets will be distributed on a first come, first served basis Saturday at 3:30 p.m. at the hospitality room in the university's athletic center.

Workers at Montgomery County Democratic headquarters in Norristown Friday afternoon said their phones "have not stopped ringing" with callers interested in getting a ticket.

This is Obama's first visit to the county as president. He was last in the county in October 2008 for a campaign rally in Abington.

County Commissioner Joseph M. Hoeffel III, a former congressman who is currently running for the Democratic nomination for governor, will attend the rally.

Hoeffel said he hopes to hear the president "show strong resolve to get Congress to do its job and pass health insurance reform legislation and I know he will."

Obama was "too deferential" to Congress during his first year in office, "allowing members to do their thing," according to Hoeffel. Watching reform legislation bog down as a result, the president "has hit his stride these last two months and gotten personally involved."

"He is using the bully pulpit," said Hoeffel. "He has to lower the boom on Congress and get them to do the right thing."

Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz, D-13th Dist., who has long championed health care insurance for children and for reforms that will make health insurance available for the millions who currently cannot afford it, said she hopes to hear the President put the reforms in "language people understand."

"There is just a lot of misinformation out there and a lot gets lost in legislative language," said Schwartz, who will be at the event.

Just as important is Obama's selection of Montgomery County for the rally, she added.

"It is good for everyone to have the spotlight on Montgomery County," said Schwartz, whose district spans both Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.

U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy, D-8th, will not be attending. Shortly after the White House released information on Obama's visit, Murphy's staff issued a press release that the congressman is holding a press event Monday in Ivyland to announce that $300,000 in federal funding has been secured to improve communications among first responders in Bucks County's public safety community. The event is scheduled at the same time as the Obama visit.

Kate Hansen, Murphy's communications director, said his event "has actually been on the books for weeks."

Montgomery County Democratic Chairman Marcel L. Groen, who won't attend, expressed enthusiasm for the visit.

"It is always a privilege and honor to have the president of the United States visit your county," said Groen. "People in this county are very much behind him."

Also, Obama's visit will help "raise (Democrats') profile in the county," said Groen.

Groen said that, speaking personally, he is "thrilled" that the president is strongly pushing the adoption of heath insurance reform legislation.

"I don't think the American public wants us to bail out now that we have come so far," said Groen. "I think they would penalize us in elections if we did and will reward us when we get something done."

Party Vice Chairman Joanne C. Olszewski, citing the short notice, also has bowed out of the event. She said she will be attending a conference on world hunger in Washington, D.C.

Two others turning down invitations to the event are less surprising.

Republican County Commissioner Bruce L. Castor Jr. said he had two reasons for not attending.

"First, I don't have several hours to devote to such an event during the workday when I have commissioner work to do," said Castor. "Secondly, I think Congress should scrap the current health care proposal and start over. Thus, I will not attend an event billed as an effort to rally support for something with which I don't agree."

Republican Commissioner Chairman James R. Matthews also will not be at the event.

"I think the monstrous health care proposal does nothing to diminish anxiety and lack of confidence for the future, a confidence that is essential for pulling ourselves out of this recession," he said.

"Our retirement assets have been ravaged; our home values have deteriorated; our incomes have been compromised; Social Security and Medicare are headed for bankruptcy and we are about to take over health care?" Matthews asked.

Margaret Gibbons can be reached at 610-279-6153 or mgibbons@phillyBurbs.com.

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Iraqis suffer from mental health problems - Investors Business Daily

Posted: 19 Mar 2010 03:10 PM PDT

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plus 2 more, The “Health Care Reform: Government To Have Access To ... - Canada Free Press”

2010-03-19T07:31:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “Health Care Reform: Government To Have Access To ... - Canada Free Press”

Health Care Reform: Government To Have Access To ... - Canada Free Press
What happens if health care reform dies? - CNN
President's Fox Interview: Zero Concerns About Core ... - Huffingtonpost.com

Health Care Reform: Government To Have Access To ... - Canada Free Press

Posted: 19 Mar 2010 05:23 AM PDT

Private Medical Information Will Eventually Be Made Available To Government Bureaucrats In Charge Of Health Care

Health Care Reform: Government To Have Access To Americans Medical Records

By Daniel T. Zanoza Friday, March 19, 2010

If anyone has time to go through the more than 2,700 pages in the Senate version of the current health care reform bill, there are some aspects of this legislation that should send a chill down the spine of any American. But, for a moment, let's take time to review how medical records have been shared in the past.

