Lupus Awareness Month

Posted on May 6, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

May is observed as Lupus Awareness Month, a month used to educate, advocate, and support those affected by lupus.

Lupus is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the body’s immune system attacks its tissues and organs. Inflammation caused by lupus can affect many different body systems, such as the joints, skin, kidneys, blood cells, brain, heart, and lungs.

Healthcare providers sometimes call lupus systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is the most common type of lupus, which means you have lupus throughout your body. Other types of lupus include:

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus- is lupus that only affects your skin

Drug-induced lupus- occurs when some medications trigger lupus symptoms as a side effect. It is usually temporary and might go away after you stop taking the medication that caused it

Neonatal lupus- occurs when babies are sometimes born with lupus. Babies born to biological parents with lupus aren’t certain to have lupus, but they might have an increased risk

No two cases of lupus are exactly alike. Signs and symptoms may come suddenly or develop slowly, may be mild or severe, and may be temporary or permanent. Most people with lupus have a mild form of the disease characterized by flare-ups, when signs and symptoms may get worse for a while, and then improve or disappear completely for a time.

The signs and symptoms of lupus you experience will depend on which body systems are affected by the disease. The most common signs and symptoms include:

Fatigue

Fever

Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling

A butterfly-shaped rash on the face that covers the cheeks and bridge of the nose, or rashes elsewhere on the body

Skin lesions that appear or worsen with sun exposure

Fingers and toes that turn white or blue when exposed to cold or during stressful periods

Shortness of breath

Chest pain

Dry eyes

Headaches, confusion, and memory loss

Lupus likely results from a combination of genetics and the environment.

People with an inherited predisposition for lupus may develop the disease when they come into contact with an environmental trigger of the disease. Some potential triggers of lupus include:

Sunlight

Infections

Diagnosing lupus is difficult because signs and symptoms can vary from person to person and may change over time, overlapping with those of many other disorders.

No one test can diagnose lupus. The combination of blood and urine tests, signs and symptoms, and results of a physical examination can lead to a diagnosis. Blood and urine tests may include:

A complete blood count

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate

Kidney and liver assessment

Urinalysis

Antinuclear antibody (ANA) test

If your healthcare provider suspects that lupus is affecting your lungs or heart, they may suggest imaging tests that can include:

A chest X-ray

An echocardiogram

Lupus can harm the kidneys in many ways, and treatments can vary depending on the type of damage it causes. Sometimes, a kidney biopsy is needed to determine the best treatment. A skin biopsy can be performed to confirm a diagnosis of lupus affecting the skin.

A healthcare provider will suggest treatments for lupus that manage your symptoms. The goal is to minimize damage to the organs and how much lupus affects your day-to-day life. Most people with lupus need a combination of medications to help them prevent flare-ups and lessen the severity of symptoms during a flare-up. Medications you might need include:

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

Corticosteroids

Antimalarial drugs

Immunosuppressants

Biologics

Simple measures can help prevent lupus flare-ups if they occur, and help you to better cope with the signs and symptoms you experience, including:

Seeing your doctor regularly

Being sun smart

Getting regular exercise

Quitting smoking

Eating a healthy diet

Asking your healthcare provider if you need vitamin D and calcium supplements

If you would like to participate in Lupus Awareness Month, here are some ways you can do so:

Learn about lupus

Support those who are suffering from lupus

Advocate for better research, more care, and more compassion

For more information about the Lupus Center at the campus of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center or to make an appointment with a lupus doctor, call (718) 206-9888.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Health Benefits of Tai Chi

Posted on April 27, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Integrative health is a progressive approach to healthcare in which leading treatment services offered by modern medicine are combined with a deep understanding of the nature of illness, healing, and wellness.

This approach combines modern and holistic medicines to help prevent the onset of disease, address existing chronic conditions, and promote healing in patients at the center of a treatment plan that considers their physical, emotional, and social needs.

A treatment plan that accomplishes this is tai chi. Tai chi has been a tenet of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for centuries. Sometimes called meditation in motion, tai chi is a series of exercises that help bring harmony between the body’s energy and mind, by using slow, highly coordinated movements and physical postures with meditation and controlled breathing, aimed to energize and balance the body’s energy, known as qi, pronounced “chi”. According to traditional Chinese principles, when the qi is balanced, the body functions at its best.

Although tai chi is a low-impact exercise with movements that look leisurely, these movements are bodyweight exercises with physical demand.

There are hundreds of studies on tai chi, with researchers finding that tai chi has several benefits that may help with numerous health concerns. Here are some health benefits of tai chi:

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of death for older adults, with about one in four adults 65 years and older experiencing a fall every year. A review of ten studies on tai chi and balance found that people who practiced it had up to 50% fewer falls than those who didn’t. Both the CDC and the American Geriatric Society recognize tai chi as an effective way to lower fall risk as it helps build stability and strength, increasing balance, which helps prevent falls.

