Physical Health Archives - InnoHEALTH magazine

STRONG BODY, STRONG MIND: The interconnection of physical and mental health

Khushi Khandelwal — Fri, 27 Dec 2024 10:30:00 +0000

Ms. Mercilina Norman

“THE BODY ACHIEVES WHAT THE MIND BELIEVES”

In today’s fast-paced world, the intricate connection between physical and mental health has garnered significant attention. The phrase “strong body, strong mind” aptly encapsulates the holistic approach that underscores the profound interdependence between our physical state and mental well-being. This relationship is pivotal for maintaining overall health and resilience amidst the increasing stressors and sedentary lifestyles characteristic of modern life. Recognizing and nurturing this mind-body connection is more crucial than ever in our era of heightened health challenges.

Knowing this link helps us make wise lifestyle decisions, from the effects of regular exercise on mood and cognitive performance to the influence of mental health on physical resilience. Come explore the science underlying this symbiotic relationship with us, and learn how to bring about a healthy balance that supports general health and well being.

THE BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF THE MIND-BODY CONNECTION

The connection between physical and mental health is deeply embedded in our biological systems. Our body and mind are intertwined through complex biochemical pathways involving the nervous system, endocrine system, and immune system, which work in concert to maintain homeostasis and respond to various stimuli.

The Nervous System

The nervous system, consisting of the central and peripheral systems, plays a fundamental role in linking physical and mental health. Neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins, which are crucial for mood regulation, also impact physical functions such as pain perception and energy levels. For instance, serotonin not only influences mood but also affects sleep patterns, appetite, and muscle function. Low levels of serotonin are commonly associated with depression and physical symptoms like fatigue and pain, illustrating the tight coupling between mental states and physical health.

Moreover, the autonomic nervous system, comprising the sympathetic and parasympathetic branches, regulates our body’s response to stress and relaxation. Chronic activation of the sympathetic nervous system due to prolonged stress can lead to a myriad of health issues, including hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic disorders. Conversely, activating the parasympathetic nervous system through relaxation techniques can promote recovery and healing, highlighting the bidirectional influence of mental and physical health.

The Endocrine System

The endocrine system, responsible for hormone production and regulation, significantly influences the interplay between physical and mental health. Stress triggers the release of cortisol, a hormone that prepares the body for a “fight or flight” response. While acute stress responses can be adaptive, chronic stress leads to sustained high cortisol levels, which can result in various health problems such as anxiety, depression, weight gain, and immune suppression.

Additionally, hormones like adrenaline and norepinephrine, which are part of the body’s immediate stress response, can have lasting effects on both mental and physical health. Chronic stress can also disrupt the balance of other hormones such as insulin and sex hormones, leading to conditions like diabetes and reproductive health issues. This complex interplay highlights the necessity of managing stress to maintain overall health.

The Immune System

The immune system’s interaction with stress and emotional states provides further evidence of the mind-body connection. Chronic stress and negative emotions can suppress immune function, increasing susceptibility to infections and illnesses. For example, stress-related hormones like cortisol can inhibit the production of cytokines, which are critical for immune responses. Over time, this immunosuppression can lead to a greater incidence of illnesses and slower recovery from infections.

Conversely, positive emotions and mental well-being are linked to stronger immune responses. Studies have shown that individuals with a positive outlook on life tend to have higher levels of antibodies and other immune markers, indicating a more robust immune function. This correlation underscores the importance of mental health for maintaining a strong immune system and overall physical health.

PHYSICAL HEALTH’S IMPACT ON MENTAL WELL-BEING

Exercise and Mental Health

Regular physical activity is one of the most effective ways to enhance mental health. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, often referred to as “feel-good” chemicals, which can help reduce stress and elevate mood. Additionally, physical activity increases the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which are crucial for mood regulation and the prevention of conditions such as anxiety and depression.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the benefits of exercise for mental health. For instance, research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that regular physical activity significantly reduces the risk of developing depression, even among individuals with a genetic predisposition to the disorder. Exercise also promotes neurogenesis, the formation of new neurons, in areas of the brain associated with mood regulation, such as the hippocampus. This neurogenesis is thought to contribute to the antidepressant effects of exercise.