Whenever you saw a new physician, one of the first things they needed was your past medical history, specifically related to what a doctor might need to know about your treatment. This new doctor would ask you to sign a release form to be sent to a physician who treated you previously to share specific information. These forms were only good for a prescribed period of time and detailed exactly what information you did and did not want shared with the new doctor. For example, a specialist might need to know about any pre-existing conditions which might have an impact on a medical procedure he or she might perform.

Also, you simply might be seeing a new general physician who would need access to your past medical history. The bottom line is medical information was always kept in-house, unless the patient requested their medical records be sent to a new health care provider.

As a journalist, I have found that relating information from an anecdotal perspective is the best way to get a point across. Therefore, let me share a recent experience I had during a visit to my family doctor, who I have been seeing for over five years, who works at a medical center which serves a small town in central Illinois. I struck up a conversation with one of the nurses who collected data, including my weight, blood pressure, what medications I was currently taking, etc. "We are putting all of our medical records into a database," the nurse told me. Immediately a red flag went up, so I asked her who will have access to this information? "Oh, all your medical records will be on a computer, but no one outside this facility will have access to your private records."

Now anyone who knows the least bit about computers understands full well once information is downloaded into such a system, it can be readily shared with others, accessed by hackers or find its way into the hands of those who should not be privy to such information.

But let's get back to Obama's health care reform plan. One of the provisions within the bill is that all Americans medical information should be compiled and stored electronically. Supposedly, this data will strictly be meant to stay in-house, as my nurse ensured me it would be. However, if health care reform becomes law, if it desires, the government will have access to the medical records of every American citizen. Of course, those who support health care reform will say nothing will change regarding privacy laws. But the simple fact medical providers will have this data on their systems will make it that much easier for the government to further intrude in our private lives.

For example, the government could compile data on what ethnic groups experience the most heart attacks. Or, even more intrusive, health care reform could open up records regarding an individual's psychiatric history or whether a patient went through an alcohol or drug rehabilitation program. Our medical lives could become an open book. And, most assuredly, the government would find reasons why such data would serve the greater public good.

The information obtained by the government could and probably would be used to determine whether a patient "deserved" care in their later years, i.e., was an individual a smoker? If so, should they be entitled to extensive care concerning conditions related to the fact they smoked? This analogy could be drawn out to include any and every possibility, in order to eventually ration health care to those who deserve it because they led healthy lives and those who did not.

It has already been demonstrated health commissions will be created under Obamacare which will determine who will be entitled to medical services. Last year, a federal panel came out with a finding which said women ages 40 - 49 did not need yearly mammograms. This contradicted past medical findings which clearly indicated women in this age group should have mammograms annually in order to detect breast cancer in its early stages. Unbelievably, one of the panel's rationale regarding their decision suggested annual mammograms for women 40 - 49 subjected them to greater stress and anxiety. Of course, the federal panel's decision was met by a firestorm of criticism from experts in the field of breast cancer and psychologists who pointed out the obvious regarding the fact women not having mammograms in this very important period of their lives would indeed suffer through more anxiety and trepidation concerning their health.

Under Obamacare, there would be similar panels, staffed by government bureaucrats and statisticians who would hand down decisions based on information other than data provided by medical experts, as was the case with the decision made by the federal panel regarding mammograms. The bottom line here would be the rationing of health care services to save money, ultimately excluding groups which did not fall within a statistical matrix.

Without a national database which included detailed information about the medical status of all Americans, these panels would not be able to function. Therefore, ultimately, information—compiled in good faith by doctors who have private practices or physicians who work for larger medical centers—will be made available to the government whose intentions may not be in the best interest of a patient.

The passing of comprehensive health care reform may be decided within days. There is much more at stake here than meets the eye of the casual observer. A database containing the medical records of every individual in the United States will be a treasure trove for those who believe government has all the answers.

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What happens if health care reform dies? - CNN

Posted: 19 Mar 2010 03:29 AM PDT

Washington (CNN) -- President Obama has repeatedly said that failure to pass a health care reform bill is simply not an option.