Research indicates that practicing tai chi can slow the progression of dementia by boosting cognition and brain health, as it can help with learning, memory, and other mental functions. Researchers found that older adults who practiced tai chi daily for 12 weeks had more activity in their prefrontal cortex, the area of the brain responsible for higher-level thinking skills. A study conducted by tai chi researcher and Chief of Geriatrics in the Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics at Oregon Health & Science University, Elizabeth Eckstrom, showed that people who practiced a simple form of tai chi called Tai Ji Quan twice a week for six months improved their score on a cognitive test by one and a half points. Additionally, the study showed that if they added a cognitive challenge while practicing tai chi, such as counting backwards from 20 or spelling words backward, their scores jumped by another three points.

Tai chi can bring a sense of calmness and quiet as it focuses on breathing and movement, which takes the mind away from any stressors, helping the stress melt away. One study conducted on participants who are deemed healthy but stressed showed that practicing tai chi for 12 weeks lowered their anxiety levels substantially.

There are studies that have shown that tai chi can reduce blood pressure as well as or better than antihypertensive drugs or other types of exercise. In 2024, one randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Open Network assigned 342 people with prehypertension to two groups: one group performed four sessions of tai chi each week, and the other group performed four sessions of aerobic exercise. After a year, both groups displayed lower systolic blood pressure readings. However, the group that practiced tai chi experienced a larger decline of 7.01 mg Hg on average, compared to the aerobic group, which was 4.61 mm Hg.

According to the CDC, one in five people in the U.S. lives with chronic pain that affects their daily life and activities. One review of people with chronic knee osteoarthritis found that they had significantly less pain and better physical function after practicing tai chi. The American College of Rheumatology and the Arthritis Foundation strongly recommend practicing tai chi to manage both chronic knee and hip osteoarthritis, as it helps improve muscle and core strength and coordination, leading to better joint stability. Studies have also indicated that tai chi can help people with fibromyalgia, with research showing it may relieve symptoms even better than aerobic exercise.

In 2021, a review of 23 studies by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health found that tai chi improved the exercise capacity, lung function, and quality of life for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) due to tai chi’s focus on deep abdominal breathing and movement, which can help increase breathing efficiency and oxygen intake.

Practicing tai chi can help the 10%-30% of older adults who suffer from insomnia. One systematic review of nine randomized trials published in the Journal of Sleep Disorders and Therapy reported that older adults who practiced tai chi one and a half to three hours a week significantly improved their sleep quality and had an enhanced functional ability. What’s more, Elizabeth Eckstrom’s research showed that people fell asleep 17 minutes sooner and slept 42 minutes longer after doing tai chi.

There is also other research that has linked tai chi to lower cholesterol and inflammation levels, and evidence that it may help reduce complications of Parkinson’s disease as well.

If you are interested in learning more about any of our integrative health services, events, or classes, or would like to schedule an appointment, please call us at (718) 206-5675.

Black Maternal Health Week: ElevateHer, Centering Pregnancy, and Heartwise

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Black Maternal Health Week takes place annually from April 11th to April 17th.

Founded and led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, this week-long campaign aims to build awareness, activism, and community-building to amplify the voices, perspectives, and lived experiences of Black mothers and birthing people.

Black Maternal Health Week highlights the importance of addressing the inequities of maternal and infant health.

According to data from the New York City Health Department, Black non-Hispanic women are about five times more likely to die from a pregnancy-associated cause than white non-Hispanic women.

This is due to the unfortunate number of disparities and challenges women in minority populations, such as Black women, may face pertaining to accessing prenatal care, including transportation issues, low socioeconomic status, lack of insurance, low education levels, and disparities in rural and urban healthcare access.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center has three services to address these disparities: ElevateHer, Centering Pregnancy, and Heartwise.

ElevateHer is a comprehensive pregnancy program designed to support women throughout their pregnancy and postpartum journey. By taking a “whole person” approach, the program ensures that the health and well-being of the mother and baby are addressed. The program focuses on the health literacy of expectant and postpartum mothers by providing comprehensive, integrative healthcare education.

Heartwise care is an example of comprehensive integrative care, as it is designed to raise awareness of the heightened risks of cardiovascular disease related to pregnancy complications.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women in the U.S. It is also the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths in the U.S., which accounts for about 26.5% of such deaths. Approximately 1 in 3 pregnancy-related deaths are due to cardiovascular problems, with higher risks observed in Black women compared to their Hispanic or White counterparts.

Conditions, such as preterm delivery, hypertension, diabetes, etc., can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by two to four times later in life. To combat this, the ElevateHer program partners with Jamaica Hospital’s award-winning cardiology department for patients to have the appropriate follow-ups in group settings.

In addition to ElevateHer and Heartwise, the Centering Pregnancy program, an innovative prenatal model, is designed to promote the overall health and well-being of mother and baby.

Unlike traditional one-on-one prenatal visits, this approach incorporates small group sessions to receive medical care, education, and emotional support, to foster meaningful relationships between participants and clinicians.

