by Guest | May 17, 2024 | Being Well, Featured, Uncategorized
Fortunately, Buzzfeed has never claimed to be able to give you any medical diagnosis. But plenty of other sources on the internet walk the fine line between “this is not medical advice” and “this sure sounds a lot like medical advice”. There’s a quiz for everything, and a “cure” for everything. A problem you didn’t know you had, and the product that can solve it (for three easy payments of $19.95, plus shipping and handling!) Anything and everything to do with your health can be found with a few taps on your phone, so it’s important to recognize how media literacy ties in with health literacy.
Let’s take a step back. About 21% of US adults experience chronic pain, or pain that lasts for three or more months. Millions suffer from conditions that have no known treatment or cure. Our doctors don’t always have the answers we are looking for. After all, they can’t prescribe a treatment that doesn’t exist, or diagnose a condition that they don’t have the evidence for. And so, we strike out on our own determined to find a solution to the pain we carry every day. A solution beyond the scientific boundaries of conventional medical practice. Collectively, these solutions are referred to as alternative medicine.
Alternative medicine has real value to many individuals and cultures. That is not up for debate. For thousands of years, alternative medicine was the only medicine. However, there is potential for significant harm as these practices have expanded from healers utilizing medicinal herbs to Dr. Charlatan on the internet trying to sell you an at-home detox regimen that may very well do more harm than good. Many treatments or devices label themselves as alternative medicine when they are little more than a scam.
Here, health literacy and media literacy collide. Having the ability to recognize what information and products are legitimate and which are deceptive (not to mention potentially harmful and a waste of money) can make a significant difference in your health and quality of life. Let’s go over some questions to ask as you evaluate the validity of medical information online:
- Does it come from a reputable webpage, such as that of a university or hospital
system? Keep in mind that anyone can post deceiving information on social
media, or even on a website of their own. The website URL can give you some
clues. Websites ending in .edu=educational institutions, .gov=government agencies, .org =an organization (often non-profit), .com=commercial, and.net=network. Be particularly wary of .com and .net websites, as they could be hosted by anyone.
- Does it conflict with other reputable sources? If so, consider getting a second (or
third) opinion.
- Does the source profit off of your choice? Are they trying to sell you anything (a
device, a course, a supplement)? If they are promoting a supplement, is it their
own brand that they are trying to sell?
- Is it sensational? Black and white? Health information should be educational, not
headline-grabbing or clickbait.
- Do they have credible sources/citations?
- Is the person or organization making statements credentialed to do so? (Some
titles sound legitimate, but require no training or certification. For example,
anyone can claim to be a “nutritionist”, but “registered dietician” is a protected
title for trained professionals.)
To encourage a safe health practices, consider these tips:
- Avoid long gaps in medical care. Establish with a primary care provider (PCP)
and maintain regular visits. Let them know if anything changes with your health.
- Avoid self-diagnosing. Seek the most accurate diagnosis possible from a trained
physician.
- If you choose to take any supplements, ask your doctor if there is any risk that
they will interfere with your prescription medications. Remember that
supplements are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and
sometimes do not contain the product or dosage reflected on the label.
- Don’t change or stop any prescribed medications without consulting your doctor.
- Evaluate how much you are spending on alternative treatments, and whether you
are getting the positive outcomes you are looking for.
What medical treatments or information you choose to follow is ultimately your decision. If alternative medicine provides you with healing and comfort, that’s fantastic! But if you have any questions or concerns about your health, always go to a physician first. Keep up with Tillamook County Wellness’ health literacy campaign to continue learning about how you can play an active role in managing your health. And in the meantime, stick to the TikToks that teach you about gardening, not self-medicating. Be well, Tillamook!
written by Sarah Ermer, MPH, CHES, from Tillamook Family Counseling Center
Resources:
Rikard SM, Strahan AE, Schmit KM, Guy GP Jr.. Chronic Pain Among Adults — United States, 2019–2021. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 2023;72:379–385. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.15585/mmwr.mm7215a1.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2024, February 13). Is this legit? accessing valid and reliable health information. National Institutes of Health.
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/parents-educators/lesson-plans/legit-accessing-valid-and-reliable-health-information
by Guest | Feb 28, 2024 | Being Well, Featured, Move Well
Greetings Everyone! My name is Stephen Mintie and I live in Tillamook with my wonderful wife. I’ve gotten to know a lot of people in the area in the short time I’ve been here which is partially due to my endeavors in amateur videography. This allows me to be a visual storyteller in how I share my life. People regularly get to see a rich personal life I’m very grateful for that includes paragliding, hiking, community involvement, dining with my wife, and various adventures. What they don’t know is that I’ve had some times in my life of deep despair that has translated to some heavy anxiety and depression that still impacts me to this day and it has affected my physical health as well.
We all face different circumstances and traumas. We all process information and are motivated differently. Our tolerances vary as well. With that said, here are some things that have helped me pull out of my moments of weakness and pain though it is still very much a work in progress.