But Democratic leaders are facing an uphill battle in convincing some of their own members to push the legislation forward -- and hoping history doesn't repeat itself.

There's a lot at stake for Obama's future, political observers say, including the ability to get other key pieces of his legislative agenda passed and signed into law: banking regulation, climate change, economic measures and immigration.

Republicans have marched nearly lockstep against Obama's policy proposals, especially on financial matters, and indicate that they will continue to do so.

The bill's failure could also spell trouble for Democrats facing tough election battles this year. Whether or not the bill is passed, Republicans have threatened to use it against Democratic opponents, noting its cost and effect on the deficit.

As for the costs, the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that the Democrats' revised health care bill will cost $940 billion over the next 10 years, a House Democratic source said Thursday. The bill cuts the deficit by $130 billion during that period, according to the source.

The president has stepped up his efforts to sway worried Americans. He put his name on a health care reform proposal last month and then went on a campaign-like barnstorm across the country to warn Americans what will happen if reform isn't passed.

"We need health insurance reform right now," the president said at a rally outside Cleveland, Ohio, on Tuesday. "This debate is about far more than politics. ... It comes down to what kind of country we want to be."

Obama said the status quo on health care is "simply unsustainable," adding that Americans "cannot have a system that works better for the insurance companies than it does for the American people."

Editorials in some of the nation's top newspapers have also railed against keeping the status quo.

"Any change as big as this is bound to cause anxiety. Republicans have happily fanned those fears with talk of 'dangerous experiments' on the 'best health care system in the world,' " read a New York Times editorial on March 7. "The fact is that the health care system is broken for far too many Americans. And the country cannot afford the status quo."

But Kathleen Parker, a conservative columnist for the Washington Post, recently asked, what is the rush?

Slowing down "wouldn't be the worst thing to happen to health-care reform," she wrote in a March 17 column. "There's no dishonor in admitting that one was in too big a hurry. But rushing to do the wrong thing is, in a word, idiotic."

But that's not the way one Democrat, who previously opposed passing the reform bill, views it.

The possibility of the bill being killed concerns Rep. Dennis Kucinich, a liberal Democrat who said Wednesday that he will now vote for it.

He warned that "if we stay riveted on this health care debate and don't get out of it at all, we've actually created a kind of a prison here of our own making."

House leaders, especially Speaker Nancy Pelosi, are trying to corral 216 Democrats to vote in favor of the Senate's measure. Although many Democrats have said they will vote no, CNN Senior Political Analyst Gloria Borger said Pelosi could rely on "soft votes."

"Nancy Pelosi has some kind of soft votes ... Democrats who really want to vote against the bill, but they don't want to be the vote that kills the bill," Borger said. "And so they've said to her, 'we'll help you out if you need us, but hopefully you won't need us.' So she's keeping those in her back pocket."

But if she doesn't muster enough, health care reform could face the same fate as the Clinton administration's reform efforts in 1993.

At that time, the administration -- including first lady Hillary Clinton, who chaired the president's task force -- pushed a plan that would provide universal health care.

Bill Clinton had made health care reform one of his 1992 presidential campaign promises. Like Clinton, Obama spent much of his first year in office pushing health care reform, hoping to make it an early legislative victory.

During the Clinton administration, conservatives, Republicans and health industry officials ramped up their opposition to the plan, often called "Hillarycare." Their efforts helped defeat the bill.

Republicans also used the health care plan in their 1994 midterm election efforts. Democratic divisions and high voter turnout that year, observers have noted, led to Republicans taking control of Congress.

Today, Republicans cite opinion polls indicating that a majority of Americans have turned against the administration's health care reform plan, though specific elements remain popular.

Republican leaders have notably complained about the costs of the Democrats' plan. Some, like House Minority Leader John Boehner, have called for Congress to scrap the bill entirely and start from scratch.

Others like former House Majority Leader Dick Armey -- who now heads Freedom Works, which played a large role in Tea Party rallies -- are behind a "kill the bill" effort.

He said Obama's plan is a win-win for insurance companies and not a mechanism with which to control rising prices.

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President's Fox Interview: Zero Concerns About Core ... - Huffingtonpost.com

Posted: 18 Mar 2010 08:09 AM PDT

Bret Baier came to his interview with President Obama armed with 18,000 emailed questions from fire-breathing Fox viewers, whom the network (unprecedentedly, one might add for any network on any issue) has stirred to high-anxiety over getting improved health care.

