As we approach the respiratory vaccine season, conversations around the Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine grow stronger. RSV, a virus causing cold-like symptoms, is particularly dangerous for infants, older adults, and those with underlying conditions. While most people recover in a week or two, RSV can become very serious for people with high risk. With the CDC’s new RSV recommendations, it’s crucial to stay informed. Heather Mercer, executive director of ImmunizeAR, provides patients and professionals in the healthcare community with the most accurate and up-to-date information on the RSV vaccine.

Mental health support groups combine empathy, understanding, and guidance to create a safe space for those dealing with the grief of losing someone to suicide. It takes a unique set of skills to facilitate these support groups and ensure every attendee has a chance to deal with their loss however they feel comfortable. The Arkansas Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) offers two suicide bereavement support group trainings, one for facilitators of veteran support groups and one for facilitators of support groups for the public. The AFSP Facilitator Training Program offers organizers a way to create and facilitate a community support group for suicide loss survivors in the aftermath of suicide.

Restorative sleep, a crucial, yet often overlooked element of health, has a profound impact on children’s cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. The Pediatric Sleep Disorders Center at Arkansas Children’s Hospital (ACH) has dedicated over 40 years to researching, analyzing, and treating pediatric sleep disorders. Dr. Supriya Jambhekar is the Medical Director of the ACH Sleep Disorders Center, ensuring every child has the opportunity to achieve optimal health through the transformative power of sleep.

A single scroll, like, or share can spark joy or ignite controversy. Researchers are still determining the impact of social media on mental health. For pediatricians and other healthcare specialists, navigating social media usage with parents and their families can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope. Dr. Chad Rodgers, AFMC’s chief medical officer and board-certified pediatrician at Little Rock Pediatric Clinic, shares expert advice and personal wisdom to help you have more constructive, non-judgmental conversations about social media with your patients. Whether you’re a seasoned pediatrician or a newly minted healthcare professional, get ready to arm yourself with knowledge and strategies that make a difference in the digital well-being of the families you serve.

Pew Research Center’s recent poll of news habits shows that half of Americans get their news from social media, with the majority of people reading the news on their digital devices than on TV or print publications. It is now more critical than ever for patients to discern evidence-based science over misleading pseudoscience. With an overwhelming influx of information accessible at our fingertips, healthcare professionals have the important job of safeguarding the integrity of medical science and patient care. Dr. Chad Rodgers, AFMC’s Chief Medical Officer, sheds light on the dangers of pseudoscience in the medical community. He explains how providers have the knowledge to recognize and combat these dangerous misconceptions and foster a culture of trust and respect.

Trauma has a way of clinging to us, lingering long after its initial sting. This reality becomes starkly apparent in healthcare settings, where traditional patient encounters can unintentionally reopen old wounds. However, embracing trauma-informed care within these spaces promises a more compassionate and healing approach, ensuring patients leave feeling genuinely nurtured and understood. It's a crucial step towards addressing the holistic needs of those we aim to help.

Chris Spearn, AFMC’s Trauma-Informed Resiliency Coordinator, discusses the importance of Trauma-Informed Care, its connection with ACEs, and its impact on patients’ mental health.