Don't Drink and Fly.....or drive....or scoot

Need I say More!! 

Be Safe! 

Have Fun! 

Drive Smart

Designate a sober driver! 

Watch for kids tonight!

Summer time injuries and the ER

             
Summer time injuries that come into the Emergency Department can vary from very minor to horrible and traumatic. A mixture of the heat, late nights, holiday parties, alcohol, summer sports and the water/water sports can cause many different injuries in ages from very young all the way up to our elderly seniors. As an ER nurse I am amazed each summer with the trouble people can get themselves into. The poor choices they can make, the stupidness they can exhibit and how selfish parents can be sometimes when they choose to not watch their children. For pete's sake people use your brain some time, you do have one you know.

According to Colin Dircks, M.D., an emergency medicine physician at Piedmont Hospital in Georgia, three of the most common summer injuries are heat-related illness, head injuries and fireworks-related injuries.
“Heat cramps are common in the summer months and are caused by loss of sodium and other electrolytes. We see heat exhaustion and as heat illness progresses, you can develop nausea, headaches and even heat stroke,” says Dr. Dircks. With heat stroke, “the body core temperature elevates significantly – oftentimes more than 104 degrees Fahrenheit.”
To avoid heat-related illnesses, Dr. Dircks recommends “staying hydrated and replacing lost sodium by drinking sports drinks.”
In addition to heat-related illness, head injuries also increase in warm weather months. “The most common activity during the summer months responsible for head injuries is bicycle accidents,” he says. “Water sports-related injuries are also very common and are responsible for almost 30,000 ER visits annually. It is very important if you have a pool that children are under supervision at all times. Be sure to minimize horse play in and around the pool.”
When it comes to fireworks-related injuries, “these are commonly burns, foreign bodies, or lacerations, predominately in the hands, fingers and eyes,” says Dr. Dircks.
And be cautious with so-called “safe” fireworks, especially around children. “People think of sparklers as ‘safe’ fireworks and often give them to kids,” says Dr. Dircks. “They burn at about 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit and we see a lot of burns associated with them. They are responsible for as many ER visits as firecrackers.”

Stay tuned tomorrow for those dangers of fireworks

Extreme Heat and the Dangers! Summer Safety Series

With the temperatures rising and summer now upon us we have got to be more cautious and think, I myself almost got overheated yesterday simply being outdoors to long and not drinking fluids like I should have. Felt tired, dizzy and my body was not producing sweat much anymore, my husband could look at me after we got home and said sit!! drink now! and I did. Even nurses are not so smart some days, busy and forget to pay attention to the temperature gauge in the car.
Credit to CDC website for some great information shared:

These are the main things affecting your body's ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather:

• High humidity. When the humidity is high, sweat won't evaporate as quickly, which keeps your body from releasing heat as fast as it may need to.
• Personal factors. Age, obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug and alcohol use can play a role in whether a person can cool off enough in very hot weather.

Here are some facts about which people are at greatest risk for heat-related illness and what protective actions to take to prevent illness or death:

• People who are at highest risk are the elderly, the very young, and people with mental illness and chronic diseases
• But even young and healthy people can get sick from the heat if they participate in strenuous physical activities during hot weather.
• Air-conditioning is the number one protective factor against heat-related illness and death. If a home is not air-conditioned, people can reduce their risk for heat-related illness by spending time in public facilities that are air-conditioned.

 
You can take these steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, injuries, and deaths during hot weather:
Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location if that is possible.

• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen.
• Schedule outdoor activities carefully.
• Pace yourself.
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down.
• Check on a friend or neighbor and have someone do the same for you.
• Do not leave children in cars.
• Check the local news for health and safety updates

What happens to the body as a result of exposure to extreme heat?

People suffer heat-related illness when the body’s temperature control system is overloaded. The body normally cools itself by sweating. But under some conditions, sweating just isn’t enough. In such cases, a person’s body temperature rises rapidly. Very high body temperatures may damage the brain or other vital organs. Several factors affect the body’s ability to cool itself during extremely hot weather. When the humidity is high, sweat will not evaporate as quickly, preventing the body from releasing heat quickly. Other conditions that can limit the ability to regulate temperature include old age, youth (age 0-4), obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, mental illness, poor circulation, sunburn, and prescription drug use and alcohol use.

Who is at greatest risk for heat-related illness?

Those at greatest risk for heat-related illness include infants and children up to four years of age, people 65 years of age and older, people who are overweight, and people who are ill or on certain medications.

What is heat stroke?

Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the body’s temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body is unable to cool down. Body temperature may rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

What are the warning signs of a heat stroke?

