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5 ways to help pollinators flourish

2020-06-15T11:01:01

(BPT) – You may already be aware that pollinators are important to everyone on the planet. But did you know that one in every three bites of food is made possible by native pollinators?

Pollinators such as bees, butterflies, flies, bats and hummingbirds transfer pollen between flowers and other plants, helping them grow and produce the fruit and vegetables we all eat — and that our beloved pets eat.

Because pollinators help grow the pumpkins, apples and cranberries used to make Beyond, a sustainability-minded natural pet food, the team has collaborated with The Nature Conservancy to initiate Project Blossom, with the mission of helping protect the declining population of pollinators. Purina’s Beyond has donated $100,000 to The Nature Conservancy to help its mission to support a healthy planet, to protect pollinators.

“The Nature Conservancy works around the globe to protect pollinators from challenges such as the loss and degradation of habitat, climate change and more,” said Chris Helzer, director of science for the Nature Conservancy in Nebraska. “By partnering with Beyond and being a part of Project Blossom, we are advancing our work to support a healthy planet for pollinators and all the other species we rely on for a healthy ecosystem.”

How you can help

Here are some simple things you can do to help pollinators thrive. They are fun, easy and educational projects you can enjoy with the whole family, especially while you’re spending more time at home and in your own yard and garden.

1. Learn

Kids find pollinators fascinating, and there’s a lot to learn about what they do for our ecosystem.

  • Visit The Nature Conservancy website as a starting point to discover more about how pollinators work.
  • Check out other websites, books or local outdoor gardens to explore native plants and pollinators that live in your area.
  • Make a list, map and/or photo project to describe what kinds of pollinators help which plants grow in your region.
  • Seek out resources to learn more about different types of pollinators and the threats they face. For example, when most people talk about bees, they assume honeybee, but there are more than 5,000 species of bees found in North America alone that need our support.

2. Plant

Once you’ve identified regional plants, flowers and shrubs that pollinators love, decide which ones to add to your outdoor space.

  • Involve the whole family in growing a variety of pollinator-friendly plants outside your home.
  • Avoid using pesticides in your yard or garden and learn which ones are least likely to affect bees and pollinators.
  • If you have limited outdoor space, use a small raised garden bed or a planter on your deck, balcony or patio.
  • Set up a pollinator window box.

3. Make

Collect supplies, like pieces of wood, and involve your kids in making a small project to help sustain pollinator communities in your own backyard.

4. Donate

Make a monetary contribution to the cause.

  • Make a donation to The Nature Conservancy, which helps conserve and protect land and water around the world.
  • Consider encouraging donations from friends and family.

5. Share

An easy way to spread awareness about pollinators is to create a conversation about them on social media.

  • Share the Project Blossom website with friends and family.
  • Post pictures of your pollinator projects or gardens to inspire others to join your efforts.

“We’re committed to keeping pets healthy and happy, which is why we’re committed to helping protect our planet and ultimately, pollinators that play an important role in our ingredient sourcing,” said Diane Herndon, senior manager of sustainability at Purina Beyond. “At Beyond, we hope Project Blossom will inspire people everywhere to help protect pollinators that play a vital role in nutritious ingredients that go in our cat and dog recipes.”

Visit BeyondPetFood.com/ProjectBlossom to learn more about what you can do to help your neighborhood be a friendlier place for much-needed pollinators.

conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends


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Thinking about becoming a freelancer? 6 things to consider before making the jump

2020-06-15T07:01:00

(BPT) – Considering the economic challenges the world is faced with today, including some of the highest unemployment numbers in recent history, now could be an excellent time to begin a career as a freelancer.

Recent nationwide furloughs and layoffs caused by the struggling economy and the social distancing necessitated by COVID-19 make that particularly true. But statistics show the number of freelancers has been growing over the past decade, partly because people enjoy the flexibility, control and better work-life balance that can come with the role. And independent contractors span a range of professions these days, from law to graphic design to engineering.

In a survey conducted in the nation’s top 30 cities for freelancing last year, for example, some six million independent contractors were collectively earning $150 billion. Some of the largest markets for freelancers these days? New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Washington, D.C. Nashville and Austin are also up-and-comers, with the population of skilled freelancers growing by 26% and 27%, respectively, between 2012 and 2017. Miami’s skilled freelance workforce contributes most to its overall city GDP, making up a full 2.3%.

Here are notable advantages to consider if you’re mulling a move to the freelance lifestyle.