After an initial private visit with a provider, participants in the centering pregnancy program, all of whom are in similar stages of their pregnancy, meet in a small group setting for their prenatal appointments, where participants share with and learn from each other during their pregnancy. Each of the ten-centering prenatal care group sessions is approximately 90 minutes long. This group dynamic gives each of the participants the advantage of having more time with their provider.

At the beginning of the session, our facilitator will guide each patient to get weighed, have their blood pressure checked, and record their values for the provider to review. The provider will listen to the baby’s heartbeat and review the pertinent patient-specific information. After this information is collected, the 8-12 participants will form a circle and begin the fun and interactive educational session.

If you would like to learn more about these services, you can schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Women’s Health Center. To learn more, please call (718) 291-3276.

Why Spring is A Good Time to Rebuild Healthy Routines

Posted on April 3, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Spring has finally arrived, and with it comes warm weather, blooming flowers and trees, and longer days. It is a time for renewal and rejuvenation, and as we thaw out from winter, we may realize that spending most of our time indoors has caused us to fall into sedentary habits, such as binging comfort foods, not exercising, and other sluggish routines.

However, spring is the perfect time to refresh your health goals, rebuild healthy routines, and establish new habits. Here are some ways you can reset for the season:

Spring cleaning usually relates to deep cleaning our homes and decluttering our closets. However, it can also be a great way to reset your mindset. A clutter-free environment can help encourage mental clarity, productivity, and relaxation. You can start spring cleaning by organizing your workspaces, donating unused clothes and items, and deep-cleaning busy areas to create a space that feels new and cheerful. You can also declutter any digital spaces, such as emails, phone apps, and limit screen time, which can promote a more mindful relationship with technology.

Warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours make springtime the perfect time to take advantage of the sun. It allows us to enjoy its benefits, as it can boost our mood and energy. The spring sun recharges us with the vitamin D we were lacking after a cold and dreary winter. The sun also helps regulate circadian rhythms, which improves sleep and overall well-being. Even taking a short daily walk during the daytime can increase mental clarity and reduce stress. It is important to note that you should put on sunscreen, wear sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and garments with long sleeves and pants while outside to help prevent skin cancer.

Spring is a great time to assess your work-life balance and make the necessary adjustments that support your well-being. If you suffered from seasonal affective disorder or felt burnt out during winter, spring is an opportunity to rebalance work and life for less stress. Prioritize self-care and set boundaries. Make time for activities that bring you joy and happiness, such as engaging in your favorite hobbies, socializing with friends, or spending time with family. It is also important to schedule breaks, time outdoors, and moments of relaxation. A healthy work-life balance can increase mental clarity, motivation, and happiness, which can help you enter spring with restored energy and focus.

Warm spring weather provides the perfect temperature to move your workout outdoors. The standard minimum recommended time for moderate-intensity physical activity is 150 minutes per week. Whether it’s a morning jog, yoga in the park, evening walks, or gardening, it will do as long as your muscles are activated, and you do it consistently. Exercising in the sunshine adds a mood-enhancing benefit, as being amongst nature helps reduce cortisol levels, which improves heart health.

The longer days of spring may also benefit sleep health. The natural light of the sun during the day helps regulate the body’s melatonin production and improve your sleep quality and energy levels. Create a relaxing evening routine by winding down with calming activities such as reading, meditating, or gentle stretching. Try to avoid consuming caffeine or heavy meals late in the evening, as they can disrupt restfulness.

Spring is the time for new beginnings, which makes it an excellent time to focus on mental wellness. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, deep breathing, or journaling, can help decrease stress and gain clarity. Take a few minutes each day to practice gratitude, as it can change your mindset and improve your emotional well-being. Think about establishing seasonal goals that fit your values, whether it is improving your fitness, learning a new skill or language, or creating more balance in your life. Connecting with nature, practicing self-reflection, and letting go of old habits can refresh your outlook, which can help you feel more grounded and at peace.

This season of renewal is a great time to make dietary changes. Trade in heavy, processed foods for seasonal fruits, vegetables, and lighter meals that support digestion and energy. Focus on eating foods that are rich in nutrients, such as berries, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and lean proteins. It is also important to hydrate. Increase your water intake and try drinking herbal teas or lemon water to support natural detoxification. Evaluate your eating habits and identify areas where there can be improvement. Decrease your consumption of excess sugar, refined carbs, and artificial additives. Replace them with foods that are rich in fiber, healthy fats, and lean proteins. Add more fermented foods such as yogurt and kimchi, as they can also promote gut health, boost digestion, and immunity.

Spring can be a seasonal reset, as it allows you to feel more energized, balanced, and refreshed. Incremental changes such as spending more time outdoors, improving your diet, prioritizing rest, and tidying up your space can make a major impact on both your physical and mental well-being. Embracing renewal and positive habits can help you enter spring rejuvenated, filled with happiness, vitality, and personal growth.

