June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month

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By Andres Jaramillo, LPC | Counselor

During the month of June, you may see more color around your workplace or community as the rainbow flag flies in windows, porches, stores, and on websites. The reason? It’s Pride Month!

June is LGBTQ+ Pride Month

June was first officially declared Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ+) Pride Month by President Clinton in 1999. However, the roots of this celebration are deeply woven into the fabric of American history, dating back to the 1960s and earlier when courageous and thoughtful LGBTQ+ individuals stood up to raids, rejection, and harassment, paving the way for acceptance and love.

For some, Pride Month is symbolized by rainbow flags, festivals, and parades held worldwide—a chance for the LGBTQ+ community and allies to come together and celebrate historical progress. However, Pride Month and the movement that began decades ago carry a much more profound message.

The Deeper Meaning Behind Pride

When individuals are perceived or feel “not normal” due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, the risks of emotional distress, mental health issues, and even suicide increase. LGBTQ+ youth contemplate suicide at nearly three times the rate of their heterosexual peers and are at higher risk due to mistreatment and societal stigma. In fact, according to a survey conducted by The Trevor Project, in the last year 41% of LGBTQ+ youth seriously contemplated suicide.

Research by GLAAD indicates that support for equal rights for LGBTQ+ individuals by non-LGBTQ+ people is now at an all-time high of 84%, up five percentage points from 2021. Additional studies show that while acceptance is growing, the need to continue educating society as a whole is critical with 55% of non-LGBTQ+ Americans stating they do not understand the dimensions of the LGBTQ community or how to describe its members.

We must challenge the traditional ideas of “normal” for the well-being of our family, friends, and neighbors. A 2023 Gallup poll shows that 7.2% of U.S. adults, or about 18 million people, identify as LGBTQ+. Chances are, someone around you is part of this community, and Pride Month reminds us of the role we play in their lives. What is normal is choosing to stand by someone’s side and being there for support. Supporting someone positively impacts their emotional, mental, and physical well-being.

Everyone faces hardships—at work, in family or relationships, with friends, or within themselves. We all understand that feeling loved and supported gives us more courage, confidence, and resilience to face life’s challenges. It is normal to stand together and support our LGBTQ+ family, friends, and neighbors. After all, we’re all just trying to live our best lives.

Happy Pride!

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental or emotional health, consider talking with one of NOAH’s counselors or psychiatrists for help. Contact us for an appointment today.

Share Your NOAH Story

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At NOAH, we believe in the power of stories. Your journey with us is more than just medical appointments—it’s a testament to hope and healing. Today, we invite you to become an advocate for NOAH by sharing your unique experience with our community.

Your story matters. Whether it’s overcoming a health challenge, finding support in difficult times, or experiencing exceptional care from our dedicated team, your words have the potential to inspire and uplift others.

When you share your story, you illuminate the impact of NOAH’s compassionate care. Your experience not only offers support to those navigating similar challenges, but also plays an important role in our mission to provide affordable, high-quality healthcare services to our community.

Take a look at some of NOAH’s previous patient stories:

Teresa’s Story
Sandra’s Story

Are you ready to make a difference? Please complete the form below and if your story is selected, a member of our team will reach out for more information.

Please note if your story is selected we may ask you to share your experience in a written, voice recorded, or video recorded interview. Rest assured, your privacy and comfort are our top priorities. Our team will ensure a supportive environment during filming.

Thank you for entrusting NOAH with your care. Together, let’s spread hope, kindness, and the power of healing through the gift of storytelling.

You Are Not Alone

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By Eleni Loisi, Behavioral Health Specialist

Postpartum Depression (PPD) is a common experience for women following childbirth, typically occurring within six weeks after delivery, with statistics indicating one in seven women may develop PPD. It is common to experience what is known as “baby blues” after giving birth, characterized by mood fluctuations from happiness and joy to sadness and bouts of crying. Over the first two weeks after delivery, the baby blues tend to decrease. More concerning, there is Post-Partum Psychosis: hallucinations or delusions that may cause suicidal or homicidal thoughts.

Simply put, women undergo hormonal, physical, emotional, and psychological changes after childbirth, which can be challenging, exhausting, and even traumatic for some. Let’s explore the risk factors, symptoms, stigmas, and treatment/resources for PPD.

Risk Factors

  • Psychological: history of sexual abuse, history of depression and anxiety, premenstrual syndrome, and a negative attitude towards baby’s gender. 
  • Obstetrics: high-risk pregnancy, emergency cesarean-section (c-section), hospitalization(s) during pregnancy, meconium passage (baby’s first poop while still in the womb), umbilical cord prolapse (when the umbilical cord exits the cervix before the baby), premature, low birth weight, and low hemoglobin. 
  • Social: lack of social support, domestic violence (physical, emotional/verbal, and sexual), and smoking during pregnancy. 
  • Lifestyle: eating habits, lack of sleep, and lack of physical exercise. 