Control over your schedule

Freelancing empowers you with much more control over your workload and when you choose to complete it. Not only can you accept or decline assignments based on your availability and preferences, but in many cases you can finish them during the hours most convenient to you. That can be invaluable when you’re juggling other family or business commitments or simply wish to reserve certain time periods for other endeavors.

Relaxed work environments

As your own boss, you establish your own work space, rules, dress code and core values. Having that kind of flexibility in this uncertain world can be a huge boon to your health, comfort and sense of individuality.

Unprecedented reach

Digital technology enables work-at-home capabilities for those who may not have had that option in the past, allowing those in many professions to work entirely online while keeping a safe distance from COVID-19 and other possible threats. Though many people find their freelance work through word-of-mouth or social media, a full 18% now find their clients through online marketplaces such as Fiverr, according to the survey. Last year Fiverr connected 2.4 million customers with independent contractor clients from more than 160 countries across the globe.

Job satisfaction

Those who freelance often see their work as more rewarding than others. In the Fiverr survey, for example, seven of 10 U.S. freelancers called their work highly satisfying, compared to about half of U.S. workers in general. The primary reasons for that added satisfaction? The freedom to work from home, the flexibility of the work schedules and the interesting nature of their work.

Healthy paychecks

Because they can control their own pricing, profit margins and productivity, many freelancers earn more working for themselves than for others. And they’re not expecting their revenues to change significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic; the Fiverr survey found that 59% of independent contractors surveyed expected to earn equal or increased revenues in 2020.

Income equality

Men and women both find success through freelancing, and the gender pay gap seems to be a non-issue among freelancers. Of freelancers worldwide working through Fiverr, for instance, 44% are women — and they earn almost 20% more than the men.

For many, the option of becoming an independent contractor is becoming more and more attractive.

Ready to become your own boss? Fiverr connects employers with digital service workers in more than 300 categories across eight fields, offering transparency, efficiency and ease as work is managed and completed. Contact us to learn more.


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Indulge Your Wanderlust Now by Planning for Future Travel

2020-06-12T11:23:00

(BPT) – As travel restrictions begin to slowly lift, millions of Americans are looking to travel again. Put that energy to good use by planning for your future trip.

Preparing for and anticipating your next vacation can be almost as enjoyable as the vacation itself. Whether it’s with friends, a partner or the whole family, travel planning allows you to stay socially connected while remaining physically distant. Organizing your next vacation will help lift spirits and build excitement around what is to come.

Consider these top ideas for indulging your wanderlust so you’re ready to travel when it’s safe to do so again:

1. Decide What Type of Trip You Want to Take.

Many people may shift travel plans from big cities to more open spaces where you can explore Mother Nature. Travelers are also looking to drive instead of fly so expect a revival of the great American road trip. For example, Wyoming’s open roads and beautiful scenery make it an ideal state for road trips. With more than 50% public lands, Wyoming is the least populated state in America with only one resident per every 111 acres. Its small-town charm paired with all levels of outdoor opportunities attract everyone from young families to expert-level adventure seekers.

Some examples of things to do throughout Wyoming include:

  • Explore the natural wonder and take a mineral-rich soak at the Hot Springs State Park, Saratoga Hot Springs Resort or Granite Hot Springs.
  • Enjoy world-class mountain biking in Curt Gowdy State Park outside of Cheyenne and Laramie, or Green River Bike Park in Sweetwater County.
  • Hit the water on a boat, float trip or river rafting throughout the state, including the Snake River in the west, the North Platte River spanning the central and eastern portion, Bighorn River in the north, and the Green River and Flaming Gorge in the south.
  • Whether novice or expert, hiking within Wyoming’s eight national forests, two national parks and two national monuments is unforgettable. Wyoming is also home to many firsts, including the country’s first national forest, park and monument, including Shoshone National Forest, Yellowstone National Park, and Devils Tower National Monument.

2. Explore Your Possibilities.

In anticipation of your next vacation, explore travel websites, including state tourism sites, to get a taste of what adventures your next trip has to experience. For example, the Wyoming Office of Tourism runs travelwyoming.com. You can explore the state’s history, attractions and unique information, including virtual tours of monuments, museums and parks that include live camera views, interactive material and more, to help plan your next trip. You can even make this a fun project for kids to get them involved in the planning process. They can share what adventures they’re most interested in, and build on the excitement of the next family vacation.

3. Create a Travel Dream Board.

For hands-on fun, consider using a poster board or other large pieces of paper or cardboard to add pictures, phrases and information on the destination you want to visit. Each person can have their own or you can build one as a family. Hanging your dream board in a location you see often will help build excitement around your next trip.

