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CVS Health survey shows mental health concerns continue to rise

Mental health concerns higher than during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the effects of social media a driving factor

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WOONSOCKET, R.I. /PRNewswire/ — A recent CVS Health® (NYSE: CVS)/Morning Consult survey found that a majority of adults have significant concerns about their mental health and rates across the country continue to rise.

Concerns higher than during COVID-19 pandemic, with the effects of social media a driving factor
Image provided by CVS Health
  • Two-thirds (65%) of adults have experienced concerns about their own mental health or the mental health of their friends and family, which is up six percentage points from 2022 and 15 percentage points from 2020.
  • About eight in 10 adults (77%) are concerned about mental health in the country, viewing it as a top concern in line with issues such as the economy (81%).
  • Seventy percent of parents are concerned about their children’s mental health, which is higher than their concerns about their children’s physical health (66%).
  • Respondents are likely to turn to both mental well-being apps (48%) and therapists (55%) for care.

“Mental health became a top concern in 2020 and it has only risen since,” said Taft Parsons III, M.D., Vice President and Chief Psychiatric Officer, CVS Health. “Uncertainty around the future, current events and social media continue to drive anxiety among adults. Our priority, across CVS Health, remains improving access to quality virtual and in-person mental health care and ensuring we have resources in place to address the unique needs of individuals.”

Americans are concerned about social media’s implications on their mental health

The survey also found that nearly four in 10 adults (37%) believe social media has hurt society at-large.

  • As a result, a third of adults have started to turn off notifications for social media apps and are attempting to spend less time on social media.
  • About half of parents feel that social media is impacting their children’s perceptions of the world and their children’s development.
  • On the other hand, more than one in three adults (36%) report that social media has taught them about mental health issues.

“Our increasing use of technology has helped increase access to mental health care – CVS Health has had over 43 million mental health virtual visits since 2020 – and created a way for people to talk openly about the topic, reducing stigma,” added Parsons III. “But as we navigate the impacts social media has on mental health, it has become increasingly important that we highlight its limitations and set guardrails for ourselves and our children.”

CVS Health’s commitment to mental health care

As the leading health solutions company with resources that expand nationally and in communities across the country, CVS Health continues to increase accessibility to both in-person and virtual mental health services:

  • In select states, consumers have access to in-person and virtual mental health services at MinuteClinic®. Approximately 78% of patients report a reduction in their depression symptoms1.
  • MinuteClinic offers depression screenings virtually and in all MinuteClinic locations.
  • CVS Health launched Be Seen Be Heard to increase depression screenings among underserved communities.
  • In April, as part of its Centering Youth Mental Health program, the CVS Health Foundation awarded grants to the Greater Flint Health Coalition, Kentucky Youth Advocates and Reinvent South Stockton Coalition to support their work to provide accessible adolescent and young adult mental health services.
  • Project Health includes depression screenings at all their events.
  • Resources for Living (RFL) takes a comprehensive, preventive approach to members’ mental health, improving patient access and driving cost savings, including total medical costs, prescription costs, hospital services and in-network care utilization.
  • As part of its focus on reducing suicide attempts among Aetna members, CVS Health has seen a 16% reduction in suicide attempts among Aetna adult Commercial members when compared with a 2019 baseline.
  • CVS Healthspire™:
    • Signify Health® screens individuals for depression in every In-Home Health Evaluation visit.
    • At Oak Street Health®, patients are able to schedule both behavioral and physical health appointments.
  • CVS Health offers a number of mental health resources and guides on CVSHealth.com, including a resource center focused on the unique mental health needs of different populations – from the LGBTQ+ community to young adults to parents and caregivers.
  • As part of the Beauty Mark initiative, CVS Health promotes healthier self-image and positive mental well-being by not materially altering the beauty imagery created for stores, marketing materials, websites, apps or social media.

For more information on how CVS Health is making mental well-being services more accessible, less complicated and more convenient, visit CVSHealth.com.

Methodology  

This poll was conducted by Morning Consult between March 19-21, 2024, among a national sample of 2,202 adults. The margin of error for the full sample is plus or minus two percentage points. The interviews were conducted online and the data were weighted to approximate a target sample of adults based on age, gender, educational attainment, race, and region.

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  1. Measured via PHQ-9 scores for patients who have completed more than one visit and reported having at least mild depression symptoms in their initial visit. Percentages do not add up to 100% due to rounding.

About CVS Health
CVS Health® is the leading health solutions company, delivering care like no one else can. We reach more people and improve the health of communities across America through our local presence, digital channels and over 300,000 dedicated colleagues – including more than 40,000 physicians, pharmacists, nurses and nurse practitioners. Wherever and whenever people need us, we help them with their health – whether that’s managing chronic diseases, staying compliant with their medications or accessing affordable health and wellness services in the most convenient ways. We help people navigate the health care system – and their personal health care – by improving access, lowering costs and being a trusted partner for every meaningful moment of health. And we do it all with heart, each and every day. Follow @CVSHealth on social media.