Warning signs of heat stroke vary but may include the following:

• An extremely high body temperature (above 103°F)
• Red, hot, and dry skin (no sweating)
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Throbbing headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Unconsciousness

What should I do if I see someone with any of the warning signs of heat stroke?

If you see any of these signs, you may be dealing with a life-threatening emergency. Have someone call for immediate medical assistance while you begin cooling the victim. Do the following:

• Get the victim to a shady area.
• Cool the victim rapidly, using whatever methods you can. For example, immerse the victim in a tub of cool water; place the person in a cool shower; spray the victim with cool water from a garden hose; sponge the person with cool water; or if the humidity is low, wrap the victim in a cool, wet sheet and fan him or her vigorously. 
• Monitor body temperature and continue cooling efforts until the body temperature drops to 101-102°F.
• If emergency medical personnel are delayed, call the hospital emergency room for further instructions.
• Do not give the victim alcohol to drink.
• Get medical assistance as soon as possible.

What is heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that can develop after several days of exposure to high temperatures and inadequate or unbalanced replacement of fluids. Those most prone to heat exhaustion are elderly people, those with high blood pressure, and those working or exercising in a hot environment.

What are the warning signs of heat exhaustion?

The warning signs of heat exhaustion include the following:

• Heavy sweating
• Paleness
• Muscle cramps
• Tiredness
• Weakness
• Dizziness
• Headache 
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fainting

The skin may be cool and moist. The pulse rate will be fast and weak, and breathing will be fast and shallow. If heat exhaustion is untreated, it may progress to heat stroke. See medical attention if symptoms worsen or last longer than one hour.

What steps can be taken to cool the body during heat exhaustion? 

• Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages.
• Rest.
• Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath.
• Seek an air-conditioned environment.
• Wear lightweight clothing.

What are heat cramps and who is affected?

Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms – usually in the abdomen, arms, or legs – that may occur in association with strenuous activity. People who sweat a lot during strenuous activity are prone to heat cramps. This sweating depletes the body’s salt and moisture. The low salt level in the muscles causes painful cramps. Heat cramps may also be a symptom of heat exhaustion. If you have heart problems or are on a low-sodium diet, seek medical attention for heat cramps.

What should I do if I have heat cramps?

If medical attention is not necessary, take the following steps:

• Stop all activity and sit quietly in a cool place.
• Drink clear juice or a sports beverage.
• Do not return to strenuous activity for a few hours after the cramps subside because further exertion may lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
• Seek medical attention for heat cramps if they do not subside in 1 hour.

 Stay tuned for next in a series of topics about summer safety, see ya tommorrow!
Leslie

Today is the Day to ASK

How You Can Help

Join thousands of parents and community organizations nationwide who are helping to share the lifesaving message of the ASK campaign!
Stay informed about program news and updates by emailing ask@cpyv.org with your first and last name, city, state, and email address.
“Like” CPYV’s Facebook page, Arm Yourself with Knowledge to stay current on information to keep your family safe.
Promote the ASK campaign in your community by circulating ASK public service announcements through community groups and local media outlets.
Distribute ASK brochures in both English and Spanish to parents through schools, children/family agencies, pediatricians’ offices and health clinics. Email ask@cpyv.org to place an order.
Link your website to www.AskingSavesKids.org by requesting ASK link art.
Download the ASK Community Guide 2012 for more information and the ASK order form. Or contact us directly to order brochures, posters and other materials.

ASK (Asking Saves Kids)

ASK (Asking Saves Kids)

“Is there a gun where your child plays?” Asking this simple question is an important step every parent can take to help their kids stay safe.
About 1/3 of homes with kids have guns, many left unlocked or loaded. Just talking to your child about the dangers of firearms is not enough. Children are naturally curious. If a gun is accessible in someone’s home, there is a good chance a child will find it and play with it. Countless tragedies have occurred when kids found guns that parents thought were well hidden or safely stored.

 FACT SHEET  Access to Guns

• An average of 8 kids and teens are killed by firearms every day and 38 additional
children and teens are seriously injured (Injury Mortality Reports, National Center for
Injury Prevention and Control, CDC, 2007; 2009). 5RJ43GGK78FP

• 29 children and teens are seriously injured by BB or Pellet guns every day (Injury
Mortality Reports, 2009).

• Studies show that between 33% and 40% of American households with children have guns (Johnson, Renee, “Firearm Ownership and Storage Practices, U.S. Households, 1992-2002.” American Journal of Preventive Medicine 27, 2004; Peter Hart Research Associates Poll, 1999, American Journal of Public Health, April 2000).