4. Explore a Variety of Accommodations That Highlight the Outdoors.

Choose a destination that offers a variety of accommodations with flexible travel options throughout the year. Whether it’s a traditional hotel with ample amenities or campgrounds and cabins in Wyoming’s state parks, national forests or national parks, there are many options to match your travel style and bring Wyoming scenery to your doorstep. Dude and guest ranches are another fun option, offering the opportunity to live out the western way of life, even for just a short time. Guest ranches in Wyoming range from luxurious resorts to working ranches, so there are options for everyone.

5. Select a Versatile Destination.

Because no one knows when travel will fully rebound, choose a destination that excites you and your travel group with activities for every season: outdoor adventures in the summer, hunting and hiking in the fall, skiing and snowmobiling in the winter, and fishing and festivals in the spring. Remember, museums and history centers, like the Buffalo Bill Center of the West, Laramie Plains Museum, Cheyenne Frontier Days Old West Museum, and National Historic Trails Interpretive Center are open all year long!

Be sure to check for updates on any closures and restrictions to your destination while planning your next trip. For travel information and inspiration, visit travelwyoming.com.


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How to Make the Most of Summer Holidays This Year

2020-06-12T10:01:00

(BPT) – While traditions may be a bit different this summer, some things can still remain the same. Finding new ways to celebrate our favorite summer holidays make for a great opportunity to reunite with small groups of friends and family members — safely. With a little thought and creativity, holidays such as Father’s Day or the Fourth of July will still be as fun as in years past.

Make it safe

Gathering outdoors more safely means keeping your distance, so plan ahead to help everyone be together, without being too close.

Review current CDC health guidelines before your event and follow the rules from your local authorities regarding party size limits. Here are ways to gather at home reunions or at that next backyard BBQ:

  • Arrange picnic tables, patio furniture, or picnic blankets into groups, with adequate space between each group.

  • Make decorative signs for each person, with their names or photos of them, so everyone can find their spot. Get creative!

  • Ask everyone to bring their own drinks, snacks and utensils.
  • Offer plenty of disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer to keep hands and objects clean. Also, don’t forget to remind guests that washing hands with soap and water is essential if hands are visibly dirty.
  • Provide patriotic-themed masks for everyone to wear and encourage guests to bring their own.

Make it fun

Choose outdoor games or bring indoor games outside and set up activities that help encourage social distancing for guests.

  • With an outdoor screen and a projector, you can recreate that theater experience in the great outdoors or show fireworks on a loop as the sun sets.
  • Bring out washable games like Connect 4 or life-sized Jenga, or revisit those outdoor classics like horseshoes and cornhole.
  • If you can’t all get together in person, bring the party to those that are missing with a Zoom call. Set up a call time, select a patriotic background, pull up a frosty beverage and let guests interact with those they miss with a virtual meet-up.

Make it celebratory

Celebrate in style with libations that are dressed for the occasion! The Federalist Cabernet Sauvignon Limited Edition wine is available just in time to kick off the summer. The decorative American flag label commemorates the brand’s ‘Made in the USA’ pride. As a bonus, the wine’s fruit-forward aroma and sturdy tannins pair well with summer grilling and s’mores by the fire pit on a cool summer night.

If you’re not BBQing anytime soon, you can still get in the spirit by catching the premiere of Hamilton, the film of the original Broadway production at home (tune in on July 3)! Set the mood by serving the exclusive Hamilton wines that were sold at theaters across the country since the show started in 2015. The Federalist Hamilton Chardonnay or The Federalist Hamilton Cabernet Sauvignon pay homage to the work of our founding fathers, who paved the way for future American leaders. The full-bodied Chardonnay from Mendocino, California features aromas of ripe apple, citrus and spiced pear to complement lighter foods like salads, chicken and fish. The berries, tart cherry, sweet oak and cinnamon aromas of the Cabernet Sauvignon pair great with meaty ribs, boldly spiced or barbecue sauce-based dishes.

Enjoy your summer celebrations with care this year, making them memorable, safe and fun.

The Federalist wines are available nationwide and can be purchased at select Walmart stores, on Wine.com and through Uncorked.com.


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Beyond the cob: 5 sweet corn recipes for summer

2020-06-11T11:01:00

(BPT) – Sweet corn season is here and every summer we can’t wait to sink our teeth into those fresh, juicy kernels. Whether hot on the cob or frozen into ice cream, there’s no better way to celebrate National Corn on the Cob Day (June 11th) than with these twists on classic corn recipes.

