Blake Pennington

Blake Pennington
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Reasons to Go Tobacco-Free

When a strong craving hits, it can be easy to lose sight of the benefits of quitting. You might lose your focus, but there is no good reason to use tobacco. Remind yourself of the rewards of quitting to help yourself stay on track. 20 minutes: heart rate and blood pressure drop 2 weeks-3 months: … Read More

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Owning Your Feelings

It can be easy to get caught up in your emotions as you’re feeling them. Most people don’t think about what emotions they are dealing with, but taking the time to really identify what you’re feeling can help you to better cope with challenging situations. The following are some tips for success: Allow yourself to … Read More

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World Mental Health Day 2020

World Mental Health Day is observed on October 10 every year, with the aim of raising awareness of mental health issues and creating positive changes that support people, improve mental health outcomes and eliminate stigma. Each of us can make a contribution to ensure that people dealing with problems concerning mental health can live better … Read More

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Maintaining Connections While Social Distancing

Connecting with other people is a part of our biological programming. We seek out human interaction when we are stressed or challenged. Our instinct is to gather in groups to shield us from mental and physical harm. Now, we are faced with the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. Social distancing is recommended for the health … Read More

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Preserving Kids’ Mental Health During COVID-19

The attention of the world is focused on measures to lessen the transmission and economic effect of the COVID-19 outbreak. Due to this rapidly changing situation, media and social conversations are dominated by the pandemic. Children are exposed to so much information and high levels of stress and anxiety in adults. At the same time, … Read More

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COVID-19 Blues or Something More?

Coronavirus restrictions continue and we have yet to return to our previous normal, despite attempts. It’s easy to feel lonely when so many people are staying close to home, avoiding gatherings and many businesses are shuttered. For people who experience anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions, the strain of isolation is particularly heavy. A … Read More

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What’s New? BHS Covering Telepsych/Telehealth

During the current national health emergency, BHS has implemented the coverage of outpatient telepsych or telehealth. The benefit, which includes coverage through your free, confidential EAP visits, applies only to mental health conditions with an in-network BHS provider. BHS members who are new to BHS, or not already an established patient, are encouraged to contact … Read More

Woman wearing protective face mask in the office for safety and protection during COVID-19

Overcoming Anxiety About Face Coverings

With the COVID-19 pandemic, wearing face coverings in public has become the new normal. However, you may be among the individuals who feel anxious, sad or irritated at having to wear a face covering or seeing others in public with face coverings. You are uncomfortable, yet cannot pinpoint why you are feeling these emotions. There … Read More

Coping with Grief During COVID-19

Coping with Grief During COVID-19

As the country continues to deal with the coronavirus (COVID-19), nearly everyone is grieving someone or something. With social distancing protocols, the inability to gather and mourn has left bereaved loved ones confused on how to move forward. At this time, some of the most basic rituals to honor the deceased and aid in the … Read More

COVID-19: Refocusing At Work

COVID-19: Refocusing At Work

In many places, local orders to quarantine or stay-at-home are being lifted. Companies are making plans to resume normal operations. This will likely be a process that varies greatly depending on where you live and the type of job you have. You may be excited, or even a little apprehensive about returning to your workplace. … Read More