Tag: Anxiety

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Selena Gomez takes Social Media Break & Why You Should Too!

Why is it a good idea to take a technology break? Find out 5 reasons why taking a technology detox can help you feel better.

Selena Gomez‘s decision to take a break from social media for the sake of her mental health is a brave and wise choice. While social media has its benefits, such as staying connected with loved ones and discovering new ideas and information, it can also be a source of stress and negative emotions for teenagers, as it has the potential to amplify feelings of comparison, bullying, and isolation.

P!nk has recently shared that she has received hateful and horrible messages in the media over very old articles years ago. The focus should really be on her new album and all the hard work that went into it, however, the media are focused on rehashing things from when she was in her 20’s, just silly if you ask me. The issue here is that P!nk is honest in her interviews and tells it how it is – I find it interesting that if you have an honest opinion even if you say that you didn’t get on with someone and have since made up with that person that the news that these comments keep getting retold and beat up. Honestly, I think P!nk is amazing and love her raw honesty, passion and hard work. See the social media bashing is happening to us all!

I’m a lot older than Selena and I’m an avid user of social media. However, there are times that I look at some people’s images and accounts and get rather depressed. I am sad about how amazing their life looks; they look stunning in their designer outfits, they have an awesome home and have the perfect vacation overseas with their family. Oh how I would wish for that too. I like Selena have purposefully taken a break from being online, removing my phone from being close to me, not taking my phone with me when I am out or not looking at any of my accounts or sharing what I am up to for a while. What about you?

Teenagers and social media

Firstly, social media encourages teenagers to constantly compare themselves to others. This constant comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy, low self-esteem, and even depression. Teenagers are bombarded with images of “perfect” bodies, luxurious lifestyles, and seemingly flawless relationships, which can lead to unrealistic expectations and a distorted view of reality.

Secondly, social media can be a breeding ground for bullying. Anonymous accounts and online anonymity can make it easy for bullies to target their victims, causing serious emotional distress. Cyberbullying can have severe consequences, including depression, anxiety, and even suicide.

Lastly, social media can prevent teenagers from developing meaningful relationships in real-life situations. It’s essential for teenagers to have face-to-face interactions with their peers and to engage in activities that allow them to develop social skills, such as team sports, clubs, and volunteering. Social media can be a tempting substitute for real-life interactions, but it can never fully replace the importance of human connection.

My kids have had some issues with bullies online (It is so easy to be horrible to people when you are anonymous, right!). These bullies used fake accounts and created made-up things about the kids to share with their friend groups. All of this was disgusting and horrible and of course not true, however for teenagers or younger kids having this happen is a nightmare. I did try and tell my kids to just not look at the phone and ignore it. Or maybe just delete the app altogether. However, this response was met by the kids saying “my friends will think that we are ignoring them and more!” My response was that if these people are truly your friends ignoring them on the app is not the end of the world, then explaining in real life via a face-to-face will be what is needed.

When I grew up there were no mobile phones, no internet and no social media! The only way to connect was face to face and if you did have a disagreement you would just not play with this person for a while until you made up or it could be forever depending on the relationship or what had happened.

Social media has its benefits, it’s important for teenagers to be aware of the potential negative effects it can have on their mental health. Taking breaks from social media and engaging in real-life interactions can help teenagers develop meaningful relationships, improve their social skills, and prevent feelings of comparison, bullying, and isolation.

Being online constantly can have both positive and negative effects on mental health. On the one hand, it can provide social connection and support, especially for individuals who may feel isolated or marginalized. It can also serve as a platform for self-expression and creativity.

On the other hand, social media can also lead to negative consequences. Excessive social media use can contribute to feelings of anxiety, depression, and loneliness, especially if individuals compare themselves unfavourably to others on social media. The pressure to maintain a curated online presence can also be stressful and overwhelming, negatively impacting mental health, and not a real way of living and being. It would take a toll on anyone to have to keep up with the illusion of fantasy at all times.

Taking a break from social media, as Selena Gomez did, can be a helpful way to prioritize mental health and focus on oneself. It can provide an opportunity for individuals to disconnect from the constant barrage of information and comparison on social media, and instead focus on personal growth and well-being. I for one have felt that there has been a lot of bad news, so stepping away from the news sites, social media and tv reports for me has been helpful too.

Being online all the time is not good for you. A break is a good thing to have.

