health

Empowering Youth: How the Surgeon General’s New Mission is Transforming Mental Healthcare

Published

3 years ago

March 22, 2023

Johnny Somith

As the world becomes more complex and challenging, it’s no surprise that young people are facing increasing mental health challenges. The good news is that the Surgeon General has announced a new mission aimed at empowering youth with the tools they need to manage their mental health. With innovative programs and resources in place, this initiative promises to transform mental healthcare for generations to come. Join us as we explore how this groundbreaking effort is changing lives and shaping the future of care for our most vulnerable populations.

Who is the Surgeon General?

The Surgeon General of the United States is the nation’s doctor. He is responsible for providing Americans with the best medical advice and information possible. Dr. Jerome Adams is the current Surgeon General.

The Surgeon General’s main job is to protect public health by giving Americans the information they need to make healthy choices. He also works to find new ways to improve our nation’s health.

Dr. Adams has made it his mission to empower young people to take charge of their mental health. He knows that early intervention is key to preventing mental illness from taking hold. By reaching out to young people and helping them understand their mental health, he hopes to reduce the stigma around mental illness and help more people get the treatment they need.

What is the Surgeon General’s new mission?

In his first few months as the 19th Surgeon General of the United States, Dr. Jerome Adams has already made quite an impact. His top priority is to tackle the nation’s opioid crisis, and he’s also focusing on other major public health issues like mental health. In fact, Dr. Adams recently announced a new mission for the Office of the Surgeon General: to empower young people to make positive choices for their mental health.

This new mission is based on the latest research on adolescent brain development, which shows that teens and young adults are particularly vulnerable to mental health problems. But it also recognizes that this is a time when young people are incredibly resilient and capable of making positive changes in their lives. By working with schools, community organizations, and families, the Surgeon General’s office can help young people get the support they need to thrive.

The first step in this process is raising awareness about mental health and its importance. Too often, mental health is seen as a taboo topic, or something that’s only relevant when someone is in crisis. But the reality is that mental health plays a role in everyone’s life, and we all have a responsibility to take care of our own mental wellbeing just like we do our physical health.

The Surgeon General’s office is working to break down these barriers by starting honest conversations about mental health, and by providing resources and support for those who need it. This effort includes a new website called “Mental Health Matters

How will this new mission transform mental healthcare?

Mental healthcare in the United States is in a state of crisis. Youth are increasingly suffering from mental health issues, and the current system is not adequately equipped to meet their needs. In response, the Surgeon General has issued a new Call to Action to promote mental health for all Americans. This new mission will transform mental healthcare by providing more access to services, improving quality of care, and supporting research and innovation.

By expanding access to mental healthcare services, this new mission will help more youth get the care they need. This will include increasing provider training on how to identify and treat mental health conditions, as well as making sure that insurance plans cover mental healthcare services. In addition, efforts will be made to increase public awareness about mental health and reduce stigma around seeking help.

Improving the quality of care that youth receive is another key goal of this new mission. This will involve ensuring that providers have the necessary skills and resources to provide evidence-based care. It will also involve developing standardized quality measures so that progress can be tracked over time. Additionally, efforts will be made to improve coordination between different types of providers so that youth can receive comprehensive care.

Finally, this new mission will support research and innovation in order to continue improving our understanding of mental health and developing new treatments. This includes funding studies on effective interventions, as well as supporting the development of new technologies such as apps and digital tools for self-care. By investing in research and innovation, we can ensure

What are some of the challenges youth face when it comes to mental health?

Mental health is an often ignored but extremely important part of overall health. It is especially important for youth, who are in a crucial stage of development. Unfortunately, mental health challenges are common among youth. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 children aged 13-18 have a mental health condition.

There are many reasons why young people may face mental health challenges. Some may be due to biological factors, such as genetics or brain chemistry. Others may be the result of environmental factors, such as exposure to trauma or stress. Still others may be the result of a combination of both biological and environmental factors.

Whatever the cause, mental health challenges can have a significant impact on young people’s lives. They can interfere with school, work, and personal relationships. They can also lead to substance abuse and other risky behaviors.

Fortunately, there is help available for youth who are struggling with mental health issues. There are many effective treatments, including medication and therapy. There is also growing recognition of the importance of early intervention and prevention. The Surgeon General’s new initiative is helping to raise awareness of these issues and promote access to care for all young people.

How can we empower our youth to overcome these challenges?

The digital world has created new opportunities and challenges for today’s youth. How can we empower our youth to overcome these challenges?

The surgeon general’s new mission is to transform mental healthcare. This will require a focus on prevention and early intervention, as well as access to care and support for all young people.