Judging by their questions, Fox failed fabulously. There were zero concerns about the core elements of health care reform.

Apparently, among these 18,000 questions, no one objected to preventing insurance companies from denying coverage for pre-existing conditions nor preventing them from dropping coverage once a person became ill.

None of the Fox viewers objected to people without insurance from being able to purchase insurance in large pools like Members of Congress.

No Fox viewer objected to providing subsidies to small businesses to provide health care insurance for their employees.

No one objected to reducing the deficit by $1+ trillion or extending the solvency of Medicare.

Fox's viewers were, it seems, desperately concerned with the procedure in the House of Representatives, as that question consumed the first part of the interview. They were also concerned about certain of the political deals in the bill, the most egregious of which shall be removed.

The only question that even touched on what seemed like a concern about a core issue -- the $500B reduction from Medicare -- was not even about the bill itself. It had to do with the looming solvency crisis in Medicare, which this bill was not designed to address, but actually helps that too.

Despite more than a year of spewing hatred and spinning lies as "news", Fox News viewers -- at least those who wrote in -- have bought none of it. Their concerns are the distasteful but peripheral deals, and the process in the House of Representatives,

I share those concerns, albeit for very different reasons. By adopting the "deem and pass" approach, Democrats are, once again, demonstrating their abject fear of the Republican attack machine -- so, instead of crafting an attack machine of their own, Democrats cower.

Moreover, have the Democrats not realized that they will have more fodder than Republicans when the latter vote against the bills to remove the special deals and scale-back the taxes of Cadillac health care plans?

Which side of the senseless yapping wars would a Member rather be on -- voting for health care and for the bill to remove the objectionable parts, or voting against health care and against the parts to which they themselves object?

No contest. Bring'em on.

And, just go through normal process in the House. The result is the same, and it is better politically.

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plus 2 more, The “Mubarak's health fuels anxiety over succession - Washington Times”

2010-03-18T07:12:00.001-07:00

plus 2 more, The “Mubarak's health fuels anxiety over succession - Washington Times”

Mubarak's health fuels anxiety over succession - Washington Times
The Health Care Brawl: Why Obama's Team Thinks It Can ... - Time
Event Details - Education Week

Mubarak's health fuels anxiety over succession - Washington Times

Posted: 17 Mar 2010 04:03 PM PDT

By Mona Salem AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE

CAIRO | Ten days after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak underwent surgery in Germany, there is growing uncertainty over his health and increased talk about who will eventually succeed him.

On Tuesday, state television aired footage of the president for the first time since his gall bladder was removed on March 6, showing Mr. Mubarak sitting at a small table in a hospital room and talking to two doctors.

Dr. Markus Buchler, who heads the medical team that performed the surgery, told reporters the president "was upbeat and in very good spirits as usual."

"I am happy to say that his medical and general condition is improving in a satisfactory manner," he said.

But there was no indication when Mr. Mubarak, who delegated authority to Prime Minister Ahmed Nazif temporarily, would leave hospital.

Despite the almost daily upbeat statements on the president's convalescence, anxiety over his health led to a drop on the Egyptian stock exchange. The index fell 2.4 percent on Sunday and 3.8 percent on Monday before clawing back some of the losses on Tuesday with a 1.5 percent gain.

Eissa Fathi, the manager of Strategic Company for Securities, attributed the rise to news that the president was expected to make an appearance on Egyptian television.

"This trend is expected to continue, especially because the drop that happened [on Sunday and Monday] was random," he said.

Analysts say the president's health, usually a closely guarded secret that has led to journalists being punished for questioning it, has intensified talk over his eventual succession.

"We face many questions. What would happen if harm befell the president, or whether he could carry out his role until the end of his fifth term," said Imad Gad, an analyst with the Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies.

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The Health Care Brawl: Why Obama's Team Thinks It Can ... - Time

Posted: 18 Mar 2010 01:42 AM PDT

White House chief pollster Joel Benenson says surveys have their limitations.

Barack Obama's top pollster, Joel Benenson, talks fast. "Like a New Yorker, because I am," he says. The night before we spoke, he slept four hours, and after more than a year of watching the numbers slide around his big client's signature initiative, health care reform, one can forgive him for betraying a bit of frustration. "It's never enough to just say people are unhappy," he explains. "You've got to understand why they are unhappy."