Taking a technology detox, or a break from technology, can offer several benefits:

  1. Reduced stress and anxiety: Technology can be overwhelming and create feelings of stress and anxiety. Taking a break from technology can help you relax and unwind.

  2. Improved sleep: Exposure to the blue light emitted by electronic devices can interfere with your sleep cycle. Taking a break from technology can help improve your sleep quality and quantity.

  3. Increased productivity: Technology can be a major distraction, and taking a break can help you focus on important tasks and be more productive.

  4. Improved mental health: Constant use of technology can lead to feelings of depression and isolation. Taking a break can help you connect with people in real life and improve your overall mental health.

  5. More time for other activities: Technology can be time-consuming, and taking a break can free up time for other activities, such as exercise, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.

Overall, a technology detox can help you recharge, refocus, and reconnect with yourself and others.

Have you taken a technology detox? Was it just on your social media? How did you feel after your break?

Yep and I understand the irony of me writing this for my online blog…even if you just take a break from your phone for the weekend, or just during the evenings, it will help you feel better.

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Combating Stress and Anxiety with Caruso’s

Lately I’ve felt frazzled.

I’ve not been able to pinpoint why this is, but feel that it might be due to having too much to do, and little time to do everything.

I suppose three kids don’t help with this feeling of frazzledness. It could also be that I have motherhood stress or otherwise known as being constantly overwhelmed.

Mothers never get breaks, mums do everything and also seem to be the last on any list. Sad but true.

Stressed out mummy.
Stressed out mummy.

Baby image created by Peoplecreations – Freepik.com

Some things I am doing to overcome feeling stressed out:

  • Make sure I keep up with my vitamins. Caruso’s Natural Health have wonderful products to help you look and feel amazing. If you are feeling down it could be as simple as you need more vitamin D or B. Even though we live in a country that gets a lot of sunshine many don’t get enough of vitamin D. Or you could need an herbal supplement like Caruso’s Anxiety Aid or Caruso’s Rhodiola to help you reduce nervous tension and stress.
  • Get some exercise – I really want to do more but at the moment a walk is just what I need.
  • Meditate – Calm down and just have some time alone. Sitting in silence is great when you have a crazy house full with three kids.
  • Watch a favourite tv show when kids are at school and care. This way I can finally hear the show and not pause it a million times due to being interrupted.
  • Get more sleep – I am always feeling tired and exhausted. More rest is ideal and sleep is one thing that is high on my to do list. You cannot function properly if you don’t get enough sleep, you end up grumpy, frustrated and annoyed.
  • Make a date with friends – A simple catch up with some mates always makes you feel better. You can have a chat, feel better and have some much needed adult conversation. It is hard as a busy mum, but try and book in these times and you will thank yourself for it.
Taking my vitamins for the day - they are helping me feel better.
Taking my vitamins for the day – they are helping me feel better.

Some things I am doing to overcome feeling stressed out: 

 

  • Make sure I keep up with my vitamins. Caruso’s Natural Health have wonderful products to help you look and feel amazing.  If you are feeling down it could be as simple as you need more vitamin D or B. Even though we live in a country that gets a lot of sunshine many don’t get enough of vitamin D.  Or you could need an herbal supplement like Caruso’s Anxiety Aid or Caruso’s Rhodiola to help you reduce nervous tension and stress.
     
  • Get some exercise – I really want to do more but at the moment a walk is just what I need.
     
  • Meditate – Calm down and just have some time alone. Sitting in silence is great when you have a crazy house full with three kids.
     
  • Watch a favourite tv show when kids are at school and care. This way I can finally hear the show and not pause it a million times due to being interrupted.
     
  • Get more sleep – I am always feeling tired and exhausted. More rest is ideal and sleep is one thing that is high on my to do list. You cannot function properly if you don’t get enough sleep, you end up grumpy, frustrated and annoyed.
     
  • Make a date with friends – A simple catch up with some mates always makes you feel better. You can have a chat, feel better and have some much-needed adult conversation. It is hard as a busy mum, but try and book in these times and you will thank yourself for it. 

More About Caruso’s Natural Health

Caruso’s Natural Health is an Australian, family owned company founded by Frank Caruso, supplying complementary medicines (vitamin, mineral & herbal supplements) and natural foods
Range is available in over 3,000 pharmacies and health food stores throughout Australia.

