>> Crisis Hotline Booms
>> Resistant STI Reaches U.S.
>> Sleep Tips
The Med & Mic™ 01.20.23
MED NEWS blog post from Dr. Maria ON Speaking, LLC
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Mental Health Crisis Line Gets a Rise in Calls
Since its July 2022 launch, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has received more than 2 million calls, texts, and chat messages. After dialing 988, callers are routed to a counselor with an average response time of 44 seconds. Around 89% of the calls are answered. Some callers hang up before a counselor picks up. There has been a 48% increase in calls, a 263% increase in chats, and a 1,445% increase in texts compared to the help line’s earlier iteration a year ago. The average amount of time counselors spend communicating with callers is nearly 22 minutes. The government has invested $1 billion in the service. (Source: CNN, J. Howard, 1.19.23)
Resistant Gonorrhea
Public health officials have found two cases of gonorrhea that do not respond well to available antibiotics. This is the first instance of resistant gonorrhea in the United States. The strain had been circulating globally and was expected to eventually reach the U.S. A double dose of an existing antibiotic worked in the two cases, but experts are calling for a better approach and new medications. The sexually transmitted bacteria can cause pelvic pain and infertility in women and blindness in newborns. People can be infected without any symptoms and spread it to others. (Source; CNN, B. Goodman, 1.19.23)
Strategies to Help You Sleep
Here are 16 tips to help you sleep and to avoid stressing about not sleeping.
Journal
Plan your schedule for the next day
Listen to a bedtime story
Eat a light snack
Have a warm shower
Rub in some lavender lotion
Stretch or do some gentle yoga
Don’t look at work emails before bed
Dim the lights in your bedroom
Stow your screen
Keep the temperature cool
Add some white noise
Choose lightweight, breathable bedding
Point the clock away from you
Get up if you can’t sleep
Get help
(Source: Parade, E. Laurence, 1.19.23)
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis, or the advice of your own physician. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.