IBS Awareness Month

Posted on April 2, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

April is observed as IBS Awareness Month, a month dedicated to raising awareness about irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common disorder that affects the large intestine.

Researchers are unclear of what exactly causes IBS, but they categorize it as a neurogastrointestinal (GI) disorder. Neurogastrointestinal disorders, also known as gut-brain interaction, involve problems with how the gut and brain coordinate to help the digestive system work. This communication challenge between the brain and gut can cause:

Dysmotility

Visceral hypersensitivity

Other potential causes of IBS may include:

Gut bacteria

Severe infections

Food intolerance

Childhood stress

IBS affects approximately 15% of the U.S. population, causing abdominal pain and changes to the frequency of your bowel movements. Other symptoms of IBS include:

Diarrhea, constipation, or alternating between the two

Feeling like you are unable to empty your bowels after pooping

Cramps

Excess gas and bloating

Mucus in stool that makes it look whitish

If a person has IBS, they may notice when certain things trigger symptoms. A trigger doesn’t cause IBS itself, but it can cause or worsen symptoms to flare up. Common IBS triggers include:

Periods

Certain foods

Stress

Researchers categorize IBS based on how a person’s stool looks on the days when they’re having flare ups. Most people with IBS may experience days when they have normal bowel movements and days when they experience abnormal ones. The bowel movements on abnormal days define the type of IBS they have. The types of IBS include:

IBS with constipation (IBS-C)- most of the stool is hard and lumpy

IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)- most of the stool is loose and watery

IBS with mixed bowel habits (IBS-M)- stool is both hard and lumpy and loose and watery

Post-infectious IBS- generally occurs after an infection in the intestines, and stool is either similar to IBS-D or IBS-M, with a smaller number of cases presenting stool as IBS-C

To diagnose IBS, a healthcare provider will get a full medical history by asking about your symptoms. Depending on your symptoms, they may need other tests to confirm a diagnosis. These tests include:

Lab tests

Imaging tests

No specific therapy works for everyone who has IBS. However, most people with IBS can find a treatment plan that works best for them. Typical treatment options for IBS include:

Modifying your diet

Exercising regularly and trying relaxation techniques

Therapy

Medications

No matter what form of IBS you are experiencing, working with a gastroenterologist can help you manage your symptoms effectively. You can schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 206-7001.

National Eating Disorder Awareness Week

Posted on February 25, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

National Eating Disorder Awareness Week (NEDAW) takes place February 23rd – March 1st. NEDAW raises awareness about eating disorders, challenges stigma, and provides hope and support to all who have been impacted by these conditions.

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that can cause unhealthy relationships with how a person thinks about food, eating, weight, and how they see themselves. If eating disorders aren’t treated effectively, they can become long-term problems and can be fatal in some cases.

Eating disorders are common. According to the National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA), studies show that 28.8 million people in the U.S. will have an eating disorder in their lifetime.

There are several types of eating disorders. They include:

Anorexia nervosa restricts food and/or caloric intake, and creates a fear of gaining weight and a distorted self-image

Bulimia nervosa causes a person to binge or eat large amounts of food in a short amount of time, or believe that the food intake was large, which is followed by purging the food by vomiting or with the use of laxatives, or excessive exercise

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) limits the amount or type of food eaten for reasons unrelated to a distorted self-image or an attempt to lose weight

Binge eating disorder causes a person to eat or think there is a large amount of food in a short time, followed by feelings of shame, regret, guilt, or depression

Pica causes a person to compulsively swallow non-food items, such as chalk, dirt, or paint

Rumination disorder causes undigested food to return to a person’s mouth after swallowing it. Food is then rechewed, re-swallowed, or spit out

It may be difficult to spot an eating disorder in a loved one, as they can often mimic some dietary or lifestyle changes. What’s more, you may not be able to tell if someone is suffering from an eating disorder by looking at them. Eating disorders have several signs and symptoms, including:

Mood swings

Fatigue

Fainting or dizziness

Thinning hair or hair loss

Unexplained weight changes or drastic weight loss

Unusual sweating or hot flashes

Behavioral symptoms of eating disorders include:

Restrictive eating

Eating a lot of food in a short amount of time

Avoiding certain foods

Forced vomiting after meals or misuse of laxatives

Compulsive exercising after meals

Frequent bathroom breaks after eating

Withdrawing from friends or social activities

Hiding food or throwing it away

Food rituals, such as chewing food longer than necessary or eating in secret

These symptoms look and feel different for each person and vary depending on the type of eating disorder they have, and can affect their health, emotions, and ability to function in important areas of life.