• 1 in 4 kids and teens whose parents own guns say they have seen or touched a gun
without their parents’ knowledge. (Global Strategy Group Youth Study commissioned
by CPYV, 2011).

• Almost 90 percent of accidental shootings involving children are linked to an easy-to-find, loaded handgun in the house (Society of Pediatric Nurses, 1998).

• Eighty-eight percent of the children who are injured or killed in unintentional shootings are shot in their own homes or in the homes of relatives or friends (Pediatrics 2005).

• 42% of parents with guns keep at least one unlocked, 25% keep at least one loaded, and 14% keep one unlocked AND loaded (Global Strategy Group Parent Study commissioned by CPYV, 2011).

• Over 75% of kids in homes with guns say they know where the gun is hidden (Benenson Strategy Group Study commissioned by PAX, July 2002).
THE ASK SOLUTION

• Less than 50% of parents reported being concerned about guns in other homes, but 79% would be concerned if they knew there was a gun in the home their child was visiting (GSG Parent Study).

• Only 23% of parents said they had asked in the past, but by the end of the survey, 89% said ASKing was important (GSG Parent Study).

• 97% of parents who owned a gun said that they would not be offended if another
parent asked about a gun in their home (GSG Parent Study).

In preparation for June 21 "Ask Day"  I am going to focus on some information that

I recieved from CPYV. Stay tuned next for some real stories that will shock you.

Please help spread this important information:

The ASK campaign provides opportunities for community groups, healthcare
organizations and individuals to help ensure the safety of our children. In this
packet, we have provided suggestions for activities to share the ASK
message as well as examples of materials. 

If you need additional information or wish to provide your feedback, please contact 212-269-5100 or ask@cpyv.org.
 

ASK is a partnership between CPYV / The Center to Prevent Youth Violence and the American Academy of
Pediatrics and is sponsored by the American Medical Association
ASK Endorsers Include:
American Federation of Teachers
American Public Health Association
Children’s Defense Fund
Emergency Nurses Association
The Interfaith Alliance Foundation
National Association of Children’s
Hospitals and Related Institutions
National Association of Pediatric
Nurse Practitioners
National Education Association
National Head Start Association
National Parenting Association
Physicians For Social Responsibility
Police Executive Research Forum
Police Foundation
Safe Kids Worldwide

Sun Safety with your ABC's

The ABCs of Sun Safety

Always use sunscreen!
Be careful between 10AM and 4PM, the sun’s strongest hours.
Cover your head and ears with a wide-brimmed hat.
Don’t forget to take breaks from the hot sun.
Eyes are especially sensitive to the sun — protect
them too!
Factor in the right sun protection — use SPF as
your guide.
Go inside when you feel too hot.
Have fun in the sun!
Injuries can result from not drinking enough
water when it's hot outside.
Just because it’s cloudy doesn’t mean you can’t get sunburn.
Knock out sun damage — use sunscreen every day!
Long shirts and pants will help protect your skin from the sun.
Many people don’t realize the importance of wearing sunglasses.
Notice what time you apply sunscreen so you know when it’s time to reapply.
Only you can protect your skin — practice sun safety!
Pay attention to your skin — if you plan to be in the sun, cover up.
Question family members and friends who say they don’t need to use sunscreen.
Remember: too much sun can cause long-term damage to your skin.
Sun that reflects off water and snow can still give you sunburn.
Take time to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before you go outside.
Urge family members to practice sun safety.
Vitamin D comes from sunlight.
Waterproof sunscreen helps when you sweat, but you still need to reapply it.
EXtra effort to protect your skin from sunburn is worth it.
You can still get sunburn, no matter what your skin type is.
Zounds! That’s a lot to remember about sun safety!

Have fun this summer, just stay safe and protect yourself and your family

How AWARxE are you? Are you a Hoarder?

Yes at times I can confess that as a nurse, I am a hoarder of medicines, are you?

Just how informed are you as a parent or a healthcare provider? How many extra bottles of medications do you have left over in your medicine cabinet?

Do you take them when you want to? Do you share them with others, family, friends or co-workers? Have you even thought about the dangers and damages that could ensue by keeping these meds just because you "think you might need them later". 

I will have to say that I am just as guilty of saving medication bottles for those "just in case times" and yes I do have 3 children in my household. Here are some things for us "Hoarders" to think long and hard about.

This week over at The Mommies Network blog, we have been focusing on just those dangers and other very helpful topics that all parents need to know. 

Here is part of that information and an interview with  Dr. Carmen Catizone - to read the entire 4 part interview visit The Mommies Network blog here.

We all know how easy it is to forget about a prescription that was never finished and now sits in the back of the medicine cabinet. Proper drug disposal protects your loved ones from misuse. Prescription drugs, often found at home, are the most commonly abused drugs among 12 and 13 year olds. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy Foundation and their AWARxE Consumer Protection Program are helping to stop this growing trend.
April 28 is the DEA National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day. Anyone with unused medications can drop them off at designated collection sites on April 28. The DEA coordinates with local law enforcement and community partners to provide thousands of sites across the country so that unwanted drugs are disposed of safely and legally. Sites will accept both prescription and nonprescription pills for disposal.
The Mommies Network recently spoke with Executive Director of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy, Dr. Carmen Catizone, about the dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse. Dr. Catizone is the Executive Director of the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) and a licensed pharmacist. He currently serves as a Governor of the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Board of Directors and Chair of the PTCB Certification Council. Dr. Catizone is regularly called to serve as an expert witness for the US Government in the areas of pharmacy practice and regulation on both the state and national level issues.

TMN: Why can't I just flush or throw away expired prescriptions?
Dr. Catizone: Flushing certain medications or improper disposal in the garbage can lead to safety and environmental hazards. Proper disposal of unneeded medications helps prevent accidental ingestion by people and pets in the home, and also helps protect the environment by keeping drugs out of the local water system and the local environment. When drugs are brought to an authorized DEA collection site, or other legal disposal program, they are processed for safe destruction.
FDA does recommend that certain drugs are flushed to prevent danger to people and pets in the home. FDA has determined that the risks of accidental ingestion of these select medications, outweighs the small risk to the environment. A link to the list of drugs that should be flushed for disposal, as well as additional information, is available on the Medication Disposal page of the AWARxE Web site.
TMN: I already handle medicines responsibly. Why should I care about this event?
Dr. Catizone: While you and your family handle medications responsibly, remember that sometimes prescription drugs are taken out of medicine cabinets by visitors to the home, such as a teen’s guests, guests at a party, or hired workers completing a home repair.
Another concern is accidental ingestion of medications by children. The number of emergency department visits due to medication poisoning for children under age five increased 30% from 2001 to 2008, and child self-exposure to prescription products accounted for 55% of the emergency room visits, according to a study in The Journal of Pediatrics.
By securely storing the medications you need, and disposing of unneeded medications, you can prevent these drugs from falling into the wrong hands. And, by sharing this information with others, you can help to protect their loved ones, your friends, and your community by helping to prevent prescription drug abuse.


Discover More:
· CDC Get Smart: Know When Antibiotics Work · Safe Medication Disposal ·AWARxE: Get Local · FDA Drug Disposal Information · NIDA Community Drug Alert Bulletin - Prescription Drugs ·The Road to Nowhere: Prescription Drug Abuse educational slideshow · Video: The Road to Nowhere · FDA Video: Teaching Kids About Using Medicine Safely

Don't Be a Pill Hoarder!!

Your stash may just be the next Pill party for teens that might have access to them.

Don't just toss them in the trash either, somebody will dig them out of the trash!

Don't put down the sink or toilet, harmful chemicals will seep into our water, among

other things, this is just environmentally wrong!

 

Whats for Easter Dinner Peeps

Do you have pets that are just like your family, we do, and if something happened to them our kids and my husband and I would be devastated. Especially if it was something that might have been preventable. Safety and prevention goes for our animal friends also, they depend on us to be smart and think for them.

So you say what kind of things can my pets get sick or die from:

This great info comes from the Petside website

The following seven holiday products are the most common Easter dangers:
Eggs - Dyed and Plastic
Shiny plastic eggs may look like toys to your pets. If they chew and swallow the plastic, it can cause intestinal problems that may require surgery. Fresh, hard boiled eggs are not dangerous, but eggs spoil quickly. If days later your pet finds and eats an egg that was undiscovered during the Easter hunt, it can make them very sick. Tip: Keep track of the number of eggs hidden and make sure all are accounted for at the end of the hunt.
Easter Grass
Cats are especially attracted to these shiny shreds, and just like tinsel, ingesting this "grass" may be lethal. Pets can not digest it, leading to the threads getting stuck in and damaging their intestines. Tip: A better choice? Try using paper, or even real grass!
Chocolate
Most adults already know how dangerous chocolate is for pets, but it is important children know as well. Make sure to tell your kids that sharing with the family pet could make them very sick. Still, supervision is key. Tip: With chocolate bunnies in every basket, and chocolate eggs hidden around the house, it may be best if your pets are in kept in an "Easter free zone" during the festivities.
Easter Lilies
These flowers and beautiful and festive, but should be avoided at all costs if you share your home with pets. Easter lilies are one of the most poisonous plants for pets, especially to cats. Vomiting, lethargy and loss of appetite are symptoms of lily poisoning. Cats who take a bite of the flower can die from kidney failure in less than two days if left untreated. Tip: Try faux lilies for the same look without the risk.
Candy
Chocolate isn't the only tasty treat dangerous for your pet. Too much sugar can also cause digestive upset. Additionally, the foil wrapping around candies can cause internal damage. The sharp pieces may tear your pet's esophagus or intestines. Tip: Be sure to keep a close eye on your pet and clean up all wrappings immediately.
Easter Toys
Those teeny tiny baby chick toys and bendy bunnies may be good basket stuffers for your kids, but to your pets they look like a good snack. Small toys are a choking hazard and should be kept away from cats and dogs. Be sure baskets are kept off the ground, or that pets are kept in another room while baskets are being unwrapped. Tip: Make sure all toys and parts are too big for your pet to fit in their mouth.
Baby animals
Baby chicks, bunnies and ducks may seem like the perfect Easter basket addition, but think twice! Not only do these cute babies grow up into large, adult animals requiring full-time care, but they often carry Salmonella. This harmful bacteria can be transmitted to your children and other pets. Tip: Stuffed bunnies and chicks make a much better choice as Easter pets!
For more information on keeping your pet safe, check out our full list of Poisonous Household Products and Petside's original video: Household Dangers

Please take care and think about those fur-babies at home! Consider adopting a rescue animal also to save a life.

Hoppy Easter today!!

Just gotta do it? or do you......

This picture is pretty self explanatory, so I should not have to say more.........


Be safe and put down that phone while driving!! or die!

Leslie

Poison Prevention Week: what can parents do?

Did you know that each year, more than 1.2 million children ages 5 and under are unintentionally poisoned? Whether it's medication on your dresser, cleaning supplies under your kitchen sink, cosmetics in your bathroom or carbon monoxide from gas appliances in your home, you can take simple steps to keep your kids safe.
Have you taken a look closely around your house lately? You might be very surprised to find items like medications that you have left out on the counter, microwave, bathroom cabinet and just not thought about it. Here at our house my kids are getting a little older and we have gotten more relaxed with poison prevention. So I did a survey and was shocked to see the stuff that I just had sitting here and there within child's reach.
When I showed some of our medications to my youngest daughter who is 8, she could not tell the difference in some pills and candy. This lead to a nice discussion about medications and candy look alikes.
Never keep medications out, always keep them in the child resistant containers labeled as they should be, and never call your medications "candy" even if you think you are just kidding around, your child thinks everything you say is true. 

Medication Safety Tips

From Safe Kids
Store medications out of your child’s sight and reach.

• Do not leave medicines in your purse, an unlocked kitchen or bathroom cabinet or a kitchen or bedside table.

• Read labels to find out what can be poisonous. Keep those things separate from toothpaste, soap and other things you use every day.

• Never leave medicines or potentially poisonous household products unattended while you are using them.

• Do not leave out loose pills.

• Buy child-resistant packages when available. 

Be safe when giving medicines to your children.

• Always read labels, follow directions and give medicines to children based on their weights and ages. 

• Avoid confusion by keeping all medicines and potentially poisonous household products in their original packages.

• Do not take medicine or vitamins in front of kids, or involve children as helpers with your medication.

• Tell grandparents and friends about avoiding medication poisoning when your family visits their homes.

Learn the toll-free nationwide poison control center number (1-800-222-1222), program it into all phones and keep it near every phone.

• If you suspect your child has been poisoned, take the product to the phone and call 1-800-222-1222. If your child has collapsed or is not breathing, call 911.

• Poison control centers offer fast, free, confidential help in English and Spanish. Most poisonings are resolved over the phone. The number works from anywhere in the United States 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

• Follow the operator’s instructions.

• Do not make the child vomit or give him anything unless directed. 

 Stay tuned, I'm not done yet.............

So you think you need to die today?

Instead of that thought, how about thinking about getting some help first, there are people out there that do care about you and want you to live, I do, and I don't even

know who you are. I have been in your spot before, down, down, down with no 

light at the end of my tunnel, I thought. I instead got some help and moved on with 

my life. Thinking positive daily helps, plus a little medical help thru pharmacology.

