Claxton-Hepburn

Get Active for a Brighter Outlook Unhealthy habits may be behind many emotional problems. The key to mood improvement could be as simple as walking. MANY PEOPLE may not make the connection between a healthier body and a happier mind. However, physical activity is essential to better mental health. "Brisk walking, jogging, or any physical exercise that releases endorphins is good for stress reduction," says Pakkam Rajasekaran, MD, psychiatrist at The Mental Health Center at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, referring to "runner's high," a chemical reaction in the body. "When we make the choice to engage ourselves in an active physical life, we keep ourselves away from depression." GET A HANDLE ON CHRONIC ILLNESS Making Better Mental Health Choices Too often, people turn to alcohol or other unhealthy substances to cope with anxiety. When substance use becomes a habit, problems add up. Long before a person loses relationships or a job because of such problems, he or she can actively decide to eat better, become more active, and live a more balanced life. "Focus on family, friends, and positive institutions such as church to maintain balance," Dr. Rajasekaran says. "Turn off the computer and the TV. Detach from them for a while and be a part of life." To visit our online health library, go to www.claxtonhepburn.org and click "Health Resources. WELCOME, DR. RAJ "I have always felt psychiatry deals with the person as a whole, not simply a condition or disease," says Pakkam Rajasekaran, MD, psychiatrist at Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center and known as "Dr. Raj" by his colleagues and patients. "Psychiatrists are able to deal with a person holistically—the physical, emotional, cultural, and spiritual aspects of his or her life." Dr. Raj attended medical school at Madras Medical College in India and completed his residencies at Maimonides Medical Center and Brookdale Hospital Medical Center. A Worthy Cause, A Lasting Effect "MANY DONORS HAVE a cause that is near to their heart," says Rev. Thomas T. Patterson, former chair of the Claxton-Hepburn Foundation Board. "Whether it's services related to cancer, wounds, surgery, or renal intensive care, we can work with donors to make sure their money goes to the department that means the most to them." Donations for Special Equipment "Donations can make a huge difference in the care St. Lawrence County residents receive," says Rev. Patterson. "In the past, our generous donors have helped us purchase new equipment and technology for the birth center and pediatric services, helping to ensure even the smallest patients get the best care. We recognize this gift by placing a small plaque on the piece of equipment so every donor's legacy is honored and remembered." What service has touched the life of someone you love? To learn more about giving options through the Foundation, contact Cindy Clusen by calling (315) 393-9175. When you donate your time or contribute to the Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center Foundation, you're helping ensure your loved ones have access to the high-quality medical care they need without leaving the community. You can even select the specifi c service you'd like to support.

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