If a person has an eating disorder, they may experience several feelings, including:

Food is their enemy, or it can harm them

They did something wrong or shameful after they ate food

They aren’t the correct weight or body size

They are perceived negatively by other people

They are “failing” if they don’t meet certain food or weight requirements

What and how they eat is the only thing they can control in their life

They don’t want to spend time with others due to the fear of being judged

There isn’t an exact known cause for eating disorders. However, research has suggested that several factors can lead to a person developing an eating disorder, including:

Genetics

Brain biology

Underlying mental health conditions

Cultural and social ideals

Eating disorders can be developed by anyone at any age but are most common among adolescents and teenagers. A person may be at increased risk of developing an eating disorder if they:

Have a history of eating disorders or other mental health conditions in their biological family

Have an underlying mental health condition such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Experienced a physical, emotional, or sexual trauma

Participate in activities where their weight or body size is a factor, such as swimming, gymnastics, or wrestling

Have gone through a major change, such as starting a new school or job, a divorce, or a move

Have type 1 diabetes. Studies have found that up to 25% of women with type 1 diabetes develop an eating disorder

Has a driven personality and is a perfectionist

Untreated eating disorders can cause a person to have several serious health complications, as severely restricting calories, vomiting, or extreme exercise can take a toll on their physical health. Complications include:

Arrhythmia, heart failure, and other heart problems

Stroke

Gastrointestinal problems

Acid reflux

Low blood pressure

Osteoporosis

Organ failure and brain damage

Severe dehydration and constipation

Stopped menstrual cycles

Tooth damage

A healthcare provider may diagnose a person’s eating disorder by reviewing their symptoms, performing a physical exam, and ordering imaging, blood, or urine tests.

A mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, can also diagnose an eating disorder by conducting a psychological evaluation to learn more about a person’s eating behaviors and beliefs. They will use the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5-TR) to make a diagnosis. The DSM-5-TR outlines symptoms for each type of eating disorder.

Treatments for eating disorders can vary by type, but they can include:

Psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Medications such as antidepressants, antipsychotics, or other medications

Nutrition counseling from a registered dietitian

As a mental health condition, your feelings about food or your body image may put you at risk of suicide or suicidal thoughts. If at any time you feel overwhelmed or need someone to talk to, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (U.S.). Someone is available to help you 24/7.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of an eating disorder and needs the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment. Call 911 if there is an emergency.

Helping Kids Cope with Bullying

Posted on February 19, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Many children get teased by siblings or friends at some point in their childhood. Teasing isn’t usually harmful when done in a mutual, friendly, and playful way. When teasing constantly turns hurtful and cruel, it becomes bullying. Unfortunately, bullying is something that children experience at one time or another.

Bullying is when peers intentionally use physical, verbal, or psychological ways to torment someone else, using a real or perceived power imbalance between the bully and the victim.

Bullying affects 75% of kids at some point between kindergarten and 12th grade. Sadly, 10%-20% of kids will be chronically bullied and at risk for poor physical and mental health outcomes, such as physical illnesses, depression and anxiety, aggression, and in extreme cases, suicide. Moreover, they may also face lower graduation rates and less successful career placement.

Chronic bullying has three components:

A power differential between the child and their aggressor

Repeated bullying day after day

Social sanctioning, which regulates another person’s behavior, enforces social standards, and maintains order

There are several reasons why children bully other children. Sometimes they do it because they need a victim, someone who seems to be emotionally or physically weaker, or acts or looks different in some way that makes the bully feel more important, popular, or in control. It may seem like bullies are bigger and stronger; however, that isn’t always the case.

Additionally, children can sometimes bully others because that is the way they have been treated. This behavior has been normalized because they may come from families or other environments where everyone regularly gets angry shouts or calls each other names.

It can be hard to know whether a child is being bullied or not, unless they tell a parent, guardian, or trusted adult, or if they have visible injuries or bruises.

However, there are some warning signs. A parent may notice a child is:

Not eating, sleeping well, or not doing the things they usually enjoy

Moodier or more easily upset than usual

Acting differently or anxious

Avoiding certain situations, such as going to school or taking the bus

Kids can be reluctant to tell adults about bullying experiences because they feel embarrassed and ashamed that it’s happening, or worried that their parents will be disappointed, upset, or angry with them. They may feel like getting bullied is their own fault, or that if they looked or acted differently, they wouldn’t get bullied. They may also be reluctant to tell someone about the bullying, because they believe that the bullying will get worse due to the fear of their bully finding out they told someone.

If a parent suspects that their child is being bullied and their child is hesitant to open up, it is important to find ways to approach the issue. If a child tells their parents that they are being bullied or if they see it happening to someone else, it is important to listen calmly and offer them comfort and support. Parents should praise their child for doing the right thing by talking about it and reminding them that they aren’t alone, as a lot of people get bullied at some point. They should also explain that it is the bully who is behaving badly, not them, and reassure them that they will figure out what to do about the bullying together.