Get Help Now

For Telephone support:
Here is a list of our hotlines in the US

(800)442-4673 .....1-800-442-HOPE

(877)838-2838 .....1-877-Vet2Vet Veterans peer support line

(800)784-2432 .....1-800-SUICIDA Spanish speaking suicide hotline

(877)968-8454 .....1-877-YOUTHLINE teen to teen peer counseling hotline

(800)472-3457 .....1-800-GRADHLP Grad student hotline

(800)773-6667 .....1-800-PPD-MOMS Post partum depression hotline

For a list of hotlines outside the US go here:
www.befrienders.org

For email support 24 x 7:
jo@samaritans.org
It may take a few hours or more to generate a response

For online chat support now:
(none of these are 24 x7 but will tell you if online counselors are available)

http://newhopeonline.org/counseling/liveperson.html
www.crisischat.org

http://www.kidshelp.com.au/teens/get-help/web-counselling
( only available in Australia)

For Reading:
There is a great book to read which is free and online called Suicide: The Forever Decision from the QPR Institute - Download it HERE 

During depression the world disappears. Language itself. One has nothing to say. Nothing. Kristin experienced this misery, yet still managed to touch many lives and even in death continues to help others find help for their depression.
The Kristin Brooks Hope Center was created to help those in crisis find help and hope immediately. The site and her story gives you a raw, personal glimpse into depression, and how it affects those around you. In addition, you will find the only clear, step-by-step path for you to follow out of the darkness. There is hope and you can feel happy again! If you need to speak with someone right now call: 

1.800.SUICIDE 

 (1.800.784.2433) 

Credit to The Kristin Brooks Hope Center webpage

Depression – Depression is a mental illness that is linked to physical changes that occur in the brain. Depression results from an imbalance of certain chemicals, called neurotransmitters, which are responsible for carrying signals in the brain and nerves. While there is no single cause of depression, there are many common factors that can lead to depression. Such factors as: family history, physical conditions, trauma/stress, and other psychological disorders.

Family History - Depression is one of many illnesses that can be passed on to individuals within a family for generations as a result of genetics. Genetics are responsible for all physical and biological traits, and are always inherited from one's parents.

Physical Conditions - Depression can result from the weakness and stress caused by serious medical conditions like cancer, HIV, or heart disease. Depression can actually increase the severity of such physical conditions, for it weakens the immune system and can make pain harder to tolerate.

Trauma/Stress - Traumatic or stressful experiences can drastically increase ones likelihood of becoming depressed. Changing schools, starting a new job, or dealing with the death of a family member are all extreme changes in ones life that can lead to depression.

Psychological Disorders - When one suffers from other psychological disorders such as anxiety, eating disorders, or substance abuse, depression can arise if these disorders go untreated, as a result of the stress that occurs from living with the illness.

Some Warning Signs of Depression:

•  Lack of interest in friends or social activities

•  Drastic changes in ones grades

•  Thoughts of running away

•  Alcohol or substance abuse

•  Fear of death

•  Frequent sadness

•  Problems sleeping

•  Changes in eating habits

•  Constant tiredness

•  Increased irritability

---

Grief/Loss- Grief is the feeling that you experience with the death of a loved one. Loss is the feeling that you experience when a significant absence or change occurs in your life, but isn't related to death. However, some losses may actually feel worse than a death, (which are the most misunderstood feelings of all). There are several indications of grief and loss, which include: shock, sadness, anger, guilt and sometimes, no feelings at all.

Shock - Shock is the feeling of surprise where you may wonder “why me?”

Sadness - Sadness is the feeling of sorrow where you will miss the person you have loved so much

Anger - Anger is the feeling of rage, where you may wonder “why did this person have to leave”

Guilt - Guilt is the feeling that you could have done something to change the situation, and you may say “I didn't say enough or do enough when the person was here”

No feelings - Sometimes, when the loss of a loved one is unexpected, you may feel confused and may not even know what to feel, or what to say. These feelings are normal and should not be confused with a dislike for the individual.

What you can do:

1. If you feel overwhelmed by grief or loss, are having difficulties getting back to a normal routine, or considering taking your own life because of your grief or loss, please make an attempt to get help and call 1-877 YOUTHLINE, or call 1-800 SUICIDE

2. Talk to an adult that you trust 

 

Learn the Warning Signs of Suicide  

 

Be aware of yourself, your friends, family and people around you,

You never know what kind of battle another person is facing daily

Walk a mile in their shoes first before you judge or talk about them

Hold your head up high and have positive thoughts

God does not make junk!!

You are loved!

Remember that!

Wash Your Nasty Hands

This is the season for bugs, all sorts of nasty germs are floating around our daily lives.
So remember the one simple thing that you can do to help the spread of these bugs.
Wash your nasty hands....please!! Thank you

Here are a couple videos to help :)




Handwashing is a global thing!!