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Lifestyle

Plastic Surgeons of America Transforms Patient-Surgeon Connections

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Dr. Heather Levites of LevityLifts Joins PSofA, Bringing Her Expertise to the Platform

RALEIGH, N.C., Sept. 25, 2024  /PRNewswire/ — Plastic Surgeons of America (PSofA), a new product from Hyperspace Ventures, is set to revolutionize the plastic surgery industry with its cutting-edge platform designed to enhance the way patients find and connect with leading surgeons. Utilizing an advanced matching algorithm and artificial intelligence, PSofA streamlines the process for individuals seeking quality surgical care.

The platform was built by Hyperspace Ventures, a North Carolina-founded firm with a history of building successful tech products. PSofA is available on all devices and hosts a plethora of valuable features for the patient and surgeon:

For Patients

  • Find top plastic surgeons by procedure and location and match with confidence
  • Browse individual surgeon profiles in-depth and read trusted reviews
  • Book a consult seamlessly and receive expert in-person care

For Surgeons

  • Claim a profile and open up the largest channel for new patients
  • Promote their personal brand and showcase their work to millions
  • Drive new leads with automated consultation scheduling and EMR integration

Dr. Heather Levites, a Raleigh-based Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and founder of LevityLifts, joins PSofA with an extensive background in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. She holds degrees from MIT and Stony Brook University and trained at Duke University. Her addition underscores PSofA’s commitment to making top-tier professionals available to patients.

“Plastic Surgeons of America represents a significant leap forward in patient-surgeon interactions,” said Dr. Levites. “This platform not only empowers patients with immediate access to leading surgeons but also ensures they receive personalized and high-quality care. I am proud to be part of this innovative initiative.”

For more information visit plasticsurgeonsofamerica.com.

About Plastic Surgeons of America

Plastic Surgeons of America is designed to enhance the connection between patients and plastic surgeons. PSofA offers a streamlined and efficient way for individuals to confidently find qualified plastic surgeons, ensuring a higher standard of care and patient satisfaction.

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About Hyperspace Ventures

Hyperspace Ventures is a North Carolina-founded software design, development, and venture capital firm. Their successes include the tennis and pickleball e-learning platform TopCourt and productivity tool Space Dial. Find them at hyperspaceventures.com.

About Dr. Heather Levites
Dr. Heather Levites is the founder of LevityLifts and a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with a specialty in advanced cosmetic surgery. She has authored multiple peer-reviewed publications and co-founded “The Resident Review” podcast. Find her at levitylifts.com.

SOURCE Hyperspace Ventures; Plastic Surgeons of America

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.


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Senior Pickleball Report

Ludica Health Launches a Pickleball-Themed Game for Falls Prevention Week 2024!

Ludica Health launched a pickleball-themed video game on LudoFit! during Falls Prevention Awareness Week to help older adults improve balance and coordination from home.

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As a passionate pickleball enthusiast, I’m always thrilled to see innovative ways to promote the sport, especially when it helps improve the lives of our older adults. That’s why I’m particularly excited about Ludica Health’s recent announcement during Falls Prevention Awareness Week (September 23-27, 2024). The company has just launched a new pickleball-themed video game on its interactive exercise app, LudoFit! This game not only captures the fun of pickleball but also aims to reduce fall risks among older adults.

Ludica Health Launches a Pickleball-Themed Game for Falls Prevention Week 2024!
LudoFit’s new virtual pickleball game, designed to enhance balance and coordination safely from home

The Importance of Falls Prevention

Falls pose a significant threat to older adults, with the CDC reporting that about one in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each year. This alarming statistic underscores the importance of effective fall prevention strategies. LudoFit’s innovative approach is a breath of fresh air, as it combines entertainment with the critical elements of strength, balance, coordination, and reaction time—factors essential in reducing fall risk.

A Game-Changer in Home Exercise

The newly launched pickleball-themed game transports players to a virtual court where they can enjoy the exhilarating dynamics of this beloved sport right from the comfort of their home. “Pickleball perfectly aligns with LudoFit’s mission,” said Mark Evin, Founder and CEO of Ludica Health. This game allows older adults to engage in physical activity while sidestepping and swinging their arms for forehand and backhand shots, resembling a real pickleball match!

Ludica Health
Users can download the app to their laptops or iPads.

What excites me even more is that LudoFit adapts to all ability levels. Everyone, regardless of fitness or mobility, can participate and benefit from this engaging experience. It’s an inspiring step forward in promoting physical activity among older adults who may not have been able to access traditional exercise venues.