Frank’s philosophy is simple; “Make time for good health and you’ll always have enough health for a good time!”

I love Frank’s health philosophy, as a mum to young kids, I aim to be as healthy as possible. I want to be active, productive and healthy for as long as possible.

If you invest in your health now, it will help you in the years to come.

Caruso’s Natural Health have great products to help if you are feeling stressed out.

• Anxiety Aid – “Caruso’s Anxiety Aid has been formulated to help ease the symptoms associated with mild anxiety, stress and nervous tension.” It is an herbal supplement that has helped me feel calmer and having less nervous energy.

• Brahmi 9000 – Brahmi can help in maintaining healthy brain function, also helps with memory, concentration, focus and learning. Perfect for the working mum.

• Rhodiola – This supplement may help your body with the everyday stress of life. It supports your bodies adrenal gland function, which means that it supports the body’s coping mechanisms and ability to deal with stress and nervous tension.

Brahmi 9000 from Caruso’s Natural Health
Caruso’s Natural Health

The wonderful pack that I was sent from Caruso’s Natural Health. Thanks, so much the new products are really helping.

This is the pack of herbal supplements that Caruso’s Natural Health sent me. Just what I needed.
This is the pack of herbal supplements that Caruso’s Natural Health sent me. Just what I needed.

When I am stressed my body hurts.

I suffer from severe tension headaches, I end up with a sore jaw, head, neck and more.

The pain is intense and during these periods I don’t get a lot done.

The housework suffers, my work suffers and all I really want to do is to sleep and be left alone.

I struggle to keep my eyes open due to the intense headaches and feel so exhausted.

The supplements that I received from Caruso’s Natural Health have made me feel calmer very quickly.  I was not sure how long it would take for me to feel any difference, but I believe it was noticeable after about a week.

Caruso’s Natural Health sent me Anxiety Aid, Brahmi 9000, Women's Supplement and Rhodiola.
Caruso’s Natural Health sent me Anxiety Aid, Brahmi 9000, Women’s Supplement and Rhodiola.

I feel less stressed and my body is slowly on the mend regarding the tension headaches.

Did you know?

You can speak to a Naturopath for free at Caruso’s.

The Caruso’s Naturopath’s are available from 9am – 5pm Sydney time

PH: 1300 304 480 Or you can send them an email via the online form.

It’s a great free service if you have any questions about the Caruso’s products.

If you don’t look after you, you cannot look after others. Simple really, but something that us mums often forget.

Stress and Anxiety its nothing to be worried or upset about, everybody experiences it in some form.

Time for you is important. If you need help you should make sure to ask your partner to give you a break.

The Caruso’s herbal range is a great way to calm your system down in stressful times. Make sure you also integrate some self-care, great food and plenty of rest (well as much as you can if you are busy mum).

Disclaimer: I was sent a pack of  Caruso’s Natural Health new herbal range to help with anxiety and stress. Showcasing these new products, I hope gives you some solutions to help you feel less stressed and happier.

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Panadol’s Online Resources for Parents

As a mother to twin girls and a little boy I want to ensure that all my kids are healthy and well. I’m sure if you are a parent or help care for kids that would be what you would like too. However there are times when everyone gets sick. One child might have a cold, a fever, the flu or if it was like our ongoing saga with tonsillitis it effected both kids until they were removed (the girls have been well aside from the common cold and illness since the removal of their tonsils.)

Shelley Craft, Buddy Bear, myself (Suzanne), the girls and our little boy. What fun the kids had, although the baby was teething and still is. (He cheered up once he got some Children's Panadol to make him feel better)
Shelley Craft, Buddy Bear, myself (Suzanne), the girls and our little boy. What fun the kids had, although the baby was teething and still is. (He cheered up once he got some Children’s Panadol to make him feel better)

When your little ones get sick you do your best to make them feel better. It could be cuddles, songs, yummy food, and favourite shows and of course some medicine to help your kids feel more like themselves and allow the body to get better, rest is best so that you can be well.

No matter how simple or common the sickness is you cannot help but worry about your children. When my kids are sick I am worried about them all the time.

Last Thursday the kids and I went to learn about Children’s Panadol (The kids were excited to meet Shelley Craft. Yes I watch The Block and therefore so do the kids) great new online resources to help parents care for sick kids and to also alleviate the anxiety that can go with sickness.