A key part of the mission is to empower young people to take charge of their own mental health. This means providing them with the knowledge and skills they need to identify problems early and seek help when needed.

It also means supporting them in their efforts to build resiliency and cope with stressors in their lives. We can do this by helping them develop positive coping mechanisms, such as exercise, journaling, or spending time with friends and family.

Finally, we need to ensure that young people have access to quality mental healthcare when they need it. This includes making sure that providers are trained in evidence-based practices and that there are adequate numbers of providers in communities across the country.

Conclusion

The Surgeon General’s new mission to empower youth and transform mental healthcare is an important step in improving access to quality care for young people. By recognizing the unique challenges facing both health providers and those seeking assistance, this initiative has the potential to make a positive impact on not only the lives of patients but also their families, communities, and beyond. With increased public awareness about mental health issues as well as better collaboration between care providers and other stakeholders, this ambitious effort could prove effective in helping more individuals get the help they need.

Author

Johnny Somith

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Umbilical Pilonidal Sinus: Comprehensive Treatment Options

Published

3 hours ago

January 7, 2026

drravirams

Umbilical pilonidal sinus (UPS) is a rare condition that many may not be familiar with. While it may seem straightforward at first glance, it can lead to persistent discomfort, infections, and discharge if not accurately diagnosed.

Unlike the more common pilonidal sinus that typically appears near the tailbone, UPS develops in or around the belly button.

At Thrissur Piles Clinic, led by Dr. Raviram S., an experienced specialist in this field, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and advanced treatments, including laser surgery specific to umbilical pilonidal sinus conditions.

What is Umbilical Pilonidal Sinus?

An umbilical pilonidal sinus is a small tunnel or cavity that forms in the navel. This cavity can trap hair, dirt, and dead skin cells, often leading to infections. Over time, it may cause chronic discharge, swelling, and discomfort.

While most pilonidal sinus cases occur near the tailbone, UPS accounts for less than 1% of instances, making it both rare and often misdiagnosed. For accurate evaluation, it’s vital to consult a specialist experienced in treating pilonidal sinuses.

Causes of Umbilical Pilonidal Sinus

Several factors may contribute to the development of UPS:

Hair Penetration: Hair from the abdomen can be pushed into the belly button, breaking the skin.
Deep Umbilicus: A naturally deep belly button can create a space where debris collects.
Friction: Tight clothing can force hair into the skin.
Poor Hygiene: Accumulated sweat and dirt may exacerbate the condition.

Risk factors include young men, individuals with excessive body hair, and those with subpar hygiene practices.

Symptoms of Umbilical Pilonidal Sinus

Patients suffering from UPS may experience the following symptoms:

Tenderness or pain around the navel
Foul-smelling discharge or pus from the area
Redness or swelling in the vicinity
Occasionally, bleeding or blood-stained discharge
Visible hair from the sinus opening
Frequent infections or abscesses

If left untreated, these symptoms can persist and negatively impact one’s quality of life.

Diagnosis of Umbilical Pilonidal Sinus

At Thrissur Piles Clinic, we take a meticulous approach to diagnosing UPS to differentiate it from other umbilical issues like hernias or granulomas.

Diagnosis Steps:

Detailed Medical History: Discussing the duration and nature of symptoms.
Clinical Examination: Inspecting for hair, swollen areas, or discharge.
Ultrasound: Used to visualize the extent of the sinus tract.
Sinogram or MRI: Conducted if complexities arise, to assess deeper structures.

Dr. Raviram S. utilizes his extensive experience as a proctologist to ensure precise diagnoses before proceeding with treatment.

Treatment Options at Thrissur Piles Clinic

Treatment strategies depend on the severity and frequency of UPS symptoms. We offer both conservative and surgical options.

1. Conservative Management

For early cases or mild symptoms, options include:

Hair removal around the navel
Daily antiseptic cleaning
Prescription antibiotics
Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding tight clothing

While these measures can alleviate symptoms, they may not provide a permanent solution.

2. Surgical Treatments

For recurring symptoms, surgical intervention may be the best course of action.

a. Laser Umbilical Pilonidal Sinus Surgery

Minimally invasive with smaller incisions
Reduced pain compared to traditional methods
Quicker recovery time, often allowing patients to resume normal activities within a few days
Minimal scarring with better aesthetic results
Low rate of recurrence

This advanced treatment option is offered at Thrissur Piles Clinic, making it popular among many patients.

b. Traditional Surgical Excision

Full removal of the sinus tract
May require umbilicus reconstruction for cosmetic enhancement
Generally involves a longer recovery than laser surgery

Both procedures are safe and effective when conducted by a skilled surgeon like Dr. Raviram S.

