health

Forgetting the Pandemic: How Our Brains are Wired to Let Go of Traumatic Events

Published

3 years ago

March 27, 2023

Johnny Somith

As we approach the one-year mark of living in a pandemic, it’s hard to forget the constant worry, fear, and uncertainty that have become our daily companions. But what if I told you that our brains are wired to forget traumatic events? Yes, you read that right! In this blog post, we will explore how forgetting the pandemic is not only possible but also a natural response of our brain when faced with overwhelming stress. So grab your coffee and let’s dive into this fascinating topic!

The Neuroscience of Memory

By Dr. James McGaugh

When we experience something traumatic, our brains are hardwired to keep the event alive in our memories. This is why it can be so difficult to forget a loved one who has passed away, or a devastating natural disaster. Our brains are constantly working to protect us from potential danger and remember events that could help us survive.

It’s not just traumatic events that trigger this memory protection mechanism in our brains. Repeatedly thinking about something negative also increases the chances that we will remember it later on. Researchers call this “negative rehearsal.” The more often we think about an event, the more likely it is that we will remember it later on.

But why do our brains work this way? It’s partly because traumatic memories can be dangerous if they’re not remembered correctly. If you don’t remember what happened during your rape or assault, you might become consumed by fear and paranoia, which could lead to serious health problems down the line. In fact, research suggests that up to 60% of women who experience sexual assault develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

So how can we make sure that traumatic memories don’t stay buried deep inside our brains? One approach is to talk about the event openly with someone who understands how you’re feeling. This can help reduce the amount of negative rehearsal that takes place in your mind, which may ultimately reduce the risk of remembering the event incorrectly. Additionally,

The Evolution of the Human Brain

The human brain is incredibly adaptable, constantly evolving to keep us safe and survive. Our brains are specifically wired to help us forget traumatic events, which can be a crucial part of survival. In the event of a traumatic event, our brains will work tirelessly to try and avoid thinking about or remembering the event. This is known as dissociation, and it’s one of the ways our brains protect us from experiencing too much distress.

Dissociation can be a great way to protect ourselves from overwhelming memories or feelings. It can also help us to move on from the trauma without feeling too overwhelmed or emotional. Dissociation is an important defense mechanism in cases of trauma, and it’s something that we all use to some extent. However, there are times when dissociation becomes a problem…

When dissociation becomes a problem, it can lead to flashbacks or nightmares. flashback episodes are often accompanied by intense feelings of terror or anxiety, and they can be very difficult to suppress. Nightmares are another common symptom of PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), and they tend to involve terrifying scenes from the traumatic event. Having flashbacks or nightmares can be extremely frustrating and disruptive, and they can disrupt our ability to function normally.

It’s important to remember that dissociation isn’t always bad… In some cases, dissociation can be a sign that we’re doing well after a traumatic event. This is especially true if flashbacks or nightmares don’t occur regularly. If they do occur regularly however

How Traumatic Events Affect Our Brains

The way our brains are wired can play a large role in how difficult it is to remember traumatic events. Brain scans have shown that the hippocampus, which is responsible for episodic memory, tends to be smaller in people who suffer from PTSD. This means that those with PTSD are more likely to have difficulty recalling specific memories from their past.

Another study found that people with PTSD also have a reduced ability to generate new memories. This may be because the hippocampus is involved in the creation of new memories as well as the retrieval of old ones.

Having a traumatic event happen frequently can also wear down the neural pathways associated with those events. This can lead to difficulties not just with remembering what happened, but also with feeling safe in general and responding calmly in stressful situations.

The Role of Stress in Traumatic Memories

The role of stress in traumatic memories is an important topic of research. In general, increased levels of stress hormones have been shown to disrupt memory function. Specifically, elevated levels of cortisol have been linked with impaired recall and recognition for emotionally charged memories.

In a study published in the journal Neuropsychology, researchers looked at the effects of cortisol on memory for aversive events. Participants were subjected to either placebo or cortisol administration before undergoing a test that involved remembering images from an earlier exposure session. Results showed that cortisol had a negative impact on recall ability for high-stress memories, but not for low-stress memories. This suggests that when faced with stressful experiences, individuals are more likely to remember traumatic events poorly if their body is surging with cortisol.

This study provides some evidence that cortisol may play a role in impairing memory for emotionally charged events. However, more research is needed to fully understand the implications of these findings and whether they can help explain why some people are more prone to experiencing PTSD after traumatic incidents than others.