Shelley Craft from the Block and Dr Kimberley O’Brien who is the founder of Quirky Kid Clinic and also an expert in child development and mental health. Both Shelley Craft and Dr O’Brien spoke about how to have planning strategies to help parents deal with stress and anxiety when children get ill as it can be HUGE help for parents and children as well.

This talk was in response to a “new global survey of parents, including Australians, suggests that parents manage day to day mishaps and mistakes calmly, but still get stressed about the important things like helping their children through illness”

“71% of Australian parents fell anxious about fever/temperature and 66% feel anxious about their child’s pain”

Children’s Panadol have created the following tools to help support parents in managing their child’s health:

  1. Buddy Bear is an interactive animated website that allows parents to entertain children when they are sick. It is a good idea to create the different files before you need them as you can save them to your device. Once you are on the site you are asked if your child is a boy/girl. Then fill in age, email and add photo and your video will be emailed to you when it is ready. Get organised and download a few so you have them ready.
    While your child is watching Buddy Bear you can get the dosage of Children’s Panadol correct and not be so flustered and anxious.

    Buddy Bear - The great new interactive way to keep your little one entertained while you get the medicine sorted to help your child get better. Developed and created by Children's Panadol.
    Buddy Bear – The great new interactive way to keep your little one entertained while you get the medicine sorted to help your child get better. Developed and created by Children’s Panadol.
  1. The First Five Years Book – This fabulous resource is written by child health nurses to help parents with practical tips and tricks to help them understand the ups and downs from birth to 5 years old, help you enjoy being a parent, learn about major milestones, understand activities that your baby might be doing. You can read it online or download it.
  2. Bub Tracker App – This is a FREE App that helps new parents with advice on dosage for medicines, feeding tracker, feeding log and much more.“Parents do not sweat the small stuff, but worry more about the illness cause, recovery and prevention – especially mothers”

Children's Panadol Bub Tracker App - Great guide for parents
Children’s Panadol Bub Tracker App – Great guide for parents

I hate it when kids are sick. I wish I could make it all go away.  I also hate when I get sick, yes if kids get ill, I end up sick too! Perils of motherhood.

 

The tools from Panadol are a HUGE help to make it a little easier on parents and also kids. I have downloaded some of buddy bear’s interactive videos in preparation for Alexander.

Dr Kimberley O’Brien has 5 tips to help manage anxiety and soothe your sick child/children:

  1. Make a Plan. Having a plan removes second guessing yourself and the worry. Make sure that you include distraction and calming tools if medication is required.
  2. Know your tools. Have a favourite toy/book/game to help comfort your child. A personalised DVD that the child will be happy to watch would be of great help.
  3. Empathise. Try and see the situation from your child’s point of view and this can give you some insight into their behaviour.
  4. Do familiar things. If you can make sure you stick to your regular family routine. This will create a sense of normality at home and allow everyone to be more relaxed.
  5. Manage your anxiety. Call on your support network for help. You need a break if you are the only one caring for a sick child, a break will allow you to increase your quality of care and not get burnt out in the process.

 

“They are less concerned with diet, medication usage or what they are doing wrong – though parents of younger children worry more.”

Perhaps unsurprisingly parents of children aged 6-12 are not as ‘extremely ’anxious”

Teething and very upset. Mummy cuddles are very helpful. Photo taken in a darken room due to sleeping baby. Yes did not want to wake him.
Teething and very upset. Mummy cuddles are very helpful. Photo taken in a darken room due to sleeping baby. Yes did not want to wake him.

What are your thoughts on making a plan to be ready for sick kids? Well you are not planning on having sick kids, just how to deal with it.

I love the Buddy Bear videos and the bear is so magical to watch. You could sit for hours just being amazed at how cute and wonderful the bear is. Kids will love this as much as adults do. Give it a go, download and save some videos just in case you need them. Also check out the other online resources from Children’s Panadol.

Disclaimer: I went along to the media briefing about Children’s Panadol to learn ways parents can be less anxious and to hear about techniques that can help children when sick. I have had many times when the twins were ill, they then got me ill and now with a baby it will all happen again (Currently Alexander has a cold and is also teething. Joyousness it is not!). I think that the online resources that Children’s Panadol showcased are excellent, not only are they FREE, they are highly informative as well. Thanks to Children’s Panadol for the invite and allowing the kids and I to learn more about your online tools.