PPD Symptoms

  • Depressed mood
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in things
  • Insomnia or hypersomnia
  • Moving or speaking slower than usual
  • Agitation/irritability
  • Worthlessness or guilt
  • Fatigue and loss of energy
  • Suicidal ideation or attempt and thoughts of death
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Indecisiveness
  • Changes in weight or appetite 
  • Psychotic features: hearing or seeing things that others do not

Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum Psychosis (PPP) happens after giving birth, like PPD, however this condition affects your sense of reality. There are three types of PPP: The depressive type is the most common and most dangerous, the manic is the next most common type, and lastly the mixed/atypical is the least common.  

Depressive PPP Symptoms

  • Feeling anxious or panic
  • Delusions or hallucinations
  • Feeling guilty
  • Loss of appetite
  • Less interest or pleasure in things
  • Thoughts of harming self or baby 

Manic PPP Symptoms

  • Irritable/agitation
  • Talking more than usual and/or faster
  • Behaving more aggressively or disruptive
  • No need for sleep (not sleeping)
  • Delusions of greatness (believing your child is a religious figure)

Mixed/Atypical PPP Symptoms

  • Speaking or acting in a disorganized way
  • Seeming disoriented or confused
  • Hallucinations or delusions
  • Saying or doing inappropriate things
  • Not speaking at all (catatonia) 

The Stigma

Statistics show that about 50% of new mothers with PPD go undiagnosed due to issues with privacy and not wanting to disclose these issues with family members. As a mother, there are a lot of responsibilities put on us, including expectations of what a “good mother” is or should be. It’s difficult for mothers to express themselves and ask for help, in fear of being judged, invalidated, and even fear of losing their children.

Having a lack of support can also play a big factor. If a mother lacks social support and is fearful to turn to her doctor, she may feel isolated and overwhelmed. These feelings are entirely normal, and it’s crucial to recognize that every mother experiences them at some point. Remember, you are not alone, and it’s perfectly acceptable to ask for help. One of the most valuable pieces of advice for new mothers is to prioritize self-care and take breaks when needed. It’s okay to step away for a few moments to collect yourself, even if your baby is crying. Taking care of your well-being is important for both you and your baby’s health and happiness. 

Treatment and Resources for PPD

If you feel like hurting yourself or your baby, please put your baby in a safe space, go to a different space, and dial 988 or 911 immediately.

 

Mental Health: Types of Treatment

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People are more comfortable seeking help for emotional challenges than ever before. Fortunately, as the demand for mental health services has grown, so have the available options, with telehealth significantly increasing access to these services.

Knowing that help is available provides hope, but important questions like “Where do I go?” and “What kind of services do I need?” still arise. We’re here to assist you in finding the answers.

Here are the main types of treatment currently available in mental health: 

  • Outpatient Mental Health Treatment:

This is the most traditional level of care where individuals meet with a mental health provider either for psychiatric care and/or counseling services.  Patients meet anywhere from once a week, once a month, or as needed for care.  Outpatient treatment can include services like general mental health for adults, children, and groups; people with serious mental illnesses; specific programs for conditions like substance abuse and eating disorders. Treatment usually starts with a full assessment and creating an individualized treatment plan. This ensures someone gets the proper treatment and level of care.  Depending on the treatment setting, services could include mental health counseling, medication management, case management, and group therapy. 

  • Outpatient Intensive Programs:

Outpatient Intensive Program (IOP) usually refers to types of rehabilitation for individuals who suffer from addiction problems. But IOP can also help people who are facing different types of conditions like eating disorders and depression. This level of care allows people to continue an intensive treatment – typically between three to five days a week – while allowing them to go home, maintain a job, or engage in educational activities in-between treatments. IOP treatment includes group therapy often combined with individual counseling, case management, psychiatric care, and support groups.

  • Residential Mental Health Treatment:

This level of care focuses on a specific type of treatment for mental health. Some centers specialize in long term substance abuse programs while others may provide an intensive treatment for eating disorders.  These programs provide intensive treatment usually for 30 to 90 days and will help individuals learn skills for long term recovery.

  • Psychiatric Hospitalization or Inpatient Care:

This type of care and treatment is for individuals who might be experiencing severe emotional distress to the level of requiring close monitoring. Hospitalization or inpatient care can also be used to continually evaluate and properly diagnose people who need help with mood stabilization and medication adjustment.  Psychiatric hospitalization can be brief, typically 3 to 14 days. After that, the patient will get an evaluation and referral to a long-term level of care, IOP, or outpatient services.