Transforming Exercise into Play

I’ve seen firsthand how much of a barrier balance issues can be for seniors wanting to try pickleball. That’s what makes this game such a fantastic opportunity—users can experience the thrill of pickleball without the fear of falling on the court. As Kim Cozart, a 63-year-old user remarked, “I’ve wanted to try pickleball, but with my balance issues, I don’t want to fall. This game gives me an opportunity to play pickleball without actually having to be on the court.”

User Impact

LudoFit’s pickleball game has already garnered positive responses from users who appreciate its fun and safe approach to exercise. Dr. Samim Hasham, 64, described the experience, saying, “This game is great. It keeps your attention. You feel really good. You feel active.” This kind of feedback highlights the need for engaging and accessible exercise options for our older population.

Mike Studer, a Doctor of Physical Therapy, reinforced the training benefits of the game, noting it helps users improve agility and reaction times without feeling like they’re doing tedious exercises. This playful approach to training is sure to make a huge difference in fall prevention efforts.

Join the Movement!

LudoFit is available through a monthly subscription of just $15, making it an affordable option for many seniors looking to stay active. You can check it out at https://ludo.fit. The combination of pickleball fun with serious health benefits makes this game a must-try for seniors, caregivers, and families alike.

As a devoted advocate for pickleball, I can’t help but celebrate initiatives like this that bring the joy of our beloved sport to a broader audience while improving health outcomes. Kudos to Ludica Health for creating such an impactful game that not only entertains but also focuses on making a real difference in people’s lives. Let’s embrace this new way to stay active and engaged in pickleball!

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For more information about Ludica Health and its innovative health and wellness solutions, visit
www.ludicahealth.com, or follow them on X and LinkedIn.

SOURCE Ludica Health Inc.

Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/

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  • Michael J Sliwa

    Over the past few years, Mike has become an insane pickleballer (pickler), fortunately for the senior 50+ crowd he started his show, Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report. He spends the rest of his time speaking on social justice and spending time with his beautiful wife, Karen, and enjoying simple living in his ger/yurt. View all posts

Stay up-to-date with the latest Pickleball news, and be the first to know when the newest episode of Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report is released on YouTube and much more.

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health and wellness

Flex Continues to Offer Non-Toxic Solutions as FDA Investigates Toxic Metals in Menstrual Products

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LOS ANGELES, Sept. 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ —

Flex, a pioneer in sustainable period care, has announced that its menstrual discs and cups are confirmed to be free from harmful substances, including PFAS (forever chemicals), lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury. This announcement comes in the wake of the FDA’s recent investigation into the presence of toxic metals in tampons, sparking urgent conversations about the safety and regulation of menstrual health products.

non-toxic period care
Flex, a leader in sustainable period care, announced today that independent third-party lab testing has confirmed all Flex menstrual discs and cups are free from harmful PFAS (forever chemicals), lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury.

Despite the tampon’s invention dating back to 1931, it wasn’t until now that these essential items have been subjected to rigorous testing for harmful chemicals. The recent findings of toxic metals in some tampons have heightened safety concerns, leaving many consumers wondering about the long-term health impacts of using these products.

In the midst of this crisis, a growing number of consumers are questioning, “What’s safe?” While some have transitioned to alternatives like organic tampons, period underwear, and natural pads, studies show that toxic chemicals are also finding their way into these products.

“We face a critical gap in research regarding whether toxins in tampons can be absorbed through the vaginal wall,” said Lauren Wang, founder and CEO of Flex. “This raises an essential question: should period product manufacturers be responsible for proving their safety, or is it up to the consumers to prove there’s harm?”

Flex introduced its innovative disposable menstrual disc in 2016, positioning it as a non-toxic, body-safe alternative to traditional tampons. Since launch, over 150 million discs have been sold without any reported cases of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). With independent lab results verifying the absence of harmful metals and PFAS, Flex solidifies its status as the leading disc and cup brand in the U.S.

As concerns about chemical safety continue to rise, it remains alarming that fewer than 3% of American women are aware of Flex’s offerings. The company is dedicated to increasing awareness around safe, non-toxic period care options.

About The Flex Co.

Flex is recognized as the #1 sustainable period care brand in the U.S., innovating the menstrual disc category in 2016. Its award-winning portfolio is available in over 30,000 retail stores, including major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and CVS. Headquartered in Venice, California, Flex is FDA-registered and the sole designer of its disc and cup products, manufactured in the U.S. and Canada. To learn more about Flex’s commitment to safe menstrual health, visit flexfits.com.

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Stay informed and empowered in your period care choices with Flex!

SOURCE The Flex Company

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.

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  • Dolores Raphael

    Dolores Raphael is a dedicated writer and blogger focused on health, fitness, and everyday living. She shares practical tips and inspiring insights to help others lead a balanced and vibrant lifestyle. one of her passions is Pickleball. View all posts blogger/ writer


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