Since August, he's had to deal with "death panels," the "cornhusker kickback" and daily proclamations of a "government takeover" of health care. He has watched Obama's approval rating fall from the high 60s to the high 40s, while opposition to Democratic health care reforms have inched above 50% in many polls. Recently, he's even had Republican leaders declare that Democratic hopes for the November elections will collapse if health care reform becomes law. "Do you really think the Republicans are out there trying to save Democrats from themselves?" he asks. (See the top 10 medical breakthroughs of 2009.)

Through the worst days, Benenson's message has remained the same. Push forward. Get it done. Three years ago, Benenson, a former New York Daily News reporter from Queens, went head to head with one of the best in the business, Hillary Clinton's pollster Mark Penn, challenging a candidate of "experience" with a candidate of "change." His team toppled conventional wisdom. Now he tells wavering Democrats in Congress to take their own leap of faith: Look past the numbers that show widespread dismay at the health care debate and a nation deeply divided over the Democratic bill. Believe that health care reform is a 2010 win for Democrats.

His argument flows in several directions at once. First of all, he says, the details of reform, as Democrats hope to frame it, are far more popular than the package as a whole. Americans overwhelmingly want to end the insurance industry's practice of denying coverage for pre-existing conditions. They want to be able to afford coverage when they are between jobs. They want seniors to have more help with prescription-drug costs. Second, he says, the worst fears of Americans will never be realized. "Is somebody's elderly parent or relative going to be put to death by a death panel?" he asks. "No. It doesn't exist." Third, a sizable chunk of those who oppose the current bill roughly 1 in 6 in a January CNN poll want the bill to be even more liberal.

But perhaps most important of all, Benenson believes the current polls confuse a skepticism about health care reform with broad discontent over the political process in Washington. "This is what people don't understand," he says. "People are frustrated that Congress doesn't seem able to work together to do the job that people think they sent them there to do." A solution to this problem is action.

This view is widely held within Obama's inner circle, and it is the reason that the White House has done the unthinkable in the first three months of an election year. After extended agony in 2009, with the gritty legislative ticktock undercutting the new President's glistening promise of change, Obama decided to double down in February, forcing more weeks of painful process discussions and bewildering ruminations on parliamentary procedures like "reconciliation" and "self-executing" rules.

That soon will end, and an even more political phase is about to begin. White House aides have been conducting themselves in recent weeks like sweaty brawlers awaiting the starting bell. Asked about Republican plans to attack the White House on health care in November, senior message guru David Axelrod did his best impression of Dirty Harry. "I say, Let's have that fight," he said on NBC's Meet the Press. "Make my day."

Obama's aides hope that the passage of health care reform will allow Democrats to reset the debate, away from internal party anxiety and dysfunction. Benenson and others in the White House have mapped out a strategy through November, one that they are betting will put Republicans on the defensive over such issues as reforming Wall Street and money in politics. "Remember, elections are about choices," Benenson says, offering the classic election-year battle cry. "There is a lot of action that is going to happen pretty quickly here that is going to create clear contrast."

In other words, there is still time for the tide to turn.

See 10 players in health care reform.

See 10 health care reform ads.

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Event Details - Education Week

Posted: 17 Mar 2010 08:56 PM PDT

All times listed are in Eastern time.

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plus 3 more, The “Anxiety in Egypt as Mubarak recovers - Maktoob Business”

2010-03-17T07:10:00.001-07:00

plus 3 more, The “Anxiety in Egypt as Mubarak recovers - Maktoob Business”

Anxiety in Egypt as Mubarak recovers - Maktoob Business
Egypt: State news airs Mubarak footage - Examiner
Anxiety on succession in Egypt as Mubarak recovers - Tehran Times
The health care reform end game: It's here - Kansas City Star

Anxiety in Egypt as Mubarak recovers - Maktoob Business

Posted: 16 Mar 2010 11:56 PM PDT

CAIRO - Ten days after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak underwent surgery in Germany, there is growing uncertainty over his state of health and increased talk about who will eventually succeed him.

On Tuesday, state television aired footage of the president for the first time since his gall bladder was removed on March 6, showing Mubarak sitting at a small table in a hospital room and talking to two doctors.

Markus Buchler, who heads the medical team that performed the surgery, told reporters the president "was upbeat and in very good spirits as usual."

"I am happy to say that his medical and general condition is improving in a satisfactory manner," he said.

But there was no indication when Mubarak, who delegated authority to Prime Minister Ahmed Nazif temporarily, would leave hospital.

Eissa Fathi, the manager of Strategic Company for Securities, attributed the rise to news that the president was expected to make an appearance on Egyptian television.

"This trend is expected to continue, especially because the drop that happened (on Sunday and Monday) was random," he told AFP.

Analysts say the president's health, usually a closely guarded secret that has led to journalists being punished for questioning it, has intensified talk over his eventual succession.

Mubarak, president since 1981, has no vice president. He has not indicated whether he will run for president again next year, only telling a party member at a convention: "God Willing."

The expression could have been meant either a yes or a polite evasion. His son Gamal has not commented on widespread speculation that he would succeed his father.

"There is widespread anxiety in Egypt and the drop in the stock exchange indicated that. There is lack of certainty on how power will be transferred and talk on the post-Mubarak period has started," Gad said.

Like many analysts, Gad does not believe the 46-year-old Gamal, a former investment banker who now holds an influential policy making post in his father's National Democratic Party, has much chance of becoming next president.

"I doubt the Gamal Mubarak scenario. The security and military apparatuses know there is discontent towards inheritance of power, especially with increased talk of the prodigality of those around him and suspicions of corruption by those around him," Gad said.

He said he doubted the transfer of the post of commander-in-chief to an unpopular man who, unlike all the country's presidents until now, does not have a military background.

Gad said a more likely scenario would be the military and the country's powerful security services agreeing on a candidate, who would run as an independent, which would require support from 250 parliamentarians.

Amr Shobaki, another analyst with the Ahram centre, said Mubarak was not likely to run for another term because of his age and health.

The most probable outcome, he said, "was an alternative from a government apparatus that the military and security agree on."

Several people have been talked about as successors, including the powerful head of intelligence, Omar Suleiman.

Another possible candidate, Mohammed ElBaradei, the former chief UN nuclear watchdog, has popular support and leadership capabilities, Shobaki said.

But he is not supported by government agencies and at any rate has conditioned running on constitutional reforms that Mubarak has dismissed.

Still, his arrival on the Egyptian political scene has diminished Gamal's chances, said Mustapha Kamel, an American University of Cairo political science professor.

"The entry of a person such as ElBaradei in the circle of those concerned with presidential nomination has made it difficult to think of Gamal Mubarak, because there is no comparison in terms of experience and national weight," he said.

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Egypt: State news airs Mubarak footage - Examiner

Posted: 17 Mar 2010 02:41 AM PDT

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Yesterday, Egypt's Channel One broadcast footage of President Hosni Mubarak sitting with his doctor in Germany's Heidelberg Hospital.

This would seem to dispel rumors that the president had died during or following his recent gallbladder operation. Speculation and anxiety about the president's health had driven the Egyptian Stock Exchange down early in the week.

The Egyptian State Information Service (SIS) posted the following statement from Dr. Markus Beuchler:

In a follow up on the health condition of President Mohammad Hosni Mubarak, I met the President this morning in his room for regular daily checks. He was as usual optimistic and in a good mood .His strong will is the same as last week, and that was clear this morning looking forward to returning back to his normal life. I would like to say that I am pleased to witness his progress in a satisfactory manner. His appetite has also been improving during the last few days. Thus, starting from today there will be no need for the daily laboratory checks. President Mubarak will be under thorough follow up of the whole medical team for the coming days while completing his recovery and leaving our hospital.

Chief of Staff Zakaria Azmy stated Mubarak would soon appear on TV to address the Egyptian public.

Sources: Al Masry Al Youm, SIS

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Anxiety on succession in Egypt as Mubarak recovers - Tehran Times

Posted: 16 Mar 2010 07:10 PM PDT

View Rate : 603 # News Code : TTime- 216157 Print Date : Wednesday, March 17, 2010

Anxiety on succession in Egypt as Mubarak recovers
by Mona Salem

CAIRO (AFP) – Ten days after Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak underwent surgery in Germany, there is growing uncertainty over his state of health and increased talk about who will eventually succeed him.