Why Opt for Thrissur Piles Clinic for Your Treatment?

Expertise: Dr. Raviram S. boasts over 15 years of experience in proctology and advanced sinus surgeries.
Modern Facilities: Our clinic features cutting-edge imaging and laser surgery technology.
Comprehensive Care: We provide thorough support from diagnosis through treatment and aftercare.
Patient-Focused Approach: Our aim is to ensure painless, scar-minimizing treatments with quick recovery times.
Expanded Services: Besides UPS treatment, we specialize in piles, fissures, and fistula care across Kerala.
Trusted Reputation: Recognized as a leading clinic for piles and pilonidal sinus care in Thrissur, we serve patients from surrounding areas.

What to Expect During Recovery After Surgery

Recovery varies according to the surgical method used, but typically includes:

Initial Days: Mild discomfort, localized swelling, and frequent dressing changes. Warm baths can aid in healing.
Weeks 1–2: Patients can gradually return to light activities while avoiding tight clothing and heavy lifting.
4–6 Weeks: Most surgical sites heal, allowing for the resumption of regular activities.
Ongoing Care: Maintaining hygiene and hair removal around the navel, along with regular follow-ups with your surgeon.

With effective sinus excision and any necessary reconstruction, recurrence rates remain low, as documented in numerous case studies.

Consult an Umbilical Pilonidal Sinus Specialist in Thrissur

If you are experiencing discomfort, discharge, or swelling around your belly button, don’t dismiss it as a simple infection. An umbilical pilonidal sinus specialist can provide an accurate diagnosis and long-lasting treatment solutions.

At Thrissur Piles Clinic, Dr. Raviram S. and our team are dedicated to offering advanced umbilical pilonidal sinus treatment in Thrissur, including laser surgery for expedited recovery.

Contact us at 9961001199 to schedule your consultation. Visit us at Zabs Fort, Collectorate Road, West Fort, Thrissur, Kerala, to learn more.

Don’t let rare conditions go undiagnosed. Seek the best umbilical pilonidal sinus treatment in Thrissur and return to a healthier, more comfortable life with confidence.

Author

drravirams

Dr. Raviram S is a renowned proctologist in Thrissur, Kerala, with over 15 years of experience in diagnosing and treating complex colorectal conditions. He specializes in laser treatment for piles, fissures, fistulas, and pilonidal sinus, offering painless procedures, faster healing, and minimal recurrence. View all posts

health

STI Myths vs. Facts: A Young Adult’s Sexual Health Guide

Published

1 month ago

December 3, 2025

johnhorne

Reviewed
By Laila Harper

Introduction

Sexual health is one of the most important parts of your overall well-being, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. From social media rumors to misinformed friends to awkward conversations in school, many young adults grow up with inaccurate ideas about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These myths can lead to fear, shame, poor decision-making, and, most importantly, missed opportunities for early testing and treatment.

To help cut through the confusion, this guide breaks down the most common STI myths, the real facts, and what young adults need to know to stay confident, informed, and empowered.

STI Myths vs. Facts: A Young Adult’s Sexual Health Guide

Myth #1: “I don’t have symptoms, so I’m definitely clean.”

Fact: Most STIs show no symptoms and that’s the real danger.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HPV, and even HIV can stay in your body without obvious symptoms. According to the CDC, nearly 1 in 2 STI infections among young adults go unnoticed because they are silent.

Why this matters:

You can still pass an STI to a partner even without symptoms.
An untreated STI can lead to long-term issues like infertility, chronic pain, or complications during pregnancy.
Regular testing is the only reliable way to know your status.

What to do:

Make testing part of your routine the same way you check your blood pressure or eye health.

Myth #2: “Only people with many partners get STIs.”

Fact: Anyone who is sexually active can get an STI even from a single encounter.

Your STI risk doesn’t depend on the number of partners you have; it depends on:

Whether protection is used
Whether you or your partner are tested regularly
The type of sexual contact you have

A single unprotected encounter can transmit an infection.

Empowering takeaway:

Protecting your health is not about “judgment” it’s about staying informed and making responsible choices.

Myth #3: “Pulling out or using birth control is enough protection.”

Fact: Pregnancy prevention ≠ STI prevention.

Birth control methods like pills, patches, or IUDs do not protect against infections.

Only barrier methods external condoms, internal condoms, and dental dams help reduce STI transmission.

And if cost or access is an issue, remember that many clinics, community centers, and health programs offer free condoms in Missouri, allowing young people to stay protected without financial barriers.

Myth #4: “I would know if someone has an STI just by looking at them.”

Fact: You can’t tell someone’s STI status based on appearance.