Parents can help kids learn how to deal with bullying if it happens. Some parents or caregivers may be tempted to tell a child to fight back against their bully; however, it is important to advise them not to respond to bullying by fighting or bullying in return. This can quickly escalate into violence, trouble, and someone getting injured. Instead, advise them that it is best to walk away from the situation, spend time with others, and tell an adult. Some other ways kids can improve the situation and feel better are by:

Telling an adult

Talking about it

Avoiding the bully and using the buddy system

Holding onto the anger

Acting brave, walking away, and ignoring the bully

A child’s confidence can be greatly affected by bullying. A parent can help rebuild it by encouraging them to spend time with friends who have a positive influence on them. They can also participate in any sports, clubs, or any other activities that they enjoy that build strength and friendships.

Parents can also provide their child with a sympathetic ear and listen attentively to their tough situations, but they should also encourage them to talk about the good parts of their day, so a line of open communication becomes a habit for everyone. It is important to make sure they know that they are believed and that their parents will do what they can to address the bullying.

If your child needs the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment.

Do Using Smart Rings Actually Help You Be Healthier?

Posted on February 13, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Recently, technology has brought us fitness trackers and smart watches that can help us track our workouts, daily steps, and even monitor our sleep, stress, heart rate, and blood oxygen levels.

However, smart rings have become another way to track our health, and can be used to monitor movement, body temperature, sleep, heart rate, stress, as well as menstrual cycles.

Unlike smartwatches, smart rings don’t have screens to view these health metrics. Instead, they use a Bluetooth connection to send health data to your smartphone.

When a smart ring detects a person’s cardiovascular health, it uses infrared photoplethysmography technology (PPG), which uses a light source and a photodetector on the surface of the skin to measure the variations in blood circulation. These variations can estimate heart rate variability, blood oxygen saturation, blood pressure, and artery stiffness.

Out of the different sensors a smart ring has, the PPG is the most studied one due to its proposed accuracy in tracking heart rate and monitoring overall cardiovascular health. However, most studies note that they are significantly less accurate than medical-grade technology.

According to the National Library of Medicine, in a study with 35 healthy individuals, researchers compared the heart rate and heart variability measured by a smart ring with an ECG during the night. Results showed that some health parameters matched the medical-grade measurement, but most were inaccurate.

To monitor body temperature, smart rings use a sensor called a thermistor, which estimates body temperature based on a person’s skin temperature. Smart rings also use this feature to assess stress levels and identify other bodily issues. However, a systematic review of the sensors and functionalities of wearable health technology, like a smart ring, indicates that these devices may not accurately indicate a person’s core body temperature, as researchers point out that a person’s skin temperature is a few degrees Fahrenheit lower than their body’s temperature.

What’s more, researchers emphasize that a person’s skin temperature fluctuates based on environmental conditions. When considering these two factors, it may be assumed that the thermistor sensor won’t be accurate.

Companies that produce smart rings have detailed the use of a variety of sensors to support women’s health. This feature relies mostly on the smart ring’s temperature feature, which they claim to use to track menstrual cycles and fertility windows.

Numerous studies have examined the accuracy of smart rings, which have produced promising results. According to the National Library of Medicine, in a pilot study with 22 participants, researchers used a smart ring to analyze temperature changes during the menstrual cycle. They discovered that the temperature readings were consistent with oral temperatures that were taken with ambulatory equipment.

In a separate study with 26 participants, it was found that this study was consistent with the previous study’s findings, demonstrating that smart rings could be a beneficial tool for monitoring menstruation. This study also detected that there was a significant temperature drop around ovulation, highlighting that smart rings could be an additional tool to track fertility.

Although these results are promising based on limited studies on smart rings, further research is needed as they are not 100% accurate.

Most of the smart rings on the market combine various metrics such as heart rate, heart rate variability, body temperature, and movement, to estimate a person’s daily stress levels and provide tips to reduce them.

According to the National Library of Medicine, research suggests that there is a connection between stress and decreased parasympathetic regulation, the regulation that affects heart rate, heart rate variability, and respiratory rate. These are changes that a smart ring could potentially detect.

Additionally, a study with 525 college students explored this subject further. The study indicated that sleep data from smart rings could help predict stress. Notably, some experts do not consider smart rings as promising as research, as they highlight the negative effect smart rings may have on mental health. The reason is that while smart rings are promoted as a tool to shift lifestyle habits, they may cause the opposite effect, noting that constant monitoring of health metrics can create obsessive behaviors and paranoia about a person’s well-being. It could also be harmful to a person’s self-confidence, as a person may feel like they are not meeting the expectations and goals that a smart ring sets for them.

Smart rings can perform a sleep analysis by tracking a person’s heart rate, blood oxygen, and sleep cycles. They may also include features, such as a snoring score and a recovery metric that indicates energy levels before a person starts their day.

Polysomnography (PSG) is used to track sleep, which uses a variety of signals such as brain activity, eye movements, muscle activity, blood pressure, heart rate, and more. Although smart rings are not as accurate as PSG, researchers have been drawn to them due to the smart ring’s potential to monitor a person’s sleep at home comfortably.

Any current evidence on smart rings for tracking sleep is still very limited and conflicting. While some small studies highlight their potential. However, studies with bigger sample sizes indicate that smart rings can over- or underestimate some sleep parameters. A study in the National Library of Medicine compared the accuracy of several health technology devices on 35 individuals overnight. The study found that a smart ring surpassed the accuracy of smartwatches in various sleep parameters such as wake, light sleep, deep sleep, and REM sleep.

Smart rings can measure a person’s physical activity with two sensors: an accelerometer that tracks movement and speed, and a gyroscope that helps determine orientation. Smart rings gather data from these motion sensors, as well as the PPG and body temperature trackers, to understand how physical activity affects the body.

Research is limited in this area; however, a study in the National Library of Medicine focused on the accuracy of smart rings in measuring caloric expenditure and steps. The results indicated that smart rings were far from accurate, causing researchers to note the need to improve these devices, specifically their estimation of energy expenditure.

Another study on step count was consistent with a study that indicated a smart ring overestimated step count, compared to a medical-grade device to detect motion called ActiGraph.

A systematic review on wearable tech devices supported the findings of the studies, noting that they may be useful for estimating step count but shouldn’t be trusted to measure calorie expenditure.

Smart rings and other wearable devices that can track a person’s health can be useful. However, it is important not to use them to self-diagnose conditions. It is important to see a healthcare provider when experiencing any symptoms to professionally diagnose conditions.

If you are experiencing any medical problems, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. Please call (718) 206-7001.

How Does Negative News Affect Your Mental Health?

Posted on February 4, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Current events in the news have been very tense, stressful, and depressing. The constant barrage of negative news on local and cable news stations, as well as social media, feels never-ending.

Watching or reading the news can have a negative impact on our mental health.

When we watch news footage that upsets us, our body’s “fight or flight” response is activated. Adrenaline and the stress hormone cortisol are released, causing us to experience symptoms similar to those we feel when we are in danger, such as a rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and an upset stomach, among others.

Negative news can increase symptoms of depression and anxiety. According to Mental Health America (MHA), one study found that people showed an increase in symptoms after only 14 minutes of news consumption. The symptoms worsen when people feel they have no ability to improve the situations they are learning about on the news.

As these symptoms worsen, they can cause a person to doomscroll. Doomscrolling is when a person actively seeks saddening or negative material to read or scroll through on social media or news media outlets. Doomscrolling can also greatly impact your mental health as it reinforces negative thoughts and a negative mindset, and can also cause feelings of:

Apprehension

Sadness and anger

Uncertainty about the future

Doomscrolling has many potential effects, including:

May worsen mental health issues

May lead to insomnia

Doomscrolling can be attributed to someone relying on social media for their news, which can drive addictive behavior. In 2020, the Pew Research Center found that about 53% of U.S. adults said they “often” or “sometimes” get their news from social media. Among the social media sites where they get their news from, 36% of Americans regularly get their news from Facebook, 23% from YouTube, and 15% from Twitter/X.

Regularly getting your news can be detrimental as clickbait headlines, mis- and disinformation, and social media algorithms are designed to keep you coming back for more, making it difficult to stop returning to apps for your news.

People are more likely to be negatively affected by the news when it is personally relevant to them and when they share an identity with the people involved in the news story. This is the case for members of the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities because they are more often targets of violence and hate crimes.

With all the negative news, there are many ways to support ourselves and each other during these times, such as:

Identifying your triggers by taking time to think about the topics that cause symptoms of anxiety and depression, so you can limit your consumption of media with triggering content

Reading the news instead of watching news videos. Studies done by the American Psychological Association (APA) show that this can be less triggering due to written news articles containing less disturbing imagery

Limiting your time watching or reading the news. Although doomscrolling may help you feel more informed, it ultimately does more harm than good. Aim for no more than 30 minutes a day if possible

Engaging in an enjoyable activity after taking in the news to help you decompress

Getting involved with a group that is working on the issues you are passionate about can help you feel empowered to make a change instead of feeling helpless about the world around you

Joining a supportive community of people who share a common identity, such as an affinity group, can help foster resilience and create solidarity during these difficult times of prejudice or injustice

Being conscious of where your news sources come from, as some can be more based on opinions than facts. Make sure the information you’re getting is accurate and provides diverse perspectives

Focusing more on what brings you joy and happiness, such as engaging in social activities, spiritual practices, physical movement, mindfulness and gratitude practices, creative hobbies, journaling, or spending time with a pet

Today’s 24-hour news cycle can seem difficult to stay clear of. If you need the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment.

Dealing with Loss During the Holiday Season

Posted on December 11, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

The holiday season is a time filled with joy and happiness. But it can also be full of sadness and grief, especially when you are struggling with the loss of a loved one.

It can be very challenging to deal with grief during the holiday season, as seasonal events and holiday traditions can serve as a reminder of what has been lost, which can magnify a person’s sense of loss and sorrow. The happiness of others can make those who are grieving feel isolated and alone.