Furthermore, engaging in physical activities, especially in natural environments, has been shown to improve cognitive function, reduce symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and enhance overall psychological resilience. Activities like yoga and tai chi, which combine physical movement with mindfulness, are particularly beneficial for reducing anxiety and improving emotional well-being.

Nutrition and Mental Health

Diet plays a crucial role in influencing mental health. A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids supports brain function and mental health. For example, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and nuts, are essential for cognitive function and have been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Antioxidants, found in fruits and vegetables, help protect brain cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline.

Conversely, a diet high in processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats is associated with an increased risk of mental health problems. Research has linked poor dietary habits to mood disorders, cognitive decline, and other mental health issues. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Affective Disorders found that a diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates is associated with an increased risk of depression and anxiety.

Moreover, certain nutrients, such as vitamin D and magnesium, play a critical role in brain health and mood regulation. Deficiencies in these nutrients have been linked to increased risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline. Thus, maintaining a diet that provides adequate levels of essential nutrients is crucial for mental health.

Sleep and Mental Health

Adequate sleep is essential for both physical and mental health. Sleep supports physical restoration, memory consolidation, and emotional processing. Chronic sleep deprivation, on the other hand, is linked to a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

Studies have shown that individuals who do not get enough sleep are more likely to experience mood disorders and have a lower quality of life. For example, research published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that insomnia is a significant risk factor for the development of anxiety and depression. Sleep disturbances can also exacerbate symptoms of existing mental health conditions, creating a vicious cycle of sleep deprivation and worsening mental health.

Furthermore, poor sleep quality is associated with increased inflammation and stress hormone levels, which can contribute to physical health problems such as cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. Thus, prioritizing good sleep hygiene is crucial for maintaining both mental and physical health.

Chronic Illness and Mental Health

Chronic physical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and chronic pain can significantly impact mental health. Managing the physical symptoms, limitations, and emotional stress associated with chronic illness often leads to increased rates of anxiety and depression.

For example, chronic pain not only affects physical well-being but also has a profound impact on mental health. Persistent pain can lead to feelings of helplessness, anxiety, and depression, as well as reduce overall quality of life. Additionally, the stress of managing a chronic condition can exacerbate symptoms of mental health issues, creating a complex interplay between physical and mental health.

Addressing the mental health needs of individuals with chronic illnesses is essential for improving their overall well-being and quality of life. This includes providing access to mental health services, support groups, and interventions that address both the physical and emotional aspects of chronic illness.

MENTAL HEALTH’S INFLUENCE ON PHYSICAL WELL-BEING

Stress and Its Physical Manifestations

Prolonged stress has a profound impact on both mental and physical health. Chronic exposure to stress hormones like cortisol can lead to various health issues, including hypertension, weakened immune function, and an increased risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes and heart disease.

For example, individuals experiencing chronic stress are more likely to develop cardiovascular problems due to the constant activation of the body’s stress response. This persistent state of heightened alertness can lead to elevated blood pressure, increased heart rate, and a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Managing stress through techniques such as mindfulness, relaxation exercises, and lifestyle changes is crucial for maintaining both physical and mental well-being. Practices like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation can help activate the body’s relaxation response, reducing stress hormone levels and promoting healing.

Depression and Physical Health

Depression impacts physical health in numerous ways, including fatigue, headaches, and digestive problems. There is also a strong link between depression and an increased risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease.

Individuals with depression are more likely to engage in unhealthy behaviors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, and substance abuse, which can further deteriorate physical health. Moreover, the physiological changes associated with depression, such as increased inflammation and altered hormone levels, can contribute to the development of chronic diseases.

Effective treatment of depression, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications, can lead to improved outcomes for both mental and physical health. Addressing the underlying mental health issues is essential for breaking the cycle of poor health behaviors and improving overall well-being.

Anxiety and Physical Health

Anxiety disorders are associated with various physical symptoms, including headaches, muscle tension, and digestive issues. Chronic anxiety is also linked to a higher risk of developing conditions such as heart disease and hypertension.

For instance, individuals with chronic anxiety often experience increased muscle tension and physical discomfort, which can lead to chronic pain and other health problems over time. The constant state of heightened arousal associated with anxiety can also contribute to the development of cardiovascular issues, such as elevated blood pressure and increased heart rate.