Not surprisingly, a poll last year determined that sweet corn is the No. 1 vegetable of 91.4% of Americans, beating out contenders such as potatoes, tomatoes and carrots. The same survey found that 72% of U.S. consumers want to eat more vegetables.

Martha Stewart’s editor said it best — there is more to corn than just on the cob. “Whether you grill it, purée it, sauté it or enjoy it raw, fresh corn should be savored this time of year.”

Check out these top five recipes for your summer menu:

Sweet Corn Ice Cream Pops

Shock everyone at your next BBQ when you bring these cool treats out. The Dandy sweet corn kernels paired with vanilla extract and sweetened milk are a sweet tooth’s dream, but with an unexpected twist — corn! Your guests won’t believe that secret ingredient has been blended in.

Original Corn on the Cob

Tried and true, this is the perfect grilled corn on the cob recipe to enjoy all summer long. It’s as simple as wrapping Dandy sweet corn in foil, grilling for 10 minutes, and brushing on your favorite compound butter, mayo, chives, lemon zest, cheese and spices. You’ll never make grilled corn any other way again!

Corn and Peach Bruschetta Toasts

Looking for a way to up your appetizer game this summer? These Dandy sweet corn and peach bruschetta toasts are the perfect combination of savory and sweet. Just thinking of the peach, sweet corn and drizzled honey flavors mixed together with burrata or mozzarella is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

Sweet Corn Couscous with Feta Cheese

There are salads a plenty come summertime. Put couscous that’s been lingering in your pantry and veggies in your fridge to good use along with Dandy sweet corn for a refreshing, bright and tangy summer salad.

Tortilla Cups with Sweet Corn Guacamole

Think you’ve mastered guacamole? THINK AGAIN! This perfect bite-sized snack has the ultimate ingredient that you’ve probably never considered. Adding Dandy sweet corn to the mix rounds out the flavor in this guacamole recipe. Try making the guac ahead of time and then scoop into tortilla cups for the ultimate summer snack.

When shopping for the freshest, most appealing produce at your local grocer, look for the Dandy label. Our top-notch sweet corn is grown and harvested in Florida, Michigan and Georgia to offer you the best varieties all year long, and it’s raised without genetically modified seeds or crops. Learn more at DudaFresh.com.


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Smart tips for easy summer lawn care

2020-06-11T15:01:00

(BPT) – The sun is shining and temperatures are rising across the country, signaling that summer is in full swing. Summer can present some unique challenges for lawn care, but with the right strategies and a few useful tools, you’ll save time and have the best yard on the block.

The lawn care experts from Husqvarna share these simple steps to help your yard thrive through summer and beyond:

Mow but not too low

The golden rule of mowing during summer: Don’t over mow. Longer grass develops deeper roots while also shading the soil, which helps it survive the heat and drought. Set your lawn mower to a high setting before trimming those blades of grass.

Even though you should mow higher, that doesn’t mean you should let your grass go wild. Strive not to remove more than a third of the blade at a time to prevent clumpy clippings. More frequent mowing, trimming a little at a time, is best. Keep in mind cool-season grass like Kentucky bluegrass and fescue varieties should be kept at about 3-4 inches and warm-season grass like Bermuda grass and St. Augustine should be kept at about 2-3 inches.

If mowing regularly in the summer heat doesn’t appeal to you, try to do it in early morning when temperatures are cooler or explore robotic mowers that do the work for you. The Husqvarna Automower® uses smart technology and hidden boundary wires to cut your lawn a little at a time. It mows quietly in any weather (even rain) to evenly cut your entire yard without you having to lift a finger.

Water wisely

Hot temperatures paired with limited precipitation are tough on grass. Growth slows and color begins to fade as it struggles due to the elements. That’s why it’s important to provide supplemental water when Mother Nature doesn’t do it for you.

Keep in mind, how and when you water is important to keep your lawn healthy, save money and preserve natural resources. If your lawn isn’t getting one inch of water a week you should water with a sprinkler. Longer, periodic waterings provide deeper saturation to the roots than frequent, minimal sprinkles. Additionally, water early in the morning to avoid evaporation and discourage fungal growth, and always follow your city’s watering regulations.

Not sure if you need to water? Try to push a 6-inch screwdriver into the lawn. If it goes in easily, your lawn is hydrated. If it doesn’t go in or only goes in a bit, it’s time to water.