No matter who you are or what you are going through, there is a treatment program and level of care that is right for you. Beyond what is listed above, there are also:

  • 24-hour crisis providers
  • Suicide prevention programs
  • Short-term or long-term residential programs for children with behavioral health conditions
  • Vocational rehabilitation programs for adults and adolescents
  • Different levels of care for substance addiction and eating disorders
  • Referrals to 12-step programs, support groups, and alternative treatments

For more information about treatment options, take a look at this helpful guide. Life will have challenges. Some days and life experiences will be more difficult than others. But now you know there are programs and support to help you overcome these challenges.

Women’s Health Week – What You Need to Know About Cervical Cancer

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Women’s Health Week is May 12 – 18, making this a crucial time to talk about a major health issue affecting women globally: cervical cancer. Despite medical progress, this disease still affects women of all ages. That’s why awareness and prevention are so important. Understanding these aspects can give women control over their health, helping them make smart choices about screenings and vaccinations, and help to save lives.

What is Cervical Cancer and What Causes it?

Cervical cancer is a cancer that forms at the lower end of the uterus. Most cervical cancers are caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), the most spread sexually transmitted infection (STI). HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active people get the virus at some point in their lives. Most people’s bodies will naturally fight off the virus, but for those who can’t fight it off, HPV can lead to health issues like cervical cancer later in life. The good news is, cervical cancer is preventable and treatable if caught early.

How Can I Lower My Risk of Cervical Cancer?

First, get regular Papanicolaou (Pap) screens/tests. According to the CDC, only 66% of women over the age of 18 have had a Pap test in the past three years. Pap tests are covered by private insurance and Medicaid/AHCCCS and are the best way to diagnose any problems.

Second, get the HPV vaccine if possible. It is safe and very effective at reducing the risk of getting HPV-caused cancers later in life. The CDC estimates that around 90% of cervical cancer cases could be prevented by the HPV vaccine.

How Often Do I Need a Pap Test?

It used to be that Pap tests were recommended every year. With what we know now about HPV and cervical cancer risk factors, that recommendation has changed. The new recommendation for people also being tested for HPV is every three years for people aged 21-29, and every five years for people 30-65.

Who Can Get HPV Vaccines?

Typically, the three-dose HPV vaccine is recommended for males and females around age 11 or 12. We wrote all about the HPV vaccine here!

Schedule an appointment today to discuss your cervical health and take proactive steps towards prevention.

Prescription Delivery to NOAH Health Centers

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NOAH is thrilled to let you know that we’ve made some changes to make getting your prescription medications even easier.

If you’re part of NOAH’s Sliding Fee Scale Program and want to keep getting your medications at a discounted rate, you have four convenient options: you can pick them up at NOAH’s Cholla Pharmacy or have them delivered to NOAH’s Desert Mission, Palomino, or Copperwood II Health Center for pick-up.

Additionally, prescription delivery to NOAH’s Copperwood II Health Center is available for Sliding Fee Scale and insured patients.

To make sure you get your medications accurately and on time, here’s what you need to do:

For New Medications:

  • Let your provider or medical assistant know that you want NOAH’s Cholla Pharmacy to be your preferred pharmacy.
  • If you choose Cholla Health Center for pick-up:
    • Your medication may be ready for pick-up as soon as the same day.
  • If you choose Copperwood II Health Center, Desert Mission Health Center, or Palomino Health Center for pick-up:
    • Your provider or medical assistant will take care of the details and ensure your prescription is ready for pick-up the next business day if ordered before 3 p.m.
  • If you want to check the status of your order for any pick-up location, you can call the pharmacy at 480-903-3560.

For Existing Prescriptions:

If you already have prescriptions filled elsewhere, you can easily transfer them to NOAH’s Pharmacy by calling your provider. NOAH providers can be reached via MyChart or by calling 480-882-4545.

Please note controlled substances are not available for prescription delivery services.

NOAH’s full-service pharmacy located at NOAH’s Cholla Health Center is open to anyone including NOAH patients and community members. For more information, you can reach our pharmacy at 480-903-3560.

Can’t Decide? It Might be Anxiety

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By Jillian Irwin, LMFT | Counseling

Decision-making is a fundamental aspect of daily life, but for some individuals, it can become a source of stress and uncertainty. The struggle to make decisions, especially significant ones, may indeed be linked to anxiety. Here’s a closer look at how anxiety can impact decision-making processes.