Addressing anxiety through therapeutic interventions, medication, and lifestyle changes can help improve overall well-being and reduce the risk of associated physical health problems. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness meditation, and regular physical activity have been shown to be effective in managing anxiety and improving physical health outcomes.

Psychosomatic Conditions

Psychosomatic conditions refer to physical symptoms that are influenced or exacerbated by psychological factors. Examples include tension headaches, chronic pain, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which are often associated with emotional stress and mental health issues.

Managing psychosomatic conditions requires a holistic approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the condition. Integrating mental health services with physical health care can lead to better outcomes for individuals with psychosomatic disorders. Techniques such as stress management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle modifications can help alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being.

THE ROLE OF HOLISTIC AND INTEGRATIVE HEALTH APPROACHES

Holistic Health

Holistic health approaches consider all aspects of health, including the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual components. These approaches aim to address the root causes of health issues rather than just treating symptoms, promoting overall health and balance.

Holistic practices such as acupuncture, massage, and nutritional counseling have been shown to improve both physical and emotional well-being. For instance, acupuncture has been demonstrated to reduce physical pain and alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Similarly, massage therapy can help reduce stress, relieve muscle tension, and promote relaxation.

Moreover, holistic health approaches often incorporate lifestyle changes and self-care practices, such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress management, which support overall well-being. By addressing the underlying factors that contribute to health problems, holistic approaches can lead to more sustainable and effective health outcomes.

Integrative Medicine

Integrative medicine combines conventional and alternative medical treatments to provide a comprehensive approach to healthcare. This approach recognizes the importance of addressing both physical and mental health needs to achieve optimal well-being.

Integrative medicine techniques may include combining conventional medical treatments, such as medication and surgery, with alternative therapies like mindfulness meditation, yoga, and dietary adjustments. For example, a patient with chronic pain might benefit from both physical therapy and acupuncture, as well as mindfulness practices to manage stress and emotional responses to pain.

By treating the whole person and integrating various treatment modalities, integrative medicine aims to promote overall health and well-being. This approach encourages collaboration among healthcare providers and empowers patients to take an active role in their health and wellness.

Mind-Body Practices

Mind-body practices such as yoga, tai-chi, and mindfulness meditation have gained popularity for their benefits in enhancing both mental and physical well-being. These practices help reduce stress, improve mood, and increase physical fitness.

For example, research has shown that mindfulness meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as improve physical health outcomes such as blood pressure and immune function. Similarly, yoga and tai chi have been shown to improve flexibility, strength, and balance, as well as reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Incorporating mind-body practices into daily life can help strengthen the connection between the mind and body, supporting overall health and well-being. These practices encourage self-awareness, emotional regulation, and physical activity, which are essential components of a holistic approach to health.

PRACTICAL TIPS FOR INTEGRATING PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH

Exercise Regularly: Engage in regular physical activity, such as walking, running, cycling, or strength training, to boost both physical fitness and mental well-being. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Exercise not only improves physical health but also releases endorphins that enhance mood and reduce stress.
Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats to support brain function and overall health. Avoid excessive consumption of processed foods, sugars, and unhealthy fats, which can negatively impact both physical and mental health. Incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods can help improve mood, cognitive function, and energy levels.
Prioritize Sleep: Ensure you get enough quality sleep each night to support both physical and mental health. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and establish a regular sleep routine. Good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a restful sleep environment, is crucial for overall well-being.
Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation: Incorporate mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, into your daily routine to reduce stress and promote mental clarity. Regular practice of mindfulness can help improve emotional regulation, reduce anxiety, and enhance overall well-being.
Stay Connected: Maintain strong social connections with friends and family to support emotional well-being and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Social support is essential for mental health and can help buffer against stress and adversity.
Seek Professional Help: If you are struggling with mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety, seek professional help from a therapist or counselor. Addressing mental health needs is crucial for overall well-being and can help improve both mental and physical health outcomes.
Manage Stress: Practice stress management techniques, such as yoga, tai chi, or journaling, to help reduce stress and improve both physical and mental health. Developing healthy coping strategies for managing stress can enhance resilience and overall quality of life.
Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Participate in activities and hobbies that bring you joy and fulfillment to enhance your mental well-being and overall quality of life. Pursuing interests and passions can provide a sense of purpose and satisfaction, contributing to overall happiness and well-being.

The interconnection of physical and mental health highlights the importance of adopting a holistic approach to well-being. By recognizing and nurturing the mind-body connection, we can achieve a balanced and fulfilling life. Maintaining a strong body through regular exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep, combined with practices that support mental health, such as mindfulness and stress management, is essential for overall well-being. Embracing a holistic approach to health allows us to live healthier, happier, and more resilient lives, ultimately leading to a stronger body and a stronger mind.The relationship between physical and mental health is a complex and dynamic one, with each influencing and supporting the other. By taking a comprehensive approach to health that addresses both physical and mental needs, we can achieve optimal well-being and improve our quality of life. Whether through exercise, nutrition, sleep, or stress management, integrating physical and mental health practices into our daily lives is key to living a balanced and fulfilling life.

Author’s Biography

Mercilina Norman is currently pursuing an MBA in Healthcare and Hospital Administration at Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi. She holds a BSc in Nursing from Chaudhary Charan Singh University,Meerut. With experience as a Registered Staff Nurse at Max Healthcare,Saket,Mercilina excels in advanced cardiac care and patient satisfaction.

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Lonely People Run the Risk of Dying Early

InnoHEALTH Magazine — Thu, 11 Oct 2018 09:35:01 +0000

Before we meaningfully or unwittingly leave our parents or acquaintances alone, we must be aware that the latest study has found that Loneliness is bad for the heart and a strong predictor of premature death.

Recently, at a scientific congress in Dublin, Ireland, a paper was presented which minced no words to assert that feeling lonely was a stronger predictor of poor outcomes than living alone, in both men and women. The study found “Loneliness is more common today than ever before, and more people live alone,” said Anne Vinggaard Christensen, study author and Ph.D. student, The Heart Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, Denmark. The soul-searching paper was presented at EuroHeartCare 2018, the European Society of Cardiology’s annual nursing congress.

“Previous research has shown that loneliness and social isolation are linked with coronary heart disease and stroke, but this has not been investigated in patients with different types of cardiovascular diseases.”

The study investigated whether the poor social network was associated with worse outcomes in 13,463 patients with ischaemic heart disease, arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm), heart failure, or heart valve disease.

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Data from national registers were linked with the DenHeart survey, which asked all patients discharged from April 2013 to April 2014 from five heart centers in Denmark to answer a questionnaire about their physical and mental health, lifestyle factors such as smoking and social support.

Social support was measured using registry data on living alone or not, and survey questions about feeling lonely – Do you have someone to talk to when you need it? Do you feel alone sometimes even though you want to be with someone? “It was important to collect information on both, since people may live alone but not feel lonely while others cohabit but do feel lonely,” explained Ms. Vinggaard Christensen. Feeling lonely was associated with poor outcomes in all patients regardless of their type of heart disease, and even after adjusting for age, level of education, other diseases, body mass index, smoking and alcohol intake.

Loneliness was associated with a doubled mortality risk in women and nearly doubled risk in men. Both men and women who felt lonely were three times more likely to report symptoms of anxiety and depression and had a significantly lower quality of life than those who did not feel lonely.

Ms. Vinggaard Christensen noted that people with poor social support may have worse health outcomes because they have unhealthier lifestyles, are less compliant with treatment, and are more affected by stressful events. But she said: “We adjusted for lifestyle behaviors and many other factors in our analysis, and still found that loneliness is bad for health.”

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She concluded: “We live in a time when loneliness is more present and health providers should take this into account when assessing risk. Our study shows that asking two questions about social support provides a lot of information about the likelihood of having poor health outcomes.”

European guidelines on cardiovascular prevention state that people who are isolated or disconnected from others are at increased risk of developing and dying prematurely from coronary artery disease. The guidelines recommend an assessment of psychosocial risk factors in patients with established cardiovascular disease and those at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

The study has highlighted growing concerns about the issue and assumes great significance at places where loneliness is turning into a bane for victims due to lack of support system.

The study assumes significance and greater attention as the world marks the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, each year.

On December 14, 1990, the United Nations General Assembly voted to establish October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons as recorded in Resolution 45/106.

The holiday was observed for the first time on October 1, 1991. The holiday is celebrated by raising awareness about issues affecting the elderly, such as senescence and elder abuse. It is also a day to appreciate the contributions that older people make to society. This holiday is similar to National Grandparents Day in the United States and Canada as well as Double Ninth Festival in China and Respect for the Aged Day in Japan.