One for the kiddos to learn



and one for the little ones :)

Enjoy and stay safe and well this winter

Just Save the Shoes!!

How are you going to make 2012 different? Have you even thought about it? You have the power to make change happen,no matter how small ,change your attitude, change your community, change your world.
I love this video, perfect for a new start, just remember there is always a lady( or man) somewhere that needs her shoes, Save the Shoes!!, Just do It! No matter how small or trivial a task may seem, there is somebody in our path daily that needs a hand, a smile, a simple hello or acknowledgement that they are important.
No matter if you are fighting fires, running rescue calls, dispatching 911 calls, enforcing our laws or taking care of patients. No matter if you are just a mom or dad struggling with daily life. We are all human, we all make a difference, we all can.

As an ER Nurse I am reminded each and every day of the reason that I do what I do. God always puts just that right patient in my path that needs something I can give back. Even if it is just saving the shoes........

Happy New year Make it a safe one!!

Little Known Danger In Your Household

Coin lithium button batteries can cause severe injuries when swallowed.

If you have spent anytime around young children you know that most things end
up in their.........mouth (or sometimes ears). So what is the big deal about swallowed objects? don't they just come out the "other end"? Depends, on the size,
the object itself and where it might get lodged.
Look at this Xray and tell me what you see:

Electronic devices are a part of daily life. And they’re getting smaller, slimmer and sleeker. But inside the battery compartment of mini remote controls, small calculators, watches, key fobs, flame-less candles, singing greeting cards and other electronics, may be a very powerful coin-sized button battery. When swallowed, these batteries can get stuck in the throat and cause severe burns. Small children often have easy access to these devices, and many parents do not know there is a risk.

Energizer is proud to be part of a new partnership addressing the safety issue of children swallowing coin-size button batteries. Swallowing a battery can cause serious health problems for your child. More than 3,400 lithium batteries were swallowed in 2010 and they can be found in many common household devices.

Learn more about lithium battery safety at http://www.thebatterycontrolled.com.


More important facts about battery safety Here 

Thank you to  Energizer and Safe Kids USA, for being committed to helping parents prevent children from swallowing coin-sized button batteries.

Please be aware of the dangers around your household, pay close attention to those little munchkins that have a fascination for all things, and keep them safe.

Take the pledge here
Secure your devices and get counted here 
Share this with your family and friends here  

Telling Amy's Story of Domestic Violence

Share Amy’s Story

By sharing the film and web site with others, you are taking a step towards raising awareness and preventing domestic violence.

We are connected to many people even beyond our family and close friends. Share Amy’s story with your email list, your human resources representative, your church congregation, your hairdresser, your hunting buddies, your doctor, or the parents at your play dates and schools.
How do you share this important info? Go to the website posted and get ideas for facebook and Twitter posts, and the link to YouTube for the embed code to the videos
http://telling.psu.edu/share/index.html
 Did you know that about ¼ of all women in the U.S. report that they have experienced domestic violence? Support the fight to end domestic violence! Watch Telling Amy’s Story and share the film and web site with others. http://www.telling.psu.edu/

                 

•  
•  
• Please retweet to increase awareness against domestic violence. Share Amy’s Story! #tellingamy  http://bit.ly/9dI4MY
• Retweet if you are against domestic violence. Share, Discuss and Refer! Share Amy’s story! #tellingamy  http://bit.ly/9dI4MY
• Join Telling Amy’s Story FB page to get updates, news and information and to help fight domestic violence #tellingamy  http://bit.ly/bVaGY0
• We are proud partners of the Telling Amy’s Story project. Share the film and web site with others. http://bit.ly/bRDqiy 

• Did you know that about ¼ of all women in the U.S. report that they have experienced domestic violence? Support the fight to end domestic violence! Watch Telling Amy’s Story and share the film and web site with others. http://www.telling.psu.edu/
• Have you heard Amy’s story? Learn more about Telling Amy’s Story, a documentary that follows the timeline of a domestic violence homicide. Hosted by actress and advocate Mariska Hargitay. Play the trailer at: http://www.telling.psu.edu/
• Take a step towards raising awareness and preventing domestic violence! Support Telling Amy’s Story at http://www.facebook.com/tellingamysstory
• Domestic Violence it’s not ok! Copy and paste this to your wall to help raise awareness of domestic violence. http://www.facebook.com/tellingamysstory
• [YOUR ORGANIZATION NAME HERE] is proud to be a partner of the Telling Amy's Story - Raising Awareness of Domestic Violence project! Check out http://www.facebook.com/tellingamysstory and get updates on the film's broadcast schedule at http://www.telling.psu.edu/ 

      
Facebook Users:
From your profile, Attach » Link and copy/paste the following url: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pt0qoqFV6g
Bloggers:
Visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9pt0qoqFV6g and select ‹embed› for embed code.

