Being a parent during COVID is just plain hard
Parenting may be one of the hardest things you've ever done. Then came COVID, and it became even more challenging. Here's some helpful advice from a therapist, who has three children of her own.
The joy of being a Foster Grandparent, even during COVID
When school is in session, many children in Maine get the extra benefit of a grandparent in the classroom. A Foster Grandparent. Things have changed because of COVID, but some Foster Grandparents have found other ways to connect with their kids.
How to speak up for yourself on the job
Looking for a new job? A raise? A promotion? Here is some advice from a professional career coach.
COVID-19: Mixed news but reasons for optimism
Dr. Dora Anne Mills looks at COVID variants and vaccines and gives us reasons to be optimistic.
Denise Kinney’s muscle weakness turned out to be something serious
Denise Kinney was familiar with muscle weakness. Ever since childhood, she lacked stamina, but things got worse in her 40s. Getting a diagnosis, however, was a lengthy challenge. Listen to her story in the latest episode of the Catching Health podcast.
Love and relationships in the time of COVID
The stress of this past year may have put a strain on your relationship with your spouse or partner. If so, we have some loving advice from a licensed marriage and family therapist.
How to get ready for your COVID-19 vaccine appointment
Scheduled to get the COVID-19 vaccine? Dr. Dora Anne Mills has some useful information that you should read ahead of time.
Dealing with seasonal depression and more in the workplace
The stress of dealing with COVID-19 has made things even worse for people who struggle with seasonal depression. It impacts all aspects of their lives, including their work life.
How to make resolutions and not break them
Have you already broken those resolutions you made? You're not alone, but we've got some advice that may help you get on a more successful track.
Two turbulent threats and transitions
Dr. Dora Anne Mills reflects on "two seismic events - the pandemic and the threats to our democracy" and answers questions about the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
How to move toward mindful eating
Looking to start a new relationship ... with food? One place to begin is to learn about mindful eating. We've got some great tips and a free workbook to get you on your way.
Reflecting on the lessons of 2020
In this thoughtful essay, in which she reflects on the past and looks to the future, Dr. Dora Anne Mills writes that she chose to spend New Year's weekend living in the present. It was a good place to be, she said.
Have a happy new year and other resolutions
When the new year rolls around, so do thoughts of making resolutions. Need some inspiration? I came up with a whopping 175 suggestions!
COVID-19 and the lights of faith and hope
During these dark days of COVID-19, Dr. Dora Anne Mills reflects on other dark times in the history of our world and offers us some hope.
How to add a few laughs to your daily routine
I try to find things to laugh about, but it's not always easy these days. Laughing is supposed to be good for us but how can you laugh if so little seems funny? What if you just decided to laugh for no apparent reason. That's what Laughter Yoga is all about. I tried it recently and enjoyed myself. No joke.
30 years after lifesaving heart surgery, Mindy Beyer celebrates with a day of gratitude
She may not live past the age of three, said her doctors. Not only did she prove them wrong, but Mindy Beyer also says she has been given more than she ever expected. Definitely worth celebrating!
Living with a blood disorder called polycythemia vera
Rebecca Reilly was recently diagnosed with the rare blood disorder polycythemia vera. She is sharing her story to inspire others to pay attention to their body and the clues it gives.
Some advice and perspectives on growing older
What is old? Wendy Adlerstein, my guest on this episode of the Catching Health podcast, suggests that it has more to do with attitude than how many birthdays you've celebrated. She's a licensed social worker with a certificate in gerontology and the Executive Director of FirstLight Home Care in the Boston area. We tackled several issues related to getting older that are definitely worth listening to, especially if you or your parents are getting older.
COVID-19: which habits to keep, which ones to ditch
As we prepare for our pared-down Thanksgiving celebrations, COVID rages on across the country. With vaccines on the horizon, it's possible to imagine life returning to "normal" again. Dr. Dora Anne Mills considers the habits we've had to develop and what will happen to them.
COVID-19: A tale of two worlds
Playing it safe versus throwing all caution to the wind. A not-so brief update from Dr. Dora Anne Mills.
Managing motherhood when you have MCAS, POTS, and hEDS
Crystal Goodwin had always wanted to be a mother. Because she has some significant health issues, she knew it would be a challenge. She was right, but she has a lot of support and is looking forward to a little bit more.
Postpartum depression happens to dads, too
It's not unusual for new mothers to experience postpartum depression after giving birth. But what about new fathers? Can they, too, have postpartum depression? Definitely.
Anxiety in the time of COVID (and politics)
So ... feeling anxious lately? I know I am and it's wearing on me (and likely, my husband). Fortunately, I'm open to asking for advice, and that in itself can help me calm down. Writing this blog post was also helpful. It makes me feel connected when I can share what I learn.
Achieving a personal best during COVID and staying positive
At the beginning of the pandemic, Connie Venskus worked on puzzles, but then she put them away to pursue some more meaningful goals — making masks and training for a Jimmy Fund marathon walk.
Understanding the impact of COVID on senior living communities
People who live in senior and assisted living communities are at increased risk when it comes to COVID because of their age and the likelihood they have underlying health issues. How these communities tackle keeping residents and staff safe during the pandemic can be either life-saving or life-threatening. I look at one company that has been trying hard to get it right.
Catherine Gentile, author
Listen to my conversation (there's also a transcript available) with Maine author Catherine Gentile. Her latest book, Small Lies was just released. We talk about the stories in it, including the lie we tell ourselves about aging, and we talk about Alzheimer's' — which both of our mothers had — and how to possibly prevent this horrible disease.
You mean there’s therapy for that? Pelvic health physical therapy and why it matters
Most people have been to a physical therapist or are familiar with what they do. What you might not know is there are physical therapists specially trained in strengthening an often overlooked group of muscles — the ones in your pelvis. More important than you may realize.
What happens to your veins as you age
Our veins change with age, but no matter what risks you might have or how old you are, living with venous disease is not a foregone conclusion. Learn about common conditions and modern treatments and techniques that get you on your feet again.
Losing your balance lately? This is a must-read
I'm getting old, my balance isn't what it used to be. Do you ever say that to yourself? Well, guess what, age may be a factor, but there are things we all can do to improve our balance.
The truth about women and retirement
One of the truths about women and retirement is that everyone's story is different. Some women don't know what they'll do with their lives when they stop working and for others, it's their chance to start fulfilling their dreams.
October surprises about the COVID-19 pandemic
We've learned some important, potentially life-saving, facts about COVID-19 since the pandemic descended upon the world. We get some of the details from Dr. Dora Anne Mills. She calls them October surprises.