Volume 22
I quit smoking and now i am vaping...it must be better for my health... right?
Wrong…Did you know One Juul pod contains 20 cigarettes worth of nicotine? According to Truth Initiative: freedom from nicotine addiction
E cigarettes or vaping have a potent dose of the addictive chemical nicotine. E-cigarette have driven a surge in e-cigarette use especially among young people, resulting in an e-cigarette epidemic. With numerous flavors mimicking candy and familiar tastes, and celebrities promoting the product, customers can easily be attracted to them. However the fruity flavored, cotton candy, gummy bear (and other) vapes have been proven to cause seizures, neurological symptoms, cancer and possibly early death. Check out the TRUTH fact sheet here!
In fact, Juul company had to pay millions in damages to its customers due to the harm it caused. (See Netflix Documentary: Big Vape, and Rise and Fall of Juul)
“A study from the University of North Carolina (posted on https://www.lung.org/ ) found that the two primary ingredients found in e-cigarettes—propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin— are toxic to cells and that the more ingredients in an e-liquid, the greater the toxicity. E-cigarettes produce a number of dangerous chemicals including acetaldehyde, acrolein, and formaldehyde. These aldehydes can cause lung disease, as well as cardiovascular (heart) disease. E-cigarettes also contain acrolein, a herbicide primarily used to kill weeds. It can cause acute lung injury and COPD and may cause asthma and lung cancer.” It’s your choice….
E-Liquids contain 60 Chemical compounds. E-Cigarette aerosol contains 47 compounds.
Want to quit? Sign up for the FREE Mayo Clinic EX Program: It’s free, anonymous, 24/7 support and helps you identify triggers, cope with cravings, and replace old routines with new, healthier ones. Sign up at the EX Program to get started.
As well, you can text DITCHVAPE to 88709
– Sandra McQuinn – LCDC, LPC-A
Why Sleep is Essential for Your Health: World Sleep Day Reminder
As we approach World Sleep Day, it’s a great opportunity to remember just how crucial sleep is for our well-being. Sleep isn’t just for rest - it’s vital for both your body and mind.
- Mental Health Boost – Good sleep helps the brain process emotions, improve memory, and sharpen focus. Lack of sleep can lead to mood swings, irritability, and a higher risk of mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
- Physical Health Support – While we sleep, our body repairs itself and strengthens the immune system. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to increased risks of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
- Cognitive Performance – Sleep is crucial for concentration, decision-making, and memory. Without it, our cognitive abilities suffer, making everyday tasks harder.
- Emotional Balance – Sleep helps regulate emotions and stress responses. A lack of sleep can leave us more vulnerable to emotional instability and difficulty coping with daily challenges.
- Better Skin and Appearance – Restorative sleep promotes collagen production, giving skin a healthy glow. Insufficient sleep can cause dull skin and make fine lines more visible.
Tips for better sleep:
Stick to a routine
Limit screen time before bed
Create a cool, dark, quiet sleep environment
In Conclusion:
As we celebrate World Sleep Day, let’s remember: sleep is not a luxury – it’s essential.
Prioritize your rest, and you’ll see improvements in everything from your mood to your
health.
Jeremy Reynolds – Peer Specialist
March 20th: International Day of Happiness
Take a moment to reflect on what makes you happy and boosts your mood.
How can you share that joy with those around you?
Here are a few ways to boost your happiness:
- Practice Gratitude – Take a moment each day to reflect on the good things in your life.
- Stay connected – Reach out to friends, family, or fellow veterans for support and camaraderie.
- Get moving – Physical activity, even a short walk, can improve mood and reduce stress.
- Give back – Volunteering or helping others can create a sense of purpose and connection.
- Practice Mindfulness – Mindful breathing or meditation can bring calmness and clarity to your mind.
- Laugh – A good laugh lightens the spirit and improves your outlook.
- Follow your passions – Engage in hobbies or activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
Mackenzie Gore – MHPS