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Insomnia – A Short Communication Study

InnoHEALTH Magazine — Tue, 15 May 2018 05:15:52 +0000

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Dr Tinni Dutta at Asutosh College, Kolkata, is eminent Psychologist and a famous educationist. Greatly appreciated her research work in India and aboard. She has visited U.S.A, U.K, Switzerland, France, Germany, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia. She is a recipient of many awards and fellowship.

The impact of stress on physical health varies between diseases. Chronic or severe stress can lead to a variety of mental health problems-post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, depression, insomnia and different types of psychosomatic disorder. The field of sleep disorder medicine has progressed to a great extent. Sedatives, Hypnotics and Anxiolytics are used for ameliorating these symptoms. But medicine alone cannot do much. Urgent counselling is needed in Yoga and meditations, as we find in DSM V (Diagnostic Criteria) sleep-wake disorders are intended for use by general mental health and medical clinicians.

It encompasses 10 disorders or disorder groups: insomnia disorder, hypersomnolence disorder, narcolepsy, breathing-related sleep disorder, circa din rhythm sleep-wake disorders, non-rapid eye movement (NREM), sleep arousal disorders, restless leg syndrome, and substance/medication-induced sleep disorder. In this article, we would limit our discussion only on Insomnia.

Caution! Energy Drinks Not Safe for Kids

Pathways between stress and disease
I. A predominant complaint of dissatisfaction with sleep quantity and quality, associated with one of the following symptoms:
• Difficulty initiating sleep
• Difficulty maintain sleep, characterized by frequent awakening
• Early – morning awakening with inability to return to sleep.
II. The sleep disturbance clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, educational, academic, behavioural or other important areas of functioning.
III. The sleep difficulty occurs at least 3 nights per week.
IV. The sleep difficulty is present at least for 3 months.
V. The sleep difficulty occurs despite adequate opportunity for sleep.
VI. The insomnia is not better explained by and does not exclusively during the course of another sleep-related disorder.
VII. The insomnia is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance
VIII. Coexisting mental disorder and medical conditions do not adequately explain the predominant complaints of insomnia.

Different manifestations of insomnia can occur at different times of sleep period. Sleep onset insomnia involves difficulty initiating sleep at bedtimes. Sleep maintenance insomnia refers to frequent or prolonged awakenings throughout the night. Late insomnia involves early – morning awakening with an inability to return to sleep.

Insomnia is related to sleep physiological and cognitive arousal which interferes with sleep. The more an individual strives to sleep, the more frustration builds. The more impairs sleep. It is also associated with other psychological complaints like fatigue, boredom decreased energy and mood disturbances.

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KISS GUILT GOODBYE FOREVER

InnoHEALTH Magazine — Mon, 21 Aug 2017 08:51:15 +0000

Curb those feelings of insecurity, panic and guilt, which working mothers commonly face when they have two full-time jobs – work and motherhood

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Sixty percent of all mothers today work, either part-time or full time outside their home. Moreover, statistics show that the No. 1 emotion working mothers struggle with is guilt – guilt because they are not home when the kids get home from school, guilt because their son does not like his sitter and guilt because they cannot be a room mother. “Working mothers suffer from two major ailments: guilt and role strain,” says Devika Singh, psychologist at International based in Dubai Herbal Treatment Center.

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A universal mom problem

Guilt and parenting go hand in hand. Every mother experiences it, as she somehow believes if something is wrong with the children it must be her fault. In addition, because a working mother is not physically present with her kids 24 hours a day, she naturally blames herself even more when there is even the slightest of problems.

Working mothers face challenges all the time. Mixed with the responsibilities they have as concerning their children are the commitments of their careers. Devika adds, “Women who must work, may feel guilty that they do not spend sufficient time with their children and worry that their child-care arrangements are inadequate, but they find some comfort in the fact that their working will provide the best for their children.”

“Women who choose to work in order to develop their own potential and to prevent boredom or even depression, which may result if they feel forced to stay home, feel guilty that they are ‘abandoning’ their children. Professional women also feel guilty that they are not devoting themselves as thoroughly to their careers as they ought to in order to move forward. These women struggle with their anger at children who present extra, time-consuming demands.