Someone can look healthy, feel healthy, and still have an infection. Judging by appearances or making assumptions about someone’s lifestyle is not reliable or safe.

How to stay protected:

Communicate openly with partners
Get tested together
Use protection consistently
Avoid assumptions

Myth #5: “STIs only happen during vaginal sex.”

Fact: STIs can spread through oral sex, anal sex, and skin-to-skin contact.

Many young adults think they’re “safe” because they don’t engage in vaginal intercourse, but infections like HPV, herpes, syphilis, and gonorrhea can spread through other types of sexual activity.

Protection still matters use condoms, dental dams, and get tested based on the types of sexual contact you have.

Myth #6: “Testing is scary, expensive, or embarrassing.”

Fact: Testing is fast, private, and often free and you have options.

This is one of the most important myths to break. Today, STI testing is more accessible than ever.

You can choose from:

Clinic testing (often free or low-cost)
Community health centers
Confidential youth clinics
At home HIV test kit options for complete privacy

If you’re nervous about talking to a provider, remember that:

Clinicians are trained to be non-judgmental
Your results are confidential
Early detection keeps you healthy and protects partners

Testing is an act of responsibility, not shame.

Myth #7: “STIs ruin your life.”

Fact: Most STIs are treatable and many are completely curable.

A lot of fear comes from the idea that an STI permanently changes your life. In reality:

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are curable with medication.
HIV can be managed with treatment so effectively that many people have undetectable viral loads and live long, healthy lives.
Vaccines prevent HPV and hepatitis B.

Early treatment is key and stigma should never stop someone from getting help.

Myth #8: “If my partner says they’re clean, I’m safe.”

Fact: Trust is important but testing is essential.

Your partner might genuinely believe they’re STI-free but could be unaware of a silent infection.

Healthy relationships include:

Honest conversations
Mutual testing
Shared responsibility for protection

If you’re uncomfortable discussing testing, try framing it as something you do together rather than suspicion.

Myth #9: “Only adults or older people need to worry about STIs.”

Fact: Young adults have the highest STI rates in the U.S.

People between 15 and 24 account for nearly half of all new STI cases. This makes prevention and education critical for this age group.

Factors that influence risk include:

Lack of access to affordable testing
Stigma around sexual health
Inconsistent condom use
Reliance on misinformation
Pressure in relationships

The more you know, the better you protect yourself.

How Young Adults Can Build a Healthy Sexual Routine

Now that the myths are cleared up, here’s what a strong sexual health routine looks like.

1. Get tested regularly

Every 3–6 months if sexually active, or after any new partner.

2. Use protection consistently

And remember: free condoms in Missouri can help remove financial barriers.

3. Talk openly with partners

Communication prevents misunderstandings and increases trust.

4. Take advantage of modern testing options

Prefer privacy? Try an at home HIV test kit or mail-in STI testing.

5. Know your resources

Community clinics, the local health department, and sexual health organizations offer:

Free or low-cost testing
Counseling
Condoms
STI treatment

6. Reduce stigma for yourself and others

Being informed is empowering. Encourage friends to learn and get tested too.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between STI myths and facts can completely transform how young adults approach their sexual health. When you’re informed, you’re confident and when you’re confident, you make safer decisions.

Whether you’re exploring relationships for the first time or simply want to stay healthy, knowledge and testing are your strongest tools. Break the myths, stay protected, and build a sexual health routine that supports your overall well-being.

Author

johnhorne

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health

Monsoon Spa Care | Top Treatments for Mumbai’s Damp Season

Published

1 month ago

December 2, 2025

tattvaseo

Reviewed
By Leilani Josephine

Introduction

When the first rain hits Mumbai, the entire city seems to exhale—heat drops, streets smell of wet earth, and everything feels softer. But as comforting as the monsoon is, it also brings its own set of challenges for the skin and body. The humidity rises dramatically, pores stay clogged, hair becomes frizzy, and many people experience dullness or fungal issues. This is why monsoon becomes one of the most important times of the year for self-care. And for many, a trusted spa in Mumbai becomes the go-to sanctuary to rebalance their routine.

Over the years, the spa industry has adapted beautifully to the city’s rainy-season needs, offering treatments designed to combat humidity, detoxify the skin, and strengthen the body’s immunity. These are the therapies Mumbaiites rely on every monsoon—and for good reason.

Why Monsoon Skincare and Bodycare Matters

With moisture constantly lingering in the air, sweat doesn’t evaporate properly. This leads to:

Acne and blackheads due to clogged pores
Dull, sticky skin from excess oil
Frizzy, unmanageable hair
Body stiffness because of fluctuating temperatures
Higher chances of skin infections

Monsoon spa routines help counter these effects by keeping the skin clean, the body supple, and the mind relaxed.

