Healthcare News & Blog

Mental Health

Older couple lifting weights in a gym
Health, Wellness, Mental Health, Medicare

How Resistance Training Enhances Your Brain Health

Resistance training boosts brain health, enhancing cognitive function, strengthening neural connections, and slowing brain shrinkage in older adults. Accessible at home or with a trainer, it pairs well with nutrition coaching. Blue Cross NC supports wellness through fitness programs, health coaching, and resources, empowering members to improve body and mind.
HealthPlans of NC

Couple talking to a therapist
Health, Mental Health

How To Find A Therapist If You've Never Had One Before

Mental health professionals are in high demand right now. Many of us are grieving the loss of loved ones, jobs, plans, and normalcy. And if that’s not hard enough, the stresses of our everyday lives haven’t stopped.
At Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina (Blue Cross NC), your total health is our top priority, now more than ever, including your mental and emotional health.
If you’re struggling with your mental health and need some extra support, you’re not alone. Studies show that anxiety and depression are common among American adults. And our children’s mental health is suffering, too.
HealthPlans of NC

via Blue Cross NC by Emilie Poplett

Person hiking with dog
Health, Wellness, Mental Health

6 Surprising Ways Hiking Can Improve Your Mental Health

It’s curious how well-versed we are in the physical benefits of hiking. The activity can:
Reduce the risk of heart disease
Reduce your risk of hypertension, or high blood pressure. (Hiking regularly has been shown to lower blood pressure by 4 to 10 points.)
HealthPlans of NC

From Blue Cross NC By Joe Miller

2 people shaking hands
Health, Wellness, Mental Health

Real Men Go To Therapy: Know The Signs Of Depression In Men

Growing up I saw men in my family struggle with real emotions and avoid most deep conversations. I partly blame this on my Italian heritage, where men are expected to work hard, avoid feelings and push through pain. In my family, a man’s role was to provide and protect the family at all costs. If you showed any sign of weakness, that meant you were not in control.
As a kid I straddled two worlds: one trying to be the man that I thought was expected of me, and the other wanting to be able to express my feelings. I was an emotional kid, and I know it was hard for my dad to relate to me.
My emotions were all over the place:
HealthPlans of NC

James LaCorte via Blue Cross NC

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