Whatever the reasons why they work, few working mothers do not feel a constant undercurrent of guilt about the effects of their working on their children. The guilt is usually most intense for mothers of infants and preschool children,” she says.

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Affects On Moms Guilt On Mental And Physical Health

“Role Strain’ is the somewhat euphemistic term for the chronic fatigue, anxiety, sense of always being behind, and near panic that working mothers so commonly feel from trying to manage their separate and often conflicting roles. Working mothers of small children who need them in the night may suffer as well from sleep deprivation, which leaves them less alert, less productive, and somewhat irritable on the job. Even those rare few who seem to manage both work and mothering without suffering stress may face periodic exhaustion, lack of private time, and neglect of exercise and appearance.”

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“A crucial conflict in professional women today is between achievement and the fear of loss of love. They worry that men will be put off by their competence or their interest in their careers may present conflicts in their marriages. Most women do not realize that these conflicts may underlie their anxieties, disappointments, loss of meaning, lack of ambition, frustrations, or boredom in their working lives.”

“It is important for working women to recognize the internal obstacles that they bring to the situation. Then they will be freer to recognize and deal with external limitations that society continues to impose on women in the workplace. Most working mothers keep their guilt and role strain within tolerable limits, although some may need professional help to deal with the stress and self-criticism. Most try hard to focus on the quality of the time they spend with their children rather than its amount. Many try to compensate with special activities and material benefits they are able to shower their child with. They cope with role strain; most often by lowering their career ambitions or slowing down, at least until the children no longer need them as much, and by teaching their children earlier to be self-reliant and independent.”

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Tip For Moms To Ease Their Mommy Guilt

A mother should recognize that her feelings are trying to tell her to change something and the change always requires at least a two-step process. First, you have to learn to let go of the things that are causing you problems. Sometimes it is just a matter of looking at a situation in a new light. Other times it is a matter of getting the training of handling your parenting job differently (like learning yell-free discipline techniques or meal-planning tricks). Second, you have to replace the old ways with new ones, which is not hard. Once you begin prioritizing the enjoyment of your parenting experience, you will want to create even more ways to do so. You will be modelling for your kids what it means to be a happy, balanced, well-adjusted parent, so your whole family will be better off.

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Moms, View Your Career In A Positive Light

You do not have to be there every second; most children will obey and act accordingly. Even if you are not around all the time, they instinctively know when they are loved.

Set your priorities and evaluate them often. Focus only on what is truly important, not what that stereotype in your head is saying.

Do not be slack on the rules for discipline and routine give them a sense of security no matter how much they rebel and complain about it. Your children want to know that you are there if they need you.

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Remember when you leave your child at day-care that nonworking parents may also use childcare help even though they are at home. If your child is having a particularly rough time with separation, it is most likely a phase that he/she is going through rather than something that she would really want to change.

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Working Moms Can Benefit Their Children, Too

They encourage independence and cultivates a sense of responsibility in children. Kids of working moms are with adults who are not their parents for at least part of the day. This separation, which makes moms feel guilty, can actually breed a kind of self-reliance that improves self-esteem. Children with working moms get used to starting homework on their own; watch their siblings and help with dinner preparation.

For children, having two working parents can go a long way in shaping their understanding of men, women and families. This means boys may be more likely to have supportive attitudes toward the woman being equal in his future household. For little girls, the idea of achievement in a career outside of mothering can be stimulating, and encourage them to do the same.

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Seeing a mom as a working person often confirms for children the sense that people, especially women, are multidimensional. Best of all, their feelings of pride in you doing your job well can carry over into feelings about their own self-worth and give them encouragement about their own capabilities in the future.

Many working parents see the benefit of having caregivers, who offer more opportunities for socialization and a wider range of activities for children than they could at home.

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Want to write for InnoHEALTH? send us your article at magazine@innovatiocuris.com

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Read all the issues of InnoHEALTH magazine:
InnoHEALTH Volume 2 Issue 3 (July to September 2017) – https://goo.gl/MCVjd6
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InnoHEALTH Volume 1 Issue 2 (October to December 2016) – https://goo.gl/4GGMJz
InnoHEALTH Volume 1 Issue 1 (July to September 2016) – https://goo.gl/iWAwN2

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