 Referrals:

You should enlist the assistance of a professional advocate to connect with domestic violence services or to explore other ways that you can help in the fight to end domestic violence.

Domestic violence advocates are trained to help you in a way that is best for your situation. Advocates can help you make safety plans, negotiate law enforcement issues, arrange for shelter, contact local resources, and set up counseling.
Advocates can also help you find volunteer opportunities or initiatives that help support victims of domestic violence.
National numbers and hotlines

National Domestic Violence Hotline (NDVH)

www.ndvh.org
NDVH 24-hour Hotline: 800-799-7233

National Domestic Violence Hotline advocates are available for victims and anyone calling on their behalf to provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and information and referrals to agencies in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Centre County Women’s Resource Center (CCWRC)

www.ccwrc.org

The Centre County Women’s Resource Center (CCWRC) provides free and confidential services for people who have experienced domestic abuse, sexual violence, and stalking. Counselor/advocates are available to help 24 hours a day.

The National Network to End Domestic Violence (NNEDV)

www.nnedv.org
202-453-5566

Celebrating its 15th anniversary, the National Network to End Domestic Violence is a leading voice for domestic violence victims and their allies. NNEDV represents and provides resources to the 56 statewide and territorial coalitions against domestic violence, which serve nearly 2,000 local domestic violence programs across the country.

Joyful Heart Foundation

www.joyfulheartfoundation.org
New York 212-475-2026
Hawaii 808-331-8000

The mission of the Joyful Heart Foundation is to heal, educate, and empower survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse shed by shedding light into the darkness that surrounds these issues.

Casa de Esperanza

www.casadeesperanza.org
Administrative Office 651-646-5553

Casa de Esperanza is a Latina organization whose mission is to mobilize Latinas and Latino communities to end domestic violence.

Hopeline

aboutus.vzw.com/communityservice/hopeLine.html
Partnership Opportunities 908-559-7512

The Verizon Wireless HopeLine program collects used wireless phones, batteries, and accessories from any wireless service provider. These unused wireless phones are then distributed to victims of domestic violence to not only help them feel safer and less isolated, but also provide them with a way to call emergency or support services, employers, family, and friends.

Family Violence Prevention Fund

www.endabuse.org
415-252-8900

Everyone has the right to live free of violence. The Family Violence Prevention Fund works to prevent violence within the home, and in the community, to help those whose lives are devastated by violence.

Family Justice Center Alliance

www.familyjusticecenter.org
888-511-FJCA (3522)

The Family Justice Center Alliance aims to create a network of national and international Family Justice Centers and other models of co-located, multi-agency service centers for victims of family violence and their children with close working relationships, shared training and technical assistance, collaborative learning processes, and coordinated funding assistance.

Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence (CAEPV)

www.caepv.org
309-664-0667

The Corporate Alliance to End Partner Violence is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing the costs and consequences of partner violence at work—and eliminating it altogether. From policies and programs to legal issues and legislation, CAEPV is a credible source of information, materials, and advice.

National Coalition Against Domestic Violence (NCADV)

www.ncadv.org
303-839-1852

The mission of the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence is to organize for collective power by advancing the transformative work and leadership of communities and individuals working to end domestic violence.

Dress for Success

www.dressforsuccess.org
212-684-9563

Dress for Success promoted economic independence for disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support, and career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.

Joe Torre Safe at Home Foundation

www.joetorre.org
877-878-4JOE (toll-free)

The Joe Torre Safe at Home Foundation aims to educate children about violence so that children understand they are not alone and that there is hope.

A Call to Men

www.acalltomen.com
917-922-6738

A Call to Men challenges men to reconsider their long-held beliefs about women, in an effort to create a more just society. They achieve this by encouraging men to change their behaviors through re-education and training that promote healthy manhood.

Institute on Domestic Violence in the African American Community

www.idvaac.org/
1-877-NIDVAAC

The Institute on Domestic Violence in the African American Community (IDVAAC) is an organization focused on the unique circumstances of African Americans as they face issues related to domestic violence—including intimate partner violence, child abuse, elder maltreatment, and community violence. IDVAAC’s mission is to enhance society’s understanding of and ability to end violence in the African American community.

Please stay safe and make October your month of change!

                                                                                 

National Domestic Violence Hotline number!

I just had to add this video from the National Domestic Violence Hotline: