Understanding the Impact of Excessive Screen Time  In our digital age, we find ourselves immersed in screens for work, entertainment, and social interactions. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to screens has been linked to various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt our circadian rhythm, affecting the quality of our sleep. Moreover, the constant stream of information and social comparison on social media platforms can contribute to ...

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Gratitude’s Impact on Mental Health Beyond normal conversational niceties, expressing genuine gratitude profoundly influences mental health. Numerous studies consistently link regular gratitude to a significant reduction in stress and depression. It should also be noted that a grateful mindset extends beyond mere positivity; it represents a cognitive shift, reframing perceptions from a sense of lack to a sense of abundance. This shift not only increases general resilience but also fosters a sustained positive outlook ...

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Why Should I Tell My Partner?  First off, notifying a partner about a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) is essential for maintaining trust within the relationship. Honesty and open communication are fundamental to any successful partnership. Sharing this sensitive information demonstrates respect and consideration for one’s partner’s health and well-being. Early disclosure allows for timely medical intervention. Proper diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring are necessary for STIs. Informing one’s partner promptly allows both individuals ...

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Sports physicals are vital to ensure the health and well being of those keen on participating in athletic activities. They are thorough medical exams that are necessary to gauge the physical fitness levels of athletes. In Oregon, the Oregon Schools Activities Association (OSAA) oversees sports physicals. The OSAA also recommends a specific form be used by medical professionals when performing this exam. The form can be found online at https://www.osaa.org/docs/forms ...

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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) (historically referred to as STDs)  are more prevalent than many think and if left undetected and untreated, can have severe consequences. Regular STI testing ensures early identification of any infections, enabling prompt medical intervention and preventing further transmission.  Consistent STI testing helps individuals take control of their sexual health. Many STIs may not display obvious symptoms after contraction, making testing the only reliable method for detection. Regular testing allows individuals to ...

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Do you feel like recently you and/or those around you have been getting sicker in recent allergy seasons? AFC Portland’s very own Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Andrew Miller, has some insight on what’s going on and what may be causing this uptick in illnesses. “The current allergy season is the worst that it’s been in years, so we are seeing a lot of visits for congestion, sore throat, and cough. These ...

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Almost three decades ago, in 1994, Congress established Men’s Health Week for the week leading up to Father’s Day. The declaration and observation was designed to raise awareness about the health challenges that men face. It is also a time to promote preventative health and the overall well-being of men. Since then, the observation expanded to include the entire month of June and is now observed by multiple other counties, making it “International ...

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Summer is approaching along with warmer weather in the Pacific NW. After a long wet winter and spring, there is excitement for most of us. That said, it’s important to take precautions to protect ourselves from the sun’s harmful rays and the overall heat itself. Prolonged exposure to either sun or high temperatures can lead to symptoms such as sunburn, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. Because of all these factors, it is ...

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Mental health refers to the overall state of an individual’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It encompasses a wide range of conditions that affect how we feel, think and behave. Mental health is important just like physical health, and a positive state of mental health is key to overall health.  The importance of mental health awareness can’t be overstated. Despite increased attention to mental health issues in recent years, the stigma surrounding mental ...

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Spring in the Pacific Northwest brings a vibrant array of fresh produce that fills local markets and grocery store shelves. As the weather warms and the days grow longer, the region’s fertile lands awaken with an abundance of delicious fruits and vegetables. From crisp asparagus to juicy strawberries, there is a wide variety of seasonal produce to choose from. Shopping for foods that are in season is not only a culinary delight, but it ...

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