Trim and tidy

Having green grass is an essential first step for getting a yard your neighbors will envy, but it’s important to pay attention to your landscape elements as well. Start by looking at mulch and rock beds to see what has shifted and could use some tending, adding fresh material as needed.

Next, trim overgrown bushes and shrubs. Using tools like hedge trimmers, brush cutters and string trimmers you’ll be able to quickly tidy overgrowth with minimal effort. These are power tools that either use gas or electric. Gas is the traditional choice, but many homeowners are now exploring quieter, rechargeable battery-powered options. With Husqvarna battery-powered lawn tools, all batteries are interchangeable so you can build a collection of tools that work together seamlessly.

For trees, the most important thing to keep in mind is branches that touch your home. Anything that comes in contact with the building should be removed, so use a lopper or branch trimmer to clean up trees. If there are larger branches or a tree needs removal, you may need the help of a professional and should request quotes.

Tackle tough weeds

A weed and feed fertilizer is a good way to nourish grass while also eliminating weeds. However, this should only be used when weather is cooler and ideally when rain is in the forecast in the next few days. If it’s below 85 degrees and a sprinkle is likely in the near future, apply granular fertilizer. If these conditions don’t exist, avoid treatments altogether because hot, drought weather will cause them to burn the lawn.

Your next option is to pull the weeds yourself. There are tools to help you do so by hand, some even allowing you to stand up while getting rid of bothersome broadleaf weeds like dandelions. Remember, when you remove any weed, include the root. If you only remove what’s visible above the soil, the weed is likely to come back.

Weeding, trimming, watering and mowing are the four main steps to keep your yard lush and lovely throughout the summer months. Remember, whether you have questions, are researching tools or need to get your mower blades sharpened, Husqvarna dealers are always available to help.


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How to lose the Quarantine 15 and reach your body goals

2020-06-11T06:01:00

(BPT) – If you’re like most of us, you may have drifted away from a healthy eating plan during self-quarantine to help you cope better with the stress of it all. In particular, nutritionists say that it’s normal to crave sweets, salty or fatty foods, and carbs for a quick energy boost as these comfort foods can calm us down when we’re worried or scared. The result for some is a 15-pound weight gain, also known as “Quarantine 15.”

Cutera, Inc., has a novel solution that can help you get your body back into shape for summer. Enter truSculpt iD and truSculpt flex, the one-two punch for reducing unwanted fat and toning up your muscles.

truSculpt iD is clinically proven to eliminate fat in stubborn areas around your abdomen and flanks and contour your arms and legs. The procedure is as little as one 15-minute treatment customized to meet your individual goals with no downtime. According to Dr. Roberta Del Campo of Del Campo Dermatology and Laser Institute in Miami, FL, “I have worked with various body sculpting devices and the truSculpt iD is in a class of its own. Time is of the essence for my patients, and no other device can deliver an average of 24% permanent fat reduction in a single 15-minute treatment.” Furthermore, the procedure feels like a hot stone massage; the temperature of your skin rises, but the treatment is comfortable.

The radio-frequency energy used in the truSculpt iD treatment can also help to renew aging skin. “truSculpt iD is a safe, clinically proven procedure that permanently eliminates stubborn fat cells, and the RF energy is also proven to enhance skin quality. So, in a single procedure, you can reduce fat and renew skin in the areas where you want contouring,” says Kathy King, the owner of Sculpted Contours Luxury Medical Aesthetics in Atlanta, GA.

“truSculpt flex allows us to provide personalized muscle sculpting treatments for both men and women of all fitness levels. It is a state-of-the-art muscle toning, strengthening, and building technology designed for the abs, butt, and thighs. truSculpt iD and truSculpt flex are the ideal power duo to tackle Quarantine 15 weight gain and get the results you want,” says Ms. King.

With truSculpt flex, you have the ability to have eight areas treated simultaneously, covering the largest treatment area to optimize your results. “Many patients circle back for additional treatments to achieve an even more sculpted body and look better in their clothes and at the beach,” she says.

“The old saying of ‘no pain, no gain’ is out the window. We want no pain and a lot of gain, and truSculpt iD fits this bill as no other treatments can,” says Dr. Del Campo.

So, don’t hide your body under a sarong all summer long. You can feel confident in your bikini with a little help from Cutera’s truSculpt iD and truSculpt flex.

To learn more about the truBody approach and to find a provider to help you get back in shape to achieve your post quarantine body goals, visit https://trusculpt.com/.