Monsoon Spa Treatments Mumbaiites Love

1. Deep-Cleansing Charcoal & Clay Facials

Humidity traps dirt and oil on the skin surface. Charcoal and clay facials—popular at any modern spa in Mumbai—draw out impurities, tighten pores, and reduce monsoon breakouts. They leave the skin feeling clean without stripping it.

2. Ayurvedic Abhyanga Warm Oil Massage

The blend of monsoon chill and moisture often causes muscle stiffness. Abhyanga, done with warm medicated oils, improves circulation, strengthens muscles, and boosts immunity—essential for those prone to seasonal fatigue.

3. Exfoliating Body Polishes

Dead skin tends to accumulate faster in humid weather. Coffee, sugar, or sea-salt body scrubs offered in many Mumbai spas remove buildup and keep the skin fresh and breathable.

4. Hot Stone Therapy for Damp-Weather Aches

The monsoon can worsen joint pain. Hot stone massage melts tension, warms the muscles, and relieves deep stiffness caused by sudden temperature shifts.

5. Anti-Frizz Hair Spa Rituals

Humidity can transform even the smoothest hair into a frizzy cloud. Hydration-based hair spas with keratin, argan oil, or shea butter restore shine and protect strands from moisture overload.

6. Aromatherapy for Seasonal Mood Swings

Rainy weather often brings lethargy. Aromatherapy using peppermint, bergamot, or lavender helps re-energize the mind and refresh the senses—a monsoon favourite among wellness lovers.

A Season to Reset and Rejuvenate

While the monsoon refreshes the city, it also asks for a little extra care. With the evolving spa industry offering specialised rainy-season therapies, Mumbaiites now have access to treatments that not only solve seasonal skin and hair issues but also create moments of calm in the midst of grey, rainy weeks.

Whether you visit a professional spa in Mumbai or adopt monsoon-friendly rituals at home, seasonal care ensures your skin stays clean, your hair stays healthy, and your body stays balanced—all through the damp, dreamy rains.

Spa Tips for Monsoon Wellness

1. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water supports detoxification and keeps your skin hydrated during the humid season. Herbal teas and infused water are excellent additions to monsoon wellness routines.

2. Maintain Hygiene

The damp season increases the risk of skin infections. Regular spa visits, combined with personal hygiene, help prevent fungal and bacterial infections.

3. Moisturize Regularly

Even though skin may feel oily during the monsoon, it still requires proper moisturization. Lightweight, non-greasy moisturizers keep the skin hydrated without clogging pores.

4. Choose Seasonal Spa Treatments

Opt for treatments that suit the monsoon season. Ayurveda, herbal facials, and detox therapies are ideal for countering the effects of humidity and dampness.

5. Relax Your Mind

Monsoon blues are common due to cloudy skies and damp weather. Spa therapies focusing on relaxation, like aromatherapy and massages, help reduce stress and enhance mental well-being.

How to Choose the Right Spa in Mumbai

1. Cleanliness and Hygiene

Ensure the spa maintains strict hygiene, especially during monsoon, to prevent infections.

2. Experienced Therapists

Professional therapists trained in Ayurveda, aromatherapy, and other treatments provide safe and effective care.

3. Quality Products

Check if the spa uses herbal, natural, and high-quality products suitable for monsoon skin and body care.

4. Personalized Treatments

A spa that customizes treatments based on your body type, skin condition, and wellness needs provides the best results.

5. Relaxing Environment

A calm and serene environment enhances the overall spa experience, helping you relax and enjoy the treatments fully.

DIY Spa Tips for Monsoon at Home

While professional spa visits are ideal, you can also try simple treatments at home:

Warm oil massage for 10-15 minutes daily to relieve muscle stiffness
Steam inhalation with herbs to open pores and detoxify
Aloe vera or cucumber masks to soothe and hydrate skin
Foot soaks with Epsom salts to relax tired feet
Aromatherapy using essential oils to reduce stress and improve mood

These simple routines complement professional spa treatments and keep you refreshed throughout the season.

Conclusion

Monsoon spa care is essential for Mumbaiites to stay healthy, refreshed, and rejuvenated during the damp season. From Ayurvedic massages and hydrating facials to steam therapy and aromatherapy, spa treatments help improve skin health, reduce stress, boost immunity, and detoxify the body. Regular spa care, combined with proper hydration, hygiene, and relaxation techniques, ensures you enjoy the monsoon season fully. Investing time in spa treatments not only rejuvenates the body but also uplifts the mind, making monsoon a season of wellness and self-care.