However, seasonal events and holiday traditions can also serve as comforting rituals that allow those who are grieving an opportunity to connect with family and friends, focus on cherished memories, and try to recapture their sense of joy.

If you are mourning the loss of loved ones this holiday season, here are some ways to help cope with your grief:

Do what feels right for you, as you are not obligated to participate in any activities that don’t feel doable. Create realistic expectations for yourself and others, but it is important to be gentle and kind to yourself. However, holiday activities could be a good distraction that brings joyful feelings and good memories.

Accept whatever you are feeling. Everyone grieves and mourns differently. Some people may try to avoid the pain and sad feelings, while others may feel every emotion. Some people may feel bad if they aren’t up to enjoying the holiday, and others may feel guilty because they are feeling joyful. A person may cycle through these feelings throughout the season.

Get support for your emotions and grief. Talking with family and friends about your emotions and mental health needs. It is important to be honest about how you would like to do things this year. If you would like to talk about those who have passed, then do so, and let others know that it is okay. If you are participating in a holiday activity, let people know that you may bow out quickly if it becomes too much for you, and if possible, have a friend there to support you.

Put the focus on children in the family. Many of the activities we participate in during the holidays place special attention on children, and it may be helpful to focus on them during this difficult time. It is important to recognize that the choices you make in regard to how you get through the holidays may affect the children in the family. They may not understand why you don’t want to join family festivities if you withdraw. If you participate in activities that are important to them, you could allow yourself to feel their joy and excuse yourself when you have reached your limit.

Sometimes, the anticipation of the holiday is worse than the actual holiday itself. Planning comforting activities ahead of time to give you something to look forward to, instead of building up the anxiety of the pain that the holiday could bring. It is important to make sure to include breaks for quiet grounding time and rest in your plans. An emotion like grief can drain your energy, so you may feel worn out more easily than usual. Add music, rest, meditation, prayer, rest, journaling, a walk, a comforting movie, and other downtime to your holiday activities.

In moments of grief and loss, we can feel paralyzed by the intense emotions such as sadness, anger, or resentment, and sometimes relief can be found by giving to others. Focusing on others instead of yourself and taking action that makes a difference can help broaden our perspectives. Honor a loved one that you’ve lost by donating in their name to a charity or cause that they cherished, or buy something that symbolizes them or what you shared to donate to a family in need. You can also try volunteering to help people in a way that is related to what caused the pain you’re feeling. Some examples include:

If you have lost someone to suicide, you can volunteer for a depression or suicide hotline

If a hospital or nursing home took good care of your loved one, bring holiday gift baskets and cards for the staff

If you were a caregiver for your loved one who has passed, you know how hard it is to do caregiving during the holidays. Consider supporting a caregiver you know with a gift, a meal, or some practical help

It can be helpful to participate in holiday rituals that acknowledge and honor the memory of someone who has passed, especially if it relates directly to their interests. Some ideas include:

Light candles

Talk or write about the person on social media

Donate children’s toys or books

Dedicate a prayer or religious service to the loved one’s memory

Plant a tree in memory of the deceased in your own yard or in a forest

Make a card or write a holiday letter with the person’s picture

It is important not to hesitate to ask for help or accept help and support when it is offered to you. Let others host, cook, or handle the organization of activities, so you don’t have to take on everything yourself. Others can help you with decorating, shopping, shipping packages or cards, wrapping gifts, driving you to any family gatherings and parties, or getting your home ready for visitors.

Losing loved ones that you have celebrated with for a long time can make it feel like the yearly celebrations will never be the same again. In some ways, they won’t be the same, and accepting this will help you manage your expectations. It is important to remember that different isn’t always bad. If it is possible, embrace the difference and acknowledge that there can still be joy in your life. Starting new activities that don’t have specific memories tied to a loved one may make it easier. Activities that may create new memories could include:

Holding a virtual family gathering

Planning a family movie night

Try a new recipe for the holiday menu

Having a new meal delivered from a grocery store or restaurant

Volunteer to serve meals at a shelter for people without homes

If you feel that participating in holiday activities will be too much for you and you would like to withdraw, let your family and friends know before doing so. However, plan comforting alternative activities for yourself and let someone know what you will be doing. It is a good idea to make sure someone checks in with you regularly, especially on the actual holiday. Grieving is something that is very personal. No one can tell you how to grieve or how long it may take. Life without a loved one who has passed away will never be the same, but you will get through this.

Losing a cherished loved one is always difficult. Celebrating birthdays, holidays, or any happy moments and milestones without a loved one who has passed away can put a damper on observing them. When participating in holiday activities and celebrations, remember the good times you shared with them. It is also important to note that there is no specific way to grieve because everyone grieves differently. There is also no timeline for healing. Take time for yourself when you need to, and ask for help and support when you need it.

If you or a loved one is struggling with a loss, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment facilities in your area.

You can also call or text the 988 Lifeline to speak with a trained live agent.

If you or a loved one needs the assistance and support of a mental health professional at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-206-5575 to schedule an appointment.