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Feeling lonely? How to manage mental health challenges during social isolation

2020-06-11T18:21:00

(BPT) – This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences Inc. As millions of people around the country practice social distancing and are staying at home for weeks on end, many people may find themselves feeling lonely and alone, maybe even anxious or uneasy, for the first time.

Others are all too familiar with the emotional impact of feeling alone and separated from friends and loved ones while also managing their emotional health. Among them are people who live with a mental illness such as depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety, who sometimes opt to social distance because being around other people makes them uncomfortable or self-conscious.

One in five adults live with some form of mental illness in the U.S., and many of them also deal with a relatively unknown involuntary movement disorder called tardive dyskinesia (TD). TD is associated with prolonged use of antipsychotics prescribed to treat mental illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. The physical symptoms of TD can impact one’s emotional and social well-being, causing them to feel embarrassed or withdrawn from society. At least 500,000 people in the U.S. are living with TD.

Shelly, a married mother of one, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and spent two years with her physician trying to find an antipsychotic medication that helped. After being prescribed a few different options, she finally found a treatment that worked for her. Just as things started to get better, however, she began noticing uncontrollable movements in her legs, mouth, and tongue.

After noticing these movements, her doctor advised that she might have TD. She learned that while the symptoms can look and feel different from day to day, they may remain persistent and often irreversible. Shelly’s symptoms sometimes embarrass her so much that she often avoids communication with others. “The days my TD symptoms are really bad, I won’t answer the phone because my voice is so slurred from my tongue movements, it’s hard for people to understand me,” Shelly notes.

One memory is especially painful. “I was at a parent teacher conference,” Shelly relates. “My hands were swinging all over the place and I could feel the teachers staring at me. My husband and I tried to explain what was going on, but they didn’t believe me. It was very hurtful.” She explains that situations like those are difficult to handle.

“I was working so hard to be a better person and deal with my mental health issues, and strangers who didn’t understand were judging me for things beyond my control.”

As Shelly reflects on how her mental health has been impacted by the global pandemic, she says it “brings so many overwhelming thoughts and emotions to the forefront. I know what it feels like to not want to go out and stay at home so, for those people who are dealing with it during this pandemic, I can relate.” To cope with these challenging times, she notes, “I try to keep up to date with current events but also try to read uplifting and funny articles.”

It is especially important that people are aware of the challenges of living with mental illness, including TD, and that they can reach out to their physicians and have access to the appropriate therapies. During this time of unprecedented anxiety, treating TD is a critical strategy for maintaining overall mental health and wellness, so that those living with the condition can live an active and productive life.

Whether people are in self-imposed or mandated social isolation, Shelly offers the following suggestions to weather the storm:

Seek virtual support groups or connect with family and friends. Comparing stories and information with others facing similar challenges can be enormously helpful. “It’s so important for people with TD to feel connected and have a community, because we are often so isolated and stigmatized,” says Shelly. It is important to stay connected to family, friends and those who make you feel supported, listen and can help uplift your spirits. “I know what it feels like to be alone, so I can relate to those people out there struggling through this tough time.”

Reflect on your individual needs. Acknowledge and legitimize your own feelings. Know that your feelings are valid. Connect with people who make you feel better and avoid those who bring you down. “I call my friends and family weekly and my mother daily and I set a weekly phone session with my therapist to help me cope,” says Shelly.

Stick to healthy routines. Do everything possible to take care of your own physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. Take time for yourself to exercise, try meditating, and connect with loved ones. “Taking short walks with my husband every evening around my neighborhood makes all the difference,” Shelly notes.

Optimize resources. Take advantage of the wealth of online mental health resources. There are a lot of advocacy groups who have support services available to help manage your mental wellbeing and if you are living with the challenges of mental illness, including TD, you can learn more about the disorder and how to get help at TalkAboutTD.com.

This article was sponsored and developed by Neurocrine Biosciences Inc. Shelly was compensated by Neurocrine Biosciences for sharing her story.

©2020 Neurocrine Biosciences, Inc. All Rights Reserved. CP-TD-US-0570 06/2020


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Food waste is bananas – here’s how you can help! [Infographic]

2020-06-10T12:15:00

(BPT) – Global warming hurts everyone and we have no time to monkey around about solutions. Luckily, there’s something easy we can all do to help: reduce food waste! Small consumption modifications and changes in habits can make a world of difference.

Don’t worry, we broke down the facts of this serious topic into friendly snackable bites of information as a means to encourage people around the world to do their share of minimizing food waste. So, let’s go bananas, and do this together!