Promoting Healthy Children; Both Mind and Body
-May is National Mental Health Month. Do you know how to promote a positive mental health in your children?-

PERTH AMBOY, NJ – May 21, 2010 – It’s easy for parents to identify a child’s physical needs; nutritious and balanced meals; shelter and clothing; sufficient rest and physical activity and a healthy living environment. “A child’s mental and emotional needs may not be as obvious,” says Arunesh Mishra, MD, Raritan Bay Medical Center’s chair, Department of Psychiatry and medical director of Behavioral Health Services. “Good mental health allows children to think clearly, develop socially, learn new skills, build self-esteem and develop a positive mental outlook.” Below are some basics for a child’s good mental health:

• Give children unconditional love and provide a safe and secure environment. “Children need to know that your love does not depend on their accomplishments,” says Dr. Mishra. “And fear can be very real for a child. Try to find out what is frightening him or her. Parents should be loving, patient and reassuring.”
• Nurture children’s confidence and self-esteem. Praise and encourage them. Set realistic goals for them. Be honest about your mistakes. Avoid sarcasm.
• Encourage children to play. Play time is as important to a child’s development as food. Play helps children be creative, develop problem-solving skills and self-control, and learn how to get along with others.
• Enroll children in an after school activity, especially if they are otherwise home alone after school. This is a great way for kids to stay productive, learn something new, gain self-esteem and have something to look forward to during the week. Or check in on children after school if they are home alone. “Children need to know that even if you’re not there physically, you’re thinking about them, and interested in how they spent their day and how they’ll spend the rest of it,” says Dr. Mishra.
• Give appropriate guidance and discipline when necessary. Be firm, but kind and realistic with your expectations. The goal is not to control the child, but to help him or her learn self-control.
• Communicate. Make time each day after work and school to listen to your children and talk with them about what is happening in their lives. Share emotions and feelings with your children.
• Get help. If you’re concerned about your child’s mental health, consult with teachers, a guidance counselor or another adult who may have information about his or her behavior. If you think there is a problem, seek professional help. “Early identification and treatment can help children with mental health problems reach their full potential,” says Dr. Mishra.

RBMC’s vital and growing behavioral health services offer an integrated approach to healing, recovery and wellness for those facing mental health challenges. Services include inpatient, outpatient and crisis intervention programs provided by a compassionate, multi-disciplinary team of specialized professionals. Some common mental illnesses treated include dementia (including Alzheimer’s Disease), schizophrenia, depression, bipolar, panic, anxiety, post traumatic stress, obsessive compulsive, and eating disorders.

To learn more visit behavioral health or to schedule an assessment with a psychiatrist, call 732.324.5199.

This release contains some information provided by Mental Health America, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to helping all people live mentally healthier lives.

-RBMC-

Could Going Veggie Improve Your Health?

PERTH AMBOY, NJ, May 26, 2010… The American Dietetic Association has said that a carefully planned vegetarian or vegan diet can help individuals stay healthy. “But if you want to go whole-hog and skip all animal foods, talk with your doctor or dietitian to be sure you’re getting the nutrients you need,” says Paula O’Neill, RN, co-director of Raritan Bay Medical Center’s (RBMC) Division of Integrative Medicine. “For instance, you might need calcium, vitamin D or vitamin B12 supplements.”

If you still want to enjoy the occasional chicken, fish, or steak, O’Neill says that lessons can be learned from our veggie friends;

1. Cut back on saturated fat, most often found in animal foods. “Broil, grill, or roast instead of frying meat and meat substitutes, like tofu. If you eat beef or pork, buy lean cuts. Choose low-fat or nonfat cheeses,” says O’Neill.
2. Eat foods high in fiber. Vegetarians tend to get more of this heart-healthy ingredient. It’s found in whole grains, vegetables, and whole fruits—not juices.
3. Simply eat more plants. Scientists suspect these diets may be healthier mainly because of what they include rather than what they exclude. Vegans and vegetarians eat about one-third more fruits and veggies than everyone else. Apply this principle by including more plant-based foods, like leafy green vegetables and legumes, in your daily meals. “The U.S. government describes a healthy diet as one that emphasizes fruits, vegetables, low fat milk products and lean or vegetable protein in portions based on the individual’s age, gender and exercise level,” says O’Neill. “This ensures that you get enough vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, potassium, vitamin C and folate and reduces intake of saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol and added sugars.”

For more information about healthy nutrition visit the division of integrative medicine’s free Journey to Health education series continuing with Dr. Derrick DeSilva’s presentation “Basic Nutrients for Better Health,” reviewing the role nutrients play in health and quality of life, Thursday, June 10, 7 p.m., at the Raritan Bay Area YMCA, 365 New Brunswick Ave., Perth Amboy. Registration is required. Please contact Rich Lund at 732.442.3700, ext. 5861 or rlund@rbmc.org.

The hospital’s division of integrative medicine offers a wide array of integrative treatments, providing a comprehensive approach to health and wellness and symptom management. Services are administered by qualified, credentialed practitioners and specialists. Inpatient and outpatient programs are available free of charge or for a nominal fee. Therapy options include Acupuncture, massage, Energy Medicine (W.I.S.E.), Reflexology, Reiki, Tai Chi/Qigong, Guided Imagery and more. To learn more about integrative medicine programs visit integrative medicine or call 732.442.3700, ext. 5861.

-RBMC-