Tools to Help Prevent Memory Loss from Trauma

There are a number of tools you can use to help prevent memory loss from trauma. One is to practice mindfulness and stress reduction techniques. Another is to keep a journal in which you record your thoughts and feelings about the traumatic event. Finally, it’s important to get support from friends and family members who care about you.

Conclusion

In a world where pandemics are more common than ever, it is important to understand how our brains work in order to deal with traumatic events. Unfortunately, most of us learn very little about the neuroscience of memory and trauma during our schooling, which leaves us unprepared for life-or-death situations. Fortunately, there are now a number of resources available that can help you understand the science behind your memories and how to use it to train your brain to release traumatic memories more effectively. So next time you find yourself struggling to forget an event from your past – take heart in knowing that you are not alone and that there is something you can do about it.

Author

Johnny Somith

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Stair Lift Myths vs Facts: What to Know

Published

3 minutes ago

November 21, 2025

JosephSummers

Reviewed
By Hazel Penelope

Introduction

Mobility challenges can turn simple, everyday tasks into stressful experiences especially when stairs are involved. As we age or face issues like injuries, chronic pain, or temporary medical conditions, climbing stairs becomes more than an inconvenience; it becomes a safety risk. That’s where stair lifts step in as an essential home accessibility solution.

Stair lifts provide a smooth, safe, and reliable way to move between floors without fear of slipping or straining the body. But with rising awareness and demand, many misconceptions have also surfaced. If you’re exploring chair lifts it’s important to look beyond the myths and understand the real facts.

For a deeper look into costs, safety, and ongoing service, you can also check this helpful guide: What You Need to Know About Stair Chair Lift Cost, Safety & Service

Stair Lift Myths vs Facts: What to Know

Myth 1: Stair Lifts Are Only for the Elderly

Fact: While seniors are the most common users, stair lifts support people of all ages and mobility levels. Individuals recovering from knee or hip surgery, those with temporary injuries, or anyone managing conditions like arthritis, balance disorders, vertigo, or chronic pain often rely on stair lifts to move safely between floors. Parents with children who have mobility disabilities also use them to create a safer home environment.

Beyond health-related needs, stair lifts also help people who simply want greater independence and fall prevention at home. Modern designs are user-friendly, quiet, and customizable, making them suitable for multi-generational households not just older adults. Age is not the deciding factor mobility, comfort, and safety are.

Myth 2: Stair Lifts Will Damage Your Walls or Staircase

Fact: Many believe stair lift installation requires drilling into walls, but this is a misconception. Stair lifts are mounted directly onto the stair treads, not the wall, which means your walls remain untouched and unharmed. The rails sit securely on the steps using low-impact brackets that don’t interfere with flooring, drywall, or handrails.

The installation process is also quick and clean, often completed within a few hours with minimal disruption to your home. If you ever remove or upgrade the lift, the staircase typically shows little to no sign that a lift was ever installed. This makes stair lifts ideal for renters, historic homes in Philadelphia, and homeowners who don’t want permanent alterations.

Myth 3: Stair Lifts Are Too Expensive for Most Households

Fact: While stair lifts are a long-term investment, they are far more affordable than people assume. In Philadelphia, many providers offer budget-friendly models, short-term rentals, refurbished lifts, and easy monthly payment plans. This makes stair lifts accessible for households with different financial needs not just those who can pay upfront.

Additionally, certain insurance plans, veterans’ programs, disability services, and local nonprofit organizations may provide financial assistance or partial coverage if the lift is medically necessary. When factoring in the cost of assisted living, in-home caregiver services, or major home renovations, a stair lift is often the more cost-effective and practical solution. For homeowners wondering whether a stair lift is worth it long-term, here’s a useful breakdown:

Myth 4: Stair Lifts Look Bulky and Ruin the Home’s Aesthetic

Fact: Modern stair lifts are a far cry from the large, outdated models people often imagine. Today’s chair lifts are engineered with slim, streamlined profiles that fit neatly along the edge of the staircase without obstructing the walkway. They feature foldable seats, armrests, and footrests, allowing the entire unit to tuck away when not in use so family members can move up and down the stairs freely.

Manufacturers also offer custom finishes, upholstery choices, and rail colors, making it easy to match the lift with your home’s décor—whether you have a traditional Philadelphia rowhome or a contemporary interior. Many homeowners are surprised at how subtle the lift looks once installed, blending in naturally rather than standing out.

Some high-end models even come with low-noise motors, minimal wiring visibility, and compact charging stations, giving the entire system a cleaner, more modern appearance. Instead of ruining the aesthetic, today’s stair lifts often contribute to a safer, more accessible home environment without sacrificing style or space.