Light exercise goes a long way! A job of a physical nature or hobbies can help. There was a time I didn’t have either. I elected to do some sit ups, push ups, and a light jog a few times a week. After about a month and a half, I was improving. The biggest benefit was that physical activity led to better mental strength. Exercise does not need to be about vanity, it only takes a little work consistently for your mind and body to reap the rewards. When the chips are down, you need all the cards you can get in your deck.
What you put into your body matters. For a long time I was eating a frozen pizza for dinner late at night while washing it down with copious amounts of beer. This absolutely set me back pretty hard. I started developing what felt like an allergy to what I thought was gluten which has since subsided as I’ve changed this habit. The way I went about this was I started eating healthy foods such as greens and vegetables during the day. I felt it was easier to do during my working hours when I wasn’t chasing food for comfort. In the evening, I learned how to take healthy ingredients, but make it into something that tasted satisfying. I was able to feed the habit, and the habit didn’t know it was good for me. – Alcohol doesn’t serve anybody when things are hard. It’s a depressant and after a drink or two, it’s essentially poison. Do I still drink? Yes. Would I benefit from abstaining altogether? Absolutely. I wasn’t going to stop though, but I was thoughtful about its impacts. I stopped buying hard liquor in stores and stuck with low ABV beer. These days I have a pretty set limit of how much I’ll drink, but I wouldn’t consider it to be within healthy ranges. Remember, if your mind is hurting, alcohol is your enemy. A few hours of feeling good is only borrowing a few hours of happiness that has to be repaid back times 4.
Focus on growth rather than goals. You can fail while growing and even if you hit goals, you still will want to continue growing. Growth means that you don’t stop trying. Growth also means pursuing things that fill your personal cup and provide you with more mental stamina and relief. This varies wildly from person to person. Comparing yourself to others hinders growth.
In a world filled with people who are healthy and sick, rich and poor, only your story matters because it’s your health and mental well being on the line. We should absolutely care and empathize with others, but you can help people a lot more if you are happy and healthy. Growth also doesn’t have to be solely related towards eating right and exercising. The happiest people out there are also the most gracious. Grow in gratitude, be kind, and help others. Life is full of pain and disappointment for many. Think of ways to put a smile on somebody’s face. If you feel rudderless without direction, sometimes all you can do is your best. If you can’t find the light, be the light!
Lastly and while this applies to everyone, I’m really speaking to the men out there. Don’t be afraid to say something if you’re hurting. Some of my best pals and I talk about it all the time. It makes us human and relatable. I’ve made more friends in my life being open, honest, oftentimes self deprecating rather than bragging or making it seem like everything is in order. At the end of the day you are not alone. Life is not meant to be lived in quiet desperation and nothing changes if nothing changes. Regardless of your self esteem, say to yourself “I want to feel good, I want to be ok, and I would like to be happy too.” After that, start thinking about little things you are capable of doing every day consistently that will help you head in that direction. The time of my life where I started doing these things was a time I did not have hope whatsoever. I couldn’t see the way out, but I knew if I didn’t try the basics, I was going to sink. While I am a very lucky man now, I often think, “wow, there were so many times I just wanted to give up, and if I had, I would have had none of this.”
Don’t ever give up and remember, there’s a trick to eating an elephant, you have to take small bites.
by Guest | Feb 20, 2024 | Being Well, Eat Well, Featured, Uncategorized, Why I'm In, Work Well
“WHY I’M IN …” An interview with Mari Tasche, Oregon Health & Science University
What drew you/your organization to partner with Tillamook County Wellness?
When first introduced to Tillamook County Wellness, I was inspired by the work of the committees and felt that TCW aligned with my passion for improving the wellness and quality of life of others, particularly those made vulnerable by current systems. I have always been actively involved in my community, whether coaching youth soccer or coordinating a community-wide couch to 5k running group. As an exercise physiologist looking to transition into public health and plant my roots on the north coast, TCW provided a great opportunity to understand the region’s needs and get involved in efforts to address community health.
What, if any, changes have you seen come about as a result of this work?
Improving the health and wellness of a county is challenging work and truly takes a village. TCW is a unifying force that brings people and organizations together to share knowledge, leverage resources, and provide support. This strengthens our connections, creates unity, and fosters collective progress for the betterment of our community. I have seen many organizations coordinate and collaborate on projects, programs, and initiatives they might not have otherwise pursued together. This coalition has also taken ownership of the community health needs assessment and improvement plan to address the region’s top health and social needs. Efforts include evaluating and refocusing the work of committees, pursuing or supporting grants, establishing or strengthening partnerships, and broadening community outreach and engagement.
What have you learned from being involved in this work?
I have learned that opportunities are endless if you make the effort to reach out. Many people want to see this county thrive and want to contribute their part to make that happen. It is inspiring and fuels my optimism for this work. I have also learned that this work is like climbing a mountain with no top. It’s endless, but if you enjoy what you are doing, it doesn’t feel like a daunting task- and don’t forget to celebrate the small steps!
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to you/your organization?
My role has continued to evolve since joining a few years ago, and I strive to find my niche and how to best contribute my time and resources to TCW. As I wrap up my master’s degree in public health this fall, I am looking to align my final projects with TCW initiatives and develop relevant content and materials to drive this work forward. As a regionally based employee with the Oregon Rural Practice-based Research Network at OHSU, I aim to pursue future opportunities for cross-over and collaboration.
What are your hopes for this work as it relates to changing community health in Tillamook County.
Changing community health takes a multifaceted and dynamic approach. I hope that TCW continues to address this challenge holistically by strengthening a diverse network with a unified message, comprehensive strategy, and county-wide framework that can meet the needs of every individual and help them live their best, healthy lives.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I appreciate being a part of this coalition and look forward to what we can accomplish in the coming years.
For more local health and wellness information, visit www.tillamookcountywellness.org or follow Tillamook County Wellness on Facebook and Instagram.
by Michelle | Oct 5, 2023 | Being Well, Featured, Work Well
To promote the well-being and growth of children, access to regular physical activity is essential. Over the past three years, Tillamook County Wellness’ Health Promotions Committee has been offering fun, physical activity programs designed to introduce families to local outdoor recreational opportunities. Where participants qualify for exciting prize drawings.
Historically, we’ve collaborated with schools, local libraries, the Oregon Food Bank, and various community partners to promote these activities. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, we’ve been able to incentivize participation through rewarding prizes.
Tillamook County Wellness would like to encourage more family participation, especially among families with children aged 0-17 years. Since younger children might not have the means or easy access to parks and other physical activity locations on their own, they depend on older family members for transportation and motivation. This realization has led us to develop a more deliberate strategy for engaging families in 2024.
We plan to identify and acquire participation prizes that are specifically appealing to families. The Kiwanis Community Giving Award Funds will play a crucial role in enabling us to achieve this goal.
Tillamook County Wellness extends its heartfelt gratitude to be the recipients of the Kiwanis Community Giving Fund. Their support is invaluable in helping us achieve our mission of promoting health and well-being in our community to young children in Tillamook County.
Picture of: Janeane Krongos of Tillamook Family Counseling Center and Ron Rush of Tillamook Kiwanis Club
Tillamook County Wellness is a community-driven initiative with a primary focus on reducing the risk of chronic diseases by promoting healthy behaviors from an early age. We believe that by making healthy choices more accessible and enjoyable, we can cultivate thriving and vibrant communities.
by Guest | Jun 5, 2023 | Move Well
Downlaod a bingo card by clicking on the image.
This is the summer of exploring our own backyards, and how lucky are we to live in a place with an overabundance of outdoor recreation opportunities? Looking for some new “favorite” places to hike or fish? Here’s an incentive to discover Tillamook County’s treasures –Visit nearby state parks, community trails, and other recreation sites for a chance at prizes!
Tillamook County Wellness is re-launching its “Explore Your Outdoors” BINGO game to help you get outdoors and explore city, county and state parks, beaches, community trails, and other recreation sites. Some places are well-known and popular; others are just waiting to be explored. By you!
Adventure awaits from north to south and everywhere in between at Nehalem Bay State Park, to trails crisscrossing Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain, to climbing the sand hill at Cape Kiwanda and checking out the PC Pathways. There’s the Rockaway Beach Old Growth Cedar Preserve which has a ½ mile boardwalk that’s an easy stroll (accessible for wheelchairs) to one of Oregon’s largest trees, and The Harborside Trail in Garibaldi provides views from the Boat Basin to never-ending bay views of the Historic U.S. Coast Guard Boathouse. Travel south and get yet another view of Tillamook Bay from the trails at Kilchis Point Reserve near Bay City.
The City of Tillamook has the Hoquarton Park Trail, and the unique Bud’s Fitness Trail with exercise stations and then you could always explore one of Tillamook County’s many water trails for a peaceful new perspective. There are city parks galore, miles of beaches – ocean beaches, bayside beaches and riverbanks – and so much more.
Check out a local Farmers Market, go fishing, find a new beach, or visit any of the other locations and you’ll be able to check off a square. Just like Bingo, fill in a line of adventures and enter for a chance to win great prizes. Go for a full blackout and the ultimate Tillamook County adventurers can enter to win a Kayak trip for eight, donated by Kayak Tillamook!
Explore Your Outdoors adventure begins June 1 and runs through July 31, 2023. You can download the bingo card online from our website. Bingo cards have also been sent home with students from the local school districts across the county. Prizes are drawn weekly. Enter yourself for a chance to win once you have a “bingo” online at tillamookcountywellness.org/ move-well/great-places-to-get-moving or scan the QR code on the card.
Happy exploring!
Other wellness questions? Email us at info@tillamookcountywellness.org. For more local health and wellness information, visit www.tillamookcountywellness.org or follow Tillamook County Wellness on Facebook and Instagram.