Indecision and Anxiety

Anxiety can manifest in various ways, and one common symptom is indecisiveness. Individuals with anxiety may find it challenging to make decisions due to several factors:

  • Overthinking – Anxiety often leads to excessive worry and overthinking, making it difficult to weigh options and come to a conclusion.
  • Fear of Making Mistakes – Anxiety can create a fear of making the wrong decision, leading to hesitation and second-guessing.
  • Perfectionism – Some individuals with anxiety have high standards for themselves and fear that their decisions won’t meet these standards, leading to indecision.
  • Anticipatory Anxiety – This is anxiety about anxiety. The anticipation of potential negative outcomes can paralyze decision-making, as the individual becomes focused on avoiding perceived risks.

Impact on Daily Life

Difficulty making decisions due to anxiety can have significant consequences in various areas:

  • Personal Life – Simple decisions like what to eat or wear can become overwhelming, leading to procrastination or avoidance.
  • Work or School – Choosing projects, tasks, or making career-related decisions may be challenging, affecting productivity and progress.
  • Relationships – Anxiety-driven indecision can strain relationships, as the inability to make choices or express preferences may lead to misunderstandings or conflict.
  • Emotional Well-being – The constant stress of decision-making can contribute to increased anxiety levels and lead to other emotions such as guilt, helplessness or frustration. This can affect overall mental health and well-being.

If anxiety is affecting your ability to make decisions or has other impacts on your daily life, you’re not alone. According to the National Institute for Mental Health, nearly 20% of adults in the United States have some kind of anxiety disorder. For mild cases of anxiety, you can try to manage your symptoms at home.

Addressing Decision-Making Challenges

Managing anxiety-related decision-making difficulties involves a multi-faceted approach:

  • Recognize Anxiety – Acknowledge that anxiety may be contributing to indecisiveness and seek support from mental health professionals for assessment and guidance.
  • Practice Mindfulness – Mindfulness techniques can help reduce anxiety levels, improve focus, and promote clearer thinking during decision-making.
  • Set Realistic Expectations – Challenge perfectionistic tendencies by setting realistic expectations for decisions and accepting that not all outcomes will be perfect.
  • Seek Support – Talk to trusted friends, family members, or a therapist about decision-making challenges and explore strategies for coping with anxiety in decision-making situations.

By addressing anxiety and developing coping strategies, individuals can regain confidence in their decision-making abilities and navigate life’s choices more effectively. If you need help managing or even diagnosing your anxiety, start by scheduling an appointment with a NOAH primary care provider, counselor, or psychiatrist. Your NOAH Care Team will partner with you to develop the right treatment plan for you.

Counseling and psychiatry services are available for ages 6 and up. Most insurance plans are accepted at NOAH (including all AHCCCS Medicaid plans) and a Sliding Fee Scale offers reduced rates for those that qualify based on household income and family size. For more information about eligibility, contact NOAH Community Resources.

It Might Be Time for Your Annual Medicare Wellness Visit

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Are you or a loved one on Medicare insurance? If so, wellness should be top-of-mind and the good news is, it’s covered starting with the Medicare Wellness Visit.

The wellness visit through Medicare isn’t the traditional head-to-toe physical that most people are familiar with. The Wellness Visit covered under Medicare is an annual visit to identify and reduce any health risks your healthcare provider might find.

Wellness Visits Matter

The Medicare Wellness Visit, while not a traditional physical, is a tool for your medical provider to find gaps in your healthcare. The questions asked during the visit are specific and help to narrow down concerns while allowing your healthcare team to provide better care.

What to Expect at Your Appointment

At the wellness visit, we take a complete health history using a questionnaire from Medicare to understand a patient’s needs. If this is the patient’s first Medicare Wellness Visit, we will start with an EKG. Then your provider will discuss findings from the questionnaire and address concerns about your health and wellness.

Providers will do a limited physical exam to check blood pressure, weight, vision, and other things depending on a patient’s age, gender, and health history.

During the visit your provider can make referrals to specialists, order labs, and discuss necessary imaging and diagnostic tests like mammograms or colorectal cancer screenings. We will also talk about the risks and signs of depression, trips and falls, and other health and wellness concerns.

Our goal is to create a personalized prevention plan together to help prevent disease and disability according to your health and risk factors.

What Not to Expect at Your Appointment

This isn’t a traditional physical. It may sound like it is, but there are distinct differences. The Medicare Wellness Visit allows healthcare providers to have a baseline for health and wellness that Medicare knows is important to this patient group.

Providers don’t generally address existing chronic health conditions or refill prescriptions at this appointment. The visit is specific to finding and addressing any new concerns and planning for the next year’s healthcare with the patient.

Scheduling a Medicare Wellness Visit every year is important and NOAH is here to help you stay on track.

If this is your first appointment at NOAH, we recommend you schedule a primary care appointment before your Medicare Wellness Visit. We want to get to know you, your health history, and discuss preexisting or chronic conditions ahead of time in order to create the best healthcare plan for the year ahead.

REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT