Depression / 07.11.2024

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)Individuals seeking treatment or substance use support for themselves or a loved one can call the toll-free PA Get Help Now helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). The free, confidential hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and staffed by trained professionals. Consulting with a medical professional is essential to assess the best treatment option tailored to personal needs and circumstances. TMS therapy (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) and antidepressants are both widely used for treating depression, but they come with different side effect profiles. While antidepressants have long been a common choice, they often present a range of systemic side effects, from weight gain and drowsiness to sexual disorders.  TMS therapy is a non-invasive treatment that generally has fewer and milder side effects, such as mild headaches or scalp discomfort. These differences are essential for patients exploring the most suitable treatment options for their needs.   tms vs meds

How Do Antidepressants Function in Treating Depression?

Antidepressants work by balancing the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are chemicals that affect mood and emotional state. Antidepressants function by balancing chemicals in the brain, particularly neurotransmitters, which affect mood and emotions.  In the United States alone, studies have shown that approximately 13-15% of adults have reported using antidepressants, which equates to over 40 million people. (more…)
Exercise - Fitness, Mental Health Research / 06.11.2024

Do you have green fingers? Are you passionate about gardening? Even though gardening can be therapeutic and relaxing, remember a few tips and tricks to help you on this journey. As a gardener, you must do research to ensure you know the tools and strategies to create your flourishing, relaxing space. In recent years, more individuals have put more effort into their outdoor spaces, which has paid off. In this blog article, we’ll explore a few crucial tips and practices to consider when creating your dream outdoor space. 

Contact Experts In Pest Treatment Services

There’s nothing more frustrating than dealing with a pest issue. Not only can this affect the health of your family members, but it can also lead to other problems in your home. If you have an outdoor spa, it’s essential to contact a company that specializes in pest treatment services. They’ll be able to guide you on this journey and help you find solutions to many pest problems. (more…)
Complementary Medicine, Mental Health Research, Psychological Science, Stress / 05.11.2024

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at org. To learn how to get support for mental health, drug or alcohol conditions, visit FindSupport.gov. If you are ready to locate a treatment facility or provider, you can go directly to FindTreatment.govor call 800-662-HELP (4357). The relationship between mental and physical health has been a topic of increasing interest, highlighting how closely our minds and bodies interact. This connection, often referred to as the "mind-body connection," underscores the significant impact that mental well-being can have on physical health. Stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges can cause a range of physical symptoms, from fatigue and headaches to digestive issues and chronic illnesses. As people continue to learn more about this link, there is growing evidence that caring for mental health can lead to improved physical wellness and vice versa. A fascinating aspect of this connection is how mental health struggles can trigger the body's stress response, leading to heightened levels of cortisol, also known as the "stress hormone." While this response can be helpful in short bursts—preparing us for challenges—it can lead to harmful effects if sustained over long periods. Understanding and prioritizing mental health care, therefore, is crucial in promoting overall wellness and helping individuals manage both physical and emotional challenges. (more…)
Health Care Workers, Mental Health Research / 05.11.2024

  Understanding the mental and emotional needs of patients is increasingly important in today’s healthcare environments. Many healthcare professionals find that psychological insights help them communicate better, understand patient behaviors, and build stronger connections with their patients. Psychology-related knowledge allows professionals to recognize both the spoken and unspoken needs of those they care for, leading to more effective and compassionate treatment. Knowing how people think and feel can enhance your role and improve patient outcomes, whether you're working directly with patients or part of a support team. From communication to managing stress and promoting well-being, psychological skills provide valuable tools that help healthcare workers build trust, identify issues, and offer support. In this article, we will look at some ways that a deeper understanding of psychology strengthens your role in healthcare. (more…)
addiction-treatment, Mental Health Research / 05.11.2024

Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357)Individuals seeking treatment or substance use support for themselves or a loved one can call the toll-free PA Get Help Now helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357). The free, confidential hotline is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and staffed by trained professionals.
  • Introduction to Group Meetings
  • The Role of Peer Support in Recovery
  • Benefits of Sharing Personal Experiences
  • Strategies for Building Trust in Group Settings
  • Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Community Support
Introduction to Group Meetings Group meetings have long been recognized as critical for personal recovery and growth. These gatherings serve as a haven for individuals seeking solace, understanding, and camaraderie in various stages of their healing process. By establishing a platform for people to discuss their experiences and work together towards shared objectives openly, these gatherings cultivate a sense of community beyond the meetings themselves. Whether in local support groups, therapy sessions, or even in broader spaces like AA Meetings Omaha, people witness the power of collective support to spur individual change. Group meetings come in diverse forms, each tailored to address the specific needs of its members, allowing a versatile approach to recovery and personal development. Group meetings benefit participants from a sense of inclusion and recognition, which encourages a more profound commitment to personal growth. In these supportive environments, thoughts and struggles are embraced without judgment, allowing individuals to explore their emotions and mental health freely. With various formats ranging from structured programs to casual gatherings, group meetings cater to different preferences while maintaining a unified mission: to empower and guide individuals along their unique paths to recovery. (more…)
Accidents & Violence, Brain Injury, Legal-Malpractice / 05.11.2024

  Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) pose a significant public health danger, affecting millions of individuals annually. A TBI happens when rapid trauma harms the brain, and its severity can range from moderate to fatal. Understanding the different types of TBI is essential for both prevention and treatment. There are three primary categories of TBI: concussions, contusions, and penetrating injuries. Each type presents unique risks and legal implications, particularly when negligence or intentional harm is involved.

1.  Contusions

Contusions, or bruises to the brain, are one of the most common types of brain injuries. They happen when a direct blow to the head causes bleeding or edema in brain tissue. Contusions, unlike concussions, are typically more localized injuries that might result in more severe symptoms depending on the location of the brain affected. Contusions are significant in personal injury and medical malpractice cases. For example, suppose a person suffers a contusion after slipping on an unmarked wet floor at a grocery store. In that case, they could pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. The primary challenge in these instances is frequently demonstrating negligence, whether the property owner, employer, or another person failed to make reasonable efforts to avoid the injury. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 01.11.2024

If you or a a loved one who is in danger of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure someone stays with that person. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. Mental health treatment isn't one-size-fits-all. Just like physical health, mental well-being requires different levels of care based on individual needs. Some people benefit from weekly therapy sessions, while others need more structured support. Understanding these layers of care can make a world of difference. With the right support, individuals can find the balance that works for them. Whether facing mild anxiety or severe depression, there’s a level of care tailored to help each person achieve stability and resilience.

Outpatient Care: Flexible Support for Mild to Moderate Needs

Individuals managing mild to moderate mental health challenges often benefit from a flexible care option that fits seamlessly into their daily lives. This level of support is ideal for those who don’t need full-time supervision but can use regular guidance to maintain stability and build coping skills. Patients in outpatient programs maintain independence, attending sessions at their own pace and on a schedule that works best for them. Sessions typically occur weekly or bi-weekly, with each one focusing on personal growth, skill development, and progress tracking. Therapy options can include individual counseling, group sessions, or a tailored combination, allowing patients to find the mental health support that feels right. For added convenience, many choose remote care options. For example, you may  consider OpenMindHealth.com for flexible telehealth services that accommodate busy lifestyles. This kind of accessibility ensures consistent support, making outpatient care an adaptable choice for many facing mental health challenges. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 31.10.2024

If you or ae a loved one who is in danger of suicide or has made a suicide attempt, make sure someone stays with that person. Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.   Almost every Hollywood depiction of therapy shows an elderly-looking man sitting in a chair across from his patient, a notepad in hand. “And how did it make you feel?” he asks while adjusting his glasses for effect. Those who regularly attend therapy sessions know that’s not how it works. With the emphasis on “regular”, therapy has changed how people live their lives and helped them unlearn toxic behavior. Call it the dismantling of problematic patterns if you must. Whatever your thoughts on therapy, one undeniable fact is that it serves your mental health and well-being. Many people swear that therapy is the best form of self-care. While the aim is always the same, the pathway to healing can take different routes.  Below, we’ll explain how different types of therapy can be food for the soul and how they can address diverse challenges.  (more…)
Mental Health Research / 29.10.2024

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at org. Have you ever felt stuck in therapy, making slow progress, or none at all? You're not alone. Many people find traditional long-term therapy frustrating or ineffective. That's where intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy (ISTDP) comes in. This innovative approach aims to speed up the therapeutic process and produce lasting change in a shorter time frame. In this article, we'll explore what intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy is, how it works, and what you can expect if you decide to try this treatment. We'll cover the basics, dive into the theory behind it, and give you a clear picture of what an ISTDP session might look like.

What is Intensive Short-Term Dynamic Psychotherapy?

Intensive short-term dynamic psychotherapy, often abbreviated as ISTDP, is a form of psychotherapy developed by Dr. Habib Davanloo in the 1960s. It's designed to help people quickly identify and resolve emotional issues that may be causing psychological distress or interfering with their daily lives. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 28.10.2024

Do you need to find a way to stop feeling stressed and anxious all the time? Nowadays, it seems like everyone is constantly feeling overwhelmed for a number of different reasons. Your mental and physical health should always be a priority, and many innovations are being implemented to combat stress and anxiety—one of which is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). Could hyperbaric oxygen therapy be the solution to reducing your stress and anxiety levels? In this article, we’ll dive into what hyperbaric oxygen therapy is and the benefits it presents, which can help you to better manage the stress and anxiety you’re feeling.

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Mental Health Research, Telemedicine / 28.10.2024

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at org. To learn how to get support for mental health, drug or alcohol conditions, visit FindSupport.gov. As mental health care becomes more accessible, many people are now considering whether virtual counseling can offer the same benefits as face-to-face therapy. The question arises: does online counseling provide the same depth of connection and understanding as traditional therapy? In today’s fast-paced world, many individuals are seeking more convenient ways to access mental health services. As a result, virtual sessions are becoming an increasingly popular option. When comparing the two approaches, it's important to assess whether virtual counseling can truly replicate the in-person experience. Services like The Collective Therapy & Wellness provide virtual therapy, making mental health support easier to access for a wider audience. The flexibility of scheduling and the comfort of attending sessions from home have their unique appeal. (more…)
Author Interviews, Mental Health Research, University of Michigan / 27.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Daniel J. Kruger, PhD University of Michigan MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: A team of researchers from the University of Michigan and University at Buffalo teamed up with psychedelic advocates and therapists to document some of the challenges with psychedelics. They surveyed over a thousand psychedelic users about their adverse experiences and the experiences they have heard from others. Most reported being frightened, sadness, loneliness, and feeling their body tremble or shake at times. Some people experienced panic, paranoia, felt that they are dead, or that the state they were in would last forever. One in ten participants had adverse physical reactions.  For most people having these experiences, they are rare or happen sometimes, but they are still significant. Most of the people that experienced a severe adverse event did not have guidance from someone who was knowledgeable about psychedelics. A small portion of participants knew about an incident of inappropriate sexual contact by a psychedelic sitter, guide, or practitioner, the perpetrators were mostly underground guides and friends or acquaintances. (more…)
Mental Health Research, Mindfulness / 24.10.2024

Do you ever feel overwhelmed trying to balance work, relationships, and personal health? It can seem like there’s never enough time in the day to fit everything in. Many of us find it hard to prioritize wellness with so many competing demands. Yet, creating small habits that promote well-being doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. In fact, building healthy routines into your day can leave you feeling energized and ready to handle whatever life throws your way. In this blog, we will share practical ways to incorporate wellness into your daily routine, covering simple activities that can positively impact your physical, mental, and emotional health. Let’s dive in.

1.    Start Your Day with Mindful Breathing

Beginning your day with a few minutes of mindful breathing can set a positive tone. Mindful breathing helps ground you, making it easier to stay focused and calm as you go about your day. Sit or lie down in a quiet spot, close your eyes, and breathe deeply for a few minutes, focusing only on your breath. This small practice can make a noticeable difference in your ability to manage stress. It encourages you to slow down and become more aware of your thoughts and emotions. When mornings feel rushed or chaotic, mindful breathing can help you regain a sense of balance. (more…)
Accidents & Violence, Mental Health Research / 23.10.2024

Did you know that trauma isn't just about experiencing a catastrophic event? It's much more common than you might think. In fact, trauma can be as subtle as growing up with emotionally distant parents or as pervasive as living in a high-crime neighborhood. Understanding trauma is crucial because it affects millions of people worldwide, shaping their lives in ways they often don't even realize. Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that may overwhelm an individual's ability to cope. It's not just about what happens to you, but how your nervous system responds to what happens. This response can lead to lasting effects on your mental and physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life. But here's the thing: trauma doesn't have to define you. With the right understanding and support, it's possible to heal and grow from even the most challenging experiences. Let's dive into the world of trauma, unpack its complexities, and explore pathways to healing. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 21.10.2024

  Almost every Hollywood depiction of therapy shows an elderly-looking man sitting in a chair across from his patient, a notepad in hand. “And how did it make you feel?” he asks while adjusting his glasses for effect. Those who regularly attend therapy sessions know that’s not how it works. With the emphasis on “regular”, therapy has changed how people live their lives and helped them unlearn toxic behavior. Call it the dismantling of problematic patterns if you must. Whatever your thoughts on therapy, one undeniable fact is that it serves your mental health and well-being. Many people swear that therapy is the best form of self-care. While the aim is always the same, the pathway to healing can take different routes.  Below, we’ll explain how different types of therapy can be food for the soul and how they can address diverse challenges. (more…)
Nursing, Stress / 18.10.2024

The healthcare system faces a serious problem with nurse turnover, which has impacts on both the quality of patient care and hospital efficiency.  Current data reveals that in 2023, nearly one-fifth, or 18.4% of registered nurses in U.S. hospitals quit their jobs. This underscores persistent issues related to maintaining long-term employment of nursing staff.  Improving nurse retention is crucial because it greatly affects the stability and efficacy of healthcare services provided to patients directly. As we go deep into this important subject, let's analyze the multiple causes of these high turnover rates and think about possible solutions to tackle them.  

Suboptimal Staffing Levels

A lot of healthcare centers often deal with a continual lack of staff, a main reason that increases the amount of work and tension among nurses. This excessive workload can cause stress in their jobs as nurses feel overworked and incapable of offering the level of care they aspire to.  Addressing these staffing issues is crucial for improving nursing retention by creating a more supportive work environment. Continuous overwork doesn’t just affect their job performance but also influences their mental health and happiness. The repeated cycle of high stress and low job satisfaction significantly contributes to the choice by many nurses to leave their jobs, searching for better conditions or less challenging roles somewhere else. (more…)
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Cost of Health Care, Medicare, UCLA / 15.10.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Frank F. Zhou   he/him MD Candidate, Class of 2025 David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What is Lecanemab used for?  How is it given to patients? Response: Lecanemab is a new infusion therapy for Alzheimer's disease. Its dosing is based on each patient's body weight (10 mg/kg every two weeks), but the drug is only available in 500 mg and 200 mg single-use vials, meaning that any leftover drug in vials must be thrown away. Given that lecanemab is expected to cost Medicare billions of dollars each year, we hypothesized that discarded drug could result in significant wasteful spending. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Stress / 14.10.2024

Addiction recovery is a challenging journey that often comes with its own set of stressors. Managing stress effectively is crucial for maintaining sobriety and preventing relapse. Stress can trigger cravings and lead to unhealthy coping mechanisms, potentially derailing the progress made in recovery. However, by implementing proven stress management techniques, individuals in recovery can build resilience and develop healthier ways to cope with life's challenges. This article presents seven practical tips to help those in addiction recovery effectively manage stress, promoting long-term success in their sobriety journey. By incorporating these strategies into daily life, individuals can create a strong foundation for lasting recovery and improved overall well-being. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation In managing stress during addiction recovery, the practice of mindfulness and meditation is considered beneficial. Mindfulness encourages staying present in the moment, which can reduce stress by limiting focus on past substance use or concerns about the future. Engaging in meditation for as little as 20 minutes per day has been shown to lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress and anxiety. These practices enhance self-awareness, aiding individuals in recognizing and regulating their emotions, an important aspect of addiction recovery. Regular mindfulness practice can also decrease the intensity of cravings, offering healthier coping mechanisms. Incorporating mindfulness into daily routines may improve overall well-being and build resilience against stressors that could lead to relapse. An example of a drug rehab that incorporates mindfulness and meditation techniques into their treatment programs is New Chapter Faith Recovery, which provides addiction treatment in New Jersey. They recognize that these practices enhance self-awareness, aiding individuals in recognizing and regulating their emotions, which is crucial in addiction recovery. (more…)
Mental Health Research, Psychological Science / 05.10.2024

  As mental health awareness grows, more people are seeking professional support for emotional, psychological, and behavioral challenges. However, finding the right counselor involves more than just scheduling an appointment—it’s essential to understand the credentials of the professional you are trusting with your care. Mental health counseling credentials provide insight into a counselor's education, training, and qualifications. These credentials contribute to clients receiving the best care possible, establishing trust and confidence in the services provided. The Importance of Mental Health Counseling Credentials Credentials serve as a clear indication that a mental health professional has undergone the necessary training and education to guide clients through their mental health challenges. For clients, knowing that a counselor holds the appropriate credentials is a key factor in building trust. It reassures them that the counselor is qualified and capable of handling sensitive mental health issues. Moreover, licensed professionals adhere to a strict code of ethics, making sure that they maintain confidentiality, obtain informed consent, and provide competent care. These ethical standards help protect clients and hold the counselor accountable in their practice. Credentials reflect a commitment to professionalism, and clients should always consider them when choosing a mental health professional. When searching for a counselor, you might come across different credentials, such as LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker) and LMHC (Licensed Mental Health Counselor). Understanding the differences between these qualifications is important. For example, when comparing LCSW vs LMHC, it's helpful to know that while both are licensed and qualified counselors, their training and areas of expertise may differ. This distinction can influence the type of care you receive based on your specific needs. Ultimately, choosing the right credentialed professional can help you find the best possible support during your mental health journey. (more…)
Accidents & Violence, Brain Injury / 05.10.2024

  Motorcycle accidents are more dangerous than car accidents since the rider often feels the direct impact on the accident due to the lack of a protective metal covering. While you might be wearing a helmet, the head protection it offers may not be sufficient to completely protect the head. This is particularly true when the motorcyclist is involved in severe accidents. In some instances, you might even end up suffering a brain injury despite wearing a helmet. But how do brain injuries due to a motorcycle accident occur? Let’s explore the causes, types, and symptoms of brain injuries from motorcycle accidents. (more…)
Autism / 27.09.2024

Autism is a spectrum disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. One common characteristic of autism is stimming, which stands for self-stimulatory behavior. Stimming helps individuals with autism cope with sensory overload, anxiety, and other challenges they may face. In this article, we'll delve into the world of stimming and focus on a specific form of it - finger flicking.

What is Stimming?

Stimming is a set of self-soothing behaviors that people with autism engage in. It's a way for them to regulate their sensory experiences and emotional responses. Stimming can take various forms, from rocking and hand-flapping to repetitive vocal sounds and, of course, finger flicking. These behaviors serve a crucial purpose for individuals with autism, helping them manage stress, anxiety, and sensory overstimulation. (more…)
Mental Health Research, Psychological Science / 21.09.2024

Benefits of Art Therapy Art therapy can be described as a subcategory of psychotherapy in which art-related exercises are used as vehicles of expression. It harnesses the processes of the artistic mind to assist people with their emotional, psychological, and sometimes physical difficulties. This type of creative art and artistic expression, which takes place under the guidance of an art therapist, is based on the idea that art and creativity contribute to psychological health and facilitate nonverbal communication. What's art therapy, and how can it help you boost your overall lifestyle? Read on to learn how art therapy can be helpful, including its effect on mental health issues, mood modulation, and health overall. (more…)
Mental Health Research, Technology / 12.09.2024

social-media-mental-health.jpg When it comes to social media usage, you don’t need to complete a masters in mental health nursing to understand that the media we consume via socials can have a dramatic impact on our state of mind.  Of course, these impacts are not always negative. Inspirational, aspirational, and almost always aesthetically pleasing - engaging with social media content can help us experience a certain ‘joie de vivre’, it can fuel our drive and ambition to succeed, and in some ways, also enhance our sense of community, connectedness, and belonging.  On the flip side, however, it can also be argued that social media imposes immense societal pressure - particularly on the young and impressionable - as well as the tendency to compare ourselves to others. This can cause vulnerable content consumers to see themselves in a negative light - which can lead to emotional distress, and in some cases, even develop into serious mental health conditions such as eating disorders, anxiety, and depression. (more…)
Accidents & Violence, Legal-Malpractice, Mental Health Research / 11.09.2024

  car-accident-legal-candle.jpg   Losing a loved one is one of life’s most profound sorrows, and when that loss is due to a wrongful death in a car accident, the pain can feel unbearable. In the wake of such a tragedy, emotions run high, and the path forward may seem overwhelming. You may be grappling with feelings of anger, confusion, and heartbreak, all while trying to navigate the complex legal landscape that follows a fatal accident. In these difficult moments, it’s crucial to remember that you are not alone. Many have faced similar heart-wrenching situations, and there are steps you can take to honor your loved one’s memory while seeking justice. Depending on the nature of the accident, services like Biohazard Cleaning in Knoxville may be necessary, ensuring the scene is properly handled. This blog post aims to provide compassionate guidance on how to handle the aftermath of a wrongful death in a car accident. From understanding your legal rights to finding the support you need, we’ll explore the resources available to help you through this challenging time. Together, let’s take a step toward healing and justice for those we have lost too soon.

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Mental Health Research / 11.09.2024

Maintaining healthy and fulfilling relationships can be challenging, especially in the fast-paced environment of a bustling city like Chicago. Relationship Counseling Chicago can be a valuable resource for couples and individuals alike, offering professional guidance to overcome challenges, improve communication, and rebuild trust. At our counseling center, we believe that every relationship deserves the opportunity to thrive. Our goal is to provide expert care to help couples and individuals navigate their unique emotional landscapes. Why Choose Relationship Counseling? Couples and individuals face a variety of modern pressures. From balancing busy work schedules to managing financial stresses, relationship strains often arise from external factors that can feel overwhelming. The decision to seek relationship counseling is a positive step toward emotional healing and growth. We offer a unique understanding of the challenges that urban life can place on relationships, providing a tailored approach that is both empathetic and effective. (more…)
Mental Health Research / 09.09.2024

Travel is about getting a well-deserved vacation from the rush and bustle of contemporary life for some people, while for others, it is all about experiencing new places and meeting new people. Travel can provide all of these things and a great deal more. There is a wealth of research to demonstrate that when we travel, our brains remain happy and healthy, regardless of the length of time we are away from home—three days or three months. The following is a list of just a few of the many ways that traveling is beneficial to our mental health.

It Deepens Our Understanding

As a result of traveling, we are forced to go outside of our comfort zones, and the new experiences we get may be quite beneficial to us. Engaging with people from cultures that are distinct from your own may provide you with a far more comprehensive understanding of life. In addition, the "openness" and "agreeableness" aspects of your personality are strengthened by traveling abroad, according to the findings of one research. These are two of the "Big Five" personality characteristics, which are used to broadly classify personality types in psychological assessments. The former is characterized by friendship and compassion, while the latter is characterized by a respect for art, adventure, and a wide range of experiences. (more…)