Myth 5: Stair Lifts Are Difficult to Operate

Fact: Stair lifts are designed with simplicity in mind, making them easy for people of all ages to use even those who aren’t comfortable with technology. Most units feature one-touch controls, such as a handheld remote or a small joystick mounted on the armrest. The rider only needs to sit down, fasten the safety belt, and gently press the button or switch to move up or down the stairs.

The ride itself is smooth and gradual, thanks to soft-start and soft-stop mechanisms that prevent sudden jolts. This makes the experience comfortable for people with joint pain, limited mobility, or balance concerns. Many models also include automatic swivel seats, which turn safely toward the landing at the top and bottom of the stairs, allowing users to get on and off the chair without twisting their body or risking a fall.

Additionally, stair lifts come with built-in safety sensors that detect obstacles on the stairs, battery backups for power outages, and easy-to-understand indicator lights. These features are designed to build user confidence and independence. Even first-time users typically feel comfortable after just one or two rides, making stair lifts one of the most accessible home mobility solutions available today.

Choosing the Right Stairlift Service in Philadelphia

Selecting a reliable provider is just as important as choosing the right chair lift model. A trustworthy stairlift service in Philadelphia should offer:

Free home assessments
Customized recommendations based on staircase type
Installation by trained technicians
Maintenance, servicing, and repairs
Transparent pricing and warranty information

Checking customer reviews and service ratings also helps you make a confident decision.

Benefits of Installing Chair Lifts in Your Home

A stair lift doesn’t just add convenience it restores independence and peace of mind. Here’s why many homeowners choose to install one:

Enhanced Safety: A stair lift significantly reduces the risk of falls, especially for individuals with balance issues or limited mobility.
Greater Comfort: Climbing stairs can strain joints and muscles. A chair lift removes that physical burden entirely.
Improved Accessibility: It allows users to move freely across different floors, maintaining full use of their home.
Reassurance for Family Members: Loved ones can feel confident knowing you are navigating your home safely every day.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Myths Influence Your Decision

Stair lifts are practical, safe, and life-changing mobility solutions. While misinformation can create confusion, the reality is that today’s chair lifts are versatile, affordable, and designed for everyday comfort. Whether you’re planning a long-term home upgrade or exploring short-term accessibility options, partnering with a reliable stairlift service in Philadelphia ensures you make an informed, beneficial choice.

With accurate information and professional support, you can reclaim independence, improve safety, and enjoy stress-free movement throughout your home—without being misled by myths.

Author

JosephSummers

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College Mental Health and Anger Management Florida | Luna Bloom

Published

14 hours ago

November 20, 2025

lunabloompsychiatry

Reviewed
By Lilah Carper

College Mental Health and Anger Management Florida

Introduction

Human-like text generation is a very difficult and time-consuming process. College life can be a rollercoaster ride of the most fun and hardest times in one’s life. It is no wonder that, among all other students, Florida ones are the most that have difficulties with their emotional and mental states, since they have to go through a lot of pressures at the same time: classes, relationships, jobs, and personal growth. At Luna Bloom Psychiatry, we are very much aware of the unique pressures that young adults are under and hence provide them with help that is compassionate, evidence-based, and focused on college mental health in Florida and beyond.

The Importance of College Mental Health in Florida

Florida is a state where college campuses are continually alive with enormous ambitions, creativity, and learning. But at the same time, very easily, stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout can be the hidden problems in those environments. More students than ever are looking for the help of mental health support, and that is where Luna Bloom Psychiatry is really important for the situation.

We are of the opinion that college mental health Florida in the universities deserves to be prioritized. The warm climate, lively social life, and academic demands can be both invigorating and overwhelming at the same time. The issue of many students combining courses, part-time jobs, internships, and family responsibilities is that they have very little time not only for socializing but also for taking care of themselves. One of our main purposes is to build a friendly and non-judgmental atmosphere in which youngsters can talk about their feelings, pick up the coping methods that are good for them, and slowly bring their lives back into equilibrium.

Common Mental Health Difficulties Among College Students

Florida students very often have to deal with a variety of issues like anxiety, and depression, along with social pressures and problems with their identity. These issues can affect their studies and cause them to be emotionally exhausted. Others may go through being away from home, having relationship problems, or being unsure about their future jobs.

Luna Bloom Psychiatry offers help that is specifically aimed at students who are facing:

Stressful study periods and anxiety related to performance
Adjustment disorders and feeling lonely
Sleep complications and being exhausted
Changing moods or hard to control emotions
Lack of drive or difficulty in concentrating

By giving special attention to the early treatment and individual care, our doctors are able to help the students become more resilient and establish good emotional health habits for life.

Tackling Anger Management in Florida

Stress and anxiety are the most common issues, but anger management in Florida is becoming another very important subject—a great deal among college students and young workers. Anger that is not controlled can lead to the breaking of relationships, lowering of academic performance, and decline of self-worth. At Luna Bloom Psychiatry, we have developed special programs for anger management that allow individuals to learn their triggers, control their emotions and react to the conflict in a calm manner.

The proper way to deal with anger management Florida needs the anger to be viewed as the cause of the problem but rather the manner of its expressing that counts. Psychiatrists and therapists working in our clinic teach skills like mindfulness, relaxation training, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) as methods for controlling anger positively and healthily. By means of these sessions, clients acquire the ability to assert their needs rather than attacking, thus developing stronger and healthier bonds with people around them.

Desire of College Mental Health and Anger

It is quite common that mental health and anger issues to be connected. Anger, for example, can be students’ defense mechanism when they are under constant pressure or in an emotional crisis at their college. That is why Luna Bloom takes integrated treatment—the one addressing both the college mental health in Florida and the anger management in Florida issues at the same time.

Our therapists focus on the creation of self-awareness and the skill of emotional control, making it easy for the students to pick up the feelings behind the anger such as fear, frustration, or sadness. This all-encompassing solution not only cuts down on the number of disputes but also nurtures the emotional maturity of the person for a long time.

The Role of Luna Bloom Psychiatry in Students’ Success

At Luna Bloom Psychiatry, we understand clearly that every student is going to be different. That is why we develop treatment plans that are completely tailored to the individual and their needs with the hope of achieving the best possible results. In addition to the standard psychiatric treatment, we also provide the following supported by modern, evidence-based therapies.

Comprehensive evaluations for the identification of emotional and behavioral patterns:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based therapy as well as Normal therapy as interventional techniques

Psychotropic medication management as an option
Telepsychiatry services for handy access throughout Florida
Workshops and group counseling aimed at stress relief, emotional stability, and social interaction

Our kind-hearted staff members have the necessary training to treat people in the age range of college students and provide a non-judgmental setting for them to talk about their problems openly.

Why Select Luna Bloom Psychiatry?

It is a big thing to choose the right mental health provider. What differentiates Luna Bloom Psychiatry from others is our devotion to a holistic, person-centered approach to treatment. We do not merely treat symptoms; rather, we provide care that is directed at the causes of emotional suffering.

It is our aim to make it possible for young adults to be able to create emotional resilience, to grow up with healthy coping strategies and to feel in control of their lives. No matter if it is anxiety during exams, relationship issues or having difficulty in expressing feelings- Luna Bloom Psychiatry is the place to go for needy tools and guidance to grow.

We are also in great collaboration with universities and colleges throughout Florida, besides providing resources and partnerships to raise the mental health awareness on a campus-wide scale. Through various methods like outreach programs and educational sessions, we inculcate in students that asking for help is a strong rather than weak thing to do.

The First Step of Healing

In case you or someone you know is having problems with stress, emotional instability or anger, please remember that there is help at hand. Luna Bloom Psychiatry provides a safe and nurturing place where healing starts with comprehension. Depending on whether you are dealing with the rigors of college or day to day challenges, our trained experts will grant you the power to achieve tranquility and a clear mind.

Do not let the stress go to the point where it is unbearable. Contact us today to know more about our mental health services for college in Florida and anger management in Florida. Luna Bloom Psychiatry is here to let you blossom—one step at a time.

Author

lunabloompsychiatry

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How Growth Scan Shows Baby’s Health and Development

Published

14 hours ago

November 20, 2025

drdeeptimittal

Reviewed
By Rosalie Carter

Growth Scan Shows Baby’s Health and Development

Introduction

During pregnancy, every parent wants to know if their baby is growing well inside the womb. A Growth Scan, also called a Fetal Growth Ultrasound, helps doctors measure your baby’s size, weight, and overall health. It checks the baby’s heartbeat, movement, and blood flow through the placenta, ensuring everything is progressing normally. This scan is usually done in the third trimester and plays a key role in identifying growth-related issues early. If you are looking for a Growth Scan in Pune, consulting an experienced Fetal Medicine Specialist in Pune like Dr. Deepti Mittal ensures accurate assessment and expert care for both mother and baby.

What is a Growth Scan?

A growth scan is a detailed ultrasound examination conducted during pregnancy to assess the baby’s size, weight, and overall development. Unlike regular scans that primarily confirm pregnancy or check basic fetal anatomy, a growth scan focuses on the baby’s growth progress in the womb.

Timing: Typically done between 28 and 36 weeks of pregnancy. Sometimes multiple scans are performed if the doctor wants to monitor growth closely.
Purpose: To check whether the baby is growing according to gestational age and to detect any growth-related concerns.
Method: High-resolution ultrasound is used to measure the baby’s head, abdomen, femur, and other parameters.

This scan provides essential information for both parents and healthcare providers, helping ensure a safe delivery and a healthy baby.

Why Is It an Important Scan?

Growth scans go beyond just estimating your baby’s size. They:

Detect potential problems early, allowing for timely interventions.
Check specific health indicators to ensure proper fetal development.
Help manage high-risk pregnancies, such as those with complications like diabetes, hypertension, or twins.

How Many Times is the Scan Needed?

Typically, a standard growth scan is performed once between 28–32 weeks of pregnancy, but your doctor may recommend more frequent scans if:

There is a high-risk pregnancy (e.g., gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia).
Previous scans have shown concerns.
There are issues like reduced fetal growth, abnormal fundal height, or concerns about amniotic fluid.

Here’s How Growth Scans Assess Your Baby’s Well-Being

1. Fetal Growth and Size

Growth scans use ultrasound measurements (like head circumference, abdominal circumference, and femur length) to:

Estimate fetal weight.
Track growth trends over time.
Detect growth restriction or excessive growth, which may signal underlying health concerns.

2. Amniotic Fluid Levels

This scan assesses the amniotic fluid index (AFI), indicating if there’s:

Too little fluid (oligohydramnios) linked to placental issues or fetal urinary problems.
Too much fluid (polyhydramnios) associated with maternal diabetes or fetal swallowing difficulties.

3. Placental Function and Position

It evaluates:

Placental placement (anterior, posterior, or low-lying).
Any signs of placental insufficiency.
The blood flow from mother to baby, often through Doppler studies, which can signal potential complications.

4. Fetal Activity and Movement:

During the scan, the fetal heartbeat, breathing movements, and physical activities (like limb movements) are observed, indicating fetal well-being and neurological status.

5. Other Important Information

Growth scans can also:

Detect structural abnormalities that manifest late in pregnancy.
Guide the management of twins or multiple pregnancies through individual assessment.
Offer reassurance and allow for advance planning in case of detected anomalies.

6. Other Issues or Red Flags Detected

A growth scan may identify issues such as:

Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR): Baby is not growing as expected.
Reduced or excessive amniotic fluid.
Abnormal umbilical cord blood flow.
Unusual fetal positioning or movement patterns.
Structural issues in organs or limbs.

7. If the Scan Reveals Concerning Findings

If anything abnormal is detected, your doctor may:

Recommend additional scans for closer monitoring.
Suggest specialized tests (like Doppler ultrasounds or fetal echocardiography).
Initiate interventions, adjust your care plan, or refer to a fetal medicine specialist.

For expert guidance and a personalized approach, schedule a visit with Dr. Deepti Mittal an experienced Fetal Medicine Specialist in Pune, dedicated to ensuring the best outcomes for mother and baby.

What to Expect During the Scan

A growth scan is a safe, non-invasive procedure. Here’s what usually happens:

Ultrasound Gel: Applied to the abdomen to enhance sound wave transmission.
Transducer Movement: The sonographer moves a device over the belly to capture images.
Real-Time Viewing: Parents can see the baby on the screen.
Measurements and Reports: Detailed measurements and estimated weight are recorded.

The procedure typically takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the baby’s position and cooperation.

Understanding Growth Scan Reports

After the scan, doctors provide a detailed report including:

Baby’s measurements and estimated weight
Placenta location and health
Amniotic fluid levels
Observations about fetal movement and heart rate
Any recommendations for follow-up or additional monitoring

These reports help parents and healthcare providers make informed decisions about prenatal care and delivery planning.

Conclusion

A growth scan is a vital tool for monitoring a baby’s health and development during pregnancy. By measuring size, weight, placenta health, amniotic fluid levels, and fetal movements, this scan provides a clear picture of the baby’s well-being. It helps detect growth restrictions, excessive growth, and other potential complications early, allowing doctors to plan interventions if necessary. For parents, it offers peace of mind and confidence that their baby is developing safely. Regular growth scans, combined with routine prenatal care, ensure a healthier pregnancy and a safe arrival for the little one.